Hogwarts: The lost Tales [IC/Open]

[Miekzhemy]

Headmistress Minerva McGonagall

McGonagall gladly took the letter and unraveled it, donning a pair of rather old reading glasses as she skimmed it over.

"Ah, it's good to have you with us, Mister Blahone. We've been awaiting a replacement since the end of last year. I'm sure Professor Baxter will be quite relieved to have you here - he's been volunteering as our substitute for Defense Against the Dark Arts for the past few weeks--"

By the time she finished her sentence, the doors opened and in walked a student. McGonagall looked up, removing her reading glasses.

"Mister Salgado? What are you doing here at this time of night?" she asked more so with a hint of curiosity rather than suspicion. It was rare for students to be coming to her this late unless it was important.

[Arlye Austros]

Ricardo

He looked at the stranger. French, by the words he used. However he only managed to smile as respectfully as he could. Ricardo tried not to break down.
"M´am. I am sorry to disturb you, but I was wondering if we could talk, you see..." He walked towards her and handed the letter his mother wrote (in Spanish). "A relative died. I was wondering if it would be fine if I leave the school for a couple of days."

[Zhukovian]

Knox Blahone

Headmistress' Office

As the boy replied to him equally be could sense something was wrong. As he have heard the whisper of the poor boy, he said, "I'm very sorry of your lost boy, I believe that everything will be fine soon."

He then faced Minerva, "Thank you Headmistress, it is an honor to serve Hogwarts again, but this time teaching the students. Good evening."

He then faced again the boy he only known by the name of Salagno, "Good night my boy, and condolence"

As he stood up, he positioned his cane and tightly gripped on it, wood and leather making a friction. Then he exited with a little swirl.

[True Christopia]

Andrew

"I didn't see the game, no - I was inside... sorry. And sorry that you lost, too. Better luck next time, eh?" Andrew told her, leaning back in the chair. She looked like a wreck from the game, although he knew she'd do just fine. She was a bear, after all.

"Y'know," he began again, a smile forming on his face "This whole muggleborn against pure blood affair has gotten me thinking. What if we did something like the Weasleys did, and make a little business? Like, maybe not prank stuff, but like T-shirts with funny slogans on them. Making fun of it all, like little cartoons or something. Make a little money? How cool would that be?"

"If only we knew anything about making t-shirts." he chuckled

[Miekzhemy]

Rachel

"Well...the Weasley's DID make a killing on that joke shop," Rachel said while crossing her arms. "But starting anything along the lines of a business takes money too...which isn't really something we have a lot of right now. Don't get me wrong though, it'd be a good profit."

Rachel strained herself to sit up. "But let me know if anything comes up. I'm busy with my own work, but I can still help out."

Headmistress Minerva McGonagall

She quickly frowned upon hearing Ricardo's explanation.

"Oh dear," she said solemnly. "It's as if there's never enough death in the students' families over the years." Minerva took the letter in her hand, which clearly had the look that it was written by a parent. Finding it was also in Spanish, she pulled her own wand out. Muttering an incantation while placing the tip of the wand on the paper, the words formed by the ink began to transfigure themselves until it was finally in English. She took a moment to read it over.

"I'll allow your parents or any other guardian of yours to pick you up," she began again. "I will permit you to visit them over the coming school week and expect you back before the end of next weekend. I'll also have a letter sent to your family in the next few days. You have my condolences, Mister Salgado. If there is anything more you need, feel free to speak your mind. Otherwise you have my leave to go."

Monday Afternoon - Defense Against the Dark Arts
Rachel

It was the last class period of the day: DADA. Rachel had heard the announcement from McGonagall during the weekend of the arrival of Professor Blahone, who was to be the replacement for Gleen. She had managed to get on Professor Baxter's good side during the time he spent subbing for the class, but she was also curious about the new teacher.

Simply rolling through her normal routine, Rachel waltzed on inside of the classroom and found her seat. She sat down and, occupying her time while she waited, went back to skimming through her Transfiguration work.

[Britanania]

Caitie

Drumming her fingers along her desk as she read, Caitie was waiting for their new DAD professor to arrive. Given the whole debacle with Gleen and the substitute situation, she was starting to wonder if the position had once again be jinxed, but put the thought out of her mind. Caitie put her book down for a moment to give a sigh and look around the room. It was clear her thoughts were not really on the new professor, but on something else entirely...

---

She had been walking back from to her house when she caught them in the corner of her eye in a nearby alley, away from everyone else. An older man and his friends harassing a younger woman-likely in her 20s, she reasoned, and from her clothes impoverished. The young witch narrowed her eyes as she watched the scene play out. The group started grabbing the woman and made terrible comments. She clenched her fists in anger, memories flooding back. It didn't take them long to take the now unconscious woman away and down the alley. Unknown to them, likely because of their inebriation, she followed after, drawing her hood.

That night, she entered unseen....

[Zhukovian]

Knox Blahone
Classroom 3C

Knox dressed on his black robes as he watched himself in the mirror of his office, "I will show to them what a I am capable of."

As he opened the door and he was in the elevated podium overseeing the classroom, he surveyed the students like a hawk looking for prey, looking each one of them to the eye.

