My Promise
Sesshy's Mistress
Summary: While fulfilling a promise to a friend, Cosmos find's she is in a world of magic far beyond anything she could ever imagine. She will have to help guide and teach the soul of one of her friend's descendants. Will she succeed or will she fail to fulfill her promise?
Disclaimer: I own nothing, not even the idea; it was all Lawliet's Bride's idea! I do, however, own some pocket lint, want some?
Note: I fixed a mistake in the previous chapter! I didn't mean to make it to where Slughorn would be doing DADA. So I changed the, "She will be assisting me in DADA" I changed it to, "She will be assisting in DADA". I thought I had gone back and erased that me before posting, but apparently, I hadn't. Gr… Sorry! Thanks to Mistra Rose for pointing that out, or I would have gone on oblivious!
Important note at the bottom, be sure to read!
…
...
Harry's eyes narrowed on the still empty seats that belonged to Hagrid, Professor Dumbledore, Slughorn, and, surprisingly, an additional empty seat next to the Headmaster's chair. The sorting had just finished up, and, under McGonagall's orders, everyone began the feast.
There were whispers of curiosity concerning the empty chairs and everyone seemed to turn towards Harry for the answers. As much as he would love to have them, he didn't. The last time he saw Dumbledore and Slughorn was when Serenity was entering a carriage. What could be keeping them for so long?
"You don't think they ran into trouble, do you?" Ron whispered as he reached out for a roll.
"Security on and around Hogwarts has been doubled," Hermione added her opinion; it was true. They had already been told that security was doubled by the Weasley's.
"Where do you think Hagrid is?" Harry questioned while his green eyes zeroed in on the large but empty seat reserved for their friend. Neither Hermione nor Ron had an answer to that question.
While other's continued to enjoy their feast, Harry, Ron, and Hermione continued to whisper amongst each other in worry and suspicion. It was not until the very last plate had disappeared that Dumbledore appeared with Slughorn and Serenity flanking his sides.
"Harry, is that-"
"Yes, it is," Harry interrupted Hermione as he watched the three walk up between the tables. Dumbledore stopped short in his normal speech spot while Slughorn and Serenity walked to their seats.
"What is she doing sitting up there?" Ron questioned in surprise. Though Harry already knew she was going to be assisting Slughorn in DADA, he was still surprised to see that she was given a seat at the staff's table.
"The very best of evenings to you, my young students," Dumbledore began while holding his hands out wide in greeting. At the sight of his still burnt and dead looking hand, many gasps and whispers of shock and fright erupted. Noticing this, Dumbledore quickly hid his hand and waved off any concern regarding it.
"What on earth happened to his hand?" Hermione almost choked out in shock. Her eyes were wide with surprise and her body shook slightly in a mild tremor. Ron, too, seemed stunned.
"Nothing to worry about," Dumbledore smiled fondly towards the tables. "Now, to our new students, welcome, to our old students, we welcome you back! Another year full and wondrous year of magical education awaits you…"
"His hand was like that when he dropped me off at your house," Harry directed his answer towards Ron who only nodded dumbly. The red head's eyes were still glued to Dumbledore's long sleeve which hid the injury.
"Why hasn't he cured it by now, though?" Hermione questioned silently. Harry didn't have an answer for this. So, the three turned their attention back towards Dumbledore.
"..Mr. Filch, our caretaker, has asked me to inform you all that there is a blanket ban on any joke items bought at the shop called Weasley's Wizard Wheezes. For those wishing to play for their House Quidditch teams, you should give your names to your Head of House, as per the norm. Also, we are looking for new Quidditch commentators should any of you be interested."
Excited whispers broke out and many pairs of eyes once again fell towards Harry. He tried to ignore them, but it was like trying to ignore a horde of Dementors. Honestly, Harry would rather face the Dementors at the moment.
"We are pleased to welcome a new member of staff this year, Professor Slughorn," Dumbledore stepped to the side and, with a wave with his good hand, he motioned towards the said Professor. Slughorn stood up and smiled towards the students.
"He is a former colleague of mine who has generously agreed to resume his old post as Potions Master."
"Potions?"
"Potions?"
Many of the former students were shocked and surprised to hear this and wondered if they had heard wrong.
"But, Harry, you said –"
"Professor Snape, meanwhile, will be taking over the position of Defense Against the Dark Arts with assistance from a new addition to the school, Ms. Serenity B. Tsukino." As Dumbledore spoke, he raised his voice so that it would be heard over the talk of the students. The room grew deadly quiet as people turned their attention not towards the grinning Snape, but the pale girl that sat amongst the other Professors'.
