Okay, here's the next chapter, keep up the reviews, this will be the last chapter, that I will be taking more ideas for the powers. Let me know.
Warnings: Language, Violence
Broken Angel
Chapter 45: Ghosts
There was a reason muggles couldn't see ghosts. It was actually quite fascinating. The reason why, was that their brains couldn't comprehend how a ghost could exist, and so a muggle's brain would remove the image from the muggle's sight, so that they wouldn't think to much about the ghost. The side affect was feelings of uneasiness or terror. That feeling of being watched when no one was there. But in the end, it was just their brains protecting them from harm, you see, without an accompanying understanding of the existence of outside forces, ie magic, your brain couldn't comprehend the ghost and thus tried to keep itself from going crazy by stopping you from forcing it to think about the ghost.
However, once you knew that magic was real, and had a basic understanding of how it worked, you could then see ghosts. Basically, with an understanding of magic, when your brain sees a ghost, instead of the muggle response of 'how?', an answer is immediately put into place, magic. Thus the brain doesn't fret about hurting itself by trying to solve a problem that you couldn't answer if you didn't know that magic existed.
This was the same principle that Riley had used to hide Amygdala. However the 'outside' force she had used was her own unhinged mind, along with Youki. Since Riley was a demon she didn't think like a human would, and if any psychologist studied her mind, they would classify her as insane, since she could literally go from homicidal to loving and nurturing to bipolar and moody to psychopathic in the span of a few moments.
Using this same concept, only those who truly knew how Youki worked, and possessed a bit of understanding about how demons did things, could truly see Amygdala. For everyone else, even if they were magical or shinobi, their brains just refused to let them see the alien abomination.
The only other group of people that could possibly see Amygdala, were those who's brains didn't work right. Basically anyone with brain damage, or those that were insane.
With this all in mind, a form of chaos had descended over Iwa. Amygdala possessed the ability to project a field around itself. Within this field it could bend and twist reality. Basically, it was like a dream world. Amygdala could bend space, twist time, and warp reality within this space. It stretched for about five miles in every direction around the creature, with it being more powerful the closer you were to it.
Using this power, Amygdala now sat perched atop a large building in Iwa. It was in the merchant district, and it was currently fucking with people. It was using it's ability to make people think that whole streets had disappeared or it would switch around the buildings, to confuse people. Right now it was testing it's power and searching for the weak minded. Once it was ready however, it would begin to cause chaos and bloodshed.
People were becoming fearful of entering the market district. They felt uneasy being there, and in some cases they would approach a certain building and just feel an overwhelming desire to flee. People thought the place was haunted or something. Little did they know of the nightmare that hung, latched from the buildings above them. Watching and waiting.
Meanwhile, Loki let out a chuckle as he watched a civilian merchant approach his store only to stop and stare at it for several moments before turning and heading back the way he came. The dark Phoenix was currently in disguise as a simple merchant, he was leaning against the guard rail of a two story building looking across the way to where Amygdala sat atop the roof of a five story building. If only the poor saps could see the nightmare that sat perched above them.
The man-bird, let out another chuckle, it was just too fun to watch people or dogs approach that building only to turn and leave. The animals knew what was up, they could feel Amygdala's presence and it terrified them. Dogs spent all day howling at the top of their lungs to be freed from their kennels so they could run in terror. Cats were posted next to doors, waiting for the opportune moment to dash outside and run to safety. No bird could be seen for miles in any direction. All of the animals were terrified and the humans weren't far behind, if the mounting tension in the village was anything to go by.
With another chuckle the bird man set off to perform his daily tasks. He walked down the street, making sure to appear as if he too, had an uneasy feeling being here, and made his way towards a location on the other end of the market district, where things were more… normal.
It had only been about two weeks since his mother had sent him here to spy on these pathetic little creatures. While he was here he took the form of either this human, a white, floppy-eared dog, or his phoenix form. The human form he possessed right now, was currently his favorite. It might have been because only two weeks had passed since his birth, but it just felt like the form was perfect for him to use against the humans. He appeared as a man, with shoulder length black hair. His skin was pale and his eyes were a stark green color. His features were sharp and aristocratic. All in all he looked to be quite handsome. (For those of you wondering, Loki's human appearance will always be the same unless I state otherwise. Also, Loki's human form and his personality will be an exact copy of Loki from the Avenger's and Thor movies. Except that he's loyal to Riley.)
Loki eventually made it to his first destination, a small store that sold clothes. He was here because the woman whom helped run the store, a nineteen year old, was the daughter of one of Iwa's top Anbu. Loki had tracked the man's chakra and read his daughter's mind when he went to the shop. Loki was here fishing for information, and the pretty young thing, that he knew would be waiting behind the counter, was so easily manipulated.
He walked in and heard a female voice call out from the back, "Welcome, I'll be up in a moment."
Loki simply smiled as he perused the clothing options. Occasionally he would buy something, so as to not hinder the illusion that he was just a regular guy. Eventually he found a green vest, that seemed to fit well with his current wardrobe choice. He decided he would buy it, and use the opportunity to speak with the young woman behind the counter.
"Hello sir, welcome! I… oh it's you. Welcome back." The young, brown haired woman greeted him.
"Hello there miss. How are you this sunny afternoon?" Loki inquired as he set his purchase down on the counter. The woman sent a quick glance at his choice before turning back to him and smiling.
"I'm fine… got the willies lately, things seem off around here, but otherwise… everything's fine." The woman replied. Loki kept his smile as his eyes and hers met. He used a subtle rush of Legilimency to probe her thoughts and search for anything that might be useful.
"Yes… I noticed. People have been acting strangely, lately." Loki agreed as he gave a thoughtful nod, and placed the money for his purchase on the counter.
"Yeah. I just hope it's nothing. I would really be freaked out if it turned out that this place was haunted." The woman replied as she packaged his purchase.
"Oh… don't tell me a pretty young thing like yourself is scared of ghosts." Loki teased in a playful manner.
The woman blushed at the compliment and tried to give him a dirty look, but his charming smile and beautiful green eyes, distracted her from her anger.
"You have a wonderful day, Miss." Loki offered after a moment of silence as he turned and walked out.
As he made it out onto the street he just kept a calm composure. He truly enjoyed playing this game. Earning peoples trust, learning their secrets, plotting and planning, and manipulating his mother's enemies. Perhaps it was the way he was created, but Loki absolutely loved the games he got to play with these people. While his mother wouldn't take to kindly to murdering innocent people, screwing with them, and manipulating them was alright, and in the end, Loki preferred to screw with his enemies rather then kill them.
As the man bird made it down an alley, he sealed his purchase away, and shape-shifted into his dog form. He had a particular baker, whom he had to see today. It may not have been the thing that achieved their mother's victory, but what they did now, was to test themselves and train. He may only learn some mild personal secrets of the people of Iwa, but that was fine. After all, his mother planned to eradicate it, she just wanted it to suffer first.
-Elsewhere-
Madara let a viscous grin slip onto his features as he charged towards the black shadow that stood before him.
With a howl Fenrir released a massive surge of lightning that shot towards Madara.
Madara quickly wrapped himself in Susano'o to shield himself from the attack, and he prepared to launch an attack of his own.
