"Very well. That covers the evaluation of the previous Prefects and the selection of Head Boy and Head Girl, as well as their replacements. Now then, who are your selections for the new fifth year Prefects?" Armando Dippet sat back, feeling his age a bit more after the long debate concerning the request from the DMLE that was covered at the very beginning of the meeting. While it used to be up to the students to submit themselves and their scores for consideration in order to become Aurors or Hit Wizards, the current administration had requested permission to receive the documentation in advance for all students going back several years directly from the school, as the documents at the Department of Education only provided a narrow portrait of the students and their capabilities. It didn't escape Armando's mind that they were likely looking to recruit cadets to be trained for the war effort and wanted to know who was suitable. While the Ministry of Magic had yet to make an official declaration of war, Minister Spencer-Moon was clearly making the necessary preparations to be as ready as possible when the inevitable became reality. Several Aurors, like Head Shafiq and recently promoted Senior Auror Potter, among others, would be staying in Britain, making sure that the population was safe from it's more dangerous and unstable members, but most of the younger cadets and the older, more experienced Aurors, who hadn't already volunteered to help the ICW Peacekeepers, would soon be training or being deployed to fight Grindelwald's forces.
As expected, the Ministry's request was followed by Albus Dumbledore's impassioned rejection of the measure, with Professors Doge, Croaker and Greengrass joining his side. Then there were the members of the staff who remained silent on the matter, abstaining from voicing their opinions. Teresa Prewett was, as expected, one of those who wasn't willing to voice an opinion, even if her nature as a Healer adhored violence. Her family's long history as being part of the DMLE made sure that she was aware of the importance of facing off against the Dark Witches and Wizards that threatened the lives of others, regardless of the personal cost. Armando knew this as well, hence his defence of the measure by the Ministry, under the condition that war was inevitable and that it was better that their young men and women were better prepared to face the coming danger. Dumbledore had been stubborn in his defence, saying that allowing the students to have their choice of career denied to them by the Ministry possibly enforcing a draft could see their society suffer devastating losses, both to the generation's physical and emotional wellbeing. Everyone could agree with that sentiment, though Professor Ross countered, saying that the graduates would already be in danger if Grindelwald's forces began an assault on Britain, regardless of training. Dumbledore tried hard to defend his position but was outvoted by a small margin, with Greengrass changing her vote at the end, though it was clear she did so begrudgingly.
Once Dumbledore, Doge and Greengrass submitted their selections for Prefects, with Theseus reacting with some measure of pride at the selection of his estranged granddaughter, Minerva, as the Gryffindor Prefect, Armando sat up straighter, knowing the names Slughorn was about to recommend. The youngest of his staff members, and one of the youngest Heads of House, Horace had never been shy of making unusual selections for his Prefects and always ran them by Dippet before the session, just in case he felt that his observations were too narrow minded. Having taken the position of Head of Slytherin House just two years prior, his selection of Walburga Black had been a controversial one. The girl hadn't demonstrated the social skills required for the role, though she certainly had the academic excellence. That first year of her as a Prefect had been turbulent to say the least, especially with her rocky relationships with the other Prefects, though the selection of her brother and cousin as her fellow Prefects a year later apparently did well for her, with Lucretia being more than happy to interact with the Prefects that Walburga disliked. Armando had no trouble keeping her off the candidates for Head Girl, which Slughorn was willing to accept based on the girl's merits. He did, however, take some pleasure at the surprise on Dumbledore's face, at the mention of the next two Prefects from Slytherin.
"I submit Tom Riddle and Lilith von Schwarzwald as my House's fifth year Prefects." Albus looked as if he had been slapped across the face. "You can't be serious, Horace." Slughorn turned to his college, drinking from his cup of tea. "But I am. I don't believe I have to discuss their academic merits. Tom Riddle has consistently remained at the top of his year groups' scores, surpassing many of those from other houses, while von Schwarzwald's entrance and subsequent exams were some of the most detailed and thorough papers I have ever graded." Merrythought nodded. "I can't disagree with that. It is rare for me to get a student so well versed in Defence, yet her unique point of view has certainly lent well to some interesting and thought provoking discussions in our class, resulting in higher scores for all of her classmates." Albus cleared his throat. "Academically they may be within the expected range, but their activities outside of their academic disposition are not as acceptable. Mr Riddle's anti-social behaviour and constant attempts at circumventing curfew make him an ill-advised choice for a position that is to enforce the rules, with Miss Scwarzwald's own actions before the entire school should do the same. In fact, I have it under good authority that Mr Riddle left his place of residence during the start of the summer and has yet to return. What sort of example does this set for the rest of the students?" Dippet stroked his short beard, before looking at Slughorn. "I take it there are reasons you believe they are indeed suitable for the roles, despite these issues?"
Horace nodded his head. "Of course, Headmaster. Concerning Miss von Schwarzwald, I can say without question that she has demonstrated a keen interest in the education and wellbeing of our younger Slytherins. She has spent quite a bit of her free time tutoring some of the first years and second years, helping them with their assignments whenever she could." Madam Bulstrode spoke up. "She has done the same within the library and while she may not have helped out the younger students of the other houses, she has a kind and generous disposition to all students, particularly those of Ravenclaw House." Professor Greengrass nodded in agreement. "I have no issues with her selection as I have seen her courteous behaviour to my students plenty of times and I am certain that my students will welcome her selection as a Prefect." Armando looked at a clearly frustrated Dumbledore. "Then I see no issue with the selection. Giving her the position of Prefect sends a clear message to her fellow refugees that they aren't being treated differently from the rest of the students and while her interactions with Hufflepuff and Gryffindor might not be as common as that of other fourth years, I am certain she may like the opportunity to interact more with the other houses that the duties of a Prefect will require of her." Albus shook his head. "That still doesn't excuse her behaviour before the entire School with her duel against Valerio Rosier. The use of violence against another student should never be tolerated by an academic institution, nor should it be rewarded."
