Anarkia

by Naia

Abandonned by his guardians, Harry Potter vanished from existence. Years later, a young man graduates from one of the most elitist and secrete Magical schools and makes his way through Magical societies. Fate or Fatality? Ancient Greeks called it Anarkia.

6. Interactions

Disclaimer: I don't own anything you'll recognize.

A/N: I won't try to find an excuse for the time it takes me to update, because I don't think you'll all that interested in it any way. Just accept my apologies for the wait, I can't really say when I'll be able to update next. It'll depend on hospital and university schedules.

This chapter is not completed edited, but I would like to thank my betas for their work. Thanks a lot!

I hope you'll enjoy this chapter.

Naia

Chapter 6: Interactions

In the last chapter:

Evan glanced at his watch. "We should go anyway; they must be waiting for us."

"Just let me change; your father knows we'll be leaving?"

Evan nodded as they reached Julian's rooms. "Nice place."

"It makes up for the company."

Quickly Julian changed into a pair of black pants, a dark green shirt, and a black coat. Evan decided to forego the robes and borrowed a jacket from his friend.

Five minutes later, they had left Lazarin, Drifting to Sins.

.--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--..--.

They appeared in a dim street and quickly walked to the club's entrance. Bypassing the long file of people waiting to be admitted inside, they headed straight for the doors. Both were amused by the angry looks shot their way as well as the lustful ones.

The bouncer nodded to them, opening the door to let them in.

They spared a look at the dance floor full of scantily clothed people then they headed for their private booth. Apparently tonight was Triple S night: Seduction, Sex, and Sin.

Julian dodged a few people hurrying for the closest hard surface they could find. He nearly tripped on a thong lying on the floor and only Evan prevented him from falling straight on a party of four people. He raised an eyebrow upon seeing their positions. He hadn't thought it was physically possible to bend that way.

Evan winced. "That must hurt."

Julian shrugged. "Doesn't look like it."

They resumed walking and reached their booth. Entering it, they noticed that Kal and Reana were already there.

"Finally!" snapped the platinum haired vampire. "I was about to go find some entertainment since it looked like you were not coming."

"We had to take care of a little… problem before leaving."

Evan rolled his eyes. "Some Death Eater thought it smart to defy Julian here to a Death Duel…"

Reana chuckled. "How long?"

"Three minutes."

She shook her head. "You're slipping, Julian darling. I would have thought you able to deal with pest like this in less than a minute. Are you going soft?"

Julian snorted. "I just had to make sure all the others got how bad of an idea it was to ever try something like this again."

Evan laughed. "I think they got your point."

Kal flicked his hand. "Alright you had your fun, now can we get this over with, I spotted a few delicious dolls to play with."

Julian nodded. "You all have your rings?"

They all nodded.

"Well, you all know what to do then."

That said, they left the booth and went to the dance floor, joining the mass of bodies. After a few moments, they found a willing body and after some grinding had them panting for more. The vampire allure exuding from Julian's three friends might have played a large part in it. Julian on his part and been taught a few tricks by a Veela he had met at school and knew how to reduce both sexes like putty in his hands when it suited his purposes.

They all left for the private rooms upstairs going for a pleasurable night for all who might watch. They entered the same room and wouldn't be seen leaving.

Should someone enter the room, they would find three women and a man pleasuring each other. None of them would have any recollection of the three vampires and the wizard that had drawn them there.

The four friends reappeared on a cliff as the sun was starting nearing the horizon. The salty smell of the ocean hit their noses. Mist was starting to rise up as the temperature was cooling down.

Julian inhaled deeply, rejoicing in the feeling on the fresh clear air.

"Enjoying yourself, Julian?"

He turned to smile at a tall and slim woman standing behind all of them.

"I am, Ilana."

The Dark Elf smiled gently. "Come now, your friends are all here and we have a lot to discuss tonight."

They followed her to a circular rock and relaxed as they felt themselves gently falling in the cliff as the ground disappeared under their feet. They stopped and stepped into a well lit tunnel, following Ilana as she led them to their meeting room.

They entered it and saw that all their friends were sitting around a large table.

Others were also present: two Goblins a bit taller than those wizards were used to seeing in the bank and well dressed in brown and gold robes.

Julian eyed them appraisingly. He had sent his request for this meeting through the Gringott's manager and had never met high-ranked Goblins before.

They had brown skin, a wrinkled angular face, small golden eyes that shone with cunning and cleverness. One of them was slightly more muscled and sporting many scars, the gold cylinder earring in his right ear showing his status. They were talking quietly among each other, their raspy voices quite a sore for sensitive ears, sometimes showing yellowish sharp teeth.

Two Mermen were floating in a large bubble of water, their scales glinting in the light of the torches. They had grayish skin with long dark blue hair. Mercury eyes peered at those present, occasionally breaking to a smile displaying glittering shark like teeth. Instead of the silverfish like tail of their lake counterparts, they possessed a dolphin-like tail. Thin ropes holding shells were tied to their neck. The smaller merman was carrying a bag on his shoulder. The taller of the two had a type of crown placed on his head made of five coral spikes while his smaller companion only had three. Both of them were sporting quite a few scars on their bodies, testimony to the numerous fights against the creatures inhabiting the ocean. (

Julian nodded to them before sitting between Ilana and Evan.

"Thank you all for coming." He turned to Ilana "You said you had things to discuss with us?" he asked, motioning to him and his friends.

Ilana smirked. "Indeed, Sorcerer, but I think Domin Rartak and his son Ka-Domin Hartjen should be the one to show you what we found."

The taller Merman gave the elf a smile. All those present waved their wands, focus or other magical tool and created a small water interface against their ears.

A high pitched sound echoed in the room but thanks to the water, they all understood what was being said. "Greetings Sorcerer, as per our agreement, we had our subjects roaming our territory looking for the lost city you were seeking. A team reported to us yesterday, saying they had found ruins that might be what you seek."

With a wave of his webbed hand, a small bubble parted from the one surrounding him. It grew quickly and the picture of ruins appeared inside it. As with a camera, the picture expanded to cover the whole area.

"Stop here please," suddenly said Reana. The picture froze. She turned to the Domin. "Could you enlarge this, Domin?"

"Easily, Seer." A tall column came into view.

Reana peered intently at it before nodding at Julian.

"This is it, Julian. This is the place I Saw."

Julian smiled. "This is the place we were seeking, Domin. Where is it situated?"

The Domin smirked. "It is situated on the northern edge of my territory, close to a rift that occasionally spits fire in the water. We rarely go there. The water is not good and there are magics at work there that my people do not like."

Julian nodded. "Then I would like to try to come to an agreement with you for the use of this area."

The Domin smiled once more.

"I talked with my brothers already and we have agreed to give you what you seek. Consider it our part in your scheme, Sorcerer. °°

Julian raised an eyebrow. "And what will be your price, Domin?"

This time it was the Ka-Domin that answered his voice or whatever it was that they heard slightly deeper than the one of his leader.

"This area was not meant to go underwater. It was the foolishness of Man that brought it in our territory. Its presence has disrupted the flows of power in that place. We are just bringing back the Old balance. Our price will be paid in knowledge. For this land we ask that you teach us how to erect wards that will protect our towns without requiring sacrifices from merpeople."

Julian thought on this deal.

Merpeople magic was not that varied and powerful. They mostly relied on Raw and Water Magic, some Blood Magic as well as a bit of Mind Magic, which added to their strength and their Cry. They kept to themselves and as such knew little of Spellcraft. Julian pondered on their request. It should be relatively easy to teach them several Rune wards if they were able to learn this kind of magic. If it came to worse, he would pass an agreement to have people ward their town.

He shot a look at Xavier who nodded slowly.

"Very well, Domin, I agree to your terms. Our people will start working on this land and some will teach those you chose how to erect the kind of wards you need. It will then be up to you to spread this knowledge."

The Ka-Domin took out a roll of something looking like parchment.

"To seal this agreement, we will require a drop of blood from you and your circle, Sorcerer."

The parchment floated in a small bubble to Julian's hand and fell in it as the bubble popped. He slowly scanned through it, looking for loopholes or some kind of hidden meaning. Finding none, he pricked his forefinger and let a drop of blood fall on the last line before passing it to Evan. A few minutes later, the parchment returned to Hartjen who placed it back in his bag.

Julian then turned to the Goblins.

"Greetings to you, Masters Goblin."

The two wrinkled creatures nodded and answered in kind. "Greetings."

"So will the Goblin Nation help us on this endeavor, Chieftain Ragnarok?" Julian asked, not wasting time in useless pleasantry, knowing that time was money to Goblins.

"I believe that an agreement can be drawn between us, Sorcerer."

And for the rest of the night, Julian, helped by his friends went over what they wanted done and bargained the Goblin's help.

Finally, he looked up from the paper he was holding. "I believe this will do; I will contact you to schedule a new meeting to go more in depth but this agreement is sufficient for now."

Ragnarok read over the parchment they had drawn as Evan continued.

"We will wait for the first shipment to transfer the funds. Master Baldreg, we will require your presence at the next meeting along with your team to go over our plans."

"And what skills will you require of us?"

Evan smirked and nodded to Auguste. With a few muttered words the young vampire made wisp of black mist seep from the shadow to form a black sphere in the middle of the table. Slowly the sphere grew and then shifted, leaving a clear view of a building.

This would be his Lair. His secret sanctum. Julian eyed the construction proudly.

Like all Sorcerers before him he was required to create his own Lair for himself and his Inner Circle. Karal had build and integrated his to Nightshades as he chose take over the Headmaster's mantel as his Sorcerer's task.

Sorcerers had disappeared from the world's face centuries ago as wizards had started to fear them and sought to bind or destroy them. Most of the knowledge about them dated back to the Middle-Ages and had become legends and children fairytales. The books holding true facts about them had been destroyed or deemed forbidden.

Hidden from the wizards and Muggles, the Sorcerers lived and prepared for the day when they would be ready to become known again. They created a council that would gather every year and keep track of their progresses as well as look out for future Sorcerers.

Julian had been brought once before this council when he passed the Apprentice test to achieve Novice status. He never wanted to be brought to them to be judged, no if did not have the right backing.

The Goblins eyes widened a little before he regained his composure.

"I have an idea of what you might need, Illusionist."

"Good," cut Julian. "Is there anything else we need to discuss?"

Silence answered him.

"Then I will contact you again for another meeting. May the Gods grant you wealth." He nodded to the two Goblins.

"May you never run out of gold and enemies."

Julian smirked and then nodded to the two Mermen.

"May the Waters protect you and your people."

The Mermen returned his salute and left, followed by the Goblins. Once he was sure they were out of earshot, Julian slumped in his chair.

"Whose idea was it to bargain with Goblins?!"

Evan exchanged a smirk with the others.

"Sorry to say it, Julian, but it was yours."

Violaine looked at him. "We will need them and you know it."

