Disclaimer- Much to my sorrow Harry Potter does not belong to me. I write
this for fun and not money. I hope, no I demand you enjoy. ^_^
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Blood of My Blood
By Nyhgthawk28
Chapter 6 - "The Arrival" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"This is rediculas! There is no way we'll ever be able to keep this pace up!" yelled the sidhe with shoulder length dark purple hair.
"Shut up Aris and keep running! If anything happens to the Prince I don't even want to imagine what King Azius will do to us." Yelled another sidhe with long black hair held back in a ponytail.
"You're not my boss Davan and I know better than you what Azius would do to us. The simple fact is that we can't keep this up no matter how hard we try. We can't keep the pace of the Hunt like the Prince can." Said Aris.
"What about the Elvin steeds they could keep the pace." Offered another voice. This belonged to a kitsune, a young man with golden hair, white fox ears, and a white fox tail. He was one of the few who could keep up with his royal cousin, at least for a few days.
"As much as I'd like to summon the steeds for a ride they won't come anywhere near one of the Wild Ones especially during a Hunt." Said Davan.
"But Harry isn't a Wild One." Said Solis (formally Dudley Dursley for those who are confused).
"The Prince might not be a member of The Wild Hunt but he's got enough Wild blood that it's a very thin line separating him from them. Right now he's hunting and his magic has gone to the Wild side. The steeds can feel this from miles away so they won't come. Why do you think The Hunt rides Great Elk and not the steeds?" asked Davan patiently.
"This not the time for a lecture Davan. We can't call the steeds because they are afraid of the Prince as he is now. By the way Solis you know better than to call his Highness Harry. It's dangerous." Said Aris.
"You're right I'm sorry. Is there anything else we could summon that wouldn't be scared of Zeaphur?" asked Solis.
"There isn't a creature alive who isn't scared of the Hunt and its hunters." Said Aris.
"That's not completely true. The Hounds and the Great Elks aren't afraid." Said Davan.
"Can you summon a Great Elk? And I don't think the Prince's Hound is interested in giving us a ride." Said Aris sarcastically.
"No I can't summon the Great Elks and you know it! As for the Hounds I'm all for you trying to ride one. Just make sure I'm around to watch!" growled Davan.
"This isn't helping. If only Ty were here." Said Solis.
"I hate to burst your bubble but Ty couldn't stop the Prince either. Although knowing Ty he'd probably be hunting with Zeaphur." Said Aris.
"I know but Ty would have figured out a way for us to at least keep up with him." Said Solis with a sigh.
"What's this about "we"? You can keep up with the Prince. It's Aris and myself that are having trouble." Said Davan.
"I can't follow him alone. You remember what happened the last time I tried to follow him during a Hunt." Said Solis softly.
"He didn't hurt you." Said Aris.
"No he didn't hurt me but he chased me for three days straight. I could barely walk for a week. Besides I never want to see the Hunt directed at me again. To have the cousin I now almost consider a brother turn so alien on me." Solis shivers. "I won't follow him alone."
"Sirius, Thor, and Callisto are with him, you wouldn't be alone." Said Davan.
"You know as well as I do that both Sirius and Thor are as caught up in the Hunt as Zeaphur. As for Callisto do you honestly want me to trust my well being to a Fey race known to bond with berserkers as a preference?" demanded Solis.
"He has a point." Said Aris.
"Fine. Back to the matter at hand. We need to find a way of keeping up since running isn't working." Said Davan.
"What about broomsticks? Then we could fly after Zeaphur." Said Solis.
"Good idea but the only one of us with a broomstick is Zeaphur and he doesn't need it." Said Aris.
"Also the simple fact is the only one of us who knows how to ride a broomstick is Zeaphur." Said Davan.
"Can't Aris fly?" asked Solis.
"I'll pretend you didn't ask that." Growled Aris.
Solis turned questioning eyes to Davan but he mouthed the word "later" and Solis nodded.
"Well there has to be something we can summon." Said Solis.
"We're up for suggestions? There's only a few creatures willing to run with the Hunt and not away from it." Said Aris.
"What about dragons?" offered Solis.
"No."
"Griffons?"
"Nope."
"Unicorns?"
"Are you a virgin?"
"Umm. Jabberwawki?"
"What?!"
"Never mind.
"Chocobo?"
"Taste like chicken."
"A Cerberus?"
"Maybe. Do you know how to summon one?"
"You remember Jack from the Bloodmoon Clan?"
"You mean one of those Werebeasts?"
"Yah he's the one that tried to kill me."
"I thought they all tried to kill you?"
"He's the one that almost succeeded."
"Okay so you want to summon him or do you want Zeaphur to Hunt and kill him?"
"I think we've lost the point of this discussion."
"To the point can you summon Jack or some other Cerberus?"
"Well. No."
"Then Cerberus are off the list."
"Stupid!"
"Hey! Who are you calling stupid Davan!"
"I'm calling myself stupid. I had the answer to this problem all the time but I forgot. Although I'm not sure if it will work or not."
"What are you talking about Davan?" asked Aris.
"You'll see soon enough." Said Davan and he pulled something out of his cloak.
Solis and Aris watched as Davan brought the item to his lips and blew. A long sorrowful note spread across the Forbidden Forest. It's cry was soon joined by other howls including Sirius and Thor's voices.
"The Horn of Lobos. Where did you get that? It was supposed to have been lost in the last Dwarf/Goblin/Elf/Knome war." Asked Aris with wide eyes.
"When the Underhill rearranged itself a few months back an forgotten armory was found. Among the items uncovered was the Horn and a few other things the King thought we might find useful. We're going to war after all." Said Davan.
"We're going to have a little talk later about this but right now I have a question. Will they even come? If they come is the Pact still in place? Do you have any idea of how to ride them?" asked Aris.
"That's more than one question. To answer all of them I don't know." Said Davan.
"Guys what are you talking about? What is the Horn of Lobos? Who are "they"? " asked a confused Solis.
"You'll see soon enough if they come. Be ready to run, fight, or ride." Said Aris scanning the nearby forest. All their talking had slowed them down. The Prince was no longer in sight.
Before Solis could ask any more questions the answer came. They moved through the trees like shadows while being the size of Clydesdale horses. Intense amber eyes studied them as more of the huge creatures appeared out of the woods. Soon they were surrounded by roughly twenty of the huge creatures. If not for their great size they looked exactly like.
"Wolves?" asked Solis.
"Great Wolves and not to be mistaken for their smaller weaker cousins. They are a lot more intelligent and powerful." Said Davan keeping a careful eye on the predators surrounding them.
** Your kind has not called us in centuries. What do you want sidhe? ** The words weren't spoke but sent directly to their minds by the large wolf that stood before Davan. His fur was a dark chocolate brown and its huge paws and the tips of his ears were ink black.
"My lord the Horn was lost for a long time and much has changed. New heirs to the Throne of Thorns have been found. The youngest has unwittingly set about a Great Change, old blood and old magic's are stirring. He has great ties to the mortal world and his power is immense but his blood is Wild. He is ours to protect but while he Hunts we are not able to protect him properly. Among other things he has gained certain attributes of a Storm Mayne two of which are speed and endurance that we can't match. We would request your help in protecting our Prince." Said Davan.