Dippet grew quiet, as he too believed in said sentiment. To his surprise, Theseus spoke up. "And what of Valerio's instigation? The DMLE confirmed that he was responsible for her assault at the pier. Should he have been allowed to complete his studies at the school after an attempted murder of a fellow student, had she avoided challenging him? We may never wish to condone violence, but when our own bylaws and Charter do nothing to bring justice to the crimes committed within the grounds of the Castle, why should anyone be surprised that the victims would pursue a different avenue to resolve their differences? Lilith von Schwarzwald's choice may have been violent and upfront, but it did resolve itself with no deaths and minimal injuries on the part of the two parties. While we shouldn't celebrate her choice, neither should we condemn it or use it against her position as a Prefect." Albus was about to speak when Melia Greengrass followed through. "The same could be said of her intervention against the assault and attempted rape of my students. Her methods may have been violent, but they were nonlethal and resulted in the mitigation of further harm to two young girls. Nonviolence is an admirable stance, but it should never be an excuse to allow the perpetration of crimes, least of all against minors. I for one believe my students would feel safer, knowing that she was patrolling the Castle at night." Dippet looked towards Albus. "As unpopular her methods may be, she has the support of two Head of Hogwarts Houses and, it would seem, that of their students. I will allow her appointment to the position of Prefect." Dumbledore sighed and decided to focus on the other student. "Very well, then what of my concerns with Mr Riddle?"
Slughorn sighed softly. "I won't disagree that Tom Riddle has had his fair share of problems leading into his fourth year. That said, his behaviour this last year has been exemplary. Throughout his time at school, he has often been assisting other Slytherins with their assignments, with this year being the first that he lent a hand to our younger students. He has certainly been quite amiable to his fellow Slytherins and has begun to show some friendly behaviour to the students of the other houses. While his attempts at breaking curfew are numerous, we can't exactly single him out on that. I am certain all of our students are equally as guilty of exploring this Castle's corridors in the dead of night. Not to mention everyone sitting in this room is guilty of that themselves during their time at school." Armando nodded his head as everyone but Dumbledore chuckled, before chiming in. "I am sure we can forgive such a light infraction, especially when compared to his most recent behaviour. In fact, I received quite the interesting Floo call from the Minister a few days ago, regarding his out of school activities. While Mr Riddle did indeed leave his registered residence of Wool's Orphanage, he did so after the required period of time the law mandates." Theseus muttered under his breath. "An orphanage? The boy has some measure of patience. I would have left after my first summer back from Hogwarts, Ministry be damned." He soon found himself under the glare of several professors, before muttering a soft "my apologies," though he clearly didn't mean it.
With the interruption handled, Dippet continued. "It would seem that Mr Riddle, through his own private funds, was able to secure rent for himself, with the assistance of Miss von Schwarzwald. While I know not what they did for most of their time together, I was assured by Auror Potter and Head Auror Shafiq that both were in good spirits and amicable, considering the circumstances in which they were found. Minister Spencer-Moon was quite impressed with the bravery and generosity of both Miss von Schwarzwald and Mr Riddle, as both youngsters apparently assisted in the rescue of several muggles and magicals after a German Bombing Raid damaged a town close to where they had been at the time of the event. Some of Professor Greengrass' students, the younger Patils, were saved by both of them, as a bomb ripped through their family home. Our potential Head Girl, should she accept the position, is ending her travels in the Indian Subcontinent with her extended family to help care for her younger siblings as the family grieves the loss of her uncle, before they return to Hogwarts." The head of Ravenclaw looked relieved concerning the news of her students. "I am more than glad to support Tom Riddle's position as Prefect, then, if he was willing to risk his life for the safety of others."
Slughorn looked mighty pleased with himself as Theseus looked towards Dumbledore. "Seems there might be some Gryffindor courage in those two after all. I believe they are both deserving of the chance to demonstrate that they can branch out and make more acquaintances. At the very least, the selection will allow us all to see how both perform beyond the comforts of their own House." Dumbledore sighed deeply, feeling that any of his objections would be pointless now. "Very well, though Mr. Riddle will remain a concern of mine. His history outside of the school speaks poorly of his character. If he has indeed improved, then I will be most glad to be proven wrong, but for now I will hold my judgment." Armando hummed to himself, considering Albus' comment a small victory. Perhaps there was some hope for him yet. "Very well, let's go over any last minute changes to the curriculum we may need to employ for the upcoming year, before we send out the letters with the book lists. Theseus, it seems Newt has made another addendum to his book. Have you had the chance to evaluate its relevance to the course?" Theseus cursed under his breath, probably hoping that the subject wasn't brought up. As his Care for Magical Creatures Professor went over the new information, Armando relaxed into his chair, feeling quite happy with how things were resolved. Young Miss von Schwarzwald's interest in Tom Riddle seems to have done the boy well. He looked forward to seeing them grow in the coming years.
