Alright, the usual disclaimers apply… Harry Potter belongs to Ms. J K Rowling, and all character names and personalities of various angels belong to Dad and Kaori Yuki Sensei (hope I've spelt your name correctly)…
Awakening of a Royal SilverDawn Chapter 18: EuthanasiaSomewhere in Europe
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Location indefinable
Kadamon Suite
Severus Snape had been trying to concentrate on reading the tome, 'Yami no mahou no jouken' ever since he had started keeping vigil on the sleeping figure in the bed. Yet for the last eleven to twelve hours, he had not even flipped the pages once. Looking back at the sleeping girl, his heart wrenched once again at the pale, tearstained face…
Inwardly, the Potions Master admitted that he did have a heart, but he never realized that he had that soft a heart. For amongst the countless number of wizards, muggles and other evil creatures (devils included) that he had tortured or killed either directly or indirectly in the past twenty years or so, he had never felt a single twinge of guilt at seeing the mourning family of his victims. Maybe he had felt albeit blameworthy, but that thought had always been quick to vanish, unlike now, where he felt guilt-ridden simply by looking at the girl – Hermione Granger.
It did not help to see her sob quietly in her sleep when she had been dosed with Dreamless Sleep Potion – a potion that should, as its name suggests, induce a sleep that would be void of any dreams… no pain, no feeling, just a peaceful, healing slumber.
Since there's with no doubt that the potion was made correctly, the man could only assume that she was immune to such potions.
This can prove to be disastrous.
Gazing back at the girl, he finally admitted to himself that he could not concentrate, and with utter care, placed the tome on the side table before going to the sideboard to get a drink.
A pity there isn't anything stronger than butterbeer…
With his back facing the bed, the black-haired professor did not realize that the girl had started to shudder convulsively until he heard her thrashing against the coverlets, her breathing labored. Rushing towards her, he could distinctly make out the words, "Met, no… get her out!" Angry slashes started appeared on her neck and arms as she instinctively shielded her face with her hands, crawling into a fetal shape.
As Severus had feared, Hermione was reliving one of her worst nightmares, but the injuries that kept appearing on her body were a total enigma to him. Nonetheless, he did not bother to think of a reason to solve the mystery. Instead, he sat down at the edge of the bed, one hand gripping her wrists firmly as he placed his other hand on her forehead, transferring energy to the weeping girl.
His magic pulsed black, coursing smoothly through her forehead and into her blood, strengthening her personal wards and shields. The wounds started to heal swiftly as his power aided the sleeping girl to fight her inner demons and gradually, her ragged breathing resumed to normal, leaving a relieved Severus Snape, who, only then, was able to pry her own hands from her face.
Helping Hermione to resume a more comfortable position, the Potions Master gingerly placed a fluffy cushion between her hands for her to hold on to, covering her shivering body – whether out of cold or fear he never knew – with the golden-red blanket up to her chin. In a gentle manner, he wiped away the cold sweat from her forehead, whispering softly, "Hermione, I'm… sorry."
Just as he had finished apologizing to the sleeping girl, a cough sounded from behind him, and automatically, he straightened in an abrupt manner, wand in hand, ready to hex the intruder to oblivion. Unfortunately, seeing Minerva by the door had an unsettling effect on him, and he wondered how much she had seen as he gave a curt greeting, "Minerva."
"Severus." Minerva McGonagall replied with some amusement at seeing how… caring her colleague had been to her student. In a concerned tone, she added, "How is she doing?"
The scowl that had been previously plastered on the man's face vanished at her question, leaving a rather upset look behind. Out of the blue, the Transfiguration Mistress felt that a scowl was more suitable for his face, be it glamouried of not… At least he would not have that desolated, lost-puppy look that could virtually melt the hearts of women. Hell, even she wasn't immune to it!
"Dreamless Sleep isn't working." The man spoke glumly, looking at Hermione in a worried manner.
"What?" McGonagall was alarmed. There weren't many people with natural immunity towards Dreamless Sleep Potion and other types of sleeping potions, and such immunity can prove to be very bad for patients. Noticing her shock, Severus rubbed the bridge of his nose tiredly, replying in lieu of her realization, "Yes, and she's having nightmares."
"Oh dear… and here I have even worse news." She mumbled to mostly to herself, but her colleague caught the murmur and asked sharply, "What news?"
Uh-oh…
"Erm…" Minerva started a little nervously, "There had been a fight earlier on during breakfast."
"…And?" The black-haired professor's voice held a tinge of danger the entire student population would blanch if directed at them.
"… It was at the Slytherin table."
"What!?!" Severus exploded, but was silenced by Minerva's pointing to the asleep Hermione. While the man attempted to cool his temper, McGonagall continued, "Miss Parkinson had been sneering at Miss Granger's plight, then insulted Miss Langford's heritage. Her friends could not stand it, and Miss Romanov – wonderful girl she is – punched Miss Parkinson before all hell breaks loose. Almost all the seniors in Slytherin had fought, save Miss Langford and Mr. Malfoy. Several of my gryffindors entered the fight too, and Albus' godchild had to make them all stop."
Finishing her report, the professor looked at her colleague, wondering how he would react to it.
The Head of Slytherin House had been scowling when she started explaining, but by the time she finished, Severus' entire face was black as a thundercloud ready to kill. In a calm tone that was at odds with the fury evident on his face, he asked, "What are the punishments?"
"I've sent my Gryffindors for patrol with Hagrid. You will have to give the punishments of your House personally."
"Hmm… All of them will help me clean up the dungeons from level one to five."
At that, Minerva flinched slightly, "Isn't that a bit too harsh?" Snape snorted at her remark, reminding his colleague in indolently, "That's considered light in comparison to what Lucifer and Salazar will make them do."
"And that is?" The Head of Gryffindor looked fairly interested at what could be considered worse than the punishment the Potions Master had given for his House. Seeing her curious look, Severus grinned mischievously, "Knowing Salazar, they will all be strengthening the wards, repairing magical stuff and cataloging the library books without magic. As for Lucifer? They'll be having at least a day of BMT/BAT, another day of pure physical training, and punishments for the Court? I do not even dare think of what he has in store for them…"
"BMT, BAT?"
"Basic Military Training, Basic Angelic Training."
"Oww." The Transfiguration Mistress recoiled at what he had said.
"Oww indeed."
As they reflected on what the severity of the punishments, the two professors looked at the sleeping girl who looked so pale and tired, and sighed.
