I DON'T OWN HARRY POTTER OR ANY OF ITS ORIGINAL CHARACTERS, ONLY MY OCS AND THE SITUATIONS I PUT THEM IN. WARNING: There will be cussing, lemons, and violence. (Also, someone said I should put please don't steal. Didn't think I needed to, but ok. Please don't steal my stories.)
Some characters may seem OOC at some points at different times in the story, but I hope I explain that in the story when the time comes. Some things happen pretty fast at first (like certain relationships or legal stuff), but again I try to explain it. Some people may go back and forth at times, but I'll explain it! You get the idea. Spelling and grammar errors, I recheck constantly, so sorry if some slip by. Some character bashing in the beginning and for a little while, but that doesn't mean it will last the whole story. I don't hate certain characters though it may seem like that at times. THIS IS A WARNING. Though I will put a warning at the beginning needed. I do not condone all of these things, but my mind can be really fucked up, I apologize now. So, I am mixing both movie and book but I'm mainly following the movie. Though I will try to make a good blend between the two. Big thank you to everyone who reviewed, followed, and/or favorited. You guys rock! Loved your guys' reviews and messages. Wanted to say I hope you're all doing well and have/had good holidays. Sorry for the slow and spaced out updates. I'm going through a lot; however, I am going to finish the story. I know some people were worried. I promise, I am constantly working on the story. Though it's obviously gonna take some time. I'm doing better, thank you. So, for those who contacted me worried that it would be left unfinished, that will never be true. It's just a long process. Thank you, guys, for the support. Also, for appearance wise, I'm mixing book and movie. Especially with Narcissa, but you can imagine her however you want. (I'll remind now and at end of the chapter, there might be spelling or grammar errors. I swell I double proofread, but they slip by. I know it annoys some of you. I spend days after checking, so just ignore it please and thank you). Enjoy.
Chapter 13: Toad and Beetle Stew.
Harry's patience was being tested.
Some bored all-knowing being was watching him amused, testing his strengths. He was sure of it!
That was the only explanation as to why Rita Skeeter was trying to piss him off! She specifically was trying to drive Harry batty. At least, that's what it felt like.
Harry ignored Hermione's mutterings about jars without holes along with Vivian's comment about roasted beetles.
Rita had decided to cover the deaths again. However, this time she seemed to go in the direction Fudge wanted her in.
Painting the Death Knights as nothing more than an extension of the Death Eaters.
"AH!" Harry shouted, shooting flames out burning the whole stack of papers. "I'm going to deal with her" he spoke out loud capturing everyone's attention.
The bundle in the corner tried to scoot away.
"Get back here traitor" Ron pushed the tied up Griphook. Kreacher was cleaning out a special cell for him. They all ignored the moans from the dungeons as Pettigrew's body did its best to shift back to normal.
They were switching him for the real Pettigrew tomorrow night. They wanted to be sure he answered the questions as need be and the like. So, golem Pettigrew would come back while they put Peter on the chopping block.
Minus the memories of this place. That would be saved for every time he went to sleep.
For now, the group simply spoke of everything that needed to be done in the next stages of the master plan.
There was only one horcrux left.
At least, that was if one wasn't counting the one in Harry and Nagini. Though they weren't even sure the snake had the soul piece yet.
Harry held onto the diary, making sure he had all the information needed this time. He was trying to get any places Tom knew of that Voldemort might visit.
Harry put a charm on the book that was meant to ward off anyone not in their party. So, right now they didn't see any harm in ringing Tom out for all the information and insight he might provide until Harry properly got rid of him.
Hopefully, this time he'd be able to keep the basilisk. Harry and Remus thought that perhaps Slytherin had the large snake, not to harm the students but as a failsafe should anything attack the school.
Despite Ron and Sirius' thinking it was simply Slytherin and his ego.
The group was hoping that the basilisk could go back to its possible original purpose.
Hermione had almost busted a blood vessel when she realized that since Harry had called the Hallows ring to him, technically there was no need for them to go to Riddle's family shack.
Ron thought it was a tad funny they all had overlooked that, but for safety reasons kept his humor to himself.
It was decided Voldemort was going to die very quickly this time; Harry would make sure of that.
Just like Fenrir, Harry didn't want to drag Voldemort's death out.
It wasn't due to mercy. The Lestranges were a testament to Harry slowly dealing out his own justice. No, it was more over the fact that Voldemort was just too dangerous.
Magical ability wasn't even coming into play. There was something else Voldemort possessed that could start everything once again. Everything the children came back to stop.