It took a moment for Snape to realize the rest of what Dumbledore had said, and once it had sunk in, his smirk faded ever so slightly.
"No, no, no," Harry shook his head in anger. How could Dumbledore be as stupid as to hand that class over to him? "NO!" This time Harry's denial was yelled, drawing attention to himself. Harry did not care because his attention was singled out on the greasy haired professor whose smirk had returned.
It was a widely known fact that Dumbledore did not trust Snape, so why? Why give him the position in which the old git had been so keen to get? Why?
"Harry, didn't you say that Slughorn was going to be teaching DADA?" Hermione questioned in a scandalized voice. She too, was not happy to hear that Snape was finally getting his way.
"I thought he was! He was supposed to," Harry growled while racking his brain for some answer to the madness. No matter how hard he tried, he could not come up with one instance that Dumbledore had told him that Slughorn would be the new DADA professor. Dread crept through Harry as he realized the truth of the matter. Neither Slughorn nor Dumbledore had said which position he would teach. Harry had only assumed it would be DADA.
Snape did not stand at the applause given to him (most of which came from Slytherin). Instead, he raised a hand and waved while shooting a dangerous glare upon Serenity. Having felt his glare, she turned empty eyes on the Professor, shocking him at their coldness. To anyone else, she may have appeared shocked and slightly bored, but Snape received the full force of her cold and endless gaze. Then, ever so slightly, she allowed the corner of her lips to lift into a patronizing smile.
"I look forward to working with you, Professor Snape," With that said, she bowed her head and stood to approach Dumbledore.
"Well, there is one good thing that comes out of this," Harry said with loathing directed towards Snape. "He'll be gone by the end of the year."
"What do you mean?" Hermione questioned. Ron, too, was confused but he soon caught on.
"DADA is a jinx. No one's lasted more than a year. Hell, Quirrell died doing it. If you ask me, I can't help but to keep my fingers crossed for another death…" Harry spat as he tried to relax back into his seat.
"Harry!" Hermione screeched while kicking him under the table. Harry winced and moved a hand to rub the now aching spot where her foot had hit.
"Or, he could go back to teaching Potions at the end of the year," Ron shrugged. "That Slughorn guy might not want to stay long-term. Moody didn't, remember?" Harry nodded but did not get a chance to comment as Dumbledore had cleared his throat and pulled Serenity to his side.
"As I have mentioned, Serenity will be assisting Professor Snape in DADA as well as Potions and Care of Magical Creatures. Though she is going to be assisting us, she will also be taking 6th year classes. I ask that you welcome her and treat her with respect. While she is teaching, she will be given the opportunity to deduct points from houses," Another uproar of talk emerged but Dumbledore quickly silenced it. "The Sorting Hat was unable to properly place her in any house, so for the time being, she will spend her time evenly divided between all four houses."
The noise level amplified and so did the light blush that stained Serenity's cheeks. She obviously did not enjoy all the attention that was now directed towards her. Harry had to smile at this. At least it was someone else getting the attention for the moment.
"If looks could kill, that girl would be dead by now," Ron nodded his head towards the fuming Snape. Indeed, the man did not look happy in the least to hear and have the fact affirmed that she would be assisting him. Maybe DADA wouldn't be so bad after all. Yeah, Snape was going to teach it, but she would be assisting. Maybe Snape's hate would all be directed towards her instead of him.
Harry didn't want to wish Snape's wrath on anyone, but it would be a nice change if it wasn't on him for once.
"…I trust you all to conduct yourselves with the utmost regard for your own and other's safety. But now," Dumbledore's eyes swept the room before landing on Serenity. With a slight nod, she retreated back to her seat. "Your beds are awaiting you, as warm and comfortable as you could possibly wish. I know your top priority is to be well rested for the start of your lessons tomorrow. Therefore, let us say good night. Pip Pip!"
The deafening sound of chairs being pushed back filled the room along with the increasing talk of Snape, Slughorn, and Serenity. Harry, Ron, and Hermione held back until most of the large crowd had dispersed. While they waited, they watched as Snape and Dumbledore seemed to be in a heated discussion with Serenity in the middle of it.
"I feel kind of sorry for her," Ron muttered as the three finally stood to leave.
"I don't see why. She's been given the opportunity to work closely with the Professor's while seeking an education," Hermione shrugged nonchalantly but Ron and Harry could sense the slightly miffed undertone in her voice.
"Are you jealous?" Ron teased.
"Jealous? Of what?" Hermione turned on her heel to glower at Ron who chuckled.
"You're jealous of her," Ron smiled and there started Hermione and Ron's first argument of the school year. Harry rolled his eyes but he could not help but chuckle at them.