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She was locked in a windowless room… there was no light, and all around her, she met darkness. Shivering, she placed a hand protectively towards her stomach, seeking comfort in the mild kicks of the child in her womb that was rounded with pregnancy. The sinister darkness was starting to make her nervous, but this wasn't very surprising, considering the fact that she had been locked in this place for the half year or more, with no light, no company whatsoever. She had been isolated from the entire world, muggle, Wizarding and angelic alike for the last few months, and hell… this could be even worse than Azkaban – being locked in a room shielded from all sorts of magick and sound.
The forced seclusion did not faze the woman, but the thought of her fiancé who was most probably trying all his might to find her made her worry… She had left after a small quarrel about his being in the Death Eater society. She knew that he wanted the bountiful knowledge that the Dark Arts could give him – the potions that were long lost in the light side, and only available in many restricted Dark Arts tomes.
Not surprising, he had already absorbed most of the tomes of magick and potions from the Light side and those of the Angelic world, and as a scholar, he could not give up the urge to study the Dark Arts from their point of view. He had joined the Death Eaters in his pursue of knowledge, and at first, she had agreed to it. It was only later when she realize how dangerous the situation would become, thus she had tried to talk him out of copying the remaining thousands of tomes that were available…
…Which was the reason that sparked their quarrel.
It did not help further that his friend forcibly fed her sleeping potion, and kidnapped her after she left her home. Once she had awoken, she was placed in this room, where no magick worked, be it magery, ordinary Wizarding spells, or angelic ones.
The lady was worried. Her baby was going to be born soon, and if she wasn't out of this room sooner or later, she might lose her child to that evil fiend.
She just didn't understand… why must that bastard try so hard to separate the two of them when even the Dark Lord has given his blessings? ::Unless Voldemort has found out whom I actually am… But I've covered up my tracks so well!::
Shaking her head, she sensed someone – probably an elf coming to bring her food – about to enter. The heavy door opened, and she narrowed her eyes at the sudden illumination, unable to stand the sudden surge of light, but when she adjusted her sight to accommodate the lighting, sapphire eyes widened at the blond-haired woman and child standing in front of her.
"Narcissa!" The lady gasped as the blond woman – Narcissa – rushed into the room, hugging the lady tightly. The toddler ambled into the room too, gray eyes filled with pure innocence.
"'Tina, I've finally found you. Oh god! All of us thought that you were dead!" Narcissa sobbed as she hugged her best friend, "How could Lucius do this to you? Athena, I'm so sorry!"
Hearing this, the lady's eyes turned glacial, but she did not want to further upset her friend. The two women just hugged one another tightly, until Athena felt a sharp contraction of her stomach.
::By Circe, why now?::
"Narcissa, can you fetch me a nursemaid or a medi-witch without Lucius' knowing?"
"Why?" Narcissa wiped her tears, looking at her friend's pale face.
"My water just broke…" Athena croaked, feeling yet another contraction, as Narcissa paled immensely…
Hermione blanched at the acute pain she felt at her abdomen when Athena had said that, but mercifully, the entire scene went black, and the Gryffindor found herself floating in a space-like place, stars glittering all around her.
"Where…?" She was dumbfounded at the surrounding, enchanted by the beauty of the place. Tentatively, she touched a star near her, and was surprised that the star glowed and felt oddly warm in her hand. Thinking that she was alone, Hermione wanted to float to a cluster of stars, but someone's hands prevented her from doing it.
Apparently, she wasn't alone.
Metatron and a brown-haired woman had been standing behind her, smiling at her captivated expression. Metatron looked the same as normal, save that he was wearing a silvery uniform today instead of the usual Roman style white clothing he wore. It was the woman that held Hermione's eyes…
The woman looked too perfect to be humane, her skin an alabaster white that contrasted well with the waist-length coppery-mahogany curls which framed her heart-shaped face attractively. Her eyes were an unsettling emerald-green, much like Harry's eyes, and the wisdom that they held made Hermione gulp nervously.
It was apparent that this woman wasn't human, nor was she an angel, or any creature she had seen before.
Likewise, the woman had taken to studying Hermione, gazing at her aura and soul with something akin to satisfaction half mingled with worry. Noticing her unease, the woman smiled at her in a comforting manner that reminded Hermione of Pearlsong, speaking in a gentle voice, "Your powers are untrained and dangerous, and psychics need training once their powers had been evoked. Further considering the fact that you will be a black-robed seer, you need them even earlier… You were right, Metatron. She needs to be trained immediately."
Metatron nodded in agreement, inquiring politely, "I suppose you're willing then?"
"Yes, I will train her for now." The woman replied in a firm tone as the angel bowed reverently.
"Who are you?" Hermione asked uncertainly, surprised by the amount of respect Metatron held for the woman. The lady smiled once more, replying in a voice that sounded like the soft breeze of spring, "As of yet, you need not know who I am. However, we'll start your training."
The lady then looked at her in a thoughtful manner, adding, "Now."
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Hermione awoke to a sore back, her mind still reeling from the training she had in her dreams. The lady had proven to be a strict taskmaster, but in her dream, she had managed to learn shielding, and basic control over her psychic ability and gravity. Even now, she could feel her hands tingling from the amount of power she had wielded earlier on. Experimentally, she raised her hand towards the bookshelf as a tome on Transfiguration shot through the air and into her hand.
This trial had her mildly surprised, but seeing the person who was dozing off on the chair next to her bed had made her stunned beyond belief.
Severus Snape had somehow fell asleep on the chair, head lolling to one side rhythmically in a manner that Hermione found endearing. In any case, catching the Potions Master unaware can be considered something very rare, thus seeing him doze off on a chair had shocked Hermione very much. At the same time, seeing him so vulnerable made her wonder what he felt on being ordered to kill those muggles…
Wonder if he felt guilty at all…Realizing where her thoughts are leading, she quickly brushed those negative feelings away, getting out of the bed as quietly as possible. Unfortunately, even in his sleep, Severus heard those soft rustle of cloth and woke up immediately.
"I dozed off?" He asked in a sleep-filled voice. Hermione could not bring herself to look at the man, but nodded in silence. Looking down at the girl who dared not face him, Severus shook his head in resignation, asking in a tired voice, "Is seeing me straight in the eye such a difficult thing to do?"
The brunette did not reply, and tensed silence surrounded them for quite some while, leaving two edgy people in its wake. Unable to stand it anymore, he continued, "You saw what happened to your parents?"