-✦-
Lilith yawned loudly as she and Tom waited in line to pay for the Hogwarts textbooks within "Flourish and Blotts," with Tom nudging her shoulder to keep her from getting louder. "I told you to get some sleep last night." Lilith glared softly at Tom. "I thought I had a breakthrough. Everything else was working perfectly." Tom sighed. "That might be true but you knew we would be waking up early. And your breakthrough didn't seem to materialize." Lilith pouted. "I have been working on this project for over a year now, so excuse me if I couldn't ignore what my mind thought was the next step forward in my pursuit." Tom shrugged. "True. What are you working on exactly with all those mechanical parts on your desk, anyhow?" Lilith gave Tom a measured look but sighed. "Nothing, for now. The magic I need to get them to work isn't up to scratch just yet. I am closer now, though. I, at least, know what works as a magical core and what doesn't. Once I find a proper core, then everything else should fall into place. Until then, you stay clear from my desk. I want it to be a surprise." Tom raised an eyebrow at that last statement. He was never fond of surprises himself, but as Lilith always looked giddy with excitement when she was working at her desk with that odd assortment of gears and crystals, he was certain it wouldn't be anything too unpleasant for him.
As soon as they finished paying for their books, the two made for the door, a dark-haired missile hugged Lilith, before two bright grey eyes looked up at her. "Hi Lilith! Did you get my letter?" Lilith's face broke into a soft smile. "I did. I am very proud of you, Orion. Getting an O+ in Potions as a first year is amazing." A deep voice sent shivers down Lilith and Tom's back. "Indeed. We were quite pleased with his scores ourselves." Lilith felt her heart running wild as her eyes landed on a man who looked remarkably like her Godfather, though his voice was far deeper and more sophisticated, his wild long hair tied down and well groomed. Those grey eyes were both familiar and unusually hard to read as they looked at her and Tom over. Lilith managed to pull herself out of Orion's grip and bowed her head. "It is a great pleasure to make your acquaintance, Heir Black. I have heard much about you from your children." Arcturus looked her over. "As I have about you. Lucretia and Orion speak well of you, Frau von Schwarzwald." After lifting her head, Lilith spotted most of the Blacks at Hogwarts with the Heir Black, with Alphard doing a poor job at trying not to pay attention. His nervousness about the situation made Lilith take a second glance around, before her eyes landed on a figure whose presence was almost completely concealed, were it not for her artificial eye. Lilith looked from the figure to the Heir Black, who turned his attention to Tom.
"Interestingly enough, word has also reached me about you, Mr Riddle. You have done much to learn our ways in these last four years and your recent commendation by the Minister is a sign of good things. Tell me, would you be interested in courting one of our family's lovely ladies?" Tom successfully kept the surprise from receiving such an offer off his face as he ran through the reasons as to why Arcturus Black would offer that to him so plainly and out in the open. On the one hand it was a strong public show of support for him, which could serve their interests in gaining Lilith's aid and trust. On the other… "You honour me, Heir Black and while it's a generous offer, I will have to decline. The women of House Black deserve partners worthy of their station and affections and I have yet to prove myself worthy of either. I will, of course, be more than happy to continue in their acquaintance to lend them what help they may deem necessary from me." Lilith's soft smile and Arcturus's thoughful look was all Tom needed to know that Arcturus' offer had a hidden meaning, one that he had managed to spot. A soft voice spoke into the silence. "See, my dear, there was nothing to worry about. He is very much the gentleman our children have described. Why don't you go ahead with them to the counter and pay for the books?" Arcturus sighed and turned to the woman hiding in his shadow, before lifting her hand up and kissing it. "Of course, my love."
As Arcturus excused himself, Lilith turned her eyes and found herself under the careful but amicable eyes of Melania Black née Macmillan, who eyed both her and Tom with clear interest. "Your humbleness served you well, Mr Riddle and does service to you and to Frau von Schwarzwald. It is quite rare for our family to find two people that we can consider friends so easily and yet here you two are." The brunette with her hair neatly tied in a bun gestured with her head at her excited son and daughter as they went over books, a few clearly meant for third years. "Despite the nasty business that the Rosiers carried out at Hogwarts this last year, my son returned full of excitement and anticipation. A rare thing to see among Slytherin students but a welcomed change." Lilith eyed the woman carefully. "He and the other first years deserve to learn magic in a way that they can enjoy it, not having to deal with politics so early in their lives. I am glad we could do our part in giving him that chance." Melania smiled at her. "As a former Hufflepuff myself, I welcome the loyalty you show to the members of Slytherin House." Lilith looked over at Cygnus and Walburga as they brought their books to the counter. "Our first loyalty should always be to our family's best interests in the long run, whatever form that may take, rather than to serve some short term gain of power over those who don't have our interests at heart."
Tom noticed Melania stiffening softly at the final statement, before a ward fell around both of them from a quick flick of Melania's wand. "I hope you aren't insinuating anything about my husband." Lilith shook her head. "Not at all. Lucretia and Orion are a credit to you both as parents. I am just worried that not everyone in a position of power is able to care for their well being as their loving parents. That danger may easily spread to the other young members of a family without much notice." Melania stared at Lilith but sighed. "That may not be a battle that we can win." Lilith stared back at her. "Maybe, but seeing what's at stake, it is also a battle you can't afford to lose." Melania looked back over to her two children and after a few seconds she stood a little straighter. "Indeed. Orion cares about you, while Lucretia and Alphard are happy to trust you. My husband and I will take your warning to heart." Melania turned to Tom. "You answered well and have Frau von Schwarzwald's trust and friendship, so I will trust my family's safety and wellbeing to you as well, Mr Riddle. Do not make me regret this. Arcturus may hold great power in our house and is a fine duelist, but a mother's wrath is a sight that even my husband trembles at." Tom bowed his head, swallowing the lump that threatened to return to his throat. "I will look after them to the best of my abilities while I can. Anything further would interfere with my own duties."
