#minerva grey

[xxsweetoothxx]

This is SUPER OLD. But decided to finish it yesterday BUT! One of the things Ragz has to do while in the Mansion is help Minerva learn how to actually do some shit so she can use her abilities correctly as well as just generally tutoring any clown proxies. (Cause if your gonna be a clown themed killer you better at the least know how to clown is the rule apparently). Ragz though unlike most things takes the art of clownin very seriously. No one ever tells them "Oh yeah Jackie will help you" = "You're going to Clown Boot Camp.'

[cookie-de-baunilha]

a j/p modern au fic where john and percy compete with each other to see which one of them solves the cain’s jawbone puzzle first

plot twist: my girl minnie manages to outdo both of them

[dancelikeanarchitect]

Smoke and Mirrors by Minerva Grey

If you see this you’re legally obligated to reblog and tag with the book you’re currently reading

[fafodill]

Do you think Mrs. Norris likes Sneep? Do you think she likes Professor McGonagall?

She's got a good sniffer. She knows when he gets new ingredient supplies and has to do some prep' so she hangs around his lab in hope of getting a little midnight snack. So yeah, she likes him (and he likes her too, animals aren't as deceitful as humans).

But she doesn't like Professor McGonagall that much? In her human form she doesn't care much about her but every time she crossed her in her Animagus form she lunged at her. Gave her a nasty scar once. She's very territorial.

[lines-in-limbo]

I don’t think Snape liked his students but I do think he care about their wellbeing - another scene that comes to my mind is in DH when he’s headmaster. Students are being tortured and mutilated on the regular under the new Death Eater curriculum (Snape needs to let it happen to play his role as Voldemort’s servant). But when he catches Ginny and Neville trying to steal the sword from his room, their detention is… dun dun dun… going to the forest with Hagrid.

Yes, that’s a great scene. Though Snape had already promised Dumbledore before his death that he would do anything in his power to protect the students if Voldemort took over. Given his history of safeguarding students from danger, I believe he would’ve acted the same way regardless of Dumbledore's request.

Additionally, comparing McGonagall’s approach to detentions with Snape's under normal circumstances, sheds light on their differing methods. McGonagall sometimes assigns risky detentions—like when she sent four first years into the Forbidden Forest to search for a wounded unicorn, despite warnings to stay out given by the teachers themselves. Snape, on the other hand, tends to give detentions that are tedious and unpleasant, such as cleaning bedpans or disemboweling toads, but never risky.

The scene you brought up, where he sent Ginny and Neville into the forest with Hagrid, was a strategic move on Snape's part and a necessity. He had to give them a risky detention to appease the new regime and avoid suspicion, while covertly shielding them from brutal punishment by the Carrows. It exemplifies Snape’s ability to navigate his loyalty to Voldemort while subtly protecting the students.

I love Snape so much; he’s such a complex character, and I love delving into his motives. Thank you for bringing up this scene—it’s another compelling example of Snape’s concern for his students' physical well-being. 🫶🏻

[mythologypaintings]

Minerva in Her Study

Artist: Rembrandt van Rijn (Dutch 1606-1669)

Date: 1635

Medium: Oil on canvas

Collection: The Leiden Collection, New York City, NY, United State

Description

In this imposing masterpiece, Minerva looks up from her large folio and gazes out toward the viewer as though some distraction has interrupted her quiet concentration on the text. Golden light illuminates her powerful face with wide-open eyes and alert expression, as well as the long, flowing blonde hair cascading onto her shoulder. Her regal appearance is enhanced by the laurel wreath crowning her head, her pearl necklace, and the heavily embroidered cloak draped over her shoulders. Beneath the cloak is an ample blue garment tied with a knotted blue sash over a light gray skirt and a white shirt. In the background are more volumes, a globe, a golden helmet on a draped piece of fabric, a spear, and a large shield with the Gorgon’s head hanging from a column.

As one of the main Olympian deities, Minerva had various functions and attributes. She was the virgin goddess of war, but unlike her counterparts Mars or Bellona, she was neither belligerent nor cruel. Her inventive strategy led to victory and she was therefore, paradoxically, also the goddess of peace. She was also the goddess of wisdom, art, poetry, medicine and crafts, especially those of spinning and weaving. Rembrandt van Rijn was fascinated with biblical and mythological subjects such as Minerva, and he firmly believed that depictions of them and their stories comprised the most significant of all genres of painting. This principle, shared by collectors, theorists and painters alike, lay at the very core of Dutch humanistic traditions. Throughout his career, Rembrandt’s history paintings stand apart from those of other Dutch artists because of his ability to convey human feelings and emotions to gods and goddesses, and mere mortals from the Bible and mythology. In the mid-1630s, shortly after Rembrandt moved to Amsterdam, he radically transformed the style and focus of his history paintings, executing works such as Minerva in Her Study at a scale and with a visual power unprecedented in the Netherlands. It is not certain what motivated him to paint in such an imposing manner after he left Leiden, but probably he sought to emulate and even compete with the achievements of Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1641), then universally recognized as the greatest history painter of the day.

[stop-breaking-my-heart-telltale]

favourite twdg villain?

I'm a fond enjoyer of the St. John's as villains. I don't know if they're my favorite just because they're only in one episode, but I love the concept of this family almost immediately jumping into cannibalism toward the start of the outbreak, dealing in human flesh to bandits, and casually feeding this group their friend's legs.

Like... what the hell was this family like before the outbreak that all three of them were like, "Hey now listen... nothing should go to waste, the dead are eating people so why shouldn't we? We gotta survive and in our defense, we only target those who were gonna die anyway... like y'all."

Dude, Mark was shot in this shoulder with an arrow. He wasn't going to die from that injury. It's so fucked that these seemingly friendly people took the group into their home and then fed them Mark's legs.

If we take the idea that everyone is infected and have the capacity within themselves to become walkers, to become monsters, then the St. John's were infected long before the outbreak, y'know? Not literally, but something was wrong with them and the outbreak just further spread that infection and changed them.

But again, are they my favorite? I dunno if I can say that since I have a lot more appreciation for Lily now. Yeah, some of her writing gets a little wonky in ep3 of TFS when she goes on her monologues and shit, but y'know what? I'm into it.

