All disclaimers apply. Harry Potter and co. belongs to the wonderful goddess – Ms. J.K. Rowling and all its publishers' etcetera.
Important note: I just found out that Fred and George had graduated by the time Harry and co. are sixth years, so I've changed a little details in chapter 4. Hope you guys wouldn't mind! Sorry!
The Awakening of a RoyalSilverDawn
Chapter 13: Riddle ManorThe small town of Little Hangleton was an exceptionally quiet place. You can no longer see the hustle of market life, or hear the bubbly noises of children running about in the streets playing tag. The usual gossips that were passed around among the gibberish housewives were non-existent, as was the activity that had formerly suffused the village with life.
No. All of this had been lost. Nothing grew there any longer – the trees, grass, plants… All were charred to ashes, or destroyed. Nature had deserted Little Hangleton, and the one of the three great Maladies – Destruction – had had her hand in 'playing' with the town.
Now, all that was left was dilapidated buildings, decomposing corpses, and trails of dried blood that colored the grounds a reddish brown – traces that never dull despite the continuous bouts of rain… A foul stench emanated from the village, and the metallic tang of blood never ceased to fade away. The winds blew against ragged shutters and windows, producing eerie sounds like those of ghosts… Of spirits who were biding time for their revenge, to seek the vengeance that were theirs by their right.
On a hill overlooking the village, a derelict of a mansion stood like a menace. Before the village was destroyed, no one dared to enter there for fear that what had killed its occupants fifty-two years ago would kill them in the same way. Now, should anyone with magical heritage saw it, they would have been shocked by the enormity of the Dark Mark that glowed an unnatural green. One must applaud the person who had set up the shields, for only if a person entered one hundred yards within the range of the mansion would be able to see it.
Unlike the ramshackle exterior of the mansion, the interior was decorated in the finest taste. The doorway was brightly lit and beautiful statues decked the hallway that led into the waiting room. Everything was immaculately in place, the assortment of portraits and armor dusted. Crystal chandeliers (that must have cost thousands of galleons per piece) adorned the ceilings, and the floors were covered with deep green carpets bordered on silver.
In the waiting room, the grandeur was evident as hell. Silver serpents slithered in the charmed wallpapers while a fire roared in the jade fireplace. Comfortable couches were placed by the walls, leaving the center of the room empty, save a large round rug where a group of young men were seated cross-legged, discussing quietly.
"I heard that Master has gained a godson."
"Really? I would give anything to be his godchild."
"You must be real powerful to earn that place."
"Even Lucius wasn't able to have that stature, I wonder what he is like?"
"Heard he's gay."
"Shh… you won't want anyone to get at you for saying this out."
Snickers were heard at this, but they were stopped when the fire turned green. The men got up from the places, wary as to whom was entering the room. Slowly, a head popped out from the fireplace, followed by a long body. Severus Snape stepped out of the grate, dusting off flecks of ashes as he grimaced.
::I should have used Apparation instead. Flying would have been an even better option.::
He started walking out of the room, and the young men quickly stepped out of his way, bowing as Snape prowled past, causing the professor to scowl once again.
::Those were past year graduates…::
A pang of regret streaked past him as he cursed his inability to stop the five of them from entering the Dark Side, but he shook it off, walking down the hallway and to the front of the drawing room with the grace of the cat. After rapping the door sharply three times, Severus entered, adjusting easily to the darkness of the room. A knack he had learnt after teaching in the dungeons from countless of years.
"Master." Severus murmured respectfully as he bowed, one knee on the ground. Lucius Malfoy and Peter Pettigrew were already by a corner of the room, one looking far too superior for his own good, and the other looking overtly nervous… as usual. Voldemort was seated on a comfortable, wing-backed chair by the fireplace, with Nagini draped around his shoulders, hissing occasionally in a conversation with Voldemort that only the two could understand.
The Dark Lord's profile could be seen, and one would have been shocked by it.
It was a known fact that Voldemort had lived without a true body for eons of ages and had only attained one two years ago. But he was, by default, no more than fifty years old… thus, it was very shocking to see him look so old, perhaps as old as Dumbledore (who is at least a hundred and twenty years old). What was different though, was that unlike Dumbledore's benevolent looks, Voldemort had the look of someone who never knew the meaning of love. Scarlet eyes were filled with evil, and his face contorted into a snarl ever so often. He no longer looked like the handsome Tom Riddle that Snape had seen before his Fall.
::But wasn't that what Voldemort wanted?:: Severus thought cynically, ::To be rid of his muggle-born stature.::
The room was silent for quite some while until Voldemort started out in a low, icy tone, "Arise, Severus."
