The Great Hall was packed with students who looked extra buoyant that morning. An extra pair of tables had been placed in the Hall. Seraphina was sitting at the Prefect's table with Jason Botts, treating herself with sausages and eggs. She noticed that all the teachers had made an effort to look their best. Lockhart was wearing bright red robes, exaggerating his sanguine. But one teacher was dressed the same way he always did. It was Batman, who didn't match the cheerfulness of the Great Hall. Cradled in his black robes, he somehow still looked distinguished.
"It has been a great year so far for Hogwarts and it's students, and I hope the coming time brings more of the same for all of us. This year, the Ministry of Magic has chosen Hogwarts as the host of the Triwizard Tournament." The hall broke into thunderous applause at the announcement . All were excited for this tournament . " Now please welcome the students of Durmstrang Institute, " he continued .
The wooden gate of the Great Hall thudded open, and 12 handsome young boys marched aggressively towards the Head table . Performing an aggressive combat, they finished and stood in formation, passively radiating their masculinity . A tall , muscular teacher followed them in the same aggressive manner . Headmaster Dumbledore greeted the tall teacher, and they seated themselves at their assigned places .
" Now, please welcome the young ladies from Beauxbatons Academy of Magic, " Dumbledore continued .
A dozen beautiful girls entered the hall, clad in blue silk . They fluidly danced their way to the head table . A tall... extravagantly tall... woman followed the girls . She was even taller than the half-giant Hagrid himself. Seraphina observed the half-giant blushing as the lady made her way through to the Head table .
" For the safety of students, only sixth-years will be allowed to take part in the competition ."
The crowd groaned in disapproval .
" The Goblet of Fire will be placed in the Trophy room, and the students eligible for the competition can put their name in the fire. One week from now , we will be meeting with the names of the contenders . All the best to you ! " The Headmaster announced .
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Lucifer was excited the most for the tournament . He was excited about exposing his athletic abilities . Being the captain of the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, he was carrying a huge burden of expectations on his shoulder . He and Elenore wanted Seraphina to place her name in the goblet too , but she was in no mood to waste her time in any silly tournament . Professor Filtwick and professor McGonagall also tried persuading her into putting her name in the Goblet, but failed miserably .
The day came when the name of the contenders of the tournament would be announced . The Goblet threw out three small parchments one at a time at Headmaster Dumbledore .
" Adalene Bernard from Beauxbatons Academy of Magic, " announced Headmaster Dumbledore . Thunderous applause filled the hall .
" Lucas Karlsson from Durmstrang Institute. "
The last parchment carried the name of the student of Hogwarts who would be stepping into the competition . The tension grew thick in the hall . Many had placed their name in the Goblet .
" Lucifer Jones from Ravenclaw House of Hogwarts, " announced the old Headmaster . The Ravenclaw table broke into thunderous applause and amused cheers. Seraphina jumped up at her place and cheered for her friend .
" Oh my God, I knew the Goblet would choose you, Lucifer, " exclaimed Seraphina as she pressed Lucifer into a tight embrace . The Ravenclaws had gone crazy after the announcement . It has been a long time since someone from Ravenclaw has been chosen for the Triwizard Tournament .
ልረልክ
The first task was a quest for a dragon's golden egg from the pit. Lucifer was to face a Chinese Fireball. He wasn't afraid to face a dragon, but he was nervous for sure . Elenore hugged him tightly and whispered 'I love you' in his ear .
" Listen, Lucifer, you are very strong, and what you have to do is obtain the egg. You will do it very easily , I know that . Now give me a hug, and go win this Tournament for your mom, " said Seraphina with a warm smile as she hugged him .
The girl from Beauxbatons barely escaped the dragon, but she was able to get her hands on her egg . Lucifer nailed his task . He quickly grabbed the egg and flung himself onto his broom , flying away from the fiery beast .
The last one to face the dragon was the boy, Lucas Karlsson . He was quick and impulsive, displaying very impressive athletic skills . Grabbing his golden egg, he was flying away from the Antipodean Opaleye on his Thunderbolt broom when suddenly, the back of his broom started burning . The dragon had exhaled a huge ball of fire on the flying boy . The humongous creature flinched violently, breaking the chains captivating him . The dragon thrashed his tail at the boy, devastating his broom and knocking him off .
The audience gasped in horror at the sight . No one dared to move even an inch . Everyone's mouth dropped as they spectated the boy falling to his death .
"Arresto Momentum," a voice cried out, breaking the thick silence of horror . It was the voice of Seraphina , her wand pointing at the falling boy . The immobile body decelerated.
The Dragon shot a furious glance at the decelerating body of the boy. It was about to fling itself on him when a another sound grabbed its attention. Seraphina's body was falling into the pit as she yelled "Molliare, " pointing her wand at the rocks beneath her . Landing and then subsequently rolling over the rocks , Seraphina stood, composing herself . The Opaleye inhaled deeply before slinging a sea of fire on the little girl . The audience gasped yet again .
It was brave yet a suicidal attempt , everyone thought .
" Protego ! " yelled Seraphina . The fire flung towards her before splitting away as it touched what looked like an invisible ball, inside which stood Seraphina . She was trying hard to face the dragon all by herself, and the strain was exhibited on her face . At first, everyone thought they would find the girl in the form of ashes, but the sight that met them left them with their jaws dropped on the floor . The fire was extinguished, and Seraphina stood there on her knees, looking completely exhausted . Getting back on her feet she raised her hand in the air .
" Hisssssshaaaaaa " her lips moved but nobody heard any words pouring out of her lips . The Opaleye shot a glance at her, but it wasn't aggressive anymore . Seraphina took a step towards it and moved her lips further . The dragon lowered it's head bringing it towards Seraphina. She reached out her hand and the dragon placed his large claws upon the her tiny palm . Suddenly, it flinched again violently and spread its scaly wings wide across the sky then drew them around the small figure of Seraphina, cocooning her protectively .
No one moved , no one made a sound . Not even Headmaster Dumbledore or the Ministry officials who came to spectate the event took command of any action . The crowd saw the crazy girl jumping into the dragon's pit and saying something to the scaly beast . Severus's heart almost burst out of his chest as he saw Seraphina jumping in front of the beast. He almost jumped in the pit, but Hagrid caught hold of him, preventing him from doing so . The Half-giant thought that the young Potions Master had almost lost his balance and was about to fall .
