Welcome back guys, thanks a lot for your messages, reviews and likes.
It's nice to read that you like my idea so far.
I'm sorry that the new chapter took so long to get online, but the last 2 weeks have been slightly stressful. However, I try to stick to my goal and update the story at least 1 time a month.
Without further babbling on my part, here follows the next part
Chapter 5: The Tiger's Path to Greatness II
The deed is forgotten, but the result remains. - Ovid
September 2, 1986, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Scotland, Europe
When Lily thought back to the summer holidays, they had turned into a sheer test of nerves for the now 14-year-old witch. After the visit to Gringotts with Sally at the beginning of the holidays, she had heard nothing more from her friend. At first, she had taken this as a good sign. A good sign that Sally had contacted her biological mother and that she could get to know her if only by letter. The idea that Sally was descended from a goddess was still difficult to comprehend and just too abstruse, but the young woman had also thought until before her eleventh birthday that magic was just a figment of the imagination and a good night story. Therefore, the thought was obvious, if magic existed then why not something like super powerful beings like gods. To this she remembered the words of her mother, which he had spoken when Professor McGonagall arrived.
"In every story, fairy tale, legend and myth there is always a grain of truth. Over time, the true meaning has been mixed and twisted with parables, symbolism, and the like - that doesn't mean the true nature of things isn't out there somewhere."
The entire car ride to Kings Cross and the boarding of the train, she couldn't get those words out of her head. She rejected Severus' attempts to engage her in conversation and sit in the same compartment with her. She had other things on her mind. That he tried to change her mind in an insistent, almost obsessive way didn't really help. The third time he tried, she went off the deep end and made it clear to him with her "wild lioness way", as Alice had once titled the tantrum, that she was not interested. James, who also tried to invite her into the compartment of himself and his friends, also got a juicy pinch of it. She promptly ignored the question about a date during the first Hogsmeade visit. His shouting after her didn't make the whole thing any better. Marlene and Alice, however, thought the whole thing was too funny and giggled like crazy behind hands held in front of them. Words like "oh man how long is that going to last..." or "she's blind, she likes him" were not heard by Lily, thank God. Otherwise, the next rant would have been pre-programmed. The search for Sally during the train ride had finally been successful and in the compartment where Amelia and some others of the study circle were, Lily found the young witch, demigoddess, demigod witch? What was her friend now? A silent exchange of glances and the twinkle in Sally's eyes told Lily that there was much to report, and it was obviously good news. What immediately caught her eye, however, was a leather clay bead necklace with two different coloured beads. One was purple bead on which was a torch, the other a blue one showed a much smaller symbol of a harp and the one straight line reminiscent of a Roman one. When her friend's gaze fell on her, the young Hufflepuff jumped up and threw herself into Lily's arms. A stifled cry of joy escaped Sally and she hugged Lily tightly. The whispered words, "Thank you, thank you, thank you," made it clear that it had worked, and the badger had contacted her birth mother. The hug was released, and Lily was unceremoniously pulled into the Hufflepuffs' compartment, where she then described her vacation. Lily's vacation was not as exciting as the others by a long shot, but her friends and classmates were interested in how the vacation with the family had been and whether her relationship with her sister had improved. As it began to get dark and everyone realized that they would soon be arriving at school, Lily set off to return to her compartment with Marlene and Alice. Sally followed her with the excuse that she had to go to the bathroom for little witches, so they made their way down the train. A few yards away, when they were undisturbed, Sally hugged Lily tightly again and tears of gratitude streamed down her face.
"I'll tell you all about it tomorrow when we're undisturbed. But I'm supposed to tell you a heartfelt thank you from my mother, and to tell you that she thinks your talent for witchcraft is outstanding"
The redhead's eyes grew as big as plates, her jaw dropped. She, Lily Evans, a Muggle-born witch had been complimented on her wizardry by Hecate. Hecate, the mistress of magic. She couldn't find her words again, so she opened her mouth and closed it several times without making a single sound. To which Sally laughed out loud.
"Your face, hahaha, if only I could hold that look. My mom was also super happy that I have someone like you here at Hogwarts to talk to and always be there for me. She thanks you from the bottom of her heart, sister. "
She winked at Lily once more
"Well go on Lily, you can't run up in the castle like that"
and pushed her on towards the back compartments. She was only half aware of the way back, her thoughts still circling around the few words Sally of Hecate, Lady Magic, had addressed to her. Gently but firmly, however, she was torn from her thoughts, for in front of her stood Bella. The black haired Slytherin smiled gently at Lily, though Lily saw that her smile did not reach her eyes. There was a stressed, worn look in them.
"Hello little fire head, how was your vacation?"
Without waiting for an answer, she continued in an urgent tone.
"Listen little sister, we need to meet as soon as possible without interruption, it's urgent. Shall we say tomorrow night after dinner in front of the library?"
"Is something wrong, Bella? Did something happen?!"
"No not yet, but I'm planning ahead in case something happens. I also have a solution ready; I'll explain everything tomorrow."
"All right Bella, I trust you. I will be there. I am incredibly happy to see you again"
"Me too little one, me too. You should get changed, we're almost there. I'm leaving now before anyone else comes to see where I'm staying. See you tomorrow."
She had hugged the fourth grader once more and disappeared with almost silent steps. Now burdened with even more unanswered questions and even more worries, she had made her way to her compartment. The stop in Hogsmeade, the ride up to the castle in the horseless carriages, the feast, and the walk up to Gryffindor Tower was just a brief swirl of colours and sounds. Once in the dormitory, she tried to distract herself a bit more with small talk, which she managed to do to some degree. But almost everyone present was completely exhausted, as they had been for the last four years, and so the conversation was short.
Startled awake from an extremely restless sleep, Lily dragged herself behind to breakfast. The only thing that gave her the strength to stay awake at that moment were the conversations with one of her best friends and her big sister, as Bella had explained to herself. The transfiguration class, which she usually enjoyed and distracted her, became a real test of nerves for the young witch. When it was finally over and she headed off to lunch, she became terribly nervous again. Sally's words came back to her and she was again gripped by excitement. She gulped down her lunch and told the others that she had forgotten to look something up and that it was of crucial importance for her essay in ancient runes to be done over the holidays and that she wanted to do her homework afterwards and apologized.
