I've also changed the birth date of Hermione from November to September in chapter 1.
Do update please!!!
The usual disclaimers apply... How I wish that Harry Potter and co. belonged to me... They have a world that I would LOVE to live in.
SilverDawn
The Awakening of a Royal Chapter 10: Mikael makes a decision…Murmurs started arising from the professors while the members of the Court of Twelve engaged in a mind-speech conversation about the matter of the Dementors and Voldemort. Azrael raked his silver hair absent-mindedly, trying to recall some information of the recent raids that the Death Eaters had organized throughout Europe. He had wanted to start asking his twin about it (mentally of course), but was interrupted by a mind-speech that was sent to all three Kadamons and the remaining four dragons plus one phoenix.
::I propose,:: the deep voice spoke, ::that we had best discuss this in private, shouldn't we?::
Lucifer eyed the speaker (who was in the crowd of professors), and gave a slight nod to him in agreement. Then, in a tone that brooked no objection, the professor started, "This matter must be discussed immediately. Headmaster, Salazar, Minerva, Severus, if you would come with me?" And in Egyptian, added, "Court of Twelve, go to the Kadamon suite, level three dungeons, information halls. Gather as much data as you can about the backgrounds of the Dementors etc. Temperance, I believe that you still know the way?"
"I still do." Nikolai replied smoothly in Slovak, earning a satisfied look from Lucifer, who continued (in Greek), "Good. I'll apparate all of you to the common room at level one and you'll have to make your way down yourselves. Emperor, Empress, stay with me. Court of Twelve, dismissed." All nine of them gave crisp bows to the professor before seven of them disappeared to the suite via Lucifer's teleportation.
Most of the professors gaped at this, but the group – comprising of the four dragons, one phoenix, five professors and two students – headed for the door. Dumbledore was the last of them to leave, and in a solemn voice, he addressed the others, "Professors, this news must be kept from the children to prevent panic arising. Also, the upcoming Hogsmeade trip is cancelled until further announcements." With that, he left, and was teleported by Lucifer to the conference room, which was at the fifth floor dungeons within the Kadamon suite itself.
A large, oval-shaped table was placed strategically in the middle of the room, and many ornately carved chairs were placed beside it. Being the person to conduct the meeting, Lucifer took a seat at one end of the table before the others took seats that they preferred. When all of them were settled down, one of the dragonkin with mahogany-brown-colored hair rose from his seat and started addressing them, "Ladies, gentlemen. This piece of news was passed on to us this afternoon by the personnel from the United Defensive. The Dementors guarding Azkaban had gone to Voldemort's side. The criminals within the Azkaban prisons have been released, along with many of the formerly-convicted Death Eaters."
Dumbledore shook his head sadly as he murmured, "I've told Cornelius that he should be vigilant about where the Dementors might side." Silverdawn shook her head at this, placing a comforting hand on her godfather's shoulder, "Uncle, Fudge would never have listened." McGonagall agreed too, but frowned when she heard the girl call Dumbledore 'uncle'. Lucifer saw this and sighed, knowing that the deputy headmistress would have to know of his sister's identity, "Minerva, Silverdawn is his goddaughter…"
"But Ms. Langford is muggle-born. How could she be Albus' godchild?"
"That's because the data, information and surname given is a farce. Silver is a Kadamon." Salazar replied blandly, and the strict professor's eyes widened in realization, "No wonder she reminds me of Athena!"
"You can say that again." Severus Snape said dryly, and Silverdawn gave him an apologetic glance. In a quiet tone, she stated, "Still, we are not here to discuss the past… the current threat must be solved before we lose even more innocent people." Her silver eyes darkened into an enigmatic shade of violet as she continued, "with the Dementors roaming about, you can expect St Mungo's to be crowded within a fortnight."
Everyone's faces went bleak as they thought of the Dementor's trait of sucking out happiness from people. Severus shook his head, muttering, "The first place Voldemort will order the Dementors to conduct a raid with him is Hogwarts." McGonagall nodded in concurrence, but one of the dragonkin with pale lavender hair snorted, "Not bloody likely. That bastard isn't able to enter." Irritated, a lady with ankle-length silver hair chided the man, amber-gold eyes glaring at him, "Temper, Nightshade. People will think that you are an uncouth brat."
"Nobody gave you leave to tell me off." The man – Nightshade – retorted back, earning himself a death glare from yet another of the Dragonkin who had dirty-blond hair and dark blue eyes – Sapphire.