Madara spent his time nowadays, awaiting Hashirama's revival and training Riley's familiars. RAAM and Skorge were amazing fighters. Both were brutal and tenacious. RAAM possessed the elements of earth and Fire, while Skorge possessed Wind, and Lightning. Both were powerful fighters, but where RAAM was tactful and tough as hell, Skorge was fast, agile and Vicious. The two loved to close in and fight in close quarters and both very much liked to get their hands dirty. When the two weren't learning how to lead, they were learning how to fight, Skorge more then RAAM.
While Skorge spent all day, every day fighting, RAAM split his time between fighting and learning. He spent hours sitting before the Gravemind, asking it questions and learning from it. The Gravemind, was now tied to Riley, her mates, her Close family, and Kurama, and while that wasn't that many, the people it was connected to, knew a shit load.
Kurama was over three thousand years old, and had seen a lot of wars. Madara and Hashirama had led in war, numerous times. Kushina, Sirius and Remus, had fought in their own wars, and Riley had absorbed over Six thousand people since she had started her crusade. That was six thousand minds worth of knowledge, and four thousand of those were Shinobi. Needless to say, RAAM had an immense archive from which to learn from. Riley had also gone out and bought or collected all kinds of documents of war. Things like documentaries of Caesar's conquest or the battles of the last two world wars, to books like the Art of War, RAAM learned from it all.
Madara had tested out Michael's resistance to attack as well. It seemed, nothing short of his perfect Susano'o could even scratch the mighty creature's armor let alone hurt it. Michael didn't really have any magical power. The only power's he possessed were highly specified. One, he could create up to ten solid clones of himself. Two, he could manipulate the wind and allow himself to fly. And three he could use the Lance of Longinus to channel wind attacks through and create barriers. He was a tough opponent but not Madara's favorite. No, that title fell to Fenrir.
The Shadow wolf couldn't be hit by physical attacks, so Taijutsu was useless. The wolf had seamless control over the five base elements and could call upon them with such speed and ease that it left Madara baffled when the wolf would launch a flurry of fireballs, then a barrage of lightning bolts mixed with a massive wave of water, and then it would howl and cause the whole earth to tremble. Fenrir was definitely an all out offensive fighter.
Madara absolutely loved fighting the wolf. The magic it tossed around was incredible and it's speed and ferocity kept Madara on his toes, and gave him the challenge he wanted while he waited for Hashirama to gain physical form.
Speaking of which, the First Hokage was almost completely corporeal now. He was just barely see-through, and Riley suspected it would only be a day or two before he became fully real.
During this weeks time, Riley decided to bring her friends up to speed with what was going on, as well as reveal her secret to her two new allies. First she gathered up her friends and revealed that she was the Angel of Carnage. None of them were really that surprised and in all honesty, it lifted a weight off of their shoulders, to know that they didn't have to fight the thing. She then spent the rest of the time training them and dealing with Pansy, Tracy and Ginny trying to find ways to make her wings all pretty and stuff.
Next person she brought in was Itachi. She told him everything. From her becoming a demon, to her persona as the angel, and her ultimate goal, and she finished by telling him how she had rescued her mother, his godmother.
Needless to say that reunion was touching. Riley brought him and Sasuke to meet their collective godmother. Kushina was so happy to see them, the last time she had seen Itachi, was when he was four, and she had never met Sasuke before. Itachi greeted her warmly. He remembered how friendly and kind the woman had been to him in his youth, and he also remembered how close she was to his mother. Sasuke took it all in stride, offering the woman greetings. He remained quiet and aloof up until Kushina started to talk about his parents then he really got interested. It seems he liked to hear about his parents when they were younger, since he didn't know a whole lot about them.
The final person Riley brought in on her plans was Voldemort. She had a piece of him living in her head, and from what she had seen from his meetings, and from what she had heard, she liked. She felt she could trust the man, so she arranged a meeting at the Malfoy estate.
"So, you wanted to speak with me?" Voldemort inquired as Riley and him held a meeting in Lucius' office.
"Yes. I've learned a lot about you over the last few years. I've learned that you're driven, and focused. That you're a professional and that you'll do pretty much anything to achieve you goals… However… I've also learned that there's a line you wont cross. That deep down, you're a good person. I feel I can trust you with a secret I've been keeping." Riley explained.
"Go on." Voldemort urged her to continue as he eyed her curiously. The Uchiwa clan head was a massive mystery to him. Questions like how she was so powerful, and skilled, were always running through the man's mind. She could do things that most people could only dream of. If you asked anyone on the light side, they would say that Voldemort wanted her powers for himself. The truth was not that far off, but more broad in that he wouldn't mind having abilities like her, however he more wanted to know how she achieved the things that she did. Voldemort was always curious and awed by magic even after decades of study, he was still often left dumbstruck by the things that magic could accomplish when it was utilized correctly. And on top of all that, Riley was someone that he actually admired. She managed to defeat an army of four thousand ninja in seconds and she did it while making the whole country think she had only moments to come up with that plan.
Voldemort was no fool, he could see through her ploy. She truly was a Slytherin at heart. The country now saw her as a powerful sorceress whom would face immense odds and achieve a miracle, and she would do it without hesitation or fear. The people were talking, still shocked by her ability, though even now, Voldemort heard whispers of a new Merlin.
So… to hear Riley admit to keeping a secret, wasn't all that surprising. That she was willing to share, was though. Voldemort understood the need for a certain level of trust in order to ensure victory against your enemies, as well as to ensure that cooperation occurred more smoothly so he had to wonder just what she had, hidden away.
Riley stared back at the dark lord for several moments before taking a breath. In a burst of feathers and fire, her wings shot forth from her back and her tails extended to their base length. Her features became more demonic, as her teeth and nails sharpened, her ears became pointy, her veins ignited with a dim red glow, and her hair spiked out a bit, almost like a dog's hackles would. The only features she didn't show was her Byakugan and her third eye.
Voldemort stared wide eyed for several moments, this was nowhere in the ballpark of what he was expecting.
Riley stared back at the dark lord for several moments, letting him take in her appearance. About a minute passed and he suddenly started to chuckle. That chuckle turned into full blown laughter as he ran a hand through his hair.
"I should have known. Well played… Ralael." Voldemort stated after a moment.
"Ralael, doesn't really exist. She is as real to me, as Voldemort is to you, Tom. Just as Voldemort is your weapon to terrorize Britain, Ralael is mine, to frighten the world, back into line." Riley stated as she folded her arms across her chest.
"So… You're not really an angel are you? No… you may not be evil, but there is too much darkness in your heart for you to be an angel. A fallen angel, maybe, but not a regular one." Voldemort noted.
"You're right. I'm no angel. In fact… I'm actually the opposite of an angel." Riley replied with a smirk.
"A demon? Now that I believe. So… how did you come to possess this body?" Voldemort inquired. He knew enough about demons to know how they operated.
"I didn't possess this body. In all actuality… I was born human. When you struck me with the Killing Curse, you damaged the seal, and part of the fox's soul began to leak out. When he awoke around the time I was twelve, he informed me that part's of his soul were leaking out, and that I was absorbing him. By that time I was basically a half demon. So he and I made a deal. I freed him from the seal and helped to repair the damage done to him, he makes me a demon and acts as my familiar for a century." Riley explained.
"Astounding. So… am I too assume that this is the reason for the mutation in your Rinnegan?" Voldemort inquired.