Julian rolled his eyes. "I know, but I'm sure it would be easier to draw blood from a stone than got those little gold-addict to give up some of their money." He sighed then turned to Ilana. "Thank you for arranging this, Ilana."

The Dark Elf shook her head. "Think of it as mutual help. You are not the only one looking forwards the rise of Ynris."

Julian nodded and stood, popping some vertebras back in place as he did so.

"Well, enough for tonight."

They all left slowly, discussing the meeting.

Evan fell next to Julian who was quietly discussing with Kal.

"… So you can send it quickly then? I want to get this over as soon as possible…"

Kal nodded. "You'll get them tomorrow, can't exactly say when though, I still have one more test to run to make sure everything is alright with it."

Julian smiled. "Good."

"Everything fine, Julian?"

"No problem, Evan, just some paperwork. By the way, are you staying at Lazarin or are you going back to your castle?"

"I'm staying. Father and I have a meeting tomorrow with Voldemort regarding our alliance. The details need to be worked out, particularly this idea of his to wipe out our food source…"

Julian chuckled. "Have fun."

Evan scowled. "What are you going to do, then, brew burn balm?"

Julian waved his hand. "I finished the orders yesterday. If no more came during the night, then I'll have my day to train or work on my thesis… I'll probably spend it training. Can you stop by my rooms before leaving, I'd like you to finish your work. He won't wait much longer."

Evan nodded. "No problem. When is our next meeting?"

"Well, Thynan, Moreen, Xavier and I are meeting with the Elementals next week for the dome. Kal and I are going to meet with Marshbank to see about some mysteriously lost papers…" He paused, thinking ahead. "Reana and Violaine are meeting with Corina in a few days. And Selene told me she had managed to get a meeting with Shauna McLyain through her mother's second cousin and Desmona."

Evan raised an eyebrow. "Impressive… So things are progressing nicely I take."

"For now. I think we'll probably meet in a week and a half."

"That should be alright with me. Speaking of dates, have you received the invitation to the inauguration of Rigel's theater this week end?"

"Yes. I just need to find someone to accompany me." He paused and turned to his friends. "Speaking of which, Oreale, do you have an escort?"

The red-head smiled, amber eyes glittering with amusement. "I will, though I would have preferred a more traditional demand, Julian."

They bantered light-heartedly as they reached their transportation point. Exchanging goodbyes they all disappeared back to where they had come from. Kal, Reana, Evan and Julian all reappeared at Sins and Kal quickly wandered off to find some willing girl for the night.

Reana kissed Evan and Julian good bye before Drifting back to her manor.

"Do you want to stay for a while or go back?"

"Let's go back, I need some sleep, as opposed to you."

They left the club, nodding to the bouncer then drifting back to Julian's room in Lazarin.

Julian stretched. "Well, let's call this a night… By the way did you get your shipment? I sent it last week."

Evan nodded. "Yes, your payment was sent to your vault as usual."

"Good. You'll rest for the day?"

"Yes, my father thought it better to hold our talk at dusk. Your potions are efficient but it's not exactly the same plus it puts Voldemort at a disadvantage."

"If you need me, I'll either be in my room, the Basilisk suite or the high security labs."

"Alright. I'll see you then. Refrain from eating anything animal related today and clean yourself as thoroughly as possible."

Julian nodded. "I will do so. Anything you will need?"

Evan shook his head. "No I have everything be required."

The young man yawned. "Good."

"Tired, Julian?" teased Evan.

"Get out, you bloody insomniac."

"Next thing, you're going to stick out your tongue."

Evan barely ducked a jinx that went straight to the wall behind him.

"Temper, Jul, what would Tristan say."

"He would have already spelled you mute, now get out."

Knowing better than to push his friend too far, Evan exited the room with a smile. He went to the wing that had been assigned to his Father and him as well as their escorts.

Five hours later, Julian rose from his bed, sending his alarm clock flying to the wall. Dressing up, he went to the Hall to grab something to eat then made his way to the Labs. Looking at his black board, he saw a new order for basic healing draughts had come in during the night.

Cursing, he took it and started to go through the various potions. All in all it would take him four hours at most if he used some shortcuts. Reading the name of the compound which sent it, a vicious smile made its way to his face.

He was going to make sure they learnt their lesson this time.

Setting up his work table, he nodded to Devlin as the man entered and settled next to him.

Starting on the Persenia Healing draught, he quickly prepared his ingredients before starting on the brewing. At some points he tweaked the recipe a little. Forty minutes later, the Draught was finished and just needed to settle down. Taking off the flame under the cauldron, he shielded the area, then started on another potion, this time a variant of the Skelegrow.

Devlin watched him with interest as he went through his own potions.

Around noon, Julian was done with all the orders and cleaned all the worktables, starting to bottle the Persenia.

"Those were interesting modifications you made, Apprentice."

Julian nodded. "Thank you."

"What was their purpose if I may ask?"

Julian smirked.

"They just alter the taste; worsen it to be more precise… I want to make sure that the Ananda compound will think twice before forwarding all their potions' orders to me."

"What make you say this?"

"Ananda has two resident masters. Each of them took two apprentices two years ago. Those potions should have been dealt by them. But I'm ready to bet their Masters want them to refine their thesis since they learnt my Master took on an apprentice."

Devlin frowned.

"Yes, Dieter and Hamsfeld are both there… And they don't hold Snape in their heart…" He paused. "I'll bring this to the Lord, he'll set them straight."

"Thank you Devlin,"

"Send those potions, you have your afternoon free."

"Thank you Devlin."

He took off his brewing gear and made his way to Hall for lunch. He had to smirk as people gave him a wide berth. Sitting at his usual table, he tapped the table with his wand making his meal appear. Disregarding the meat, he only ate the vegetables, the bread and dessert, all the while reading his journal and writing some new ideas or possibilities. Looking around, he noticed that the hall had filled but that the seats around him had remained empty.

He rolled his eyes. Fools.

Emptying his glass, he closed his journal and stood up, leaving the room and heading straight for his rooms. Halloween was approaching fast and he didn't want to fall behind his studies.

He spent the afternoon locked in his room, practicing and reading through the Sorcerers' diaries. Early in the evening he went to the high security labs to work a little on several separate reactions he wanted to test.

He was observing the effect of mixing griffin tears and phoenix ashes. He had kept the same quantity of Gryffin tears and had changed the quantity of ashes.

Both ingredients were from light creatures, so the mixing was made easier and allowed him not to have to use a tamper.

"In cauldron number three we can see that at a ratio of 3 to 1, the ashes react by ensnaring the tears in a bubble. A superior ration mutates both components and starts an in-chain reaction leading to an explosive reaction. An inferior ration provokes no noticeable reaction."

He paused.

"Now using that ratio, we will assess the reaction of the ashes on a sample of Veritasserum."

Silence was heard as he watched keenly the reaction.

"We can see that the ashes manage to encapsulate the tears but that their effects are slowed down. My hypothesis is that the grounded scale of a Syszt may interfere with the ashes and agglomerate part of it."

He filtered the solution.

"After filtering the solution I find a conglomerate of a dark red color with speck of black."

He put three drops from a nearby beaker and two from another.

"After testing with flobberworm saliva which turns Syszt's scale green and Acromantula venom which provokes the emission of gas when touching phoenix tears, I can affirm that the conglomerate is composed of the ashes and the scales. However it was noted during previous experiment that the Syszt scales are counter acted by the Momina moss. So I can safely make the hypothesis that the conglomeration will be minimal"

"Now I will test the addition of the ashes to the solution I am working on."

He took a small gold cauldron which contained his solution and put the quantity of ashes needed.

"As it is to be expected, the ashes do not mix with the solution, I will attempt to trigger the interaction by adding a drop of unicorn's blood willingly given. Given the volatility of this ingredient, wards will be raised around the cauldron."

Carefully placing his journal away, he placed the cauldron on an isolated worktable. Then he put up his strongest shield and tightened the ward around the area. Checking that his goggles were in place as well as his apron, he put on some ear plugs. Then he dropped the silvery drop and watched as the solution sizzled and starting simmering.

"We observe a sizzling of the solution followed by an intense simmering. To stop this process which is detrimental to the Hungarian Horntail blood, I will use Antimoine's draught, one drop only."

He had barely added the drop that instead of dieing down the simmering increased before stopping brutally.

"After an increase in the simmering which will have to be researched, all reaction seemed to hav- "

He didn't have time as an explosion occurred, blasting him against his ward, knocking the breath out of him. A sharp pain shot in his shoulder.

The table holding the cauldron had been reduced to pieces. The cauldron had melted to a gold puddle. Splashes of dark green liquid adorned the floor, the ward having prevented it from hitting the whole room.

Julian was getting back to his feet and taking out his earplugs, wincing as his shoulder protested, when slow applause broke in the room.

"Impressive, Julian, I can't remember you getting such an explosion since you tried mixing Salamander blood with Kelpie's blood."

"Not a word, Evan. Make yourself useful and help me put my shoulder back," grumbled the young man.

The vampire approached him and in a few seconds and with a few curses they had popped his shoulder back in its socket.

"So what were you trying to do, this time?"

"Too complicated to explain… just know that you never use Antimoine draught with Unicorn blood. I'll try a salamander base stabilizer next time…"

Evan rolled his eyes.

"I don't get a word of what you're talking about, but I'll believe you. Potion was not my strong suit anyway."

"Hence forth why I managed to get quite a lot of people with only a few drops in their drinks or food…"

"The good old days… I have to admit that seeing an ugly Veela or a werewolf turned into a part cat was entertaining."

"See," answered Julian cleaning the room as he talked.

Ten minutes later he was done and both headed for his rooms.

Once there, Julian raised his wards to make sure they wouldn't be interrupted.

"Alright, Evan, what do I need to do?"

Evan took out a pouch from his pocket and enlarged it, using his focus.

"Before we start, what do you want exactly? You know that Blood magic doesn't allow room for mistakes or misunderstanding."

"I need to make sure my blood or any other body part can't be used to trace my Lineage."

"But you want to be able to use them for other things."

Julian nodded.

"Do you have a lineage book made, because this ritual can't be undone."

"Yes, it is hidden in Master Karal's high security vault."

"Good, then, it will relatively easy…"

He took an athame made with bones; an eagle skull topped the handle which was covered with various runes. This was a Blood mage tool, and only those sworn into that guild had the right to possess one of those.

"Do you have a ritual circle here?"

Julian nodded and led him next door, deactivating his wards for a split second to allow him inside.

Evan looked around and whistled admiringly.

"Impressive…"

They both walked to the circle drawn on the ground.

"Good, I only have to make a few additions and it'll be alright." He looked at Julian. "Just enter it and stand in the middle for now."

After a few minutes of drawing chalk symbols around, Evan looked up.

"Done. Now take off your shirt and do not move or speak."

