First of all, I'd like to apologise for the late update. Not trying to find excuses, but just so you know, it takes me about 7 days to just write a chapter and then I need several more to correct it. So yeah, it's a bit slow... I was also told that some words don't make sense sometimes and to that, all I have to say is it's because I probably missed them and because in French, they have a different meaning then in English (false friends we call them). I try to be extra careful with them, but I sometimes don't notice them. Also, in the first chapter, I made a mistake and I'd like to thank the reviewer that brought my attention to it: Tsunade's eyes are brown, not blue. My bad! :b
On another note, I saw the last Harry Potter movie, Deathly Hallows part 2, yesterday and I really liked it! It's just so sad knowing that there won't be anymore of those... Harry Potter saga is officially over. :( Well, maybe not for us fanfiction writers! ;)
I'd also like to thank all of you who have reviewed the story, it was heart-warming and those who favorited and put it in their alert list. Thank you all! ^-^
And last but not least (far from it actually) I'd like to thank DemonKittyAngel, who helped me a lot in my portraying of Snape (without her, he'd be less believable and WAY too nice). I'm really glad I can rely on you for the rest of my fic, too! :D
Before I forget, I'll just mention that I use italic for the thoughts and bold italic when Sakura speaks Japanese (it's usually written, but I'd like to avoid misunderstandings).
Now, I'll stop my rambling and let you read on, hoping you'll enjoy it and that your wait was worthwhile! Enjoy! ;)
Setting up wasn't as difficult as she had imagined it would be. Shortly after her arrival, Snape had told her the basics about the castle, and had introduced her to the rest of the professor corps. Except for Hagrid and Minerva Mcgonagall, the others didn't know about the truth of her stay, being told the same story the students would be. Her supervisor hadn't bothered showing her around the castle, only informing her about the whereabouts of her quarters. He had left her to her own devices after that, telling her to meet him in his office a week from her arrival.
So she currently had seven days to wander about the castle – a real one, with towers, secret passageways (she found one of those by accident), tapestries and huge grounds; she still couldn't believe her eyes – and get to know about its layout and secrets. Now if only the staircases could stop moving and trying to get her lost!
The first place Sakura visited when abandoned by Snape was the library. She needed to get to know the most about this strange world, after all, if she intended to be credible. And that's how Professor Dumbledore had found her, with 'Hogwarts, A History' in her lap, pink strands falling in her eyes, brows creased in concentration. The old wizard coughed discreetly to get her attention and no sooner was she on her feet. Guilt flickered through her emerald eyes, ashamed she had been caught unaware of her surroundings.
''Good afternoon, dear,'' said the aging man, ''I hope you are well settled and finding your stay amongst us pleasant.''
''Yes, thank you, Sir.'' she answered, a little bit too stiffly. ''It is a very impressive school you have.''
Blue eyes shimmered in a friendly manner, so like those of her deceased best friend. Her heart twisted with pain. ''It is, isn't it?'' he said. ''But I forgot my manners. My name is Albus Dumbledore and I am the Headmaster of Hogwarts.''
Sakura straightened a bit more at hearing those words. This was the man who had hired her. ''Pleased to meet you, Sir. I am Sakura Haruno, Kunoichi of the Leaf and at your orders.'' she bowed politely.
''Such a young girl, barely an adult.'' a sad smile adorned the Headmaster's lips. ''Please Miss Haruno, do try to make your stay as pleasant as possible. You needn't make every day a mission.''
Flicking one of her rebel strands behind her ear, Sakura peered curiously at the wizard. It was the first time she had been asked, almost told, to act casually on a mission, as in be casual, not pretend. The man was intruiging, that was the least she could say. He had long grey hear, with a beard to match it in color and length, a pair of half-moon shaped glasses and midnight-colored robes. His blue eyes twinkled amicably and he was constantly smiling. For any onlooker, he seemed like a nice old man. But she could feel something else within him. He was powerful, very much so. His magic, though fainter than a chakra signature, still prickled at her senses. Her mind supplied her with one word when considering this man: beware. Schooling her features, she clasped her hands behind her back and locked gazes with the old man. She would show him that she acknowledged his power and the potential danger he might represent, but she wouldn't cower before him. She wouldn't defy him, but would still stand her ground. His smile visibly stretched and he nooded to himself.
He turned to leave, robes lightly billowing behind him. ''I won't be holding you up any longer then, Miss Haruno.'' he warmly said. ''You are welcome to join the professors and myself for dinner at eight o'clock.''
Once out of sight, the pinkette let herself fall in her chair, fingers massaging her forehead. This is going to be a long mission! She was already tired just thinking about it. She really hoped there wouldn't be anymore wizards like him, otherwise it would be hard letting her guard down.
Why in Heaven's name do you want to let your guard down? You're in unknown territory, with unidentified ennemies! came her inner's scolding.
Shut up. Why are you even here? I thought I was rid of you!
Thought you'd be feeling lonely without me. Besides, that supervisor of yours seems to be on the same level as the Headmaster.
Go away. Leave me alone.
Sakura rose from her chair, taking her book with her. How ridiculous was it to be speaking to her own self, anyway? But she had to admit there was a point in what her inner had said – no, what she had said. Now that she thought about it, Snape also had powerful magic. How could she not have noticed before? Sure, it wasn't as powerful as Dumbledore's, but it was still significant. That explained why she had been intimidated when they first met... Well, now she had one more thing to add to her to-do list: learn to identify the teachers by their magic, so they couldn't sneak up on her like Dumbledore had.
Dinner had been in a huge room which, she concluded, would gather all the students during mealtimes. For now, there was only one big table for the professors and her. Sakura didn't know what should astound her more: the bewitched ceiling that reflected the outside weather or the food that appeared from seemingly nowhere in front of her. She only snapped out of her stupor when she heard a laughter on her right side. A long-haired, blond woman looked at her, mirth in her bright eyes. Charity Burbage, Professor of Muggle Studies, the kunoichi remembered.
''You didn't have magical ceilings in your school?'' she asked in a smooth voice, chin resting in her left hand.
''Oh, uh, no, we didn't,'' the rosette hesitated '' and neither did the food... pop out from nowhere.''
''Oh, that's the houselves' doing. '' came the kind reply, followed by an incredulous look when the girl didn't seem to know what those were.
