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Harry James Potter is dead.
The wizarding world has fallen. It wasn’t unexpected, of course, seers had foretold its end from the day Harry Potter first survived Voldemort. But when has anyone ever listened to seers? Two wars fought close together and the consequences of inbreeding had already led to a significant decline in the wizarding population. As the numbers dwindled, so did the strength of magic. Without enough wizards to sustain it, the magical world began to fade away.
And so, Harry Potter died with it.
✦ . ⁺ . ✦ . ⁺ . ✦But endings often bring new beginnings.✦ . ⁺ . ✦ . ⁺ . ✦
Nova Meissa Black was born.
Nova Black came into the world on October 31, 1960, under the light of a fateful Samhain night. She was the middle child of Orion and Walburga Black, sister to Sirius and Regulus Black; born to a family of dark wixen. But Nova knew she wasn’t truly herself; reincarnation is tricky like that. She carried memories from another life where she was born to James Potter and Lily Evans, where she witnessed the end of the wizarding world. She knew things she wasn’t meant to know. Death had chosen her with a singular purpose; to save the wizarding world.After all, “Nova” signifies new beginnings.
And so, Nova Meissa Black was born, to rewrite destiny.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The cries of the newborn rang through the halls—a wail so fierce it seemed to stir the ancient magic within the walls. The medi-witches cooed and fretted, yet the babe cried on—cried for what she saw, for the life she had lived, and for the losses she mourned, all before she had even drawn a breath.Above her, unseen by mortal eyes, Death lingered like a shadow, watching as his master’s soul was reborn. His gaze was solemn, his presence a promise. Perhaps this time, in this fragile vessel, there would be peace. With a touch as soft as twilight, he soothed the restless child, weaving a veil over her memories—a quiet lullaby that would keep them silent until the world was ready for their return.Nova Meissa Black entered the world carrying the weight of a forgotten past and the promise of an uncertain future. But for now, she was just a child.Time watched Nova grow into a kind and compassionate witch, much to the irritation of her mother. “Blacks aren’t known for their kindness, Nova,” Walburga would hiss after yet another punishment, her eyes cold and unforgiving. “It would do you well to remember that.” Where her mother saw weakness, Nova saw strength—a strength in empathy and understanding, in caring for others when the world around her seemed to thrive on cruelty. She learned to tread carefully, to conceal her gentle heart beneath layers of poise and cunning.“One day,” her brother Sirius whispered as she and Regulus sat with him in the living room, “I’ll get us out of here…” Nova doubted that—not for lack of trust, but because she felt that circumstances would be against them. Still, she nodded, and Regulus followed suit. Sirius smiled, content, and soon they were all retreating to their rooms.The following day, Nova woke up at dawn. Sirius’s Hogwarts letter would be arriving soon. She waited patiently until Kreacher came to call her for breakfast. She sat between her brothers and ate in silence until Agnis, their owl, arrived with the mail, Sirius's letter among it.Under their mother’s scrutinizing gaze and the kinder eyes of their father, Sirius opened his letter with a small smile. Orion Black wasn’t a bad father; he never abused his children. But with his position in the Wizengamot and as Lord Black, he was rarely present to know what was happening inside his house. He loved his kids, and Nova knew it. She often used that fact to her advantage when her mother was particularly cruel.“Don’t listen to your mother, Nova,” her father had told her once. “Kindness is essential to our perseverance. It’s true we aren’t known for it, but that’s toward our enemies and for a long time, the Black family had many enemies, making us look cruel in the eyes of the world, it isn’t a bad thing, but you aren’t obliged to hold that image… Never forget your true self, my darling daughter.” He had kissed her forehead and sent her to bed.“You are expected to behave properly once at Hogwarts, Sirius,” their mother began, her tone sharp. “None of that nonsense you do at home.”Sirius nodded, and their father stood, “I suppose this warrants a detour to Diagon Alley.” Sirius’s eyes lit with excitement. “Go get ready, all three of you.”Nova hurried to her room, as did her brothers, to get ready. Before long, they were waiting by the Floo, eager to leave.Diagon Alley was always lively, bustling with witches and wizards rushing about. Nova’s eyes wandered as she held her father’s hand, with Regulus clinging to the other. She watched as a group of kids gathered around a Nimbus 1900 displayed in a shop window, their eyes wide with awe. In another shop, a massive snake coiled behind the glass, causing passersby to give it a wide berth. She tugged on her father’s hand. “Can we visit the pet store later, Father?” Orion nodded before guiding them toward Ollivander's.Nova had never been to Ollivander’s before, but she had heard stories from her cousin Andromeda. The man was rumored to have some creature blood in him, but no one was foolish enough to target the best wandmaker in Britain.