Melania nodded. "Believe me, I understand. Fair day to you both." After stepping out of the bookstore and walking for a few minutes, Tom turned to Lilith but found her finger on his lips. The two turned and entered an alley and waited in silence, before Lilith spoke up. "I know you are there." Tom felt his heart run cold as a figure materialized from right next to them, long dark hair tied in a braid that hung down from one of her shoulders as two bright purple eyes looked from both of them curiously. A heavy ward slammed into place, its power enough to almost make Tom's shoulders slouch. "Don't fret too much, young man. Even the most gifted wizards would find my disillusionment spell too hard to spot, let alone pierce through." Lilith gripped Tom's upper arm tightly and gave him a warning glance, before focusing her attention on the woman before her. "Anything you wish to say to us, Cassiopeia Black?" The woman gave Lilith a toothy smile. "Oh, Arturus and Melania said plenty, I was just feeling the need to announce myself. Can't let them have all the fun, after all." Lilith kept her emotions under control, even as her heart wanted to burst from concern. Cassiopeia Black was known to be a dangerous witch and that was when she was just playing around. As a shadow… Lilith was certain that the Witch was responsible for the disappearance of many of the Black's enemies during Arcturus' reign back in Lillian's time. Which begged the question: was she loyal to Sirius or to Arcturus currently?
Tom bowed his head. "A pleasure then, to make your acquaintance, Miss Black. Is there anything that we can do for you?" Cassiopeia chuckled. "Oh good, you are either unaware or well trained. Either way works for me. Still, it's a pleasure to meet you, young man. With Lilith here showing such interest in you, I hope you don't mind the fact that you have caught our interest as well." Tom shook his head. "I had my reasons to believe she was a child of House Black. Our alliance was bound to draw your scrutiny at some time. You may ask as you like as we have nothing to hide from you." Cassiopeia smiled at Tom. "Oh my, so forward are we? Well, no matter, as it suits me just fine. Tell me, is this alliance between you two in writing or oath?" Lilith spoke up. "Neither yet, but I am committed to aiding him as he is in aiding me when our interests align." Cassiopeia walked up to Tom who did his best not to flinch as her hand, charged with magic, snapped up faster than he could react and gripped his chin. She scrutinized his face briefly. "Interesting. While I have no problem letting you two continue as you are, I would very much like to see a proper allegiance document by the end of the school term." Her face turned serious as she tightened her grip on Tom's chin. "The conflict that may yet rise from within our own house may draw the attention of other houses. I won't let the House of Black become threatened by carrion. Do you understand me, Mr Riddle?"
Swallowing the lumb in his throat, Tom nodded. "Perfectly." Cassiopeia's face turned mischievous then. "Good. And if I hear that you abused the trust of our independent little hellion here, I can assure you that no hole will be dark or deep enough for you to hide from me. Do remember that. Ciao!" The woman vanished in a silent apparition as both Tom and Lilith took deep breaths, with Lilith looking at Tom. "Take every word that woman ever gives you and commit it to memory. Cassiopeia Black is not someone to cross and what she says is never in jest nor without meaning." Tom shuddered. "I noticed. I can still feel the magic running through her skin. If that's her without a wand, I don't ever want to meet her with one at the ready." Lilith shuddered herself. "I can agree with that. So, do we continue shopping or should we count our blessings and head back to the cottage?" Tom took a few more calming breaths. "Let's finish our shopping now. I don't particularly want to return here. Running into the Blacks once is good enough. Best not to tempt fate a second time before the start of term." Lilith nodded and the two left the alley, both far more watchful for wandering eyes as they completed their shopping for Hogwarts.
-✦-
"Ahh, there you are, Riddle. Prefect duties keeping you busy?" Tom nodded as he stepped into the cabin with both Theodore Nott and Abraxas Malfoy. Unlike with years prior, Tom wasn't as worried about leaving his luggage anywhere, as it currently sat comfortably in his pockets. During the summer, Lilith had managed to teach him how to bypass some of the wand based restrictions on spells that had become the standard of the European and North American academies. While Tom still wasn't able to use every spell he knew wandlessly, the shrinking and featherweight charms were easy enough to learn and apply on a daily basis. As Tom sat down on the side of Abraxas, his mind wandered back to the night before. On the final day of August, he and Lilith had cleaned out the cottage and packed everything away, before disabling the wards they had erected. The moment he had stepped out of the boundary layer of the cottage and looked back was the moment that he realized that he had truly grown comfortable in the isolated residence. Sure, waking up bright and early to prepare meals and doing all of the chores that ordinarily fell to the Carers in the Orphanage, or the Elves at Hogwarts, was exhausting and time consuming, but the fact the chores were shared with Lilith meant that they had plenty of time to themselves once completed and they could go over much while their hands were busy washing dishes. He had also actually grown fond of waking up by the light of the rising sun, something he knew he would now dearly miss in the Slytherin Dorms.
