Welcome to TB, an all levels Harry Potter roleplay with no word count. Our purpose is to go through the books with one exception: the addition of original characters and what changes that makes.
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Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Mar 22, 2024 21:55:37 GMT -5
Julian shrugged out of his black and green house robes as he entered the Duelling Tower, leaving him in his charcoal school jumper rolled up to the elbow and dark trousers. He required freedom of movement here, as he had well learned. Training in offensive magic with Hilfiger had become a consistent (and favoured) past-time for the Slytherin, and he had spent the last few months of his third year lapping up any and all newfound strategies and practices that the older so-called silver fox could provide. Julian was well aware that Levi also practiced Duelling within the Duelling Club parameters at school - taught by Maeve Thorne - who herself was an accomplished and very skilled duellist, and thus indirectly, was receiving similar tutelage, but without the crowd (or Professor Burke's oversight).
Julian much preferred privacy. Of all clubs at Hogwarts that he had been told about on arrival, he had been most tempted by the Duelling Club - for what better place to learn what constituted as curriculum duelling practices than there? Despite his interest, he could not imagine himself play fighting with lesser students welcomed into the club, much less being surrounded by them. He would be more likely to actually curse a Mudblood than to hold his punches. No, Hilfiger was a more than competent teacher - and Julian had been a quick study.
They had chosen times at random throughout the week to practice - both early mornings and later evenings alike, and when Julian wasn't honing his duelling skills, he had taken to running. It had been difficult at first, and an absolute shock to his wiry frame, but over time and with consistency, Julian found that the exercise had become an almost meditative practice. There was something calming about a run around the Hogwarts castle as the sun rose, morning dew glistening in the grass. It gave him something to do when he had yet to sleep through the night. And he was feeling the benefits: increased stamina and sharper focus.
Julian's eyes scanned the tower, briefly mesmerised by the suns last golden rays as they danced off the mirrors lining the back wall, giving the tower an almost ethereal glow. He wondered if Hilfiger had been caught up.
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Mar 23, 2024 1:43:00 GMT -5
Since their eventful conversation previously, Levi had undergone through a variety of changes. He had gotten more comfortable learning some dark magic from his parents though not to the extent of being able to produce the unique effects the spells, potions and hexes had been known for. He himself, had been more comfortable with using the derogatory term used to describe the non-magical folk or as Levi would like to call them, Flippin Mudbloods.
A new term at Hogwarts meant that there was new opportunities. Whilst he continued to practise in secret, one that he tried to keep even more deeper under the sheets was the sessions he was having in private with Julian. He was quite proud of his friend and what he liked to call non-blood brother. He had Julian grow from strength to strength with his offensive magic and he was quite proud of just how much he had progressed with his magic.
Meeting with Julian had quickly became a favourite future and past time for the young Ravenclaw. He saw it as a time where he could not only mentor someone else but also expand and have a somewhat best friend despite the two not actually saying they were formally best friends. Titles meant nothing to the young Ravenclaw.
Today however, Levi wanted to test his friend to see not only how far his magical abilities had grown but also his duelling skills. He stood in one of the corners away from his line of sight, his wand grasped in his hand as he watched Julian walk in. "Depulso!" He called out as he took a step forward to reveal himself to see how Julian would react with a simple forward pushing charm spell.
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Mar 24, 2024 18:48:45 GMT -5
Julian was quite content in the few moments of pause he had taken to admire the lighting in the tower. He did not perceive the hidden person in the darkened corner of the room immediately, though the gentle swishing of clothing and a sudden prickling at the base of his neck told Julian that he was not alone a split-second before the shout came:
"Depulso!"
Sessions of practice had taught Julian to analyse the situation with lightning efficiency. He twisted his body in the direction of the shout while simultaneously drawing his own wand, waving it in a circular motion before himself while casting: "Finite!" He felt the surge of magic collide with his terminating spell, the force of which caused his shoes to slide an inch backward on the wooden floor. That had been close. Julian scowled, now concentrating on his opponent - Hilfiger. He cursed inwardly to himself for not properly scanning the entirety of the Duelling Tower before letting his guard down. He should have known better than to enter into a space without ensuring it was empty first.
Of course Julian knew Hilfiger wasn't trying to hurt him, and recognised the challenge. This was a test. He did not hesitate, taking a duelling stance immediately. "Flipendo!" He swished his wand downward before curving it back up fluidly. A loud bang emanated from his wand and a flash of blue light filled the room.
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Mar 25, 2024 6:15:14 GMT -5
He had hoped that Julian's practise had gotten better over the past few weeks and it was now more evident than ever that this was exactly the case. Julian's reflexes were getting much better and he was quite proud to see how quickly he was able to cast a defensive charm which in result, caused the Ravenclaw to smile ever so slightly. Not enough that it would be obvious on his face, even then, he was still hiding in the shadows so it would of been very difficult to see.
Seeing Julian's choice of artillery was rather disappointing. Of all the spells he could of possibly used, he decided to go with a simple flipping spell. Quite literally. The small smirk that was hidden in the shadows quickly dropped as he rolled his eyes upon hearing the incantation. He was however, proud at just how potent his magic had grown. The effects of Julian's spell causing the room to illuminate so bright that his hiding spot had been easily seen.
Swishing his wand in an upwards motion directed Julian's spell toward the ceiling where he quickly quickly rotated before letting out a small but powerful, non verbal stupefy spell leaving a red bolt flashing through the air. Whilst he wasn't perfect at non-verbal magic, it was one thing he had been practising with his father over the past few weeks and slowly he was getting better at it.
