Chapter 12 – The Goat and The Scorpion
New Year's Eve had finally rolled around at the Weasley's humble home, and for once there was a lull in general activity. Mrs. Weasley was preoccupied in the kitchen as she prepared the night's meal for the large family, plus a few houseguests. Her twin boys, Fred and George, wouldn't be home until much, much later as they were working overtime at their shop, Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes. There was a colossal demand for their famous fireworks that night, and they'd never be able to close up shop even if they wanted to for all the crazed pyromaniacs tossing their money at them (not that they minded the sharp increase in profits…). Ginny was in her room finishing up the last bits of her holiday assignments, and her brother was seated in the family room with Harry and Hermione. Harry, who was spending the all-too-short vacation with the friendly family, was seated in a rather squishy armchair next to the sofa Ron was sprawled out across. Hermione, who was only spending the night, was seated on the floor next to the lit fireplace, petting her fluffy ginger cat Crookshanks. Remus Lupin sat somewhat lazily in another armchair on the other side of the fireplace, gazing into the embers pensively. Bill, the eldest Weasley boy, and Fleur Delacour, his fiancée, had (mercifully) gone out for a little walk before dinner. Mr. Weasley had gotten home about 10 minutes before, and was busy getting into some nice, warm slippers as his feet were rather chilly; his boots seemed to have sprung a leak on his way home, and some snow got in by his socks and melted. He'd only just made Ron move his feet so he could have a well-deserved seat on the couch near the fire when Hermione started up a conversation.
"Now that Mr. Weasley's here, there's something I wanted to mention," she said, glancing from the man she mentioned to Lupin.
"Mention away, Hermione," Mr. Weasley said cheerily, a side effect of his toasty warm toes.
"Have either of you ever heard of Sang Maudit Syndrome?"
The two adults in the room stared at her silently.
"Er…beg pardon?" Ron's father asked, giving her an odd look.
"Sang Maudit Syndrome," she repeated, scratching the cat's ears. "What happens when you're bitten by a vampire and a werewolf between the space of two full moons. Have you heard of it before?"
"Well, yes, of course," Mr. Weasley said quickly. "I was just surprised that you were learning about it in 6th year. I was under the impression only some students learned about it in 7th year, if not even later. Defense Against the Dark Arts, I suspect?"
"Well, sort of." Hermione replied slowly. She went on to explain Ariana Harthcrow, the infamous new girl; how she got to Hogwarts, Louis the post-delivered basilisk, how she and Harry and Ron came to be friends with her, and the 'special assignment' Snape gave her the last day of classes. "…and right before I left the room I saw she had a very peculiar expression on her face. She was staring at the page like she'd just watched herself die, and it sort of bothered me, so I went to the school library and found the same book Snape gave her" which she promptly produced from her bag lying a foot or two away "and I read everything about SMS. It's actually quite fascinating."
Ron snorted from the sofa. "I don't consider going mad and killing myself in 'a number of unusual and most often terribly unpleasant ways' fascinating, Hermione."
"You know that's not what I meant," she said a bit snappishly. "I meant it's interesting to read about all the odd things that happen to someone if they contract this, even if they are really, really awful."
"I understand," Lupin spoke up for what seemed to be the first time all night. "It's like being a werewolf; people think it sounds intriguing, but when you actually live it it certainly isn't anything like reading about it in a book." He paused for a moment, and then added quickly, "Sang Maudit Syndrome is far worse, though, don't get me wrong. I'm just glad I was lucky and only got bitten once." He shuddered a little and seemed to sink even further into the armchair as if it could defend him from the horrible thought.
"That brings me to another point." Hermione continued. "I think from the look she was giving the page that Ariana's familiar with SMS, like maybe she knows someone who has it."
"Or she has it herself." Harry added.
"Either way I don't think she meant for anyone to find out about it." The bushy-haired girl said as Crookshanks went to find Mrs. Weasley and beg for food. "I suppose Dumbledore knows. Since SMS is sort of like being a werewolf, he of all people ought to know about…certain issues." She threw Lupin a significant look, and he somewhat half-nodded. "Anyway, I think Snape might have found out about it – if she has it, of course – and gave her that particular assignment on purpose."
"Why one earth would Snape do that?" Mr. Weasley asked, genuinely confused.
"Because it's Snape." Ron replied simply.
His father gave him a look and asked Hermione, "But isn't Ariana in Slytherin? Why would he be…well, himself to someone in his own house?"
"I don't know right now," she replied with a small sigh. "I'm going to ask her about it when we get back to school."
"Are you sure that's a wise idea?" Lupin interrupted pointedly. "Some people are a bit touchy with things like that. She might not want anyone to know because she's embarrassed by it, or thinks people will hate or mistrust her if they know what she is. I know from experience."
"I know, but just because she's got a problem doesn't mean she's bad or anything," Hermione protested gently.
Lupin laughed quietly. "Harry was saying something similar to that to me the other day."
"Well, still, she didn't choose to be like that, just like you didn't choose to be a werewolf," the girl continued. "From what I've seen she's perfectly harmless, just like you as long as you have the Wolfsbane potion at the right time. It's not like either of you are horrible monsters that need to be locked up and never seen again, or shunned by the world. You're just normal people with bad luck!"
The werewolf smiled and said softly, "I believe I've been proven wrong. I'm sure she'd be glad to hear that from anyone, especially you since you're her friend. But be careful how you ask about it, and keep in mind that not everyone appreciates pity parties."
"Thanks, I'll keep it in mind," Hermione said. "I feel bad for her a lot of the time anyway, though. Everyone in her house hates her because she's friends with the three of us, and Hagrid too."
"Ah, the old 'Purebloods Only' thing with the Slytherins, eh?" Mr. Weasley commented bemusedly. "Do they give her grief for it?"
"Sometimes," Harry replied. "Most of the time they just give her dirty looks everywhere she goes. Especially when she's with us."
"Too right," Ron chuckled. "She told us they've said it's bad enough she's associating with a Weasley – the Muggle-Loving Pureblood Traitors – and that she's friends with Harry Potter – and you wouldn't want to hear the names they've called him – but she hangs around with Hermione – the Know-It-All foul-word-for-a-Muggle-born."