''Well, you see... Our community is a bit different from yours.'' Sakura explained, becoming nervous once every eye at the table was on her. Snape seemed disinterested, though his black eyes were warning, McGonagall had her lips in a thin line, disapproval written all over her face and Dumbledore seemed genuinely interested. Yeah, sure, don't even try distracting them or veering the conversation elsewhere. Thanks for the help, traitors!
Taking a deep breath, she started her story, trying to be as honest as possible, without revealing too much about their society. She told them how they were schooled till the age of twelve, after that, they were separated in groups of three and one teacher would be responsible for their further uprbringing. That each team had little jobs to accomplish, wich were mainly helping out people, and they had sort of tests to see if they evolved. When asked when they were finished with their schooling, she answered that it was when they passed on a higher level. She decided that instead of using their rank names, she'd use numbers. Academy students were level 0, Genin 1, Chûnin 2 and Jônin 3, while Hokage was the equivalent of Headmaster and Minister. That least bit of information seemed to interest more than one, seeing as that meant that in Sakura's society, politics and education were one.
''So what, uh, level are you then, dear?'' asked Pomona Sprout, Professor of Herbology and a small, grey-haired woman.
''Three. I've finished my schooling.''
''And that means you're ready to go out and work in the society. At barely seventeen nonetheless.'' came the pensive response of Septima Vector, Professor of Arithmancy. ''And you chose Potions as your specialisation. May I ask why?''
Sakura took a moment to think about that. Really, had she been given a chance to choose, she would've assisted Poppy Pomfrey, the strict yet kind looking school nurse. It was, after all, her field of expertise.
''The woman I look up to was a very talented person in Potions. I've decided to follow in her steps.'' came the decided reply.
The professors seemed satisfied with her answers for they all turned back to their meal, chatting amongst themselves. The kunoichi was lucky enough to finish her dinner without further questions. And really, it was for the best, since Snape and McGonagall looked both ready to give her a tell-off for running her big mouth. She shot both of them a glare. She could handle herself, besides, they all knew from the start that she'd have to divulge a least bit of information if she wanted to be accepted and remain unsuspected during her stay.
She excused herself at the end of dinner, leaving the professors to enjoy some conversation around their cups of coffee or tea. 'Hogwarts, A History' was waiting for her in her room, and she had some catching up to do about enchanted ceilings and houselves.
The Wizarding World was on a completely different level than the Shinobi one. Sakura just couldn't get enough of all the novelties and eccentricities that surrounded her. On her way back from dinner, she had crossed paths with a ghost – a real, see-through, floating dead person! Her first reaction had been to shriek and run away, hiding behind a nearby statue. Yes, she might be a kunoichi and used to seeing dead people, but honestly, seeing them come back wasn't on the job description, so no one could really hold her moment of cowardice against her. The gost, in all its grey and pale splendor, had only raised an eyebrow at her, silently floating in one place. When she had mustered up enough courage, she came out from behind her statue and weakly introduced herself. At that, he smiled and said he was Sir Nicholas de Mimsy-Porpington, the resident ghost of Gryffindor Tower (she would later learn that the students affectionately called him Nearly Headless Nick, much to his displeasure). He had courteously bowed at her – to which she responded in kind – and his head suddenly fell to the side, only held by a few plasma-strings. The kunoichi had stared on with morbid fascination, wondering if her healing chakra could have effect on a an intangible creature like him. His replacing his head had interrupted her daydreamings and had earned him, much to his satisfaction, an impressed gasp from the pinkette. They had then walked on, conversing pleasantly.
And that was how she had gotten here. Their conversation had at some point veered in the direction of houselves and Sir Nicholas had mentioned in passing about a portrait and a secret entrance towards the kitchen. The teenager had, of course, jumped on the occasion to learn more about the subject and was now faced with a huge painting, representing an enormous bowl of fruit. She studied it for a bit, snorting at her own enthousiasm to get here as fast as possible. Really, this place was starting to make her childish. She'd been here for barely a day and had already shown blatant curiousity and astonishement to the world surrounding her, fear towards creatures she wasn't used to meeting and excitement at the chance of seeing something new. For a moment, she considered having been reverted to her twelve-year-old self. She discreetly smoothed her hands over her figure, making sure it wasn't true. Sighing, she let her arms fall and turned around, heading back to her quarters. She would blame this slip in control on her fatigue. Tomorrow, she'd do better and be much more calm and collected about all this situation.
But before going to bed and thinking about the future, a nice hot bubble-bath in that luxurious prefect bathroom sounds really nice. she clicked her tongue in appreciation. Oh yeah, how I missed those. Definitely welcome!
The next morning had caught her yet again in front of the kitchen's entry. After her satisfactory – and decidedly very long – bubble-bath, she had went back to her room to study her book. It's history had been more than intriguing and she had found it fascinating to read. Sure it had considerably decreased the hours dedicated to her sleep, but then again, it was so much more instructive! And sometimes between her putting the now finished book down and lying down to sleep, she had decided to uncover as many of the castle's mysteries as she could. It would be a good exercise to keep her senses acute, and an entertaining experience. She stared pensively up at the paiting, readying herself to open the secret passageway. No, her presence here wasn't due to excitement and impatience on her part, she reasoned, it was a platonic and strictly scientific curiosity. Yes, that was it exactly. Now to tickle the pear...
Barely stepping one foot in the kitchen, she was swarmed by an army of small people, their height only reaching up to her navel. She moved back, overwhelmed by their sheer number and physical appearance. All of them were small, with thin limbs and huge, bat-like ears and long noses. Dozens of gazes fixed themselves on her for a moment, before turning back to their work. A few of them remained by her side, looking up at the rosette with big, round eyes that slightly resembled those of Lee.
''How can house-elves be of service to Miss, Miss?'' asked the closest one, a male with mismatched clothes and green, tennis-ball shaped eyes.
Right, she hadn't thought about that. She came on impulse and hadn't even come up with a plan. So she decided to throw out the next intelligent thought that crossed her mind. ''Um... hi.'' Smooth, Sakura.
''Good morning, Miss.'' came the patient reply of the little humanoid. The others around him started leaving, seeing as she didn't seem to have come with a specific purpose.
''Well, you see... I'm Sakura and I'm new here. I was walking around the castle and thought I'd might come and introduce myself.'' Good one Sakura, now you seem perfectly normal and well-behaved!
The general reaction proved her otherwise. Most of them slowed their work – some even stopping – ears stretched towards her and she even got a few curious glances thrown in her direction. What had she done wrong, she wondered.
