Disclaimer: See the top of chapter 1 & 2. I don't own Harry Potter or its characters.
Warnings: AU. Mentions of sexual behavior. Teenage humor. Mature themes. Violence in later chapters. Some foul language. Romance. Creature violence.
Bloodlines: Heritage Year
Chapter 11&12: What They Don't Teach You
"Remember there is a difference between disemboweling toads and disemboweling frogs. Toads needs to be skinned first and frogs-,"
"Boiled at medium temperature. Yes, Professor Slughorn."
"Also, the gold cauldron in the supply requires an extra dose of magical mess remover. The Self-Stirring needs your average cleaning charm, never by hand you know! Mary Macdonald can tell you all about that. Poor lass…now the regular class-set pewter cauldrons-,"
"Have to be scrubbed with spit and brute force. Yes, Professor Slughorn."
His large gingery-blonde mustache twitched as he laughed boisterously. "Oh, ho! I think regular newt slime scrub will do the job right enough. Now about the portrait in my office-,"
"Trust me. Whatever your granddad says about pretty mudblood mannequins will be ignored."
"Grandpa Stanford always was the charmer! He was indeed! Let's not forget of course-,"
"Professor Slughorn," Lily wiped the sweat from her brow in unhidden aggravation. "What do you want?"
She had been down in here these dark, cramped dungeons for hours. Judging by the moving star chart on the wall behind them, it was nearly 3 o'clock in the morning. She could almost hear her folded legs begging for mercy. Her pale hands had developed an unattractive collection of swollen blisters and paper cuts. The blood and muscles inside her arms were tingling from hourly abuse of lifting twenty-pound cauldrons onto high shelves. Sleep deprivation was quickly taking toll on the exceptional heaviness of her eyelids and yes…Lily groaned uncomfortably. Aunt Flow was paying the monthly visit since about thirty humiliating minutes ago.
Life, she thought, is so predictable it kills me.
"Such cheekiness Miss Evans," He wagged a finger teasingly. "Let's not forget who the teacher here is!"
Lily let out a sigh. "Sorry. Do you need anything else?"
"No. No. But, I have to say you are a brave girl, Miss Evans! Landing on the Minister's daughter from a tree…bad timing, eh? Usually, you're so precise when it comes to entrances."
A mean scowl turned the corners of her full lips. "It's not like I did it on purpose! Besides, the girl's fine and I apologized a hundred times! But no," Lily deepened her voice until it became stern like McGonagall's. "You've crossed the line, Evans! How dare you embarrass this school! I swear if you put another toe out of line it'll be straight home!"
"Yes, well…" Slughorn waved a hand as though swatting a fly. "Honorè Duclaires is a powerful man, very powerful indeed. It won't do well to cross him I assure you! You know the Duclaireses have a most fascinating history…perhaps the mademoiselle wouldn't mind sharing it over tea…what do you think, Miss Evans?"
She chose not to answer, trying to seem focused on a tiny speck of dirt that refused to budge. Lily could easily envision the cogs whirling beneath the Potions master's skull. Slughorn was what her father would've not-so-affectionately termed an "arse-kisser". He was always kissing the arses belonging to the children of the rich and influential or to those he could predict were talented enough to make a name for themselves after Hogwarts. She watched as the old wizard popped some crystallized pineapple into his black hole of a mouth. That Duclaires girl better watch out because Slughorn would be on her like white on rice pretty soon!
"Madame Royale does indeed merit an invitation, don't you believe?"
Lily snorted. "She's not princess on this side of the Channel."
"Don't say princess, Miss Evans! The French get finicky about these sorts of things. The revolution during WWI was particularly nasty over there if I recall. Hung the royal family at the gallows and then set them on pikes for all to see. Speaking of seeing, I believe I saw Madame la Minister in St. Tropez last-,"
"I met her mum in Paris over the summer. She's actually nice."
Emerald eyes narrowed as she remembered the blonde's attitude during the whole incident. Needless to say, making "Madame Royale" cry only increased Lily's punishment. Now she understood why people didn't like the French…
"Really now?" The Potions Master eyed her greedily. "Seems like you have friends in high places, eh?"
"I suppose…but I don't really-,"
"Let's not forget about Treth Hallow! I taught both his parents myself when they were in school! Brilliant, very brilliant, especially his mother. Everyone knew Max and Sylvia were meant to be. I remember how dear Felicity Potter helped with the introductions! Of course, everyone thought them a bit eccentric and still do…nevertheless the Hallows are a fine family. A nice move made Evans!"
The redhead continued to ignore him. Though her eyes flashed as Slughorn talked about her best friend like he was some piece on a chessboard. Lily put aside another cauldron, determined to finish this task early so she could get some form of sleep. One part of her punishment was to attend Tuesday's etiquette seminar or face expulsion for attending so few, but she had another detention the night before. The last thing she needed to hear were vonArrow and her gang "politely critiquing" her haphazard appearance. In the mood Lily was in right now, that would only add to the current list of detentions with Slughorn.
"So my dear, I figure you're very popular among your classmates?"
"Who the hell told you that?!" Emerald eyes reared up incredulously. If anything, her popularity level had shrunken down into the pits of shame with recent events.
His fat belly wobbled while he chuckled. "No one needs to tell me. Why everyone looks up to you these days, especially the younger girls!"
"Remember to buy glasses next time you're in Hogsmeade, professor. Old age is getting to your eyes."