"Still, your behavior deems to be refined," The silver-haired lady replied mildly, sipping her cup of honeyed red tea. Nightshade glared at her, and if-looks-could-kill, the lady would have already been dead. Nonetheless, Azrael could no longer stand their bickering, and said tiredly, "Lightbringer, Nightshade. Stop this quarrel now." He rubbed his temples in an attempt to soothe the migraine that was building up in his head, but Nightshade tried to argue, "Lightbringer started it first!"
Finally, the leader of the Dragonkin – the black-haired man – spoke up, "Nightshade, shut up."
Cold silver eyes glared at the lavender-haired man, and meekly, he said, "Yes, your majesty."
"Thanks, Shadow." Azrael said gratefully while the man gave the prince a nod. At long last, Lucifer started the agenda, "Sources have directed that the Death Eaters will be starting the so-called 'killing' campaign from Britain, and continue all the way to the other states in Europe. The defense teams have been readied and will defend the areas if need be. However, Fudge has repeatedly denied the fact that Voldemort is on the loose again. According to the laws guarding the Universal Parliament, we cannot send forces here to Britain without his agreement…"
"That pig." Salazar muttered under his breath, receiving similar reactions from his brother and Minerva. ('Stupid faggot", "Stubborn mull") Everyone lapsed into their own thoughts, worrying about the Dementors roaming the country. Silverdawn paled slightly when she thought of the past, and the silver-haired lady – Lightbringer – glanced at her worriedly.
"Honey, are you alright?" Lightbringer asked in concern. The latter managed a nod indicating that she was fine, but Shadownight also noticed that she was upset, though he wisely refrained from asking. Instead, he went for a more direct approach, channeling energy into the girl's body to stabilize her condition. The black-haired girl felt it, and gave him a grateful smile that he returned indulgently. Still, he was deciding something in his mind, and finally said, "As to the problems pertaining to the security of Hogwarts, I have a proposal to make."
"And that is…?" Severus asked, knowing that this dragon was a very resourceful man. After all, he wasn't the reigning leader of the dragons for nothing.
"By your leave Albus. I'm willing to stay here with my companions to guard the castle."
"You're willing to what!?!" Lucifer, Azrael, Severus, Salazar and the other three dragons asked in disbelief. ::Shadownight has never been so generous to people. Why now?:: Everyone who knew him thought.
"That's very kind of you." Dumbledore said in surprise, but was more than glad to accept such unexpected aid. Shadownight gave a curt nod at the Headmaster before continuing, "the Dragonkin residing in UWIM will be notified. I will personally oversee the barricades strengthened within the grounds of Hogwarts."
"Feel free to call upon my help." Severus and Minerva offered unanimously, and the black-haired dragon replied, "I'll remember that." He knew of Snape's vast experiences in potions, and that the transfigurations mistress was a skilled animagi… this would definitely be of help later on during the infiltration.
"Now, to the matter of Voldemort." Azrael started when everyone had gotten over the previous offer, "the Dementors fear the Dragons too much to even dare enter this domain. But the Death Eaters are not immune to this…"
"The charms prevent people to apparate into the castle itself, but people can apparate to the grounds near the Forbidden Forest…" McGonagall trailed off as she tried to remember the reason why.
"The power nodes within the Forbidden Forest itself had been set up millenniums ago. No spell can be place there." Lucifer finished for her.
"Then I'll sent convoys in that area as look-outs." Lightbringer added in smoothly whilst raising a pale hand. A ball of fire appeared in the outstretched palm where a small, red, thunderbird formed. In the language of elfish, she said to the bird, "Go, and tell the creatures there to be on guard." The bird flew out of the room, and did its allocated task.
"The confrontation with the Death Eater will be inevitable." Salazar said grimly, a statement that everyone agreed on. When he finished, Dumbledore said, "though inevitable, we can still postpone it to a later date… This comes to another problem…" Everyone wondered what it was, but Severus groaned, "Harry Potter."
"Exactly." Dumbledore replied meaningfully, "Young Harry is as mischievous as James was… No doubt he'll get into trouble again. Speaking of which, where are they?"
"In Pearlsong's apartment." Silverdawn supplied and Severus commented casually, "Pearlsong gave Minerva quite a scare… What happened to Ms. Granger?" The black-haired potions master thought back to the incident… ::Pearlsong had formerly been the guardian of Athena...:: his heart wrenched painfully at the thought of the beautiful woman whom he had fallen in love with. ::what does Pearl want with her?:: His sobriety faded to the past as different memories meshed together into a totally 'mumbo-jumbo' re-enactment of her absolute leaving of his life… It was only then did a voice interrupt his chain of thoughts.