" Flipendo? Really?" He exclaimed with anger as he took a few steps forward revealing himself within the blue and red light that had started to fade. " You ought to do better than that. " He simply said speaking in the same way his father spoke to him. Cold, bitter and abrupt with his words. " Again. " It seemed class was in session/
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Mar 25, 2024 7:11:41 GMT -5
Julian knew exactly who was hiding in the shadows of the room by the sound of his voice, and his defensive charm had been cast just quick enough to void the incoming spell. The surprise did not get a chance to take hold in the Slytherin at all - for he swallowed the shock of being cast at unexpectedly and replaced that shock with determination.
The first counter was a simple, albeit effective one, with many underestimating having such spells mastered in their repertoire... After all, it was rumoured that the famous Harry Potter utilized the most basic disarming spell as his main offense.
The blinding light illuminated the Duelling Tower - its almost menacing, phosphorescent blue was aflame upon Hilfigers face, distorting his features briefly. Julian could garner his position now, and so faced his opponent fully, prepared. He watched Levi deflect his spell upwards (he was fast) but didn't dare take his eyes off Hilfiger. Focus. The Ravenclaw was turning, and - without voice - shooting a bright red bolt in his direction. Julian frowned, spinning away from the projectile, recognising the cast as a Stupefy.
At Hilfiger's exclamation, Julian glowered, matching the same angered air, "maybe my poor response is a reflection of my tutelage!" He did not flinch at the cold callousness in which Hilfiger was speaking: Julian responded better than most to bitterness - not from strangers, of course, but from someone alike to a brother, it felt almost normal. His own father had the same fierceness, Hilfiger was merely keeping to family tradition.
Julian reset himself at Hilfigers' command, easing himself into taking orders. Within the Duelling Tower he would abdicate to Hilfiger as his mentor, drinking in all the teachings the older boy could provide. Outside the tower, however, was a different story. For now the power difference was something Julian had decided to swallow. After all, the older boy had access and knowledge of spells outside of Julian's compulsory teachings here at the school - his use of nonverbal magic was proof of that. Julian himself had only just begun his fourth year, and therefore many spells were simply untaught to him just yet. Levi was meant to bridge that gap and give him the head-start he so desired.
Gritting his teeth, Julian used a more advanced spell, slashing through the air before his chest, "Diffindo!" He aimed at Hilfigers right thigh.
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Mar 25, 2024 7:38:02 GMT -5
From his own observation, he was quite proud of the development that Julian had made over the past few weeks. Of course, in true Hilfiger ways, he refused to verbalise it. His father had always showed his affection and in specific his sense of pride by tormenting him to be better than he already was. Even trying his best to learn non-verbal magic that he was able to cast some simple offensive magic but not to the point like his father did. Levi would sometimes mouth the incantation still or whisper it quietly to try and get better at this skill.
"I surely didn't teach you that." He replied sharply as he finally walked out in clear view where they were able to see each other face to face like some magical reveal. "You really gonna use the flipendo spell on me ?" He asked as he walked toward him getting close enough that they were only a few meters away from each other. " You can do better. Much better. Now get up and try again. " In this tower, Levi was in charge. Not only because he was a prefect but because he was the dominant one, the alpha male the leader or whatever else you want to call it.
A soon to be master of disguise, Levi's true personality revealed itself during the school break. He was definitely his father's son. " Flip me again and I'll flip you through a wall. " A line his father used on him on multiple occasions to display his disgust in Levi's attempt at early stage duelling. Back when he was still unable to commit to a simple disarming spell. Naturally, he had grown much more confident since then. " Again. " He said as he walked away over to a nearby stone tower which he began to lean upon when he heard what Julian called out.
" What a waste of time!" He yelled at the top of his lungs as he swiped his spell away targeting the slice toward the tower next to him leaving a deep slice through the stone tower. What happened to catch him by surprise aside from the amount of stones and dust that fell was the second spell which admittedly, caught him off guard. " You little brat." Levi called out as the unexpected second slice sliced his leg leaving a very prominent bleed on his left thigh. " You better hope this doesn't scar." He said as he grasped his thigh feeling the thick and warm blood trickling around his hand. " Any higher and you I would of killed you myself." He said noticing just how close the slice was to his prized possession. A little too close for comfort.
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Mar 30, 2024 21:03:44 GMT -5
After the initial shock of being attacked from the shadows, Julian had successfully reset - poised and tensed for whatever was to come. He was fully aware that Hilfiger was a skilled opponent - and therefore did not take the challenge lightly. They had practiced before with light sparring, but nothing like a fully fledged duel. From his teachings, Julian had begun to understand duelling as akin to a dance: to have the right footwork was crucial lest one risked faltering and thereby failing. Flexibility, balance, response time and accuracy were what separated those that played around with duelling to those that mastered it. Being good at magic did not equate one to being a good duellist.
Julian did not respond as Levi chastised him for utilizing a flipendo spell, setting his jaw as the Ravenclaw moved closer towards him. Flipendo had been the first spell that Julian had thought of - one that could throw his opponent off course and dictate the direction of the duel. If it had hit, Hilfiger would have been in the wall. Of course it would never have been that easy. "I use whatever is at my disposal," he finally breathed, knowing it was true. His words may reflect upon him as though he were a loose cannon that required more training -- but that was exactly why he was here - subjugating to Hilfiger.