"Harry!" A familiar voice called to him from behind. Harry, Ron, and Hermione all recognized the voice and turned to find Hagrid heading their way.
"Hagrid, where have you been?" Harry smiled and waved towards Hagrid as the large man finally made it to them.
"I was with Gwarp," Hagrid chirped happily. "Los' track o' the time. Dumbledore fixed him a nice, big place in the caves. He's much happier than he was in the forest. We had a good chat."
"Really?" Harry spoke without glancing towards Ron. The red head was still sensitive in regards to Gwarp, the vicious half-brother and full blooded giant of Hagrid. Back then, Gwarp was only able to say five words in total and only two correctly.
"Yeah, he's really comin' 'round," Hagrid said with pride. "Yeh'll be amazed. I'm thinkin' of trainin' him up as me assistant fer the future."
Harry smiled while nudging Ron who had hidden a snort behind a painful sneeze. Ron muttered a curse under his breath while rubbing the spot where Harry's elbow had met with his gut.
"Anyway, I'll see yeh tomorrow, firs' lesson's straight after lunch, yeh know. Come early an' yeh can sey hell ter Buck – I mean, Witherwings and me assistant 'erenity." Hagrid smiled in bliss while waving his giant hand in farewell. Harry, Ron, and Hermione smiled pleasantly and returned the gesture. Once Hagrid was out of sight, however, they all turned to look at each other with grim expressions.
"Are you taking Care of Magical Creatures?" They all spoke together. Silence reigned for the next few moments when they realized how disappointed and upset Hagrid would be. None of them were going to take part in his class, but he assumed they would.
They could only imagine the look on his face when he realized his three favorite students had opted out of his class. Suddenly, Hermione ran off yelling for Ron to hurry up. They were the perfects after all. No wonder so many Gryffindors had lingered about. They didn't know the password!
…
"You can't honestly expect me to work with a child," Snape sneered as his angered gaze continued to glare daggers towards the silent and composed girl sitting in one of Dumbledore's chairs. Every since they had left the Great Hall and made it to Dumbledore's office, she had stayed quiet and polite. When told to take a seat, she bowed and then gracefully took the offered seat.
While he and Dumbledore 'discussed' her position in Hogwarts, she sat with her legs crossed and hands folded in her lap. Never once did she slouch or take her attention away from the conversation. She reminded him of 'perfect' Potter. No one ever considered him trouble, and now, he would have to deal with this woman-child.
His gaze became even more heated and threatening; it was then that a large lump in the corner of the room made it's presence known. A low and threatening growl escaped the furry form as it rose. Severus' eyes widened as he noticed that it was a giant dog that looked more wolf than anything. It's form was familiar but for some reason, he could not place his finger on it.
"What is that mangy mongrel doing in here?" Snape demanded while pointing an accusing finger at the beast that now had it's head laid across Serenity's knee. The animal's gaze was too human for Snape's liking, but there was nothing he could do about to stop it from staring at him.
Serenity's hand raised to rest atop the dog's large head, her fingers rubbed through it's fur as she whispered softly to him. Snape was unable to pick up what she said, but it did not matter. She, like that beast, was not welcome where he was concerned.
"Serenity will be assisting you in teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts. I assure you that she was just as surprised as you when Slughorn informed her – "
"Slughorn knew?" This had Snape's temper growing. Why would that bumbling fool know Dumbledore's intentions before any of the other Professors? Suspicion crept up along with a small sense of jealousy. This would not do, not at all.
"Yes, he was accompanying me when we received news of such a new and talented witch having come to England," Dumbledore spoke while returning to his chair. "The ministry was truly astounded to find such a talented young witch. After I had a chance to review her file, I could not help but wonder how her talents would flourish if given extra opportunity."
Serenity smiled softly, but buried beneath that smile was uncertainty. Sirius had assured her that he held back when using his magic. They had spoke of what and how much he should do in his disguise as herself. Serenity had even made sure of this by looking back through time. There was nothing that he had done that would draw the attention of Dumbledore. So, how could he say such things with such certainty?
Almost as if hearing her thoughts, Dumbledore turned his twinkling eyes towards Serenity and sent her a warm smile of affection. There was something in those eyes that pulled towards her. She felt as if she should know who those eyes belonged to, but could not place it. And, why did a sense of dread accompany her at that thought?
"In all honesty, it was Slughorn who suggested she be assisting selected Professors, not I," Dumbledore smiled sincerely towards Snape. "I cannot lie and say I had not thought of it, but seeing as my old friend and colleague had the same idea, I did not see how it could cause harm. So, you can look forward to her presence and participation in your class." The tone of Dumbledore's voice made it so that there was no room for argument.