''Welcome to Hogwarts, Miss Sakura. Dobby's name is Dobby.'' came the enthusiastic answer of the small elf next to her. He looked like the only one that didn't think she was beeing weird. ''Do not mind house-elves reaction, Miss, '' he added, noticing her unsure expression. ''house-elves only finds it unusual to be greeted by Masters when they comes to school.''
Sakura stared at him for a moment, unable to form coherent thoughts. She didn't know what was weirder, his bizarre way of speaking or him referring to students and teachers as 'Masters', as if they were some kind of slaves. She was still a bit unclear on the subject of house-elves, she'd need to look it up in the library.
''Does Miss desire anything? Dobby and house-elves is ready to help.'' he said, looking positively impatient to sprint and accomplish her wishes. The others resumed their activities, but Sakura could still see most ears turned towards her.
''Could I perhaps... if it isn't too much to aks, is it possible I have ramen for breakfast?''
She could've kicked herself. While wanting not to look like a complete idiot in front of these small creatures, she blurted out the first idea that crossed her mind. Really, she could be such a Naruto sometimes. No, no sad thoughts! Now is not the time to be miserable! she scolded.
''Right away, Miss. If Miss Sakura wants ramen for her breakfast, she'll have ramen!'' the elf joyfully exclaimed. ''Should house-elves also make ramen for lunch and dinner?''
''Oh, no. No thank you! I just felt like having ramen this morning.'' Lies. ''Thank you very much for your kindness. I will leave now, I don't want to bother.''
Dobby looked absolutely horrified at that idea. ''Miss isn't a bother! Miss can come anytime, she is always welcome!''
''Oh, thank you... Dobby. It was nice meeting you. Well I got some studying to do, so I'll go.'' she waved unsurely, backing up towards the door.
The elf bowed and she automatically did the same, earning her yet another round of glances. ''Dobby was glad to help. Good day, Miss Sakura.''
Once outside the kitchen, she leaned against the nearest wall. That had certainly been, ah, an interesting experience. One she might not reiterate right away. The house-elves had seemed nice enough, but that servant-like feeling they exuded made her uncomfortable, even though they didn't seem to mind. Parting with the wall, she headed to the Great Hall for breakfast.
Yes, for ramen. Because you couldn't ask for anything normal, you idiot. Came the familiar voice of her inner, followed by one of her sighs.
''You're late, Sakura.'' were the words that greeted her that morning.
''Yes, and I deeply apologise. You see, i got lost and...''
''How could you get lost? You pass the Entry Hall three times a day, while going for food!'' Aurora Sinistra, the dark-skinned and haired Astronomy teacher looked disbelievingly at her.
''Well...''
''And why do you come up with unbelievable excuses every time?'' Septima Vector, looked half-irritated, half-amused.
''But...''
''Ladies, that's quite enough! We should leave, lest Sakura be late for her appointment with Severus this evening.'' interrupted the short grey-haired Flying instructor, Rolanda Hooch, hands on her hips.
The kunoichi sighed, eyeing the female professors gathered around her. It hadn't taken long to befriend them and the teachers, though older than her, warmly welcomed her in their circle. She had found their company as enjoyable as it was instructive. They had stayed up late quite a few times at one of their quarters, hot cups of tea in their laps, discussing magic, teaching, students and some of the more subtle, strictly feminine subjects – like men. And today, they had decided to show her around Hogsmeade, a small village near the school, that was the students favorite place to go when authorized.
Rolanda herded Septima and Aurora out the gate, ignoring the two witches protests and their voiced complaints about not getting their questions answered. Charity Burbage followed closely behind, a small smile on her lips. Sakura made to move, when a warm hand landed on her shoulder. Turning her head, she locked gazes with Pomona Sprout's kind chocolate eyes.
''Are you okay?'' was all she asked.
Sakura nodded and walked after the four other women. ''Just slept in is all.'' Pomona wordlessly accompanied her, both of them catching up to the other professors.
The pinkette smiled and asked them to lead the way. She couldn't tell them the reason of her tardiness had been her staring at the crumpled picture of Team 7 on her bedside. She had taken it with her on all of her longer and more difficult missions. It made her feel, even if only a bit, like she wasn't alone. That her friends and second family were always with her, wherever she went. And if usually she refused to look at it, sometimes she couldn't help herself. And then she'd end up remembering and not moving for hours. Like this morning...
''Sakura, are you listening?'' Rolanda's impatient voice interrupted her thoughts.
''Sorry.'' came the embarassed reply.
''It's okay, dear. You still are a teenager afterall. It's normal history doesn't interest you that much yet.'' Charity chuckled good-naturedly.
Rolanda frowned, a slight pout forming on her sharp features. ''That's still not reason enough to ignore someone who's talking to you.'' she grumbled, earning her a round of laughs and a friendly tap on the back, curtesy of Pomona.
''Let's skip the history then, you can read about that at the library. We'll just roughly go through the more important and useful shops.'' said Septima. ''There's Dogweed and Deathcap, a herbology shop that might come in handy, when Pomona can't help you out. We also have Galdrag's Wizardwear for clothes. Um... there's Scrivenshaft's Quill Shop, they sell some of the best quills of the country. Tomes and Scrolls, a bookshop, Zonko's joke shop, though I hear the Weasley twins want to open up a store here too, Merlin protect us all. Up the hill there is the Shirieking Shack, folks here believe it's haunted, though no noise has been heard from it for years. We mustn't forget Honeydukes, the local sweets shop and the students favorite gathering place. They come back from here with enough stocks to pass the winter.''
''Oh, and don't forget the Three Broomsticks!'' chipped in Charity. ''How 'bout we go have a drink? Rosmerta'll surely want to meet Sakura.''
The other witches nodded enthusiastically and they all hurried towards the pub. The interior was crowded and a bit smoky, but had a welcoming side to it. Sakura followed the older women to the barn where they were soon greeted by a tall and beautiful lady, with long, curly blond hair. She smiled warmly.
''The usual, ladies?'' she asked, her voice rich and smooth.
''Yes, please, Rosmerta. And a Butterbeer for Sakura here.''
''Right away.'' The drinks appeared soon enough before their owners, the pinkette carefully sipping hers. It was odd, but she didn't dislike it. She preferred it to pumpkin juice, anyway. The blonde owner scrutinized her for a few moments, before starting her interrogation. She was answered by Rolanda between gulps of her bigger-than-normal glass of Firewhiskey.
''She's Severus' apprentice. Came all the way from Japan, she did.''