“Lord Black,” Ollivander greeted with a slight bow of his head, “and young heir Black. I have been waiting for you to visit my shop.”He spared Regulus and Nova a glance and a nod before beginning to wander among the wands. It didn’t take long for one to choose Sirius. “Eight inches, dogwood, werewolf nails, and springy,” Ollivander announced, his voice thoughtful.He hummed quietly before explaining, “Dogwood wands are known for being quirky and mischievous. They have playful natures and insist upon partners who can provide them with excitement and fun. These wands have been known to perform outstanding spells under difficult conditions, and when paired with a suitably clever and ingenious witch or wizard, they can produce dazzling enchantments. An interesting characteristic of many dogwood wands is their refusal to perform non-verbal spells—they are often rather noisy, too.”He continued, “Werewolf cores are quite rare and can include whiskers, hair, saliva, and nails, each with its own virtues. The nails, in particular, make for an exceptional wand. Werewolf cores have a strong affinity with both made and born werewolves, but they also align well with a strong owner—one who has courage, bravery, and loyalty. Nails are particularly effective with hexes, jinxes, and curses.”With a final nod, Orion paid and ushered his children out, guiding them toward Flourish and Blotts. “I will collect Sirius’s books,” Orion hummed, his face indifferent, the perfect image of the Lord of a Noble and Most Ancient House. “See if anything interests you.”Nova wandered between the sections with Regulus and Sirius until she came across a book on Divination. “Do you think Father will allow me to have this?” she asked her brothers. It wasn’t a secret within the close family that she had visions— Death blessed her in that way.Sirius glanced at the book. “Maybe if it’s another one. Don’t look for Divination; look for Seers instead.” She nodded, put the book back, and continued to look around. Soon, Orion called them over. Nova held a book titled The Future's Horizon: Between Seers and Centaurs, while Regulus wasn’t far behind with a book on the Dark Arts. Orion glanced at their choices before nodding and paying for everything.“We’ll need robes and trunks,” Orion murmured before addressing Nova and Regulus. “How about you both go to the pet store while Sirius and I take care of that? We’ll join you later.” They nodded and hurried to the pet store, with Regulus holding his sister’s hand. Once inside, Regulus drifted toward the kneazles, while Nova went to see the owls.It didn’t take long for their father and Sirius to join them. By then, both Regulus and Nova were watching a snake as it slept, whispering quietly between themselves. They stood up when their father arrived.“Anything interesting?” Orion asked. Nova glanced at her brother before shaking her head. “The snake is asleep…” she said, frowning. Orion hummed quietly, “It appears so.”Sirius looked at them. “Father, can I have an owl?” Orion nodded, and Sirius quickly went to pick one. He returned a short while later with a sleek black owl in his arms. “I’m going to name her Nyx,” he announced.After paying for the owl, Orion called for Kreacher, who took everything back home. Then, he took his children to Fortescue’s ice cream shop for a treat before heading back home.The next few months were filled with anticipation. Sirius was under constant pressure from their mother to behave accordingly, but it wasn’t until September 1st arrived that they could finally breathe. Nova hugged her older brother and whispered in his ear, “Make sure you write, okay?”“I will,” Sirius promised before hugging Regulus. “Take care of yourself,” he said softly, Regulus nodded. They waited until the train was out of sight, then returned home.Nova, silently observing her parents, suddenly announced, “Sirius is going to be in Gryffindor.” Her words were calculated—she knew her mother wouldn’t dare react too strongly with her father present.Her parents snapped their heads toward her, and it didn’t take long for Walburga to express her displeasure. “I certainly hope this is not a vision, Nova,” she said coldly.Nova glanced at her father, who was frowning. “This is new—unwanted, yes—but I suppose we’ll have to adapt if this vision comes true,” he said thoughtfully.“Adapt?” Walburga shrieked. “Never was there a Black in Gryffindor!”Orion looked towards his wife, his expression calm. “There must be a first for everything.”Nova quietly retreated, leaving her parents to deal with it on their own.Later, during dinner, a letter arrived from Narcissa, confirming Nova’s prediction.And Walburga shrieked.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The news of Sirius being sorted into Gryffindor led to many heated arguments between Orion and Walburga. During these times, Nova and Regulus did their best to remain unseen; they knew their father would never turn his anger on them, but their mother was a different story.
For Nova, the tension was especially suffocating. She felt it settle heavily on her shoulders, knowing she was the next in line to go to Hogwarts. Her letter was due to arrive the next day, and she could already sense the expectation simmering in the air—a blend of anticipation and dread. She went to sleep with a knot in her stomach.
The next day began with little fanfare; the Blacks didn’t celebrate birthdays. Nova ate her breakfast in silence, her eyes darting to the window now and then. Finally, Agnis, the family owl, swooped in with her letter. She opened it with trembling hands, reading the words quietly before passing it to her father.
Orion’s eyes scanned the parchment, his expression unreadable. “Well, Nova, it seems we’ll have to visit Diagon Alley,” he said calmly, folding the letter and placing it aside. Walburga, who had been watching the exchange, remained silent, her gaze intense and scrutinizing.
Nova nodded, feeling the weight of their expectations settle over her like a heavy cloak. “We’ll also need to pick up ingredients for tonight’s Samhain,” her father continued. “Get ready, both of you,” he added, glancing at Nova and Regulus.