Outside the library, she met the young Hufflepuff. Silence. Neither of them apparently knew how to start such a conversation, let alone have one at all. They just start at each other for a moment. Then, finally, Sally threw herself into the young Gryffindor's arms again. After a slightly longer moment, Sally let go of her and pulled her into a secluded corner. There she began to tell Lily everything that had happened to her after the visit to Gringotts. How she had tried to write a letter to her mother and didn't really succeed, so finally her parents helped her put down on paper a formal, yet heartfelt letter. The mixed emotions as the owl flew off into the sunset, the anxious waiting that probably drove her parents to despair and gave her father a few new grey hairs. The euphoria and tension when the owl had returned after a good five days, a letter in its beak. The nervousness of opening it and pure relief of reading it and the unrestrained crying caused by simple yet loving words from a mother to her child. Her surprise caused by her mother's proposal to see her again and the invitation for her and her whole family to come to New York. The acceptance of the invitation, the flight, the excitement of arriving in America. The first meeting and the whirl of emotions, the harmony between her adoptive mother and her biological mother, the revelation and joy at the news that she had siblings, the trip to a summer camp where her siblings were also, the meeting with the director of the camp, another god, Dionysus, and the legendary centaur Chiron, the trainer of all heroes. She described the camp as a wonderful, magical, and homey place, the intense training and how her life otherwise had changed so much. But then she began to talk about the dark side of her new life, about the monsters and monstrosities that hunted and devoured children like her. About the strokes of fate, she had experienced during this time. She burst into tears again and again, it was clear to see how close it was to her to let go of family members she had just met. Sally had now spent several hours telling everything that had happened during her summer vacation. When Lily asked if she would go back next year, she said yes. But Christmas she would spend with her dad and her mom here in England, that was incredibly important to her. Whereas her dad had already considered moving to the States as soon as Sally was done with school, so the distance between camp and her family wasn't that far. It was already supper time as the two made their way to the Great Hall. Both were incredibly happy and beaming all over their faces. Sally pulled Lily into her arms once more and squeezed her with all her might as they made their way to the doors of the hall. Then they each went to their home table to eat something.
For Lily, eating was a welcome change from this intense and so emotional day. She ate as much as she rarely did but kept a close eye on the time. When she had to slowly make her way to meet Bella, she excused herself with the excuse of having to go to the bathroom and made her way up the flights of stairs and corridors again. She didn't wait long outside the library. Bella appeared not three minutes later. A sense of relief clearly visible, but still a certain tension, was evident on her face. She hugged the fourth grader with an intensity that rivalled that of Sally.
"Hi little one, had a good first day of school?"
"Hi Bella, yes he wasn't bad, although I was very nervous, what is this solution you were talking about?"
"Direct as always. That's what I appreciate so much about you, Lily. All right, follow me, we need to get to a place where no one will bother us. I already have an idea. Last year at the end of the school year I came across this room on the seventh floor by accident. It's just what we need," Bella grinned.
She turned around and Lily followed her, still curious, if a little worried, about what the plan was and how Bella was going to protect her. Because even though the papers kept trying to downplay it, there was something evil and dark brewing on the horizon. On the seventh floor, across from a tapestry, the two stopped. Bella paced up and down three times, muttering something Lily didn't understand. She blinked; where just a blink of an eye there had been a bare stone wall, the Gryffindor now caught sight of a richly decorated door carved with symbols. Bella let out a relieved sigh and hastily reached for the door handle. She opened the door and pushed Lily inside without saying a word and hastily closed the door.
The room was indescribable. It resembled a stone chamber from ancient tombs, decorated with murals of different types and colours. The floor consisted of a beautiful mosaic in red, green, yellow, and blue. The ceiling was characterized by an image of the night sky with its many different signs of the zodiac. In the centre of the room, a pentagram was painted on the mosaic with black paint. The tips of the triangles were illuminated with white wax candles. Within the pentagram, Lily could see a wooden bowl with carved runes, a silver knife similar to what she had seen earlier in the summer at Gringotts, and a bottle wrapped in wicker. But what was the point of all this? What was the plan?
"I bet you have questions, and I am truly sorry for dragging you here without even a hint of an explanation. Over the course of the last quarter of a year and the summer holidays, I have thought endlessly about how to protect you, who have become so dear and precious to me, at all costs. Finally, I found a solution, a blood pack, and an oath. This would allow us to never seriously hurt each other and no matter what oaths would ever come between us to always support each other. Provided you are willing?"
"Bella, you're scaring me. Do you think it will really ever come to that? When you talk like that, it's almost possible to believe that you're being forced to join these monsters. What brought this on?"
"I'm sorry, Lily. But I think it will be a sad reality. My parents will soon, begin negotiations for an arranged marriage with a family of these sympathizers and supporters. I am too terrified of what would happen if I would run away from home. I overheard them; they are planning this for all three of us. Andromeda is also already making arrangements to cover herself in such an event. I don't know her planning and don't want to know it, not because I don't love her, but precisely because I do. In case everything happens sooner, or I am forced under Veritaserum to betray her plans. But that is not important. What matters is that I don't lose you. You are the sister Cissy should have been. Therefore, I beg you, I implore you, please let us perform this ritual so that I can protect you.
While at the beginning of her speech she had looked down at the floor in shame, unable to look Lily in the eye, at the last part she had fallen to her knees and tears streamed down her otherwise so pretty face. Panic was in her eyes
Lily opened her mouth to speak but closed it unable to formulate a word or a response. Instead, she pulled the crying young woman to her feet and into a tight hug, holding her with all her might.
"Bella I am always there for you and I go this way with you. No matter what the others say, you are for me what Petunia once was. A role model, my big sister. And to me my family is above everything. Let's do this ritual."
Tears of joy streamed down her cheeks and she swayed in the redhead's embrace. An incredibly heavy burden fell from her shoulders. She took another breath, organized her thoughts, because the ritual required the utmost concentration. She grabbed Lily's hand and led her to the centre of the pentagram and sat down cross-legged on one side of the required objects. She gestured for Lily to do the same.
Lily settled down, her nervousness clearly visible, so Bella spoke in a soothing tone:
"Relax Lily, everything will be fine. Nothing can go wrong here."
Lily swallowed and nodded tentatively, she trusted Bella. The elder had already helped her with so many things and it had always been positive. Today was not going to be an exception.
In a solemn and reverent tone, Bella now spoke words, words so old and yet so powerful that even the tips of the hairs on the back of her neck curled and stood up. She grasped Lily's hands with her own. Bella's chanting grew deeper and deeper and her voice even more otherworldly. She swayed more and more into it, but before Lily could think any more, she realized how her own voice picked up the old chant and she too swayed back and forth to the beat. She felt her magic join with Bella's, and they harmonized. Golden threads had wrapped themselves around the two hands and sprouted like silk threads again and again from her wrists.
As abruptly as the chant had begun, it ended. Both seemed to wake up from their divided trance. They were still connected by the spun golden bond. Bella let go of her "little sister's" hands. She grabbed the bottle and uncorked it, pouring a purple liquid into the ornate bowl. The bowl seemed to be half full, but instead of drinking the potion, she reached for the silver dagger.
"O Mistress Magic, please defeat this pack of blood-sisterhood and friendship. May these here never war, but dwell in eternal friendship and harmony. Please I beg you, Mistress Hecate, hear the call of these mortals and seal this pack of newly formed family ties. So that they will never fight each other, be eternal allies. Support each other with all given possibilities. Untroubled by any oath power and servitude. So be it. Judge us and cases your judgment."
When she had spoken the last word, a purple glow filled her hands still bound by golden threads.
Lily felt like she was hearing a woman's voice in her head, and judging by the expression on Bella's face, she seemed to feel the same way.
"Lily Jenifer Evans, you and your blood-swear sister call upon me to seal the coming pack. I hear your prayers and have adjudicated your request. You have my blessing. From now on it shall be sealed by magic that you two have made a pact of eternal sisterhood, friendship, help and alliance. No power of magic shall break your bond."
