I've changed some illogical parts in the previous chapter, courtesy of CloakofDarkness, who has pointed out those weird areas.
Plus, this chapter is for you, Loves_Kiss! Happy Belated Birthday!!!
Also, the below information before the italicised words is for reference as to when it is now. Remember, it's Saturday – meaning the day of the trip to San Marie.
The Awakening of a RoyalChapter 15: Silverdawn's past
SilverDawn
Saturday morning
16th September
0545 Ante Meridian
Hogwarts Castle, Kadamon suite.
They were in a room that was dimly lit, torches of elven fire that glowed faintly blue in the gloom of the dark. Outside, it looked as ominous as ever, with volcanoes floating in the air, with molten lava pooling by its edges, forming a waterfall that flowed to a river of molten fire so hot, that it had burnt people alive.
In the room itself, a young girl aged four was held by two hooded figures, with many others similar black-cloaked figures standing behind them. The two jailers hissed at the girl, as if trying to make her kneel, but the silver-haired girl looked defiant, a wilful expression evident in those wide, violet purple eyes. In front of her sat a man, whose fair hair was left unbound… golden-red eyes glittering with malice as he spoke in a melodious tone, a voice that was typical of an angel, "I see that my wonderful darlings have not, as of yet, sucked all of your happiness out."
He rose from his seat to kneel in front of the still-standing girl, placing two fingers below the girl's chin, and this forced the child to look at him in the eye. Golden-red bore into those violet orbs that were currently filled with hate… those eyes that do not fit the image of a five-year-old. The girl stared at the man, no, angel with pure hatred, spitting out the words in a child's tone, "You created those beings?"
"Alas," the blond-haired angel chuckled richly, answering the child's question with a drawl, "I created the Dementors, yes. But they had been from our lineage, your highness."
"They were angels?" The girl asked weakly, shock evident in her expression. The man patted the girl's head in an almost tender manner, but in the next instant, pulled the girl's silver locks brutally, causing the child to wince in pain at her burning scalp. Still, the man continued in the same, dangerous drawl, "Wise, my dear. Yes, they were angels. Angels whose greed made them turn dark, just like the orcs, who were once elves."
With that, he folded his slender fingers together, eyeing the girl in speculation. As expected, the girl looked furious… pained for her people, and her wings formed unconsciously, the purest white bordering on silver that could not be attained by any mere angel. Breathing deeply, the girl felt her heart weaken, but she ignored her own discomfort. Instead, she attempted conversing with the cloaked figures… to no avail. Half-heartedly, she used her mage sight to see into the cloaks…
… And felt tears in her eyes.
"Kuroi, you broke their wings!" the girl shouted in horror at what she saw. The wings of an angel were the most sensitive part of their bodies. A single stroke would send shivers of pain or comfort, depending on the situations, into their bodies, and the breaking of an angel's wings could make an angel go mad with pain. Kuroi grinned at her revelation, a mad, demented one that the girl stared at with detest. The negative feelings emanating from the wraith-like spirits was starting to get into her, and she felt her knees buckle beneath her weight. Still holding eye contact with the blond angel, the silver-haired girl spoke furiously, "Damn you to all thirteen hells and back."
"But I already am." Kuroi replied cynically, tracing a finger over her jaw. The young girl snarled at his touch, a ball of pure energy forming in her hand to scorch the man's elbow. The angel seemed unfazed by it but instead, murmured softly, "The heir is strong, but what if I do this?"
With a snap of his fingers, the girl screamed; feeling an extreme pain as her wings got torn apart whilst all the joints in her body broke. She refused to cry, and, like a broken porcelain doll, was left on the floor, arms and bones all jutting out in weird angles, lying atop a bed of bloodied feathers, wings pulled out, limp. Indeed, all of her bones were crushed by magic, her wings forcibly broken. This could have wrecked a normal angels soul, but hers remained strong, her spirit never broke.
"What do you want with me?" the young girl managed out these words in a pain-filled voice, feeling her life force seep out of her body. So, my heart is failing me, she thought sadly, I'm sorry, Mommy. All this while, Kuroi continued to study the girl's tortured face, apparently enjoying the feel of absolute power in his hand as he spoke up, "You? I want your mother to come, Serafina. When I kill both the Queen of the Angels and the heir, don't you think that, I, your mother's advisor, will succeed your mother?"
Let me out, princess.
Please, I want to die.
Milady, help me.
All sorts of voices entered the girl's head, finally breaking the dam that had held her powers at bay. With the last of her strength, she burned the souls present under those hoods – the only way of release for those angels…
Thank you, your highness…
Thank you, Serafina.
Mashiaere* Sera…
The last voice did it… it was the voice that was so familiar to Serafina, her best friend who had went missing a few months back, the only child of Kuroi – Krystine. He even destroyed his own child! Anger fuelled her weakening heart, and with the untrained powers of a psychic, she crammed all gravity into the dark angel's body, crushing the breath out of his…
And all went dark…
… It was raining heavily outside, a rare sight in any part of Assiah… and only when a tragedy had befell the Angelic Kingdom would such a downpour occur.
