Chapter 81: Cylindrical Object
-Prince Manor, December 25, 1976
After lunch the three of them finally opened the Christmas presents they had before Hermione and Wednesday returned to the study.
The tree glowed with a Christmas glow in the room and underneath it were the presents waiting to be opened.
Wednesday looked up at him, her back tense, her bored gaze seeming to ask Severus if it was really necessary to do this now.
But when Hermione began to open her presents Wednesday realised that she had no choice but to open her presents as well and get this over with as soon as possible so that she could resume studying with Hermione.
The first thing Hermione saw as a gift was a collection of books about life in the Wizarding World of different famous muggle-born wizards from all over the world, telling their stories, inventions, personal details, everything.
Hermione squealed in delight, she loved this gift and she was quite surprised by the gift as it was something that really interested her, it certainly had to be from someone who paid close attention to her when she spoke and who knew what she was interested in to be able to elaborate a gift like this specifically for her.
'Merry Christmas, Hermione. Best wishes and have a Happy New Year. Lily' Hermione read the small letter on the gift with a smile but she didn't comment, after all, there was Severus and it was best to avoid awkward situations, so she kept the letter with the gift and decided to write a letter to her friend another time.
Hermione continued to look at her other gifts as she carefully removed the paper from each one so that she could save it for other purposes.
On the other hand, Wednesday next to her was ripping the paper off the presents without caring about preserving them at all, she seemed more in a hurry to finish looking at the presents quickly than anything else.
In her other presents Hermione found several presents from her Gryffindor classmates with whom she had formed the closest relationship since entering Hogwarts with Draco.
There was also an autocorrect quill along with coloured ink plus some books, Hermione read the gift letter and noticed that it came from Draco and it just said "Merry Christmas".
She continued to look at other presents.
"This..., coloured stones...?" wondered Hermione confused by the strange gift that didn't seem to have anything special, just simple stones, pretty but still just stones.
"Ah, yes, I got some of those too, they're from Pandora," replied Severus beside her, a little amused to see that they both got the same thing from Pandora, it seemed that Hermione had liked her.
"Read the letter, it explains in detail what they're for," he said, waiting to see Hermione's reaction.
"Blue anti-Wrackspurts stones, prevent these invisible creatures from causing you confusion or disorientation, they won't come near you if you wear these stones..., violet anti-Nergles stones, with these you can prevent all your shiny things from disappearing..." Hermione began to read the description of each stone only to look at Severus after a few moments.
"You..., you really believe that these creatures exist?" questioned Hermione with a raised eyebrow not believing it possible that Severus believed in these things.
"I don't deny or affirm that they exist, but I allow myself to doubt, Pandora has already proven to have a more perceptive eye than most people," Severus replied lightly.
Hermione just shook her head not believing Severus, after a few moments she turned her head and saw the presents that Wednesday had all wrapped in black and white paper..., they certainly didn't leave a very Christmasy feeling.
But what surprised Hermione the most was not this, but the presents that Wednesday had been given, she had everything from chemistry and alchemy books and kits, a music box that had only haunting and sinister tunes, a tarot set, a book of gothic and horror poetry, a sword, a bow with arrows, rare and exotic sweets, and candies that were less than pleasing to the eye, to a small Christmas tree decorated with Living tarantulas and snakes!
Hermione saw that Wednesday seemed perfectly fine with her presents, so she decided not to comment on it, she had already realised that the Addams were quite peculiar.
Hermione's other gifts were mostly more books, a few magical objects, and sweets of a variety of different types and tastes.
But at the bottom of the pile, Hermione found one last gift wrapped only in a simple white paper.
She carefully removed the wrapping paper and inside she found a small cylindrical object a little smaller than her hand that had a series of buttons and a lens on the top, it seemed to be made of some sort of resistant white metal.
"Um..., Severus, what is this metallic object?" asked Wednesday suddenly, Hermione turned her head to look at her and noticed that she was holding the same white cylindrical object in her hand as she was.
Quickly glancing at the letter Hermione saw that it said it was from Severus.
"It's called a holoprojector and the function of it is to generate a three-dimensional projection so that people who have one of these can communicate and interact with the projected image, either by moving around it or by using gestures to manipulate it," explained Severus.
He had decided that he would not spend gallons of money on meaningless gifts for them, besides he had no idea what to give them individually so he would just waste his time looking for something to give them.
So he preferred to give them the latest invention he had managed to create with Skywalker Industries, only this one also had some magical runes and other enchantments, which made it usable anywhere and anytime, of course, this holoprojector, for now, would not be for sale to anyone, Severus preferred to leave it for personal use between him and the people closest to him.