After a moment of shock, Bella continued with the ritual and proceeded to cut her hand. the palm of her hand was above the bowl, but to make the whole situation even more abstract, the voice spoke to Lily again.
"You are indeed extraordinary young Lily. I can understand why my daughter is taken with you. You and your sister can trust her, give her my regards. A Bond of Sisterhood is always something to cherish…"
Before she could wonder if the words had really been spoken, Bella continued in a solemn voice.
"I, Bellatrix Black, hereby give you my blood, that there may never be war between us. Here's to an eternal bond of friendship, mutual aid, and alliance against all outsiders. United as sisters in all, even blood. Should she be in need, I answer unconditionally. So, I swear, by my magic."
She cut her palm open, and the blood flowed into the bowl and mixed with the potion. When the right amount had flowed out of the wound, it closed. Bella now placed the dagger next to the potion bottle with the tip facing her. She handed the bowl to the young lioness with the words:
"Drink now little sister. Let's seal the pack fully."
Lily grasped the bowl with both hands and replied in an unexpected solemn voice. "Indeed sister. So that no one can separate us"
She put the mixture to her lips and drank. Surprisingly, it tasted of wild berries and sea salt. In large gulps she emptied the contents and put the vessel back in its place. She instinctively reached for the bottle, guided by an invisible hand, and poured the rest into the bowl. Then she reached for the dagger and repeated the same words that Bella, her big sister, had spoken:
"I, Lily Jenifer Evans, hereby give you my blood, that there may never be war between us. Here's to an everlasting bond of friendship, mutual aid, and alliance against all outsiders. United as sisters in all, even blood. Should she be in need, I answer unconditionally. So, I swear, by my magic."
Bella grabbed the bowl and drank it empty. A surge of magic gripped them both and the intertwined ribbons seemed to grow hot, the purple glow pulsing ever more violently and a feeling of warmth and connection spread through them. Just before the blackness of unconsciousness enveloped them, they were both sure it had worked. A smile spread across their faces and they welcomed the darkness.
29 May1984 Forbidden Forest, Hogwarts, Scotland, Europe
Relief. Excitement. Anticipation. Heartbreak and many more emotions coursed through de Hunters of Artemis when, after severe hardships and a road that seemed to drag on endlessly, they had made it. They had finally arrived at their destination, the current whereabouts of their mother and mistress. On the way, the number of roaming monsters had become larger and larger, that it was one or the other time it came despite all caution and planning to the fight. Although they always emerged victorious from the skirmishes and had no casualties, their morale and fighting spirit had fallen significantly in view of the sometimes some serious injuries. The younger among them now realized in full force why the oldest among them spoke with great respect about this stretch of land and why the vote had been necessary and unanimous before their departure from the States. Here in the wilderness far from the influence of the gods it was even more dangerous than in any place they had yet reached. The number of sisters to be awake had tripled from two to six, otherwise they feared to meet an untimely end in their sleep and not to see their mistress again. But that was now behind them. As soon as they reached the valley landscape and thus the vicinity of the school and the lonely village, they felt how they had passed through a magical barrier. An invisible weight lifted from their shoulders, they were safe from the monsters of their world and life, and now had to look exclusively for the strange, malevolent creatures of Hecate's world. However, they quickly pushed this dull thought aside as they entered the forest surrounding the castle grounds. Deep within, creatures of darkness dwelled, they sensed. As they followed a path towards the school, they saw how the cobwebs, which at first seemed small and harmless, grew larger and larger and acted as giant traps. Ananke's brood had taken up residence here. They gripped their bows, hunting knives, spears, and swords tighter. If these creatures were eager for a fight and saw them as prey, they would show them what happened when one messed with the Hunters of Artemis. An hour passed. They had now wandered almost the entire forest, still alert and ready to fight. Yet they encountered nothing. It was already sunset when they made camp in the clearer part of the forest in a clearing large enough for them to set up camp and still have room to keep a distance between them and the trees. The night was restless and none of them was completely comfortable, but the thought of their mistress helped them find some comfort in Morpheus' dreams.
The next day came, clear and pure. The atmosphere that weighed on the forest could still be felt, but it was no longer as threatening as it had been last night. The watchers had seen or heard nothing out of the ordinary, except for a unicorn. They interpreted this as a good omen, as it stood for virginity and thus for their mistress. Instructing their wolves to guard the camp, they now set out in the shade of the trees to watch the school. Apollo had given them a description, so they knew what their mistress looked like in the guise of a mortal. And so, they waited, the morning passed slowly and tenaciously, at noon there was briefly hectic activity in which huntresses could make out several groups of young girls and unfortunately also boys.
Some of them could hear Pheobe grumbling: "Why can't it be a girls' school, why do these nasty creatures, these boys have to run around here too".
The afternoon dawned. The mood was again at its lowest point. They had not yet seen any sign that their mistress was really here. Although the logical part of their minds told them that it was just the first day and they had to be patient, after such a long time of separation it was hard for all of them to keep this in mind. But then it was already 5 p.m., Cassandra heard Amy snapping to attention next to her. Waking up from her dull thoughts, she looked in the direction her younger sister was looking.
Coming down the lawn there was a group of girls, all the same age of 12. In their midst walked a suspiciously familiar looking auburn redhead. Their mistress and mother. It was really her. Not a hundred feet away from them. Both Huntresses nudged the sister standing next to her and pointed in that direction. After a few moments, the happy news spread, and Cassandra slipped a Zoë frozen in stone. Pheobe and Atalanta also unobtrusively joined their current leader.
The whole hunt was watching what the group of 8 girls was doing on this early summer day. The eight friends laughed boisterously, made jokes, and talked about all sorts of things.
Zoë, on the other hand, followed every movement, every interaction of the girl, no matter how small, and sucked in the laughter of her Artemis. Unconsciously, the otherwise proud daughter of Atlas began to cry. It was just too much. Her thoughts, circled only around her Artemis. She wanted to embrace her, hold her close, never let go, kiss her, tell her everything that had happened to her and her daughters. But also, thoughts like taking her back to her tent, holding her all night, making love, and showing her Artemis how much she had missed her wife were not out of her mind when she saw the small, sweet redhead. Her cheeks burned with all these imaginings. Without realizing it, she had already taken a few steps forward, but then encountered resistance. Her three closest friends, no stop daughters, looked at her with tears in their eyes. All three held her tightly so that she would not do anything stupid. A deep understanding and sorrow were in their looks. But their eyes spoke not only of apology but also of determination. Zoë relented and her grips loosened. All four pulled themselves into a tight, almost aching hug, which the rest of the Hunters followed. And so, they held on, just watching.
After an hour, something happened again. A boy, pale, black hair of medium length, black eyes approached the group of girls. The Hunters did not like him at all. Even at a distance they could see the fanatical obsession and greed in his eyes and face. He spoke to her and did not pay attention to the others; he did not even greet them.
"I really hope that this something is not the one the prophecy spoke of. I will prevent someone like that, he is not worthy of Me... Mother." whispered Amy resentfully.