A bright light ignited from the cocoon as the dragon unwrapped his wings from around Seraphina , her body lying on the floor of the pit . A large cut on her right cheek appeared from which blood was flowing mercilessly . Quickly, she stood up and stroked the scaly body of the gigantic beast . The Antipodean Opaleye looked calm as it backed off , silently sitting on the floor if the pit . The young witch ran towards the immobile body of the boy, kneeling next to him . Seraphina helped the half-unconscious boy onto his feet , helping him make his way to the exit of the pit .
All the professors and Ministry members ran towards the changing room . Severus was ahead of them all with Lockhart on his heels .
" I need help; he needs Madam Poppy very badly, " yelled Seraphina as she helped the boy make his way towards the chair . Rita Skeeter , the infamous journalist of the Wizarding world, was already there with her photographer . The flash of the enchanted camera pricked Serphina's eyes .
" Expelliarmus! " yelled Seraphina as she knocked the camera out of the hands of the photographer with her wand .
Unfortunately, it fell on the table kept nearby, preventing it from breaking .
" Are you alright ? " asked Seraphina, facing the boy and cupping his face in her hands .
The teachers and the Ministry officials broke into the room . Seraphina looked up at them with exhaustion filling her face.
" Thank God, Madam Poppy, you are here ,please check him. I think no bones have broken, but there could be many sprains, " explained Seraphina hurriedly . " And please escort them to the exit, " she said looking at Rita Skeeter and her photographer . Hagrid threw them out at once .
Poppy and some teachers carried the boy to the hospital while Seraphina sunk to the ground , the exhaustion overtaking her body .
" You could have been killed, " said Severus vehemently .
" But I wasn't, and I couldn't have let the boy die in front of my eyes when I could have saved him, " said Seraphina, looking up at him . She sunk her face down into her hands . Her clothes were covered with mud , soot and red spots of blood .
" Why are you so obsessed with getting yourself into life endangering situations? " Severus's jaw clenched hard .
" At least this obsession isn't bad, and actually, what is life endangering for you is not for me, Professor, " commented Seraphina, her face still buried in her hand.
" Are you all right Seraphina?" Interrupted Lockhart. "Oh my God, what were you thinking when you jumped into that pit? ".
For the first time, his intrusion was for a good cause. He kneeled on the floor next to her small figure .
" Does she look all right to you Lockhart? " snapped Severus .
A drop of blood fell from her hand which was supporting her face .
" Seraphina, " called Lockhart as he took her hand from her face . It was smeared with blood flowing from the cut across her cheek . It was a deep cut .
" Oh, Merlin, how did you get that? " cried Minerva in horror .
" Oh this? The dragon snorted hard when he cocooned me, and I stumbled from his strong breath and it happened, " replied Seraphina casually as if she was telling how she got a book from library .
" You need to go to Poppy this instant, " said Severus taking a step towards her.
" I agree with Professor Snape , come let me help you, " added Lockhart .
" It's just a small cut. I'll manage; I just need some rest, " said Seraphina with exhaustion .
" No more excuses, Miss Barclay, " said Severus, giving her a hand .
" My hands are smeared in blood , I don't want to ruin yours, " commented Seraphina, showing her blood smeared hands .
Severus quickly grabbed her hand and pulled her up form the ground . Seraphina got up in a defeated manner . Dragging her with him , he made his way through the tent . Lockhart followed them . Seraphina limped her way with her professor dragging her . Diving from the height into the pit had unknowingly sprained her ankle and wrist .
Severus noticed her limping, so he stopped and took her up in his arms in the bridal style . Seraphina's raven eyes widened at her professor's act, but she didn't protest. She was too exhausted for protesting . The way Batman's arms felt so comforting and protective... she liked it . Wrapping her hands around his neck to support her back , she laid her head on his broad shoulder .
" I hope you don't mind this Professor , my head is stinging badly, " said Seraphina weakly . Her eyelids felt heavy so she let them shut, falling into unconsciousness .
" Don't worry, " whispered Severus .
Lockhart's face and jaws fell open at the sight before him . Seraphina comfortably leaned her head on the git's shoulder, and she didn't even protest once . Why was the girl so reluctant with him only?
Albus and Minerva passed each other a horseplay smile . They were surely enjoying seeing Seraphina in the young Professor's arms . The muscular arms of Severus Snape held Seraphina scrupulously . The students in the way almost fainted seeing their grumpy teacher holding a student so cautiously .
" Poppy, I need you to see Miss Barclay this very moment, " demanded Severus as he entered the hospital wing . A crowd was already gathered around the bed in which Lucas Karlsson was lying . All turned to see the girl in his arms . He laid down Seraphina on a bed and started wiping the blood off her face .
" This is not your dungeon where you can make demands ,Severus , now get away from her and let me see how deep the cut is, " snapped Poppy .
" I don't always demand Poppy " commented Severus .
Poppy poured some Wiggenweld Potion on her cut . The gash reconciled fast, leaving behind just a fine line . Poppy promised that the scar would fade away in a day or two . Seraphina was lying on the hospital bed with Severus , Lockhart , Minerva and Albus at her bedside . Everyone retired to their chambers except for Severus who sat on her bed.
Lucifer and Elenore paid their visit to her, but Poppy only granted them 5 minutes . It wasn't long before Seraphina woke . Seeing Batman on her bedside, she almost cried out.
" How are you now, Miss Barclay? " asked Severus calmly . His anger faded away long ago as he saw her lying on the hospital bed looking pathetic.
" Oh, Professor Snape , I am fine . Well, how is that boy? Is he all right?" asked Seraphina , sitting up on the bed .
" He is perfectly fine, but if you hadn't jumped in, surely he would have come to me as ashes ." commented Poppy as she passed her some pumpkin juice to drink .
" Ah, yes, I hope you don't mind answering my questions now, Miss Barclay . Why did you throw yourself in the pit?" asked Severus .
Seraphina casually leaned her head on the wall behind her , snorted lightly out of irritation , ignoring her Professor who fixed him with a look of pretended seriousness.
" Ah, come on, Severus, don't bother her now; and there are not many wizards who have survived a dragon and walked away with just a scar ." interrupted Poppy.
" Oh, my cut. Did it leave any scar behind? " asked Seraphina rubbing a hand on her cheek .
" No, just a thin line , don't worry it will wear off in a day or two," assured Poppy .
Disappointment overshadowed Seraphina's delicate face .
" Why do you look so displeased, Miss Barclay? " asked Severus .