As they made their way through Diagon Alley, the anticipation that had been building within Nova began to intensify. After picking up her books and letting Regulus choose a pet for her—a calico kneazle they named Aurora—it was time for Nova to get her wand. Orion led the way to Ollivander’s, with Regulus walking beside her, his eyes darting around the bustling street.
They stepped into the wand shop, the doorbell tinkling softly as it closed behind them. The dim lighting and rows of wands gave the shop an eerie atmosphere. Nova thought Mr. Ollivander should clean a bit more, but she kept the thought to herself. It didn’t take long for him to appear from behind a shelf, his pale eyes gleaming as they had the last time.
“Miss Black,” Ollivander said, his voice soft but filled with a strange energy. “I believe it is time to find your wand.”
Nova nodded, a flutter of nerves in her stomach. The process began much as it had for Sirius, but this time, the wands seemed more hesitant to choose. Wand after wand was tested and rejected, each one’s spark fizzling out before it could truly connect.
Finally, Ollivander paused and looked at Nova more closely, as though seeing something others could not. “Perhaps...” he murmured, disappearing into the back of the shop. When he returned, he carried a long, slender box. Opening it with reverence, he revealed a beautiful, dark wood wand with a faint iridescent sheen.
“Nine and three-quarter inches, ebony wood, with a core of Thestral tail hair,” Ollivander said, his voice almost a whisper. “Ebony is a powerful wood, known for its ability to absorb the energy of the wizard or witch it chooses. Thestral tail hair, as you may know, is a rare and unusual core, tied to those who have faced death and come out the other side.”
Nova’s fingers trembled as she reached out to take the wand. The moment her skin touched the cool wood, a spark of warmth traveled up her arm, followed by a gust of wind that rustled the shop’s curtains. Light flickered around her, and a gentle hum resonated in the air. The wand had chosen her.
Ollivander smiled, a hint of satisfaction in his eyes. “A most unusual and powerful combination, Miss Black. Treat it well, and it will serve you faithfully.”
A sense of calm settled over Nova as she felt the weight of the wand in her hand, both comforting and exhilarating. Her father paid for the wand, and they left the shop with it safely tucked in its box.
Their last stop was the apothecary to gather potion ingredients and other essentials. The shop was cluttered and filled with the mingling scents of herbs, potions, and magical brews bubbling in the back. Nova followed her father and Regulus inside, still feeling the echoes of her earlier excitement.
As they moved through the shop, Nova’s attention drifted to the shelves of glass jars filled with strange, exotic ingredients. Her fingers traced the rough wooden counter absentmindedly as she passed by. Suddenly, as her hand brushed against a particular spot on the counter, everything around her seemed to shift.
The world tilted, and the air grew cold. The bustling noise of the shop faded away, replaced by an eerie silence. Nova’s vision blurred, and then she was no longer in the apothecary.
She stood in a dark, ancient forest, the trees towering above her like silent sentinels. The ground beneath her feet was covered in a thick mist, swirling with an unnatural energy. Faint whispers carried by the wind reached her ears—voices she did not recognize, yet felt she should.
In the distance, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was Sirius; she’d recognize her brother anywhere. But he was older now, his face hardened with determination and something darker—pain, perhaps. He held his wand tightly, his eyes fixed on something Nova couldn’t see.
The vision shifted, and she saw Regulus, alone in a dimly lit room. He was facing a dark artifact that pulsed with malevolent energy, his expression conflicted as he wrote on a piece of parchment.
Then, as quickly as it had begun, the vision changed again. Nova saw herself standing before her mother, who was speaking to Druella, her uncle’s wife.
“Did you do it?” Druella asked in a murmur.
“It needs to be done periodically, Druella, but soon Orion will succumb to it, and I’ll finally be free to deal with this family as I see fit!” Walburga replied.
As if sensing her presence, even in a vision, both women turned to her. Walburga reached out to Nova, but before she could touch her, the vision shattered.
Nova gasped, stumbling back against the counter as reality rushed back to her. The apothecary was as it had been—no dark forest, no whispers, only the familiar sounds of Diagon Alley outside and the faint clinking of glass bottles.
Regulus was beside her in an instant, concern in his eyes. “Nova? Are you alright?”
She nodded, trying to steady her breathing. “Yes... just a bit dizzy.” She couldn’t shake the images from her mind, but she knew better than to share them here.
Orion glanced over; his gaze sharp but unreadable. “We’re nearly done. Let’s head home.”
Nova followed them out of the apothecary, her mind racing with what she had seen. The weight of her vision settled heavily on her, mingling with the anticipation and dread she had felt earlier. She clutched her wand tightly, the sense of urgency growing within her—she needed to warn her father. Her mother might be poisoning him.
As they made their way to the Floo Network, Nova cast a careful glance at her father. “Father,” she began quietly, “I need to tell you something later… Please, don’t mention it to Mother.”
