A/N: Sorry it took so long. School is such a pain in the ass. LOL. I
know you all feel my pain. Anyway, on with the story. Oh, and in the last
chapter, I called Teresa's horse Braveheart and earlier I called him
Avedis. I'm sorry. His name is being changed to Braveheart because. I
feel like it. LOL.
Teresa and Gwendolyn had been riding for days. Teresa had suggested apparating, since she knew how, or using a port key, but Gwendolyn refused. Finally, after crossing many waters and much land, Teresa and Gwendolyn, or Gwen, reached a forest deep in Bulgaria.
Teresa's wedding dress had been sent directly back to her home in England and all the necessary things had been sent to the land of the Veela. Teresa was now wearing a pair of dark low-rise jeans and a tight, navy sweater. As the two women entered the land, a calming peace swept over Teresa. She hadn't felt this calm for days.
As the two rode deeper in the forest, Teresa became a bit anxious to meet with Guenivire again. Finally, Gwen led Teresa into what seemed like a rather large village. Teresa gave a small smile when she saw the houses.
They were small and quaint. They had only one floor. Only one of the small buildings had two floors. It was the building in the center. Unlike the other buildings, which were pale blue or a light green, this building was white and silver.
Like the others, it was relatively small, but larger just the same. As Gwen and Teresa approached the building passing Veela bowed lightly. They had on beautiful dresses, which were the same design but different colors.
(A/N: if you would like to see the dresses, please visit: http://www.fairyfashion.de/frame.html, then click on Wedding Gowns and then click on the Enchantress.)
As Teresa neared the white house, she noticed how Gwendolyn's dress was covered by a white cloak that glowed as bright as her skin. Teresa took notice, not for the first time, of Gwendolyn's beauty. She had tropical blue-green eyes and long, silver-blonde hair. She was a bit pale, but it only added to her beauty. Her complexion was flawless and Teresa smiled at her humble being.
Finally, upon reaching the house, Teresa saw Guenivire lying on a long, Greek style couch. It had an up-curve at one end and it was white. Guenivire sat lounging on it. Her regal air visibly noticeable.
Three maidens, each beautiful and silent, surrounded Guenivire. All seemed to know that their place was to serve their leader and not be a hindrance. Teresa and Gwen stepped off their horses, which quickly ran to a stream flowing near by. The two women bowed and Guenivire stood.
"Thank you dear Gwendolyn. Young Jahzara, I believe you are now ready to start your training?"
"Yes."
"First, I am sure you are quite hungry. Morgan, summon Teresa and Gwendolyn's food."
A blonde with brown eyes muttered a spell and a platter full with meat, cheese, and fruit appeared in front of Teresa and Gwen. The two ate and then Guenivire smiled once more at Teresa.
"Now, Morgan will be fitting you into your dress. Then, once you are ready, she will hand you over to Destiny." A timid, blond haired- hazel- green eyed girl stepped forward. "Destiny will be teaching you of our history and your heritage. After that, you will have the rest of the night free and may tie up any loose ends you left."
Teresa nodded and was ushered off with Morgan. The woman, obviously in her late forties, worked quickly and quietly. The dress she fitted Teresa, or Jahzara, in was beautiful. Her hair was pulled back in a loose braid. A small, golden band was wrapped around her head. Morgan smiled at Jahzara.
(To see that dress, please go to: http://www.fairyfashion.de/frame.html, click on Wedding Gowns and then click on Lancelot's Lady.)
"As Lady Guenivire's heir, you will be addressed as either milady or Lady Jahzara. However, you only must address Lady Guenivire like this. The rest of us, such as myself, respond to our first names alone or Maiden Morgan, for example."
"Thank you Morgan."
"It is my pleasure milady."
Morgan hurried Jahzara off to Destiny. This is how things went for the next couple of days. Jahzara would change into the old-style, yet beautiful, dress and take lessons. Destiny taught her of her heritage and Veela history.
Morgan taught Jahzara how to act with a regal manor, though Jahzara only had a few lessons since she was born to be regal and had been taught the proper form at a young age. Gwendolyn taught Jahzara the ways of the forest.
Gwen had quite a connection with the animals and taught Jahzara to have the same connection. However, Jahzara noticed that Gwen's connection was much stronger. Unicorns soon came to Jahzara's call, along with dragons and all other creatures.
(A/N: I know that Veela really don't have this power, but Jahzara/Teresa is in the land of the Veela, where their power is strongest. So, Let's pretend that Veela can do all I'm saying.)
During the two months Jahzara was training, the Anastasio family and the Malfoy family was in an uproar. The men had looked for Jahzara themselves and sent others to look for her. True to his word, Harry kept quiet.
Ginny was due the next month and was finally to her full size. Although Jahzara had been missing for two months, it would be another ten before the Ministry could announce that Draco was free to marry whomever he wanted. If a person went missing for a year, then they could be considered dead or GFG (gone for good).
It was the beginning of August and Jahzara's training was coming to a close. She was finally ready to train with Guenivire herself. The night of the 14th, Jahzara had a vision of Ginny giving birth on the morning of the 16th.
On the 15th, Jahzara decided she would go to Guenivire and request to be present for her friend's birth. After putting her clothes on, Jahzara confronted Guenivire. Guenivire was surrounded by her maidens and kneeling around something.
As Jahzara neared, she saw it was an injured baby unicorn. Jahzara approached and immediately saw the problem. His hip was out of place and puncturing two of his organs. Guenivire smiled at Jahzara.
"Lady Jahzara, would you do the honors and heal this young one?"
Jahzara nodded and did as she was told. After the unicorn galloped off and the maidens went to do other work. Jahzara talked to Guenivire.
"Milady, I saw in a vision that my dearest friend will be giving birth tomorrow morning. Please, may I be there. I do not wish for anyone to see me, I only wish to be there for her."
Guenivire contemplated this. She smiled warmly at Jahzara. "Of course Jahzara, but you must not be seen by anyone but Harry Potter, for he already knows you are here."
"Thank you, Lady Guenivire. I shall return the night of the 16th or the morning of the 17th."
"I will wait until then."
Jahzara quickly left. She returned to her house directly outside Guenivire's. She decided that she would write two notes. One to Harry and one to Draco. Draco's letter was the most difficult.
Draco, I'm sure you have all been looking for me for quite sometime now. However, I regret to inform you that it has been in vain. I am dying. For the past two months, I have been living with Muggles. I decided that I had to separate myself from our world, for it caused me too much pain to think of you and the others. And now, I am dying of a Muggle disease. I doubt even our magic could cure this, for it is not just an illness. Not only do I have severe brain cancer, but I also am suffering from stress, extreme stress. Because of this, I am very weak and vulnerable. Please, do not let anyone think that this is his or her fault. This was prophesied long ago, that I would die alone and without children. I greatly appreciate everyone's understanding and I hope none of you question my decisions. My death, which will occur in a mere matter of weeks, will release you, Draco, from our marital bond. Lucius, Narcissa, it is my last request that you allow Draco to marry whomever he wishes without interference. If you truly loved me like you claimed to, you would do this for me. While writing this, I am of sound mind and am under the influence of no one. I love you all deeply. My family, my friends, my love, I hope for the best for all of. Move on with your lives, they will continue without me.
With all my love, Jahzara Zitomira Teresa Anastasio (May the blessed princess live famously and harvest much good.)
Jahzara sighed. She hated lying like that, but she knew that that was the only way to keep everyone quiet. She also knew that it would cause everyone pain, but they would get over it.
Sighing, Jahzara started on the next letter. This one, to Harry, would just be a few quick comments. Somehow, she didn't know how, but somehow she would slip it to him. Finally, she finished it.
Harry, We both know that the last letter was not factual, but no one else needs to know that. I trust you Harry to keep this a secret and I know that you will not break my trust. If ever you need me, there will be a way. With this letter I am sending an owl. It will be waiting for you at your house when you arrive. This owl was born and raised in the land of the Veela and knows the way. If you want to write, send it with this owl. Harry, I want you to do me a favor. Make sure that you look after Ginny, Blaise, and Draco for me. They will be upset upon reading the other letter and I want you to be there to comfort them. Also, make sure Ron is okay (I know I needn't even mention Hermoine for she will go to you for comforting automatically). Thank you Harry.