You have to remember who we're talking about and the fact that she's the antagonist; Lily isn't some anti-hero in TFS who secretly has a heart of gold that's brought to light because she reunited with Clementine... she's a fucked up woman who did fucked up things in the name of survival. She's full of rot now. She sees kidnapping children and turning them into soldiers to protect her home as a means to an end, but she doesn't actually give a shit about the people she's taking. They aren't people to her, they're as the episode title suggests, toys in her game. The only one she sees as a person is Clementine, and while that makes her hesitate at first, she sees Clementine's a prize to bring back.

She remembers what happened in S1; her father had a heart attack and as she tried to save him, Kenny smashed his face in with a saltlick and then expected Lily to just stand up and help him get back to his family because "he did what he had to, he made the hard choice." Yes, Larry was a piece of shit. No one liked him, and you can even question Lily on him and she'll tell you that he has a lot of pain. Yes, it makes him an asshole, but he's still her dad and he's all she has. I mean... the simplification is daddy issues, but in all seriousness, I don't doubt for a second that many of Lily's issues stem from Larry being a shitty father to her.

Then everyone thought she was losing it when she insisted there was a traitor in the group, which she was right about, but she was unstable. She was unwell, but how do you help someone like that when you don't have training to go about it? Then Lily ends up killing either Carley or Doug and the group turns on her, and either she's left behind or she steals the van and runs away.

Then we don't know what the hell happened to her until we see her again in TFS, but like... a lone woman with decay festering inside of her joining the delta? Exposing her to their methods? I mean, what else did she have to lose? She had nothing, she lost everything, and she has a lot of issues. Survival is easy when you're numb, when you don't care about the individual; they're all just cogs churning to make the system run, and if a piece doesn't cooperate, you get rid of it and find a new one.

Plus I think there's something to say about Lily not wanting to be perceived as weak again. That whole display she put on in the cells? Telling the story of what happened to Minerva and Sophie? I get the criticism that it feels like Lily did a 180 between episodes but like... yeah dude, because it's a performance. It's not just her and Clementine anymore. It's a display of power and authority. She's playing the part and thriving in it as she ensures everyone else is terrified of her.

But then when Clementine and AJ get the upper hand? Again, she's not afraid to play up the pleading to earn enough sympathy to spare her- hell, just to let their guard down enough to strike and get the upper hand again. I mean, she's got nothing else to lose, right? If she doesn't go for it, she'll be killed and sure, you can kill her anyway but at least she tried.

Honestly, I look at Lily in TFS and still see that scared little girl playing the tough bitch, just like Carley said in S1. It's just now escalated from "tough bitch" to a downright vile person. She's so... lost? I suppose? Lost within herself and the monstrous means she's taken to survive.

I get the criticisms of how she was used in TFS, but for me, it's like when people complain about Minerva not getting the redemption arc she supposedly should've gotten, y'know? There's no saving her. Lily was never on our side, and there was no getting her on our side. She wasn't ever going to redeem herself. Even if you spare her and she drifts away on her raft, can someone like her actually find redemption? Or will she just find another group that'll feed into her rot?

Truly, I say let her be horrid. Let her be the piece of shit villain with a few fleeting moments of humanity. Let her drown in the blood she's spilled.

[iwriteasfotini]

In Honor of Dame Maggie Smith...

In honor of Dame Maggie Smith's passing, here is a short excerpt (Albus POV) from a strategy meeting held by Dumbledore before the Order is officially formed.

How do you think Minerva would react to Dumbledore recruiting for the Order from the student body? Here's what I think...

...

“As for myself, I will be recruiting both soldiers and mentors to help train those willing to fight," [said Albus.]

Minerva narrowed her eyes at him. “Training, this makes it sound like you are recruiting novices.”

Albus stared back at his Deputy Headmistress. “Everyone will be of age.”

Minerva threw her head back and her hands flew into the air. “Children, you are proposing recruiting children Albus. How can you even consider, how dare you?”

She actually stood up, her chair scraping loudly. Eyes flashing she cried, “Albus Dumbledore, I refuse to let you use Hogwarts as a recruiting ground for this war. It is not right.”

“Minerva,” Poppy said gently, putting her hand on Minerva’s back. “Sit down.”

Albus stayed quiet until Minerva had returned to her seat. 

“Do you think Lord Voldemort will overlook the opportunity Hogwarts presents for followers? I am doing nothing less than the adversary Minerva. He’s already sending people to Hogsmeade, they are planting the seeds so by the time the children graduate they will be fully entrenched, primed for service. At least I will swear to limiting my outreach to those who are seventeen. They are adults Minerva, they have the right to make these choices for themselves.”

“You say that like they are going to be given a choice.”

“Of course they will be given a choice!” Albus actually raised his voice. “Merlin Minerva, do you think so little of me?”

“It is not a matter of what I think of your morality Albus, it comes down to my charges. I am Head of Gryffindor House. Do you really think a single Gryffindor will turn down the opportunity to join a resistance?” Euphemia gave a little start at the far end of the table and placed her hand over her mouth. Fleamont grabbed her free hand. 

“You were a Gryffindor yourself Albus. I say you are taking advantage of the traits of my charges.”

“I will be considering students from all the houses equally, though approaching them with different tactics, as I am sure you can respect.”

Minerva’s nostrils flared. 

“Minerva, you’ve just said it. The likelihood of Gryffindors seeking out the resistance on their own is high. I want to offer them real preparation, and a purpose they will not find in smaller pockets of the community. We can make a difference. I believe we stand a chance to win. But we need talent, we need wands. They will be part of something historic.”

“I still say it is immoral, to prey on the righteousness of young people to do your dirty work.” 

Albus slammed his hand down on the table and everyone jumped. “It is not dirty work! It is the work. The work of this generation. Someone has to do it Minerva. For -”

“For the greater good,” Nick finished for him. The two men stared at each other with narrowed eyes. “This isn’t about undoing old wrongs Albus?”

