Part 10:
Before Sixth Year:
"You mentioned that you had alternate travel plans for the homeward journey. What are they?" She asked as they cleaned.
"Flying on our brooms." Severus answered from inside the fireplace, his voice eerie sounding. At the moment, he was cleaning out the excess floo powder that mixed in with the soot. He planned to extract the powder from soot and use it to make a cleaner powder, one that left no traces behind.
"Why didn't you do that before?" Lily asked, extending the sheet to allow for more of the odd mixture.
Septina was sitting on a branch outside and moved until she was hanging upside down. "Haven't you heard? The teachers and faculty members are to ride with us on the way to Hogwarts. If we traveled by broom all the time, we'd get caught."
"They've never ridden with us before." Lily mused. "Why are they now? Voldemort." She finished her own question.
"Who else?" The outside windows cleaned to her satisfaction, she flipped over and landed on her butt on the ground. "Ow. A cat I'll never be." She moaned as she stood up. Going into the shed at the back of the house, she got out their travel brooms.
Soon the house was locked up tight and all their stuff was packed away or sent to the hotel they were spending the night in. "There's only two brooms." Lily said.
Severus nodded and Septina moved behind him. "Haven't you ever seen travel brooms?" She shook her head. "They're tougher and can carry more weight than other brooms."
"Are you insinuating something?" His sister asked, mock angrily.
Lily giggled as Severus assumed a 'why me' expression. "I don't know what you mean."
"Don't give me that. I heard you quite clearly." She smacked him. "You think I've put on some weight."
"Well, you did have three helpings of dinner last night." He bit his lip to trap the laughter that was bubbling up inside.
"Just for that, you're not getting a tip, driver." She sounded haughty. Amidst laughter, the trio took off for London. They had originally intended to stay in muggle London but decided against it when a vision of waiting danger hit Septina. It was the first, but not the only time, Lily had ever witnessed her visions. Once they had touched down, Lily made sure that she was completely covered with her cloak. It wouldn't do to have come so far unmolested and lose in all in a glance.
In a little corner of town was a small, but respectable inn. They made their way over and walked in, staying in the shadows. Severus walked up to the front desk and spoke quietly to the half-giant that waited there. He received the keys with a smile and tipped the man to keep quiet. A subtle jerk of his head and the girls moved towards him and down the hall.
"A word, if I may." A voice from an office called softly.
With a cautious glance, Sev handed his sister their purse. She nodded, moving towards one of the windows with Lily. "Yes?"
Serious brown eyes met his, the boy relaxed as he recognized an old family retainer. They joined him in his office but gave no introductions.
"There's been some talk of trouble around town. Some of the estates have been targeted, even attacked, but no one knows for sure who is responsible. The Potter and Malfoy families are here. I wouldn't have warned you but I heard there's bad blood between you and your cousin."
"Thanks for the warning, Ben." He didn't give him any details and Ben didn't ask for any. "Don't let my cousin know we're here."
The old man nodded and went to his book case, twisting a knob on one of the drawers. "I thought you'd be wanting the special, sir." He led them down the passageway and opened the door into a suite on the ground floor. "One of those keys is for the door into the hall. The other will unlock the door hidden between those windows."
Severus took a turn around, then turned to face him. "This suits our needs perfectly. Thank you."
"Have a pleasant night." Ben bowed and left.
"Very regal." Lily teased, slipping off the cloak. Septina knelt by the fire and lit it. The redhead wandered around the room and stopped suddenly. On a table, in one of the corners, a meal had been prepared for them-set for three. "I didn't think you ordered anything."
"I didn't." Severus withdrew his wand, indicating that Lily do the same.
Septina rose and approached the table cautiously. A note rested at the edge of the table and she picked it up, reading it. "It's from father."
"You're joking." He crossed the room and took the note from her hands. "Insights?"
Using her inner eye, she studied the note and table carefully. His essence was imprinted upon everything. "This is from him. But why is he doing this?"
Severus was silent during the meal, thinking over her question. "It's his way of telling us good-bye."
"He's answered the call and gone home then."
"But he intends to return." He finished for her.
Septina finished her drink and held the glass, twisting it in circles. There was an eerie calm about her that worried her brother. She was only like this when she was disconnecting. "He won't."
"I know." Sev answered, knowing he couldn't let her turn herself off. He took the glass from her hand and put it down, holding her hands. "We'll survive."
