Disclaimer: I don't own the Harry Potter books, © JKR. This is a general
disclaimer that will apply to the rest of this story.
HARRY POTTER AND THE BOOK OF ANUBIS
CHAPTER ONE
Dusk colored the sky a brilliant orange, illuminating Bill Weasley's tent in a plethora of colors. The redhead cast a fleeting glance over the still drying ink on his weekly letter he wrote his sister and brother. 'There, that ought to do it.' He placed his quill back into the little jar of ink that sat precariously on the edge of his makeshift desk with flourish.
Scratching his head, 'Damned sand,' he turned his attention to the small little journal that still needed wrapped up. A gift from his employers at Gringotts in hopes he would still search for the Book of Anubis that had everyone in a tizzy. He snorted softly, as if he would let a prize like that slip through his fingers! Everyone and their brother had been spending time within the deepest recesses of the Great Pyramid in hopes of capturing the elusive scroll.
He sighed, shaking himself from the musings that threatened to overwhelm him. There was a new lady in camp that he wanted to. . .get to know. . .rather well. And he certainly wasn't going to do that lying about in his tent all night. 'Though that has its possibilities.' A sly smile slid over his face, and with a last look at the journal, he stood, all his thoughts turning to the pretty face that would soon be accompanying him in bed.
As he pulled back the flap of his tent, a shaft of dying sunlight landed directly on the small book, catching a light sprinkling of letters that seemed to just appear on the cover. Kaira Um Dah. Beware the Sun.
*~*~*~*
Ginny snorted, pumpkin juice threatening to spurt out her nose. "C'mon guys, leave her alone, she's trying to study."
"That's all she ever does." Ron complained, pulling the heavy tome out of Hermione's grasp, shutting it with an audible snap. "When have we had time for fun lately?"
"We always have fun." Hermione protested, stretching across the table, in hopes she could save the book from the horrid fate that surely awaited it at the hands of Ron Weasley. The book, it seemed to Hermione, was calling out for help, even as he stuffed it in the cave he called a knapsack.
"What fun?" Ron queried, his voice childishly high. "The last bit of fun we've had was watching Malfoy take a dive off his broom." A dreamy smile plastered itself momentarily on his freckled face before it dimmed, "That was a month ago. All work and no play makes Hermione a dull girl."
Harry took up the conversation. "He's right, y'know. I'm beginning to think I need to put the old Cloak into retirement." He began nostalgically. "I remember when it was almost every other night, we were sneaking out after curfew to do something decidedly fun."
"You call being chased by a madman who just won't lay down and die fun?!" Hermione managed to get a good grasp on the knapsack that held her precious History of Magic book, before Ron jerked it roughly out of her way. "Ron! Give it back!"
"No."
"What?!" Hermione's grin had turned feral. "You evidently don't remember the last time you told me no. You couldn't sit for a week."
Ron blushed profusely, but stood steadfast. "Hermione, you need to liven up a bit. You're going to study yourself to death. Don't you remember the OWLs?"
"Of course I do, but. . ."
"No buts. . .you are going to stop this nonsensical obsession with studying, and I mean this instant, Hermione." Ron mock-glared at her, hands on his hips. It didn't help much that Harry, Ginny, and Neville were giggling like little schoolgirls. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, but he refrained from breaking into laughter.
Hermione glared daggers at him, but relented. "What is it that you have in mind?"
Whatever he was going to say was cut off by the multitude of cries that came from the post Owls, and soon the Great Hall was filled with the noise of a thousand birds, bringing letters from home to the children that lived in the old castle.
Ginny squealed as soon as she noticed Nefertiri, Bill's large Egyptian tawny, winging it's way toward them, having a rather difficult time with the hefty package it bore. "Here comes Bill's post!"
Ron, Hermione, and Harry perked up at this news. They had always anticipated Bill's letters with much excitement, for he never failed to include some little interesting bit from his latest adventures.
"It looks like he's sent something good this time." Ron rubbed his hands together with a grin. "Wonder what it could be."
"Probably something that's sure to rot out your teeth." Hermione scolded, remembering the batch of candy he sent last time. She had shuddered, being the child of dentists skewed her sense of good taste, and she refused to mar the perfect teeth she had acquired Fourth Year, thanks to Madame Pomfrey, and a reduction spell. "I don't know why he insists on sending all that sugar. I mean, does he realize that it only serves to make you hyper? You ARE kids."
"Mione, we're seventeen. Except Gin, of course. You're a nutter." Ron muttered.
"Hey, you love me anyway."
Ginny raised a brow at her brother, but kept her mouth shut, opting to open the package that now lay in front of her. Once the wrapping was off, she sighed. "It's just a book." She turned her attention to the letter. "Bill says it's a journal, kept by some woman in the early years of Egyptian history."
"It's gorgeous!" Hermione gushed, gazing at the book reverently.
"Great, there goes our time spent together." Harry murmured, catching sight of Hermione's rapt gaze. "Guess I'll have to put the Cloak into retirement. She'll never put it down."