They were now in a large room where many people were gathered in. Four angels, Shadownight, Lightbringer, Pearlsong and two other strangers were standing before the bed, sigils flaring on all of their foreheads. Heading them was Raphael, hands atop the young child who was lying on the overlarge bed, with the others transferring energy into him. The Master of all Healers was glowing in a steady golden pulse, but no one seemed to notice. Instead, all of them were worried about the girl, whose condition did not look comforting at all.
In the chaise lounge by the rows of bookcases were the teenage versions of Lucifer and Mikael, both of whom were upset with their younger brother's state. Azrael's formerly radiant blue eyes were blank, void of any emotion, and no one seemed to be able to call him back. The trauma he had felt of his twin's suffering was too much, and the five-year-old boy had kept himself hidden in his inner shell, one that Lucifer and Mikael were trying in vain to pull him out of. Their parents, Adam and Israfil Kadamon seemed to be amidst a heated quarrel, one that definitely was because of their only sister – Serafina. The twins looked at their younger brother, to the limp body of their sister, then to their parents, and shook their heads, sighing. It was rather evident what was to come…
"Adam, please," A silver-haired woman pleaded to a similarly platinum-haired man, eyes strangely bright, "it's not her time."
"And it is yours?" The man, Adam Kadamon, countered forcefully, those sapphire eyes filled with desperation, anger and pain. He looked fatigued, and the slight droop in his posture did not match his age of thirty-two, not to mention his stature. A tensed silence clouded husband and wife, but it was broken when someone spoke out.
"Your majesties," Raphael said to the Queen of the Angels and her Consort with utmost respect, "We've done our best with her highness' mortal wounds, but her heart will ne'er move." Raphael's peculiar sky-blue eyes were saddened, and he was constantly berating himself for his uselessness.
"Adam, you understand what I have to do." Israfil said softly, but there was a firm note in her voice, leaving the King of the Universal Royal Family distressed. In a broken voice, he pleaded once more, not caring that there were outsiders around, "Israfil, please. I've lost too many, I cannot lose you too." Sapphire eyes were aggrieved, the look of pleading that came from the usually high and mighty man wrenched the hearts of everyone present. However, Israfil's heart only hardened even more, and, turning to see her elder sons, she felt only relief at their look of resigned acknowledgement… At least, she need not have to worry about them not understanding her reasons.
Walking to them, the silver-haired Queen drew the two boys into her arms, hugging them tightly. Cuddling them possibly for the last time before they enter Eden, she spoke gently, "Look after your siblings, both of you, and always be united. Your lives shall be hard, Mikael, Lucifer. Only love will soothe the paths you take. Promise me you will do what I tell you to."
As one, the two boys replied in choked voices, "We promise, mother." They had accepted the fact that their mother was adamant about healing Serafina, but none said that they were willing in accepting their mother's eventual fate. Glad of the maturity the two boys showed despite their young age, the Queen kissed the foreheads, casting protective charms at the same time as she did so. She then reached to her youngest son who was still trapped between the planes of death and dream, and, uttering in Angelic, she whispered to the boy, "Chronos has a lot of things in store for you Adriel… Wake up."
Then, as if coming out of a dreadful nightmare, Azrael screamed – just once – and woke from his self-induced trance, clutching his mother tightly. Crooning a common lullaby, Israfil stayed with Azrael until the young boy slept peacefully in her arms, weaving protective charms around the boy, the ones that were identical to those she had cast on Mikael and Lucifer. She then passed him over to Lucifer and Mikael, who held Azrael between them, careful not to wake the sleeping boy.
Israfil then reached for her husband, violet eyes filled with tears that she had forced back for too long a time, "Adam, I must go. Serafina has to live – she bears a heavy task in front of her. I have finished mine." Gazing back at Adam, she kissed him gently on the lips, finally letting the tears stream down. Adam held him tightly, not willing to let her go, and for a moment, Israfil was reluctant to leave him. Still, she pushed the thought aside, walking towards the bed that Serafina was lying.
The girl looked pale, far too pale for Israfil's comfort, but at least, she wasn't as bloodied as she was when she had been taken out of Kuroi's lair. All of her wounds were healed, the scars gone, save one – those where her wings were being torn apart… that scar would fade only with time, not by magic. Now dressed in a plain white dress, she truly looked like a fragile porcelain doll. The only difference was that a sigil of a cross with an 'x' in the middle of it was still flickering faintly on her forehead. The Queen looked at her daughter sadly, whispering in the common tongue, "A black-robed seer ye shalt be, with none whose power rival thee. But with power comes responsibility, daughter of mine, though I have no qualms whatsoever, that you shall wield it well. You will do me well, Silverdawn… Illyano**, my silvan light of the dawn.
An identical sigil flared on Israfil's forehead, a beam of light connecting both of their sigils. Murmuring even more protective charms on her child, she smiled once, raising her hand to sweep the stray silver strands from her child's forehead before kissing it. Whispering something in Angelic, a bright light enshrouded the both of them, slowly forming a new pair of wings on the girl's back, colour slowly seeping back into the young child's face. Finally, Israfil slumped into the bed, a heartbreaking smile on her face as she lay lifeless…
Yes, it had been a spell that made her fall…
… In exchange for her daughter's life.