As Julian obeyed, he went to his bag and put on some crimson and rust robes that seemed to have been dripped in blood and the young man suspected they had.

Chanting lowly, though all that Juliana heard was a nearly inaudible mumbling, Evan started his work. Slashing Julian's palm, he drew symbols on his skin. Then he carved a few others. Seemingly satisfied, he slashed his own palm and let a drop of blood fall on each drawing, each carving, his mumblings increasing in intensity.

Finally he spoke two harsh words that Julian knew stood for mote it be. There was a crack and the young sorcerer felt his blood heat for a split second before everything went back to normal.

"It's done."

Julian nodded, calling his wand to him, one of the wandless and wordless spells he now managed to perform after some mind numbing training.

Then he healed the cuts on his body, leaving only faint lines that would disappear after he used a balm he had come up with. Meanwhile, Evan had put everything back to his bag.

They went back to the living room and the young vampire slouched on the couch.

"Ready for tonight's meeting?"

"Yes, though I'd prefer to go hunting."

"Feel free to drain Ivan Kolskov if you see him…"

"Do I sense a grudge, here?"

Julian shrugged, a vengeful glint in his eyes.

"Accident happens so quickly when you're tinkering with volatile ingredients."

Evan looked at the calendar on the wall. Today was the 6th of October so that left little less than four weeks until the gathering.

Julian caught his glance.

"You don't want to tell me what is going to happen, won't you?"

Evan chuckled. Since Julian had graduated two years ahead he hadn't been allowed to go to the gathering last year, not having come of age.

"I wouldn't even if I could. You received your invitation, didn't you?"

"I did," shooting a look at his watch he noticed that it was dinner time. "I assume you'll eat in the Hall."

"Yes, I told my Father I would meet him there."

"Let's go then."

The two friends headed for the Hall, on his way, Julian tightened his Occlumency and Dissolvency shields, making sure he wasn't leaving any leaks in them.

Their arrival didn't go unnoticed but they didn't acknowledge it. Evan walked to the Head table to take the seat on his Father's right. Julian went to sit next to Devlin who smirked as people scooted away from him.

"Well boy, at least your presence means I won't be bothered by idiots."

"Glad to be of service."

"I heard you created quite an explosion…"

Both men started to get engrossed in Potions talk as they ate. Julian nodded to Evan as the vampire left with his father to meet Voldemort who had not come to eat in the Hall.

The young man finished his apple then made his walk back to his room, intent on practicing some more for a few more hours.

When he finally went to bed, he was feeling quiet drained. Though someone observing him during his training might think him sleeping, the concentration and focus needed to wield magic without a focus was exhausting. It would get easier when his mind and body would get used to it

After checking his wards, he went to sleep.

The next day passed quietly. He was left alone save Devlin, something which suited him just fine. He spent his early morning in his room working on his inner focus and magic awareness then he went to the lab to brew the two batches of potions ordered. He noticed with pleasure that no order had come from Ananda today. He then went to the high security labs and wasn't seen till dinner.

He ate quickly then went to write several letters, one of which he joined with a package filled with several test tubes of the different potions he had brewed.

As none of the content of those letters was sensitive knowledge, he went to the owlery to send them. Calling six owls to him, he securely tied all his letters and chose the biggest one to carry the package even though he had placed a weightless charm on it.

He watched as the six of them took flight and disappeared. He sensed more than heard someone enter the room. His training was starting to pay off as he was able to recognize the magic signature of the wizard behind him. It helped that this Death Eater was among the more powerful and had such a distinctive magical identity.

Tightening his cloak, he spoke quietly.

"Good evening, Mr. Malfoy." He turned on his heel and headed for the door.

"Good evening to you, M. Richards," nodded Malfoy, his eyes sizing him up. "We didn't see much of you today."

Julian shrugged. "My master made sure I would not be lacking work."

Lucius let out a dry chuckle.

"That sounds like Severus indeed. I can only deplore the fact that my son does not show the same dedication to his studies."

Julian repressed a small smile. "My master does not tolerate procrastination and can find quite the incentives."

"So true, so true, I can remember him when he was still teaching at Hogwarts."

If anything, Julian was glad to have been spared his master's teaching. The man had absolutely no patience.

He nodded to Mr. Malfoy. "Master Snape has high expectations."

"But you managed to reach them it seems."

"I try my best," wanting nothing more than to leave, Julian nodded to the man. "Good night Mr. Malfoy."

"Mr. Richards, before you leave, I wish to know if you would be interested in attending the Inauguration of the new theater in London in two days. One of my son's friends doesn't have an escort and I thought you might be interested."

Julian turned to look at the blond man. "It is very thoughtful of you, M. Malfoy, but I have already received an invitation from Rigel Aldebaran. We will see each other then. I was told that it would be a performance to be remembered."

Just to see the haughty man lose his composure for a split second, Julian decided that it had been worth unveiling this information.

"We will meet there then, M. Richards," muttered Lucius, watching the young man walk away.

Julian walked back to his rooms. Entering, he quickly changed to a more comfortable outfit. Noticing an envelope on his pillow, he broke the seal carrying Evan's mark.

Julian,

My father and I had to leave earlier than I thought we would, some matters to deal with the clans.

I will see you at Rigel's grand opening. We will arrive at 9 pm. Headmaster Karal and most of our teachers will be there. Your payment for the last shipment was sent to your vaults, my father would like to meet you next week regarding several matters, nothing grave, I assure you.

Our talk with the Dark Lord was conclusive on some issues though we have come to a dead-end on others. There probably will be other discussions, though these particular issues might be difficult to solve as none of us are willing to compromise for now.

By the way you have your little zoo well trained. I had barely set a foot in your room that I was bound and about to be bitten… Not to mention your owl… she really can hold a grudge.

See you soon,

Evan

Julian shook his head and went to pet his owl that was resting on her perch. "You showed, Evan didn't you girl?"

She opened one of her amber eyes as if to say "Who me?"

With a last pat to her head, he went to his bathroom before taking a book and settling into bed, his snakes slithering up on the bed and nesting around him. He had gotten used to the cold feeling of their bodies during his stay at Nightshades. They had guarded his sleep and protected him.

He closed his book around midnight and went to sleep.

The next two days passed quickly in a relatively peaceful way for the young Apprentice. Voldemort was busy with several attacks he had launched to flush the remaining pockets of resistance out. If Hogsmeade was close to being overtaken, Hogwarts still stood strong as well as the underground resistance which was starting to organize itself if the letters he had received where any indication.

He spent his days between his rooms and the labs. His master had written back to him about his brews.

Julian had smiled at the thought of the letter whose tone alternated between scathing, approbating and sarcastic. In the end he got a new list of potions as well as comments on his experiments and his reasoning as well as several titles of books to consult.

On the evening of the 9th, he quickly went to dinner, noticing that quite a lot of Death Eaters were absent as well as two members of the Inner Circle and the Dark Lord. That might explain the relative calm on the compound. Dismissing the thought, he went back to his room and changed in appropriate formal wear.

Smart black pants and crisp tailored white shirt and an impeccably cut black formal vest that was inspired from Muggle tuxedos. Shining black dress shoes, platinum and emerald cufflinks as well as hairclip completed his outfit along with his cloak and Nightshades clasp.

Checking his appearance, he went to take a silver strand with sky blue markings and tied it around his neck with an intricate tie. Slipping it under his collar, he made sure that the tie and the two free strands fell in front of his shirt. Any people with knowledge of the old ways would understand its meaning.

That done, he headed out of the compound. He went through the identity check with annoyance and disapparated as soon as he reached the apparition point.

He reappeared in a dimly lit street and immediately headed for the new theater built close to Diagon Alley. The building had been hidden under the appearance of a Muggle business tower. Julian had to admit that Rigel had done a fantastic job.

The base was stadium like with six spires going up, three tall dark ones two hundred meters high, alternating with three pale smaller ones a hundred and fifty meters high. Balconies had been placed all the way up the spires, spare for the last ten meters. Three magical rays were shooting from the top of the three tallest spires and held a huge sparkling ball illuminating the whole area. Three other rays were coming from the other spires and supported the heptagonal stage.

As he passed the wards hiding the theater from muggle view, he heard the deep rumble of hundreds of people talking at the same time. A red carpet led up the stairs to the entrance and camera flashes were flashing continuously as journalists watched people entering.

The theater fell under the protection of the Oath that had been sworn hundreds of years ago as the wizarding world came close to dieing out after a war between the Dark and Light side. All surviving protagonists had gathered on neutral grounds at the invitation of High Elves and after days of heated talk had come to an agreement. Several areas were deemed neutral and all sides took an oath that no magic with the intent to cause severe harm to another or kill would be able to be performed. This way, should a new war occur, families would be protected by being sent to those places.

The founders had thought that Hogwarts' grounds were one of those places, but had been mistaken as the years had shown when students were able to freely hex each others. By the time they realized their mistake, it was too late and they were unable to finance the moving of the school.

However Rigel had spent quite a lot of his free time at Nightshades to look for traces of the neutral areas and had made sure he would not be mistaken in the same way. That was why preeminent figures of both sides were gathered on this night.

Shaking his head, he made his way up the stairs, snorting as no flashes went out and entered the building. The entrance hall was vast and gave a cathedral-like feeling with the high arches and columns.

People were milling around, conversing with acquaintances. Looking at his watch, Julian saw that it was a little after 9 pm. and so looked for his friends. He heard a commotion on his right and smirked as he saw the Vampire clans' leaders and their families as well as the royal family had arrived.

Evan was standing by his Father's right, his mother on his left and his siblings behind them. They paused in the entrance for effect then stepped inside and parted ways.

Julian went to greet his friend and his family, ignoring the death glares Evan's brothers sent his way. Thanin and Clarence hadn't taken their Father's choice well, not that Evan's attitude helped any. His sister, Lorya seemed to think the situation hilarious, but from their few meetings, Julian could see that the Vampire Princess was still young and didn't take things seriously most of the time. She had yet to enter Nightshades, and he was sure the school would shed her of her more childlike attitudes quickly. She would then be a force to be reckoned with as was her mother Syanise. That was a woman that Julian respected and was wary of.

He bowed to the Princeps and his sons and kissed Syanise and Lorya's hand.

"It's a pleasure to see you again, Princeps, Lamia."

"A pleasure shared, Novice Richards," replied Syanise. "You haven't visited for quite a long time."

"I apologize. I should visit soon since your son informed me you wanted to discuss some matters, Princeps." He said, turning to look at Evan's father.

The Vampire nodded. "Indeed, would Wednesday evening be agreeable? I would send one of my men for you."

Julian nodded. "It will be fine with me."

"Very good, well, we'll leave you youngsters to your devices then."

With a few more parting words, they left to meet other races' leaders.

Evan and Julian looked around and finally spotted some of their friends and their escorts standing by a door. They joined them and waited for the others to arrive.

