CHAPTER EIGHTEEN
DISCLAIMER: J.K.ROWLING owns the Harry Potter world.
Sorry for the late update, it's a long chapter though. Enjoy!
Please read and review. Any comments or ideas will be appreciated.
Saturday, 9th November 1990
The days passed quickly and uneventful at Hogwarts. The only thing that was looked forward to was the Quidditch match between Slytherin and Gryffindor in mid-November. The Slytherins headed down to the pitch eagerly though Delilah, Reyna and Zach followed with bemused expressions. Halfway there they caught up with Rylan who seemed to have escaped his friends in favour of sitting with his twin.
Reyna's face brightened when she saw him and greeted cheerfully," Rylan! Sitting with us, then?"
Delilah gave a small scowl which was returned by the Gryffindor as he shrugged," Figured I might as well, though I'd prefer if we got neutral seats, Reyn. Gryffindors aren't supposed to be seen with Slytherins and all that," he said lightly.
"Whose team are you on, then, Cade?" Zach asked curiously.
Rylan gave a small smile," Gryffindor of course," he said easily as they slipped in between the crowds to find decent seats," I suppose you support your house, Royston?"
Before Zach could answer Delilah interjected," Of course, not all of us can have twins in houses that hate each other," she said coolly.
Reyna pursed her lips," C'mon then, match's about to start."
The Gryffindors gave a roar as the team emerged from the room, grinning confidently as they marched towards the pitch. Slytherins gave loud boos before cheering their own team as Marcus Flint led them in front of Oliver Wood.
"Who's the seeker for Gryffindor Rye?" Reyna asked loudly over the roar of the crowds as Madam Hooch told them to shake hands.
"Some bloke named Jonathan Fintan," Rylan replied just as the quaffle was released and-
"THE MATCH BEGINS!" Lee Jordan's voice boomed from the microphone and the twins exchanged excited looks as they turned their attention to the players.
"And its Angelina Johnson with the quaffle. Only joined the team this year but a spectacular player on the field. Clean pass to Alicia Spinnet, another second year player who's making brilliant progress on the pitch and ouch-sorry Alicia and that's a bludger from one of the Slytherin beaters-bugger them, the slimy-sorry professor," Lee said hastily as McGonagall gave him a glare.
"Ah, Spinnet's back with the quaffle and passes it to Ford and he SCORES! 10 points to Gryffindor!" he roared much to the crowd's delight as they voiced their approval.
"Who do you think's going to win the match?" Delilah asked interestedly as her eyes followed the Slytherin chasers.
"Probably the Slytherins, I heard Gryffindor's seeker's not much good. Awful dodger of bludgers," Zach shouted as this time Slytherin chaser shot a goal. He gave a small cheer.
"Slytherin, they're known to play dirty," Rylan answered distractedly before looking apologetically at Reyna who simply shrugged.
Zach gave a small nod," You're not wrong about that, the Slytherin beaters have already knocked out one of the chasers of Gryffindors," he said with a wince as he tore his eyes from the game.
Reyna pursed her lips," Merlin, it's not even ten minutes and already a player's down," she muttered.
The game went on with 50 to 60 in favour of Gryffindor though it was bad luck that Fintan was sporting a broken arm and Oliver Wood had a black eye from one of the quaffles that had been thrust at him violently.
"Look!" Delilah said, pointing towards Slytherin's seeker Adrian Pucey as he went into a dive," Fintan's too far behind to catch up," she said eyeing the injured seeker critically.
"AND IT'S SLYTHERIN'S DITRY FOUL PLAY THAT LED THEM TO THEIR VICTORY. 210-70 SLYTHERIN," you could practically hear the disappoint in Jordan's voice as he boomed, not bothering to hide his displeasure.
The Slytherin gave loud cheers as the Gryffindors booed with Wood looking disappointed and almost heartbroken. The Weasley twins were swinging their bats rather violently at any Slytherin that dared approached them while the three Gryffindor chasers were nursing various wounded body parts. Fintan was helped by some of his friends as the Slytherins emerged looking victorious and sporting smirks.
Rylan frowned," I'd best be getting back to the common room now that we've lost," he said gloomily.
Reyna threw him a small smile," You'll win the other matches. Gryffindor had a fair chance at winning, the only thing stopping them was the seeker. Perhaps they'll have better luck next term," she said meaningfully and Rylan couldn't help smiling slightly.
"Yes, might as well go and cry together with your mates," drawled a voice behind them as the four of them stopped.
Delilah gave an obvious sigh," Vaisey, seems like wherever we go we can't get rid of you," she said sweetly.
Rylan didn't give her another look as he nodded to Zach and Delilah, smiled at Reyna before heading back towards the castle.
"Would you look at that, too depressed to muster a comeback," Annalise mocked with a small smirk," What's the matter, Cade, not happy Slytherin won the match?"
The crowd was starting to disperse and it was the four Slytherins along with some loiterers, none of whom were sparing them a second glance.
Reyna rolled her eyes at Vaisey," Annalise dear, you should really find some better ways of provocations. We're eleven, not seven. Anyway, Slytherin shouldn't play dirty to win a game, it's too desperate for them," she said with a fake smile.
Delilah and Zach threw her exasperated and slightly admiring looks as Annalise flushed. Before the blonde could say anything Reyna pulled her friends away towards the castle.
"I'll bet you most of Slytherin will have heard your jibe at them," Zach said worriedly.
"As if that'll stop our little ice queen from saying what's on her mind," said Delilah with a shake of her head.