"Yes. When I became a demon, my doujutsu all fused into one. I also possessed my grandfather's eyes at the time, while my body held my old eyes sealed away. When I became a demon, they all fused and formed this, the Rinne Sharingan." Riley answered.
Voldemort nodded thoughtfully, as more questions came to mind. "What demon's soul did you use for this ritual you are referring to? I've heard of such Rituals in Black magic, and while exceptionally risky, they also only adapt one's soul to the soul of a specific captured demon?"
"We used the demonic half of my own soul to adapt the rest of it." Riley replied.
"And that was part of the Nine Tail's soul… but that would make you..." Voldemort began as he came to a realization.
"An archdemon, yes. I'm still young now, but I'll achieve my full power within a century or so. Or at least, after I've lived for another century." Riley stated. She did take note of the fact that she'd be around a hundred and forty when she became a fully fledged archdemon. However, that wasn't really that far away, at least in the real world, using Kamui she was already in her mid Fifties, by now.
Voldemort was quiet for several moments as he surveyed her. Finally he let out a chuckle and spoke again.
"So it seems you've got me all wrapped up. As your familiar, you could have me do anything you wanted. So, if I may be so bold, what is my future to hold?" Voldemort inquired with a smirk. He was a bit upset by the revelation, but he was more so amused. He was a master of the game of manipulation, but to have been played so easily by this young girl… he found it hard not to admire her. She was a true Slytherin to the core.
"Well… Ralael is just a face. She's a distraction for the world to deal with while I focus on my true plans. You see… after we free Britain I intend to build a paradise for those that I love. A place of peace and security, my own kingdom." Riley explained.
"And you intend for Britain to be home to this kingdom? Or perhaps it's the hidden village you plan to build?" Voldemort guessed.
"Neither actually… or well… I guess the real answer is that I'm not entirely sure as of yet. Britain needs to change… and it's my home. I want it to change for the better. And the hidden village is meant to protect that home. Neither is my paradise yet… and I don't really know what role either will play if any, in it's construction. The things I do for Britain now, are solely for Britain, that I swear. As for your role, Tom… I never had any intentions of forcing you to do anything. I made you my familiar so that you couldn't betray me… that's it. I still believe that your way, is a better path for Britain to be on. It's why I granted you more power, it's why I made this body of yours better then before. I could also offer you an oath if you don't believe me, but trust me when I say this… I cannot control you, except in the form that you cannot stand against me. Every other aspect of your life is under your control. I don't intend to be your boss… as I said… I believe that your way, is a better way for Britain, so as long as you continue on the path you're on, I'll follow you." Riley explained to him.
Voldemort was quiet for several moments before he nodded. "So… you wanted to reveal this to me. Why?"
"Trust is important amongst allies. And I fully intend for Britain to be my ally in the future. And I want you as my ally as well. So now that you know the truth. Let's work together to gain control of the country." Riley stated.
"Very well. Since you were honest with me, I'll be honest with you. Ask me anything and I'll try to answer it." Voldemort offered.
"Alright… I know the plan we have involves putting Lucius in the position of Minister when Fudge goes down, what do you plan on doing, Hogwarts Headmaster maybe?" Riley inquired curiously.
"Perhaps… however… I hope we can get through this without the need to kill the old man. He's a pain in the ass, but he holds immense political power and he'd be invaluable to our efforts to stabilize the country once we take over." Voldemort informed her.
"You think we can get Dumbledore to surrender, once we take over?" Riley inquired.
"Possibly. The old man would be a valuable ally in ensuring the pacification of the light side. Perhaps if we can take over the country without much bloodshed, he'll see that we aren't the same monsters that Grindelwald was. Speaking of which, I heard that you destroyed Nurmengard?" Voldemort inquired.
"Yeah. A while ago I learned a dark and evil plan that Grindelwald set up for the last great war. He was stopped by Dumbledore before he could launch it into action, however he had a demon living in his head that prevented Dumbledore and the ICW from finding out any information on his plan..." Riley began to explain and from there she told Voldemort about Grindelwald's plan earning several scowls of disgust from the dark lord along the way. Summoning demons to slaughter millions, was too far, even for him.
"And now you possess multiple familiars. Am I to assume that the dragon you used to defeat the Tsuchikage was one of them?" Voldemort inquired as she finished her explanation.
"Indeed." Riley answered as she stepped up to him, and drew him into Kamui. A moment later she joined him there.
The dark lord scanned the area curiously, taking in the odd landscape.
"Welcome to Kamui. My very own pocket dimension. Here, I am god, and control everything. This is were I store many of my familiars. Deimos, Michael, Fenrir, Skorge, RAAM, and The Gravemind. Amygdala and Loki are currently on assignment." Riley explained as she pointed to different place in the field where her familiars were resting or watching them, and then she finished by turning towards the large hole in the ground where The Gravemind resided.
From there Riley began to explain her familiars purposes, when she got to the end of it, she asked if Voldemort wanted to link himself to The Gravemind. After hearing that Remus and Sirius, were already tied to it, he inquired as to whether or not she'd be willing to allow Snape to tie himself to it, thus he'd be connected to all three of his spies in the Order of the Phoenix.
After a moment of thought, Riley realized something. Snape was one of the few people who knew what she was. He had learned back during the Chamber of Secret's incident. She hadn't stripped the knowledge from anyone who knew when she created the Fidelus. Thus, Snape still knew of her demonic affinity.
So with that in mind, she just thought 'to hell with it', and went to retrieve professor Snape, along with Remus, and Sirius. After bringing Snape up to speed, they all gathered before The Gravemind. With a mental rush Snape and Voldemort were added to the collective. Riley then showed them how to communicate with each other, and with that they all went home. Riley and Voldemort continued their conversation into the night, it seems the Dark lord was a very inquisitive person, and with the mental communication ability granted through their connection to the Gravemind they could continue to send message's to one another even after Riley had gone home.
It was the next day, when Riley was preparing to leave for a meeting with the Minister, that Snape dropped by once again, to check up on Kushina. Her mother had been healing well, and was no longer bedridden. She tired easily, but was fully capable of getting up and walking around. She spent a lot of time gaining her old strength back, though she still needed someone to help her up and down the stairs.
Riley could only smirk as Snape met with Kushina in the kitchen, it seemed like the red headed Uzumaki loved to cook, so she was currently busy with Dobby, making meals and showing the excitable little elf, some of her recipes. She greeted Snape warmly when she saw him, it seemed like she already counted the reclusive Potion's master as one of her friends, like Sirius and Remus. One thing Riley knew she got from her real mother, was her ability to make friends, quickly.
Riley also suspected something deeper may be, beginning to bloom between Snape and her mother, though, Riley wasn't exactly an expert on male and female relationships so she wasn't really sure. It didn't really bother her. She quickly said her goodbyes to her mother, Dobby, and Snape and shot out the door, to head for the Ministry.
Twenty minutes later, she was in the Minister's office discussing things alongside, Lucius, Thomas Gaunt, Itachi, Minister Fudge, Madam Bones and Madam Umbridge. They were talking about certain set-ups for the new village, among other things.
"Alright, well… first and foremost, is where the hell to put it." Madam Bones began.