"How can she read it? It's Egyptian, I suppose."
"There are such things as Translation Charms, Ronnie." Hermione replied in an overly sugared tone.
"Don't call me Ronnie."
"Okay, Ronnie." Hermione whisked the book out of Ginny's grasp, her expression one of exuberance.
"Hey, he sent candy too!" Ron exclaimed, claiming a chocolate frog instantly.
"Uh, guys, hate to break it to you, but we're going to be late for Potions." Harry interjected, gathering up his things.
Hermione eeped, tucking the book quickly into her bag for easy access later. Snatching a piece of toast of her plate, she practically ran from the Hall.
"Mione!" Ron shook his head. "Mental, that one. Who honestly wants to get to Potions?"
Harry agreed silently, casting a longing glance over his shoulder where Ginny had run off.
*~*~*~*
"Mister Longbottom, what color should the Otilisk Potion be?"
"Green, sir. . ." Neville trembled in his seat, the soft voice of the Potion's Master cutting through the general noisemaking that was associated with brewing glory.
"I see. And, what color is yours?"
"Blue. . .sir. . ."
"Ah. And why would that be?"
"I-I-" Neville stuttered, freezing. His round face was pale, and sweat collected on his upper lip as he stared at the Professor with wide eyes.
"Hmmm. . .I believe your lack of intelligence has resulted in. . . say. . .thirty points from Gryffindor, for general stupidity?" Snape glared at the seventh year with great loathing. "How you ever made it into this class I will never know, Mister Longbottom. Now, clean up your area and dispose of your potion! Yet another failing grade for you."
Hermione stirred her potion, inwardly seething. 'Why does he always belittle Neville?' Once Snape had begun to attack yet another Gryffindor student, Hermione shifted so that she could see the book that rested on her knees. She hadn't yet opened it, instead had been studying it's covering with keen interest.
She laid an indecisive hand on the book, wondering why she felt so. . .strange. . .about opening a book that was sure to give her grand insight into the lives of ancient Egyptians.
With that thought, her decision was made, and she flipped open the book, allowing it to fall to a random page.
'Bastet: Cat Goddess of Fertility, Harmony, and Wisdom
One of the two twin Goddesses, sister to Sekhmet, Lioness Goddess of Healing, Women, and War. One of the Eannead, the ruling Gods and Goddesses of Egypt. Known for her many trysts with mortal men, but none so much as with Akanatin, in the form of Nefertiri, resulting in the birth of the child-Pharaoh, Tuthankaman.'
Hermione stared at the book in confusion. 'Bastet? I thought Bill's letter had said this was a journal?'
The book became warm under Hermione's grasp, tiny runes glowing on the sides. The golden glow, seemingly invisible to the Head Girl, settled over her skin, seeping into her body.
Hermione stiffened, her cinnamon eyes widening in surprise as a foreign consciousness overlaid her own. "Oh my God!" Suddenly she coughed, her body wracked by shudders, her eyes rolling back into her head.
"Mione!" Ron exclaimed, trying to get around his desk and to the aide of his best friend. "Neville, don't just stand there, do SOMETHING!"
Neville looked helplessly on as Hermione toppled from her stool, and lay quivering in the floor, drawing deep, quivering breaths, as if she couldn't get enough air.
"Foolish girl!" Snape barked, bodily pushing students out of his way. "The instructions clearly said not to inhale the fumes!"
Harry and Ron tried helping her to her feet, but she just swayed unsteadily.
"Take her to the infirmary at once!"
"No. . .I'm fine." Hermione replied weakly.
"Miss Granger. . ."
"I am fine." She repeated, though she sounded kind of disoriented.
Snape shrugged. "It's your health." He replied, returning to praise Draco on his perfect potion, and give points to his House.
"Hermione what happened?" Ron's voice was unsteady, his eye catching the book that Bill had sent. "You were reading that, weren't you?!"
Hermione didn't reply, her eyes were locked on the Potions Master with a strange intensity. She wordlessly regained her footing, extracting herself from Ron's embrace, giving him an absentminded pat on the head.
"Hermione?" Harry raised a brow, "Are you sure you're alright? You're acting awfully strange."
Hermione still did not answer, her gaze never wavering from the sallow skinned Professor, a strange smile playing about her mouth. "Akanatin." She whispered, her voice low, throaty, quite unexpected coming from the bookwormish Head Girl.
"Er. . .what?" Ron blushed, her voice making his robes seem a little too tight.
"Nothing, nothing." Hermione waved a hand dismissively, her voice coming out in a rich purr. "How cold it is in here."
"Would you like my. . .robes?" Neville offered, a dreamy look crossing his face.
"Please, I am dreadfully cold." Hermione gave him a sultry smile, her cinnamon eyes hooded. "Thank you, Neville." She brushed his hand purposefully, watching as the innocent boy squirmed in his seat.
"Any time."