" The cool scar will wear off. "
" So, you want a scar to ruin that pretty face of yours? " remarked Poppy with a look of disapproval .
" I have read in many civilizations and mythologies, scars are the symbol of bravery, and they are celebrated as a symbol of beauty . Too bad I won't have mine to be proud of, " said Seraphina, looking disappointed .
" You know, you Ravenclaws... especially you, Seraphina, are just too hard for me to understand," commented Poppy .
She turned towards Severus and took out a parchment from her apron's pocket, giving it to him . " Headmaster Dumbledore sent this for you, " she said as she left them .
Dear Severus ,
Bring Seraphina to my office at 5 . We need to have an important discussion.
Albus
Severus looked at the clock that hung on the wall of the hospital . It was already 4:45 . He asked Poppy to check Seraphina again, but the nurse assured him that she was fine . Escorting her to the Headmaster's office , he entered the room which was already crowded . Albus , Minerva , Filius , and Hagrid were already in the office. Two new faces were also there, sitting on the armchair kept near the fireplace . Lucas Karlsson was sitting there with the teacher from Durmstrang . Lucas jumped up at once when he saw Seraphina and pressed her in a tight embrace against his chest . He was a tall lad; she only reached his ears . Seraphina's eyes widened at his embrace, but she didn't flinch. She knew how miserable he must have been feeling .
" Thanks for saving my life, Seraphina, " he whispered in her ear .
Seraphina awkwardly patted his back . He pulled away and faced her .
" I just don't know what to say , I...I just wanted to thank you . The dragon might have killed me if you haven't had come for my rescue ." cried Lucas .
" It's fine, Lucas , but I should be the one asking how are you. Are you all right? " asked Seraphina, looking concerned.
" I am fine. You just saved me at the right time ." said Lucas .
Lucas stepped aside . The tall , muscularly built teacher stepped in front of her . He kneeled down on the floor to match Seraphina's height . Facing her , Igor Karkaroff took her delicate hands in his huge one .
" I don't know how can I ever repay you for saving the life of my best student, " said Igor .
" Sir, please don't flatter me now. I just did what I felt was right . And a life matters more than any trophy or prize to me, " said Seraphina, giving him a warm smile .
He raised the hand he was holding to his lips and caressed the back of it. Seraphina blushed lightly.
The door of the office thudded open as three Ministry officials entered the room with grave looks on their faces.
Headmaster Dumbledore greeted the middle-aged man and shared a whisper or two . Seraphina didn't know what she should be feeling, so she stood there rooted in place .
" So, you are Seraphina Barclay, " said the middle-aged man scanning her . " Your mother was an amazing woman , you know that ?" he continued .
" Yes, I do " replied Seraphina .
" Well, then I hope you know the Triwizard Tournament is fought between three students of the three schools ." he said gravely .
" I know that very well sir, " replied Seraphina .
" But then also, you jumped into the pit when Lucas Karlsson was attempting to claim his golden egg, " he continued .
" Yes, I did, " replied Seraphina sheepishly .
" That might cause Mr. Karlsson to be disqualified from the game for getting external help, " he announced .
" What? Don't do that to him!" begged Seraphina. "I was the one who jumped into the pit to save him. He never asked for help-- actually we both are talking for the first time right now. " explained Seraphina .
"If you want to just give me any punishment , but please don't disqualify him because of me," she continued .
" But why did you jump into the pit in the first place?" questioned the middle-aged man .
" What do you expect me to say, sir? I am really sorry if it's against the rules, but I couldn't have let Lucas die in front of my eyes acknowledging the fact that I could have saved him, " said Seraphina quietly .
" You know, you are just like your mother when it comes to saving the lives of others, " remarked the man with a sly smile on his wrinkled face . He wasn't that old to have wrinkles but the stress of working for the ministry as the Minister of Magic did had it's own side effects .
A cunning reply came from Seraphina . " It's what you call genes, sir. "
" I think a life matters more than any rule, Jacob, " added Headmaster Dumbledore .
" You know I cannot ignore the fact that you saved a life by endangering your own, so I want you to be an honorary contender of the Triwizard Tournament," announced Mr. Jacob .
" I am sorry but, what? " asked Seraphina incredulously .
" You heard that right Miss Barclay Jr. As you know, being the contender of this tournament is an honor in itself, so I want you to be awarded with it, " said Mr. Jacob .
" But sir..." Seraphina was about to protest when the Headmaster cut her off.
" That would be great, Jacob . Seraphina will be pleased to be an honorary contender, but will she be required to compete, too? " asked the Headmaster.
" No, that won't be necessary, " came the reply.
Severus had seen the girl defending a boy she barely knew. The more he wanted to understand her, the more entangled he was becoming with her . She fought a dragon , saved his life, and now she was ready to take a punishment for a boy who just arrived here yesterday .
The ministry officials left, and Lucas and Professor Igor took their leave . Seraphina turned towards her Headmaster .
" Sir, this..."
" Seraphina, my child, it's not everyday that a student saves a life and survives a dragon at the same time . It's just the award for your bravery . Accept it, " said Headmaster Dumbledore quietly .
Seraphina left the office with Batman, who insisted on dropping her off at the dorm .
ልረልክ
The Great Hall was packed with students. The zeal of the event that had happened a few hours previously was still alive . As Seraphina made her way to the Ravenclaw table, she saw George running towards her.
" Oh my God! Thanks God you are fine. What were you thinking when you jumped in front of that dragon? " cried George as he pressed her in a tight embrace .
" Oh, God, please don't ask me that George, "sighed Seraphina .
" Seraphina, " a voice called from behind her back . She turned to face Lucas standing there .
" Ah, Lucas, how are you? " asked Seraphina .
" I am fine. Well, I wanted to invite you to our table for dinner . All the boys are going crazy to meet the girl who survived the dragon . Please don't deny my request, " pleaded Lucas .
" Oh, for sure , but I hope you don't mind if my friends tag along? " asked Seraphina .
" It would be a pleasure, " said Lucas, bowing and giving her a hand to take .
Seraphina took his hand , scarlet dusting her cheeks .
" Please accept my apologies for that scar, " Lucas said as they made their way to the table packed with tall , handsome boys .
" Oh, it would have been an honor if it would have been permanent, but Madam Poppy said it would fade away in a day or two, " said Seraphina .
Headmaster Dumbledore made the announcement regarding Seraphina's honorary contender ship in the Triwizard Tournament . Professor Flitwick almost jumped at his place . Two students from Hogwarts were in the tournament now, and both were Ravenclaws, and the girl who survived the dragon was also a Ravenclaw .
