Oh I am so embarrassed! I hadn't realized I had actually posted a chapter
from another story. I am very sorry for any confusion caused. Thanks to
Zoogerbas1 for the comment. Otherwise it would have taken me a long time.
And well, to Jess the Great, I see why you were quite confused. *Author
gives out many hugs* Um anyway, for those who haven't read the actual
chapter three, this is it.
Usual disclaimers apply.
Ball, Dance, WHATEVER, not to mention a bit of MEDIA
It has been one month since I had received my admission to Hogwarts letter and there is still another two weeks until term begins. During the month, I was reading all my text hoping I wouldn't be behind in my studies. After all, I am what they would call a muggleborn witch. The wizarding world's vocabulary is still difficult for me but I am catching on. Sometimes I would even be using those terms when I am speaking to Maria and Bertha and their expressions are always priceless. One would wonder what the news of me being a witch would shock the servants of the household and be afraid of me, but they actually embraced the news. I learned some handy charms about dusting and I would help Bertha dust. If any changes were made, it would be closing the gap between those who worked for the estate and me.
Grandma has been extra nervous about the news and I am not certain why. Every time I am out of the room, I can hear the conversation between the adults be changed to something about me. And today, I finally found out why Grandma thinks me being a witch is a "Royal Scandal."
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It was during lunch and Bertha had just gotten the last of the desserts on the table.
"Lily, we need to tell you something," began Father, being unusually high-strung. I turned my attention away from the apple pandowdy and gave it all to Father. "There is something about our family that you don't know." Father looked at Grandpa.
"Lily, do you know why your father is always on trips?" asked Grandma sounding like he is talking to an infant.
"No, I suppose it just has something to do with his work. That is what Maria told me."
"That would be correct darling," said Grandma, "but do you know what your father does exactly?" I looked at the adult clueless to where to conversation is going.
"No," I replied slowly. Were they intentionally making me feel stupid?
"Well flower, I work for the British Parliament," said Father releasing a breath. I looked at him in awe.
"So you actually help make the laws that people abide by?" I asked excitedly. My own father is one of the most important people in England!
"Let us not get off the subject here," chided Grandma. I mumbled an apology.
"Mother," said Father looking at Grandma, "how am I suppose to do this?"
"Do what?" I asked dumbly. "Why don't you just tell me what you are going to tell me and let me brood over it late?" I suggested with false cheerfulness. The one time that I think I am going to know something new, the adults are stuttering. It almost feels like what the dog feels when he thinks he is allowed to go outside. Grandpa looked at me with his eyebrows raised in amusement. I suppose he had never seen me doing anything that close to snapping at an elder, or maybe because I have never been left hanging by a thin string; they always told me everything about anything I should know. I blushed in embarrassment.
"Well, Lily. Your grandfather was the Duke of York before he gave that title to me." I looked at the three adults before laughing nervously.
"You are kidding right?" I asked looking at them.
"No, sweetie, we are not," said Grandma with a gentle tone. "You have probably wondered why we don't really allow you to be like other children and play, but your mother's family history is quite controversial." I was still in disbelief, what was Grandma talking about when she said be like other children. Should I have been watching the sports like James and Sirius said? Was that supposed to be normal?
"Lily," said Father looking helpless, "I am sorry I kept this from you for so long, but it was your mother's wish." I looked at them with turmoil clearly visible from my expression. What was I supposed to feel? Happy because I am a highly privileged girl? Betrayed because they never told me until now? Or fury because I was kept from the rest of the world when I thought I was treated like any other children. Since I didn't know how to react, I just stood there, staring into the eyes of the only people I knew and are close to for these eleven years of my life.
"I want to take a nap, Father," I announced finally. I could tell Father was shocked since I never called him that and the look on his face made me feel guilty. Oh well, he deserved it for keeping my heritage from me for so long. I turned to walk away but Grandma stopped me.
"Lily, stay for another ten minutes. We need to solve a slight problem." This time I was furious. I wanted time alone to think and I was denied! I turned sharply and stood there with my weight on my right side as I tapped my left urging them to hurry. "Sweetie, your 'unveiling', as some people calls it, is tonight." Another shock, why did they always have to tell me something important in the last minute?
"So that is why I got dresses for my birthday instead of my usual presents," I accused my grandmother. She nodded affirmative. The room was showered by an uncomfortable silence. "Well, I'll take my nap now. Please wake me when I need to get ready." This time when I left and no one stopped me. I finally had a chance to sort out things.