…And tears streamed from Silverdawn's now lavender eyes, the light drizzle outside reflecting her sorrow.
At the same time, Hermione awoke from the same dream, realising that she had seen Silverdawn's past.
Blindly, she ran to the girl's room, only to find one who looked familiar, yet unfamiliar. Those pure silver hair could only belong to those of Kadamon lineage, and the lavender-purple eyes were bright with tears that were already streaming down her face. Gently, Hermione brought the girl into a comforting embrace, murmuring words of comfort, all the time not caring what the words she murmured meant.
Silverdawn did not hear it, only making out a comforting female's presence. She just clutched helplessly to Hermione, sobs wrecking her entire body, crying like she had previously in her guardians, and Azrael's arms. It was a fit that lasted for only a few minutes, but those precious minutes was enough to make Hermione understand the guilt and pain Silverdawn felt for her mother's death.
"Silver…" Hermione started.
"You saw it too, didn't you?" Silverdawn asked in a voice that was hoarse from crying. Hermione nodded her head, and the now silver-haired girl laughed bitterly, "I should have known… then you should despise me. I caused my own mother's death when I should have been dead."
"Silver, those are already in the past. I heard what Israfil say, I felt what you feel in Kuroi's hands. It wasn't your fault." Hermione reached for the girl's wrist, but Silverdawn pulled back, wincing in pain. Suspicious, the brunette frowned, pulled her wand out, and muttered, "Lumos." Under the dim light, Hermione's mouth dropped at what she saw – Silverdawn's body was covered with bruises with colours that ranged from yellow to dark purple, all in different levels of recovery. Shocked, the Gryffindor asked, "What…?"
"I get all these bruises whenever I dream of that particular past. Don't know why…" Silverdawn shrugged it off, muttering some healing spells that made the bruises fade away in just seconds. Surprised that the speed it healed, Hermione asked, "what spell was that?"
"Some Angelic stuff." The silver-haired girl replied non-plussed. She walked to the windows, trailing a line on the cold panes with a finger, allowing the vapour to collect on her finger. Hermione followed her in silence, watching her look of grief. Sighing, the brunette started, "Silver, go to sleep…"
"I'm don't think I can…" Silverdawn mumbled quietly, and Hermione could feel her fear of nightmares that clouded her sleep. Knowing that sleep would evade her too, Hermione continued, "How about you teach me Tarot reading? I hear you're very good at it. It'll pass time."
"Okay." The reply sounded weak, but to Hermione, it was better than nothing. A deck of tarot cards appeared in front of Silverdawn almost immediately, and they started to take their thoughts off the dream, and concentrate of the reading. It was only in the middle of it when Hermione suddenly asked, "Waitaminute, if you're the Adam's daughter, then aren't you Azrael's twin?"
Silverdawn gave a nod, and Hermione continued, "God… I'm a friend, and fellow seer to the heir of the Angelic Kingdom!" The look of shock that appeared on Hermione's face made Silverdawn laugh weakly, and the princess remarked dryly, "Took you long to figure out, 'Mione."
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The readings made time pass quickly, and soon, it was morning. Hermione had successfully made Silverdawn divert the thoughts of that night, or morning's dream, and at nine in the morning, all of them were gathered in the hall of portraits in the Kadamon suite after eating breakfast.
After days of gruelling in the Information Halls, all the members of the Court of Twelve – Amber, Ashteroth, Azrael, Draco, Hideaki, Lawrence, Nikolai, Silverdawn and Tristan were looking forward to the trip back to San Marie, as were Blaise, Ginny, Harry, Hermione and Ron, who were interested in seeing the magical town that was termed elusive to the people of the magical world.
Standing in front of a portrait of Silverdawn and Azrael (only Hermione and the members of the Court save Draco recognised it) sitting together on a couch, grinning widely, Lucifer addressed them, "Albus expects all of you to come back before dinner. It will prove suspicious if such a big group went missing in dinner, and I agree with him. As for your time in San Marie, I will not interfere with what you do, for the security there is high and I am very sure that no evil can get to you there. But, no getting into trouble, I don't wish to clear up the mess you create."
All of them nodded their heads obediently, and Lucifer smiled in satisfaction. In Angelic, he spoke to the portrait, "Chronos, Mithros and Gaia."
The portrait opened, and all of them stepped through it eagerly, entering a room that was as grand as the entrance hall of the Hogwarts castle, or maybe even more magnificent.
"Welcome," A melodic voice sounded from somewhere, "to Edrintine Manor."
All of them looked around, but found no one in the room. The voice giggled at their turning of heads, and the group turned around once more. Still, they found not one, and finally, Silverdawn started in a dry tone, "Jibrille**, you had better appear before someone declares this place haunted." The voice laughed again, and slowly, in front of their eyes, a female angel appeared from nothingness. The angel smoothed her pale, honey blond hair, and pale blue eyes were filled with good humour as she eyed her liege. She bowed to the group, giving them a friendly smile before addressing Silverdawn in Angelic, "Your highness, Michael*** wishes for you to enter Assiah at once, and so do Uriel, Raphael and I." This request caused Silverdawn to sigh. Being summoned by the four elemental angels – the most powerful ones of the entire Angelic System – was no light matter. Half-heartedly, she replied, "Give me time to settle them in, and I'll go. But I must return before one in the afternoon."