Seraphina , George and the lovebird had a heartfelt dinner with the Durmstrang boys . The boys were cautious not to disagree with the girl who survived the dragon .
Retiring to her dormitory , Seraphina said her goodbyes to the boys . As she walked the barren corridor, she heard her name being called . At first she thought it was Lucas again, but it was the last person on this Earth she wanted to see at that moment. It was Gilderoy Lockhart .
" Oh, good evening Professor Lockhart, " greeted Seraphina .
" Oh, my God , girl, what were you thinking when you jumped into that pit ?" Lockhart asked once again.
" It's the 50th time someone is asking me that, Professor, " said Seraphina tiredly .
" I know you are very much inspired by my novels, but that doesn't mean you should jump into a pit with a dragon in it," said Lockhart .
" Sir..." groaned Seraphina softly. She was cautious not to offend her professor .
" Never mind , Just tell me, are you all right ?" he asked, stopping near her .
" I am fine, Professor, " replied Seraphina .
He placed his fingers beneath her chin , forcing her to lookup into his blue eyes which somehow looked darker.
" Here, let me get a look at your gash. "
" I am fine, Professor, " repeated Seraphina , quickly stepping back.
"Merlin, you are all right . You know my heart almost jumped out of my chest when I saw you in the pit standing alone in front of that beast, " he said as he pressed her into a tight embrace .
Only God knew how many hugs she'd gotten from the time she'd awakened in the hospital. Many teachers hugged her, too, but Lockhart's embrace felt iniquitous . He didn't wrap his arms around her back to pull her into a hug, but instead he held her by the waist .
Seraphina quickly pulled away from his hug .
" I am feeling drowsy, sir. I think I should get some sleep, " she said .
" Good night, Seraphina, " said Lockhart .
Sleep was far from coming that night after Lockhart hugged her . Why was it that his touch felt so discombobulating to her?
He was just showing his concern as a teacher , she thought, shoving off the thoughts .
The Prefects' dorm was packed with Ravenclaw students who had come to celebrate her honorary contender ship .
" Oh, my God ! I can't believe this, " yelled a few boys .
" Girl, you are a badass " commented another .
" She is the Princess of Ravenclaw, after all, " remarked one .
" Nah baby , princesses don't make dragons obey them and save lives . She is Ravenclaw's warrior," said Lucifer, pressing her into a tight hug.
" Yeahhhhhh..." everyone yelled together. in a league.
" Silence! " called Professor Flitwick, who had entered the Common room .
" I am so proud of you, Seraphina . You have surely made our house exceedingly proud today, " said Professor Flitwick . Seraphina knelt on the ground to be level with him . " Two students for Hogwarts in the Triwizard Tournament, and both are Ravenclaw, " squeaked her professor .
" Oh, Professor..." cried Seraphina, flattered .
ልረልክ
The next morning, the Great Hall was packed with students yet again . But something was contrasting that morning everyone had their nose buried in the Daily Prophet . Seraphina casually made her way to the Ravenclaw table to have breakfast with her friends .
" What's up Khaleesi, " yelled one student from the Slytherin table .
" What's up with what ? " asked Seraphina baffled by what he'd called her .
She noticed everyone was stealing glances at her . Slipping into the chair next to Lucifer , she stuffed her mouth with bacon .
" Khaleesi , love you, " another student yelled from Gryffindor table pointing towards her .
" Hey why is everyone calling me that? " asked a baffled Seraphina .
Lucifer silently passed her a copy of the Daily Prophet he was reading . Seraphina glanced at what was printed on it .
" The Witch Who Conquered the Dragon : Seraphina Barclay "
The heading flashed in big letters on the front page of the Daily Prophet . A moving photograph of her stroking the dragon was also printed . Seraphina's eyes widened at the headline , her jaw dropped .
" Merlin, what the hell is this? " Seraphina almost yelled .
" That's not the real shit , the real shit is printed beneath it, " said Lucifer as he took the folded newspaper from her hand and handed it to her again, unfolding it for her.
Seraphina almost fell from the bench at the sight of the next headline .
" The Conqueror of the Dark Lord Helps the Girl who Conquered the Dragon "
A photograph of her in Batman's arms was printed .
" Holy jinxes ! Don't tell me this photograph is the reason everyone staring at me! " yelled Seraphina .
Lucifer ignore her screech .
" There is a muggle TV show named Game of Thrones. It has a cool character whom the dragons obey . Someone called you that, and now the whole school is going crazy, " stated Lucifer.
" Shit, " whispered Seraphina .
" Come on, Khaleesi is not that bad of a name, " assured Lucifer.
" Agh that nickname is not the matter . What was the need of publishing this photograph? " groaned Seraphina , showing him the photograph of her and Batman .
" Well you look fine in Batman's arms, " teased Lucifer .
" You know, I shouldn't have let him hold me like that at the first place, " groaned Seraphina .
" Relax Seph. Calm down. It's just a photo, and after all, I know how awful you looked after facing that beast . You wouldn't have made it to the hospital yourself, " assured Lucifer as he kept a hand on her shoulder .
" Hey look Batman isn't here. Let me leave because I don't have the courage to face him now, " said Seraphina getting up from the bench .
" You are going nowhere . Just sit down , stuff your mouth, and enjoy the popularity . And don't you talk about your courage , girl; you jumped into the dragon's pit without thinking twice and now you are scared?" said Lucifer, grabbing her hand and forcing her down again .
Severus entered the Great Hall from the main entrance . He felt all eyes on him . As he made his way to the table, he heard someone squeaking . Seraphina looked worried as she blabbered something to Lucifer Jones sitting next to her . As he seated himself at the Head table, Hagrid gave him an amused look . All the teachers looked amused for some reason except for Lockhart. , He had an unpleased look on his face as he picked at his food .
" Something special ? " asked Severus with an arched eyebrow .
" Nothing, just the Daily Prophet published a readable article for once, " cunningly commented Albus .
Severus snatched the copy of the Daily Prophet Filius was trying to hide from him . He read the headline and a smirk escaped his thin lips . Just the day before, people were saying Seraphina survived the dragon and now the newspaper says she conquered it . Well it was right after all , she did save a life and faced the dragon without getting killed .
" Miss Barclay is all over the news I see, " he commented .
" That's not why everyone is staring at you Severus, " commented Minerva .