“Nicolas, it is about doing what is right. This is not about the greater good, it is the common good. Nothing more. Do you want Tom Riddle running amuck? Can you, in your right consciousness, sit back and let that man reign terror down on our small piece of the world? We owe the future generations better. You want to talk of children Minerva?” He looked back to her, “think of all the children who have not yet received their Hogwarts letter, the children who are yet to be born. What kind of world do we want those children coming into? A world of nightmares? Because that is what awaits them if Tom is victorious. He cares for no child, whether it is the child of his follower or his enemy, he holds them in equally low regard. The only person Tom cares about is himself.”

“There are plenty of adults who will join a resistance Albus,” Poppy said quietly. 

Albus nodded, “and I have already been making contacts in this regard. But it is not enough.”

“If you are waiting for my blessing Albus, you will not get it,” said Minerva, crossing her arms over her chest. 

“Pamona, Filius, what do you say of recruiting students who are of age?”

His two Heads of House exchanged a quick glance. 

“I trust my student’s to make their own informed choices,” said Pamona. “You are free to ask, but you must accept their answers.”

“Of course,” Albus inclined his head at her. 

“I agree with Pamona.” Then Filius looked at Minerva. “Minerva, I understand your hesitation, but you are a Gryffindor yourself. Will you not join the fight? Would you take that opportunity away from your charges?”

“Children do not belong on the battlefield.”

“At what age is a witch or wizard no longer a child Minerva?” asked Albus. “In our society they come of age at seventeen, usually in their sixth year of school. We grant them new freedoms in those years, in accordance with the fact they are legally adults.”

“I cannot watch my children die Albus. Do not ask me to do it,” said Minerva. Poppy reached for her hand and tugged it under the table once again. 

“People die in war, it is the way of the world.”

Minerva shook her head, tears leaking out of her eyes and running under her glasses. 

“Albus, please…”

Then Euphemia spoke up. “James would want the opportunity to join. Like Albus said, he will seek it out, whether or not he is given extra preparation.” Euphemia cleared her throat quietly. “Minerva, I am a mother, I understand what you are saying. And I agree with you. But this is their world too. They deserve to fight for it.”

Minerva fell onto Poppy’s shoulder sobbing loudly. Poppy stroked her hair, face stoic.

[Cut to a different scene for brevity]

There was a sharp tap on his door which made Albus jump slightly. 

“Enter.”

The door opened and Minerva stepped into his office, closing the door with a click behind her. 

“Good evening Minerva, I take it my silent treatment is about to end.”

“Poppy and I are going to Egypt for two weeks.”

“I’m glad to hear it.”

His Deputy Headmistress walked across his office to stand near him, fixing him with her stern gaze. 

“I will help you in your recruiting efforts. I will do everything in my power to instill useful knowledge onto those who choose to join. I will hold you personally responsible for every single death this war bestows on past and present students I have taught. And Poppy will stay in her role as Hogwarts healer. She will not engage in this war in any way, shape, or form.”

Albus stared into Minverva’s dark eyes. “And what does Poppy say of these terms?”

“She has agreed to mentor only. Ask her yourself.”

“Minerva, I believe you,” said Albus, softening his stance and tone. “And I accept your terms. For I will bear the burden of every death no matter how the rest of the world sees me.”

Minerva’s face was still set in a terse frown. “We leave tomorrow. Don’t contact us while we are away.”

“Understood.”

She turned, heels clicking as she marched to the door. 

“Minerva.”

She stopped, but didn’t turn. 

“We can win. It will be worth it.”

Minerva McGonagall didn’t give any sign she had heard him, she opened the door and exited without a backward glance. 

...

This excerpt was taken from the Our Love is Written in the Stars series, from the Epilogue of installment four, The Heart of the Lion, which will begin daily posting on April 13, 2025.

Find out more about the series in my pinned post.

[iheartkreuz]

I made another Mashimaverse AU

I haven’t thought it out throughly yet, but here’s Minerva.

Inspired by “One Piece,” and “Dead Rock” Ish.

Basically, The God of Life and Death was the only thing that lived throughout the entirety of time. Throughout every period he would gather 12 guards/subordinates that represented different races and territories.

There’s was different ways this was picked, for Dragons it was the ruler of Dragons who’d become the next subordinate. They usually roamed near the eastern region which would one day become “The Kingdom of Dragnof.”

Demons lived among humans in the neighboring kingdom, and instead of the next king of demons ruling. The rulers would pass down “Gods favorite angel” E.N.D.

(I’m not sure about the other 10 but i imagine it’d be revealed within the story or else this would just be Oc insert)

The point is I changed the magic system and made it rooted in lore. I’m not gonna explain too much but changes to remember are-

-Erza has Belserion sealed inside, and her father is acnologia. Which technically makes her Queen of Dragons.

-Wendy is also the child or Irene and Anologia. Making her their second child.

-Not a change, but yeah Natsu still END.

-The god of Life and Death died 400 years ago during the war with Irene and the dragon kingdom. (Well he’s just not alive atm)

————

-The magic system has three different types of magic users. Those who have genetic mutations (Inherited Magic) ,

Those who are taught a “maker magic” (A type of magic that cover regular magic energy into a specific type of magic while casting) Anyone can learn.

Or “Holder Magic” Those who use magic Items that already have lacrimas that create their own magic. Anyone can get.

———

Minerva’s name is associated with the Roman godess of wisdom, who’s commonly associated with owls, not as commonly with snakes. I was think about Erza and Minerva fighting together what would take Fairy Tails Magic system to One piece level. And ofcourse that would be an “awakening” of some sorts. So I took the Idea of snakes and ran with it.

Guildarts was in an entirely different league than the entire main cast at the beginning of FairyTail. But why if (by fairy tails magic system) anyone can learn the same magic. So I’m my scenario Guildarts has a genetic magic, Cana learned the holders magic from a young age since she never knew she could have Guildarts magic. Her awakening would be Guildarts magic since you can’t awaken and holders magic. Another example is Mira using satan soul and transformation magic which would mean that you can learn more than one type of magic in Fairy Tail which doesn’t make sense cause what’s stopping everyone from being zeref?