"The location of the Hidden Village will have to remain a secret until it's completion. Only Minister Fudge can know of it's where-about, so we can reduce the risk of an information leak. If the other villages or countries realize we are making our own hidden village, and they know where it is, then we could be facing major problems." Riley answered. Madam Bones nodded in understanding. It made sense to her, they needed to get the place built before they told people where it was.
"We should also clear something else up, before we go on. Unlike the hidden Village's within the elemental nations, Pentref Cysgodion Hud, will be a village that will only host the Cysgodol Legion and their families, if they choose to bring them. The village will be purely run by the Legion. The civilians who live there will either serve the village's needs by doing jobs needed to keep it running or they will already have jobs that benefit the country. Our hidden village wont be a separate entity like say the Leaf is to the Land of Fire. For example, the Leaf has it's own economy within the village, that differs from the land of fire, that will not be the case here. This hidden village will not be home to merchant families, and it wont be a safe place for any family to just move into. Only those that serve the legion or other specific roles within the village can bring their families." Itachi explained to the Minister and the rest of those gathered.
"While it will be a hidden village, it will operate like a military base. Similar to how the muggles handle their militarys. There wont be civilian's running around, doing things they shouldn't and merchants wont be setting up shop there. This village has one purpose, to train the Cysgodol Legion." Thomas informed them in a thick Italian accent. Voldemort played the part well, of a man whom lived in Italy his whole life.
"I see. I guess that makes sense. Now Riley, before I forget, I wanted to inform you of a few changes at Hogwarts this coming year." Fudge stated, drawing a curious look from Riley.
"Since you own half the school, I figure it would be prudent to share our fears, as well as inform you of our current courses of action. You see, Dumbledore has spent the last few months running around telling everyone that You-Know-Who, is back. He is, for what ever reason, trying to start a panic. The ministry has been doing what we can to get things under control, and this year, Madam Umbridge will be taking over the DADA position. I have also put into affect a new educational decree, along with the board of governors. You see, in the recent years we've noticed a falling in Hogwarts standards, and so to insure that they get back up to snuff, Madam Umbridge is also being appointed as High Inquisitor. Her job will be to analyze the Hogwarts teaching staff and enforce any Ministerial decrees, that may or may not be coming into effect." Fudge explained.
Riley was neutral for most of it, but couldn't stop herself from making a face when Fudge mentioned falling standards, as her own group was top of their year, and some of the top students in Hogwarts. Noticing her look Madam Umbridge decided to jump in.
"Your friends and the whole of your little group are, the major exception to the norm. They have been doing exceedingly well, however the rest of the school, is facing a dip in academic standards that we wish to reverse." Umbridge clarified earning a nod of understanding from Riley.
"Madam Umbridge will also be keeping an eye on Dumbledore. We've all heard the rumors of his Vigilante group from the last war, and I don't want him using the school as a means to get it back up and running." Madam Bones added. If there was one thing Madam Bones hated, it was people who thought they were above the law. People like vigilantes may be helpful at times, however those kinds of people rarely have rules, and they don't mind crossing the line if it's for the, 'Greater Good'. And Madam Bones didn't want any of these wanna-be heroes running around gunning for possible dark lords.
"Well. I look forward to working alongside you madam. And I do appreciate your assistance, I wouldn't want the Headmaster to think he could use Hogwarts as a breeding ground for dark lord hunters or anything. With that being said, word has already spread to some of my close personal friends, on the formation of a hidden village, and they have expressed their desires to help in some way. Some want to be members, other's intend to reach positions in the ministry that would benefit the project. They all know that great esteem lies ahead, for those working on this ambitious project so I would like to ask, that my training session with them remain… undisturbed. You are more then welcome to step in and view some of our sessions, if you desire madam, just to ensure that they are on the up and up, as I wouldn't want anyone to think I'm doing anything other then training possible future members of Britain's military." Riley replied. Voldemort meanwhile, just smirked. He knew that Riley was already covering her own ass, and ingraining herself with the ministry and Umbridge. To them it would seem like she was already training their future soldiers, and it would definitely endear her to them.
"Ah yes, yes. We can't forget that." Fudge nodded in agreement.
"I would love to drop by and view these, um, training session of yours. I'm sure they're quite riveting." Umbridge said with a nod.
"Yes. I wouldn't mind seeing one myself. Maybe get a feel for how strong this Shadow Legion is going to be." Madam Bones added.
"Well… feel free. We train on weekends. Usually in the mornings, in the chamber of Secrets. The door is usually locked, but I leave a clone outside in case of emergencies, and someone needs to contact us while we're down there. The place has wards and runes all over it, that allows us to train without fear of damaging anything. But like I said, feel free to stop by whenever you like." Riley stated, earning a nod from both Madam Bones and Madam Umbridge.
"Speaking of all that, I was wondering as to how your classes are going in teaching students how to use chakra? I know you'll be gaining another class this year, and starting a new batch of lessons for those who are going through their second years of chakra lessons." Madam Umbridge inquired.
"Well, in their first year, I taught them theory and how to access chakra, along with certain exercises to increase their control, like balancing quills, getting paper or leaves to spin in their hands as well as all of the handsigns and their meanings. This year I'll begin teaching what are known as the academy three. Substitution, which I'm sure will enhance many students dueling abilities. Clone Jutsu to teach them to create illusionary clones, and finally the Transformation jutsu, that will allow them to transform. They will only need to master one of these by the end of the year, but I expect them to be able to at least use them all by the end of term. Other then that, I'll be teaching them other chakra control exercises like wall walking, and water walking." Riley answered her, earning a satisfactory nod from Umbridge.
From there they continued chatting about various things and were eventually let go. Later the Dark lord called another meeting between the inner circle to finalize plans for the breakout of Azkaban prisoners.
"How in the hell do we get the prisoners out without the Aurors realizing that it was the Dark lord's doing?" Lucius asked aloud.
A few ideas were thrown around with other members, poking holes in whatever logic supported the plans.
Finally it was Riley who came up with a good plan.
"What if we frightened the Aurors into fleeing?" Riley inquired.
"How so?" Lucius asked.
"What if we make them think the Angel of Carnage has come for those within the prison. By now we've all heard about what it did and Nurmengard. The Aurors have too. If we project a powerful enough illusion to make them think the Angel has come for the prison, they'll run like hell." Riley offered.
Voldemort simply smirked at her.
-Later that Night-
Two guards stood at the entrance of Azkaban prison. They hated this place, they hated being here, and they hated the people and things that lived here. Neither one spoke, as most of the time, they were just too depressed to speak of stuff.
As they stood, they both felt an overwhelming feeling of terror consume them. Then they saw it. Gliding towards them over the crashing waves of the ocean. They saw the shadowy winged creature move towards them at immense speed.
"The fuck is that?" One asked.
"Oh Shit… Oh Shit! Run!" The other Auror shouted as he saw what was rushing towards them. The two men ran inside the building as the Angel fast approached. This was actually Riley, but to any of the Death Eaters that were watching, they were made to believe it was only a powerful illusion created by the Slytherin Lord.
A few moments later they saw Aurors piling into boats on the opposite side of the prison. They obviously weren't going to give up their lives fighting for the trash that was housed on the island. Meanwhile, Snape would be informing Dumbledore in a few hours, that Voldemort had finally summoned him back to his side, and informed him of their plan to use the Angel's visage to cause the Aurors to flee in terror.