Lily knew better than to ask them about their father. During her stay, she had tried and been given a few, brief answers. The one thing she knew for sure was that they loved their father even as they feared him. It wasn't hard to figure out the fear. She had seen his brutality with her own eyes. It was the love she had a hard time wrapping her mind around.
"I'm turning in. Night, Lil, Sev." She got up slowly and went into one of the rooms.
Lily called after her. "I'll join you in a minute." Septina nodded tiredly and closed the door behind her. The redhead watched Sev for a moment, wondering about his pensive expression. "Are you all right?"
He blinked in surprise, not realizing that she was still in the room. "I will be in a while."
"Anything I can do?" She asked, standing up and squeezing his shoulder.
"Just keep yourself safe and your powers hidden." His hand rested on hers for a moment.
"I'll always be here for you." She whispered in response to his unspoken plea.
Dark eyes clashed with emerald green with almost physical force. "I wouldn't ask you to do so."
Leaning close, she ran a hand through his hair, tucking it behind his ear. "I don't expect you to." She pulled back with a smile at his thunderstruck expression. "And I can do no less when that is what you've promised me. Good night, Sev."
With those words, she left him alone with his jumbled thoughts.
Septina was lying on the bed when the Gryffindor entered the room. "Are you playing with my brother, Lily?"
"No. I promise you. I think I may be falling in love with him."
"Don't confuse gratitude with love, Lily." Sept cautioned. "I will not allow you to hurt my brother while you try to figure out your emotions."
Lily sat down on the bed, staring out the window. "If anyone gets hurt, it'll be me."
"You don't know that." The Slytherin was now trying to comfort her friend.
She lay back and closed her eyes, feeling the tears gather in them. "I am afraid that I do. Night."
There was a finality in her voice that Septina respected. Though she was deeply afraid for her friend, she wouldn't push. Lily had backed off for them, could she repay the favor by pushing when she obviously didn't want to speak?
In the morning, they used the passage way to leave and go to Platform nine and three quarters. It was only then that James Potter saw them. Pushing his way through the crowd, he spoke to Lily urgently, worry in his blue eyes. "Lily, I was so worried about you. Why didn't you answer any of my owls?" He glared at the twins, as though they were behind it all.
"James, I was away from home and didn't receive any of your letters." Lily explained, hitting his shoulder lightly. "And stop glaring at them, it isn't their fault. Merlyn, one would think you were jealous of Severus."
That caused both men to snort for very different reasons. "As touching as all this is, we should get inside before Narcissa or Lucius spots us." Septina said, subtly nudging her brother and pointing towards their old friends.
Though Lily paled, she calmly led the way into the train. "I will be sitting with the twins, James." It was quiet, but firm.
"I'll join you." He said, ignoring the grumbling. "Honestly, Lily, I haven't seen you or heard from you all summer, I missed you."
With an enforced casual shrug, the four got comfortable in one of the compartments. It was no surprise when they were joined by the other three Gryffindors. Barley managing to hold in screams of frustration, Lily used all her charm to keep the conversation flowing.
Sev tensed and excused himself. He made his way down the passage towards one of the more secluded areas. As he had expected, Lucius was just emerging form one of the rooms. His hand rested on his shoulder and he pinned him against the wall. "Hello, cousin. I've got a few words for you."
"And they would be?" Lucius sneered, trying to regain his equilibrium.
"Simple. Voldemort does not appreciate you going after Lily Evans."
He snorted. "I am supposed to believe that the dark lord has an interest in that mudblood. What kind of fool do you take me for?"
"I'm not sure. What kind are you?" It was rhetoric. "But let me ask you this, do you really want to take the chance that I'm lying?"
"What proof have I that you're not?" Lucius demanded.
"You can take my word." Severs let go and started to walk down the hall, pausing to look back at him challengingly. "Or you can believe in my sister's vision."
Lucius watched him go. A mixture of fear and rage boiled within his breast. A hand grabbed his, startling him from his thoughts. He looked around and saw Peter there. "What do you want, twit?"
"I'd believe him, sir." Peter whispered, glancing around furtively. "Master was most displeased to have Lily leave his sight."
Lucius stared at him, feeling a strong presence surround Pettigrew. "What master of yours should I care about?" He bluffed, unwilling to believe that this wimp had been chosen and not him.