"Thank you, Master." Snape said quietly and retreated into the ranks of Lucius and Wormtail, where Lucius shot him a hostile look.
"Now that all three of you are here. I want news. Lucius?" Voldemort did not bother to face them, but just closed his eyes, resting as Nagini hissed something into his ear, causing him to smile coldly.
"Master, the Ministry is still under my control, and Fudge has been a very good puppet. However, he still goes to Dumbledore for advice time and again, and I'm hoping that you'd allow me to use Imperio on him…"
"No. That will arouse suspicions from the Aurors should an Unforgivable be used under their noses. Honestly," Voldemort said idly, "Do you have a brain?" Lucius faltered a little at Voldemort's rebuke, and Snape snickered quietly, causing the blonde man to give him a dirty look. Voldemort caught the exchange between two of his most powerful followers, but said nothing. Instead, it was Lucius who continued on, "Fudge has notions of asking for aid from the United Parliament to fight against you Master. I've pressured him to shrug off the thought, but I fear that the Parliament might take action sooner or later."
"You need only to control him for another one more year at most. I'll bring about the fall of Britain within one year." Voldemort said, chuckling evilly as he caressed Nagini's soft skin, causing the snake to hiss in contentment.
"Yes, Master." Lucius replied reverently, pale eyes filled with adoration for the Lord he followed. Severus inwardly bulked at this, but showed no betraying expressions. Wormtail, however, flexed his silver hand involuntarily as Voldemort continued in the usual detached tone, "What about you, Wormtail?"
"M-Master," Wormtail stammered in a high-pitched tone, "I have been unable to enter Hogwarts ever since the night the new term started…"
Oh hearing this, Voldemort's eyes opened slowly and narrowed into slits. In an intimidating tone, he utter one syllable that brought shivers down all three of the men's spines.
"What?"
"I-I was unable to enter Hogwarts. Someone had put new spells to protect the school. Even g-getting into the Forest had become difficult." Wormtail said timidly as Voldemort stared at him, unnerving him very much. Voldemort frowned at this, and turned to Severus, asking critically, "What have you to say about this Severus?"
On hearing his name called, Snape felt cold, but spoke in an indifferent tone, "There is an exchange programme held this year, with the United World Institute of Magic…"
On hearing this, Lucius smirked, commenting, "This reminds me of our fifth year, doesn't it Severus? When that Zenvista woman made you go gaga over her." Severus scowled at this and was about to give a sharp retort when Voldemort interrupted him, addressing Lucius, "I had not ask for your comments Lucius. Crucio. Severus, continue." Lucius writhed at the sudden curse, unable to defend himself as he slumped into a heap beside Severus. Severus just looked at the man hatefully, whilst continuing at the Dark Lord's request.
"Their delegates had put up some more shields to prevent the press from entering the school, and to ensure that their students have a conducive environment to study in."
"Then I must say that those who had put up the shields are pretty good." Voldemort said indolently, still staring at Severus, as if trying to note any change in his expressions. Thankfully, Severus was able to maintain an unconcerned expression as he thought to himself, ::The shields were put up by students.::
"Tell me, is there anyone important that has come to the school that I ought to know of?" Voldemort asked in a dangerously silky voice that was akin to Snape's. The Dark Lord was still playing with Nagini, and Snape thought for a while, before finally answering back in the same tone, "Two Kadamons are in the school, one as a Professor and another, a student."
Voldemort perked up at this, and stopped caressing Nagini. He let the snake slither down to the tiger-skin rug beneath his feet as he asked, "Names?"
"Lucifer and Azrael Kadamon." Severus said callously though his insides were churning at the calculating look on Voldemort's face.
"Lucifer… The fallen angel of light… I've heard a lot about him. He's the evil one, isn't he?" Voldemort asked, now thoroughly interested in this piece of news. Severus nodded his head, adding in his mind, ::Evil only to those he hates.::
"Suck up to him, Severus." Voldemort ordered, "Make him enter the ranks of the Death Eaters. With the help of the Kadamons, we'll be able to crush those against us as easily as one, two, three." His intense stare made Snape shudder involuntarily, but he continued in a smooth voice, "Yes, my Lord."
Satisfied, Voldemort gave a cruel smile as he started telling his three followers his news, "I've finally gotten the Dementors to our side, and they'll be starting to raid the muggle towns from tonight." At this piece of information, Lucius was surprised, and – having been able to stand up again – murmured his congratulations to his Master. Wormtail had already known about it, thus he stayed rooted in his position, not expressing anything. Snape knew of this too, but acted surprised for appearances' sake and praised Voldemort for his intelligence. Voldemort just smirked at them, saying, "Enough of the flattery. We will get the alliances with the Trolls, and by next week, we will be able to have raids that comprise both the Death Eaters and Dementors. More importantly, I've found just the right person to lead the Dementors."