He then started his speech as he descend down the stairs. "Good Afternoon, 4th Years, as you know by the announcement of Headmistress Mcgannagal, I am your new Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor, Knox Blahone." As he started with alittle French accent.
"I know not many of you know me unless you paid attention during the History of Magic. I am a former Aurora of both the French and British Ministry of Magic. I was in the great Battle of Hogwarts, and was awarded the Medal of Honor by both the Ministries I served, anyways... because you all are now under my responsibility as your professor I expect utmost respect of my authority.", talking with his deep voice as he continued, he have already arrived at the bottom overseeing like an owl over the students in front of him, "So, because you are now 4th years and with the recent events, I will be teaching you some Hex-deflections, counter curses, improved Aqua Eructo, and some defensive charms.
Note this, before the Winter Break, we will have a mini tournament, where all of you will be the contenders, fighting each other, the last wizard or witch standing will be given 100 points. But take note, thoe who will cheat, OE use illegal magic shall be given proper disciplinary actions..., and oh! I almost forgot I might teach you some wandless self defense, like brawling and sword fights."

He then waited for everyone's reactions and questions.

[World Anarchic Union]

William Darkenstone

It was their final subject for the day. That Monday had proven to be quite difficult and now he sat, wondering what their new professor would be like. He had arrived at class in time, sitting at a desk and taking care of his bag when the professor arrived. He was wearing dark robes and seemed to observe the students very carefully as they slowly realised that the man overseeing them was their new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. He seemed strict and quite austere as he talked, describing who he was and what he would teach the students during their fourth year. William listened carefully, interested in anything he could learn regarding the lesson.

He seems like he will help us improve in fighting quite a bit. And that tournament certainly seems interesting. he thought as the professor finished talking and waited for questions. William raised his hand, and after given permission spoke.

"What would be considered illegal magic for you, professor Blahone? Except, of course, the Unforgivable Curses." he said, before being reminded of Ava and what had occurred to her because of using such a curse. He sighed, and looked towards the professor, unconsciously touching his scarred eye, knowing that Ava wouldn't be there to remove his hand from there...

---

Anton Valgerth Hurt

Anton was one of the first students to arrive at the class, sighing after a difficult day of lessons. He wasn't a very good student but he paid attention to the lessons, but today was a day that after the first hours, he had seemed to not be able to understand many things, seeing as many of their lessons for the day were very theoretical. Now, he had sat down, putting his Defense Against the Dark Arts book on top of the desk, before noticing the professor overlooking them. He seems strange... he thought, as the professor started talking.

Anton heard all that the professor had to say, regarding himself and the lesson. As the professor talked of the tournament, Anton gulped and started drumming his fingers nervously on the desk. A tournament? Oh, I will be horrible at it. Unless I... he thought, before shaking his head negatively. No, I have to control myself, even if that means to lose faster than if I used my "other" self He trembled as he remembered what he had done in the past, when he couldn't control his violent and dark urges. I mustn't allow that again...

[Arlye Austros]

Ricardo


As the teacher, a frenchman apparently, left the room, he nodded in agreement with his head. He didn´t expected anyone else to be there, so he was unable to articulate a response, but he felt a warmth, so he felt thankful.

McGonagalls answer had a similar effect, a new appreciation by the student towards the director.
“Thank you, Headmistress. I will write to my mother. I am sure she will be able to come on Monday or Tuesday. I´ll make sure I am back by the coming weekend.”
He turned around after receiving the letter back, again in Spanish, but turned back to the Headmistress at the doorway. “Again, thank you.” He then left.


Monday


He looked out through the window, waiting for the new teacher to arrive. It had been announced that the new teacher would take over Defense, so he presumed it was the man he met in McGonagall´s office. He had barely said anything about the letter, and tried to hide any emotions about it. Nobody to this point knew he was going to leave that night. His mother wrote back on Saturday morning (the mailing service was growing faster!) and seemed to suggest things at home might not be too safe, so his visit would be even shorter.

The new teacher arrived, and his trance was interrupted. It was indeed the Frenchman. He explained the class what would happen through the next year. It was quite exiting, and Ricardo was somehow glad he didn´t leave by himself on Sunday, something he considered, but preferred not to put McGonagalls trust or authority to the test.
Swordfighting was actually something he had a very little experience. Natives used to teach them some of it, not with real swords though, as they barely used any wands, and sometimes needed to fend-off the Kalku´s minions. Then William made his question. Indeed, it was Ava who was in everybody´s mind. Was he considering pushing to the limit of legality, or just wanted to clear out a doubt?

In his brooding, he didn´t realized Rachel was sitting next to him, fully recovered. Ricardo recalled his urge to speak with her. Animal Transformation would have to wait. Yet he thought he may have to request notes on the classes to take place during the week. He might have to rush out of the castle right after the class, so he wrote a note.

Rachel, I´m leaving for the week to attend some issues at home. Would you mind lending me your notes after I return to get up to date on the classes?
He then slid the note in front of her over her desk.

[The Flutterlands]

Raphaël Raymond

Raphaël Raymond, chewing on some bubblegum to aid with the anxity he was going through after a stressful, but sucessful potions class, walked into DaDA class together holding hands with Alexander. Raph was excited to meet the new teacher, being from the same country as he, along with having studied about him in History of Magic. Aside from one other student, Augustis, Raphaël found himself to be the only frenchmen, and the only kid who knew a slick of the language. So it was good to get a bit more of the homeland in Hogwarts.