Hermione looked at him with her eyes wide open, unable to believe what he was saying and it was clear that she was very excited about the holoprojector.
And Wednesday, although it didn't show on her face, was clearly interested and surprised by the gift. After all, it was something quite unique and useful.
"Try it, with the left button you accept another's transmission and just press the right button and say out loud the person you want to communicate with, and the device will make the transmission if it is accepted," Severus said as they both seemed very excited to see how it worked.
They both did as he told them quickly and when they touched the button they said, Severus.
Instantly the holoprojector that Severus had in his hand vibrated and he touched the left button of the device accepting the transmission.
When he did this, Wednesday and Hermione's holoprojector projected a beam of light that was directed towards a specific point in the air where a three-dimensional image of Severus was created in real-time.
"Umm, how interesting, the projected three-dimensional image is in real-time..., very convenient," Wednesday murmured, analysing the device very carefully.
"It is, quite versatile, with this we will be able to communicate anytime, anywhere," nodded Severus.
"This..., wow, the projected image can also be seen from any angle, even from above or below" exclaimed Hermione very excited about the device that seemed to be made with muggle technology and some kind of magic.
"Well, it's good that you like it, it's quite sturdy so I don't think it will break, but in case something happens you can give it to me and I'll check it out for you".
"That's amazing Severus, thank you so much, I really didn't expect something like this" Hermione smiled and she almost hugged Severus fiercely like she used to do with Harry.
Luckily she restrained herself from doing something so embarrassing, her relationship with him wasn't like the one she had with Harry, and they still weren't close enough to do something like that.
"I admit it is... as Hermione said, quite incredible, it will certainly help..." Wednesday said staring at Severus almost as if she wanted to thank him with words but it turned out to be much more difficult than it should be.
Already by the way she was looking at him and talking Severus knew she was grateful, she didn't need to say anything else so he simply nodded and the three of them continued testing the holoprojector and looking at their gifts.
After a while, Severus left the room leaving the two of them alone again to continue studying, he had to get ready to go to the Greengrass's and then to the Malfoy's Yule Ball at 8 pm.
...
...
When Severus had left the room, Hermione and Wednesday quickly settled in and put away their presents to continue studying.
As Hermione continued to carefully sort through the presents and the Presnetes papers, Wednesday sat down next to her, leaving some distance between the two of them.
"So Hermione, are you going to tell me what's up with that present?" said Wednesday casually as she clearly pointed to Lily's present with her gaze.
The question made Hermione's eyes widen like saucers in surprise.
"This..., why do you think there's something wrong with that present?" asked Hermione surprised that she would ask that question.
"Oh, I don't know..., maybe because of how you looked at Severus when you opened it, or how you tensed slightly... hmm, or maybe because of how quickly you decided to put it away without making any comment," answered Wednesday quickly, looking Hermione in the eyes now.
Hermione tensed slightly at the look she was giving her almost as if she wanted to expose all of her darkest secrets, it was chilling.
""Is it maybe because of Lily?" asked Wednesday suddenly making Hermione's eyes widen again in surprise.
'How does she know about Lily? I doubt Severus would have told her anything about her, or maybe he would..., no, I don't think he would have mentioned Lily to her, at least not by name. The letter!, she must have seen the name, but when did she see it, damn it's scary' Hermione thought quickly as she looked at Wednesday.
'She doesn't know anything, she just wants me to give her the information she wants without me knowing that she doesn't know' Hermione concluded and gave a tired sigh as she saw Wednesday already knowing what house she would be in if she entered Hogwarts.
She was undoubtedly a Slytherin.
"Yes, it has to do with Lily, but it's not my place to talk about it, sorry," Hermione replied knowing that Wednesday had already realised that something was going on with the whole thing.
"Hmm, I understand, but you don't have to worry so much about it, considering how Severus is I doubt he would mind if it was talked about, but it would be an awkward conversation to have with him, of course, I can ask him personally. So wouldn't it be better if you told me?" argued Wednesday.
"Maybe, but it's a very complex issue," Hermione replied with another sigh as her argument made sense.
"You can sum it up."
"Well, the only thing I can tell you is that she was close friends with him and things ended quite badly, the rest is up to him whether to tell you or you to find out" replied Hermione.
"Um, so they were close friends then and by your reaction now they're the opposite of friends, but it's weird that you think Severus would be affected by it..., he doesn't seem like that kind of person, maybe I know a lesser thing than I thought I did. Well, it seems that only at Hogwarts will I know more about it," nodded Wednesday lightly as she analysed the situation.