"The one you desire to serve. He is watching you." Peter said, revealing the mark on his arm. "He is most interested in you. You could bring a lot to him. But he is uncertain that you would serve him well. That you would be his alone, body and soul."
"Tell me more, my friend." Lucius led him into his compartment and introduced him. "I'm sure you all know Peter Pettigrew. He has something he'd like to show us."
Peter once more showed his mark, reveling in the attention he received. The Slytherins sat up and took notice of him, they listened to him. It was quite heady for the Gryffindor who was used to the background.
Other than that, the ride was uneventful. As Professor MacGonagal later told Dumbledore. "It was odd. The stillness was frightful, like the calm before a storm. It almost felt like an omen."
"Of what, Professor?"
"Things to come. I see the signs of a great gathering. Those dark times are coming again."
"As they must. Every generation has its own demons to fight, as we did." He reminded her. "We will not be here forever. We cannot continue to hold their hands."
"I know, Albus. But I won't stop fearing for them." Minerva tartly responded to cover the tightness that gripped her heart. Albus was silent in his agreement.
Opening Feast:
"Welcome, students to another year. A year which brings about changes in our lives. Allow me to present Professor Kryton, she will teach charms in place of our dear Professor Flitwick. And this is Professor Ecklebury, who will be teaching potions, he will also serve as the Head of Slytherin house while here. Please, make them, and their visiting students, feel welcomed.
"Now, as you know the Forbidden Forest is off limits to the students. Be especially careful as this is a significant time in the lives of the creatures who dwell there. It has also been suggested that efforts be made to bring our houses closer together. So, as more students are staying here over the holidays, they will be required to participate in a school play which will be announced at a later date.
"Let the feast begin." He ended over the groans of various students.
Septina and Severus exchanged horrified looks before glancing up when a hand rested on each of their shoulders. "If it isn't our school's old teachers pets. Still following the pull of their leash?"
"Karkaroff." Septina coolly said, shaking off his hand.
Severus moved closer to his sister, clearing a spot for the Durmstang student. "What are you doing here? I thought your father disapproved of Hogwarts?"
"My father would disapprove of anything that had me intermingling with the common herd. But his...connections rather insisted that I come. He was also reassured when he found out that you two were here. So, here I am." He smiled, trying to catch their eyes.
"Connections?" Sev prodded, nodding to old acquaintances from Durmstrang.
"The Great One is rising." Karkaroff said, heaping food onto his empty plate.
Septina nodded, "So we've heard." Her hand stopped its movement before it covered the mark. "Is he having much success in the greater wizarding world?"
Karkaroff finished his mouthful. "He's having more success because there is no Dumbledore to stop him."
"And this really isn't proper dinner conversation." A voice whispered. "Even among such...faithful followers." Professor Ecklebury was there, resting a hand on Septina's left arm, just above the mark.
It reacted to his touch instantly. She felt it run through her, hot and burning. Pain badgered her mind as vision dulled as he stroked lightly. Chills raced along her tightening nerves. Severus could only watch helplessly as his sister was besieged by sensation. For some reason, he was blocked from the pain.
"I do look forward to being your Head of House. Do feel free to become a part of my life. I do not mind being disturbed by my pupils in the least." Withdrawing his hand slowly, his smile was coldly charmingly. "I assure you, I'm quite harmless. Why don't the three of us take a few minutes to get to know each other, hmmm? Professor Figg has told me so much about you."
Unable to do anything else, she slowly rose to her feet, hunger forgotten. She followed his lead willingly enough, though in the back of her mind, warning bells were sounding. Severus joined them, albeit he was more wary. No matter, they would both learn of the change in the guard and would obey only one voice.
They entered his office, struck by the starkness of the room. There was no trace of potions in the air and practically no furniture, save a desk and two chairs. And a large mirror along the far wall. He sat on the edge of his desk, waving his hand around. "Please, be comfortable here. I mean you no harm."
"What do you intend then, sir?" Severus asked, watching the teacher as he manipulated his sister's movements. Until he knew what the man was up to, he couldn't risk endangering her.
His question went unanswered as Ecklebury watched Septina. The boy had been measured and found worthy beyond belief. Would the girl prove as useful? A glance up saw that she was right were he intended her to be-in front of the mirror. He hungrily licked his lips when a light from the mirror shadowed her, encased her in its light.
