A Mermaid's Legacy- Sebastian Sallow x MC x Ominis Gaunt

Chapter 39- Home Away From Home

Packing up to return to Hogwarts, I reflected on the whirlwind of events that had unfolded yesterday. The Oracle's revelations had spurred me into action, briefing my mother and everyone to adjust our strategies. If we were going to face what lay ahead, we knew we needed every advantage possible. Sharing this information with my mother had been difficult; the extent of Morgana's involvement left her distraught. Morgana had been a close companion during her early years of rule, even playing a pivotal role in her Consecration Ceremony that empowered and coronated her.

"Morgana's power was substantial before her banishment, and now with the potential of her power fully restored, caution is paramount. The distortion of her soul makes her an enigmatic threat, capable of unimaginable actions. The adage "hell hath no fury like a woman scorned" seems fitting, and god help anyone who stands in her way. This is why we seldom ventured above water. Spending too much time on land makes us susceptible to emotions and desires that could overpower us. The agony and turmoil these emotions cause are too volatile to handle."

During the meeting, my mother pressed on, occasionally casting wary glances toward Ominis and Sebastian. It was as though she was evaluating the potential threat they posed to her daughter, attempting to glimpse into the future. She confided in me that she had also sought the Oracle's guidance about them, only to be met with vague responses. Some aspects of time remained unrealized, preventing a clear image of what the potential future might hold.

Ominis had managed to secure our invitations to his family's ball, although he wasn't looking forward to communicating with his father. Our strategy was set: while Ominis outwardly engaged in his family's schemes, we would covertly conduct our investigation. He designed an intricate facade, confessing to having a change of heart about forsaking dark magic. He would assert that my decision to be with Sebastian had irreparably shattered his heart. He would state he could no longer endure Sebastian's presence or extend care to anyone beyond his own needs.

Within Ominis, love was a force that had dwelled within him and would meet its demise, never again to be welcomed.

Ominis would try to seek out more information, striving to gauge their strengths. We also made necessary adjustments to his and Sebastian's arm engravings, enhancing them with the inscription "Nulla Intrusio Omnium." This addition was designed to safeguard their minds from the influence of Morgana or any other form of magic.

The remaining members of our group were geared up for an offensive strategy, remaining vigilant for potential allies of the Gaunt family or other sympathizers.

It was evident that Garreth, Poppy, and Gabriel were continuously honing their skills through training with the Sirens. Their movements had evolved into something both lethal and precise. Although the alchemists among us didn't divulge all aspects of our magical practices, my companions gleaned a wealth of knowledge on healing, spell enhancement, and a range of protective and offensive spells, both in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Witnessing this collaboration firsthand, I began to envision the groundwork for further potential political alliances or broader country outreach, visualizing the possibilities that were taking shape.

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My mother suggested that Alaric accompany me back to Hogwarts as a precautionary measure. We would likely be more attuned to any potential signs of Morgana's magic. Returning to the dock posed no significant challenges, and upon arrival, everyone reverted to their human forms. This transformation can be slightly uncomfortable for some.

"I'm thrilled to have solid ground beneath me again, no offense Yvaine," Poppy remarked, using a spell to dry her belongings.

"None taken," I replied with a smile. "There's truly no place like home."