"Some problems that will be solved sooner or later…" Azrael replied evasively, causing Lucifer to frown again. Silverdawn saw this, and asked in concern, "Luce, what's the problem?"
"Oh, nothing." The silver-haired man replied non-committedly as he brought to mind the previous incident. ::The line that had bound the two children together was red. Freak! Doesn't that mean…?::: Lucifer's thoughts wondered madly from one end to the other. Mentally, he cursed his gift of seeing the connections between people, and rebuked himself for forgetting to shield this particular Gift at that time in the hall… Regaining control of his wondering mind, he said, "The two of them are fine."
"I agree. My wife will never do them harm." Shadownight said quietly, and Snape, regaining his sharp wit, asked in a sarcastic manner, "You finally managed to gain the lady's hand?" The dragon took a mouth of bitter black coffee, pointing out, "Ten years ago. You couldn't make it for the wedding, remember?"
The potions master thought back to that time in the past and sheepishly replied, "Sorry." Shadownight just threw a dagger at him in warning that the latter caught deftly. Lazily, Severus smirked, drawling, "Careful where you throw your stuff, Shadow." With that, he threw the sharp weapon into the slab of wall with such strength that it was deeply embedded into the wall. Minerva glanced at him in surprise, commenting, "Severus, I've never known you to be so agile."
This caused Snape to become annoyed, and Salazar chuckled, saying, "You do not know even half of his abilities, Minerva."
"And I pray to Merlin that I would never have to know all of it. The pranks he played during his school years are enough memorials for me." McGonagall shuddered at the tricks the man had played during his schooling. Those pranks were actually competition between the Marauders and Severus, and those so-called 'innocent' jokes make the pranks that the Weasley twins play seem harmless and childish.
This comment actually brought about a red tinge onto the pale professor's face (the Glamourie face of course), and Snape was about to make some nasty remark to cover up his embarrassment when the brown-haired dragonkin – Foreststar – cleared his throat and asked, "Erm, can we stop the sidetracking and return to the main topic?" All the professors looked apologetic, and went back to the issue at hand.
After about half an hour of conference, Silverdawn finally spoke up, "I don't think that there is much more that we can discuss now with so little information. Uncle Severus, Professor McGonagall, why don't both of you go ahead and check on your houses? Professor McGonagall, I assure you that Hermione and Harry are fine." Somewhat appeased, the two professors left, but Lucifer mind-spoke to his uncle, ::Sev, your room is still intact in this suite. Feel free to use it.::
::I suppose that you'll never stop using that nickname on me now, would you?:: Snape asked wryly, receiving a grin from Lucifer's mind.
::Nope. Mikael and I will never stop using it, so you can wait until you go back to heaven.:: Lucifer replied in an unwavering tone.
::Should have known. Both of you have no respect for your elders.:: Snape mock replied.
::You pamper us too much to be bothered with such formalities. We are used to calling you that since young, but Azrael and Silver doesn't, so at least you won't get humiliated by them in school.:: The silver-haired man said cheekily.
::Yeah right.:: Snape retorted back sarcastically.
::hahahahaha…:: Lucifer laughed uncontrollably. Exasperated, Snape just shook his head, earning himself a weird look from Minerva, who was walking with him to exit of the dungeons where the portalling portraits were.
::Still,:: Snape mind-spoke grudgingly, ::Thanks for keeping my room in condition...:: On hearing this, Lucifer sobered, and spoke seriously, ::Uncle, the rooms in there will never change. Keep in mind though, Aunt Athena's stuff are still in there.::
::You managed to salvage them???:: Snape asked incredulously.
::Yup.::
There was silence for a while, and the silver-haired professors thought that his uncle had already linked out, but he got a short reply that implied a lot.
::Thanks, Lucifer.:: The tone he used sounded a little choked.
::No prob, Unc.::
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Unknown Location
Hogwarts
Level Three Location
Information Halls
Kadamon Suite
One and a half hours ago…
The entire three stretches of the hall's walls were lined with large ceiling to floor length screens that was controlled from the computers and Virtual Reality (VR) remotes at the horseshoe formation panel in the center of the room. Currently, seven people were residing in that area, each busy tapping the computers or manipulating the VR visors to check on stuff.
"Man! That idiot's personal profile alone spans twenty-seven pages!" Lawrence groaned as he started flipping the information that the defense institute had sent over. Just looking at Tom Riddle's first eleven years in the Muggle World already showed signs of his brutal nature. The Universal Investigations Bureau had even locked on to his current hideout area, but this was still classified information and cannot be spoken outside of the Defense Circle.