When Moreen and Arthen finally got there, they made their way to one of the staff. Giving their invites, they were showed to a stunningly dressed Veela that led them to a small platform. Typing on a small keyboard, she then directed the platform up to the spire facing the stage and stopped it next to a balcony that must be one of the best ones available. They waited for the show to start. As the light went off, silence fell on the stage.

A young man appeared on a podium. He was tall and thin with pale skin, blue eyes and dark hair. Many women swooned at the charm he exuded. Julian smirked. Rigel had taken the best of his dual heritage, the beauty and allure of his Veela mother, the dark colorings and powers of his Vampire father. He had been a force to be reckoned with at school.

"Ladies and Gentlemen, thank you for coming tonight for the Inauguration of the Pleiade. I hope you will enjoy this night. However I would like to first thank those that allowed this project to become a reality. First, I must thank the committee and all those that participated to the financing of this theater. Without their support nothing would have been built." He read off a series of names, among them the Malfoys.

"Then, my deepest thanks to the architect Jean Claude Menart and his team for making something of my plans. My gratitude to Isabelle Delacour and her design and decorating team. Thank you to Gerarht Hensfeld and his team for the lights and sounds. Thank you to Julian Richards and his team for the magical powering and warding of the theater. Thank you to Princeps Thoran for his invaluable help. Thank you to Lawrence Valenti and his staff supervising the activity of this theater."

He paused.

"Finally, thank you to all the people who worked hard to build this place. Now, let the show begin!"

With a puff of smoke he disappeared and music started to fill the area. Julian let himself be swept away by the show, enjoying the performance of the elite of the artists of this time.

The show ended with a breathtaking pyrotechnic demonstration involving all the artists who had performed during the night. Julian, for once silenced by admiration, watched as Illusionists created shapes, colors and creatures that engaged in an aerial ballet, joining the acrobats, the wind riders and the creature tamers. The animals and people moved together in tune with the music and the entrancing voice of Andrea Vicentti, the current prima at Italian Opera. Fireworks were exploding behind all of them, their colors and shapes manipulated by pyrotechnics to fit the whims of the artists.

Applause shook the building as the artists came to bow and were called back four times before disappearing in a twirl of smoke.

The lights came back, illuminating the area as people stood up and readied to leave. The Veela came back with her platform. "Ladies and Gentlemen, we hope you enjoyed the performance. Mr. Aldebaran is extending an invitation to the small reception he is hosting to celebrate the inauguration."

Julian took Oreale's arm and guided her to the platform. Once they had reached the grounds, the Veela led them to a vast reception rooms where people were already mingling, talking and drinking. They all took a cup of champagne from the trays carried by the waiters going round the room.

They were soon joined by their host. Rigel Aldebaran was as charismatic as Julian had remembered him to be.

Dressed in tailored clothes empathizing his assets and his eyes, his dark locks styled with efficiency, framing aristocratic features, he seemed to come out of a modeling magazine.

He was accompanied by Andrea Vicentti and the two of them made a striking picture: both of them had the same pale skin and dark hair and their clothes had been studied to compliment each other. Their eyes were the main difference. The Italian Diva was on Syren descent and had inherited the voice of her grandmother as well as the pupil-less eyes.

Julian nodded to Rigel and kissed her hand.

"Madame, your performance was a wonder," he said quietly.

She smiled at him. "Rigel spoke of you highly Mr. Richards," she answered melodiously. Julian reinforced his shields as he felt the siren qualities of her voice reach out to him. He shot an amused look at the dark-haired man.

"I will have to thank him then, Madame."

"You can call me Andrea," she said with a smile.

"Then I'll insist that you call me Julian."

Rigel laughed a little. "That's it, Julian, no flirting with my fiancée."

Julian and his friends shot him a surprised glance.

"Fiancée, Rigel? Something you forgot to tell us?"

"Andrea and I got engaged a few days ago." He looked at the woman with warm eyes.

"How did you get old Procyon to agree, last time I heard, you were still set to bond with Capella…" said Auguste, frowning.

Rigel smirked. "Never underestimate the power of a determined female Veela… My mother was quite happy to hear that Andrea here had felt compatible to my Veela half, something I could not say for Capella…"

Oreale snorted at that. "I sincerely doubt that air-head is compatible with anyone… but congratulations to you too."

She was echoed by the rest of the group.

"Thank you all, I'll see you on Samhain, won't I?"

Julian nodded. "Yes, I look forward to it."

"We all do," said Rigel, "last year was… a bit frustrating. Evan played his part right, but there was something missing… You aren't stepping down, are you?"

Julian turned cold eyes to him.

"Why, you wish to challenge me, Rigel?"

The dark haired man shook his head widely.

"No, no, I learnt better than that, Julian, didn't I?"

The young man agreed. "You were a worthy opponent."

Rigel smiled tightly, recognizing this as the compliment it was.

"Well, I'll go then, lots of people to see tonight. Thank your father for me, Evan, if I can't see him myself. His help with the Goblins was most valuable."

Evan nodded. "The results are worth it."

Rigel parted with a few words and both he and Andrea made their way to another group.

Looking around, Julian quickly spotted people he wanted to speak to.

"Sorry, I need to talk to Headmaster Karal."

They shooed him away, the girls getting engrossed in a commentary of the clothes and jewelry displayed around.

Navigating through the crowd, he quickly reached three people talking next to the buffet.

Karal was talking quietly with Zoar and Desmona.

Julian bowed deeply to the three of them.

"Good night, Julian. It is good to see you again," started Karal, his eyes sweeping over him, appraising.

"Good night to you, Headmaster."

"I must say Rigel's première was a success," stated Desmona.

Zoar smirked. "He always was one for theatrics."

"Indeed," acquiesced Karal, "he did the school proud nonetheless." He shot a look at Julian. "I heard your own project was progressing."

The young man nodded.

"It is, we are negotiating the next move."

Desmona smiled approvingly. "Excellent, Julian. That is good news indeed."

"And what of your training, young man?" snapped Zoar.

Julian smirked. "Rest assured Master Zoar that I have been practicing."

The Vampire raised an eyebrow. "Really, I will see it for myself on Samhain. You will have to uphold your rank then, Dux."

Karal held up his hand. "Peace, Zoar. You will be able to test young Julian in a few weeks. What of your novitiate?"

"It is progressing," Julian didn't elaborate.

Karal nodded. "We will talk more on the 31st - " He did not finish his sentenced. "I'm glad to hear that your Mastery is going well…"

Bewildered, Julian quickly caught up as he felt a familiar aura stop behind him.

"I will send Mistress Leto some of my notes."

A soft cough made him turn and he smiled tightly at the Malfoys.

"Lord Malfoy, Lady Malfoy, Draco." He nodded to the three of them.

"I'm so sorry to interrupt you, Mr. Richards," started the Malfoy patriarch, not looking sorry in the least, "but my wife wanted dearly to meet you."

Julian repressed a sigh and kissed Narcissa's hand as her husband introduced her and his son. He presented the three masters for politeness sake only, wishing the three were far away.

"Master Zoar, Mistress Desmona and Headmaster Karal whom I'm sure you have heard of."

"A pleasure, Headmaster. I'm sure you are quite proud of young Mr. Richards here."

Desmona smiled tightly.

"Julian was always a unique individual. We have been expecting a lot from him."

"He must have been a delight to teach."

Zoar shot a sardonic look at Julian. "I would say that Julian was one of a kind."

Julian repressed a smile. "Headmaster Karal, I unfortunately need to go. I will see you on the 31st?"

"Indeed, keep your self safe until then."

Julian smiled and turned to the Malfoys, bidding them a good night.

He went to warn his friends he was leaving when he was stopped on his way by a couple accompanied by an elderly man he immediately recognized. After all, his name was only number one on the Voldemort's hit list.

"Mr. Richards?"

Restraining himself from screaming and tightening his Occlumency and Dissolvency shields, he managed to keep a neutral face as he turned to face the one and only Albus Dumbledore.

"I do not believe we have met already."

"I do think so Mr. Dumbledore. And who might your companions be?"

The elder man smiled benignantly, eyes twinkling as he introduced the couple.

"Mr. Remus Lupin, our DADA teacher at Hogwarts and Miss Nymphadora Tonks, Auror."

Julian raised an eyebrow at the feeling he got from the two. A Werewolf and a Metamorphamagus.

"Forgive my boldness, sir," he said to Remus, "but from which pack are you part of?"

The man nearly choked on his champagne at the question before looking at him in puzzlement.

"H-How…" He shook his head, composing himself back together. "I was bitten by the Prime of the Bloodfang

pack when I was a child."

Julian smiled slightly. "So, you're the wayward prince they have been looking for for years… I must warn you that the fight for leadership is taking place in two days for your pack, in the Highlands if I remember well. But you must already know it. Fenrir might not be as lucky this time."

Remus' head shot up at the mention of Fenrir's name.

"What?!"

Julian just shook his head but Dumbledore cut him before he could speak.

"Well, it is quite interesting, Mr. Richards. I did not expect you to be here."

"Rigel and I were in the same year at school. We kept in touch and I couldn't refuse his invitation."

"Yes, yes, I understand, speaking of invitations, I wondered if you would be interested in joining us for our Halloween Feast. Many of my colleagues are quite interested in meeting the youth that was deemed worthy by Severus."

Julian bowed his head slightly.

"Thank you Headmaster, however I'm afraid I must decline. Like all my school peers, I will attend our school's annual gathering."

Dumbledore nodded, a benign smile on his face. "Of course, of course, I understand, my child."

Julian bristled a little at the child comment though he didn't let it show.

The old man continued.

"Then, I might tempt you with a visit to the school. For Severus to have taken you as an apprentice you must seek knowledge and our library is quite comprehensive…"

This was a far more tempting.

Julian smiled tightly. "I'm sorry I cannot answer you without getting my master to agree to it. As you must know, my coming and goings are not for me to decide."

Dumbledore just smiled. "I will write Severus to ask for his agreement, my child."

Julian nodded tersely, wishing he could see his master's face upon receiving such a request.

"If you will excuse me, Headmaster, but I need to leave now. I have quite a lot of work waiting for me."

"The hardship of an apprentice's life. Surely Severus would understand…"

Julian just raised an eyebrow in disbelief. He then felt a small tentative probe to his mind. Showing nothing, he pushed the tendril out of his mind.

"I might not be an expert of wizarding customs, sir, but I do not think invading one's mind without permission is common courtesy. I will advise you not to repeat it, sir."

Julian's eyes iced over as he spoke, the word 'sir' dripping with sarcasm as he did so.

"My child, I…"

"I am not one of your children, Headmaster. I have a name and I ask you to use it."

Dumbledore nodded tightly.

"Very well, Mr. Richards. My offer still stands."

"I will think about it should my master agree, good night to you, Headmaster, Mr. Lupin, Miss Tonks."

