In the shadows of Blood and Snakes [Sebastian Sallow x Gryffindor MC]

Chapter 1 - Back for another year

1st September, 1891

Adeen stood at the base of the great marble staircase, her eyes tracing the familiar contours of the castle she had come to know so well over the past year. Hogwarts had always been a place of wonder and discovery, but now, as she stood in the entrance hall once more, it felt different. The shadows seemed deeper, the corridors longer, and the memories heavier. She clutched the shoulder strap of his bag a little tighter, her heart pounding with a mix of dread and anticipation.

"Back for another year, I see," a familiar voice drawled. Adeen turned to see Nearly Headless Nick floating nearby, his transparent form shimmering in the morning light.

"Hello, Nick," she replied with a small smile. The ghost's presence was a comforting reminder of the constancy of Hogwarts, despite the turmoil within her.

"Looking a bit peaky, if you don't mind me saying so," Nick observed, tilting his head in concern, nearly making it fall off to the side. "Everything all right?"

Adeen nodded, though the tightness in her chest betrayed her true feelings. "Just... a lot on my mind."

"Ah, well, the start of a new school year always brings its challenges," Nick said sympathetically, adjusting his head back on his neck. "But remember, Hogwarts is home. It has a way of healing wounds, even the deepest ones."

As the ghost drifted away, Adeen took a deep breath and began her ascent up the stairs. The familiar chatter of students filled the air, a comforting hum that eased her nerves slightly. She spotted familiar faces, exchanging nods and smiles with her peers. Yet, despite the bustling atmosphere, a sense of loneliness lingered.

As Adeen made her way through the castle corridors, lost in her thoughts, a voice called out to her from behind.

"Miss Oakley!"

She turned to see Professor Weasley hurrying towards her.

"Professor Weasley," Adeen said, forcing a small smile onto her face. "It's good to see you."

The professor returned her smile, though it did little to ease the weight of sorrow that hung in the air between them.

"I wanted to speak with you," she said, her voice gentle. "Can you follow me in my office for a moment, please?"

"Of course, Professor."

— Adeen —

As I stepped into the familiar corridors of Hogwarts Castle, a wave of nostalgia washed over me, mingled with a heavy sense of loss. Professor Fig's absence loomed large in my mind, casting a shadow over what should have been a joyous return to Hogwarts.

My heart skipped a beat as I made my way to Professor Weasley's office, anticipation and trepidation warring within me.

What could she possibly want to discuss with me?