Reyna gave a rueful grin," How long do you reckon it'll take Flint to give me another one of his lame threats?" she asked.
"When it comes to you my friend, the minute he enters the common room and sees you not enjoying the party," Delilah said with a mock somber look.
Zach shook his head," One day you'll find yourself in trouble Reyna, be careful," he said quietly.
Reyna gave a shrug," I think the fact that I have a Gryffindor brother already means I am trouble."
Despite there being a raging war outside there was a full swing party in the dungeons with the older students laughing loudly and making jokes while the younger students stayed in their own groups to avoid unwanted attention. There were bottles of butterbeer and firewhiskey thrown casually on desks and tables while some couples claimed the sofas and corners. It was a decent change from the usual quiet slumber as noise filled the room. There were large banners of Slytherin's victory and Gryffindor's defeat plastered on the walls as some fifth year boys took turn jinxing it so the lions could look more and more defeated.
When Reyna stepped out from the girls' room and into the dormitory, she scanned the common room for her friends and caught sight of them a little bit further from the crowd, not far from the fireplace. She took a step towards them before finding her way blocked by a familiar bulky fifth year.
Flint crossed his arms and raised an eyebrow," The party's been going for over an hour and you're only coming out now," he asked, his breath smelling slightly of firewhiskey.
Wrinkling her nose slightly, Reyna pursed her lips," If you'll excuse me, Flint, my friends are waiting."
She made to side step him but Flint blocked her path," I heard about your little comment on Slytherin's methods of winning a game."
Reyna raised her chin, slightly defiant," Was I wrong?"
Flint gave a low, dark chuckle," You were quite right, little snake," he lowered his face to her ear, ignoring her flinch as he said," but you should get used to dirty games from us. In this world, nothing is fair. To win you need to be cleverer than your enemies, not play nice."
"You'd be surprised at how well you can win by fair play," Reyna said neutrally.
Flint gave her an amused look," Ah, I see your brother's been rubbing of on you. Well, little snake, if you're so interested in changing Slytherin for the better, I wish you luck," he said mockingly with a salute," you won't get very far in here without followers to back you up."
Reyna stared at him," I don't need followers when I have friends. See, that's what separates our ways of thinking, Flint. You think to succeed you need minions to back you up blindly when you're desperate enough to win and play dirty, I think to succeed you need people who trust you willingly enough to follow you," she said carefully," now, if you don't mind, my friends are waiting."
This time Flint did not block her path, though his eyes bore into her back as she made her way towards her friends.
"The dude needs to chill out a bit," Reyna muttered, using the American words that she and Rylan used to talk with.
"Well? What'd the captain say now?" Delilah demanded as Reyna joined them.
"Whatever it was, it looked like Reyna got the better of him again," said Graham Ralphs with a small smile.
Reyna gave a tired sigh," Just wanted to hear my thoughts about Slytherin's playing method."
"That's it? No insults? No cheeky outbursts?" Gianna said skeptically.
Reyna gave her a mock insulted look," I'll have you know I'm quite good at controlling myself," she said seriously before her face broke out in a grin at their eye rolls and snorts from the boys.
A cheer from the corner of the room got their attention and they watched as the fifth year boys managed to make the lion poster look as though it was defeated and bowing to the snake towering over it.
"Disturbing, isn't it?" Zach said quietly, watching them.
Reyna pursed her lips," What's funny is that there's a war going on outside and they're here celebrating a game."
"Well, we do need some bit of fun in our lives, Reyn," Gianna said lightly, though she seemed to regret it at the way Reyna's eyes darkened.
"Hey, Reyna, I have a question," Graham started before hesitating.
He cast an eye around them, noticing that the students around the were not paying attention except for Delilah, Reyna, Zach and Gianna before he continued.
"If it's not too personal of course, but you always speak so strongly about justice and the war outside. Have you-I mean, did you lose someone close to you?" he asked hesitantly.
Reyna didn't miss a beat as she said," Let's just say someone I know got seriously hurt thanks to the death eaters."
Gianna opened her mouth but Delilah nudged her," I'm sorry," she said quietly.
Reyna looked at her briefly before nodding, thankful when Graham said awkwardly in an attempt at changing the subject," Er-did you get the book from your mum?"
Reyna looked blank before she remembered," Oh, I forgot to ask her about it, sorry Graham. I'll owl her tomorrow for it," she said apologetically.
Wednesday, 13th November 1990
The Gryffindors and Slytherins seemed to be hexing one another quite eagerly whenever they got the chance to the point where the first years who couldn't defend themselves had to be escorted by an older student. Suffice it to say Reyna and Rylan weren't the two happiest children at Hogwarts as they managed to sneak to the library and duck behind one of the shelves.
"It's stupid, you should see the way Flint practically gloats at having to 'protect' me, he seems to take pleasure in the fact that I'm a defenseless little snake," Reyna glowered at the book in front of her.
Rylan scowled," Well, Percy seems to think that all the first years in Gryffindor should have a bodyguard on them 24/7. It's lucky Fred and George managed to charm their way as our mock protectors."
"I imagine the two of them do more hexing than protecting," Reyna said dryly.
Rylan laughed," In their defense, both times the Slytherins deserved it."
"It's times like these I wish I were in Gryffindor Rye. Slytherin doesn't have cheeriness that would make its students miss it in the holidays, it's sort of grand and royal," Reyna said sadly.
Rylan looked up sharply," You wouldn't say that unless someone said something. What's wrong?"