Forever Friends, Teresa
Jahzara sighed. She called two owls to her. One was an eagle owl and it was golden-brown. The other one was a black, medium sized owl. The eagle owl was Arnaud and the black owl was Avedis. Arnaud, or ruler of eagles, and Avedis, or bringer of good things, landed on a near by branch.
"Arnaud, deliver this letter to Draco Malfoy in England." Jahzara handed Arnaud the letter and he flew off.
"Avedis, come with me."
Avedis seemed to bob his head in agreement. Jahzara called Braveheart to her. He came galloping up. Summoning her invisibility cloak, she grabbed it and mounted Braveheart.
Jahzara galloped swiftly out of the forest. Avedis was resting on a small pole sticking out of Braveheart's Italian leather saddle. It took two hours before they were completely out of the forest.
Jahzara stopped Braveheart. She decided she was going to apparate. Lightly laying a hand on both Braveheart and Avedis, she prepared to say the spell.
"APPARATUS!"
The two suddenly ended up right outside of the entrance to Hogsmeade. Before entering, Jahzara muttered an incantation that changed her appearance. Now, she had strawberry-blonde hair. She also gave herself blue eyes and a lighter complexion. Jahzara decided to make her chest smaller as well. Now, though still attractive, Jahzara looked nothing like her before appearance.
Avedis gave a soft hoot of approval and fluttered to the nearest branch. Sighing, Jahzara realized that someone that knew her well could easily recognize Braveheart. Though many horses were black stallions, only Braveheart had a perfectly shaped white star on his forehead. Most horses' stars were blurry, but Braveheart's was clearly defined.
Muttering another charm, Teresa changed Braveheart to a light golden-brown colored horse with a white main and she blurred the star a bit. Braveheart, though not pleased that he had to be transformed, found his appearance beautiful.
"I guess I should change my clothes."
The invisibility cloak rested in Braveheart's only saddle pouch. Jahzara muttered an incantation and a less medieval dress appeared on her body. It was beautiful and fancy still, just more modern. She also made a cloak appear. It was a light, white cloak that flowed freely behind her.
(To see this dress go to: http://www.fairyfashion.de/frame.html, then click on wedding gowns and then click on Lady Elaine.)
Sitting sideways on Braveheart, Jahzara headed into Hogsmeade. Avedis rested lightly on her shoulder. As she rode into town, magical people stopped to gaze at her. Some whispered and she even saw teachers from Hogwarts. Jahzara stopped Braveheart in front of the Three Broomsticks.
Braveheart bent down and allowed Jahzara to get off of him. He stood and headed to the side. Avedis followed and the two stayed there. Teresa muttered a spell and, using her wand, she got Avedis and Braveheart food and water, which they gratefully ate.
Walking into the Three Broomsticks, Jahzara was greeted with some stares. A few were 'checking her out' and others were studying her unusual ensemble. As she neared the bar, the owner, Madame Rosmerta, greeted her friendly.
"Hello dear. I'm Madame Rosmerta. And you are?"
Jahzara said the first name that came to mind one that she had never heard before. "My name is Melody, Melody Sawyer."
"Well Melody Sawyer, is there anything that I can get for you?"
"One butterbeer please."
Nodding, Rosmerta headed off. Turning around, Jahzara walked right into a tall figure. It was Lucius Malfoy. Matt, Dumbledore, and Tyrone accompanied him. As she was about to tumble to the floor, Lucius grabbed her and stood her upright. He took a swift glance at her and, assuming she was rich due to her wardrobe treated her quite cordially.
"Watch out, milady. We wouldn't want someone as pretty as yourself getting injured."
Jahzara caught herself before she could call him Lucius and appropriately blushed. "Thank you sir."
"It is not a problem. I am Lucius Malfoy. And you are?"
"Melody Sawyer. I'm visiting your lovely city from my home country of France."
"Pardon me, but you don't sound French."
"I was born in America, but raised in France since I was twelve. I suppose I was too old to acquire the accent."
"Well Melody Sawyer, it was a pleasure."
Lucius kissed her hand and walked off, the others in tow. Jahzara grabbed her butterbeer and inconspicuously followed Lucius. She sat in a table next to theirs and listened intently.
"So, what do we plan to do?"
"Lucius, I know my sister the best. She wouldn't write a letter like that unless it was true. And she wouldn't enclose it like that as a joke either."
"What do you mean by that Tyrone?"
"Well Dumbledore, my mother would always give each of her children a certain blessing. After reading the will, I discovered it was blessing us by using the meaning of our names. Mother only used this blessing in serious matters. Mine was 'May beautiful love rescue the soldier and make him a ruler.' My names literally mean love is beautiful, ruler, and soldier. Teresa's was 'May the blessed princess live famously and harvest much good.'"
"So there is nothing we can do? We're going to let our sister just die?"
"Matt, what can we do? We've tried everything. Besides, Teresa is an adult. She knows what she is doing and if this is the path she has chosen, we cannot stop her."
The four debated for hours. It was dinner before they left. After eating quickly at the Three Broomsticks, Jahzara headed back out. She checked into a local lodge. Braveheart and Avedis stayed outside.
When morning came, Jahzara left and got on Braveheart. She quickly saw in a vision that Ginny was about to give birth at a hospital much further down south. Climbing on Braveheart and holding Avedis, Jahzara apparated to the hospital. They arrived in the back alley of the Witches' Ward, an exceptional hospital near London.
Sending Avedis off to Harry's house, Jahzara told Braveheart to wait for her in the alley. She snuck into the hospital and waited. An hour later, Ginny came rushing in, being levitated by her father, Draco, Blaise, Harry, the Weasleys, and Hermoine all in tow.
Only Molly and Draco went into the main room with Ginny. The doctor, who was a middle-aged witch, gave Ginny a potion that made her numb. After two hours of labor, the baby came out. He was a boy, just as Jahzara had predicted. However, a great surprise came when a girl also came out. They were twins.
Draco's smile was larger than ever. It was obvious that after Jahzara left, Draco had admitted to being the baby's father. Jahzara took notice of a scar on the back of his neck. It hadn't been there before. Shivering, Jahzara guessed that Lucius must have beaten his son after discovering he loved a Weasley. Jahzara knew that Lucius must have truly been enraged because, despite what everyone thought, Lucius did not hit Draco as much as other Death Eaters hit their children.
Everyone gathered inside Ginny's room once the two children were washed. Even Narcissa and Lucius showed up, though Lucius looked less than happy. Jahzara smiled, even though he was a Death Eater, Lucius did love Draco, Narcissa, and her family very much. She knew that it was a Malfoy tradition to hate Muggles and Mudbloods.
Jahzara sighed remembering how her mother had told her that Draco was the first Malfoy to rebel. Lucius was the first one to want to, but his father abused him whenever he mentioned it. Compared to his father, Kimono, Lucius was kind.
As the two children were brought in, Jahzara smiled at the scene. A smile played on both Lucius and Narcissa's lips. They both stood behind Draco, who was next to Ginny. Ron and Harry were next to Draco and the other Weasleys and Blaise were to her left. The witch nurse handed Ginny her two children.
"Teresa was right. My first child was a boy. I wish she could be here."
Tears formed in Ginny's eyes and Teresa wished she could dry them for her. The nurse came back and was ready to take the names of the children. Ginny looked up at Draco and he nodded. Obviously, they had come up with the names.
"The boy will be Brayden Derek Malfoy and the girl will be Gwendolyn Teresa Malfoy."
Nodding, the nurse left. Jahzara smiled at how the girl was named after her. She also noticed how the child and Maiden Gwendolyn shared the same first name. Hours past by before the people began leaving. Harry and Ron went to get food after the twins, Charlie, and Bill left. The Malfoys left as well, along with Arthur, but Molly, Blaise, and Draco stayed.
