Thirteen Years Later
As the first light of dawn filtered through the sky, delicate pastel hues gently brushed over the horizon. The tranquil spell of a new day settled over the quaint country home in Ottery St. Catchpole, where Peri King now resided with her family. The air was crisp and cool, a refreshing contrast to the city's bustling streets and stifling heat. From her childhood, Peri had been drawn to rural life's simplicity and rustic charm, and now she relished in the peacefulness it provided. Each breath felt like a cleanse for her soul, relieving the weight of worries from city living.
As she cracked open the window, greeting the dawn with a deep breath, Peri couldn't help but feel grateful for this moment of peace amidst the chaos of her new life. Her mother and stepfather had recently assumed roles in the wizarding government of the United Kingdom, and their move to Ottery St. Catchpole had been abrupt and unexpected. But Peri was determined to make the best of it.
She sat in the window seat, admiring the blooming flowers and the dew-kissed grass, when a sense of nostalgia washed over her. She remembered her childhood days, which she spent playing with her younger sisters and exploring the city of New York during their school holidays, except in the summer when they were in the Hamptons.
As Peri gazed out at the serene landscape, a sense of calm washed over her, soothing her restless mind and settling her soul. Suddenly, a sharp knock on her bedroom door shattered the peaceful ambiance.
Peri nodded, her mind already racing with excitement over the upcoming event. As the oldest of her sisters, she felt responsible for keeping everyone in line and on schedule. However, on her own, she needed to be more organized and timely for everything. She quickly got dressed and joined her family for breakfast.
Amidst the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and a spread of sizzling bacon and eggs, Richard Banks, Peri's stepfather, orchestrated the day's agenda. The rendezvous with the Weasley family, long-time acquaintances of Peri's mother from her Hogwarts era, was on their schedule before they embarked on the Quidditch World Cup together.
As Cassie deftly weaved Alicia's hair into a braid, the youngest sister inquired about Viktor catching the snitch. With a smile playing on his lips, Richard assured her that while it was possible, their primary aim was to relish the experience. Meanwhile, Hallie pondered if they would be seated in the Minister's Box and speculated about encountering other notable figures. She mused over Viktor Krum's wealth with curiosity sparkling in her eyes.
"Money should not determine love, Hal," Cassie reminded her. "Love is built from friendship," she finished braiding Alicia's hair.
"You married Richard, and he has plenty of money."
Cassie heaved a weary sigh, "He just happened to be well-off. I had no clue about his identity when we crossed paths on the bustling streets of New York. Money does not matter. You took an interest in Fred this past week."
Hallie blushed brightly, "He's just really nice."
"Oh, you've got a crush on him," Peri teased.
"He's just being polite," Hallie insisted.
"Well, he gave up meat yesterday because of you," Holly said, peering over her book.
"And Peri was all over George yesterday," Hallie added with a knowing look.
Holly shook her head, "Peri flirts with everyone who can breathe."
"Alright enough, you three. Finish eating, and let's get going," Cassie said.
Everyone finished their breakfasts, and they left to meet with the Weasley family, Harry Potter, and Hermione Granger for the Quidditch World Cup. Her heart fluttered at the thought of seeing George Weasley again. Peri was not one to believe in love or feel she wanted it, but George made her heart flutter.
And just as they arrived at the clearing in the woods, she saw him and Fred talking. Fred was the first to notice them. By them, Hallie as he quickly moved to greet her. Wearing a mischievous smile, George approached Peri, greeted her warmly, and hugged her.
"Peri! It's been too long," he said, twirling her around before setting her back on her feet.
"It has not even been twenty-four hours," Peri laughed, playfully punching him on the arm.
"Well, that's too long in my books," George replied with a wink.
Peri blushed slightly at his flirtatious tone and quickly turned to greet Fred and their other friends. They chatted and caught up while greeting each other.
"Good morning, Arthur," Cassie greeted.
"Good morning, Cassie!" Arthur chirped, "Ready to continue onto the portkey?"
"Definitely. Our girls are very excited about the World Cup."
"Let's go then," he said, and they continued walking further.
The group continued walking until they arrived at the Portkey's location. "Whew," Mr. Weasley panted as he removed his glasses and wiped them off. We had an excellent time—we had about ten minutes. We just need to find the portkey." He replaced his glasses and looked back at the group. Cassie and Richard were already searching.
