The Blackwing Chronicles

[raven1972]

This thread is where i am going to be posting a multi chapter HP fan fic based on a HP rp i did with Rae , the Rp is what brought us together as friends.

as such I Dedicate this Story to Rae , with out whos help and encouragement and help id never have gotten into writing stories again.

the story starts in the next post, feel feel to PM me with any questions or suggestions

Credit goes to JK Rowling for her characters and Credit goes to Basil for Nicole Chan and Laramie "Levi" Conyers.

also i dedicate the fifth chapter to Basil for all the inspiration she has given me.

[raven1972]

The Blackwing Chronicles
The Story of the later days of Ravencroft Tarvers
Chapter 1 A Raven’s Tale.

Ravencroft or Raven as he preferred to be called is a Wizard; He was the same year at Hogwarts as the famed Harry Potter but in Ravenclaw house. He did well in all classes but wasn’t exactly a model student and had his share of detentions gained and house points lost. He wasn’t bothered that he wasn’t well known as fame was never something that attracted him, so he was glad to let Potter have the lime light.

He was present at the battle of Hogwarts but like many of the students present his efforts are by in large over looked and that’s doesn’t bother him, for that night he had other concerns but that remains a closely guarded secret between him and one other and will not be spoken of here.

In the years after Voldemort’s final defeat Raven had been selected to the Auror’s office at the Ministry and had helped Harry Potter hunt down and capture the Death eaters who had fled after their leader’s death. It was about five years later when most of the death eaters were safely in Azkaban that he was called in Harry Potter’s office as he had just been named head of the Auror department and he was informed that he was being reassigned to Magical Law Enforcement Squad as an Investigator as there just wasn’t the need for so many Aurors at present.

Raven had always wanted to be an Auror and while he had accomplished his dream it was rather shorter than he had hoped. He accepted the reassignment without dissent and excelled at the task even if it was rather mundane and boring. He kept in close touch with his best friend Rae, who he had known since Hogwarts. They had begun to live somewhat separate lives dictated in part of what they had gone through while writing often and visiting each other when possible, but that is another tale.

It was nearing twenty years since Raven had finished at Hogwarts and Raven now lived in a flat he had purchased in Diagon alley. It was a Friday evening and he was relaxing in front of the fire place writing a letter to his mum when he heard the pecking of the owl post with the Evening prophet so he got up and opened the window and gave the owl the required Knuts and took the paper and closed the window.


“Now is there anything of interest in tonight’s paper or do you get it for cage lining Shadow” Raven said as he reached over and petted his pet owl.

He slowly worked his way through the paper finding little of interest as he was in the know of any major news out of the ministry or criminal investigations. It was while he was flipping through the classified ads he spotted something that caught his interest.

“ Hogwarts is looking for A new Defense against the dark arts teacher, hmm well working at the Ministry is getting rather boring and teaching would be an excellent challenge, I might just apply “ Raven mused as he wondered if Rae would think him mad for even considering the job.

Raven finished up the letter to him mum and sent it off then busied himself with dinner all the while thinking about the ad in the Prophet. After a while he settled down for a simple dinner of fish and chips that he came to a decision. “I am going to apply for the post! “ He exclaimed as he mentally wrote out his application as he ate.

It was the next morning when Raven took out his best quill and wrote out his application and sent it out with Shadow and as he watched his owl fly out of sight he smiled and said “I wonder how much Professor McGonagall will remember about me and how much she will hold against me…good thing she has no clue it was me and Rae who did the Slytherin common room.”


Raven smiled as the memories of that day over 21 years ago now flooded back to him. The rest of that Saturday he was out doing some shopping for potion ingredients and other magical supplies. It was nearly 4pm that he returned to his flat to find a letter with the Hogwarts seal upon it laying on his table and his owl looking very proud of himself. Raven sat aside his shopping and opened the letter and read it and was surprised to find out he had an interview at Hogwarts in a week’s time.

Raven considered what do to then wrote out two letters one to confirm he would be there for the interview and another to the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade to reserve a room.

The week passed fairly uneventfully and when Friday evening came Raven packed an overnight bag and Apparated to Hogsmeade, and took a bit of time to walk around as it had been years since he had been here and it brought back a lot of memories. After about a half hour he went to The Three Broomsticks and checked in and went up to his room and then down for a bite of dinner and a drink.

An immense man walked up to him and said “Raven Tarvers innit?”

“Hagrid! Or I should say Professor Hagrid, I’m honored you remember me after all these years, please join me for a drink” Raven replied overjoyed to see his old Care of magical creatures teacher.


“I always remember me best students, so what brings ye to Hogsmeade? Last I heard you were working for the ministry” Hagrid replied ordering a large tankard of ale from Rosemerta the owner of the inn.

“I am but I applied for the job opening at Hogwarts and have an interview tomorrow, could be we end up as fellow teachers” Raven replied and took a sip of mulled mead.

“Well I’ll be! That will make two of your year teaching if you get the job, Neville Longbottom took over for Professor Sprout as the Herbology professor, after she decided to retire a couple o’ years back .“Hagrid replied.

“I read about that I was happy for Neville as it sounded like the perfect job for him! By the way Hagrid how is my baby brother Tormod doing, I know he is going into his sixth year next term. “Raven replied.

“ He is doing fine looking forward to having him in my NEWT classes next year, He is qualified for them, outstanding on his OWL for my Subject, does your family know you applied? “ Hagrid inquired.

“They haven’t a clue I wanted to surprise them if I got the job” Raven said mischievously.

“ Alright then, well I only stopped in for a quick drink as I got to go take delivery of a pair of o Bugbears for next term’s lessons. “ Hagrid replied emptying his tankard and dropping a couple of Sickles on to the table.

“Alright Hagrid, it was nice to see you again “Raven replied and waved to him as the half giant left.

Raven went to bed a short while later and slept fitfully as he was quite nervous about the interview.

Raven woke early and readied himself dressing in his best robes and eating a light breakfast, and then he started off for Hogwarts. At the gate he was greeted by none other than Argus Filch the long time caretaker of the school.

“Good Morning Mr. Filch” Raven said politely walking across the grounds with him.

“Morning, don't think for a moment that i have forgotten about you Tarvers, you were quite the handful back in your school days, I don't doubt we never caught you on half of what you did” Filch said in his usual tone.

Raven merely nodded and walked silently still not much liking Filch and soon they arrived at the Castle and Raven worked his way up the headmistress’ office and was greeted by the headmistress.

“Good Morning Mr. Tarvers, let’s go into my office and begin the interview then. “ Professor McGonagall said and led him into her office.