" Alright, let's finish cleaning up quickly and get on with the study, we've wasted enough time already" she added and Hermione just nodded quickly as long as she didn't want to talk about the issue any further.
…..
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Chapter 82: Yule Ball 1
-Prince Manor
-December 25th, 1976
After leaving Hermione and Wednesday to continue studying, Severus took a shower and formally changed for the Yule Ball at Malfoy Manor.
He wore a black formal suit with some silver detailing that fitted his body perfectly and the only thing that really stood out was the Prince family crest on the right side of his chest.
Half an hour before 8 p.m., Severus was ready to go to the Greengrass', pick up his partner, Olivia Greengrass, for tonight, and from there go to the Yule Ball.
Since Severus was going with Olivia, Lord and Lady Greengrass proposed that the four of them go together from Greengrass Manor.
Something Severus agreed completely.
Severus took some Floo Powder, threw it into the fireplace making the red fire turn green, and said, "Puzzlegreen".
At that Severus walked towards the green fire and disappeared through it.
...
...
-Manor Greengrass
-December 25, 1976
Severus took a step forward ignoring the feeling that he was walking on air and after a while, he felt his feet touch solid ground again.
Once at the Greengrass', he looked up only to find Lord Greengrass standing in front of him already dressed in an elegant black gala suit with some green embroidery and his family crest on his right chest.
"Lord Greengrass," Severus greeted formally.
"It is good to see you on time, Lord Prince," smiled Lord Charles, returning his greeting formally.
"Though we are in private, I thought you preferred to avoid formalities," he added, looking at Severus with slight curiosity.
"Yes, but since I am not used to this and I will be meeting many wizards in this manner today I thought it best to start as soon as possible to get myself in the mind-set."
"Oh, now I get it, a good idea, but don't worry with Olivia by your side you can let her handle the boring conversations, she's already had experience dealing with some pretty dense wizards."
"Hmm, that's actually a good idea, looks like I'm going to have to rely on your daughter"
"She'll be pleased to do so..., by the way, I'm afraid you'll have to wait a few moments, my wife and daughter take their time for these occasions"
"No problem, to be honest, I'm not in any hurry to go to the Yule Ball."
"I can understand that feeling, no doubt you will have many wizards interested in talking to you. It will be a busy day for you as Lord Prince."
"Yes..., I just hope your daughter avoids me choking a wizard in the middle of the conversation," Severus said with a sigh making Lord Charles Greengrass laugh at his comment, he clearly thought Severus was only joking, but he would be surprised to know how serious Severus was when he said that.
A few minutes later, Lady Arabella Greengrass emerged from the fitting room, wearing a long pale blue-green dress, with silver flowers at the top that continued along the long transparent sleeves.
For a moment Severus's gaze strayed to the beautiful Lady Greengrass's lovely curves that were provocatively but elegantly highlighted by that dress.
But he immediately realised that his gaze was being mischievous and quickly focused only on her face.
"You look lovely Lady Greengrass," Severus said with a slight bow.
Lady Arabella chuckled noting the slight moment Severus averted his gaze from her body.
Even Lord Charles Greengrass only smiled in amusement as he nodded his head and shamelessly scanned his wife's body.
"I thank you, Lord Prince, no doubt you stand out too, black is definitely your colour, I doubt any other wizard would look as good as you, it makes a perfect match for your hair, eyes, and skin," commented Lady Greengrass with a charming smile.
"I think most would prefer to say that dark and shadowy suits me better. But I'm glad you think so highly of me"
"Well, I'm sure my daughter shares my opinion," Lady Arabella said with amusement.
"Indeed I do. As my mother said, black certainly suits you Lord Prince" said Olivia Greengrass as she suddenly appeared wearing a white dress with green that made her look like a beautiful angel, only that her attractive body looked like the temptation of the devil himself.
Severus looked at her and had to admit that without a doubt the Greengrass ladies were a combination of devils and angels, angelic faces and bodies that were every man's temptation.
"If two beautiful ladies as you say so then I must believe it. But still, nothing will match the charm of the two of you," Severus replied shamelessly.
Olivia Greengrass' eyes widened before a hint of a smile showed on her face.
"I'm glad you like it" smiled Olivia softly as she came to his side while Lady Arabella only laughed in faint amusement as she watched them.
"Oh, by the way, Charles, I must remind you that your eyes must remain on my face" Lady Greengrass suddenly said now looking at her husband.
"Ah, what can I say, my dear, you are stunning as always, I doubt there is a wizard who doesn't have to force himself not to look at you," said Lord Greengrass smiling.
"Oh and I'm sure you'll take advantage of that to make them as uncomfortable as always," she smiled back.