Slughorn let loose another rumble of laughter. It was amazing actually…how the girl couldn't see it…just yesterday that first-year Lisa Matthews charmed her hair a ghastly shade of red. On Thursday, Wisteria Gallagher had tripped down a staircase in an attempt to move as gracefully as her role model. Muggle clothes were steadily creeping into vogue. Professor Kettleburn was reporting an unprecedented interest in Care of Magical Creatures while O'Malley found himself taking up more singing cards and bouquets from boys during class than ever. Evans may not have been popular with some, but she was becoming the height of cool for others. Who didn't want to be (or be with) the beautiful, sassy girl who lived life on the edge?
The professor himself held Lily with high regard. She was his top female student after all.
"Now, now Miss Evans! No need to be-,"
A deep, resonating knock sounded on the dungeon door, startling both. It soon opened to reveal an irritable Severus Snape in his hook-nosed, sallow, and greasy-haired glory. Tonight however was different. Tonight there were ugly purple tentacles wiggling out of the boy's head, nose, and neck. Beady eyes moved to settle on the Potions Master (who was failing miserably to hold back laughter) and narrowed into a nasty glower. "It's-not-funny!"
"Of course, it's not old boy, of course it's-,"
"DO YOU KNOW WHAT THEY DID TO ME?! I'VE BEEN STUCK HANGING OFF THE ENTRANCE HALL CEILING FOR HOURS BECAUSE NO ONE COULD UNDO THE DAMNED SPELL!"
"Vhot he says is true," spoke a rough voice. "Ve help him down."
Two identical twin brothers followed behind Snape at a leisurely pace, but it was obvious that both were exhausted from their efforts. Even their red Durmstrang night robes seemed lackluster.
Slughorn greeted them warmly. "Oh ho, the Bariatinsky brothers! Nikolai and Ivan, if I may presume? Yes, indeed. I've heard a great deal about your family. Supplies one-third of the world's lumber! Amazing. Amazing. Tell me how is St. Petersburg this time of year?"
The older or at least the taller one shrugged. "Cold."
Meanwhile, Snape stood off to the side scowling with tentacles and all as his Head of House kissed arse. He crossed his arms while the robes he wore billowed solemnly with the small movement. His dark eyes moved about the dungeons sulkily until the landed on the nonchalant redhead working in the corner. An expression of undeniable greed mixed with the unyielding hardness on Snape's face.
"Hello Lily…" He whispered breathily.
She gave no sign of hearing the Slytherin.
"Lily? I'm sorry about what happened-,"
Emerald eyes flashed dangerously. "So you're talking to Mudbloods now, huh?"
"Come on Lily…" Snape pleaded in a whisper. "That was last year and it-it just slipped out. I thought we're supposed to be friends? Best friends!"
"Why are you whispering? I suppose you don't want your "big and bad-arse" Death Eater friends to overhear."
His wide and boot-clad feet shuffled on the grimy floor. Snape turned his head away shyly and Lily's green eyes became slits. "See! See! You don't even deny it! You think this is all fun and games!"
"You have to trust me…the Dark Lord…he's powerful beyond all imagination. And, he is merciful. He would let you join and forgive you for being-,"
"For being what? Being born by muggles? For having magic? For daring to go to Hogwarts?! Those are either things I can't help or need to have! You're a damned fool if you think I'm going to follow you to kiss his robes! To kill people's families and innocent children! You-Know-Who may be powerful, but he's plain evil!"
Lily barely managed to keep from screaming, holding it down into a harsh, quiet murmur. "You've changed since that first train ride to school. You just wait Severus Snape! One day you're going to regret everything and I won't be around to pick up the pieces. I'll have nothing to do with you!" She turned around swiftly and began to sort through old Potions textbooks. Alphabetizing them would be her last task tonight. The other assignments could be finished tomorrow.
At first, Snape reared back as though he'd been slapped. Then, he schooled his sulky features into an appearance of cool anger. "Potter's been telling you all this, hasn't he?! Perfect Potter and his idiot lackeys. They're dangerous Lily! For Merlin's sake, I've seen it myself! Lupin is a-,"
Her frigid emerald glower froze him. "I know your theory and don't you dare say it aloud! Besides you should be grateful. I heard about them saving you last year."
"S-SAVE? SAVE ME?" Snape quickly lowered his tone before glancing to see if the others heard him. "It's not like they did it for charity! Potter was saving his skinny neck! Perfect Potter…thinks he's so clever…big Quidditch hero-,"
"Why are you so obsessed with them? James Potter and his marauders are nothing more than arrogant toe-rags. They're not even worth thinking about! Now if you'll excuse me, this "mudblood"as your friends love to call me needs to get some sleep."
The happiness that had overcame the Slytherin's expression at hearing Lily insult his rival vanished in an instant. He appeared rather dejected. "Lily…I-I-I really am sorry-,"
"Give it a rest."
Professor Slughorn came waddling over with his Durmstrang companions, unaware of the tension he'd just broken. One of them was speaking to him in another language that the Potions Master (despite the grins and chuckles) could obviously not understand. The older brother tried to translate, but it seemed he couldn't find the right words to use in English. Lily waited a few moments to enjoy Slughorn wiggling confusedly before interrupting. "Ivan says he needs to use the loo."