After a few moments, Riley made it to the prison. She glided elegantly through the halls, intent on locating her target for the night, the dementor colony. She quickly made her way to the deepest catacombs of the prison as the death eater's arrived to break out their fellows from the high security wing.
It didn't take her long to track down the colony's home. She could feel the freezing darkness that the monstrous, soulless creatures gave off. She ended up in a large dark room. The room was only about ten feet, by ten feet, however the wall opposite the door was missing, leading into a wide open underground chasm.
She slowly approached the edge and observed the open space. She could see to the other side, and spotted numerous holes that dotted the far wall. She spotted movement from the far wall, as hundreds of shadows began to emerge from the vast number of holes. It only took a few moments before a massive swarm of Dementors took to the sky. They drifted hesitantly towards her, all obviously aware of her power.
The Dementors continued to gather for several moments, until finally the largest and obviously most powerful dementor made its appearance. The creature was nearly twice as big as the other Dementors and on it's head was a crown of bones. It floated towards her and Riley felt all heat evacuate the surrounding area.
With a single flap of her wings, Riley was airborne. She floated up to meet with the king dementor.
As she closed the gap, she saw the creature reach out towards her. She felt her soul shudder and pull towards it's grasp. A normal person would be terrified and a cowering mess, the dementor presence overwhelming them, but not Riley. Riley was calm, and cool. The second she felt the Dementor king try to draw out her soul, she raised a hand and released a burst of hellfire. She tossed the purple flame right into a crowd of dementors and they all burst into flame, and quickly burned away. The hellfire, very quickly consumed their bodies and souls.
All of the Dementors recoiled, even the king, as they watched their comrades burn to nothingness.
"I know what you are. Demon familiars left behind when your master either left, or was destroyed. If I had to guess… you were created by the Shinju or the Ten tails. I offer you the chance to work for me. To finally be free from this place, and serve something greater then yourselves. Join me." Riley intoned as she released her power constraints allowing the dementor horde to bathe in her raw power.
The Dementors recoiled as they were hit by the force of her immense power.
After a few moments of basking in her power, the horde rushed towards their king. Thousands of Dementors rushed towards the king, their bodies vanishing beneath it's long, billowing cloak. Several moments passed before all of the Dementors vanished from sight, leaving just the king and Riley remaining.
Riley stared at the creature, all three of her eyes, glowing red with the Rinne Sharingan. The Dementor king stared back for several moments, before gliding closer to her.
"We… will… serve… as… we… have… always… Goddess..." The Dementor king stated in a bone chilling whisper, and then in a flash, it's body rushed towards Riley, wrapping around her for several moments. Riley remained calm, her senses, still at their peak, she knew their was nothing the Dementor king could do to harm her.
After a moment, the Dementor's body ceased it's movement around her, and it's cloak settled onto her frame, taking the place of the cloak she was already wearing. Riley looked down at herself and analysed the black wispy cloak that now hung from her frame. She could feel energy within it, a lot of energy. The Dementor King's body now hung to her own, and the colony of Dementors was now with her. Several more moments passed before she felt the Dementor's magic and her own connect, and she knew they had accepted her as their new master.
She now understood as she floated back down to the entrance. The dementor's were all one being. They were all pieces of the king, extensions of his power. Now his form had changed, he hung from her body, as an elegant and ghastly tattered cloak. But he was still there, still real. Riley simply smirked, as she made her way to the upper levels.
-Elsewhere-
"YOU LOOK LIKE YOU'VE SEEN A DEMON! ARE THE DEMENTORS REBELLING! HAHAHHAHAHA!" Bellatrix shouted from her window, down towards the fleeing fleet of Aurors. She wondered if maybe the Dementors had launched an attack, or maybe… just maybe, if her mark was anything to go by, her lord had come for them?
Suddenly she heard pops throughout the cell block. It sounded like cells were being blown open.
She dragged herself over to the bars of her cells to peak out, wondering just what was going on. Moving sucked however, and she had to hold onto the bars for several moments to catch her breath.
Suddenly a red bolt of light slammed into the cell door next to her, and it went flying off it's hinges. More red bolts flew by as well, slamming into cells on either side of the hall.
Bellatrix stood for several moments hanging from the bars. She still needed to catch her breath, as the shouting and walking had tired her. She had no clue how long she had been here, but it sucked.
A moment passed and she felt someone enter her cell. She turned and was met with the sight of a young elegant looking man, with dark hair, and a dazzling complexion.
"It's been to long, dear Bella." The man stated in a smooth voice, as he stepped closer to her.
"My lord… I knew you would come." Bellatrix said with reverence as she stepped towards him and the two met.
As she approached him, she reached out for him. Voldemort gently received her hand, and held it in his. "You have been here for too long, my dear. It's time to take you home. Back to your cousin, your sisters, your wolf."
"Siri, Cissy, Andy, Remus..." Bellatrix stated with a slightly delirious smile.
With that Voldemort pressed an object into her hand, and muttered a word. In a pop, Bellatrix was gone. He heard similar pops in the adjoining cells.
Several quiet moments passed before he stepped back out into the hall. There was nothing but the sound of rain and crashing waves. All of his death eaters were gone, all of their allies freed. The only sounds that remained was the occasional cry of the prisoners that remained. Monsters, murderers, child rapists, and all other sort of unsavory characters.
He turned around right as Ralael rose from the ground.
"Is it done?" Voldemort inquired. He took note of the freezing cold feeling she was giving off now.
"Yes… the Dementor King has bound himself to me. I have full control over the dementors now." Ralael answered.
"Good. Now, what shall we do with this lot?" Voldemort inquired as he sent a passing glance around at the few prisoners that were still present, some were still begging to be freed, but most, were now cowering at the sight of the unholy angel, and the familiar feeling of ice cold dread she was radiating.
"They are scum and monsters. I would normally just devour their souls… but after all this time… there's little left to take. Let us depart from this place." Riley answered as she stepped up to one of the stone walls and placed her hand on the freezing stone.
Voldemort felt Riley force her magic into the fortress he felt the wards and runes the kept it standing, erupt and shatter, her sheer power easily overwhelming them.
Once that was done she walked towards one of the open cells and with a burst of magic, blew out of the wall.
Voldemort followed as she took flight. The two flew away from the prison neither caring that without the wards and runes to protect it any longer, the underground caves would collapse from the weight of the ocean and the once mighty prison that had stood for centuries would collapse into the sea.
-At Malfoy Manner-
All around the main hall, the previously captured death eaters were receiving potions to help fix them, and were meeting with old friends and allies.
"Oh, Bella, I'm so happy to see you." Narcissa said as she hugged her sister with a smile.
"I've missed you Cissy. Hope you've been keeping Lucy out out of trouble?" Bellatrix replied as she sent a smirk over at Lucius who was standing nearby giving the woman a droll look.
"It's good to see you as well, Bellatrix." Lucius greeted the woman, as the nearby fireplace erupted and more friends came through it. This time it turned out to be Sirius and Remus.
"Sirius. Remus." Narcissa waved the two over.
Both men quickly approached them, and Sirius immediately wrapped his cousin in a tight bear hug.
"It's nice to see you again Siri…" Bellatrix greeted her cousin warmly.
The two shared a look for several moments before Sirius glanced to the side, where Remus was standing with a warm smile and slightly teary eyes.
Bellatrix turned to the man and approached him with smile.