They both had spent the night at the Leaky Cauldron, getting any last minute matters settled with the Goblins the day before the Hogwarts Express was to leave, before apparating to King's Cross. Technically they could both now apparate to Hogsmeade directly, but the Prefects had to be aboard the train to check on the students during the trip, so that was out of the question. After going through the introductions, each Prefect was assigned a train car to inspect sporadically, with Tom feeling fortunate that his was the one the Slytherins prefered, probably an intentional choice for the first timers. "Head Boy Bones wanted to get everyone started early, though until we got our schedules he couldn't make the Patrol rotations for the Castle." Abraxas chuckled. "Of course Manuel would get to be Head Boy. The Bones Heir is quite the diligent and hardworking Hufflepuff. Word is he is looking to join the DMLE as soon as he graduates, like his father. Whether the war lets him or not is still in debate. Though from what I hear you have been a hard worker yourself this summer, Riddle. A Ministry Commendation?" Tom sighed, regretting ever agreeing to Lilith's suggestion. Sure, the commendation had given him quite the introduction into the Ministry's inner circles, but it was also becoming a bit too much of a hassle. "It was a spur of the moment decision that only required a few hours of activity. I don't understand why you are all making such a fuss over it."
Theodore smiled. "What, with how utterly boring our community tends to be? You need to spend more time reading the rest of the Daily Prophet, Riddle. The whole incident was covered over several issues, including the Patils singing your praises. Did the Ravenclaw Prefect acost you already?" Tom raised an eyebrow. "That would be Head Girl Patil." Theodore groaned and pulled out a few galleons before handing them to a satisfied Abraxas. "Told you, Theo, more times than not the Head Girl will be from Ravenclaw. The toss up, however, is our bloody year. Between that Gryffindor rule stickler, the typical Ravenclaw bookworm or our own Austrian terror, it's anyone's game for Head Girl." The door to the cabin was pulled open, revealing a quite serious looking Lilith. "A good day to you, Herr Nott and Herr Malfoy. To who were you referring as a terror? If they are going to be a problem then it's best that we deal with it quickly, habe ich recht?" Abraxas paled slightly. "Oh, there is no trouble at all within Slytherin House, Frau von Schwarzwald. Also, might I say that you are looking quite lovely today." Lilith raised an eyebrow. "I am sure you are being quite sincere. Are you gentlemen willing to allow me to join you? My train car for rounds is the next one over and there is only so much time I can spend hearing the girls talking about cosmetics and dresses before I start running through lists of curses in my head."
Abraxas gave Lilith an understanding look. "Please, join us. Mother is the same when she is forced to stand with the Ladies at some of the Balls. She would rather talk about business and stocks, rather than fashion." Lilith sat down next to Theodore. "I feel for her then, knowing how often the Ladies are required to attend and even plan such events. My family may not have participated in many of these back on the Continent but we had our fair share of socializing once in a while. How is Lord Malfoy doing? I hear he and Lord Black have entered into some discussions about co-sponsoring proposals for the assembly. Quite the achievement, as their cooperation in the censure from last year seems to have paid off." Abraxas smiled. "That it has. Father is enjoying having more work to do in the Wizengamot. He had been quite disappointed when he spent most of his tenure as nothing more than one of a dozen votes." Lilith leaned back as Tom spoke to Theo. "I hear Lord Nott has been making similar overtures with the Lestranges and the Goyle families, trying to consolidate the remaining Dark Faction members. I imagine he too is keeping long hours." Theodore nodded. "Father spent most of the summer entertaining guests in his office. Pretty sure the liquor cabinet has been emptied out a few times. Still, word is that by the New Year Session, the Dark Faction will be back to working as a proper block."
Lilith hummed to herself. "That should help restore some confidence among the Dark families. Too many of the Light had been trying to push some one sided proposals regarding certain spells, rituals and curses. As long as the Dark remain united and can negotiate with the Neutrals then you can make sure that the laws respect the traditions and responsibilities of the Old Families as a whole, while serving the interests of all Magicals." Theodore nodded to himself as Abraxas looked at Lilith with interest. "Tell me, Frau von Schwarzwald, are you not interested in joining the Wizengamot? Your family has the pedigree to request a seat at the Assembly. Have you thought about joining your voice with ours?" Lilith gave Tom a quick glance, noticing his own interest, before answering. "I won't deny that I have considered that as a possibility. If I did try to do that now though, my family vote would be in the hands of a Proxy, as I would lose my status as Lady until my seventeenth birthday. Not an entire disagreeable prospect, but the issue, I am afraid, lies with my own responsibilities as a Head of House. I have to see justice, if not vengeance, brought against my family's enemies and I must rebuild the Family Estate in Austria. Afterwards… who knows. I would be delighted to join the Malfoys and the Notts, two immigrant families in Britain gaining strength in the Wizengamot, but for the moment that is out of my control."
The rest of the journey to Hogwarts remained pleasant, even after Tom and Lilith needed to make periodic checks of their assigned train cars and the occupants, with Tom seeing both Abraxas and Theodore relax more around Lilith, even asking her opinion regarding certain spells and their value over the more common and frowned upon curses. He smiled to himself as his partner built up her political circles, having picked Tom's acquaintances for similar reasons to his, though her focus on their mutual history of immigration and integration certainly appealed more to their own sensibilities. The two had discussed the values of gaining a stronger position in Slytherin in this academic year while back at the cottage, with Lilith's approachability helping Tom gain a stronger foothold as those who are drawn to Lilith will take notice of him and his own interactions would then draw those interested to him as well. In time, when he could wear the Slytherin Heir Ring freely, those same people would redouble their efforts to strengthen their connections to Tom, especially as more families would seek the prominence of his name. By then he and Lilith could have a better grasp of who could be trusted and who was just in it to serve their own interests. Now if only he could find the Chamber to secure his position as the future Lord Slytherin, then everything would slowly fall into place.