He was already prepared as Hilfiger requested he try again: although this time Julian had acquired several seconds to plan his moves. "Flip me again and I'll flip you through a wall." Came a threat, which caused a slight sneer to cross his face. Fine, no more flipendo. He had heard the thinly veiled anger coursing through Hilfiger's tone. "Now, now," he taunted back, shifting his weight between the balls of his feet automatically, keeping the blood flowing in his lower limbs and maintaining constant vigilance, "don't make this easy for me." Controlling his own temper was difficult (especially when one was being shot at by spells), but this was like a game - and Julian was enjoying it, feasting on the rising enmity within the tower. To duel well meant being in control and keeping one's cool - Hilfiger himself had taught him that. If one were to fluster themselves with emotion they would certainly make mistakes.
Levi had moved toward a stone tower, leaning casually against the pillar. The move was one of confidence in himself, though Julian knew better than to assume he was letting his guard down. He immediately cast his advanced spell, the flourish of the first hiding the swift follow-up. Hilfiger countered his first, and the crack of stone and shift in dust marked its place of landing. The second, however, met flesh. Julian kept his wand ready, gaze dropping to the newly formed gash of blood seeping into Hilfigers trousers. It wasn't where he had aimed, but that was a work in progress. He made a mental note to take caution with moving targets: Levi's counter had shifted his position ever so slightly.
Hilfiger grasped his thigh then, and Julian watched in slight engrossment as the blood began to bubble out from between the Ravenclaws fingers. He raised an eyebrow at the remark, narrowing his eyes slightly at the gash once more, "its a clean cut, minimal scarring if stitched correctly," it was almost instinctual as someone so invested in Healing magic to respond with a calculation, rather than any emotion - not that Hilfiger likely would have cared for an emotional response. He had requested something better in the duel and he received just that.
As Hilfiger mentioned the position of the cut, Julian smirked at the connotation, feeling an odd sense of pride in his chest as he was suddenly praised. It was not often that he was given words of confirmation or encouragement from the people in his life he looked up to. So he fought with the elatedness his body wanted to feel, suppressing the slight flutter in his chest, nodding once instead with a slight shrug, "I picked a decent tutor."
They would have to clean Hilfiger's bleed first, but then Julian hoped that Levi had learned something new over the break that could be taught.
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Apr 1, 2024 6:45:50 GMT -5
Whilst he disliked the idea of losing in a duel, the thought had to be carried in his mind as he was seemingly caught off guard by the second wave of Julian's spell that admittedly and truthfully did catch him by surprise. Of course, admitting defeat was never part of Levi's intention let alone new personality. In saying that, Levi was rarely fond of admitting defeat. A sore loser for a better choice of words to describe him.
However, as a mentor, he knew he had to deliver some words of encouragements as it almost seemed like a norm in a learning environment to praise what went well and scold what went wrong. His father of course, had a unique way of doing this that he would implement the same with Julian. Rewarding him with a half compliment in the most basic of forms. Naturally, if Julian messed something up, he would have to punish him.
He was however, still disappointed in Julian choice of original spell. A simple flipendo spell would do something but send the opponent flying elsewhere. It was perhaps all part of the learning process. " That's babytalk. " He said as he limped closer to Julian finally placing his wand away. The duel was over when blood was drawn. It was a rule the two had formed. "The type of talk that a weakling would say who was trying to find themselves an excuse. " Clearly this wasn't going down easy with Levi.
" Someone attacks you out of the blue and your first instinct is send them flipping?" Rather than admit defeat, it seemed Levi's sore loser attempt as scolding Julian was his choice of action. " Someone attacks you and you either disarm or stun them. Prevent them from attacking further or from using their wand. Heck, even disarming me would of been a better option. At no point did I drop my wand and you didn't stop me from attacking again. " He said in a rather stern tone to his voice and delivery. He had to be tough on Julian. The past few weeks over the break had hardened Levi up even more than Julian he assumed.
Julian's attempt to torment him with his words and tease him made him roll his eyes. " What? Are you gonna flip me again?" He teased back as he finally got close enough to Julian to push him away slightly. This was as far as he would go in saying that Julian did a good job aside from vocalising it. " Flip me again and I'll do the same and break all your bones and make it look like an accident. " He said as a final threat before suddenly feeling the pulsating pain of his thigh.
He ripped his sleeve off and tied it around the wound causing Levi to wince as the cotton material of his robe ripped apart and tighten around the wound. The likelihood of them heading to the hospital wing was an option of out play. Questions would be asked amongst other things. "Flattery won't get you far in this life or the next. " Levi said somewhat disengaged from Julian's words though he did find it weird that it almost felt like Julian was giving him a compliment.
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Apr 4, 2024 19:47:43 GMT -5
"A weakling?" Julian repeated, stunned at Hilfigers choice of words. He eyed the Ravenclaw with some suspicion, narrowing his eyes as he limped closer to him, sheathing his wand. Julian mirrored the movement, understanding that the duel was over - as quick as it had started. Now Julian had never been referred to as a weakling - and Levi's chastising seemed far beyond necessary. They had sparred before - and Levi was certainly a hard teacher (which was preferable to someone who only wanted to take it easy), but right now, Hilfiger was acting different.
What had happened over the holidays to cause such animosity?