Raven looked about the office and noted the differences since he had been here last in his sixth year, there of course where the portraits of Dumbledore and Snape added to the rest and the lack of the many magical devices Dumbledore had kept here, the thing that most stood out to Raven was the empty space where Fawkes’ perch had been. The Phoenix had left soon after Dumbledore’s death and none knew to where.


“Please sit and lets begin” McGonagall said as she sat behind her desk.

Raven sat down and noted to himself how different this felt to any previous time he had been here, most likely as he wasn't in trouble for something or seeking advice but trying to become a professor.

“I have reviewed your records from your time here at Hogwarts, you were in the top 3 of your year, chaser for Ravenclaw, top marks in Defense against the Dark Arts, Nine Newts all Outstanding and a penchant for pranks, I remember them well Mr. Tarvers, you and your little groups efforts were only exceeded by the Wesley twins.” The headmistress said with the slightest of smiles.

“Sounds correct to me Professor, and I can assure you I have quite grown out of pulling pranks, even if I can appreciate a good one.” Raven replied.

“Professor Flitwick gave you a glowing recommendation when we spoke about you yesterday, and I spoke with your current and former Department heads at the Ministry and your work there is highly satisfactory. Harry Potter recommended you highly, stating and I quote: ’He has what it takes to be a teacher, and the right temperament.’ I do however have to ask you what made you decide to apply for a teaching position, seems to me it would be boring next to the work you do now” McGonagall inquired.

Raven smiled pleased that he got such glowing recommendations especially as he had not requested any such recommendations for either his old Head of house or Harry Potter. “Well professor, I have been a bit bored with my work, I love it of course but compared to my time as an auror it's rather tame, I thought becoming a teacher would be a good challenge and a way to give back to Hogwarts.” Raven replied.

“I can certainly understand that, well your certainly qualified for the post, and come highly recommended , but I have two more interviews before I make my selection, I will contact you by owl post to inform you of my decision” McGonagall said.

“Very well then, before I go is Professor Flitwick here at present? “ Raven inquired as he desired to see his old head of house.


“I am sorry he is on Holiday at present and not due back for a week. Good day to you then Mr. Tarvers” McGonagall said smiling as she privately felt that Tarvers would be hard to top.

“Shame but can’t be helped, Good day professor” Raven replied then departed and walked around the grounds for a while stopping by Dumbledore’s tomb and thinking about him and the adventures and mission he had sent himself and Rae on.

Raven departed Hogwarts and headed back to the Inn where he collected his things and paid for his stay then apparated away appearing in Diagon alley then he walked back to his flat and went sat in his favorite chair to think.

It was a week later he got the letter from Hogwarts and he opened and read it then shouted triumphantly as he had landed the teaching post.

The rest of that summer was a blur as Raven was constantly busy as he had much to do, from resigning from the Ministry to selecting the required text books for his classes to meeting with the other Professors at Hogwarts to setting up his office and quarters there. Raven’s family was very happy for him and his friend Rae congratulated him and wrote teasingly that she hoped he had to deal with pranksters as bad as they had been. Raven sincerely hoped he would not have to.


Soon after the news of the new hiring had hit the daily Prophet Raven began to receive owls from friends, old school mates and from his father’s friends at the ministry. His favorite of these after Rae’s was from Ron Weasley who asked him if he was mental.

[raven1972]

The Blackwing Chronicles
Chapter 2: Memories and Dreams

August passed swiftly as Raven completed the final preparations before leaving for Hogwarts, he had made sure he had gotten rid of any food that could have spoiled and had sent off the spare key to Rae with a letter offering her use of the place if she needed it while he was away. Raven looked around his flat one last time then picked up his bags which he had packed the night before and disapperated and reappeared in the center of Hogsmeade and walked off towards the school and after a fifteen minute walk he arrived at the gates which stood open and he walked through and towards the castle.


A few minutes later Raven stopped looked over at the Tomb of Albus Dumbledore and said” Well professor I may never be as good of a teacher as you were but I will do my best to share my knowledge and experience with my students as you once did to me and so many others”

Raven walked on towards the school unaware Professors McGonagall and Flitwick had been watching him from atop the astronomy tower and McGonagall said “ A fine man, he will prove an excellent teacher. I am quite sure Albus would agree if he was still with us. “


“I quite agree, Tarvers was one of my best pupils in his year and it makes me proud to see one of my students choose to give back to the school” Professor Flitwick replied.

The two professors left the tower and headed down to great the new member of the school’s staff and about 5 minutes they arrived in the great hall as Raven walked and handed his bags to Filch the caretaker to taken them to his office.

“Welcome Mr. Tarvers, or I should say Professor Tarvers now, Welcome back to Hogwarts, I trust you will do your best to educate and mentor our students” McGonagall said extending a hand.

Raven took her hand and shook it and said “Thank you professor and please call me Raven we are colleagues now.”

“Okay Raven you may call me Minerva, but only when not around the students, we must maintain professionalism while on the job.” McGonagall replied smiling.

“Raven, Please call me Fillus, it does my heart good to see one of my student choose to become a teacher and educate the younger generations” Flitwick replied shaking raven’s hand.

“Thank you prof.. Fillus, I am proud to share my experience and knowledge with students of this fine school, you know just being here brings back many memories. “Raven replied

“Excellent, now go get settled in we have a staff meeting at 4 pm and the annual start of term staff dinner party at 6 in the great hall, I shall see you there as I must go check to be sure the hospital wing is prepped for the coming term” McGonagall said then walked off towards the stairs

Raven nodded then turned to Professor Flitwick and said “Fillus would you mind if I took a stroll around the Ravenclaw common room?”

“Not at all you should be more than capable of answering the riddles to get in, I have a few details to finish before the staff meeting so , I must go for now, until later Raven” Flitwick replied and ambled off in the direction of the charms classroom.

Raven headed up to the Ravenclaw tower and entered the common room and the strolled about it and as he did many memories flooded back to him as he looked at the corner where and Rae had often sat to contemplate pranks or do homework, in fact there was very few places in the room that did not bring back some sort of memory, Raven left after about 15 minutes and headed to his office on the third floor and as passed through his classroom he made a few adjustments to suit his plans, then went into his office and got unpacked and set up his quarters behind the office to his liking. He spent the next two hours putting up various items in his classroom to prepare it for the coming term then he headed to the staffroom for the staff meeting.

During the meeting he was introduced to the remaining staff and in doing so he shook many hands, the rest of the meeting was as Raven expected. Professor McGonagall discussed the coming term and any new rules changes and her expectations for teacher behavior and decorum.