A reluctant nod answered his question as the Potions Master sighed, "I'm sorry."
These two words, coming from an arrogant man, made Hermione jerk her head up to see those obsidian eyes filled with remorse… genuine sorrow and not something made up. Tears started to gather at her eyes once more, but she refused to shed it. Instead, she started in a soft tone, "It wasn't your fault… Voldemort," she spat the word, "was the bastard behind it all."
For once, Severus felt tongue-tied. He hadn't expected the child to forgive him so easily, and he was at a lost for words. Never in his entire life had anyone been understanding of his stand in the spying business. It had hurt when Athena left him after that quarrel, yet it pained even more when no one seemed to understand what the spying had meant to him… not even Albus Dumbledore knew the pain he went through, both physically and mentally. Furthermore, the only people who understood were never by his side. All of them were at least half a globe away… until now.
"You're an understanding child, Hermione. But there are more things you have to deal with…" Severus said quietly as Hermione became wary, "What sort of things?"
The Potions Master tried to find a suitable phrase, but was interrupted by Hermione's stomach growling loudly, much to the embarrassment of the girl. Hermione blushed beet red at the sound, replying sheepishly, "Sorry…"
"Nevermind. How about I make you some brunch? That'll fix up your stomach."
Hermione's mouth literally dropped at his offer, and the man gave a toothy smile, continuing in a mocking voice, "What? You think I cannot cook? Now go get a shower, and head for the kitchen after that." Severus shooed the girl to the direction of the bathroom as Hermione followed dumbly, his offer still barely registering in her mind.
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Once showered and feeling more refreshed, Hermione entered her room, roughly toweling her hair dry. This action brought about the memory of one of her holidays, when she had been having quality time with her mother, where, after their shared bath, had helped one another towel their hair, combing them straight, or in her mother's case, trying to tame Hermione's riotous curls. The cloud of depression settled on her mind once again, causing Metatron to appear behind her, taking over the towel with a gentle hand.
"Hermione, you are inadvertently causing depression to people all around you." The angel chastised softly as he proceeded to dry her hair methodically without magick. With a sigh, the brunette apologized, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to."
"Shielding your mind will help. I trust that you have learnt that already." Metatron asked, reminding her of her training earlier on. His ward nodded her head in reply, "I remember. By the way, who was that lady?" Her voice was tinged with curiosity, and Metatron had to shake his head at her incessant plea. In an exasperated tone, he started, "Mya, it isn't time yet… You cannot know who she is."
Hermione pouted at his answer, but chose not to continue pestering her guardian. Instead, she thanked the angel, "Met, thanks for your help…" The blond angel smiled at his ward, giving the girl a brotherly kiss on the forehead as he spoke, "Remember, I'm with you no matter where you are. Call on me if you need my help." And he dissipated into thin air.
"Mashiaere, Metatron." Hermione whispered, an unknown wind caressing her face when she had uttered those words. Instinctively, the girl knew that her guardian had heard it, thus with a lighter heart, Hermione wandered in the direction of the kitchen, aware of the aroma that stood lingering in the air. Her stomach started to growl again, and the Gryffindor hurriedly headed towards the kitchen, wondering what Professor Snape had cooked up.
Peeping into the kitchen, Hermione felt a grin tug at her face despite her trying to smooth her face into a neutral mask… No one could blame her though. Severus Snape, Potions Master – 'evil git' – of Hogwarts, dressed in an apron, a pot in one hand, and a ladle in another wasn't something that could be seen often. Seeing the professor sleep is one matter, but seeing him cook is a whole new experience.
The Potions Master had been in an action of pouring porridge into a large serving bowl when he had heard Hermione giggle, and, narrowing his eyes, the man spoke in a mock-nasty tone, "Miss Granger, another giggle, and you'll cook your own meal."
"Well at least there won't be any detention or points taken from Gryffindor." Hermione countered cheekily, strolling towards the small dining table situated at the corner of the kitchen.
"Granger…"
"I thought you've gotten out of the Miss Granger habit?" Hermione raised an eyebrow at the defeated professor.
"Silverdawn is becoming a bad influence to you, Hermione," Severus sighed, placing the empty pot in the sink before grabbing a pitcher of iced lemon tea from the refrigerator.
Looking at the Asian food placed on the tabletop, the Prefect whistled, "Wow, professor. You can really cook!" The black-haired professor ladled porridge into a bowl in front of her, replying smoothly, "I'll take that as a compliment, Hermione."
The girl grinned, picking up the chopsticks lain by her bowl.
"Know how to use this?" Severus teased, picking up his own pair of chopsticks. Hermione chose not to reply, but instead, picked up a fish ball deftly with the pair of chopsticks. Smiling wryly, Severus started, "I see you've made your point."
"Thank you." Hermione replied primly, chewing on the fish ball as she brightened up, "Mm! This food tastes delicious."
"Thank you." Severus answered automatically, placing some vegetables on her bowl, instructing, "Eat more." The reminder sounded like one a parent would say to his child, and vaguely, Hermione felt her heart warm towards the man in front of him. Happily, she continued on with the meal in companionable silence, each focused on setting their stomachs to right.
Their comfortable stillness was interrupted when Albus Dumbledore entered the kitchen, eyes twinkling with amusement at the pair eating.
"Asian food? Ah Severus, it's been a long time since you've cooked!" Dumbledore started, and, magicking a pair of chopsticks, took to tasting the food, exclaiming in delight, "Severus, your culinary skills hasn't gone worse!"
A slight flush colored the Potions Master's cheeks at his employer's indirect insult, and the man scowled darkly, "Albus, I seldom cook doesn't mean I don't cook."
"Of course, of course. Mind if I sit down, Miss Granger?" The Headmaster asked, causing the girl to shake his head. He then proceeded to sit down and join the meal, magicking a set of eating utensils as he absently placed some braised duck in Hermione's bowl, saying in a kind voice, "You need to eat more, Hermione."
Those words that were so similar to what Professor Snape had said earlier on made Hermione smile, and she nodded her head, digging into her porridge with vigor. In less than an hour, the three of them finished practically everything on the table, and it was then did Dumbledore state his business.
"Hermione, I regret to say this, but you have to clear up your home before the ministry checks on it. Severus and Belial had set up Angelic wards that aren't supposed to even be there. If those wards don't go down in a few hours, Voldemort will suspect that something is amiss."