Dark eyes became unfocused, staring at the images that played before her. No sudden movements alerted Sev but the increase of pain gripped him. Shaking it off, he moved towards her. "Hold your ground, boy." A harsh voice commanded. Instantly, he froze.
Pale lips opened and Sev braced himself-even as Ecklebury seemed to greet it. Instead of a scream of anguish, words of entreaty poured forth:
"From time immortal,
Across binding chains,
I summon thee!
Dark as night,
Hard as light,
Long imprisoned,
I set thee free!
Come to us!
I command thee!
Come!"
The mirror shattered. Glass flew everywhere. A mist broke free and entered the room. Freed from his paralysis, he pushed his sister to the ground. The shade passed over their heads with an exultant cry, escaping into the darkening night.
"Excellent." Ecklebury applauded. "The Dark Lord thanks you for giving him the second. Go. And say nothing of what has transpired."
***
Professor MacGonagal watched the twins follow Professor Ecklebury out of the room. There was something different about him. With a frown on her face, she turned to Albus. "You shouldn't let them go. An evil wind blows around that man."
"What reason would I give for stopping him? He is their new head, Minerva."
"You're the Headmaster. You don't need to give reasons." When that had no effect, she said bitterly. "I sometimes think you follow the rules a bit to closely and ignore the welfare of the students."
A twinkle entered his eyes. "But, my dear professor, I thought you felt I shouldn't worry about them."
"I changed my mind." She was tense. "They have been of enormous help to Sirius. And, you were right, they are children."
"What will be, will be."
"And sometimes what isn't to be, happens anyway."
Professor MacGonagal wasn't the only one who worried about them. At the Gryffindor table, Lily picked at her food and watched intently as the twins left. There was something almost dreamlike about Septina's movements. And Severus looked ill at ease. Something was definitely wrong.
"Lily, I hate to disturb you, but I think Narcissa wants your attention." Molly said.
Looking over at the other end of the Slytherin table, she saw Narcissa. Bowing her head in acknowledgment, she continued to stare at her.
Narcissa was fuming. She thought that she'd finally gotten rid of that wretched mudblood and yet, there she was. Sitting calm and looking as though she didn't have a care in the world. And now she'd been told, by Lucius, that Voldemort was interested in the girl. She was now off limits. Well, she decided, I'll have to corner Septina and find out if the rumors were true. She sneered at Lily.
Green eyes rolled in exasperation. Without thought, she caused a bowl of hot soup to drop into her lap. Narcissa shrieked and jumped up. Her friends gathered around her solicitously. She glared at the Gryffindor girl. "I don't know how you did that, Evans, but when I find out, you'll pay."
"Miss Alway, I know that you are upset by this unfortunate accident but there is no reason to threaten a student. I'm afraid that you must come with me." Professor Dumbledore made his was over to her and escorted her out of the silent hall.
James studied Lily's shocked face. "Isn't that odd? I've never known house elves to be so careless."
"Neither have I unless...did you have something to do with that, Lily?" Remus asked.
Sirius grinned wickedly. "And, if you did, could you teach me?"
"Really, guys, I don't know were you came up with such an idea. My wand is packed. I am just as appalled as you." Lily said, smiling innocently. "But it was funny, in a rather pitiful way." Mentally she was berating herself for dropping her guard. Can't wait to see their reactions if they knew it really was me, she thought.
"If you say so."
Sirius looked heartbroken. "Oh, well. I suppose it wouldn't have worked for me anyway."
But Lily could tell James didn't believe her. That's his problem, she thought rebelliously. I am not going to live my life based on what he thinks I should be.
Later that night, Septina crept into her brother's dorm room. "Sev?"
"Yes?"
"What did I do?" She asked, sitting down at the foot of his bed. They didn't fear being caught, everyone was used to their nocturnal habits. It was generally agreed that a silencing spell be placed around his bed because they would often talk about her visions.
"You don't remember?"
"Some. My mark burned. There was shattered glass. I set something free."
He nodded, holding out his arms. She huddled near his warmth, feeling protected.
"What did I set free?"
"I don't know."
She looked up at him. "Are you going to go to Voldemort?"
"I must. He's the only one who seems to know what is happening."
"I'll go with you."
He nodded, shifting slightly so that she had some more room on the bed. "Night."
"Night." She was silent. "Sev?"
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry."
"Don't be. I was tricked as well." He sighed.
"I should have known."
"How could you? He caught us at a vulnerable time."