At 6pm they walked to the great hall and enjoyed a delicious meal which ended with a toast to the new term and to Hogwarts then they all went off to their quarters for the night.


Raven changed for bed and then wrote in his journal then he read the letter he got from Rae that his owl had brought while he was in the meeting, he noted that she wasn’t sure if he would use his flat but appreciated the offer. He had expected that to be her response as he knew her well.

Raven got into bed and slipped off to sleep and soon drifted into a dream.


As his dream took form in his mind he walking down an empty hallway three floors above where he slept and some 70 years ago. He was chatting with his dearest friend Rae and discussing what they had to do soon and both had been dreading for different reasons.


“Padfoot we got to leave soon, I know it’s not going to be easy for you but we have no choice, staying much longer risks the flow of time as we know it.” Raven said in a low voice.

“ I know that and we have gone over this before Prongs I will do what I have to, but your right we can’t put it off much longer.” Rae replied as she thought about the pain this parting was sure to cause for both her and for the one they had to leave behind.

“Alright there is one thing we must do and I doubt you’re going to much like it so , I’ll handle it, we have to destroy Tom’s time turner, he mustn’t be able to use it to find out about his future. “ Raven said solemnly for he knew doing so would anger Tom greatly and would likely make him a target upon their return to their own time.

“NO! I will take care of it Prongs; I won’t risk making him want to harm you any more than he already does in our time.” Rae insisted as she cared very deeply for Raven, she loved him like a brother although she suspected raven’s feeling for her were something more than that and she dreaded having to make things clear to him.

“Alright Padfoot, I’ll let you do it but I’ll be there as a look out, I won’t let you take the risk alone” Raven said knowing he had no chance of changing Rae’s mind once made up.

It was quickly agreed they would destroy the time turner tomorrow night when Tom was going to be on patrol in the castle after placing there things in the enchanted bag Rae kept just In case things went bad. What the pair did not realize is that they had been followed and a large snake slithered away to report to its master.


The next day went by quickly and they met outside the quarters that Tom shared with Rae and slipped inside.
Rae went to the cupboard and opened the door where she knew Tom kept the time turner but it wasn’t there and she said “Prongs we have a problem, Tom moved the time turner…” Rae pulled herself together and gripped her wand tightly as she had a bad feeling she knew what must have happened.


“Damn it where else could he have put the time turner?“ Raven asked as he gripped his wand in his robes.


Suddenly a figure appeared out of nowhere as Tom dropped disillusionment charm he had placed on himself and said in a cold voice “Looking for something? “

He held up his time turner then draped it around his neck then added “Raven, I thought we had become friends and Rae I thought you loved me, why do wish to do me this harm?”


Raven keen to protect Rae by deflecting Tom growing anger on himself he quickly said “we are only doing what we must Tom….”

Rae walked over to Tom and took him by the hand while fighting an internal battle between her own desire to stay with him and doing what she knew she must.

“Tom I told you I can’t stay here and that you must, that’s why w….I can’t let you keep your time turner….I love you Tom, more than I can possibly express but it must be this way. “Rae said almost pleadingly

Tom grew angrier and said “If you love me you will stay willingly, either way you are staying the only difference is if that fool lives and goes home or he dies!”

With that statement things quickly went out of control as Tom drew his wand and moved to subdue Raven and Raven countered quickly and Rae joined in trying to keep each of the young men she cared so much about from causing serious harm to each other. Soon a spell struck the time turner Tom had on his neck and it shattered and fell to his feet, there was no way to be certain who cast it could have been any of them but Tom chose to believe Raven had done it on purpose.

“You will die for that Fool! “ Tom shouted and pointed his wand at Raven.

“No Tom I won’t allow it, let Raven go and I’ll stay!” Rae said throwing herself in front of Raven reading in Tom’s eyes what spell he was about to use.

Tom rage was too great he wanted his rival for the girl he loved dead and wasn’t going to be denied so he knocked the breath out of Rae with a spell causing her to drop to her knees and then said “ AVADA KE…”

That was as far as he got as a brilliant flash of light temporarily blinded him and when his vision cleared they were gone, far from his reach.

The dream ended abruptly and Raven sat up in bed and said “ Oi that dream….been nearly ten years since last had it…I wonder if its Hogwarts itself that brought it back after all this time.”

Memories of that night flooded through Raven’s mind as he sat there in bed, he could almost see and hear the utter chaos of the battle when they appeared, for a moment they weren’t sure what was going on until they were passed by Cho Chang and had shouted at them to get moving they needed help in the great hall to stop the death eaters. The then dashed off towards the great hall wands in hands casting spells at death eaters as they fought their way through.

Raven sighed pulling himself from the memory and after checking his clock and seeing it was 5 am he got up and got cleaned up and dressed and went for a walk about the castle, first he went to the great hall stopping at the exact spot he and Rae had that night when the witnessed the final moments of the duel between Harry and Voldemort. As he did that night Raven turned and quickly left, this time as he wished to walk more before breakfast, but that night it had been to get Rae away from that scene as even though she wasn’t showing it he knew she was in great emotional distress.


Raven swiftly walked up to the Astronomy tower and looked down on the ground to the spot next to the lake, to where the greatest test of his friendship with Rae occurred. He had expressed his feeling for her that night and Rae had to set him straight on how she felt about him. They did not speak or see each other for nearly two weeks while he sorted out his feelings.

Raven knew that there bond was all the stronger for going through that, they had both moved on and grown. Raven sat there and watched the sunrise then he headed to the great hall for breakfast, then he had to double check his classroom for it was September first and the students would soon be on their way to Hogwarts.

[raven1972]

The Blackwing Chronicles
Chapter 3: A fateful introduction.

When Raven arrived in the great hall he saw only one other professor was there, Neville Longbottom, Herbology teacher and newly selected head of Gryffindor House. Raven admitted he could not exactly call Neville a friend but he was on friendly terms with him and so he went and sat next to at the Professor’s table.

“Hello Neville, ready for the term?” Raven asked.

“Hello Raven, yes I am and how are you? “ Neville replied

”I am fine, a bit nervous, but that’s to be expected, how were you your first day as a professor?” Raven inquired curiously as he remembered the clumsy boy Neville used to be.

“I was a wreck; right up until my first class started then I was fine. You know Raven I would have never thought of you going in for teaching, even when we were students here I thought of you as one to crave action and not sit behind a desk.” Neville replied.

“Well I had gotten a bit bored with my former job, just did not have the excitement of being an Auror, I enjoyed the work but honestly it wasn’t quite the same and I felt teaching would be an interesting new challenge, so what did you do have leaving the Auror office Neville?” Raven said as he buttered a piece of toast.