Nonchalantly, the black-haired boy threw the entire stack of papers to Draco, who was manipulating the VR system and at the same time, hacking into some Death Eater file. The platinum-blond haired boy took of the VR headset, vaguely flipped through the entire report without blinking, and handed it over to Amber, who was having a conversation with one member of the Universal Elite via one of the telecommunications screen.
"A muggle-born? Then why does he hate the same race he's from?" Draco wondered.
"Only heaven knows the answer…" Tristan muttered under his breath while looking at some figures and graphs on the screen. Those were actually the rates of Death Eater attacks in the various countries, and Ashteroth frowned at the numbers.
"It's been rising since the end of last year. No wonder the Parliament wants this over and done with…" Hideaki murmured thoughtfully. Ashteroth agreed to, and directed his friend, "Tris, zoom in on the range of attacks in Britain."
"No problemo."
Tristan tapped on several keys with a grace fit of a dancer, and the numbers changed. In place of the graphs was a map of Britain where dots were being placed in colors varying from green to red. Everyone stopped what he or she was doing to see this, with almost all of them regarding the red dots in particular interest.
"The red dots show the regions where higher numbers of raids occurred." Tristan explained while walking up to the screen. Silently, he cast a levitation spell that enabled him to float, and pointed to one specific dot near the northern region of Britain; "This is one of the villages that is supposedly near where the Riddle Manor is in Little Hangleton. Voldemort's forces has been constantly attacking this area, as if he's trying to destroy any remnants of the place…"
"Covering up his past?" Lawrence asked cynically. Tristan gave him a dry laugh, saying, "Something like that…"
"I wonder if father knew that the man he's serving is what he terms as 'mudblood'." Draco said thoughtfully. Suddenly, his eyes lighted up wickedly while asking, "Tris, was it hard to get this information?"
"It's already recorded in the Defensive Archive. But I don't think many people know of this. However, the recent opening of the Chamber has let four Hogwarts students know of Tom Riddle…"
"Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, Ronald and Virginia Weasley." Nikolai stated. She looked at Draco in apprehension, and asked cautiously, "Magician, what have you in mind?" Half-expecting the boy to deny plotting anything, she was rather surprised on seeing the boy reply, "This piece of trivia might be of use to me if Father pressures me to join the Death Eaters."
The others seemed shocked by this, but Draco just shook his head, "Father had been pressuring me since my sixteenth birthday to join the Death Eaters officially… I've managed to fend him off with Professor Snape and mother's help, but this cannot last long…" Hideaki gave his friend a comforting squeeze on the shoulder, and silence reigned for a short moment. It was rather tensed, but that went broken when a picture flickered to life at the telecommunications screen.
It was of a young man with straight hair that was of a peculiar color… The top half of his hair was black and it faded gently to form a pure silver, and it was left about three inches just below his chin, razor-cut. This hair color had attracted many people, but most startling were his eyes, which were a blue that was bordering to the color of a pure diamond. He was wearing a cream-colored military uniform that complements his tan complexion, and looked absolutely handsome. In a deep tenor, the man spoke, "I've heard that the Dementors are on the loose…"
"Your highness." The seven of them bowed in respect at the screen while the man grimaced, "Dispense with the formalities people. If this continues, I can't even have a decent conversation." Everyone laughed at this, and Nikolai teased, "Honestly Mikael, one would have thought that you'd put on some air of arrogance."
Mikael gave several dry laughs before replying, "If I did, Mother will come back from the dead just to whack some sense out of my head." This caused everyone to break into peals of laughter that could not be stopped easily… The crown prince of the Universal Royal Family waited patiently for the mirth to subside before starting, "Glad to see you back with the team Magician." Startled that the prince still remembered him , Draco gave him a genuine smile, replying truthfully, "Thanks Mike. Honestly speaking, I'm also happier with the Court."
"Of course you do," Ashteroth replied in mock conceit, "we're the best gang you can be in." Chuckles broke out, but Mikael cut them off quickly, "Before all of you enter into a laughing fit, I need to tell you guys something." The students quickly sobered, all ears on what the man had to say.
"The Universal Elite are openly infiltrating the various areas where Death Eaters are roaming. This spans the entire European continent. However, they are unable to enter Britain easily. I *need* you to get proof that Fudge is being an incompetent minister, put a vote of distrust on him in the United Parliament, and get him out. It's relatively apparent that he is not going to admit that Voldemort's around. This has been ongoing since two years ago, and my patience is running thin.