Some of what Davan said made perfect sense to Solis but there were things he'd said that went completely over the former muggle's head. Dudley had learned a lot in the Unseelie realm but two years was nowhere near enough time for him to learn everything the sidhe or wizards considered common knowledge. What worried Solis was the mention of Great Change. He'd heard them talking about it before and it was always discussed with both fear and excitement.
** You bring interesting news. It has been a long time since we've run on mortal soil. We will help you for now but the Pact will have to be renegotiated by the Prince. **
"You have our sincere thanks my Lord. We will see about reestablishing the Pact. My I have the honor of a name to address you by my Lord?" asked Davan in full court formality.
** I am called Darkclaw. I am the Alpha of the Deathstalker Pack. More formal introductions can wait your Prince is covering ground at an amazing rate. We will have to move quickly to catch up to your Prince. **
Davan was given the honor of riding Darkclaw while two other wolves moved forward for Solis and Aris to mount. They shared a look than awkwardly climbed aboard their large mounts. Before they knew what was happening they were in motion. They were practically flying through the Forbidden Forest weaving through the trees.
Solis was holding on for dear life. The loupe of the Great Wolf was very smooth but jolting for a rider without a saddle who wasn't used to riding anything. His little rodeo demonstration with Jack (the Cerberus) didn't really count.
** Relax young one. Do not fight my movement. Let your body relax into my rhythm. ** said a new voice.
"I'll try but I've no experience riding. My name is Solis by the way." Said Solis.
** I am called Blackfang. How did a kitsune end up traveling with the sidhe? ** asked Blackfang.
"Well Prince Zeaphur is my cousin." Replied Solis.
** Your cousin? The Prince of the Unseelie court has kitsune blood? ** said Blackfang.
"No I'm different. I was human but uncontrolled magic changed me into a kitsune. Originally I didn't even know there were others like me. It was only after Ty mentioned the Makai and tried to talk to me in Japanese that I found out about the Kitsune. Ty took me to the Makai and introduced me to a few Kitsune he knew. They introduced me to the Kitsune goddess Inari. She said I was starting a new life and needed a new name and so I became Solis. I stayed for about two months in the Makai learning about the Kitsune and being one. There's still a lot I have to learn." Said Solis with a sigh.
** Fascinating. It is good that you are learning your heritage. The Pack has many stories of your kind and the Fey. I hope- ** said Darkfang.
"Solis stop taking with the Wolf! He's heading for the castle!" yelled Davan.
Solis head snapped up in horror. His ears twitched and he realized Davan was right. Whatever Harry was chasing had changed directions and was making a bee line for the castle.
The Pack picked up their pace. The forest was flying by and all Solis could concentrate on was holding on. After passing some unicorns and some sort of scaly land octopus they finally caught sight of the Prince.
Two years hadn't changed Harry much physically. With his Fey blood more active his aging had started to slow down. Of course it had only been about a week in the mortal world but time between realms was funny. Physically he looked the same he had a week ago mortal time but he'd spent months learning to be sidhe, to act like a prince, having to deal with his Wild blood and the dark things it brought out in his personality, and discovering the changes that the ritual had brought forth in him.
Currently his long red hair was in a braid that flew behind him like a kite tail. A simple headband made of silver engraved with thorns marked him as an heir to the Unseelie throne. He was dressed in green leather pants with knee high black boots. A shimmering red and black silk shirt hugged his chest as he ran. A heavy black leather double belt carried a sword on the right hip and a long dagger on the left hip. Neither weapon slowing his relentless pace.
Flying by his side was a small fairy looking creature. A miniature woman with almost navy blue skin and vivid purple hair with streaks of light blue. Wings shaped like a dragonfly but colored like black opals. She was dressed in little black mini dress. Her only accessory was a tiny but deadly glaive.
A few paces before him ran two giant black dogs. One had a thick fur coat while the other had a fine short coat of fur. Another difference was one was a wizard while the other was a true hound of the Wild Hunt. Both were magical creatures and both took pleasure in the all consuming Hunt. They bayed the Hunt's call and the Wolves echoed their call.
The one bright side was they finally saw what Zeaphur was chasing. It went down hill from there though. On the outside it looked like Zeaphur was chasing a giant billy goat but the creature running was no goat. Despite outwards appearances under the shaggy fur was an armor like a crocodile. It's saliva was a deadly venom and it was strong enough to flip a muggle tank.
This was the creature a rather foolish troll once mistook for a billy goat. How muggles twisted that particular tale no one knows. The Gruvet as the creature is called did a lot more than knock the troll from the bridge.
A scenario ran through Aris's head and he decided to share his thoughts. "This is bad! The Gruvet is heading for the castle with the Prince right onto it's tail. The Gruvet will run right through any doors or even walls it has to. This will panic the wizards inside and we'll be running right into a firing squad of spells." Yelled Aris.
"Can we turn the Gruvet away from the castle?" yelled Davan.
** No. My Pack has hunted this kind before. Once they are in full run they will not turn. They run a straight line through anything they come across. They do not stop until they're dead or miles away from their pursuers. ** said Darkclaw.
"So what do we do?" cried Solis.
** We must bring down the Gruvet. If the hunt is over before we reach the castle then the Prince will be in no danger. ** said Darkclaw. This was not a suggestion but the order of the Pack leader.
Still despite being in sight both the Prince and the Gruvet were quite a distance ahead of them. The pace picked up once again from a ground eating loupe to a full out run for the kill.
Zeaphur must have felt the Pack's excitement because he also picked up speed after his prey.
Despite the added effort no one was able to reach the Gruvet until they were in the courtyard of the castle. The first made attack was by Thor when he lunged for the right hind tendon. Sirius was seconds behind going for the left hind tendon.
They didn't manage to take out the tendon but they managed to trip the Gruvet. It hit the ground and crashed into a castle wall. The Gruvet was quickly back on it's feet only to find itself faced with the Prince, Callisto, Thor, and Sirius with the Pack only moments away.
The Prince pulled his dagger and ran straight at the Gruvet with the other three at his side. Instead of attacking straight on Zeaphur jumped onto the Gruvets head as it tried to bite him then moved to stand on its back. The two dogs went for the creature's throat and Callisto went for the left eye.
Sirius managed to get a hold on the neck but he wasn't able to penetrate the armored skin. Callisto was successful in taking out the left eye which had the creature bucking and screaming in pain. Zeaphur was straddling the back with a hand full of shaggy fur to keep on. In his other hand was the dagger which was waiting for the right moment to strike.
The Pack plus its three passengers arrived to circle the bucking beast. Before they could do anything the Prince struck with the dagger. He stabbed it deep into the Gruvet's side then he jumped clear followed by Sirius who released his hold.
If nothing else the cries of the Wolves would have alerted the castle's inhabitants but added to the impact and screams of the Gruvet truly alarmed them. Especially the howls of the Darkke Hound which chilled the blood. A fair number of students recognized its call even if they never heard it before. Generations of bedside stories and local legends do make an impact. To the point the students and more than a few of the teachers were panicking.
The panic was ten times worse than when a troll had been found in the dungeon. Yelling for attention was useless. Professor Dumbledore had to resort to a blinding flash of light that sounded like a lightning strike.