Moreover, the constant disparaging remarks were becoming irksome. Julian had improved in his duelling and had drawn blood. Yes, his initial reaction had been a simple charm to counter Hilfigers surprise attack. But what did the fifth year expect? Julian had simply not been exposed to much advanced magic yet. Julian stood in the centre of the room, calculating as Hilfiger prowled around angrily, listening to him continue to remark about the Flipendo spell as though Julian had committed an atrocity. Something else had to be going on. Levi had never been this worked up.
Someone attacks you out of the blue and your first instinct is send them flying? Julian set his jaw, taking the criticism without a word. If Hilfiger needed to vent, he would let him. It was what a friend would do. Though if Hilfiger continued down this path of continuous name-calling, Julian would not stand for it. Had Hilfiger forgotten who he was talking to in such a way? "Got it," he responded, trying hard not to grind his teeth. He took Levi's suggestion seriously. Disarm or stun. He would remember that. He could have argued that had his Flipendo landed - Hilfiger would have likely been out of the fight long enough for him to both disarm and stun him. Alas, it did not seem the time to argue.
Hilfiger was closer now, and Julian could almost smell the blood. Hilfiger had not attended to his wound yet, far more concerned with his venting. Julian stiffened as Levi shoved him lightly, stepping back to balance himself, frown crossing his features. He hated being touched - and what's more Hilfiger threatened him. "That's enough," Julian did not take threats lightly - especially not one coming from the one person in the school that he felt he could trust enough not to turn on him. "Do not threaten me again." Hilfiger had paraded around for minutes - throwing slander toward a Mulciber as though he were dirt. How dare he threaten to break his bones. Julian didn't much care what Levi had experienced over the school break - he could direct his anger elsewhere. "I am not going to ask you what happened to you over the break, that is none of my business and unless you offer information freely I will not pry. However, you will not treat me like a punching bag. I receive enough of that elsewhere."
He watched Hilfiger tear his sleeve, taking the time the Ravenclaw spent attending to his wound to move away from him, putting some distance between them. As Hilfiger told him that flattery would not achieve much in life, Julian shook his head, "nor will disrespect. You would be surprised as how people will follow you if only you provide scarce encouragement." It was textbook manipulation. Julian had been subject to it with his own father for years - to the point where he was hungry to prove himself - if only to receive a word of pride or appreciation. Unfortunately he had been left starved. "Now, are we going to practice something, or would you rather I leave you to your tantrum?"
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Apr 4, 2024 22:59:05 GMT -5
It seemed that perhaps Levi had been a little too harsh on the young man with the chiselled jaw line. Although he wasn't particularly expecting a sort of reaction from Julian, he didn't expect the outburst of confidence that came from his mouth. It was somewhat heroic to see him stand up to Levi in such a manner that he felt confident enough to voice his concerns. Perhaps he needed to vent just as much as Levi needed too considering he wouldn't really tell Julian that he had done the duel.
Perhaps referring to Julian as a weakling wasn't exactly the best choice of words to describe him. Handsome was one thing but weakling was another. Was he too harsh on him? Or was it because Levi felt way to comfortable to blur the lines of teacher student considering the two were practically family. Upon hearing Julian repeat the words he had just said, it was fairly obvious now that clearly Levi had attacked a nerve of his. He did pick the wrong words to use to describe the situation which naturally would result in him providing an apology of some sorts.
" It seems my words have offended you which is purely unintentional. " He responded as he thought of ways to avoid using the more commonly accepted phraseology of showing remorse in a situation. Perhaps his father's training had rubbed off on him a little too much thus revealing the wrathful side of Levi. Even still, Julian didn't deserve to carry the brunt of his frustration. Perhaps Levi was compensating for something that that even he was unaware of?
Seeing Julian actually speak up and stand for himself was interesting. Levi already saw Julian to be quite bold and straight forward with his words so it was somewhat welcoming to see him express his emotions which from their time together, Levi had rarely seen. He had often wondered if the boy experienced any type of emotions at all. Levi was about to take another shot at him when Julian requested this to stop in the most convenient way. That's enough. He repeated in his own mind watching Julian's outburst.
" Father has been harsh on me lately. " Levi finally phrased waiting for a moment to speak in-between the boy's venting which he believed was quite healthy. Levi had not really participated in a guys talk with anyone let alone Julian so it was interesting to see the two conversing this way. What really caught his attention was one of the sentences Julian had said which noticeably interested Levi. " What did you mean you receive enough of that elsewhere?" He repeated curious as ever and began wondering if Julian was being abused outside of Hogwarts.
The thought of someone hurting Julian rather made him angry in his own perceived notion of what abuse was. His father would often throw curses at him so that he could experience the spells before using them against another person to fully understand what it meant. He wondered if Julian had experienced something similar. " Why don't we take a break for now?" He finally verbalised speaking through his teeth as he tightened the sleeve around the wound before placing himself on the floor.
" Julian. " He said as he paused for a second before hesitating to ask his next question. " Are you being hurt outside of here?"
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Apr 7, 2024 1:05:21 GMT -5
Julian was attempting to keep himself apathetic to Hilfigers onslaught - breathing in through his nose and out through his mouth almost meditatively - which was a feat for him - who was so vulnerable to losing his temper when pushed. In fact, if there were anything positive to come from this current interaction, it was that Julian was realizing that he was becoming better at controlling his anger. Perhaps it was simply because the target of his anger would be an ally, and to Julian that was just wasteful. Only if Hilfiger did something truly wrong -- something that really overstepped -- would be choose to direct violence his way.