Hermione gulped at this statement… she was not ready to face reality so soon, and whilst her inner thoughts warred with one another, she relaxed slightly at the comforting hand placed on her shoulder blade. Looking up at Snape's face, she found comfort in his understanding eyes. Severus cleared his throat brusquely, replying in a firm tone, "As your new guardian, I'll come with you. Don't worry."
Those obsidian eyes looked exceedingly compelling, and slowly, the brunette nodded in agreement, dreading the next few hours that were to come.
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Potions Lab
6th year Gryffindor + Slytherin
Heated tension ensued within the potions classroom – the Slytherins kept snarling at the Gryffindors whilst the Gryffindors stared daggers at the Slytherins. It did not help further to see the Prince's face turn so black and the fuming expressions of the Court… with the exception of Silverdawn of course. The girl seemed totally at ease with the entire hostility, and was able to continue studying her reports calmly.
All in all, the next three hours would be pure torture, be it Slytherin or Gryffindor.
At Azrael and Silverdawn's table, the whole lot of them was plotting the ultimate demise of the foes – Pansy, Millicent, Crabbe and Goyle.
"Howler?" Ron suggested, thinking back to their second year where he had received one that had him embarrassed for weeks.
"Nah… what will we say inside?" Tristan countered, raking a hand over his hair in frustration.
"… You've got a point."
"What about that powder you threw on Crabbe and Goyle earlier on this term?" Amber asked, still vaguely relishing that wonderful powder and how they had gotten those two goons plus the entire Slytherin table unaware.
"The Slytherins will become suspicious." Draco crossed it out without a moment of hesitation, drumming his fingers on the table absentmindedly.
"Then what? We can't possibly hex them to oblivion or challenge them to a wizard's duel, no seconds. Hell, Professor Kadamon and Snapes will kill us!" Ashteroth sighed, hands itching to curse those idiots to deaths. How dare they insult his princess.
"That's where the problem lies – brother, Uncle Severus and Salazar." Azrael reminded all of them of the three imposing figures.
"What if we tricked them to the Whomping Willow that Harry and Ron had told us of?" Tristan raised eagerly, earning a white eye from the majority of his friends."
"Lure them there, and get them killed?" Blaise asked sarcastically.
"That's the main gist of it." The boy smiled.
"Justice…" Nikolai rolled her eyes in annoyance, throwing a mild electrocuting spell to make him shut up. Tristan winced at the sudden onslaught of electricity, but tamed it into a ball of white lightning that he played in his hand, much to the amazement of Harry and Ron.
"You know Temperance. It's been a long time since you've blown up." Tristan said idly as Nikolai narrowed her blue-gray eyes, asking in a silky voice that left the Court shuddering, "Why? Do you wish to be at the receiving end of it?"
This statement produced the exact effect she had wanted – Tristan hurriedly shook his head, ultramarine eyes filled with panic, "Oh no, no, no, no, no. I thought you might like to blow up at Pansy and the others."
"I thought she already did?" Harry said in a confused manner. He had seen how skillful Nikolai was when fighting against the Slytherins and the deadly way of combat she engaged in had left him shocked beyond belief. Nikolai had been the mildest-tempered among all the people he had known, even Silverdawn. She had never hurt anyone with words, much less brute strength. Perhaps this has something to do with the healer instinct, but how she had fought earlier on had convinced him, and most of the other Hogwarts students, that this lady was as skillful in fighting as she was in healing.
"She hasn't blown up just now Harry." Silverdawn finally answered, much to the embarrassment of Nikolai.
"That's not the point, Empress. Pranks aside, it's Mya's birthday the day after tomorrow, you know what will happen on that day." Nikolai answered mildly, eyes dead serious. Her last phrase had been in Angelic, thus many of the others, save Ashteroth went bewildered beyond belief.
At her reminder, Azrael and Silverdawn sobered whilst the Court were caught by surprise.
"Hermione's birthday is on the 19th?"
"Man! And she just lost her parents!"
"I haven't gotten her present yet!"
"Problem is," Azrael started in a grim manner, "her birthday's on a weekday."
"Another earthquake." Nikolai murmured in Angelic, leaving a disturbed Ashteroth who looked at her in alarm, asking in the same language, "Another?"
"It might very lightly be worse than that." Azrael spoke quietly as the remaining members of the Court plus Harry, Ron and Blaise frowned at the weird, musical language.
"It'll be raining all day this Wednesday. I'll make sure of that." Silverdawn spoke quietly, a forceful note behind her tone. She had reverted back to English, and Blaise looked worried at the nagging thought in her mind. Finally, she voiced her worries, asking aloud, "You'll be tampering with the weather?"
The black-haired girl nodded, causing Draco to pull her into his arms, whispering urgently, "Don't. You can get yourself killed."
"Normal wizards and mages might get killed, but she won't die so easily. Stop fretting Magician." Azrael teased as the platinum blond-haired Slytherin threw him an annoyed look. Harry and Ron looked bewildered too, but chose not to ask – the Court can usually talk about things that are too deep for them to understand.
"Time to hit the books." Harry muttered.
"For once, I agree." Ron intoned, but quieten down when they heard the door of the potions laboratory fly open.
The entire class scuttled back to their separate seats, surprised that it wasn't Professor Snape but a brown-haired man who had entered the room. Clad in a black robe that seemed to absorb all light, the man had his slightly-longer-than-shoulder-length hair left down, dark chocolate-brown bangs falling appealingly over his forehead. Scarlet red eyes seemed oblivious to the stares of most of the students whilst he went forward to the table, a book and a stack of paper in hand.
Once he reached the table, the man placed the things he had brought with him before turning to face the students, an action that was done with boneless grace. The members of the Court glanced at him, then at one another, then at him again, the same question evident in their expressions.
::Him?:: All of them mindspoke in unison.
::Who?:: Harry, Ron and Blaise asked unanimously, all three of them mesmerized by the man's beauty.
::That man is no ordinary wizard or human. He's Belial, one of the four fallen angels directly under Lucifer.:: Ashteroth explained, earning wide stares from his friends.
::That's the man who's the most famous assassinator?:: Ron asked in part incredulity, part awe, ::He looks so… angelic.:: Amber smirked at his reaction, remarking, ::He is still an angel, Ron. It is also what makes him so dangerous. No one could think of him being capable to kill an entire legion of army with just one blink of an eye.::
Harry shuddered at that thought, ::He's that strong?::
::Definitely.:: Silverdawn affirmed, smiling at the man who looked to be an overtly foul mood.