"Yes, I'm sure."
Harry exchanged a look with Ron. "What in the World?"
Ron shrugged. "Potion affect?"
"Messrs. Potter and Weasley. I assume you find this assignment as easy as to allow yourselves to converse during this important lesson? Twenty points off Gryffindor. Apiece." Snape glared at the two, before turning his attention to Hermione.
"Miss Granger, why is your potion boiling, did you not read the directions I posted on the board?"
"Professor, I did indeed read your directions, but due to my earlier state, I believe that the Potion began boiling before I could reach it." Hermione replied in the sultry voice, a coy smile twisting her innocent gaze into something with deeper meaning. "I'm sorry Professor, I'll try to do better."
"Please, do." Snape shook his head, turning back to Pansy.
Ron's jaw dropped. "Did you just see that?"
"Hmm?" Harry shook himself, blinking. He blushed suddenly, realizing he had spaced out, listening to Hermione's voice. "Er. . ."
*~*~*~*
"Professor?"
Snape looked up from the essays he had collected and right into the smoky gaze of the Head girl. "Is there something you want, Miss Granger?" He began, his voice cold.
"I wanted to apologize for my lack of attention earlier. I'm sure that the points could be made up. . .after class?"
Snape blinked. "Did you hit your head when you fell, Miss Granger?"
"No. . .it just seems that we could come to some sort of. . . arrangement." Hermione's skin took on a slight golden glow. "I am willing to do. . .anything. . ." She trailed off, sauntering out of the dungeons without a glance back. Leaving the Potions Master to ponder whether or not he had indeed inhaled some of the fumes himself.
*~*~*~*
Ron picked up the book his brother had sent, wondering why it seemed so interesting to Hermione. He allowed it to fall open to a random page.
'Osiris: God of the Dead
One of the Eannead, brother to Ra, in charge of the Afterlife, where he lives happily with his wife, Isis.'
Ron's brow furrowed in confusion, just before the worst pain imaginable coursed through his body, eliciting a small moan from him. His hands clenched into fists, balling up on his lap.
Hermione watched him with a calculating look of amusement.
Once Ron had regained his functions, he gazed about the common room with sharp eyes. Once his gaze landed on Hermione, he gave her a lopsided grin. "It is true. They were saying you had managed to escape."
"Escape? No. Live. Yes." Hermione replied, stretching languidly. "You should have seen all the males."
"Falling before you? I'm sure you were exuberant. Hathor will be jealous if you manage to bed one before she does. She's still a little miffed over the Akanatin deal. He was supposed to be her prize, you know."
"Yes, but because of that little mistake, we were locked away in that lovely trap." Hermione's hand's worked their way lazily through her hair. "This girl is a godsend, actually. She had quite an extensive amount of intelligence stored in this body."
"Not to mention she's quite attractive." Ron added with a leer. A look passed over his face, before it was masked again. "This one is a fighter. Not to mention quite loyal." His face grew pensive for a moment. "We have to get this out into the population."
"Ah yes, you must be missing Isis something terrible."
"I do."
"You do what?" Harry joined the two on one of the couches in the common room.
"I want you to read something." Hermione replied suggestively, slinking across the couch, grabbing the book, and thrusting it into his hands.
"Herms, you know I don't like-"
"Just read it." Hermione replied, purring.
"Fine." Harry admitted defeat. He flipped the book open.
'Ra: God of Creation
Sun God, often referred to as the Father God. Head of the Eannead, brother to Osiris and Set, though Set is his sworn enemy.'
Harry glanced at Hermione. "So-" He hissed, his limbs stiffening.
Ron's lips quirked up in a look of amusement. "Hurts, doesn't it?"
In a few moments, Harry let out a breath he had been holding, his eyes flashing golden. "Well, well, well. I was wondering when my two favorites were going to let me out."
"My Lord." Hermione replied, inclining her head in respect.
"Bastet, my Grace. How you have faired! You look lovelier than I remember."
"My Brother." Ron grinned at him.
"Osiris, brother, how is Isis?"
Ron's face fell at that. "No appearance as of yet."
"You do realize we will have to act the part of our Hosts here." Harry murmured, "This is a strong one, yes, he has lived through much. How very. . .mundane."
Hermione let out a little growl. "I think I've found a catch."
Ron raised a brow. "You certainly do not mean that greasy cobra, do you? Your standards have lowered."
Hermione glared at him. "Osiris! He is Akanatin!"
"I've forgotten how much you had cared for that Mortal." Harry pondered. "I take it he's on your list. How appropriate, though I dare say Hathor will want some sort of solace. You lost her the last one."
"Look, I am the Goddess of Fertility. It was already noticeable that he loved Nefertiri, but I. . ."
"Yes, yes, you had to bed him to ensure an heir." Ron interrupted. "Now, who else must the book go to."
"How about the fiery girl?" Harry queried. "She seems to fit the personality of. . ."
