All Disclaimers Apply… How I wish that Harry Potter and co. belonged to me... They have a world that I would LOVE to live in.
Before you guys read on, I have a confession to make… I thought that the term starts on July, that's why in the previous chapter, people might get puzzled by the conversation the Court had with Mikael. Orange had asked me what month it was, and it was only then did I flip back to the first book, and *mouth drops* found out that term starts in September. So… I've made several modifications to the previous chapter. DO take a look, it's important for the plot. I apologize to everyone, cos' I keep making changes, hope you guys don't mind. Oh, and, thanks Orange!
Also, I've reread the previous chapter and found that I'm particularly rude when replying one of the reviewers. So, Dragon Charmer, hope ya don't mind! This chapter is for you =þ
SilverDawn
The Awakening of a RoyalChapter 11: The Bonds that Bind
They were in the potions classroom again, but this particular one looked much more sinister than the original dungeons setting of Snape's classroom. The room smelt of dank, decaying materials, and the black-haired girl instinctively wrinkled her nose at the rather grimy surroundings.
::This goes to show that there are teachers who are worse than Snape…:: Hermione thought wryly as she surveyed the students who looked totally alien to her. Not one of them was vaguely familiar to her, and she glanced at the Gryffindor side…Four particular people looked familiar to her… two with black hair, one with light, brown hair and another with almost colorless hair – Lupin, Sirius, Wormtail and…
"Prongs…" she whispered in disbelief in a tone that was definitely not hers. James Potter turned his head towards her, gave a smile, and turned back. Hermione had a thousand things to say, but none came out. Instead, a voice sounded in her head, the same one that had called out 'Prongs'.
::It looks to me that you're new in seeing the past.:: the voice spoke in a musical contralto, and this startled Hermione out of her wits. Tentatively, she apologized, ::I'm sorry, but you'd really have to help me.::
::It alright. Just stay at the back of my mind, and don't do anything. Remember, what you do in such dreams do alter the past, or future, depending on what dream you're in.:: The voice continued while Hermione 'felt' her hand copying some notes in a very neat handwriting which looked similar to hers.
::You are…?:: Hermione asked in curiosity.
::Athena.:: The voice spoke out, and instinctively, Hermione gasped.
::Is there any problem???:: Athena asked in concern, but Hermione, having regained her senses, shook her head mentally, and said, ::No…nothing.:: Athena smiled at her denial, but spoke no longer and concentrated on copying her notes. The potions mistress was still writing something on the board, and Sirius took the opportunity to toss a parcel to her, one that she caught deftly with a silently mouthed 'thanks'. Curious as to what was wrapped in it, Athena opened the parchment-wrapped package quietly whilst the person beside her watched on. The handwriting on the parchment was rather neat and definitely not Sirius's practically illegitimate scrawl. She gave a soft smile on realizing who the person was, and read the note silently…
Athena,
This is the stuff you need for that potion of yours. Sorry, but I'm unable to pass this to you in person cos there's another meeting today till about eight in the evening… I pray that I can survive this conference! Israfil will be transferring to Hogwarts with this month, just thought that you'd want to know. Hope that your potion work with Severus goes well. See you tonight (if possible)…P/s: There's a packet of your favorite sweets in there, courtesy of Pearlsong.
Love,
Adam.
Athena smiled at the writings, and looked at the parcel of potions that was wrapped in brown newsprint paper, then to the packet of sweets. Laughing silently, she opened the packet as quietly as she could, and tossed one of the clear, multi-colored candy into her mouth, savoring the sweet taste that continued to linger in her mouth. Idly, she whispered to her companion, "want one?"
"Yes." A deep baritone spoke at her side, and Hermione 'felt' someone slip a hand to Athena's waist, "I want yours." A mouth covered hers, causing Athena to be a little startled, but when a tongue slid by her lower lip, she opened her mouth willing to let him in. Gently, he nipped her bottom lip, before tasting the sweetness of her mouth, tongues sparring with one another until he slid the melting candy from her mouth into his.
Athena's face grew a little tingling when she stared at those dancing onyx black eyes, chastising him, "it's potions now!"
"Tastes sweet, like scented tea." The black-haired boy said, diverting the topic entirely. He gave her a peck on her cheek, and was about to whisper something to her ear when a cough sounded in front of them. Turning to the direction of the cough, they saw the professor, who was looking a bit exasperated.
"Ms. Zenvista, Mr. Snape," the professor said dryly, "if you could do this somewhere private next time round, instead of using my classroom, I'd be more than happy. Ten points from Slytherin, and detention tonight at eight." Several students snickered and Athena blushed red. Hermione shook her head mentally at Severus… no… Professor Snape's nerve…
And everything slowly went black.
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Hogwarts Castle
Unknown Location
Kadamon Suite
Level Three, Gamma Tower
Left Wing
Pearlsong and Shadownight's apartment.