He nodded to the two men and kissed Tonks' hands before stalking back to his friends. After a few parting words, he went to find Rigel to bid him good bye.

He could feel eyes on him as he walked to the doors but he did not look back, after all he knew who they were.

(o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o)

Voldemort came back a week later, having been needed to set his troops straight.

Julian welcomed his return with mixed feelings. During the past week he had been able to go as he pleased and attend several meetings regarding his own project as well as visit Evan as he had promised Syanise.

With Voldemort back, he knew his moves would be carefully monitored, even more when the Dark Lord was going to learn that his little spies continuously lost him in Sins…

It was not his fault that he loved that club and that Veelas always seemed to spot Voldemort's men…

Must be the Dark Mark and the bad boy's thing going on…

He knew of the Dark Lords successes and failures. Even though he had made a breakthrough in the French Ministry, the Wizarding Senate still stood strong even after several attempts at assassinations of pre-eminent members as well as blackmail. Same thing for Germany…

Too bad.

On the other hand, the Eastern Europe was falling quickly behind him with the support of the Vampires.

So it was not a surprise when they were all told to attend dinner together.

It was also not that surprising that Theodore Nott came to fetch him from his room to "accompany him" to the main hall and told him he was expected to sit at the Head table. He was seated between Malfoy senior and Sletkaya.

He ate quietly, pouring his frustrations into dissecting his chicken into tiny pieces. Dessert came and went and people started to leave the room after Voldemort gave an inspired speech on his progress, carefully minimizing his set backs or omitting them.

The young Sorcerer had to give it to the man. He had a way with words.

And unsurprisingly he was asked to stay behind.

He remained seated as the hall emptied itself, perusing the new Potions magazine he had received that day.

Voldemort finally had enough of looking at him and spoke up.

"I heard you went out quite a few times while I was absent, Mr. Richards."

Julian nodded gracefully. "Yes, Lord."

"A bit surprising considering your work toll, apprentice. Is Severus aware of your… escapades?"

Julian refrained from rolling his eyes. "My master does not concern himself with my private life as long as my assignments are completed to his standards and that my studies progress."

Voldmort let out a sibilant chuckle.

"So true, young man… though I do not think he would approve of your choice of club."

This time, he did roll his eyes. "I do not have much company around here, Lord. Sins has always been a known meeting place among my peers."

Voldemort smirked. "I'm sure some of my men's children would be more than happy to provide some companionship to you. But I fear this might have to wait for a later time. I want you to meet me in my office in thirty minutes. A house-elf will come and show you where it is."

Julian nodded silently. "Yes, Lord Voldemort, can I be excused?"

Voldemort shot him a piercing glance.

"Yes, I expect you to be on time. I do not tolerate lateness."

Julian nodded before heading back to his room. Knowing he had little time left, he just hoped that Evan had done his part. He gracefully sat cross-legged on the floor and used his own mantra to fell in a meditative trance for twenty minutes.

Emerging from his trance feeling calmed and balanced, his magic at peace for now. He went to take off his robes and straightened his outfit, shooting a glance in the mirror as he did so.

He had gotten rid of the talking menace on his first day, after relocating all the portraits to a spare room. He preferred his mirrors to be silent. This particular one had been openly leering at him. Well leering as much as a mirror can.

Black pants and dark blue shirt. A bit classical but it would do. His Sorcerer pendant was hanging around his neck and under his shirt.

"What is happening, master?"

He looked to the corner next to the fireplace. All his snakes were entwined together in a big mass of scales.

Kahn had been the one to speak.

Nothing

Sostris slithered out from the scaly mass. I will come with you, master.

Racking a hand through his hair, he did not try to stop the snake. He had learnt how stubborn his snakes could be when his safety was at sake. He took a breath and waited for the house elf to arrive.

A minute later, one of them had popped in. "If Young master would follow, Tanny will show young master to Master's rooms."

Julian nodded and left the room after the small creature. They walked quickly and silently, reaching a part that Julian had never gone to. The house-elf stopped in front of ebony doors.

"Young master is to go in."

Julian simply nodded, waving the creature away.

Really, ebony doors? Could he fall more deeply into the cliché dark Lord room?

He knocked and waited for an answer before stepping inside, closing the doors behind him. A least Voldemort had the common sense not to push his ancestral worship too far.

The living room was done with dark cherry wood covering the walls, thick rugs covering the stone floor, solid wooden furniture, a large fireplace, several paintings hanging on the wall, many of them from famous Magical painters that had even been known to the Muggle world.

Voldemort was standing by the fireplace, a glass filled with an amber liquid in his hand.

"Right on time, Mr. Richards."

Julian didn't answer, focusing on the Dark Lord.

He had changed to dark green robes, his eerie red eyes focused on Julian as he sipped on his glass.

"I have heard interesting things about you from my servants, young man." He twirled his glass' contents, watching him like a prey. "More particularly that Dumbledore spoke with you."

Julian kept his face blank.

"Hogwarts' Headmaster only wished to invite me to the school Halloween festivities. I declined seeing as I'm already engaged. He then offered to come to the school to peruse its library."

"A generous offer," merely said the Dark Lord.

"Sadly one I cannot accept without my master's agreement."

"Most unfortunate indeed," answered Voldemort softly. He placed his glass on the fireplace mantle and walked to stand in front of Julian.

"You intrigue me, young man and I want some answers now."

The young Sorcerer stilled his features.

"Some answers are not mine to tell." His hissing was not as sibilant as Voldemort's.

Hearing his master speaking, Sostris let his head peak out of the sleeve. Julian had not managed to deter his snakes from having one come with him to protect their human every time he had to meet with Death Eaters.

"Master?"

Julian gently petted his head to reassure him he was fine.

"I see you brought one of your companions. He is a fine specimen."

Julian bowed his head lightly. "My snakes refuse to let me go without their protection."

"You should feel pride in their loyalty."

"I do."

Silence stretched in the room finally broken by Voldemort whose patience had always been thin.

"Follow me."

He swept to a side door and the two of them entered a bare stone room which was obviously used for rituals. The only two pieces of furniture were the restraints fused in the opposite wall and the stone table on one side. Candles lighted the room, making the carved markings in the wall more striking as well as the rusty blood runes.

Voldemort took a dagger from the table as well as a cup.

"Your gift hasn't ever been found outside of Slytherin descent. I assume you are aware of the Lineage potion and ritual that is commonly used?"

Julian nodded.

"I tried it using some of your blood."

Julian frowned. How had he gotten hold of his blood… he was extremely careful not leave body parts or fluids around, that included blood, sweat, hairs…

Voldemort sent him a smug smirk.

"Your fellow apprentice was most agreeable to make sure you cut yourself while preparing ingredients… After all accidents are quite usual in a Potion Lab…"

Julian's eyes iced over, someone was going to regret ever thinking about such a thing.

If Voldemort noticed he was going to get one apprentice short, he said nothing.

"However, the potion failed." He studied the pale face of his servant's apprentice, wishing he could unravel all of its secrets. "I know it is no fault from the potion brewing."

Julian nodded gracefully.

"Indeed." He did not elaborate. Why give up information that had not been inquired directly, no matter if it had been implied.

Voldemort's lips thinned with annoyance mixed with amusement.

"This is then why I called you here tonight. Being an orphan, I can assume that you would wish to know as much as you could about your ancestry."

Julian chose not to answer, better to let him assume what he wanted to.

"You will then not object of undergoing a ritual that will determine if you are a part of my line?"

Julian thought of how to answer before finally speaking up. "Any knowledge of one's family is always appreciated. However what does this ritual exactly entail?"

"It is a simple magical assessment of your heritage. However you will need to part with your companion if you want him not to die."

Not liking the vague terms the Dark Lord had used but knowing he would only waste time in trying to learn more, Julian simply nodded. In low hisses, Julian explained the situation to the thin black snake. He reluctantly slithered off his human and went to rest on the table.

"Beware, Speaker for death will be your fate is my master comes to any harm."

Voldemort eyed the snake with amusement.

"Nothing dire will befall him should he carry the magic of my line."

Sostris hissed angrily.

"And should he not?"

"Then he will die. But no Parseltongues were ever but Slytherins."

Voldemort then motioned to Julian to step in the middle of the room. The Dark Lord walked to a part of the wall and quickly slashed his own left palm, letting blood fall in the cup. With his right hand he highlighted two runes before placing his hand to a particular stone.

Julian had no time to react as he was blasted to the wall.

Struggling, he tried to step away from the stones heating in his back.

"Voldemort, what- "

He was not able to say more as he felt things slithering around him. Looking down he saw thin black snakes come out of the wall and ensnare him. Two were going down his legs, two others down his arm, two from his waist to his neck and one extremely small around his neck to his face.

"Voldemort, what is the mean- "

But he was silenced as all the snakes dove and bit him at his ankles, wrist and both sides of his neck. Agony wracked through his body and his back arched backwards, struggling against the reptiles' hold, his mouth opening in a silent scream.

This was what the smaller snake was waiting for as he sprang in his mouth and entered Julian's body. The young man trashed against the wall, mouth opening and closing in silent pleas.

Voldemort cast a quick containment on the young man's snake as he was about to strike him.

"Stop this, you are hurting him! Stop it!"

Voldemort smirked and conjured a chair, watching for the following hour as Severus' protégé fought the ancient magic he had called upon.

Finally the snake retracted themselves and melted back to the wall.

Julian fell limply to the stone ground with a dull thud.

Voldemort stood up and walked to the young man.

Crouching at his head, he tilted it on one side and allowed a pleased smile upon noticing the Slytherin Crest tattoed on the nape of his neck. A dark green shield with a lighter green stripe surrounded on each side by a silver one going from the upper right corner to the lower left one. A blood red fully bloomed rose stood out in the middle and a black snake ensnared the shield. The colours were paler than on his own mark. It was now clear that the young man was distantly related to the Slytherin.

Voldemort immediately started to think of the consequences of such a find. Absent-mindedly, he checked the boy's pulse, ignoring the hissing snake that had wrapped around the young man's arm having freed itself from the containment spell somehow.

It was weak but steady. The boy would live.

He walked out of the room and summoned a house-elf.

"Take Mr. Richards and his familiar and bring them back to his rooms. Now!"

The small creature cowered in fear and bobbed his head up and down.

"Yes your Lordship, Coby will do it your Lordship."

Voldemort poured himself a glass of wine and sat in front of the fire. Things were turning out for the better. He would have his heir. He would make the boy his and mould him to his liking.

It would be tricky.

It would be a challenge.

But in the end a Slytherin always got what he wanted.

(o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o)

Julian stirred and was immediately awakened as his body heavily protested having had to move.

He looked on the side and realized he was in his room. What had happened came back to him and he immediately looked at his inner wrist to find two puncture holes they were starting to scar.

"Master…. Master! You are awake!"