"Aye. I'm with you there, sister. We'll keep an eye on this scum. The look on his face doesn't bode well." Daphne also confirmed her thoughts
"I feel he will still play a big role. But I don't think it's too good. I can't tell you where from, this feeling comes sisters. Maybe it has to do with father. I agree we should keep an eye on him."
"Sisters, we will camp here for a while, perhaps the opportunity will arise to get more sisters. Until then, we will watch over our mistress and mother." The lieutenant announced in a choked but determined voice.
The others agreed and continued to watch them from a distance without being discovered. The pale boy, at least, was already on their blacklist. Just as they were about to turn away to leave, another group of boys appeared. The pale boy seemed clearly annoyed by this fact. The group all dressed in capes of black with red sleeve tips. Joyfully greeted the group of girls. The Hunters also noticed how much the girls relaxed at each other's presence and it became a happy conversation. Their mistress and a boy with raven-black hair and glasses seemed to be bickering, in a way they already knew their mistress and Apollo. But there was no doggedness or belligerence, no, they just seemed to get along. The observed ones all raised their eyebrows, they would not forget the sight of the boy so quickly. They would also observe him.
Atalanta, for her part, felt that this boy would also play a certain part in the future of her mother and mistress. However, it was a positive feeling, completely different from that of the pale boy.
Suddenly there were shouts of indignation, the pale boy and the girls were obviously arguing violently about something. The wind had shifted so that they could hear fragments of the conversation. What they heard set all the alarm bells ringing inside them. The pale boy, for instance, thought he was something clearly better and insulted the young girls. The indignant shouts of the girls could not be ignored. The group of boys had placed themselves between the boy and their mistress. The wands, as Layla had explained, raised. In the face of this superior number, the boy shouted something else unintelligible and ran away. The leader of the boys' group spoke to the girls in a rumbling tone, so that the wind carried his words across.
"...Will pay for what he said. Schifelus, if I catch him, I'll get him." And with these words, the boys got up and left. The girls were also up after a short conversation, they shook their heads once more and they too walked away. The Hunters stood there for a moment, looking, and went on their way as well.
September 2, 1986, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Scotland, Europe
Contentment and bliss. Peace. These were the first thoughts and feelings that flowed through her when she regained consciousness. She opened her eyes. She was still in the strange room. The room that Bella, her big sister had pulled her into. Bella was lying across from her. Still in the land of unconsciousness. A smile on her lips. Without a care or so it seemed to Lily. The first time since she knew her great idol. Otherwise, her purple eyes had always been full of tension and a hurried expression was in them. She seemed content and happy. But then reality hit her again with all its harshness. How much time had passed? Would the others notice anything? What would Sally say about the conversation between her and her mother? What would she think of Bella? What about the others? How would her friends react? How would Marlene and Alice, the dear ones look at her?
She looked at her wristwatch. No more than half an hour had passed since she had entered this room. It was just ten past eight. Twenty minutes before curfew. Having made up her mind, she cautiously approached the apparently sleeping woman so as not to startle her. Tentatively, she touched the shoulder of the older woman and gently shook her.
Bella moaned and woke up from her so wonderful dream. She was in a world where Andromeda, the little fire head, and she lived happily away from the reprisals of the world. Away from the racists and bigots. She looked up and discovered her little fire head. An honest and casual smile became an ever-widening grin on her face.
"Hey fire head, you all right? It worked. I can feel the magic that connects us. It was incredible. Now nothing can stop us"
"Hey, yeah I'm fine. No, I'm fantastic. I'm overjoyed to finally have a big sister looking out for me again. Thank you. It was really incredible. Did you hear the voice too?"
Bella threw herself into the arms of the petite redhead. Tears of joy streamed down her face when she heard the words Big Sister.
"I'm happier than I've been in a long time. I could sing and dance. Yes, I also heard the voice. It was indescribable. Lady magic really helped us and sealed the pack." A shudder ran through her, she had never felt so much power and charisma. It had been arousing.
"Should we tell your sister Andromeda about this? That she has a little sister again?" asked Lily innocently. Because if she was honest, the thought of having two big sisters at once, even if they birthed by the same parents, was just too tempting
Bella's eyes grew wide. She hadn't thought about that at all. She had been too busy thinking about convincing Lily to do the pack, she hadn't planned what came next. Tears formed in her eyes again.
"If you don't mind, I'd love to. I'll tell her later when I catch her alone. For our own safety, no one we can't trust absolutely should know about this. There are dark times coming and the less the others know the better."
"All right, I'm really looking forward to meeting Andromeda. I'd also very much like to bring someone in. Her name is Sally. I'm sure you've seen her before. Lady Hecate said to me that it would be good if she knew."
"Lady Hecate spoke to you?!" Bella's eyes widened; she had not expected such news.
"Yes. I have never felt so small in the face of her presence in my life. I think it would be wise to comply with the request. There is one more thing, do all the old wizard families worship the old gods?"
"No, you are absolutely right, we must comply with this wish. Lady Hecate is also our mistress as patroness of witches. To ignore her wishes would be fatal. Yes and no, some of the very old families like the Blacks, the Malfoys, the Lestrange, the Potter, Longbottoms, the Bones or the McKinnons do. But the majority have forgotten the rites of the "old way""
"Okay, I didn't know that at all. I didn't find anything in the library about such ancient days rites either. Since I found ancient runes, I find this subject of the ancient times extremely exciting."
"This is because many today pay homage to cult figures. People like the principal, for example. In the process, they forget where the cradle of their abilities and power really comes from. It's been that way since the days of Merlin."
"Fascinating...do you know anything more about it?"
"Easy there, little one. Yes, I know more. But there's time for that another time. It's almost curfew for sure and we both need to get to our common rooms. I don't want to be responsible if my little sister gets in trouble."
"Okay, okay. Promise me you'll tell me more, though, Big Sister."
"I promise Lily"
"Thank you, Bella,"
They hugged each other tightly once again. Too happy about the events of the day. What neither of them knew, however, was that the consequences of the pack would catch up with them years later and change the lives of four souls forever.
They had parted at the staircase on the seventh floor. One tight hug later, the black -haired girl broke away from the redhead and after one last look back, Bella made her way down to the dungeons and the Slytherin common room. Lily gazed after her for a moment longer, then turned into the Fat Lady's corridor. Once in the common room, she was bombarded by questions, but managed to talk her way out of it with half-truths. Soon the conversation turned to other topics, allowing Lily to relax. Her smile from before returned and was impossible to wipe away for the rest of the evening. Even James Potter's comment didn't faze her, even though it had been a strong fight.
"You always look good, especially when you smile like that, would you like to join me for the next Hogsmeade Weekend".
"In your dreams Potter, no"
To which Marlene and Alice giggled and whispered excitedly. She looked at them in confusion, which only made them giggle and whisper even more. By the time she climbed into bed around ten, she had only really realized how happy she was about the day's happenings. Falling into a deep and extremely peaceful sleep, she was still smiling.