Orion looked at her, his expression unreadable, but after a moment, he gave a curt nod.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Orion didn’t speak to his daughter right away; there were duties that demanded his attention. Instead, he decided to send her to his father, Arcturus, believing she should explore her abilities if that was what she desired. Arcturus Black was a cold and disciplined wizard, but Nova held a deep affection for him and her grandmother, Melania. He was not one for idle conversation; he devoted himself to the family’s legacy and never once wronged any of them. Now, having passed the Lordship to Orion, he enjoyed a quieter life with his wife, his brother Regulus, and his cousin Cassiopeia in the ancestral Black Manor.
Nova found Arcturus in his study, deeply absorbed in an old tome on necromancy—likely an illegal book. “Grandfather,” she greeted with a nod. Arcturus looked up, his stern features softening slightly. “Nova, I didn’t expect you.”She took a breath before speaking. “I had a vision,” she began, her voice uncertain. His gaze sharpened, silently urging her to continue. “It may not be entirely accurate... but it was unsettling. I saw Mother discussing plans to poison Father, and... my brothers were facing adversaries—foes far more formidable than any the family may have encountered.”
Arcturus closed the necromancy book, his expression unreadable but his eyes sharp with interest. He set the book aside, folding his hands on the desk in front of him. “Sit, Nova,” he said calmly, gesturing to the chair across from him. She did as he asked, feeling a mixture of apprehension and relief. She knew her grandfather would listen carefully—he always did when it came to matters of magic and the family’s safety.“Tell me everything,” he instructed. “Do not leave out any detail, no matter how insignificant it may seem.”Nova took a deep breath, collecting her thoughts. “It started when I touched the counter in the apothecary,” she began. “I was suddenly transported to a dark forest. It was... unsettling. Sirius was there, older, facing an unseen threat with determination and... pain in his eyes. Then it shifted, and I saw Regulus, alone, with dark artifacts. He looked conflicted, like he was struggling with a decision.”Arcturus listened intently, his face a mask of concentration. "And your mother?" he prompted; his voice low.Nova hesitated but nodded. “I saw her too, but it was different. She was speaking to someone about... poisoning Father. I don't know if it was literal or just a metaphor, but her words felt like a threat.”A heavy silence filled the room as Arcturus absorbed her words. He leaned back in his chair, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. “A most troubling vision,” he murmured. “If there is even a grain of truth in it, we must be vigilant.”
He tapped his fingers on the desk, considering his next words carefully. “Your sight, Nova—it is not yet fully developed, but it seems strong. This vision might be a warning, or it could be a glimpse of a potential future. Either way, we must take it seriously.”
Nova nodded, feeling the weight of his words. “What should I do, Grandfather?”Arcturus leaned forward, his gaze piercing. “You will stay here with us for a time, away from your mother’s watchful eye. Melania and I will help you refine your abilities. Your visions may hold the key to understanding what is to come.”He stood up and walked to the window, looking out over the expansive grounds of Black Manor. “As for the matter of your mother... we shall keep a close eye on her. If there is any truth to what you’ve seen, it could mean more than just a family squabble. We must be prepared for any outcome.”
Nova felt a small measure of relief at his words. Her grandfather’s presence had always been a source of strength for her. He was cold, yes, but he was fair and protective in his own way. “Thank you, Grandfather,” she said softly.Arcturus turned back to her; his expression softened ever so slightly. “You are a Black, Nova. Our blood is strong, and our will is stronger. You will learn to wield your gift wisely. Now, go to your grandmother; she will want to see you.”
Nova stood and gave him a respectful nod before leaving his study. She made her way through the ancestral halls of the manor, her mind still spinning with the images from her vision. She knew this was only the beginning. If her sight could indeed see beyond the veil of time, then she needed to be prepared for whatever lay ahead.
As she reached her grandmother Melania’s chambers, she felt a sense of calm wash over her. Melania was always a source of comfort and understanding—a stark contrast to the rest of the Black family. She knocked lightly and entered, finding her grandmother sitting by the window, embroidering protective runes into a dress.“Ah, Nova, my dear,” Melania said, her face lighting up with a warm smile. “Come, sit with me. Tell me what brings you here today.”Nova smiled softly, feeling the tension of the day begin to ease. “Grandfather thinks I need to train my sight,” she said. “And I think he’s right.”Melania nodded thoughtfully; her eyes gentle. “Then we shall begin, my darling. You have a gift, and it’s time you learned how to use it.” She set her embroidery aside and took Nova’s hands in her own. “But remember, no matter what you see, always trust your heart. It will guide you when nothing else can.”