Jahzara followed Harry. As he rounded a corridor, Jahzara grabbed him and yanked him into a closet. Shutting the door behind them, Jahzara pulled off her cloak. Harry gasped and smiled. The two shared a brief hug.
"I knew you weren't dying."
"No, I had to come and see Ginny's birth. I also brought you a letter and an owl."
Handing Harry the letter, she let him skim over it. He nodded once he finished. She smiled at him and he took her hand in his in a brotherly way.
"You have my vow Teresa. I promise, I will look after them."
"Harry, I can't stay for long. I only came to give you the letter and watch Ginny give birth. I must go now, but you will always know where to reach me."
Suddenly, the closet door burst opened. Ronald Weasley stood there, wand in hand. His mouth dropped open in shock when he saw Jahzara standing there. His arm fell limp and then a smile appeared on his face. Ron swiftly took Jahzara into a large hug.
"Teresa! You're all right. You're alive!"
"Yes Ron, I am."
"But how?"
Jahzara sighed and began explaining the story. She knew that he deserved to know and she trusted Ron. After she finished, Ron just sat there and soaked all of the information in.
"So, you're the leader of the Veela?"
"I will be once Lady Guenivire passes, yes. Ron, you can't tell anyone about this. No one can know."
Nodding, Ron smiled. "I promise as long as I can write you too."
"Okay. I must go know. I will keep in touch."
Jahzara gave Harry and Ron each a hug. Throwing on her invisibility cloak, she ran off. After climbing on Braveheart, she apparated back to her forest.
Meanwhile, Molly Weasley had left and Draco was sitting alone with Ginny. Blaise had gone to get some 'air'.
"This must be hard on him."
Draco nodded at Ginny's referral to Blaise. "He loved her very much."
"I know. Do you think he will be all right?"
"With time. I just can't believe that she's dying."
"Me neither." Tears poured down Ginny's cheeks at her friend's death.
Wrapping his arms around his woman and his children, Draco comforted Ginny as best as he could. He saw her becoming weak and gently took the babies from her. After putting them in the crib, he sat next to Ginny.
"It'll be okay Gin. Everything will be okay."
"This is all my fault. I just know it."
"Gin, look at me. This is not your fault. It is nobody's fault. Its life and life sucks. I promise you Virginia, this is not your fault."
Draco kissed Ginny's forehead and she fell asleep. Walking over to his children's crib, Draco smiled down at the peaceful newborns. They were identical, except for their eyes.
Brayden had the Malfoy eye, steely gray with a hint of blue. Gwendolyn had Ginny's eyes, chocolate brown. Both had silver-blonde hair, like Draco, and freckles, like Ginny. Their skin was pale and they were healthy. Draco picked up his sleeping son first.
The young boy stirred lightly in his sleep, but seemed comfortable in his father's arms. Lucius Malfoy and Narcissa Malfoy strolled in quietly. Draco looked warily at his father. He didn't know exactly how Lucius felt about all of this. However, his question was most unexpected.
"May I hold him, son?"
Nodding, Draco handed the boy to his grandfather. Lucius let a smile grace his lips and Narcissa gently took her granddaughter out of the crib. Narcissa sat down with the child and began rocking her back and forth.
Lucius held his grandson tenderly and motioned for Draco to follow him. Lucius stepped outside and pulled up two chairs by magic. Draco and Lucius sat in silence.
"You know, I used to be a bit like you. I always wanted to rebel against my father, but I didn't have the will. He beat me. I always assumed I deserved it, but I vowed that I would never hit my children. Then I grew up and had you and I did hit you. Draco, I have never apologized to anyone in my life, with one or two exceptions, and this is hard for me to say. Son, I regret what I have done in the past and I will try to overcome the weakness my father passed down to me in the future.
"I just wanted you to know that, although I still detest the Weasleys, I will not stop you from marrying the girl. I will not agree to a friendship between Arthur and I and I cannot believe or promise that anything will ever change between us, but I will be cordial towards Virginia. Both for you and my grandchildren."
Draco smiled. He knew how hard that was for his father. Draco did something that he had never done before. Slowly getting up, Draco gave his father a brief hug. A look of shock showed on Lucius' face. Draco had showed respect to him, but never true affection.
"Thanks, Dad."
The two men shared a Malfoy smirk, which was on the verge of a smile, before heading back in. Narcissa smiled at the two, for she knew what Lucius had said. Her eyes spoke her agreement and Draco embraced her as well. After the two children were back in their crib, Lucius took a quick glance at the resting Virginia.
"You have nice taste, Draco."
"Thank you."
"Draco, I want you to have something." Narcissa took a velvet box out of her purse. Handing it to Draco, she spoke again. "It is the engagement ring your father gave me. Use it well."
With that and a smile, Lucius and Narcissa left. Ginny woke up shortly after. She saw Draco sitting by the window, fingering something in his hands. She smiled at him and he glanced at her.
"Awake sleeping beauty?"
"Yep. What are you doing over there?"
"Just thinking."
"About what?"
Draco got up and walked over to her and sat on her bed. "About you."
"When are you not?"
Draco laughed at her joke. "I really don't know. Gin, I have something to ask you."
"Go on."
"Virginia Anne Weasley, you are my soul. Without you, I don't exist. I love you more than life. Please, do me the honor and be my wife."
Ginny smiled weakly. "Draco, I would love to, but we know that Lucius would never allow it."
"I've talked things over with my father and he has agreed. I think he's beginning to like you Gin. So, without having to worry about my father, what is your answer?"
"Yes, it was always yes."
Draco smiled and leaned down to kiss her. It was soft and tender. He parted and opened the velvet box. Ginny gasped. It was an exquisite ring. It was golden and the band was a dragon wrapped around a diamond shaped heart. The dragon's eyes were rubies.
"Draco, this must have cost a fortune."
"It was my mother's ring, my father gave this to her for her engagement ring and she wanted you to have it. I want you to have it. Please Virginia, except it as a token of my love."
"Oh Draco."
Ginny leaned up and passionately kissed her fiancé. Her tongue slid into his mouth and he smiled at her response. He couldn't wait to marry the woman he loved. The two continued kissing until a small cry was heard followed by another.
Draco pulled himself off of Ginny and tended to their children. He quieted his son and then held his wailing daughter. The young girl was so small and delicate in his muscular arms. Yet, he could tell that this girl would be much like the Teresa before her, strong.
"I love you, my Gwendolyn, my little Teresa. That's what I will call you. My Teresa, for I can already tell that you will be much like the one before you."
A month later, Jahzara was walking through the forest. She was with Lady Guenivire, who was speaking to her about Veela powers.
"Jahzara, as the leader, you have more control over your powers than any other Veela. You alone posses the power to lead them into battle or make them neutral. For centuries, the Veela have remained neutral as a whole. I allowed each one to make their own decision on which side to follow. That is one of the reasons your mother was allowed to turn Death Eater. I know you have had visions as I have. You see the darkness coming?"
"Yes, milady. I can sense that trials and tribulations will fall upon our world."
"And do you see the cause off all of this?"
"Lord Voldemort."
"Correct. Jahzara, what fear lies within you?"
"Excuse me milady?"
"You heard me young one. Every person has fear, even me. My fear is that I will cause the downfall of my own people through lack of good judgement. Your fear, I do not know. Tell me, my child. What worries you?"
"Lady Guenivire, I fear that I will never have love. I fear that the prophecies will come true and I will die without love. Tell me it is not so, milady."
Guenivire smiled. "I cannot say any such thing yet, my dear. But I promise you will know soon."
There was a pause and the two continued walking. They were headed to the edge of the forest. Once they arrived, Guenivire and Jahzara stopped. Guenivire turned to her apprentice.
"Young Jahzara, you are at he end of your training. There is not much left that I can teach you. Now you must take your final test. In times of great trouble, the leader of the Veela has been able to draw great powers from within herself and put a protective force around our forest. All Veela would gather here and they would be safe. Now, you must call upon this power and once I step outside this forest, you must pull the protective force around the forest. If I cannot penetrate this force, then it will be a sure sign that you are ready. Once I signal you to, withdraw your protection."