"My wolf. Still mine?" Bellatrix asked in a whisper as she reached him.
"Always." Remus answered as he pulled her into a hug which she readily returned with a happy grin. There would have been tears, but she, along with the rest of her fellows were dehydrated like none other.
"So… Remus and Bellatrix… how the bloody hell did that happen?" Riley inquired as she stood next to Draco with the Dark lord about ten feet away. Draco and the Dark Lord both shrugged simultaneously.
"Not sure. Though Bellatrix always did have a thing for the interesting. She was always a bit… off balanced, and Remus' calm and controlled nature always helped her keep control. I think him being a werewolf, and having moments where he can't control himself, helps Bella relate to herself. The two are alike but also opposites. Where Bella is off, with occasional bouts of heightened lunacy. Remus in calm, with prominent moments of lost control. I guess it was a bonding point." The dark Lord tried to explain, earning nods of understanding from Draco and Riley.
"Well, Drake… come on, let's go meet your Aunt." Riley stated as she urged Draco forward.
The two approached the gathered adults, and Riley made sure to announce themselves, by clearing her throat loudly.
Bellatrix, Remus, Sirius, Lucius, and Narcissa all looked over, and Bellatrix gave the two a curious look.
"Ah… Bella. I hope you wouldn't have forgotten your nephew." Narcissa stated, to the slightly confused woman. At hearing that Narcissa eyes lit up, even more then they already were.
"Oh, my precious little dragon. Look at how much you've grown. You've turned into quite the lady killer." Bellatrix stated as she hugged him.
"You're not actually killing ladies though… right? Because that would be bad, nearly got Sev and Lucy in trouble some years back." Bellatrix added after a moment, earning a dumbstruck look from Draco, and bemused looks from Snape and Lucius whom were both standing nearby.
"Ignore your aunt Draco, she's off her rocker." Lucius told his son.
"No I'm not. Cissy's the one who's off her rocker." Bellatrix countered.
"No… you pushed me off a rocker, when I was four." Narcissa corrected.
Bellatrix stared off for a moment, blinking a few times as she did. "Oh! Well alright then."
"It's good to see you again, Aunt Bella." Draco finally stated as he pushed past all the weird dialogue being thrown around.
"Oh, it's so good to see you two, my little dragon. How old are you now? Oh, I'll have to find you a great present to make up for all the birthdays I've missed. Has Siri tried taking you to a whore house yet? He tried with Lucy once, but the man is a poof." Bellatrix questioned. Her final statement drew laughter from Draco, and Sirius and an affronted look from Lucius.
"My husband isn't a poof, I can assure you, Bella." Narcissa came to her husband's defense.
"It's an actor Cissy. He hires an actor, and he just put's on a glamour, and goes to town on you and Lucy takes the credit. Who do you think my precious little dragon got his good looks from? Lucy? Bah…" Bellatrix fired back.
Meanwhile, Lucius was busy being held back by Remus and Snape, while Sirius was currently on the floor laughing his ass off.
"It's okay my little dragon. I'll find your real father for you one day. Then we can get rid of the poof of a husband, your mother has, and get her a real man." Bellatrix stated to Draco who was trying his damnedest not to laugh anymore.
"Woman… when I… you know what? No. I'm not taking your bait again. Wretched woman, been back five minutes and already she's trying to wind me up." Lucius tried to threaten but then realized it was useless and just grumbled to himself as he shook off Snape and Remus. He quickly turned his attention to Sirius and sent a hex right at the laughing marauder.
Sirius let out a yelp and darted away, when he was hit by the hex, it only took a moment for others to realize that his legs were moving on their own, taking him on a run throughout the house.
"Have fun. Mutt." Lucius whispered dangerously.
"So, Draco, is this your girlfriend?" Bellatrix inquired as she glanced at Riley.
"Oh no… this is actually my best friend. Riley, this is my Aunt Bellatrix Black. Aunt Bella, this is Riley Slytherin Gryffindor Uchiwa Black." Riley introduced the two.
"Greetings." Riley offered with a smile.
Bellatrix stared at the girl for a moment, mesmerized by the insane looking eyes that the girl had. She then registered the names and glanced over at Narcissa. "Black?"
"She's Sirius' Godchild. He named her his heir." Narcissa explained.
"So the snarky little doggy, finally wizened up and decided to put a woman on the Black throne. Seems he's not so hopeless after all." Bellatrix stated with an approving nod.
"I resent that!" Sirius shouted as he darted by and then ran up the stairs, his legs still forced to keep him running.
"It's very nice to meet you." Riley offered.
"Nice to meet you as well. You can't have been raised by Siri, you have too many manners." Bellatrix noted.
"Yeah… Sirius only got out of Azkaban a few years ago. It was actually Uncle Remus whom I attribute a lot of my parental guidance too." Riley replied.
"Oh well that's much better. Aside from the flees, my wolf is a great role model. … … he didn't give you flees did he? Gave them to me once. Nearly had to cut my hair… nearly killed him for it too." Bellatrix replied with a smile which then turned sour as she shot a look at Remus whom held his hands up in a placating manner.
"Remus was a good role model. And yes, because of him, I got flees once. But I guess it was more Moony's fault." Riley replied.
Bellatrix shot another look at Remus whom backed up, his hands still raised.
"Well, it's really nice to meet you Riley. I hope you're keeping my little Dragon in line?" Bellatrix questioned.
"I try." Riley replied as she sent a smirk at Draco whom flinched and shuddered from it.
"Bloody slave driver." Draco huffed.
"What?" Riley asked.
"Nothing!" Draco replied with a bit of a yelp.
"Good to see you getting re-acclimated, Bella." Voldemort stated as he approached.
"My lord. I'm so glad to see you again. I wish I could have been there to see you revival, but I did feel it… it was utterly magnificent." Bellatrix greeted the dark lord with reverence. She obviously greatly admired the man, and looked up to him. From the way he spoke in reply, it was obvious he cared for the woman too, however it wasn't in a romantic way. No, it was more like siblings… or perhaps a father and daughter.
"Ah yes…. Once you are back up to strength, I'll have much to tell you. We have many plans set in motion, and with a little luck, the country will be hours within a year." Voldemort stated a bit loudly making sure others in the room heard him.
The reply was a rousing round of cheers from the surrounding death eaters.
"I cannot wait to finally get back to it. I can't wait to hear what kind of plans we've got going on. Though I do have to inquire as to where ickle Karkaroff ran off to? I'd like to see him before I get back to work." Bellatrix inquired with a mad gleam in her eye.
Riley stood off to the side and watched. She recognized that Bellatrix was the girlfriend Remus had spoke of when he said that Karkaroff had put some of his friends away when he acted as a snitch.
"You don't have to worry about that dung pile, Bella. Remus and I offed him a few months ago." Sirius informed her as he walked up to the group. It seemed like he was able to finally lift whatever spell Lucius had used on him.
"I hope it hurt?" Bellatrix inquired as she gave what could only be described as a sultry look to Remus. Since she was currently bone thin, and her eyes were almost hollow looking, with deep purple bags under them, it kinda dashed the appeal, but it was the thought that counted.
"It did. Imperious curse, had someone slit his throat from ear to ear." Remus replied.
"Ah, like a little piggy." Bellatrix said with delight.
"Alright!" Voldemort called out drawing all of his followers attention.