Nova spent the next few weeks at Black Manor, immersed in the quiet rhythms of her grandparents’ home. Melania was patient and nurturing, guiding Nova through exercises to sharpen her sight and control her visions. Each day brought new lessons and insights, and although the process was challenging, Nova felt a growing sense of clarity and purpose.One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the manor, Melania summoned Nova to the drawing room. “It isn’t often that a Black manifest a magical ability, Nova,” she said, her voice gentle but firm. “It isn’t often that a Black manifests a magical ability like yours, Nova,” she said, her voice gentle but firm. “Those gifts were thought to be long lost to time. The last to have any sight like yours was a distant ancestor, and even then, it was not as strong.”Nova listened closely, sensing the gravity of her grandmother's words. She had always known her sight was rare, but the way Melania spoke made it sound even more significant. “What does it mean for us, then?” she asked, her voice steady but tinged with curiosity. “For the family?”Melania turned to face her, her expression softening. “It means you have the potential to see beyond what others can,” she replied. “To understand the threads that weave our fate. But it also means you carry a heavy responsibility, one that must be handled with care and wisdom. The Blacks have always held power, but yours is a different kind—a power that comes from within, from a deeper place.”Nova nodded, absorbing her grandmother's words. She had sensed this responsibility growing since her vision in Diagon Alley—the feeling that her sight was not just a gift, but a tool that could shape the future. “And how do I make sure I use it wisely?” she asked.Melania smiled softly. “That is what we’re here to learn, my dear. With time, you’ll understand how to see with more than just your eyes. You’ll learn to trust your instincts, to discern between what is real and what is not. And until then, you have us to guide you.”There was a pause, a comfortable silence that allowed Nova to feel the weight of her grandmother's words. She could see the care in Melania's eyes, the belief that her abilities were not just rare but vital to the family's legacy.“Tomorrow, we will begin a new exercise,” Melania continued. “It’s called guided scrying. You’ll learn to channel your thoughts into reflective surfaces, like water or glass. It won’t come easily, but it will help you focus your inner sight without being overwhelmed by visions.”Nova nodded again, determination settling in her chest. She returned to her room that night with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that whatever challenges lay ahead, she would face them with strength and courage, just like the Blacks who had come before her.
And perhaps, one day, she would surpass them all.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The night air in Black Manor was thick with magic, an energy that pulsed through the ancestral home as though the very walls were watching. Nova sat across from her grandmother in a candle-lit chamber, practicing guided scrying. The dark water in the silver bowl between them was still, reflecting the flickering flames.
“Relax your mind, child,” Melania’s soft but firm voice instructed. “Let the water speak to you. The reflections will reveal what you need to see.”
Nova took a deep breath, her eyes narrowing in concentration as she stared into the bowl. She had been practicing for weeks, but tonight the air seemed different—charged with a tension she couldn’t quite place. At first, the water remained still, showing only the dim reflection of her face. Then, the surface began to shimmer, a slow ripple spreading outward as the room around her faded into a distant blur.
She saw a table. An ornate dining table, set with silver and crystal, laden with food. Her father, Orion Black, sat at the head, his strong features softened with weariness. And across from him, her mother, Walburga, her eyes gleaming with something darker than pride.
Then the scene twisted, the air crackling as something sharp surged through Nova’s chest. The light in the room dimmed, and the shadows in the vision deepened. Walburga’s hand trembled slightly as she poured wine into Orion’s glass. From her sleeve, she withdrew a small vial—its contents glistening with a faint green hue.
The voice that came from Nova’s lips was not her own—it was deeper, older, as though something ancient and otherworldly spoke through her. Her eyes were wide and unseeing, her body rigid.
“In shadows deep, his blood will slow,
Through poisoned breath, his heart will go.
Tonight, the glass, the feast you dine,
A deathly toast in ruby wine.”
Melania gasped, her hands gripping the arms of her chair as the air around them grew colder. Nova’s voice continued, her eyes still unfocused, as if trapped in the vision.
“The meal of life, now turned to death,
A final feast, his dying breath.”
Nova's body trembled, and she gasped, collapsing forward as the vision released its hold on her. Her head spun, her heart pounding in her chest. She blinked, confused and disoriented, as the world around her came back into focus.
“Nova!” Melania exclaimed, rushing to her granddaughter’s side, her voice filled with concern. “What did you see?”
Nova sat up slowly, her breath shallow. “I… I don’t remember,” she whispered, looking into her grandmother’s eyes with a deep sense of dread she couldn’t explain. “What happened?”
“You spoke, child. You spoke of poison. A riddle, warning of death.”
Nova’s heart raced. “Maybe Father? I had one before! I don’t—” She stopped, her hand flying to her mouth. She remembered nothing of the vision, but the fear in her grandmother's eyes was real.
“We must go,” Melania said urgently, rising to her feet. “Arcturus must hear this at once. If your mother is planning something tonight, there may still be time.”
In Grimmauld Place, Walburga Black moved gracefully through the dining room, her gown trailing behind her as she approached the grand table. The finest silverware was laid out, glittering in the candlelight. A lavish meal was ready for her and Orion—roast lamb, seasonal vegetables, and a bottle of deep red wine.
Walburga’s hands were steady as she uncorked the bottle, but inside, she was a storm of anticipation. Tonight was the night. She had waited long enough, and now, everything was in place. Orion’s constant indulgence of Nova, Regulus and Sirius, his soft-hearted ways, had weakened the Black family. It was time for a new era, one where she alone would shape the family’s future.