Reyna pursed her lips and gave a sigh," I'm just thinking. The war's already awful outside and the generation that's about to join them are all cursing each other. What chance is there?"
Rylan was glad for the silencing charms they'd kept around them and the fact that such few students had bothered coming to the library as he moved to put his arms around his sister. He secretly liked the way she'd only allow him and their mum to hug her.
"Do you remember what mum felt when she gave herself the duty of changing Uncle Regulus and Snape?" he asked quietly, his eyes looking out the window without actually seeing it.
"She said Snape treated her horribly but she grew on him. As for Uncle Reg, it was lucky he was still young," she recalled with a slight smile.
"But she also said that changing people was never easy, let alone changing people who would go home, get their ideas fixed and come back stronger, but she succeeded," Rylan said before adding," All I'm saying, Reyn, is you should know better than to think you won't change at least some people. 'Sides, you're still a first year so you've got time to build up a proper plan."
Reyna shrugged," Suppose so. Er-heard from mum lately?"
Rylan shook his head," I haven't gotten a chance to talk to her and she hasn't written anything. She's probably busy," he said lightly.
Reyna gave him a meaningful look and Rylan made an impatient noise," Come of it Queen, you can't honestly think mum's still mad at you over that. You owled her the package and stayed out of trouble."
Reyna raised her eyebrows," You do know that this is mum we're talking about right?" At Rylan's slight glare Reyna subsided," I agree, probably busy, I just hope it's nothing too serious."
"He's alive!" Fred announced dramatically as Rylan got through the portrait hole to see some of the Gryffindors looking at him in annoyance or relief.
"Er, was I supposed to be dead?" he asked blankly with a quirk of his eyebrow.
"Rylan, you should know better than to go about the castle alone at these times. We were seriously worried," Percy said with a look of disapproval.
George gave his brother a small shove," Let the kid have a bit of fun Perce. He shouldn't need someone looking after his every move. 'Sides, having family in the enemy house seems to have some perks," he added slyly.
Rylan gave a small smile," I doubt the fact that I have a sister I Slytherin will render me untargeted," he said, giving a small nod at the twins before adding to Percy," I was in the library Percy and didn't see anyone with any intentions of hexing me."
"Nonetheless, I wouldn't fancy telling McGonagall that one of her students, a first year no less has been injured without completing the first term," Percy said with a sniff though he seemed to accept his answer.
Rylan gave a chuckle," Well, I'll make sure I get hexed when it's my second term, eh?" he said with a small teasing smile as the twins grinned at him and Percy threw him a half annoyed, half exasperated look.
"Hey mate," Colt greeted as Rylan propped next to the couch in front of them.
"Been to see Reyna, Rylan?" Sarah asked, looking up from the book she had reading.
Rylan gave a small nod," Library," he replied," What book's that?" he asked curiously.
"Oh just another assignment from Snape. Remember the Potions essay?" she reminded him.
"Ah, that, you won't find it in that book. The importance of using the correct equipment to avoid unnecessary injuries is in Earl Gladstone's book," he informed her.
Sarah looked surprised," How did you know that?"
Rylan offered her a small smile," I got the assignment too."
Beside him Colt gave a snort," You should be used to our know it all classmate by now Sarah," he said ruefully.
Rylan grinned as Sarah shook her head," Yet you'll never catch him with a book. It's always Reyna that's always reading," she said, looking amused.
"Talking about the little ice queen in Slytherin?" Angelina Johnson joined them with Alicia and Katie.
"Ice Queen?" Colt asked with raised eyebrows," where'd that come from?"
Alicia chuckled," Don't you know? Reyna's interested in changing Slytherin's reputation, something which the older Slytherins aren't too happy about, particularly Flint," she scowled at the name.
Angelina nodded as she added," I think it's about damn time someone's trying to change the snake pit, though, no offense Cade but it's a mystery how your twin's going to manage to convince everyone who's probably going to be a future death eater to see the right path."
Before Rylan could reply Colt said hesitantly," I don't know much about the purebloods or House things in the Wizarding World, but, you'd need to have a powerful name to be an influence, wouldn't you?"
Katie nodded," Yes, unfortunately having a name that others find…unworthy wouldn't be a great start for you," she said apologetically.
The topic moved on from there though Rylan couldn't help being silent in most of it. It was times like these that he knew the Sergey name would have been a total help, but he also knew that they would be able to measure their progress even better with a disguised name that wasn't known. After all, he had no idea if, had their father not been injured, he would have the friends he had or if Reyna would still have chosen to be a Gryffindor.
Tuesday, 3th December 1990
Felicity had never felt so busy as the days passed by in a blur. The attacks had come in on various days and casualties had increased as well as injuries. Her time was spent at the Ministry training, short visits to the orphanage, patrolling at night and poring over books for her self-project, not to mention helping her father with the protection spells around various places.
The first week of December found Felicity flooing to the Ministry for her training, and she was quite sure she'd never had dark circles like the ones she was currently sporting. Before leaving she'd taken a pepper up to keep her going and she couldn't help grimacing at the amount of people sporting the same tired, exhausted looks.
When she entered the Auror HQ it was to the same environment she was accustomed to, Aurors doing paperwork and looking irked as they drank coffee and finished whatever work was assigned to them by Scrimgeour and Moody. She found the three Marauders, Dimitri, Irena and Marlene bent over and talking in low voices. Whatever they were discussing didn't seem good news.
Felicity greeted a few friends she'd made as a trainee, pleased that they were some of the friends she'd made when she'd started before making her way to her cubicle. She fished around for the parchments Moody had assigned her, arranged them in a neat sheet before heading to Kingsley and handing them to him.