They stared in blank amazement. "Oh ho!" cried the professor. "Already dipping into the language pool, eh? I say Miss Evans you're becoming quite the prodigy…"
"Not really. I'm a better interpreter than speaker. My dad emigrated to practice medicine, but he only taught me enough Russian to get by. Said I don't need to use it here anyway unless someone pops up speaking it."
Slughorn chuckled amiably as the twins exchanged dubious glances. "Your father's a doctor, eh? Very honorable occupation…I'd never have the stomach fo-,"
"Mikhail is looking for you. He vill vant to see youff now."
Both brothers spoke simultaneously as they gazed at Lily with piercing dark eyes. The redhead stepped back in surprise before sassily placing hands on her hips. "Really now? Tell this Mikhail bloke I'm not a house-elf and if he wants to see me it won't be during the dead of night. Good night, professor. I'll finish everything else tomorrow."
"That's our Evans," his fat belly rumbled again with laughter, "always quick with the retorts. Spitfire, boys, spitfire! She'll put you in your place quick. Speaking of place dear, I'm having a lovely luncheon Thursday with a few rising stars. Are you interested?"
Emerald eyes rolled. Who in Hogwarts hasn't heard of Horace Slughorn's by invitation-only Slug Club? A list had never been published, but Lily knew that people like vonArrow, Black, Potter, and even Treth were routinely received. Her eyebrows furrowed as she tried to come up with a good excuse for missing out. She'd been told these events were extremely hoity-toity and dreadfully dull. But unfortunately, Lily's brain didn't fully operate until eight o'clock.
She sighed. "…Sure. Why not?"
"Excellent! A girl like you should get on with everyone quick. Thursday at seven after dinner. Don't forget now! I'll have to introduce you to Roderick Bobbin. His family owns a large line of apothecaries. Ludo Bagman is quite the young talent and Narcissa Black I find is nothing short of a lady. Of course you know her cousin Sirius and his brother Regulus. Fine chaps…" He went on listing name after name without stopping for breath.
The image of two young girls laughing haughtily on a sandy beach, one red-haired and one brunette, flashed through Lily's mind. She gave a cheerless smile. "Professor Slughorn…I've had my share of popularity and you should know it's not as great as everyone pretends to believe. Good night."
The witch felt the unbelievable weight of exhaustion impact her entire body. However, Lily fought it and made sure to borrow a cloak from the classroom's lost box to tie around her waist. The redhead didn't have to turn around to know the men were blushing as they guessed why. It wasn't her fault she wasn't allowed to the bathroom during detention! Lily might have been a stubborn loudmouth, but she had class. Besides, she didn't need anymore embarrassments tonight. Hearing Peeves declare throughout the halls that she was "riding the crimson tide" wasn't what Lily needed right now.
The Bariatinsky brothers watched the emerald-eyed girl trudge miserably out the dungeons before breaking out into whispers of excited Russian.
"It has to be her, Nikolai!" exclaimed Ivan. "She's got the eyes and everything!"
"I think so too little brother. Mikhail said the heir's signet slipped off her finger. Do you think she knows?"
He hit the other hard on the arm. "I'm only ten minutes younger than you…she doesn't act like she knows. You think she's ignoring us because we're human?"
"Perhaps. Mikhail sent a fire-call to the Orlovs." Nikolai shrugged. "We'll just ask Hallow at that seminar. It seems to me that he's acting as her Ocular. You know all the Wardens are gonna be hopping mad! There's a ten million ruble reward for finding the girl first."
"Can't blame Hallow really," snickered Ivan, remembering Lily's beautiful face. "I'd kill to be her Ocular. It's better than looking at Mikhail all the time. Let's go back to the ship. My bladder's killing me!"
"I thought you wanted to see the snakes' nest?"
"Changed my mind. If the girls look anything like him," He jerked a thumb toward Snape who cried out as Slughorn accidentally set his tentacles aflame. "There's not much to see and I need my beauty sleep."
Nikolai's dark eyes twinkled. "Yes, definitely as much as possible little brother. Don't want to wake up scarring people for life…"
"Same goes for you. We're twins, remember?"
The Bariatinsky brothers soon left the dungeons, making sure to playfully push and banter each other while running down the corridors. Despite their lack of sleep, each wished that the sun would hurry up and rise already. Tuesday was just too far away.
CHAPTER 12
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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 1974
"She must be using a glamour charm. They're great for hiding new flab."
"I 'ear she posed with 'er mère naked for a photo and sold it on a street corner!"
"Really? I heard that she was born with grey hair like her dad's and dyes it blonde to look younger. Is it true she's bulimic?"
"Oui. Quelle horreur!"
"Do you see how Madame Royale's dripping with diamonds? So nouveau riche!"
The blonde fidgeted uncomfortably as she followed Pippa past a group of Slytherin pure-bloods to the punch bowl. Whispers about the latest gossip in English and French went in one ear, then out the other and all of it had to do with her. Back at Beauxbatons, the first-class pupils were allowed to not wear the silk blue uniform unless the Headmistress required otherwise. Constant competition (mostly among the girls) rose to showcase the latest and greatest fashions first. This was rather easy for Antoinette because most designers would kill to see Madame Royale wear their creations. However, the others never let her forget just how easy it was and most of the time not in the nicest way.
"Don't worry about them, Antoinette. You look great."
"If you say so…." She sighed before replying in French. "I knew I shouldn't have overdone it, but I-I wanted to make a good impression after what happened."
