All disclaimers apply. Harry Potter and co. belongs to the wonderful goddess – Ms. J.K. Rowling and all its publishers' etcetera.
Note: this is the first part (of two parts) of chapter 14, thus, it's chapter 14.1 =)
The Awakening of a RoyalSilverDawn
Chapter 14.1: Mike's AppearanceThe days passed by rather uneventfully, and Harry, Ron, Blaise and Ginny had been practicing their usage of languages with a gusto that surprised the Court of Twelve and Hermione. By now, they had mastered practically the basic languages (at least a hundred of them, not counting country dialects. All these were aided by spells of course!), and are able to speak the way the UWIM students often do – jumping from one language to another – with relative ease.
Also, the nightly Potions 'discussion group' was still going on, and they had quite a lot of fun playing with experimentation, even though Ginny had still needed some guidance here and there to understand the implications of the potions etcetera. In fact, Ron had gone quite addicted with the conducting of various tests, and could often be seen with Ashteroth discussing on what new ingredients or TNTs they should add to various explosives and poisons… Much to the chagrin of Lucifer, Salazar and Severus, whose senses could feel the explosions that were occurring within the shielded Potions laboratory. Most importantly, Harry, Ron, Ginny and Hermione could now interact with Draco and Blaise with ease, and vice-versa, and the Potions grades had improved quite a lot (save Hermione for her grades had always been good).
There was one particularly humorous thing to add though… Harry, Ron, Ginny and Blaise had gotten to see their Potions Master – Severus Snape – 'unmasked', as in, without the usual Glamouries covering up his true form.
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It was during Sunday morning, and the group of fourteen had been split up into pairs, trying out different potions. Most unfortunately, Ashteroth had been paired up with Ron, and feeling adventurous, the duo had tried a new explosive that was modified from a fireball potion. Instead of the usual ingredients, Ash had added in a drop of volatile francium liquid at the same time when Ron had threw in threw in a pinch of ground, dragon's teeth, tingeing the potion into a dark red color, which was totally different from the supposed pale yellow of the fireball potion. Ron and Ash had waited until everyone finished their respective potions before testing the newly invented potion, which was actually a good thing, for when a drop of the potion touched the wooden side table; a loud 'BOOM' could be heard while all of them got knocked to the ground by the sheer impact of the explosion.
This aroused the attention of Lucifer, Salazar and Severus (who wasn't under Glamourie), all of whom had been lazing around in the main lounge, dressed in comfortable muggle-wizard (a mixture of both) wear. They had been very shocked to feel a blast of pure energy within the suite itself, rushing into the Potions lab, only to be taken aback by the wrecked room and smell of charred wood where the children were coughing, smudges of soot evident on their faces. This had amused Salazar and Lucifer as they were used to seeing this, but Severus had been rather furious, pained by the fact that they had ruined a perfectly wonderful Potions room.
"And what," Severus had asked, looking positively fuming, "did all of you think you were doing?"
"Potions?" Ginny replied back weakly as she wondered whom the stranger was while Hideaki helped her up.
"An explosion of a potion that rival even Longbottom's?" the Potions Master countered dangerously, causing Lucifer to choke back a snicker. Silverdawn hurriedly uttered the spell that brought the room back to its original finery before the explosion took place, explaining to the fuming man, "Uncle, we were trying a new potion. The explosion's to be expected."
Once again, Severus' eyes narrowed, "Expected?" He was about to blow up, worried that his godchildren, nephew, and students (more like friends) would be killed, and all his goddaughter said was that they were trying a new potion! Noticing the storm brewing, Salazar walked forward, putting an arm over his brother's shoulder, trying to sooth that unpredictable temper of his, "Brother, this is usual in UWIM. Get used to it."
"I agree Sev, this is the way in my home, when eleven members of the Court are residing for the holidays. Just be thankful that the explosions don't occur almost every hour of the day." Lucifer added as the children wiped away the dirt on their faces, half attempting to look decent. Severus sighed at this, looking from Lawrence to Azrael, then to the rest of the Court. Harry, who washing the cauldrons by the sink, turned to face the three professors at Lucifer's words, brows contorted into a 'vee' as he uttered a syllable in disbelief, "Sev?"
The other Hogwarts students, save Draco and Hermione, looked at the handsome man who was dressed in a soft, cream-colored cashmere sweater and a pair of dark brown leather pants, all of them uttering in incredulity, "Professor Snape???" Severus scowled at this, commenting tartly, "Is there a problem?" He raked a hand over his hair, looking at Harry, Ron, Ginny and Blaise's stunned faces before realizing that he wasn't under Glamourie. His immediate reaction was to obliviate their memories, however he knew that those four would have known his identity sooner or later, whether or not he liked it… but he hadn't expected it to be this soon. Glaring at them, he muttered aloud, "Oh bugger."