With Minerva I thought what if her history had anything to do with snakes. I decided her ancestors (on her moms side) would be snake charmers, much like the dragon charmers that existed before Irene became dragon queen. Though they used to play flutes to charm dragons it was actually just a ritual of swine sort and the instruments weren’t needed. This was lost when Minerva’s mom passed away while she was too young to learn.

Durring the battle with Erza I imagine somehow she’s presented with the opportunity to meet a Dragon Snake (idk a name yet). It sounded far fetched until I found out about the Dragon snake Xenodermus Javanicus. A nonvonmous serpent that assists Erza and Minerva in battle due to being under both of their titles.

(Basically character building for storyline)

In reality these snakes usually pass away in captivity, are small and only live for a few years.

I’d imagine this snake would be around 400+ years old, and survived the “war” 400 years prior along side some other creatures and dragon variants like the water dragons (that remained secluded under water). Because Dragon snakes don’t have as long of a life span as water dragons, the the serpents dwindled down to a few, while water dragons are still plenty in numbers.

Minerva can’t preserve the serpent in her pocket dimension. (Which is good for throwing enemies in every once in a while). Ofcourse the serpent can fly, that why it was recognized as a dragon in the fairy tail world. Because the snake has dragon ancestors it would’ve been recognized as one because the addition of flight that other snakes didn’t have. (Debatable weather or not Erik’s snake Cubellios is one aswell).

Storyline wise, what connection the Dragon Snakes has with Minerva or her ancestors, why Minerva’s mom was the last one with the magic, and all is really up to a story to tell. I don’t want this to sound fanfic-Ish but more the and actual au that takes a different turn in story. It would also explain why Minerva dad was really trying to exploit her, thought there’s no excuse for dv, and dv can start without cause or reason. Just an anime explanation type of thing.

I also have Ideas for Jellals “Tattoo/birthmark”, the Tower of Heaven, Sho’s “Tattoo”. Kagura and Ikaguras swords. And more. Even some Ideas about old Fairy Tail, and characters from before the 400 year skip. Like Anna and Acnologia.

[mai-mai-lim]

Some THSC OCs headshots

i got a new display tablet! the first after using almost 11 years of tracking tablet heh, and i thought, why not stream and draw other people's OCs (and also my honey blorbo) with it, so thar you go!!

From left to right, top to bottom:

Ashley Jang/Miss Honey Bear (me!)

Cyborg!Cameron Calvin (@rarestdoge)

Jane Dex (@howlerlight)

Jay Benson (@jaytoons7)

Frederick (@yungaisky)

Minerva "Minnie" Price (@androidcharles)

Benz Rodriguez (@capturecharlesau)

"Accordion"/Oliver Arc (@bluetorchsky)

[dramioneasks]

I would like to recommend Stolen in the dark by skyana, I believe its a new fic write tho I enjoy the kindof theme she has in her fic (just read it )

https://archiveofourown.org/works/64190827/chapters/164732422

Thanks!

Stolen in the dark - Skyana - T, WIP - The world sees a war of Light and Dark—righteousness against tyranny. But beneath the surface, reality is far more complex. The Dark is not just a scattered rebellion but a structured force, built on strategy and hidden in plain sight. When the Light steals what they believe to be their victory, they make one fatal mistake—underestimating the ones left behind. Two stolen children. A war fought in the shadows. Lies woven so deeply they blur the line between ally and enemy. Harry Potter and Hermione Granger were never meant to be heroes of the Light. They were never meant to be found. And when they return, it will be on their own terms.

[xxsweetoothxx]

Post about Minervas Powers/Abilities because I forgot to list them in the ask from @thebananaiscold

She has a few that come with being a nightmare and then one specific to her thats part of why she chose to be a mime. I'll list em along with what I think she'd call them because I can see her naming them stupid shit she thinks sounds cool.

Ghost Eyes - Because Nightmares are just Human spirits that were consumed by Shad and "reborn" as nightmares, She is able to see and communicate with Ghost. This also includes things like vengeful spirits and poltergeists that most wouldn't be able to see unless they wanted to be seen or are ghost/undead themselves. Because of this shed probably make a hell of a good exterminator in the underworld with proper training.

Mind Sweep - when Nightmares go into people's heads while they sleep to create... Well nightmares. They have to find out what their afraid of first. So basically will search though the person's mind to find anything they can use to cause fear. Nightmares with little control over their abilities or who are just assholes who don't care about any psychological effects it may have will gravitate towards things that will cause the most fear and distress which is how dreams relating to past events or trauma come about. But a nightmare if they choose and if they have enough of a grasp on how to control themselves when in someone's mind could use this ability to really learn anything they wanted about an individual they could potentially even create dreams that Aren't scary and fucked up or even pleasant one if they want. It's a hard skill to master to that point of having full control however. Minerva will use this ability usually to get information on her targets and use it against them.

Ventriloquist - Some nightmares can't speak so they have the ability to communicate thoughts through others. They can't read minds unless the individual is asleep but they can project their own thoughts to others in order to communicate. Before knowing how to use the ability from a distance Minerva primarily used sign language, writing or some kind of text to speech type or AAC app she eventually learns how to transport her thoughts into someone through physical touch. This is why she'll use Jumbo (Possesd Puppet pal) to speak. She tells him through telepathy what she wants to say and he says it for her. She technically could do this with any being but she doesn't like to just take over people's vocal chords if they aren't okay with it. She will do it in an emergency, however.

Paralysis - This is exactly what it sounds like. Minerva will typically take the Sleep Paralysis route to cause fear in whoever she's feeding off of. She figured out how to do it by accident before having full control over her abilities. (sorry Jeff and Wilson) She discovered if she scared someone enough during REM to wake them it'd cause it. It's basically a way for her to get a fuck ton of fear out of someone with little effort and less time. She also will use it with targets to fuck with them because she's very picky about her targets and won't agree to take a job unless she thinks they deserve it.