"Understandable considering the environment you've grown up in." Pippa sipped pumpkin juice while giving off an air of professionalism. "Why did you turn into Miss Waterworks, though? I know I sound like an old harpy, but that's strange even for you. Was it about that new letter from home?"
"Merci, Pip. You are my little ray of sunshine…"
"Anytime."
Antoinette suddenly became serious. "Listen. I haven't fed in a while so if you're not busy tonight-,"
"No problem. It's the least I can do after you let me borrow this dress! C'est magnifique!"
Pippa looked very pretty in simple red dress robes that Antoinette had never wore and so stayed in her closet for months. The blonde felt bad for giving her friend second-hand fashions, but Pip had fallen in love with it. At least she wasn't over-dressed, which anyone with good sense knew was worse than appearing to an event naked. These dress robes were an haute couture confection of thousands of actually blooming tiny organza rosettes hand-stitched together to create an airy, cloudlike elegance. A six-figure priced dream. Antoinette caught her reflection in a nearby window and weakly beamed.
It was a good thing they left Professor Michaud at Beauxbatons with the younger years…
"You know it wasn't your fault about what happened. She fell on you-not the other way around!"
"I don't want to talk about it," replied the blonde coolly. "It's bad enough my mère wants us to be friends."
Pippa perked up in interest and Antoinette knew no peace would occur without telling more. She began to explain about meeting the strange, red-haired girl in the Sphnix's Nest before the latter used her as a landing pad…how Celestyn (who normally wasn't nice to others unless she had to be) took a special interest…how Lily had been shockingly casual when introducing herself. It was all very strange.
"Obviously, the girl's a Seraphiel. You have to be to get into the Sphinx's Nest." concluded ever-observant Pippa. "Are you sure you haven't met her?"
"Positive." Antoinette pursed her lips. "I even looked the name Evans up in the Repository back home and couldn't find anything. Mère wouldn't tell me anything either. She hasn't come to any Sanguis festivals in the past and they're required."
Falling into pensive silence, the two focused on their surroundings. Etiquette seminars were held in the Entrance hall, which had been decorated with the bare necessities. Drinks, little tables with silver tea sets, and a square set off for dancing. All of the students were mixed up and separated into large groups to rotate through several different stations. One included being ushered into lecture rooms and today there was a special expert. Neither Pippa nor Antoinette knew who it was yet. Thankfully, their group was currently on break time.
Suddenly the music from a popular faerie ballet came to a halt.
"OY! WILL YOU LET ME LEAD, EVANS?!"
"LEARN TO MOVE THOSE KNOBBLY KNEES, POTTER!"
"MY KNEES ARE NOT KNOBBLY!"
"WHO TOLD YOU THAT? YOUR MUM IN PRIMARY SCHOOL?!"
"ARE YOU CALLING MY MUM A LIAR?"
"NO! I'M CALLING YOU A DIM-WIT FOR NOT NOTICING THE OBVIOUS!"
"THAT'S RICH COMING FROM THE GIRL WHO TALKS TO HER FRIEND LIKE HE ISN'T A MUTE!"
"TRETH IS NOT MUTE! HE JUST PREFERS NOT TO TALK TO IDIOTS LIKE YOU!"
"AT LEAST I DON'T-,"
They never found out what Lily does exactly because Professor McGonagall in her menacing tartan robes broke it up. "Stop! Stop! Stop! This is going to be the last time I deal with you two! Evans, you are a sixth-year prefect and I need you to act like one. Understand?"
She nodded begrudgingly. Dark eyes turned on the fuming wizard next to her.
"And you Mr. Potter need to learn not to let your psychological issues affect you. It would also be best if you keep your classmate's private ailments private."
To everyone's surprise, James didn't smirk or shrug the hint off. He actually appeared embarrassed as he glanced at the nearby lad shyly. "Sorry, Hallow…"
Treth gave a nonchalant wave. A pretty Beauxbatons schoolgirl (who looked to be the same age) clutched onto his unoccupied arm and began to whimper in French. He merely glanced upward in annoyance. Lily gave a sympathetic smile. She didn't know who to feel sorry for: Treth-for being engaged so early in life or her-for being engaged to Treth.
He could be the meanest little blister.
"Listen here everyone! The Viennese Waltz is meant to be slow and graceful! I need all of you to count your steps if you're not sure where to go! Let's start again!"
"Actually professor," Lily interrupted smoothly. "I'd prefer to sit this one out."
She shook a finger while scolding. "Evans, you are not getting out of lessons today."
"But this is important! I lost my dad's ring and I need to find it now before someone takes it! I tried the Summoning Charm, but nothing came back."
"Good enough reason for me…unless my teaching skills are getting rusty, eh Minnie?"
"My name is Minerva, Isabella, not Minn-,"
"But Minnie's so much cuter," replied Professor Grinnet offhandedly. "Chop, chop my little gargoyles! Time to go scavenger hunting! What does it look like Angel Face?"
Lily could honestly say she liked this new professor. Isabella Grinnet was the middle-aged version of what the Americans called Hollywood glamour. It was hard to believe this was the witch who disguised herself as a housemaid. She obviously hailed from a warmer climate or muggle heritage because large, white sunglasses were perched on top of her head. She wore sparkly silver robes and under which was a tight, sleek pink catsuit with glittering heels. Grinnet's chignon hairstyle reminded Lily of those elegant actresses in old black and white movies that spitted out the most memorable lines. Music classes were definitely going to be interesting this year…
"It's a gold band," Lily informed everyone, "with a bunch of sapphires and emeralds and it has a wolf insignia on it."