Severus raised his head to look at the hall, and she was correct. All the students were looking either at him or at Seraphina.
" Just unfold the paper and you will get your answer, " she added .
Severus did so . The paper almost fell out of his grip as he saw the photo printed . He was holding Seraphina in his arms and her small head rested on his broad shoulder .
" Who took this? " he gasped at once .
" You know Skeeter , she always gets her hand on the most lucid event, " commented Minerva .
Neither Seraphina nor Severus knew what was to be done . Although everyone knew she had been injured and was carried by her professor, Seraphina felt uneasy .
ልረልክ
The potions class that day was the most awkward class she had ever attended in her whole life . Although Batman didn't say a single word about the incident , Seraphina still felt awkward.
" Have you seen the photo of Khaleesi and the Greasy Bat in the Daily Prophet? " whispered one student .
" Yes , but that was a hot photo , though, " commented his partner .
Severus heard their whispers . He had instructed the class to brew a Felix Felicis during that hour .
" Anything interesting Mr. Dashwood and Ms. Thomas ?" asked Severus as he marched towards the back of the class where they were working on their potion .
" No... nothing ...s... sir " they stuttered .
" I heard you were very much interested in the photographs of the Daily Prophet, " said Severus calmly .
The African Red Pepper fell from Seraphina's grip as the name of the Daily Prophet slipped from Batman's lips .
" No... nothing sir. We were just talking about Barclay's photograph, " said the boy.
" You seem more interested in Miss Barclay's heroic act which could have cost her life than on making your potion, " said Severus as he turned towards Seraphina's table .
" But that was cool , though, " the student commented bravely .
" No more gossips in this class , back to your potions," snapped Batman. " Although I am very sure none of you inhibits the concentration and determination to brew a potion perfectly , but get going with your work, " he remarked cunningly .
The class ended with only two students brewing a presentable and roughly accurate Felix Felicis . One of them was Emily Bailey from Gryffindor house . Severus scanned every cauldron and made remarks . Finally, only Seraphina's cauldron was left . He was ignoring her during the whole class, but now he could not . As he scanned her cauldron , he was impressed to see another nearly accurate potion .
" Another presentable potion at last, " he remarked. " Five points for Ravenclaw for the accurate brewing of Felix Felicis "
" Thanks, Professor, " replied Seraphina looking down at the table , avoiding any eye contact with his cold black eyes .
ልረልክ
The next task was to retrieve something valuable from the bottom of the Black Lake . The task wasn't as eventful as the previous one but still everyone was enjoying it thoroughly. Seraphina was invited to spectate that event with the teachers and the Ministry officials , which meant she couldn't hoot or cheer for Lucifer and Lucas which upset her, but one person made things unbearable for her . It was Gilderoy Lockhart who had forced himself onto the bench next to her . The whole time he was busy narrating his Lockhart Chronicles which she thought would be better left unheard .
Severus was cautious to sit in her proximity . He didn't want her to jump in the Black Lake because someone's life was in danger only to endanger her own in the process . Seeing her sit next to Lockhart irritated him as much as it irritated Seraphina herself .
Seraphina noticed Elenore was missing from the crowd . She stood up from her place as Batman's voice interrupted her thoughts.
" Miss Barclay, I see no one in danger this time," advised Professor Snape .
" Sir, my friend Elenore is missing. I doubt she wants to miss Lucifer's task . I must go look for her, " she replied.
" Seraphina, do you know what it is that Mr. Jones is supposed to retrieve from the bottom of the Black Lake?" the Headmaster's voice broke in.
" Lucifer told me that the egg he retrieved from the dragon said that he would have to search for something valuable from the Black Lake, " replied Seraphina.
" Yes, something valuable to them, " agreed the Headmaster with a sly smile on his thin lips .
" Ooooo... " agreed Seraphina, realizing what her old Headmaster meant by 'valuable to them .' She sank onto the bench again .
" Elenore is lucky, " she whispered .
" How's that Seraphina? " asked Lockhart, looking her at .
" Headmaster Dumbledore said their search was for something valuable to them . Lucifer likes Elenore, and that means Elenore holds value in Lucifer's life," stated Seraphina as if stating the obvious.
" Oh, I see, " remarked Lockhart .
After some time, the contestants started popping to the surface . Seraphina ran to the platform as she saw the girl from Beauxbatons swim to the surface first. Within a few minutes Lucifer and Lucas swam to the surface at the same time causing a tie for the second position. Lucifer held the struggling Elenore as he helped her swim to the platform . Lucas helped a small boy to the surface who happened to be his step-brother . Adalene helped the girl from Beauxbatons out ; she was her friend.
Seraphina wrapped towels around her friends as she hugged them tightly . Her own clothes got soaked because of them, but it didn't bothered her a bit .
" Oh, my lovebird , are you okay ?" asked Seraphina.
After embracing her friends for a long time, Seraphina pulled away and went to look for Lucas who already had a huge crowd of Durmstrang boys crowded around him . Seeing Seraphina approaching them the crowd parted to make space for her .
" Are you all right ?" asked Seraphina .
" I am fine, " replied Lucas , shivering badly .
Seraphina gave him a hug .
ልረልክ
Before the last task, a ball was to be organized . The Yule Ball . Students were going crazy with Yule Ball hype .
While everyone was busy hyping the ball, Seraphina had the opposite reaction . She was the least interested in going to a ball , wearing a dress, or dancing with someone . The last time she went to a dance organized at her Muggle school , she was alone without any partner . But this time a partner was compulsory, and she feared that arriving to the ball alone for the second time would be so embarrassing . She expected no one to ask her but something very unexpected happened .
The very morning she stepped into the Great Hall for breakfast and the Headmaster made the announcement regarding the ball , she received uncountable proposals . Every boy was going crazy to go to the ball with the girl who conquered the dragon and was the honorary contender of the tournament. It was a clear choice for Seraphina with whom she would go to the Ball . Lucas Karlsson asked her the very moment Headmaster Dumbledore announced the Yule Ball, and she agreed .
She needed to get a dress. The trip to Hogsmeade was futile. Seraphina wasn't convinced by a single gown the lady at the shop displayed to her . Either the gowns were too revealing or too boring . She returned to Hogwarts empty handed.
Seraphina wanted something elegant yet presentable for the ball, but the quest for the perfect dress didn't last long . One morning, a large parcel dropped in front of her in the Great Hall . It was from Daniel . He also had written her a letter.