Julian then realized he was surrounded by his snakes. Even the Runespoor was being quiet for once. Sostris head was dangling in front of him.

"Calm down Sostris!" he snapped, his hissing cutting. Moaning as his head throbbed painfully, he spoke up this time more gently. "You were not at fault, Sostris…I apologize. How long have I been unconscious?"

"You have been sleeping for one light and one dark," answered Kahn, the young Basilisk curled at his side.

"The Speaker tried to come and see you but we protected you, master."

"Thank you, could one of you fetch me the small rounded bottle that smell of mice?"

Salya slithered away and came back minutes later, a small vial stuck in her mouth.

Julian downed its contents in one gulp, wincing a bit at the taste before sighing in relief as the pain coursing through him dulled down.

Slowly, he turned on his side and stood up a bit unsteadily.

Closing his eyes, he took deep breath to steady himself and his magic which was running a bit amok. He could feel it had been unbalanced by whatever had happened.

"Sostris, did you see what happened?"

"Once you fell, the speaker walked to you and checked something behind your neck. He seemed satisfied. Then he called one of the bizarre creatures to take you back here."

Julian passed his hand to the back of his neck and felt a small warm lump. Pulling his hair up, he took his wand and conjured a small mirror.

His face turned cold as he spotted the Slytherin crest. He hated the feeling of being branded, but it was the lesser of the two evils.

It was only a heritage mark.

Let Voldemort think that gave him rights over him. He was his own man.

Letting his hair fall back down, he went to his wardrobe and took out new clothes for him to wear while trying to remember if there was anything special scheduled for today.

Not thinking of anything in particular, he put on a faded pair of jeans and a black Tee-shirt. He was going to spend quite some time in the labs to catch up yesterday's work and might as well be in comfortable clothes.

Going to the bathroom, he took out another vial of pain-killing potion; one he knew would not react with the first one. He took a shower, trying to wash out the soreness of his muscles, got dressed and headed out for the labs.

Foregoing breakfast seeing as it was already 10 am he entered the damp room and put on his apron, gloves and goggles before going to his black board.

He frowned upon looking at it. Only his work for the day was written there.

Snatching the orders he noticed it was only simple brews that where usually left to Ivan. Not about to chance his luck, he went to fetch the ingredients needed and quickly set to work. Two hours later he was finished and cleaning his work station.

That done and not in the mood to eat in the hall, he went to the kitchen and got something to eat before heading to his rooms.

He spent three hours there going through several Mind exercises to anchor his magic once more as well as reinforce his Occlumency and Dissolvency shields. The ritual had fully unlocked the Slytherin powers he had gained from Voldemort and he needed to refine his handling of them.

Then he spent the rest of his day in the High Security Labs, not in the mood to be disturbed. He brewed some of the potions required by the Vampires, started on two experiments regarding Phoenix ashes, griffin based ingredients and salamander ingredients, trying to keep his mind off of what had happened.

He was exiting the labs, intent on heading to his rooms, take a long shower, go grab something to eat at the kitchens, go back to his rooms and read for the rest of the evening as well as meditate for an hour. He had only thirteen days left before the Gathering and he needed to have his magical core anchored and under control before then. He also had letters to send.

However as he stepped out of his rooms after his shower, he knew he would have to make a change of plans.

A black-haired guy with a light olive skin was standing outside of his rooms, discussing with a red-haired girl, Zabini and Greengrass if his memory was still accurate.

"Richards, The Dark Lord requested your presence at dinner," stated Zabini, half leaning against the door, his dark brown eyes appraising him. Julian knew better than that.

The Dark Lord might have requested his presence, but Zabini might as well have said 'ordered'. Julian might be given more leeway than most but openly ignoring an implied order from Voldemort that wasn't breaking some of the guidelines his master had set wouldn't go well.

"Very well."

He three of them started for the hall.

"You went out quite a lot I heard?" said suddenly the Italian young man, a slight accent colouring his voice.

Julian smirked a little. "You are only young once… Why not make the fullest of it?"

Zabini nodded a little. "I heard you're going to Sins quite often… But from what I hear you don't enter there that easily, not even us can get in whenever we want… I have to admit it is the best one on the scene for now."

"I know the right people."

"We went last year for Draco's birthday. His father was a bit reluctant to let us go but Draco managed to get him to pull some strings on the condition we had an adult come with us inside. That was a bit of a dampener."

"Mr. Malfoy was right. Wizards can be easy preys in the club."

"Speaking of experience?"

Julian smiled coldly. "None of them would dare."

With that he nodded to the two of them and went to sit by Devlin, ignoring everyone else in the room. He ate quickly and made to stand up when Devlin grabbed his arm and forced him to sit back.

"The Dark Lord wants you to stay behind, boy."

Julian gritted his teeth and nodded sharply. Leaning back against his chairs, he looked around the Hall, having nothing better to do. He smirked a little as he spotted a few known figures… The Order of the Phoenix was not that helpless it seemed. For now he would let their spies be. He found it particularly amusing that Zacharias Smith would be part of Draco Malfoy's court.

Not really surprising, after all the blond was known for his bragging nature and tended to get a loose tongue when you knew how to flatter him. Apparently no amount of teaching from his father had taught him true caution. Julian smiled inwardly. The young man would soon learn or he wouldn't survive Voldemort.

Devlin left after telling him once more to stay put and it took some more moments for the hall to empty itself.

"Mr. Richards, if you could join us?"

Julian stood up and walked to the Dark Lord.

"I won't keep you up for long; after all you went through quite the ordeal yesterday."

The members of the Inner Circle looked at him, some of them not hiding well their curiosity.

Voldemort let out a dark chuckle. "Come here Mr. Richards."

Julian went to stand by his side.

Voldemort gripped his head and turned it completely to the side, raising up his hair and pushing the neck of his Tee-shirt down.

"I trust you recognize this mark and its meaning," he hissed.

Most of the Inner Circle eyed the young man with cold eyes. They could see it wasn't an heir mark, only one proving him to be of Slytherin blood.

Finally, Bellatrix was the one to speak up. "We are glad to hear that you were able to find someone of your blood, Master. Will he now join us since he is of your blood?"

Voldemort's hand tightened on Julian's chin, drawing a slight hiss from the young man. "Mr. Richards cannot yet take my mark or pledge himself to me due to some circumstances. He also needs to prove his worth. As you all know I still have to choose an heir. I will consider all the youths present in my ranks whether they have pledged to me or not."

Bellatrix sent a cold smile to the young man and Julian decided here and there that he wasn't going to part from his bezoar stone and the pendant Evan had given him.

Before he had been an annoyance, now he was competition.

"You can go, Mr. Richards." Voldemort let go of his head.

Julian nodded and left the room.

He went straight back to his rooms and set to write several letters, one went to Evan, another to his master, a third to the Headmaster and a fourth to his lawyers. Time to make sure he had not left a loophole unchecked.

The following week passed in a blur: between his work in the labs, his experiments and mastery work, his own training and studies as well as the meetings Voldemort asked he attend, he had little time to spare.

The situation was tipping in favour of the Dark, but Voldemort had had to tamper his original program to get the Vampires and Werewolves to join him.

There had not been slaughter of Muggles. England had more or less fallen under the Dark Lord's rule save for a few pockets of Resistance. However attacks, ambushes and sabotage were becoming daily occurrences, hindering Voldemort's plans of expansion.

The French Senate was about to back down after the Dark Lord had ordered a series of kidnappings of the families of the more bothersome members.

Julian assisted in several meetings with diplomats from several countries and came to appreciate how the man kept a precarious balance between intimidation, coercion and diplomacy.

A little less than a week before Halloween, he was surprised not to see Devlin apprentices bumbling around the room. Grant had come back five days ago, jumpy, prone to fits of tears when reprimanded harshly. Vallez was to come back in two days after a week of rest and Kolskov had suffered from an unfortunate accident in the lab as he added Dragon blood to a solution containing Kelpi blood and hairs. He was currently stuck in the Hospital wing in a vegetative state.

Julian felt no remorse reguarding this unfortunate event. The idiot should have been able to see the difference between Dragon blood and Grindylow blood.

He went to Devlin's office but stopped in the doorway as he noticed Devlin speaking with his own master.

"… well, our lord is growing quite fond of him."

"That's what I was afraid of."

Devlin let out a rusty chuckle. "Don't like to share, do you, Severus?"

"I'd like him to be alive long enough to pass his mastery."

There was a small pause.

"There's more to it, isn't it? You wouldn't go to such length for a simple apprentice."

"You've been using that dreadful powder again."

"Keep an eye on your boy then, you were warned of the results of our lord's ritual?"

"Yes," snapped the younger man.

"Very well. I will show you around the labs and present you to the heads of the other departments, though I'm sure they haven't forgotten you."

"What of my apprentice?"

"I assigned him Guane's orders, he should be done by the end of the morning and will occupy himself for the afternoon."

Julian decided it would now be a good moment to leave. Stopping to grab the papers with the few potions he was required to brew, he went to set up his work tables and went to work.

He bowed to his master and Devlin as they walked past him.

"Come to Devlin's office after lunch, apprentice we both have things to discuss." Not waiting for the young man to agree, he swept out of the room Devlin walking at his side.

Julian spent the remaining part of the morning brewing some generic anti-poisons, some Skelegrow, burns balms, sedatives and pain-killers.

He noticed a change in the atmosphere as soon as he stepped in the hall. The Death Eaters were on edge and low whispers were running around the room.

The cause was easy to spot.

His master was sitting at the Head Table, looking annoyed and ready to snap at the first opportunity.

He went to sit next to Devlin, an amused glint showing in his eyes that Devlin did not miss.

"Shall we make a small wager, apprentice?"

Julian raised an eyebrow. "And what wager, Devlin?"

"That the old bat will curse one of those dunderheads before the end of the meal."

Julian looked at his master before shaking his head. "He will get his revenge away from any possible witness should one of them be stupid enough to anger him."

Devlin snorted. "That would be typical of him…"

They both turned to their meals and ate in silence. Julian exited as soon as he was done and went to his rooms. He had seen his master's eyes and did not want to be caught in the crossfire.

Really, the Death Eaters should know better than to gossip about a susceptible Potion Master when he was in the room.

By dinner time, he was quite tired, but had quite progressed in his control of his core and the environment's magic. It seemed that the Heirship ritual had unlocked something within his core.

Dinner was a quiet affair after word spread that four Death Eaters had been found comatose, their lips glued together, half-transfigured into hyenas.

Julian entered Devlin's office an immediately noticed the changes that had been made.

Instead of the organized mess that had been Devlin's room, a spotless organisation had been set up. The six large aquariums had been disposed of. The old man was quite the collector of rare and unusual fishes.

Snape was already sitting in his chair. Brusquely, he motioned to the young man to sit down.

"Devlin and I decided it would be better to exchange our places. Thus I will now work here."

Julian simply nodded.