…And this left all of the others laughing.
One good thing though, after this incident, Severus had acted much more civilly to the Gryffindors in the Kadamon suite, and could be seen with them in the Potions lab often, aiding a few of them in several more complex potions…
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Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Great Hall
Wednesday had finally came and almost all of the Gryffindors in a good mood that afternoon. At lunch, the only thing in everyone's mind was the upcoming Quidditch trials, which was to be held that evening after the last class, causing the table to be abuzz with excitement.
"Gin," Azrael said after finishing his food, "I'll get you the broom when the trials start. Sorry if I can't pass it to you earlier, it'll be far too eye-catching to hand it to you now…" The silver-haired prince looked a little apologetic, but Ginny just shook her head, grateful that he was willing to lend her a decent broom.
"Still, I really have to thank you, Prince." Ginny replied cheekily, "Cos' if I do get in the team, I'll get a new broom for free."
This caused Azrael to grin, countering, "What if I want something in return?"
"Hmm… It depends on what you want." Ginny retorted mildly as Amber giggled, adding in, "And Aki will have Emperor's hide…" Hearing this, Hideaki choked on his food whilst Ginny flushed a bright red. Tristan rolled his eyes at this, remarking, "Priestess, quit making such tart remarks. They're lame."
"Agreed, Priestess. I ought to get Judgement to make you shut up." Hideaki said dryly, causing Amber to give the two boys death glares. Hearing their conversation, Lavender inquired curiously, "Who's Priestess?"
Amber groaned, murmuring in an exasperated tone, eyes flashing a jade-green, "Justice, Chariot, now you've done it."
"Sorry." The duo apologized sheepishly as Amber gave the answer to Lavender's question, "Lavender, that's my nickname."
"More like Court name." Hermione commented in Spanish, causing those who understood to laugh.
"Aww 'Mya…' Amber complained in French, "Now you're ganging with the boys against me."
"Not really, I'm just stating a fact." Hermione commented, reverting back to English as she half-attempted tying her hair in a ponytail. She glanced from Ginny to Hideaki and back again, before shaking her head, causing many of the students to be puzzled.
"What's up, Mione?" Tristan asked as Harry passed a piece of brown velvet to Hermione for her to tie her hair with.
"Nothing…" Just that those two are bound to be together sooner or later… the Gryffindor added mentally. Just last night, she had another dream… of a splendid wedding that was to be taking place a few years in the future, a wedding of a certain member of the Court. This morning, she had consulted Silverdawn about the dream, and the black-haired girl also admitted that she had seen that particular scene a few nights ago. They exchanged dream images via the mind, and since they were the same, they could only conclude that Hermione wasn't just dreaming, she was seeing part of her friend's future. Stretching her mind to encompass her friend's, Hermione mindspoke to Silverdawn, who was seated at the Slytherin table.
::Silver, how is it that you are able to keep your mouth shut about all of the things, and not go mad?::
The reply came virtually immediately, and the familiar pearly-silver mind-touch was almost comforting to Hermione's mind, ::A promise I made to myself. I know that telling the truth will affect the world, be it a person's individual world or the world in large…::
::How long have you been living with it?::
A short silence ensued, but the black-haired girl finally replied in a sadness-tinged mind-voice, ::Since I was five.:: Hermione did not reply. She did not need to, for her shock-filled mind-color was enough of an answer to Silverdawn. The Slytherin then continued, ::Hermione, the ability to keep the secrets of dreams is the main reason why Seers are so rare – not many are able to do it. It is also the reason why those surviving have extraordinary patience. We are a diminishing group of people, and our power isn't just on Seeing the future. Our psychic ability is also the most powerful of the Wizarding World, I'll train you soon personally if I can, but for now, if you do have any problems, there is always me, Pearlsong, and many others whom you can talk of this to. Mother Nature is a good listener too, if you are able to feel her.::
::Mother Nature???:: Hermione went very perplexed. Aren't the trees and plants just… trees and plants?
::Hear her, 'Mione. Talk to her, and maybe one day, you'll be able to appreciate them – those spirits within our realm. This is something you must learn for yourself.:: Silverdawn advised enigmatically.
::You're talking like a prophetess, do you know that?:: Hermione said in chagrin, trying to make sense out of the older girl's words.
::I am one.:: The girl replied at the Slytherin table, looking up from the book she was reading. She grinned when Hermione met her eyes, and the Gryffindor just sighed, commenting, ::You're sounding more like Athena…:: This statement startled Silverdawn, and she asked cautiously, :: Having dreams again?::
::Do I never?:: Hermione thought back cynically.