Phantomime - That one ability that I said was more specific to her (though there are others nightmares capable of it) It's the main reason she went with the mime theme along with the whole not being able to speak thing. Minerva has the ability to essentially mime anything she wants into existence as invisible objects which you would THINK is hella OP. There is a downside however and that's that it is dependent on how other people interpret her actions and based on their imagination. So if she just sucks ass at mining or the person whos influencing the outcome is just very shit at charades it can have some pretty funny results. Minerva can see these objects as actual physics objects, however to non nightmares/shades they will be invisible unless something visible is placed on them, like a blanket. She'll often paint things if she manages to mime something she wants to keep.

[helenadurazzo]

McGonagall’s Announcement

Genna Raleigh and her friends have returned to Hogwarts for their fourth year. Following the sorting ceremony, the headmistress makes announcements for the upcoming school year which involve unveiling an exciting event and introducing some new, albeit temporary, faculty

Ebrill Mufaro, Elma Truell, and Etta Egwu belong to @melodymidway

September 2011, Genna Raleigh’s POV

Genna sat with her fellow Gryffindors as she watched the new group of first years. Over the years, it had been something Genna had looked forward to witnessing. With everything becoming nostalgia with how it reminded Genna of how she once used to be in the same place as those first years. Normally, she would have been bored endlessly by the repetitiveness of it all, but something about the uncertainty of who would end up where made everything so fascinating for the current fourth year.

Each year there seemed to be someone being sorted that one of her friends knew. Primarily it seemed to be Rex who knew people but that was only because all of the ones he did know tended to be his relatives in one form or another. Two years ago was Vincent Amari, the son of his Aunt Melody who was sorted into Hufflepuff. Last year was Vincent’s brother, Jasper, who was sorted into Slytherin. That same year there was also Nolly Tremblay and Jon Midway, who were also Rex’s cousins, but Genna couldn’t recall their houses or parents.

This year on their way to Hogwarts, Rex told her and Elma how this year, two more of his relatives would be coming to Hogwarts in the former of Zara and Duman Midway. This time, Genna did remember that their father was Jackie Midway, the older brother of Melody, but that was only because Rex had just recently told her. This year though, there was also Etta Egwu, who Ruby informed her during her sorting that it was her little stepsister. And now, Etta sat next to Ruby, being one of the newest members of Gryffindor house. And then there was Winifred Warrington, Ivy’s twin sister, who Sonny had told her about. She was not a traditional first year, but rather would be coming in as a fourth year. Interestingly, unlike her Ravenclaw sister, Winifred was placed in Slytherin. But she supposed just because you had a twin didn’t technically mean you were obligated to be in the same house as them.

As the sorting wrapped up, Genna noticed something quite intriguing when she looked at the table of professors. There seemed to be more sitting up there with usual. Just about all of the professors she had last year were sitting up there in their typical spots. But now there was two new spaces. Next to Professor Dromgoole, was a black haired woman with blue eyes who looked to be middle aged. And next to Professor Longbottom was an older woman, likely in her seventies judging by her curly gray hair, yet her blue eyes were just about as bright as the other mystery woman’s. More mysteries came when Genna briefly glanced over at the Hufflepuff table where she saw Rex also looking up at the table of professors with a surprised look on his face. If he knew someone up there, it was clear he didn’t know they were coming.

“Welcome one and all to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!” The headmistress stood at the podium as she made the typical announcements to mark the start of the school year. “Before we begin the feast, I have a special announcement and two people I would like to formally introduce. Beginning next month, Hogwarts will take part in an international competition with Mahoutokoro of Japan and Ilvermorny of America, known as the Intercontinental Wizards Cup. This event will bring together teams from each school to compete in tests of magical skill, knowledge, and spirit. Competitors will face challenges unlike any they have encountered before. And while every effort has been made to ensure the utmost safety for all those involved this is not an event to enter lightly. Now, unlike past events such as the Triwizard Tournament, each school will host a portion of the tournament and feature students from all three schools. Each team will consist of seven students. Sixth and Seventh years will have the chance to travel to Mahoutokoro, Second and Third years will have the chance to travel to Ilvermorny, and fourth and fifth years will have the chance to join the team here at Hogwarts. My apologies to the first years but you need to focus on your studies. For those who are interested in the tournament you will report to the professor who corresponds with your year and will assist you and your team during the tournament. Sixth and Seventh years will report to Professor Dromgoole, Fourth and Fifth years will report to Professor Ellington, and Second and Third years will report to Professor Longbottom.”

An international tournament sounded remarkably brilliant. Even if she didn’t get the chance to travel to one of these other schools the chance of participating sounded intriguing. She supposed a conversation with Professor Ellington and applying for a chance to be on the team was in order. Genna assumed by the excited whispering of everyone in the Great Hall meant that many people found the same way, or even if they weren’t interested in participating, it was bound to be entertaining to witness. After all, when would something like this happen at Hogwarts again?

“Now, since Professor Dromgoole and Professor Longbottom will be going to Mahoutokoro and Ilvermorny respectively with their teams, we have two guest professors who will be filling in for Ancient Runes and Herbology.” Professor McGonagall announced, as she began by motioning to the first mystery staff member who sat next to Professor Dromgoole, “First, please welcome Professor Ebrill Mufaro who will be taking over ancient runes for the year. A Ravenclaw alumna from the Class of 1981. Since her graduation, Professor Mufaro has been making skillful and insightful contributions to the study of ancient runes and has made many important translations that have enlightened the wizarding world. And for Herbology.” McGonagall continued as she motioned to the older woman sitting next to Professor Longbottom, “I am pleased to introduce Professor Olivia Tremblay, another member of our alumni and a Hufflepuff from the Class of 1957. Over many decades, Professor Tremblay has made many discoveries when it comes to herbology, becoming one of the most renowned herbologists of her generation.” McGonagall then redirected her attention to the students, “I trust you will show both the Professors respect and take this opportunity to learn from new people with their own specialties of their respective subjects. Now, let the feast begin!” And with that, the shimmering plates of food filled the tables with no delay.

“Are any of you going to try and sign up?” Hexsmith asked as they all began to eat.

“Are you kidding?” Robyn exclaimed, seemingly surprised that Hexsmith wasn’t even sure of the answer, “Of course, I’m going to put my name in, Kev too if he knows what’s good for him.” She added, playfully punching her blonde haired friend in the shoulder. “It’s going to be wicked fun!”