0125 Ante Meridian
"Arghh…" Hermione moaned as she shook the last dregs of sleepiness out of her head. Pulling a pillow to cover her head, she thought over the dream she had. ::This is getting very weird… Practically unreal! But the conversation with Athena seems real enough.:: Thinking back to the dream, the brunette blushed a deep red at the thought of the couple kissing in public… Worse, in potions! In that dream, she was also Athena, and she had experienced what the black-haired girl underwent. ::Professor Snape looked so… humane. Are such dreams what Azrael had termed as what Silverdawn had seen??? I had better consult Silver on this…::
With her thoughts resolved, she sat up, looked at the surroundings, and groaned aloud.
::Aw man. You're getting better at this, Granger. Two different beds in two nights, plus dreams of Snape, that had gotta be the first!:: Hermione thought to herself as she surveyed the surroundings. This was definitely not Professor Snape's room, for the theme color of this bedroom was pearl white instead of the dark settings in the potions master's suite, but it definitely wasn't Silver's either. Racking her brains, but coming up with no answer, she got out from the fluffy bed, and preceded to the walk around, thinking of what had happened before she fainted. However, she was vaguely distracted by the surroundings.
The entire room, walls washed with cream-colored paint, had several oriental rugs that were placed by the bedside, fireplace, and the bookcases. Corinthian pillars, encased with gold at both ends, were situated at the doorway and by the balcony, giving the entire room a feeling of the olden civilizations. Several muggle murals graced the walls, and Hermione managed to make out one of them as the 'Birth of Venus' by Botticelli. The interior design was totally different from Silverdawn's room, and the feeling it gave the Gryffindor girl was one of elegance and the taste of ancient Hellenistic Art during the Golden Age of the muggle Greeks.
Sitting on the bed again, the Gryffindor prefect finally came up with the recognition that she'd heard a dragon speak to her, and those blue-gray eyes that had looked hauntingly familiar. ::But I've never seen her before, much less know her!:: With a defeated sigh, she fumbled with her robes, taking out a pouch that was something her mother had asked her to keep with herself at all times. From the velvet pouch, she took out an oval-shaped locket that had intricate carvings of a snake twirled about a crouching dragon that looked like an antique. There, she sat cross legged, whispering softly, "Mommy, what am I to do?" Staring dumbly at the light that was reflected from the smooth platinum metal, Hermione just sat there in the same position for a long time… And this was the way Pearlsong had found her in.
Sighing, the graceful dragonkin went to her side, and sat down at the bedside, gently caressing the girl's brown locks. This action startled Hermione out of her trance, and hastily, she hid her black, velvet pouch from the sight of the elegant lady. This small action did not escape the dragonkin's sight, but she did not press on. Instead, she projected an aura of calmness around the entire room, and asked gently, "Are you all right now?"
Those blue-gray eyes captivated Hermione, and she nodded obediently. The midnight-blue-haired lady smiled a little at this, saying, "I'm Pearlsong, one of the dragons who came to Hogwarts." Sapphire blue (the color hadn't changed back yet) eyes widened at this statement, for Hermione had never (in all sensibility) predicted that this elegant lady was a dragon! However, one can actually see that her hair was a very dark blue instead of black, and her eyes looked a little like Nikolai's, though the dragonkin's one was an even more peculiar color…
"I'm Hermione." The Gryffindor gave her name with a polite smile, before asking dryly, "I got knocked out, didn't I?" Though this question was a little nonsensical, but the dragonkin tried to explain, "The shock of meeting me and coming out of the crowd finally went into your head, and you fainted. It takes a lot of courage to stand in front of a dragon when you don't know them." Pearlsong's eyes twinkled at this statement, but Hermione just mumbled, "What I did might be considered idiotic."
"Not exactly so, child." Pearlsong replied, but the brunette just made a face. She thought of what Pearlsong had talked to her during the first meeting, the words that still lingered in her mind, 'From now on child, you are my ward.' They had sounded almost ethereal, and Hermione knew that the dragon had not spoken that out loud. Thus, she asked, "How did you manage to speak to me when you were not opening your mouth?"
::Like this?:: Pearlsong mind-spoke her in an amused tone.
"Yeah… it just sounded in my head, like some sort of wave…" she trailed off when she saw that the lady had not even moved her mouth, "Hey! You weren't talking!" The blue-haired lady smile, and continued in mind-speech, :: That's because I'm talking to you via the mind, not verbally.::
"Can everyone do it?" Hermione asked excitedly, hoping that she could try.
::No.:: the lady replied solemnly, awaiting the girl's reaction. As predicted, her face fell, and Pearlsong was infinitely amused by her expression that almost made her laugh out loud (again). Not wanting to disappoint her further, the lady continued, ::But you are one of those who can.::
At that, Hermione's face lighted up, and she asked eagerly, "How can I do it?"
