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Corvus	By : LadyFreak Category: Harry Potter AU/AR > General Views: 23965 -:- Recommendations : 3 -:- Currently Reading : 7
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter, nor to I make any money from this story. These characters are JKR's, I just play with them.

Chapter List
- 12
- 13
- 14
Disclaimer: I don't, and never will, own Harry Potter.
A/N: Another 2 chapters for this week. We'll see Hogwarts and the sorting next week. You at least get to see the Hogwarts Express though ;)

(13) Wands
A week later, Corvus received a letter from Lucius and the Board of Governors approving his use of a non-Ollivander wand. Corvus jumped in the air happily before getting dressed for the day. The only stipulation given was that it had to be a wand from an Italian crafter named Raphael De Luca.
The family of three arranged a portkey to Italy the next day. Corvus was tempted to explore the countryside, but they did not have the time.
The Italian wizarding district was much larger than Diagon Alley. Stores surrounded a central fountain of wizards and goblins in a large square. Up a side alley, which is where they portkeyed to, there was a separate area that was made up of a line of tents with outside vendors. Corvus had to be physically dragged from a worn tent that held ancient books and scrolls.
They entered the wand shop and were greeted immediately by an ancient looking wizard. His hair was silver and stood out over his sun kissed skin. Kind brown eyes twinkled in greeting.
“Buongiorno. Come posso aiutarti?” He welcomed them
“Parli inglese?” Corvus asked, hoping that the man spoke English.
“Si. I speak English. How may I help you?”
“We come from England. The wand shop there is…limited. I am in need of a wand.”
“Hmm. Yes Ollivander tends to stick to a limited option of cores.” He studied Corvus for a bit before saying. “I can make one for you. There are multiple reasons you are having problems finding a wand, but it is not impossible. One reason is that you have an aura more aligned to Dark than to Light. While Ollivander can sell to Dark wizards, the wands are not as attuned to the owner as they could be.”
“Alright. What do you need from me?” Corvus asked, curious to see the process.
“I have a potion for you to drink. Once drunk, the images of your wand core will appear in front of you. I will choose the wood based on the core that chooses you.”
Corvus turned to look at Bellatrix who looked wary. “Wish I brought Sev with us,” she said fidgeting.
The young wizard put his hand to his chest in mock hurt, “I am offended you do not believe my skills are up to par!” earning him a quick swipe to his head. He turned to the owner “I agree to take the potion if I can know what is in it. I will take a wizards oath to never share the recipe or make it on my own.”
“That is agreeable. You can watch me make it. It will only take a half hour.”
Corvus nodded and followed the man to his workroom. He watched the methodical hands of the crafter as he sliced the herbs and stirred the potion. He paid close attention to what was put in, ensuring nothing added would react poorly with other ingredients.
When the potion was complete, it was a shimmering silver concoction. “Amazing,” the young wizard murmured.
The crafter smiled at him. “There are not many who can appreciate the Art of magic anymore. I enjoy potions and crafting but not many can see the beauty in it.”
“You are a true artist,” Corvus replied, awe in his voice.
“I thank you young sir. I just realized I did not catch your name.”
“My apologies,” he replied, putting out his arm in greeting. “Corvus Cygnus Lestrange.”
The wandmaker smiled. “Raphael De Luca. Now, let’s get your wand sorted out.”
Corvus smiled with the excitement of a 5 year old. He took the potion and closed his eyes as he felt his magic being brushed over. He felt a slight breeze ruffle his face and opened his eyes. In misty forms standing before him were three figures. A Raven, a Basilisk and a Pegasus.
“Well,” Started De Luca, breaking the shocked silence, “Multiple cores. That would explain why Ollivander could not help you…” He moved a tapestry at the back of his workroom and opened the door that was concealed. “Do not move from your spot. Put your wand hand out in front of you and ‘call’ to your wand with your magical core. If you can still feel the potion in your system, use that as a calling point.
Corvus nodded his head and slipped into a sort of meditative trance as he felt for his magic core. He could feel the mist of the potion and pushed it through his core and down his arm into his open palm which he had facing the recently opened door. He could feel the pull of the cores to the magic, but knew he had to call them to him.
It took just a minute, but felt like much longer. He felt the softness of 3 silk pouches hit the palm of his hand. He smiled at the feel of magic flowing from the bags as he handed them to De Luca.