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So this is why James and Sirius thinks I lived in a cave. Father kept me from the rest of the world because I might be a witch and daughters of dukes should not be witches. Now I am finally getting my "unveiling" even though it has been know for a month now that I am a witch. Well, the first eleven years of my life has certainly been a waste. I practically lived in a cave, the reclusive Evans Estate, for the period of time knowing nothing of the world five steps beyond the front door.
I wonder what Father meant when he said Mother had wished for me to be treated that way. For as much as I could remember of the three years I had Mother, she took me to parks and I wasn't shut in a large mansion with only servants as companions. If Mother truly meant this, I suppose she didn't want me revealed tonight. Humph, curse the adults for treating me like this. Maybe I should stick Father on the upper corner of his study with the levitation charm that I have mastered for starters. Perhaps even make his legs like jelly, but I still need to work on that spell.
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"Wake up Miss Lily!" Maria's voice ranged through my room. I guess I fell asleep thinking of ways to teach Father a less. "Are you awake Miss? You only have five hours to get ready you know. We don't have much time." Five hours?! What does she mean there isn't time? I can easily put on a dress and brush my hair in less than thirty minutes. What in the world is Maria thinking today? She usually wakes me up with just barely enough time to do everything I need to do before my lessons.
"I am up!" I shouted when I noticed Maria opening her mouth again through my bed curtains. In her arms were about fifty different outfits like she had a limp rainbow. I raised the delicate eyebrow (a technique I inherited from Mother since I was young) and questioned her about the pile of clothing in her arms. "Do I really need this much clothes?"
"Yes Miss. We need to find the perfect dress for you. After all, tonight is when the whole world is going to finally see Lady Lillian Evelyn Evans," said Maria proudly as though her own child is being presented to the world.
"Great. Watch out world, here I come," I added sarcastically attempting to get myself somewhat excited. Maria shook her head and shoved me a pale pink sundress type of attire to try on. I had lost count after the thirteenth dress and Maria's endless mother hen clucking became overly annoying. It was probably three dresses later that she chose a gown that has many different shades of green, one of my three presents from Grandma.
"The dress brings out your eyes Miss."
"Will you quit calling me 'Miss'?" I snapped at Maria and immediately felt guilty when she cowered back, "I mean, you have always called me Lily or Miss Lily on occasion, why the change now? If it is because I am suddenly 'Lady Lillian Evelyn Evans' as of three hours, ten minutes, and fifty five seconds ago, that is not a good reason. I am sure there will be many people calling me that and I wish to at least keep something the same before this whole incident." My index finger touched my chin thoughtfully. "I think I will refer my life before now 'The Previous Life'." That had made Maria laugh and tension died down immediately. Or that may be because she had started on my hair.
Here is a little story of my hair. Father, Grandpa, and Grandma all have brown hair or something close to it. Grandma has a brownish blond colored hair. Mother had brown hair also but it would look auburn when in the sunlight. Now my hair, is a lovely (as Maria describes it) reddish brown tint, though much more red than brown. It is nice since it's not a flaming red, but I am still out of place in my family and if I will ever be in a crowd of people, just look for the odd colored hair.
Maria is probably in her perfectionism mood since my scalp is sore and she still hasn't found a nice hairstyle. I don't see why she can't just braid it. After numerous tugs, the finishing product is this elaborate high (too high for my taste) bun with all kinds of twists and braids that it's like a potpourri of different ways to braid hair. The most annoying thing about my hair is that it is uneven so I have odd little strands of hair "framing my face" as Maria put it nicely. I just call them "being in the way". Grandma came in to inspect my appearance one-hour before I am to leave. Her excuse to come in was to remind me of my etiquette lessons. Whether to use this fork or that, what to do with the napkin, and the proper way to excuse one self. Oh, and I certainly can't forget the five dances I am required to know. Maria was cleaning up in my room when Grandma mentioned dances and I am confident Maria muttered "dance, what does an eleven-year old need to know how to dance for? Mistress would have never let her do this." Guess I am not the only one who is objecting to this whole "unveiling" business, and it is comforting knowing Mother probably agreed with me.
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The drive to the hotel the ball is held is much noisier than the ride to Leaky Cauldron. Grandma was fussing about manners, Father was giving me a crash course on people's names and titles, and Grandpa was sleeping unaware of the noise.
"Now Lily, remember to smile at everyone. This would mean getting rid of that scowl. Use the fork near the plate first. speak only when you are spoken to." Grandma went on telling me all the things I know and I was more than grateful when Father interrupted, maybe not grateful, but at least content, well, not really.
"Holy Mother of Jesus!" cried Father. He was looking out the window of our car and Grandma was the one scowling now. I looked out the window too and noticed many people with cameras taking pictures. There was also a lady holding a microphone standing right by where our car door would open.