"Sekhmet?" Hermione suggested coyly. She stood, throwing her robes aside. "I believe a change in attire is in order. So just hand me the book, and I'll be sure to get her for you, My Lord."
"Mmmm, that's a good girl."
*~*~*~*
"Gin." Hermione sauntered into the other girl's dormitory with cat-like grace.
"Hmm?" She looked up.
"I just thought you'd like to read the book Bill sent."
"Uh. . ."
"C'mon, there's a really interesting part in there."
Ginny shrugged. "Fine, toss it here."
"Sure." Hermione tossed the little book.
Ginny grinned, reading the page that the book fell open to.
'Sekhmet: Lioness Goddess of Healing, Women, and War
Known for her great feats in battle with the nonbelievers of Egypt, she fought for her Lord, and lover, Ra.'
"Interesting." Ginny proclaimed dryly, just before she began gasping for air.
"Just what I thought." Hermione giggled, leaving to change out of the strange clothing.
Ginny felt her body curl up in on itself, and her eyes flutter as a new personality meshed with hers. She could still feel everything, still sense, but it seemed she had no control over her body movements, and strange thoughts entered her head.
'I. .'
'Don't waste you time little girl. We're one now.' A voice intoned in her head. 'I am as much a part of you as you are me.'
'But. . .'
'No buts, it is no use fighting, it will only result in pain for both of us. Just let yourself be. You are to be my host, I presume.'
Ginny felt herself rise, and then she snapped, her consciousness becoming whole, and she BECAME this new person. She was Sekhmet, Lioness of Egypt.
She gathered up the book, stalking down the stairs, hoping beyond hope that someone was there that knew her.
*~*~*~*
Hermione stood before the full length mirror in the girl's bathroom, the form fitting robe clinging to her body like a second skin. 'Much better.' She ran a hand idly through the mass of curls, before allowing it to settle about her head like a halo. Her cinnamon eyes now was adorned by a spot of eyeliner, giving her a decidedly Egyptian look.
With a wave of her hand, beads appeared on the white robe. "Good. Now I feel better."
When she exited the bathroom, she heard an audible gasp from her roommates. "Hermione!" Lavender exclaimed, her eyes taking in the white robe, shoeless feet, and rather golden skin. "What happened?"
Hermione just smiled, and sauntered out of the room, leaving two very confused seventh year girls behind her.
Once she joined made her way into the common room she was greeted by a wolf whistle from Seamus and a few fairly shocked looks from around the room.
"Ah." Ron beckoned her closer. "Now there's the woman I know."
Ginny smirked. "Sister dear, you do look ravishing. I'm sure Hathor will be green with envy."
Harry brushed his fingers through Ginny's fiery hair. "My Lioness, how lovely you are. Long indeed I have missed you."
"My Lord." Ginny blushed, purring under his gentle attentions. She left the book idly on the arm of the chair, knowing some curious soul would pick it up.
"Well, let's go down to dinner, shall we?" Hermione winked at a staring Dean, who blushed in response.
"Give us time to change, sister dear." Ginny whispered, bounding from her spot to the stairs.
*~*~*~*
Lavender picked up the book on the arm of the couch, looking around for the owner. "Wonder who left this here?" Opening the book, it fell to a random page.
'Isis: Goddess of Tranquility
Wife of Osiris, and Mother to Horus.'
*~*~*~*
"Headmaster, she was propositioning me!" Snape declared, his cheeks stained with a faint blush.
"Come now, Severus, surely you mistook her notions." Dumbledore opened the door to the Great Hall, stopping dead.
There, seated at the Gryffindor table, Harry, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, and Lavender sat in stunning white robes a little too revealing. Hermione sent a sultry glance at Snape, before returning to her conversation with her friends.
"Severus, what did you say she did again?"
*~*~*~*
Draco Malfoy stared at the book in front of him with confusion. It certainly wasn't the book he was looking for. He opened it, intent on finding out who owned it, and probably making a bit of side money.
'Set: God of Storms and Destruction
Brother of Ra, sworn Enemy of Ra and Osiris, he is most known for his seduction of Isis, and the murder of Osiris.'
'What the-?'
*~*~*~*
Draco shot a look of loathing at the Gryffindor table. "So, they're all here, only one missing, to make it complete."
He placed the book at the elbow of Pansy Parkinson, a smirk sliding across his face, even as the storm clouds rolled in.
*~*~*~*
Pansy shot a look of confusion at Draco, then sighed. She'd play along with his little game.
'Hathor: Goddess of Love, Seduction, and Desire
Enemy of Bastet, the Goddess of Fertility, she was extremely put off by the fact that Bastet managed to bed Akanatin before her.'
_______________________________________
A/N: Yes, this is a new story, Yes, it is going to be Herms/Sev. Yes, it does include Egyptian Gods. Okay, so Lavender WAS supposed to end up Hathor, but things change, and Pansy Parkinson seemed the better choice. And yes, I was supposed to include the full thirteen, but it's going to be hard enough with the seven. Please don't forget to RR.