"And it doesn't bother her?" Lupin asked with a hint of surprise.
"Not a bit," Hermione answered cheerfully. "She doesn't particularly like most of the people in her house – she specifically thinks Draco Malfoy's a sniveling little prat – so she doesn't care whether they love her or hate her. I think one of the professors said something about 'she's the first Slytherin to have friends outside his or her own house in decades.'"
"Good for her," the head of the Weasley family said brightly. "Sounds like she'd get on with the rest of us well. Maybe you can bring her over for dinner sometime, Ron."
"Dunno how she'd take that," the redhead said a bit sheepishly. "She might think I'm subtly asking her out or something."
Hermione suddenly laughed. "Oh, no, I don't think so. I'm sure she's seen enough to know you're quite taken."
"And just what's that supposed to mean?" Ron asked defensively as he pushed himself up into a sitting position.
"Back to Ariana and her supposed little problem," Mr. Weasley interjected as soon as he saw where this was heading. "The Ministry's been awfully worked up about the fact that anyone with SMS is impossible to kill or restrain properly, so they expect You-Know-Who's dying to get even one on his side."
"I thought of that, too," Harry said frankly. "I also thought that he'd be the type to go so far as to make his own SMs rather than try to recruit somebody with it already…"
"I certainly hope not," Lupin added with a shiver. "It's bad enough he's got most of the werewolves supporting him, not to mention he's probably got a few vampires at least…I'm still just glad I don't have it, or know anybody that has it. Personally, I'd rather be dead."
"From the sounds of it, me too," Ron said, looking a bit nervous. "Can't imagine what it'd be like…"
"I can. I read all about it, after all." The girl said with a glance at the redhead. "There isn't a single good point about it that isn't balanced out by a bad point. For example, they have eternal youth, but the insanity thing certainly isn't worth it. It's no surprise it happens though; I don't think I'd stay sane if everyone I cared about died while I had to keep living…"
A sinister, black shape on the other side of the window laughed humorlessly as it collected snowflakes and watched the people inside.
"You have no idea, you silly little girl…"
------------------------------------------------------------
On the other side of the world, a similar gathering was occurring in the conservatory of Nyx's citadel. The New Year's Party was always held in that particular room for several reasons: 1. over half of the walls and roof were made of glass, 2. the spectacular view to be seen through the glass was to die for, 3. the number of interesting and attractive plants scattered about, 4. the spectacular white marble fountain at the center of the room shaped like a dragon and spouting the clearest water anyone had ever seen, 5. the attractive green-and-white marble theme of the room, accented by gold pots and light fixtures and such as well as green upholstery on the furniture, 6. it was one of the warmest rooms in the establishment, and 7. everyone could fit inside it at one time, even Schlange.
But it was the lack of that dragon that cast a shadow of grief over the group of 5 (6 if Louis was included) gathered in the room. Schlange was not recovering well at all. His wounds were nowhere near healed, though he didn't seem to be in pain, but no one could be sure; he had been in a comatose state ever since his episode with Nyx a few days before. It seemed to be for the better, though, as his master couldn't stop blaming herself for getting him messed up even worse than he'd already been. Many tried to convince her that it would've happened if she'd been there or not – the trauma was just too great for the poor creature to bear silently – but she wouldn't hear it. Not to mention the horror and intense sadness the other dragons felt when they heard of the fate of Schlange's wings. It was especially painful now because the dragon's Christmas gift to everyone was an expertly choreographed aerial show, complete with pyrotechnics and Schlange as the main participant. That was a long-lost dream, now. Huoh-Long only prayed that when he woke again he would be all right and not brain-dead or without his memory. That happened sometimes when dragons suffer to that extreme, she said. Nyx begged her to be wrong.
But tonight, she decided, was to be a fun night. She hated to think it, but they would have to keep their minds off the terrorized dragon and on their own happiness, just for the one night. Nyx felt like she'd explode if she didn't lighten up soon, and from her experiences in past years a party was just the thing to do it.
"Drinks on the house, as you all ordered," Edgar said cheerfully as he floated around to deliver the various beverages. "I'll bring you as many refills as you like, so long as you don't get drunk as skunks and start acting like fools." He gave a significant look to Jack seated in a puffy green recliner. He still hadn't gotten over his distaste at the karaoke session.
"That'll do, butler," Nyx said with a grin from her seat in a recliner to match Jack's and placed across from it so that they faced each other. She took a sip of her beloved Bloody Mary and glanced at her two underage minions glaring at her from the loveseat parallel to her and Jack and to her left, a part of the matching set also consisting of the two recliners and a few other items in the room. Across from Maxu and Sakura was the large fountain and a tiny waterfall pouring from it and landing in a good-sized 'bowl' that lay flush with the marble floor. In the bowl were a few tiny fish swimming about carelessly as Louis eyed them.
Nyx tapped her foot on the basilisk's tail 'on accident' as she warned him, "Don't even think about it."
"I wasn't…" he replied with an annoyed sigh. He slithered closer to his mummy's chair and got himself up on her lap with some difficulty. "I think I'm getting fat, mummy."
"I agree," she hissed as she repositioned his chubby little body so he wasn't putting pressure on her stomach. "You need to go on a diet and get some exercise. No more riding around on my shoulders, and no more cherries. …and no more chocolates either, while I'm at it."
The snake gaped at her, horrified. He started spluttering excuses and protests pathetically, but Nyx shushed him when she saw Maxu preparing to speak.
"So, are we still doing fireworks this year?" he asked, looking more than a little concerned. The fireworks were his favorite part of the night; from their position in the conservatory behind the massive windows, they had a perfect view of the mountains and the large airspace that simply needed to be filled with explosions of color and noise.
"As of this moment, yes." The woman in the magnificent armor replied. "Unless anything suspicious is reported before we light them, they'll go off without a hitch if I have anything to say about it."
"So where'd you buy them this year?" Jack asked after taking a quick sip of his wine while no one looked his way.
"'Weasley's Wizarding Weasels'…no, that can't be right. Was it Wizzles?…Wuzzles, maybe? …well, something like that anyway." Nyx answered with the wave of an airy hand. "Small business, but very profitable. Owned by two 19-year-old twins, interestingly enough. Believe I'm 'friends' with their younger brother."