"Sapphires and emeralds? Isn't that a bit grand for you, Evans?" Madeline whispered to a giggling Cecilia as the others began to search half-heartedly. "She probably stole it."
The redhead chose to ignore the accusation as she moved a chair to glance under a table. Finding her father's ring was much more important than dealing with vonArrow. They hadn't even searched for two minutes before Madeline began complaining.
"Can we like stop now? This is hopeless and I'm not spending forever looking for a cheap trinket!"
Though it was hard, Lily's self-deception skills stopped her from hexing the annoying blonde. "My dad's ring is not cheap. He's had it forever."
"So? That doesn't mean anything…he could have gotten the thing from one of those muggle fellyphones or found it somewhere."
Emerald eyes narrowed dangerously. "First of all, it's called a telephone and, second of all, my dad bought it for himself as a gift to remember Russia. I'm sure your family has plenty of memoirs from the Netherlands, right?"
"Germany!" Madeline's eyes were brimming with revulsion. Everyone knew she hated being reminded that the vonArrows were once poor immigrants. Madeline glanced over at James to see if he would back her up, but his messy head was under a table and he didn't seem to be listening.
"You know what…whatever Evans…you said you used a Summoning Charm and we're tired of looking. It's not here so get over it! Tell daddy to buy another one. Shouldn't be too hard since you seem to have means."
This morning the blonde's heart was set on proving to new Seraphiels that she was the most beautiful witch at Hogwarts. They were required to wear dress robes to implicate a real ball and hers were the best: made of the most fragile white silk that revealed a shadowy outline of her naked body in the light. When Madeline arrived, no one could take their eyes off away…until Evans came in right behind looking drop-dead gorgeous. What right did a mere human have to steal the spotlight?
Lily huffed. "My "means" are none of your concern, vonArrow! They're late birthday presents."
She would've been delighted to chuck Herbert and Cornelia's gifts into the fire, but McGonagall had seen them first and pretty much demanded Lily wear them. The custom-made gown was black with a tight, strapless corset bodice and flowing skirt with folds of voluminous fabric. Pretty, yes, except for the fact it made Lily's legs itch very uncomfortably. Not to mention, the sapphire and white diamond chocker did just what its name entailed whenever she talked. Don't even get Lily started on how long it took to tame her curls this morning! She was just happy to make it out alive.
"I'm afraid it's not here Angel Face," Grinnet swept in between the feud. Madeline gave Lily a look that plainly said, "I-told-you-so!" The redhead scowled.
"No problem. I'll look for it myself! If you'll excuse me…"
She turned on her heel and clacked off across the Entrance Hall. The music started up again, waving softly through every ear alongside McGonagall's loud step-counting. Despite what Potter implied, Lily was actually a decent ballroom dancer, managing not to step on feet or break any toes. Her focus zoomed in on the punch table-where a nice, cool glass of pumpkin juice laid waiting. Gently pushing past several admiring Durmstrang boys, Lily soon found herself pouring a drink while gazing into irritated aquamarine eyes.
Damn!
"Um, hullo?"
Antoinette didn't answer. Both simultaneously looked down to see Lily's heel caught in the hem of her long gown. She was quick to move it while blushing in embarrassment. "Sorry about that."
The blonde tossed her beautiful hair nonchalantly. "Thank you."
Her native accent wasn't as overpowering as the others from Beauxbatons. Apparently, the girl had been speaking English for a long time. A requisite for a Minister's daughter, Lily supposed. But did this Antoinette have to be so stuck on herself? Yes, it was perfectly fine to be cross with someone after they used you as a pillow cushion. But to burst into tears? In front of everyone?
"So…are you feeling better?"
"Why do you care?"
"Huh?"
"I said yes I do."
Antoinette jumped as a goblet slammed on the table. "Look here sister! I already apologized twenty million times yesterday, so if you're looking for special treatment find it somewhere else! You weren't the only one embarrassed yesterday and things could've been worse. At least we're not in the Hospital Wing, okay! I don't know what or who tied your wand in a knot, but don't take it out on me because I'm not dealing with it!"
Though angry, she managed to keep her voice down to a whisper. To her surprise, instead of giving some dumb retort like vonArrow would or crying again, Madame Royale mumbled under her breath and stared at the floor like a berated child. The girl beside them gave both a sympathetic smile. She was rather pretty with long, honey brown hair in addition to a calculating stare fixed on an emerald gaze. "Lily, right? We were just talking about you."
"Should I be scared?"
"Oh, nothing bad. My name is Pippa and you'll have to excuse Antoinette over there. She may act like a brat now, but once you get to know her, she'll let you borrow the sweetest shoes!"
"I want those back by the way!" snapped the blonde who didn't appreciate being called a brat. "Mère let me have them."
Pippa gently explained as if her best friend wasn't there. "The problem is that mère lets her have everything because she's an only-child so Antoinette's used to having people fuss over her. I read about it in How Birth Order Affects Your Attitude by this muggle named Phil. Have you heard of him?"