"Uriel will be more than willing to alter the time world to fit your needs." Jibrille replied smoothly. The Princess nodded her head, waving her hand and Jibrille took the cue to leave the room. She then turned to face the others, smiling brightly as she saw three familiar figures standing behind the group.
Noticing her bright smile, the group turned over, noticing a young, strawberry-blond haired lady, Mikael, and another man who looked very much like the three princes, except that there was an even stronger air of authority surrounding him. Immediately, those who knew whom he was bowed deeply, utterly awed by the power that emanated from him.
"Father." Azrael and Lucifer responded whilst Silverdawn kept silent, knowing that she could not break out her identity as of yet. Adam smiled at the girl in an understanding manner, going over to the group to give each of his sons a strong embrace. Smiling, Azrael asked his father, "Father, how long are you staying here?"
"I'm afraid I'll have to leave soon. Mikael mentioned that all of you are coming back today, and I just wanted to see if all of you have adapted to the schooling in Britain. Have you all done that?"
"We have, your majesty. Yes, we have been adapting well there." Ashteroth grinned, giving Hideaki a sly wink. The others nodded their heads, and Draco muttered, "More like creating a ruckus…" Adam laughed at Draco's comment, but did not recognise him. Puzzled, he asked Silverdawn, "There seems to be more people than usual."
"Indeed," Silverdawn replied wryly. She gestured to Draco, explaining, "This is the missing member of the Court, Draco Malfoy. And those over there are Harold Potter, Hermione Granger, Blaise Zambini, and Ronald and Virginia Weasley."
"Ah. I've heard quite a lot about you Magician, the brain of the Twelve when you were still in UWIM. Glad to have you back. You too, Harry. You created quite a mêlée since young, and the courage you've shown in those meetings with Voldemort has to be commended. I'm sure Lily and James would be proud." Adam said meaningfully, causing Harry's ears to perk up. Cautiously, he thought back to the photograph album he had received from Hagrid in his first year, remembering several of the photographs he had seen in that album.
In a surprised tone, he gasped out, "I've seen you before! You were in my parent's wedding, and in my christening!" Hearing this, Adam laughed aloud, a rich chuckle that had everyone captivated.
"Yes, I was there, young Harry. In fact, my wife and I had known your parents very well. Israfil had been your mother's bridesmaid during her wedding, and was your godmother when Sirius was your godfather."
This piece of information surprised many present, and left them with mouths agape, gazing from Harry to Adam in shock.
"Doesn't that mean…" Harry was in a lost for words, not knowing what to say.
"Yes, I am indirectly considered to be your godfather Harry." Adam dropped the bomb onto Harry's already overworked brain. Silence ensued for several moments, until someone interrupted the stunned silence.
"This piece of information isn't easy to digest, father." Mikael interrupted wryly.
"I agree, your majesty. To say that young Harry is dumbstruck would not be an understatement." The strawberry-blond lady spoke out in a mild tone, a smile hovering on her face as blue-grey eyes sought the light purple eyes of Lucifer.
"Tracy." Lucifer breathed out, striding over to hug the lady of his heart. Tracy smiled, snuggling closer to her beloved, not caring about the crowd about them.
"Aww, the two of you get a room!" Azrael whined, causing the couple to break up reluctantly. Adam chuckled at his second son's action, reminding him, "Lucifer, take care of the lady's honour."
"Yea, twin. Tracy isn't your wife yet." Mikael teased mercilessly, causing Tracy to blush furiously.
"She shall be, soon." Lucifer retorted, slipping an arm over to Tracy's waist. The Hogwarts' students looked puzzled at this, and Draco was the first to address Tracy in her nickname, "Star, when were you with Lucifer?"
"Long story, Magician." Tracy replied mildly, not wishing to talk about the student-teacher relationship she had with Lucifer during her school years in UWIM.
"Nonetheless, for all those who do not know," Mikael started, "Tracy had just graduated from UWIM two years ago, she's one of those who graduated at an earlier age… she's only nineteen this year. Moreover, she's Lucifer's fiancée." Gasps could be heard from the Hogwarts' students, not one of them could have guessed that their young Dueling Master was already engaged, and this would have a crushing effect on all of the female population in their school.
"Ron, you had better close your mouth before it really drops." Ashteroth reminded dryly as the entire group turned to walk into the main living room of the Manor. There, they settled down in the soft couches as servants brought in refreshment for the group, all of them enjoying the serenity of the room. The UWIM students helped themselves to the snacks, but the Hogwarts students sat there uncomfortably, feeling vaguely awkward in the presence of the King of the Universal Royal Family – the Royalty of the entire Magical World.