As she poured the wine, her fingers brushed the vial hidden in her sleeve. She hesitated for only a moment, glancing over at Orion, who sat reading quietly, oblivious to the fate that awaited him. Slowly, she tipped the vial over the glass, letting the poison—a deadly blend of Weedosoros and Acromantula's venom—slip into the crimson liquid.
Her pulse quickened as she watched the poison dissolve, leaving no trace. It was perfect. Orion would drink it, and within hours, his heart would slow, his breathing would weaken, and he would simply fade away. By morning, it would all be over.
In his study, Arcturus Black stood by the window, watching the darkening sky. He had been deep in thought, contemplating the state of the Black family and his son’s role as its head. He had long sensed a growing tension in Walburga—an ambition that teetered on the edge of madness. But he hadn’t expected it to come to this.
His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps. The door burst open, and Melania entered, her face pale with urgency.
“Arcturus, you must come quickly,” she said, her voice tight. “Nova had a vision—she spoke in a riddle. Walburga is going to poison Orion tonight.”
Arcturus’ eyes narrowed, his mind racing. He didn’t need to ask for details; the look on his wife’s face told him everything he needed to know.
“Stay with Nova,” he instructed, his voice cold and decisive. “I’ll handle this.”
Without another word, Arcturus stormed through the floo, his wand already in hand. He knew Walburga’s ambition had always been dangerous, but to resort to poisoning her own husband—it was an unforgivable betrayal.
As he reached Grimmauld Place, he moved with the silent grace of a predator. The door of the dining room was slightly ajar, and through the crack, he saw Walburga and Orion seated at the table. Orion, blissfully unaware, raised his wine glass to his lips.
“Not another step,” Arcturus growled, flinging the door wide open.
Orion froze, the glass hovering inches from his mouth. Walburga’s eyes flashed with surprise, but only for a second. Her face hardened, and she placed the glass back on the table with deliberate calm.
“Arcturus,” she greeted with a chilling smile. “To what do we owe this unexpected visit?”
Arcturus’ gaze was locked on the glass of wine, the faint shimmer of magic still clinging to it. He knew. He had been too late to stop the poison from entering the drink, but not too late to prevent Orion from consuming it.
“I know what you’ve done, Walburga,” Arcturus said coldly. “You would poison your own husband to satisfy your delusions of grandeur?”
Walburga’s eyes narrowed, and she rose to her feet, her hand instinctively going to her wand. “You have no proof,” she hissed, her voice low and dangerous. “And you have no right to accuse me. This is my family.”
“This is the family you would destroy,” Arcturus spat, his voice filled with contempt. With a flick of his wand, the wine glass lifted off the table, hovering between them. He muttered an incantation under his breath, and the liquid within shimmered, glowing green as the truth of the poison was revealed.
“Weedosoros and Acromantula's venom,” Arcturus murmured, the evidence now irrefutable. “Your treachery ends tonight, Walburga.”
Orion, after a moment of shock, found his voice. “Walburga… what is this?” His voice was cold as he looked at his wife, the woman he had trusted for so many years. They hadn’t always seen eye to eye, but trust had bound them, at least in this.
Walburga’s mask of composure cracked, her face twisting in rage. “You were weak!” she shouted, her voice rising in fury. “You would have destroyed everything the Blacks stands for with your sentimentality! I did what had to be done. I was to save
the Blacks.”
Before she could act, Orion was faster. With a swift flick of his wand, he disarmed her, sending her wand clattering to the floor. “Enough!” His voice boomed through the room, filled with the authority of generations of Black patriarchs. “You have brought disgrace upon this family. I live, and you will answer for this.”
Walburga’s eyes darted between them, her rage giving way to desperation. But there was no escape. Arcturus stepped forward, his face hard as stone. “Kreacher!” he called, and within moments, the house-elf appeared.
“Yes, Master Arcturus?” Kreacher croaked, his large eyes wide with fear.
“Take your mistress to her quarters. She is not to leave until I decide what is to be done with her.”Kreacher hesitated for only a moment before bowing deeply and scurrying over to Walburga, who glared daggers at Arcturus but said nothing. She knew she had lost.
Later that night, Nova sat beside her father in the Ancestral Manor drawing room, Regulus by their side, her head resting on his shoulder. Orion’s hand stroked her hair.
“You don’t remember anything of the vision?” Orion asked quietly, Nova shook her head.“Is it bad?” She asked, Regulus glanced up at them. Orion shook his head.
Arcturus, standing by the fire, spoke softly. “Your sight is growing stronger, Nova. It’s a rare and dangerous gift, but it saved your father tonight.”Nova nodded; her heart heavy. She looked up at her father, his face pale but alive. And she knew, deep down, that this was only the beginning of the challenges her gift would bring.Orion squeezed her hand gently, offering a small, grateful smile. “You saved me,” he whispered.Nova returned the smile, though the weight of the vision still hung over her like a dark cloud. Tonight, she had seen just how fragile life could be—how quickly the ones you loved could be taken from you.
And in that moment, she vowed to master her gift, no matter the cost.