“I think I’ll put my name in to.” Ruby added more hesitantly. “Although it would be nice to know more about the challenges we’re going to face in the tournament.”

“You heard the headmistress.” Daniel reminded her, “It’ll be perfectly safe.”

“It’s not precisely that.” Ruby elaborated, “It would just be nice to know what subjects might be included for the tournament. Not everyone is skilled in everything after all. And if we knew, and wanted a chance at victory, we could try and get the people who are skilled in those subjects to put their names in.”

“With Professor Ellington in charge of the Hogwarts portion, I wonder if part of it might have something to do with Spellcasting.” Abigail theorized, “He is the Charms Professor after all.”

“Maybe.” Genna considered. “Wonder if any of us will make the team.”

“I hope I do.” Daniel spoke proudly with an odd amount of school spirit. “I’ll make sure we win the tournament.”

“Well I suppose if it’s safe, I’ll give it a shot.” Kevin nervously agreed.

“That’s the spirit Kev!” Robyn cheered after she ate another piece of roasted chicken, “I just hope it won’t be too safe, wouldn’t want it to be boring.”

“What do you all think about the new professors?” Genna gently changed the subject. “They seem nice.”

“I know of both of them.” Ruby mentioned, “My stepfather is good friends with Melody Midway and she in turn is friends with Professor Mufaro.”

“Oh yeah!” Etta recalled, and then added on to her stepsister’s statement, “Didn’t he once say that Professor Mufaro and Melody went on some sort of curse breaking mission together.”

“I think it was something like that.” Ruby agreed, “I can’t remember the details though.”

“Going on a curse breaking adventure with the Melody Midway would be the experience of a lifetime.” Genna daydreamed about the prospect as she talked. Her signed copy of the book Melody’s brothers cowrote about the Cursed Vaults in her trunk ready to return to its place right next to her bed.

“And how do you know Professor Tremblay?” Hexsmith asked. “Is she another family friend?”

“Yes.” Ruby confirmed, “But Rex could likely provide more about her than I could. She is his grandmother of course.”

“I swear we learn more about that Hufflepuff’s family everyday.” Robyn exclaimed. “Now he is the grandson of a famous herbologist?”

“Did he not know she was coming?” Genna asked the group, “He looked rather surprised.”

“Now that you mention it I noticed that to.” Abigail noted, “Not sure why she wouldn’t have told him.”

“Gryffindors!” One of the prefects called out, “Follow us to the Gryffindor tower.”

“Looks like we have to get going.” Ruby acknowledged as she got up from her bench. She then smiled at her stepsister, “You are going to love the Gryffindor common room.”

As more discussion started, Genna’s eyes glanced back over at the other houses. She noticed that Hufflepuff was preparing to head to their own common room. However she didn’t initially see Rex and Elma among the group of students with yellow and black ties and scarfs. Instead, she found Rex and Elma, along with two other Hufflepuffs and a Slytherin talking with Professor Tremblay. She assumed one of the Hufflepuffs and Slytherin were Vincent and Jasper, but wasn’t quite sure who the other one was, but by his bright blue hair, perhaps that was Teddy Lupin.

After glancing back at her Gryffindors, Genna slipped away from the group and made her way over to Rex and Elma. It didn’t really matter if she was there or not, after all she knew her way to the Gryffindor tower and the password. What would be the worst thing to happen? By the time she made it to the guest Herbology Professor, it was just Rex and Elma in her company since Teddy had went back to join the other Hufflepuffs while Vincent and Jasper had went over to talk with Professor Mufaro. Their body language and facial expressions implying that it had been a relatively long time since they had seen each other.

“Genna.” Rex was the first to spot her and waved her over oddly friendly, “I’d like to introduce you to my grandmother.”

“It is a pleasure to meet you.” Professor Tremblay smiled, “I have heard quite a few things about you and Elma, all good, of course.”

“Same here.” Genna beamed. “I think I am more excited for herbology this year. Nothing wrong with Professor Longbottom of course, but it’ll be nice to get a new perspective. I am also eager to see what there is to learn Professor Mufaro.”

“Glad to hear it, and trust me, there is plenty to learn from Professor Mufaro.” Professor Tremblay confirmed.

“Is it true she went on a curse breaking adventure with Melody Midway?” Genna asked curiously.

“You could call it that.” Professor Tremblay admitted. “Although it wasn’t your traditional curse breaking mission. It was more so breaking a curse inside the two of them rather than a curse that is affected an area or finding and retrieving an object.”

“Inside them?” Elma raised an eyebrow in confusion.

“It’s quite the story.” Rex revealed, “Especially in the family.” He then turned to his grandmother, “It happened about seven years ago right? And both of their husbands also went?”

“Yes, it happened around the time Eloise was born.” Professor Tremblay confirmed and provided a point of reference but only one that Rex could understand. “It was quite a peculiar curse, if my mother didn’t share it I doubt I would have believed it initially. Basically they-“

“Olivia.” Professor Longbottom interrupted awkwardly, “Are you occupied at the moment? I was wanting to show you the greenhouses and see if you had any additional ideas for the lesson plan guides.”

“Ah yes.” Olivia smiled at him, “We should get that done.” She then turned to Rex, Elma, and Genna, “We can continue the story another time. But if any of you ever need me, I won’t be too far.” And with that, Rex’s grandmother followed Professor Longbottom out of the Great Hall.

Elma sighed, “Suppose we should be heading to our dormitories.”

“Agreed.” Rex nodded more seriously. “Classes begin tomorrow after all.”

“And the tournament should start soon as well, it is so exciting.” Genna added with glee as she moved on to the next exciting thought, she then turned to Rex as they approached the grand door of the Great Hall, “It is cool that your grandmother is here teaching.”

“Yeah.” Rex agreed with a shrug, “I was surprised she went through with it to be honest.”

“Really?” Elma remarked in a surprised tone, “She seems like the perfect substitute for Professor Longbottom.”

“She is.” Rex agreed, his face giving off whatever truth he wasn’t telling but refused to tell, “It’s complicated.”