"It's great to have you all back again. For the next week, I want you all to rest. Hogwarts is starting in three days. In a week, we shall reconvene and you will all be brought up to speed on our current plans. Until then, lay low, and stay hidden. Lucius will help you all get into contact with the goblins to get your home's wards reactivated. Until then. Welcome back." Voldemort told them all, earning several cheers from his death eaters.
-Later-
"So… how did your interview go?" Riley inquired as she spooned with Fleur. It was late at night and Riley had just gotten back. Fleur was already asleep. She had moved in a few days prior and had recently been looking for a job.
"It went well. Wiz any luck I will have a job Madam Malkins soon." Fleur replied sleepily.
Riley simply made a face. She knew that Fleur was only looking for a job because she wanted to contribute something to the household and she didn't want to just live off of Riley's sizable vaults. Fleur was independent in a lot of ways. And if Riley was going to give her a place to stay then she would help by bringing in some money, it was only fair in her mind.
Still, Riley had to grimace at the thought of Fleur being forced to work in the place. There was nothing wrong with Madam Malkins, however Riley suspected the second the store owner realized that Fleur was a Veela she agreed to hire her. I mean who wouldn't want a Veela to work in their shop, think of all the men that would enter and purchase something just because Fleur was there. And that's where it was a problem for Riley. Sadly for Fleur, any chance of getting a good job at say the ministry or any other highly reputable position was dashed by Fleur being a Veela and therefore a labeled, 'Dark Creature' in Britain. It was one of the reasons that Riley had just assumed Fleur would stay in France and find a job there, and Riley would just come see her whenever she could. It's not like she couldn't teleport anywhere in the world, even without a portkey.
But Fleur didn't want to stay in France. Britain was where her mates lived. Britain was where Riley was… and Fleur wanted to be by her side. Of course what the Veela didn't know was that Riley now felt like shit, because Fleur was here, and this place treated her like crap.
"Well… I hope you have fun. If you don't enjoy your job then what's the point? Maybe you can apply for a job at Gringotts. You're good with numbers, and good at dealing with people..." Riley replied.
"Hmhm." Fleur sleepily agreed.
Riley held her closer. She knew that soon the country would be theirs and bigots would finally be put into their place.
-The Following Morning-
"Severus… thank you for finally arriving." Dumbledore greeted the potion's master.
Snape nodded and sent a glance around the room. He was in Grimmauld Place. And he was surrounded by about three dozen Order of the Phoenix members. Many old members were present as well as a few new ones. Three Weasely's were present. The two adults and the eldest son. Moody was here. Shacklebolt too. Remus, and Sirius sat together a few rows back. McGonagall stood nearby, hell even the young Auror Tonks was present.
"We've been waiting for you. Apparently the Angel of Carnage destroyed Azkaban yesterday." Dumbledore informed him.
Snape was quiet for a moment before turning to the headmaster.
"The dark Lord called me back to his side this morning. Yesterday, he and his death eaters launched an assault on the prison. It wasn't the angel. Voldemort weaved an illusion of the angel to frighten the Auror force into fleeing. I'm guessing he didn't want to risk any of his own in an all out assault on the prison. After he was finished freeing all of the prisoners, he gained the allegiance of the Dementors and destroyed the prison's wards and runes. My guess is that the ocean did the rest." Snape explained earning gasps from those present.
"Clever." Moody noted with a gruff nod.
"Bloody wicked. To think the old snake bastard was strong enough to tear down Azkaban's runes and wards… I've been there, that place was as tough as they come." Tonks noted.
"Nymphadora isn't wrong." Sirius agreed, earning a scowl from the woman for the use of her first name.
"It seems Voldemort is adapting his tactics to the changing climate of things." Dumbledore mused as discussions began about what they were to do about this.
It was a few hours later as most of the Order members departed that Snape instigated the first part of their plan. He approached the headmaster when everyone had left, and delivered a message.
"Albus… before I departed to come to this meeting, Voldemort inquired as to how well I remembered the prophecy. I don't know what he intends, but I thought you should be aware." Snape informed him, earning a very disturbed look from the headmaster which quickly turned thoughtful as he turned and walked away.
-A Few Days Later-
Back in Hogwarts. Riley was happy to be back. The castle was a second home to her. She sent clones back to her other home every night to check up on Kushina, whom was still improving and would probably be back to training in a few weeks. She was also bringing Fleur to her room every night, along with her fellow mates, and the first few nights back in Hogwarts were very raunchy. Most of the girls spent the summer with their families, and while they also spent time together, it wasn't nearly as often as it had been at Hogwarts and it was rare for them all to be free on the same days. Being back in school meant they could all be together again.
Things were definitely different this year. The headmaster seemed more tense then ever. While Madam Umbridge was taking her role as DADA instructor and High Inquisitor very seriously. Riley already had plans in place to deal with Umbridge during Remus' inevitable down time each month, since she knew the woman was one of the biggest haters of half breeds and non human creatures that there was.
Draco and Riley had also been made prefects for their year. Snape wasn't at all worried about overworking Riley, he knew she was a demon and thus didn't need sleep. Plus being a prefect granted her special privileges, which he was sure she wouldn't mind. Hermione had also made Prefect for the claws so Draco got to spend even more time with his girlfriend. No one brought it up… but yeah the two were dating. Everyone knew.
Seems a lot of relationships sparked this year. Ginny was still with Theo, Pansy was with Blaise, Tracy was with Cedric whom had activated his own house's courting rights, so that Tracy could leave Hogwarts on weekends and visit him. Hell even Neville was now dating someone.
Another interesting thing to occur was Hashirama becoming fully corporeal. Needless to say after a handshake and a formal greeting, Riley banished him, Madara, and Kurama to Kamui and three spent the next few days doing battle, and getting fully reacquainted.
On top of that, Umbridge's DADA lessons were interesting. The lessons were definitely dumbed down a bit, and a lot of it was more theoretical, however it wasn't as bad as it could have been. It seems that while the Ministry didn't want Dumbledore training any possible Vigilantes they also didn't want to hamper any future soldiers they may get out of Hogwarts, and with Thomas delivering a list of basic prerequisites for joining the legion, the Ministry now had a clearer idea of where students needed to be in order to join the military.
Fleur also ended up getting that job at Madam Malkins and was already on her third day of work. While Fleur liked clothing and stuff, she did feel just a bit put out in doing something so… basic…
"I am working late tomorrow. And your mozer intends to send you out some of her Spicy Pork Ramen." Fleur informed Riley as she cuddled close to Katie whom had her back to Fleur and an arm draped over Riley. Riley meanwhile just nodded in understanding and pulled Luna into a tighter embrace.
It seemed like being separated for the summer had finally been what helped to stabilize the harems collective sex drive. While the few days after coming to school were wild, now that it was out of that way, they just wanted to spend the night with each other. Hell this night they didn't even have sex. They just all slept with one another.
The next day, Riley found herself busily writing a letter. Early in the morning a Gringotts owl arrived with an international letter. It was from Gaia. Riley was so happy to hear from her friend again and quickly wrote back. Gaia had informed her of the changes in Suna and how acting nicer was affecting Gaia's reputation with others in the village. People were nicer to her now. Though still uneasy. Riley was happy for her, and made sure to inform her of all sorts of new things that were going on, as well as to inquire about what Gaia was up too.
