Quisling

Welcome to Slytherin

Chapter Two

Slytherin's common room stretched deeper than I believed the dungeons of Hogwarts capable.

There was chill in the air, one that raised the hairs on my arms and a puff with every breath. Logic told me this was to be expected for a stone built dungeon- shadowed under the lake. But still each step I took rippled my freckled skin and I had to focus if I hoped to adjust to the darkness.

When I reached the bottom was stunned. The space was enormous, housing two large sofas and a table for tea between. Near the elegantly carved fireplace lay two upholstered chairs fitted with their own end table. It was past midnight and I knew students would be asleep at this hour- All except one who sat cross legged by the fire.

She seemed concentrated on a book- her sharp features making her seem almost unapproachable. But by the looks of the plaque on her robes I knew she was who I needed.

"Glorian Prewet?" My voice cascaded, echoing in the empty chamber.

She lifted her wide eyes to me, thick rounded bags lining her pale skin. She also bore red hair and it felt nice to be in the company of yet another ginger.

"You must be Miss Blackwood.. Follow me and I'll show you to the dorms.."

She lead me to an even darker hall with stones eroded by moss. I hesitated in the archway, only rushing forward when I saw she would leave me behind. Underneath my feet was water- A whole canal streaming through with nothing but a metal bridge to keep me dry. Above my head were stained glass- Fish swimming happily above.

"Lovely isn't it..?" She whispered, enjoying the mystic sight.

"Are we below the Black Lake..?" I asked, she responded with a quick nod.

"It's very serene.. The air is always cool- Even during the hotter months." She smiled softly, it was so quick I almost thought it hadn't occurred.

"Here we are.. Fifth years dorm together- you'll be sharing a room with 5 other girls.. I'm sure you'll all become well acquainted in no time. The door to our left is the lavatories, and I can be found in the 7th year dorm just by the statue of Salazar Slytherin." She said quickly, giving me a gentle yet stern push inside.

"Thank you.." I began before realizing she had already left.

Now it was me once again left to brood in a full room- Feeling just a little empty. I could still taste the heat that came from the beast.. The smell of soot and decay seemed to linger on my skin.. If I could just clean it off-

Yes I thought to myself..

Glorian had mentioned Lavatories- But I couldn't remember where.. Back out in the silent room I found nothing but the quiet Swish of the Black lake. I was turned around- Supplies in hand. To the left.. But where was I now? I had taken stairs the first time I arrived in my dorm but now I found myself in a similar hall- Just as dark and moss-ridden as the last but something felt off.. Then a plaque caught my eye.

Lavatory

I breathed in relief, opening the door to find a beautiful room- Loo's the left and to the right a large section of clawfoot baths.

Setting down my toiletries I began running the water. The sharpness from the cold made me shiver- But I pushed through, melting myself into the frigid water. I wanted to wash away every part of today..

The icy gaze from Mother, the glowing Whispers of Magic, Mr Osric.. And Ranrok.

His red glare was forever burned into my subconscious.. the thought of him approaching me- Wishing me harm. I sat up quickly, my knees finding their way to my chest as I embraced them.