Lily felt rather uncomfortable. She was used to other girls being crybabies, tagalongs, or vindictive bitches. Why was this one being so nice? "Can't say I have…"
"He's wonderful. I guess you are the baby of the family, right? No offense, but it's pretty obvious. An outgoing charmer. The one who isn't afraid to test the waters or speak her mind. Of course, we can't forget the pampering…really similar to the only child if you think about it…"
What is this girl-a shrink?! Antoinette and Lily glanced at each other shyly. How could we be alike? Both thought at once. They came from totally different backgrounds and had almost opposite personalities. To Lily, the blonde was just another spoilt brat who'd never heard the word "no" or always wanted everything her way. She was one of those beautiful It-Girls with an unlimited Gringotts vault and mere air in place of brains. A girl whose type Lily had enough experience with, thank you.
To Antoinette, this new emerald-eyed Seraphiel was just another aspiring social-climber trying to hit another rung on the ladder. She probably cared about nothing except wealth and status. One minute she would be nice and dying to be Antoinette's best friend, then (after achieving that) she'd disappear after enjoying the advantages of social privilege. This Lilyanna, according to mère and experience, was one of those girls she absolutely had to befriend just because of who her parents were. Selfish girls that Antoinette didn't want to deal with anymore, thank you.
"Um, Lily? Uh, I mean Miss Evans, uh, or-,"
"Lily's fine. You're Wisteria Gallagher, right? I'm happy Madam Pomfrey fixed your arm from yesterday."
"Y-Yeah I am too…" The third-year blushed under her short red mane. "I wanted to say that I really love your dress." She gave it an admiring glance. "It's Chanel, right?"
Lily appeared to be impressed. She never understood how one could tell who designed what just by looking at it without some blaring logo symbolizing the obvious. Petunia was the fashion expert in their family, not her. The redhead shrugged. "I guess. Forgive me if I sound stupid, but you look very familiar. Were you in Paris this summer?"
A trace of longing entered her soft voice. "Um, no. But I really want to go though! A lot of girls in Slytherin have been already and it sounds like so much fun! But, my parents and I never go anywhere. I live in London."
"Me too! Hey, that's where I remember you from. You went to the Mill Hill School before Hogwarts, right? I did also!"
Wisteria looked about ready to swoon at the thought of The Lily Evans-idol extraordinaire-remembering her quiet little self from years past. Everyone at Mill was perplexed when she had mysteriously withdrawn and then disappeared into thin air. But when Wisteria got her first Hogwarts letter in the post, she knew. A girl like Lily had to be attending a magical place like this instead of a stuffy, old muggle private school!
"You must've ridden on the bus with Petunia, Ariel, and me…" A weak grin slowly appeared. "Have you seen Ariel around town? How is she?"
"Fine." Wisteria answered hastily. Pippa frowned as she fidgeted awkwardly. This Ariel girl seemed to be a bittersweet subject. "Um, that's a really pretty necklace! Where'd you get-,"
She yelped suddenly after being pushed aside by a tall boy in blood red dress robes. Ignoring or not hearing the third-year, he smiled charmingly at Lily while extending a thick hand. "Mikhail Yusupov IV. You can call me Mikhail. Durmstrang."
The older redhead frowned in disapproval. "Lilyanna Evans…the first. You can call me Evans. Hogwartian."
Antoinette held back snickers at seeing the stunned expression on Mikhail's face. Most women, especially Seraphiel women, fell at his feet when being addressed by him. After all, he was heir to one of the largest fortunes in the wizarding world, son to Regis Felix Yusupov of the Russian Conclave, and (according to many ex-lovers) dreadfully charming. Madame Royale snorted. She'd known Mikhail since diapers because both their fathers held a seat on the Table of Ranks. He was only charming when protocol required he be.
However to Antoinette's surprise, the brown-haired lad grinned shyly. "Bit stuffy of me, wasn't it? Seriously. Call me Mikhail."
"I don't even know you."
"But, I want to know you." He filled a goblet with juice. "Come on little star…don't you remember me? We used to play together."
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"My little star, is that you making all the commotion?" called a rumbling, polished male's voice.
She emitted a mischievous giggle. "Maybe…"
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Lily drew back in surprise. Little star? That's what the man in her vision had called her! The one where she was stuck as a child! But, how did this boy know that? It wasn't as if Lily ran through the corridors proclaiming her strange daydreams for all to hear. Mikhail stood patiently waiting; his hazel eyes clearly expecting a reply. She then realized he'd spoken to her in Russian.
"I-I," Lily stammered in English before scowling. "Okay! Who the hell are you?"
"I've said that already."
"Then WHAT is going on?! Why are all these weird things happening to me?!"
A calm smile formed on his lips. Like Antoinette, his English was near perfect. "I'm afraid it isn't my place to answer that. Here, I believe you were looking for this."
A bejeweled golden ring with sapphires and emeralds was shoved into sight. Eagerly, the redhead took and placed it back where it belonged. Lily's eyes immediately began to soften as she felt familiar comforting tingles flow through her body. This was the last physical piece of Dmitri Evans she had until he came home. Impatiently brushing back tears, Lily now smiled dazzlingly. "You're the boy from yesterday, aren't you? Gee, um, I'm sorry about that…"
"Actually," One of the twins from the dungeons last night raised a hand. She hadn't even noticed them. "I vas boy from yesterday in Great Vall! Ow!"
"You'll have to excuse Ivan. He sometimes forgets his place." Mikhail moved back from the boy (whose foot he'd apparently stepped on) with no apology. "But, rest assured dear lady, everything will be explained come Halloween night."