“Let’s see what you pulled out.” He said, opening bags and overturning them onto his workspace. What appeared to be a white marble, a silver feather, and a white tooth fell onto the counter. “Eye of a raven, a feather from the wing of a rare Silver Pegasus, and a basilisk fang with venom.” He whistled lowly. “The Raven is based on learning and mind magics. The eye adds ‘Sight’ but will only come to one who has the ability to harness that magic.” The young Lestrange looked up at the crafter with worry in his eyes. “Not to worry. All my wands are privately made and the process to make them is secret.” The family of three nodded and smiled their thanks. “To continue, the Basilisk fang focuses on Dark Magic, and the Pegasus brings a balance to the other two.”
“What is the difference between a black pegasus and a white pegasus, or other colors?” Bellatrix asked.
“The white pegasus wing is usually used and will help one harness air and wind magic. It is also most associated with light magics, like a unicorn horn for example. A person with any sort of wing, no matter the color, will have an affinity for flying.” He saw the incredulous look on Corvus’ face and continued. “That doesn’t mean that you are obsessed with flying, just that it comes naturally to you.” Corvus nodded his understanding. “While white focuses on air and light, the silver focuses more on flight and balancing of the magics. A black Pegasus would focus on the darker magic and storms.”
“So, since I have at least one core that is heavily dark, the silver helps to balance?” Corvus asked.
The wand crafter nodded and smiled. “Exactly. The Raven is more of a light grey in terms of magic, so a white pegasus would over ride that power and you would lose the balance needed to match your core. Now, how long do you plan on staying here today?”
Bellatrix looked at the wizards she was with. “I think we can stay for a few hours more. We have an appointment at Stregoneria in an hour, plus I’m sure Corvus wants to return to the book sellers,” she said, grinning at Corvus’ excitement.
“Really?” he said, eyes wide and excited.
She laughed. “Come on son of mine, we shall return. How long do you think Signore De Luca?”
“Raphael, please. Two hours time would be perfect, but take your time. Please send Headmistress Befana my greetings.”
The three British wizards nodded their thanks.
()
Instead of browsing the books and scrolls, knowing an hour was not enough time for Corvus, the family decided to just browse various stalls until their portkey was set to go off.
They spent the time talking to various sellers and sitting amazed at their craftsmanship.
Jewelry, handmade journals, walking sticks, art, foods, there was so much to look at that they knew they would have to return at some point. Corvus was especially interested in the beautifully crafted jewelry and purchased a couple of handmade journals- one bound with a soft deep blue leather, the other bound with green.
It was just a minute before the portkey was to go off when Corvus finished paying for his books. He thanked the owner and ran to his family so he didn’t miss the meeting.
They landed softly in front of a large black metal door that was 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. The school was a large castle with a high stone wall that surrounded the grounds.
The door opened soundlessly and the three walked through. They were greeted by an older woman with white hair that fell to her waist. Her robes were a deep burgundy with cream edging and gold buttons.
“Buongiorno,” she said with a rich, soothing voice. The Italian rolled off her tongue easily and Corvus knew he would have to learn the language. Add it to the list, he thought to himself. “I am Headmistress Francesca Befana. Welcome to Scuola di Stregoneria.”
Corvus bowed low to the woman and returned her greeting, followed by his mother and Uncle. “Greetings, Headmistress. It is truly a pleasure. I am Corvus Cygnus Lestrange. Behind me are my mother, Bellatrix Lestrange, and my Uncle, Rabastan Lestrange. Thank you for allowing us to visit.”
“The pleasure is mine. Do you mind if I call you Corvus?”
“Not at all Headmistress,” Corvus replied with a smile
“Bene, let’s head inside. We’ll walk and talk. School is not in session at the moment so we can walk about freely.”
The small group followed the older woman onto the grounds and nearly froze at the beauty. In the center was a beautiful courtyard surrounded by flowers. In the center was a large stone circle that had 4 paths leading to it, one from each direction.
The Headmistress noticed their attention and began explaining. “We are not only light practitioners. We teach about all magics. To do that we have to be able to perform rituals and rites. I understand the old rites are now mostly considered illegal to perform in Britain?” The three nodded. “As I thought. Here we not only perform different rites, but also celebrate Sabbatts with magical rites. We honor the old ways and teach about them.”
“I can feel the energy that flows off of that circle. It’s amazing,” said Corvus.