Harry didn't want to be known as the Master of Death. Not now, not till he was good and ready. He didn't know if he wanted anyone ever to know. There wouldn't be a need if they still believed him to be simply Harry Potter in the light, as the Master worked from the shadows.
Voldemort could still ruin everything. All their hard work. Even if Harry was absolutely sure he could kill the man again. The threat to his loved ones was always in his mind.
Despite everything, Voldemort was too influential.
What annoyed Harry was that, really, Voldemort wasn't his only enemy.
Their whole world's viewpoint was against them.
They were blind and only followed whoever presented themselves in the best light. Whoever showed the most power. Throwing away logic as if it were last night's dinner roll.
"Idiots" Harry continued to mutter.
He knew, once he killed Voldemort, that wouldn't be the end of his troubles.
Oh no.
This world only used him when they needed him, then tossed him away when they didn't.
Fudge was a prime example of that. No one cared about the truth! Only what made them feel good about themselves and their pitiful, narcissistic little existence. If anyone threatened that in any way or was different than they were deemed bad.
Ignorance was bliss in the magical world. Even if people got hurt because of it.
Then…a brilliant idea struck the Boy Who Lived.
'A puppet Dark Lord' he thought. There was definite appeal to the idea.
Harry already planned on killing what was left of Voldemort once his soul could be lured closer. However, this new plan had potential.
While Dumbledore's gaze was on Voldemort's possible return, with the public going between listening to the headmaster and being blissfully, purposefully in many cases, ignorant, then they could be…leadable.
Trainable.
Needing someone to lead them to the light. Harry slowly smirked. Even though he didn't plan on being the public figure head, at least not for a long time if he could help it, that didn't mean Harry wouldn't be involved.
'I guess I did learn something from Mr. Malfoy after all' some amusement bled into his thoughts.
"I'll just do it better" he ended up mumbling out loud.
"Do what better?" Ron looked lost as everyone turned to look over.
Sirius got Remus to look up from his book, along with Hermione.
Thankfully, they were in the comforts of the designated group study at Potter manner meaning their privacy was assured.
"I was thinking of Lucius Malfoy and his puppet minister" he said, going to stand by Hermione's armchair. "And how idiotically obvious he truly is" he went on.
"People see what they want to see" Ron pointed out.
Sirius scoffed, "Herd mind and all" was his muttered thought on it all.
"And you think you could do it better?" Remus brought the conversation back to point.
"Hmm" Harry began to smile. "However, I wouldn't use a minster" he confused them. "I think you could get a lot more done with a puppet dark lord" he pretended not to see the others' looks.
"Wait, you want Voldemort to join us?" Sirius was sure this was a nightmare.
"No" Harry shot down. "However, if we…got rid of the dark lord without anyone knowing, anyone who knows he's still around at least" he drew his words out a little. "Then, we could move truly from the shadows" he chuckled at his wording.
"Misdirection" Hermione perked up in her seat.
"While everyone's looking at Voldemort and who he targets" she went to say as Ron picked up.
"Most likely turning on the followers who denounced him after his fall" Ron open mouthed smirk.
"Then we'll be able to direct Britain's viewpoint" Hermione finished, closing her book with a little pop.
"And…should the Death Knights face off some Death Eaters" Vivian smirked as Neville made an 'oh' face. Luna simply smiled from her spot on the floor by Remus and Sirius' feet. "Then they'll start to put a picture together for whenever we do go more public".
"No matter what, we'll at least have Dumbledore off of our track. Hopefully" Remus put in.
"Yes, but there are other ways we could jump on this. Before Harry catches the leech of a spirit" Vivian's eyes brightened as she stood to hand him a copy of the Daily Prophet.
"The paper?" Harry waited for her to explain.
"I think it's time you visited our favorite bejeweled beetle" was hinted.
"Oh" Hermione dragged the word out. With a twinkle in her eye, she waved her hand showing off she was still one of the most proficient in purposeful wandless and nonverbal magic. There, three jars of varying sizes appeared.
"I think we can use Skeeter in more ways than one" Luna confused the adults.
They hadn't been briefed on everything about Skeeter just yet.
Neville went over, taking pity on them and quietly filled them in.
"Obliviate was invented for a reason" Ron commented, trading books with Hermione. She pretended not to notice the quidditch section of the paper he tucked under his arm.
Harry was smiling warmly. "I knew there was a reason I kept you lot around" he teased, taking the paper and looking at Rita Skeeter's printed picture.
"And here I thought it was for my sparkling personality" Sirius sighed dramatically.
"That's pretty much right on par with your dashing good looks" Harry told him.
Sirius began preening before Remus pointed out "But Sirius doesn't even look like himself half of the time".