::Mya…:: Silverdawn sounded a little exasperated.
::Yes, ma'am. I'm dreaming of Profe… er, Uncle Severus and Athena again. Sheesh, sometimes I wonder if that is really the Snape I know.:: Hermione wondered of the recent development of Professor Snape allowing them to call him Uncle Severus along with the Court. The Hogwarts students had complied, but sometimes, six years of 'Professor Snape' don't change to 'Uncle Severus' so easily. True, Snape had been civil, even friendly, to them (even Harry) in the suite, but this had been rather disturbing to everyone except Draco. The current Snape reminded Hermione of the one in her dream, and Hermione had often wondered if this was the true Severus Snape, not just the 'evil, greasy git' of a Potions Master they had for classes.
Silverdawn noticed her trail of thought, and thought to herself, Let's just pray that she doesn't get too shocked about the upcoming events. Reverting back to mind-speech, she casually changed the topic, ::Hey, are we invited to watch the Quidditch trials too?::
::Waitaminute, I'll ask Harry.::
"Harry, are those Slytherins invited to watch our trials?" Hermione asked the ruly-haired boy in Macedonian, helping herself to a piece of white bread. Taking a bite, she received affirmation from Harry, and in turn, lapsed back into mindspeech, ::Yup, you guys are invited. Say Silver, are you going to bring any tea?::
::Intending to set up a picnic?:: Silverdawn teased, looking at her cousin who was seated at the Gryffindor table. Hermione shook her head, grinning as she replied, ::Nope, just to set my stomach to rights. I really love your cooking.::
::Quit flattering. I'll get some food ready.::
::Thanks! Er… can I have a slice of yesterday's glazed fruit gateau now?:: Hermione asked sheepishly, putting both her palms together in a silent plea as Silverdawn rolled her eyes. The black-haired girl then closed her eyes, and a slice of cake appeared in front of Hermione, much to the surprise of her nearby seatmates.
::Next time:: Silverdawn mindspoke dryly, :: Materialize it yourself. I remember teaching you the basics of your psychic ability.::
::I don't know where it was.:: Hermione replied oh-so-innocently.
::In the fridge, you silly!:: Silverdawn retorted as she ended their conversation.
"Hey! That cake!" Hideaki said in astonishment as the brunette started attacking the cake with gusto. Amber saw it too, and whined, "Silver is being unfair, I want one too!"
::Get it yourself.:: Hermione mindspoke Amber, savoring the sweet taste of the strawberries.
"Better still, make it yourself." Azrael added, along with a warning, "Take care though, it's Dueling next period."
"Arghh… Why do they always have to make our Dueling classes start after lunch?" Ron grumbled, finishing the last of his potato salad.
"God knows." Dean Thomas said, packing up his homework, "What do you think he'll be teaching us today?" Everyone looked at Azrael, but the Prince shook his head, replying, "Don't ask me, I've got no idea."
Tentatively, Azrael then mindspoke his sister, ::Sherry, can you get me one slice too?::
Silverdawn groaned, ::Not you too.::
::It isn't just me, the others want it too.::
::Oh all right.::
Silverdawn closed her eyes again, and in front of Hideaki, Tristan, Harry, Ron, Ginny, Amber and Azrael materialized a slice of cake each. All of them grinned, and unison, they shouted across the room, "Thanks, Empress!" leaving the black-haired girl shaking her head. Ashteroth looked at Silverdawn peculiarly, asking the question that was in everyone's minds, "Now what did you do?"
"You wouldn't want to know, your grace." Silverdawn said sarcastically as she resumed reading her book, a baguette in her hand. The blond boy raised an eyebrow at this, for Silver seldom addressed him by his title unless something happened.
"I'm being plagued by hungry pigs." Silverdawn muttered to herself at the same time when Crabbe asked nosily, "Your grace? You are a duke?"
"Not just any one. He's the Duke of Lynx, cousin to the King of France, the future Prime Minister of the French Parliament." Lawrence said wickedly, ignoring the murderous stares coming from his friend as he added in Croatian, "He's also one of the seven who serve directly under Lucifer."
"Judgement. Don't think that I do not dare to kill you." Ash said quietly(in Latin), sea-green eyes narrowing into slits. He no longer looked like the usual cheery Ashteroth who is a Potions addict, but one whose powers are notorious in all three planes – Heaven, Earth and Hell.
"With your assassination record of at least five thousand under your hand?" Nikolai commented mildly in the same language, sipping her Earl Grey, "I don't think that there's anything you won't dare to do." This statement caused Ashteroth to shake his head, and a ghost of a smile played in his handsome face.