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The heavy air of Grimmauld Place buzzed with an eerie tension. The summer sun glared through the grand windows, casting long shadows across the Black family tapestry. Every thread and stitch screamed of the family's pure-blooded pride, a monument to their superiority.Until today.Nova stood in the drawing room beside Regulus, their eyes locked on the tapestry as if the history of their family was crumbling before them. And, in a way, it was."He did it," Regulus muttered, his voice heavy with disbelief. "He really blasted her off."Arcturus Black had just done the unthinkable—struck Walburga's name from the family tree. The once-pristine thread that connected her to their noble lineage was now a blackened burn mark, as if she'd never been born.Nova stood in front of the tapestry, her fingers brushing lightly over the scorched fabric. It felt surreal. Just days ago, their mother had been a powerful force within their home, ruling Grimmauld Place with an iron fist.
The next day, the news hit The Daily Prophet. The headline read:"BLACK FAMILY MATRIARCH DISOWNED: WALBURGA BLACK ERASED FROM THE FAMILY TREE!"Nova and Regulus sat at the breakfast table; the paper spread out between them. Regulus’ face was a mixture of shock and disbelief. "I didn’t think they’d actually do it….""It’s more than just a family matter now," Nova said quietly, her eyes scanning the article. "Everyone will be talking about this. Mother wasn’t just anyone."Regulus nodded, still reeling from the news. Before either of them could speak further, the fireplace roared to life, and with a burst of green flames, their father and Sirius came tumbling out. Sirius had just returned from his first year at Hogwarts for the summer holidays."Home sweet home!" Sirius announced, brushing soot from his robes, as their father left the room, but not before patting their heads. Sirius was practically beaming, completely oblivious to the heavy atmosphere hanging over Grimmauld Place. "Guess what? Gryffindor won the House Cup!" His eyes lit up as he spoke, clearly proud of the victory.Nova smiled despite herself, feeling a bit of warmth return to the room. "That’s amazing, Sirius," she said. "But have you seen the news?"Sirius waved it off. "Oh, yeah, I heard about that on the train. Couldn’t care less. I mean, come on, it’s Mother. She had it coming."Regulus, more hesitant, looked up from his breakfast. "But she’s our mother…""She was," Sirius corrected, plopping down between his siblings. "Now she’s just another casualty of her own fanaticism. You should’ve seen the looks on the Slytherins’ faces when they found out."Regulus looked uncomfortable, but Nova quickly changed the subject, sensing the tension."So… tell us about your first year. Gryffindor must’ve been a huge adjustment."Sirius’ eyes sparkled at the invitation. "Oh, it was brilliant! I made the best friends—James, Remus, and Peter. We call ourselves the Marauders." He winked. "And we might’ve gotten into a bit of trouble here and there, but nothing too bad. You wouldn’t believe the stuff we’ve pulled off!"Nova chuckled, happy to see her brother so alive with excitement. "And the classes? Did you like them?""Yeah, some of them were alright. Charms was great, and Transfiguration might be my favorite. But honestly, nothing beats the adventures we’ve had outside of class." He grinned, his mischievous nature fully on display. "There’s this Slytherin dude, Snape—really full of himself and obsessed with purity ideologies—but he has this Muggle-born friend, Lily. James fancies her."Before he could dive further into his tales, Sirius suddenly remembered something."Oh! And guess what? The Potters invited me over for a week during the summer. And—" he glanced at his siblings with a grin—"I might have convinced them to let me bring you both along."Nova blinked in surprise. "Really?""Yeah, they’re great! You’ll love them. James is already like a brother to me, and he said his parents wouldn’t mind. It’ll be fun, I promise."Regulus hesitated. "But… what about Mother? Or… Father?"Sirius’ expression darkened for a moment at the mention of their mother."Father doesn’t care what we do, he’ll agree. And as for Mother, well…" He shrugged. "She’s not exactly in a position to say anything now, is she?"Nova and Regulus exchanged glances. The idea of leaving Grimmauld Place for a week of freedom, especially after everything that had happened, was tempting. A chance to escape the gloom and rigidity of their home.Nova smiled softly, nudging Regulus. "I think we should go. It’ll be good for us to get away for a while."Regulus looked at his older brother, then at Nova, before finally nodding. "Alright… I’ll come."Sirius’ grin widened, and he ruffled Regulus’ hair. "That’s the spirit! Pack your bags, because we’re in for the best summer ever."
The week following Walburga Black's fall from grace felt like a whirlwind. Preparations were made quickly, and before long, Nova, Regulus, and Sirius found themselves standing in the dimly lit drawing room of Grimmauld Place, bags packed and ready. Sirius could barely contain his excitement, bouncing on his heels as their father, Orion, stood by the fireplace, his face as stoic as ever."You'll behave, won't you?" Orion said, his voice soft yet commanding, as he glanced at each of his children. His gaze lingered on Sirius a little longer, as if silently communicating a reminder of the consequences of stepping out of line.Sirius smirked. "Of course, Father. Always."Orion gave a small nod, though Nova noticed a flicker of something in his eyes—a glimmer of concern or perhaps exhaustion. He hadn’t spoken much since the incident with Walburga. Without another word, Orion held out his hand to Nova and Regulus, pulling them close, while Sirius placed his hand on Orion’s arm.A sharp twist and they were gone, the familiar sensation of Apparition engulfing them.