Nodding, Jahzara watched Guenivire step out of the forest. The old woman smiled encouragingly at Jahzara.
"Now my dear."
Closing her eyes, Jahzara lifted her arms slowly into the air, palms facing up and arms outstretched by her sides. Slowly, but surely, her arms came together over top of her head. As she brought her arms straight down, they paused in the praying position, then continued their way down to her sides. After the process was finished, Jahzara opened her eyes and saw a light, golden glow separating Guenivire and Jahzara. The glow formed a dome around the forest and Guenivire smiled approvingly.
Guenivire threw spells at the wall and even threw the three Unforgivable Curses at the wall, but nothing broke it. Finally, Guenivire put it to the ultimate test and tried to raise the protective force. As she concentrated, Jahzara saw that the glow seemed to fade a bit and Jahzara concentrated twice as hard. However, the glow was still fading slowly.
Finally, Jahzara felt her inner-Veela take over and she closed her eyes. She couldn't see how her body was now emanating the same golden glow, but Guenivire did. The glow around the forest strengthened and Guenivire couldn't penetrate it. When Jahzara opened her now red eyes, she saw that Guenivire was done testing her. Pushing the Veela back down, her eyes returned to their normal color and she removed the golden force.
By putting her arms up in the air over her head with her palms facing the ground and slowly lowering her outstretched arms to her side, Jahzara removed the glow. Guenivire reentered and smiled at her apprentice.
"Now, you are ready, my child."
The next week flew by. Jahzara was taking over many of Lady Guenivire's duties. She also noticed how week Guenivire was getting. Jahzara had gotten two letters from Harry and three from Ron. She enjoyed their words and wrote back. On Friday, Jahzara awoke and the sky was dark and dismal.
Putting on the dress that she always wore, Jahzara headed out into the small village. Gwendolyn came running to her side.
"Lady Jahzara, come quick."
"What is it Gwen?"
"Milady, Lady Guenivire is dying."
Jahzara ran quickly to Guenivire's house and saw a light blue glow emitting from it. As she approached Guenivire, she saw that she was the source of the light.
"Milady, what is happening?"
"Please Jahzara, do not be formal with me in these last moments. I am dying Jahzara. My time has come. The sun has set on my reign and will rise on yours shortly. Jahzara, there are things you must know. Please, everyone leave my presence except Jahzara."
Everyone did so quickly, but reluctantly. Jahzara knelt next to the woman who had been her mentor. Her skin was paling and her breathing was becoming shallow.
"Jahzara, before my grandmother died, she had a vision. It was the only other vision of you that she had. Unfortunately, your great-great grandmother was dead and thus could not hear the prophecy. I was the only person who heard it and even then I only heard bits and pieces. I remember her telling me to 'Go to the girl when she's with the Boy-Who-Lived'. At the time, I was clueless as to what that meant.
"Then I realized all those months ago that I was supposed to invite you to be my apprentice when Harry was in the room with you. Because his being there will change everything. The-Boy-Who-Lived is coming for you Jahzara. Follow your heart."
"I don't understand Guenivire."
"You will child, you will. Also, I had one daughter. Her father betrayed me and stole her from me when she was born, but in revenge, I took my daughter's daughter. My daughter didn't want to see me, so I took her child instead. Her daughter is Gwendolyn. Gwendolyn is my granddaughter. I raised Gwendolyn since she was a baby. Tell her one day. I was afraid, Jahzara. I was afraid she would hate me for taking her from her family. Please, tell her Jahzara and help her to understand. Tell her I love her. And I love you, my Jahzara. Always follow your heart. Always follow your heart."
With that, Guenivire died. Her body was cremated and then her ashes spread over the forest by birds carrying them in their claws. It was a Veela tradition for the Lady to be cremated and then returned to the land, the land for which she was born to serve.
Jahzara moved into the white and silver house. Lady Guenivire's personal maidens, Gwendolyn, Morgan, Destiny, and Chastity, became Lady Jahzara's personal maidens. As the evening moved on and the sun was setting, Chastity, who had been patrolling the forest, came galloping up on the back of Elena, the white mare who was half-unicorn.
"Milady, two men are entering our forest guided by Avedis. One has fiery red hair and the other one is the Boy-Who-Lived."
Jahzara jumped off the Greek lounge that she had been laying on. "Take two of our horses and go and pick them up."
Chastity nodded and galloped away. She called two brown geldings to her and headed into the forest. Jahzara looked to Morgan.
"Morgan, prepare a platter of food."
Morgan nodded and summoned a platter of ham, cheese, and fruit along with two goblets of sweet nectar. Jahzara conjured up two plush seats just as Ron and Harry arrived on horseback. The two jumped down and ran to embrace Jahzara.
They tried to speak but Jahzara told them to eat first. They quickly ate and settled down. Once they sat in the chairs, they looked ready to speak, but were hesitant in the maidens' presence.
"This is a private affair."
"Ron, whatever you have to say can be said in front of them for they will know anyway. They are Maidens Gwendolyn, Destiny, Morgan, and Chastity. Now, what is it?"
"Teresa, we need your help. The Ministry is in an uproar. A war is coming between Death Eaters and Aurors. Voldemort has risen to power, but with his threat of war came one demand that he wants, that he will not rest until he has."
"What is it that he demands?"
"You."
A/N: Dun, dun, dun! LOL. Hope you all liked it and sorry to leave you hanging. Again, sorry this took so long. Please review everyone (I am not going to say this in every review like usual)! Now, for your favorite part.
Shout Outs:
December's Girl: Thanks! I'm glad you like the aroused questions and I hope this chapter answered most of them. Don't worry, everything will work out, it my own twisted way! LOL. Thanks again.
Crystal: Thanks and I hope this made you feel better for Ginny, though I know Blaise's life still sux.
Blazefury: Actually, I got that part from Runaway Bride, I love Julia Roberts! Anyway, thanks and glad you like it!
Luinthoron: Thanks and I'm glad you find it interesting. Teresa's life has another wedding or two planned in it. Perhaps I've said too much!
Dragonfire: I'm glad you like and I love squeals (good ones that is)! Yes, school is evil. Especially mine! I don't think your crazy, and don't worry, hopefully, everything will work out!
Angel-Hiragizawa32: LOL. Love your jigg and your review. Pansy is evil! Let's all go kill her and dance with Draco! LOL.
Daemon Sorceress: Yes, yes, I agree, but that's the way the story goes. for now!
Fatedtears: IM me soon! I know that you don't really get a lightening scar from what Teresa's mother did, but let's pretend. I love your story. E- mail me when you update.
Karly: Thanks and lol. I love praise, although I don't always think I deserve it, but I love it all the same. It's praise that keeps the story going!
Ice Angel: Thanks and they will!
Hasapi: Thanks and I'm glad you like it. Yes, Ron can be a git. Glad you like it and thanks. Yes, I know that the prophecy looks like it will come true, but I have some tricks up my sleeve yet! Teresa, like I said before, treats her friends like family and she would die for family, like you will see later. Oops, I've said too much. Don't worry, I won't kill her off, but I might do worse!
Bobagorn: Lol. I'm German-Dutch, so at least we're both Dutch! Anyway, I thrive off your paragraphs! I'm glad you approve of the B/T drama. And I get my weird and cool names from www.babynames.com. I type in the meaning I want and then up pops the name? LOL. Thanks and I hope you liked this paragraph.
Red Magic Marker: Thanks and I hope you liked this one.
Kitkat87: Thanks and I'm glad you like it!
Sakura1287: Glad you like this and I'm glad you think of Teresa as your favorite character, me too! Hope you liked Lucius' soft side, I haven't read many stories where he had one!
Sirius's Girl: Thanks times a billion! I'm glad you like it and I want Teresa to marry Blaise too, but I can't guarantee that it will happen. It depends on if I'm sad or not when I write that part! Don't worry, there is probably at least four or five chapters left, if not more at the least!
Thanks to everyone who reviewed and please review again! I wanna reach two hundred before I release my next chapter (but if I don't, I'll be okay)!