"The thing I need you to do is this. Help me dig up all types of scandals the Minister had been rumored of, and send me the info. I've already told Emperor and Empress about this. Magician, help me hack into the British Government's private files to find any faults in their workings – this is your area of expertise." Mikael said in a forceful manner that had shown that his decision was final. Mentally, Draco was glad that they had finally intervened.
::After all,:: Draco thought realistically, ::If Voldemort is killed, I'll no longer be so much pressure.::
His thoughts trailed to the times he was at home, and how his father had trained him in the ways of the Dark Arts so thoroughly that he did not think that there was anything that he never learnt. Nevertheless, he quickly snapped out of the thoughts and eyed Mikael, saying, "You need to give me some time."
"I know." The man smiled, continuing, "I need all of you to be ready for the operation by start of October."
"It's 4th of September. Then, that's about…" Hideaki thought for a moment, "a month. Should be enough time." Mikael understood that the period of time was ample even though it might 'disturb' their regular timetable. ::They should be happy with my next piece of news then…:: the Prince thought mildly.
Idly, he started, "There's a gift for all of you, save Draco though…" The entire group looked up at him expectantly, causing Mikael to continue, "All of you are exempted from your classes in UWIM until the end of October." Whoops of delight sounded in the room, and everyone grinned so very widely. They can't be blamed though… to be able to escape school for a whole one month was practically impossible, and Mikael had just given them leave to do it!
"But," the Prince cautioned, "You still have to do your homework. Lucifer and Salazar will be tutoring all of you." At that, everyone groaned, and Amber grumbled, "Should have known that there could never be anything so good to be true…"
"At least we don't have to go for classes at those freaking hours." Lawrence said consolingly, adding, "Plus, Professors Kadamon and Salazar aren't that bad…"
"Agreed. I can finally have some sleep!" Ashteroth smiled as he plopped down into a fluffy couch near the panels. Mikael smiled at their conversation, and addressed them again, "I'll leave all of you to continue on your work. Moreover, I have to go for another French Minister's Ball…" He made a face at the thought of dancing with those girls who practically throw themselves at him, and Nikolai laughed, "Take care not to get drunk by yet another lady."
"That is if they can get near me…" the Prince said wryly. Amber laughed at that, and Mikael ended the conversation hurriedly. "Got to go. See you guys soon. Ja." The com-link ended, and Hideaki said, "Well, back to work time." Everyone saw the flickering screens, and sighed.
::This is going to be a long night…:: Draco thought.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Unknown Location,
Hogwarts.
Level Three Gamma Tower
Left Wing, Fifth Room
Kadamon Suite
Two Hours Ago…
A pale blue mist started appearing from nowhere, permeating to fill the entire apartment with a beautiful blue color. It intensified to a very bright sapphire blue that seemed to gather in the center of the room, before slowly fading off to reveal three people – one that settled on a plush sofa, one puzzled and another totally at ease with the surrounding.
Harry looked at the room in utter amazement when he was finally able to open his eyes. After all, the vortex he had just experienced was even worse than traveling by floo powder, and he hoped never to try it again. Glancing at the high Greek columns that had intricate designs at both ends, to the elegant arcs that were situated in front of the pathway that led to the living room and another that led to the balcony, Harry felt as if he was transported to some ancient Greek temple where the Gods and Goddesses of Olympia lived.
He wandered around, occasionally touching some antiques and inspecting several non-moving portraits, leaving a rather amused Pearlsong looking at him. In a soft tone, she spoke out, "Child, are you pleased with what you see?" This statement startled Harry out of his reverie, and cautiously, he went back to Hermione's side, glancing at the still unconscious girl sleeping soundly on the sofa.
"Now that you've noticed her to be out cold, wouldn't it be better if we let her have a decent bed to sleep in?" The lady said in a very motherly manner, causing the black-haired boy to have the decency to feel guilty and blush. Harry's eyes lingered at the sleeping girl for a moment before scooping her into his arms in a protective manner. Hesitantly, he made sure that Hermione was somewhat comfortable, and said to the lady, "Okay." The way he took care of Hermione satisfied Pearlsong very much, and she led Harry into a bedroom the size of Gryffindor's common room. This time, Harry did not have time to boggle at the surroundings. Instead, he headed for the bed, placed his best friend on it carefully and drew up the blankets to keep her warm whilst the blue-haired lady watched on. When everything was set, Pearlsong started quietly, "She will wake up very soon child. Do not worry about it. In the meantime, why don't we have some tea?"