“I can imagine, I doubt you will be bored here at Hogwarts, not enough time for boredom most days, as for what I did between being an Auror and taking up the Herbology post I went on an around the world trip studying plants both mundane and magical and learning all their uses, as you might imagine it comes in handy in my job here. “ Neville replied happily then added and he finished his breakfast.” I have to go as I have a crop of Mandrakes that needs tending to before the students arrive.”

Raven nodded then watched Neville get up and leave and other teachers arrived for breakfast, he chatted with Hagrid as he finished up his breakfast then excused himself to finish up his lesson plans so he could send a copy to the Headmistress.


It was about midafternoon when Raven finished his lesson plans and sent them off to the headmistress and he was about to get up when there was a knock on his door.

“Raven, May I come in? “ The unmistakable voice of Filius Flitwick said from beyond the door.

“Of Course you may Filius “Raven Replied as he opened the door.

“ Thank you, I have a matter of some importance to discuss with you and as it needs to be cleared away before the students arrive its best we do so now, if you have the time. “ Filius said gratefully.

“I have the time. I just sent off my lesson plans for the term to our Headmistress and was about to pay Hagrid a visit.” Raven said offering his former Charms professor a chair.

“Good, let’s get right to it then, I am not a young man any longer and while I have no intentions of retiring any time soon, the day to day responsibilities of being head of Ravenclaw house often leave me more weary than is healthy for one of my age by the end of the day, so I have asked and received permission from Professor McGonagall to ask you to be Deputy Head of Ravenclaw house and handle most of the day to day matters, reserving the most serious matters. Such as rule infractions rising to the level of letters sent to parents to be dealt with personally by myself. Do you accept?” Filius asked in a most sincere tone.

“I do Filius, but I have to ask why me and is there any precedent for such a post? “Raven replied after considering for a moment and deciding the task was one he could cope with despite his condition.

“Well, I chose you for two reasons, first your youthful years and secondly your experience as an auror and in law enforcement has gained you a sufficient measure of fame that you’re likely to be known to most students of wizarding families. Also I have a feeling you know almost all of the secret passages in the school, from your days as Ravenclaw’s chief rule breaker. It has been more than 300 years since there was a deputy head of house and that was a temporary post due to an injury caused by an improperly charmed Bludger that crashed in to the teacher’s seating at the Quidditch final, Hufflepuff had a temporary deputy head of house for 3 weeks while Professor McCallen recovered. At Any rate I will be Glad for your assistance. “Filius replied.


“I am honored to assist you Filius, I just hope Ravenclaw doesn’t currently have any students with a liking for pranks on a level to equal that of mine and Rae” Raven said chuckling slightly

“Fortunately No, and I doubt we will find any to equal the two of you, quite A pair you were. Do you and Miss Morgenstern keep in contact still? If so how is she doing, I expected great things of her but she has more or less dropped out of sight.” Filius replied inquiringly.

“We do and she is fine, well Rae prefers her privacy but she is doing well, we write often and I visit her when I can. She is like a sister to me after all “Raven Replied somewhat evasively as he would never violate his best friend’s privacy.

Filius nodded then changed the topic and the pair began to discuss what Raven’s duties would be as well as about the school and what they had been up to in recent years.


It was about 4 pm in the Afternoon when they noticed the sun beginning to set and Filius Said “Well Raven it will not be long now so we best get spruced up for the feast see you there, oh I forgot to mention you’re not the only new staff member this year, you will find out the rest at the feast.

The diminutive Charms professor left and Raven sat there confused for a few minutes as he could not recall reading of another opening and wondered if it was a temporary fill in like Professor Grubbly-Plank did for Hagrid on several occasions.

Raven got up and showered and dressed for the occasion determined to give an excellent first impression to the students, other than his baby brother Tormod who he knew wasn’t overly pleased with his brother becoming his teacher.

Once Raven was satisfied with his appearance he wrote a quick letter to Rae telling about his new and unexpected responsibilities and sent Shadow off with it and then headed down to the Great Hall for his first feast their as a Teacher. Raven knew it would be a very different experience.

Raven sat at his allotted space next to Neville and they chatted away about what various students from their year had done with their lives. About 20 minutes later the first students began to arrive the first he could identify was his brother Tormod who he waved to and got a curt wave back. The next student is a Hufflepuff Girl he recognized from Weasley’s Wizard Wheezes as she was often in the shop purchasing various items of the sort Filch was sure to not approve of.
There were a few others he recognized as children of students in his year most notably the children of Ron and Hermione Weasley and Harry and Ginny Potter. Raven was sincerely glad they were not Ravenclaws as to go by what other teachers had told him they had begun to aspire to equal there Uncle George and late Uncle Fred. Raven saw a younger Gryffindor sit next to his brother and after a while he recognized him as Laramie youngest of the Conyers children all of whom he had met at various parties his parents had taken him to and that he had attended on his own as an adult. He was however forcibly reminded that his father had refused to arrange a marriage between him and one of the lad's elder sisters. He had met her later in life and was turned off by her overly flirtatious manner. It was then he looked down the staff table and saw a Witch close to his age and while she seemed familiar he could not place her, but something about her made his heart race.

All though the Sorting he thought about the witch trying to place her in his memories and while he was sure it had a connection to Hogwarts he wasn't sure what it was.


When the sorting was completed Professor McGonagall stood up and said “To our first years welcome to Hogwarts, to our returning students welcome back. We have two new staff members this year; firstly let us welcome our new Defense against the Dark Arts Instructor and Deputy Head of Ravenclaw House, Professor Ravencroft Tarvers”.


Raven stood up and nodded to the students and there was a murmur through the house tables as it was clear his name was known to many despite his dislike of fame and also there was his highly unusual post to consider. Raven sat back down and waited for the Headmistress to continue.

“The other addition to our staff is temporary; Apprentice Healer Cassandra Brown will be with us for 2 months learning from Madam Pomfrey as she is nearing the completion of her training and wishes to work with children.

Cassie stood up and waved blushing slightly as she did not like being up front of so many people, and while she had known he was going to be here she did not realize Raven had grown so handsome and seemingly single, she would had thought that by now he would have married that girl from his year that he had spent so much time with. She longed to speak to Raven but was far too shy to do so.

Professor McGonagall gave the usual start of term notices but Raven took little note as he thought about Miss Brown, and deciding to send her an owl asking her to tea on Saturday and in the meantime he would if he had time he would try to discover why she was so familiar..