::Think of the words you want to say in your head… And think of me; of your wanting me to hear what you say.::
A long moment of silence ensued as Hermione's face twittered into a frown with an obvious crease between her brows. Pearlsong could 'feel' that the girl was trying, and she waited patiently for her to start.
::… Like this?::
Hearing the two words made Pearlsong hug the girl in delight and in a gentle tone, she said, ::That's it. But you have to try making it smoother.::
This time, Hermione took a faster time to finish, and she managed out, ::Okie dokie.:: Blue-gray eyes twinkled at the young girl's (okay, maybe sixteen is no longer young, but a dragon can live up to thousands of years old!) ability to learn fast, and brought her to sit by the couch in front of a glass coffee table. With a wave of her hand, several munchies and a pot of honeyed tea appeared out of nowhere. Pearlsong made a gesture for her to tuck in, and Hermione, against all etiquette, starting eating the crispy apple pie without any sense of politeness… After all, she was hungry; and her stomach was growling badly.
Once again, Pearlsong looked at her eat indulgently, pouring two cups of tea for themselves. When the girl was finally full, the dragonkin mind-spoke, ::What do you remember of our first meeting?::
Hermione started to speak, but the dragonkin gave a reminder, ::Speak through the mind. That way, you will improve faster.:: The brunette gave a nod, and started recalling the chain of events. In a jittery tone, she started, ::It was by instinct… I cannot really describe it. My legs just brought me to where all of you were. Then, your eyes,:: Hermione paused to stare at those expectant blue-gray eyes, ::your eyes made an impact on me somewhere… but I don't know where. And your voice, I know I've heard them before!::
Hermione ended her statement in frustration, and Pearlsong could not help but smile at it.
Of course the child had heard her voice before! Pearlsong had been the one that saw to her being safe during Athena's pregnancy, and she had been the one to indirectly bring the Granger couple to that particular park when she found out that her ward – Athena – was not going to make it to the portal…Though no one knew, of course. It was a written law that dragons are not to interfere with the workings of man, but since the dark times came, many had come to ignore this rule… And Pearlsong was one of them due to her love for her black-haired ward.
Subtly diverting the topic, Pearlsong started, ::Hermione, do you know of the bonding between humans and mystical creatures?::
Hermione furrowed her brows as she thought back to the books she had read, before finally answering with a mind-spoken, ::Yes.:: Relieved that she would not have to explain the intricacies of bonding to her, Pearlsong continued, ::Remember what I last said to you?::
::Er… 'From now on child, you are my ward'?::
::Ever heard of this in your books?::
A moment of silence ensued as Hermione slowly realized the meaning of the words. Disbelievingly, she spoke aloud, "We are bonded?" The lady chuckled at her incredulity, but answered in a motherly voice, "Yes, my child." Hermione looked troubled at first, and Pearlsong started to wonder if she could accept her as her guardian in the world of magic. The blue-haired lady knew that this knowledge might be a little hard to digest, and fearing that the girl might not be able to acknowledge it, she asked cautiously, "You don't like it…?"
"No!" Hermione answered vehemently, shaking her head. On impulse, she hugged Pearlsong tightly, bubbling, "I'm more that honored by this act!" This statement brought immense relief to the dragonkin, and she spoke, "Child, you do not know how much this means to me…"
Hermione did not need to answer, for those sapphire-blue eyes spoke of it all.
They stayed up talking for quite a long time, with Pearlsong explaining to her the more 'in-depth' version of how the bonding works. They could 'feel' each other through a strange but invisible bond that holds them firmly together, and mind-speech enabled them to converse even when they were worlds away (…literally.). The conversation they had spanned from the usual gossip, to politics, sports, muggle wars and even the latest fashion. Until finally, Pearlsong broached on the subject of boys… or particularly, Harry.
"That child, Harry… He was very worried about your sudden fainting spell." Pearlsong said thoughtfully, eyeing her reaction. The girl blushed, but shrugged it off, "He's my best friend, obviously, he'll be worried."
"Not necessarily so. He was rather protective of you, did you know that?" The lady teased, causing Hermione to moan, "Pearlsong, please…" Her exasperation amused the dragonkin very much, and she chuckled out aloud. Quickly though, she became somber and asked seriously, "Honestly, do you like him?"
"I…" The girl trailed off as she thought of the times Harry had cared for her, ever since she broke up with Victor… His ability to calm her down during her worst tempers had been nothing short a miracle, and Ron had marveled at his friend's utmost patience. The way his eyes (::Those emerald eyes::) softened when he laughed, the crinkles behind those glasses, the messy black hair and soft smile had made her stomach turn flip-flops in many occasions, though she had stubbornly refused to admit this since 5th year. However, now that it was spoken out of someone else's mouth (and her guardian at that), she could no longer deny it.