The next day began and still the irrepressible joy flowed through Lily from the whole and deepest heart. Throughout the day, she set such a pace and such a zeal that she was stared at by teachers and classmates alike. But she paid no attention to the stares, instead keeping an eye out for a certain Hufflepuff with whom she desperately wanted and needed to talk. Throughout the day, however, it seemed as if there would be no possibility of catching her friend alone. But then she had an idea: she wrote a short message to Sally and tied it to Selene's leg. In it she asked for a meeting in private, saying she had some things to discuss that were not meant for all ears. She mailed the letter and climbed into bed. The efforts of the day showed their toll and so she slept. The next day she saw Selene perched on her bedpost. A dead mouse in her beak and a small piece of parchment in her claws. Carefully, trying not to wake the others yet, she rose and stroked the head of the faithful owl that had now swooped down. The clever animal dropped the message from its talons and stuck out its chest proudly, presenting Lily with the freshly caught mouse. "Well done, Selene. You're a classy huntress," the owl let out a hoot, brushed his head once more and flew away out the window. Lily unrolled the message that said Sally would meet her after ancient runes. Her heart began to pound again. Nervousness was setting in. How would she react? What would she say? Would she still remain her friend? Or would she be mad, that it wasn't her who did the ritual?
But the assumed telling off did not happen, rather the opposite happened. Sally placated her and assured her. That she wasn't mad and could understand the reasons behind the secrecy. Her mother and her older siblings during summer vacation had warned her about the terrorists. She too believed that the previously rather disorganized attacks on muggleborns, their families, the Muggles were merely a cover-up for something far darker and more threatening. Sally had to laugh so heartily and boisterously at her mother's words that they were thrown out by Madam Pince and not allowed to return until the next day. Lily's pouting over her punishment only made the Hufflepuff laugh harder. But you could see how pleased she was at her mother's words. That sight alone had been worth flying out of the library for the ambitious redhead.
The weeks and months flew by. During this time, Lily also got to know Andromeda, Bella's younger sister. The two harmonized from the first moment, which brought them the one or other joking comment from Bella. However, all three kept quiet about what would happen if the parents of the two Blacks continued to move about arranged marriages. For as nice a time as it was for the three, they were all dreading the holidays. Since Bella would be done with school then, the first action against the three sister that would happen there would be. A thought that made them shiver.
Her friendships with members of all the houses were really blossoming and the learning circle that had existed since her first year at Hogwarts was still a good place to meet all her friends, share, learn and laugh too. Her friendship with Remus Lupin, one of the few male friends she had was also still as thick as it had been since that day in third grade. The day he had confessed to her what he was and where he always disappeared to every full moon. Even though he couldn't keep from making some stupid comments to her, which led to Marlene, Alice and Olivia always teasing her about it. But she enjoyed those moments to the fullest as well. Remus comments were mostly about James and her, and as a close friend of both parties, he couldn't help but gush over Lily's vehement denial to her attraction to James. The bruises and giggles from Lily's friends told him that he had hit the right nerve and that Lily's friends saw it the same way he did.
The school year otherwise passed without further incidents worth mentioning, apart from Snape's abstruse advances and his attempts to impress Lily and win her over. He showed her more Dark Arts spells and bragged about his arts. But exactly the opposite happened because Lily was anything but taken. More and more often, the two of them argued more and more violently, and it was Snape who came to Lily each time and asked her to forgive him and give her another chance. Furthermore, the headlines of the Daily Prophet became more and more gloomy. There were more and more reports of attacks, murders, and mysterious disappearances. The group that was apparently responsible for these acts used the sign of a skull with a snake running through it. A hideous symbol. Also, the attacks of werewolves had taken in the last months strongly to, it had come at the beginning of the school year to isolated incidents, so happened now with each full moon at least one attack. Lily went with an uneasy premonition into the summer holidays, which then turned out to be true.
In the middle of the holidays, she received a letter from Bella. It was after midnight and Lily had been trying to fall asleep for several hours but sleep just wouldn't come. Half asleep, she heard a familiar tapping at the window of her room. A beautiful black owl was knocking at her window. Hastily she got up. A bad premonition awoke again in full force. This time worse than before. She opened the window. The owl hovered in, dropped the letter, and hovered out the window again before Lily could react.
There on her bed it lay. The letter that made her and especially Bella's worst premonitions come true. It had become reality. With trembling hands, she opened it. She immediately recognized Bella's sweeping handwriting.
"Dear Lily,
my little sister. I am infinitely sorry to have to write these lines, but the crisis has occurred. At the same time as you are reading this, a marriage contract is being signed between my parents and one of the dark family, the Lestrange. My grandfather Arcturus is more than angry. He wanted us to make our own decision about which son to marry from the old families and about the conditions the family insisted on. In fact, the son insisted on barbaric clauses that will render me practically will-less. I will be only an empty shell and will obey his wishes. I am so infinitely sorry little fire-head that we had so little time together. I would have loved to tell you so many things, to teach you, to laugh and to support you in everything. My only hope and my ray of hope is that I know you are safe, and should I ever be in need, you will be there for me. And another ray of hope that should give you strength is, that I insisted during the negotiations that I will never raise a hand against my own blood, my sisters. So Dromeda and you are safe. I know that all this is only a small consolation, but it gives me the strength to write these last lines of farewell. You and Andy take care of each other. Stand by each other and help each other, this is my last word as a big sister to you. With love, your big sister,
Bella
P.S. Cissy has willingly accepted the situation and is lost to me, but Andy and Sirius flew out of the house after a fierce argument with my aunt and uncle. They did what I could not, take care of each other. Dark times are almost upon us.
Tears streamed down her cheeks at these yet so simple and yet so loving lines. Her legs gave way, and she sank to the floor. It had happened and even worse than she had expected. These animals selling their daughter for money and prestige just like that... Lily vowed to herself no matter what happened, she would find a way to rescue Bella from this fate. Lily spent the rest of the vacation grieving deeply over the fate of the Black sisters and Sirius. She could not understand why a family would be so ignorant of their children's wishes and turn them into mere objects of convenience. Her parents wondered about the dejection and sadness their daughter radiated, but Lily did not want to talk about the subject, the pain she felt was too great and too fresh. The wedge between Petunia and Lily had opened to new dimensions. Petunia had brought her first boyfriend Vernon home for the first time. And no matter how hard Lily tried to be kind to this young man, she could not. Vernon was a constant stickler for the normal and the regular. He deeply detested even the slightest abnormality. Her parents, Lily could see, were not particularly pleased either, but they were happy for their daughter found some that cared for her. The holidays were finally over, and Lily had packed her suitcase and was ready to leave.
At Kings Cross, she didn't look for her friends as usual, but for 'Dromeda. She found her in a compartment at the end of the train. She was sitting there at the end of the train with her cousin Sirius. Both looked as if they had endured severe hardships. But they were both smiling, as if everything had still turned out all right. Lily knocked.
Andromeda looked up, smiled, jumped up and pulled Lily into the compartment. Sirius, who didn't know until then that the two knew each other, looked puzzled at the spectacle.
"Hey big star. How are you?"
"Hey little fire head, it's going to be okay, I hope. But it still hurts what happened."