"Moody said I was to give these to you," she said politely.
Kingsley glanced at them and gave a small nod," Yes, methods to avoid detection, charms and protection spells and targeting. All in order, you'll get them this Thursday along with tomorrow's assignment," he told her.
"Another assignment today?" Felicity couldn't quite keep the wince out of her voice.
Kingsley let out a deep chuckle," Well, as a one year trainee you'll be given even more than that, Felicity," the dark man told her before adding," Train Room 5. There's a little obstacle waiting. Good luck."
"You make it sound like I won't come out alive," Felicity said, a small smile on her lips as she turned away.
"With Moody, we reckon the training's worse than the actual battle when it comes to vigorousness," Kingsley called warningly.
Despite herself Felicity felt her interest piqued as she wondered what Moody had in store for her. More often than not she'd managed to gain some injuries the past few weeks due to being clumsy and letting stray spells get her, which earned her an ear off from Moody. She stopped when she reached the large brown door and hesitated. Something told her she needed to be prepared before getting in.
Wandlessly she summoned her wand, holding it firmly as she closed her eyes and sharpened her senses. She frowned as she encountered various obstacles inside, though none of them seemed particularly life threatening. There seemed to be a funny smell which told Felicity she'd need to be prepared in case it might affect her. Increasing her hearing as Swift, she couldn't quite hear anything but at the same time she heard rustling of leaves and the swish swish of wind which made her feel slightly bewildered.
What on earth was waiting for her behind the door?
Feeling slightly antsy and trying to calm herself, Felicity opened the door and stepped in, her guard immediately coming on when she was Moody, Frank, Irena and another Auror who Felicity vaguely recognized as being a help to Moody, Auror Hugh Clifford.
She studied their expressions and noted that they revealed nothing, though Irena threw her a small wink as Moody barked," Cade, I'd suggest you hurry to finish today's training if you want to move on to two other practices today."
After analyzing her critically Moody gave a small nod," Glad you've got your wand ready. We'll be doing Resilience Training today before moving on Dueling in the Dark. After that McKinnon'll take you for dueling one on one. Seem enough?" he said with a grunt.
"Reckon it's more than enough if I don't want to faint before I get home," Felicity said dryly as she heard her trainer list off her activities for the day.
Frank made a small impressed noise as Clifford gave her an approving look. Irena simply smiled as Moody asked," Assignments?"
"Handed them to Kingsley first thing," answered Felicity.
"Good. Clifford'll brief you on what's expected," Moody gave a curt nod at Clifford before limping towards a small side door and disappeared in it.
Clifford threw her a small smile before saying," Moody meant it when he said Resilience Training. You'll be tested on how long and how well you stay in the obstacles provided. Various spells will come at you, whether you recognize them or not will depend on yourself. Your job will be to get to the tree in one piece, all the while making sure that the runes that pose a threat are taken down."
"Wait, tree? I don't see any- "Felicity started.
"You'll see when it's ready, Moody only gave us five minutes before we're need inside," Irena interrupted.
"Right. How long and how well will be decided by Moody, getting past the tree should be your main priority. Your second priority will be defending yourself and others," Clifford told her quickly as Frank took over.
"If you'll move to the middle of the room, then, Felicity," he said politely, gesturing to the center of the room.
Felicity stared at them before slowly moving to the center. When she reached and turned to see if they were there she found herself alone. Despite herself, her heart pace quickened but remained silent. She was about to call out when the room went dark, all the light that had previously been in there having vanished.
Felicity tried to calm her breathing as she heard light rustling around her. Her first word was," Lumos," and she nearly yelped when she saw a face right in front of her. Instinctively she raised a fist to punch whatever it was that was in front of her when the face yelped and ducked.
"Whoa! Cade watch it," the face said, looking alarmed and making Felicity raise her wand before she realized who it was.
" Tonks? What-how- duck!" she finished, pushing the young trainee out of the way as a spell came at them.
" Stupefy!" she yelled at nobody, aiming at the direction the spell had come from as Tonks regained her balance enough to say," I was told to come here for Resilience Training though I wasn't given any instructions. Collins told me to wait around here and as soon as-OW!"
Felicity had pushed her again in way of another spell," Where the hell are they coming from?" she muttered, looking round blindly and casting a shield charm around the two of them.
"Tonks, don't speak and remain silent. Perhaps if they don't know where we are they won't know where to aim at. The minute I drop the shield grab my hand and we run," Felicity ordered.
Tonks' face was alarmed but she nodded. On a count of three Felicity dropped her shield, grabbed Tonks' hand and started running just as around three spells came from different directions. Felicity and Tonks dropped to a crouch, breathing heavily before the former took out her wand and transfigured blocks around them to keep out the spells. For good measure, she added a silencing charm on their shoes and around them.
"Tonks," she whispered," where's your wand?"
Tonks shook her head," Moody said this would be a test to our wandless abilities, otherwise we shouldn't use them. We're supposed to depend on something only he didn't tell us what, so I'm guessing it's you."
Felicity let out a breath," There's more of you? Great," she closed her eyes before saying," Do you hear that?"
Tonks looked around, her eyes narrowing as she listened intently," It sound like…the wind, and trees rustling. How did they-"
"An illusion, or they transfigured the whole place to resemble a forest of some sort," Felicity murmured. She put her head on the ground and felt grass," It's real, and I believe Collins meant it when he said head to the trees."
"Trees?" Tonks squeaked," What, are there animals too? Brilliant."
