LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 14: Chapter 14: Shadows
The days at Hogwarts continued with their usual rhythm, but for Arlen Blackthorn, Fred, and George Weasley, the weight of their recent discoveries pressed heavily upon them. The revelation of Arlen's family's connection to the Codex of Shadows had opened a Pandora's box of questions, each more perplexing than the last.
One evening, as the trio convened in a secluded corner of the library, Fred broke the silence. "We need more information about your family's involvement with the Codex, Arlen. There has to be something we've overlooked."
Arlen nodded thoughtfully. "You're right. There might be records or personal effects my parents left behind that could shed light on this."
George's eyes lit up with an idea. "What about your family home? There could be hidden compartments or secret rooms containing valuable information."
Arlen considered this. "It's possible. But accessing Blackthorn Hall isn't straightforward. It's been uninhabited since my parents disappeared, and protective enchantments guard it."
Fred grinned mischievously. "Good thing we've got a knack for bypassing enchantments."
Determined, the trio devised a plan to visit Blackthorn Hall during the upcoming Hogsmeade weekend. They would use the secret passage beneath the Whomping Willow to leave the school grounds undetected.
The following Saturday, under the cover of darkness, they set their plan into motion. Navigating the tunnel, they emerged near the outskirts of Hogsmeade and made their way to the secluded Blackthorn estate.
The manor loomed before them, its once-grand façade now cloaked in ivy and shadows. As they approached, Arlen felt a pang of nostalgia mixed with apprehension.
"Ready?" George whispered.
Arlen took a deep breath and nodded. "Let's do this."
Using a series of spells, Fred and George skillfully dismantled the protective wards, allowing them entry. Inside, the air was thick with dust and memories. They split up, searching for any clues that might illuminate the mysteries of the Codex and Arlen's parents.
In his father's study, Arlen discovered a hidden compartment within the desk. Inside lay a leather-bound journal, its pages filled with cryptic notes and references to the Codex of Shadows. One entry stood out:
"The Codex's power is immense, its origins shrouded in myth. We have taken an oath to protect it, to ensure it does not fall into the wrong hands. But dark forces are gathering, and I fear for our safety. If anything happens to us, may our son find the strength to continue our legacy."
Arlen's heart ached as he read his father's words. Determined to honor his parents' legacy, he rejoined Fred and George, sharing the journal's contents.
"This confirms it," Fred said grimly. "Your parents were the last guardians of the Codex."
George frowned. "But who are these 'dark forces' they mentioned?"
Before Arlen could respond, a faint noise echoed through the manor. They exchanged wary glances, wands at the ready.
Suddenly, the room was filled with a cold, malevolent presence. A cloaked figure emerged from the shadows, eyes gleaming with sinister intent.
"Who are you?" Arlen demanded, trying to mask his fear.
The figure's voice was a chilling whisper. "The Codex belongs to us. Surrender it, and perhaps you'll be spared."
Fred stepped forward defiantly. "Over our dead bodies."
The intruder sneered. "As you wish."
A fierce duel erupted, spells ricocheting off the walls. Despite their combined efforts, the trio struggled against the intruder's dark magic.
Just as hope seemed lost, a blinding light filled the room. The figure recoiled, hissing in pain, before vanishing into the shadows.
Breathing heavily, Arlen turned to see Professor Dumbledore standing in the doorway, his wand emitting a soft glow.
"Professor!" George exclaimed. "How did you—"
Dumbledore raised a hand, silencing him gently. "There will be time for explanations later. For now, you must return to Hogwarts immediately. It is not safe here."
As they made their way back, Arlen couldn't shake the feeling that their journey was far from over. The shadows of the past had been illuminated, but new mysteries awaited, and the true battle for the Codex had only just begun.