harry potter : I'm Doctor Mystic (Dr. Strange + Dr. Fate)

Chapter 8: Chapter 8: Secrets of the Gaunt House



The morning of their departure to Hogwarts was filled with nervous energy. Alexander and Tom stood amidst the bustle of their siblings, each sibling offering their own version of a farewell. Meggie, Lyra, and Coraline were particularly clingy, reluctant to let their brothers leave. Even Bella, reserved as she often was, hugged them tightly.

But amidst the excitement, Alexander and Tom exchanged a conspiratorial glance. They had a plan — one they hadn't shared with anyone, not even Hades. Their uncle Morfin Gaunt was infamous for his dangerous temperament and his possession of two powerful heirlooms. The brothers intended to claim what they believed was rightfully theirs.

As the family prepared to head to King's Cross, Alexander and Tom feigned a forgotten item in their room.

"We'll catch up," Alexander assured Bella. "It's just a quick run upstairs."

Once out of sight, the two slipped away, their wands tucked securely in their robes. They had memorized the path to the Gaunt house, a crumbling structure hidden deep in the woods not far from their estate. Apparating would have been faster, but neither brother had mastered it yet.

The Gaunt house loomed ahead, decrepit and eerie, its dark history seeping from every crack. The brothers approached cautiously, casting silencing charms on their footsteps. Inside, the stench of mildew and neglect was overwhelming. Sitting in a tattered chair, their uncle Morfin Gaunt mumbled to himself, his wand clutched tightly.

Alexander raised his wand. "Somnus," he whispered. A pale mist flowed from his wand, enveloping Morfin, who slumped over, unconscious.

"Quickly," Tom urged. "We don't have much time."

The brothers searched the house. It didn't take long to find what they were looking for. In a small, locked chest, they discovered Marvolo Gaunt's ring, its black stone glinting ominously, and Slytherin's locket, still as resplendent as the legends described.

"The ring," Alexander said, slipping it onto his finger. "And the locket is yours."

Tom nodded, fastening the locket around his neck. "We've done it. Let's go before he wakes up."

Back at King's Cross, the family was frantic. Bella was pacing, her fangs faintly visible as stress brought out her vampiric instincts. Hades's eyes were cold, his aura making the air around him feel heavy.

When Alexander and Tom arrived, slightly dishevelled but wearing innocent expressions, Bella rushed to them.

"Where were you?" she demanded.

"We got turned around," Alexander lied smoothly. "But we're here now."

Hades's gaze lingered on them for a moment, but he said nothing. Instead, he waved them toward the barrier to Platform 9¾. "You'll miss the train if you don't hurry."

The Hogwarts Express was a marvel. Its crimson exterior gleamed in the sunlight, and the steam from its engine added an air of enchantment. Alexander and Tom boarded quickly, their trunks safely stowed away. As they searched for a compartment, they found themselves face-to-face with a large, cheerful boy with wild, curly hair.

"Hullo," the boy said, grinning. "I'm Hagrid. First year, same as you?"

"That's right," Alexander replied. "I'm Alexander, and this is my brother, Tom."

Hagrid's eyes lit up. "Brothers? That's brilliant. Mind if I sit with yeh?"

"Not at all," Tom said, gesturing to the seat across from them.

A few minutes later, the compartment door slid open again. A tall girl with sharp features and a no-nonsense demeanor entered.

"Minerva McGonagall," she introduced herself. "Second year. You must be first-years?"

"We are," Alexander said. "Nice to meet you."

The four settled into easy conversation. Minerva shared stories of her first year, while Hagrid talked animatedly about his fascination with magical creatures. Alexander and Tom listened intently, occasionally exchanging amused glances.

As the train neared Hogwarts, Hagrid turned to the brothers. "What house d'ye think yeh'll be in?"

"Slytherin," Tom said confidently.

Hagrid's brow furrowed. "Slytherin, eh? Don't hear many folks say tha' outright. Most are hopin' fer Gryffindor."

"Slytherin has its merits," Alexander said. "Ambition, cunning, resourcefulness—qualities any wizard should value."

Minerva nodded thoughtfully. "It's true. Every house has its strengths. Just remember, the Sorting Hat takes your choice into account."

"Good to know," Tom said, a small smile playing on his lips.

The train pulled into Hogsmeade Station as dusk fell. The students disembarked, their breath visible in the cool evening air. Hagrid was quickly swept away by a towering man who introduced himself as a groundskeeper, leaving Alexander, Tom, and Minerva to join the first-years.

As they crossed the lake in enchanted boats, Hogwarts came into view, its turrets and towers glowing against the night sky. Alexander and Tom exchanged a look, their earlier escapade momentarily forgotten. This was it—the start of a new chapter in their lives.

The journey to Hogwarts had been fraught with risk and adventure, but as they stepped into the Great Hall, illuminated by floating candles and an enchanted ceiling, they felt a sense of belonging. The Sorting awaited, but Alexander and Tom knew one thing for certain: they were ready for whatever came next.


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