"I don't even rival Belial's record by one-fifty." Ashteroth said softly, causing Silverdawn to shake her head, encouraging, "Ash, you're only sixteen, Belial's like… what? A few hundreds of years older than you? Take it easy."
"Wait a sec. Ash, you're an angel?" Blaise asked, a little muddled by the facts. Lawrence snorted, and Nikolai laughed, explaining to her, "Yeah, Ashteroth is an angel, that's why he's not allowed to play Quidditch, like me."
"You're an angel too?" Blaise turned wide-eye at this, causing the Court to laugh. Draco also joined in the laughter, leaving the girl rather offended.
"Sorry, Blaise, but your expression was priceless!" Draco gasped in between chuckles, for Blaise seldom get shocked over things. It seemed as if the black-haired girl would never be fazed by anything, so the look on her face (that bordered on astonishment) had been hilarious.
"Speaking of Quidditch. Magician, your skills have greatly deproved." Lawrence criticized in Kashmiri.
"Yeah, Drake. When did the prized Seeker of the Gahedriel house become such a lousy wimp?" Ashteroth asked in the same language, causing Nikolai to flinch.
"Strength," Silverdawn interrupted in Egyptian, "There's no need to insult a fellow member of the Court like that."
"Nevermind, Empress." Draco started smoothly, "I really am a lousy wimp now."
"Glad you knew." Ashteroth smirked, giving the platinum-haired boy a friendly punch on his side.
"Still, why the change?" Blaise asked in Arabic, and everyone was on his or her ears, wondering what the boy had to say. Rolling his eyes, Draco pointed to his temple, explaining in Italian, "My talents and skills are sealed. It's kinda unfair to play when you know you've got an upper hand."
Si Muo choked on his food when he heard this, asking incredulously, "You sealed your talents for just this reason?"
"Duh."
Lawrence shook his head in defeat, commenting wryly, "Gahedriel courage clashes with Slytherin cunning, Magician."
"At least I have a clear conscience…" The boy mumbled as he stared at a random spot in front of him. Blaise just looked at him meaningfully, commenting in a sardonic tone, "Now, that's new."
"Well, this aside. Harry has invited us to watch the Gryffindor trials. Wanna come?" Silverdawn asked, putting her book into her bag as she prepared to leave for Dueling.
"Why not? I want to see how Gin fairs." Draco got up from his seat, following Silver's lead.
"You just wanna see whom you're up against this year." Ashteroth said, grinning as he slung an arm over the lank boy's shoulder.
"C'mon, Lucifer's waiting."
"I can't wait." Ash murmured sarcastically, causing the others to grin. Nikolai, Blaise, Lawrence and Si Muo got up too, making their way to the exit of the Grand Hall. With the 'elite' group of Slytherin gone, Pansy looked at the place where Silverdawn had sat on with disgust, saying to Millicent in anger, "That bitch is stealing my Draco!"
"Relax, Pansy. We'll find something about her background to insult her with." Millicent Bulstrode soothed her furious friend as she turned to Crabbe and Goyle.
"The two of you, dig up any information of the Langford bitch that might prove scandalous." Millicent ordered in a strict tone.
"Scandalous?" Goyle looked very puzzled, causing Pansy to snarl, "Just find out anything about her." The two boys flinched at Pansy's tone, but complied, and scooted off, leaving the two girls to themselves.
You'll get it from me, Langford. I swear you'll do. Pansy thought as she finished the last of her food.
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Outside, Silverdawn felt a cold shiver course down her spine. Azrael noticed this, and asked in concern, "Everything all right?"
"Yeah."
::Just that I felt someone cursing me.:: She added in mind-speech, so as not to alarm the others. Sapphire eyes shot up in alarm, but Silverdawn just shook her head, pleading to her twin not to say it out. the plea in those silver eyes made Azrael complied, but he murmured in Angelic, "Don't get into any trouble."
"I won't."
The duo walked in companionable silence at the back of the group, hearing Ron ask, "What potion are we doing tonight?"
"I don't think we'll be having any." Hermione replied back.
"Nooo!!!" Both Ashteroth and Ron groan, causing the others to grin. Harry patted both boys' arms, reminding them in Czech, "We're going to have a celebration tonight, remember?" Hearing this, Ron nodded grudgingly before turning to Silverdawn, "Dawn, will you be cooking tonight?"
"Why?" Silverdawn asked cautiously as all the others look at her intently.
"I just thought that you could bake another one of that sponge cake with fruits on top." Ron said harmlessly, looking at the girl with wide, chocolate brown eyes.
Oh no… Silverdawn thought as everyone looked at her in plea, Azrael included.
"Please…!" They chorused in unison, looking up at her with puppy eyes.