I know most of you aren't used to a softhearted Lucius, but I guess I kind of explained it earlier. If you have any questions, just e-mail me. You'll find my e-mail on my FFN bio.
Teresa and Gwendolyn had been riding for days. Teresa had suggested apparating, since she knew how, or using a port key, but Gwendolyn refused. Finally, after crossing many waters and much land, Teresa and Gwendolyn, or Gwen, reached a forest deep in Bulgaria.
Teresa's wedding dress had been sent directly back to her home in England and all the necessary things had been sent to the land of the Veela. Teresa was now wearing a pair of dark low-rise jeans and a tight, navy sweater. As the two women entered the land, a calming peace swept over Teresa. She hadn't felt this calm for days.
As the two rode deeper in the forest, Teresa became a bit anxious to meet with Guenivire again. Finally, Gwen led Teresa into what seemed like a rather large village. Teresa gave a small smile when she saw the houses.
They were small and quaint. They had only one floor. Only one of the small buildings had two floors. It was the building in the center. Unlike the other buildings, which were pale blue or a light green, this building was white and silver.
Like the others, it was relatively small, but larger just the same. As Gwen and Teresa approached the building passing Veela bowed lightly. They had on beautiful dresses, which were the same design but different colors.
(A/N: if you would like to see the dresses, please visit: http://www.fairyfashion.de/frame.html, then click on Wedding Gowns and then click on the Enchantress.)
As Teresa neared the white house, she noticed how Gwendolyn's dress was covered by a white cloak that glowed as bright as her skin. Teresa took notice, not for the first time, of Gwendolyn's beauty. She had tropical blue-green eyes and long, silver-blonde hair. She was a bit pale, but it only added to her beauty. Her complexion was flawless and Teresa smiled at her humble being.
Finally, upon reaching the house, Teresa saw Guenivire lying on a long, Greek style couch. It had an up-curve at one end and it was white. Guenivire sat lounging on it. Her regal air visibly noticeable.
Three maidens, each beautiful and silent, surrounded Guenivire. All seemed to know that their place was to serve their leader and not be a hindrance. Teresa and Gwen stepped off their horses, which quickly ran to a stream flowing near by. The two women bowed and Guenivire stood.
"Thank you dear Gwendolyn. Young Jahzara, I believe you are now ready to start your training?"
"Yes."
"First, I am sure you are quite hungry. Morgan, summon Teresa and Gwendolyn's food."
A blonde with brown eyes muttered a spell and a platter full with meat, cheese, and fruit appeared in front of Teresa and Gwen. The two ate and then Guenivire smiled once more at Teresa.
"Now, Morgan will be fitting you into your dress. Then, once you are ready, she will hand you over to Destiny." A timid, blond haired- hazel- green eyed girl stepped forward. "Destiny will be teaching you of our history and your heritage. After that, you will have the rest of the night free and may tie up any loose ends you left."
Teresa nodded and was ushered off with Morgan. The woman, obviously in her late forties, worked quickly and quietly. The dress she fitted Teresa, or Jahzara, in was beautiful. Her hair was pulled back in a loose braid. A small, golden band was wrapped around her head. Morgan smiled at Jahzara.
(To see that dress, please go to: http://www.fairyfashion.de/frame.html, click on Wedding Gowns and then click on Lancelot's Lady.)
"As Lady Guenivire's heir, you will be addressed as either milady or Lady Jahzara. However, you only must address Lady Guenivire like this. The rest of us, such as myself, respond to our first names alone or Maiden Morgan, for example."
"Thank you Morgan."
"It is my pleasure milady."
Morgan hurried Jahzara off to Destiny. This is how things went for the next couple of days. Jahzara would change into the old-style, yet beautiful, dress and take lessons. Destiny taught her of her heritage and Veela history.
Morgan taught Jahzara how to act with a regal manor, though Jahzara only had a few lessons since she was born to be regal and had been taught the proper form at a young age. Gwendolyn taught Jahzara the ways of the forest.
Gwen had quite a connection with the animals and taught Jahzara to have the same connection. However, Jahzara noticed that Gwen's connection was much stronger. Unicorns soon came to Jahzara's call, along with dragons and all other creatures.
(A/N: I know that Veela really don't have this power, but Jahzara/Teresa is in the land of the Veela, where their power is strongest. So, Let's pretend that Veela can do all I'm saying.)
During the two months Jahzara was training, the Anastasio family and the Malfoy family was in an uproar. The men had looked for Jahzara themselves and sent others to look for her. True to his word, Harry kept quiet.
Ginny was due the next month and was finally to her full size. Although Jahzara had been missing for two months, it would be another ten before the Ministry could announce that Draco was free to marry whomever he wanted. If a person went missing for a year, then they could be considered dead or GFG (gone for good).
It was the beginning of August and Jahzara's training was coming to a close. She was finally ready to train with Guenivire herself. The night of the 14th, Jahzara had a vision of Ginny giving birth on the morning of the 16th.
On the 15th, Jahzara decided she would go to Guenivire and request to be present for her friend's birth. After putting her clothes on, Jahzara confronted Guenivire. Guenivire was surrounded by her maidens and kneeling around something.
As Jahzara neared, she saw it was an injured baby unicorn. Jahzara approached and immediately saw the problem. His hip was out of place and puncturing two of his organs. Guenivire smiled at Jahzara.
"Lady Jahzara, would you do the honors and heal this young one?"
Jahzara nodded and did as she was told. After the unicorn galloped off and the maidens went to do other work. Jahzara talked to Guenivire.
"Milady, I saw in a vision that my dearest friend will be giving birth tomorrow morning. Please, may I be there. I do not wish for anyone to see me, I only wish to be there for her."
Guenivire contemplated this. She smiled warmly at Jahzara. "Of course Jahzara, but you must not be seen by anyone but Harry Potter, for he already knows you are here."
"Thank you, Lady Guenivire. I shall return the night of the 16th or the morning of the 17th."
"I will wait until then."
Jahzara quickly left. She returned to her house directly outside Guenivire's. She decided that she would write two notes. One to Harry and one to Draco. Draco's letter was the most difficult.
Draco, I'm sure you have all been looking for me for quite sometime now. However, I regret to inform you that it has been in vain. I am dying. For the past two months, I have been living with Muggles. I decided that I had to separate myself from our world, for it caused me too much pain to think of you and the others. And now, I am dying of a Muggle disease. I doubt even our magic could cure this, for it is not just an illness. Not only do I have severe brain cancer, but I also am suffering from stress, extreme stress. Because of this, I am very weak and vulnerable. Please, do not let anyone think that this is his or her fault. This was prophesied long ago, that I would die alone and without children. I greatly appreciate everyone's understanding and I hope none of you question my decisions. My death, which will occur in a mere matter of weeks, will release you, Draco, from our marital bond. Lucius, Narcissa, it is my last request that you allow Draco to marry whomever he wishes without interference. If you truly loved me like you claimed to, you would do this for me. While writing this, I am of sound mind and am under the influence of no one. I love you all deeply. My family, my friends, my love, I hope for the best for all of. Move on with your lives, they will continue without me.
With all my love, Jahzara Zitomira Teresa Anastasio (May the blessed princess live famously and harvest much good.)
Jahzara sighed. She hated lying like that, but she knew that that was the only way to keep everyone quiet. She also knew that it would cause everyone pain, but they would get over it.
Sighing, Jahzara started on the next letter. This one, to Harry, would just be a few quick comments. Somehow, she didn't know how, but somehow she would slip it to him. Finally, she finished it.
Harry, We both know that the last letter was not factual, but no one else needs to know that. I trust you Harry to keep this a secret and I know that you will not break my trust. If ever you need me, there will be a way. With this letter I am sending an owl. It will be waiting for you at your house when you arrive. This owl was born and raised in the land of the Veela and knows the way. If you want to write, send it with this owl. Harry, I want you to do me a favor. Make sure that you look after Ginny, Blaise, and Draco for me. They will be upset upon reading the other letter and I want you to be there to comfort them. Also, make sure Ron is okay (I know I needn't even mention Hermoine for she will go to you for comforting automatically). Thank you Harry.