The feast began and was found most satisfying by all and soon the food was consumed and the students were looking rather sleepy.

“Okay now all of you off to bed classes begin in the morning so sleep well and wake rested and ready to learn.’ The Headmistress said as she dismissed the students.

As the students dispersed to their houses a Slytherin girl shot Raven a look of pure venom but then was quickly lost in the crowd and Raven gave it little concern.

Tormod dashed up to his brother and said “So how is the view from the Professor's table? “

“Different and Tormod, you're a Prefect shouldn't you be seeing to the Gryffindor first years?” Raven said quickly as he strove to keep his eyes off Miss Brown lest his brother notice and tease him about it.

“I know, see you in Class Professor, I hope you can keep your mind on Defense and off of Healer Brown” Tormod said then dashed off before he caught heck from his big brother.

Raven shook his head and got up and headed for his office and almost trod on a first year Ravenclaw girl in his distraction as he could not get Miss Brown off his mind. He laughed privately knowing Rae would be getting a kick out of him acting like some lovesick 6th year if she could see him now.

Cassie quickly got to her quarters and breathed a sigh of relief that the feast and Introduction was over, then the many questions she had about the man who was the boy she had a passionate crush on in school but never had the courage to talk to him let alone tell him how she felt about him, after all he had been one year ahead of him and barely noticed her and spoken to her even less, she resolved somehow she would find the courage to get to know him better even if it proved that he was married.


The entire school soon settled down for a peaceful night’s sleep save for one who was busy checking her trunk to see if certain special items arrived safely.

[raven1972]

The Blackwing Chronicles
Chapter 4: First time with the first years.

Raven woke early the next morning and quickly completed his morning ritual of showering and shaving and getting himself ready for the day. Raven sat down at his desk and checked the time and saw it was just 6am a full two hours before his first class, the first years from Gryffindor and Slytherin houses he would have the other two houses in the afternoon, with the 2nd years between the two and after the afternoon class.

“Time enough for me get off my invitation to Miss Brown, and then this evening I can do a bit of research on her, until then it’s all business” Raven said he jotted off the invitation and summoned a house elf named Mort and instructed him to take it to healer Brown. Mort nodded and departed to do as he was bidden.

Raven then rose and went to the great hall for breakfast He noticed that most of the professors including the headmistress were there already when he arrived. He sat down between Neville and Flitwick and was soon enjoying a plate of scrambled eggs and bacon along with some toast and a cup of tea.

Professor McGonagall rose to depart but before she did she turned to Raven and said “I trust you are ready for your first class Professor Tarvers. “

“I am Professor, I double checked everything before bed last night” Raven replied.

“Excellent, I am sure you will find teaching a rewarding experience, now I must go I have reams of paper work ahead of me.” The headmistress replied then departed.
Raven finished up his breakfast and headed for his classroom knowing his first years would be lining up before long.
Cassie was just about to leave her quarters when a house elf handed her a note then quickly departed, after a moment to compose herself from the surprise appearance she opened the note and immediately blushed upon reading it.

“I will indeed accept the invitation to tea …good thing I have to head to work now as I have no idea how to word my acceptance note “Cassie said as she pocketed the note and headed for the hospital wing knowing Madame Pomfrey did not tolerate tardiness.

Raven opened the door to his classroom and the first group of first years filed in and sat down, he noticed that one of them, Laramie Conyers seemed to be very curious and looking at everything but the front of the class room, he decided he may need to give extra help to the boy but he would deal with it as needed.

Raven called the class to attention and read the roll call and once he was certain all were present he stepped out from behind his desk and began his planned speech.

“I am Professor Ravencroft Tarvers; you may call me Professor Tarvers. It is my task nay my duty over the next five to seven years to instruct you in ever changing art of Defense against the dark arts, Some of you may think this subject is unimportant now that Voldemort is dead and gone, I assure all of you this is incorrect, Dark magic still exists as do wizards and witches who would use it. Dark creatures of course still are out there and you are well advised to know how to protect your selves from them, I will of course be teaching you how to do just that. Remember Dark magic is always changing and evolving and as such your defense must be just as fluid, flexible and inventive, as you are first years it will be some time before we get to anything particularly difficult but be warned as your skills and talents grow over the course of your time here so will the complexity of spells I will teach you.” Raven said in a warm but strict tone that forcibly reminded him of his own father.

The students had listened with rapt attention it seemed Raven’s approach of putting all the cards on the table was effective.
“Now turn your books to page three and we shall begin with the theory of defensive magic, yes I know it’s a bit boring but I assure you it is important to have a firm understanding of it” Raven said then began his lecture work to make it as interesting as possible, a challenging task with such a dry topic.

Raven noticed Mr. Conyers seemed to not be paying attention to him and he walked over to get the boy focused when he noticed the lad’s notes at first they seemed to be all scribbles and gibberish then raven notices the diagrams and pictures that showed somewhat crudely what he had lectured on, it was then he decided the boy had a keen mind despite his apparent inability to focus.

When the class was about to end Raven cleared his throat and said” I want a 1 foot essay on what we covered today on my desk when we next meet, class dismissed”

The students groaned about getting homework on the first day but otherwise seemed to have enjoyed the class. The second years from Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw arrived and were given a speech similar to what Raven had given the first years. Raven followed this with a lecture on Hinkypunks and brought one out in an enchanted cage and gave a detailed description and told a tale of his own experiences with them.

Raven dismissed the class at the bell assigning an essay on how to deal with and avoid hinkypunks then after straightening up the classroom a bit he went to lunch then relaxed for a half hour in the teacher lounge before returning to his classroom for his afternoon classes.

The afternoon classes went as smoothly as the morning ones and after Raven dismissed his class for the day he headed for his office to drop off his notes and texts before dinner.

Raven was lost in thought and failed to noticed a girl in Slytherin robes walk past him heading away from his office and once he reached it and opened it he was set upon by a fearsome Quintaped and barely avoided being torn apart.

“BLOODY HELL!!!! “ Raven shouted as he took out his wand and joined battle with the creature firing stunners at it but finding them ineffective but was able to knock it back with a repulsion charm when it bit his arm.
Tormod was walking along with his friend Nicole Chan when they heard the shout.

“What was that about?” Nicole said

“That’s sounds like my big brother, let check it out! “ Tormod said as he whipped out his wand and dashed up the hall to find his brother bleeding from his left arm and facing a creature he had only read about.

“How did a Quintaped get to Hogwarts? I though there island was unplottable? “Nicole said with interest when she arrived.

“No clue, but I am more concerned with keeping to from eating my brother! “ Tormod said as he fired a stunner at the beast gaining its attention.