::Still, that doesn't explain why he's here.:: Blaise posed the million-dollar question that befuddled most of them, the entire class included.
::Uncle Severus must have called him to take over the class while he is looking after Mione.:: Azrael said thoughtfully, glancing at his friend in uncontained amusement, ::Imagine, Belial, the most feared among all planes, becoming a temporary professor to a bunch of 16-year-old students. No one, angel or devil, will believe this!::
::Professor Snape knew him???:: Ron asked, shocked.
::More than that. They had been best friends since he entered Arys Quedantio.:: Silverdawn supplied.
::Arys Quedantio?:: Blaise inquired in a puzzled manner.
::An academy.:: Ashteroth helped out.
::Oh.:: Harry uttered.
Suddenly, a light tenor sounded, and all of them fell silent, the mindspeech forgotten. The brown-haired angel had been leaning against the table in a deceptively leisurely manner, eyes fixed on a particular group in the front of the class – Pansy and co.
"Severus is currently tied up with something, and he has requested for me to supervise you all for the next three hours. Do your own revisions, be it theory or practical, I do not care." Belial spoke quietly, staring at a void of space beside the Slytherins where their guardian devils resided. Giving those devils a venomous glare that made them flinch, he continued, "Most importantly, do not cause any trouble. Trust me, I have a perfect way to deal with people I find irritable."
Red eyes glinted with uncontained amusement, and the entire class shivered as he sat on his chair, casually flipping through a tome he had brought with him. The entire class hushed down, most of them thumbing through their potions textbook while the Court, Blaise, Ron and Harry resumed their mindspeech conversation.
::Switch topic. What potions do you guys wish to do?:: Harry asked as the twins conversed in private mindspeech modes, formulating a plan mild enough to escape punishment, but at the same time, harsh enough to fool their enemies.
::Can I make a suggestion?:: Silverdawn asked smoothly, receiving go-ahead signs from everyone.
Time to play…
::Ron, pair up with Ash, Tris with Harry. Niko, you'll be with Riley, and Amber, team with Blaise. I'll go with Drake. Ron, Ash, you guys will go ahead with polyjuice. Tris, Harry, try our altered version of Draught of the Living Dead. Riley, you know which potion to try. Amber, Blaise, can you guys try the mind-alteration potion?::
The two girls nodded in agreement. Silverdawn smiled at them before closing her eyes, five bulky tomes appearing on each groups' desks.
::The pages have been book marked. Go ahead with the potions, but do not add the volatile substances until all of us are ready. At least the explosions will be timed to precision. For the required ingredients that aren't found in your regular supplies, get from me. Now, let's start.::
Finishing the orders, the girl then smiled at her partner, saying, "We'll be doing the mind-switch potion." Draco nodded, and flipped through the tome whilst Silver charmed her ever-present platinum box into its original size.
"Let's go get some fun." Draco said wickedly as he started slicing some cybog skin.
Two and a half hours later, all of them are ready to put the volatile ingredients into the potions. At Ashteroth and Ron's table, the fiery-headed boy asked worriedly, "Won't the polyjuice take days to complete?" His teammate gave him an assured smile, pointing out, "Don't worry. We'll get Prince to hasten time."
"Huh?"
"Azrael is the guardian of time. It's his element, so he can speed up time to match his will." Ash explained to the immense shock of his friend.
"You mean he can control time?" Ron asked, stunned.
"Yes."
"Wicked!"
Their conversation quickly ended when Azrael mindspoke them about putting the ingredient in at the count of three.
As expected, five synchronized explosions sounded in the potions classroom, echoing throughout the dungeons as screams could be heard by most of the class. Belial narrowed his eyes at the deafening sound, but mentally shook his head in exasperation on seeing who had caused the noise. Walking up to the lot of them, the angel spoke in a severe tone, "Didn't I say to keep quiet?"
"It's part of the potion, sir." Silverdawn spoke in a respectful manner that, should one listen closely, held a tinge of humor within it. Belial stared at her in an impassive manner, though inwardly, he was laughing at the fear that emanated from most of the class. Giving them a glare that could have virtually freeze people to death, he then proceeded to walk back to his seat, not bothering to take points from any of them.
Azrael smiled at his tolerance.
Apparently, Belial still had a soft spot for his twin, even though not many would be able to notice it. Motioning for them to continue, the prince hurriedly finished his potion – the Spiritine Resurrectus potion – before speeding the time for the polyjuice and draught of the living dead to work efficiently. Silverdawn in turn hastened the time for her potion and Amber and Blaise's mind-alteration one.
By the time Potions class was up, all of them had finished the potions and had cleared up everything. The potions were placed in Silverdawn's box for safety precautions, and all of them were about to go out when a voice sounded in the twins' heads.
::You can clear the house now.::
::Yes uncle.:: The twins replied, feeling the voice link out immediately.
"You guys go ahead first. We have to see to some stuff." Azrael called out to his friends as he threw Silver and his schoolbag to Tristan and Ash, who in turn caught them deftly. Giving them a salute of thanks, the twins dissolved into nothingness, much to the chagrin of all of their friends.
"They really like to do this, don't they?" Harry asked wryly.
"You can say that again." Blaise murmured, shaking her head in defeat.
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While the others were at Potions…
The smell of blood and charred wood still lingered ominously in the air around Hermione's house when both she and Snape apparated into its vicinity. Nobody in the estate had seemed to be able to see the obviously wrecked house courtesy of the wards placed on it. Furthermore, it was then did she realize that there were wards so strong; her spine literally tingled when she entered the place.
The first floor of the house was totally burnt, concrete, steel I-beams not withstand. Surprisingly, the second storey of the house was still standing, like a house that floated on air. Taking her hand, Severus apparated once more, and they were in her parents' bedroom. Their scent still lingered in the air, the usual peppermint and dewberry pouches that were placed by the window and in the closet still emanated its sweet scent.
It felt as if her parents were still alive, and were ready to call her down for lunch, just like the good old times.
A sudden surge of homesickness filled her heart, and Hermione had to take deep breaths to clear her mind of the nostalgic thoughts, reminding herself that this wasn't the time to break down again. Walking around the room slowly, she went to the bedside table, picking up the photo frame that held a muggle picture of her with her parents in their last holiday outing to France.
All of them looked so happy, grinning at the camera when they had taken this picture in one of the cathedrals. It was something she had liked about muggle photos – it captured the exact moment of happiness in just one shot, unlike wizard photos that kept moving. A tear silently crept down her cheek, and she hurriedly placed the frame back, wiping the tear as discreetly as possible.