"Daddy? Why are these people here?" I asked uncertain whether or not I'd like the question answered.
"Good Lord!" shouted Grandpa finally aware of the situation, Grandma scowled at him too. "So much media." Then the one word stuck me. "Media"? What on earth is going on? I really do hope the media Grandpa meant was not the groups of people who are journalist, reporters, and the like.
"May I ask why is the media here?" I asked when I saw a photographer taking a picture of my shocked face through the car window. Grandma pushed me back to my seat.
"Sit back Lily, you probably don't want to look like goldfish on the front page of the paper," reprimanded Grandma. The car came to a halt and the old lady I call "Grandma", who is wearing a black dress that doesn't compliment her size, decided to remind me the rules of the society again, for the millionth time today. The unneeded man sitting next to the driver got out and opened the door to allow us out; I suppose that was why he was here. Father got out first, then Grandma and Grandpa. I cowered when it was my turn. There were two lines of reporters on either side of the carpet I was to walk on and the cameras were zooming on me. The unneeded man smiled to comfort me and said something silly (Just knock 'em dead milady!) so I would laugh as I got out. At that moment, the cameras started clicking and the reporters decided to let their mouth blabber.
"And here comes Lady Lillian, the daughter of the Duke of York and Albany." said one female reporter.
Another had said, "Coming out of the limousine is the beautiful Lady Lillian Evelyn." Why they decided to call the vehicle I arrived in a limousine, I haven't got a clue, but all the attention I am getting is a bit out of hand. Then out of no where, a woman pops out and asks for a picture with Father. Luckily, we were already near the entrance so the men by the door kept the crowd away as we were ushered in. The man wearing and odd combination of tight, black long sleeve shirt and relatively tight pants, walked around swaying his behind below my nose (this would be the times I wish I was Father's height) lead the way to the place of gathering. He gave us a girly introduction with his hands waving.
"And here, your grace, would be the hall." Father politely nodded and walked into the room with a lot of people dressed in formal clothing. I looked at bit out of place among the sea of black. Father went forward and introduced me to his peers, as one should say. Grandpa and Grandma did the same thing. I don't know how many times I heard, "Hello So-and-so, this is my (grand) daughter Lily." By the end of meeting all those people, my neck was sore from nodding in acknowledgement. I couldn't curtsy since I can only do two perfect curtsies in one year. Much later, the doors opened again showing a blond woman with a girl perhaps a few years older than me with blond hair also. Both the woman and the girl wore black, but at least white was present in the girl's dress, so it didn't quite feel like a funeral. They immediately approached Father and me. Grandpa and Grandma were with the old people that are their friends (I suppose). I was certainly sick of introductions. Some one should have warned me about all the people.
"Good evening Daria, Petunia," said Father politely. I looked at the girl. She's Petunia, my half-sister? We don't even look alike at all. There was no resemblance between us, except she has Father's eyes. That was the only way you could tell she was an Evans. She looks a lot like her mother. The same long skinny neck and the very blond hair. I wondered whether or not I remembered wrong about Petty having a stepfather. I was about to ask why he wasn't here as well, but Father had said something.
"Why don't you and Petunia go and talk to the other children," suggested Father. "And Lily, you are sitting between Grandma and me during dinner." I nodded and walked with Petunia to what I have named it, "The Children's Corner."
"I-i-is it only your mother and you here?" I asked Petunia realizing how awkward my wording was and I was about to rephrase it when she answered haughtily.
"No one else besides my mother and I were invited." She turned her sour expression towards me. "Why were you expecting someone else?" I stuttered a no. So maybe she doesn't have a stepfather.
"So are you a 'Lady' like me?" I asked Petunia with curiosity. That was a large step for the shy little me, and her not answering my question make me more uncomfortable, even after the last attempt at conversation. I decided to rephrase the question. "I mean, I just found out this afternoon that I am Lady Lillian blah blah blah." Petunia jerked her head at me and gave me the most hateful look I have ever seen. Fortunately for us, the other children ran towards us.
"Hi, I am Gwen," introduced the girl leading the troop of other kids. "I suppose you must be Lady Lillian, the reason this ball is here." Gwen turned to look at Petunia and asked, "Who are you? I apologize, but I have never seen you before, though I haven't seen Lady Lillian either." Petunia snorted and rolled her eyes.
"She is my half sister Petunia," I answered quickly wondering what has been learning all these years. It is probably the first thing in the etiquette guide that when spoken to, you reply politely no matter what.