Now was not the time. It was clear that something else was going on, and Julian was not about to take advantage of that - not with Levi.
He saw the flash of quandary after he had repeated the word weakling with a clear tone of disapproval and shock, and then there was a momentary pause in which they both seemed to hesitate in how to proceed. It wasn't like either of them to apologize or admit wrongdoing (heck, Julian was not about to apologize for opening a wound on Levi's thigh), so the next steps were like to be taken with supreme caution. Julian listened as Hilfiger spoke, the entire ambience of the room shifting. A minute earlier and the thickness of the air could be sliced with a knife - now, however, that heaviness had subsided.
Julian breathed, "and my opening was mediocre," he accepted part of the blame so that they shared the load, "it seems perhaps I have become rusty over the break." It was true he had not had a sparring partner to practice duelling, but Julian had certainly pursued other avenues of learning and activity to keep himself distracted. He had taken up running, for a start... Mostly laps around the grounds of his estate, and mostly to stay out of the house that felt so suffocating. He'd also been reading far more than usual, receiving lectures and lessons from his grandparents and of course caring for his sister and taking on her guardianship.
Father has been harsh on me lately. Hilfiger broke the silence that had formed between them, exposing a truth that Julian had started to assume. Levi had revealed glimpses of how his father was in previous conversations that they had shared... His fathers growing expectations that were stressing the Ravenclaw, such as finding a suitable wife. It was in typical Pureblood fashion that boys their age be almost auctioned off as suitors to the Pureblood community, lest another family approach them first. Julian was aware of it, but had not yet been required to attend to any prospects. This right now, however, felt different. The root cause of Hilfigers angst was not marriage - that was but a stressor, and an unavoidable one. "Is that why you didn't visit?" Julian mused with a slight frown, "I thought you were merely avoiding stepping foot into a Manor of such disarray." Julian had not invited the Ravenclaw to visit over break, the state of his family home was rather chaotic at the given time. With all the help fired by his father, general upkeep had not been attended to. Julian himself had spent much time cleaning the entire bottom floor, by hand - lest a guest appear in their dark doorway. Another distraction, he supposed, and something to keep him active while passing the lonely hours.
In a more serious tone, Julian watched Levi intensely, "what has he been doing?"
It was then that Julian froze, realising that perhaps he had spoken out of term, and revealed too much. As quickly as the words had slipped did Levi latch onto them. He knew his hesitation would be eaten up by the sharp Ravenclaw, but that didn't mean he was about to embarrass himself. He felt blood rising up his neck, an odd sensation - and one that did not occur frequently. "Freudian slip, my mistake" he forced his tone into one of dismissal, shifting his weight and looking away from Hilfiger for a few seconds, finding his gaze set on the mirror at the back of the room. He saw himself reflected there - met the cold glare of his icy eyes before breaking away, fixating on his boots instead.
Why don't we take a break for now? Julian was glad of the change, feeling the tension pass. He turned back to se Hilfiger tightening his make-shift bandage around the wound. "That will not hold for very long," Julian spoke, likely telling Levi what he already knew, but he felt it important to verbalise. "I can stitch it now, but it may be messy." Julian had practiced healing minor cuts and scrapes at home - often on himself, so he was far ahead in that regard than his peers in Basic Healing. However the gash he had opened on Hilfiger was larger than the cuts he was so used to closing.
Levi had plopped himself right on the floor, though Julian refused, seeing a vulnerability in seating himself so low. He shook off the tightness in his shoulders and moved to lean on the closest pillar, arms crossed, one leg holding most of his weight. But then another question came, and Julian, once again, felt almost trapped. Are you being hurt outside of here? One could not speak out against his own family, not to someone outside of it. He cursed inwardly to himself about his earlier slip, for now he knew Hilfiger would be alert and attentive to everything. He knew he could not lie, despite being decent at it, purely because a lie would only create a rift if Levi picked up on it. No, honesty was a safer route, but also a vulnerable one. Julian sighed, hearing the breath he had inadvertently been holding in escape his lips. "I look like my mother," he stole another glance at the mirror in the room, catching sight of himself: the full eyebrows, dark, full hair and fair skin had belonged to his mother, as did the high cheekbones and slight freckling over his nose. His smile, too, belonged to her. Though he so rarely smiled, because he hated to see her reflected back at him. It was too much of a reminder. "My father loathes the fact." The only things he had inherited from his father were his height and his sharp eyes. Julian was otherwise Adalene reincarnated.
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Apr 7, 2024 12:14:28 GMT -5
Whilst the cold floors of Hogwarts castle wasn’t exactly the most comfortable setting to have ain injured person, it certainly was a lot more comfortable than standing on an injured and bleeding leg. Whilst the pain had subsided from the initial cut and the clotting had set in, the matter of the fact that the cut was still there. He knew this would leave quite the ugly scare and whilst it upset him, he was still glad that it wasn’t his neck bleeding or worse, his face.
“ Sorry, Julian. “ He said as he bowed his head down slightly as he looked down between his leg, the floor and back to his leg. It as rare for Levi to not only admit defeat but to apologise. He hoped that Julian didn’t see this as a sign of weakness but more a bold statement of the type of character he was. He swallowed his pride and while he wasn’t very good at expressing it, he did somewhat feel a little guilty over his over reaction toward Julian. He even simply ignored what Julian had said about himself and his skills. Truth be told, he was brilliant in how he reacted and perhaps the tension of working with his own father had Julian face the onset of said struggle, tension as well as frustration.