Before Sixth Year:
"You mentioned that you had alternate travel plans for the homeward journey. What are they?" She asked as they cleaned.
"Flying on our brooms." Severus answered from inside the fireplace, his voice eerie sounding. At the moment, he was cleaning out the excess floo powder that mixed in with the soot. He planned to extract the powder from soot and use it to make a cleaner powder, one that left no traces behind.
"Why didn't you do that before?" Lily asked, extending the sheet to allow for more of the odd mixture.
Septina was sitting on a branch outside and moved until she was hanging upside down. "Haven't you heard? The teachers and faculty members are to ride with us on the way to Hogwarts. If we traveled by broom all the time, we'd get caught."
"They've never ridden with us before." Lily mused. "Why are they now? Voldemort." She finished her own question.
"Who else?" The outside windows cleaned to her satisfaction, she flipped over and landed on her butt on the ground. "Ow. A cat I'll never be." She moaned as she stood up. Going into the shed at the back of the house, she got out their travel brooms.
Soon the house was locked up tight and all their stuff was packed away or sent to the hotel they were spending the night in. "There's only two brooms." Lily said.
Severus nodded and Septina moved behind him. "Haven't you ever seen travel brooms?" She shook her head. "They're tougher and can carry more weight than other brooms."
"Are you insinuating something?" His sister asked, mock angrily.
Lily giggled as Severus assumed a 'why me' expression. "I don't know what you mean."
"Don't give me that. I heard you quite clearly." She smacked him. "You think I've put on some weight."
"Well, you did have three helpings of dinner last night." He bit his lip to trap the laughter that was bubbling up inside.
"Just for that, you're not getting a tip, driver." She sounded haughty. Amidst laughter, the trio took off for London. They had originally intended to stay in muggle London but decided against it when a vision of waiting danger hit Septina. It was the first, but not the only time, Lily had ever witnessed her visions. Once they had touched down, Lily made sure that she was completely covered with her cloak. It wouldn't do to have come so far unmolested and lose in all in a glance.
In a little corner of town was a small, but respectable inn. They made their way over and walked in, staying in the shadows. Severus walked up to the front desk and spoke quietly to the half-giant that waited there. He received the keys with a smile and tipped the man to keep quiet. A subtle jerk of his head and the girls moved towards him and down the hall.
"A word, if I may." A voice from an office called softly.
With a cautious glance, Sev handed his sister their purse. She nodded, moving towards one of the windows with Lily. "Yes?"
Serious brown eyes met his, the boy relaxed as he recognized an old family retainer. They joined him in his office but gave no introductions.
"There's been some talk of trouble around town. Some of the estates have been targeted, even attacked, but no one knows for sure who is responsible. The Potter and Malfoy families are here. I wouldn't have warned you but I heard there's bad blood between you and your cousin."
"Thanks for the warning, Ben." He didn't give him any details and Ben didn't ask for any. "Don't let my cousin know we're here."
The old man nodded and went to his book case, twisting a knob on one of the drawers. "I thought you'd be wanting the special, sir." He led them down the passageway and opened the door into a suite on the ground floor. "One of those keys is for the door into the hall. The other will unlock the door hidden between those windows."
Severus took a turn around, then turned to face him. "This suits our needs perfectly. Thank you."
"Have a pleasant night." Ben bowed and left.
"Very regal." Lily teased, slipping off the cloak. Septina knelt by the fire and lit it. The redhead wandered around the room and stopped suddenly. On a table, in one of the corners, a meal had been prepared for them-set for three. "I didn't think you ordered anything."
"I didn't." Severus withdrew his wand, indicating that Lily do the same.
Septina rose and approached the table cautiously. A note rested at the edge of the table and she picked it up, reading it. "It's from father."
"You're joking." He crossed the room and took the note from her hands. "Insights?"
Using her inner eye, she studied the note and table carefully. His essence was imprinted upon everything. "This is from him. But why is he doing this?"
Severus was silent during the meal, thinking over her question. "It's his way of telling us good-bye."
"He's answered the call and gone home then."
"But he intends to return." He finished for her.
Septina finished her drink and held the glass, twisting it in circles. There was an eerie calm about her that worried her brother. She was only like this when she was disconnecting. "He won't."
"I know." Sev answered, knowing he couldn't let her turn herself off. He took the glass from her hand and put it down, holding her hands. "We'll survive."