So the night got off to a rocky start. All the girls are surrounding me asking so many questions and completely ignoring Petunia. I felt bad but she just won't join any conversations. Not that she would be interested. Who would think question like "Wow, your limousine's really long," or "That dress you are wearing is gorgeous," or "You must be very rich (I got that one five times from a short chubby girl whose name I had the liberty of forgetting)," were interesting? Luckily for me, dinner was served and I made my way to Father and Grandma. To my utmost surprise, Petunia's mother is sitting next to Father with Petunia sitting next to her.
"Hello Lily," greeted the women who now I remember as Daria. I nodded politely since food was already being served. Grandma chortled when Daria began an animate conversation with Father. I wonder what she has against Daria? She seems nice, perhaps a bit too nice, but at least she isn't despicable.
Dinner actually finished sooner than I had expected. To my greatest discomfort, it was time for dancing. If this ball was organized for my "unveiling", how come I am not the center of attention? I don't mind being unnoticed, but things just don't make sense right now. Come to think of it, things have not made sense since I had gotten my Hogwarts letter.
Oh bother! Daria has dragged Father to the dance floor and Grandpa and Grandma are too engrossed in the conversation going on to be of any company to me. I noticed Petunia sitting alone also so I decided to keep her company; however, as I approached my half sister, the other girls that I was speaking to earlier decided to burst my privacy bubble by joining me. I was stuck in another "Ask Lily" session. I don't see what is so entertaining about my life. I was shut in a large mansion with servants as my playmates with Father only seeing me a few days a year. I guess I lost my redhead temper when I snapped at those annoying bunch of ditzes. It took about two seconds more of verbal abuse to one girl who seemed to think she's my best friend to finally leave. They had finally gone away before the boys of those my father associated with made their decision to annoy me also. Only they were just less verbal, which could be a good thing if I was looking for a couple of dolts who muttered one syllable words when they couldn't answer it with a grunt. Why couldn't there be people who can actually challenge my brain? I could have at least had some entertainment having a lively conversation. Some kind of birthday party this was. (I had only realized it was a birthday part when a blond squeaky girl by the name of Elizabeth, or actually to be exact, Elizabeth Jenkins, daughter of the Prime Minister of Great Britain kindly informed me of such news. Honestly, when she was introducing herself, she seemed like she was actually comparing titles or something.)
I certainly can't wait until school starts. Then I would be away from the excessive attention from people. I do wish Father were just an ordinary wealthy man instead of a duke. Oh no! I just realized I might inherit the title. someone please help me.
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When will September 1st come? I can't wait to get out of the public eye. Ever since I was revealed to the world at my birthday party, I have been stalked by the media everywhere I go. People actually lined up at our front gate just so they would catch a small glimpse of me when I am outside. Things got too disturbing for everyone in the house, even Grandma, when I found a photographer sitting on the tree by my bedroom window. Good thing I was wearing something more than my pajamas otherwise I would be completely humiliated, not to mention Grandma would have taken a sling shot and aim a coconut at the man's head. I don't think the actual royal family (whom I realized I was related to distantly) received as much attention as I got. Since every adult in the house is having a fit about the attention, I got locked inside a room in the far corner of the mansion where no one can get a picture of me, or an interview.
PS: Next chapter should the Lily's first train ride to Hogwarts. The relationship between Lily and the Marauders will be clarified since I plan on having them meet. I'm not sure if I should write more about Lily's problem with the press. please tell me what I should do.
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Answers of comments from reviewers!! *Fanfare!!
Jessie: Actually, that is exactly what I'll be doing only hate is derived since when there is a mix of emotions, frustration is next, then comes hate. I am flattered by your comment about the story being "great" though for some reason, I doubt it will happen because I may have good ideas, but I am horrible at English.
Sunkisses643: Thanks for that reassuring comment but just a little note: BOTH of my parents are scientists and work with chemistry. Just my luck, eh?
Oliverwoddschick: Glad to see that you are back. I apologize for not actually updating a chapter on the last post, but the note was necessary.
Ms. Perfect aka Nekkyoo Ema: OOH! Thank you for the site. That helped me with developing Lily's personality. Now the next challenge is finding out the hierarchical stepladder of Great Britain. Is Lily really supposed to be called "Lady" if her father is the duke? Oh whatever.
AngelicPnai: Thank you!!! Good to see another happy reader. I am fluent in Chinese and currently learning Spanish. Now I get confused when it comes to grammar since they are different with each language.
Paki Princezz: I'll try and hurry, but I can't make any promises. Seeing as. errg, just read the note.
Lady Louisa: How flattering. Trust me, I am grinning like an idiot right now.