"I'm so sorry for what happened. I still can't believe your parents and aunt you uncle are capable of something like this."
Sirius, who had remained silent until now, suddenly burst out:
"You know each other? And how do you know what happened? I..."
But that was as far as he got Lily had let go of Andromeda and pulled Sirius into an embrace.
"I'm sorry, if I had known what was going on I would have helped you."
Now Lily had to grin
"Of course, I know Dromeda. She's my big one, after all. That would be a bit strange otherwise. But enough about me. How are you? Did you find someone to spend the holidays with?"
"You are so sweet to worry about me little sister. I've been staying with Ted and his family. Wasn't the way I wanted to introduce myself to the family, but it's for the better. I'll tell you the rest later in private" she winked mysteriously
"And you Sirius?"
"I've been staying with the Potters. James' mom is kind of my aunt. But she's like
Andy and me. I feel more at home with the Potters than anywhere else."
"I'm pleased to hear that. Really. Andy, do you have a moment later I want to show you something?"
"Sure, for you but always, little one. I also must tell you something, but we do that between us.
Sirius still looked back and forth in shock. Never in his life would he have thought that the two of them knew each other, or even knew each other so well. While he had imagined that the two would get along extremely well, not this well. However, he was pleased. Andy had always been a good soul and with Lily by her side, she would be able to overcome the pain of what had happened. He stood up, said goodbye to the two young women, and headed off to join his friends. He had to clear his thoughts.
When the door closed behind them and Sirius left, Lily pulled the letter from Bella out of her pocket and handed it to Andromeda. She unfolded it and began to read. Halfway through, her hand began to tremble, and tears rolled down her heart-shaped face. She pulled the redhead into a bone-crushing hug and sobbed bloodcurdling sobs. Lily held her close and cradled her, yet both felt the same pain. Dromeda finished reading the letter, sniffled once more, and wiped her face. In an attempt to cheer her up, Lily invited the seventh grader to join her and her friends in their compartment. But Andromeda declined with thanks, saying she would sit with Ted and the Hufflepuffs, but was incredibly happy for the invitation.
So, for the rest of the train ride, Lily sat with her Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Gryffindor friends, trying to distract herself and fight the sadness that was still rising. She was doing well, too, as Olivia, Alice, and the others were always making her laugh or giggle about who was dating whom or when one of the others was playing pranks. But the absence of Severus puzzled Lily. Otherwise, he had always shown up wanting to talk to her or invite her to his compartment. A thing she had always refused, because she didn't like the friends, he surrounded himself with and the stares that gaped at her were too much for her. But also, the relationship with him had become cooler. She used to call him Sev and always defended him, but now it was Severus and more and more often she was on the opposite side of their arguments. But she didn't want to rack her brains even more now, didn't she already have enough on her plate. This year was one of the most important in her time at Hogwarts. There were only ten months left until her first graduation. The O.W.L.s. This degree would decide her later career in the world of magic. On top of that, there was the grief over Bella. The conversation with Andy. And then there was the annoying, but also kind of sweet James. It was maddening.
Time at Hogwarts seemed to pass even faster than usual for Lily this year. One moment it was the beginning of the school year and the opening festival. The next moment it was already Halloween and before she had really registered it was already
Christmas. An important date. This year, for the first time, she would not spend Christmas at home, but experience it in the castle. The reason for this was the conversation Lily and Andromeda had on Halloween. A meeting which should remain very well in her memory. It had been a wet autumn day. Wind and rain had taken a firm grip on the lands and the inhabitants of the castle, keeping them indoors. In an empty classroom on the sixth floor, Andy and Lily had arranged to meet before the feast. When Lily got there, however, Andy was not alone. Standing next to her, Ted had put his arm around Andy in a loving gesture. For a moment, no one had said anything. 'Dromeda and Ted seemed extremely nervous, but also happy. After a stuttering and bumpy start, the fact came to light that Andy was pregnant and expecting the baby this winter around December. Lily was beside herself with joy and congratulated them both from the bottom of her heart. Then, however, her mood had flipped 180 degrees. She had her hands on her hips and was staring at them both out of narrowed eyes. Even though well a foot shorter than Edward reared up in front of him, her presence seemed to fill the entire room. She gave them both a telling off like her friends had already experienced, which they had christened "Fire Cry." Words like reckless and rash were some of the words that had fallen there. In the end, however, she pulled the two frozen ones into a hug and assured them that she would always be there for them and support them no matter what. A gesture that the two had accepted only too gladly.
This was also just the reason why she was now in front of the doors of the hospital wing on December 24. Beside her walked a Edward pacing up and down with completely bare nerves. It seemed to take an eternity before Madam Pomfree opened the doors and they were finally allowed to enter after several hours of waiting. There on the rearmost bed by the window under the rising moon, lay Andromeda. In her arms was a small bundle. Andy caught sight of the two and beamed. But the two newcomers could see how worn and tired the newly turned mother was. Edward stepped to his girlfriend's side and held her and his child close. Lily stayed a little behind. Definitely didn't want to disturb her in such an intimate moment as this. But Ted brought her close at Andromeda's side glance. In the bundle of cloths, Lily could make out the head of a girl. It had Andromeda's heart-shaped face and her father's nose. It was asleep and in the light of the rising moon it was an indescribable sight. But as Lily moved closer, its eyes opened. Curious and fascinated, they start at Lily. Her mouth opened and a happy squeaking sound escaped from the little one. But that was not all. Eyes still fixed on Lily; the little tuft of hair suddenly changed. What had been raven black before now suddenly became chestnut red. The eye colour also changed from a hazel to Lily's own. The new parents held their breath. It was something they had not expected. The young baby laughed again and looked around to discover her father. Immediately it took on Ted's hair colour and eye colour. Andromeda was in tears. After all that had happened to her, this was a real gift from heaven. And she swore to herself no matter what would come, she would defend this gift with all her might and power.
"Andy, what happened? I've never heard of anything like this"
"Lily, my daughter is what is called a Metamorphmagus. It is an extremely rare talent. No one can say exactly how it is inherited. The chances are so slim that there are barely a hundred in the world."
"Oh, my gods. I'm so happy for you guys. After all the hardships you've been through, this is really a gift. What is the little one's name? Have you decided on a name yet?" Lily blurted out and approached the young family and hugged both parents out of pure joy.
"We talked about it over the holidays. I've been of the opinion that Andy should pick the name. That's how it's done in my family. The fathers the sons and the mothers the daughters." Gave Ted, still beaming all over his face.
"Honey I have the perfect name for our little angel. Nymphadora. Nymphadora Bella. The name means gift of the nymphs. It suits her, she has such a rare and wonderful gift and is a gift and blessing to the two of us. Bella because my big sister gave up everything to protect us."
Tears came to the eyes of all three. Was it an incredibly beautiful description and a fitting name? Ted nodded and pulled his girlfriend into his arms and kissed her. "That's the way it's supposed to be. Now there are two things left to do."
