After his time in Paris, Orion returned to America, still focused on his search for the elusive vampire. He didn't wanted to, but he kept on going by pure stubbornness he had.
Days turned into weeks, and although he never found a trace of Eric, he continued following any lead he could find. He kept to himself, always moving quietly through the underworld, determined to stay out of any political battles that had nothing to do with his mission.
He even started to branch out from the American land to other continents in Eric's pursuit. But ultimately found nothing.
Then, one day, there was a knock on his door. When Orion opened it, he was surprised to see two familiar faces standing there: Dumbledore and Newt Scamander. Dumbledore looked calm as ever, his piercing gaze showing a hint of urgency. Newt, on the other hand, fidgeted nervously, looking like he was trying to muster the courage to ask for help.
"John," Dumbledore greeted him warmly,
"Don't bother, I know why you are here. The Answer is no…"
"we need your help. Grindelwald's is after the position of Minister of Magic."
Orion shook his head, his face set in firm resolve. "I made it clear before," he said, crossing his arms, "I have no intention of getting involved in any political battle. I don't care even if he is running for Hokage."
'Hokage ???
Newt stepped forward, his eyes pleading. "Orion, we know you don't want to fight Grindelwald directly. But… your power, the way you saved those people in Paris—people like you make a difference."
Orion looked between them, a faint sigh escaping his lips. "I'm sorry, but my answer is the same. I won't align myself with any side. I only stepped in back in Paris to protect innocent lives. Beyond that, I won't be anyone's weapon or shield."
Dumbledore nodded, understanding yet disappointed. "I respect your decision. But know that should you change your mind, we will welcome you."
Orion inclined his head slightly, a silent farewell. As Dumbledore and Newt left, Orion returned to his solitary search, hoping, perhaps, that staying out of this battle would help him focus on finding Eric.
But that wasn't the end of it, there was more.
Soon the next day a call came for him.
.
.
.
Orion was in the middle of his usual routine when his phone rang unexpectedly. He picked it up, a bit surprised to see Elenora's name flashing on the screen. Elenora rarely called unless it was something urgent. He answered, his tone calm as ever.
"Elenora?"
"John, I need your help," she said, sounding more anxious than he'd ever heard her. "It's about Credence. He… he went after Grindelwald on his own. I didn't think he'd do something like this, but he's determined. I tried to stop him, but he's already gone."
Orion paused, considering her words. He knew Credence was troubled, weighed down by his past and his connection to Grindelwald, but this was dangerous. Facing Grindelwald alone was something even powerful wizards hesitated to do.
And Credennce haven't learn much magic…
"Let me get this straight," he said slowly. "You want me to go after him? Not to fight Grindelwald, just… to look after him?"
"Yes, exactly," Elenora replied, relief and urgency in her voice. "I know you don't want to get involved, and I'm not asking you to fight. Just… please, make sure he's safe. I wouldn't ask if it weren't serious."
Orion sighed, running a hand through his hair as he weighed the request. He had made it clear to everyone—Dumbledore, Newt, and even Elenora herself—that he wouldn't get involved in the battle against Grindelwald. But this was different. This wasn't about taking sides.
After a moment, he replied, "Alright, I'll go. But I'm only doing this to make sure he doesn't do something reckless. Nothing more."
"Thank you, Orion," Elenora said, sounding genuinely grateful. "I owe you."
He hung up, gathering his things quickly. As he prepared to leave, Orion's thoughts lingered on Credence.
.
.
.
Elenora ended the call with John and let out a shaky breath, feeling a sense of relief wash over her. She'd been holding onto so much worry about Credence ever since he left to confront Grindelwald. But now, knowing that John was going after him, she felt a little more at ease. John, with his strength and calm presence, could handle anything. Credence would be in good hands.
Elenora placed her hand gently on her rounded belly, feeling the faint movements from within. She smiled softly, thinking about the little one who would soon be arriving. In her heart, she'd wanted to go after Credence herself, to protect him and bring him back home. But, being nine months pregnant, she knew her limits. This was a time for care and caution. She couldn't risk both her own life and that of her unborn child.
But just as she began to relax, an odd feeling crept over her. Her heart started beating a little faster, and an unsettling sensation spread through her chest. She wasn't sure if it was worry for Credence, fatigue from the day, or just nerves.
Suddenly, she heard noises. At first, it was faint—a soft shuffling, like someone moving just outside the door. Her eyes flickered toward the entrance, her hand instinctively moving to the wand at her side. There was a slight creak, and her body tensed as she tried to make sense of what was happening.
The uncomfortable feeling grew stronger, prickling at her senses. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but the unease wouldn't leave. Elenora felt the baby stir in her belly, almost as if sensing her tension. Her mind raced with questions. Was it someone friendly? A neighbor checking in? Or was there something else, something darker, lurking nearby?
Keeping one hand protectively over her stomach, she slowly moved toward the nearest window, glancing outside with cautious eyes. She couldn't see anything unusual, but the feeling of dread remained. Whatever this was, it wasn't just her imagination.
xxx
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