Princess Potter: Of course I will write more. Why should I not when I have so many people actually asking for me to continue? You have no clue how great a moral boost I get when people actually review.
Usual disclaimers apply.
Ball, Dance, WHATEVER, not to mention a bit of MEDIA
It has been one month since I had received my admission to Hogwarts letter and there is still another two weeks until term begins. During the month, I was reading all my text hoping I wouldn't be behind in my studies. After all, I am what they would call a muggleborn witch. The wizarding world's vocabulary is still difficult for me but I am catching on. Sometimes I would even be using those terms when I am speaking to Maria and Bertha and their expressions are always priceless. One would wonder what the news of me being a witch would shock the servants of the household and be afraid of me, but they actually embraced the news. I learned some handy charms about dusting and I would help Bertha dust. If any changes were made, it would be closing the gap between those who worked for the estate and me.
Grandma has been extra nervous about the news and I am not certain why. Every time I am out of the room, I can hear the conversation between the adults be changed to something about me. And today, I finally found out why Grandma thinks me being a witch is a "Royal Scandal."
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It was during lunch and Bertha had just gotten the last of the desserts on the table.
"Lily, we need to tell you something," began Father, being unusually high-strung. I turned my attention away from the apple pandowdy and gave it all to Father. "There is something about our family that you don't know." Father looked at Grandpa.
"Lily, do you know why your father is always on trips?" asked Grandma sounding like he is talking to an infant.
"No, I suppose it just has something to do with his work. That is what Maria told me."
"That would be correct darling," said Grandma, "but do you know what your father does exactly?" I looked at the adult clueless to where to conversation is going.
"No," I replied slowly. Were they intentionally making me feel stupid?
"Well flower, I work for the British Parliament," said Father releasing a breath. I looked at him in awe.
"So you actually help make the laws that people abide by?" I asked excitedly. My own father is one of the most important people in England!
"Let us not get off the subject here," chided Grandma. I mumbled an apology.
"Mother," said Father looking at Grandma, "how am I suppose to do this?"
"Do what?" I asked dumbly. "Why don't you just tell me what you are going to tell me and let me brood over it late?" I suggested with false cheerfulness. The one time that I think I am going to know something new, the adults are stuttering. It almost feels like what the dog feels when he thinks he is allowed to go outside. Grandpa looked at me with his eyebrows raised in amusement. I suppose he had never seen me doing anything that close to snapping at an elder, or maybe because I have never been left hanging by a thin string; they always told me everything about anything I should know. I blushed in embarrassment.
"Well, Lily. Your grandfather was the Duke of York before he gave that title to me." I looked at the three adults before laughing nervously.
"You are kidding right?" I asked looking at them.
"No, sweetie, we are not," said Grandma with a gentle tone. "You have probably wondered why we don't really allow you to be like other children and play, but your mother's family history is quite controversial." I was still in disbelief, what was Grandma talking about when she said be like other children. Should I have been watching the sports like James and Sirius said? Was that supposed to be normal?
"Lily," said Father looking helpless, "I am sorry I kept this from you for so long, but it was your mother's wish." I looked at them with turmoil clearly visible from my expression. What was I supposed to feel? Happy because I am a highly privileged girl? Betrayed because they never told me until now? Or fury because I was kept from the rest of the world when I thought I was treated like any other children. Since I didn't know how to react, I just stood there, staring into the eyes of the only people I knew and are close to for these eleven years of my life.
"I want to take a nap, Father," I announced finally. I could tell Father was shocked since I never called him that and the look on his face made me feel guilty. Oh well, he deserved it for keeping my heritage from me for so long. I turned to walk away but Grandma stopped me.
"Lily, stay for another ten minutes. We need to solve a slight problem." This time I was furious. I wanted time alone to think and I was denied! I turned sharply and stood there with my weight on my right side as I tapped my left urging them to hurry. "Sweetie, your 'unveiling', as some people calls it, is tonight." Another shock, why did they always have to tell me something important in the last minute?
"So that is why I got dresses for my birthday instead of my usual presents," I accused my grandmother. She nodded affirmative. The room was showered by an uncomfortable silence. "Well, I'll take my nap now. Please wake me when I need to get ready." This time when I left and no one stopped me. I finally had a chance to sort out things.
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So this is why James and Sirius thinks I lived in a cave. Father kept me from the rest of the world because I might be a witch and daughters of dukes should not be witches. Now I am finally getting my "unveiling" even though it has been know for a month now that I am a witch. Well, the first eleven years of my life has certainly been a waste. I practically lived in a cave, the reclusive Evans Estate, for the period of time knowing nothing of the world five steps beyond the front door.