He reached into the pocket of his cloak and took out something that Lily could not really see. But that was not enough, he went down on one knee in front of the sickbed. Both women gasped for air. Andromeda began to cry again. Too many emotions were running through her. Ted spoke in a solemn voice:
"Andromeda, we have known each other for several years now and in all that time you have always filled my life with joy. Even though it was often difficult, we always stuck together as a team and overcame all difficulties. Today you have given me the greatest gift I could ever ask for. The next time will certainly not be easy, but I know that we will make it together. So, I want to ask you, Andromeda, will you be my wife?"
"Ohh Teddy Bear" Andromeda sobbed again at the top of her lungs. She nodded through her tears. Ted rose and put the presented ring on her ring finger. He kissed her with all the love and tenderness he could muster. Lily, meanwhile, had little Nymphadora in her arms and they both looked happily at the spectacle. The new-born gurgled happily to herself. Madam Pomfree, who had been watching the spectacle unnoticed until now, blew her nose and thus drew attention to her presence. "That among one of the most beautiful moments I had ever experienced in these premises. I wish you three all the happiness in the world" and with another sniff into her cup cloth she went back to her office.
Lily now handed Nymphadora to her father. She immediately snuggled up to her father and looked at him out of big now purple eyes. The father looked lovingly down at his daughter and cradled her gently.
"Lily, don't think we've forgotten about you. Andy and I have thought long and hard and there is no one else to whom we could pay this tribute. Especially in these fractious times, it's important to me that my daughter is always taken care of. Will you, Lily, be Nymphadoras godmother?"
Lily stared wide-eyed at both of them, but the very next moment she was in Andromeda's arms. Tears were rolling again.
"Andy, I don't know what to say. I'm speechless. I never expected this. I accept."
"We knew you would say yes, Fire head. I really can't think of anyone better than you."
"Andy, Ted, whatever happens you can be sure. I promise I will always be there for you and Nymphadora and be the best godmother there is in the whole world."
"We know that, and that's why we've chosen you. And should you finally find a husband, he will surely be the best uncle our sweetheart could wish for."
"Do I have to partake a ritual? Or take an oath?"
"Yes, it's a ritual. But don't worry it's nothing bad. I will guide you step by step." And with these words Andromeda reached beside herself. She took out a silver dagger from the nightstand next to her bed and handed it to Lily.
"Cut your hand with it and repeat after me. Don't worry there won't be any injury." Lily pulled the dagger from its sheath and placed the blade against her palm. She took another deep breath and nodded.
"I swear by my blood and magic to do everything in my power to see that no harm befalls my godchild Nymphadora, daughter of Andromeda and Edward Tonks, and to take her in and raise her as my own flesh and blood in the event of her parents' untimely demise."
Lily cut her left palm with the dagger and repeated:
"I swear by my blood, life and magic to do everything in my power to see that no harm befalls my godchild Nymphadora, daughter of Andromeda and Edward Tonks, and to take her in and raise her as my Eugene flesh and blood in the event of her parents' untimely end."
A silver glow emanated from Lily's hand and wrapped itself protectively like a blanket around her goddaughter. At the same time, the wound in her hand closed, leaving no trace of injury. Andromeda smiled and spoke:
"It's done and it worked. Thank you little one. You don't know how much this means to me" and pulled Lily into another hug
"No, you don't know how honoured and touched I am by that. Thank you both."
Lily disengaged and now pulled Ted into a hug as well, careful not to crush her goddaughter. She turned to the little one and gave her a kiss on the forehead.
"I'll leave you three alone now though. A little time to yourselves before the whole school finds out will do you good" Lily smiled and waved goodbye once more and left the hospital wing.
The birth of the little one was predictably the number one topic of conversation after the Jule holidays. But most of the commotion died down within a few days. Only the Slytherins were more than indignant about the incident and the looks that some gave the young parents spoke of bad intentions. The whole thing escalated to the point that the headmaster had to put his foot down and the couple and their daughter had to be relocated. The reason was several near assaults by students of dark families that could have caused permanent damage. During this time, however, Lily was not the only one who visited the three. Sirius and James also came to congratulate the engaged couple on their baby happiness. Lily was also accompanied several times by Alice, Marlene, and Sally, who were eager to spend time with Lily's goddaughter and to see and meet her.
With the added stress this year, Lily didn't even notice how the year flew by all the faster. Between the preparations for her O.W.L.s, the visits to Andromeda, the nerve-wracking pranks of James and his friends, her homework and the meetings with her friends, Lily looked at the calendar one day and was startled. It was already the end of May. Her exams were now imminent. What followed was a time her friends referred to as "Lily's study madness." The evenings became longer and longer in which the 15-year-old could be found between books and notes either in the library or in the common room. However, this madness seemed to have infected her friends, because the others also started to spend long evenings in front of their books and short nights in bed.
During the week of exams, everyone's nerves were on edge and every little distraction and disturbance was met with minor witchcraft. James was one of the first to feel the effects of this policy. When Lily was finally at the end of her rope and the bow was clearly overstretched, she chased him through the entire common room, through the castle and up to the estates to vent her anger and frustration.
A sight that many would not forget so quickly.
Now that the exams were finally over and everything had been written and presented, both the fifth and seventh graders relaxed. For them, a time of lounging had now begun. The students could mostly be found outside, where they mostly bathed in the sun or splashed in the lake. The mood in both grades was very exuberant and spontaneous parties of joy were celebrated time and again.
Lily, who had been particularly engrossed in her studies, also visibly breathed a sigh of relief and enjoyed the time outside with her friends. This quiet time after the exams was a real gift for her nerves. These had been particularly tense in the last weeks by the pranks of the friends around the Potter boy. Although he had also been diligent with his studies, he tended to relax and play pranks on other people. Mostly at their expense. Especially the Slytherins and Severus had to suffer. However, the Marauders claimed that every single one of them deserved it every time because they insulted or teased others. A fact that was hard for Lily to swallow. Severus had been her friend before her first year at school and she had always seen the good in him. Therefore, she had always defended him in the beginning, which had also led to strong tensions in her house. But little by little this view had given way and she now realized that the others were also right. But that in no way made it okay to lower herself to the same level as the racists and bullies. Because to answer like that was to bully James in her eyes and the others as well. Torn from her thoughts, she looked up. So lost in thought, she hadn't noticed how her feet had carried her to the shore of the lake. She was greeted by her friends and before she knew it, she was screeching as she landed in the shore of the lake. Booming laughter echoed from the beach. Lily marched towards her friends, dripping wet, and put her hands on her hips. But then an idea came to her and she smiled ominously with an "Aaaaalllliiiiccceeee" she stormed towards her friend and pulled her into a wet embrace. The wild screeching was completely ignored by Lily, her revenge already firmly in sight. But that wasn't enough, tightly embraced, she spun her friend around so that her back was to the water. And before Alice knew it, she was being pushed into the cool water by a powerful thrust. What followed was an extended water fight in which no one was spared. Laughing, the friends lay down on the sunny grass. For a while no one said a word, they all enjoyed the styles and the bustle of nature.