"We discussed your progress and I have little to say regarding your brewing or your thesis. You showed surprisingly little of the idiocy, rashness or ineptness that comes with your age. We will however discuss your use of salamander's blood but that can wait."

Severus folded his hands and examined his apprentice as if he was a newly discovered ingredient. "I don't know how you managed to conceal your heritage or block the Lineage potions and I don't want to know. You have to realize that the Dark Lord is extremely interested in you, boy. He wanted you to join the other youths in training but agreed that you were more needed in the labs for now."

He glared at his apprentice. "I do not want to be bothered because of you. You should be intelligent enough to deal with the situation; if not then you are not worth my time"

Julian refrained from snorting. What time?

"And starting after Halloween, you will see me for two hours every night. Only bring your wand, parchments and a self-inking quill. Dress for outdoors and meet me in the entrance hall at nine."

Julian raised an eyebrow at the Potion master. "Yes, master."

"Good, now, leave me."

The young man bowed silently and left to go back to his rooms. The week leading to Halloween was quite amusing from Julian's point of view.

The lesser Death Eaters were keeping clear of his master, having heard horror stories from the senior Death-Etaers or from those living at Ython. The more powerful ones were wary of him and were trying to assess his intentions regarding the Hierarchy. Though Voldemort had him sitting with his Inner Circle, Severus wasn't part of it.

At least it had taken the attention a little away from him.

The day before the 31st, Julian was coming from the practice room, intent on getting a shower, a good breakfast and then going to the labs.

On his way, he was however accosted by the Juniors as he had dubbed them. The platinium blond one, Malfoy something, called him as he passed them.

"Richards."

Politeness requiring him to answer, Julian nodded to them.

"Malfoy."

"I don't think you've met the others, this is Blaise Zabini, Zacharias Smith, Pansy Parkinson, Daphne Greengrass, Millicent Bulstrode, Theodore Nott, Gregory Goyle and Vincent Crabbe."

Julian nodded in salutation.

"We haven't seen much of you lately…"

"My master has been keeping me busy."

Draco smirked. "That sounds like Uncle Sev."

Julian nearly choked. "Uncle...?"

Draco rolled his eyes. "He is my Godfather, though I haven't seen him for at least two years and he always seemed to forget my birthdays… Though I might visit him tomorrow…" he added pensively.

Had Julian been a good person, he would have warned the blond to stay away from his master who had been in a foul mood as his recent experiments kept blowing up.

But he was not a good person and the verbal lashing the young blond was sure to be met with would definitely be worth the slight worsening of his master's mood.

"Well, Uncle Sev's slave driving habits apart, we wanted to ask if you wanted to come with us for our practice sessions this afternoon."

The young Sorcerer shook his head. "That won't be possible, I'm afraid, I'm expected in the labs for the whole day." That and he didn't want to spend days with those wannabe spies. Really, couldn't they be any more obvious?

"Well, then we will see you at the Halloween Ball," gushed Pansy, clutching the arm of Malfoy junior.

Julian repressed a smile. "I am expected elsewhere and won't be able to attend."

"What a pity," stated Zacharias in a bored voice, "we were told that the Dark Lord had found Muggles to entertain the guests."

"Indeed… If you will excuse me, I need to go. My master does not tolerate lateness."

He did not wait for them to agree or not, nodded and walked away.

Malfoy looked at him, curiosity shining in his eyes.

"Not very talkative," said Blaise.

"How could he brush us aside like this?" snapped Pansy. "Doesn't he know who we are?"

Theodore turned to Draco, ignoring Pansy's blabbering. "Draco?"

The young blond looked at him.

"He is most interesting..."

(o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o) (o)

The next day, Julian packed a bag for his stay at Nightshades, not forgetting his chest with his ritual and battle robes and his weapons. He was to meet Evan at the edge of the school wards at eight in the evening. He spent his morning in his rooms, clearing his mind and reinforcing his magical core's anchors.

By noon, he started to get ready. Like all those who hadn't taken part in the gathering, he couldn't eat or drink anything coming from a living being for the twenty-four hours preceding the Ceremony. He took his time as he went through the purification of his clothes and weapons as well as of himself.

That done, he braided his hair in an intricate pattern every graduate was taught. Even the clumsiest student, if such a person existed among the graduates, was able to do it eyes closed.

Going to his mirror, he took out small vials from a bag and took a pencil. Opening, a small white one, he dipped the pencil in the silvery liquid.

Unicorn blood, willingly given.

Each student was given one vial of it to be used on Samhain. Looking in the mirror, he slowly drew the Volo rune on his throat, then he opened uncorked another vial filled a blood red liquid.

Nundu's blood.

Dipping another pencil made of nundu fur and griffin's fur in the vial, he carefully drew the Ligo rune above his heart.

Then came the last one, the Suppleo.

Taking a third pencil, he dipped it in the third vial.

Phoenix blood.

With extreme care he applied it to his forehead, hands trembling as he felt it react to his own magic.

He waited for a minute to make sure they had dried before putting on his clothes which consisted of his Nightshades graduating outfit: the dark grey pants, then the shimmering black robes. He zipped them up with his wand, checking no runes embroidered on it had been damaged. Strapping his weapons on, he then buckled his belt and sheath. Going to pick his sword from the rack on the wall, he checked its gleaming length before sheathing it.

Then he pricked his finger and let a drop of blood fell on the school crest. A golden lining appeared to show his rank among his peers. He pushed Evan's necklace under his robes, but left his Sorcerer pendant's out.

Going to his Ouroboros marked chest, he took out a small box and picked the thick gold ring lying in it. He had not worn it since its creation, having not yet graduated from Nightshades and thus earned the right to wear it. He put it in the pouch hanging on his belt.

He put on his black boots, his black gloves and clasped his cloak. Shooting a last look at his reflection and checking that his blood runes were still intact, he then cast a glamour to hide them from view. He exited his room and headed for the Apparition point.

The Death Eaters he crossed scurried out of his way.

He met with Zabini, Malfoy, Greengrass and Parkinson on his way out. The four of them were wearing tailored dress robes or gowns.

"Richards," said Malfoy looking him up and down. "You are leaving, I take?"

"Indeed."

"It's a pity you couldn't attend the Ball," stated Greengrass, "you would have made quite the impression. What are those robes by the way?"

"My graduation robes."

"Too bad Hogwarts doesn't have something like this…"

Julian refrained from rolling his eyes.

"I wish you a good Samhain night however I must leave."

He nodded to Malfoy and Zabini, kissed Parkinson's and Greengrass' hand, amused as the two girls flushed a little.

"Good Samhain to you too, Richards." Draco watched as his Godfather's apprentice walked away, his cloak billowing in his wake in a move reminiscent of the Potion master.

Pansy and Daphne were whispering to each other, stealing glances at the retreating back.

"Most interesting indeed Draco," said Blaise. "Did you hear about his heritage mark?"

Pansy nodded. "I did, it was all my parents were talking about for a few days."

"Mine did too and from what Julia told me, Regis and her were told to keep an eye on him and deal with the situation accordingly," added Daphne

"Bellatrix must be on a rampage," said Blaise, smirking.

Draco smirked. "My dear Aunt has been ranting about Richards since that ritual. My mother has barred her from our room."

"She wants our Lord to name one of the twins his heir." Daphne's tone left no doubt about her opinion of the former Black.

Draco sneered. "She certainly groomed Regis for it. Julia was groomed to wed and get control of whoever the Dark Lord might chose apart from Regis. She is insufferable."

Daphne shrugged. "Julia slipped from time to time. She told me she was to get closer to Richards and bed him if possible."

"He is the one most likely to be heir if he isn't killed…" agreed Draco.

"But she doesn't have a chance," cut Blaise. "It might get amusing to see her attempt to charm him…"

"How can you say this? Julia can be extremely convincing…" Draco's cheek had flushed a little as he said that.

Blaise chuckled as he took Daphne's arm and started to lead her to the Ballroom.

"Nightshades' do not bond outside of their circles or rarely. Furthermore, in those cases the outsiders are tested before allowed in."

"Aren't you exaggerating it?" Pansy seemed doubtful.

Blaise shook his head. "They form a tight knit community and the best thing is that nobody seems to realize it…"

Draco dismissed the thought. "Well, at least, I will enjoy Julia making a fool of herself."

The four friends chuckled and put on their masks. It had been decided that the Ball would be a Masquerade with masks being discarded only by midnight.

Meanwhile, Julian apparated to a small street, walked through some brightly lighted larger streets, crossing groups of Muggle children disguised as vampires, witches, ghosts, fairies ad so forth, bags filled with sweets in their hands.

Reaching a Victorian house, he hit the doorbell and nodded at the man who opened the door.

He easily made his way to the backyard garden. Stepping in a circle of stones, he focused and popped away.

He reappeared at the edge of a large lake and quickly waved a warming charm around him. The school had first been built near the Constance Lake at the frontier between Austria, Germany and Switzerland. However its founder had quickly deemed it too vulnerable.

As the witch burnings started, they started to build the new school. After three years, the new school was opened and the old one kept as a façade. A family was chosen to inhabit the large manor that had housed the school, protecting the school's true location and the portal leading there since then, the burden passed among its descendants.

The manor had been expanded with time to keep up the pretence and shrouded under various veils to keep people, wizards and Muggles away.

Julian upgraded his warming charms and looked over the lake. It was nearly frozen.

"Julian!"

He turned and saw Evan walking his way.

"Evan, nice to see you."

"You too. How have you been?"

Julian shrugged as they headed for the school entrance.

"Alright. It could be worse."

"Meaning not that good."

Julian sighed. "It's alright. Our plans are progressing as scheduled. I can deal with Voldemort's interest for now."

Evan looked piercingly at his friend.

"I was told he isn't the only one taking interest in you."

Julian nodded. "Dumbledore approached me at Rigel's premiere and tried to look through my mind."

Evan snorted. "Not really subtle of him."

"You can say that."

They both stopped before a huge tree.

"Really, why did they have to relocate to Siberia…"

Julian rolled his eyes. "Well, if you know another place with a large and deep lake which isn't overused by boats of all kinds, be sure to warn the Headmaster…"

He passed his gloved hand above the tree trunk, before finally finding what he was looking for. Taking off his left-hand glove, he pricked his middle finger and put his bloodied finger on an engraved pattern. As the moonlight hit the bloodied area, the tree trunk shimmered and made a hole appear, stairs spiralling downward.

The two youths stepped in the trunk, walking down. The entrance closed as soon as they hit the third steps and torches lit themselves as they descended.

Three hundred and eighty-seven spiralling steps.

They finally reached the bottom of the stairs and walked along a kilometre long corridor. Passing groups of former graduates on their way, Julian took off his glamour charm, allowing the runes to appear.

They finally came out in a large plain at the limits of a small forest. Julian took in the sight of his former school, his heart skipping a beat as it always did.