"How come you haven't got a business?" Sakura asked Maxu slyly as she twisted her green tea-filled martini glass between her fingers. "You're the same age as they are, right?"
"Well, yeah, but I've never given a single thought to running a business." He said, giving her a puzzled look. "What made you think I ever did?"
"Oh, nothing," she sighed carelessly. "I just thought perhaps since you're the same age as they are you'd –"
"Age has nothing to do with it." Jack interrupted simply.
"Well I was just saying that maybe he might've considered getting a proper job to supplement this one for later on in life," the girl explained, sounding a bit annoyed with the black-cloaked man.
"What makes you think he'll ever need another job? He'll be working for me until he dies…or gets fired…or quits, but as far as I'm concerned it's the same as me firing him, and he'd still end up cremated as per protocol." Nyx said with a raised eyebrow. "Same for the rest of you, I should think."
"I'm just saying that if anything should happen he'd have something to fall back on in case he ever needs to support a family or something," Sakura blurted quickly. She wasn't keen on being interrupted again.
"Family?" Maxu yelped. "Who ever said I wanted to raise a family?"
"Who wouldn't?" the Japanese girl asked in disbelief.
Nyx waved at her. "I see no profit in it for me, thank you very much."
Sakura made an exasperated noise and argued, "How can you say such a thing? Haven't you ever thought of how wonderful it would feel to have a sweet little baby to take care of, and a good-looking loving husband, and a nice house, and a good job, and –"
"Yes," her master cut in. "And it made me sick. I don't care much for children; they're too noisy and messy. I already have a nice house, if you can properly call this a house," she gestured to her surroundings with a bemused grin, "I'm perfectly happy with my job, and as far as the 'good-looking loving husband' goes…" Nyx sighed after a moment of thought. "Let's just say I can think of about one person who could ever fit that description for me."
"Ooooooh," Sakura said very much like a giddy schoolgirl and grinned slyly at the woman. "Who is it?" Maxu rolled his eyes and Jack felt his pulse increase sharply.
"Someone who's been dead for longer than you've been alive." Nyx said colorlessly before draining her Bloody Mary. A long silence followed as the others stared at her with a hint of pity.
"Well…" Sakura continued tentatively. "If you happened to meet a guy you like in the future, do you think you'd reconsider the settling down and having a family thing?"
The woman laughed. "Trust me, if I ever meet a man I'd even consider marrying, he wouldn't be very keen on 'the settling down and having a family thing' either. If, however, I chanced to meet someone I really loved, but he wanted a nice big, happy family and so on, I may be able to compromise. But only in an extreme case."
Sakura straightened herself up and crossed her arms over her chest like she meant business. "Well if you're going to find somebody, Lord Psycho, you better do it soon! Nobody wants to marry an old maid, you know!"
"I beg your pardon?" Nyx blurted as she shot the teenager an incredulous look and Maxu burst into quickly stifled laughter. "Who ever said I was an old maid?"
"I'm not calling you old," she replied carefully. "I'm only saying if you wait too long…well, men will lose interest." Nyx snorted and muttered something to Louis, who laughed in reply. "All right then, what will you be on the 13th?"
"Another year older." Her master replied dryly.
"That's not what I meant!" she wailed, flailing her arms around like a toddler having a temper tantrum.
"I know, I know," Nyx said, chuckling. "But I'm not telling you how old I am."
"Oh," Sakura sighed in a very understanding voice. "You're in denial. What, are you hitting 30 or something?"
"I'm not in denial!" the other spat indignantly. "I just know you'd never believe me if I told you my age!"
Her three underlings gave her a look that plainly stated, 'Try me.'
She sighed and snapped, "Fine. How old do I look?"
Maxu studied her for a while before saying, "Thirty at maximum, 24 at minimum. If I had to bet money on it I'd say…27." He paused to stare at her in anticipation. "…was I close?"
Nyx stared back at him blankly…then without warning exploded into laughter. A minute or so later she was barely able to choke out, "Not even close."
As the American sulked, Sakura asked with increasing curiosity, "Was he too low or too high?"
"Must be too low because she already said a while ago that she's older than me," Jack added after he finished his wine in a hearty gulp.
"And you're 24, right?"
"Twenty-five, idiot." He snapped back. "Turned it on November 11th, remember?"
"Oh, sorry!" Sakura genuinely apologized. "…wait a minute. You're a Scorpio!"
Oh, gods, what have I done? Jack moaned to himself. "…yes indeed…"
"Ooh! Ooh! Wait two minutes! I'll be right back!" she said excitedly as she hopped down off the couch and sprang out of the room.
Nyx turned to look at her second-in-command with a criticizing eye. "Way to go, dumbass."
"I'm sorry, it slipped out!" he half-wailed in apology.
Getting Sakura started on the Zodiac and all that other superstitious crap she lived by was a first-class offense in Nyx's mind. Last year, soon after she started working for her, the girl had gone on a long rant about each of their sign's characteristics, pointing out good and bad points alike. Maxu was especially irked when he heard how immovably stubborn he was supposed to be as he was a Leo. Not to mention Sakura had tried to play matchmaker once before, going by her silly Zodiac compatibility guide, and Nyx sincerely hoped she wouldn't do it again. The awkwardness wasn't worth the laughs.
As she dashed back into the conservatory a minute or so later, the blue-haired girl chirped, "I got a new book on it, and it's way more detailed than the last one! In here, it has not only the sun signs but also the moon and ascending signs, all based on your exact date of birth!" She hopped back onto the loveseat, grinning. "Isn't it exciting?"
It took all of their willpower to nod and say, "Sure."
"Okay," she muttered to herself as she opened the brilliantly shimmering purple book. "I'll start with Evil Minion because he reminded me of it…" Jack looked terrified. After a minute of flipping through pages rapidly and speed-reading impressively, Sakura said, "Alright, got it. According to this, your sun sign is Scorpio – but you already knew that – your moon sign is Capricorn, and your ascending sign is also Capricorn."
"Question." Maxu interrupted with a totally uncomprehending look on his face. "What's the difference between the signs?"