"Clearly I will, after all, it is only a small price to pay for the sight of such a beautiful woman"
...
...
-Malfoy Manor,
-December 25, 1976
After 8 p.m., the Greengrass family and Severus Prince arrived through the floo of Malfoy Manor.
The Floo journey took them to Malfoy Receiving Hall, a place with which the Greengrass seemed to be quite familiar.
The first thing the four of them noticed upon arriving through the floo was that Malfoy Receiving Hall was filled with a magical atmosphere with elegant, ostentatious, and flashy decorations, as well as soft music wafting through the air.
All perfectly planned to make a clear demonstration of the Malfoy family's wealth, and of course, there was the Malfoy's need to stand out even more by displaying their house crest in different parts of the hall.
There were also a group of house-elves standing in different parts of the Receiving Hall, ready to lead the guests to the great hall of the Malfoy mansion where the Yule Ball would be held.
One of the house-elf quickly approached them and courteously offered to guide them.
The four nodded without hesitation and followed the house-elf in silence.
Naturally, when the Greengrass and Severus reached the doors leading into the great hall of the Manor, there was already a tall, elegant man waiting for them, dressed in a long, close-fitting robe of black velvet, trimmed with gold detailing around the edges. The tunic reached down to his feet and was open at the front, revealing a white shirt with a high, stiff collar.
He also wore expensive looking black leather boots, which came to his knees and also had gold detailing that matched the tunic perfectly.
His hands were sheathed in black leather gloves, which gave him an elegant and refined air, while in his left hand, he held a silver staff inlaid with gold, and on his neck, he wore a gold chain with a star-shaped pendant.
His hair was combed back with some magical potion that allowed him to keep it perfect at all times.
The look in his eyes gave the impression of a serious, shrewd, and bright person. His skin was pale, his face was clean-shaven and his smile was bright white, giving an impression of impeccability and neatness.
This was Octavius Spillman, the Master of Ceremonies hired by the Malfoy family, and he seemed to be ready to welcome the guests and announce them to the others present.
Octavius Spillman was well known in the wizarding community for being a pureblood wizard who acted as Master of Ceremonies at most of the important events in Britain.
He was always dressed elegantly and sophisticatedly, displaying his social status and magical might. He was the epitome of magical aristocracy and his presence added a touch of glamour and sophistication to events.
Not everyone could afford to hire someone like him, though, as he charged a huge amount of gallons per event.
"Lord and Lady Greengrass it is my honour to welcome you and your daughter to the Malfoy Yule Ball. I am glad you have found the time to grace us with your presence," the Master of Ceremonies bowed in a refined and courteous manner, bowing slightly in front of them, though there was a tone of familiarity in his voice.
"Mr. Spillman, good to see you, I see business is going well," smiled Lord Greengrass with even more familiarity than the Master of Ceremonies.
The two clearly knew each other.
"Indeed it is," smiled Octavius, but he maintained his elegant and refined posture at all times.
Then Mr. Spillman finally looked at Severus who was standing next to Olivia Greengrass.
Octavius Spillman looked at him for only a few seconds and instantly knew who Severus was, as the Master of Ceremonies he was informed of all the guests and knew their faces, names, surnames, and families to perfection.
"Well met, Lord Prince, it is an honour to finally meet you and to be able to welcome you," Octavius said courteously, bowing slightly in greeting, he did not even blink at the presence of Severus in the company of Olivia, the daughter of Lady and Lord Greengrass.
This could mean that he had already been informed by Lord Greengrass or he simply knew how to hide his surprise extremely well.
"Well met as well, Mr. Spillman. I have a feeling we'll be seeing more each other from now on," Severus replied with the same politeness as the wizard.
"Oh, I hope so, Lord Prince," nodded Octavius calmly as he stared at Severus.
"Now, how about if I announce your arrival to the other guests," he added, looking at the four of them.
"Of course, that would be fine with us," nodded Lord Greengrass along with his wife.
"And I assume Lord Prince will want me to announce him and Miss Greengrass as his escort," added Mr. Spillman, looking at Severus and Olivia.
"That is correct," Severus and Olivia now nodded.
"Very well, that will be done then, please wait just a moment, once I have finished introducing you, please enter," said Octavius as he opened the door to the great hall of Malfoy Manor and entered on his own.
"To all tonight I proudly present Lord Charles and Lady Arabaella of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Greengrass!" Mr. Spillman was heard to announce apparently using an Amplifying Charm to amplify his voice and make what he was saying echo throughout the hall.
Lord and Lady Greengrass wasted no time, gave a quick nod to Severus and their daughter, and then entered the great hall in a quiet, elegant manner.