They appeared in front of the Potters' home, a charming but imposing manor surrounded by a garden full of colorful flowers. The sun bathed the scene in warm light, a stark contrast to the gloom of Grimmauld Place. Nova exhaled, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders as she looked at the inviting home.The door swung open, and there stood James Potter, grinning from ear to ear."Sirius! You made it!" he called out, bounding down the steps like an overexcited puppy. Behind him, a warm, welcoming couple stood—the Potters."Welcome!" Mrs. Potter said, her voice as kind as her eyes. She stepped forward to greet them, her smile wide and genuine. "You must be Sirius' siblings! I'm Euphemia Potter, but you can call me Effie."Mr. Potter followed; his hand extended. "Fleamont Potter, but call me Monty. Pleasure to meet you. We’re thrilled to have you all for the week."Nova smiled, instantly feeling at ease in their presence. Regulus stood a bit stiff, but Sirius wasted no time introducing them. "These are my younger siblings—Nova and Regulus. Thanks for letting them stay.""It’s our pleasure," Euphemia said warmly.Orion stepped forward; his towering presence impossible to ignore. He exchanged a firm handshake with Fleamont. "Thank you for hosting them, Lord Potter," Orion said in his deep voice, a shadow of his usual authority. "I’ll be back at the end of the week to collect them."He nodded graciously. "They’re in good hands. No need to worry, Lord Black."Orion gave his children one last look, his eyes lingering on Nova and Regulus before he nodded curtly to Sirius. "Behave yourselves," he said, and with a flick of his cloak, he Disapparated, leaving them in the warm, open air of the Potter home.
The week that followed was unlike anything Nova and Regulus had ever experienced. The Potters' home felt alive, filled with laughter and light that seemed foreign after the cold, strict environment of Grimmauld Place.James and Sirius had already made plans for the week, and soon, Nova and Regulus were swept into a whirlwind of adventures. The first morning, they went flying on their broomsticks in the vast meadow behind the Potters' house. Sirius and James soared through the air, performing reckless dives and loops, while Nova and Regulus stuck to safer maneuvers, though Nova couldn’t help but feel the exhilaration of freedom rushing through her."See, Reg, I told you this would be fun!" Sirius shouted mid-dive as Regulus watched from a distance, his eyes widening at the wild stunts.Regulus smiled, a rare expression of ease settling on his face. For once, he wasn’t weighed down by the expectations of their family or the burdens of tradition. Nova could see it, too—the way Regulus seemed lighter here, freer.The afternoons were spent lounging by the fireplace, playing wizard chess with Remus and Peter, or listening to Monty tell stories from his days at the Ministry. Euphemia would bake sweets, insisting they eat until they couldn’t move.One evening, when the sky was painted with soft hues of pink and orange, Euphemia and Monty took them into the garden to show them how to care for the magical plants that grew around the house. Nova marveled at the strange blossoms that glowed in the dusk, absorbing the gentle care Euphemia put into tending them. "You have a gift for Herbology," Euphemia had said to Nova with a kind smile. "Don’t let anyone tell you it’s not a strength."The nights were filled with secret talks between the siblings, the occasional prank, and whispered conversations between the Marauders about their future prank plans.On the last night, they all sat around a small bonfire in the Potters’ Garden. The stars were bright above, twinkling against the dark sky. James passed around sweets, while Sirius and Remus teased Peter about his nervousness around fire. Nova leaned against Regulus, her heart light and her mind at ease."I don’t want to go back," Regulus whispered, his voice barely audible over the crackling fire.Nova nodded, understanding completely. Grimmauld Place would always feel suffocating compared to the warmth and freedom they’d found here. But with their mother gone, she hoped for better.Sirius was explaining the stars to his friends; all the Blacks knew each star and constellation by heart."My star can’t be seen tonight!" he said, his voice calm, "but Regulus can be seen…""What about Nova?" asked James. Nova smiled and answered, "Nova isn’t a star; it’s the death of a star and the birth of a new one. But Meissa, my middle name, is up there…" she pointed to the sky.Everyone listened silently, lost in the night.After a moment, James turned toward them, his grin mischievous. "You know, you both should be in Gryffindor when you come to Hogwarts. Slytherin’s full of blood purists like the Malfoys. Trust me, you don’t want to end up there." His tone was light, but the sentiment was clear. Sirius nodded by his side.Nova and Regulus exchanged a glance, uncertainty clouding their features. They said nothing, but the weight of that decision hung between them, unspoken.
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Hey everyone,Sorry for the lack of updates last week! My laptop’s broken, and I can’t get to any of my files at the moment. I’m working on getting it fixed as quickly as I can, and I’ll update as soon as I’m back up and running.I’ll take down this chapter once everything’s sorted. Thanks for your patience!