“I think it wants to eat us now” Nicole said as she fired a stunner at it as well with little effect.

Raven quickly recovered and took aim with his wand and shouted “Leapifors!!!!!”

A blast of light struck the Quintaped and it was transformed into a cute rabbit.

Tormod dashed past the rabbit to his brother while Nicole grabbed it to keep it from fleeing.

“Raven how badly you are hurt? “ Tormod said.

“Not too badly, going to need to go to the hospital wing though, I am glad the two of you came along otherwise I might have been in deep trouble, ten points to Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, now Miss Chan you will assist me to the hospital wing and do keep a grip on that rabbit I don’t want him getting loose. Tormod you will go and get the headmistress for me.” Raven said putting his wand up while wondering who was out to kill him as there was no other logical reason why the beast was put into his office.

“Okay Professor Tarvers, I will take you to the hospital wing” Nicole said in a slightly worried tone as it was obvious to her someone was trying to kill Tormod’s brother before she could have a lesson with him.

“Okay brother “Tormod said and dashed off as he wondered who had it out for his brother enough to try to kill him and how they got that nasty beast into the school.

Raven and Nicole headed to the hospital wing and upon seeing him Madam Pomfrey leap into action.

“Miss Brown, Wound cleaning solution, pain soothing tonic and skin growing tincture if you please “Madam Pomfrey said as she examined Raven’s injured arm.

Cassie quickly did as she was instructed and set down a tray with the required potions next to Raven and Madam Pomfrey while wondering what happened to Raven.

“Professor Tarver what bit your arm? It’s clear you were attacked but I am not certain by what” Madam Pomfrey said as the headmistress came in followed by Tormod.

“I would like to know as well, Mr. Tarvers here said you had been attacked but was too overcome with worry to say by what.” The head mistress said.

Raven grimaced as the cleaning solution was poured on to his wound and he said “You see that rabbit Miss Chan is holding it is reality a Quintaped someone left in my office, I have no doubt if you examine it you will find it has been transfigured twice, it seems someone here doesn’t much like me, likely connected to my time an auror.”

“Merlin’s beard! Such a thing has not happened here since…well since you were a student here, I am glad you were able to overcome the fearsome thing, I will contact the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures to have the creature removed and dealt with, Please give me the rabbit Miss Chan. “McGonagall said taking creature from the girl.

“I know Professor and speaking of Mr. Tarvers and Miss Chan if they had not come along when they did I would have likely at least been more badly injured if not killed. “ Raven added as he was given pain killing tonic to drink while his skin was regrown.

“Well I am impressed by your swift action in assisting Professor Tarvers, both of you shall get a special award for services to the school and fifty points apiece for your houses, now both of you may go. “ the headmistress said approvingly

Tormod and Nicole thanked the head mistress then bolted off and after a few moments they said good night and dashed off in separate directions to their common rooms.

“Okay we are done here you may go Professor but I advise you be on your guard as much as possible from now on. I have enough do with patching up students and Quidditch season hasn’t even started yet! “ Madam Pomfrey said in her usual tone a mix of concern and disdain for dangerous activity.

“ Of course I shall be, I will be adding some spells to my office door to prevent another such attack but I doubt the same method will be tried again , just the same I will keep on my toes. “ Raven said getting up and using his wand to mend and clean his robes.

“You do that, I think for now we should keep this quiet as possible as to not frighten the students, I shall send an owl to the rest of the staff informing them of what happened, except perhaps Hagrid as he would probably want to keep the beast as a pet! I will want to send it off before he finds out about it, Goodnight all “Professor McGonagall said as she left with the rabbit.

Raven nodded and watched the headmistress leave agreeing with her on all counts especially not telling Hagrid as a Quintaped was just the kind of creature the care of magic creatures Professor liked best; hairy and lethal.

“ I should be going as well, thank you both for patching me up, hopefully I will not be needing it again this year” Raven said as he turned to leave.
Cassie gathered her courage and said “Professor might I have a quick word in private? “

Raven was taken aback but quickly recovered and said “Sure Miss Brown, in the hall perhaps?”

The pair stepped into the hall and Madam Pomfrey smiled as she could tell the apprentice healer was strongly attracted to defense against the arts professor and suspected the attraction was mutual.

“I got your invitation to tea and I accept I will see you on Friday” Cassie said as he fought to keep herself together which wasn’t easy as she was for the first time alone with the man she has been attracted to since she was a school girl.

“Very well, I am glad you accepted I shall see you then Miss Brown” Raven replied.

“ Please call me Cassie” Cassie replied quickly perhaps too quickly she thought and she blushed feeling maybe she was moving a bit too quickly.
“Okay Cassie and you can call me Raven, goodnight Cassie” Raven said with a warm smile as he was delighted to be on a first name basis with the intriguing healer.

“Goodnight Raven” Cassie said with a smile as she turned and returned to the hospital wing before she did something that might scare off Raven.

Raven turned and walked to his office and picked up a few books the beast knocked over and it was then he found the open yearbook and saw a picture of a fifth year girl from Ravenclaw who was clearly the younger version of Cassie and he realized she was the girl who had tried on several time to talk to him back when he was student here.

He realized he was obviously distracted with his and Padfoot’s adventures and pranks to pay much mind to Cassie back then, to go by the difference from the picture to her adult self Cassie had blossomed in to her full beauty a bit later than some, but that did not trouble Raven any and he turned his attention to more grave matters and cast the protective spells on his door and then undressed and showered and changed for bed and was soon in a deep sleep.

Far below a girl grumbled about the failure of her first attempt and began plotting the second while admitting Professor Tarvers was every bit as skilled as his reputation made him out to be. That fact only made her more determined to kill him.

Seven floors above Tormod lay in his bed worried for his brother and wondering who had tried to kill him, he agreed with Chan they should investigate, now if they only had a lead. Soon he dropped off to sleep and the night passed quietly as the castle slept blissfully unaware another plot was forming.

[raven1972]

The Blackwing Chronicles
Chapter 5: First Date and Tomes of Trouble.

The rest of the first week was as quiet and peaceful as any could wish but in the back of his mind raven was constantly on guard for another attempt as the audaciousness of the first attack left no doubt in his mind further attempts would be made. Raven could only hope he would be ready for them.

Raven’s classes were satisfactory and soon he discovered he had two students that he considered extraordinary for different reasons. The first was Laramie Conyers, who preferred to be called Levi; Raven discovered he was possessed of considerable talent and natural skill, but a rather short attention span. Raven had taken the lad under his wing and Levi had responded well to the private tutoring raven had been giving him. It was also soon discovered Levi had great talent as a Quidditch keeper much to Joy of his fellow Gryffindors.