I wonder what Father meant when he said Mother had wished for me to be treated that way. For as much as I could remember of the three years I had Mother, she took me to parks and I wasn't shut in a large mansion with only servants as companions. If Mother truly meant this, I suppose she didn't want me revealed tonight. Humph, curse the adults for treating me like this. Maybe I should stick Father on the upper corner of his study with the levitation charm that I have mastered for starters. Perhaps even make his legs like jelly, but I still need to work on that spell.
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"Wake up Miss Lily!" Maria's voice ranged through my room. I guess I fell asleep thinking of ways to teach Father a less. "Are you awake Miss? You only have five hours to get ready you know. We don't have much time." Five hours?! What does she mean there isn't time? I can easily put on a dress and brush my hair in less than thirty minutes. What in the world is Maria thinking today? She usually wakes me up with just barely enough time to do everything I need to do before my lessons.
"I am up!" I shouted when I noticed Maria opening her mouth again through my bed curtains. In her arms were about fifty different outfits like she had a limp rainbow. I raised the delicate eyebrow (a technique I inherited from Mother since I was young) and questioned her about the pile of clothing in her arms. "Do I really need this much clothes?"
"Yes Miss. We need to find the perfect dress for you. After all, tonight is when the whole world is going to finally see Lady Lillian Evelyn Evans," said Maria proudly as though her own child is being presented to the world.
"Great. Watch out world, here I come," I added sarcastically attempting to get myself somewhat excited. Maria shook her head and shoved me a pale pink sundress type of attire to try on. I had lost count after the thirteenth dress and Maria's endless mother hen clucking became overly annoying. It was probably three dresses later that she chose a gown that has many different shades of green, one of my three presents from Grandma.
"The dress brings out your eyes Miss."
"Will you quit calling me 'Miss'?" I snapped at Maria and immediately felt guilty when she cowered back, "I mean, you have always called me Lily or Miss Lily on occasion, why the change now? If it is because I am suddenly 'Lady Lillian Evelyn Evans' as of three hours, ten minutes, and fifty five seconds ago, that is not a good reason. I am sure there will be many people calling me that and I wish to at least keep something the same before this whole incident." My index finger touched my chin thoughtfully. "I think I will refer my life before now 'The Previous Life'." That had made Maria laugh and tension died down immediately. Or that may be because she had started on my hair.
Here is a little story of my hair. Father, Grandpa, and Grandma all have brown hair or something close to it. Grandma has a brownish blond colored hair. Mother had brown hair also but it would look auburn when in the sunlight. Now my hair, is a lovely (as Maria describes it) reddish brown tint, though much more red than brown. It is nice since it's not a flaming red, but I am still out of place in my family and if I will ever be in a crowd of people, just look for the odd colored hair.
Maria is probably in her perfectionism mood since my scalp is sore and she still hasn't found a nice hairstyle. I don't see why she can't just braid it. After numerous tugs, the finishing product is this elaborate high (too high for my taste) bun with all kinds of twists and braids that it's like a potpourri of different ways to braid hair. The most annoying thing about my hair is that it is uneven so I have odd little strands of hair "framing my face" as Maria put it nicely. I just call them "being in the way". Grandma came in to inspect my appearance one-hour before I am to leave. Her excuse to come in was to remind me of my etiquette lessons. Whether to use this fork or that, what to do with the napkin, and the proper way to excuse one self. Oh, and I certainly can't forget the five dances I am required to know. Maria was cleaning up in my room when Grandma mentioned dances and I am confident Maria muttered "dance, what does an eleven-year old need to know how to dance for? Mistress would have never let her do this." Guess I am not the only one who is objecting to this whole "unveiling" business, and it is comforting knowing Mother probably agreed with me.
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The drive to the hotel the ball is held is much noisier than the ride to Leaky Cauldron. Grandma was fussing about manners, Father was giving me a crash course on people's names and titles, and Grandpa was sleeping unaware of the noise.
"Now Lily, remember to smile at everyone. This would mean getting rid of that scowl. Use the fork near the plate first. speak only when you are spoken to." Grandma went on telling me all the things I know and I was more than grateful when Father interrupted, maybe not grateful, but at least content, well, not really.
"Holy Mother of Jesus!" cried Father. He was looking out the window of our car and Grandma was the one scowling now. I looked out the window too and noticed many people with cameras taking pictures. There was also a lady holding a microphone standing right by where our car door would open.
"Daddy? Why are these people here?" I asked uncertain whether or not I'd like the question answered.