"I think I do like him," Hermione spoke slowly, before hastily adding, "but I don't intend act all gaga over him, like those Slytherin girls do when ferret-boy is around."
"Hermione…"
"Okay, it's Draco."
"He's not that bad when you actually get to know him." Pearlsong defended the young boy who, during his years in UWIM, had actually managed to converse with the dragons easily – Shadownight included. (A bloody miracle by the standards of dragons. Shadownight is practically an Ice King to the majority of humans, until now) The Gryffindor made a face, but inwardly agreed with what the dragonkin said. Past memories aside, ever since he had made a truce with them, Draco Malfoy had stopped insulting them. At times, he was even civil.
The conversation was interrupted by a brisk nod on the door before a man whom Hermione had never seen appeared. He had straight black hair that hung lank to his shoulders, and eyes the color of platinum silver. High cheekbones adorned a face that surely God had sculpted himself, but he seemed aloof to it, for no emotion stood out from that face. Standing at almost 2 metres tall, his body emanated authority, and instinctively, Hermione cowered behind the blue-haired dragonkin as she felt stifled by that power.
Shadownight raised an eyebrow at the brunette's reaction, but said nothing. Instead, the girl behind him spoke out in the usual, melodious voice, "'Mya's awake?"
Hermione's head jerked back to the imposing figure when she heard this statement, surprised to see the black-haired girl that was standing behind the man. In relief, she breathed out, "Silver!" The Gryffindor got out of the bed and rushed to hug her friend, who asked in concern, "You all right?"
"Never better," Hermione smiled as Pearlsong went forward to the two girls, and the man. Silverdawn then understood that the girl had been informed of the bond that bound the dragonkin to her, and felt happy for them. To Pearlsong, who had been waiting for a long time to see the child, and to Hermione, who finally had a true confidante in the world of magic.
"Silver," Pearlsong addressed before smiling at her husband.
"Hi, Pearl." The princess smiled whilst Hermione looked from her friend, to the man. Then, in a curious tone, she asked, "Silver, is he your father?"
Everyone in the room gave her quaint looks before bursting Pearlsong and Silverdawn burst into peals of laughter. Annoyed, Hermione defended herself, "Hey, they look rather alike! Same hair, same eyes, they even have the same aura!" The words just slipped out so naturally, that even she herself began to feel embarrassed.
"If that is so," the black-haired man spoke dryly in a deep tone, "then Silverdawn here would be a dragon, not a human."
"Huh?"
"Honey, Shadownight is the dragonite guardian of Silverdawn. Their looks are completely coincidental. Besides, she has her mother's eyes…" Pearlsong explained, mentally adding, ::when it's violet.::
"One more point," Silverdawn added, "if I were Shadow's child, then Pearlsong would be my mom!"
Hermione looked shocked, it was hard to see how the wonderful lady could have such a cold man as husband, but Pearlsong mind-spoke her, ::Shadow isn't that bad a man. He just isn't exactly what one would call an extrovert.::
::How do you know what I'm thinking?::
::The look on your face was enough evidence.::
A flush slowly crept onto Hermione's face, and she gave the man an apologetic look. Silverdawn saw this, and interrupted this moment before it went to tensed. In a soft tone, she said, "'Mya, it's almost two-thirty in the morning. It's no point going back to the dorms, we'll just wake the others… so, you wanna crash in my room?"
"Can I?" Hermione asked uncertainly, "I don't wish to intrude."
"Of course not!" The black-haired girl said indignantly, before continuing, "Still, we had better let Shadow and Pearl sleep. They need the rest if they wish to set up the wards tomorrow." Pearlsong smiled at the girl's thoughtfulness, but Shadownight drawled, "If you wish to take all day to decide, then don't mind me, I'm off to sleep." He walked over to the bed, before falling into it with a loud 'plop'. Pearlsong smiled apologetically at Hermione's embarrassment and Silverdawn tugged at the girl's arm, whispering slyly, "Let's go. You don't want to know what they do till morning."
The insinuation was clear, and Shadownight growled, "I heard you, Silver."
"And I mean exactly what I said."
Irritated, the man threw a pillow at the black-haired girl who ducked it easily. Both pairs of silver eyes were filled with good humor, and finally, Shadownight smiled at the girls indulgently – a smile that caught Hermione off guard.
"You know how tired I am, child. Don't make me more pissed off than ever." Shadownight said with a sigh.
"Alright, I get the idea. Night night." Silverdawn conceded, pulling Hermione out of the room before closing the door.
"By all that's merciful, I don't understand why I can never stay angry with her for a long period of time," Shadownight grumbled when the two children were out of the room. Pearlsong smiled knowingly as she walked to the bed. She knew that her husband drew complete respect out of all who know him – Humans, dragons and all creatures… and only the Kadamons were immune to this.