"Oh all right. I'll cook tonight." The black-haired girl said resignedly, earning whoops of delight from all the others.
"I love you, Silver."
"You're an angel."
"Can you bake that apple strudel too?"
All sorts of requests came along, causing the princess to groan but when they rounded around the corner to where the Dueling classroom was, Azrael and Silverdawn became alert, aware that they had just passed a very strong shield surrounding this expanse of hallway. They looked at one another in disbelief when both of them felt the signature of the caster, mindspeaking one another in unison.
::It's him?::
Sly grins crept onto the twins' faces, and Azrael casually threw a comment to his friends, "Guys, your ultimate nightmare is about to begin."
"What do you mean by that?" Tristan asked warily, and Silverdawn replied, "Blaise, things will get pretty interesting later on…"
"Why do I have a feeling I am not going to like this?" Blaise asked suspiciously, causing the twins to smirk evilly.
"This is gonna be so fun, Sherry."
"Agreed, Riley."
On hearing this, everyone shivered…
Out of fear.
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4th Floor, North Wing, entire stretch
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
6th year Dueling Class: Gryffindor and Slytherin
Many students were already in the class, and all of them are very puzzled by the man who was leaning against the wall by the salle. His tall, lithe body was clothed in a white military uniform with badges and medals adorning the breast pocket, and the aura of power exuded from him was so strong that all of the students had stayed unusually quiet, fearing that their noise will disrupt his thoughts.. His hair was a few inches below his chin, a little mussed up, black fading into a wondrous silver color, and the diamond blue eyes that seemed to be able to look through your soul. Those soul-shattering eyes were now looking at the windows…
And this was how the Court and the others found him when they entered.
Interrupted by their footsteps, Mikael turned back to look at the group of eleven people, all of whom were shocked to the core, Harry, Ron, Hermione and Blaise included. In a matter of three seconds, all of them bowed and curtsied, uttering with dread, "Your highness."
The class gasped on hearing this, and Mikael smiled – a smile that made practically the entire female population swoon.
"Get back to your seats." Mikael said in a pleasant voice, one that caused the members of the Court to groan inwardly.
::We are so dead.:: Amber mindspoke to everyone.
::Damn.:: Ashteroth swore, but Mikael's voice interrupted their conversation.
"My twin, Professor Kadamon, is cropped up with a meeting, so I will be taking over for this afternoon." Mikael said smoothly, before saying in Icelandic, "And I'm here to make Lucifer look like a saint."
Ron and Harry flinched at this, as did Hermione, but Blaise remained unfazed, only looking at her former mentor with respect she reserve for little. The Court of Twelve groaned, Nikolai commenting, ::Time to get the medics together.::
::Now isn't the time for jokes, Temperance. We're dead.:: Tristan retorted, but Azrael shut him up after a nudge on his ribs.
"Lucifer has asked me to go easy on all of you, so take off your robes, and two rounds of the turning staircases in fifteen minutes. Now warm up. I expect all of you to start in five minutes." Mikael ordered as the students scuttled around, stretching their legs, grumbling softly. The Prince grinned at this, strolling to where Blaise is, asking softly, "How is my lovely rose doing today?"
"Fine, your highness." Blaise replied respectfully, bending down to touch her toes with the grace of a dancer. She then proceeded to stretch her arms while Mikael commented, "Glad that you remembered my teachings, Ray." Blaise went silent for a while, before retorting, "How could I forget?"
This remark caused the Crown Prince to chuckle, but he uttered softly, "I look forward to fencing with you, my love. Without magic."
With that, the Prince ordered all of them to commence with warm-up, leaving Blaise frowning at his words.
My love?
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Fifteen minutes later…
Practically all of the Hogwarts students looked utterly exhausted. Panting, they finally gathered at the bottom of the stairs, where Mikael silently led them out of the castle, to the clearing by the lake within Hogwarts' grounds. Looking at the lake, the UWIM students gulped, looking at one another with dread.
::Why do I have a feeling that we're so dead?:: Harry mind-spoke to the pale UWIM students.
::That's because we are going to be dead.:: Tristan replied, wetting his parched lips.
::Just be thankful that there isn't a gushing waterfall here, Harry.:: Blaise mind-spoke absently, before adding, ::Girls, are you guys wearing sport bras?::
The UWIM boys choked when they heard this, but the girls nodded their heads.
::Be ready. I think we'll get wet pretty soon.:: Silverdawn informed the others, before linking out, focusing on what her brother intended to do.
Looking at the lake, Mikael uttered a few warding spells, allowing the wind to blow against his face, before turning back to the class. Then, in a deceptively mild tone, he started, "Today, we will only practice a hex that will prove very effective on people – the Regalia Illusion spell. From what I've heard, Mr. Malfoy here has used this during the Duel against Lucifer in your class. So, Mr. Malfoy, would you care to explain what the spell is for?"