Cassie's authoritative voice sliced through the air, commanding the group to disperse and scour the area. "It's not a large space," she informed them firmly. Turning her attention to Hallie, who had hitched a ride on Fred's back, Cassie gently urged, "Hop down now, Hallie."
As Hallie dismounted with a weary sigh and began her search, she instinctively gravitated towards Fred, seeking comfort in his familiar presence amidst the task.
Peri's keen eyes scanned the horizon as her companions scoured the area. High above, atop the hill, she caught sight of two distinct figures making their way towards them. "Incoming," Peri alerted the group just as a voice echoed through the air from one of the approaching figures.
"Over here, Arthur! We've got it!"
"Amos!" Mr. Weasley smiled as he went over to the man with the rest of the group following. "Everyone, this is Amos Diggory. He works for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. I believe most of you know his son, Cedric?"
Peri's gaze traveled from Cedric's polished shoes to his neatly combed hair, a subtle hint of curiosity in her eyes. "I do not believe I have met you, Cedric," she began, taking a confident step toward him, "I am Peri, and these lovely ladies beside me are my sisters." Each sister offered a warm smile as they were introduced.
Cedric returned the greeting with a polite nod. His eyes scanned the group before settling on Fred and George, who seemed less than impressed.
"Does she have to do that?" George nudged Fred as his eyes fixed on Hallie's every move.
"Do what?" Fred mumbled absentmindedly.
"Flirt," George murmured, observing Peri trailing Cedric while they animatedly discussed Quidditch.
Catching his brother's distracted glance, Fred refocused, "You've had all week to ask her out but haven't made a move."
"And you haven't either," George pointed out, gesturing towards Hallie.
Fred glanced at the petite brunette witch before turning back to George, "I'm seeing Angelina... it wouldn't be fair."
George rolled his eyes, "You've adored her since forever. Remember how you used to light up at every holiday card from her?"
"But she's Ron's age," Fred hesitated.
"Just two years younger," George countered.
"When you ask Peri out, I will ask Hallie."
Holly's voice cut through the moment, breaking the silence. "Shall we be on our way?" she inquired, urgently glancing at her wristwatch.
"Yes, it must be nearly time," Mr. Weasley agreed, looking at his watch as well, "Do you know whether we're waiting for any more, Amos?"
"No, the Lovegoods have been there for a week already, and the Fawcretts couldn't get tickets," Amos said. There are not any more of these in this area, are there?"
"Except for the Banks family, who are here obviously. There are no other wizarding families in the area. We better get ready…"
Peri observed the group of inexperienced portkey users with a knowing smile on her lips. She reminisced about the time she had first used a portkey with Richard, recalling their visit to Washington, D.C., during their youth and the somber journey back to England for the funeral of Lily and James Potter.
Disregarding the instructions, she confidently stepped up and lightly touched her finger to the worn boot, prompting everyone to huddle closer in preparation for the turbulent journey ahead.
"Three…two…one…"
Peri's first portkey experience came rushing back to her in a flurry of disorientation and abrupt movements.
Being swept away by the magical transport, Peri was abruptly lifted off the ground, clinging to Cedric's hand for support. Though she typically exuded toughness, fear washed over her amidst the turbulent voyage.
Cedric's firm grip on her hand steadied Peri as they touched down, the impact jolting them slightly. She leaned into him for a split second before finding her footing again.
"Thank you," she said to Cedric, who gently lifted her with a reassuring hand.
As he hoisted her to her feet, he met her gaze and quietly assured her, "Any time," before turning to help the rest of their group.
George strolled over to Peri, who was brushing off specks of dust from her clothes following their turbulent portkey journey. "That was quite the ride," he remarked, his brow furrowed in genuine concern.
Peri chuckled softly and nonchalantly straightened her posture, a carefree smile on her lips. "Oh, it wasn't too bad. Hopefully, that's the last of our misadventures for this weekend."
Observing Fred lavishing attention on Hallie nearby, George quipped, "I bet Fred wouldn't mind coming to Hal's rescue again."
Peri nodded knowingly, adding, "Hallie thrives on being the center of attention."