Adam sensed this, and personally handed over some drinks to each of them, urging them to help themselves to the food. At the same time, he cast a relaxing spell on them, and the students felt much more at ease, occasionally talking to Adam without hesitance. The King found his gaze frequently lingering on Hermione, whose behaviour looked remarkably similar to his sister's. Slowly, he found himself wondering in amusement how Severus could not see the resemblance between the brunette and Athena, but he did not let himself wander off too much.
After quite some time, he stood up, saying apologetically, "I'm sorry that I could not stay any longer, but I truly have to go. Do have a good time here in San Marie, children. And Harry, there's actually a room here for you. I had wanted to keep you with me when Lily and James died, but Albus has his reasons to make you stay in Britain. But since you are already sixteen, I thought that you might like to drop by now and again. Or stay here in the summer."
Taken aback by the offer, a large grin formed on Harry's face as he said, "That would be very nice, your majesty."
"You should change your way of addressing me if you are to stay here." Adam said meaningfully. At his hint, Harry felt disorientated, but managed out, "All right, Uncle."
"Now that's better." The King said approvingly, before walking out of the room. When he left, Ginny commented, "Az, your father is really nice!"
"Yeah. Hard to believe that he's the King." Ron added in. Mikael, who was seated coincidentally beside Blaise, gave a weak laugh, "You should see him in the Royal Court, and when he's out for blood. That's when he's the King. At home, he's just another father."
"Well, thoughts aside. Where do you guys want to go next?" Lucifer asked, motioning for a servant to clear up.
All of them looked at one another, and uttered in unison, "Potions room!"
Hearing this, Lucifer gave a defeated sigh, musing, "I should have known."
"Take care of a cauldron that's still boiling and don't touch it. It's something for the werewolves." Tracy cautioned as the group made their way to the lift that could transport them to all of the available places in the Manor. Azrael gave an 'okay' sign with his hand, and Lucifer called out, "Try not to have too many explosions too! I'm here to rest!"
"We'll try." Silverdawn called back, grinning. Lucifer groaned at this, knowing that his anticipated rest would not come, and Tracy looked at him in sympathetically, consoling him, "Luce, Nevermind about them. How about a Duel?"
"… In bed?" Lucifer asked slyly, trapping the woman between the couch and his body. Blushing, Tracy scolded, "Lucifer, be serious!"
"I am!" the silver-haired man replied mock-indignantly. Mikael grimaced at the loving couple, throwing a cushion at Lucifer's back forcefully. Lucifer frowned a little when the cushion hit him hard, and in retaliation, he magicked a bucket of water to pour down on his elder twin's head. The eldest Prince did not have time to react, and, dripping wet, Mikael narrowed those diamond-coloured eyes whilst Tracy giggled. Finally, Mikael snapped his fingers, bringing about a torrent of ice cubes sliding down Tracy's back. The woman squealed at the coldness of the ice, and Mikael announced wickedly, "Magic fight!"
Soon, the living room was a mess, feathers stuck in all of their hair and clothes, torn cloth, birds squawking (after being magicked out), water splashing on the marble floor, moving objects flying all over the place in all directions, though none were harmful weapons. Just like that, three 'over-aged children' had their fun, playing their game of 'Magic fight'…
… Talk about immature!
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Entering the Potions laboratory, all of the Hogwarts students were stunned by the size of the room. It was at least the size of the Gryffindor common room, and had all sorts of modern, not to mention, best equipment for making potions. Astounded, Ron, Harry and Draco took to inspecting the hundreds of different potions placed in the glass shelves that occupied one wall of the room whilst Ginny, Hermione and Blaise went over to see the potions ingredients and tomes of potions books by another side of the wall. There were so many new types of ingredients that all of them had never seen, and Hermione's eyes lighted up at several of the ingredients. Curious, she asked Azrael, "How long did you take to amass all these?"
"A few years… those are Silverdawn's treasure. She took to getting all sorts of ingredients when she visits one country or another." Azrael explained as he asked Tristan to get some crystal cauldrons out.
"Take care guys, many of the potions there come from the Dark Arts." Nikolai cautioned the boys when they eyed several of the potion vials. Hearing this, Ron inquired, "If they are from the Dark Arts, why do you still make it?"
"For the thrill of it. Most Dark Arts potions are difficult to master, and it is quite an accomplishment when you make one successfully." Tristan helped in, passing the cauldrons over to Lawrence.
"Come on. We're trying the invisibility potion now. Only in the manors that the Kadamon own can we find the ingredients needed." Ashteroth started and everyone immediately helped gathered the recipe and ingredients required. While they were working, Silverdawn went over to where Hermione and Harry were, asking them, "Hermione, Harry, do the two of you wish to work on the potion, or go check out my collection of books in the reading room?"
Hermione's eyes lit up at the word 'books', and Harry, on seeing Hermione's enthusiasm, made the decision for them, "Silverdawn, let's get there before she pesters you non-stop about where it is."
"I would not do that!" Hermione replied indignantly, but Silverdawn smirked, contradicting the brunette's statement, "Oh yes you will." Hearing this, Hermione gave a pout, and the trio left the room in laughter.