"I know" Harry deadpanned making Sirius shoot him the stink eye.
"We can deal with Skeeter tomorrow" Hermione told them. "Right now, I'd like to hear how Luna is doing with her pet project" she turned to the blonde.
Luna smiled widely. "Wonderfully" came the dreamy tones.
####SCENE BREAK####
Severus was slowly nursing a large gin and tonic.
He didn't usually drink, but he simply wished to relax tonight.
His potions were all resting, and grades were all marked. Severus was tired. Yet, it wasn't schoolwork that kept him up. Mind reeling and needing to take a break. His body ached; his mind was worse.
It was like whenever he closed his eyes all of the worst things to happen to him came to mind in great detail. What was even worse was, he was forced to look at everything he had ever done to hurt someone else.
Especially Lily.
Before and after her death.
That hurt more than anything else.
The only peace he gained was when Luna Lovegood came over asking for help with potions.
At first, he was prepared to throw the odd ball Ravenclaw out. However, once she was with him, a sense of ease entered him. He even dozed off around her!
Something he had never done around another person willingly since a young boy.
Life with Tobias had taught him to never make that mistake.
However, sleeping around Lovegood left him feeling refreshed and better than he could remember. No nightmares came. No guilt filled memories. No pain.
No heartache.
Just peace and memories of good times.
When he awoke, he found she had placed a blanket over him and stayed.
He had been sour and all but kicked her out.
That sense of ease left him.
It didn't take long for Severus to notice the pattern. He only gained any sanity and peace when she was around. 'But why Lovegood? Why is this happening now? Or at all?" he had to know.
Even things he had denied about himself and actions, when Luna Lovegood wasn't around, he was forced to see the whole picture.
He didn't like many of the things he was seeing.
Especially when he gained unusual insights on his old school nemesis'.
He was sure someone had cursed him. Showing him these things. He wanted to believe them false, but his mind wouldn't allow it!
The parallels between him and Sirius Black, which was pointed out to him by whoever had cursed him, were uncanny.
And unsettling.
Showing just why the two boys could never get along.
They hated each other, because in some ways, they hated themselves. And they saw parts of themselves, or what they were trying to get away from, in the other.
It was a complicated, yet frighteningly simple, mess.
He hated it.
It made him feel things.
For himself, for others who he believed wronged him.
The problem was it made him feel and Severus didn't want to feel at all.
Luna Lovegood had already dropped by with a vase of tulips. She said they would help him sleep better without her there. She assumed he was stressing himself so much, that he couldn't help but nap on the nights she insisted on asking for help.
Not that many of the younger students would believe Snape would give outside class help. He did, to those brave enough to seek it.
Severus honestly hated being a teacher.
He hated being at Hogwarts.
It was a painful place for him. Trapping him in a world between his best and worst memories.
He had dreams of leaving it behind.
But that was before he took on the dark mark.
Before he pledged himself to Dumbledore.
Before Lily's death.
Before his world fell apart.
Oddly enough, after Lovegood left the flowers, Severus did feel a little better. That worry he had deep inside about not sleeping let up ever so slightly.
'As if being unable to control my own unconscious mind was bad enough. Now my emotions had deserted my control as well' he thought taking a sip.
His dark onyx eyes lit up with the fireplace, making them seem more like an old burgundy shade. The shadows played over his strongly structured face, sallow skin taking on an orange glow.
He almost looked like a portrait, or even a statue come to life.
Deep in thought Severus lost track of time.
It didn't matter though. He had no classes tomorrow. 'Perhaps Lovegood would want some extra lessons. I could even-' he stopped with a start.
Was he really thinking of taking on an apprentice? Something he had long ago sworn to never do! 'And she's too young. Doubt she'd have the apt for potions' he thought, thinking of her grades. 'She does have good intuition' he thought before shaking himself.
"Maybe I shouldn't drink. It's giving me ludicrous ideas" was all he could make sense of his thoughts as Severus dragged himself up in order to go to bed.
He silently prayed to anyone listening that he'd have some semblance of rest.
Merlin knew he needed it.
Slowly he drifted off to sleep.
It was quicker, easier than he would have imagined.
Severus never even saw the little illusioned blonde standing behind his favorite reading chair. She had been there for a few hours. His wards had been shredded through like tissue paper and Severus was too in his own head to notice.
Not something seen often.
Luna's powder blue eyes watched as she helped him to sleep. Slowly, she crept out until she was standing by his bed side.
In the dim single candlelight, one could almost mistake her for a ghost.