She led the nervous boy back to the living room, ushered him into a seat by the dining table, and waved her hand. A pot of sweet-smelling, scented tea appeared, along with scones, biscuits, bite-sized tidbits and a glazed fruitcake appeared out of thin air, filling the room with a pleasant aroma. At this, Harry's stomach growled loudly, causing his face to flush a deep crimson. Pearlsong smiled at his reaction, and said apologetically, "I'm sorry that we had interrupted the entire population's dinner. Here," she poured a cup of tea for the famished boy, "have some tea." Gratefully, the boy took it, and gave a small sip that had him totally entranced in.
"What is this tea made of?" Harry asked in wonder as he took one more gulp, savoring the tasty, yet not too sweet, concoction.
"A very complex mixture of flower petals that one of the dragons made for me to strengthen myself." Pearlsong explained briefly, trying not to add in the technicalities and types of flowers involved as the boy would have never heard of it. However, the mention of the 'dragons' made Harry interested and he blurted out, "Are you a dragon? Why are you here?"
Surprised, but not entirely so, Pearlsong said, "Yes, I'm a dragon, and my companions and I are here on business. By the way, I'm Pearlsong."
"I'm Harry Potter." Harry answered back after remembering his manners. Pearlsong raised an eyebrow at this, and was relatively surprised that this lank boy was actually the infant she had seen some 15 years ago. ::Interesting how a person can change within 15 years. He looks more and more like James though, save the eyes…:: Controlling the urge to comment about his eyes, Pearlsong passed him a slice of cake, which he ate ravenously, and contented herself by looking at the boy.
When he was finally full, Harry gazed back at the stormy blue-gray eyes that had him slightly disconcerted. Curious as to why she was looking at him, but too shy to actually ask, he tried diverting the lady's stare and asked, "What type of dragon are you?"
"Me?" Pearlsong asked in startlement. She thought over it seriously, but could find no answer. Thus, she replied, "Truth be told. I'm not sure."
"You're what?" Harry asked in a flabbergasted tone. Pearlsong gave a crooked smile as she thought back, "You can say that I'm from the Royal Family of the Dragons… If there is something like that. Most of my life was spent living in Assiah, along with the angels in that plane."
"Angels?"
"Yes, very friendly people those lot are." The lady said with a soft smile on her face as she thought back of times she spent in Assiah before she moved to UWIM to help in the defenses on Earth. Harry seemed to sense her thoughts and drank his tea quietly, leaving her to think about the past. When Pearlsong felt that she had been distracted for far too long a time, and yet the young boy had left her to her reverie, she was attracted by this considerate nature of Harry and said, "I've gotten out of my daydreaming child. While Hermione is sleeping, would you like to do anything?"
"Is Hermione going to be fine? She really scared Ron and I…" Harry said, and he thought back to Ron, "Oh shit! I left Ron to take care of the students all by himself! He's gonna kill me!" Harry groaned loudly, leaving the blue-haired lady laughing. Pearlsong chuckled at Harry's dilemma, but did not forget to console him, "It'll all turn out fine. Hermione just felt something very familiar to her and fainted. Nothing that a good sleep couldn't cure."
Harry calmed down, thought over the lady's invitation of doing anything, and asked cautiously, "Are you multi-lingual?" Once more, the dragonkin was taken aback by the young boy's question, "Yes I am… What have you in mind?"
"Can you teach me how to read and speak in other languages?" Harry asked seriously. This request pleased Pearlsong very much, and she agreed readily. Rising from her seat, she went to the nearby bookcase, and took out a book that was written in a wide variety of languages. She motioned Harry to sit next to her in front of the study table near the bookcase, and explained, "This is a book that teaches the basics of many of the languages used currently in the world. All UWIM students have this when they first enter the school. Here, let's look over it, and try to get this drilled into your mind. The spells and charms to aid this are all written inside."
She turned it to the first page, and started going through the prefaces with him. This continued on for two hours until Pearlsong left him on his own to make some supper, knowing that Harry was able to work on his own. She came back minutes later with a tray of food, contented to find the boy progressing very quickly. They continued on, heads buried in the book, with Harry asking several intelligent questions occasionally, and Pearlsong answering back. The hours passed in pleasant silence, until about one in the morning, when the door to the suite opened.
Lucifer, Shadownight, Salazar, Azrael and Silverdawn entered the room, all looking particularly tired. Pearlsong glanced at the five of them, and smiled at her husband, who went to her side. Harry was still thoroughly engrossed with the book – he was at the language Japanese – and was blissfully ignorant of the people until Lucifer called out to him, "Mr. Potter."