"Shadow, can't you be nicer to Mione? Your look scares all life out of her." Pearlsong admonished, but Shadownight just made a face, pulling his wife into the bed. The blue-haired lady lost her sense of balance and tumbled onto the black-haired man's body, sprawling on top of him.
"I'll try, but I cannot make any promises." Shadownight replied in a husky voice, continuing, "Now, of the urgent matter at hand… I want you, now." Platinum eyes smothered with passion as he brought his lips to the ones of the woman of his heart. The kiss was long and fiery, leaving Pearlsong with no doubt what the man wanted. She returned it with full ardor, only stopping when both of them were quite out of breath, breathing raggedly. Eyes engaged on one another, the black-haired man waved a hand, snuffing out all the lights; leaving the cackling fire as the only source of illumination to their tangled bodies on the bed.
And… As Draco had said, (and I quote),
'This is going to be a long night.'
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The two girls took a rather long time to reach Silverdawn's room, for Hermione was interested in everything that appeared in their path. From the portraits – both muggle and magical – to the statues, interior décor, and designs of the different rooms they passed. Silverdawn had been patient, explaining the best she could.
When they arrived at the room, Hermione plopped onto the fluffy white couch whilst Silverdawn offered her some warm beverage that she had declined. In comfortable peace, they sat together, enjoying one another's company until the black-haired Slytherin asked, ""Mione, did Pearlsong tell you about the crisis?"
Puzzled, Hermione asked, "What crisis?" Silverdawn sighed, muttering, "Should have known…"
"Should have known what?" Hermione asked exasperatedly.
"The Dementors were let loose from Azkaban earlier yesterday." Silverdawn said quietly, anticipating her reaction. As predicted, Hermione went as shocked as one could be, "The Dementors were what!?!" Silence ensued as the brunette continued, "Oh my God!"
"God's in heaven." Silverdawn said wryly, before saying seriously, "Hermione, I need you to be on guard at all times, I don't anything bad to happen to you, Harry or Ron. Or whomever else. Do you understand?"
Hermione nodded mutely. Like Harry, she knew of the implications of this problem, and she shivered at the thought of Dementors attacking Hogwarts.
::Silver,:: Hermione mind-spoke tentatively.
::Yes, 'Mya?::
::Will they attack Hogwarts?:: She sounded so scared and vulnerable that Silverdawn assured her in a soft voice that hid a steely menace, ::No they won't. They are unable to do that, and I won't let them.::
At that, Hermione felt safe, and suddenly, the entire day's pressure seem to reload themselves on her, and she felt drained all at once. Sensing her tiredness, Silverdawn ordered her to go to bed, and this was a command that Hermione obeyed willingly. Once her body dropped into the overwhelmingly soft bed, she dozed off, leaving a bemused Silverdawn whispering, "Sleep well, cousin."
The black-haired girl then walked out of the room, closing the door quietly after changing her school uniform into some casual wear. Closing her eyes, she apparated into the information halls, where almost all of her friends looked weary.
"Hey guys. Get some rest. We have classes tomorrow, and you can't concentrate with two consecutive days without sleep." Silverdawn advised as she saw Nikolai stifle a yawn. Azrael was tapping away at the console in the center of the horseshoe formation, seemingly wide-awake while most of the others were dozing off.
"You can say that again…" Ashteroth said dryly as he tidied up the side table that was stacked with papers. Tristan gave several dry laughs, pointing at Draco, who was already asleep, head on the console table. In a wry tone, he said, "Magician here has already lost to the Dreamweaver."
Amber laughed at this, and Azrael reminded them, "It's been a long time since he'd done such kind of jobs. He isn't used to our 24/7 schedules anymore."
"Agreed. Somebody had better get him to bed before he drools on the table…" Hideaki advised distractedly as he summarized another report pertaining to Voldemort. Lawrence raised an eyebrow at the blonde, muttering, "Aki, shuddup!" He rubbed his temples hard in an attempt to ward off the headache that seemed to go worse by the minute, sighing in the process. Clearing the assessments he had at hand, he got up to Amber's side to help her close the telecommunications system plus VR remotes as all of them were too exhausted to continue. Indeed, all of them need sleep after yesterday's meeting that lasted till morn, and from the looks of everyone, the moment they touched their beds, it would not be surprising if no one was able to wake them up till the last minute before class.
Azrael smiled at his friends, blue eyes twinkling with good humor, "Guys, you've earned your rest. Your rooms in this suite has been set, and for now, just sleep there. All of your rooms are at the fourth floor, near ours. So rest assured that you'll be able to find them. Now, get out. Leave the room be, cos' we'll be here again tomorrow."