-✦-
"First years! First year Slytherins with me! Get in line, please." Lilith waited just beside the entrance of the Great Hall as the kids lined up, with Tom wandering up and down the table, gathering a few of the stragglers who were still chatting away with their older family members across the entire Great Hall. Lilith spared a look across the length of the Chamber. This year's Sorting had been a bit interesting, as Lilith saw some surprise sortings here and there. Slytherin again received very few new arrivals, including a few more refugees, including a young olive skinned boy called Zabini. The family had apparently been supporters of Grindelwald, until business in Magical Italy started drying up as the war and Grindelwald's reputation destroyed the family's image and reputation. While word was that the Lord Zabini had moved his family to their Sicilian estate, there was debate as to whether or not he was under house arrest, or even besieged by the very Forces he once supported. Unfortunately for the Zabinis, the ICW Peacekeepers weren't willing to risk their forces for a known collaborator, so they wouldn't be getting any help from them either. The young Heir, who had been studying at Beauxbatons for his first year, was able to escape with a few other French refugees who were no longer safe in the German occupied academy.
Of course, while the Sorting was one of Lilith's main focuses, she had spared a glance at the rest of the students and the staff. There was an air of foreboding among the school, one that was even affecting some of the Professors. Professor Doge didn't seem his merry self all that much and Professor Ross had only touched his flask twice during the entire Feast. Headmaster Dippet presented a calm and soothing presence throughout his speech, reminding everyone to be kind and cordial in difficult times. Dumbledore had tried to present his usual friendly demeanor but that image cracked when Deorwine made another warning about the times in his song. Interesting enough, the message had been a bit lighter than the year prior. "A year of turmoil has passed / yet more are to come / beware, students of the four / the alliances of old must hold / lest all that we know be lost forever more." Lilith had spared a glance at Tom after that, seeing his thoughtful expression. Lilith doubted he didn't catch the emphasis on alliances. He had told her about the alliances between the Founders, proof that despite the current conflicts between the Houses, the Founders themselves never had their infamous falling out as was commonly believed.
Lilith doubted there were any remaining heirs for the houses of Gryffindor, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. For all of the posturing Lilith had to deal with around Hepzibah Smith, the family had no better claim to the Hufflepuff Family as the Potter's had to the Gryffindor Family. They were all descendants but the Magics that the Houses themselves held had died out. The Slytherin line ironically survived due to the Gaunts constantly trying and failing to claim the Slytherin legacy, with the Goblin's management of the accounts keeping the wealth intact. The status of the Ravenclaw legacy remained a closely guarded secret of the Goblins, though everyone simply assumes that the line ended with Helena's untimely death. Still… if the Potters could be brought into an alliance with Tom, the political and magical strength of the two, plus Alexander and potentially the Blacks would be a force to be reckoned with. Lilith looked at the Deputy Headmaster, trying to understand what his position was in all this. Albus Dumbledore was a clear proponent of pacifism and a strong believer in the Light Faction. Unlike Henry Potter, he seemed to disagree with the idea that the Dark should be negotiated with. Which would explain his treatment of her and Tom. Tom's difficult childhood in London made him value violence, cunning and ambition, traits favored by the Dark Faction and its changing political landscape.
According to Alexander, Dumbledore had been trying to affect Grindelwald's rise to power prior to his rise in Germany, as was seen by the movements of Newt Scamander and his allies in Paris and elsewhere. Where the Dark would favor a more violent and permanent approach, which had happened unsuccessfully a few times, especially while Grindelwald was imprisoned, Dumbledore favored containment and eventual conversion. While Lilith would also usually favor containment, it was always on a case by case basis, with her not favoring any action that could be seen as overly manipulative, if not deceptive regarding threats to the identities of others. In the case of Gellert Grindelwald, he was too dangerous to be contained at all. With Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy under his marginal control, Grindelwald could sit in his Castle and bide his time. Lilith was beginning to believe that the attack on the von Schwarzwald Family was as much as a show of force as it was him eliminating the only vulnerability to his fortress' defences deep in the Austrian Alps, a location that wouldn't be challenged until the country itself was under attack. The Wizengamot's movement away from a neutral position into open hostility towards Grindelwald was very much against Dumbledore's machinations, and the fact that Henry Potter was the Light's figurehead in the movement had to irk him. Lilith wondered if Dumbledore's disinterest in Lillian's upbringing stemmed from his own difficulties with the previous Head of the Potter Family, with everyone but James being opposed to his vision of the Light.
With all the Slytherin first years gathered, Lilith and Tom started guiding them towards the stairs leading to the Dungeons. "Everyone keep up and remember the route to the Common Room. While we Prefects will be guiding you around the Castle for the first few days, it will be up to you all to know your way by the end of the second week. On the weekend we will be giving you all a thorough tour of the Castle as soon as Breakfast is concluded in the Great Hall, so try not to sleep in just yet." The kids chatted amongst themselves as they tried to memorize the route, with Tom bringing in the rear. As soon as they passed the corner that led to the Hufflepuff Dorms, Lilith turned around. "Slytherin's Common Room entrance is a bit of an open secret. While the students of the other houses aren't told where it is or the means to enter, the entire Staff and all Prefects know where to find it, so keep that in mind if you ever get lost. Professor Slughorn will likely never be far from the Dungeons so if you ever need help, please seek him out or ask one of the Ghosts to guide you." As soon as they passed the decoy door that looked to be the entrance, Lilith led the students to a wall framed by two snake statues, gesturing with her hand. "Down the passage and up a flight of stairs you can all find Slytherin's exclusive Owlery. If you have your own owl, they can be kept there with easy access. Now, to open the door."