Forever Friends, Teresa
Jahzara sighed. She called two owls to her. One was an eagle owl and it was golden-brown. The other one was a black, medium sized owl. The eagle owl was Arnaud and the black owl was Avedis. Arnaud, or ruler of eagles, and Avedis, or bringer of good things, landed on a near by branch.
"Arnaud, deliver this letter to Draco Malfoy in England." Jahzara handed Arnaud the letter and he flew off.
"Avedis, come with me."
Avedis seemed to bob his head in agreement. Jahzara called Braveheart to her. He came galloping up. Summoning her invisibility cloak, she grabbed it and mounted Braveheart.
Jahzara galloped swiftly out of the forest. Avedis was resting on a small pole sticking out of Braveheart's Italian leather saddle. It took two hours before they were completely out of the forest.
Jahzara stopped Braveheart. She decided she was going to apparate. Lightly laying a hand on both Braveheart and Avedis, she prepared to say the spell.
"APPARATUS!"
The two suddenly ended up right outside of the entrance to Hogsmeade. Before entering, Jahzara muttered an incantation that changed her appearance. Now, she had strawberry-blonde hair. She also gave herself blue eyes and a lighter complexion. Jahzara decided to make her chest smaller as well. Now, though still attractive, Jahzara looked nothing like her before appearance.
Avedis gave a soft hoot of approval and fluttered to the nearest branch. Sighing, Jahzara realized that someone that knew her well could easily recognize Braveheart. Though many horses were black stallions, only Braveheart had a perfectly shaped white star on his forehead. Most horses' stars were blurry, but Braveheart's was clearly defined.
Muttering another charm, Teresa changed Braveheart to a light golden-brown colored horse with a white main and she blurred the star a bit. Braveheart, though not pleased that he had to be transformed, found his appearance beautiful.
"I guess I should change my clothes."
The invisibility cloak rested in Braveheart's only saddle pouch. Jahzara muttered an incantation and a less medieval dress appeared on her body. It was beautiful and fancy still, just more modern. She also made a cloak appear. It was a light, white cloak that flowed freely behind her.
(To see this dress go to: http://www.fairyfashion.de/frame.html, then click on wedding gowns and then click on Lady Elaine.)
Sitting sideways on Braveheart, Jahzara headed into Hogsmeade. Avedis rested lightly on her shoulder. As she rode into town, magical people stopped to gaze at her. Some whispered and she even saw teachers from Hogwarts. Jahzara stopped Braveheart in front of the Three Broomsticks.
Braveheart bent down and allowed Jahzara to get off of him. He stood and headed to the side. Avedis followed and the two stayed there. Teresa muttered a spell and, using her wand, she got Avedis and Braveheart food and water, which they gratefully ate.
Walking into the Three Broomsticks, Jahzara was greeted with some stares. A few were 'checking her out' and others were studying her unusual ensemble. As she neared the bar, the owner, Madame Rosmerta, greeted her friendly.
"Hello dear. I'm Madame Rosmerta. And you are?"
Jahzara said the first name that came to mind one that she had never heard before. "My name is Melody, Melody Sawyer."
"Well Melody Sawyer, is there anything that I can get for you?"
"One butterbeer please."
Nodding, Rosmerta headed off. Turning around, Jahzara walked right into a tall figure. It was Lucius Malfoy. Matt, Dumbledore, and Tyrone accompanied him. As she was about to tumble to the floor, Lucius grabbed her and stood her upright. He took a swift glance at her and, assuming she was rich due to her wardrobe treated her quite cordially.
"Watch out, milady. We wouldn't want someone as pretty as yourself getting injured."
Jahzara caught herself before she could call him Lucius and appropriately blushed. "Thank you sir."
"It is not a problem. I am Lucius Malfoy. And you are?"
"Melody Sawyer. I'm visiting your lovely city from my home country of France."
"Pardon me, but you don't sound French."
"I was born in America, but raised in France since I was twelve. I suppose I was too old to acquire the accent."
"Well Melody Sawyer, it was a pleasure."
Lucius kissed her hand and walked off, the others in tow. Jahzara grabbed her butterbeer and inconspicuously followed Lucius. She sat in a table next to theirs and listened intently.
"So, what do we plan to do?"
"Lucius, I know my sister the best. She wouldn't write a letter like that unless it was true. And she wouldn't enclose it like that as a joke either."
"What do you mean by that Tyrone?"
"Well Dumbledore, my mother would always give each of her children a certain blessing. After reading the will, I discovered it was blessing us by using the meaning of our names. Mother only used this blessing in serious matters. Mine was 'May beautiful love rescue the soldier and make him a ruler.' My names literally mean love is beautiful, ruler, and soldier. Teresa's was 'May the blessed princess live famously and harvest much good.'"
"So there is nothing we can do? We're going to let our sister just die?"
"Matt, what can we do? We've tried everything. Besides, Teresa is an adult. She knows what she is doing and if this is the path she has chosen, we cannot stop her."
The four debated for hours. It was dinner before they left. After eating quickly at the Three Broomsticks, Jahzara headed back out. She checked into a local lodge. Braveheart and Avedis stayed outside.
When morning came, Jahzara left and got on Braveheart. She quickly saw in a vision that Ginny was about to give birth at a hospital much further down south. Climbing on Braveheart and holding Avedis, Jahzara apparated to the hospital. They arrived in the back alley of the Witches' Ward, an exceptional hospital near London.
Sending Avedis off to Harry's house, Jahzara told Braveheart to wait for her in the alley. She snuck into the hospital and waited. An hour later, Ginny came rushing in, being levitated by her father, Draco, Blaise, Harry, the Weasleys, and Hermoine all in tow.
Only Molly and Draco went into the main room with Ginny. The doctor, who was a middle-aged witch, gave Ginny a potion that made her numb. After two hours of labor, the baby came out. He was a boy, just as Jahzara had predicted. However, a great surprise came when a girl also came out. They were twins.
Draco's smile was larger than ever. It was obvious that after Jahzara left, Draco had admitted to being the baby's father. Jahzara took notice of a scar on the back of his neck. It hadn't been there before. Shivering, Jahzara guessed that Lucius must have beaten his son after discovering he loved a Weasley. Jahzara knew that Lucius must have truly been enraged because, despite what everyone thought, Lucius did not hit Draco as much as other Death Eaters hit their children.
Everyone gathered inside Ginny's room once the two children were washed. Even Narcissa and Lucius showed up, though Lucius looked less than happy. Jahzara smiled, even though he was a Death Eater, Lucius did love Draco, Narcissa, and her family very much. She knew that it was a Malfoy tradition to hate Muggles and Mudbloods.
Jahzara sighed remembering how her mother had told her that Draco was the first Malfoy to rebel. Lucius was the first one to want to, but his father abused him whenever he mentioned it. Compared to his father, Kimono, Lucius was kind.
As the two children were brought in, Jahzara smiled at the scene. A smile played on both Lucius and Narcissa's lips. They both stood behind Draco, who was next to Ginny. Ron and Harry were next to Draco and the other Weasleys and Blaise were to her left. The witch nurse handed Ginny her two children.
"Teresa was right. My first child was a boy. I wish she could be here."
Tears formed in Ginny's eyes and Teresa wished she could dry them for her. The nurse came back and was ready to take the names of the children. Ginny looked up at Draco and he nodded. Obviously, they had come up with the names.
"The boy will be Brayden Derek Malfoy and the girl will be Gwendolyn Teresa Malfoy."
Nodding, the nurse left. Jahzara smiled at how the girl was named after her. She also noticed how the child and Maiden Gwendolyn shared the same first name. Hours past by before the people began leaving. Harry and Ron went to get food after the twins, Charlie, and Bill left. The Malfoys left as well, along with Arthur, but Molly, Blaise, and Draco stayed.
Jahzara followed Harry. As he rounded a corridor, Jahzara grabbed him and yanked him into a closet. Shutting the door behind them, Jahzara pulled off her cloak. Harry gasped and smiled. The two shared a brief hug.