''Really?'' she seemed impressed. ''And why Hogwarts? Surely you must've heard of Severus'... uh, reputation...''
At the kunoichi's raised eyebrow, Rosmerta suddenly started spluttering. ''I didn't want to demean him. It's just he doesn't have the nicest of personalities. Has been that way ever since he was a student...''.
''I can't really judge him, we're not that familiar yet.'' It was the pub's owner's turn to raise her brow. ''One of my superiors told me he was the best to learn from, so...'' she left her sentence hang, everybody knowing the rest. At least grosso modo.
''Though I'm still curious as to why he accepted.'' intervened Aurora, chewing on the cherry of her Party Punch. ''No offence Sakura, but he never seemed like the type to get an apprentice.''
They all looked expectantly at her, but were fast disappointed when all she did wa shrug and admit she didn't know either. It wasn't entirely true, but wasn't false either. Afterall, he could have easily refused her and told her to make do with what she knew of animals, but had instead accepted picking her as a false apprentice. Maybe she'd ask once evening came, during their appointment.
''Nah, what I really want to know, well actually us – and please don't be offended, Sakura, dear, '' carefully started Charity, after a long sip from her Sherry, ''is about your hair.''
There was a moment of silence, where everyone waited to see if she'd get angry and start yelling at them, or feel offended and just leave them to continue her Hogsmeade tour by herself. Instead, the teenager just sighed and dropped her gaze on her Butterbeer. She knew that subject would come up sooner or later and for the moment, was amazed they'd held it in for almost a week.
''It's as natural as it gets. I did have a few pink-haired ancestors in the family, but most were redheads, like my mom. Dad's hair was almost snom-white, so I guess I got this color from the combination of the two.'' Thinking of her parents brought a lump to her throat, forcing her to drink some of her beverage in an effort to make it go away.
''And you never thought of dying it? I mean, it draws the eye. Doesn't the staring bother you?'' Pomona asked, casting her a glance before returning to stare at the mesmerizing shades of her Daisyroot Draught.
''You get used to it after all these years. And I'm actually proud of it's color, it's my family inheritage.'' was the simple answer.
The witches pensively nodded and there was an instant of silence between them. They were all absorbed in their thoughts, Rosmerta distantly wiping a glass. Sakura wasn't sure what brought about this change in the atmosphere, but it wasn't uncomfortable. They usually spent their time babbling and barely ever remained silent. It was... comforting in a manner. An amicable absence of talk, a companionable silence... very soon to be interrupted by an energetic Pomona.
''So how about some sweets? I've been dying to go to Honeydukes, ever since we got here!'' she exclaimed, ignoring the muffled groans of her friends and the amused look of the blonde owner.
''By all means, then, let's go! Mustn't miss out on the new flavors of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans!'' Rolanda sarcastically added, standing up nonetheless.
''Oh, I'd rather buy Chocolate Cauldrons.'' the plump witch distractedly answered, unfazed by her colleague's words.
Rolanda rolled her eyes and left the inn after paying for her drink. The other witches did the same, following them outside. Sakura stayed a bit behind while they strode towards the store, barely a few buildings away. She had to admit she was having fun. After the war back at home, everyone had been morose and people barely talked to each other anymore. Though she understood the impossibility of cheerfulness in their situation, she still disagreed with the lack of will to socialise. Closing oneself off and shying away from others wasn't the solution and hindered the reconstruction of a a healthy and functional society.
At the beginning, when she was getting to know the school professors, she had felt guilty for the fleeting joyful sentiments that were born inside of her. But slowly, she had come to accept them. She knew that an effective shinobi was one unhindered by feelings. And hers – the ones of self-pity, loneliness and longing of her deceased friends – were holding her back. Though she couldn't, and wouldn't, ever be free on them, she could compensate with the happier ones to get to a balance. This mission could turn into a nightmare at any moment and she needed to be stable and strong. So if it took a few nice memories to keep herself straight, then guilt be damned, she'd have a few good times!
Sakura stood in front of the massive wooden door, hands hanging limply by her sides. She was late, though only by five minutes, and she knew this man wouldn't take it as lightly as his colleagues did. Slowly, she raised her arm and rapped lightly against the door, all the time cursing her stupid need to neatly put away everything she had bought during her trip in Hogsmeade. You could've done it after your session! She chided herself. The deep baritone of her supervisor resounded, beckoning her to enter. So she did, stopping a few feet away from his imposing desk, standing at attention. He was leaning over some paperwork, one hand clutching a quill, the other against his forehead, probably to prevent his longer black hair from covering his sight. At her entry, he put his quill down and intertwined his fingers in front of his face, dark eyes trained on her. She was suddenly hit by how much his eyes resembled those of her first love and she visibly recoiled. If he noticed – which she was sure he did, his keen eyes never leaving her – he didn't react and continued his scrutiny.
"You're late." he stated, disapproval underlying his words. Of course it would, what were you expecting? She knew apologizing wouldn't change a thing about her situation, but did so anyway, just for the form.
He suddenly waved towards a place behind her and turning, she noticed a table set up with a cauldron and different ingredients around it. There was an open door in the back of the room and she guessed it was where he stored all of his potions' ingredients.
"Brew." he commanded, and she briskly made her way towards the cauldron. She shouldn't be so affected by his orders, really. She blamed it on years of receiving and obeying them.
Sakura laid her hip-pouch on the table and started emptying its contents. Since her arrival, she hadn't really used it for storing weapons, but more as a stocking place for the map she was making of the castle and the notebook that held the information she'd gathered about the school – momentarily containing some of her own concoctions. Not that she was unarmed. Below the sand colored cloak she sometimes wore, her holsters were still firmly attached to her thighs and still very full. Professor McGonagall had asked her to kindly wear them in a less noticeable place once the students arrived.
The wizard had silently approached her, carefully eyeing her actions, as if he was expecting a sudden and inexplicable explosion. Once finished, she reattached the pouch and threw her cloak on a nearby chair. She still wore her sleeveless red tank-top, black spandex shorts under her purple medical skirt and knee-high combat boots, in spite of the castle's chilly temperatures. She felt way more comfortable in her fighting gear. She used her headband to tie her pink strands in a ponytail, readying herself for work.
Under the strict stare of her supervisor, she lifted a small phial filled with a purple-ish substance.
"This is a poison I've encountered once." she vaguely explained, showing it to him. "It's very strong, and its purpose is to paralyze the victim and slowly kill him. Three days if no antidote is administered. And this," she pulled out another phial '' is the antidote. I haven't really had time to work on it, so the effects are still a bit slow. I'd need a few more hours and I could perfect it, so it'd barely take an hour to heal the poisoned.''