"Silence! There will be no panicking. Professor McGonagall along with the prefects will lead everyone to the Griffyndor tower where it will be sealed until the Hunt passes us by. The rest of the teachers will come with me and see what we can do about the situation. Now go!" said Professor Dumbledore.
There were a lot of pale faces and hand holding but the prefects managed to herd the students out of the Great Hall and after Professor McGonagall. There faces were grave. Even when there was a troll loose in the castle they were just sent to their own houses but to place everyone in the Griffyndor tower and seal it told how serious the danger was.
Once all the students were marching off to the tower the rest of the teachers got up to confront the Hunt. Of all of them only one had any true idea of what they were facing. The returned Professor Lupin had recently become a lot more familiar with the Wild Ones. In fact from the sound of things Harry had finally arrived and he'd brought friends.
Lupin was curious how his fellow teachers were reacting to the prospect of the Wild Hunt, it could be important thing to remember for the future. Dumbledore had a serious face on but he smelled of fear. Flitwick's face showed fear but he smelled of determination, the master ready to fight. The filling in Care of Magical Creatures teacher Charlie Weasley was calm both in face and scent, time with dragons had taught him to relax under pressure. Most of the other teachers fell under the fear category but one stood out. Snape as usual had his own standards, his face was angry and his scent reminded Lupin of a cornered animal but that didn't make any sense. Why would Snape feel cornered?
When they reached the courtyard Lupin tried to puzzle together the situation. The Gruvet was the prey, Harry the hunter, Davan and Aris were bodyguards, most of the others were either along for the ride or enjoying the Hunt, but who and what were the giant wolves?
"Fry it Solis!" yelled Aris.
"Forget it! Zeaphur doesn't like his meat well done. He was extremely pissed off the last time I did that. You kill it!" Solis yelled back.
"My magic won't work on it! The most I'd be able to do is piss it off. Gruvet's have an immunity most kinds of magic. There's only three ways to kill them physical force, poison, or true elemental magic!" Aris yelled.
"I'll kill it!" yelled Davan only to find an angry little Furearie in his face, a tiny but deadly little glaive pointed between his eyes. "Or we'll wait for the Prince to kill it."
** It is the Prince's hunt. Let him finish what he started. We will help if needed. Besides interfering in another's hunt is rude. ** said Darkpaw.
"Was that supposed to be funny?" snapped Aris.
** No. **
"We have an audience." Said Solis.
"Aris go talk to them before they do something stupid." Said Davan.
"Why don't you talk to them?"
"I don't think Callisto wants me to move." Said Davan keeping a wary eye on the little fey still pointing her weapon at him.
"Fine but if they try their stick magic on me they're going to regret it." Said Aris.
"Solis go with Aris and make sure he doesn't start another war."
As the words left Davan's mouth Zeaphur moved to attack again. This time he pulled out the two knives from his boots. These were not pretty knives but they weren't supposed to be they were designed for use not beauty. The blades about eight inches long and slightly curved, but what made them nasty weapons were the hooks on the ends. These blades were made to cause more damage coming out than going in.
"He's going for the kill."
The teachers were startled by these words and turned to stare at Professor Lupin. It wasn't exactly the words that had disturbed them but the way he said it. His usually quiet and authoritive voice had an undertone of a growl and his faced showed a feral intensity.
"You are correct. The Prince is going for the kill. We're sorry for being late but it was better for him to get the wildness out of his system before coming. Unfortunately his prey decided to flee in this direction. I cannot say how much longer this will take but from the looks of things it should be over soon." Said Aris.
Unfortunately no one was listening to Aris, they were more focused on what was happening behind him with the dangerous creature and the obviously crazy young man. No one in their right mind attacked a Gruvet practically one on one without using magic of some kind. It was pure insanity and they couldn't keep their eyes away from the action.
"I don't know why I bother." Muttered Aris as everyone ignored him.
While Aris had tried to speak with the teachers Zeaphur went in for a second attack. It was more difficult this time since the Gruvet was cornered and hurt. One eye gone and a deep stab wound in the vicinity of the kidney. Zeaphur came within inches of being gored and got knocked away twice. Being knocked away was a thirty foot toss that bounced him off of the castle's stone walls. The whole time Zeaphur was smiling like a maniac. Just another reason the teachers thought he was crazy. He finally made the strike he'd been trying for. This daring strike put him directly in place to be trampled by the maddened Gruvet. His knives were hilt deep in either side of the creature's neck. He used his weight and some added strength to completely tear open the creature's throat.
The Gruvet gives a gurgling shriek as its throat was torn open. Then the beast starts bucking like the most insane rodeo bull. Zeaphur barely manages to roll away from the creature's hooves. He was covered in a shower of blood from the severing of the Gruvet's throat. After rolling far enough away Zeaphur kicked up and watched with pleasure as his prey died. Thor and Loki(Padfoot) stood at his side. They'd been attacking the Gruvet's flanks to give Zeaphur the chance at the throat shot.
The bucking Gruvet was like a chicken with its head cut off. It was managing to shower its blood around more than anything else. As it started to slow down Zeaphur moved to make the mercy blow. He liked to kill as cleanly as possible but for some creatures it was a most difficult task. In an insane move he grabbed the right horn then preformed a flip of some kind and was rewarded with a loud wet cracking sound and the Gruvet dropped to the ground dead. Its body still twitched a little and blood was still pouring over the stone but the creature was well and truly dead.
** Good Hunt young Prince. ** said Darkpaw.
"Thank you. Would your Pack share my kill with me? It is a bit much for me to eat alone." Said Zeaphur.
** The Deathstalker Pack would be honored to share your kill. Gruvets are quite tasty if one can bring them down. ** said Darkpaw.
Zeaphur smiled at the Great Wolf then moved forward and with a little work slit open the belly of the Gruvet. He removed a very large liver then motioned the wolves forward to feed. He cut off two chunks and gave them to Thor and Loki. A small hunk was given to Callisto and Davan accepted a modest piece of liver. Moving towards the teachers he offered a piece to Solis and Aris which they took.
"Would you care for some Professor Lupin?" asked Zeaphur.
The teachers started in shock at their fellow teacher.
"Yes please." Said Lupin and was handed a good sized piece.
"Would any of you other teachers care for some?" offered Zeaphur.
Most of the teachers looked rather sick at the offer but they managed to politely refuse but three teachers took Zeaphur offer. The first was Professor Flitwick the small Charms teachers was part Goblin so it wasn't completely surprising. The second was Charlie Weasley and he got a lot of shocked looks but he was used to dealing with dragons so freshly killed raw meat wasn't something new to him. The third was Professor Snape but he didn't eat the offer meat, he placed it in a jar he pulled from somewhere. Ever the Potions Master and not one to refuse fresh ingredients.
Zeaphur asked again to be sure everyone got a share then proceeded to eat the remaining hunk of Gruvet liver in his hand. He cut off bite size pieces with his knife and devoured it piece by piece. Although a few more pieces went to Thor and Loki. When the Liver was gone Zeaphur cleaned his knife and started to licked the blood from his hands.