The girl seated next to him thought for a moment. "Well…the sun sign gives you the most general information about yourself, the moon sign deals with your emotions and such, and the ascending sign gives you more insight to yourself. I guess that's the simplest way to describe it." She paused to see if he understood, and she took his shrug as an affirmative, and then bent over the book as she began again. "Anyway, about Evil Minion…"
"Sun in Scorpio typically means a strong-willed, secretive, possessive, vengeful, passionate individual. Most are very inquisitive and interested in how things work, especially people. They are stubborn, but also tenacious, so they often accomplish many things in life that they set out to do. However, they have a tendency to manipulate and control, and when they want answers they will persist until they obtain them. Scorpios react to everything emotionally and so their emotions are the strongest motivational factor in their behavior, but they do not tend to wear their hearts on their sleeves. They often desire dominance in relationships and rarely exhibit emotions openly. Many appear mysterious and enigmatic because even if they seem open, they always hold something back. Scorpios do not take kindly to abuse or manipulation and typically react to it with sarcasm and vengefulness. They are not naturally combative, but can be if the need arises. They cherish their privacy and rarely let people get to know them beyond a certain point. Scorpios have fierce determination when they desire something or someone, and are neither willing nor gracious losers if they fail to obtain it. They are not arrogant, although they often exhibit a self-sufficiency that implies there isn't much they don't already know.
"In the romance area, male Scorpios are very persuasive and do not give up easily if they have their sights set on a particular woman. They always give 100 perfect in everything, so they expect the same from their spouse or girlfriend, yet they prefer to control them at the same time. Revenge and jealousy will surface if they are not succeeding in their love life, like other aspects of their lives.
"Moon in Capricorn usually means a reserved, grasping, stable, structured and self-conscious person. They are not emotionally spontaneous and rarely jump into long-term relationships without thinking it through. They are usually unwilling to discuss their own problems although they readily help with the problems of others. They find it hard to feel content on the inside and have a great amount of difficulty expressing their deepest emotions, and have a strong fear of rejection. When it comes to romance and marriage, it may take them longer to find someone they can both love and trust. Capricorn moons are often most interested in accomplishing personal goals and are often very intelligent. But they have a tendency to harbor anger without allowing for some kind of emotional release, leading to depression and other problems.
"Capricorn in the ascending sign typically indicates someone who accepts responsibility, retains a youthful appearance through life, and has an elongated face. They usually don't have easygoing, 'take me as I am' attitudes and are much more comfortable with formality. Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, and this often indicates a difficult birth or a restricted childhood. They are apt to be disappointed with some part of their personality or appearance and may develop unhealthy behaviors to contradict them, such as self-denial and losing themselves to hedonistic pleasures. They often have many fears and are very insecure.
"…and that's all." Sakura finally finished. She looked rather accomplished as she watched Jack for some kind of response. All she could see were his piercing blue eyes staring back at her with a raised eyebrow barely concealed by the head wrap. "Does that sound like you?" she asked curiously.
"Um…" Jack muttered evasively. "Parts of it, yes, but other parts I disagree with."
"Oh really?" the Japanese girl inquired with raised eyebrows. "Which parts do you disagree with?"
"I don't think I'm particularly self-conscious or insecure about anything." He replied confidently.
"Then how come you wear that stupid wrap-thingy all the time?" Sakura asked critically. "Honestly, if you hide your face all the time it must be because you don't like how it looks."
"That's got nothing to do with it." He snapped back. "I'm perfectly comfortable with how I look. I keep my appearance and identity hidden for a completely different reason."
"And what might that be?" she pressed with a coy little grin.
"It's none of your business, that's what it is," Jack replied simply. "Doesn't concern you at all. If you want to see what I look like that badly you're going to have to come over here and pull this thing off my head yourself." He tugged gently on one end of the wrap dangling out of his hood. Nyx knew exactly what he was talking about, so when Sakura opened her mouth to speak, her master cut her off.
"And what about you, Sakura?" she asked conversationally. "What's your little sign thing say about you?"
She looked a bit disappointed that the conversation got off her bugging Jack, but she seemed eager to share her information. "Well, I'm a Pisces-Taurus-Virgo because my birthday's on March 4th, and I'll start with the sun sign as usual.
"Sun in Pisces is a shy, vulnerable, unrealistic, compassionate, unstable, theatrical risk-taker. They often find it hard to deal with people and situations that do not live up to their idealized images, not because they can't see clearly, but because they don't want to accept things as they really are. They readily adapt to change, making them excellent survivors, but also making them vulnerable to the demands and influences of other people. They are sensitive and identify easily with the feelings of others, sometimes allowing them to gain an advantage over those they understand the most. The symbol for Pisces is two fish swimming in opposite directions, representing the ultimate choice all Pisces must face: to be strong and overcome their weaknesses, or to fall victim to them. They react emotionally to everything, and are fair-minded and compassionate and therefore not unwilling to bend unbreakable rules if a situation demands a more humane approach. Most are shy and would rather impersonate someone else than be themselves, so many become actors, writers, artists and dreamers.
"Female Pisceans are feminine, intuitive, responsive and sensual, drawn to creative subjects. They are empathetic to people with problems and often fantasize and act out their desires.
"People with moon in Taurus usually require tangible proof of affection from those they have relationships with, and they always try to satisfy their desires whenever the opportunity presents itself. They do not take broken promises well and have excellent memories. They may forgive, but they rarely forget, sometimes remembering personal insults for years.
"People with Virgo in ascending are also very changeable and find it hard to accept things the way they are. In public, they are prone to flamboyant displays of affection and are often very talkative. They're extremely curious and desire to both spread their own ideas and information, as well as collect others ideas and information as well. They love to share this information with anyone who is willing to listen. Virgo ascendants prefer to keep busy and be useful because sitting around doing nothing makes them nervous and irritable."
Sakura took a moment to catch her breath and finish her tea. "I can honestly say that describes me pretty well. I know I have my inherent faults, but at least I'm not ashamed to admit it." She gave Jack a pointed look. He just glared at her.
"I agree with the 'often very talkative' part," Maxu said with an amused grin.
The girl whapped him with her fan again. "All right then, wise guy, how about I tell you all about your signs?"