Felicity didn't reply. She closed her eyes and tried to feel around her. Aidan had taught her how to sense something near or far, or the presence of something. Her ears caught the soft whish whish of the wind probably, and trees not quite far from where she was, but she felt that if they were to run they'd go in the wrong direction. She couldn't see anything, but that could easily be fixed if she tapped her glasses with her wand. They were charmed to see in the dark. What about-?
Too late, the block infront of them exploded violently, hitting Felicity in the shoulder and causing her to cry out. Tonks had scrambled backwards and hit herself on the head with the block behind them. She cursed, wincing at the pain before muttering furiously," Protego! Protego. Protego! Brilliant Tonks. Felicity, you alright?" Tonks asked, reaching for her wand before realizing it's not there.
"Just got to do something before we move. There's a tree not far off from here, I reckon I should get you there before going after the others," she gasped, feeling blood coming from her left side.
Tonks looked on anxiously as she rambled," I'm sorry for not helping. If only Moody'd let me have my wand, I'd-
"S'alright, just-"Felicity took out her wand, ignoring the pain from her shoulder before tapping it three times at her glasses and muttering a charm. Instantly the room glowed green and she could see clearly.
Wow. Whoever had transfigured the place had done a brilliant job with it. It was still dark but the room resembled a miniature Forbidden Forest, only with three trees from where she sat, the nearest one being on her right, where she could see someone lurking not far from it. Whoever was standing was positioning his wand to aim at Tonks and before he could strike Felicity said softly," Expelliarmus!"
Caught unaware, the wizard's wand zoomed from his hand and flew into Felicity's outstretched one. Tonks blinked in surprise," Did something flow into your hand?"
"No time to explain. Follow me and don't make a sound," Felicity told her, careful to take her hand with her good shoulder as she scanned the place. The wizard had gone now but Felicity felt another presence, though it wasn't human. This time though, she readied her senses and, with her newfound vision, stopped Tonks before the trainee could step on a runestone.
"Collins mentioned this," she murmured.
Tonks glanced down," What is it? I can't see anything," she asked.
"A rune. I have to be careful of these when reaching the trees," Felicity answered.
"How can you even see in the dark?" the metamorphmagus demanded, looking frustrated.
"Not bad, Cade. You messed up in the first few steps but managed to get the gist of it. You managed 55 minutes with a shoulder bruise, an almost broken arm on the same shoulder, tripped three times, got hit with a spell ten times before disarming all who hit you. Took you long enough to finish your mission," Moody grunted at her, eyeing Felicity critically as the woman scowled at him.
"How much would you rate this then?" Felicity couldn't help her biting tone but her arm was hurting and she was aching all over.
Moody smirked," For the first lesson, I'd give you a 25%. You still have time to improve."
"I'll say, you did amazingly Cade! No one had managed to see in the dark before half an hour was over before except a few. And the senses were good too. How did you manage all that?" Irena asked curiously, smiling at her.
Felicity shrugged," A few skills I'd taught myself in the past."
"Ah, well, I reckon you should head to the Auror infirmary before leaving. I'll give Kingsley your report and he'll hand it back tomorrow if that's alright," Frank told her with a nod.
Felicity nodded back," It is. See you tomorrow then."
She was halfway to the infirmary when someone caught up with her.
"Hey, Felicity, Moody said to pass by his office before leaving. There's something he wants to discuss," Collins informed her.
Felicity knitted her eyebrows," Alright Collins, any idea what he wants though?"
Collins shrugged," Reckon it's about the next training session. He's never called anyone personally unless they've been slacking."
"Reassuring," Felicity muttered.
Collins grinned," I don't think that might be it, for a trainee, you could pass for an experienced Auror any time," he assured.
Felicity smiled back," Thanks, I'll head over before leaving then."
The minute Felicity opened the door a spell at her so suddenly Felicity was surprised to see a shield infront of her. It took her a second to realize she'd cast that shield wandlessly and nonverbally, her magic having felt the spell before she did.
Moody stood a few steps away with his wand out and looking satisfied.
"Was there a reason for that?" Felicity asked sharply," I was told you wanted to speak with me, not curse me."
"Close the door Cade, and I'd watch the tone," Moody growled, his electric eye zooming rapidly before landing at her face intently.
Felicity did as was asked and crossed her arms.
Moody gestured at her to sit, which she did so reluctantly after what had happened.
"I was testing your reflexes. As you probably know, most witches and wizards don't have reflexes as good as yours. There was something you did in training today that was odd," Moody said, his voice staring at her so intensely it made Felicity uneasy.
"And what was that?" she asked cautiously.
Moody produced a small rune and placed it infront of her," Recognise this, Cade?" he asked in a low voice.
Felicity stared at it, her mind trying to think of ways it might be associated with Jasira. As far as she knew, the small ball had been an invention when she was twenty-three, which helped in protecting a small area from minor damage. She'd used it in the training room but didn't know what was wrong with it.
Her eyebrows knitted, she asked quizzically," It's a ball," she answered, then added at his slightly murderous look," a ball that absorbs minor spells and acts as a shield."
Moody nodded," Never seen I before. Did you get it from Africa?"
His casual tone put her instantly on guard," I got it from a friend," she said cautiously.
Moody's eyes looked at her sharply and he said coldly," And does that friend happen to be Jasira Sergey?"
Felicity froze and she knew that whatever answer she'd give wouldn't be satisfactory. His eyes seemed to know something she didn't.