The prince looked at Draco pointedly, leaving the boy with no choice but to clarify what the spell was for. Clearing his throat, he began giving a brief summary of the spell, "This isn't an offensive or defensive spell, but one that is used purely to distract your opponent, leaving him in a world of illusion. The effects last depending on the ability of the caster and also the will of the opponent. However, this spell can also be a rough substitute for Glamourie, and you can use it disguise yourself if require."
"Wise explanation. Ten points to Slytherin. Today, I only want you to use it for Glamourie as not many of you are able to master this hex. Now, the words for this spell are simply just 'Regalia Illusion'." Taking out his seldom-used wand, Mikael further enlightened, "I'll do a demonstration for now. Watch. Regalia Illusion."
Simultaneously, his facial features began to change. The black and silver hair bleached into pure silver, diamond-colored eyes darkening into a rich sapphire blue. His face turned older, the sigil of the Greek letter ξ etched on his forehead whilst the dimples deepened. He was also taller, and just a little bulkier, but the aura of leadership was only enhanced, not diminished.
Hermione gaped at this change. She knew who he had disguised himself as, and looking at this image only made her remember those times when Israfil was in her dream, with the man beside her ever so often. Softly, she whispered, "Adam…"
The name shocked many, and Azrael just grinned at his brother's startled expression. Regaining his composure, Mikael took away the spell, and asked, "You are?"
"Hermione Granger." Hermione introduced politely before Azrael mind-spoke to his brother, ::Honestly, I thought you'd remember her.:: Mikael shot an annoyed look at his brother, but bit back the retort that was threatening to come out. instead, he addressed the class, "Class, try the spell now."
And try indeed. Murmurs of "Regalia Illusion" could be heard everywhere, but not many were able to keep the appearance for long. Hermione looked at Silverdawn worriedly, asking the question that was bothering her the most.
::Silver, will this spell affect the Glamourie I'm under?::
The black-haired girl shook her head, leaving Hermione relieved. The brunette then looked at what her friend had decided to disguise as, and whistled.
"Wow, Silver. This is evil." Hermione said as she examined her friend's disguise. The all too familiar coal-black, shoulder length hair replaced her long tresses. The refined cheekbones, elegantly sculpted eyebrows, aristocratic nose and raven eyes with unbelievable luscious lashes could only belong to one person – Severus Snape.
"Try it, Hermione. Maybe you can be my match." Silverdawn said meaningfully in the deep voice of Professor Snape's. Hermione shuddered at the tone, but thought of Athena, raised her wand, and muttered softly, "Regalia Illusion."
Immediately, the brown curls straightened, and deepened into midnight black, lengthening until it reached her ankles. Her facial features changed, hazel eyes turned sapphire blue, and her jaws became prominent, as was the straight nose – a trait of the Kadamon family. She had also grown taller, and the air of elegance emanated as if she was the queen herself.
Silverdawn smiled at this appearance, knowing full well that this was the image of Athena when she was about twenty. In a mock manner, Silverdawn assisted Hermione to smooth out the wrinkles of her gown, and acting chivalrous, pulled Hermione's hand to loop in the crook of 'his' right elbow. Hermione giggled at this, commenting in a musical tone, "We really look like Athena and Uncle Severus, don't we?"
"I believe we do. Now we'll see how long we can make the disguise last." Silverdawn spoke as she 'invited' Hermione to sit down by a tree near the lake. Mikael noticed their disguises, and smiled at the girl who was to be his cousin. Slowly, he walked to where they were sitting, and mock bowed at the duo, intoning, "Uncle Severus, Aunt Athena." Silverdawn raised an eyebrow at this, not bothering to say anything, whilst Hermione looked flustered.
"Don't look so embarrassed, Athena. Everyone's watching." Silverdawn spoke in that deep tone of Severus'. Mikael chuckled, remarking, "Did the two of you purposely made this up?"
"What do you think?" Hermione challenged, feeling at ease talking to the prince.
"It's on purpose." Mikael confirmed at Silverdawn… or Severus' amused stare. Looking at the couple made him wonder how Hermione would fare after knowing the truth, and he said in a serious tone, "Better be ready for everything, Hermione. The future's tough for ordinary people, but for you, it will go even worse." With that, the man left them.
These words left Hermione rather unnerved, and she turned to Silverdawn, sapphire eyes questioning. The girl just shook her head, saying, "This is for you to find out. I cannot interfere." Raven eyes seemed to want to say something else, but Mikael's voice interrupted their conversation.