“Has she told you anything about the tournament?” Genna asked to change the subject.

“Nothing noteworthy.” Rex informed them as they made it to the stairs that he and Elma would descend to get to the Hufflepuff common room and Genna would ascend to go to the Gryffindor tower, “But since she and Professor Mufaro are already here, the selecting of the teams will be starting soon.”

[misspermitted]

Day 2 of writing a better Harry Potter series than JK Rowling

Introduction. Page 1 [here]

[elijones94]

💥 Diana Prince/Wonder Woman excels in gymnastics!

[acourtofchaos]

CRUEL SUMMER | camp counsellor!Sirius Black x F!Reader

summary: blue skies, summer sun, and your camp leader dropping one hell of a bomb on you before the gates have even opened. That boy you hate with every fibre of your being? You now have to spend the entire summer with him whilst he teaches you how to swim. Good luck!

CW: both reader and sirius are mean as fuck to each other, mild slutshaming, slightly jealous sirius, total enemies vibes for this part though they're clearly in denial about wanting to fuck each other. Word count: 2.3K

A/N: i plan on making this a full long fic bc i love the idea so much so this is basically just a little snippet for week one of the festivalofaus event 🖤

“Over my dead body.”

“Believe it or not, that is exactly what we're trying to avoid, hence the swimming lessons.” The look that camp co-leader Minerva Mcgonagall gave you at your petulant response was nothing short of terrifyingly stern. Bordering on withering and even, ever so slightly worse, disappointed.

You hated it.

The middle-aged woman had the kind of presence that demanded respect, the kind of sharp eyed, no nonsense look that made some of the younger kids a little scared to approach her and could rein in even the unruliest of her mismatched band of counsellors.

But she was a sweetheart deep down, protective of each and every one of the kids that passed through the camp entrance and just as fiercely proud of them whether they managed to swim the length of the lake and back or simply put together a s'more without setting the entire woods on fire.

In short, you adored her. This tight lipped woman who had been more of a maternal figure to you in your two seasons of camp than your mother had your entire life, and so that small glint of disappointment had made you instantly want to take the words back. To snatch them from existence with a chastised grimace and slightly warmed cheeks.

To say sorry faster than you ever had before.

And maybe you would have, if it wasn't for the boy slouched in the chair beside you.

Sirius Black was as much the bane of your existence as he was beautiful, dressed in light jeans and heavy boots, a black band shirt that had been cut up at the neck and the sleeves to show off more pale skin and the dark sprawl of his numerous tattoos. Silver chains glinting prettily from his neck and ornate rings adorning his slim fingers.

His hair had been thrown up into a bun that did nothing to diminish the wild look of him, instead the strands that had slipped free to frame his face made him look sharper. The contrast to them and his startling grey eyes enough to make him look ethereal, like he'd waltzed straight out of a fantasy book instead of the richest, most straight-laced part of the country.

He didn't look like the music tutor or senior lifeguard of a summer camp, he looked like a villain, a threat, and to make it worse he was fucking smirking behind the loose fist he had pressed to his mouth. Gaze bright with mirth as it flickered between your camp leader and the side of your face.

Looking far too much like he was enjoying your discomfort despite the fact that it meant he was also being forced into lessons with someone he couldn't stand.

So maybe that was why instead of apologising like you should have, you jabbed a thumb in his direction, refusing to look at the boy incase you lost your head completely, and scoffed. “Are you kidding me? He's more likely to be the one that kills me.”

Sirurs let out a huff at that, rolling his eyes. “Don’t be so dramatic, I would never.” He tsked, his voice a smooth drawl that made something crackle beneath your skin, taunting. “You're not worth the jail time, doll.”

You glared at him, lips parting with a fresh insult when he had the audacity to wink at you.

“You know what, Black–”

“Enough, both of you.” Mcgonagall interrupted sharply, levelling you both with another displeased stare over her glasses whilst she tapped the pen in her hand once, twice, against the clipboard before pointing it at you. “We're missing a lifeguard this year and you did put in your application that you were willing to fulfil any duty needed. That you would learn if need be.”

Shit, she had you there.

Still, you argued weakly. A little desperate though you would never admit it. “I did, and I will, I swear, but can't it be someone else who teaches me? Like Lily or even Barty.”

Mcgonagall shook her head.“Miss Evans’ schedule is busy enough as it is and Mr Crouch is far too easily distracted, you'll be learning how to turn the lake purple or how to cover it with foam again before you can float.” She muttered, a touch fond despite the antics of your chaotic friend. “Sirius is the senior lifeguard and the best option to train you quickly. We'll just have to make some adjustments to the schedules until then.”

“But–”

“Christ, just accept that we're stuck together so we can leave.” Sirius grumbled and you hated the way his eyes flashed when you turned to him, like he'd won the argument before it started just by capturing your attention after you'd tried so hard to ignore him. “What's the matter, scared we’ll spend a little time together and you'll fall in love with me?”

“In your dreams, Black.” You snarled, face hot and frustration churning in your chest as he laughed lowly, condescending, full of the kind of mischief you wanted absolutely no part of.

"How did you know?” He gasped, all faux scandalised horror, fingers pressed to his parted mouth before it widened into a slow, sharp grin. “Wanna know what else I've dreamt about? I'd tell you but Minnie here might have a heart attack.”

“You're a pig, I'd rather be eaten by a lake monst–”

“Enough!” Mcgonagall slammed the clipboard down on the desk with enough force to make both you and Sirius jump, guilty faces snapping towards her as she let out a too long sigh. Like camp had only just started and she was already done with the pair of you.

“Lesson's will be every morning at seven sharp until eight. They'll take place until you're ready to complete lifeguard training and will not end a moment sooner. No ifs or buts, now get out before I assign you to toilet cleaning duties for the entire summer."

And well, that was that.

****

Camp Marauder at seven am was almost mystical, definitely charming in a way that stirred something behind your ribs and warmed it up a little. It was all pale blue skies still tinged with the pink flush of dawn, hazy and soft, peaceful, whilst the world around it had yet to fully wake.