Lily knew better than to ask them about their father. During her stay, she had tried and been given a few, brief answers. The one thing she knew for sure was that they loved their father even as they feared him. It wasn't hard to figure out the fear. She had seen his brutality with her own eyes. It was the love she had a hard time wrapping her mind around.
"I'm turning in. Night, Lil, Sev." She got up slowly and went into one of the rooms.
Lily called after her. "I'll join you in a minute." Septina nodded tiredly and closed the door behind her. The redhead watched Sev for a moment, wondering about his pensive expression. "Are you all right?"
He blinked in surprise, not realizing that she was still in the room. "I will be in a while."
"Anything I can do?" She asked, standing up and squeezing his shoulder.
"Just keep yourself safe and your powers hidden." His hand rested on hers for a moment.
"I'll always be here for you." She whispered in response to his unspoken plea.
Dark eyes clashed with emerald green with almost physical force. "I wouldn't ask you to do so."
Leaning close, she ran a hand through his hair, tucking it behind his ear. "I don't expect you to." She pulled back with a smile at his thunderstruck expression. "And I can do no less when that is what you've promised me. Good night, Sev."
With those words, she left him alone with his jumbled thoughts.
Septina was lying on the bed when the Gryffindor entered the room. "Are you playing with my brother, Lily?"
"No. I promise you. I think I may be falling in love with him."
"Don't confuse gratitude with love, Lily." Sept cautioned. "I will not allow you to hurt my brother while you try to figure out your emotions."
Lily sat down on the bed, staring out the window. "If anyone gets hurt, it'll be me."
"You don't know that." The Slytherin was now trying to comfort her friend.
She lay back and closed her eyes, feeling the tears gather in them. "I am afraid that I do. Night."
There was a finality in her voice that Septina respected. Though she was deeply afraid for her friend, she wouldn't push. Lily had backed off for them, could she repay the favor by pushing when she obviously didn't want to speak?
In the morning, they used the passage way to leave and go to Platform nine and three quarters. It was only then that James Potter saw them. Pushing his way through the crowd, he spoke to Lily urgently, worry in his blue eyes. "Lily, I was so worried about you. Why didn't you answer any of my owls?" He glared at the twins, as though they were behind it all.
"James, I was away from home and didn't receive any of your letters." Lily explained, hitting his shoulder lightly. "And stop glaring at them, it isn't their fault. Merlyn, one would think you were jealous of Severus."
That caused both men to snort for very different reasons. "As touching as all this is, we should get inside before Narcissa or Lucius spots us." Septina said, subtly nudging her brother and pointing towards their old friends.
Though Lily paled, she calmly led the way into the train. "I will be sitting with the twins, James." It was quiet, but firm.
"I'll join you." He said, ignoring the grumbling. "Honestly, Lily, I haven't seen you or heard from you all summer, I missed you."
With an enforced casual shrug, the four got comfortable in one of the compartments. It was no surprise when they were joined by the other three Gryffindors. Barley managing to hold in screams of frustration, Lily used all her charm to keep the conversation flowing.
Sev tensed and excused himself. He made his way down the passage towards one of the more secluded areas. As he had expected, Lucius was just emerging form one of the rooms. His hand rested on his shoulder and he pinned him against the wall. "Hello, cousin. I've got a few words for you."
"And they would be?" Lucius sneered, trying to regain his equilibrium.
"Simple. Voldemort does not appreciate you going after Lily Evans."
He snorted. "I am supposed to believe that the dark lord has an interest in that mudblood. What kind of fool do you take me for?"
"I'm not sure. What kind are you?" It was rhetoric. "But let me ask you this, do you really want to take the chance that I'm lying?"
"What proof have I that you're not?" Lucius demanded.
"You can take my word." Severs let go and started to walk down the hall, pausing to look back at him challengingly. "Or you can believe in my sister's vision."
Lucius watched him go. A mixture of fear and rage boiled within his breast. A hand grabbed his, startling him from his thoughts. He looked around and saw Peter there. "What do you want, twit?"
"I'd believe him, sir." Peter whispered, glancing around furtively. "Master was most displeased to have Lily leave his sight."
Lucius stared at him, feeling a strong presence surround Pettigrew. "What master of yours should I care about?" He bluffed, unwilling to believe that this wimp had been chosen and not him.