Raph separated from Alex upon entering the class rom and sat down at the front of the classrom. He found a textbook at his desk, no doubt left there by Professor Balhone. The young muggleborn began looking through the textbook while waiting for class to start. He found many of the hex-deflections and countercurses that he would most likely be learning this year to be fascenating, even despite being already good with several of them with much practice.

When the teacher came in, Raphaël snapped into attention as Balhone gave his speech. However, having much difficlulty with focus as part of his ADHD, Raph couldn't help but look back into his text book and read up some entirely new counter curses and hex-deflections, hoping to get some early knowlege. The muggleborn, did though, get the gist of the Professor's lecture and even looked back up at him when he spoke of a dueling tornement, and of teaching non-magic fighting sword fighting and brawling. Raphaël found the former two to be extremely exciting and interesting as the counter-spells in his book. Sure, sword fighinting didn't sound pratical for real life use, but it did sound like a lot of fun to him. "Excuse me, Professeur Balhone," Raphaël said in exciment and eagerness for class, raising his hand and speaking in his very thick french accent with extra emphasis to get Balhone's attention, "What counter-curses and hex-deflections will be starting off today? I've studied and practiced some already. Perhaps something new, Professeur? Or study ways to better what I already know aside from Aqua Eructo?"

Alexander Markus

Alexander was also excited to meet the new Defense against the Dark Arts Teacher as he walked inside with his boyfriend. Both he and Raph found Gleen to be an extremely odd and perhaps unethical teacher, with dangerous field trips to the dark forest and showing off dementors. However, Alex much liked Baxter, finding him to be a better teacher, and thought that he'd like this new guy as well. Both he and Raph hoped to get on his good side as well, having heard tidbits about his backstory being once an aura.

Parting from Raph, Alexander sat close by to Rachel, Ricardo and William. He took a glance through the spell book on his desk before having a friendly discussion with some fellow slytherins. Waiting for the class to start, Alex talked about the qudditch match last week and about the lessons the previous two DaDa teachers have taught them. When Balhone entered the class, Alexander did a much better job at paying attention than Raphael and found the lessons the new teacher spoke of to be quite fascentating and liked the idea of a dueling club to practice defensive spells. Though, he wasn't quite sure what good non-magic combat would do. Alexander raised a hand. "Excuse me, Professor." he said, "What good exactly would brawling and sword fighting do for us when it comes to fighting against the dark arts?" he asked, "Such things probably wouldn''t even do good against muggles these days having guns and such. After all, as muggles say, it's not wise to bring a knife to a gun fight. It does sound like fun though."

[Zhukovian]

Knox Blahone
Classroom 3C

As he surveyed for questions, a boy raised his hand, and ask about the illegal magics.
"Good question there Monsieur, ofcourse the spells on top of the list are the 'Unforgivable' Curses, namely the Killing Curse, Avada Kedavra, the Cruciatus Curse, Crucio and the Imperius Curse, Imperio. You also have those speels that cause severe injuries.

Then the French accented question got his attention, he then faced the guy, " Well today we will first be introduced with the Unforgivable Curses, you must be aware of it's effects and how will it be cast, because I believe you must experience it not just read about it. I might teach you, Carpe Retractum. And other charms for defense and offense."

Another boy then asked about the positive effects if the wandless teaching he will conduct, "Well, as you have know we wizards and witches depend a lot in wands and other magical artifacts, now imagine a situation when you are disarmed, what will you do? Run? No! You will fight that's why you must be prepared for everything, also by the fact that we have squibs which also rely on weapons, you might want to be honorable and fight with your techniques."

He waited for more questions if there are any.

A few minutes latet

He then summoned a spider in front if the class of course ordered to be stay put, he then faced the class once again, "Now I will demonstrate to you on how to properly cast the Killing Curse, now in order to properly cast the Avada Kedavra you must have a strong willpower and magic to support you." he then point his dark hazelwood wand to the spider and yelling Avada Kedavra! shooting an emerald streak on to the spider killing it.

He then summoned another spider this time for the Cruciatus Curse, "Now, let's witness how a Cruciatus Curse be properly cast, you cannot cast this spell out of pure anger but by having the desire to make your victim the suffer, we all know that the Crucio causes the victim to experience extreme pain, this is considered as a torturing spell. Now watch and learn," he then pointed his wand onto the spider and then said Crucio making the spider to move like it is in pain.

"Now, let's move to the last Unforgivable Curse, the Imperius Curse, now this curse allows the caster to have the ability to have control of the victim, now in order to fight back you must have a very strong willpower to overcome it. Now all of the Unforgivable Curses have been concluded, now please right an essay about it, like the properties, what will be your tactic or strategy of defending yourself with encountering this situation and what can you say about them. Time starts now.", but that was just merely a concluding phrase, he is still waiting for any students to ask him questions or clarifications.

[Britanania]

Caitie

Essay on the Unforgiveables? This should be easy, the young witch thought as she started composing her essay.