Lilith turned and reached out to the right serpent statue, though she was careful not to place her hand beneath the fangs, as the snake still had a registry of her blood and could interpret it as a request for a change to the door's restrictions or controls, something she didn't want to do with anyone else watching. Placing her hand on the head, Lilith spoke the password. "Ashwinder." The eyes of the snake glowed for a second before the wall in between the statues slid back, revealing the entrance. After walking inside first and spotting the rest of the prefects, some concerned family members and Professor Slughorn, Lilith waited for Tom to enter with the last of the first years. As soon as the door was closed, Lilith clapped her hands together. "Very well. Welcome first years, to the Slytherin Common Room. The two entryways behind you lead to the Boy and Girl dorms, the door to your right leads to the chambers for duels and full house gatherings, while the door behind us leads to Professor Slughorn's office. His hours will always be written down on the notice board next to his door, as will any news and notices from both the school and the Ministry. Please make sure that you check the board daily, preferably twice a day, should any news happen in short notice." After introducing all the Prefects and the Professor, as well as going over the responsibilities of the children at Hogwarts, Tom stepped up, as had been planned.
"Lastly, there are a few rules that are exclusive to Slytherin. Those born to Magical Families who normally get sorted into Slytherin are likely aware of these rules. Firstly, all problems within Slytherin House must be handled within the Common Room or the Court. Before the rest of the school, Slytherin must present a united front, with only the rarest of exceptions being given for students to settle matters in front of the other houses. As a means to resolve issues, Slytherin has a Court, presided over by a King and/or Queen. Matters that can't be resolved amongst yourself should be brought before them for arbitration. They can also set a rule for Slytherin so long as it doesn't contradict anything set by the Headmaster or the Hogwarts Charter." Tom turned his hand over and moved to the side, allowing Walburga and Cygnus to take center stage, who introduced themselves as the King and Queen. Lilith spotted a few irritated faces, including Druella Rosier and Anton Bryce, but no one challenged their claim, with Druella's expression shifting slightly towards the end, leaving Lilith unsure what it was that she was thinking. Walburga spoke up, snapping her thoughts back into the moment. "With the war in Europe and the incidents within Slytherin House of last year, we hereby declare the following. While no one will be punished for supporting Grindelwald privately, we do declare Slytherin House publicly in opposition to him and his acts of violence against magicals. Any attempts to intimidate or pressure students, physically, verbally or magically, will result in disciplinary action by our Head of Hogwarts House."
Lilith looked at Walburga and Cygnus, the young man giving her a soft smile and nod, before the older students started leaving through the entryways into the Dorms. After Lilith finished showing the first years to their rooms and telling them about the wards that she had established to protect them, she returned to her room, drying her wet hair after a brief shower. She sat down and stared at her left hand and the scar on it. With the Blacks having secured their power in the Dark Faction and in Slytherin, the spread of the ideals of Grindelwald was now stymied. All she had to do now was to figure out when would be the best time for Tom to discover the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets. His improvements as a person were clear enough to see, though his violent reaction to the Matron at Wool's Orphanage spoke of the underlying anger and violence in him. Yet, his help in Smethwick proved in Lilith's eyes that he was capable of kindness and generosity, though he wasn't prone to initiating it himself. Then again, it didn't surprise her. Growing up having to look after his own interests didn't make one prone to acts of kindness, as Lillian had also been uninterested in showing kindness until her fourth year. If the next few months proved that he could interact well with the other Prefects and students, then Lilith wouldn't mind surreptitiously guiding Tom towards the entrance to his family's legacy.
-✦-
Tom stepped out into the corridors of Hogwarts, feeling warmer than he ever had before. A few short months prior, he doubted whether or not his gift meant what he thought it did. He had hoped, of course, that his ability to speak Parseltongue meant that he was a descendant of Salazar Slytherin. Now it was beyond a shadow of a doubt. Tom touched the Castle's walls and smiled to himself. He was the Heir to Salazar Slytherin, one of the last, if not the last of the Heir of the Hogwarts Founders. In the weeks since he learned the truth, he had dedicated much of his time learning what was required of him as Heir and potential Lord, at least from the perspective of Gringotts and the Wizengamot. Beyond that, he still had no idea what it was that Salazar Slytherin wanted of his descendants, beyond putting their best effort into their education. What would be behaviour fitting of a Lord of House Slytherin? Everyone one would have their own opinion, but Tom knew that what mattered was how he himself proceeded. Meeting the Black Heir in the Alley made it clear that his respectful and cautious approach was working, but one day he would be in the same Chamber as Arcturus Black, sitting as equals as they decided the fate of Magical Britain. The pressure that always seemed just at the edge of his awareness pressed into his mind.