“ I never had time to visit anyone..” He responded taking a deep breath. He wasn’t normally the type to diverge his personal matters onto others. He was much too mentally strong for that however, Julian had a way of knowing Levi and when something was wrong. The two were not only similar to siblings but they had a friendship that had been bonded for over years at a time as far as he could remember back. He often wondered if they were even related or just friends. “ I wanted to visit. I really did. But it was just difficult since father had increased the training regime. “
He slowly aided himself back onto his two feet utilising the same pillar Julian was leaning on to guide him back up. “ Father’s training has been…. “ He paused for a second as he limped a few steps forward . “ It’s been an experience. “ He began to strip his shirt off revealing the toned body that seemed to only get more toned over the summer break. “ It has been intense. “ Removing his shirt slightly revealed the bruises on his skin and back that were beyond the normal green and into a deep purple almost black patch all over his body. He hoped the images of the bruises would answer what Julian had asked with what his father had been doing.
“Freudian slip?” He repeated letting out a small laugh as he limped back over to Julian and tried to place his hands on Julian’s shoulder “You’re so weird sometimes but I also love you too. “ He said smiling and shaking his head slightly as he placed his shirt back on gently to ensure his bruises hadn’t been touched in the process. Yet as a matter of fact, Julian’s proper way of speaking also reminded him of his father who’s intelligence was far beyond the levels of a normal adult and he too spoke in such a dignified way.
Sitting back down on the floor felt like a reward after swallowing his pride revealing the bruises and for explaining the type of training he had conducted. “Stitch my leg?” He asked as he looked down at the same pulsating leg. “Like by hand or with magic?” Whilst he was able to stitch himself from learning it from Basic Healing, he wasn’t sure if Julian was confident in doing so. He did mention the ability to heal it, so perhaps he was more than confident after all. Taking a break seemed like a justified reason considering blood was spilt today. “Do what you must. If you can remove the bruises that’ll also be much appreciated. “ He added with a smile.
“You’re avoiding my question Julian. “ He said as he waited to see what he would say or do. “ Father has been using dark magic on me For me to understand the effects of it let alone how to do it properly. “ He finally explained if Julian hadn’t been able to connect the dots, not that this would have been a problem for him. “ Dark Arts hurt. A lot. “ He further added with a soft smile.
[OOC: Sorry if there’s typos. I’m using an IPad keyboard hehe ]
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Apr 14, 2024 3:08:08 GMT -5
Sorry, Julian. The Slytherin almost staggered in surprise at the word, though outwardly kept himself straight and poised. It must have taken quite a bit for Hilfiger to apologize - and the weight of the word was not lost on him. With the kind of Pureblood families Julian knew they had been raised in - apologies were not commonplace and certainly only reserved for specific situations, if any. Julian blinked, almost immediately forgiving. Bygones, he thought silently, before formally nodding once toward Hilfiger in acceptance.
Levi then mentioned not having time to visit anyone, to which Julian understood. He hadn't been seriously chiding the Ravenclaw for not dropping by - and in fact had been relieved to not have visitors witness to the breakdown of his household. It would take time and monstrous effort to bring the Manor back to its former glory. That, and of course, the need for his father to shake off his clear despondency. "It's fine," Julian dismissed his explanation with a wave of his hand, then: "training regime?" That was an odd way to put attending to heir duties. Lest something else be going on that Julian was not privy to. 'Training' implied more than simply learning one's place amongst the outside world and what it meant. Julian, of course, had been classed in many things growing up: the Mulciber name and legacy, Pureblood superiority, the need to practice Dark Magic in order to strengthen and separate oneself from those that would do the family harm. His grandparents and mother had been the ones that exposed him to such things - though with his mothers absence, Julian had been left much to his own devices. Which was exactly why he was seeking out extra tutelage.
He watched Hilfiger remove himself from the floor with what seemed some effort, his hands guiding him up the pillar, balancing him and his deeply cut leg. Julian remained leaning there, letting the scent of metallic blood waft over him, mild concern beginning to take root. He had taken a fondness toward Healing magic for personal reasons, but was aware that a brilliant Healer was almost irreplaceable in any dangerous situation. His family, for example, did not pursue the healing arts - and were required to turn to outsiders to find a cure for his mother. And look where that got her.
His trained gaze remained on Hilfiger as he began to pull at his shirt, removing the clothing and revealing the beaten body underneath. A symphony of watercolours adorned Levi's back - black and blue and purple blotches splayed from shoulder to abdomen, displaying a timeline of every injury he had endured over the break. Julian felt numb for a moment, unable to avert his eyes from his friend, silently observing, not reacting. The only sound in the room was Hilfiger as he explained that the 'training' had been intense. Julian seemed to come back from the depths at his words, blinking once as his eyes finally left the bruises, finding Hilfiger's own eyes instead, "that is an understatement," he felt anger rising in his thorax, finding breath becoming sharp, and a heaviness in his stomach like he'd just swallowed lead. How could he be suffering and still want to duel? Julian felt guilty - although he wouldn't mention such feelings - he had attempted to toss Hilfiger into the wall earlier, and could not imagine the pain he must have been in. Although the bruising appeared old by its discolouring, and the swelling had clearly gone down to reveal Hilfiger's stone-cut physique, the tenderness of the skin would still remain.