The Unforgivable Curses were declared son in 1717 by the British Ministry of Magic. The punishment for breaking this edict is a life sentence to Azkaban. One of the most powerful and dangerous spells in all of magic, the Killing Curse--incantation Avada Kedavra--was invented in the early Middle Ages and produces a quick, painless death. However, the intent of the caster must be the death of the victim; it will remain ineffective otherwise. There is no known protection against the Killing Curse save for sacrificial protection, as was the case when He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named used the curse on Harry Potter and Lily Potter's sacrifice saved her son. Save for a Priori Incantem, the spell is unblockable. A proper defense necessitates intercepting the attacker before he may finish the incantation.

The Torturing Curse, or the Cruciatus Cruse--incantation crucio--was devised not only for duelling, but for torture. Like the others, the Torturing Curse requires a strong will to cast, and its power is proportional with the desire of the caster to harm the victim which makes the curse powerful in the hands of an experienced Dark Wizard or sadist. The pain, they say, is almost unbearable, although it leaves no marks or wounds. Like the Killing Curse, the Torturer Curse appears unblockable. Disabling the caster is one option.

Last is the Imperius Curse--incantation imperio. The spell puts the victim under the absolute control of the caster. Unlike the others, one can defend against the Imperius Curse with protection spells or even a strong will. The Imperius Curse, moreover, has been used as a defence against punishment from the use of other Unforgivable Curses and has allowed many Dark Wizards to roam free as a result. This is perhaps its greatest ability as it is impossible to detect who is under the spell and who is not. A proper defence requires a sharp mind and strong will to resist, or a strong protection spell.

In sum, when finding yourself in a situation where an opponent may use an Unforgivable the best defense seems to be a good offense. If you can remove your opponents ability to cast the spells, you will have won the encounter. Like in all magical encounters the goal would to prevent such an outcome in the first place, but short of a peaceful resolution defeating your enemy swiftly is the best way to escape with your life.

[Arlye Austros]

Ricardo

An essay? That is something he didn´t expected. Suddenly his excitement about duelling and such was covered by paper. But well, he felt he could actually do it.

The three known Unforgivable Curses, already explained in the class, are basically characterized by the need to add mental manoeuvres to the actual casting. The Killing Curse requires not only inmense power, but the will to actually kill somebody, which takes a toll on the caster. The Torture Curse needs the actual will to cause suffer, something that may very well be borderline psychopath. Finally the Imperius Curse requires enough concentration to manipulate a person, basically doubling the energy usually put in controlling oneself.

It all sounded too ethereal, and he mostly made it up, but it sort of made sense, or maybe not. He just wanted to be done with it.

If I was ever faced with somebody willing to kill me I believe the best tactic would be to simply get out of the way. Using a Repulsion Spell to propel oneself away might be a good way of doing it. Of course I could try to disarm the attacker, but I presume I wouldn´t have enough time, better to focus on closer targets.
In the case of torture. It comes to my mind that some incantation to actually not feel anything may work as a way to surpass the effect itself. Otherwise I believe it may be possible to overcome the pain just enough to cast a Disarm Charm if one masters Silent Casting.

As for the Imperio…

His mind drifted to the time Christian used it on his cousin. Within a minute Ricardo looked out of the window. Alicia had come to them. They laughed as Janice was forced to jump over stones. Alicia was furious. Now she was gone. For the rest of the class he simply did nothing but looking at the window.

[Miekzhemy]

Rachel

The idea of a dueling tournament was quick to get Rachel's attention. It might give her a chance to actually get some good practical work in on her spells. She only hoped it wouldn't result in anyone getting seriously hurt, but Blahone would know how to keep that from happening, right?

She simply sat quiet and listened as the lesson on the Unforgivables began. Since last year she had learned a lot about them already, which definitely helped her with the essay that they were assigned. She simply outlined the effects of the three curses, their uses by the dark wizards, and the Ministry's thoughts and actions about their use. Her father being a veteran auror is several years gave her enough knowledge to compile a sizable essay on the subject.

As Rachel was nearly finished writing, she noticed a note that found its way to her desk in the midst of the silence in the room. She read through it quickly, and glanced at the professor to make sure he wasn't paying attention to that part of the classroom. She leaned over in Ricardo's direction and whispered quietly over the sounds of several students' quills, pens and pencils as they wrote.

"I'll make copies of my notes Friday afternoon. I managed to figure out the Gemino curse in my Transfiguration studies. It essentially makes duplicates of stuff."

With that, she went back to writing.

[The Anarcho-Syndicalist Commune]

Henry had been staring intently at the new DADA teacher, whom he quickly decided was as eccentric as Gleen. The Man had mentioned the dueling tournament, which Henry was eager to participate in however. Settling into his desk, he began to write his Essay.