Before George could continue their conversation, Cassie's voice rang out, calling for Peri's attention. "Sorry, George. Duty calls. We'll catch up later?" she asked apologetically.
"Of course," George replied with a nod. His eyes followed Peri's graceful movements as she returned to her family, her glossy black hair swaying in loose waves with each step. The sunlight caught on her locks, creating a halo around her head.
"Just ask her out already," Fred prodded from behind his brother, interrupting George's trance-like state.
With a sigh, George turned to face his brother, "I will see what house she is in. Her mother was a Slytherin, and she bears a striking resemblance to Professor Snape. If he is her birth father, there's a good chance she could end up in Slytherin. And you know Gryffindors and Slytherins don't mix."
"But she doesn't seem like the typical Slytherin type," Fred argued. "And Cassie, who we know more about, is barely even considered a true Slytherin. She's loyal to her family, that's about it."
"Even so," George said firmly, "if Peri ends up in Slytherin, it will never be allowed." He couldn't shake the image of Peri wearing the green and silver colors of Slytherin, and it made him uneasy.
"Boys," Arthur called to his sons.
Mr. Weasley picked up the boot and handed it to a man named Basil. The man took the boot and tossed it into a large box. He began searching his parchment list for where their campsites would be. Peri and her family told the Weasleys, Diggorys, Harry, and Hermione bye and then went to their campsite location. They approached a small cottage, where a man stood in the doorway looking at the tents. He looked towards them when he heard them approaching.
The sun had just begun to rise, casting a warm glow over the campsite. Richard greeted the man at the front desk with a smile.
"Good morning," he said.
"Morning," the man replied in a friendly tone.
"I believe we have a tent reservation under my name, Richard Banks. It was made a few days ago."
The man nodded and pulled out a thick list from behind the counter. His eyes scanned for the name. "Ah, here you are. You have one of our luxury tents close to the walking trail." He pointed to a spot on the map displayed on the counter. "And it appears your reservation has been prepaid as well."
Richard nodded, "That's correct." The man handed him a key to the tent, and the family headed off to their temporary home for the next few days.
"Here is a map of a campsite. Enjoy your stay."
"Thank you," he accepted the map, and they walked towards where their tent would be.
"Why did it have to be camping," Hallie whined the entire walk to the tent.
"Hallie, stop whining," Peri hissed, "you can be so annoying."
"Peri, be nice," Cassie warned her.
Their tent stood tall and proud among the others, its luxurious size a testament to the wealth and status of wizarding families residing there. Surrounded by similar tents, it was clear that this was the elite section of the campsite. The family had been fortunate enough to secure a spot here, thanks to their hefty fortune and influential positions within the Ministry. As they stepped inside, the luxury of their temporary home greeted them with plush carpets, sumptuous furnishings, and magical touches that only money could buy. Everything exuded an air of extravagance, from the intricately designed tapestries hanging on the walls to the crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the space. Among all the luxuries money could afford, they were ready to enjoy a lavish vacation full of magic and wonder.
"This will do nicely," Richard remarked, a satisfied smile on his lips as he glanced at his wife. Peri's youngest sister, Mallory and Alicia, led the way inside, their laughter echoing through the grand entrance ahead of them.
Richard's lips pressed gently against Cassie's temple, a fleeting gesture of affection before the family entered the tent. Inside, the air hummed with anticipation for the upcoming Quidditch match, the vibrant colors of the teams' robes adding a sense of excitement to the atmosphere. It was a rare moment for them to bond as a family, surrounded by the energy of the game and each other's company. The tent was huge. It reminded Peri of their penthouse apartment back in New York City. The kitchen looked big enough to be a kitchen for a restaurant, and they each had their own bedroom.
Hallie's eyes widened in disbelief, her excitement palpable. For years, Cassie and Richard had forced the girls to share rooms when on vacation: Alicia with Mallory and Peri with the twins. "Wait, I don't have to share!?" she exclaimed, a hint of astonishment in her voice.
Catching on quickly, Peri turned to her parents with a questioning gaze before glancing at the nearby spare rooms.
Richard let out a resigned sigh. "I mentioned that our girls would manage just fine sharing rooms," he explained. "But it's only for the weekend," he added as he observed the gleam of liberation in their eyes, realizing they were all eagerly anticipating the prospect of not having to share a room anymore.