Spires and towers shot up, linked by bridges and glass tunnels. The building's eccentric lines could only be explained by magic, a huge central dome that housed the school arena and ritual chamber attracting the most attention. It was a crazy structure that seemed to come out of the mind of a mad architect or of a child.

Glass, crystal had been mixed with granite, obsidian, steel and dark woods. Magical lines were shooting from one part to the other, running along the walls. Three smaller domes protected the green houses, a large building housed the various creatures that the students could study or work with if they planned to go into creatures' handling.

But the most awe inspiring feature of this school was the sky… or more precisely the water. An enormous dome covered the school, keeping the cold waters of the Baikal Lake away. The light from the Siberian sky passing through the ice and water, enhanced through magic to illuminate the whole area.

Groups of people dressed in the school black robes were milling across the plain and around the school.

Evan and Julian made their way to the school's doors, stopping from time to time to salute some of their peers.

They stepped in the main Entrance Hall and Julian was reminded of his arrival at the school six years ago…

"Care to share the joke, Julian?"

The dark-haired youth rolled his eyes. "Just remembering my first days…"

Evan repressed a snort. "Not your best moments…"

Before they could say more they were accosted by a tall brunette.

"Well, what do we have here… If it's not that dear Julian and his pet Vampire?"

Julian turned to look at the newcomers. "How delightful to see you again, Ovou… a pity you didn't acquire some brain cells, though I heard the mortals are making tremendous steps in that regards…" He paused, smiling a toothy grin. "But what am I thinking? You remember Evan I'm sure, the new High vampire Prince?"

Ovou flushed and paled at the same time, making his face an interesting sight.

Evan sent a predatory grin to the werewolf, his eyes glinting. Ovou visibly swallowed what he was about to say, having enough sense to know when to back down.

"It seemed to have slipped my mind, I will see you at the Confrontation, Julian. We will see what the company of mortals did to you…" he stated, his tone of voice hint enough of his opinion of mortals.

"We will see indeed, I must however take my leave. Evan, Ovou." He nodded to the two of them and headed for the room where those to be initiated were to wait.

Walking through several corridors and a flight of stairs, he nodded and exchanged a few words with people on his way. He reached the Initiation room and placed his hand over the hand print on the door, watching as it dissolved, allowing him entrance.

Stepping inside, he ignored the door closing on him.

There was only six other people present for now. Two Vampires, a Veela, a Forest Elf and two humans spread around the room. He barely knew them, having only seen them in the corridors and Hall or during Duelling Tournaments.

He should have been initiated the year before, but due to his age, he had had to wait for his Majority, creating a unprecedented quandary as his year group had had to graduate without a Dux.

This had never happened before. That students graduated one year ahead it was not unheard of, but two? There had been a large debate over him winning his Dux title while Evan was named his Second. Dux were chosen to represent their year group before the school council. If a graduate encountered a problem or found himself in a quandary he would appeal to his Dux.

More importantly, Dux could draw on their peers' magic and gather them together should it be required. That there had been no Dux for his year mates' graduation meant that their link to the school had not been complete and that they hadn't been able to beneficiate of their graduate's rank as they could have.

Tonight, he would be initiated as one of Nightshades' but also as his group's Dux, completing their bond to the school.

But he was no fool.

He knew that his authority as Dux would be challenged. A year was a long time, long enough for graduates to think they could overthrow him.

A grin spread on his face in anticipation. It had been long since he had had a worthy opponent, save for Evan during some of their sparring matches.

The room itself was fairly large and completely bare save for the walls which were covered with marks.

Walking closer, he studied them closer, realising they were the marks of all the former students of the school, those walls a Testimony of their stay in this school.

Little by little people filled the room greeting each other, talking in small groups, all of them staying clear of Julian. It looked like they still remembered him after all.

They were about thirty people gathered in the room when Karal and Zoar, his second, entered the room, both of them dressed in their Graduation robes.

"Evening, Nigtshades'. You are here because you proved to have the will and the power needed to graduate from this school. Tonight you will be free to explore the world and find your place and the way to exploit your skills. Tonight you will join all the graduates that went through this school and become a part of Nightshades itself."

Karal paused slightly before resuming his speech.

"Your power will strengthen our wards; your soul will be linked to all of those who follow our teaching. We are a family and tonight we welcome you in our midst. Let's rejoice in this moment."

He looked around the room.

"Shadows in the night only know themselves. Remember our motto and your allegiance."

All the youths no matter their race bowed and fell on one knee, head bowed downward.

"In this room, your childhood comes to an end and you will leave it as adults to join us."

He stopped in front of each graduate, placing his hand on the nape of their neck, muttering a few words every time.

He stopped in front of Julian and paused for a moment before placing his hand above the Slytherin crest tattooed on Julian's nape.

Julian felt a jolt of power coursing through him and felt his every senses sharpening as his magic sizzled inside of him, wanting to free itself.

Once everyone had been unbound, Karal spoke up again.

"Rise, Children of Nightshades and place your mark on this wall through your magic and blood."

Julian rose to his feet and took out his graduation ring from the pouch, slipping it on the middle finger of his right hand, feeling it magically readjust itself.

Every student had to design and create their ring and mark that would be unique to themselves. The choice of the mark and material were up to them. He had chosen gold infused with his blood and his familiar's blood. His mark had been more difficult to come up with. In the hand he had chosen a seven-point star surrounded by Ouroboros, an heptagonal black diamond embedded in the middle of the star, this stone being his preferred focus.

Prickling his left forefinger, he put some blood over the ring and went to apply it to an empty spot on the wall. There was a small gold flash. He pulled his ring away from the wall and saw his mark engraved in the wall, with a golden lining to show his rank of Dux.

"Come now and face your peers. Dux, you will face your companions and if found worthy of your title will be the one to complete your peers' bond to the school."

They left the room behind him and Zoar and headed for the Arena where the Ceremony was going to take place.

On his way to the Arena, Julian nodded to several paintings, statues or passing ghosts.

He after all owed them.

He smirked as he spotted a particular painting who returned his smirk… the good old days…

He had been in the school for a day and was completely lost as to how to behave. He had just discovered that magic was not mere tricks and that werewolves and vampires existed as well as some other strange creatures whose name he couldn't place. He had seen moving pictures, screaming, human shaped plants, a strange beast that looked like a cross between a eagle and a horse that a mad scientist could have come up with.

He knew he was supposed to go to class, but he couldn't tell where he was, lost once more. He caught his feet in the carpet and hit the painting hanging on the wall, drawing a yell of protest from its occupant.

"Watch where you are going you miscreant!"

He apologized, but his attention was caught by the shimmering blue and green snake hanging around the woman's shoulders. It was hissing something to the woman, but the strange thing was that he could understand what it was saying…

"What a runt, mistress… and a rude one at that… Doesn't he know that staring is quite rude!"

"Hey! It's not like speaking snakes are common!"

Both the woman and snake went quiet and stared at him for some time making Julian uncomfortable before the woman spoke again.

"Who are you, boy?"

"What is it to you?"

The woman rolled her eyes. "It's not often that I meet a Snake Speaker, boy. So I repeat my question, who are you?"

"Julian Richards," snapped the young boy, getting fed up with the painting.

"Richards? Muggleborn?"

"Mug-what?"

She rolled her eyes.

"Definitively Muggleborn. I don't know how you came by Solizar's gift, boy but such a gift means you must be more than what meets the eyes…"

She did not leave time to Julian to protest her words. "I will help you as long as I deem you worthy, boy," she said in a tone implying she was doing him quite the favour.

Knowing that antagonizing her at that moment would be detrimental to his health and future in this place, Julian nodded and clumsily bowed to her as he had seen one of the students do the day before.

"You might not be that hopeless, boy, I can sense power around you… Yes, I will help you as will other paintings. You will meet me in the abandoned room at the top of the North Tower after dinner, bring your writing equipment. The exercise alone will do you some good…"

Julian couldn't see how a painting was going to help him. However this was the first helpful thing that had happened to him since he arrived, so he wasn't going to pass it even if it turned out to be a fluke.

"How will I go there, I barely can manage to go to the hall from my room without getting lost!"

Edna gave a suffering sigh. "I really wonder… Place your hand on my painting."

Julian obeyed, and felt a rush on information go through him.

"That should help you get your way around the school. Make sure you do not miss your lessons, even if you don't understand much for now. I will explain more tonight."

Julian nodded, grateful. "Thank you… Who are you by the way?"

The woman sent him a wicked grin.

"Edna… Edna Slytherin."

Julian made a note to go talk with Edna before he left. She had been the wife of Solizar Slytherin, Salazar's grandfather. He owed his survival to her after all. This meeting had been the first of many. Little by little she had taught him the tricks and rules to survive in the school without the guidance of upper students.

Other paintings had taken to meet with him in the North Tower on the evenings, teaching him the ways of the school, the history of the races, the theory behind some of the courses or the background needed to understand some of the others.

Over the months, some of the pictures had taken to following him in the halls and warned him of stray spells or attacks. They also brought back interesting pieces of news to him that he dutifully collected and recorded for future use, coming to see the value of knowledge on his peers.

Following Edna's advice he had started befriending the school's ghosts who turned out to be a well of knowledge and advice.

He took to haunt the Library, pouring over books, using a handy memory spell, Edna had taught him through a focus he had found in one of the room.

The statue of Hildegarde the Fourth had told him it wasn't the perfect focus for him but that the bead of amber would do for now…

If Julian had learnt something in the Orphanage and on the streets it was the value of alliances and the non-living were proving to be quite the allies…

He also decided to put his snakes to use and had them recruit others to guard his rooms and possessions… Keeping Salya and Sostris with him at all time.

He took great care not to show much improvement, keeping his skills hidden until he would have no choice but to reveal them. Being underestimated was always for the best.

The look on most of the students' faces as he nailed the two idiots that had thought it wise to tease Evan about his charge's incompetence had alone been worth two years of playing the dunderhead.

Shaking his head, he focused back to the present time as they neared the Arena's changing rooms entrance.

Zoar looked them over.

"You have five minutes to ready yourself before we enter the Arena. Make the most of it."

Julian went inside the rooms and slowly stretched, ignoring the other graduates, some talking in hushed groups, others checking on their attire and weapons. Only a few others, among whom a young blood-red-haired vampire who was the group's Dux, were also stretching. Julian nodded approvingly at the young vampire, Quinn if he remembered well. The challengers had very little chance beating him in a fight. Quinn had had the well earned reputation of being a shrewd competitor and Julian respected his skills.

He used the last minute of wait to centre himself, his eyes closed, sharpening his senses.

As Zoar came back to fetch them, his eyes snapped opened. Those next to him took a step backward at the power swirling behind the green irises.

They exited the room and entered the brightly lit Arena, a deafening cheer rising up in the air as they appeared.

Let the show begin…

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Here it is.

Hope you enjoyed it.

Naia