However, Severus still saw her pain, and spoke quietly, "Pick up the things most important to you Hermione. We have to move fast."
"Yes, professor."
"And quit referring me as professor once we're outside classes."
"Yes, uncle."
Her obedience unnerved him, and it was only now did he realize she hadn't been as strong as she had acted.
She's still not ready to face everything yet… and she's still a child!
The man agonized about this thought silently in his head as he watched the brunette stacked some frame photos and a family album from this room before moving to another. Severus did not follow her, knowing that she might want some privacy of her own. Enlarging the trunk he had brought along, he placed the things Hermione had taken in it, taking great care not to damage anything. Along with the photos and various memorabilia, she had also taken some private documents from her parents locked cupboard, and several books that looked well thumbed through.
By the time he had packed and shrunk the trunk, Hermione had came back empty handed, albeit red-eyed.
"You're not bringing anything back?" Severus asked, raising an eyebrow.
"I've shrunk it." Hermione mumbled, trying to keep her feelings in check. The potions master smiled a little at her efficiency, continuing, "Someone will be burning down this place. Precaution matters. Where do you want to go now?"
The girl went silent for quite a while before finally asking hesitantly, "I'd like to see my parents."
On hearing this, Severus wanted to say 'No' to Hermione, but on seeing her determined look, agreed reluctantly, "All right. Take my hand."
::You can clear the house now.:: He mindspoke as Hermione took one of his hands.
::Yes, uncle.:: The twins replied as he linked out, disapparating from the house and into St. Mungo's as Hermione thought sadly.
Goodbye, the place I've called home…
Azrael and Silverdawn appeared at the front of the house just as Hermione and Severus apparated out of sight. Reaching out their wings, they flew into the second storey via the balcony of the master bedroom. There, Silverdawn reached out her hand, hair reverting back to its original silver color as her eyes turned into a lovely lavender color. A piece of paper fluttered into her outstretched hand, and the princess was satisfied that this particular piece of paper was still in the home.
Tucking the paper carefully into her robes, she glanced at her twin, who asked grimly, "Ready?"
"Yes."
Taking deep breaths, Azrael took down all of the shields that had surrounded the house and the countless number of shields and wards that were placed on Hogwarts, anchoring them to the node situated within the Kadamon suite. This was a tricky task, for without those wards, Hogwarts was vulnerable to all sorts of attacks… it was a very risky thing that the twins were trying to do. Pulsing purple, Azrael nodded to her twin, and Silverdawn placed a dome on the entire second floor. Closing her eyes, she did something no one in his or her sane mind would ever attempt…
She mapped the floor plan of the place, and transported the entire plan to a place down under Hogwarts – a dungeon suite where the marble statue of a young girl in roman toga safeguarded. Everything, from the furniture to the dust that lingered was teleported to that suite. Everything was in placed in the same manner, the den, Hermione's room, and the bathroom, even her parents' bedroom. All were relocated into the suite as if it had been there all along.
Satisfied that everything was in order, Silverdawn nodded to her twin, and he resettled the wards placed on Hogwarts, banishing those that had guarded the Granger house and channeling those energy to strengthen the wards at the school. Once all these were settled, the twins soared into the sky, looking at the house for one last time before Azrael stared at it hard.
Instantaneously, flames started licking the second storey as the two angels flew out of sight.
In just a few minutes, the house was no more, and the Ministry officials had came about to clear up the mess.
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Hospitals never change, be it muggle or wizard ones…
This was the thought that kept lingering in Hermione's head when Severus Snape brought them into St. Mungo's Hospital. Hermione had never been to a Wizarding hospital before, and the smell of antiseptic and medicine had made her feel as if she had returned to a muggle hospital. Except that she saw nurses waving their wands on the patients they are nursing, relieving them of the pain temporarily as they waited for their turns to see the medi-wizard/witch.
Whisking her through the mazes of wards until they reached the one that her parents were in had been one of the most difficult things Severus had done in a long time. He did not wish to see how she would react to seeing her parents when she had been upset just by entering her home.
For god's sake what do you expect? She's just a child!
A dark-haired lady was sitting on a bench right beside the door, a book in hand when she saw the duo arrive. Giving Severus a small smile, she spoke, "Hello, Severus. This must be Hermione."
Hermione secretly tugged at Severus' cloak for comfort, but the lady saw it and gave her a reassuring smile.
"Anael." Severus acknowledged his friend with a smile of his own, before introducing her to Hermione, "Hermione, this is Anael, overseer of research in Atzulith and one of the few that is directly under the Queen of the Angelic System."
"Hello." Hermione said shyly, remembering that this lady was Silverdawn teacher in the culinary arts. The smile on Anael's face never faltered, and in a gentle voice, she asked, "You wish to see your parents?"
The brunette gave a slight nod, causing the angel to sigh, "Be prepared for the worst, child."
Hermione gulped, hands hesitating at the doorknob, not knowing whether to enter or not until Anael opened the door for her, whispering in her ear, "Remember, even if there's no one with you, be aware that Metatron is always there, no matter what." With that, she gently shoved the girl in before closing the door behind her.
There were two hospital beds in the room, as well as a table between the two bedsides, two chairs by the window, and a coffee table in between, as well as several other odds and ends. To say the least, the room was pretty well furnished considering the fact that it housed Muggles instead of pureblooded wizards. However, Hermione barely noticed the surroundings… her eyes were fixed on the two white-clad figures.
Walking over to the one that was lying on the bed, Hermione whispered, "Mom?" Rachel's brown hair lacked the luster that it usually had, lying limp on the pillow as hazel brown eyes looked void of any living essence. She was staring at the ceiling, not blinking, not talking. Just breathing.
"Mom?" Hermione asked once more, but Rachel continued gazing at some unknown location, never turning back to face her daughter of sixteen years.
Biting back a sob, Hermione pulled the thin blanket to her mother's chin, whispering, "Have a good rest." She had tried to be strong, but her voice came out hoarse with unshed tears. Turning to the other bed, she walked hesitantly to her father, who was mechanically eating his food by the bedside.
"Dad?" Hermione asked in a small voice, hoping that her father would recognize her. She knew that once administered with the Dementor's Kiss, the soul of the person would be sucked out. No matter how hard one would try, without a soul, a person would have no memories, no feelings, none whatsoever.
Still, in a small part of her heart, she had fervently wished that this theory were wrong.
But all this had been in vain.