"No thanks, I'm good." He yawned a bit rudely.
Sakura ignored him and asked, "Your birthday's on July 26th, right? That makes you a Leo-Sagittarius-Libra.
"Sun in Leo means you're an egotistical, flamboyant, selfish, optimistic attention-seeker. Leos like to play hero although sometimes they don't really know what help is needed and they turn out to be useless to those they were trying to help. Like Scorpios, Leos are stubborn but also tenacious. Their tenacity is shown in intense loyalty to friends and loved ones, and their patience and determination when working on a meaningful project. Their stubbornness can be blamed on their ego, especially is someone demands that they change their behavior or thinking. Even when given irrefutable evidence that they are wrong, they cling to bad relationships and incorrect ideas simply because their egos will not allow them to admit being wrong. If insulted or abused, they will not forget it unless the person responsible sincerely and humbly asks for forgiveness. They generally have an opinion on everything and never hesitate to express it. Leos tend to 'shoot first and ask questions later.' They love life, though, and love to make it as enjoyable as possible for everyone else. They are enthusiastic and cheerful and make great entertainers. They are attracted to fun, exciting things and it's difficult for them to accept that boring, mundane chores also exist in life.
"Leo males are extremely attractive to women. They are easily noticed in a crowd and usually get a lot of attention. They are showmen, flashy and flamboyant, and can be careless at times though they are also masters at covering up mistakes or anything else. They are extroverts, love to laugh, outgoing and love the best of everything. They have high opinions of themselves and want your spouse or girlfriend to feed their large egos.
"Moon in Sagittarius typically means an idealistic, liberated, cheerful, outspoken, humorous and restless person. They have a risk-taking, adventurous spirit that allows them to succeed where more cautious people would be afraid to try. They are open and honest, although sometimes too honest. They are often impressed by people with power and status, and tend to associate with them for their own advancement. They are concerned with making an impression on others and are sometimes guilty of inflating their knowledge and importance. They make good performers, and are extremely loyal.
"Libra in ascending is…hang on…"
Sakura started flipping through pages more than usual, scanning each quickly but carefully.
"Libra Ascendant, now where did you go…"
More pages turned with increasing force.
"…I saw it a minute ago…don't even joke with me that it's not in here…"
A page nearly tore she turned it so hard.
"…DAMMIT! I paid good money for this book, and you're telling me something's missing? What a piece of CRAP!"
Nyx stifled a chuckle. "I'm sure it was an honest mistake."
"Would be nice if you were so understanding when we screw up," Jack hissed at her. She ignored him.
Maxu patted the teenager on the back sympathetically. "That's all right. I'll just be kept in suspense until you find somewhere where it says about Libra Ascendant or whatever."
Sakura thanked him for his understanding, but still didn't look encouraged. That usually happened when something disappointed her.
"Am I in there?" Nyx piped up to get her back in a good mood.
"January 13th, right?" she asked somewhat listlessly. "Capricorn-Capricorn-Cancer. Sun in Capricorn means you're mature, ambitious, responsible, designing, traditional and a goal-seeker. They're often blinded by their own ambition and obsessed with their goals, and sometimes adopt the philosophy that the end justifies the means. They love to accomplish things and intend to get them done one way or another, and they're usually very talented at it. They aspire towards positions of power and authority and admire those already holding them. They want to be admired and respected, so they never show weakness or ineffectiveness. This false pride makes it hard for them to accept being wrong or to ask others for help. Though they compete aggressively and appear sure of themselves, they harbor an inner lack of confidence which makes them insecure and defensive. They see this insecurity and these fears as weaknesses and try their best to hide them, making it hard for others to get to know them. Capricorns react to everything by assessing it's worth, as in whether it will benefit them in any way. They will gladly work long and hard to get what they want or see as a gain for themselves. They have a good sense of humor but will not tolerate being ridiculed in any form; those who injure a Capricorn will soon learn the error of their ways. Capricorns need to know and understand the limits of all aspects of life, because once they are understood it s easier to manipulate them. They are unusually mature as children, and often look older when they are young. But, when they actually become older the reverse occurs and they keep their youthful appearance well into old age.
"Capricorn women are not easy to figure out and tend to turn on and off frequently. They are really just the type that is afraid to fall in love with the wrong person, but when they do find the right man they will be true blue partners. They are willing to do anything for their lover as long as their needs are satisfied. You take good care of yourself, dressing neatly in a classy, somewhat formal way. You also like to keep busy and take life quite seriously.
"I already told you about Capricorn in Moon because Evil Minion's one, so I'll go to Cancer Ascending. They typically seek direction and are often vulnerable. They are dedicated to satisfying their personal ambitions, and often hesitate to reveal their true goals until they are certain of success. There is the potential that they will have traumatic partnerships, especially in marriage. Many prefer to marry later on in life and to select older or more mature partners. They often try to hide their vulnerability with forcefulness, although it only works in rare cases."
Sakura fell silent as she stared at the book like it was making a face at her. "I'll admit it's very accurate and detailed and all, but there's just no excuse for having anything missing," she grumbled off-topic.
"So, what do you think, Lord Psycho?" Maxu asked his master loudly as he turned towards her.
She was gazing at the fish in the bowl by her feet. Two white fish were chasing around a little black fish like it was a convicted criminal. She pitied it. She knew what it was like to be in its place…
"…Lord Psycho?"
"What?"
"Did you hear what Sakura said?"
"Yes. I'm a bit…unnerved by it."
"So, that sounded exactly like you?"
"Disturbingly so…"
"Huh. I don't get what's 'disturbing' about it…"
"If you were me, you would."
"What's that supposed to – "
"What would the signs be for someone born today?"
Sakura stared at her master quizzically. "Any reason, or are you just curious?"
"I once knew someone born today, a very long time ago." Nyx replied wistfully before hissing her permission for Louis to eat the two white fish. He did it immediately, as quietly and efficiently as possible. No one noticed what happened.