Lucius gave an all-knowing smirk, feeling confident that he would be chosen. Snape looked at Lucius in disgust, wondering how he could think of that notion, for a mere human would have his soul gradually taken away from him if he was near Dementors for far too long a time. He stared at the blonde men in contempt for quite some while, but turned back to face his Lord.
::I really don't understand how such an idiotic man could father an intelligent child like Draco.:: Severus thought to himself, but his thoughts were cut off when Voldemort spoke again, "Belial, come in." Severus was shocked by the name that the Dark Lord had called upon, and was even more stunned when a brown-haired man sauntered into the room.
Belial had entered the room with the aura of danger and leadership surrounding him like a cloak, and the beauty of the man startled Lucius. His dark, chocolate-brown-bangs were slightly mussed up by the wind, and the softness of his shoulder length hair had made many men and women drool with envy, not to mention his physique, and the peculiar red eyes – those blood-red eyes that looked so similar to those of Voldemort. All in all, his looks put even the Veelas to shame, not to mention, Lucius.
"My Lord," Belial whispered softly as he reached the chair where Voldemort was seating, a tone that left shivers behind all the four men's backs. Voldemort chuckled at this, and mock scolded the man, "Belial, you do not have to call me that."
"Godfather." The brown-haired man spoke coyly, giving the Dark Lord a peck on the cheek, causing Severus to cringe inwardly. He had never heard this man speak or act in such a way, and this went against everything he'd learnt of him (Belial).
"Severus, Lucius, Wormtail, this is my godson Belial, my chosen leader for the Dementors. When I'm not around, he will be my representative. I trust that the three of you will serve him as you do me." Voldemort said with a tinge of pride as he introduced Belial. Lucius felt a surge of anger towards the beautiful man in front of him, but Severus nudged him to prevent him from blowing up. Belial sensed this, and walked to where the three men were, speaking in a light tenor, "Godfather, I sense very turbulent emotions among these three followers of yours." He walked in front of Wormtail, who looked very panicky.
"This man reeks of fear, and cowardice." Belial said quietly, causing Wormtail to shudder convulsively. He then proceeded to stand in front of Lucius, who was still trembling with unconcealed anger. Blood-red eyes met those pale gray eyes and Lucius felt hypnotized by some sort of power.
"This man," Belial started in a dangerous voice, "is blinded by anger. He has the hunger for power, and is furious that I'm favored by you Godfather…" Suddenly, he gave a heartless punch in Lucius' stomach, causing the man to wince in pain.
"Never," Belial continued in a warning voice, "doubt my Godfather, Lucius."
At that, Voldemort gave a laugh and Nagini hissed in agreement. Then, Voldemort continued, "What about Severus?"
"Him?" Belial intoned with mock surprise. He went over to where Severus was standing, and trailed a finger down the man's right shoulder, looking very curious, "Severus, is it? I have not sensed any negative feelings from you as of yet. But I am interested in this: Why are you so… amused?"
::Because you're acting totally out of character.:: Severus mind-spoke the man.
::Play with me.:: Belial replied back almost immediately.
Severus had to choke down a snicker as he put on his most dispassionate tone, "I'm thoroughly amused that Lucius has finally met his match. Don't you, Master?"
"Indeed." Voldemort said with unhidden amusement, causing Lucius to give a murderous glare at the black-haired professor. Again, Voldemort ignored the silent exchange, for he was interested in the way his godson was looking at Severus.
"All three of you are to assist Belial in the raids. I expect absolute obedience when the three of you help him. Especially you, Lucius." Voldemort said pointedly, receiving a softly muttered 'Yes, Master' from the addressed.
"Godfather, I want Severus to help me in leading the Dementors." Belial spoke out suddenly as he touched the Potions Master's face tenderly, shocking the three men, especially Severus.
"The Dementors might suck the soul out of Severus, my child. I have no wish to lose my best Potions Master." Voldemort remarked, causing Belial to grin maniacally. In a velvety-sweet voice, he purred, "That would be even better. I could bed him easier."
At this, the Dark Lord laughed heartily at what his godson contemplated on doing, causing Wormtail and Lucius to blanch. After the initial shock had faded off, Severus narrowed his eyes at the man in front of him as he slapped away Belial's straying hand. Still staring at him, Severus sneered, "Unlike you, I'm not a gay." Belial laughed at this, but pulled the other man's cloak with so much force that Snape stumbled over into his embrace. He then traced circles behind the man's back, causing Severus to shiver as he continued in a voice that practically dripped of ice, "Then I'll break you. Trust me, Severus, it will be a very fun thing to do."