Watching the new arrival lick the blood off his fingers was somewhere between disgusting and erotic. The fact he was doing it all unconsciously on a reflex said a lot about his nature. Everyone was staring but that wasn't surprising, an entrance like his would get anyone's attention.
"Sorry we're late." Said Zeaphur. He didn't bother offering an explanation. He'd learned that trying to explain the urges of the Hunt was a pointless endeavor.
With those words everyone's head swung to stare at Dumbledore. Being late meant you had been expected. An arrival Dumbledore hadn't shared with anyone else. Snape just hoped this wasn't the newest DADA teacher. Dumbledore had said he wasn't arriving until tomorrow but. You never know what Dumbledore is going to do. His choices for DADA teachers has always left a lot to be desired. Snape didn't exactly want the DADA position but he absolutely couldn't stand incompetence. If not for personal reasons Snape would have been perfectly happy having Lupin as the DADA teacher.
"No apologies are necessary, travel between realms is always imperfect. My name is Albus Dumbledore and I am the current Headmaster of Hogwarts school for Witchcraft and Wizardry. I'd like to welcome you and your party to our humble school." Said Dumbledore formally.
"We thank you for your warm welcome. The King wished me to convey his regards and thanks for indulging my curiosity. As you know I am Prince Zeaphur of the Throne of Thorns. My companions are Lord Davan of Spiderfalls, Lord Aris of the Thyphe, my cousin Solis of the Kitsune, my Xanya Callisto of Varsis, and finally my two familiars Thor and Loki. I fear I cannot introduce the others." Said Zeaphur.
** We are the Deathstalker Pack. My name is Darkclaw and I am Alpha of this Pack. It has been a long time since our kind has roamed the mortal realm. We are known as Great Wolves. We have business with the young Prince but it will wait for a few days. We will stay in the forest but if you'd allow we'd like to explore the castle from time to time. ** said Darkclaw.
"I find no problems with your presence here. If you'd be willing, since this is a place of learning would you perhaps host a few classes and tell us about yourselves? The Wizarding community has considered you extinct for over seven centuries. Very little about your kind is remembered." Said Dumbledore.
** That sounds like a fair exchange for your hospitality. We will return tomorrow to make arrangements. ** said Darkclaw.
** Excuse me Alpha but may I be allowed to stay in the castle? I would like the chance to record the ways of wizards. ** requested Blackfang.
** As an Echo it is within your rights to request this Blackfang but it is up to the wizards to grant your request. ** replied Darkclaw.
"Excuse me but what did you mean by Echo?" asked Dumbledore with interest.
** Blackfang is our Pack Echo. I believe your people used to call it a bard or story-teller? He holds the memories of the past. ** said Darkclaw.
"He's your historian?" asked Dumbledore trying to clarify.
** Yes and no. I am a living memory of the past. I hold the memories of the Echoes before me and the Echoes before them. ** said Blackfang.
"Amazing. We would be honored to allow you residence in the castle. Would you like a room of your own or would you prefer other arrangements?" asked Dumbledore.
** If he is willing I'd like to lodge with Solis. I find his company quite enjoyable. ** said Blackfang.
"I have no problem sharing a room with Blackfang." Said Solis.
"Then it's settled. Why don't we go back inside and get the students back into the Great Hall and finish the sorting. It has been a fascinating day and I feel tomorrow shall be even more so." Said Dumbledore. He bowed to the Darkclaw and led everyone else inside the castle.
Twenty minutes later saw the Great Hall once again full of students. They were rabidly gossiping but keeping quiet enough to hear anything said by or about the new comers. As soon as they had been locked into the tower they'd scrambled after its normal residents to the top where everyone practically hung off the tower ramparts to watch the action below. Various spells and magical devices were brought out to enhance their view of the action. Including the consumption of the kill and the licking of blood off his hands. The fact that the mystery hunter was standing in the Great Hall covered in drying blood with an unusual group of companions including a Grim, a Darkke Hound, and a giant Wolf. That's not even mentioning the two sidhe, the fox boy a few were able to identify as a Kitsune, and the odd dark blue fairy.
The teachers were back in their seats at the head table when Dumbledore stood and held up his hands for silence.
"Despite the earlier excitement we had not finished the sorting ceremony. There is one more student that needs to be introduced. I usually don't introduce students in this manner but this is a unique case. Prince Zeaphur of the Unseelie sidhe and Heir to the Throne of Thorns is going to be attending Hogwarts this year. Because of his standing his guards will be staying with him here at Hogwarts, if they wish they may participate in the classes or just watch. As you've noticed Prince Zeaphur has two familiars, one of which is the Darkke Hound you heard earlier. I have been assured that Thor will note attack unless his master is being endangered and that goes for Loki as well."
Dumbledore gave them a few minutes to process this before continuing. "We also have a guest joining us. His name is Blackfang and he is the Echo of the Deathstalker Pack. He's come here to learn about wizards and the rest of his Pack will be stopping by from time to time to learn about us and share some knowledge about themselves with us. So please show him the same respect you'd show any professor."
"I have one more announcement but it will wait until Prince Zeaphur has been sorted." Said Dumbledore and waved to Professor McGonagall proceed.
"Prince Zeaphur if you'd please come forward and sit on this stool. I'll then place the sorting hat on your head and it will decide in which house you belong." Said McGonagall.
Zeaphur moved forward easily. It wasn't like he was unfamiliar with the process or being stared at. One of the first things he'd learned from the sidhe was that staring and being stared at was natural. If you didn't want to be seen then you needed to do a better job of hiding. If you were in public and doing something then obviously you wanted to be watched.
Zeaphur sat down and Gordric's ratty old hat was placed on his head.
Interesting very interesting. We meet again young Mr.Potter. You have changed a lot since our last discussion. You retain the qualities that made you a good Griffyndor but many of the darker, not evil mind, but darker parts of your nature have developed. Your courage has down you well but it is time for your cunning to shine through. So I say.
"Slytherin!"
**********************end chapter six***************************
Author's notes- I know a lot of people end chapters on decision of the sorting hat but its such a perfect place to pause things! ^_^ Sorry that it took forever to write this part. I was being lazy along with lacking the proper inspiration to write this out. I hope it's long enough to satisfy for its long development. I almost released it earlier but I just wasn't happy how it was coming out. I fixed it and I'm much much happier with how it is now.
Xanya- it will be explained later
Kitsune- for those not familiar with YuYu Hakusho a kitsune is a fox spirit or fox demon
Makai- the demon realm, sort of like Faire but home to ogres, and various other demons including kitsunes
Echo- the title for the Great Wolf historians, they have great telepathic abilities that hold the oldest memories of generations of their Packs and their interaction with other races
I would also like to give a huge thanks to all the people who reviewed. Your comments always encourage me to continue even when I run into road blocks in this story. You have my gratitude and I wish you all Happy Holidays!!! ^_^
Everlasting Thanks go to:
jliles, Skysong, Bill Weasley, Luna the Moonmonster, Ranaiko, glimmer, sil, Aom, Water Fire Girl, obsidianflame (obsidianflameca@yahoo.com) , Atawalpa, Otaku freak, lirael15, web weaver , lady sakura, Creamy Mimi, and MercS
Hopefully my next chapter will come out much faster. I can tell you Snape will play a much bigger part in the next chapter and so will Draco.