The Japanese girl consulted her book again, seeming to be in a much better mood. "Capricorn-Scorpio-Cancer. So, everything's the same as yours except for Scorpio in Moon, so I'll stick with that one. They're brooding, intense, motivated, dominating, spiteful, loyal, creative and suspicious. If they are subjected to emotional manipulation or deprivation in childhood, they are not going to reveal their vulnerability by openly expressing their feelings or needs. If they are raised in a non-threatening environment, they will probably emerge as mild mannered, easy to get along with adults. There is no denying the potential for hedonism, possessiveness, jealousy, and revenge in these individuals, though not all of them give in to these destructive behaviors. They are extremely tenacious and surprisingly able to overcome adversity. Instinctive understanding of human motivation and behavior gives them an emotional advantage, a conscious or subconscious way to control themselves as well as others. The mistake many of them make is being so intent on controlling others that they never learn to effectively control themselves."
To their surprise, Nyx's response was to lean back in the chair and laugh. "If that doesn't sound like him I must have an extra head growing out of my ass."
"Ohhhhh…it was a guy?" Sakura asked excitedly. "Well, male Capricorns are the most persistent when it comes to love, never take no for an answer, and never go away empty handed. Their animal tendencies tend to come out in the bedroom, though they are not cruel – just energetic."
Nyx let out a bark of laughter. Sakura ignored her and continued.
"They want their partners to be loyal friends, but will never accept their criticism. They seek love through physical passion rather than being loveable. Unlike most men, when they become Old Goats they still have a strong sex drive…and just what is so funny?"
Nyx was about to fall onto the floor, shaking with silent laughter for reasons they were unaware of. In a moment or two after she calmed down, her excuse was rather disappointing: "…I think you had to know him to find that 'Old Goat' line as funny as I did." And she believed she was quite right. …so that's what goes through his mind nowadays. Interesting. 70 this year, aren't you? Bah, you're still a toddler to me. …can't wait to call you an Old Goat sometime…the look on your face will be priceless…pity I haven't the foggiest how to use a camera…maybe that's for the better; I think you'd be too busy trying to shove it down my throat to let me get away with taking a picture with it…
"Speaking of which, remember what I was saying to you before about getting yourself a guy?" the teenager continued as Nyx came out of her thoughts. "Well they have a chart in here that – "
"NO!" the two young men yelled in a simultaneous panic. "BLOODY HELL, NO! NOT EVER!"
Sakura glared at them indignantly. "I didn't even finish the sentence!"
"Oh, don't bother, we know what you were doing," Maxu chuckled nervously.
"Yeah, I'm bloody surprised it's not a banned subject around here yet," Jack chimed in looking genuinely terrified.
"Oh, grow up!" the girl spat. "Lord Psycho isn't flipping out over it!"
Nyx stared at her from the chair, wincing slightly. "I won't lie to you, I'm not looking forward to the topic, but if you really must…"
"WHAT?" the American and the cloaked man yelped. "What have you been drinking, woman?"
A minute or two later the pair decided it was safe to crawl back into the room again after two Avada Kedavra's destroyed a potted plant near the door. Sakura was blissfully ignorant of the tragedy that had nearly occurred as she pored over the several pages of charts.
"Hey, guess what." She said with a mischievous grin.
"What?" Nyx said more venomously than she meant to as she watched her second-in-command and Grand General creep back to their seats, shaken.
"Lord Psycho and Evil Minion are highly compatible."
Maxu almost choked when his drink went down the wrong pipe on account of the sudden burst of laughter that escaped him. Jack looked half embarrassed and half hopeful as he glanced at his master to see how she took the old news this time. She looked little different than she had before it was said; surly and bored.
"You said that the last time we got on this topic." She said neutrally.
"I know, but I figured you forgot by now." The teenager replied in a much-too-chipper tone. "So, I think you two should give it a shot, especially because of the 'Old Maid' thing I pointed out before."
"You said that the last time, too." Nyx added. "And my response is the same." With that, the woman stared straight at her and laughed heartily at her, not with her. The moment she finished, she fell totally silent and turned the blank stare into a grim glare. The master raised her glass to her lips to take a long drink, and to her immense displeasure found it empty. "Edgaaar!" she hollered pathetically.
The ghost floated in almost as if he were waiting outside the door for a summons. Before he could ask what she wanted, she thrust the glass in his general direction without a word. Edgar pondered it for a moment before snatching it and leaving with as much communication as he'd received, and with a bit of a temper as well.
"What do you think of it?" Sakura asked Jack once the butler was out of sight. "You didn't laugh at me the last time, and you're not doing it now." A pause. "Matter of fact you haven't said a thing."
"That's in my best interest," the other said with an honest nod.
"Still, it's not healthy to hold in your emotions like that, you know." She pressed, wagging a finger at him. "That's one of the biggest problems with Scorpios. Leads to depression sometimes."
Jack raised a sly eyebrow at her. "You seem awfully concerned. What's the compatibility between us, I wonder?"
The girl gave a little snort and snapped, "Extremely high, but that has nothing to do with it."
Before she could finish her retort, Jack groaned and leaned back in the chair, holding his head almost in agony. He jerked forward when Sakura's sandal him in the stomach and wondered what she was expecting him to do – surely not jump for joy? He wasn't so certain when she stomped over to him to retrieve her shoe, looking very hurt and angry. She pondered for a moment whether to hit him with it again at such a close range and risk him hitting her at the same time. She knew he'd do it, too; he did it almost a year ago to prove that he wasn't the type who hesitates to hit girls, especially if they're asking for it. Sakura decided it wasn't worth the bruising and slipped the sandal back on as she went to get her empty glass.
"I need a refill." She said colorlessly before stalking out of the room and down the hall.
Nyx thought she might've felt a pang of guilt for her. They weren't being terribly nice to her, although they knew she was aware of the general dislike for the entire Zodiac subject just because she was so overzealous about it. She decided to go against her Zodiacal "unsympathetic" nature, for just one night.
"When she comes back in we'd better apologize." She said. "She looked pretty upset." They nodded in silent agreement, though she wasn't sure how sincere it was.
Edgar returned not a second after she said this, glancing behind himself curiously as he delivered the fresh Bloody Mary. "Where's Sakura off to?"
"She said she was getting a refill." Nyx answered quietly. The semitransparent butler nodded knowingly. She must have been cooling off somewhere because she knew Edgar was coming back shortly, so she could've asked for a refill from him. "If you see her don't say anything unless she does first; she's a bit upset."