A tensed silence ensued for a long moment, everyone (except Voldemort) apprehensive on what might happen, until Voldemort intervened, "Severus, assist Belial in his task. All of you are dismissed." The four men bowed, and went out of the room, leaving the Dark Lord deep in conversation with Nagini.
"Do you think Severus will break soon?" Voldemort hissed at his pet, wondering what she thought.
"I don't think so Master. Severus is a strong man."
"But so is Belial."
"It'll be fun to watch them fight."
"True, all too true."
With that, master and pet laughed, looking forward to the next few days…
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Once outside the drawing room, Belial gave Severus an unreadable look, saying quietly, "Let's go to my room. I have some important things to discuss with you." The black-haired man agreed almost immediately and was about to follow when Lucius smirked, remarking, ''Have fun Severus. I heard Belial's really good in bed." Both men scowled at this, but did not take the bait. Instead, Belial cautioned the blond man, "Be careful of what you say Lucius. You do not wish to earn my wrath." He then proceeded to twirl his wand idly, looking as if he was ready to use some Unforgivable on the man. Lucius flinched at this, but walked off with Wormtail in tow, muttering profanities under his breath.
When they were gone, Belial just sighed, grumbling, "Why do I have to put up with these fools?"
"Because you're ordered to?" Severus added in mockingly, earning himself an annoyed look as they walked to Belial's room that was within the Riddle Manor itself. They entered the richly furnished room just minutes later, and Severus simply 'plopped' into Belial's bed gracelessly, causing the fallen angel to frown.
"Hey! That's my bed!" Belial complained as he saw his friend sprawl on the large four-poster bed, cloak, shoes and all.
"Get another one." Severus replied lazily as he turned sideways, commenting, "I never knew that you became a Death Eater, much less Voldemort's godson." Belial felt a grin tug at his lips as he started in the language of the devils, "His highness asked me to stay as a spy."
"As in Lucifer?" Severus replied in the same tongue.
"No no. Satan asked me to. Of course it's Lucifer! His majesty would never bother with the works of humans." Belial answered sarcastically as he threw off his shoes and lain on the bed, sprawled on his back.
"That explains a lot of things." Severus murmured softly in common English, thinking about how much more information they could gain if they had the collaboration of the devils. Belial nodded in agreement, combing his hands through his hair in an attempt to straighten it. This action amused the black-haired man immensely, and Severus suddenly thought back to his friend's weird actions when with Voldemort.
"Belial, I must commend you on your acting skills. They have improved immensely." He teased in Angelic as the brown-haired man snorted rudely.
"Spare me the theatrics, Sev. I've heard this from practically everyone I've met." Belial complained back. This statement caused Severus to laugh, and an exasperated Belial threw a huge cushion that smacked Severus right in the face.
"Oww… You did not have to do that to me." Severus winced as he rubbed his crooked nose, reverting back into English once again.
"Serves you right." The latter smirked as he got down the bed and poured two goblets of brandy. The Potions Master took one with a grateful 'thanks' and started sipping the strong liquid, sitting on one of the couches.
"Nonetheless, with you around, everything will be easier, ke'chara (note1)." Belial spoke calmly as he took the seat opposite his friend's, "One, Voldemort would trust you even more. Two, I have someone I can rely on should anything happen, and three, Lev will be jealous because of this." Severus raised an eyebrow when he heard that nickname, inquiring, "Leviathan?"
"Isn't it obvious?" Belial countered sullenly, rolling his eyes. Sensitive as always, Severus noticed the sudden mood change in his friend, and asked, "Another lover's quarrel?"
"Something like that…"
Snape frowned at this, patting his friend sympathetically, "At least you still have your lover." Ebony black eyes hardened as Snape thought back to his own plight, of his own betrayal. Belial sensed this, and was pretty apologetic about it, "Sorry, I had not wanted you to think of Athena."
"Never mind." Snape muttered in a low tone, drinking away the last of the brandy in silence. A tensed silence ensued once again, and it was Belial who broke the ice, commenting, "Still, you would have to follow me to a few of the raids, for appearances' sake. Sorry Sev."
Snape grimaced at this, but agreed with a slight nod, "Send me the details soon, Belial. I've got to go now."
"As you wish. Safe journey brother."
With that, Severus apparated out of sight, leaving Belial alone in his room, pondering on the past. The man walked to the window, allowing the wind to whip against his face as he gazed at the starless sky, sighing.