"Good Lord!" shouted Grandpa finally aware of the situation, Grandma scowled at him too. "So much media." Then the one word stuck me. "Media"? What on earth is going on? I really do hope the media Grandpa meant was not the groups of people who are journalist, reporters, and the like.
"May I ask why is the media here?" I asked when I saw a photographer taking a picture of my shocked face through the car window. Grandma pushed me back to my seat.
"Sit back Lily, you probably don't want to look like goldfish on the front page of the paper," reprimanded Grandma. The car came to a halt and the old lady I call "Grandma", who is wearing a black dress that doesn't compliment her size, decided to remind me the rules of the society again, for the millionth time today. The unneeded man sitting next to the driver got out and opened the door to allow us out; I suppose that was why he was here. Father got out first, then Grandma and Grandpa. I cowered when it was my turn. There were two lines of reporters on either side of the carpet I was to walk on and the cameras were zooming on me. The unneeded man smiled to comfort me and said something silly (Just knock 'em dead milady!) so I would laugh as I got out. At that moment, the cameras started clicking and the reporters decided to let their mouth blabber.
"And here comes Lady Lillian, the daughter of the Duke of York and Albany." said one female reporter.
Another had said, "Coming out of the limousine is the beautiful Lady Lillian Evelyn." Why they decided to call the vehicle I arrived in a limousine, I haven't got a clue, but all the attention I am getting is a bit out of hand. Then out of no where, a woman pops out and asks for a picture with Father. Luckily, we were already near the entrance so the men by the door kept the crowd away as we were ushered in. The man wearing and odd combination of tight, black long sleeve shirt and relatively tight pants, walked around swaying his behind below my nose (this would be the times I wish I was Father's height) lead the way to the place of gathering. He gave us a girly introduction with his hands waving.
"And here, your grace, would be the hall." Father politely nodded and walked into the room with a lot of people dressed in formal clothing. I looked at bit out of place among the sea of black. Father went forward and introduced me to his peers, as one should say. Grandpa and Grandma did the same thing. I don't know how many times I heard, "Hello So-and-so, this is my (grand) daughter Lily." By the end of meeting all those people, my neck was sore from nodding in acknowledgement. I couldn't curtsy since I can only do two perfect curtsies in one year. Much later, the doors opened again showing a blond woman with a girl perhaps a few years older than me with blond hair also. Both the woman and the girl wore black, but at least white was present in the girl's dress, so it didn't quite feel like a funeral. They immediately approached Father and me. Grandpa and Grandma were with the old people that are their friends (I suppose). I was certainly sick of introductions. Some one should have warned me about all the people.
"Good evening Daria, Petunia," said Father politely. I looked at the girl. She's Petunia, my half-sister? We don't even look alike at all. There was no resemblance between us, except she has Father's eyes. That was the only way you could tell she was an Evans. She looks a lot like her mother. The same long skinny neck and the very blond hair. I wondered whether or not I remembered wrong about Petty having a stepfather. I was about to ask why he wasn't here as well, but Father had said something.
"Why don't you and Petunia go and talk to the other children," suggested Father. "And Lily, you are sitting between Grandma and me during dinner." I nodded and walked with Petunia to what I have named it, "The Children's Corner."
"I-i-is it only your mother and you here?" I asked Petunia realizing how awkward my wording was and I was about to rephrase it when she answered haughtily.
"No one else besides my mother and I were invited." She turned her sour expression towards me. "Why were you expecting someone else?" I stuttered a no. So maybe she doesn't have a stepfather.
"So are you a 'Lady' like me?" I asked Petunia with curiosity. That was a large step for the shy little me, and her not answering my question make me more uncomfortable, even after the last attempt at conversation. I decided to rephrase the question. "I mean, I just found out this afternoon that I am Lady Lillian blah blah blah." Petunia jerked her head at me and gave me the most hateful look I have ever seen. Fortunately for us, the other children ran towards us.
"Hi, I am Gwen," introduced the girl leading the troop of other kids. "I suppose you must be Lady Lillian, the reason this ball is here." Gwen turned to look at Petunia and asked, "Who are you? I apologize, but I have never seen you before, though I haven't seen Lady Lillian either." Petunia snorted and rolled her eyes.
"She is my half sister Petunia," I answered quickly wondering what has been learning all these years. It is probably the first thing in the etiquette guide that when spoken to, you reply politely no matter what.