"To take down the disguise, just use the 'Finite Incantatem' spell." Mikael instructed. The students who mastered the disguise took down their spells, and listened intently to the Prince's further instructions.
"Now, I want those who do not know how to swim, and those who aren't very good to step out." Mikael ordered. Six students went to his side, Neville included, and Mikael continued, "Is this all?"
The class nodded, and Blaise sighed softly, instinctively knowing what her mentor was thinking of doing. Steeling her resolve, the Slytherin waited for the bomb to drop.
And drop it did.
"I want all of the Hogwarts students to swim 20 laps around the border of the lake. UWIM students, Mr. Malfoy, Miss Zambini, 40 laps." Mikael ordered, ignoring the sudden intake of breaths and dropping jaws of the Hogwarts students, "Strip down to whatever you feel comfortable, and start. I'll know when each of you has finished your allocated laps, and no cheating. I have a fascinating way of dealing with cheaters." The class shivered, not wishing how he'd deal with those who would actually cheat and obediently took off their cloaks. The boys stripped down to only their pants or shorts, while most of the girls took to wearing their shirts and shorts even though it might hinder their movement. Silverdawn, Amber, Nikolai, Blaise and Hermione only wore their sports bras and accustomed black tights, and all of them jumped down into the water at the same time as the boys, not in the least alarmed by the coldness of the lake while the other girls treaded the water skittishly.
::'Mione, try to swim about 30 laps, you have the stamina to do it.:: Blaise advised while they were halfway around the lake.
::I'll try… Can't make any promises though.:: Hermione replied back, trying to keep up with the girl's pace. Blaise gave a thumbs-up, and matched the brunette's pace, encouraging her along. In this way, the duo continued, sometimes slowing down when Hermione seemed to be exhausted, but they went on, with Silverdawn, Amber and Nikolai encouraging the Gryffindor time and again when they swam at the same pace. Eventually, after one and a half hours, Hermione finished forty rounds at the same time as the last of the Hogwarts students, leaving Mikael moderately pleased. When Blaise and Hermione reached shore, fluffy towels were passed to them, and the duo wrapped themselves with it, with Hermione smiling feebly at Silverdawn and Draco, who looked a little worried.
"You shouldn't have swam our length if it'll drain you like this." Draco admonished the brunette as Silverdawn passed a mug of hot chocolate to Blaise, and another to Hermione. Muttering a warming spell, the two soaking wet girls went dry immediately, and Silverdawn added, "Draco, you're acting like a over-worried father." The two girls giggled at this while the platinum-blond haired boy gave her an exasperated glare. Mikael walked over to them, looking at Hermione with something akin to respect.
"Miss Granger, I must commend you with your spirit. No one has been able to start forty laps of swimming in one go without proper training. Ten points to Gryffindor." Mikael said approvingly, earning a delighted grin from the brunette.
"As for you, Miss Zambini, it is well thought-of for you to stay with Miss Granger throughout the course of swimming. I've seen you encouraging her throughout the event, well done. Ten points to Slytherin." Mikael said before walking off to address the entire class.
"Now, I want all of you to try the spell again." Mikael ordered the entire class in a tone that brooked no objections. The students complied, muttering 'Regalia Illusion' half-heartedly, and many were shocked by the vast improvements they made. All of them, including Neville, were able to form a disguise and keep it on for several seconds, without causing the image to flicker.
Murmurs arose from the class as they thought of the sudden advance and the prince explained, "Swimming, as you all know, improves your stamina, but when you swim magical lakes such as this, it also increases your dexterity and concentration. This has something to do with the currents that go through the water, which I will not explain. Now, if you have the time, come by often to swim here, or just relax in the waters. It will restore your depleted energies much faster than usual. Understood?"
The class nodded their heads in unison, and Mikael finally ended the class with 'dismissed'.
"Langford, I need to see you for a moment." Mikael added absent-mindedly as the students prepared to leave for their next class. Silverdawn stayed back, tying her hair into a braid after shrugging into her black robes. They waited until the class was far away from the clearing, before lapsing into Angelic.
"Feeling better?" Mikael asked in concern, causing the black-haired girl to glance up in surprise.
"How did you know…?" Silverdawn wondered in surprise as her brother smirked, reminding her, "Your aura was pale when you entered the class. Why do you think I made the class go swimming?"
Water was the main element of Silverdawn's, just like Time being Azrael's element. In her somewhat slowed mind, the girl understood the reason.
"So that the waters will make me recover soon!"