"As you say so, y'highness," Tristan replied, sky-blue eyes dreamy with sleep. With an amused chuckle, Azrael pushed him out of the room to get him on his way, whilst the others filed out, leaving only Nikolai, Silverdawn, the asleep Draco, and himself.
"Honey, get some rest." Azrael whispered into Nikolai's ear as he dropped a kiss on her cheek.
"I will, you too." Nikolai said tenderly as she gave a peck on his cheek. Goosebumps rose on Silverdawn's bare skin as she witnessed this scene of affection. In a teasing tone, she drawled, "Aww… the two of you get a room!" The healer blushed at her words, gave a friendly peck on the princess's cheek, and went out of the room.
When everyone was out, Azrael mock-scolded her sister, "Sherry, that was uncalled for."
"I know. But it's fun… Now, what do we do to Draco?"
"We..? Get him to his room, of course!"
"He has one in the suite?"
"Of course! I made sure of that as soon as I know he's here."
"What now? Wake him up?'
"Nah…" he trailed off, the blue eyes staring at Silverdawn, leaving her rather disconcerted, "Silver, do me a favor?"
The black-haired girl looked cautious at this. Azrael seldom asked such of her, and this left her pretty apprehensive. After all, Azrael could be as cunning as Lucifer, or even Mikael, if the situation calls for it.
"Get me to his room. His room is between your room and Law's." The silver-haired prince replied nonchalantly, winning himself a murderous glare from his sister.
"What did you say?" Silverdawn asked dangerously, eyes turning into a dark purple that was almost black. Azrael repeated his words patiently, anticipating the storm that's to arrive. Indeed, it came as a level three typhoon, and the prince knew that the girl would have screamed if Draco hadn't been there.
::Hell.:: Azrael thought to himself, ::She'd have killed me if Magician's not here!:: Then, he spoke aloud, "C'mon, dear. It's not that bad!" These words made Silverdawn glower, and mentally, she counted to ten slowly.
"All right. So he has a room next to mine. What am I to do? Send him to bed?" She asked calmly, though her eyes begged to differ.
"Exactly," Azrael replied meaningfully, "in the meantime, adios." With that, he apparated out of the room, leaving behind an infuriated Silverdawn and a sleeping Draco.
"Riley, you had better steer clear from me on the morrow…" Silverdawn muttered under her breath before turning to the direction of the console table. With a sigh, she walked to him, eyes returning into the usual silver as she said softly, "Let's get you to bed." She touched the boy's wrist and closed her eyes, dissipating into nothingness.
They arrived at his room in a blink, and Silverdawn levitated the boy into his bed, before pulling the velvet green coverlets to underneath his chin. Smiling softly at his sleeping figure, she whispered, "Sweet dreams, Magician." She gave him a chaste kiss on the forehead, before apparating back into her room, snuggling beside the already slumbering Hermione to get her much-needed sleep.
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Unknown Location
Hogwarts Castle
Kadamon Suite
Fourth floor,
Lucifer's chambers
0300 Ante Meridian
Lucifer glanced from the reports he was buried in to see the clock placed one of the decorative shelves.
"Three already…" He muttered absently to himself as he finished signing the last of the lengthy proposals. The
last conference with the Parliament had left him with a huge stack of work to read through, and there was to be another in the weekend. Amethyst purple eyes narrowed at the thought of the meeting that comprises several of the stuffiest, most obnoxious wizards on earth, (with several other sensible ones of course) and groaned.
Preparing to retire, he called upon his right-hand man to assist him in some last-minute work. Relaxing on the wing-backed recliner, he spoke out, "Belial, what news do you have?"
A black pool formed behind his chair, materializing into a lithe figure. Slender and tall, the person looked neither male nor female, but exuded an air of darkness and cool.
"Your highness," the person bowed, glossy dark brown hair falling into his face to cover one of those unusual maroon-red eyes. Without looking at him, Lucifer spoke out, "Any news from Gehenna?"
"Yes." The man – Belial – spoke quietly, "His majesty wishes a word with you on the case of Voldemort."
"What about him?"
"Voldemort has started raiding again. I had led a few of them in Germany, some others in France. Many apologies, your highness."
"No harm done. It's your job. Furthermore, it shouldn't bother you…" Lucifer's handsome face broke into a huge grin as he continued, "Not with your assassination record. Even I cannot reckon it." At this, Belial gave a smile, before resuming a straight face, "Voldemort intends for me to lead the Dementors. They seem to sense that I'm not human, and are willing to follow me."
"It surprising that Voldemort never considered getting rid of you. Doesn't he fear that you'll go against him?"
"My acting skills have improved."
Lucifer laughed at this, for Belial was infamous in hell (and heaven) for his worst skills in acting. The brown-haired fallen angel – one of the seven lords who served Lucifer directly – was known for killing swiftly without any mercy, but it was a fact that he couldn't put on a fake expression of loyalty even if his life depended on it. (Still, he'd never need to anyway…) ::Looks like he's learned the art of being a stone.:: Lucifer thought sardonically as he eyed his fellow comrade and friend. In a casual tone, he asked, "Anything else?"