"I thought so. This only proved it. Something else that made me suspicious was the spell you used on Irena on your first day. That spell was invented by Jasira too, only she'd told me and a few others about it. Fortunately for you, no one else has realized your connection to her, so I'll ask you once, where is Jasira Sergey?" Moody growled.
Despite herself, Felicity let out a small laugh as she realized Moody didn't know who she actually was.
Her reaction seemed to intensify his slight anger as he snapped," Cade, I don't think you realize what is at stake here. Sergey is needed by her family. For almost thirteen years she's been missing, and the last day she was sighted was on the day the Lovegood's accident happened, the same day you disappeared. I'd wager a guess it was to make sure her health was well. Close sources also informed me that you visited Aidan Sergey shortly after, no doubt to report to Jasira on her husband's health."
Felicity stared at him, stunned. She gaped at him before saying in an indignant tone," All well noticed, Moody but I don't work for Jasira Sergey. I simply know her well."
Moody sneered," I wouldn't stay too proud for a while Cade. If her family finds out that you know- "
"Oh they know, atleast the Potters and some of the others do. But I'll say this, wherever Sergey is, she'll come out at her own time," she interrupted coolly.
Moody glared at her and for a moment Felicity hesitated.
"Look, Moody, whatever relationship you had with Jasira, I'm sorry but can you really expect her to return to England? Would you return to the place where your family was destroyed by the very people you trusted the most?" she asked softly.
Moody's anger seemed to vanish but he didn't respond. His good eye seemed to suddenly avoid Felicity's eyes before saying," Aidan was a good friend of mine. Whatever happened to him was unexpected," (he didn't notice Felicity's eyes flash as she gritted her teeth)," but I taught her to look into attacks before judging. She should know better than to leave without finding out the facts."
He looked slightly taken aback when Felicity replied, her voice steely," Surprising since you always seem to be the one jumping to conclusions."
Moody's gaze hardened," Cade, sometimes you learn new things. If you truly know her, you'd know she isn't one to leave without finding out the facts, not when it concerns her family, that's what a true Auror does."
Before she could say anything he added," Leave, you've got patrols tonight."
For Felicity, the day after the conversation went quickly. December passed on with more or less an attack twice per week. The Aurors were working themselves into exhaustion. She'd see the Marauders walking into the office half asleep at times and Irena wouldn't be seen at all. Moody kept her into drills each day, not giving her a single break. She suspected it because of his suspicions but didn't say anything. She couldn't help feeling uneasy and slightly guilty.
Nowadays, most of her time was spent with training, working on her self-project for Aidan, visiting Cadey and Zoe and spending time with her father trying to organize the defenses for the orphanage. Melinda would shoot her worried looks, especially when she once walked in at around two in the morning and found Felicity writing furiously and muttering to herself.
"Sweet Merlin Jas! What do you think you're doing up at this hour?" her mum exclaimed, putting a hand on her chest and exhaling after nearly jumping in fright when she saw her daughter in the dark.
Felicity blinked," Sorry, I guess I forgot to turn on the lights," she said distractedly before returning to her work.
Melinda had said nothing more, though she wondered what other projects her daughter was taking on.
Now though Felicity was muttering anxiously as she hurried through the crowd. She'd slept in late the night before and had woken up thirty minutes before her due time of arrival. She was mentally thinking of any assignment that had to be turned in when she collided with someone rather violently. She only managed to balance herself thanks to training but the woman she'd bumped into fell back with a bump and let out a small shriek.
Rather embarrassed and a bit mortified, Felicity extended a hand, saying in a rush," I'm sorry for that. Wasn't watching where I was going."
The woman glared at her through beady eyes and ignored her hand, her cheeks flushing as the wizards around them sniggered. She let out a dramatic sniff and held up her nose, and only then did Felicity look at her closely enough to remember who she was.
"Next time I'll file in a complaint for barging into senior ministry officials deliberately against you," Dolores Umbridge said coldly," what department are you from?"
Felicity's feeling of mortification vanished instantly and she glared back," If you'll excuse me, I'm late."
A rather meaty hand grabbed her as she turned to move, and Umbridge said softly," Late and unorganized. This wouldn't do at all. You must be the new, what did Rufus call you? Trainee who managed to up her way in. Hem, Cornelius wasn't pleased at all at the impertinence."
Felicity stiffened. She snatched her hand from Umbridge's with an impatient look and snapped," You want to come and file a complaint right now? I'll be honoured at the attention a senior ministry official who got knocked to the ground is giving me. Tut tut, no sense of balance and rather uncommitted, no doubt Alastor Moody would be curious to know what made me late."
There was a bark of laughter from behind her as Umbridge turned a deep purple and Sirius Black said jovially," Felicity! Just the person I was looking for. Moody sent a message saying you were to be in the dueling room today. He was wondering what held you up."
Felicity couldn't help the feeling of satisfaction as Umbridge gave her a look of loathing and shot a murderous glare at Sirius. With a last sniff, she nodded stiffly at Sirius and said curtly," Lord Black, a good morning to you."
"Umbridge, what was it I heard about you reporting Felicity?" Sirius' tone was carefully pleasant but there was no mistaking the hard note in his eyes.
Umbridge pursed her lips, the veins in her face pulsing as she glared daggers at Felicity and shook her head," Nothing, Felicity here was on her way to training."
"Brilliant, we'll both be off then, and I suggest you move on as well," Sirius said with a note of finality.
As Umbridge made to move, the Marauder called back once," And Dolores? I don't want to hear any more of reporting someone because they've had the misfortune of bumping into you, otherwise it will be me who'll be taking measures next."