::Riley, I'm bring the lovebirds into my reading room, then head for Assiah. Look after the guests.::
::No prob, Sherry.::
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"My God! This is big!" Hermione exclaimed when they entered the reading room. The brunette had expected a small room filled with books, but she had not expected a room that rivalled the Potions laboratory, totally filled with tomes of all sorts of language and genre. Harry also gaped at the so-called reading room, muttering aloud, "This shouldn't be called a reading room, it should be called a library!"
Silverdawn grinned at their reactions, but replied, "If you call this big, you should see the library in the main castle where his majesty resides most of the time. That is what I call big." Lapsing into Angelic, she continued, "Besides, this is my personal reading room. All these books are mine." This statement stunned Hermione, and she asked incredulously, "Didn't you say that this is the reading room for the Manor?"
"Yes, father gifted me this Manor. So by default, everything belongs to me." Silverdawn said, causing Hermione to screech, "WHAT!" At her expression, the black-haired girl laughed helplessly, leaving a very puzzled Harry Potter.
"Can someone tell me what's going on?" Harry asked, feeling very annoyed. A still chuckling Silverdawn gave the boy an apologetic glance, explaining evasively, "I was just telling her the intricacies of living with a rich family."
"You can say that again." Hermione responded wryly. She then turned to one of the shelves, trailing a finger over the spines of various tomes before her eyes caught on one of them. Pulling the tome out, she stared at the translucent, dragonskin cover, asking Silverdawn in surprise, "You have this book too?" The black-haired girl took a look at the cover: Atzulith – the last ethereal, and smiled, replying, "Yes, in fact, I have one of them." Urging them to sit in the sofa by the fire, she magicked some light refreshment, explaining at the same time, "Atzulith – the last ethereal, is a book of prophecies, all of whom are made by black-robes seers throughout the millenniums. Whenever a new prophecy is made, it will be written down magically. Only five of such books were made. Three are in the hands of the Kadamons, one with Uncle Severus, and another with Headmaster Haldorne, the Head of UWIM."
Hermione curiously flipped through the pages, and Harry looked on curiously, feeling positively baffled with the language.
"What language is this? I've never seen it before."
"Not surprising. It's the language of the angels." Silverdawn replied, pouring three cups of tea for them. Carefully sipping the sweet concoction, she continued, "Harry, there are books of all genres. Spell books, charms, fiction and many others. You are allowed to use this room. His majesty has seen to it, you too, Hermione. Both of you are mature enough to understand the value of these books, and I hope that you'll have fun reading. I have to go now. Raphael will kill me if I don't."
Still grinning, she rose from her seat, disappearing from their sight as if through Apparation. Now alone, Hermione and Harry looked at one another, and sighed in unison.
"Why is it that I can never predict what she will do in the next moment." Harry grumbled as he stood up from his seat, wandering over to the shelves. Hermione followed him over, and, speaking from her heart, she replied, "Silver's a complex person. What with her position and all, I'm not surprised if no one will be able to understand…" she trailed off, and added another note, "except perhaps, Azrael." After all, they are twins… she added to herself.
"Then, Draco is bound to be disappointed." Harry laughed aloud, picking a book from one of the higher shelves. Hermione got interested by his comment, asking, "Why do you say that?"
"Don't tell me you haven't noticed?"
"Noticed what?"
"That our friend Drake has fallen for Silverdawn." Harry's voice raised in surprise as Hermione frowned prettily. Thinking back to how Draco had looked at Silverdawn whenever she wasn't looking, it made much sense, and Hermione giggled, remarking, "Then what he did the past week makes sense…So, Draco thinks that Az and Silver are a couple?" Harry gave an affirmative nod, and very slowly, the giggle on Hermione's face turned into a huge grin. Not able to stand it any longer, Hermione broke into peals of laughter, gasping for air as she spoke out, "What till he finds out the truth!"
"What truth?" Harry looked baffled, whilst Hermione was still laughing, not being able to stop. He was starting to get annoyed when he started tickling the already laughing Hermione, asking slyly, "What truth were you talking about?"
"St-stop. Ha… God, Harry, stop! It's… Haha, it's tickly." Hermione spoke in broken English, not being able to help laughing.
"Until you tell me what it is." Harry said firmly, hands not giving up the play.
"Alright! Silver and Azrael are not a couple, they're deeper than that!" Hermione wheezed out, and Harry's hands dropped immediately.
"Huh? They're deeper than that?" Harry wondered, not understanding any thing.
"You'll see, Harry. Very soon." Hermione advised, running back to the couch to start on her book before the ruly-haired boy start pestering her about some other thin.
"Aww… 'Mione. You're not giving me a sensible answer." Harry complained.
"I never said that I would." Hermione replied back, earning herself a cushion on her face.