Closing his eyes, Tom focused on the moments that helped to ease his mind. Back at the cottage, after a long day of reading, cooking, cleaning and training, he often found himself sitting outside on a small wooden bench, surrounded by the small garden of rose and daphne bushes. Tom would let his thoughts rest, allowing the world to wash away the stresses of the day, oftentimes finding Lilith bringing him a much appreciated cup of tea, which, thanks to the food shortages, tended to be of several different flavors or varieties. Even now, the memories of those brief moments of calm and peace helped to push back against the building pressure in his mind, before he found himself comfortable once more. He did find it odd how, even after leaving the cottage behind and returning to Hogwarts, a castle filled with cold, mostly barren corridors, with its air either stale moldy or ash, he could almost feel himself relaxing into it. Sure, it wasn't the same and perhaps, having experienced a different place of residence, it never would be, but at least Tom now understood what a home would feel like. " I am home. " There was no reaction to his speaking Parseltongue and if Tom was honest with himself, he wasn't expecting to get one, as he uttered the first words that he remembered from his first year at the Castle. It wasn't the same as before, but in the end this place was all that remained of Salazar Slytherin. It would do, until the day that he built his own place to call home.
He ran his hand down the wall, feeling the dust that was now covering his fingers. He had searched the Castle when he could but there was still no sign of the mythical Chamber of Secrets. Except now he had proof of its existence as well. Salazar's legacy to the Castle was somewhere within its walls, hidden as the Common Room was, from the eyes of the uninitiated. For centuries, the Chamber had remained hidden from everyone. And now… now Tom had no choice but to find the chamber in order to secure his birthright beyond all doubt. As Tom made his way up the stairs, he arrived at the Slytherin Owlery and sat at one of the ledges, looking out over the Castle and its grounds. Taking a deep breath of the cold night air, his eyes looked out over the roofs and spires and into the valley, the half moon barely reflecting off the Black Lake. Looking around at the mostly empty Owlery, he felt a pang of sadness creep into his heart. He and Lilith had both checked the Owleries within the Edinburgh and Cardiff Magical Districts, as well as Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. None of them had owls that would be willing to be their pets. "I would have to check with records left behind by Parselmouths, but I don't think Owls like those who can speak to snakes. Sorry." Tom couldn't exactly find fault with that logic. While lots of birds preyed on snakes and lizards, a few themselves were the prey of said creatures. He had often noted the owls being wary of him, though as none belonged to him and he had few letters to send, their reticence had never been an issue. Until now.
Shaking his head, Tom decided to focus on happier thoughts and looked back on his time with his partner and now former roommate. The whole summer had been one great day after the next, all stemming from the moment he chose her as his partner and asked her for her aid. Sure, the moment she asked him to help out with the recently bombed out town, his initial reaction had been to say no. He had allowed her to take him with her, following Lilith's instructions, as they saved quite a few lives that night, and found that the experience wasn't entirely unpleasant. The days that followed had certainly been a revelation, as their act of kindness brought with it certain benefits. The meeting of the Prefects on the train had proven that even now, their actions still bore fruit, though it was still a bother to deal with the publicity that came with it. The seventh year Head Girl, Lakshmi Patil, who had spent the summer in India and had been spared from being at Smethwick during the bombing that claimed her uncle's life, had walked up to Tom and Lilith and offered her commitment to helping them both if they needed it, as a way to repay her family's debt. Tom had thought how best to use her offer, when Lilith nudged his shoulder. Later, when they could speak privately, she addressed the matter. "Try not to get the matter of the debt resolved for now. As a Parselmouth, Salazar's trove of books will likely teach you much of the skill and magic associated with it. But the Patils have a direct connection to the Indian Subcontinent and their magical community."
Lilith didn't need to say anything else. What knowledge the Chamber of Secrets held was valuable, that much was a given, but the people of India had centuries, if not millennia of practice using Parselmagic, refining it to an art and perhaps even further. Having saved the Patils and having their support could get Tom access to magical knowledge that the rest of Europe was utterly unaware of and incapable of understanding, let alone interested in due to stigma and prejudice. He planned to thank the Head Girl for the offer at the first meeting of the Prefects, with everyone having their schedules at hand, but he would have to decline her offer for now. He did, however, hope that she didn't offer herself as payment, let alone the hand of her younger siblings or cousins. Though not necessarily a common practice, life debts tended to lead to marriage proposals as a way to bind the families together, a way to strengthen both parties with minimal risk of the indebted party being taken advantage of. The dark haired and skinned Lakshmi was certainly beautiful, that was clear by the way many of the boys and some of the girls looked at her, including, much to his surprise, Lilith, but Tom was certainly not looking to have to deal with the complications a betrothal would bring to his life. Though if the person was as helpful as Lilith, he would be a lot more willing to consider it.
Thoughts of the redhead intruded in his mind, with Tom feeling his skin warm. Her aid had been absolutely invaluable. As soon as they were confirmed as Prefects, Lilith had him rehearse how he would address the first years, as well as the Blacks. Based on the approving looks he got from them, including a less than appropriate thumbs up from Alphard, his preparation had paid off. If he kept up his grades and was able to properly integrate himself with witches and wizards in meaningful conversations as had happened with Abraxas and Theodore on the train, he would be another step closer in securing his position as a Head of House and future member of the Wizengamot. After tomorrow, he would just have to do his best as a student, a Prefect, while maintaining a watchful eye as he searched the corridors for the Chamber, with Lilith hopefully by his side to lend him her intellect and unique outlook. Leaving the Owlery, Tom returned to his room, running his hand over the top of the record player from Christmas of last year, the surface of it changed to now have the Slytherin coat of arms at the center. Tom smiled softly, before changing into his pajamas and getting into bed, snuffing out the candle at his bedside table. He had a lot of work ahead of him in the coming months, though he decided to add one last thing to do. He wanted to repay some of Lilith's kindness back. He had until the Holidays to figure out how.