Umbridge tensed and gave a very brief nod before leaving.
Once she was gone Felicity frowned at Sirius," Threatening her wasn't very good, Black."
Sirius raised an eyebrow at her," You're welcome then, Cade. And old toad face deserves some threats to keep her on her toes, the things she's done to people here are enough to make my old mum's Christmas," he said coolly.
Felicity studied him before remarking," Moody told you."
Sirius' lips thinned and his eyes grew heavier and colder," He did," he said flatly," while we search our arses off for her and cry our eyes out every night you talk to her regularly."
Felicity flushed," I don't- "
"Enough of it, we've already spoken and I'm not in the mood to discuss it further. Moody's waiting for you in the dueling room and he's not happy," Sirius didn't wait for a response and Felicity knew her old friend enough to know that she would only be making matters worse by forcing one.
When they arrived in the Training Room Moody gave her a glare so bad it was almost worthy of Melinda Culbert's whenever she was angry.
"Cade, get in the ring with McKinnon," he barked and Felicity wasted no time in doing so.
Irena walked in after her and they started practicing, hitting, ducking and dodging for a full hour. Felicity was kept on her toes, forced to not take a single break as Irena was repeatedly on the offensive side. Moody wouldn't let them switch and Felicity could feel the hostility radiating from him to her. She gritted her teeth, trying to control the pool of anger that was forming in her chest.
She'd struggled with the blame and guilt of her family for almost twelve years and didn't need more people who were constantly reminding her of it. Did they think she wanted this distance and resentment that was in their lives? Did they think she wanted them to think she didn't care? Sometimes she wished she wasn't so intent on waiting for-
A spell got her in the chest and knocked her backwards and into the barrier. Felicity winced, lying completely still as she tried to feel anything broken. Nothing, though she was sore all over, no doubt that would give Moody a reason to make her training even more vigorous, she thought sourly.
"Cade, if nothing's broken switch to offensive. Perhaps then you won't land on your back," Moody called with a scowl.
Sirius watched impassively, his eyes betraying nothing as Felicity and Irena switched. Kingsley was more sympathetic, giving Felicity an encouraging nod as they started all over again.
Thursday, 19th December 1990
For Reyna, the days at Hogwarts seemed to speed by. She got used to being in Slytherin, saw her brother quite regularly, a fact in which the Slytherins seemed to dislike but had resigned to. She was well liked by her year mates, and had grown close to Delilah and Zach. Graham, a boy who was once quiet had grown close to Gianna while Enoch had made firm friends Alcott Thompson, one of the other boys in Slytherin, leaving Corran Slade all alone.
Reyna knew that some of her friends were wary of her especially when it came to practicing spells and she could manage most of them quite well. She'd see the looks she got from other Slytherins as they muttered about her progress, especially the seniors. Reyna would often worry about going home for the holidays, especially because she knew her mum would ask about her.
When she was young, Jasira would tell the twins stories about Hogwarts and the pranks she and the Marauders pulled. She'd speak about the different DADA teachers they had each year, the dueling competition they'd had in Fourth Year and her time as prefect. She'd describe the Houses in detail, giving each house a sort of personality that came from actually meeting people rather than judging a house based on reputation.
She remembered a time when Rylan had asked the house which her mum had liked the most and their expressions at the answer.
"Which house is my favourite, Rye?" Jasira had mused. "Well, at the beginning it was definitely Gryffindor of course, I loved it and all. I hated Slytherin and thought Hufflepuffs were too boring. Ravenclaw seemed to be too much into books so I chose Gryffindor because it seemed fun."
"And now?" Rylan prompted, not missing the fact that Jasira had said 'at the beginning'.
Jasira smiled," Now, my two favourites are Gryffindor and Slytherin."
"Just like you and Daddy," Reyna had said proudly.
Jasira's smile turned sad. She reached out to run her fingers through Reyna's messy dark curls," Just like me and daddy."
"But why did you change, mum? I thought Slytherin was a house for baddies," Reyna had asked, pronouncing the House of snakes carefully.
Jasira shook her head," Reyna, Rye, I learnt that Slytherin was called house for baddies because people automatically gave it that name. The people in there weren't all that bad, but influence and labels often are more dangerous than we think," she said gravely.
"What's 'labels'?" Rylan piped up curiously.
Jasira hid a smile," It's something bad you give someone, like a title based on different things. People do it without really knowing them, or, in the case of Slytherin, judge them as baddies because they're kept in that house. And because of that, those people turn out bitter and end up as bad people," she explained.
"Mummy what's 'bitter'?" Reyna asked.
"Bitter means being angry and hurt," Jasira answered.
"Mummy, was dad ever bitter when he was labelled?" Rylan asked quietly, reaching out to hold his sister's hand and staring in wonder at their mum.
Jasira blinked before shaking her head," Your father had one of the best hearts I've ever known, Rye, and he didn't let anyone else label him, because he made a label for himself," she said proudly, her eyes getting the same fierce love that appeared whenever she talked about Aidan.
"What label did he make?" Reyna asked.
Jasira smiled," Well, Slytherins had the reputation of being bullies, so he and your Uncle Di did the opposite, they became people who went against the bullies and helped the victims."
"But didn't that mean the Sly-the-rins hated them?" Reyna asked carefully.
Jasira gave a dry smile," Oh, they learnt not to mess with your dad and uncle. They earned respect, twins, and they were one of the life and souls of Hogwarts along with the Marauders."