Without further ado, he leaned forward to press a soft kiss on Lily's pale cheek. She blushed hotly and tried to look everywhere but him. Adding a mischievous wink, the Yusupov heir swept off into the crowd, his twin lackeys not far behind. Soon emerald eyes focused on the fidgeting Wisteria. "Uh, um, yeah…what was that you said earlier?"
The third-year blinked twice in surprise at being addressed again before regaining her senses. "Your necklace is so beautiful! I wish I had something fancy like that to wear ou-,"
"Here. Take it."
Wisteria's round eyes went even wider as the brilliant sapphire and diamond choker became unclasped from Lily's neck and was shortly being offered. She seemed to be frozen with astonishment.
"Seriously. It'll look better on you anyway. Though to be honest, I think your necklace is way cooler. Where'd you get it?"
A small hand unconsciously reached to touch a sun-and-crescent moon amulet hanging from her throat. "A friend."
"Well they've got wicked taste! Here-don't take it off!-you can wear both of them." She clasped the choker around Wisteria's neck. "Not too tight, is it?
The younger witch was obviously overwhelmed with gratitude. She began to bounce on the balls of her feet as if preparing to fly off into the sky. "It's perfect!"
"Awesome." Lily confirmed while smiling brightly. She always did better with younger students. They were just so carefree and innocent and this Wisteria reminded Lily of herself when she was younger. But…she frowned. Wisteria was a Slytherin, not to mention a muggle-born Slytherin. That just spelled disaster. Who knew what the poor girl had been through?
"You know we redheads have to stick together! If you ever want to talk, just owl me or ask Treth where I am. This Prefect badge doesn't sit on my robes to collect dust!"
Wisteria giggled: the loudest noise she'd made so far. Lily could recall how quiet the girl was on those muggle bus rides to school. Even when she talked now, her voice was low and similar to an urgent whisper- almost like she was desperate not to be heard.
"Well I'm off." She abruptly straightened. "Got to make sure Treth doesn't kill his fiancé. That would look great with ICW, right? See you later sweetie! Bye, Pippa…Madame Royale."
"Antoinette."
"What?"
"My name is Antoinette."
Her aquamarine eyes were cool yet studied Lily as if she'd never seen anything like her before. The other witch knew better than to look away. People like the Duclaireses were practically royalty and even limitless amounts of extravagance didn't surprise them. Yet, for some inexplicable reason, Lily giving an uncomfortable necklace to a younger girl had been deemed impressive. The redhead knew better than to think Antoinette never saw an act of charity before. Her dreadful experiences with H.C. years taught her enough. Celestyn Duclaires was definitely one of the powerful "ladies who lunch" in the wizarding world. But, maybe her precious daughter was different.
Nodding a last goodbye, Lily swept off while feeling both elated and wary. All of this hoity-toity nonsense was driving her insane! Strange events were happening and the least of Lily's worries was whether she could pour tea correctly without spilling a drop. No. She had to prepare for more important things. Important yet peculiar new people were dropping hints, but no real information to work with. Glancing around to make sure nobody was paying attention, Lily dived for the nearest staircase. The Restricted Section seemed a good place to start.
After all, sometimes you have to learn what they don't teach you.
"James…"
"What? Who are you?"
"You know who I am, James…I have always been with you…follow your heart James…"
"I don't understand! What do you want from me?!"
"To be happy…show them who you really are…follow your heart early on…trust your instincts…don't repeat the mistakes I did…"
"You're not making any bloody sense, damn it!"
"You'll understand soon…follow your heart…"
"TELL ME WHO YOU ARE! I DON'T KNOW YOU! LEAVE ME ALONE!"
James suddenly awoke in a cold sweat, struggling in a desperate battle against his sheets. Thoroughly tangled, he still managed to grab his glasses off the nightstand. The dream…that damn voice! James had had it for as long as he could remember. At first, everything had been blamed on listening to too many scary shows on the wireless. Yet then, the voice would creep up alongside James's thoughts whenever he wasn't paying attention.
Laughing at Padfoot's bad jokes…whispering helpful prank hints…consoling Moony as James did…cheering him on during Quidditch games…even telling him about secret passages to put on the Map…
Now the voice was telling James to follow his heart. About what? It wasn't like he ever hid anything! Prongs liked to think of himself a simple teenage wizard…with the occasional need to make mischief, of course. He was always straightforward with everyone and wasn't afraid to speak his mind. That's how he'd been raised. All of these qualities would later help him as an Auror.
James had everything planned perfectly. After Hogwarts, he would apply and be accepted into training. Following that, he'd join the war effort against He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named and become a true hero like his father. Afterwards he could settle down to start a family or travel the world with a beautiful woman who knew how to have fun.
"Hey Prongs, I guess you couldn't take the heat!"
Sirius Black tumbled inside the dormitory with red face and bright eyes, looking as carelessly handsome as ever. He was soon followed by Remus and Peter whom ran towards their beds faster than bowtruckles on doxy eggs. Both jumped in, closed the curtains, wished each other goodnight, and filled the dorm with the sounds of snoring at the same time. The clock beside him told James it was nearly midnight.
"Where have you guys been? That stupid seminar finished at eight!"
"Yeah, and Evans sneaked out early. You should've seen McGonagall's face when she asked her to sing onstage. Priceless!"
"Angry?"
"Livid."
"When will that shit learn she's not better than the rest of us? Evans acts like she's the Queen of England or someone actually important! What gives her the right to sneak out?"