Black Magic: The Unforgivable Curses
By Henry Grey

The Dark Arts are a class of magic that is loosely used to describe magic with the intent to harm the victim of the curse, as opposed to some combat charms and other magic like transfiguration used to defend oneself. The Dark Arts themselves range from spells simply used to restrain the victim, albeit in some uncomfortable way, to various gruesome and excruciatingly painful ways to kill a poor soul. It also stems into other branches of magic, like potions and even the realm of beasts and monsters. Of all the possibilities in this vast realm of forbidden magic, the most infamous and reviled are the three Unforgivable Curses. They are the Killing Curse, The Cruciatus Curse and the Imperius Curse. As declared by the Ministry of Magic in 1717, the use of any of these three upon another human being, muggle or wizard, results in a direct lifetime sentence to Azkaban, no questions asked. There has been time throughout our history however where they have been made legal, such as the Allowances of Aurors during Bartimus Crouch Sr.'s time at the head of Magical Law Enforcement, or during the regime of Voldemort. But what makes these curses unforgivable? It is the factor of intent in their nature, the damage they cause, and the particular favouritism certain Dark Wizards have shown them.

The Imperius Curse, or Imperio in incantation form is the most harmless of the three, and is often disputed of it's unforgivable status,
particularly amongst the international community, where it's use in the Middle Eastern and Chinese wizarding practices of wealthy wizards keeping muggle "slaves". Indeed, at first glance, the curse seems no different than a powerful love potion or even other entrancing spells, such as Mesmera.
The unforgivable status of the Imperius Curse comes from the caster's intent. The curse itself is a powerful mind control charm, allowing the caster near total control over the victim. It achieves this by putting the victim into a state of suggestible bliss, where all that matters is the word of their new master. In order to properly perform the spell, the caster must not only have a sufficient degree of magical prowess, but also the will to completely dominate and destroy their victim's free will, mind, and memories. This intent is often the trait of a potential dark wizard and the lifetime sentence more often than not is a preemptive action rather than a punishment of the curse itself.

The Cruciatus Curse is perhaps the most "evil" of the three curses. It takes a certain amount of evil to kill or control someone, but the torture of the Cruciatus Curse is on another level. Victims have described various sensations, including the feeling of their blood being turned to molten lead and the very air becoming venom. To cast it, the caster must truely want to make the victim suffer, and suffer well. The curse itself causes no physical harm, and besides causing pain, has no other direct effects. However, side effects that have been noted are suicidal tendecies, loss of a will to live, complete mental collapse, atrophy of the muscles, and even in some extreme cases, the loss of the ability to use magic. This has only been noted in cases where the curse was applied for hours without relent, taxing both the caster and the victim quite severly. It can be assumed that the curse is the ultimate invention of some long forgotten dark wizard. Indeed, one of the most heinous crimes of the Voldemort era was not even commited by the Dark Lord. Rather, several of his followers, including the now infamous Bellatrix Lestrange, as well as Bartimus Crouch Jr., Used this very spell to torture renowned Auror Frank Longbottom and his wife, completly destroying their mental faculties. The case of the Longbottom's is still a medical study point to this day, due to the lack of actual testing of the Cruciatus Curse for obvious reasons.

Lastly, the Killing Curse. A spell so infamous the very mention of it's name is enough to cause some Veterans from the two Voldemort wars to feel faint. It's incantation is so vile, that even the muggles have come to associate it with their idea of an evil witch or magician, albeit in a bastardized form said as Abra Cadabra, instead of Avada Kedavra. The curse is silent, near instant, and cannot be countered, only blocked by solid physical objects or another powerful spell. Albeit it somewhat unfounded with only one test case, many magical theorists now also speculate that the protection sealed around a person when a Witch or Wizard has sacrificed themselves for the recipient, out of true love, may be able to stop the Killing Curse as well.
This is one of the most common theories to the miracoulous survival of Harry Potter, the Curses's only known survivor. To cast the Killing Curse, One must have a significant degree of talent with magic and a true and unwavering intent to kill the victim. It is speculated that the Curse has it's desired effect of killing silently without a trace by ripping the soul from the body, as evidenced by the written experiences of Voldemort on what happened when he was struck by his own Killing Curse, trying to slay Harry Potter.

[World Anarchic Union]

William Darkenstone

William paid attention to the professor, as he demonstrated the effects of the Unforgivable Curses. From books that he had often read, he had studied beforehand the nature and effects of such curses, and, even he had wished he had not, he had seen the Cruciatus Curse in action. He sighed as he remembered the blonde witch, now imprisoned for the use of the curse, but sighed as well when the professor mentioned they have to write an essay in them. Taking his quill and pen, he started writing it.

The Unforgivable Curses: Origins, effects and defense against them
By William Darkenstone


Dark Magic includes a wide variety of vile hexes and curses that can cause considerable harm and damage. Among them, the Unforgivable Curses stand out as the most vile of them all. The Unforgivable Curses are universally accepted as three, unique Curses. The Cruciatus Curse, the Imperius Curse and the Killing Curse. They were first acknowledged as such by the Ministry of Magic in 1717 and since then, with few exceptions such as during the regime of the Dark Lord, Voldemort, use of them will result to a one-way ticket to Azkaban and a life sentence in the prison. To be able to understand the reasoning behind the severity of the punishment, we have to look at the Curses themselves and their effects.

The Imperius Curse, incantation Imperio, is considered the lightest among the Unforgivables. It results in mind control of the victim, placing them in a state of perpetual happiness and a strong desire to fulfill their master's wishes and desires. The caster requires to have the will to dominate their victim, crushing their ability of free thinking and placing them under their complete control. Many wizards and witches used that curse to justify their actions during both the First and Second Wizarding Wars and claimed they were unwillingly doing the Dark Lord's bidding. The victim can defend themselves by strong willpower and several protection spells.