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Next Chapter- "The Snake's Den"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Blood of My Blood
By Nyhgthawk28
Chapter 6 - "The Arrival" ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"This is rediculas! There is no way we'll ever be able to keep this pace up!" yelled the sidhe with shoulder length dark purple hair.
"Shut up Aris and keep running! If anything happens to the Prince I don't even want to imagine what King Azius will do to us." Yelled another sidhe with long black hair held back in a ponytail.
"You're not my boss Davan and I know better than you what Azius would do to us. The simple fact is that we can't keep this up no matter how hard we try. We can't keep the pace of the Hunt like the Prince can." Said Aris.
"What about the Elvin steeds they could keep the pace." Offered another voice. This belonged to a kitsune, a young man with golden hair, white fox ears, and a white fox tail. He was one of the few who could keep up with his royal cousin, at least for a few days.
"As much as I'd like to summon the steeds for a ride they won't come anywhere near one of the Wild Ones especially during a Hunt." Said Davan.
"But Harry isn't a Wild One." Said Solis (formally Dudley Dursley for those who are confused).
"The Prince might not be a member of The Wild Hunt but he's got enough Wild blood that it's a very thin line separating him from them. Right now he's hunting and his magic has gone to the Wild side. The steeds can feel this from miles away so they won't come. Why do you think The Hunt rides Great Elk and not the steeds?" asked Davan patiently.
"This not the time for a lecture Davan. We can't call the steeds because they are afraid of the Prince as he is now. By the way Solis you know better than to call his Highness Harry. It's dangerous." Said Aris.
"You're right I'm sorry. Is there anything else we could summon that wouldn't be scared of Zeaphur?" asked Solis.
"There isn't a creature alive who isn't scared of the Hunt and its hunters." Said Aris.
"That's not completely true. The Hounds and the Great Elks aren't afraid." Said Davan.
"Can you summon a Great Elk? And I don't think the Prince's Hound is interested in giving us a ride." Said Aris sarcastically.
"No I can't summon the Great Elks and you know it! As for the Hounds I'm all for you trying to ride one. Just make sure I'm around to watch!" growled Davan.
"This isn't helping. If only Ty were here." Said Solis.
"I hate to burst your bubble but Ty couldn't stop the Prince either. Although knowing Ty he'd probably be hunting with Zeaphur." Said Aris.
"I know but Ty would have figured out a way for us to at least keep up with him." Said Solis with a sigh.
"What's this about "we"? You can keep up with the Prince. It's Aris and myself that are having trouble." Said Davan.
"I can't follow him alone. You remember what happened the last time I tried to follow him during a Hunt." Said Solis softly.
"He didn't hurt you." Said Aris.
"No he didn't hurt me but he chased me for three days straight. I could barely walk for a week. Besides I never want to see the Hunt directed at me again. To have the cousin I now almost consider a brother turn so alien on me." Solis shivers. "I won't follow him alone."
"Sirius, Thor, and Callisto are with him, you wouldn't be alone." Said Davan.
"You know as well as I do that both Sirius and Thor are as caught up in the Hunt as Zeaphur. As for Callisto do you honestly want me to trust my well being to a Fey race known to bond with berserkers as a preference?" demanded Solis.
"He has a point." Said Aris.
"Fine. Back to the matter at hand. We need to find a way of keeping up since running isn't working." Said Davan.
"What about broomsticks? Then we could fly after Zeaphur." Said Solis.
"Good idea but the only one of us with a broomstick is Zeaphur and he doesn't need it." Said Aris.
"Also the simple fact is the only one of us who knows how to ride a broomstick is Zeaphur." Said Davan.
"Can't Aris fly?" asked Solis.
"I'll pretend you didn't ask that." Growled Aris.
Solis turned questioning eyes to Davan but he mouthed the word "later" and Solis nodded.
"Well there has to be something we can summon." Said Solis.
"We're up for suggestions? There's only a few creatures willing to run with the Hunt and not away from it." Said Aris.
"What about dragons?" offered Solis.
"No."
"Griffons?"
"Nope."
"Unicorns?"
"Are you a virgin?"
"Umm. Jabberwawki?"
"What?!"
"Never mind.
"Chocobo?"
"Taste like chicken."
"A Cerberus?"
"Maybe. Do you know how to summon one?"
"You remember Jack from the Bloodmoon Clan?"
"You mean one of those Werebeasts?"
"Yah he's the one that tried to kill me."
"I thought they all tried to kill you?"
"He's the one that almost succeeded."
"Okay so you want to summon him or do you want Zeaphur to Hunt and kill him?"
"I think we've lost the point of this discussion."
"To the point can you summon Jack or some other Cerberus?"
"Well. No."
"Then Cerberus are off the list."
"Stupid!"
"Hey! Who are you calling stupid Davan!"
"I'm calling myself stupid. I had the answer to this problem all the time but I forgot. Although I'm not sure if it will work or not."
"What are you talking about Davan?" asked Aris.
"You'll see soon enough." Said Davan and he pulled something out of his cloak.
Solis and Aris watched as Davan brought the item to his lips and blew. A long sorrowful note spread across the Forbidden Forest. It's cry was soon joined by other howls including Sirius and Thor's voices.
"The Horn of Lobos. Where did you get that? It was supposed to have been lost in the last Dwarf/Goblin/Elf/Knome war." Asked Aris with wide eyes.
"When the Underhill rearranged itself a few months back an forgotten armory was found. Among the items uncovered was the Horn and a few other things the King thought we might find useful. We're going to war after all." Said Davan.
"We're going to have a little talk later about this but right now I have a question. Will they even come? If they come is the Pact still in place? Do you have any idea of how to ride them?" asked Aris.
"That's more than one question. To answer all of them I don't know." Said Davan.
"Guys what are you talking about? What is the Horn of Lobos? Who are "they"? " asked a confused Solis.
"You'll see soon enough if they come. Be ready to run, fight, or ride." Said Aris scanning the nearby forest. All their talking had slowed them down. The Prince was no longer in sight.
Before Solis could ask any more questions the answer came. They moved through the trees like shadows while being the size of Clydesdale horses. Intense amber eyes studied them as more of the huge creatures appeared out of the woods. Soon they were surrounded by roughly twenty of the huge creatures. If not for their great size they looked exactly like.
"Wolves?" asked Solis.
"Great Wolves and not to be mistaken for their smaller weaker cousins. They are a lot more intelligent and powerful." Said Davan keeping a careful eye on the predators surrounding them.
** Your kind has not called us in centuries. What do you want sidhe? ** The words weren't spoke but sent directly to their minds by the large wolf that stood before Davan. His fur was a dark chocolate brown and its huge paws and the tips of his ears were ink black.
"My lord the Horn was lost for a long time and much has changed. New heirs to the Throne of Thorns have been found. The youngest has unwittingly set about a Great Change, old blood and old magic's are stirring. He has great ties to the mortal world and his power is immense but his blood is Wild. He is ours to protect but while he Hunts we are not able to protect him properly. Among other things he has gained certain attributes of a Storm Mayne two of which are speed and endurance that we can't match. We would request your help in protecting our Prince." Said Davan.