"The one you desire to serve. He is watching you." Peter said, revealing the mark on his arm. "He is most interested in you. You could bring a lot to him. But he is uncertain that you would serve him well. That you would be his alone, body and soul."
"Tell me more, my friend." Lucius led him into his compartment and introduced him. "I'm sure you all know Peter Pettigrew. He has something he'd like to show us."
Peter once more showed his mark, reveling in the attention he received. The Slytherins sat up and took notice of him, they listened to him. It was quite heady for the Gryffindor who was used to the background.
Other than that, the ride was uneventful. As Professor MacGonagal later told Dumbledore. "It was odd. The stillness was frightful, like the calm before a storm. It almost felt like an omen."
"Of what, Professor?"
"Things to come. I see the signs of a great gathering. Those dark times are coming again."
"As they must. Every generation has its own demons to fight, as we did." He reminded her. "We will not be here forever. We cannot continue to hold their hands."
"I know, Albus. But I won't stop fearing for them." Minerva tartly responded to cover the tightness that gripped her heart. Albus was silent in his agreement.
Opening Feast:
"Welcome, students to another year. A year which brings about changes in our lives. Allow me to present Professor Kryton, she will teach charms in place of our dear Professor Flitwick. And this is Professor Ecklebury, who will be teaching potions, he will also serve as the Head of Slytherin house while here. Please, make them, and their visiting students, feel welcomed.
"Now, as you know the Forbidden Forest is off limits to the students. Be especially careful as this is a significant time in the lives of the creatures who dwell there. It has also been suggested that efforts be made to bring our houses closer together. So, as more students are staying here over the holidays, they will be required to participate in a school play which will be announced at a later date.
"Let the feast begin." He ended over the groans of various students.
Septina and Severus exchanged horrified looks before glancing up when a hand rested on each of their shoulders. "If it isn't our school's old teachers pets. Still following the pull of their leash?"
"Karkaroff." Septina coolly said, shaking off his hand.
Severus moved closer to his sister, clearing a spot for the Durmstang student. "What are you doing here? I thought your father disapproved of Hogwarts?"
"My father would disapprove of anything that had me intermingling with the common herd. But his...connections rather insisted that I come. He was also reassured when he found out that you two were here. So, here I am." He smiled, trying to catch their eyes.
"Connections?" Sev prodded, nodding to old acquaintances from Durmstrang.
"The Great One is rising." Karkaroff said, heaping food onto his empty plate.
Septina nodded, "So we've heard." Her hand stopped its movement before it covered the mark. "Is he having much success in the greater wizarding world?"
Karkaroff finished his mouthful. "He's having more success because there is no Dumbledore to stop him."
"And this really isn't proper dinner conversation." A voice whispered. "Even among such...faithful followers." Professor Ecklebury was there, resting a hand on Septina's left arm, just above the mark.
It reacted to his touch instantly. She felt it run through her, hot and burning. Pain badgered her mind as vision dulled as he stroked lightly. Chills raced along her tightening nerves. Severus could only watch helplessly as his sister was besieged by sensation. For some reason, he was blocked from the pain.
"I do look forward to being your Head of House. Do feel free to become a part of my life. I do not mind being disturbed by my pupils in the least." Withdrawing his hand slowly, his smile was coldly charmingly. "I assure you, I'm quite harmless. Why don't the three of us take a few minutes to get to know each other, hmmm? Professor Figg has told me so much about you."
Unable to do anything else, she slowly rose to her feet, hunger forgotten. She followed his lead willingly enough, though in the back of her mind, warning bells were sounding. Severus joined them, albeit he was more wary. No matter, they would both learn of the change in the guard and would obey only one voice.
They entered his office, struck by the starkness of the room. There was no trace of potions in the air and practically no furniture, save a desk and two chairs. And a large mirror along the far wall. He sat on the edge of his desk, waving his hand around. "Please, be comfortable here. I mean you no harm."
"What do you intend then, sir?" Severus asked, watching the teacher as he manipulated his sister's movements. Until he knew what the man was up to, he couldn't risk endangering her.
His question went unanswered as Ecklebury watched Septina. The boy had been measured and found worthy beyond belief. Would the girl prove as useful? A glance up saw that she was right were he intended her to be-in front of the mirror. He hungrily licked his lips when a light from the mirror shadowed her, encased her in its light.