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After successfully concocting the invisibility potion, and several loud explosions (that could not be prevented), everyone, save Harry, Hermione, Silverdawn and Azrael (went to check on some time era), were having fun by the lake within the Edrintine Manor. This was a magical lake that was the size of a Quidditch pitch, with a rapid waterfall by one of the corners, and as of yet, it was considered one of the best healing lakes in the world. Ginny, Ron, Hideaki, Amber, Lawrence, Draco, Blaise, Nikolai and Tristan was currently playing in the lake, splashing water at one another instead of the usual swimming. They were having a lot of fun, using magic at the same time to play around, but none of them were able to talk Ashteroth into entering the water, and the blonde was now sitting under the shade of a willow tree, a magical lap-top (powered by adamantine) on his lap, with Mikael, Lucifer and Tracy resting under the same tree.
Ashteroth was typing some keys on a magical laptop, engaging in a conference with his cousin, Jonathan, the King of France. The image of a blond-haired man that came through the screen was as clear as Jonathan himself, and the report he was giving to Ashteroth was not considered good. They were now talking about the Death Eater raids in France, and the rates at which they were going.
"… Voldemort seems sure that he will be able to crush France soon. But since we already know whose in charge of the raids, we await the instructions of the Universal Elite and United Defences to crush them entirely." Jonathan smiled grimly as he concluded the last point on the agenda. Ashteroth nodded his head in agreement, cautiously adding, "Let them think that they are winning. This will prove to defeat them easier in the end."
"I understand this way of thinking, and I agree too." Jonathan intoned, signing the papers that were continually passed to him by his secretary. Ashteroth smiled at his preoccupation, reminding him, "Jon, get some rest. France can go without a King for a day."
At this, Jonathan grimaced, countering, "And let those idiots muck up the politics? No thank you, cousin." Ashteroth grinned at his cousin's view of the old parliament ministers as idiots, but did not forget to enforce his statement, "You worry too much about France. Let go for just one day. I'm sure Paul can take over, and handle those idiots as well as you do."
"I'll try. Take care, Ash." Jonathan's image faded from the screen, and Ashteroth stared at the information sent over about the country's monthly budget, sighing at the same time. Tiredly, he massaged the bridge of his nose, closing his eyes for a much needed rest. The politics in France can be a headache at times…
Tracy saw this, and called out in a concerned tone, "Ash, take today to relax. Like your cousin, you don't get much rest either." Ashteroth acknowledged her concern with a single nod, but replied, "I can't. These reports cannot be delayed any longer." There, he continued to type out a vague report on God-knows-what, causing Lucifer to feel annoyed by the young boy's stubbornness. Idly, he hugged Tracy's form, ordering at the same time, "Ashteroth, as you liege, I order you to put down your burden for one day."
The command given, from Lucifer no less, made Ashteroth comply obediently – something that he had done since young. After all, he had not much of a choice… Ash knew that if he did not act in accordance with Lucifer's terms, the Prince would have another way of making his relax. Might as well lighten up before he does something out of control. In a cool voice, the blonde replied with a bow, "I understand, milord, milady."
Lucifer frowned a little by the formality Ashteroth showed, but he had no time to mock-chastise the boy, for he had ran off to meet up with the people playing in the lake. In not time flat, Ash had successfully created a ruckus, what with his ability to control the element of water well and all. The girls shrieked when he used his ability to pour a waterfall of the them, and the boys grinned, urging him on.
Mikael, who had been quiet all the while, sat like a statue, gazing at Blaise with an intensity that would have shocked many who know him in court. Lucifer saw this, and mindspoke his beloved, ::Tracy, look at Mike.::
The ever-observant lady saw the look on Mikael's face, and remarked, ::Looks like he's fallen too…::
::Mayhaps even worse than me.:: Came the ironical reply from Lucifer. The couple continued to follow his gaze to see Blaise, who was splashing water at Nikolai and Tristan. The musical laughter that came from her filled Mikael's ears, and his stare only further intensed. All of a sudden, Blaise looked up to where they were seated, and smiled directly at the eldest Prince.
Wading out of the lake, Blaise went over to the willow tree, panting a little when she reached them. Smiling brightly, she pulled Mikael's sleeve, urging, "Sir, come down and have fun!"
Mikael frowned at her calling him 'Sir', and replied sternly, "Blaise, call me by my name. I am no longer your teacher." The Prince's words took a little time to register in Blaise's mind, and embarrassed, she blushed prettily, complaining in a childish manner, "But I've called you that for so long. It takes time to change." Hearing this, the frown on Mikael's face dissolved into an indulgent smile.
"Then start from now." Mikael said as he allowed the girl to pull him to the lake. The others grinned when they saw the prince enter the lake, and all of them started to splash water at the couple. In the midst of it, Blaise responded softly, "Alright, Mikael…" And all of them had fun near the waterfall, where they took turns seeing how long they could withstand to cold, gushing water.
Back at shore, Lucifer and Tracy looked at the couple with tenderness in their eyes. Absent-mindedly, Lucifer stroked Tracy's silky hair as the lady snuggled closer to him, speaking in a soft tone, "Your brother has finally found his love."
"Indeed. He has longed for it for far too long." The faraway tone in his voice did not escape Tracy's ears.
"Blaise will make a good queen." Tracy spoke with conviction. She was sure that the young girl would help assist Mikael in ruling his empire well, and the love between them was evident, though Blaise seemed slow to react to it. Lucifer chuckled a little at where her train of thoughts drifted, but did little to stop them. Instead, he brought her to a kiss, murmuring at the same time, "Of course she will… Just as you will make a good wife."