"What did you do now?" the old man huffed condescendingly.
"She was going on about the Zodiac again." Jack said from the other chair.
"Oh," Edgar muttered, now looking at his master sympathetically. He kept his birthday and his age confidential anyway, but he was never in any kind of mood to hear about that drivel.
"We're apologizing this time, though," Nyx added with a glance to her other minions. "…Right?"
"Yes," Jack muttered. Maxu was apparently too interested in Sakura's book to hear a word she said.
He was looking over the Pisces chart, and with a stab of guilt saw that Pisces-Leo was one of the worst matches on the page. Ever since Nyx took her in, Sakura had been chasing after him. He told her several times already that he didn't feel the same way about her, but she wouldn't hear it. All she said was that she was bound to grow on him eventually. Maxu admired her optimism and her determination, but if he didn't like her he simply didn't like her. Normally he was perfectly happy to be friends with her, despite those days where she was being annoying for whatever reason, but it just didn't 'click' between them. He certainly didn't think it could be forced either, so no matter how much she tried to 'grow on him,' if it didn't work it just didn't work.
That must be part of why she's so upset, he thought sadly. I already told her there are plenty of other guys in the world besides me. There's bound to be someone who'd be crazy about her from the start. He'd be much better for her than me… He laughed inwardly. Evil Minion there has a better chance with Lord Psycho than she has with me, and I don't know how much even that is. It'd be kinda funny to see them together like that … Maxu laughed to himself again. The poor guy'd be on a leash, though, she controls him so much…Well, then again, maybe he's happy that way. I guess some people don't mind basically being a slave to the person they love…
The American paused to look up from the book at his master, hissing and rasping to Louis about who knows what, and then to Jack, watching her affectionately and totally unaware that his coworker was looking at him.
…hmph. Kinky bastard.
------------------------------------------------------------
About an hour later, Sakura returned, bright and happy as ever and seemingly with amnesia. She didn't say another word about signs or compatibility for the rest of the night to everyone's relief. Nyx assumed she took the hint that they'd heard enough for one night and she decided to drop it for her own benefit. So, no one ended up apologizing, but it may have been better that no one mentioned it again.
For another hour or so after she rejoined them, the group made small talk about recent news, an ethical discussion or two, and eventually landing on a conversation about whether it's better to die peacefully in your sleep or in considerable pain but surrounded by good friends and having a hell of a good time.
"…has anyone noticed how unnaturally serious this has gotten for a holiday?" Nyx interrupted just as Maxu was about to go into another rant.
"…yeah." Jack said slowly. "What's wrong with us?"
"…Let's just do fireworks and go to bed. We must all be getting ill." The woman continued briskly before rising from her seat and making her way to the general area of the windows. The others followed as she conjured up theater-style seats on the other side of the fountain with a wave of her hand – one for each of them plus Edgar, who raced in just in time. They were soft and plush, and strangely silvery for the fabric they were made of. No one paid it any mind, though, and just fought each other over what was unanimously decided to be the 'better' seats. Nyx was busy at a spindly-legged table with an old-fashioned, well-used phone set on it. The woman gave a few orders through the mouthpiece before turning on her heel and physically removing Maxu from the 'best' seat before claiming it for herself. Louis slithered over, giving the group a curious look.
"What are you doing?" he inquired.
"Fireworks. Know what they are?" Nyx asked as she gestured for him to come over to her.
"No." the basilisk hissed back. "Sounds…interesting."
"Oh, you'll like them. They make really loud bangs and come in all colors and whatnot," his mummy explained enthusiastically. "It's a load of fun to watch."
The young snake didn't seem convinced and just looked nervous about the 'loud bangs' as he curled up on the woman's lap.
"We should do resolutions while we wait for them to set up down below." Nyx said to the humans around her. She referred to the team of men positioned on a ridge 60 feet below them, waiting with the mountain of fireworks until their boss called down and gave the word to fire when ready. Usually, though, it took a few minutes to set up all the explosives so there wouldn't be lags between volleys, so they expected a short wait before the first shot. This was prime time to get the New Years Resolution tradition over with.
"You really think we should keep doing them?" Maxu asked with a slightly pained expression.
"Of course. We've been doing them for years." His master replied. "Why not?"
"Well…don't you think they're sort of clichéd and…well, stupid?"
"…Not particularly, no."
"…right. Forget I spoke."
"Will do."
"I'll start!" Sakura said as cheerfully as ever. "This year I'm going to get a boyfriend. Whether I keep him or not doesn't matter. I just want to be able to say that I've had one." She looked down the line of people to her right impressively, almost daring them to say something in response.
"…know what?" Nyx said, staring out the darkened windows. "Me too."
"What? Really?" the girl yelped in pleased surprise.
The woman nodded. "Yeah. I've been thinking about what you said before, and you have a good point. If nothing else it'll be interesting."
"Good for you!" Sakura said supportively. "If you ever need anything concerning it, you know I'm available!"
"Indeed I do," she muttered.
"…ah, what the hell." Maxu started. "I'll get in the spirit too. I want a girlfriend this year."
Sakura coughed loudly.
"Oh, bleeding hearts of the world unite." Jack groaned dramatically.
"I concur." Edgar muttered.
"Party-poopers." The American scolded them.
"Don't start." The second-in-command retorted. "I just don't feel like jumping on the romantic-crap-bandwagon right now."
"Hear, hear!" the butler cheered.
"Shut up over there!" Sakura called to the ghost before rounding on Jack. "It's not crap, it's sweet!"
"It's not sweet, it's sappy!" he shot back. "And I hate sap! Sticky, smells funny, gets everywhere…"
Maxu snorted. "Ignore him. He's just sore because he has absolutely no chance with –"
Jack stretched his arms up and 'accidentally' cuffed the American.
"No chance with who?" Nyx inquired.
"…he smacked me!" the 19-year-old spluttered indignantly. "Some nerve, he's got…"
"Ohh, do you want me to get mommy so she can kiss it and make the boo-boo go away?" the cloaked man said nastily.