My dearest Seraphina ,
Having fun at your magical school ? I knew you wouldn't have selected a dress without me, so just wear the one I am sending and rock the Ball . Rachel helped me pick this one . Your Brandon is going nuts without you , so just come back soon for Christmas, and I want you to meet Rachel's parents.
Ask that Lucas to be a gentleman with my little Ravenclaw . And how's that lovebird of yours?
I miss you badly .
With lots of love ,
Your loving
Daniel
A warm , genuine smile crept on her face as she read the letter . The parcel was from Daniel , the most caring man she had ever met . He knew her taste perfectly so she was left with nothing to worry about . She had a partner and a mesmerizing dress; that was all she needed .
But Seraphina's leisure was short lived . Professor McGonagall called for the three contenders and Seraphina for a small meeting .
" I hope you all know a partner is compulsory for the contenders of the foundation . So, I hope you all have a partner for the dance, " said Professor McGonagall .
The four of them nodded sheepishly.
" Who will be your partner Miss Bernard? " asked Professor McGonagall .
" James Richardson, " replied Adalene .
" And I think it would offend Miss Wilson if I ask who would be your partner Mr. Jones, " commented Professor McGonagall . A sly smirk crept upon her lips .
Seraphina giggled at her professor's comment .
" And you Mr. Karlsson? " She turned towards Lucas .
" Seraphina accepted my proposal, " he replied.
" I am sorry to inform you two that a contender is not allowed to take another one to the ball, " said McGonagall.
" What? " shrieked Seraphina .
" You two have to look for other partners Mister Karlsson and Miss Barclay , " added McGonagall.
Seraphina didn't knew what was to be done. She felt helpless . All the boys who had asked her before had asked other girls and everybody in the school had a partner except for Seraphina . History seemed to repeat itself again for her . Only one day was left before the ball, and she was without a dance partner again . It seemed to her she would be alone yet again for the dance . Lucas got a partner for himself without much hard work.
Lucifer and Elenore tried helping her, but even the lovebird wasn't able to get her a partner .
Severus made his way to the Great Hall where the Yule Ball was being held . He dressed himself differently for that night. He sensed something unusual was about to happen tonight . He wore a long black coat , ditching his cape for the evening. As he reached the corridor of the Great Hall , he saw a crowd of young girls and boys dressed up beautifully for the night. He scanned the corridor for the young Ravenclaw, but she wasn't there . He walked further to enter the Hall when a hand grabbed his arm. It was Minerva .
" Oh, Severus , I need you to do me a favor ," said the old witch in an upset tone.
" Yes Minerva? " he said .
" Please can you come aside? " she asked dragging him with her.
" What is it Minerva? Just spit it out, " he demanded impatiently.
Minerva dragged him to the uninhabited end of a long corridor which was dimly lit with a few candles . His eyes fell on a girl standing there alone , her back facing him . She was in front of a large window, looking outside. Her body was shaking with nervousness . A beautiful blue gown flowed to the ground .
" Seraphina , I got your partner for tonight, " said Minerva.
The girl turned to face them . It was Seraphina . Her body was clad in an alluring off-shoulder light blue gown . She looked magnificent . Her raven hair was tied in a neat bun with a flower tiara crowned on her head. Flawless... she looked flawless . Whatever Minerva said entered his ears, but his brain didn't seem to acknowledge it . His eyes were locked on the angelic girl standing in front of him . He was so occupied with her beauty that he ignored the baffled look on her face .
" Professor McGonagall , he is Professor Snape, " she said.
" I know that very well, Seraphina; and he will be taking you to the ball tonight, " Minerva announced.
" But Professor..." protested Seraphina under her breath .
" Listen, Seraphina, you are an honorary contender of this tournament, and having a partner for this ball is essential . Now, no boy is without a partner, so I found you this young man, " said McGonagall.
As Minerva's words sunk in his ears, and he understood what the old witch meant , Severus flinched at once and started to walk away from the two ladies . Minerva ran after him, leaving a baffled, unanswered Seraphina behind them . She grabbed his arm , forcing him to stop at once .
" What is it now Minerva? Please don't say you want me to take a student to the Yule Ball and dance with her, " he growled.
" Severus, please listen to me. The girl doesn't have a partner for tonight, and all the boys are already taken . So, please take her to the dance, or I'll have to ask someone else to do so, and I can say you won't like him taking her to the ball, " said Minerva calmly.
Severus didn't answered . What type of favor was Minerva asking of him? Taking a student to the dance - taking Seraphina to the dance.
" I can't do it, Minerva, " he replied under his breath .
" Ok, " sighed Minerva. " Then I have to ask someone else to take her to the dance. Gilderoy will serve my purpose nicely . He would love to take her to the dance, " she continued.
Lockhart's name sent a stinging pain down his spine . The image of Lockhart dancing with Seraphina appeared before his eyes. The small figure of Seraphina danced harrowingly before him , her eyes drowned in onerous hate . The sight angered him venomously .
" Professor Lockhart, " called Minerva as she moved away from Severus .
" Ah, yes, Professor McGonagall? " answered Lockhart who was approaching them . Clad in navy blue robes , he looked handsome that night .
" Leave it Minerva. Ask someone else . Is there no boy left at Hogwarts to take her to the ball? " hissed Severus as he approached her .
" Unfortunately , no, " replied Minerva quietly.
" You called for me, Professor McGonagall? " asked Lockhart cheerfully .
" Oh, yes, I want you to do me a favor, " she said.
" Ah, I would love to, " replied the blonde .
" Professor McGonagall wants you to go straight to the Great Hall this very moment, " interrupted Severus .
" Well, I was going there already, " replied Lockhart .
Lockhart left the two and went off to the Hall . Minerva turned to Severus giving him a death stare.
" What is your problem Severus? You aren't taking her yourself, and now you shoved Lockhart away, too . What, do you want, the girl to be embarrassed in front of the whole school for not having a dance partner? " growled the old witch .
" I will take her, " replied Severus in a defeated tone .
" Oh, gracious God ," squeaked Minerva as she dragged him to Seraphina who stood rooted in her place in the shadows.
" Here's your partner, Seraphina, " she announced.
" But Professor McGonagall, I think a teacher can't be taken to the ball, " said Seraphina hesitantly .
" There are no written rules about the choice of partner, Miss Barclay . So, I think you both should head towards the gate because the entry of the contenders will be in five minutes, " commanded professor McGonagall .