The Cruciatus Curse, incantation Crucio is a Curse whose sole purpose is to torture the victim, often to submission. It requires the caster to have the will and desire to torture and harm their victims and there is no substantial defense against it, once it has been cast, but rather the only way for one to shield themselves from it, is to deny the caster the chance to use it in the first place. Once it has been cast, its effects will continue until the caster terminates it. As it has been demonstrated in the past, the Cruciatus Curse can result in the victim losing their sanity, by continued use of the curse.

Finally, the Killing Curse, incantation Avada Kedavra, is the curse that ends the life of the victim. Its effects are instantaneous and it has been concluded that the death in itself is swift and without much pain. It has been speculated that the soul is ripped apart from the body, although that has not yet been proven by the Wizarding community. For the curse to result in murder, the caster must have the desire and will to kill. Although no defense exists, the only way to sufficiently defend oneself is to deny the caster from casting the curse, a sole survivor of the curse is known to be Harry Potter, at a very young age. It has been speculated that the sacrifice of another person, because of true love, can shield the victim from the curse and its effects because of true love being a much a more ancient and arcane kind of magic.

Concluding, such Curses have been named Unforgivable, because of them being used almost exclusively by Dark wizards and witches, with exceptions including times of war, and for their sole purpose being to cause some harm for the victim, with almost no redeeming qualities.

---

Anton Valgerth Hurt

Anton observed the professor, demonstrating the effects of the Unforgivable Curses. At the mention of the Killing Curse, and the subsequent flash of green light that exited from the tip of the professor's wand, Anton trembled. After each Curse was shown, the professor demanded an essay out of them, regarding the Unforgivable Curses. Anton started writing, slowly and with concentration. It was a medium-sized essay and he thought that, for his standards, it was good enough. He talked about the status of the curses as Unforgivable, their effects and weaknesses. He didn't hope for a very high grade, but for him it seemed quite above average. As he wrote about the Killing Curse, however, he started trembling again. He finished the essay with haste and difficulty, and then stood silent, not moving, as the familiar images passed through his mind once more.

His father shouting the incantation, the sight of green filling the room, his mother falling on the floor, breathless. He remembered himself crying, weak as ever. His father had turned to him for a brief instant, a twisted smile on his face, before the last spell his mother had casted hit him. He had then opened his eyes widely, a noise that would haunt him for the rest of his life coming from his father's mouth, a noise belonging to an animal in grave pain and not a human. He had then blown to bits, flying across the room. Anton, at the age of three, stood there, crying, knowing that nothing would ever be the same again, as the rest of the world seemed to fade away...

[Zhukovian]

Knox Blahone
Classroom 3C

As he surveyed the room he seemed quite happy having peace inside his classroom, resulting into a small grin. He then checked the time and then said as he raised his hand commanding the attention of the room, "Okay, time is up! please surrender your paper now, when I say surrender just put it in the side of your desk and it will just fly over to arrange itself in my desk. Remember no standing unless I said so, is that clear?!", he asked waiting for the response of the students.

After the papers are arranged he then stood up once again and address to the students, "Now before you are dismissed I would like to remind you to have a sparring partner to train for the 'mini' tournament this coming December. You may ask me if you have any questions. Class dismissed!" he then wave to open the door behind the students.

[Arlye Austros]

Ricardo. DADA Class

He was a bit startled when Rachel leaned and whispered while he was looking outside. He merely managed to smile and nod. Then he looked back at the paper. <<As for the Imperio...>>. He rested his quill on the scroll and slowly drew the C, but then again drifted out through the window.

He was pulled out of his own thought´s by Professor Blahone´s voice. He looked at it... <<As for the Imperio C...>> He had completely forgotten what he was going to add, and realized he didn´t even wanted to finish the essay. He scribbled a quick note at the bottom of the page.
<<Srry, time´s up.>>

Just as he placed aside the paper it took off towards the front desk. Blahone explained a bit more about the dueling club, but now Ricardo felt in a hurry. As soon as the class was dismissed he left to the door and towards the Common.


An hour later. Edge of the School grounds.

"Are you alright?" His mother had been waiting for a while behind the gate, which was opened, but closed as soon as Ricardo crossed it. "You look pale."

"I just didn´t had a good class." He muttered. "How are you, mom?" He asked while hugging her. She prolongued the contact a bit longer.
"Im alright. It´s not been easy, but we are pulling it off. Let´s go." She let her son go and walked away. After a dozen steps they vamished in thin air, heading towards London. From there it would be from the Ministry through the Floo Network.

[The Flutterlands]

Raphaël Raymond

Raph was quite unnerved witnessing the casting of the Unforgivables which he found extremely hard to watch and lessened his admiration for the new professor. In fact, he questioned wither or not what he was doing was even legal. Watching the spiders be killed and tortured fazed him greatly that it took a moment before he could get to his essay. Along with taking out some parchment and quill, Raphaël also took out a piece of candy to suck on and help him focus as he began writing:

The Unforgivable Curses and How to Defend Yourself Against Them

The Three Unforgivable Curses are three terrible tools of the Dark Arts. Due to their nature, compared to almost all other spells, having no other purpose other than to mind control, torture kill, the the three Unforgivable Curses were made illegal in 1717 by the British Ministry of Magic. The use of any one of these curses, on another human being would result with user being given a life-time sentence to Azkaban. The only exception to this was during the First Wizarding War at the behest of Batrimous Crouch. Sr giving permission to auras at the time and during the short reign of Lord Voldemort during the Second Wizarding War. Nonetheless, casting these spells require skill and the nerve to cause their affects.