"I knew you weren't dying."
"No, I had to come and see Ginny's birth. I also brought you a letter and an owl."
Handing Harry the letter, she let him skim over it. He nodded once he finished. She smiled at him and he took her hand in his in a brotherly way.
"You have my vow Teresa. I promise, I will look after them."
"Harry, I can't stay for long. I only came to give you the letter and watch Ginny give birth. I must go now, but you will always know where to reach me."
Suddenly, the closet door burst opened. Ronald Weasley stood there, wand in hand. His mouth dropped open in shock when he saw Jahzara standing there. His arm fell limp and then a smile appeared on his face. Ron swiftly took Jahzara into a large hug.
"Teresa! You're all right. You're alive!"
"Yes Ron, I am."
"But how?"
Jahzara sighed and began explaining the story. She knew that he deserved to know and she trusted Ron. After she finished, Ron just sat there and soaked all of the information in.
"So, you're the leader of the Veela?"
"I will be once Lady Guenivire passes, yes. Ron, you can't tell anyone about this. No one can know."
Nodding, Ron smiled. "I promise as long as I can write you too."
"Okay. I must go know. I will keep in touch."
Jahzara gave Harry and Ron each a hug. Throwing on her invisibility cloak, she ran off. After climbing on Braveheart, she apparated back to her forest.
Meanwhile, Molly Weasley had left and Draco was sitting alone with Ginny. Blaise had gone to get some 'air'.
"This must be hard on him."
Draco nodded at Ginny's referral to Blaise. "He loved her very much."
"I know. Do you think he will be all right?"
"With time. I just can't believe that she's dying."
"Me neither." Tears poured down Ginny's cheeks at her friend's death.
Wrapping his arms around his woman and his children, Draco comforted Ginny as best as he could. He saw her becoming weak and gently took the babies from her. After putting them in the crib, he sat next to Ginny.
"It'll be okay Gin. Everything will be okay."
"This is all my fault. I just know it."
"Gin, look at me. This is not your fault. It is nobody's fault. Its life and life sucks. I promise you Virginia, this is not your fault."
Draco kissed Ginny's forehead and she fell asleep. Walking over to his children's crib, Draco smiled down at the peaceful newborns. They were identical, except for their eyes.
Brayden had the Malfoy eye, steely gray with a hint of blue. Gwendolyn had Ginny's eyes, chocolate brown. Both had silver-blonde hair, like Draco, and freckles, like Ginny. Their skin was pale and they were healthy. Draco picked up his sleeping son first.
The young boy stirred lightly in his sleep, but seemed comfortable in his father's arms. Lucius Malfoy and Narcissa Malfoy strolled in quietly. Draco looked warily at his father. He didn't know exactly how Lucius felt about all of this. However, his question was most unexpected.
"May I hold him, son?"
Nodding, Draco handed the boy to his grandfather. Lucius let a smile grace his lips and Narcissa gently took her granddaughter out of the crib. Narcissa sat down with the child and began rocking her back and forth.
Lucius held his grandson tenderly and motioned for Draco to follow him. Lucius stepped outside and pulled up two chairs by magic. Draco and Lucius sat in silence.
"You know, I used to be a bit like you. I always wanted to rebel against my father, but I didn't have the will. He beat me. I always assumed I deserved it, but I vowed that I would never hit my children. Then I grew up and had you and I did hit you. Draco, I have never apologized to anyone in my life, with one or two exceptions, and this is hard for me to say. Son, I regret what I have done in the past and I will try to overcome the weakness my father passed down to me in the future.
"I just wanted you to know that, although I still detest the Weasleys, I will not stop you from marrying the girl. I will not agree to a friendship between Arthur and I and I cannot believe or promise that anything will ever change between us, but I will be cordial towards Virginia. Both for you and my grandchildren."
Draco smiled. He knew how hard that was for his father. Draco did something that he had never done before. Slowly getting up, Draco gave his father a brief hug. A look of shock showed on Lucius' face. Draco had showed respect to him, but never true affection.
"Thanks, Dad."
The two men shared a Malfoy smirk, which was on the verge of a smile, before heading back in. Narcissa smiled at the two, for she knew what Lucius had said. Her eyes spoke her agreement and Draco embraced her as well. After the two children were back in their crib, Lucius took a quick glance at the resting Virginia.
"You have nice taste, Draco."
"Thank you."
"Draco, I want you to have something." Narcissa took a velvet box out of her purse. Handing it to Draco, she spoke again. "It is the engagement ring your father gave me. Use it well."
With that and a smile, Lucius and Narcissa left. Ginny woke up shortly after. She saw Draco sitting by the window, fingering something in his hands. She smiled at him and he glanced at her.
"Awake sleeping beauty?"
"Yep. What are you doing over there?"
"Just thinking."
"About what?"
Draco got up and walked over to her and sat on her bed. "About you."
"When are you not?"
Draco laughed at her joke. "I really don't know. Gin, I have something to ask you."
"Go on."
"Virginia Anne Weasley, you are my soul. Without you, I don't exist. I love you more than life. Please, do me the honor and be my wife."
Ginny smiled weakly. "Draco, I would love to, but we know that Lucius would never allow it."
"I've talked things over with my father and he has agreed. I think he's beginning to like you Gin. So, without having to worry about my father, what is your answer?"
"Yes, it was always yes."
Draco smiled and leaned down to kiss her. It was soft and tender. He parted and opened the velvet box. Ginny gasped. It was an exquisite ring. It was golden and the band was a dragon wrapped around a diamond shaped heart. The dragon's eyes were rubies.
"Draco, this must have cost a fortune."
"It was my mother's ring, my father gave this to her for her engagement ring and she wanted you to have it. I want you to have it. Please Virginia, except it as a token of my love."
"Oh Draco."
Ginny leaned up and passionately kissed her fiancé. Her tongue slid into his mouth and he smiled at her response. He couldn't wait to marry the woman he loved. The two continued kissing until a small cry was heard followed by another.
Draco pulled himself off of Ginny and tended to their children. He quieted his son and then held his wailing daughter. The young girl was so small and delicate in his muscular arms. Yet, he could tell that this girl would be much like the Teresa before her, strong.
"I love you, my Gwendolyn, my little Teresa. That's what I will call you. My Teresa, for I can already tell that you will be much like the one before you."
A month later, Jahzara was walking through the forest. She was with Lady Guenivire, who was speaking to her about Veela powers.
"Jahzara, as the leader, you have more control over your powers than any other Veela. You alone posses the power to lead them into battle or make them neutral. For centuries, the Veela have remained neutral as a whole. I allowed each one to make their own decision on which side to follow. That is one of the reasons your mother was allowed to turn Death Eater. I know you have had visions as I have. You see the darkness coming?"
"Yes, milady. I can sense that trials and tribulations will fall upon our world."
"And do you see the cause off all of this?"
"Lord Voldemort."
"Correct. Jahzara, what fear lies within you?"
"Excuse me milady?"
"You heard me young one. Every person has fear, even me. My fear is that I will cause the downfall of my own people through lack of good judgement. Your fear, I do not know. Tell me, my child. What worries you?"
"Lady Guenivire, I fear that I will never have love. I fear that the prophecies will come true and I will die without love. Tell me it is not so, milady."
Guenivire smiled. "I cannot say any such thing yet, my dear. But I promise you will know soon."
There was a pause and the two continued walking. They were headed to the edge of the forest. Once they arrived, Guenivire and Jahzara stopped. Guenivire turned to her apprentice.
"Young Jahzara, you are at he end of your training. There is not much left that I can teach you. Now you must take your final test. In times of great trouble, the leader of the Veela has been able to draw great powers from within herself and put a protective force around our forest. All Veela would gather here and they would be safe. Now, you must call upon this power and once I step outside this forest, you must pull the protective force around the forest. If I cannot penetrate this force, then it will be a sure sign that you are ready. Once I signal you to, withdraw your protection."
Nodding, Jahzara watched Guenivire step out of the forest. The old woman smiled encouragingly at Jahzara.
"Now my dear."