Mikael smiled at his sister, and gradually, they made their way to the castle. Once they reached the entrance to the Kadamon Suite near the Great Hall, Mikael reminded the black-haired girl, "Go to Atzulith soon, even a day will do. The environment there is better for you." The girl just nodded her head, contemplating on her next class as she realized that she had walked in the wrong direction, "Shit. I'm having Care of Magical Creatures next!" Giving her brother a peck on the cheek, she asked, "You'll be staying for dinner?" The prince gave her a negative shake, and Silver continued, "Stay. There's Quidditch trials later on, and I'm cooking dinner."
Diamond-blue eyes lighted up at this, and Mikael exclaimed, "I'll stay! I've missed your food!" This statement annoyed Silverdawn, rolling her eyes upward, she complained, "Is there no one who would not say that?"
"I don't think so, sis."
"Arghh!" Silverdawn screamed as she ran to Hagrid's hut, where Care of Magical Creatures had already commenced five minutes ago.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
End of chapter 14.1
The next part of chapter 14 will come up in five days max. Sorry for the delay, but my school's College day had just finished, and I finally have time to continue with the story. That blasted 'Fashion Bizarre' took up my entire week, constructing my hat and organizing the sound systems, stage, blah blah blah. Now, those panda eyes of mine are starting to show!
Also, I'm sorry to have split this chapter up, but it went rather long. Next up, Care of Magical Creatures with Hagrid, and the Quidditch trials. Any guesses as to what broom Ginny will be using?
kayti ~yuppie! I've got this chapter up. *finally* *sighs in relief* Hope you won't kill me. I know that this chapter isn't as good as the others…
Severus' Baby ~ *curious* How is it different from the others? I've only meshed it with another world =)
Mona ~ New chapter it is! *grins*
As de corazones ~ Hermione's birthday will come after a big incident. Yes, she'll inherit Snape's lands, Athena's too!
bubblegum*girl ~ *beams* Still, thanks for the compliment. I hope this fic will meet your standards in the end!
Tracy ~ I will, but not so soon. I need them to know one another better before this happens!
Aemos ~ *sighs* My writing style may be good, but I only pass borderline from my GP (General Paper) essays… Still, thanks for commenting!
Omni ~ Hmm… What do you mean by the 'actual family tree of our world'??? *grins* Hee hee, looks like I've succeeded in the last chapter – being able to shock people into believing that Belial actually betrayed the light.
ferguspork ~ yeah! Mercedes Lackey rocks! I really love her books too! But sorry, I don't think I have the ability to post two chapters consecutively cos' it'll be at least 10000 words long! (I make one chapter at least 5000 words long, it's my personal target. 14.1 is about 6000 words long!)
Adele Elisabeth ~ *sheepish* I'm sorry, this fic seems rather long too. But if it were I, I would have taken at least an hour and a half to finish reading all the chapters! And thanks for putting me in your favorites list!
hazeleyez ~ Once again, I've posted this chapter late. But the next chapter (14.2) would be out soon, I promise!
Becky ~ Nope, it's not just you. I feel that it's a lot shorter too, but, *consoles myself*, it had been about 5000 words, so I've not let myself down. Tee hee!
cherrity ~ Your suggestion has made me bring Mikael into the picture instead of Lucifer for this week's Dueling class. *eager* What do you think of it?
arcee ~ thanks! I'll remember this time. It'll be when Hermione's birthday celebration will be held =)
starbrite ~ hmm… I've got no idea. Maybe I'll pair him with Blaise, but maybe not. I was hoping to pair Blaise with Mike. Albeit evil, don't you think? *lol*
Li-chan ~ I'm glad you reviewed chapter 13 though. I had liked the interaction btw Severus and Belial too. About your question, when Severus found out that Athena had 'betrayed' him (details later in the story), he steeled his heart and never wanted to find out why, for fear that the truth would hurt him even deeper.
redskittlemonkey ~ I'm sorry about delaying the transformation. There'll be a shocker soon, then I'll post the awakening.
Loves_Kiss ~ *embarrassed* I know my reasons are pretty lame, but hey! *cheekily* I still posted it up, didn't I?
Katerina*Elise ~ That part was also one of my favorites. *smiles* I know it's hard to wait, but my schoolwork is piling up!
Lobo Dragon ~ Thanks! Hope you like this chapter too!
aries ~ at first, I hadn't expected things to go one like this, but since Hermione and Snape are two of the main characters of this fic, and that I've already put this fic in this category, I don't find a need to change the category area. Hope you don't mind!
janmmci ~ Not so soon. *apologetic* he'll be helping out with something. And the raid later on will prove to be lovely.
Aria Starlight ~ Yup *grins* Mya is gonna definitely find a *special someone*. In fact, he's already out there. Can you guess? The raid will be interesting, but pretty dark too. *beware*
That's all for reviews. See ya in five days!
Love
~SilverDawn~