Snape wanted to argue, but he knew when he was testing the waters. So, he gave one final glare before storming from the room. Before he could completely leave, however, Serenity spoke softly to him.
"Have a pleasant night's rest, Professor Snape," Her voice held no maliciousness or anger; it was simply a sincere farewell. Nevertheless, it angered Snape more and it showed as he stomped from the room.
He never heard her soft giggle mix with Dumbledore's chuckle.
"Severus is not known for his temper, my dear. So I ask that you be careful when around him. I doubt he would cause you any harm, but it is best not to push him when he is upset. Now, as for your living conditions, I will provide a room for you to use for the rest of the week; however, come the first of next week, you will need to decide which house you will start in. Once that is decided, a room will be set up for you until the month is over in which you will choose the next house to reside in."
Serenity nodded her ascent before speaking, "I apologize for all the trouble I've cause, but I'm still confused as to why you would do this."
"My dear, there is nothing ordinary about you. I can sense that you have done many a great things in your days and will continue to do so during your time in Hogwarts. I find it best that you are given the best circumstances in which will help you the most during your stay here."
Serenity smiled and nodded once again. "I thank you then for your kind hospitality and trust in me. I will do my best to honor that during my stay here in Hogwarts."
"Very well, then," Dumbledore smiled and handed her a parchment. He tapped his wand on it once before releasing it. "This is a map of the school. You will find your rooms listed as well as each of the houses' and their entrance. All you need to do is place the tip of your wand on the place you wish to go, and if there is a password, it will be given to you. Now, off you go. I believe your room has been prepared."
Serenity nodded and gathered her things. With another small bow, she and her companion left Dumbledore in his office. As soon as her form vanished, Dumbledore approached the Sorting Hat. His hand brushed the lip of the hat, awakening it from it's slumber.
"She's left I take it," the Hat mumbled between a loud yawn.
"Indeed, she has," Dumbledore smiled and carried the hat to his desk. He gently sat it down upon his papers before taking back his seat.
"…Show a little fear or a drop of a tear and the darkness will grow and grow. Yet fear not we may, for the Light of the earth has returned this day. While evil stands fast, the darkness shall not last, when the Light shall take stand with him and together they will fight…" The Hat spoke with an air of calm as if in a trance, and Dumbledore watched it carefully. Over the years, the Hat had prophesized many things, but such as this was the first. It only made Dumbledore reaffirm his decision with Ms. Serenity.
Dumbledore returned his attention back to the rest of the prophecy, hoping with everything in his power that he had, indeed, made the right decision.
…
Once Serenity had made it safely into her rooms, Sirius turned back into his human form. He, just like Serenity, was oddly surprised an on edge with the situation on hand. Unfortunately, they could do nothing now. To try and go against Dumbledore's wishes would draw too much attention on them, not to mention give Harry another reason to be suspicious.
Knowing his godson, Harry would begin snooping around the two of them, and if they wanted to protect him, they could not afford that. So, both agreed that they would play along with whatever Dumbledore was doing unless it would interfere with their mission.
"You do realize that Snape is going to give you a hard time?"
"That's fine," Serenity shrugged while sorting through some things left for her in her room. "I'm actually looking forward to it. If he thinks he can push me around, he can think again. I've handle worse things than a territorial old fart like him."
Sirius couldn't hold back his laughter as he imagined how interesting DADA would be from now on; it was too bad he would be staying in the background. They had both figured it would be best for him to stay either in her room, around Hagrid, or in the forest, gathering any information the magical creatures residing in it may know.
"I best rest up," Serenity made her way to the bathroom to change. "I have a feeling that tomorrow will be full of many surprises."
"Good luck with that," Sirius mumbled while moving to lay on the couch that had also been provided in her room. An hour later, Serenity reappeared dressed in her pajamas and freshly showered. By then, however, Sirius had managed to fall asleep.
Serenity smiled softly and gathered a spare blanket. She lightly laid it across his form and wished him good night before heading to bed as well. Darkness swarmed her vision almost immediately after she had relaxed her body enough to close her eyes. That night, nightmares and visions of a dark future plagued her dreams, preventing her from a restful night's sleep.
…
Okay, sorry that this is another short chapter, but I plan on writing a very long, in depth, one filled with plenty of Severus' temper, Malfoy's maliciousness, and some of the Golden Trio Goodness.
HOWEVER, if I only get 4 reviews like last time (or less), I will NOT be pleased. I can't believe how little the response was to such a long awaited chapter; it really depressed me. That is one reason why this chapter is just so….so…blah!
Anywho, RxR if you want a great new chapter!
PS: No, I'm not putting Serenity with Harry! That would be too weird, way too weird.
Sesshy