Reyna and Rylan got identical grins as they said in unison," We'll be the next life and soul of Hogwarts mum."
Jasira laughed," I've no doubt. Now, g'night, it's getting late."
She tucked them in, giving them kisses on the forehead and switching off the light before leaving. She was about to close the door when Reyna said suddenly," Mum, did anyone ever change Sly-the-rins label?"
Jasira paused, her dark hair disheveled and curly in the night as she replied sadly," No, sweetheart, no one ever changed Slytherin's label."
"Oh," Reyna said in a small voice.
"But there are people who will always be remembered as good Slytherins, my little queen, remember that," Jasira added softly.
"Yeah, like dad, right mum?" Rylan spoke up.
"Exactly, just like your father," Jasira nodded.
Their mum hesitated before leaving the door a crack open as she always did. Sometime in the night when everyone was asleep, Reyna murmured sadly, her eyes fixed on the man in the photograph who was holding her mum's hand.
"But dad's house will always have a bad label."
Reyna blinked back the sudden tears that had appeared in her eyes as she stared at the ceiling in bed. It was nearing the Christmas holidays and there were no classes for the day. Her dorm room was dark and the only sound to be heard were Gianna's light snores and the gentle sound of the water lapping above them. The room had a very light greenish glow from the Great Lake that made it look like they were in a ghost story.
With a sigh the young Slytherin checked her watch, noting that it was three in the morning and no one else in the castle save for late time wanderers would be up. She was reluctant to roam around the castle without her brother, seeing as they usually went around together. Besides, it was plain out creepy to walk alone in the dark dungeons, and rash though she may be, she wasn't stupid.
Her eyes wandered round the dorm room, taking in the place absently as she tried to think of something to do since her mind stubbornly refused to go to sleep. She let her mind wander, her thoughts drifting as she recalled random memories when she was younger.
19th August 1986
"Uncle Reg!" the twins exclaimed excitedly when their mum arrived home, followed by Regulus, Lucy and Matthew, all of whom were sporting large grins.
Reyna and Rylan left their grandpa Darrell Culbert's clutches and jumped on Regulus and Lucy respectively. Matthew, whose hands were full from helping Jasira carry the bags joked," Well now, aren't you going to give a hug to your old uncle then?"
Lucy poked her tongue at her brother," I think they prefer us youngsters Matt," she smirked, putting Rylan down gently and watching as he ran to his uncle.
"Don't worry Uncle Matt, I still like your gifts better," Rylan whispered, making his uncle laugh loudly and Lucy to roll her eyes.
"Happy Birthday Reyna and Rylan," Regulus said with a small smile, holding Reyna tightly as the girl didn't seem keen on letting go.
"Thanks Uncle Reg," Reyna grinned, showing off two newly teeth removed from the bottom row.
"Need any help with that, Jas?" Lucy asked, turning to her sister.
Jasira shook her head," I'm fine, just spend time with the kids for a while," she muttered in Swahili.
Lucy nodded in understanding and helped with the bags before heading to the living room.
Jasira busied herself with preparing dinner for ten, mentally praying that Melinda, Larissa and Kassian would be able to come. Her hand shook slightly and she fought the urge to tear up as no more would arrive from their large family. Blinking furiously, she started as a voice behind her said," They seem well."
A pale hand reached out to help her and Jasira gave a small nod," Yeah, I'm glad. I was afraid the day wouldn't go well."
Regulus glanced at her," Jas, are you sure you-" he started.
"Please, Regulus, don't start," Jasira interrupted tiredly," I've already had this conversation with mum and dad and Larissa and it's a no ."
Regulus pursed his lips," As you wish," he muttered.
Jasira sighed," I'm sorry Reg, it's just, the constant pressure, the kids questions, they-they don't stop asking why their aunts and uncles never visit. They still-they still ask about A-Aidan," she tried to explain, her voice cracking at the name.
Regulus pulled her in for a brief hug, again surprising Jasira at how much he'd changed since being with Lucy. She stiffened before relaxing and pulling back after a while.
"Mum?" Reyna asked timidly, coming in and pausing as she saw her mother's face. "Mum? You OK?"
Jasira couldn't help smiling warmly at her daughter as she answered," I'm alright Reyn, did you want anything sweetheart?"
Reyna looked hesitantly before smiling back and saying," Could I have a chocolate frog? Please?" she asked cutely, her green blue eyes pleading.
Jasira pretended to be strict before levitating two chocolate frogs in her daughter's outstretched hand," Give that to Rye as well-Reyna! You better give one to your brother," she called as the young girl snatched the chocolates said a loud," thanks mum!" and turned.
Regulus chuckled," I'm pretty sure Matthew put them up to it."
Jasira shook her head exasperatedly," They'll be full of candy before the night's over."
Reyna couldn't help smiling as she remembered that day. They'd had so much fun and the food was amazing. Mum claimed she wasn't a good cook but her food was brilliant. They'd been in Britain at the time for a while for their birthday and Aunt Lucy and Uncle Reg had stayed the night. Reyna remembered how her uncle had tickled her mercilessly, ignoring her shrieks and yells until Rylan came to her rescue, saying proudly that he'd be her knight in shining armor, until Aunt Lucy had gotten him.
Jasira had watched in amusement before handing out dessert, telling them funny stories of her time at Hogwarts. She let them stay up till ten before shooing them to sleep, tucking them in and kissing them on the forehead. Remembering all that made Reyna wish her mum was here, and she could almost feel the exhaustion and happiness she'd felt that day as her eyes closed.