Levi released a laugh then, its sound echoing a little given the high, vaulted ceilings. Julian allowed him to approach, flinching only slightly as Levi placed hands on his shoulders, his whole body tensing from the touch, hearing the words I also love you too. His brain short-circuited momentarily, as though he could not compute being spoken to in such a manner, with such words. Love was not a thing his family expressed verbally, only through acts of service was their love displayed. And lately, his household had been completely devoid of that, too. Julian felt warm, and it made him uncomfortable. His first instinct was to lash out at Hilfiger - say something mean so that they could bicker some more - something familiar. However he swallowed that instinct, feeling the older boy back away, gingerly replacing his shirt.
He had air again.
Julian breathed, his senses rushing back as Hilfiger brought up stitching his leg. With that to grasp onto, Julian untensed himself, moving almost mechanically toward Levi to observe his leg once more. He dropped to a knee beside the Ravenclaw, hesitating only slightly, "this may feel uncomfortable," he adopted an apologetic tone before reaching out to untie the make-shift bandage, drawing it away from Hilfigers leg and returning blood flow to the area. Luckily, most of the blood had coagulated around the gash, shades of deep maroon indicated the cut was very deep. Moving with the precision of someone practiced, Julian drew his wand, muttering the Percuro charm and directing his wand along the length of the gash, the pink bolt finding Levi's injury and inserting itself deep into the wound. Although a rather basic healing charm, Julian did not intend to allow magic to complete the job. He had not yet learned advanced healing magic and therefore would not risk utilizing any charms he had read about but not yet practiced to efficiency on Hilfiger. For this reason, he would defer to stitching by hand - a craft he was adept at.
Once the Percuro charm did its magic - speeding up the natural healing process by suturing the deepest level of cut - Julian summoned one of the Hogwarts Elves. With a CRACK a spindly creature appeared, its bulging, over-sized eyes darting from Julian to Levi. Julian did not give it a chance to speak, and barely glanced at it. "I require a sterilized needle and silk thread. Do not speak of this to anyone. Go." He had owned House Elves before, and knew that being direct and commanding was the most efficient way to communicate with them, and almost assure his instructions were followed. Julian stole a look at Levi, "I can attend to the bruises and fade some discoloration, but I won't be able to remove them completely." Essence of dittany and Murtlap essence would likely help more than any charm Julian could currently cast. Nevertheless, he would do what he could.
CRACK. The Elf was back, apparating right beside Julian, long fingers gripping onto a tray that he held up over his large head toward the wizards. Julian scanned the tray, spying the sewing needle and silk threads. He took both. "You may leave," he spoke to the Elf, another crack sounding in the room. Julian threaded the silk through the needle expertly, eyes dropping once more to the open wound. It appeared a little better now that the Percuro charm had taken effect, covering Levi's femur bone with muscle. With steady hands, Julian prepared to begin stitching, hesitating only at Levi's statement.
He was avoiding the question, but had attempted to explain why his father abhorred him so. "My resemblance to my mother brings about...memories for my father." He responded rather quietly, voice rough, "he does not like to look at me, or be in my presence more than necessary. Only when he has been drinking does he-" Julian could almost smell the rank alcohol right then and there. He stopped talking, shaking off the conversation and moving attention back to Hilfiger as he had mentioned dark magic. Julian cocked an eyebrow, thinking back to the bruising on his back. He tempered his tone to be calm, despite feeling more anger, and another emotion that he was surprised to feel: curiosity. "Have his methods been effective?" He asked, wondering what on Merlin's Earth the man was thinking. This was his son and his heir. Dark Magic could truly damage an individual beyond repair. And the man was willing to risk his son for training. "Your body will eventually break down, Levi..." Julian utilized the boys first name to demonstrate the seriousness of this situation, "...or your mind will break first."
At Hilfiger's gentle smile, Julian felt the heaviness in the air. He could not lose Levi. He had lost enough family already.
Post by LEVI HILFIGER on Apr 15, 2024 5:03:25 GMT -5
. Apologising left a sour taste at the back of Levi’s throat. The type that would mimic he residue of being sick and having to take medicine to cure it. Not the sweet and cute cough syrup but the ghastly ginger brew that his aunty used to feed him -more force feed him whenever he was sick. Perhaps this was what swallowing your pride felt like. He let out a small sigh of air as he did his best to avoid eye contact with Julian.
Before any other words were spoken, Levi decided to place a protective charm over them so that outsiders wouldn’t be able to hear the conversation the two were having. “ For extra protection for what I’m about to say. “ He said building up the courage to speak up about his new training regime which involved anything but training but more torture to some eyes.
“Father wants me to lead the Hilfiger estate and business.” He looked over at Julian as he finger bunnied the word business. In the world of the observer, the Hilfiger. Family was the perfect family line. Respectable parents who served in the Ministry as Aurors and a son who’s leading in his schoool by being a prefect just like his parents were. Of course, behind closed doors it was always different. Things were always different but that’s the same for every family isn’t it?
“ The bruises hurt but not as bad as when they first made impact.” Levi normally had quite thick sick and a high pain tolerance in general so for a bruise to remain often meant that it had been constant efforts to cause the colour ways of blue and purple looking like some form of majestic display of art with Levi’s body being the canvas.