Some of what Davan said made perfect sense to Solis but there were things he'd said that went completely over the former muggle's head. Dudley had learned a lot in the Unseelie realm but two years was nowhere near enough time for him to learn everything the sidhe or wizards considered common knowledge. What worried Solis was the mention of Great Change. He'd heard them talking about it before and it was always discussed with both fear and excitement.
** You bring interesting news. It has been a long time since we've run on mortal soil. We will help you for now but the Pact will have to be renegotiated by the Prince. **
"You have our sincere thanks my Lord. We will see about reestablishing the Pact. My I have the honor of a name to address you by my Lord?" asked Davan in full court formality.
** I am called Darkclaw. I am the Alpha of the Deathstalker Pack. More formal introductions can wait your Prince is covering ground at an amazing rate. We will have to move quickly to catch up to your Prince. **
Davan was given the honor of riding Darkclaw while two other wolves moved forward for Solis and Aris to mount. They shared a look than awkwardly climbed aboard their large mounts. Before they knew what was happening they were in motion. They were practically flying through the Forbidden Forest weaving through the trees.
Solis was holding on for dear life. The loupe of the Great Wolf was very smooth but jolting for a rider without a saddle who wasn't used to riding anything. His little rodeo demonstration with Jack (the Cerberus) didn't really count.
** Relax young one. Do not fight my movement. Let your body relax into my rhythm. ** said a new voice.
"I'll try but I've no experience riding. My name is Solis by the way." Said Solis.
** I am called Blackfang. How did a kitsune end up traveling with the sidhe? ** asked Blackfang.
"Well Prince Zeaphur is my cousin." Replied Solis.
** Your cousin? The Prince of the Unseelie court has kitsune blood? ** said Blackfang.
"No I'm different. I was human but uncontrolled magic changed me into a kitsune. Originally I didn't even know there were others like me. It was only after Ty mentioned the Makai and tried to talk to me in Japanese that I found out about the Kitsune. Ty took me to the Makai and introduced me to a few Kitsune he knew. They introduced me to the Kitsune goddess Inari. She said I was starting a new life and needed a new name and so I became Solis. I stayed for about two months in the Makai learning about the Kitsune and being one. There's still a lot I have to learn." Said Solis with a sigh.
** Fascinating. It is good that you are learning your heritage. The Pack has many stories of your kind and the Fey. I hope- ** said Darkfang.
"Solis stop taking with the Wolf! He's heading for the castle!" yelled Davan.
Solis head snapped up in horror. His ears twitched and he realized Davan was right. Whatever Harry was chasing had changed directions and was making a bee line for the castle.
The Pack picked up their pace. The forest was flying by and all Solis could concentrate on was holding on. After passing some unicorns and some sort of scaly land octopus they finally caught sight of the Prince.
Two years hadn't changed Harry much physically. With his Fey blood more active his aging had started to slow down. Of course it had only been about a week in the mortal world but time between realms was funny. Physically he looked the same he had a week ago mortal time but he'd spent months learning to be sidhe, to act like a prince, having to deal with his Wild blood and the dark things it brought out in his personality, and discovering the changes that the ritual had brought forth in him.
Currently his long red hair was in a braid that flew behind him like a kite tail. A simple headband made of silver engraved with thorns marked him as an heir to the Unseelie throne. He was dressed in green leather pants with knee high black boots. A shimmering red and black silk shirt hugged his chest as he ran. A heavy black leather double belt carried a sword on the right hip and a long dagger on the left hip. Neither weapon slowing his relentless pace.
Flying by his side was a small fairy looking creature. A miniature woman with almost navy blue skin and vivid purple hair with streaks of light blue. Wings shaped like a dragonfly but colored like black opals. She was dressed in little black mini dress. Her only accessory was a tiny but deadly glaive.
A few paces before him ran two giant black dogs. One had a thick fur coat while the other had a fine short coat of fur. Another difference was one was a wizard while the other was a true hound of the Wild Hunt. Both were magical creatures and both took pleasure in the all consuming Hunt. They bayed the Hunt's call and the Wolves echoed their call.
The one bright side was they finally saw what Zeaphur was chasing. It went down hill from there though. On the outside it looked like Zeaphur was chasing a giant billy goat but the creature running was no goat. Despite outwards appearances under the shaggy fur was an armor like a crocodile. It's saliva was a deadly venom and it was strong enough to flip a muggle tank.
This was the creature a rather foolish troll once mistook for a billy goat. How muggles twisted that particular tale no one knows. The Gruvet as the creature is called did a lot more than knock the troll from the bridge.
A scenario ran through Aris's head and he decided to share his thoughts. "This is bad! The Gruvet is heading for the castle with the Prince right onto it's tail. The Gruvet will run right through any doors or even walls it has to. This will panic the wizards inside and we'll be running right into a firing squad of spells." Yelled Aris.
"Can we turn the Gruvet away from the castle?" yelled Davan.
** No. My Pack has hunted this kind before. Once they are in full run they will not turn. They run a straight line through anything they come across. They do not stop until they're dead or miles away from their pursuers. ** said Darkclaw.
"So what do we do?" cried Solis.
** We must bring down the Gruvet. If the hunt is over before we reach the castle then the Prince will be in no danger. ** said Darkclaw. This was not a suggestion but the order of the Pack leader.
Still despite being in sight both the Prince and the Gruvet were quite a distance ahead of them. The pace picked up once again from a ground eating loupe to a full out run for the kill.
Zeaphur must have felt the Pack's excitement because he also picked up speed after his prey.
Despite the added effort no one was able to reach the Gruvet until they were in the courtyard of the castle. The first made attack was by Thor when he lunged for the right hind tendon. Sirius was seconds behind going for the left hind tendon.
They didn't manage to take out the tendon but they managed to trip the Gruvet. It hit the ground and crashed into a castle wall. The Gruvet was quickly back on it's feet only to find itself faced with the Prince, Callisto, Thor, and Sirius with the Pack only moments away.
The Prince pulled his dagger and ran straight at the Gruvet with the other three at his side. Instead of attacking straight on Zeaphur jumped onto the Gruvets head as it tried to bite him then moved to stand on its back. The two dogs went for the creature's throat and Callisto went for the left eye.
Sirius managed to get a hold on the neck but he wasn't able to penetrate the armored skin. Callisto was successful in taking out the left eye which had the creature bucking and screaming in pain. Zeaphur was straddling the back with a hand full of shaggy fur to keep on. In his other hand was the dagger which was waiting for the right moment to strike.
The Pack plus its three passengers arrived to circle the bucking beast. Before they could do anything the Prince struck with the dagger. He stabbed it deep into the Gruvet's side then he jumped clear followed by Sirius who released his hold.
If nothing else the cries of the Wolves would have alerted the castle's inhabitants but added to the impact and screams of the Gruvet truly alarmed them. Especially the howls of the Darkke Hound which chilled the blood. A fair number of students recognized its call even if they never heard it before. Generations of bedside stories and local legends do make an impact. To the point the students and more than a few of the teachers were panicking.
The panic was ten times worse than when a troll had been found in the dungeon. Yelling for attention was useless. Professor Dumbledore had to resort to a blinding flash of light that sounded like a lightning strike.
