Basil hated to admit it, but the reality of his mother’s condition hadn’t quite sunk in yet despite Atticus’ rather alarming letter that morning. It was finally evening and he was packing up his things to hopefully make it home in time for supper, but goodness had it been a long day. Every class seemed to take a remarkably long time today, every conversation to drone on and one while all he could think about was leaving.

Normally, Hogwarts was Basil’s every respite. He adored living at the castle; teaching, research and transfiguration was his life. There was not a day that went by that he didn’t wish he could be in the classroom, or in his study, chattering away with Aubrey or Ida or - yes - even grading essays! But today had been a rough day. He’d almost seemed in a fog the majority of it. All he could really think about was the situation at home, both his mother’s condition and, unfortunately, his relationship with his brother. The two had not left things off on a good foot last year and Basil was not yet ready to face Atticus.

As he took one last look around his office, Basil let out a haggard sigh. He’d left some instructions with his classes today for extra readings that would hopefully take them through the next few days until he could return, assuming all went well. Now, all that was left to do was make his way to Hogsmeade.


When Basil finally arrived home, he was damp from rain and darkness had fallen. He hesitated on the front stoop before letting himself in, unsure if he was really ready to face whatever news or conflict tonight would bring. He supposed the sooner he got it over with the better. Taking in a shaky breath, he let himself in.

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