Trial of Time: A Hogwarts Legacy Story

(P2) Chapter 3 - Reunions

It's late at night when Ominis and I finally arrive at Hogwarts. I hadn't realized that it was almost October and that the school year has already begun. The grounds are lined with Halloween decorations, and the aroma of fresh pumpkin tarts wafts from the Great Hall as we enter and pass by.

I sent Professor Weasley an owl shortly before Ominis and I left my flat. She was expecting us, and was prepared to escort us to her office so that we could explain more about why exactly we needed to come to Hogwarts. I also sent an incredibly brief message to Amicus Welles, my supervisor at the Ministry, stating that I would be away from the office investigating leads on potential security threats and that I would report back with more information as soon as I can. This wasn't exactly true, though it gave me the time and space to travel to Hogwarts without abandoning my position. 

It was also rare moments like these that I had begun to appreciate how most of the esteemed government gits like Amicus are incredibly lazy and apathetic about anything that any of us do unless it causes chaos in any way.

Stepping into Weasley's office, I'm instantly brought back to the first week of my fifth year.

"Oh! Miss Cirilla!" a soft voice exclaims. I smile instantly as Deek runs to me. He's beaming from ear to ear. "It is so nice to see you, Miss Cirilla. Professor Weasley has told me of all your accomplishments-"

"Now, now, Deek. Miss Clarke and Mr. Gaunt have had a long journey tonight. Would you mind taking their bags up to their quarters?" Professor Weasley enters, smiling at us. 

Deek nods, "Of course! So happy to see you again, Miss Cirilla. Good evening to you, Mr. Gaunt." He bows at our feet, taking my enchanted knapsack and Ominis's briefcase before leaving.

Professor Weasley sits down at her desk. "So, Miss Clarke. Mr. Gaunt. What brings you to Hogwarts?"

Ominis pauses, "well... er..."

I clear my throat, "We are here on top secret business at the moment. We need Professor Sallow's assistance in a very urgent matter."

Professor Sallow. That feels incredibly strange to say.

"I take it this is a confidential Ministry matter?" Professor Weasley asks, raising an eyebrow at us.

"Something like that. There is an... ancient manuscript that we are looking for," I lie, "one that could prove to be incredibly dangerous in the wrong hands. We hope that Professor Sallow may be able to help us find more information about it."

Ominis turns to me, turns back to Weasley, and nods in agreement.

Professor Weasley looks between us both suspiciously. "Very well. Your lodging will be in the Room of Requirement while you are here, that is where Deek will be bringing your things. I'll let Professor Black know that you are here to gather information for some... academic research. As for Professor Sallow," she looks at me, a slight smile on her face. "You will find him in Professor Hecat's old quarters."

I smile at her. "Thank you, Professor. It is awfully late, so I think we'll go ahead and turn in."

Ominis nods as well, "Thank you, Professor. Good night."

"Of course. If there's anything else you need, please let me know." Professor Weasley says.

As we exit her office, Ominis turns to me and chuckles. "I'm impressed. I underestimated how good Cirilla the Gryffindor Hero could be at lying," he whispers.

I roll my eyes, "Very funny. What do you suppose we do now? I am pretty tired-"

"I think we should go and see Sebastian," Ominis interjects, "so that we can spare him from going into shock over his breakfast in the Great Hall tomorrow morning."