"Silence! There will be no panicking. Professor McGonagall along with the prefects will lead everyone to the Griffyndor tower where it will be sealed until the Hunt passes us by. The rest of the teachers will come with me and see what we can do about the situation. Now go!" said Professor Dumbledore.
There were a lot of pale faces and hand holding but the prefects managed to herd the students out of the Great Hall and after Professor McGonagall. There faces were grave. Even when there was a troll loose in the castle they were just sent to their own houses but to place everyone in the Griffyndor tower and seal it told how serious the danger was.
Once all the students were marching off to the tower the rest of the teachers got up to confront the Hunt. Of all of them only one had any true idea of what they were facing. The returned Professor Lupin had recently become a lot more familiar with the Wild Ones. In fact from the sound of things Harry had finally arrived and he'd brought friends.
Lupin was curious how his fellow teachers were reacting to the prospect of the Wild Hunt, it could be important thing to remember for the future. Dumbledore had a serious face on but he smelled of fear. Flitwick's face showed fear but he smelled of determination, the master ready to fight. The filling in Care of Magical Creatures teacher Charlie Weasley was calm both in face and scent, time with dragons had taught him to relax under pressure. Most of the other teachers fell under the fear category but one stood out. Snape as usual had his own standards, his face was angry and his scent reminded Lupin of a cornered animal but that didn't make any sense. Why would Snape feel cornered?
When they reached the courtyard Lupin tried to puzzle together the situation. The Gruvet was the prey, Harry the hunter, Davan and Aris were bodyguards, most of the others were either along for the ride or enjoying the Hunt, but who and what were the giant wolves?
"Fry it Solis!" yelled Aris.
"Forget it! Zeaphur doesn't like his meat well done. He was extremely pissed off the last time I did that. You kill it!" Solis yelled back.
"My magic won't work on it! The most I'd be able to do is piss it off. Gruvet's have an immunity most kinds of magic. There's only three ways to kill them physical force, poison, or true elemental magic!" Aris yelled.
"I'll kill it!" yelled Davan only to find an angry little Furearie in his face, a tiny but deadly little glaive pointed between his eyes. "Or we'll wait for the Prince to kill it."
** It is the Prince's hunt. Let him finish what he started. We will help if needed. Besides interfering in another's hunt is rude. ** said Darkpaw.
"Was that supposed to be funny?" snapped Aris.
** No. **
"We have an audience." Said Solis.
"Aris go talk to them before they do something stupid." Said Davan.
"Why don't you talk to them?"
"I don't think Callisto wants me to move." Said Davan keeping a wary eye on the little fey still pointing her weapon at him.
"Fine but if they try their stick magic on me they're going to regret it." Said Aris.
"Solis go with Aris and make sure he doesn't start another war."
As the words left Davan's mouth Zeaphur moved to attack again. This time he pulled out the two knives from his boots. These were not pretty knives but they weren't supposed to be they were designed for use not beauty. The blades about eight inches long and slightly curved, but what made them nasty weapons were the hooks on the ends. These blades were made to cause more damage coming out than going in.
"He's going for the kill."
The teachers were startled by these words and turned to stare at Professor Lupin. It wasn't exactly the words that had disturbed them but the way he said it. His usually quiet and authoritive voice had an undertone of a growl and his faced showed a feral intensity.
"You are correct. The Prince is going for the kill. We're sorry for being late but it was better for him to get the wildness out of his system before coming. Unfortunately his prey decided to flee in this direction. I cannot say how much longer this will take but from the looks of things it should be over soon." Said Aris.
Unfortunately no one was listening to Aris, they were more focused on what was happening behind him with the dangerous creature and the obviously crazy young man. No one in their right mind attacked a Gruvet practically one on one without using magic of some kind. It was pure insanity and they couldn't keep their eyes away from the action.
"I don't know why I bother." Muttered Aris as everyone ignored him.
While Aris had tried to speak with the teachers Zeaphur went in for a second attack. It was more difficult this time since the Gruvet was cornered and hurt. One eye gone and a deep stab wound in the vicinity of the kidney. Zeaphur came within inches of being gored and got knocked away twice. Being knocked away was a thirty foot toss that bounced him off of the castle's stone walls. The whole time Zeaphur was smiling like a maniac. Just another reason the teachers thought he was crazy. He finally made the strike he'd been trying for. This daring strike put him directly in place to be trampled by the maddened Gruvet. His knives were hilt deep in either side of the creature's neck. He used his weight and some added strength to completely tear open the creature's throat.
The Gruvet gives a gurgling shriek as its throat was torn open. Then the beast starts bucking like the most insane rodeo bull. Zeaphur barely manages to roll away from the creature's hooves. He was covered in a shower of blood from the severing of the Gruvet's throat. After rolling far enough away Zeaphur kicked up and watched with pleasure as his prey died. Thor and Loki(Padfoot) stood at his side. They'd been attacking the Gruvet's flanks to give Zeaphur the chance at the throat shot.
The bucking Gruvet was like a chicken with its head cut off. It was managing to shower its blood around more than anything else. As it started to slow down Zeaphur moved to make the mercy blow. He liked to kill as cleanly as possible but for some creatures it was a most difficult task. In an insane move he grabbed the right horn then preformed a flip of some kind and was rewarded with a loud wet cracking sound and the Gruvet dropped to the ground dead. Its body still twitched a little and blood was still pouring over the stone but the creature was well and truly dead.
** Good Hunt young Prince. ** said Darkpaw.
"Thank you. Would your Pack share my kill with me? It is a bit much for me to eat alone." Said Zeaphur.
** The Deathstalker Pack would be honored to share your kill. Gruvets are quite tasty if one can bring them down. ** said Darkpaw.
Zeaphur smiled at the Great Wolf then moved forward and with a little work slit open the belly of the Gruvet. He removed a very large liver then motioned the wolves forward to feed. He cut off two chunks and gave them to Thor and Loki. A small hunk was given to Callisto and Davan accepted a modest piece of liver. Moving towards the teachers he offered a piece to Solis and Aris which they took.
"Would you care for some Professor Lupin?" asked Zeaphur.
The teachers started in shock at their fellow teacher.
"Yes please." Said Lupin and was handed a good sized piece.
"Would any of you other teachers care for some?" offered Zeaphur.
Most of the teachers looked rather sick at the offer but they managed to politely refuse but three teachers took Zeaphur offer. The first was Professor Flitwick the small Charms teachers was part Goblin so it wasn't completely surprising. The second was Charlie Weasley and he got a lot of shocked looks but he was used to dealing with dragons so freshly killed raw meat wasn't something new to him. The third was Professor Snape but he didn't eat the offer meat, he placed it in a jar he pulled from somewhere. Ever the Potions Master and not one to refuse fresh ingredients.
Zeaphur asked again to be sure everyone got a share then proceeded to eat the remaining hunk of Gruvet liver in his hand. He cut off bite size pieces with his knife and devoured it piece by piece. Although a few more pieces went to Thor and Loki. When the Liver was gone Zeaphur cleaned his knife and started to licked the blood from his hands.
Watching the new arrival lick the blood off his fingers was somewhere between disgusting and erotic. The fact he was doing it all unconsciously on a reflex said a lot about his nature. Everyone was staring but that wasn't surprising, an entrance like his would get anyone's attention.