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End of Chapter.
Okay, this is late, but I hope you guys like it. I've delayed the part of the raid, and some parts of the San Marie trip. So guys, look forward to them in the next chapter =)
There are quite a few notes here that I'm going to explain, so do continue to scroll down!
1. Mashiaere (Mar-she-ah-eh-ree) – this is an angelic term the word, thank you.
2. Illyano (Ee-lee-yah-no) – term of endearment in Angelic. Can be considered, 'sweetheart'
3. Michael – this is Mikael, Michael is one of the four elemental angels in the Angelic Kingdom – the elemental angel of fire. Mikael was named in honour of him.
-Hideaki's name is pronounced as 'he-day-ah-key" It is actually a Japanese word, so there might be some confusion to the translation. Hope this helps, Colibi!
Also, I'm thinking of opening up a group in Yahoo! Groups. Do you think it will make it? Please give me your comments!
Okie, that should be all for now! Next stop, reviews!!!
Madame Padfoot ~ Well, we have Lucifer back, along with Mikael, though there isn't any on Severus today… Hope ya don't mind!
aries ~ Sorry… but this isn't a Hermione/Severus pairing. Still, I hope you will continue to read on! ^_^!
MoonlitPhoenix ~ Wow! You read pretty fast, and I'm glad that I've made you laugh =)
Sparkling Diamond007 ~ The dirty part will come next chapter (hopefully). So keep on checking!
Li-chan ~ Yup. Silver wasn't enrolled in UWIM until after Draco left for Hogwarts… so he doesn't know. Tee-hee, I know he should have known sooner, but it would not be fun if he knew!
Ameal Kensig ~ Ron… I dunno. I was thinking of pairing him up with a UWIM student, but god knows whom I want him with… Would Lawrence's sister do? (I'm wicked)
Tracy ~ You finally make an entrance here. Delighted? Hope you do =þ
KT*CUP ~ It's finally up! I had to split up the chapter into two cos' it'll go beyond 10000 words if I don't! Next chapter will definitely be interesting, I promise!
hazeleyez ~ Try not to check everyday, cos' you'll be quite disappointed. But do try to check after every week. I try to make it weekly, but sometimes, things don't go right. Hope you don't mind!
Orange ~ The problem is it ain't Physics! It was maths! I'm gonna be so dead… *sigh*
Melodie ~ eh… actually *goes pink* I'm not really sure what kudos mean… I just see people use it now and again. *hopefully*Can you explain?
bubblegum*girl ~ I did average for the others… I just hope that I'll do better for my promos… If not, I'd be dead!
Loves_Kiss ~ I've tried to post this fic up in time for your b-day. But my wrist gave me problems (had to see both western doctor and Chinese physician), and I had to delay it. Sorry! But I hope you like it!
Eliza ~ Hehe, I managed to make my mom divert her anger of my exams results to the worry of my hand. So, I'm in no danger of leaving this fic unfinished!
Colibi
~ Hope the pronunciation above helps. I had chosen this character's name from a
japanese actor, Takizawa Hideaki, and he's really cute! Btw, which country are
you from?
Becky ~ Okie, I agree with you that should concentrate on my work, but this fic
is far too enticing to leave it like that until I have time to continue!
*groans* I cannot seem to leave it alone!
CloakofDarkness ~ Ginny is trying for Chaser. What I had been trying to state there was that Ginny was glad to have someone she knows trying out for the trials too. Sorry about the illogical parts, I've changed it!
Princess Royal ~ Before every happiness will come tragedy. We'll see Hermione's before she awakens…
Aurinia ~ The chapter on the extra info will come up soon. Then, you will be able to see the interlinking. It's quite complicated… but I've created several drafts =) Also, you've given me a very huge compliment – that I've changed your mind about fantasy. Thanks! I'm glad!
Augusta ~ The list will come out soon, hopefully after the next chapter! *sheepishly* Until then, please bear with me!
starbrite ~ Today I'm concentrating on several lovebird pairings, next up, it'll be Silver/Draco!
cherrity ~ Thanks for your concern. *beams* I'm pretty glad that I do not have to stop this entirely too!
EclypsCC1 ~ I have the rough background out before everything, but slowly, things do get out of hand, and I just add them in. This makes writing it more fun!
Nickie ~ Nope, Law isn't an angel and Severus had not been an angel since he was born. There were reasons to this, but all these will be explained later. Hope you don't mind!
Omni ~ Here's a bit of Harry + Hermione in this chap. Hope you like it, plus there'll be some more in the upcoming chapters. Look forward to them!
sighkotika ~ The super long updates is because of my wrist and also bcos' of writer's block. I don't have a laptop, so I cannot go on typing everywhere I go. Please continue to read on though!
mow wow ~ there will be a chapter on it, just wait cos' I need time to collate everything before I post them up!
Okie, that's all for reviews today, next up – pub and raid.
Reviews pple, they make my day brighter, really!
Toodles,
SilverDawn