After dinner, Roy returned to his principal's office, the weight of responsibility settling comfortably on his shoulders. The room was quiet, illuminated by the soft glow of enchanted lamps, and the portraits of previous Hogwarts principals regarded him with curiosity and a touch of amusement.
"Good evening," Roy greeted politely, inclining his head to each portrait. "I need some information about House Veylorn. Everything you know—history, lineage, political influence, and current status."
The portraits stirred, whispering among themselves. One by one, they began to speak.
Phineus Black, leaning forward from his frame, was the first to respond. "Veylorn, you say? A family shrouded in secrecy and ancient magic. Known for their mastery over prophecy and forbidden arts, though few outside their circle dare speak of it openly."
Another portrait, Professor Elric Montrose, added, "The Veylorns have always maintained a strict hierarchy. Their political influence is subtle but far-reaching, especially in the wizarding courts of France and Eastern Europe. They rarely act openly, preferring manipulation from the shadows."
Roy nodded, taking it in. "And the current head of the house? The lord who wields their power?"
A younger, stern-looking portrait of Lady Thalassa Everwyn spoke up. "The current lord is Cassian Veylorn, last seen in the northern territories of France. Most of his direct lineage is alive, though exact numbers are uncertain. Records indicate at least seven direct members, including his two sons, though some operate covertly in wizarding and muggle societies."
Phineus added, "Cassian is not merely a political figure—he's a strategist and manipulator, deeply versed in prophecy magic. Many believe he's behind certain dark movements in Europe, though proof is scarce."
Roy absorbed the information, his mind already mapping strategies. "So he has seven known members alive, controls Veylorn influence across Europe, and practices prophecy and dark magic. Noted. Anything else that could be relevant?"
Lady Everwyn's portrait leaned closer. "The Veylorns value secrecy above all else. They are patient, calculating, and dangerous. Direct confrontation without careful planning is… ill-advised."
Roy smirked slightly. "Good. That's exactly the kind of challenge I like."
With that, he straightened in his chair, mentally preparing for the long game ahead. The portraits nodded approvingly; even in the afterlife, they recognized his keen strategic mind and fearless determination.
Outside the office, Hogwarts was quiet, but Roy's thoughts were already racing—plans, contingencies, and strategies to uncover Cassian Veylorn's next move.