Sirius gave a pointed look. "You snuck out early."
"That's different." James waved a hand as though swatting an annoying fly. "I have an Invisibility Cloak, and besides I wasn't feeling well. McGonagall would've understood."
"Sure she would, mate. So why'd you sneak out?"
He chucked a pillow at his best friend, who hit it back. Sirius didn't play star Beater on the Quidditch team for nothing. "Git."
"I know you love me, Prongs. Everyone does." The Black heir flopped gracefully onto his bed, wearing nothing except pajama bottoms. To most girls, it would've been an erotic fantasy. But to James, it was only his best friend being too lazy to put on a shirt. Sirius was a simple boy like him and a vain one at that. "I'm so bored! Too bad Moony doesn't transform until Sunday…the only thing good I've got planned is that music institute meeting tomorrow and that'll be another bore!"
"You're always bored." James noted mockingly. "How'd you get into that institute anyway? You can't sing worth a lick!"
"Probably Uncle Alphard. He is president of the alumnae association. And, I'll have you know Prongs that my guitar lessons have really paid off! Soon I'll be sounding like Damian Dash!"
He snorted. "No one can sound like Damian Dash! It's impossible! Let's face it: Demented Tumor is nothing without him!"
Both boys nodded solemnly as if they were just told the meaning of life. Suddenly, a worried expression appeared on one of their faces.
"Padfoot," James began to hesitate. "How is your Uncle Alphard doing?"
A piece of parchment that he hadn't noticed before was clutched in Sirius's hand. It tightened even more at the question, causing the paper to crinkle up. "Promise you won't tell Moony? He'll start fussing over me."
"I'm more worried about you Padfoot. We've been brothers since the first train ride here. If you can't trust me with a secret, then who can you?"
He lifted his head toward James and the latter was struck by the mourning in his best friend's once laughing eyes. "St. Mungo's, Prongs…they, I mean, he had another heart attack…and-and they put him in St. Mungo's…"
"He'll bounce back Padfoot. Your uncle's tough."
"I-I know, but…" Tears were impatiently brushed away. "He's in the hospice quarter! You know the wing for the ones who are gonna-gonna-gonna…"
A concerned frown tainted James's lips as Sirius struggled to find the right words.
"Uncle Alphard's taught me everything I know. Everything! He wasn't always sick! I remember! He used to play with me and Regulus when mother wouldn't or when father was too busy locked up in his office! He taught me how to tie my bootlaces, eat with a fork, pick up girls! For Merlin's sake, Uncle taught me my first spell…it tied Kreacher's ears in a knot…DAMN IT!"
He angrily punched a nearby bedpost, not noticing as blood poured from his knuckles. James fixed the injury with a mutter, and a wave of his wand. "Look Padfoot…I've never had a relative die on me before so I can't help you there. But don't act like he's all you have left! You've got me and Moony and even Wormtail! That's what friends are for! You are not alone Padfoot and you never will be!" Stern yet gentle hazel eyes bore into desolate blue. "Marauder's Oath."
"You can't guarantee something like-,"
"Marauder's Oath."
"Come on Prongs-,"
"Marauder's Oath."
"James-,"
"Marauder's Oath, damn you! Just say it before I tell Cecilia about you and Emmeline Vance yesterday in the broom cupboard!"
Sirius noticeably winced. "You hit where it hurts, mate. Doesn't matter though. I was planning to break it off soon." He outstretched a hand. "Marauder's Oath. May one of us drop dead and enter a land of no mischief-making if this promise is broken!"
Both gave loud gasps of horror, opened their palms, and hawked spit into each other's hands. This time it was James who grimaced. "We really have to find a new oath…"
"Are you kidding me? It's a classic! No one else will do it." Sirius pulled the sheets over his muscular body. "Thanks mate."
"No problem. Good night, Padfoot."
All became forgotten. James grinned widely before turning to face the window. His bed was closest to it. He had too much energy to go to sleep now and the stars looked beautiful tonight. Reaching into his trunk, James pulled out a notepad with sticks of colorful chalk. Flipping through the pages, he took a mere moment to admire the handsome artwork inside. Each picture was different, but all of them displayed a moving scene.
Potter Manor… English gardens…the Eiffel Tower…Gryffindor common room…a lion pouncing onto a withering serpent…his friends playing Exploding Snap…
They didn't know about this, and James planned to keep it that way. This phase, similar to listening to too many scary wireless shows, would pass like the others. Quidditch stars and future Aurors weren't supposed to be artists after all.
On parchment, a nimble hand began to capture the sight of a shooting star while ignoring the bubbling happiness in his heart.
"
HOPE YOU LIKED THIS CHAPTER! THE ONLY QUESTION I'LL LEAVE YOU WITH IS: WHAT'S SO SPECIAL ABOUT WISTERIA GALLAGHER? (HINT: Remember what the Book of Shadows looks like from Lily's journal entry in Ch. 3&4. Then, go back to her and Wisteria's conversation.) To me, it's obvious.
But to you…
ALSO SOMEONE YOU KNOW & LOVE FRM. MY LAST STORY IS COMING BACK NEXT CHAPPIE!
I'm surprised no one (except my beta) asks about Treth Hallow! I love him! Did any of you realize that he's (well partially) mute? Or did you all think Lily was just crazy? I mean, it should be obvious how he communicates with her…but then, I'm the author! What can you do?
LOVE YA!