Love,
~Liz
HARRY POTTER AND THE BOOK OF ANUBIS
CHAPTER ONE
Dusk colored the sky a brilliant orange, illuminating Bill Weasley's tent in a plethora of colors. The redhead cast a fleeting glance over the still drying ink on his weekly letter he wrote his sister and brother. 'There, that ought to do it.' He placed his quill back into the little jar of ink that sat precariously on the edge of his makeshift desk with flourish.
Scratching his head, 'Damned sand,' he turned his attention to the small little journal that still needed wrapped up. A gift from his employers at Gringotts in hopes he would still search for the Book of Anubis that had everyone in a tizzy. He snorted softly, as if he would let a prize like that slip through his fingers! Everyone and their brother had been spending time within the deepest recesses of the Great Pyramid in hopes of capturing the elusive scroll.
He sighed, shaking himself from the musings that threatened to overwhelm him. There was a new lady in camp that he wanted to. . .get to know. . .rather well. And he certainly wasn't going to do that lying about in his tent all night. 'Though that has its possibilities.' A sly smile slid over his face, and with a last look at the journal, he stood, all his thoughts turning to the pretty face that would soon be accompanying him in bed.
As he pulled back the flap of his tent, a shaft of dying sunlight landed directly on the small book, catching a light sprinkling of letters that seemed to just appear on the cover. Kaira Um Dah. Beware the Sun.
*~*~*~*
Ginny snorted, pumpkin juice threatening to spurt out her nose. "C'mon guys, leave her alone, she's trying to study."
"That's all she ever does." Ron complained, pulling the heavy tome out of Hermione's grasp, shutting it with an audible snap. "When have we had time for fun lately?"
"We always have fun." Hermione protested, stretching across the table, in hopes she could save the book from the horrid fate that surely awaited it at the hands of Ron Weasley. The book, it seemed to Hermione, was calling out for help, even as he stuffed it in the cave he called a knapsack.
"What fun?" Ron queried, his voice childishly high. "The last bit of fun we've had was watching Malfoy take a dive off his broom." A dreamy smile plastered itself momentarily on his freckled face before it dimmed, "That was a month ago. All work and no play makes Hermione a dull girl."
Harry took up the conversation. "He's right, y'know. I'm beginning to think I need to put the old Cloak into retirement." He began nostalgically. "I remember when it was almost every other night, we were sneaking out after curfew to do something decidedly fun."
"You call being chased by a madman who just won't lay down and die fun?!" Hermione managed to get a good grasp on the knapsack that held her precious History of Magic book, before Ron jerked it roughly out of her way. "Ron! Give it back!"
"No."
"What?!" Hermione's grin had turned feral. "You evidently don't remember the last time you told me no. You couldn't sit for a week."
Ron blushed profusely, but stood steadfast. "Hermione, you need to liven up a bit. You're going to study yourself to death. Don't you remember the OWLs?"
"Of course I do, but. . ."
"No buts. . .you are going to stop this nonsensical obsession with studying, and I mean this instant, Hermione." Ron mock-glared at her, hands on his hips. It didn't help much that Harry, Ginny, and Neville were giggling like little schoolgirls. A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, but he refrained from breaking into laughter.
Hermione glared daggers at him, but relented. "What is it that you have in mind?"
Whatever he was going to say was cut off by the multitude of cries that came from the post Owls, and soon the Great Hall was filled with the noise of a thousand birds, bringing letters from home to the children that lived in the old castle.
Ginny squealed as soon as she noticed Nefertiri, Bill's large Egyptian tawny, winging it's way toward them, having a rather difficult time with the hefty package it bore. "Here comes Bill's post!"
Ron, Hermione, and Harry perked up at this news. They had always anticipated Bill's letters with much excitement, for he never failed to include some little interesting bit from his latest adventures.
"It looks like he's sent something good this time." Ron rubbed his hands together with a grin. "Wonder what it could be."
"Probably something that's sure to rot out your teeth." Hermione scolded, remembering the batch of candy he sent last time. She had shuddered, being the child of dentists skewed her sense of good taste, and she refused to mar the perfect teeth she had acquired Fourth Year, thanks to Madame Pomfrey, and a reduction spell. "I don't know why he insists on sending all that sugar. I mean, does he realize that it only serves to make you hyper? You ARE kids."
"Mione, we're seventeen. Except Gin, of course. You're a nutter." Ron muttered.
"Hey, you love me anyway."
Ginny raised a brow at her brother, but kept her mouth shut, opting to open the package that now lay in front of her. Once the wrapping was off, she sighed. "It's just a book." She turned her attention to the letter. "Bill says it's a journal, kept by some woman in the early years of Egyptian history."
"It's gorgeous!" Hermione gushed, gazing at the book reverently.
"Great, there goes our time spent together." Harry murmured, catching sight of Hermione's rapt gaze. "Guess I'll have to put the Cloak into retirement. She'll never put it down."