He said nothing, staring at the liquid. She didn't mind him coming to know about this particular poison, since it was one her and other medic-nins were already acquainted with and knew how to treat. The poison used by Sasori of Akatsuki on Kankuro, Chiyo and herself.
She frowned, emerald locking on his still concentrated onyx when his silence became too prolonged. For an instant, she thought she'd seen interest spark in his eyes, but it disappeared as soon as it appeared and she decided to dismiss this thought. ''Sir?'' she silently asked.
He suddenly straightened and flipped his black coat – What's with him and theatricality? – cold glare fixing itself on her. She unconsciously stiffened, as if readying herself for an attack. Which indeed came, but not physically.
"And I suppose this was meant to impress." he said, almost sneering. "A poison designed by another and an antidote only half-done. How useless."
The kunoichi shot him a nasty look, barely holding back her retort. Well not all of us have the time to stay hidden in a lab in some dark dungeon and calmly work on potions! Her inner self raged. Some of us actually save lives! She knew very well she was unfair to the man and he didn't only stay hidden, but his remark stung. She knew she was a failure on many levels and didn't need any reminding.
Fighting to keep the hurt off her face and out of her voice, she haughtily replied. "Well give me some time and it'll be done to your satisfaction!" The last word tainted with sarcasm.
He gave her a condescending look, not even bothering to answer her. Oh, now she just wanted to hurt him. He slowly made his way towards his desk and once seated, ordered her to make the strongest wound-healing ointment she could because he would judge her abilities on that. She was granted access to his personal stock – as long as she gave him a detailed list of all the ingredients she had used up – and the time necessary to finish her assignment. Grumbling, the pinkette got to work.
It had taken her about an hour to finish the ointment. He had tested it on his person, on a small cut inside his left palm. It healed visibly, in mere seconds. The kunoichi had proudly looked at his raised eyebrow, the only indication of his surprise. He had asked for her strongest ointment after all, it's quick effect not being an extraordinary feat, though she still let a satisfied smile grace her lips. He morosely stored the small container away, sending her on her merry way, but not before barking after her to come back the next day at five in the afternoon. They would be having five-hour long Potions session for the two weeks to come, until the beginning of the new school term.
"Are you really this incompetent, girl, or is this just to get on my nerves?" had been the question she'd gotten for the last three days, with only slight modifications to it, so as not to make it too repetitive.
The kunoichi stared at her cauldron, wondering what she might've done wrong. She was supposed to make a Boil-Cure Potion and had at last nailed all the ingredients – even adding porcupine quills after taking it off the fire, so her cauldron wouldn't melt (she learnt that on her second try when some of it got on her arm and he skin erupted in boils) – and the brewing. Now her mixture proudly sat in its container, light-red colored. She had been on this potion for three days, and though it grated on her nerves that it had taken so long, she had been sure that this time, she had been successful. Apparently, she was wrong. Again.
"Exactly what part of the instructions don't you get?" Snape hissed behind her. "It should be pink, not red. One would think it is a color you are familiar with."
She threw him a murderous glare. Ever since her arrival, he had taken it to heart to make at least one insulting comment about her hair and take a jab at her abilities every time he could. Him looming over her while she worked didn't really bother her, she knew he was only trying to pressure her – unsuccessfully, might she add – but the insults were over the top and totally unhelpful. Especially because they solely seemed to be meant to ridicule, not aid.
"To think I believed you could actually understand the difficulty of Potions." he said. "But it does seem you Shinobi are meant for barbaric fights and killing, rather than subtle arts, requiring some basic knowledge and common sense."
"I would be faring better if you actually spoke to help me and not waste your breath insulting my skills!" she snapped, emerald eyes furiously turning towards his charcoal ones. "You said yourself that to brew, the potioneer needed to infuse his magic into the ingredients and the mixing. I have no magic, only chakra, so I obviously can't work the same way your students do. We should be looking for a way to make this work!"
"And here I thought you were a competent, high-ranked Shinobi." he casually said, before sneering, his voice turning ice-cold. "There is no we here, girl. My job is to make you believable in front of the students and other professors. There will be no bonding or mutual understanding in this class. I will prepare you and when I'm done, you are to never disturb me again."
With that he turned, black robes theatrically billowing behind him, and disappeared in the storage room. The kunoichi restrained a frustrated growl, hands smoothing out her purple medical apron, and went on to the next cauldron, starting her potion all over again. Oh, how she wished she could punch the man through a few concrete walls. She just couldn't stand his haughty, despising attitude.
She could tell he'd been through more than he'd ever admit to. It was written all over him, his gestures, his posture, his expressions, but mostly in his eyes. Those dark orbs spoke of pain, loss, betrayal, loneliness and more. She had seen that look in the eyes of many, the first being Sasuke. When she was a child, she had found that attractive in the young Uchiha, it gave him a 'deeply tormented' kind of aura, adding to his mysterious and brooding charm. Now she knew better. She was pretty sure some of those same traits could be seen in her own eyes, most of the time.
But that still doesn't give him the right to treat me this way! It's not like it's my fault and he needs to take it out on me! She angrily thought, crushing the snake fangs with more force than necessary. You just wait Severus Snape, I'm so going to get back at you!
''I can't take it anymore!'' came the muffled cry, once the pinkette had theatrically thrown herself on Charity's sofa, face buried in her pillows. The witch laughed good-naturedly, tapping her shoulder in a friendly manner.
''Severus wearing you down, dear?'' she asked, mirth still present in her voice.
''Wouldn't be surprising. I'm exhausted after exchanging formalities with him!'' exclaimed Aurora, holding up Sakura's tea for her.
''More like frozen.'' snickered Rolanda, while their youngest friend sipped at her tea.
''Now, now, be nice ladies. Severus has it hard too, we shouldn't be so rough with him.'' came Pomona's light lecture, to which she was awarded a few incredulous stares.
''Oh, yes, it must be hard beeing so mean all the time. Surely dear Severus must want a day or two off, to merrily go pick daisies for a Daisyroot Draught with us!'' scoffed Septima.
Pomona just huffed, throwing her hands up in defeat, while they all listened to the kunoichi's complaints. It wasn't like any of them had a particular problem with the Potions Master – he was so distant and closed-off they didn't know each other on more than a professional level –, but they were a bit put off by his behavior. Besides, their innocent remarks on him could hardly be considered vexing, especially by the professional-offender he was.