So the night got off to a rocky start. All the girls are surrounding me asking so many questions and completely ignoring Petunia. I felt bad but she just won't join any conversations. Not that she would be interested. Who would think question like "Wow, your limousine's really long," or "That dress you are wearing is gorgeous," or "You must be very rich (I got that one five times from a short chubby girl whose name I had the liberty of forgetting)," were interesting? Luckily for me, dinner was served and I made my way to Father and Grandma. To my utmost surprise, Petunia's mother is sitting next to Father with Petunia sitting next to her.
"Hello Lily," greeted the women who now I remember as Daria. I nodded politely since food was already being served. Grandma chortled when Daria began an animate conversation with Father. I wonder what she has against Daria? She seems nice, perhaps a bit too nice, but at least she isn't despicable.
Dinner actually finished sooner than I had expected. To my greatest discomfort, it was time for dancing. If this ball was organized for my "unveiling", how come I am not the center of attention? I don't mind being unnoticed, but things just don't make sense right now. Come to think of it, things have not made sense since I had gotten my Hogwarts letter.
Oh bother! Daria has dragged Father to the dance floor and Grandpa and Grandma are too engrossed in the conversation going on to be of any company to me. I noticed Petunia sitting alone also so I decided to keep her company; however, as I approached my half sister, the other girls that I was speaking to earlier decided to burst my privacy bubble by joining me. I was stuck in another "Ask Lily" session. I don't see what is so entertaining about my life. I was shut in a large mansion with servants as my playmates with Father only seeing me a few days a year. I guess I lost my redhead temper when I snapped at those annoying bunch of ditzes. It took about two seconds more of verbal abuse to one girl who seemed to think she's my best friend to finally leave. They had finally gone away before the boys of those my father associated with made their decision to annoy me also. Only they were just less verbal, which could be a good thing if I was looking for a couple of dolts who muttered one syllable words when they couldn't answer it with a grunt. Why couldn't there be people who can actually challenge my brain? I could have at least had some entertainment having a lively conversation. Some kind of birthday party this was. (I had only realized it was a birthday part when a blond squeaky girl by the name of Elizabeth, or actually to be exact, Elizabeth Jenkins, daughter of the Prime Minister of Great Britain kindly informed me of such news. Honestly, when she was introducing herself, she seemed like she was actually comparing titles or something.)
I certainly can't wait until school starts. Then I would be away from the excessive attention from people. I do wish Father were just an ordinary wealthy man instead of a duke. Oh no! I just realized I might inherit the title. someone please help me.
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When will September 1st come? I can't wait to get out of the public eye. Ever since I was revealed to the world at my birthday party, I have been stalked by the media everywhere I go. People actually lined up at our front gate just so they would catch a small glimpse of me when I am outside. Things got too disturbing for everyone in the house, even Grandma, when I found a photographer sitting on the tree by my bedroom window. Good thing I was wearing something more than my pajamas otherwise I would be completely humiliated, not to mention Grandma would have taken a sling shot and aim a coconut at the man's head. I don't think the actual royal family (whom I realized I was related to distantly) received as much attention as I got. Since every adult in the house is having a fit about the attention, I got locked inside a room in the far corner of the mansion where no one can get a picture of me, or an interview.
PS: Next chapter should the Lily's first train ride to Hogwarts. The relationship between Lily and the Marauders will be clarified since I plan on having them meet. I'm not sure if I should write more about Lily's problem with the press. please tell me what I should do.
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Answers of comments from reviewers!! *Fanfare!!
Jessie: Actually, that is exactly what I'll be doing only hate is derived since when there is a mix of emotions, frustration is next, then comes hate. I am flattered by your comment about the story being "great" though for some reason, I doubt it will happen because I may have good ideas, but I am horrible at English.
Sunkisses643: Thanks for that reassuring comment but just a little note: BOTH of my parents are scientists and work with chemistry. Just my luck, eh?
Oliverwoddschick: Glad to see that you are back. I apologize for not actually updating a chapter on the last post, but the note was necessary.
Ms. Perfect aka Nekkyoo Ema: OOH! Thank you for the site. That helped me with developing Lily's personality. Now the next challenge is finding out the hierarchical stepladder of Great Britain. Is Lily really supposed to be called "Lady" if her father is the duke? Oh whatever.
AngelicPnai: Thank you!!! Good to see another happy reader. I am fluent in Chinese and currently learning Spanish. Now I get confused when it comes to grammar since they are different with each language.
Paki Princezz: I'll try and hurry, but I can't make any promises. Seeing as. errg, just read the note.
Lady Louisa: How flattering. Trust me, I am grinning like an idiot right now.
Princess Potter: Of course I will write more. Why should I not when I have so many people actually asking for me to continue? You have no clue how great a moral boost I get when people actually review.