"How can she read it? It's Egyptian, I suppose."
"There are such things as Translation Charms, Ronnie." Hermione replied in an overly sugared tone.
"Don't call me Ronnie."
"Okay, Ronnie." Hermione whisked the book out of Ginny's grasp, her expression one of exuberance.
"Hey, he sent candy too!" Ron exclaimed, claiming a chocolate frog instantly.
"Uh, guys, hate to break it to you, but we're going to be late for Potions." Harry interjected, gathering up his things.
Hermione eeped, tucking the book quickly into her bag for easy access later. Snatching a piece of toast of her plate, she practically ran from the Hall.
"Mione!" Ron shook his head. "Mental, that one. Who honestly wants to get to Potions?"
Harry agreed silently, casting a longing glance over his shoulder where Ginny had run off.
*~*~*~*
"Mister Longbottom, what color should the Otilisk Potion be?"
"Green, sir. . ." Neville trembled in his seat, the soft voice of the Potion's Master cutting through the general noisemaking that was associated with brewing glory.
"I see. And, what color is yours?"
"Blue. . .sir. . ."
"Ah. And why would that be?"
"I-I-" Neville stuttered, freezing. His round face was pale, and sweat collected on his upper lip as he stared at the Professor with wide eyes.
"Hmmm. . .I believe your lack of intelligence has resulted in. . . say. . .thirty points from Gryffindor, for general stupidity?" Snape glared at the seventh year with great loathing. "How you ever made it into this class I will never know, Mister Longbottom. Now, clean up your area and dispose of your potion! Yet another failing grade for you."
Hermione stirred her potion, inwardly seething. 'Why does he always belittle Neville?' Once Snape had begun to attack yet another Gryffindor student, Hermione shifted so that she could see the book that rested on her knees. She hadn't yet opened it, instead had been studying it's covering with keen interest.
She laid an indecisive hand on the book, wondering why she felt so. . .strange. . .about opening a book that was sure to give her grand insight into the lives of ancient Egyptians.
With that thought, her decision was made, and she flipped open the book, allowing it to fall to a random page.
'Bastet: Cat Goddess of Fertility, Harmony, and Wisdom
One of the two twin Goddesses, sister to Sekhmet, Lioness Goddess of Healing, Women, and War. One of the Eannead, the ruling Gods and Goddesses of Egypt. Known for her many trysts with mortal men, but none so much as with Akanatin, in the form of Nefertiri, resulting in the birth of the child-Pharaoh, Tuthankaman.'
Hermione stared at the book in confusion. 'Bastet? I thought Bill's letter had said this was a journal?'
The book became warm under Hermione's grasp, tiny runes glowing on the sides. The golden glow, seemingly invisible to the Head Girl, settled over her skin, seeping into her body.
Hermione stiffened, her cinnamon eyes widening in surprise as a foreign consciousness overlaid her own. "Oh my God!" Suddenly she coughed, her body wracked by shudders, her eyes rolling back into her head.
"Mione!" Ron exclaimed, trying to get around his desk and to the aide of his best friend. "Neville, don't just stand there, do SOMETHING!"
Neville looked helplessly on as Hermione toppled from her stool, and lay quivering in the floor, drawing deep, quivering breaths, as if she couldn't get enough air.
"Foolish girl!" Snape barked, bodily pushing students out of his way. "The instructions clearly said not to inhale the fumes!"
Harry and Ron tried helping her to her feet, but she just swayed unsteadily.
"Take her to the infirmary at once!"
"No. . .I'm fine." Hermione replied weakly.
"Miss Granger. . ."
"I am fine." She repeated, though she sounded kind of disoriented.
Snape shrugged. "It's your health." He replied, returning to praise Draco on his perfect potion, and give points to his House.
"Hermione what happened?" Ron's voice was unsteady, his eye catching the book that Bill had sent. "You were reading that, weren't you?!"
Hermione didn't reply, her eyes were locked on the Potions Master with a strange intensity. She wordlessly regained her footing, extracting herself from Ron's embrace, giving him an absentminded pat on the head.
"Hermione?" Harry raised a brow, "Are you sure you're alright? You're acting awfully strange."
Hermione still did not answer, her gaze never wavering from the sallow skinned Professor, a strange smile playing about her mouth. "Akanatin." She whispered, her voice low, throaty, quite unexpected coming from the bookwormish Head Girl.
"Er. . .what?" Ron blushed, her voice making his robes seem a little too tight.
"Nothing, nothing." Hermione waved a hand dismissively, her voice coming out in a rich purr. "How cold it is in here."
"Would you like my. . .robes?" Neville offered, a dreamy look crossing his face.
"Please, I am dreadfully cold." Hermione gave him a sultry smile, her cinnamon eyes hooded. "Thank you, Neville." She brushed his hand purposefully, watching as the innocent boy squirmed in his seat.
"Any time."
"Yes, I'm sure."
Harry exchanged a look with Ron. "What in the World?"