Benedict Granger did not look up from his food, but continued eating in a robotic manner, as if he was ordered to eat it, instead of wanting to eat it himself.
"Dad?" Hermione persisted as Benedict finally looked back at her, blue eyes dull. Empty. Hollow.
"Who are you?" Her father asked, his face void of any expression. Even his voice sounded monotone, a great difference from his usual baritone.
This did it. The tears that she willed not to fall fell, and she grabbed her father's hand, placing it against her cheek as she sobbed incessantly.
"Why? Please… daddy, mommy, come back." She whispered in a near-hysterical manner. With that, she cried, sobs retching her thin frame as she clutched to her father's hand as if it was a life buoy. She continued crying in this manner for several minutes until Metatron appeared by her side, collecting her into his arms where she started controlling herself.
The angel did not say anything, just stayed there with her until the last of her sobs receded.
"I'm sorry." Hermione mumbled in a choked voice as Metatron smoothed her hair indulgently, replying kindly, "Don't be. Do you want to go out now?"
"Yes."
Untangling herself from her guardian angel's arms, Hermione walked over to the exit with Metatron behind her, only to freeze on hearing the conversation held at the other side of the door.
Outside, Anael had been having a brief discussion with Severus.
"It's no use. I've talked to Raphael, and even he has no power over the souls of humans. Dementors were once our kind – a soul taken from them would mean a death sentence in limbo. The Grangers' souls are trapped within the third level of hell, between Gehenna and Tartarus. Unless we dysfunction their bodies, they will remain there forever." Anael gave the main points of the problem, extracting out the part where they suffer as badly as they are in the eternal flames sentenced of mortal sinners.
"So you're suggesting euthanasia?" Severus asked, feeling very helpless himself.
"In a way… yes. It's the only solution." The brown-haired angel replied reluctantly, playing with the ring of her left marriage finger. Tensed silence enshrouded the two adults as the door of the ward opened to reveal a pale-faced Hermione. Noticing her tear-stained face, and Metatron's solemn expression, both of them deduced that the young girl had cried earlier on.
"Hermione." Severus said with dread, fearing how much she had heard. In an attempt to prevent her from suffering any more heartache for one day, he coaxed, "you do not have to make a decision now."
The girl looked tired, but still, she gave Anael a powerful look, asking softly, "What will be the results?"
Amber-gold eyes smiled at the girl's understanding, "Once allowed, I'll personally send them up to the eternal rest place of human souls."
"Eden?"
"No. Eden is just a garden, not the allocated paradise for souls."
"And what if I refuse to allow it?"
"Then your parents will stay in limbo. The third level of hell isn't exactly a delightful place to stay in. Are you willing to let them live in pain? Euthanasia may seem cruel to you, but you understand the reason why we must proceed with it." Anael spoke in a firm tone, one that compelled Hermione to understand. As she had predicted, the Gryffindor understand the implications, for she took time to think of her options. Seeing her troubled face, Severus placed a comforting arm around her shoulder as she took a deep breath, whispering, "All right."
"Are you sure?" Anael continued.
"So mote it be." Hermione croaked, the olden language that sealed promised uttered out from her voice, finalizing her decision. Smiling at her choice, Anael raised her hands, and in the walkway, two balls of pure light, both glowing a fiery red, appeared in her outstretched palms as the two humans in the ward dissolved into nothingness. Going over to Anael's side, Metatron took over one of the light, mindspeaking to his ward, ::I'll send your father to where he belongs.::
::Thanks Metatron.::
The two angels smiled at the child in a tender manner, but before they left, Anael went over to where Hermione stood, and whispered into her ear, "You're a good child, Star. I will be willing to take you once you enter Assiah."
With that, she disappeared, and Hermione shed her tears.
One last time.
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End of chapter 18
SORRY!!!
Guys, I'm so sorry that this chapter took so long. I've had quite a hard time starting this chapter, not knowing how Sev will react and all. Hope this is to your liking, and if you have any queries, feel free to ask =þ
Also, the title to the book Severus had been reading was, 'The rules to Dark Magic'. I know, it sounds pretty lame, but I could not come up with a good one, and 'Most Potente Potions' are used so often that I'm sure most of you are sick of it, ne?
Also, anyone can guess who was that lady who had been training Hermione in her dreams? Twenty points to your house if you have -_6
Oh! Tartarus is another name for hell, but I've named it as the 2nd level of hell whilst Gehenna is the 4th.
My school holidays have officially started! *yay* However, due to the fact that I did not do well, I'm forced to go for extra lessons… *groans* I'll try to get the next chapter out. It should be one Hermione's birthday, and boy! Will everyone be in for a scare!
Okay, now for the important question – Will you guys agree if I add some steamy scenes into this fic? It will be between two couples… Tell me what you think, and fast!
Alright, that's all for now, now review time!!!
Madame Padfoot ~ Thanks for wishing me good luck, and I also really wanna thank you for supporting this fic ever since I've started writing it! It makes me glad to see that someone likes my fic no matter how long I take to update it… Once again, sorry about the late update ^_^!
Tracy ~ Have your exams finished yet? This chapter should act as a treat for you… I hope! *lol*
jade_dagger ~ Wow! How do you even manage to ace such a paper? Isn't it difficult? *complains* I'm jealous! *joking, really!*
starbrite ~ Okie. Hope you have the time to continue reading this. *grins*
As de corazones ~ Thanks for translating my fic! I read it, but don't really know how to pronounce the words… quite a fool that I am. *sheepish* Thanks for your praises, but I don't think I'll be fit to be a full-time writer. I procrastinate too much… it's one of my many faults =) However, the school will not know that Sev is Hermione's guardian, cos' if it gets to Voldemort, Severus will be in a lot of trouble. Also, I know that I lengthen this fic too much… I'm a sucker for details *laughs wryly* Honestly, I've tried to be more concise, but that isn't really my forte. So… ah well, it'll just continue like this. Hope you wouldn't mind. And no, your review isn't too long. I kinda like the length, makes me understand what you like and what you don't. Nonetheless, I wish you good luck with your exams, hope this chapter won't distract you too much. Btw, where do you live? (I'm not sure if I've asked you this before… *lol*)
Faith ~ *puzzled* Educational? That's interesting… is it the part about the angels? Also, thanks for putting me in your fav list =)
Orange ~ Sorry about the fight scene. I do not know how to 'refine' it further. I just hope that there isn't too many messy scenes in this chapter…
GothicTemptress ~ Well, I've finally posted! *Does a victory dance* Hope you like it 6_-!