''Eighteen times? You redid the Boil-Cure Potion eighteen times? Oh, dear Merlin!'' Rolanda seemed stricken. ''That's almost worst than every detention he ever gave out!''
''That's only because you are exceptionnally bad at Potions.'' Aurora interfered, sending a smirk towards her friend and receiving a glare in exchange.
From then onwards, the conversation shifted to what were the witches worst subjects when they had been at school and Sakura took advantage of it to make herself more comfortable on the sofa. They would usually meet up all together, every two days like this, chatting and having fun. It was, she discovered, an effective way of taking her mind off her potions troubles and the overly strict and demanding man. She knew these meeting would become sparser once school began, so she intended to make the most out of it now. Not to mention these women knew a big deal about the school, students and the situation in the Wizarding World, so they were a precious source of information.
''What about you, Sakura? What was your worst subject?''
''Oh, um...''
To unit 012601. From superior 002302. Send current status and report. Await further details at 19:00 hours, local time. Usual delivery way. End.
Chewing on a mouthful of chicken wing, Sakura re-read the message in order to memorise it. It was short, but contained every information she needed. Glancing at the watch she had bought during her last visit in Hogsmeade, she noted she had less than ten minutes to finish dinner. Slowly, she stretched her arm, approaching the note towards the nearest candle, then dropping it in an empty plate once it caught fire. She ignored the curious looks sent in her direction and set out to her living space. She knew the sender and knew the letter wouldn't be late.
It took her a few minutes to get to her living room and by the time she sat down in the armchair next to the fire, a loud pop resounded next to her. Turning her head, she smiled at the small version of the summon looking up to her, letter attached to it's back.
''Good evening, Katsuyu-sama.'' she said in her native tongue, taking the letter while the small slug greeted her back. ''Please, make yourself comfortable.''
Sakura.
If you're reading this letter, then Katsuyu got to you safely and confirmed one of my assumptions: that summons can link our world to that of Wizards's. But other than that, I'd like to hear from you. It's been thirteen days without news, so I'm thinking nothing worth mentioning happened. Or that you died. It better not be the latter or you'll be in great trouble! Sakura chuckled at that. How could her mentor punish her if she was dead, anyway? So yes, I'm expecting a detailed report on the mission from you, but a letter about how you're faring would be welcome.
There's nothing much to say about Konoha, since nothing changed since your departure. Though we should consider ourselves lucky that we haven't been attacked yet. Your comrades are doing well, most of them are away on long-duration missions like yourself. I'll have to properly thank all of you when you get back, you guys are among our highest contributors in reconstructing the village. Sadly, Hinata still hasn't woken up and Ino still refuses to get back on duty, but she is asking me about you and told me to pass on her greetings. Well, that's done. I'm doing fine too, just so you don't worry and yes, I do take time to rest, so don't even try scolding me, little pest!
Also, Sakura, don't overwork yourself. Take your time, accomplish the mission at a normal pace and please look out. You're on your own, so don't pull Uchiha/Uzumaki/Hatake stunts when there's nobody to back you up!
Take care, kid, I'll be waiting for your return. We'll go drink a couple of cups of sake when you get back, like the responsible, adult women we are. Send your reply back with Katsuyu and use one of your summons to message me. The hawk that bought you the coded note'll bring me one of yours back, so don't forget to write one, you know we need them for the dumb archives (I swear I have no idea how those damn notes haven't been the downfall of at least one Shinobi nation. It's free information on our combattants, for Heaven's sake!).
Tsunade.
She gently folded the letter and went to store in the drawer of her bedside table, next to the crumpled Team 7 picture, three miniature ragdolls, a small fan-shaped necklace, a battered blue Konoha headband, a black mask and a book. Taking a quill and a parchment on her way back, she started answering her master's letter right away.
''Here's the answer, Katsuyu-sama. Thank you for bringing news of home.'' she said, a small smile forming on her lips. ''The note has already been sent with the messenger-hawk.''
''Very well. Take care of yourself, Sakura-chan. Tsunade-hime is really worried about you, she'll be happy to know you're fine.'' verifying her cargo, the slug bowed once in the kunoichi's direction, before disappearing with the same pop that had accompanied her arrival.
Relaxing in her armchair, Sakura looked into the fire, thoughts wandering. She was happy to know her friends were as okay as they could be and that her village was in no immediate danger. She had barely left her world for two weeks, yet it seemed like she had been away for months. She was homesick, but most of all, she still felt guilty. Her fellow Shinobi's missions were sure to be thrice as hard as hers, with equally as much unknown factors and much more danger. Actually, she could almost consider her stay here as a paid holiday. Earlier, she had been complaining about her Potions Master and even though the man was a pain in the neck, he could be considered as someone kind in comparison to whom her comrades met on daily basis. She haid a place to stay, was fed three times a day, had the luxury of bathing daily and even enough spare time to bond with the locals. Her life was ridiculously easy and she was ashamed of it.
Bending forwards, she took her head in her hands and closed her eyes. Exactly what had she done since her arrival here? A map of the school, a few informations, and a few Boil-Cure Potions. Pathetic. It was all pathetic. She was pathetic! Her friends were fighting, exhausting themselves on missions and suffering of malnutrition while she went shopping and sight-seeing. Suddenly standing up, she let out a frustrated cry and kicked her armchair into the nearest wall, leaving a big dent in it. She started pacing. She needed to pull herself together and start doing something. She'd need to put up more traps around the border of the school and check on the already installed ones. Set up some genjutsu alarms around the four dorms, to make sure she'd be notified by any suspicious nocturnal trips on the students' part. Find a training spot, she couldn't afford beeing lulled into a sense of false security. But where? The Forbidden Forest would've been ideal, but the Headmaster had said it was off grounds. She wasn't sure if he was trying to protect her or the local fauna.
Collapsing on the sofa behind her, she tiredly rubbed at her temples. She was in dire need of a strong drink and an attentive ear. She called out his name in a sigh, and almost instantly a sonorous pop was heard.
''Miss called Dobby?''
''Yes, I'm sorry for bothering you. Could you perhaps bring me a bottle of sake and lend me your ear for some time?''
The elf cast a questioning glance on the half-destroyed chair and the mark in the wall, before nodding vigorously and disappearing, just to come back with her drink. He set it on the small table in front of her and cautiously sat down in a chair near her.