Ron shrugged. "Potion affect?"
"Messrs. Potter and Weasley. I assume you find this assignment as easy as to allow yourselves to converse during this important lesson? Twenty points off Gryffindor. Apiece." Snape glared at the two, before turning his attention to Hermione.
"Miss Granger, why is your potion boiling, did you not read the directions I posted on the board?"
"Professor, I did indeed read your directions, but due to my earlier state, I believe that the Potion began boiling before I could reach it." Hermione replied in the sultry voice, a coy smile twisting her innocent gaze into something with deeper meaning. "I'm sorry Professor, I'll try to do better."
"Please, do." Snape shook his head, turning back to Pansy.
Ron's jaw dropped. "Did you just see that?"
"Hmm?" Harry shook himself, blinking. He blushed suddenly, realizing he had spaced out, listening to Hermione's voice. "Er. . ."
*~*~*~*
"Professor?"
Snape looked up from the essays he had collected and right into the smoky gaze of the Head girl. "Is there something you want, Miss Granger?" He began, his voice cold.
"I wanted to apologize for my lack of attention earlier. I'm sure that the points could be made up. . .after class?"
Snape blinked. "Did you hit your head when you fell, Miss Granger?"
"No. . .it just seems that we could come to some sort of. . . arrangement." Hermione's skin took on a slight golden glow. "I am willing to do. . .anything. . ." She trailed off, sauntering out of the dungeons without a glance back. Leaving the Potions Master to ponder whether or not he had indeed inhaled some of the fumes himself.
*~*~*~*
Ron picked up the book his brother had sent, wondering why it seemed so interesting to Hermione. He allowed it to fall open to a random page.
'Osiris: God of the Dead
One of the Eannead, brother to Ra, in charge of the Afterlife, where he lives happily with his wife, Isis.'
Ron's brow furrowed in confusion, just before the worst pain imaginable coursed through his body, eliciting a small moan from him. His hands clenched into fists, balling up on his lap.
Hermione watched him with a calculating look of amusement.
Once Ron had regained his functions, he gazed about the common room with sharp eyes. Once his gaze landed on Hermione, he gave her a lopsided grin. "It is true. They were saying you had managed to escape."
"Escape? No. Live. Yes." Hermione replied, stretching languidly. "You should have seen all the males."
"Falling before you? I'm sure you were exuberant. Hathor will be jealous if you manage to bed one before she does. She's still a little miffed over the Akanatin deal. He was supposed to be her prize, you know."
"Yes, but because of that little mistake, we were locked away in that lovely trap." Hermione's hand's worked their way lazily through her hair. "This girl is a godsend, actually. She had quite an extensive amount of intelligence stored in this body."
"Not to mention she's quite attractive." Ron added with a leer. A look passed over his face, before it was masked again. "This one is a fighter. Not to mention quite loyal." His face grew pensive for a moment. "We have to get this out into the population."
"Ah yes, you must be missing Isis something terrible."
"I do."
"You do what?" Harry joined the two on one of the couches in the common room.
"I want you to read something." Hermione replied suggestively, slinking across the couch, grabbing the book, and thrusting it into his hands.
"Herms, you know I don't like-"
"Just read it." Hermione replied, purring.
"Fine." Harry admitted defeat. He flipped the book open.
'Ra: God of Creation
Sun God, often referred to as the Father God. Head of the Eannead, brother to Osiris and Set, though Set is his sworn enemy.'
Harry glanced at Hermione. "So-" He hissed, his limbs stiffening.
Ron's lips quirked up in a look of amusement. "Hurts, doesn't it?"
In a few moments, Harry let out a breath he had been holding, his eyes flashing golden. "Well, well, well. I was wondering when my two favorites were going to let me out."
"My Lord." Hermione replied, inclining her head in respect.
"Bastet, my Grace. How you have faired! You look lovelier than I remember."
"My Brother." Ron grinned at him.
"Osiris, brother, how is Isis?"
Ron's face fell at that. "No appearance as of yet."
"You do realize we will have to act the part of our Hosts here." Harry murmured, "This is a strong one, yes, he has lived through much. How very. . .mundane."
Hermione let out a little growl. "I think I've found a catch."
Ron raised a brow. "You certainly do not mean that greasy cobra, do you? Your standards have lowered."
Hermione glared at him. "Osiris! He is Akanatin!"
"I've forgotten how much you had cared for that Mortal." Harry pondered. "I take it he's on your list. How appropriate, though I dare say Hathor will want some sort of solace. You lost her the last one."
"Look, I am the Goddess of Fertility. It was already noticeable that he loved Nefertiri, but I. . ."
"Yes, yes, you had to bed him to ensure an heir." Ron interrupted. "Now, who else must the book go to."
"How about the fiery girl?" Harry queried. "She seems to fit the personality of. . ."
"Sekhmet?" Hermione suggested coyly. She stood, throwing her robes aside. "I believe a change in attire is in order. So just hand me the book, and I'll be sure to get her for you, My Lord."