" Wait , please say there is no special entrance of the contenders in the ball, " intruded Seraphina .
" Yes, there is, Miss Barclay, and you have to dance with Professor Snape " said Minerva .
Seraphina's eyes almost popped out of their sockets . Dance with Professor Snape in front of everyone? Shit ! But her chain of thoughts was cut short by the deep , enticing voice of the man who stood in front of her; her dance partner for tonight.
Professor McGonagall walked away, leaving them both facing each other in the dark corridor.
" I assume that the entrance of the contenders will be in a minute or two. We should head there, Miss Barclay, " said Batman calmly .
" Oh! Yes, professor, " replied Seraphina .
Both of them turned towards the Great Hall as Severus nudged his arm towards Seraphina for her to hold . She hesitantly wrapped her hand around his muscular arm .
Soon they were near the other contenders and their respective partners . Nobody noticed the entrance of the girl who conquered the dragon and the defeater of The Dark Lord, and it relieved Seraphina. She didn't want any questions at that moment . A line was formed. Lucas Karlsson stood at the first position and Seraphina chose the last spot . The gate doors of the Great Hall thudded open and a magnificent sight greeted them . A beautiful crowd of students heralded them with thunderous applause.
Seraphina looked pale as death .
" Don't worry, Miss Barclay. Just smile and wave, " whispered Severus as he leaned over her ear . She squeezed his arm a little out of nervousness .
Seraphina looked up to the man who stood next to her and deeply inhaled .
" Let's rock this, Professor Snape, " said Seraphina determinedly .
They walked slowly into the Great Hall . More than half of the hall almost fainted when they saw the duo at the end of the line . The Greasy Git of the dungeon was walking next to the Warrior of Ravenclaw . Only one question rose in everyone's mind. How the hell on this earth had Seraphina convinced him to be her partner for the Ball?
Seraphina looked alluring in that off-shoulder light blue gown . Seraphina and Severus looked like Ariel , the angel of God walking down with the Azrael ,the angel of death itself . Those on the dance floor waited for them . The four contenders turned and faced their partners, ready to dance . Seraphina stood there looking up at the slender face of her professor .
" Sorry, Professor, for causing you discomfort " whispered Seraphina .
Severus didn't answer her. He just gave her a reassuring smirk . A wave of very mixed emotions flowed through his body . Somewhere deep inside, he had wanted to dance with her ever since the Halloween party . He didn't know what had happened to him. He never felt urges of this type before, but now his urges forced him into doing many things . Shoving off the thoughts, he slipped his hand onto the back of the Ravenclaw standing in front of him and held her hand . The music filled the Great Hall and they started dancing .
The dance with Batman wasn't awkward at all . While pirouetting with Batman , one thing almost slipped Seraphina's mind . What would she tell everyone? How would she explain why her partner for the Yule Ball was a professor? She didn't want to ruin her dance with Batman, though, thinking about other people and what they would think .
The traditional dance included a step raising up the female partner in the air . Seraphina thought it would be best to skip that step but Batman had other plans . He quickly slipped his hand around her waist and lifted her up , forcing her to hold his shoulder . She was quite light.
Seraphina's face turned a dark shade of red as Batman lifted her .
Headmaster Dumbledore took Professor McGonagall to the dance floor .
" I can't believe my eyes. Severus is dancing . How did you get him into doing so, Minerva? " asked Albus, smiling a cunning smile .
" Lockhart was a nice bait, " replied Minerva with a sly smile . " And what do you think, only you care about Severus? Don't forget, I also know how miserable he was after Lilly . I will do my best to spark things up between those two, " she continued.
" Oh, Minerva, " muttered Albus .
Other students joined them on the dance floor . The first song ended, and Severus escorted Seraphina off the dance floor to the drinks counter to get her a drink .
" One Lemon Lavender please, " he ordered the House-elf at the counter .
" Oh, my God, that was the best dance I ever had in my life! " Seraphina gushed .
Severus handed Seraphina her Lemon Lavender . Lucifer and Elenore joined them at the counter . Elenore was clad in a lilac gown and Lucifer wore Black robes .
" Girl, where were you before the dance? We'd been looking for you the whole time," Lucifer said. He sounded concerned.
" Oh, I was just looking for a partner, " joked Seraphina .
" Seriously, " groaned Elenore .
" No, seriously. I would have turned up here without a partner if Professor Snape hadn't helped me . It would have been a disgrace to come to the ball without any partner, Professor McGonagall told me," said Seraphina casually . She'd told the truth; that was exactly what had happened to her .
" You know, for the first time I have to say that we boys are more loyal than you girls . Come on, Lilly left Jordan for Lucas ," said Lucifer disgustedly .
" Who would leave a beautiful girl for me? " chuckled Seraphina .
Severus stood there silently . He didn't intrude when Seraphina counted herself less than the other girls , but he felt bad . Lucifer took her to the dance floor.
" Batman, seriously. Could you not find a single boy in this whole frickin' castle? " asked Lucifer as they both danced .
" Be thankful to him that I don't have to turn up to the ball alone like the last time, " said Seraphina . "And professor McGonagall just brought him at the last minute so I couldn't say anything, " she continued .
" So, you liked dancing with the Greasy Git, " asked Lucifer, baffled .
" Yes, of course I did. At least I am happy Professor McGonagall didn't turned up with Lockhart . And dancing with Batman wasn't that awkward after all, " she replied .
" You know I always wondered why everyone called you a weirdo. I just got my answer," chuckled Lucifer.
" And what's the answer? " asked Seraphina curiously .
" A girl who is happy that Batman took her to dance and hates Lockhart . There aren't many people like you in this world, girl, " chuckled Lucifer .
" Thanks, " Seraphina said in mock gratitude.
Lucas and a few more boys asked her to dance after Lucifer . Severus stood at his place the rest of the evening. No one dared to ask him for a dance, and he didn't asked anyone else to dance either .
" You both looked perfect dancing with each other, " chuckled Albus as he slipped next to Severus.
" For Merlin's sake, she is sixteen. Leave it alone, Albus," groaned Severus .
" Ah, come on, Severus; accept it. You liked the dance , didn't you? " teased Albus as he nudged the young teacher lightly .
Severus left the gravely inappropriate question unanswered . How could this old man be excited about ruining the life of that sixteen-year-old lovable witch? Ignoring the old wizard next to him, he scanned the hall for Gilderoy Lockhart . He didn't wanted that witless blonde to ruin Seraphina's night even by hoovering near her . But to Severus's disappointment he found him near that very person . Lockhart stood close to Seraphina , the irritable smile plastered to his lips. The one on the girl's face was a painful smile . He watched Lockhart grab her wrist and drag her to the dance floor with him . The painstaking smile faded from the young witch's face .
