Forbidden Request

Chapter Fourteen: Murder And Magic

As I walked back to the Hufflepuff common room, my mind buzzed with the events of the morning and early afternoon.

I had barely processed the excitement of the upcoming Quidditch match when the message from the portrait of Eldritch Diggory had taken me by surprise.

The hallways were quiet, the soft hum of students' conversations a distant murmur. I quickened my pace, my curiosity growing with each step. Upon reaching the entrance to the common room, I was greeted by the warm, inviting glow of the common room's lights.

I approached the portrait with a sense of anticipation. The portrait of Eldritch Diggory, an elegant, dignified figure with a knowing smile, swung open as I neared. The elderly wizard's eyes twinkled with a blend of mystery and authority.

"Miss Atlow, thank you for coming," he said, his voice echoing slightly in the cozy common room. "I believe we have much to discuss."

The portrait's expression grew serious. "I've been informed that you have recently come into contact with a rather unusual and ancient form of magic. It is of utmost importance that we discuss this matter further."

I felt a shiver of apprehension mixed with excitement. "What do you know about it?"

Eldritch Diggory gestured for me to sit in one of the plush armchairs by the fireplace. "Please, take a seat. This is a matter that requires both caution and understanding. The ancient magic you've encountered is tied to an old and powerful legacy, one that could have significant implications for both you and the magical world."

I settled into the chair, trying to process his words. "What should I do?"

"First, you must understand that this magic is not to be taken lightly," he began. "It holds the potential for great power, but also great danger. I have information that might help you grasp the scope of what you're dealing with. However, it will require careful study and perhaps some guidance."

"Is there a specific book or resource I should look into?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady despite the growing sense of responsibility.

The portrait nodded. "There are indeed texts that may provide insight, but be wary of what you uncover. Knowledge can be as much a curse as it is a blessing. If you have any further questions or need assistance, you can always seek me out."

"Thank you," I said, rising from the chair. "I appreciate your guidance."

As I prepared to leave the common room, I decided to mention the book. "There's something else," I said, glancing back at the portrait. "I've been studying a book on ancient magic, but I discovered that a page is missing."

His portriats eyes lit up with interest. "A missing page, you say? That certainly complicates matters. Fortunately, I might be able to assist you in locating it."

I felt a surge of hope. "Really? How?"

He leaned forward slightly, his gaze serious. "There is a small condition. To earn my help, you must solve a murder mystery that has been troubling me for some time. It's an old case that has left a mark on the history of this school, and I need someone with keen intellect and determination to uncover the truth."

I was taken aback. "A murder mystery? What does that have to do with finding the missing page?"

The portrait nodded solemnly. "The mystery is intertwined with the history of the book you seek. Solving it will not only grant you the knowledge you need but also restore balance to some unresolved issues from the past. If you agree, I will provide you with the information needed to begin."

The weight of the task ahead was daunting, but I knew I had little choice. "Alright. I'll take on the challenge. Where do I start?"

As I stood there, processing Eldritch Diggory's request, he leaned forward in his frame, his expression more serious now. "To begin your quest for the missing pages, you must first speak with my great-niece, Helen Thistlewood. She resides in Upper Hogsfield. Helen has spent years uncovering secrets of the past, and she holds key information regarding this mystery—information that might lead you to those missing pages."