"Severus, why did you never bother to find out what actually happened to Athena? Do you really think that she would betray you?"
His questions received no answers, just a soft whisper of wind caressing his face, as if comforting him, speaking in a language that only Belial understood.
"He will find the answers to his heart soon, even if he wished not to. Just like you, my child."
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Morning came by very soon, and after a good rest, everyone was much more vibrant than the last few days. In the Great Hall, the usual bustle could be heard as students shouted across the table for food to be passed, and what homework was to be handed in today.
At the Gryffindor table, the talk was mainly centered upon the upcoming Quidditch trials, as many of the team members have already graduated – Fred, George and Alicia had just graduated last year, leaving only Harry, Ron (who took over Oliver's place as Keeper since last year), Angelina and Katie in the House team. However, before Wood had left the team, they had all voted unanimously for Harry to be the captain of the Quidditch team. Thus, Harry had been the one to inform everyone that they would be holding the trials this coming Wednesday.
"UWIM students are also invited to enter the trials. After all, we need the best team to win Slytherin this year. They had almost won us last year, and we must not let them win!" Harry had said enthusiastically, earning hoots and cheers from the entire table. When they had finally gotten down to eating their breakfast, Ginny had been pretty excited about the trial, asking Hermione time and again for her opinions, "'Mione, do you think I'll be able to enter the House team?"
"Of course! You will make a perfect Chaser." Hermione answered back in complete confidence. She had seen the young girl on a broom before, and she had been a natural. A pity was that she did not have a decent broom that would fit her perfectly and those Comet Two Sixties were too slow to be of use…
Azrael felt her sympathy for the younger Gryffindor, and added in, "Ginny, tell you what. I'll see how good you are on flying, and then, I'll lend you a decent broom for you if you're good enough, and if you do get in the team, I'll get you a new one."
This statement startled Ginny very much, and she was about to refuse the offer when Tristan butted in, "Gin, listen to what he says. If you can get him to acknowledge your skills, then you've passed. Prince there is a certified Quidditch player, only, he isn't allowed to play in school."
"Why?" Harry asked curiously. A certified Quidditch player means that you can be a professional Quidditch player representing nations, and it's pretty weird that a professional player isn't allowed to play in school. At least, Krum did.
"Let's just say that I'm being banned." Azrael replied mysteriously before turning to Ginny, asking, "So, deal?" The girl grinned at him, and shook his hand, promising, "Deal."
"Good luck, Gin." Hideaki whispered in her ear, causing the redhead to blush.
"Hey, you guys are also open to try for the Seeker position. Then, I can finally have some rest." Harry joked, causing the people around him to laugh.
"Too bad Azrael can't play here unless Silverdawn takes the same position. I'd love to see them kill one another…" Amber murmured dreamily, causing Azrael to glare at her though the brunette seemed very much unperturbed.
"Why?" Ron asked, wondering what Amber was actually talking about.
"Oh! There was once when Az and Silver finally agreed to take on the Seeker positions, and on the match against their houses, it was a spectacular performance! I've never seen the Wronski Feint being pulled so many times! They were so fast that I had to put my binoculars into slow-motion to see where they were going!" Amber said in awe as she remembered the last game that the twins had played before they were officially banned. Their speeds had made all the other members of their teams go faint, and every one of the spectators was looking at how they performed. Even the members of the team weren't really playing! Thus, Professor Haldorne had came up with a new rule, that all angels were banned from playing in the Quidditch Season of the school unless the entire teams comprised of angels (which was impossible).
"Enough rambling Amber, and Harry, do not look at me as if I'm a God." Azrael said distractedly as he sipped the iced cappuccino that he'd filched from the Head Table (courtesy of Professor Dumbledore). Harry flushed a little by the prince's sharpness, but asked anyways, "Could you train me?"
"I can, but don't ask me to play for the House."
"Thanks!" Harry said gratefully and proceeded to munching his toast. Hermione looked from one boy to the other, and muttered in Angelic, "Boys… What is it with them and Quidditch?" Azrael heard this, and snickered slightly, earning himself an annoyed look from the Hermione, but he gave her an innocent stare, causing the Gryffindor to be even more exasperated.
"Hey, it's almost time. Don't eat too much, DADA's next." Ron informed as he drank the last of his pumpkin juice. On hearing this, Lavender groaned, "Man! I'm dreading this…"
"As am I…" Parvati chimed in, causing many of the sixth-years to laugh as they hurriedly finish their meal.
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At the Slytherin table, the students were eating quietly, occasionally murmuring something to one another, though not as loud as those at the Gryffindor table. Draco had finally gotten the counter potion from Professor Snape, and was content that there were no longer lines threading his vision, linking from one person to another. Very soon, the conversation once again, was linked back to potions.