Belial paused for a while, before starting slowly, "I've seen Ms. Tracy recently…" This caught the silver-haired professor's attention, but he acted as if it was nothing happened. Instead, he asked casually, playing with the ring on his left hand, "How is she?" The indifferent tone did not fool Belial, for he had caught the anxious gleam in his master's eye.
"She misses you already. Also, she might be coming here."
"Really?" Lucifer cocked an eyebrow elegantly as he mumbled softly to himself, "that's good to hear." Belial stifled a laugh at this but his expression betrayed him, earning himself a piercing look for the silver-haired man. Lucifer sighed at his own show of affection to another, and dismissed the other man with a wave. Belial took the chance to escape before his master choose to blow up, leaving Lucifer alone in his study, deep in thoughts of a certain strawberry-blond haired lady.
Before long, the professor retired into his bedroom, knowing that come tomorrow, a flurry of work would have to be done.
In the castle, everyone went to sleep in peace, for the presence of dragons usually brought about an aura of serenity, just like phoenixes do. No matter how short their length of sleep might be, they had sweet dreams, even Silverdawn, who experienced a rare night of naturally dreamless sleep.
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End of Chapter
Once again, I'm sorry that I delayed in the postings… *contritely* I suppose that I can't really do weekly postings, but I'll try to make it as soon as possible. Here's the scene of Hermione, but I've delayed the one on Snape. *apologizes to everyone* Sorry!!!
There aren't much notes for this chapter, other than the fact that I feel a little guilty, cos' I seemed to have derived several names from the japanese manga, Tenshi Kinryouku (not sure if the spelling is right) – Angel Sanctuary by Kaori Yuki-samaaa!!!! Still, the names I chose have appeared on many books on angelology, (regardless of whether they are fallen or not) so hope you guys don't mind.
So, if anyone's confused with the names, review or email me, and I'll try ta explain.
Now, for the reviewing time *man, I love this part!!!*
Mary Potter ~ heehee *a little sheepish* I'm sorry if Snape looks rather dumb now, but he's also rather confused with the chain of events. Hope you don't mind!
Orange ~ You want me to write out some rough guide to the names and who's referring to who? It might give you a better idea of who is who, and who's related to whom. Tell me if you want something like that, and I'll write it up. Also, there are loads of dragons, but only FIVE came to Hogwarts – Shadownight, Pearlsong, Nightshade, Foreststar, and Sapphire. *pats your shoulder* get more sleep (if you haven't) and thanks, I am feeling better =)
Loves_Kiss ~ *breathes a sigh of relief* Thank God I finally manage to post this up… if not, you'd have removed me. *mops sweat from forehead*
Madame Padfoot ~ Hope you find this chapter to your liking =þ *whines* I am definitely not looking forward to next year! The exams will kill me! *runs away from the papers*
Tracy ~ Hello! *teases* Surprised to see your name in the story? Hope you like it :) Thanks for your concern on my wrist, I have a feeling that I've contracted rheumatism…!!!
ilovespike-02 ~ good idea… I would like to see that too, maybe in the next chapter or so. *slaps my forehead* Oh man! Your review made me look through the first book again, and it was only now did I find out that term starts at September 1st. Argggghhhh! *moans* Now, I haveta change chapter 10 and 11…. Aww… well, sentiments aside, Hermione's birth date will be November 26th, as reflected on the prologue. With such a short timing, the story will hopefully speed up. Thanks for your reminder! I try to get on to a weekly posting basis, but I like I said, I cannot promise anything as of yet!
bubblegum*girl ~ here is more! Glad that I didn't take another 3 weeks to finish one chapter. *shudders* you guys will KILL me! *Lucifer smirks, "You finally have some sense in that brain of yours." "Hey!"*
Colibi ~ Worrying that chapters we write are bad might most likely be the worst nightmares of writers themselves. Everyone improves with practice *Shadownight gave a sharp cough before saying, "except you." I retort back, "Guys, I'm the writer! Give me some respect!" Lawrence dons on a fake smile, "Not in your life." Leaving me with a sweatdrop* ……No sweat!
mow wow ~ *goes smiley-faced* thanks! Hope you like this chapter! I learnt only a teensy weensy bit of German, and am not even good enough to translate it. *thank grace that you've translated!*
Kayti ~ the different languages signify the diversity of UWIM. That college has students and professors of various races and countries, thus the languages. *apologetic* Sorry about the angel part though, but most unfortunately, I am kinda obsessed with them. *wink wink*
Ameal Kensig ~ *curious* your nick is very interesting, where did you get it from??? The date is supposed to be during July, but I've just gone through the first book and found out that they start school on September 1st. So, I've modified the previous chapter to fit in the original story plot. Hope ya don't mind, and nope, there's no romance between Mione and Snape.