The Headmistress smiled at him widely. They continued their walk, talking and learning about the school while continuing to take in their surroundings.
While the ritual circle sat in the center, to the left, right and front of the entrance was a stone building that wrapped around it. The stone of the building was light and welcoming. Many would think a school that practiced such subjects as dark magic and necromancy would be dark and unnerving, but the opposite was true.
Corvus was broke out of his musings by the Headmistress’ voice. “We don’t have any ‘houses’ or other ways of separating the students here. They are separated by year and by gender. Each year has their own common room. There is also a larger common room that is for all years to relax.” She said, directing them into a room the size of the courtyard. There was a fireplace set on three different walls and the room was filled with couches, cushions and tables. “Most of the younger students spend time in this room. It is seen as more of a study hall where the various years will help each other with assignments and practice.” She paused and watched the young wizard who was looking around with eyes full of longing. “Corvus, I see you are enchanted by our school and I wish you would reconsider your attendance here.”
Corvus gave the older witch a sad smile. “I truly wish that were possible, Headmistress.”
“Unfortunately the reasons are not common knowledge and we will need an oath that you will not divulge the information. We trust you, it’s others we don’t trust,” said his mother.
“Like that fool of a man Dumbledore?” Headmistress asked with a smirk. “Yes, I know all about him.”
After getting her oath, Corvus told his tale. She seemed very upset on his behalf at the treatment of the Potters and the Headmaster. When he got to the point of being the heir of Ravenclaw, she nodded in understanding. “As heir you are required to attend the school founded by your ancestor, since her magic is in the foundations. I understand, but it is disappointing we will not be see you in these halls. You are still welcome to come whenever you can. I’ve considered setting up a few days during the holiday for you to be tested on your practicals. The first couple of days will be more along the lines of practical lessons, with the last day being for testing.”
“That would be amazing Headmistress, but I really don’t want to put anyone out.”
“It would not be a problem. It will only be three days. As the time approaches I will get you the exact dates of your practical exams.” Corvus nodded his agreement and she continued, pulling a small box from her robes which when expanded was the about two inches thick and the length and width of size of a piece of parchment. It was made of ivory and had dark red runes written around the lid. “This is a vanishing box,” she explained at their perplexed looks. “I have the other box in my office. I’d hate to tire our owls in getting your assignments sent back and forth between us.”
“How does it work?” Corvus asked staring at the beautiful box.
“When you finish an assignment, you place it in the box and the paper will appear in my own box. When a new correspondence appears, a red rune will appear in the center of the lid.” She explained, pointing to a blank spot on the box.
“Fantastic,” the young wizard said excitedly, taking the box from the Headmistress.
“No playing with that young man” she scolded lightly, recognizing the studious look in the teal eyes. “If you want to learn about the boxes and the magic behind it, I have a couple of books on the subject.”Corvus nodded excitedly. “Alright, I can send them through the box tonight. It will also give you an idea on how the boxes work.”
After a bit more discussing, the group left the grounds of Stregoneria. “I really wish I could attend, but I’m grateful at least for the chance to take lessons via correspondence. I thank you, Headmistress Befana, for your support. I look forward to starting lessons and reading the books you send me.”
“You are a pleasure to have around Corvus. Don’t be a stranger if you are ever in the area again.”
Corvus nodded his head and waited while his mum and Uncle said their good byes. The Headmistress activated their portkey and they were off, returning to the town.
The group had spent a couple of hours at the school and decided to get Corvus’ wand before doing any browsing.
“I ended up using two different woods. Katalox and Whitewood.” Signore De Luca began, soon as the group entered the shop. “I’ll give you something to explain the properties of the woods before I hand you your wand.” He placed the combined cores to the side of the combined wood. Corvus noted some runes carved onto the side of the wand for protection and strength. With a wave of the crafter’s hand and a bright flash of light, the pieces were combined into one.
“Okay, here is the information on the wood used. When you are ready, lift the wand from the table. No one else may touch it until you have done so.”
Corvus nodded and turned to the material he was handed.
Katalox
Katalox is known as a wood of balance between light and darkness. It helps one achieve self-knowledge, the ability to see one's own life as others might, and to decide which aspects may be out of balance or in need of correction. It allows one to feel "at home" in their own skin, complete by acknowledgement of the whole self and seeing the whole of reality, not just the parts people often wish to see.