"I miss my potions lab back in UWIM…" Ashteroth grumbled as he helped himself with some raisin buns. Pansy Parkinson choked on her food at the boy's words, looking very shocked that someone would truly like Potions, "You actually have a private potions laboratory?"
"Is there a problem with that?" Silverdawn asked mildly, drinking her cappuccino as she looked over some papers that required her signature.
"Nothing." Pansy shot a hateful glare at the black-haired girl sitting beside Draco. She had noticed how Draco had seemed to take a liking to the new Slytherin, and this was getting on her nerves. After all, Pansy had had a crush on Draco since ages ago, and Silverdawn was threatening her place as Draco's future girlfriend, though where she had gotten this idea, no one knew.
Silverdawn seemed to sense the undercurrent of hatred, but chose not to bother with it. Instead, she agreed with Ash on his predicament, "I miss mine too… Hey! Do you think we can set up a potions discussion group in here?" Nikolai's ears perked up at this as she added in, "I see no difficulty in doing so. Then, maybe we can start on the counter potion for the Ephisiocal hex sooner than expect!"
"That's a good idea. But shouldn't we start on something more basic as a revision? Veritaserum would be a good option." Lawrence said, causing Goyle's eyes to widen in shock.
"You call Veritaserum as a simple potion to make?" The bulky boy asked incredulously, causing Lawrence to become partially annoyed. The older boy chose not to give a reply, causing Blaise to ask, "Where can we find a suitable place to set up the laboratory? I don't think Professor Snape would allow us one of his dungeon classrooms, no matter how indulgent he is to us."
"I know of a place." Silverdawn spoke softly, "I'll get it ready by tonight. Then maybe, we can start sooner than expected." Lawrence, Draco, Nikolai and Ashteroth grinned at this, but Blaise remained doubtful.
"What about the ingredients? We can't possible steal from Professor Snape, he'll kill us." Blaise said softly, but Ashteroth put a comforting hand on her shoulder, saying, "As for that, we'll leave it to Silver. She'll be able to get the ingredients in no time, with her connections and all."
"Blaise, trust me." Silverdawn turned to look at her friend when she had finally finished those papers.
"Okay." Blaise smiled, "But you had better hurry up. DADA's next."
"Don't remind me." Draco said dryly, causing the others to laugh.
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The classes ended very uneventfully that day… After dinner, most of the students headed for their beds, tired as usual, leaving the Great Hall moderately empty. Silverdawn quietly mind-spoke to her friends when she had finally finished her meal, preparing to go back to the Kadamon suite.
::Guys, meet me at the portrait of 'The Lovers' just beside the Grand Stairs. Riley, Mya, bring Harry, Ron and Gin along.::
::Okie.:: Hermione mindspoke back as they headed for the assigned destination. Silverdawn then proceeded to nudge Blaise as she whispered into the Slytherin's ear, "Blaise, come with me. Don't let Pansy or the others see where we're going." Gaining the girl's nod, they slipped out of the hall together quietly and met at the portrait.
"Sherry." Azrael smiled as he gave a perfunctory kiss on her cheek. Silverdawn smiled at this, and addressed her friends, saying, "This is the shortcut to the suite, and it will only recognize the few of you. Just walk through it, and wait for us at the other side."
The Hogwarts students looked a little doubtful at having to walk through such a solid picture, but after the others had entered it, they gathered their courage, entered… And found themselves in a room that had a panoramic view of the sky via the floor-to-ceiling windows.
"Wow." Ginny breathed as she went towards the windows, marveling at the night sky.
"Wow indeed." Harry intoned, looking at the decorations of the room. It was tastefully furnished with Corinthian columns and various furniture that matched its Roman theme, all of which looked very expensive. Globes of soft lighting decorated the ceiling and the Hogwarts students (save Draco) gaped at the huge blue lava lamps that were as tall as the columns. Bookcases were situated by one corner of the room, all of which were filled with archaic tomes of mage craft and wizardry. A cackling fire burned heartily within the white marble fireplace, and above it hung a huge family portrait that Ron had gone to inspect.
"Welcome to the Kadamon suite." Azrael smiled as Hermione went over to the books, and Blaise gentled touched the weapons by the other corner of the room.
"Hey? Who's that silver-haired girl beside you Azrael? She looks real pretty!" Ron commented as Harry went to his side, mentally agreeing with his friend's statement. Azrael saw who they were referring to, and gain his twin a meaningful gaze before replying, "She's my younger twin sister, Si… er, Serafina Kadamon."