The following day, the family made their way to the Top Box, the Minister's Box. As they settled into their plush seats, Peri's eyes widened in amazement at the luxurious surroundings and the exclusive viewing area reserved for VIP guests.
Surrounded by an array of elegant witches and wizards, Peri couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as she glanced around the Box. Her dark eyes lingered on her mother, who was warmly greeted by those around her, marking her return to England after years away. Whispers of Cassie's prowess as a witch of significant influence fluttered through the air, her reputation preceding her even as she stood disowned by one of the most affluent wizarding families in the UK. And yet, here she was, sought after by that very same family after her union with Richard.
Peri couldn't help but feel a pang of envy towards her mother's success. She had always looked up to Cassie and admired her ambition and determination. But lately, with all the pressures of being a teenager and trying to navigate her path in life, she couldn't help but feel overshadowed by her mother's achievements.
Shaking off these thoughts, Peri focused on the excitement building around them as the Quidditch World Cup was about to begin. The roar of the crowd grew louder as the players flew out onto the pitch, each team sporting brightly colored robes representing their respective countries.
Peri's heart raced with anticipation as she watched the game unfold before her eyes. The players' speed and agility left her breathless, and she found herself cheering along with everyone else in the Top Box.
"I am going to get something to eat. I don't care for Quidditch," Holly commented.
"Bring me back a butterbeer. Spiked if you can," Peri told her.
"You can have a regular one," Holly said as she casually strolled over to the lavish buffet exclusive to the elite guests in the Top Box.
Meanwhile, Peri stood nonchalantly against an intricately designed wall, observing discreetly. Her attention was piqued when Holly conversed with a young wizard sporting striking bleach-blonde locks. A mischievous smirk played on Peri's lips as Holly rejoined their family circle with her food and Peri's drink.
"Who was that?" Peri quizzed, her gaze shifting towards Draco and his father nearby.
Holly looked at the boy and then at her sister, "His name is Draco Malfoy. He's a student at Hogwarts," she revealed.
"Ohh," Peri cooed playfully, "he's quite easy on the eyes too. If you don't make a move, I just might."
Holly scolded teasingly, "Peri! You're incorrigible!"
She sighed, "What can I say? I enjoy the fun."
"Hush! The game!" Alicia cheered, barely able to contain her excitement as she turned her attention back to the pitch.
As the final whistle blew, signaling the end of the Quidditch match, they returned to their tents. Inside, they sat on plush chairs and discussed the game, still excitedly buzzing. "I wanted Bulgaria to win!" Alicia exclaimed, tossing her hat onto the floor in frustration.
"At least Krum caught the snitch," Richard reminded her kindly, picking up the discarded hat and handing it back to her. "Try to find the good in this. They may have lost this time but will surely win again."
His words touched her heart, and she squeezed him tightly as a loud boom echoed outside, sending shivers down her spine. The screams that followed were like nails on a chalkboard. "Dad?" Alicia's voice shook with fear, her eyes darting towards the window.
Cassie emerged from the warm and cozy kitchen, where she diligently prepared hot chocolates for everyone. "Richard?" she questioned, recognizing an explosion's all too familiar sound. The hairs on her arms stood up in anticipation.
"Stay here," he instructed before quickly stepping outside to investigate. His return was swift and urgent. "Run! Now!" he commanded, panic clear in his voice. Death Eaters are attacking the campsites." The once festive atmosphere had turned into a chaotic scene of danger and terror.
With a sense of urgency, Cassie quickly ushered the children outside into the chaos. The once peaceful neighborhood of tents was now filled with frantic screams and shouts, causing everyone to run in different directions. "Peri, stay close to Alicia! Hallie and Holly, stick together! Mallory, come with us!" they shouted as they ran towards the safety of the nearby woods.
Amidst the chaos, Peri tightly gripped her younger sister's hand as they weaved through the panicked crowd. Their hearts pounded with fear as they desperately tried to quickly reach the woods. But the mass of people pushing and shoving them forced them apart.
Peri's chest tightened as she frantically searched for her sister's familiar face in the chaos. The deafening sounds of spells being cast and screams of terror filled her ears, making it difficult to focus on anything else. She weaved through the crowd, dodging Death Eaters and terrified bystanders alike, desperately calling out her sister's name.