Closing her eyes, Jahzara lifted her arms slowly into the air, palms facing up and arms outstretched by her sides. Slowly, but surely, her arms came together over top of her head. As she brought her arms straight down, they paused in the praying position, then continued their way down to her sides. After the process was finished, Jahzara opened her eyes and saw a light, golden glow separating Guenivire and Jahzara. The glow formed a dome around the forest and Guenivire smiled approvingly.
Guenivire threw spells at the wall and even threw the three Unforgivable Curses at the wall, but nothing broke it. Finally, Guenivire put it to the ultimate test and tried to raise the protective force. As she concentrated, Jahzara saw that the glow seemed to fade a bit and Jahzara concentrated twice as hard. However, the glow was still fading slowly.
Finally, Jahzara felt her inner-Veela take over and she closed her eyes. She couldn't see how her body was now emanating the same golden glow, but Guenivire did. The glow around the forest strengthened and Guenivire couldn't penetrate it. When Jahzara opened her now red eyes, she saw that Guenivire was done testing her. Pushing the Veela back down, her eyes returned to their normal color and she removed the golden force.
By putting her arms up in the air over her head with her palms facing the ground and slowly lowering her outstretched arms to her side, Jahzara removed the glow. Guenivire reentered and smiled at her apprentice.
"Now, you are ready, my child."
The next week flew by. Jahzara was taking over many of Lady Guenivire's duties. She also noticed how week Guenivire was getting. Jahzara had gotten two letters from Harry and three from Ron. She enjoyed their words and wrote back. On Friday, Jahzara awoke and the sky was dark and dismal.
Putting on the dress that she always wore, Jahzara headed out into the small village. Gwendolyn came running to her side.
"Lady Jahzara, come quick."
"What is it Gwen?"
"Milady, Lady Guenivire is dying."
Jahzara ran quickly to Guenivire's house and saw a light blue glow emitting from it. As she approached Guenivire, she saw that she was the source of the light.
"Milady, what is happening?"
"Please Jahzara, do not be formal with me in these last moments. I am dying Jahzara. My time has come. The sun has set on my reign and will rise on yours shortly. Jahzara, there are things you must know. Please, everyone leave my presence except Jahzara."
Everyone did so quickly, but reluctantly. Jahzara knelt next to the woman who had been her mentor. Her skin was paling and her breathing was becoming shallow.
"Jahzara, before my grandmother died, she had a vision. It was the only other vision of you that she had. Unfortunately, your great-great grandmother was dead and thus could not hear the prophecy. I was the only person who heard it and even then I only heard bits and pieces. I remember her telling me to 'Go to the girl when she's with the Boy-Who-Lived'. At the time, I was clueless as to what that meant.
"Then I realized all those months ago that I was supposed to invite you to be my apprentice when Harry was in the room with you. Because his being there will change everything. The-Boy-Who-Lived is coming for you Jahzara. Follow your heart."
"I don't understand Guenivire."
"You will child, you will. Also, I had one daughter. Her father betrayed me and stole her from me when she was born, but in revenge, I took my daughter's daughter. My daughter didn't want to see me, so I took her child instead. Her daughter is Gwendolyn. Gwendolyn is my granddaughter. I raised Gwendolyn since she was a baby. Tell her one day. I was afraid, Jahzara. I was afraid she would hate me for taking her from her family. Please, tell her Jahzara and help her to understand. Tell her I love her. And I love you, my Jahzara. Always follow your heart. Always follow your heart."
With that, Guenivire died. Her body was cremated and then her ashes spread over the forest by birds carrying them in their claws. It was a Veela tradition for the Lady to be cremated and then returned to the land, the land for which she was born to serve.
Jahzara moved into the white and silver house. Lady Guenivire's personal maidens, Gwendolyn, Morgan, Destiny, and Chastity, became Lady Jahzara's personal maidens. As the evening moved on and the sun was setting, Chastity, who had been patrolling the forest, came galloping up on the back of Elena, the white mare who was half-unicorn.
"Milady, two men are entering our forest guided by Avedis. One has fiery red hair and the other one is the Boy-Who-Lived."
Jahzara jumped off the Greek lounge that she had been laying on. "Take two of our horses and go and pick them up."
Chastity nodded and galloped away. She called two brown geldings to her and headed into the forest. Jahzara looked to Morgan.
"Morgan, prepare a platter of food."
Morgan nodded and summoned a platter of ham, cheese, and fruit along with two goblets of sweet nectar. Jahzara conjured up two plush seats just as Ron and Harry arrived on horseback. The two jumped down and ran to embrace Jahzara.
They tried to speak but Jahzara told them to eat first. They quickly ate and settled down. Once they sat in the chairs, they looked ready to speak, but were hesitant in the maidens' presence.
"This is a private affair."
"Ron, whatever you have to say can be said in front of them for they will know anyway. They are Maidens Gwendolyn, Destiny, Morgan, and Chastity. Now, what is it?"
"Teresa, we need your help. The Ministry is in an uproar. A war is coming between Death Eaters and Aurors. Voldemort has risen to power, but with his threat of war came one demand that he wants, that he will not rest until he has."
"What is it that he demands?"
"You."
A/N: Dun, dun, dun! LOL. Hope you all liked it and sorry to leave you hanging. Again, sorry this took so long. Please review everyone (I am not going to say this in every review like usual)! Now, for your favorite part.
Shout Outs:
December's Girl: Thanks! I'm glad you like the aroused questions and I hope this chapter answered most of them. Don't worry, everything will work out, it my own twisted way! LOL. Thanks again.
Crystal: Thanks and I hope this made you feel better for Ginny, though I know Blaise's life still sux.
Blazefury: Actually, I got that part from Runaway Bride, I love Julia Roberts! Anyway, thanks and glad you like it!
Luinthoron: Thanks and I'm glad you find it interesting. Teresa's life has another wedding or two planned in it. Perhaps I've said too much!
Dragonfire: I'm glad you like and I love squeals (good ones that is)! Yes, school is evil. Especially mine! I don't think your crazy, and don't worry, hopefully, everything will work out!
Angel-Hiragizawa32: LOL. Love your jigg and your review. Pansy is evil! Let's all go kill her and dance with Draco! LOL.
Daemon Sorceress: Yes, yes, I agree, but that's the way the story goes. for now!
Fatedtears: IM me soon! I know that you don't really get a lightening scar from what Teresa's mother did, but let's pretend. I love your story. E- mail me when you update.
Karly: Thanks and lol. I love praise, although I don't always think I deserve it, but I love it all the same. It's praise that keeps the story going!
Ice Angel: Thanks and they will!
Hasapi: Thanks and I'm glad you like it. Yes, Ron can be a git. Glad you like it and thanks. Yes, I know that the prophecy looks like it will come true, but I have some tricks up my sleeve yet! Teresa, like I said before, treats her friends like family and she would die for family, like you will see later. Oops, I've said too much. Don't worry, I won't kill her off, but I might do worse!
Bobagorn: Lol. I'm German-Dutch, so at least we're both Dutch! Anyway, I thrive off your paragraphs! I'm glad you approve of the B/T drama. And I get my weird and cool names from www.babynames.com. I type in the meaning I want and then up pops the name? LOL. Thanks and I hope you liked this paragraph.
Red Magic Marker: Thanks and I hope you liked this one.
Kitkat87: Thanks and I'm glad you like it!
Sakura1287: Glad you like this and I'm glad you think of Teresa as your favorite character, me too! Hope you liked Lucius' soft side, I haven't read many stories where he had one!
Sirius's Girl: Thanks times a billion! I'm glad you like it and I want Teresa to marry Blaise too, but I can't guarantee that it will happen. It depends on if I'm sad or not when I write that part! Don't worry, there is probably at least four or five chapters left, if not more at the least!
Thanks to everyone who reviewed and please review again! I wanna reach two hundred before I release my next chapter (but if I don't, I'll be okay)!
I know most of you aren't used to a softhearted Lucius, but I guess I kind of explained it earlier. If you have any questions, just e-mail me. You'll find my e-mail on my FFN bio.