"She really looks very pretty." Ginny said softly in accord as Azrael choked down a laugh whilst his twin stared daggers at his back. Clearing his throat, Azrael then continued, "Before all of you start doing anything, let's go to the potions laboratory. That's the main aim of tonight's escapade anyway. Then, we'll do our homework, and finally go to sleep. Harry, Hermione, Ron, Blaise, Ginny, we've made rooms for you in this suite, so it'll be easier to move around in here."
"Are we still in Hogwarts?" Ron asked, pleasantly surprised that even he had a room in this place.
"We still are. This is just a place unknown to the general populous." Silverdawn answered his question before bringing them to a circular room full of portraits. They stopped at one painting where a student was learning the art of potions, and Silverdawn explained, "This is a shortcut passageway to the potions laboratory. There's another way to enter it, but it's pretty long. So, I suggested using this instead. There is no password. Just put your hand on the portrait and it'll allow you to pass through."
As a demonstration, Silverdawn then put her hand lightly on the painting, and it swung open, leading to a large, brightly lit room where tables were set up with the appropriate apparatus. Ashteroth was practically floating when he reached the room, and could be heard softly murmuring, "Ah, my dears. I'm back…"
This caused the others to laugh, and Nikolai tried to explain to the Hogwarts students while biting back her giggles, "Ash is pretty head over heels in love with the art of potion making. Forgive his ignorance, guys." Harry just gazed at the cauldrons on the shelves in amazement, noting, "These are not ordinary pewter cauldrons! These are silver and platinum ones! Geez, Az. How much did you pay for these?"
"I've got no idea… Maybe about a hundred galleons each? Be thankful that Silver here did not deem it necessary to bring those crystal ones along. Those are the truly expensive ones."
Ron balked at this, and Ginny's mouth dropped at the amount of money spent on cauldrons alone. Hermione just shook her head at the extravagance, and wandered over to the ingredients cupboard, scrutinizing the names of the ingredients. There were a multitude common ingredients there, along with many rarer ones, including Manticore's skin, and Harpy feathers etcetera. Then, there were some ingredients that she had never heard before… Essence of an Angel, lysosomes of a Griffin, and… huh? Lithium peroxide?
Hermione took up the vial of lithium substance, and asked Silverdawn, "You even have muggle chemicals here?"
"Oh, you noticed! Some of them are pretty helpful when we try new potions. That's why we've got a whole range of muggle chemicals and TNTs available in case we need them." Silverdawn grinned as Hermione took out a translucent glass vial labeled, 'Plutonium powder'.
"God. These are real radioactive stuff. You guys certainly know how to play with fire." Hermione said wryly as she put the vial back on the shelf carefully.
"Well, this is the aspect of potions that we like so much – the danger. Wanna try out how to make Veritaserum, Gin? There's no Professor Snape to bark at you if you failed." Hideaki said good-naturedly as he took out an ordinary platinum, sized 3 cauldron. He motioned Ginny to help him take it to one of the worktables whilst Amber took the initiative to get the ingredients out. Then, they separated into groups of threes and fours to discuss about the faster methods to make the potions. Ginny paired up with Hideaki and Ashteroth, Hermione paired with Silverdawn, Harry and Draco, Ron paired with Amber and Lawrence while Blaise paired with Azrael, Nikolai and Tristan.
All of them worked in relatively comfortable silence, each doing their assigned jobs of looking after cauldrons, scribbling notes, or preparing ingredients of the potions. To Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny, this was the first time that they got to truly enjoy the art of potions making, and they made the most out of it. Without Snape constantly snarling at them for being slow, potions turned out to be a fun thing, and with the help of the experienced students, all the potions turned out to be perfect.
As Ginny was younger than them, Hideaki and Ashteroth had taken pains to explain in minute details why each step was so important, and Ginny really benefited from it. Harry also got to cooperate with Draco for once, and they made quite an efficient group. Furthermore, the Gryffindor-Slytherin tension had kind of disappeared in the room, leaving peace in its wake.
"Hmm… can we do this again tomorrow?" Ron asked excitedly when his potion went colorless, the exact color of what Veritaserum was to be.
"No problem." Azrael replied, "If there weren't any disruptions, we can continue tomorrow. Plus, so long as brother doesn't impose curfew on us, it should be all right."
"Great!" Hermione said enthusiastically as she helped Draco wash up. Tristan carefully put all the potions into a large vial, labeled it, and placed it in a glass shelf where it stood there, alone. Curious, Harry asked the boy, "Why did you put the vial there? Why not put it with the other vials?"