Jade Aster ~ I'm sorry, but I've not yet written the next parts… Not to worry, I'll try to finish it soon! *Hideaki: "Not possible, you're too lazy." Me: "Hey!!! Unfair! You guys are ganging up against me again." The guys in the Court of Twelve round me up, looking vaguely sinister. I cower beneath…*(just for laughs)
Lamia ~ Thanks for the compliment! Of course you can put me in your favorites, I'm more than happy! Personally, I'm rather happy that the two worlds are able to merge together. I was worrying that it might go head-wire at first!
Teigra ~ *thoughtfully* Hmm… maybe I could get my aunties to buy me the entire hardcover set of books for my birthday. *Mournful* But my birthday is on October!!! In this chapter, Hermione finally learns another new skill!
Dragon_Charmer ~ Hermione will know of her heritage after her birthday, September 26th. I'm trying to hurry to that date. So look forward to more action in the later chapters =) *Silverdawn grins wickedly whilst Hermione looks a little puzzle, asking, "What about my family?"*
LilyAyl ~ That was most likely happen in the next chapter… Keep looking! One joins the Court through a Voice that chooses them apart from the student populous. They can be of any year when chosen, and will stay in the circle forever. The Voice then chooses another after they graduate, but those who have been in the Court will forever be bound to the voice, which that binds them to one another. Draco got into the Court during his first year (out of four years) in UWIM, thus causing him to be late in entering Hogwarts. (He was 12 during his 1st year in Hogwarts. Not 11) As for the Court's influence in the government, they tend directly to the Royal family, and most of them are geniuses who hold high ranks in very Courts and Parliaments. Does this solve your questions? P/S: the M-S-C thing is pretty interesting, very realistic too!
Kristina ~ *embarrassed* When I first started this fic, it was supposed to focus mainly on Severus and Hermione. But the plot bunnies went out of hand, and it became like this. Hope you don't mind!!!
janmmci ~ *grins* then you should be happy that I've finally posted up this chapter! About the email thingy, I'm sorry… but my mail has been playing hide-and-seek with me lately… I cannot seem to log it!!! Therefore, if you see your name here, it means that you've finished reading the chapter!
Eclipse1485 ~ Yuppie yup yup. I've read Angel Sanctuary, have you read it??? I even bought all 20 tankoubans!!! *my sis grumbles at my madness* Kaori-sama is so cool, plus the plot is much darker than ordinary shouju manga! About Hermione's heritage, it'll haveta wait a little longer though… hope you don't mind.
arcee ~ She'll find out during her birthday bash. Hmm… can you just randomly give me a time when she was actually born? Reply soon!
Li-chan ~ There will be a Hermione/Harry pairing, so I'm wondering if I should change the search format to HG/HP… Any ideas? The line refers to the one binding Harry and Hermione together. I took this from some novel I read, about the lines that connect people together. Between lovers, a line exists that binds their hands into a loop, or something like that. Hope this explains your queries =)
Becky ~ Thanks for not minding the wait. I hope you'd like this chapter! I won't take 3 weeks to write out one chapter again! *promises with crossed fingers behind my back* *lol*
Marryanne ~ Here is more more more more more more more more more………!!!!!!! I've gotten this up! *Opens a bottle of champagne and toasts to all*
vickie ~ *teases* if you really did hold your breath, then I don't think you'd be able to see this. *apologetic* sorry that I took this long 6_^
M&M ~ I've updated! Though it took more that a week… *sweatdrops*
Helena ~ Thanks for your compliment, Nice nick, reminds me of my friend who had gone abroad for further studies. The story wouldn't end so soon, so hope you can wait!
Monica ~ Wow! 7 reviews all wanting more! Again, I'm sorry for making you people wait… *protests* but my brain went dead, blocked, CPU breakdown. (referring to my brain)
FORTHELOVEOFLILLY ~ Hee hee, I made in before the deadline. *grins* what do I get for this? *hint hint*
Dracolover2115 ~ *dances in a circle* I've finally updated!!! Finished reading???
T.S ~ I've tried, *valiantly holds up a smiley face but failed* but it's so difficult! *one tear by the cheek*
Windy ~ The dragons look like dragons, but they can transform by their will if they have a high enough level of their native magic. The four dragons in the Triwizard Competition couldn't, thus they were only able to defy their captors. Is the fact of dragons clearer now???
Aemos ~ *beams* Be careful not to commend me too much, I'd get too big for my hat! But nonetheless, thanks for the praise!
Okie dokie, that's all for reviews,
Thanks to all who actually complimented me!
Reply soon, guys!
Love,
~~@ SilverDawn @~~