For those who have anger issues, Katalox is an excellent tool for overcoming them. The wood is introspective and grounding, slowing anger and allowing one to think clearly and see situations in a more logical and understanding manner.
This wood is a wonderful tool for change. Those who have a difficult time coping with change will find that they are able to accept and learn from change better. Those who have a difficult time bringing about change in their life will find it easier to do so.
This is also an excellent tool for exploring divination, mysteries, and other forms of "dark" spirituality.
Romania Whitewood:
This wood contains a very dark energy. Darkness is that which is mysterious and often frightening to people. It is extremely useful for many types of magic, including divination, communication with the spirit world, death, and exploring the mysteries of life. This wood is protective, allowing one to explore their dark side without getting lost within it. Overall, this wood helps one understand things that most people choose to ignore or may not even know exist.
It can bring healing through communication, and a general comfort through knowledge. It is a very grounded wood, despite the prevalence of air energy.
“Hmm. Interesting indeed. Just as the cores are balancing, the wood is as well, falling more into line with Dark and Grey magics?”
“Esattamente,” De Luca replied with a grin.
Corvus looked over at the wand- his wand- that was waiting on the table for him. He hovered his hand over the wood and felt the heat rush into his body.
“It will be a shock at first, but no harm shall come to you,” De Luca spoke softly as if sensing the young wizard’s hesitance.
Corvus nodded.
And picked up his wand.
Immediately he felt the power rushing through his core and integrating itself within him. There was no separation between the wand core and his own magic core. There was just a single core. The two intertwining seamlessly. He watched the blue, green, red, yellow and white sparks fly out of his wand in shock.
When the magic seemed settled enough, the young wizard could not find the words. Both his mother and Uncle were looking on at him with proud smiles and he couldn’t help the one that made its way onto his own face. He turned to the crafter who looked quite happy with himself.
“I don’t know what to say,” Corvus finally got out.
“I am glad I was able to find something to suit you. You will do great things, child. Great things indeed. It has been well over a hundred years since I have seen such a reaction through a crafted piece.”
“It’s amazing. Absolutely brilliant.” Corvus said in awe. “What do we owe you?”
“With handcrafting and rare materials, lets make it 50 Galleons. I also have a gift for you.”
Corvus looked up in shock as the man disappeared through a different workroom. A gift? When he returned, he handed the young wizard a wand holster.
“I made this many years ago when my instincts took hold. It is from the shed skin of a Basilisk. The raven on the side was branded into the skin.”
“Amazing,” Corvus said with another bright smile. It was made for me, he thought as he attached the holster to his wrist. “Thank you very much Signore. You are truly a master craftsman and I thank you for your talent and your gifts,” he said with a small bow at his waist.
“I thank you for your appreciation,” the crafter returned with a nod of his head.
()
It was beginning to get dark when the group left the wandmaker, but Bellatrix still let Corvus browse the bookseller stalls. While browsing, Corvus happened upon a scroll of potions that was written in an odd language. His mother looked over his shoulder in confusion and asked him what it said. When he told her, she explained what she saw and he figured out what language it was written in. Parselscript.
He spoke a bit with the proprietor and requested any other scrolls or books written in the same language. He ended up with three books and fifteen scrolls, which was quite the haul in the young wizard’s opinion. One book was on wards, another on potions, and the third on magical snakes and the properties of their venom. The scrolls varied from miscellaneous journal entries, potions recipes and notes, to different research notes. Before leaving, he was sure to write down the sellers name so he knew who to look for to get more of such treasures in the future.
When the sun finally set, Bellatrix activated the manor portkey and they returned home for dinner.
After dinner, Corvus went to his room to find his new trunk waiting for him. As he looked at the top of the trunk, he caressed the engraving of the basilisk, “We’re just waiting on you, little one.” He looked it over and checked out all the compartments. He then began packing his books and other materials.

{Edited 9-21-15}

A/N: Information about the wood came from: paganwiccaforum.com/node/19. I'm sure by now you all know the symbolism i search for in all of the story :) The wand core information i pulled out of my own noggin. If you use it, please let me know :)
If you see any mistakes, please feel free to message me so i can fix it. I don't have a beta, so this is how it is :)
Thank you lovelies! Keep reading and reviewing. Constructive criticism is also welcome. What did you think about the wands? Did you like the info? What did you think of Headmistress Befana?
Keep reading, you get one more chapter this week, then it's back to single doses next week.
- 12
- 13
- 14
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Corvus