Raven’s prize student however was Nicole Chan, a third year and talented well beyond her age, especially at defense. She also had a talent for inventing which caused much trouble when her inventions were less than successful.

Raven was grooming her for potentially taking owls early, if he could persuade the headmistress to agree to it.

Raven’s seventh years proved to be his most challenging class as to him they seemed to not be up to scratch, by all reports his predecessor had not pushed her students to discover their full potentials , only desiring to get them through their exams. Raven did push them to improve and some were pleased by it others not so much, one Slytherin girl however seemed to absorb his lessons like a sponge and often asked him about his time as auror and the things he had done. Raven wasn’t sure if he had a fan or just a very eager student.

Friday came and raven was dead nervous from the start due to his impending date for tea with Cassie, he had written Freya for advice and she had told him to be himself, which Raven admitted was sound advice.

The day’s class soon distracted Raven from his nervousness and he walked into his first class, first years and began a lecture on the history of dark magic and infamous wizards who used it and how they were bested.

Levi made him laugh as he gave a passable imitation of Harry Potter when he was quizzed on Voldemort’s down fall.

The bell rang shortly after and Raven said “Okay class, two foot essays on Voldemort and how Defense against the dark arts aided in his defeat, due next time we meet which would be Monday.”

The class groaned about the homework over the weekend as the filed out.

The Rest of the day passed swiftly and without much of note happening unless you count an attempt by the Ravenclaw seeker to sabotage the Slytherin keeper’s nonverbal casting of the shield charm.

That evening Raven showered and shaved and got his office ready and had tea and a light supper ready when a knock came at the door and Raven opened it to find Cassie wearing a lovely set of blue witches robes and said “ Cassie, I am glad you could make it ….I mean it lovely to see you . err sorry I am nervous. “ Raven blushes profusely.

Cassie chuckled and said in a warm reassuring tone that belied how nervous she was “You’re not the only one Raven.”

Raven calmed himself and offered Cassie a chair and then poured her some tea then some for himself and said “You know, when I first saw you at the welcome feast you caught my eye, and you seemed very familiar but I could not figure out why until after the attack on me, as my Hogwarts year book was knocked over and ended up open to the page of your year, you used to trying and talk to me when we were students. I was so busy with Freya that I never really paid proper attention to what you were trying to say and so I wish to say I am sorry .”

“ I accept your apology, and for what it is worth I had a massive crush on you back then, to be frank I still find you attractive, and I would have been too nervous back then to talk properly so it hardly matters “ Cassie replied as she blushed beet red at her own boldness in admitting her attraction to Raven.

Raven smiled and replied “ I find you very attractive as well, and I am glad you agreed to join me for tea.”

They continued enjoying their tea and conversation as a few floors below a conversation of a different sort was happening.

“Tor , you’re really sure I am gonna be the starting keeper? “ Levi asked as he bounced in his trademark manner than had earned him the nickname of The Rabbit.

“Yes Levi you are the starting keeper for Gryffindor, At least until Johnson recovers from that quaffle injury he suffered in practice, we just got to work on you giving up the quaffle after a save” Tor said he unwrapped the book an owl had just delivered to him.

“But it’s so red and round!” Levi said hopping along to keep up with his Quidditch captain.

I know but you have to give your team the quaffle so we can try to score. “Tor said then added "ah good the book I requested for my essay for Defense!”

Tor opened the book and began to read then his face went pale white as the book began to glow ever so slightly as he lifted from the floor.

Levi looked at Tor for second puzzled then he looked at the book and a look of recognition appeared on his face and he slapped it away from Tor causing the older student to collapse to the floor.

“Tor, Tor are you okay? “ Levi said in a worried tone when he heard a door open behind him and Professor Longbottom and Nicole Chan emerged from the teacher’s lounge where they had been discussing her last Herbology essay.

“Merlin’s beard what happened? Mr. Tarvers looks as if he has been cursed! “Professor Longbottom said

Nicole had spied the book and had gone over to get it when Levi tackled her and said “Don’t touch it Nicole it’s what Cursed Tor!”

Nicole’s eye went wide and said “who would do that to a book …I mean to Tor?”

Nicole had already begun to suspect this attack was connected to the attack on Professor Tarvers.

Professor Longbottom examined the scene and the situation then said “Chan go get Professor Tarvers, Conyers go get Madam Pomfrey, and the Head mistress I will stay here and keep the other students away.

“Okay Professor “Levi said and was off like a rabbit being chased by hound heading for the hospital wing.

Nicole merely nodded and took off for the nearest stair case and soon reached Professor Tarver’s office and knocked on the door.

“Excuse me Cassie while I get this” Raven said as he got up and walked across the room to answer the door.

“No Problem Raven” Cassie replied a little disappointed that their date got interrupted.

Raven opened the door and saw Nicole and took in the trouble and worried look in her eyes and on her face and said “Chan what is the matter? “

“Professor Tarvers, Sir Tor has been hurt, someone sent him a cursed book. “ Nicole replied.

“WHAT!?! Cassie I am sorry I am going to have to cut our date for tea short, as I have to deal with this for multiple reasons.” Raven said mastering himself to keep his worry and anger someone daring to hurt his little brother from boiling over.

“It is Fine Raven, I am likely going to be needed in the hospital wing, I have specialized training in treating curse damage” Cassie said as she got up and headed toward the door.

Raven nodded then the three of them let the room and while Cassie headed for the hospital wing raven and Nicole head back to where the attack on Tor happened and by the time Raven arrived Tor had been moved to the hospital wing.

“So where is the book responsible?” Raven asked as he arrived and noted Levi Conyers, Professor Longbottom and Professor McGonagall were talking.

“Right over there Professor!” Levi said pointing to it.

“Thank you Mr. Conyers, So did anyone witness what happened?” Raven asked as he cautiously examined the book without opening it.

“Apparently Mr. Conyers did, Conyers tell Professor Tarvers what happened.” Professor McGonagall said.

“ Okay, Tor and I were walking and talking about Quidditch while he unwrapped the book, then he began to read it and the curse got him, I recognized the book and slapped it away but it was too late Tor got hurt “ Levi replied his voice dripping with worry .

“I see, what do you mean you recognized it?” Raven asked.

“I saw the book before, it was in Borgin and Burkes, and I was there with mummy last summer while she bought something from him. The label said it was cursed and had killed 2 people. “Levi said.