SilverMoon ~ The reactions will show by two chapters max. Please be willing to wait, cos' I am still having a hard time trying to put the scenes in my mind into words!
ilovespike-02 ~ You can expect Sev to be furious, but he's still too worried about Hermione's condition to bother punishing the Slytherins severely… What you've imagined had made me giggle too, but right now Hermione's still pretty upset over her parents, so she won't be wearing those uniforms anytime soon. Furthermore, the lady has taught her control, so she won't be glowing all over. The immunity to normal sleeping potion was enough of a shock for him though… All in all, hope you've liked this chapter!
Athena ~ Glad that you've changed your mind! But this story isn't really bordering on perfect, there are quite a few places I could have improved on. Still, thanks for your compliment. *curious* Is your name really Athena Grace? I seldom hear people with Athena as a name :-)
Aemos ~ Yippee! I've finished my exams! So I guess there wouldn't be a one month gap between updates now… I hope! *lol*
Belle ~ The permanent Glamourie is set to stay until her birthday… not any longer. After that, Hermione will be able to control the color of her eyes and hair, just like how Silverdawn is able to… oops, I'm giving out too much of the plot!
mow wow ~ How about I mail you the family tree? It will be easier to understand the Kadamon and Snape line if you have it. What other information do you want? I'll gladly mail them to you =)
Melodi ~ Next up will most likely be her birthday. So hang on!
ElvenFaerie ~ Yup! I'm finally convinced to stick to canon. It eases my conscience a little. And I agree, Angel Sanctuary is an awesome manga! I simply adore Kira-senpai and Raphael-kun!
Starry-06 ~ *smiles happily* I'm glad you like reading my fic. *curious* Which one is your other favorite? I would like to read that too! (I'm rather fond of Mione fics…)
Dark Angel ~ I've read X-1999 too. The story is still running now, and I constantly complain to my sis about how slow the publishing is! Nonetheless, it's a good story, and how the plot is so complicated that I simply love finding out what exactly is happening. The Adam Kadamon in this story cannot stop time, but he can do some time magic. And yes, several of our favorite characters will be entering UWIM. However, only Ron, Harry and Hermione will be entering the Court. Blaise will only enter the Court for a year, after Law and Aki graduate… As for Court names, can you guess Hermione's?
Li-chan ~ Nope, I found the brawl a tad bit amusing too. It's seldom you see an inner conflict within a House itself… Hope you like this chapter, especially the interaction btw Hermione and Severus!
sakura32 ~ Hmm… I don't usually do email, but I'll try!
arcee ~ *confused* Band uniforms? But I thought they usually look smart and cool!
PunkyPrincess ~ Yup, they will be. And Harry and Hermione will definitely be a couple.
Ally ~ Sorry about not being quick. Honestly I've tried, but the story keeps getting stuck! Argh!
IloveBen ~ The involvement of angels was due to my passion for them, and due to an incident when I encountered them three years ago. As for the languages? I like them, but I don't really know how to actually speak them… *grins sheepishly*
bubblegum*girl ~ Thank god I didn't get retained… or else my mother would have banned me from the computer for the entire year!
Jinni ~ Thanks! Glad to know that I've gotten another person hooked on this story! Hee hee ^_^!
cherrity ~ Thanks for not asking me to hurry up with the writing. Hope that this chapter is to your liking!
Helena ~ Yay! I'm relieved that you've gotten the angels bit figured out. They make up quite a part of the story!
Rebuky ~ Well then, I hope that you'll be able to read this chapter soon! Cos' I've finally managed to get it out!
anonymous ~ hmm???
baderis ~ Okie dokie, new chapter, coming through!
howling wolf ~ *dismayed* Was the previous chapter disappointing? If it was, then I hope that at least this chapter will be to your liking ^_-!
nikki ~ Yes, Severus is Hermione's father, but he doesn't know J
Qrackie ~ Hermione's dad is someone from school… so it's pretty obvious isn't it? And I agree with your saying that this story seems never-ending… I don't even know how to solve all of the mysteries of the story!
Dragonsbane ~ Thanks for putting me in your fav list! And wow! How long did you take to finish reading it?
Omni ~ Yeah… *guilty as charged* Nikolai did act quite out of character… *Hopeful* Could you charge it to her having PMS? Nah, just joking!
Goriz ~ *teasing* So many pleases? I haveta get this chapter out, don't I?
Fearless Kitty ~ Correct. Hermione is gonna be paired up with Harry, and as for your other question? Bingo! Ten points to your House! (learnt this from somewhere…)
Eliza ~ I'm also waiting to write that part. I'll be having quite a heck of time trying to figure out Sev's emotions when that happens!
janmmci ~ Chapter out! Next chapter still in process of sketching! Also, I'm sorry to keep you waiting for so long. Glad that you've done well for at least one paper, I didn't do well on any of my subs! *sighs*
hazeleyez ~ Hope you get to this fic as soon as I post this up! I'm sorry about the delay, but I'm dealing the aftermath of having bad results… I've just finished one of my major exams today!
? ~ Thanks for that compliment, I hope you'd continue reading. Cos' this should be getting better in the next few chapters. Be in for a big surprise!
Dragon_Charmer ~ Gee, I heard of Azazel, but never knew much about him. However, Azrael is truly an angel – he's the angel of Death, and a supposed high angel if I don't remember wrongly. Hmm… maybe I could put Azazel as one of those four who's directly under Luce. Then, the circle will be complete… Great idea! Oh! And thanks for reading Don't pass me by. Haveta warn you though, the ending isn't very nice…
spruce_letty ~ Oops! I've forgotten all about him! Nah, just joking. He'll be there after Hermione's awakening when the earthquake gets worse. He and Remus will make an appearance, and Siri will be ready to pound the brain out of Sev!
jeanne ~ I've updated. Hope you like it!
starrdancerr ~ I'm glad that you are able to accept the new characters. Still, I'm sorry to have added so many characters into the story… it had started out as a challenge for myself. But now, I've got more on my hands than I've ever expected!
Jackie Lawson ~ I've posted =) Start reading now!
Amanda ~ Hope you're still online when I've posted this chapter. But if not, I still hope you've had time to read it!
Alright folks!
That's all for the reviews now, so do please comment on how I might be able to improve on the fic. Thanks!
Toodles,
SilverDawn
aka
Josephine
P/s : Oops, this chapter overshot 10000 words again… *lol*