Nyx sighed. The usual bickering. Haven't heard Jack take that tone in a while, though. He's been pretty soft-spoken the past couple months. …then again, he was away from all of them the whole time. …maybe it's the topic of conversation. He's never been very open to discussing lovey-dovey things like Sakura loves to. Maxu doesn't mind now and then, and I'll admit I like to indulge myself once in a while, but…Maybe it's got something to do with that he told me that one time. Said he never had a girlfriend before…poor guy.
Her mind was taken elsewhere when she noticed Maxu and Jack had both drawn their wands on each other. I wonder if his underlings act like this. …probably not. He wouldn't put up with it like I do. They're undoubtedly much older, too, and don't act so downright dumb sometimes. Well, it's a price I'm willing to pay for such young, naïve minions. After all, anything else just wouldn't work.
Nyx smiled to herself. I still think I'm cleverer than you. I'm not the one with the reputation, but I know I'm better at planning things out so they go my way in the end. Plus there isn't a better liar on this earth than me; you of all people know from experience. Heh…you didn't have a clue back then. They don't either, thankfully. And they won't if I have anything to say about it, not until I decide the time's right. …you're right, it does feel pretty good to be in control like this.
The woman saw the first firework go off in a brilliant, green flash.
…70 today, huh? Guess that makes it our 53rd Anniversary. Fun night, wasn't it? That'll forever be my best performance, and the first time someone made a fool out of you. …Probably the only time, too, but that's beside the point.
I heard you look like a bloody snake nowadays. That's funny. We're supposed to 'retain a youthful appearance well into old age.' I guess it goes for me pretty well, but as for you…Well, I'll have to see you for myself sometime. I'll be damned if you look anything like I remember you, and I don't think one would describe you as looking like a snake if you looked like that.
…still, you'd be a pretty good-looking snake if they did.
--- to be continued in Chapter 13 : Hermione Breaks A Rule ---
Disclaimer: Own not, profit not, sue not. (With exception of Nyx, Jack, Sakura, Maxu, Schlange, Edgar, Louis, and SMS.)
A/N: ...please know how very sorry I am that this took so long to finish, but there was little I could do about it. I got really sick last week, and I'm still recovering now a week and a half later. I was pretty much confined to the couch because I had zero energy, and I was sleeping about 14 hours a day, so I was in no condition to type. Then I had to make up my missed schoolwork, and I'm still not completely done, but I'm glad I managed to finish this as soon as I was able to. Plus I found this a very difficult chapter to write because of all the Zodiac stuff. It took me a long time to research it all and work out bugs, and it got really tiring when I had to recopy it into the actual chapter. I actually got bored when I was writing it because I was so sick of reading the same stuff over and over and over. (That's probably why I made everybody except Sakurahate it so much...) It was especially bad when I tried to write with a headache; I got about 2.5 sentences done, and Ithought "fuck this, I need a nap."
General Notes: The stuff with Hermione catching on to Nyx's "little problem" will show up again in the next chapter. I didn't save it for then because I didn't want to do a flashback, and I needed something else to put in here besides Zodiac and whatnot because it gets tiring, as I said, not only to write but to read. And for all the Lupin Fans, never fear, you will see him again in the future. (Not neccesarily the near future, but eventually.)
Also, you've already met 'Sinister Black Shape (Wo)Man' but you won't be hearing from them for a while yet. They'll show up an awful lot before this is over, and cause some trouble along the way. Like try to kill Nyx. And fail. Because they suck. And she's special. And I shouldn't talk like this. It's annoying. REALLY annoying. Moving on before they stone me.
There is a SHITLOAD of foreshadowing in this chapter because of all the subtle little things I threw in to see if you're paying attention. I don't even remember how many I put in there, but they're definitely there. (Lots of which refers to the sign info.) I'll try to remember to throw in a note when I follow through on any of the mentioned things later on. (Incidentally, I don't know if even hiya! will be able to find them all. ...yeah, they're that well-hidden. ...oh really? Well, why don't you just go find all 46 of 'em and report back ASAP? ...damn right I'm confident. ...you better be able to front that cash, buddy. ...oh yeah? That's what I thought. ...That's right, walk away, say you don't have to deal with me. ...pansy.)
All the Zodiac stuff is accurate. Or at least I made it accurate. What I mean by that is I left some things out that didn't apply to a charachter because it's stupid to say they're one thing but they're really not, unless you're trying to throw people off but I wasn't in the mood to do that just yet. (Yeah, I saved it for Nyx's final thoughts. -cough-) Example: Capricorns are patient. Nyx is not patient. The end.
I got all the Zodiac stuiff from two websites, and they're very good. One has some very detailed info on the specific signs, and the other tells you your Sun-Moon-Ascending and whatnot. I find this stuff fascinating, like Sakura, but I'm not asgung-ho as she is. If you're curious about your signs and such, I'll gladly give you the links. (The results are surprising, but interesting, so I recommend taking a look, even if you think it's a bunch of crap.)
For anyone who cannot figure out who Nyx is talking 'to' in the last few paragraphs...for the love of god, don't ask me. I'll just start crying. (Oh, and guess all you want about their relationship/past. I'm not saying a word, even if you hit it on the nose, which is as likely to happen as Voldemort going to a gay bar.) (I'm sorry if I offended anyone with that, but if I did, suck it up cuz I thought it was damn funny.) (...seriously, just try to picture that.)
Final Words: Nothing exciting happened in this chapter, I know. (Probably another reason I got bored writing it...) Things will liven up next chapter, but I can't tell you what rule Hermione breaks yet. I'll give you a hint: it's something a Prefect should never, ever do, and she'll be lucky if she doesn't get expelled for it. ...and that's all. -snicker- Unless I relapse or the Homework Demons come for me, chapter 13 will go off without a hitch and be up within a reasonable amount of time. Woo and yay.
And as collateral for getting sick and delaying this chapter's release...Kavi sings a song! ...About getting sick.
(To the tune of "I Feel Pretty.")
I feel shitty...
Oh, so shitty...
I feel shitty, and sleepy, and DEAAAAD!
And I'm bitchy,
Because I can't think with my heaaaad!
...thank you, thank you. -bows deeply-
Thanks for reading and have a nice day!
--- kavi-sama ---