In a somewhat caring fashion, Luna cupped Severus' cheek. In the next instant a cool lavender mist escaped her seeping up Severus' nostrils.
Despite a twitch, he didn't react.
She smiled, feeling him trying to wake up. Severus was strong, Luna would give him that. However, he had no way to prepare for her attack. It was much different than either of his masters' approaches. Luna was subtle. Gentle.
At first.
Her grinned widened as Severus noticed who was in the dream causing him to give in.
"Severus" Lily called out causing him to turn and see the beautiful red head. She was in a flowing light peach dress.
Her arms showed the light tan that touched her shoulders that he remembered her having from insisting on working in the sun, trying to raise magical plants.
That was a wonderful time for him.
Even when she continued without him.
Her beautiful face void of makeup as a light air surrounded her. The dress dragged on the floor of the empty blankness of a room that didn't matter to him.
"Lily" he smiled, going to walk up. Yet, every step he took had her matching with one back.
When he stopped, so did she.
"I've been watching you Sev" the red head said.
Suddenly, she flashed. It wasn't Lily. It was Luna Lovegood!
Before he could blink it was Lily once more. "Watching me?" he asked wondering what she meant.
"Watching you with Harry" she said freezing him dead.
"I've been protecting him" Severus began before Lily held up a soft, too pale hand.
"Partially" she agreed almost easing him. "However, I can see the pleasure you get out of his misery. Because he makes you think of James" she saw him flinch. "How you love the idea of turning Sirius over to the police. Or outing Remus if you had the chance" she said.
"Black and Lupin deserve-" he went to say before she cut him off.
"And you don't?" she cut into Severus' heart. "You've never made a dangerous mistake? Like joining the very man intent on killing me".
"I went to Dumbledore-" he tried.
"Voldemort would have killed me anyway. I'm a muggle-born. If I lived, I would have been nothing more than your pet for perverse pleasure" she shook her head sadly.
"I would never" he promised profusely, trying to step forward.
"Oh Severus" Lily looked so depressed. "James grew up. Remus grew up. Sirius…he'll get there" there was a ghost of a smile. "However, he has a bit of an excuse now, don't you think?" was pointed out. "What's your excuse for not growing Severus?" she asked seeing him look down ashamed. "For not growing into the man I've always known you could be" she shook her head.
"I love you" he told her.
"You love the idea of me Severus. You've convinced yourself you're in love" she noted. "However, actions speak louder than words" she said seeing him tear up. "However," she saw him look at her hopefully.
"I could never love you as you felt you loved me" she told him. "But I did love you" she said seeing his eyes water. "You were my best friend, and you broke my heart" she told him. "I got to see both the good and bad of both you and James Potter" she explained.
Severus looked away, nodding a little. "I didn't measure up?" he asked her.
"Not in the way where you needed to. But you could have always been my best friend. Find the real love of your life" she went on despite his protests. "But I love James Potter with all of my heart" she saw a tear finally escape Severus at the honest joy that lit up her face when she mentioned Potter.
"And I love Harry even more. But you didn't care if they were taken from me as long as I was alive for your selfish reasons" she pointed out.
He didn't have an answer.
"You know what I realized about you and the Marauders?" she asked.
He shook his head unable to speak.
"You were all damaged, one way or another before coming to Hogwarts" Lily said. "Damaged and so desperate for love and life".
"You and Sirius by your families" she saw him look at her sharply. He never wanted to be compared to Black. "You were two sides of the same galleon in so many ways" she gave a sad chuckle. "Even now".
"I'm nothing like Black" he went to deny.
"Yes, you are" Lily disagreed. "You were both abused, looking to prove yourselves. Yet, that somehow translated into an instant hatred for one another. Unjust, but understandable given the circumstances" she looked lost in thought before coming back to herself.
"I think…" Lily took one step towards Severus.
Again, the image of Luna Lovegood overtook Lily. However, this time she was a young woman. Adult and blossomed with some still hidden knowledge hiding behind her beautiful large blue eyes.
"Severus" Lily said making him blink rapidly. "I think all of you have paid for your mistakes and transgressions. Almost" she told him.
"What do I have to do" Severus pleaded falling to her knees, holding her light peach gown in desperation.
He just wanted Lily's forgiveness.
"You'll know. When the time is right" Lily said before fading away.
She slipped through his fingertips. Just as she did in ever dream and even life itself.
Severus sat on his knees, resting back on his shins with his head down. Dark longish hair hid his face as the light which Lily brought to the room slowly faded as well.
Severus was left, looking defeated, with his thoughts.
Luna came back to herself watching Severus. A part of her did feel for the potions master. Flaws and all, he was a good man in the end. Though Luna had learned the difference between good and nice.