The Imperious Curse, it's incantation being 'Imperio', is perhaps the least harmful of the three curses, simply mind controlling the target but granting no actual damage or suffering, unlike the other two Unforgivables. The one who casts the curse, having pure desire to hold total dominon over the target's thoughts and actions, puts the victim under full control to do anything he or she wishes. This curse, while far stronger than the Mesmera Charm or any Love Potion, is perhaps the 'weakests' of the Unfrogivables due to being the only one capable of actually defending yourself against with ether with a protection spell or a very strong will that only a handful of wizards truly have. Scores of wizards and witches have claimed to have done terrible things, including the bidding of Lord Voldemort himself, under the Imperius Curse. The hardest trick is of course, though, figuring out who's lying and who's not. Anyone can be under the Imperious Curse without any noticeable traits.

The Cruciatus Curse, it's incantation being 'Crucio', submits the target to unbearable suffering for as long as the caster wishes, granting it it's other name 'The Torture curse'. This is in my opinion, the worst and most cruel of the Unforgivables, for it takes pure sadistic intent to cast and can't be done with vengence or 'righteous anger' alone. Victims have described the experience under the curse in various ways, from feeling like countless white hot knives pericing into every inch of skin to blood feeling like becoming burning and melting acid. Due to the curse leaving behind no injury, except for potentially extreme mental injury after long periods of time which leads to various forms madness, the curse is theorized to work by activating the Nervous System's Nociception (pain receptiors). There is no protection against it aside from simply making sure to prevent the opponent from casting it in the first place. Among the most infamous and atrocious cases of the Cruciatus Curse in the Modern Era was around the end of the First Wizarding War when Frank and Alice Longbottom were driven to madness from long periods under the Torture Curse at the hands of Bellatrix, Roldophus and Rabastan Lestrange and Barty Crouch. Jr.

The killing curse, it's incantation being 'Avada Kedavra', literally meaning in arabic 'let the thing be destroyed', and the origin of the muggle phrase 'abracadabra', causes instant death upon the target with a bright green flash, which is it's singular sole purpose. It is the last of the three and is considered the greatest, most powerful and feared of all three Unforgivabales, and was most likely favorable in duels prior to 1717 because of it's quickness, cleaniness, as it leaves no traces, and effectiveness. It takes great power and skill to cast the curse as well as the singular obsessive desire to kill the person before you. Nothing in magic can block the Killing Curse except for a physical barrier or item big enough to block the curse and the only magical defense can be only given by another through Sacrifical Protection. The most well known case of the latter was on Halloween night of 1981 when Lord Voldemort attempted kill the entire Potter Famly with the Killing Curse, only for the Curse to rebound in an attempt to kill baby Harry Potter after his mother Lily Potter sacrifced herself to protect him. It is theorized that the curse kills by tearing the soul out of the body while also shutting down every organ simultaneously.

In conclusion, the best way to protect yourself against anyone of these curses to, again, prevent your enemy from casting it in the first place. When dealing with practitioners of the unforgivables, it's up to you to disarm him/her or take them out. That should be your singular and sole goal in any encounter with a dark witch and wizard. These curses are called Unforgivable solely because the intetion and effect of them all are so evil and harmful that they can't be called anything else.

At the end of class, Raphaël Raymond placed his paper work aside and watched it fly to Professor Balhone's desk. He got up and whispered to Alex that he'd be at the Library to study before giving him a 'sneak kiss' and heading out of the classroom. On the way, Raph stopped by Derek's desk and smiled. "Say, Derek." he said, the Slytherin's smile becoming a grin, "Want to be my sparring partner for the dueling club."

---

Alexander Markus

Even as somome who disliked spiders with a passion, Alexander couldn't help but feel sorry for the ones Balhone's used, especially the one that suffered the cruciatus curse. He grimaced in memory of his parents telling him about about how his grandfather, a death eater now in Azkaban after the Great Battle of Hogwarts, was a suburb practitioner in unforgivables. The stories they told gave him enough information about the three curses long before he came to Hogwarts. Nonetheless, Alexander got out his quill and parchment to begin his essay, using knowledge given by both parent and professor.

It didn't take long to fill out his essay which was that of several paragraphs. It contained a description and introduction to the dark arts and the Unforgivables in general. After which, Alex wrote a paragraph for each unforgivable curse, including it's usage and personal history. As he wrote, Ava came back to his memory and sighed. Ava you, stupid witch. Alexander thought, What the hell were you thinking you dumb bitch?

At the end of class, Alex went up to Rachel to check on her. He, for whatever reason, thought of her as also a good potential sparring partner. "How are you doing, Rachel?" he asked in his usual friendly tone of voice, "You gave me and friends quite a fright friday. Say would you like to be my sparring partner to practice for the dueling tournament?"