''Dobby will listen. Miss tell Dobby her problems and Dobby will help if Dobby can. Nobody else will know of the Miss' problems, Dobby swears.'' came the half curious, half excited response, as he opened his bat-like ears wide.
Sakura chuckled, taking a gulp of her sake, and started freeing her shoulders of some of her burden.
It was finally done. In her still hot cauldron proudly boiled the gold-like potion. Sakura raised her eyes to meet those of her sour professor, her expression smug, while small, goldfish-like droplets leapt over her Felix Felicis from time to time. She folded her arms, waiting for his praise, which – to her disappointment – never came. Snape simply bent over, his cold stare scanning the mixture in front of him. The kunoichi knew that there was nothing wrong with her potion this time. It had taken her a few days to understand how she needed to infuse her chakra in brewing, but once she grasped the concept, the rest became relatively easy. After all, she was a natural when it came to chakra-control.
Straightening, he took a few phials to bottle her liquid luck up. There was enough for four doses, of which he gave her one that she silently accepted, a bit hurt by his indifference. She knew the man never praised, but for once, she had at least expected some kind of acknowledgement of her abilities, especially after it had taken her only two tries to complete a brew of this difficulty. But she didn't even get a nod for her efforts. Morosely packing her stuff, she stalked towards the door, mentally preparing herself to destroy some Snape-shaped training dummies when he stopped her. Turning around, she glared at him, only receiving a blank stare in return.
"Our daily lessons stop here. From now, you'll only come here twice a week, on Saturday and Sunday, same hour, to make this apprenticeship believable." he started, voice emotionless.
For a second, she imagined him with his black hair short, wearing a black shirt that left his mid-riff exposed and waving a brush in her direction, like Sai would. She quickly shook the disturbing, and almost sickening, idea away.
"What will I do the rest of the time?" both of them knew she wasn't referring to the obvious 'keep an eye on Harry Potter' answer.
"The Headmaster has an assignment for you. You'll be informed during dinner." That surprised her. Why dinner? If it was a mission related to her Shinobi status, surely he wouldn't talk about it in the open, so then what else could it be about?
He waved a hand in her direction, effectively cutting her off before she could voice her thoughts. She was about to persist nonetheless, but he interrupted her again.
"Dismissed, kunoichi!" was his biting command.
Sakura huffed and twirled around, leaving the room. Childish satisfaction filled her when she heard the door slamming behind her. There would surely be a few cracks in his thick, wooden door.
Good, she venomously thought and decided to double the number of Snape-dummies to be destroyed during her training/venting session.
Harry walked silently besides the gloomy Tonks. She had saved him from a few complications when she found him in one of the train's compartments, immobilized by Malfoy's Petrificus Totalus. He had been ashamed to be found in that position, awkwardly hunched and hidden underneath his Invisibility Cloak, but now he just felt lost, not knowing what to say to the seemingly depressed Auror. She was wearing long, dark robes, her hair still a mousy-brown color and lacking that bubbly and cheerful smile of hers. He should've talked to her, reassure her that Sirius' death wasn't her fault, but he simply couldn't. The death of his godfather was still a painful topic. So they trudged wordlessly on in the dark.
Only now, when he wasn't riding the carriages, did he notice how long the trip to the castle actually was. Relief flooded him when they arrived at the gate, topped by a pair of winged boars. He was tired, he was hungry and the morose Metamorphmagus was making him feel ill at ease. They stopped a few feet away of the gate and waited, the young wizard considering wall-climbing if someone didn't come to fetch him soon.
A figure appeared on the road then, a lantern in hand, approaching fast. It wore what seemed to be like a brown cloak, hood pulled and hiding it's features. The person streched a small and pale hand, gently touching the gate that loudly started to open. The figure stepped aside to grant Harry entrance, and turned it's unseen face towards the Auror.
''He's in good hands, Tonks, don't worry.'' was all it said, a slight accent – that the teenager couldn't quite place – tinting its words.
Tonks simply nodded and turned to leave, the gate closing as loudly as it had opened behind her. The figure turned around, beckoning Harry to follow it. He was around half a head taller than it, he noted. Only when they were halfway at the castle did it pull the hood down, revealing a mop of pink locks, much to the wizard's surprise. He hadn't thought anyone other than Tonks would have such a flashy hairstyle. The young woman, around his age he realised, turned stunningly green eyes towards him and smiled. She was decidedly of asian descent, though he wasn't sure he'd ever heard of pink-haired, green-eyed Japanese or Chinese people. Except in comic books. But most of all, it was the hint of sadness in her expression that he noticed. Her smile might've been genuine, but her eyes seemed sorrowful and her traits tired.
''My name is Sakura. Haruno Sakura. I'm from Japan and the new apprentice of Professor Snape.'' she said in a soothing and calm voice.
Harry was about to greet her and introduce himself as well, but suddenly halted, shock written all over his face. ''Snape?'' he asked, incredulous.
''You dislike him.'' she stated, more than asked, a knowing smile on her lips.
''That's nicely put.'' came the bitter retort.
''He does have... uh... issues.'' she conceded, eyes never leaving their destination. She threw a glance behind her and continued walking, shoulders a bit tense.
At his disbelieving look, she chuckled once and patted him on the shoulder. ''Okay, so he can be a pain. But don't we all have our rough times?''
Harry grumbled something along the lines of ''Then he never takes a break from it!'' earning him another round of laughing from the young woman. She seemed nice, though he couldn't yet decide if he would like her or not. She was the greasy git's apprentice after all, so there must be something shady about her, otherwise he wouldn't have taken her in.
Once they arrived in front of the Entrance Hall, she stopped making him do the same thing. He cast her a questioning glance, but all she did was untie the front of her cloak and pull it off in one swift motion.
''Put this on. You're not wearing your school robes, so it might be problematic. And there's blood all over you, it would create a ruckus.'' she explained, then reached in a sort of pouch on her backside, giving him a tissue. ''You should also wipe it off your face. Is your nose hurting?''
''No Tonks healed it.'' he answered, taking the cloak and tissue from her. ''Thanks.''
''Don't mention it.'' her eyes were fixed on his face, closely examining him, thumb and index finger catching his chin so she could turn his head around at will.
When satisfied with her examination, she continued towards the castle, Harry letting out a breath he didn't know he had been holding. He slipped the cloak on and followed her, noting that it didn't bear any particular smell, as he would've expected from a woman's clothing. They walked on, silently entering together the Great Hall. Every eyes in the room turned towards them, resting longer on the pinkette before finally settling on him. He squirmed a bit under their stares, he still didn't like it. He felt the girl nudge him and turned to meet her comforting smile, nodding for him to go take his seat. That he did, accelerating a bit when he arrived near the Gryffindor table, where his friends welcomed him.