" Well, answer my one question Seraphina. Did you asked Professor Snape to the dance? " asked Lockhart with a look of bafflement.
She narrated him the true story . Lockhart laughed heartily after she completed her story .
" You should have asked me, Seraphina, " he said, controlling his laughter . " I still can't believe Professor Snape agreed. " He managed to speak before breaking into a fit of laughter again .
" Thanks, Professor, but I actually didn't asked Professor Snape. Professor McGonagall dragged him to me when I confessed to her that I didn't have a partner, " she replied quietly .
The dance ended and Lockhart led her off the dance floor. He was still hovering over Seraphina's head . Seraphina grabbed her fifth glass of Lemon lavender . She loved the drink Batman had gotten for her .
" So, who was the best dance partner ?" asked Lockhart, leaning on the drinks counter next to Seraphina.
Seraphina gulped down the content of the glass at once after hearing the question .
" Hmmmmm..." she hummed. " I will say Professor Snape was the best, " a casual reply came .
Lockhart's handsome face fell hard. he'd expected to hear his name . One thing baffled him that the Greasy Git was consistently on her mind . He couldn't resist the urge to ask her .
" Well, I hope you don't mind me asking, but you seem to be deep into Professor Snape," he remarked .
" Oh, so what do you expect me to be, sir . Literally, Professor Snape saved me from getting embarrassed for the second time, " said Seraphina casually . Suddenly a look of horror came over her face . She regretted saying that .
" The second time? " asked Lockhart with a look of curiosity.
" Huh, " she sighed. " When I studied at the Muggle school , they had a dance just like the Yule Ball where you have to arrive with a partner, " she continued with a serious look .
" So, " said Lockhart as curiosity was killing him .
" And I didn't had a date for the evening, and I turned up there alone . It was very embarrassing seeing everyone with a partner and just being there alone, " the reply came in a defeated voice .
" Aahhh were the boys at that Muggle school blind? If a beautiful girl like you is not asked, then I have to say all the boys there have very dreadful taste, " said Lockhart, passing Seraphina a reassuring smile .
His words felt nice . For the first time ever since she arrived at Hogwarts , Lockhart seemed nice to her . When he held a decent conversation without his self admiration , he didn't seem that awful .
" You know, back when I was a student just like you , I went to the Ball with a beautiful girl, " chuckled Lockhart .
" It must have been a great experience , right? " asked Seraphina .
" Yes, she was nice, but I didn't enjoyed myself dancing with her as much as I did with you, Seraphina, " commented Lockhart.
" Ah, these compliments are way more than I can handle, " said Seraphina , scarlet dusted her cheeks .
" No, I am not lying, " chuckled Lockhart . Seraphina joined him . She liked this side of Lockhart that was not so full of himself; the side which acknowledged others .
The rest of the evening, Seraphina spent chatting and laughing with a Lockhart she had never seen before: a goofy , nice and humble man .
Severus narrowly eyed the unconvincing pair for the rest of the evening . He felt the flow of blood increasing in his veins as his muscles tightened . His heart throbbed hard as a tingling sensation waved through his body . Breathing heavily, Severus tried to calm himself . He never felt so angry before. Not even when he saw Lily with James . He always drank his anger seeing Lily happy with him . He always wanted to see Lily happy, even of it meant seeing her marrying someone who wasn't him .
The lovely night came to an end at last, and everyone retired . But someone didn't exit the Hall with everyone else . Seraphina waved her goodbyes to her friends and scanned the hall for someone clad in black . Batman wasn't there. He must have left though Seraphina . She made her exit from the hall towards the prefects' dorm . The exhaustion made the trip to her dorm tiresomely long . Kicking off her blue heels, Seraphina picked them up and continue walking . The long corridor was uninhabited by that hour, but Seraphina's eyes fell on a dark figure marching towards her in the corridor.
A tired looking Seraphina greeted Severus as he approached the girl . At first he didn't even noticed her presence, his anger blinded him so badly .
" Professor Snape, " Seraphina's voice broke his chain of deep thoughts . Something softened inside him at the sight of the young witch .
" Miss Barclay, may I know what are you doing here? I assume the ball has ended? " asked Batman .
" I was looking for you, Professor, " replied Seraphina .
" May I know the reason? " asked her professor .
" I just wanted to thank you for accepting to go with me to the ball at the last moment , otherwise it would have been very embarrassing " said Seraphina .
Severus nodded slightly , but he didn't speak a word . The witch left .
ልረልክ
Finally , the day of the last task arrived . For the last task the contenders were required to enter an enchanted maze where they were supposed to search for a trophy . All the participants were nervous. No one knew who would win .
Seraphina was asked to watch the event with the faculty and Ministry officials again . Sitting there next to Gilderoy Lockhart , Seraphina had a better experience that evening . Lockhart was behaving differently ever since the Yule Ball . He was the same goofy , amiable man Seraphina spent her Yule Ball evening with , but when he was around anyone else, he was still the same The Gilderoy Lockhart .
It took 20 minutes for the participants to find the trophy . Lucifer and Adalene emerged from the maze together , trophy in hand . Seraphina jumped out of her seat and ran towards her friend . Seraphina pressed both of the winners in a tight embrace .
" Oh, God, Lucifer you did it !" Seraphina said excitedly .
Elenore jumped into Lucifer's arms, and they shared a passionate kiss . Seraphina stepped away, giving the couple space . A warm smile was on her lips but a painful sadness filled her raven eyes. Lucifer and Elenore pulled her into their hug .
Severus saw the look on her face. She was happy for her friend but something saddened her.
ልረልክ
The Ravenclaw dorm was packed with shouting students . Everyone was shouting Lucifer's name . There was a tie between Lucifer and Adalene and the award prize would be distributed between the two of them . Seraphina stayed with the lovebird till midnight, until everyone retired . Seraphina told her goodnight and headed for the prefects' dorm .
Sitting in her chamber , she thought about the lovebird . Lucifer and Elenore were lucky to have someone to care for them , protect them, and love them .
Sighing out a sigh at the thought of someone loving her , she wondered who would do that . She wasn't beautiful and her intellect was hard to match . Would anyone ever fall in love with a geeky bookworm?