But the peaceful silence was abruptly interrupted by shouts and screams. Lily, curious, rose and went in search of the cause, while the others continued to lie in the grass. Not far from where they had been frolicking, she found the troublemakers. The group around James Potter and his friends had once again found a Slytherin as a victim of their humiliation and teasing. Upon closer inspection, the young witch realized that it was Severus. He was hanging in the air by one ankle, screaming bloody murder. Another spell held his underpants up for all the world to see. The Gryffindor boys, however, just laughed and replied that this was the just punishment for someone who put himself above others and especially weaker ones.
"What in Morgana's name is going on here?!" roared Lily anger inflamed
"Ah hello Lily, we're teaching that little slimy snake a lesson." James replied with a broad grin, while Sirius nodded affirmatively
"But not like that. That's not a solution. What could he have done that was so bad that he deserves to be humiliated like this?" Replied Lily shrilly
"He did..." began James, but Lily interrupted him, still furious
"I don't even want to know, put him down now..."
"I don't want any help from you Mudblood..." it suddenly burst out of Severus, he stopped with in his tirade. Still dangling in the air, his eyes wide open
Lily stared at him; her mouth half open. Speechless. He had insulted her. Insulted with the worst word there was in her eyes. Her eyes burned. Tears made their way into her eyes. Her vision blurred into veils of hues. Her blood pounded in her ears. Her knees went weak, and she slumped to the floor. She could still dully perceive someone calling her name. She sobbed. She was no longer aware of her surroundings, too deep in grief and rage.
James, who had stopped the spell out of surprise, looked at his school rival with eyes that radiated vengeance and hatred. Never in his life would he have thought that this greasy little snake of Severus Snape would call Lily a Mudblood. He saw red. He shook himself and was about to throw himself at that arrogant conceited worm, that filthy little maggot, that asshole, when he was held by three pairs of hands. His friends held him back with all their might, though he could read the same hatred in their faces, but especially in Remus' face he also read determination. No one talked to Lily Evans like that. Lily Evans, who respected and accepted everyone as they were. Lily Evans, who always forgave Snivellus for years despite all his misdemeanours and sleazy and evil behaviour. Schniefelus would pay...
"James, he's not worthy of suspension..."
"We'll get him another time..."
"Our revenge will be better than fighting, come on Prongs..."
At the same time, Lily was still staring at Severus, no wait, Snape. Sadness, anger, incomprehension, and a feeling not unknown to her, but which had been gnawing at her for some time. Resignation and acceptance of the inevitable. Because deep in the darkest corner of her heart, this feeling had already started a long time ago to sow its shoots. And now, caused by this incident, by the worst of all bad words, the seeds of doubt and aversion burst out of her. She vowed never again to set the record straight with him. He had had his chance; no stop he had had so many chances and each time he had squandered them. Every time she had offered him the hand of friendship after thousands of arguments, he had repaid her sooner or later by metaphorically spitting into her hand and trampling their friendship underfoot. Never again, neither now nor in all eternity.
Due to the noise, a large crowd of their friends and classmates had now formed. Snape was still staring at them with frightened eyes. He opened his mouth to say something but could not. Sally and Marlene approached Lily, who was still sitting on the floor and crying, and touched the young witches' shoulders with their hands. Lily was sobbing even more now. The betrayal and deception were just too overwhelming. So, no one said another word for several minutes. Minutes in which everyone tried to process and digest the events of the last quarter of an hour. Finally, it burst out of the young Slytherin:
"Oh my God, Lily I didn't mean that I didn't mean it. I'm sorry, I..."
But further in his fanatical babbling to apologize and get another chance with his Lily, he didn't get.
In the middle of his drivel, Lily's head jerked sharply in his direction. She stared at him from her green eyes. But the eyes that usually seemed so gentle were exchanged for emerald fires.
Severus Snape flinched. He had never experienced this side of his girlfriend before. As far back as he could remember, there had never been such an outburst of her emotions before. The Mount Evans was now wide awake and ready to strike.
In a cold voice, spitting with rage, Lily spat at the Slytherin now lying on the floor.
"Severus Snape, that was the last time. Calling me a Mudblood. Me who always stood by you despite everything. Me who always had to justify myself because of our friendship. But that's over now. I am done with you. You showed me your true character today and spat in my face. "
The crowd gathered around the two became quiet as mice. Many of them were shocked by Lily's poisonous tone. She was usually a very calm and rarely quick-tempered person. Whereas she did show her temper when one of the two boys involved here. Nevertheless, even this blatant expression of her anger was rather untypical for her.
The boy lying in the bank grass huddled together as if he had been kicked and beaten. Every single word his Lily said hurt him even more. For him, his entire world was just collapsing. He just wanted to prove to his Lily that he was the best and that she should choose him. That was the only reason he had turned down her offer. He didn't mean to call her a mudblood, it had just slipped out. But once Lily had calmed down, everything would be fine again. His Lily had always been a bit fiery and stubborn, but so far it had always worked out.
"If you were serious, you would cut your friendships with these Death Eater wannabes. Or do you think that practicing the dark arts will impress me. Do you think that I will throw myself at your feet and worship you? So, you still plan to join this gang of murderers, rapists, racists, and psychopaths, do you? "
But she got no answer to her question. Instead, the black-haired boy only opened his eyes. An expression of guilt, surprise, and determination, but also shame.
"Your silence speaks volumes. After everything that has happened and what these animals are planning and doing...I don't believe it... You...get out my sight."
Cautiously, Snape stood up and looked around. Half the year had now witnessed the spectacle. And he took a cautious step. But it was not in a direction everyone expected. He stepped towards Lily. He opened his mouth to speak but was immediately stopped. CLAP, CLAP. With their hands raised, Sally and Marlene stepped protectively in front of their friend. They had slapped that slimy worm.
"Get out of here Snape. You have no business here anymore."
"That's right Snape. Go join your friends, the other racists and chauvinists."
"Lily, please listen to me..."
"Shut your mouth BOY. I'm telling you for the last time Schnievelus. We are done with each other. Don't you ever speak to me again. Or I'll put a hex on you, the gods know what." thundered a Lily still seething with rage.
With a last hurt look and a whimper, the boy stumbled away into the crowd. The crowd parted and made room for the double-faced boy, as no one wanted to be associated with someone like him. Shouts of "Mini Death Eater, get out!" and the like rang out from all sides.
Marlene had meanwhile pulled Lily back to her feet and put an arm around her. She led her friend away from the crowd, no one had to see her friend's new emerging tears.
They left the lake behind and headed up to the castle towards the common room. Halfway there, however, the redhead asked to go up to the astronomy tower. She said that she could cry there undisturbed without someone trying to comfort her every two minutes. No sooner said than done, and not five minutes later the two were standing on the circular top of the tower.
Lily sat down on the floor, moved to the parapet, and wrapped her arms around her knees. She swayed back and forth, letting the tears run free, while Marlene held her silently. Even the sun seemed to share Lily's state of mind. Had the power of its rays diminished and she seemed dull. But it seemed to Lily as if its rays would wrap themselves around her and take her in their arms.
Thank you for taking the time to reading. I hope you enjoyed it and had as much fun reading it as I had writing it.
If I have translated a term incorrectly or have overlooked it, please let me know so that I can change it.
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Haut purely and Glück Auf.