She quickly sent off her letter and went about her day… it seemed like this year would just be full of surprises.
-Elsewhere, later-
Fleur was busy in Madam Malkins folding shirts to place on a table. It was late, and the store would be closing soon. The store owner was in the back counting the money and preparing to take it to Gringotts. Fleur was busy restocking and tending to any customers that may enter before closing.
"Hey there sweetheart, mind if I try out the merchandise?" Fleur heard a voice say behind her. Faster then lightning she spun around and caught the hand of a man whom was about to slap her rear.
"Keep your hands to yourself." Fleur growled out with a warning in her eyes.
The man simply pulled his hand free and raised his hands in surrender. "Sorry. My hands just seem to wander when my eyes are focused on such a stunning beauty."
Fleur found a blush creeping onto her face, and that surprised her. She knew that men's honeyed words didn't usually have any effect on her. She felt something press against her mental barriers. She recognized it. This was allure, but it definitely wasn't a Veela's allure.
"How's about we start over. Name's Francis." The man greeted her with a charming smile.
"I am wiz someone. Unless you intend to buy somezing, zen take your flirting elsewhere." Fleur told him, not letting her eyes leave him for a second. Her danger senses were firing off.
The man almost looked confused for a moment, like he didn't understand why she was resisting.
"Oh come on, sweetness. I'm sure whoever the poof is, he couldn't possibly treat you the way you deserve. I mean… look at where you work. What kind of man, would let a goddess like you work in a place like this?" The man charmed. Again Fleur found herself blushing, as well as growing angrier. This man was doing something to her… while her body was reacting, her mind was able to resist it. She was running through her mind, all of the possible creatures that could be doing something like this to her. A few came to mind but none were stronger then a veela. None could make a Veela bend to their whim. Fleur had to fight off a growl as she felt her body tingle with arousal. She felt her wand slip into her hand and she prepared to give this asshole a piece of her mind, when someone very large entered into the store.
Fleur's eyes drifted to the figure as she felt a familiar magic flood into the place. The figure was tall, almost seven feet. It walked right up to the man, and towered over him.
The figure wore a long black cloak and a solid white mask over it's face. It had a hood up so that no one could see it's face.
It only took a moment for Fleur to recognize who this was. Thinking quickly, she spoke. "Actually sir, my boyfriend is quite ze man. I doubt you could compare."
The man looked offended but before he could say anything he felt a hand on his shoulder and his eyes widened in surprise. He glanced down at the large gloved hand on his shoulder and then slowly turned around. He kept turning until he was face to chest with the large figure.
The man stared at the large figure's chest before speaking. "Sorry… I think I have the wrong store. I'll be going." With that the man quickly left. He made for the door and was quickly outside. Right as he turned the corner and proceed to head into a back alley a figure hopped down from above and grabbed him by the throat. It then proceeded to drag the man into the alley, and just out of sight from everyone else, it tore him limb from limb.
Meanwhile inside, Fleur was thanking her rescuer.
"Zank you… Skorge." Fleur stated to her lover's familiar. The creature offered a growl in reply and turned to head out.
As it left, Fleur continued to ponder as to what the man could have been. Suddenly it struck her, and she suddenly became very grateful for Skorge's presence. The only creature that could seduce a Veela, even a full Veela, was a vampire.
"You alright love?" Fleur heard Riley's voice. She glanced at the door, and spotted her lover there waiting.
"Yes. I… assume you left Skorge to watch over me?" Fleur stated as Riley approached her.
"He wanted to. He worries about your safety. So does RAAM. You're important to me, and thus important to them." Riley replied.
"I see. Zat was a vampire… I'm worried what he will do if he comes back." Fleur stated.
"He wont. RAAM grabbed him when he left. The vamps dead." Riley informed her mate, drawing a relieved sigh from Fleur.
"I never would have thought a vampire would be stalking around Diagon Alley." Fleur stated.
"He probably came from Knockturn alley." Riley mused.
"Well… Zank you for ze help. I'm just surprised I wasn't more affected by the Vampire's Allure. When focused it is stronger zen a Veela's." Fleur said with a bit of wonder.
"It probably had to do with you being my mate. While you were mildly affected physically. Mentally and magically you were immune. Perhaps being tied to me, prevented him from entrancing you." Riley stated with wonder as she helped Fleur finish her work.
"Alright. I'm all done in the back, are you finished?" Madam Malkin inquired as she approached from the back.
"Yes madam. Riley stopped by to take me home." Fleur replied. Riley nodded and with that, the three left the building. Fleur and Riley walked Madam Malkin to Gringotts so she could drop off the money, and then the three went their separate ways.
-Meanwhile-
"You two seemed quite protective over Fleur." Riley's clone noted as it and RAAM watched Skorge beat what was left of the vampire to a bloody shredded pulp.
"She is your future. One day she will mother your children." Was RAAM's reply.
"Yes… one day your mates will help propagate your line. We will defend that line… against… all threats..." Skorge agreed with a snarl as he finished turning the vampire's corpse into hamburger meet.
"Well… keep up the good work. Fleur can take care of herself, but Vampires are masters of manipulation and control." The clone noted. The two familiars nodded and with that, the three vanished.
-Elsewhere in Iwa-
"Please gods! Fuck!" A man screamed as another man drove a knife into his leg.
"Why are you doing this?" The first man cried out. He was currently tied to a chair, and being tortured by this deranged looking fucker in a clown mask.
"You need to see. Look up and see." The man stated as he twisted the knife, earning another scream from the tied down man.
"See what?" The captive cried with tears streaming from his eyes.
"See it. If you see it… then you can be saved." The Clown stated and then he stabbed him in the other leg.
"Please… just tell me what you want me to see…?" The man cried in agony.
"Look! JUST LOOK! SEE IT, DAMMIT!" The clown screamed at him as it pointed up at the dark space at the top of the warehouse they were in.
The captive stared up at the nothingness… feeling absolutely hopeless. There was nothing there. Just empty space. He begged for something to appear, if only something showed itself, then the pain would stop. At the moment his brain made a choice. Either keep hiding the abomination or reveal it. Either way would hurt it, but it was currently under attack, it needed to fend off that pain, and if revealing this secret would make it stop, then his brain would do it.
Suddenly the captive man began to scream in horror. Before his eyes, an abomination unto nature itself, appeared. He kept screaming as he finally saw what the clown masked man could see… Amygdala.
"YES! YES! YOU SEE!" The clown shouted happily.
"I SEE IT! I SEE IT! PLEASE! LET ME GO!" The captive man screamed in terror.
"Yes go. But first. I need something. I need more eyes. More eyes to line my brain. Then I will see as it does." The clown whispered and then drove his knife into the mans skull.
Meanwhile, from outside a nearby window, a majestic purple bird let out an amused trill and then took flight. Eager to see what new terrors would be unleashed.
-To Be Continued-
Alright, there we go got a few bloodborne flashbacks at the end. Hope you like. I always like to do uncommon couples for my pairings. I hope you enjoyed the changes, and I hope you enjoyed the moving forward. Finally got Gaia reintroduced and Tonks is back. They'll be finding their way into the Harem at one point or another. Riley's familiars are busy doing work and the path to making the hidden village is well under way. Let me know what you think, and I'll be working on my other stories a bit over the next few days, so I'll see ya later, JA NE!
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