“I See , thank you Levi you likely saved Tor’s life as the curse on this book is the sort with one purpose only to kill, I can break the curse on the book, I do not get why it was sent to Tor though. “ Raven replied as he began to work on removing the curse from the book, and as he did he thought to himself that Mrs. Conyers doing business with such a shady shop seemed to confirm the less than favorable rumors about her family.

“Tor sent away to Flourish and Blotts for a book to help with an essay who had assigned, I think it was on how to break the enchantments on inferi. “ Nicole said not saying anything about his only doing so when she would not loan him her copy of the book as she felt bad enough already.

“Yes this is the book I recommended to my advanced class of sixth years, but this is the fourth edition, I specifically said the sixth as it corrects errors from the earlier editions. “ Raven replied as he picked up the book.

“I cannot help but to believe this attack is connected to the attack on you Professor Tarvers “Professor McGonagall said.

“I have no doubt it is, and tor was targeted either to get at me though my family or because the attacker decided I was on too much of an alert for it to reach me.” Raven replied
.
“Distinctly possible, after all as a former auror you know how to protect yourself when threatened, Tor while an excellent student is not as capable as a trained auror. “Neville said as he worked to calm a very upset Levi.

“Should I contact your and Tor’s parents or do you wish to?” Professor McGonagall asked.

“ I will handle it but as Dad is in Mongolia as a diplomatic attaché and mum is with him it will take at least a week for it to reach them, in the meantime lets go to the hospital wing as I need to let our resident healers know what sort of curse they are going to have repair damage from, the book is not harmless, but it should still be destroyed as it will always bear traces of the curse and it likely will have a lingering effect that will build on anyone who possesses it for too long. “Raven replied.

The group headed up to the hospital wing and found the healers working diligently on Tor who was still unconscious.

“Mr. Tarvers is a very lucky lad if he had looked at that book any longer he would be dead now.” Cassie said as she assisted and advised Miss Pomfrey.

“YAY!” Levi shouted and bounced around the hospital wing chased by Madam Pomfrey for making too much noise.

“He owes his life to Levi then” Raven said and filled Cassie in on what happened.

“The curse on the book was a nasty version of a stamina draining cursed designed to kill” Raven said as he described the curse to Cassie so she would have the information she would need to treat the damage.

“Very nasty but thankfully he did not get the full affect, I expect Tor to awaken in a about three or four days.” Cassie replied as she straightened Tor’s blankets thinking Tor looked much like his elder brother did at 16.

“I will help take care of Tor! He is my captain after all!” Tor said as he bounced over and sat on Tor’s bed.

“Fine just remain quiet Mr. Conyers.” Madam Pomfrey replied as she wiped sweat from her brow and consulted with Cassie on a course of treatment.

“There seems to not be much more we can do for now, Professor Tarvers I expect to you to get that owl off to your parents regarding Tor tonight, I must go and report this to the Ministry.” Professor McGonagall said and left the hospital wing.

“Come on Levi, Tor needs to sleep I will take you to Gryffindor tower. “ Neville said.

“Alright, see you tomorrow Tor! “ Levi said as he hugged his Quidditch captain and then left with his head of house.

“Well for now all we can do is let Tor rest and our fine healers do their job.” Raven said as he considered what must be done. Then he turned to Nicole and asked “Miss Chan will you please come with me?”

“Of course Professor Tarvers” Nicole replied.

As Raven turned to lead Nicole from the room he nodded and waved to Cassie knowing that for now they had to do their jobs and they would try to arrange a second date later.

Raven lead Nicole to his office then sat behind his desk and motion for Nicole to sit which she did, and then he took a deep breath and said “Miss Chan I need to ask you for a rather large favor, I need you to send a letter which I will write to Flourish and Blotts.”

Nicole considered the request and knew instinctively it had to do with the attacks on Professor Tarvers and now Tormod so after a long moment to she nodded and said “I can do that sir, Am I right in thinking this has to do with trying to find out who is trying to kill you and Tor?”

“Correct as usual Miss Chan, That’s exactly what it is about , I want to find out how the book Tor ordered from Flourish and Blotts got switched with this accursed tome, which I will be taking outside to be burned. I don’t want to risk the one responsible getting wind of my taking an active hand in investigating the attacks, you how ever Miss Chan would not likely raise any alarms as I suspect the attacker would not find you much of a threat.” Raven replied as he wrote out the needed letter.

Nicole grumbled as she disliked having her abilities under estimated and replied “I am a skilled witch Professor, you know I am, you know full well of my abilities then added playfully.” and I am always Correct you know .”


“I of course know that Nicole, but as I am a former Auror so my skills would be reckoned a far greater threat than your impressive talents, besides your best known to the school for your skills as a beater and for your inventions. I am counting on the attacker under estimating you and considering you not to be a threat to them. They would be quite wrong. That said even if we do learn the identity of the attacker you are not to go after them, as skilled as you are you still have much to learn and master, the attacker if it is a student as I suspect he or she is likely a seventh year and would know spells you have not been taught yet, although I dare say you likely already know of a few of them. “Raven said in the warm tone he used while teaching.

“You have a point Professor, I will let you and the other teachers handle it. I will send the letter as well.” Nicole replied somewhat sleepily as it had been a long day and she been up late the night before reading.

Raven handed Nicole the letter and said “Address it from you and send it straight away then got get some sleep you look as exhausted as I am. “

“Okay Professor I will bring you the answer when it comes.” Nicole replied and left and after sending the owl headed down to the Hufflepuff common room and to her waiting bed thinking this was a way she could work to repair her damaged honor.

Raven took out more parchment and wrote the letter to his parents about what happened to Tor and to him since he had no doubt they were related then he took it to the Owlery and sent Shadow off with it. Then he returned to the castle never noticing another was there.

Cassie watched Raven come and go then she came out from the shadows and sent her own letter, a request to extend her internship, she doubted she would get a yes as her boss and mentor Colette was a stickler for schedules and likely had her schedule written for the rest of the year.

Cassie sighed and headed back to the hospital wing while hoping her next date with Raven would go better and not be marred with news of a third attack.

Raven returned to his quarters and went to bed and slept fitfully as dark memories and thoughts intruded on his dreams.

Cassie arrived back in the hospital wing and checked on her patient and saw that Tor was recovering well but still had not regained consciousness.

Cassie turned to go to her own quarters then stopped and cast a few protective and alarm charms around Tor’s bed.

“That may not stop another attempt on his life but it should at least give us a chance to save him if need be.” Cassie said then turned in.

The school fell silent for the night and it peaceful look seemed to defy the dark acts that had occurred thus far, the staff hoped they had seen the last of them.