[Miekzhemy]

Rachel

Rachel waltzed out of the classroom as everyone was dismissed. It was a long and boring Monday to say the least. At least the tournament coming up could provide a bit more excitement.

She was greeted by Alex outside of the classroom, who asked how she was doing.

"Feeling a lot better," she said. "But really, there's no need to worry - I've gotten hurt so much playing that bloody game that I've lost count."

Her mind went back to the tournament when Alex mentioned being a sparring partner. She was initially going to see if Andrew wanted to practice, but it wouldn't hurt helping some other out, would it? Though, she wouldn't want to throw away her advantage by giving away the tricks of her own that she had up her sleeve, namely her prodigal transfiguration skills and the tutoring she received in charms class. She had done the math and figured out how, if she did it right, to use her pullus jinx on other people rather than objects. That'd be quite a laugh.

"No problem. I'm free the rest of today anyways. Just holler whenever you need to practice."

[Skylus]

Derek

It had been somewhat hard to write my essay, specifically the part about that one curse.

I had basically described exactly what it had felt like when it had been used against me, and I had a feeling that Balhone would want to see me after class.

Nonetheless, I finished my essay and managed to get it turned in on time.

Meanwhile, the dueling tournament was on my mind.

However, when Raph asked me to be his partner, I returned his grin and sprang to my feet.

"Sure! I'll be your partner. When do you want to start practicing?"

[United Democratic Christian States]

David

The thought of a tournament exited David. The thought of dueling was actually very appeasing to him as he hoped to become an Auror one day, but then again, who didn't?

Then the unforgivable curses where shown.

Oh dear god.....who the hell is sick enough to do that?

After class was over and the essay turned in David initially walked over to Derek to see if he wanted to pair up, however Alex beat him.

Damnit, maybe Raph?

David then quickly turned around to see Raph and Rachel pairing up.

Fuuuuuuuccckkk, who else? My only other true friend is Adam and well he is in America. Wait a minute.....perhaps this is my opportunity to charm Catie, if such thing exist.

Once his eyes landed on Catie and noticed she didn't have a partner yet he was gratified. After only missing a beat he made his way over to Catie.

"Hey urm Catie? Wanna pair up? It seems all my friends have decided to pair up amongst themselves."

[Britanania]

Caitie

Truth be told, the Dark Arts duelling tournament was the last thing on Caitie's mind when she finished her essay and their new professor released the class from his grip. Everyone else was partnering up, but Caitie had little mind to think about it.

I don't even know why they're all that interested in this stupid game, the blonde beauty thought as she collected her books. It's just a power wanking game, that's all

As she was leaving, however, a voice mentioned her. She turned around and saw the one boy from after the Qudditich match, asking if they could partner up.

David, right?

Caitie brushed some of her long hair out of her face with her free hand.

"Oh, sorry David, but I think Henry and I are going to pair up," she thought quickly as she saw Henry walked by.

[World Anarchic Union]

William Darkenstone

William had finished the essay and waited. As the time passed, William left his essay to the side of his desk and prepared to leave. Then, the professor mentioned that they should partner with someone for the upcoming tournament. William instinctively turned around, ready to nod towards her, but the chair was empty. It will always be empty, from now on. He felt a pain once more, in his heart this time. Then, the professor let them go.

He walked slowly, away from his desk, his bag in hand. This entire lesson had reminded him of Ava, from the curse to the tournament and practice. As he walked away, however, he felt more and more confident, more and more sure of himself, sure of what he was going to do. I will make it right, Ava. I will make everything right! I will right every wrong and overcome all odds! I will set you and this world free!

He noticed that he had left the classroom. At the corner of his eye, he saw the young wizard that had still not answered him. He noticed that most others had already selected their sparring partners so he approached Andrew.

"How's it going, Andrew? You seem better. So, to cut straight to the point. Would you like to be my sparring partner for the tournament? I am sure you are very good at it and I need to practice if I want to have a serious chance. So, what do you say?" he said, looking him straight in the eyes.

---

Anton Valgerth Hurt

Anton had stayed still after the end of his essay. He was thinking and time had lost all meaning for him. It wasn't until the professor announced the end of the class that he snapped out of his thoughts, his recurring nightmares. He left his essay at the side of the desk and left the classroom.

A sparring partner? Well, I don't really want to take part in that stupid game. It would be bad...for all, most likely. Better safe than sorry. he had started thinking as he passed by Caitie and David. Hearing David and Caitie's conversation, he turned to them. I may not want to join the game but I might as well help someone who wants to. he thought, as he greeted the two of them.

"Um, David... I heard you wanted a sparring partner for the tournament and all. I could be your sparring partner, if you want to, of course. Don't really want to join in but some practice can't be bad, right?" he said and smiled, reluctantly.
How much longer can I keep me chained? Haunted by the same nightmares. Afraid of my own self.

[Britanania]

Caitie

As Anton intervene and talked to David, Caitie resisted the urge to let out a sigh of relief before offering a polite smile to the two boys sure to melt both of their hearts.

I'll have to thank Anton for this later, she thought as she gave a little wave.

"Well boys, be sure to play nice. If you ever need any advice you know where to find me," Caitie said as she turned and made her way out of the class room.