"Alicia!" Peri called out, but the chaos around her drowned out her voice.
Her feet pounded against the ground, the frantic beats of her heart echoing in her chest as she desperately sprinted, searching for her sister. But suddenly, she collided with a tall figure clad in a long black trench coat that billowed around him like dark wings. "Oh, I'm so sorry," she gasped, fear and urgency propelling her to scramble and dart away from the imposing man.
He loomed over her, his intense gaze sweeping over her form as he spoke in a deep, gravelly voice that sent shivers down her spine. "Do you have any relation to Severus Snape?" His tone was laced with suspicion and curiosity, causing her mind to race with questions and confusion.
"What? I do not even know who that person is," she stammered as she pulled herself to stand, still trying to catch her breath as she continued running. Panic and worry consumed her thoughts as she wondered about her sister's safety and the rest of her family. And why would this stranger randomly ask if she was related to someone named Severus Snape?
As she sprinted through the chaos, Peri collided with Cedric and Amos, who were escorting Alicia back to safety. "Peri!" Alicia's voice was a mix of relief and gratitude as Peri embraced her sister tightly.
"Thank you for finding her," Peri's voice was laced with sincerity.
"Of course," Amos replied warmly, his concern evident in his eyes. "Let's reunite both of you with your parents."
Leading the way, they guided the sisters through the scattered crowd until they reached their worried parents.
Cassie enveloped her daughters in a tight embrace, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears of joy. "Thank goodness you're both safe. We have everyone now," she whispered, holding them close.
"We should leave this place. Thank you, Amos," Richard expressed his gratitude with a firm handshake while Cassie held Alicia protectively.
Amos and Cedric bid farewell as the family located the nearest portkey to transport them back home.
Stepping into their familiar surroundings, Richard gathered his tired daughters close. "Alright, girls, let's get some rest. Tomorrow will be a busy day at work," he said wearily as they obediently headed upstairs to prepare for bed.
After her sisters were in bed, Peri descended the creaky stairs to the living room, where her parents sat on the plush, burgundy couch. The comforting aroma of freshly brewed tea wafted through the air, mingling with the crackle of a fire in the fireplace.
"Peri?" Cassie's voice broke the peaceful silence. "What is it?"
"I had a question."
"Of course. You can ask us anything," Richard assured her.
"Who is Severus Snape?" Peri asked, tilting her head in curiosity.
Cassie glanced at Richard before answering, "He is a professor at Hogwarts. I went to school with him."
"Why do you ask? Did someone mention him at the campsite?"
"Yes," Peri replied. "A man asked if I was related to him."
Cassie furrowed her brows in confusion. "That's odd. I didn't know he had any family."
"I was just curious about who he was," Peri confessed.
"I don't know much about him," Cassie admitted. "We were in the same year and house at Hogwarts, but he mostly kept to himself. He did have a friendship with Harry's mother until they fell over his use of a derogatory term for Muggle-borns."
Richard said, "But that's all we know about him. After your mom's graduation, Dumbledore offered him a teaching position once he received more training."
Peri nodded, but something still felt off about this mysterious man named Severus Snape. "Thank you for telling me."
Cassie patted her daughter's hand. "Of course, dear. It's probably because your hair and eye color are similar to his."
Peri forced a smile and bid them goodnight before heading back upstairs. Halfway up the stairs, she stopped and turned to face her parents to ask something else but overheard them talking.
Richard's words were soft, almost a whisper, as they left his lips. "She'll find out eventually," he said.
Cassie's voice held a hint of sadness as she replied, "I'd rather she didn't." She paused for a moment before continuing. "He left me...I couldn't let a man who abandoned me be a part of my child's life."
There was understanding in Richard's nod. The rumors about Snape being a Death Eater had also reached Cassie's ears, but no one had confirmed it, especially not Dumbledore.
Richard spoke again, breaking the silence. "If he had not abandoned you, you would have never met me. And I highly doubt a man who was a part of the Order of the Phoenix could also be a Death Eater. They would not have allowed him to join their ranks."
A small smile graced Cassie's lips as she leaned in to kiss her husband. "You're right," she agreed.
But Peri, their daughter, looked troubled. "My father was a Death Eater," she whispered, fear and uncertainty in her voice.