This formal way of addressing startled Harry and he jumped up, almost knocking over the inkpot that was near the huge tome he was reading. Harry fumbled with his glasses for a moment, and on seeing the professors, said, "Good evening professors."
"It's already morning, Harry." Salazar said wryly after consulting his watch. Azrael and Silver laughed, but quickly sobered when Lucifer started, "I'm afraid that I'm the bearer of bad news, Harry." The silver-haired man saw the boy tense involuntarily, and continued in a solemn tone, "The Dementors have gone to Voldemort's side…"
Emerald green eyes went shocked at this statement, and Harry shook his head, "Oh my god…" He shuddered at that thought of the creepy feeling he had during the days when the Dementors guarded Hogwarts during his third year – it was an experience he never wanted to relive again.
"The reason we told you this in advance," Salazar said quietly, "is because we *need* you to be on guard at all times. It was a known fact that Voldemort literally wants your hide."
"The grounds outside the Hogwarts castle will no longer be safe, much less Hogsmeade…" Azrael added, and reminded his friend, "you have to be safe, Harry." Everyone was looking at the black-haired boy, and Shadownight spoke out, "leave him to sort out those thoughts himself. He's already confused by the sudden change of events." Everyone agreed, but Harry hastily cut them off this thought, "I'm alright, and I understand the implications… The Dementors will be performing the kiss on anyone now, wouldn't they?"
He turned to Silverdawn, and the girl nodded in answer to his question. Again, a chill went down Harry's spine, and resignedly, he agreed, "I'll stay in the castle until the matter is solved." At this, all of them breathed a sigh of relief, and Lucifer, who was glad that the boy did have some common sense, said, "Still, you can go out of this castle, only if you have one of the professors or the dragonkin to accompany you, or if you've gained permission from the Headmaster to go out with students. You are a grown boy, Harry, I trust that you know which realms you can or cannot enter."
The addressee just nodded his head dumbly, and Pearlsong hastened to comfort him out of some maternal instinct, "Harry," the boy wasn't really listening, and the blue-haired lady shook him lightly, "Harry." He finally seemed to respond, emerald eyes gazing into those hypnotic blue-gray eyes, "Harry, so long as you're in the castle, the Dementors will never be able to come near you. Remember that, if anything goes wrong, you are welcome to come here to see me."
"C'mon, let's get you back to your room." Azrael said as he started leading his friend to the Gryffindor common room. However, before he left, Pearlsong took the forgotten book from the study table and handed it over to the child, saying, "Harry, treat this book as a gift from me, and learn it well."
"Thanks, Pearlsong." Harry said gratefully, "but what about Hermione?"
"She'll stay here for the time being." Shadownight said. The three students were about to leave when Lucifer commented, "It's a good thing young Harry has those two children as friends…" This remark caused Azrael to scowl as he growled, "Brother, I'm not a child anymore, and you are only seven years older that Silver and I, and eight years older than Harry himself."
Lucifer laughed, a very beautiful one, and stopped when a very agitated Azrael threw two sharp daggers at him, "Alright, I get the idea."
With that, Silverdawn bid the elders 'goodnight', and closed the door behind them.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
End of Chapter.
I'm so *so* sorry for delaying this for almost three weeks… *guilty* I've not been feeling very well, *I know, I know, I'm making lame excuses* but I really injured my wrist ligament *again* and this doesn't really bode well for me… but hey! I do hope that you guys like this chapter. This must have taken me the LONGEST time to write, and truth be told, I'm not really satisfied by it…
There aren't any extra notes for this chapter, but plenty of reviews to cover. Most of all, if there are any questions, please do *ASK*!!! And pretty please, review!!!
Thanks =)
Little Love Dove ~ I'm sorry that there's no scene on Hermione on this chapter. But there'll be in the next chap! Do watch out for it!!!
Linda ~ 'Mione won't know of her parentage so soon. *smiles apologetically* Hope ya don't mind =)
starbrite ~ I've made her birthday to be during September, not the actual November that I've started out with. Then, the story will progress faster.
Mary Potter ~ Sorry for making you wait so long. Hope that you like this chap ^_^~ Thanx for your compliment, I like it =)
Madame Padfoot ~ Wow! I never knew that you were a lecturer, in psychology some more. *eyes lights up* Do you know biology? Can you help me in it??? And nope, I'm doing my As next year. Thank God!!!