Dark eyes became unfocused, staring at the images that played before her. No sudden movements alerted Sev but the increase of pain gripped him. Shaking it off, he moved towards her. "Hold your ground, boy." A harsh voice commanded. Instantly, he froze.
Pale lips opened and Sev braced himself-even as Ecklebury seemed to greet it. Instead of a scream of anguish, words of entreaty poured forth:
"From time immortal,
Across binding chains,
I summon thee!
Dark as night,
Hard as light,
Long imprisoned,
I set thee free!
Come to us!
I command thee!
Come!"
The mirror shattered. Glass flew everywhere. A mist broke free and entered the room. Freed from his paralysis, he pushed his sister to the ground. The shade passed over their heads with an exultant cry, escaping into the darkening night.
"Excellent." Ecklebury applauded. "The Dark Lord thanks you for giving him the second. Go. And say nothing of what has transpired."
***
Professor MacGonagal watched the twins follow Professor Ecklebury out of the room. There was something different about him. With a frown on her face, she turned to Albus. "You shouldn't let them go. An evil wind blows around that man."
"What reason would I give for stopping him? He is their new head, Minerva."
"You're the Headmaster. You don't need to give reasons." When that had no effect, she said bitterly. "I sometimes think you follow the rules a bit to closely and ignore the welfare of the students."
A twinkle entered his eyes. "But, my dear professor, I thought you felt I shouldn't worry about them."
"I changed my mind." She was tense. "They have been of enormous help to Sirius. And, you were right, they are children."
"What will be, will be."
"And sometimes what isn't to be, happens anyway."
Professor MacGonagal wasn't the only one who worried about them. At the Gryffindor table, Lily picked at her food and watched intently as the twins left. There was something almost dreamlike about Septina's movements. And Severus looked ill at ease. Something was definitely wrong.
"Lily, I hate to disturb you, but I think Narcissa wants your attention." Molly said.
Looking over at the other end of the Slytherin table, she saw Narcissa. Bowing her head in acknowledgment, she continued to stare at her.
Narcissa was fuming. She thought that she'd finally gotten rid of that wretched mudblood and yet, there she was. Sitting calm and looking as though she didn't have a care in the world. And now she'd been told, by Lucius, that Voldemort was interested in the girl. She was now off limits. Well, she decided, I'll have to corner Septina and find out if the rumors were true. She sneered at Lily.
Green eyes rolled in exasperation. Without thought, she caused a bowl of hot soup to drop into her lap. Narcissa shrieked and jumped up. Her friends gathered around her solicitously. She glared at the Gryffindor girl. "I don't know how you did that, Evans, but when I find out, you'll pay."
"Miss Alway, I know that you are upset by this unfortunate accident but there is no reason to threaten a student. I'm afraid that you must come with me." Professor Dumbledore made his was over to her and escorted her out of the silent hall.
James studied Lily's shocked face. "Isn't that odd? I've never known house elves to be so careless."
"Neither have I unless...did you have something to do with that, Lily?" Remus asked.
Sirius grinned wickedly. "And, if you did, could you teach me?"
"Really, guys, I don't know were you came up with such an idea. My wand is packed. I am just as appalled as you." Lily said, smiling innocently. "But it was funny, in a rather pitiful way." Mentally she was berating herself for dropping her guard. Can't wait to see their reactions if they knew it really was me, she thought.
"If you say so."
Sirius looked heartbroken. "Oh, well. I suppose it wouldn't have worked for me anyway."
But Lily could tell James didn't believe her. That's his problem, she thought rebelliously. I am not going to live my life based on what he thinks I should be.
Later that night, Septina crept into her brother's dorm room. "Sev?"
"Yes?"
"What did I do?" She asked, sitting down at the foot of his bed. They didn't fear being caught, everyone was used to their nocturnal habits. It was generally agreed that a silencing spell be placed around his bed because they would often talk about her visions.
"You don't remember?"
"Some. My mark burned. There was shattered glass. I set something free."
He nodded, holding out his arms. She huddled near his warmth, feeling protected.
"What did I set free?"
"I don't know."
She looked up at him. "Are you going to go to Voldemort?"
"I must. He's the only one who seems to know what is happening."
"I'll go with you."
He nodded, shifting slightly so that she had some more room on the bed. "Night."
"Night." She was silent. "Sev?"
"Yes?"
"I'm sorry."
"Don't be. I was tricked as well." He sighed.
"I should have known."
"How could you? He caught us at a vulnerable time."