“Loosen up Mulciber. “ He said teasing at how tense he was as he backed away slowly finally alllowing himself to reveal the pain that was running through his body allowing his body to become human once again rather. Than playing the charade of some strong boy that he needed to be. “ Father’s quite fond of the cruciatus curse but he does it long enough to build up my resilience but also just at the right point where I zone out but don’t go insane. “ He said casually. As if the same thing happened to Julian.
“ What are you doi- ahh shit Julian. “ He said speaking too slow for Julian’s actions as the healing spell took effect quite quickly and remarkably well too. “ Oh wow, good work. “ He said appreciative of the support and care Julian provided for him. “ I’ll let the healing professor and award Slytherin 5 house points. “He joked as he shook his head before listening to what Julian said next.
“ You’ll need a what!?” Levi called out as he slowly limped away further from Julian as he began to hide behind the same pillar he once used as a support. “ You’’ll stick no such thing in me. “ He replied allowing his voice to rumble at the thought of a needle going into him. A fear that he had not really disclosed to anyone.. “ It’ll heal over time. “ He said hiding behind a pillar in the worse possible game of hide and seek.
Silence hit for a few seconds as Julian began to speak which caused Levi to focus more on what was being said. “ Does what Julian? What does he do?” He asked curious about what he was going to say. So much so that he. Pushed himself past the pillar and back to Julian holding the suppplies needed to fix him. He started to get thee gist of things without him even saying it.
It came out of no where, but suddenly,Levi decided to try and hug him. “ You may look like your mother, but my mum always told me how beautiful she is. You should consider yourself lucky. “
Post by JULIAN MULCIBER on Apr 21, 2024 2:31:08 GMT -5
He observed Hilfiger as the Ravenclaw cast a protective charm over them - enclosing the two in a sort of invisible bubble that meant nothing spoken within would be heard on the outside. It was a clever move for such a topic of conversation - even though they were alone. One could never be too careful, especially when portraits so commonly listened in on students' conversations.
He waited patiently for Hilfiger to say his part, ears pricked for anything specific that would call for such secrecy. The family business. Julian cocked an eyebrow curiously. He was aware that Levi's father was an Auror - the job title of which held much esteem in the magical world. His own father had warned him to be cautious and choose his words with wisdom when in Percy's company. For although the two families were friendly - and their sons close - Marcus Mulciber loathed the prospect of one day being betrayed. It would be so easy for the Hilfiger patriarch to slip the Mulciber name to the Ministry if their relationship went sour. Despite nothing likely coming of an investigation (they were careful), it would still be an unneeded inconvenience. "Lead?" He repeated, "once you graduate?" He could only assume that Levi would not have time until after his schooling - despite that only being a few years away. To take over was a hefty responsibility. "What would that entail, for you?" He was concerned now, after seeing the damage his father had done to his son in preparation for this business. What could Percy hope to achieve by pummelling his heir?
As Levi told him that the bruises hurt, but not as badly as the initial contact, Julian almost hissed between his teeth, anger rising once more. He had been taught not to involve himself in other peoples problems and not to question other pureblood families tactics -- but this was Levi - his one friend. He felt disgusted.
"Loosen up Mulciber." It was a playful tone, but that did not relax him at all. Hilfiger was aware he hated physical contact with anyone, though it seemed people constantly liked to touch him - despite his obvious displeasure. Julian could not help but flinch each and every time: a reaction that stemmed from years of conditioning in his household where a touch was not always gentle. As Hilfiger mentioned the Cruciatus curse, Julian almost gaped. "He uses an Unforgiveable Curse on you?" He did not doubt Levi's honesty, but it was hard to hear. Julian was aware that the Torture curse inflicted intense, excruciating pain on its victim and could easily drive a person to insanity if used excessively. Julian turned away from Levi briefly, breathing in deeply as he gathered his thoughts. "You speak so casually," Julian shook his head, turning back to Hilfiger once he had constructed his outward appearance to almost apathetic and calculating, "what does it feel like?" He questioned him, his curiosity of the Dark Arts leading him.
Levi had praised his healing spell and joked with him about awarding him house points for his efforts - however suddenly, as soon as a needle was mentioned, the Ravenclaw was scrambling, leaving Julian kneeling there on the floor - needle threaded and in hand, watching him - unimpressed. "You can handle the Cruciatus curse - but you won't allow me to stitch your leg?" He called out to Hilfiger flatly as the boy had moved away, hiding behind the closest pillar. Julian waited there, unmoving. He wouldn't chase Hilfiger - it was enough that he was offering to heal him. If Levi refused - Julian wouldn't press. "It'll heal over time." Julian sighed loudly, eyes trained on the pillar Hilfiger was currently hidden behind, though his shoe was visible at its base. "You expressed obvious displeasure at the prospect of a scar," Julian argued, "this is how we avoid such a smear."
Clearly being uncomfortable with their current topic of conversation was enough to draw Hilfiger out. Julian looked away as the Ravenclaw limped back over to him, questioning him. Julian set his jaw, "unimportant," he simply replied, unwilling to say more. He was betraying his family with what he had already implied - the thought of explaining more made him feel physically sick. He would not continue to drag his father through the mud. His father was in mourning... He was ill...It wasn't his fault. Julian glared at the floor, unsure where to direct his anger.
...And then Levi embracing him, and words flowing over him - about his mother - spoken with a certain softness that felt like a spear straight through his heart. Julian had immediately tensed at the contact, but felt that tension faltering with the words. Wetness blurred his vision and he succumbed to the hug, crumbling in his arms. To appear weak in this moment felt safe.