"Sorry we're late." Said Zeaphur. He didn't bother offering an explanation. He'd learned that trying to explain the urges of the Hunt was a pointless endeavor.
With those words everyone's head swung to stare at Dumbledore. Being late meant you had been expected. An arrival Dumbledore hadn't shared with anyone else. Snape just hoped this wasn't the newest DADA teacher. Dumbledore had said he wasn't arriving until tomorrow but. You never know what Dumbledore is going to do. His choices for DADA teachers has always left a lot to be desired. Snape didn't exactly want the DADA position but he absolutely couldn't stand incompetence. If not for personal reasons Snape would have been perfectly happy having Lupin as the DADA teacher.
"No apologies are necessary, travel between realms is always imperfect. My name is Albus Dumbledore and I am the current Headmaster of Hogwarts school for Witchcraft and Wizardry. I'd like to welcome you and your party to our humble school." Said Dumbledore formally.
"We thank you for your warm welcome. The King wished me to convey his regards and thanks for indulging my curiosity. As you know I am Prince Zeaphur of the Throne of Thorns. My companions are Lord Davan of Spiderfalls, Lord Aris of the Thyphe, my cousin Solis of the Kitsune, my Xanya Callisto of Varsis, and finally my two familiars Thor and Loki. I fear I cannot introduce the others." Said Zeaphur.
** We are the Deathstalker Pack. My name is Darkclaw and I am Alpha of this Pack. It has been a long time since our kind has roamed the mortal realm. We are known as Great Wolves. We have business with the young Prince but it will wait for a few days. We will stay in the forest but if you'd allow we'd like to explore the castle from time to time. ** said Darkclaw.
"I find no problems with your presence here. If you'd be willing, since this is a place of learning would you perhaps host a few classes and tell us about yourselves? The Wizarding community has considered you extinct for over seven centuries. Very little about your kind is remembered." Said Dumbledore.
** That sounds like a fair exchange for your hospitality. We will return tomorrow to make arrangements. ** said Darkclaw.
** Excuse me Alpha but may I be allowed to stay in the castle? I would like the chance to record the ways of wizards. ** requested Blackfang.
** As an Echo it is within your rights to request this Blackfang but it is up to the wizards to grant your request. ** replied Darkclaw.
"Excuse me but what did you mean by Echo?" asked Dumbledore with interest.
** Blackfang is our Pack Echo. I believe your people used to call it a bard or story-teller? He holds the memories of the past. ** said Darkclaw.
"He's your historian?" asked Dumbledore trying to clarify.
** Yes and no. I am a living memory of the past. I hold the memories of the Echoes before me and the Echoes before them. ** said Blackfang.
"Amazing. We would be honored to allow you residence in the castle. Would you like a room of your own or would you prefer other arrangements?" asked Dumbledore.
** If he is willing I'd like to lodge with Solis. I find his company quite enjoyable. ** said Blackfang.
"I have no problem sharing a room with Blackfang." Said Solis.
"Then it's settled. Why don't we go back inside and get the students back into the Great Hall and finish the sorting. It has been a fascinating day and I feel tomorrow shall be even more so." Said Dumbledore. He bowed to the Darkclaw and led everyone else inside the castle.
Twenty minutes later saw the Great Hall once again full of students. They were rabidly gossiping but keeping quiet enough to hear anything said by or about the new comers. As soon as they had been locked into the tower they'd scrambled after its normal residents to the top where everyone practically hung off the tower ramparts to watch the action below. Various spells and magical devices were brought out to enhance their view of the action. Including the consumption of the kill and the licking of blood off his hands. The fact that the mystery hunter was standing in the Great Hall covered in drying blood with an unusual group of companions including a Grim, a Darkke Hound, and a giant Wolf. That's not even mentioning the two sidhe, the fox boy a few were able to identify as a Kitsune, and the odd dark blue fairy.
The teachers were back in their seats at the head table when Dumbledore stood and held up his hands for silence.
"Despite the earlier excitement we had not finished the sorting ceremony. There is one more student that needs to be introduced. I usually don't introduce students in this manner but this is a unique case. Prince Zeaphur of the Unseelie sidhe and Heir to the Throne of Thorns is going to be attending Hogwarts this year. Because of his standing his guards will be staying with him here at Hogwarts, if they wish they may participate in the classes or just watch. As you've noticed Prince Zeaphur has two familiars, one of which is the Darkke Hound you heard earlier. I have been assured that Thor will note attack unless his master is being endangered and that goes for Loki as well."
Dumbledore gave them a few minutes to process this before continuing. "We also have a guest joining us. His name is Blackfang and he is the Echo of the Deathstalker Pack. He's come here to learn about wizards and the rest of his Pack will be stopping by from time to time to learn about us and share some knowledge about themselves with us. So please show him the same respect you'd show any professor."
"I have one more announcement but it will wait until Prince Zeaphur has been sorted." Said Dumbledore and waved to Professor McGonagall proceed.
"Prince Zeaphur if you'd please come forward and sit on this stool. I'll then place the sorting hat on your head and it will decide in which house you belong." Said McGonagall.
Zeaphur moved forward easily. It wasn't like he was unfamiliar with the process or being stared at. One of the first things he'd learned from the sidhe was that staring and being stared at was natural. If you didn't want to be seen then you needed to do a better job of hiding. If you were in public and doing something then obviously you wanted to be watched.
Zeaphur sat down and Gordric's ratty old hat was placed on his head.
Interesting very interesting. We meet again young Mr.Potter. You have changed a lot since our last discussion. You retain the qualities that made you a good Griffyndor but many of the darker, not evil mind, but darker parts of your nature have developed. Your courage has down you well but it is time for your cunning to shine through. So I say.
"Slytherin!"
**********************end chapter six***************************
Author's notes- I know a lot of people end chapters on decision of the sorting hat but its such a perfect place to pause things! ^_^ Sorry that it took forever to write this part. I was being lazy along with lacking the proper inspiration to write this out. I hope it's long enough to satisfy for its long development. I almost released it earlier but I just wasn't happy how it was coming out. I fixed it and I'm much much happier with how it is now.
Xanya- it will be explained later
Kitsune- for those not familiar with YuYu Hakusho a kitsune is a fox spirit or fox demon
Makai- the demon realm, sort of like Faire but home to ogres, and various other demons including kitsunes
Echo- the title for the Great Wolf historians, they have great telepathic abilities that hold the oldest memories of generations of their Packs and their interaction with other races
I would also like to give a huge thanks to all the people who reviewed. Your comments always encourage me to continue even when I run into road blocks in this story. You have my gratitude and I wish you all Happy Holidays!!! ^_^
Everlasting Thanks go to:
jliles, Skysong, Bill Weasley, Luna the Moonmonster, Ranaiko, glimmer, sil, Aom, Water Fire Girl, obsidianflame (obsidianflameca@yahoo.com) , Atawalpa, Otaku freak, lirael15, web weaver , lady sakura, Creamy Mimi, and MercS
Hopefully my next chapter will come out much faster. I can tell you Snape will play a much bigger part in the next chapter and so will Draco.
All hail the Reviewers!!! HIP! HIP! HURRAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Next Chapter- "The Snake's Den"