#7 - An Unlocked Mystery

Sebastian navigated the castle with ease, having walked this particular set of corridors many times before—however, he had only actually used the Spiral Staircase once or twice. There were various doors located throughout, all locked and unable to be opened. Students had tried their best to pry them open, either by use of charms or through a wide variety of manhandling techniques. Naturally, these attempts were unsuccessful and Seb had witnessed some of these endeavors, opting not to partake. He was waiting for the day he'd be allowed proper entry.

Today felt like that day, as Sebastian emerged at the base of the staircase. He peered around at the various doors that decorated the walls surrounding him. There were so many, and yet, he only had one key. How would he know which key worked on what door? Sebastian knew he'd have to test the key on multiple doors, hoping that he'd stumble upon the right one—if there was a right one. If he was going to spend his afternoon doing this, he hoped there'd be something to gain. What that was, he didn't know, but unlocking a door would be enough.

Seb approached his first door, rummaging through his soiled robe pockets to find his key. He moved his fingers past a clump of galleons until he felt the bow and shaft of the key. He slowly pulled it out, getting a glimpse of its bronze color. After a moment, he attempted to insert the key into his first door, unable to get it to click into place. He was unsuccessful on his first try.

He went on to try four more doors, all of which were failed attempts. The key either didn't fit the shape of the keyhole or when it did slip in, Bash couldn't twist it. Was this even worth it? What would be behind one of these doors, anyway? Sebastian had heard rumors suggesting that an incentive of some kind may have been beyond the doors, but nobody knew for sure. And, just as he was about to give up, he tried once more, watching as his Bronze key slipped into a latch and clicked into place. His heart skipped a beat, as he pushed open the door.