HarryPotterCC1 ~ Again, I'm sorry that I posted this up late. Hopefully, I won't do this again. *sweat drops*
Kristina ~ Okie okie, this chapter is finally out!
mad ~ glad that you found this story good, I'll keep it up, promise! *but with fingers crossed behind*
Ken-chan ~ I'm sorry, but I don't use my mail often… Also, sorry for the cliffy *_*!
Christine ~ This story is gonna go rather slow, hope ya don't mind waiting!
Li-chan ~ The dragons have connections to the Kadamons, so try heading to this line, and think! J
Tracy ~ Thanks for letting me be in your favorites, and yippee! I've finally gotten this chapter out!!!
Colibi ~ I like the phrase you use, but remember, everyone has that gift of imagination, that includes you too!
Janmci ~ *goes all smiley-faced* here's more!
Teigra ~ *looks at your hardcover book 4* how I wish I could have that… I've only got the paperback one cos I'm broke!!!
Aemos ~ Nope, you're not inpatient, it's just that I'm too slow. *sighs* I just wish that I don't get writer's block so very often. *ends up complaining and bashed by a pillow courtesy of my sister*
ilovespike-02 ~ Wow! You flatter me too much =) Too bad Severus was too far to see her eyes. *grins wickedly* No doubt he'll be shocked, and hopefully, faint again1
Dragon Charmer ~ I'm sorry to post this up so late when you wanted it soon… *helpless* Geez, I hope I can get back to posting on a weekly basis.
PotterGurlie ~ Lucifer can be evil when need be, but he'll never be bad to people whom he cares about. It actually depends on the side you're on. Be on his bad side, and you're dead! He's assistant overall-in-charge of the works in hell, but also does several odd jobs at time, like assassination of people he's assigned by his uncle, the current ruler of hell. Also, I live in Singapore, any idea where it is???
arcee ~ *sheepish* I'm sorry that there's no appearance of 'Mione in this chapter, but there will be of her in the next chapter!!!
mow wow ~ hee hee, I hope that I could see dragons too. *dreamily* but the sky is so darn BRIGHT!!!
tawnyteaser ~ it's gonna be a Hermione/Severus fic, but there's no romance between them… Sorry if this is gonna disappoint you.
DreamSleepChild ~ like the above, there would be no romance between them. Still, I hope that you'd still like the story!
Sofie Peeters ~ The angels might not be interesting to you, but I still hope that you'd continue reading, review soon!
mym2000 ~ Aww… *complaining* but I wanna go see what ittiz like!!!
Herald-Mage Brianna ~ not so soon, my lady… where did you get the name of your companion from? Which book? I really love the Herald-Mage series and Arrows of the Queen. Herald-Mage Vanyel and The Queen's Own, Herald Talia rocks!!!
LilyAyl ~ Hmm… then I'd be a Junior, cos I'm born in 1985, not 1984… *sigh* However, they are not gonna tell Hermione about her heritage so soon… btw, what is M-S-C?
Loves_Kiss ~ *grins widely* thanks for the compliment! Hope ya like this chapter too!
bubblegum*girl ~ I'll be sure to carry this on till the end. I hope that I'd stop midway and not write anymore!
yadayada ~ *embarrassed* there's no need to bow down!!! I'm really glad that you like it =)
janmmci ~ Hey! You *do* know where Singapore is!!! No offense though, I've asked several people on the net, but nobody knew about it! They are *definitely* not gonna be lovers!
Helen ~ I'm sorry, but I don't use my mail often!!! So, if you did see this, that means that you'll have read up to here!
Dragon Charmer ~ Yo Dragon, *cheekily* art thou trying to flood the review area? I almost got knocked out by the sheer size of the msg, not to mention the *huge* number of 'I Love It'!!! I know that you like this story, but can you pretty *please*, dun do this again??? I almost fainted!!! P/s: I've got a weak heart!!!
Crydwyn ~ *head hangs down* I'm sorry… I just felt that the competition to enter UWIM is very high and thus, the level of education is much higher… the students in United studied there at the age of seven, so the basics has already been covered in their earlier years. I'll try not to do this again, hope you'd continue reading ^_^!
wjat ~ yippee! I've gotten the chapter out FINALLY!!!
HelFireChan ~ Thanks for the compliment! I've glad that you love it!
Tracy ~ Thanks for your constant reviews!!! And wow! You've read this story so many times??? *beams* Really delighted that you love it!
morgan Martin ~ heehee, I've gotten this chap out! *Hermione whacks my head with a bolster, saying, 'finally!'*
That's all for reviews! Plus, please review soon!!!
They perk up my days, really, they do!
Love
~~@ SilverDawn @~~