It had a soothing effect on your frazzled state from your lack of sleep, the anxiety clutching at your chest over how this morning would go, and you were quietly thankful to how it steadily made all the muscles in your body untense.

The grumpy frown pinching at your brow, softening just a little when you inhaled the forest air slowly and closed your eyes to the sounds of birds chirping, trees rustling in the wind. The gentle lull of the lake lapping against the shoreline.

There was the scent of the damp earth beneath your feet and woodsmoke clinging to the air despite the fire having died hours ago, the smell of warm pancakes and sizzling bacon floating from the open door of the food hall and when you took another breath, this one a little easier, it gave you that sense of home you craved enough to make that final bit of tension in your shoulders release.

You were still, however, utterly unimpressed with the ungodly hour.

The coffee in your hand didn't help matters, no matter how carefully it had been delivered by a sleepy-looking Evan, nor did the warm pastry placed softly into the other for good measure by Regulus, or the oversized shirt you were wrestled into by a too fretful Barty when he caught sight of the way you were shivering in the morning breeze in just your swimsuit as you joined them for a sneaky early breakfast.

Not that you didn't appreciate all of it, christ of course you did, it was just that nothing could stop your mood from souring whenever you remembered you'd be spending an hour alone with Sirius Black.

The dark-haired boy was already there by the time you eventually dragged your feet down to the lake. Gliding effortlessly through the water like it was second nature, strong arms propelling him with the kind of grace that had you stopping in your tracks and just watching, a little awed.

And then it was like the boy could sense there were eyes on him.

He stopped mid lap and turned, staring back at you just long enough for it to be painfully obvious that you had been caught admiring him, and then he was swimming back towards you with a speed that felt intimidating. Hair dripping lake water and pale skin glittering with the droplets that fell from the curling ends when he stood and made his way over.

He wore only a pair of black shorts, soaked and clinging to the lean muscles of his thighs, hanging low on his hips and– oh fuck, shit, jesus christ why were you staring? Look somewhere else.

Despite the nausea that you felt over whatever temporary insanity was clearly wreaking havoc with you, it felt harder than it should have.

Because as much as you hated it, Sirius wasn't exactly unattractive, pretty far from it if you were being begrudgingly honest. And if that wasn’t distracting enough, then the way his tattoos moved with the flex of his arms, his chest and his elegant hands, as he pushed his wet hair back certainly was.

God, what kind of nightmare was this.

You couldn't look away now, not when Sirius was staring right back at you, eyes boring into yours like he could see straight into your head and pluck out those insane thoughts to read at his leisure.

It would be a weakness, an admission of guilt, and like hell would you give him the delight of knowing he'd gotten to you in any capacity. Let alone that you'd been checking him out.

He'd be unbearable, more than he already was, and quite frankly, you would rather die.

So instead you muttered a quiet 'morning' that sounded more strangled than you would have liked, counting on his assumption that the tightness in your voice was just a terrible attempt at politeness, and then you promptly attempted to drown yourself early by knocking back your half-full coffee in one go.

Praying that afterwards, if your cheeks appeared as flushed as they felt then you could simply blame it on the hot liquid and the steam making you too warm.

But if Sirius noticed anything when you placed the cup down he didn't say anything.

Instead, his gaze lingered on the shirt that you were wearing when you straightened, the way the hem was only long enough to touch just above mid thigh and made it seem like you were wearing nothing else despite the fact he knew, rationally, there was a swimsuit beneath.

The way it made you look too different compared to the girl he teased constantly for not knowing how to be anything but an uptight priss, too wild with your mussed hair and bare legs and bare feet, the way it made you look too much like you belonged to the boy you called your best friend and something unusual twisted in Sirius’ stomach at the thought.

You arched a brow at his silence. The lack of response whilst the frown on his face grew, deepening until he was practically glaring and when he caught the slight squaring of your shoulders, like you were preparing for a fight, he unashamedly leapt on it like it was a lifeline.

“You're late.” He bit out, sounding petty even to his own ears but he stubbornly ignored it, aiming a sharp nod towards Barty's shirt. “Seven am sharp means you're in the water at seven, dollface, not the time that you drag yourself away from violating camp property with your boyfriend at.”

You made a noise in the back of your throat, a scathing, disbelieving thing that made Sirius bristle, but where he expected outrage and an argument, instead you narrowed your eyes at him. A vicious smile tugging at your lips.

“You sound bitter, what's the matter, Black? Everyone finally figured out what an insufferable git you are and now no one wants you?” You tutted mockingly, all faux sympathy and concern. “Maybe you could ask your brother for tips on how to not physically repulse people, you know, since it was him as well as Barty I was with this morning.”

Was it a low blow? Undoubtedly.

But it had the desired effect, and you would apologise later to Reg for drawing him into the line of fire.

For now though, you relished the way Sirius’ eyes flared, the way his jaw clenched, a muscle fluttering beneath his skin at the mention of your closeness to his brother, and god, the victory singing in your chest was exquisite when he tore his stare away to glare across the lake and grumbled something unintelligible.

“What was that?” You asked innocently. “Oh you wanted to know that Evan was there too? Wow, what a busy morning I've had already, no wonder I was la–”

“I said, just get in the fucking water.”

You stifled a laugh and made your way to the lake’s edge, only wincing slightly when a couple of small twigs dug into your feet. But then it was Sirius’ turn to be smug when you seemingly stopped out of nowhere, toes just barely touching the water and going no further as you hesitated.

“What's the matter?” He called out as he passed, pressing a little too close so his chilly skin brushed against yours just to rile you up. He stepped into the lake before you could swat at him, wading in waist deep then turning to you with a crude, wolfish grin. “Scared of getting wet?”

Your eyes flickered up from the water, cold and cutting. “Never had to worry about that around you before, rockstar wannabe, never will.”

Sirius glowered at you, a sneer curling at his lips like he was about to argue, like he was gathering venom to hurl back at you, but then it all morphed. Grey eyes full of challenge and his tongue pressed to his cheek to wrestle back a grin.

“Yeah? Well c'mon then, doll, I don't bite.”

Call it self-preservation, or more than reasonable paranoia, but you didn't believe that was true for a second.