''What happened to you?'' Hermione worriedly inquired. ''We never saw you get off the train.''
''I'll explain later.'' Harry said, noticing that a few of his classmates were trying to eavesdrop.
''And who's she?'' Ron asked, briefly pointing at the teachers table.
Harry looked up to see Sakura sitting between Professor Sprout, who was animatedly chatting with Professor Burbage, and Snape, who pretended like she wasn't even there. She suddenly lifted her head and locked gazes with him, sending him a friendly smile, before turning to answer the Herbology teacher's question.
''Sakura Haruno. She's from Japan and Snape's apprentice.'' he answered.
Dean looked at him like he'd grown a second head, Neville almost fell out of his seat, Seamus chocked on his Pumpkin Juice and Ron looked like he'd never be able to close his mouth again.
''Oh stop it, you're exaggerating!'' came Hermione's irritated reply. ''It's not like the end of the world!''
Ron straightened and shot her a bemused look. ''Are you serious? I mean, it's the greasy git! The dungeon's bat! Dark, hateful, despicable Snape!'' he exclaimed, arms flailing. ''And she's... well, she's pink!''
Their classmates vigorously nodded at that, but the witch only rolled her eyes, deciding to drop the subject.
''I'm more interested in knowing if she's allowed to dress like that.'' said Ginny, eyes glued to the pinkette, who now seemed to be the topic of every conversation in the dining room, if the looks she was getting were any indication. ''Isn't her outfit a bit too... racy?''
They turned their heads towards her at that. She was wearing a sleeveless, red tank-top and Harry was pretty sure he had seen a pair of black spandex pants that stopped just above her knees, leaving just an inch of skin visible between it and the black boots she was wearing. She also had a sort of purple skirt above the pants. He didn't see anything particular about her outfit, only her arms were bare. Surely that didn't count as 'racy'. He voiced his thoughts.
''But aren't those pants too tight?'' the only Weasley girl insisted. ''And the boots, they're...''
''Sexy.'' finished Seamus, bending a bit to get a better view under the table.
''She has nice legs.''
''... daring.'' said Ginny in a clipped voice, shooting a few glares at the peeping males around her.
''Well, Professor McGonagall seems to agree.'' Neville off-handedly added. Indeed, their Head of House was sending disapproving looks towards the pinkette, though she seemed oblivious to them.
Harry felt a bit guilty at that, knowing it was partly his fault she was getting saucy or venomous looks from the other students. He should give her cloak back as soon as possible. The room went silent when Dumbledore stood up, drawing everyone's attention on himself.
''Welcome to all our new students, and welcome back to the old ones!'' he said, hands spread wide. One of them was a black-ish, deathly color. Murmurs raised in the Great Hall, but he soon dismissed them, assuring them it was nothing. He continued his welcome speech that, as usual, only garnered the attention of half of the present audience.
''... and I am felicitous to announce the return of my old and dear colleague, Horace Slughorn,'' the Headmaster went on. ''who will resume his place as Professor of Potions.''
The Great Hall broke out in animated chatter at that, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw looking anxiously at one another, whilst most Slytherins just smirked.
''As for the post of Defense Against the Dark Arts, it shall be occupied by none other than Severus Snape.'' came the dreaded confirmation. There was another moment of loud commotion, before Dumbledore waved for silence, getting it, albeit with more difficulty than before. Indignation couldn't even begin to describe Harry's feelings, especially when seeing the smug looks on the Slytherins' faces, clapping for their Head of House. The man just waved his hand in thanks, though Harry didn't miss the flash of satisfaction that passed his face.
''And last, but not least, there will be a new obligated course for every year.'' the aging wizard continued, after making sure the students were listening again to him. Groans were heard between them, even before he had the time to finish. ''It will be a lesson based on the confection of medicinal beverages and brews, taught apart from the Potions class, by Miss Sakura Haruno, the apprentice of Professor Snape.''
The woman in question looked up at the Headmaster, then at her mentor, slightly surprised, but was ignored by both. When a few uncertain and tentative applauses were heard, she rose and bowed respectfully, before settling back down, Professors Sprout and Burbage warmly congratulating her.
''She's going to teach us?'' Hermione shrieked. ''But she's too young! She looks barely older than we do! And apprentices never teach before at least five years!''
Nobody ansered her outburst, pensively staring at either her, Sakura, or the food that had just appeared on the table. Being taught by someone that could pass as their schoolmate was uncommon, to say the least. Though Harry could feel anticipation worming itself in the pit of his stomach. He was curious as to what kind of teacher she'd be – especially since she was Snape's protégée, well sort-of – and what she'd teach them. Confection of medicinal beverages and brews? Exactly how was that any different from Potions? And why was the pinkette's course tied to that of Snape's and not Slughorn, their new Potions Master?
The young wizard's lips curled upwards in a mischievous smirk. Maybe his year wouldn't be as dark as he had expected it would be, now that he was planning to learn more about the girl and his hated professor's relationship. Too caught up in his plotting, he didn't even notice the worried and exasperated looks Ron and Hermione respectively threw his way.
So, that's that. How was it? Made it longer since yall have had to wait for it (plus I didn't want to finish it before the Harry Potter gang arrived), but was it any good? Sorry if Harry & co came so late, but I found it necessary for Sakura to learn at least a bit about Hogwarts and magic before she was confronted with her charge. But they will be very present starting chapter 3! :)
I know some of you might find it a bit, well weird that Sakura goes into teaching at her age, but I wanted a different approach to her role. She isn't quite a teacher, nor is she a student. I want her to be somewhere in the middle. Also, my sister pointed out that the house elfs might not know about japanese food and drinks and I arbitrarily decided they do. Because they're just that good! :b
One more thing before I let you go. There will probably not be anymore updates until mid-September. I'm leaving today for holidays and won't be back till the beginning of August (no Internet or computer where I'm going), after which, I have work and make-up exams from 22 August till the beginning of September. Eight of them (six I failed, two I wasn't satisfied with) and they're pretty big (and difficult). So I won't have time to continue. I am terribly sorry. But once uni starts again, I'll have time to write and post regularly, so that should make it up. :D
Thank you all for your support and for reading, hope you enjoyed the story. A review, perhaps? ;)