Tristan shook his head, explaining, "This cupboard is for all the potions we've made. Counter potions on the top shelf, healing ones on the second one, our own inventions are on the third shelf, poisons on the last and miscellaneous ones on the fourth. We like to see how many potions we can make up by the end of this year. Right Az?"
"Yeah." Azrael said, grinning a little. They finally finished clearing up, and went back to the common room where Azrael brought them to another room where their schoolbags were placed by a large circular table.
"Does this mean that it's time for homework?" Amber asked a little dejectedly, staring at the huge pile of UWIM homework in front of her allocated seat.
"Obvious, isn't it?" Ron countered dryly as he saw his Divination work. He then turned to Harry, asking, "Hey, mate. Wanna predict when I'll die?"
"Only if you'd predict mine." Harry challenged his friend.
"Deal." Ron said, and started mapping out Harry's 'ultimate death'.
The others (Blaise included) just laughed at their antics, and set off to work. While working, they continued to chat, talking about the differences of studying in Hogwarts and UWIM, until Nikolai mentioned about the Wizarding Village near their school – San Marie.
"You'd love to go there. It's so exotic! People of all states reside in San Marie, and you will never feel out-of-place there! And that pub down Ceres Pathway is the best! They even allow us to try mixing the drinks ourselves!" Tristan said dreamily, causing Draco comment, "it's been a long time since I've been there…"
"All too true…" Hideaki murmured softly.
"Hey! Why don't we smuggle you guys there next weekend?" Lawrence suddenly spoke out, looking at Azrael and Silverdawn for their opinions. The twins thought for a while, before grinning.
"Actually, we could… There's a portal in this suite that will bring us there. But," Azrael gestured to Harry, Blaise Ron and Ginny, "the four of you will have to learn those languages soon. They speak in all tongues there, so you'll be pretty confused if you don't know the languages."
"We'll do it." Harry said determinedly. Ron, Blaise and Ginny nodded their heads in agreement, and continued doing their homework.
After some time, many of them were poring over the separate books of languages, with the UWIM students helping those in Hogwarts. Draco then stood up, and bid all of them goodnight.
"Where are you going?" Hermione asked inquisitively, looking up from one of Silverdawn's tome on Transfiguration.
"Hack time." Draco answered smoothly as Lawrence and Silverdawn got up too. The Court then understood what he had to do, and the three of them walked out of the room and into the Information Halls, where their work commenced…
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
End of Chapter.
Okay, once again, I've posted this far too late for anyone to be happy, and I must admit, this isn't a very good chapter either… *sigh* I'll try to get the next chapter out soon, but I can't make any promises =)
Please do review soon!
Note 1: ke'chara ~ it means 'dear' or 'beloved'. Got this from Mercedes Lackey, and I kinda like her works too!
Now, for the reviews (my favorite part of the chapter everytime!)
Aemos ~ *beams* Thanx for putting me in your favorites list! Hope that this chapter is to your liking!
HollyLeFay78 ~ Sorry to get this chapter up so late! I know that this chapter's not as long as the previous few, but I kinda had another bad bout of writer's block. *glares at it hatefully* Hope that I won't have it again…
LILYOFTHENILE23 ~ Chapter 13 is up girl! Glad to see that someone looks forward to my fic as much as you do! *grins*
*no name* ~ I'm sorry, but they did not post up your name, but thanks for your praise!
Madame Padfoot ~ tee hee, yet another lady has fallen into the charms of our Dueling Master – Lucifer Kadamon! Hermione's transformation will come slowly. Plus, I'm looking forward to seeing Severus go on a raid with Belial in tow!
bubblegum*girl ~ *looks a little embarrassed* Aww… I can't possibly be as good as Ms Rowling… After all, she was the one who had gifted us Harry Potter and his magical world! Too bad I had not thought of it earlier than her =) *lol*
Mary Potter aka Maria Paula ~ Hee hee, I'm also very ecstatic that Brazil won!!! No offense to the German fans out there, but Brazil is simply DA BEST!!! I watched the 'live' broadcast, and when that guy (*sheepish* kinda forgotten his name) kissed the cup, it was such a beautiful scene! All of us were talking about it back in school the next day!
Aemos ~ thanks for reviewing all the time! As long as you've reviewed, I *thank* you! *mimics a dopey grin*
Omni ~ Ooh, I'm real glad that you've actually missed my fic, makes me feel a sense of accomplishment somewhere behind that small brain of mine! *just joking* And the answer to your question, Lawrence's father, Sedaris Snape, is the younger twin of Severus, thus, Severus is Lawrence's eldest uncle.
Okie, that's all for now!
Please do review, and give some ideas. I've a feeling that I'm running out of them!
Toodles
~SilverDawn~