"Mmmm, that's a good girl."
*~*~*~*
"Gin." Hermione sauntered into the other girl's dormitory with cat-like grace.
"Hmm?" She looked up.
"I just thought you'd like to read the book Bill sent."
"Uh. . ."
"C'mon, there's a really interesting part in there."
Ginny shrugged. "Fine, toss it here."
"Sure." Hermione tossed the little book.
Ginny grinned, reading the page that the book fell open to.
'Sekhmet: Lioness Goddess of Healing, Women, and War
Known for her great feats in battle with the nonbelievers of Egypt, she fought for her Lord, and lover, Ra.'
"Interesting." Ginny proclaimed dryly, just before she began gasping for air.
"Just what I thought." Hermione giggled, leaving to change out of the strange clothing.
Ginny felt her body curl up in on itself, and her eyes flutter as a new personality meshed with hers. She could still feel everything, still sense, but it seemed she had no control over her body movements, and strange thoughts entered her head.
'I. .'
'Don't waste you time little girl. We're one now.' A voice intoned in her head. 'I am as much a part of you as you are me.'
'But. . .'
'No buts, it is no use fighting, it will only result in pain for both of us. Just let yourself be. You are to be my host, I presume.'
Ginny felt herself rise, and then she snapped, her consciousness becoming whole, and she BECAME this new person. She was Sekhmet, Lioness of Egypt.
She gathered up the book, stalking down the stairs, hoping beyond hope that someone was there that knew her.
*~*~*~*
Hermione stood before the full length mirror in the girl's bathroom, the form fitting robe clinging to her body like a second skin. 'Much better.' She ran a hand idly through the mass of curls, before allowing it to settle about her head like a halo. Her cinnamon eyes now was adorned by a spot of eyeliner, giving her a decidedly Egyptian look.
With a wave of her hand, beads appeared on the white robe. "Good. Now I feel better."
When she exited the bathroom, she heard an audible gasp from her roommates. "Hermione!" Lavender exclaimed, her eyes taking in the white robe, shoeless feet, and rather golden skin. "What happened?"
Hermione just smiled, and sauntered out of the room, leaving two very confused seventh year girls behind her.
Once she joined made her way into the common room she was greeted by a wolf whistle from Seamus and a few fairly shocked looks from around the room.
"Ah." Ron beckoned her closer. "Now there's the woman I know."
Ginny smirked. "Sister dear, you do look ravishing. I'm sure Hathor will be green with envy."
Harry brushed his fingers through Ginny's fiery hair. "My Lioness, how lovely you are. Long indeed I have missed you."
"My Lord." Ginny blushed, purring under his gentle attentions. She left the book idly on the arm of the chair, knowing some curious soul would pick it up.
"Well, let's go down to dinner, shall we?" Hermione winked at a staring Dean, who blushed in response.
"Give us time to change, sister dear." Ginny whispered, bounding from her spot to the stairs.
*~*~*~*
Lavender picked up the book on the arm of the couch, looking around for the owner. "Wonder who left this here?" Opening the book, it fell to a random page.
'Isis: Goddess of Tranquility
Wife of Osiris, and Mother to Horus.'
*~*~*~*
"Headmaster, she was propositioning me!" Snape declared, his cheeks stained with a faint blush.
"Come now, Severus, surely you mistook her notions." Dumbledore opened the door to the Great Hall, stopping dead.
There, seated at the Gryffindor table, Harry, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, and Lavender sat in stunning white robes a little too revealing. Hermione sent a sultry glance at Snape, before returning to her conversation with her friends.
"Severus, what did you say she did again?"
*~*~*~*
Draco Malfoy stared at the book in front of him with confusion. It certainly wasn't the book he was looking for. He opened it, intent on finding out who owned it, and probably making a bit of side money.
'Set: God of Storms and Destruction
Brother of Ra, sworn Enemy of Ra and Osiris, he is most known for his seduction of Isis, and the murder of Osiris.'
'What the-?'
*~*~*~*
Draco shot a look of loathing at the Gryffindor table. "So, they're all here, only one missing, to make it complete."
He placed the book at the elbow of Pansy Parkinson, a smirk sliding across his face, even as the storm clouds rolled in.
*~*~*~*
Pansy shot a look of confusion at Draco, then sighed. She'd play along with his little game.
'Hathor: Goddess of Love, Seduction, and Desire
Enemy of Bastet, the Goddess of Fertility, she was extremely put off by the fact that Bastet managed to bed Akanatin before her.'
_______________________________________
A/N: Yes, this is a new story, Yes, it is going to be Herms/Sev. Yes, it does include Egyptian Gods. Okay, so Lavender WAS supposed to end up Hathor, but things change, and Pansy Parkinson seemed the better choice. And yes, I was supposed to include the full thirteen, but it's going to be hard enough with the seven. Please don't forget to RR.
Love,
~Liz