Severus was good, where it counted.
However, she knew in order for him to live up to his full potential he had to fully grow as a person. Just like Sirius and Remus did. With Snape though, his development needed a bit of a push. One that Luna was willing to give. That's why she allowed herself to be used, more or less, as a vessel for Lily Evans Potter to speak to Severus.
Harry and Vivian would take care of Remus and Sirius. They didn't have to use manipulation or force to show them the truth. Harry and Vivian telling them was doing a good enough job.
Luna wasn't just forcing Severus to face facts so he could serve Harry. She was doing it for Severus' own good as well. It would do him no good to live his life under the half-truths and illusions he was operating under now. Even if that force involved her allowing herself to be the physical being that Lily could use to speak. Even if only in dreams.
Neville's voice rang out through her head 'I'm going to tend to the greenhouse. Potions almost ready if you want to come' was offered.
Luna smiled, sending Snape one last look.
"Goodnight, Professor" was whispered before she seemed to blend into the shadows.
Severus' lids twitched as her words floated into his subconscious.
####SCENE BREAK####
Neville and Luna shadowed their way towards Saint Mungo's permanent care ward.
Neville wondered over the hospice's shabby security as the two landed in a specific room. Luna threw up wards and silencing charms as Neville stepped out into the light. He removed his cloak, revealing himself to the still awake patients.
"Mum, Dad" he addressed the Longbottoms.
Luna took in the Longbottoms. So much alike from how she remembered.
Frank's hair was a tad messy seeing as every once in a while, he would touch different dark strands. His hands, fingers seemed unable to fully stop moving for any period of time.
His face was a little unshaven, but not by much. Light eyes flittered to things even Luna couldn't see.
Luna could see a lot of Alice in Neville. Even now with her face a bit gaunt. Though he had Frank's eye color. Luna couldn't help but wonder if that was why Augusta treated Neville so severely as she felt he didn't truly represent her son.
In appearance or ability.
Though, Luna knew how wrong that was. Neville was beyond talented. Especially in wandless magic. He had been since his birth, literally. However, it seemed his family were beyond willfully ignorant of his talents.
Alice's blonde, now more white-blonde hair had grown out to a little under her ears. Soft eyes that Luna could imagine once held secret mischief now held unworldly pain. Her soft, almost pixie like features lacking any full emotion.
She took looked around the room as if searching for something. However, her gaze was a little more focused than Frank's.
At least, that was the case when she looked at Neville.
With small steps, Alice quickly made her way to Neville. Eyes wide and lips parted slightly as she held closed fists up to her chin. Once she reached him, Alice quickly, eagerly, placed something within Neville's grasp.
"Thanks Mum" he whispered taking the gum wrapper.
He didn't know when the healers past them out. He never saw either of his parents chewing gum.
Alice always had them though. Only for Neville.
Neville attempted to control himself. Sadness and longing reflected in his gaze, however.
Luna knew that half the reason Neville was so excited when she had become pregnant was because of his desire for a family. To really be there for his children. To fill that void which ate at him.
Losing the baby had been hard on both of them.
Devastating.
After putting the wrapping paper safely in his pocket, Neville pulled out the magenta filled vials seemingly out of thin air.
Luna realized that both Longbottoms' eyes continued dancing between Neville and the potions.
Alice was already by Neville. Frank soon made his way over with timid steps. There was obvious trepidation in his walk, yet, he continued forward.
Again, Luna picked up on things that others seemed to overlook. She noticed that despite the air of unease and aloofness both Alice and Frank had, they were drawn closer.
Not to the potion, but to Neville.
Unsteady gazes couldn't stop snapping to the young boy's rounded face.
"Are you sure you want them to know?" Luna asked. Her voice held a heaviness to it that Neville felt should never drag down the beautiful blonde's delicate tones.
He looked down, blonde hair ruffling slightly with his nod. "I couldn't-" he had to stop.
Luna didn't interrupt.
"If this works and they found out some other way?" he shook his head looking at Alice. "I couldn't bear that Luna. I couldn't stand them thinking of me like I was one of-of them". He didn't have to explain who he was referencing.
"I may be a monster, but I try" she heard him whisper.
Luna walked up and made Neville look at her. Frank and Alice looked back and forth.
There was determination in Luna's eyes as she glared at Neville. "Don't ever call yourself a monster" she told him leaving no room for argument.
He smiled tiredly.
Before Neville had a chance to reply, Alice was taking his hand again. His brows crinkled. "Mum, where'd you get another wrapper?" was the rhetorical question.
None of the patient clothes in this section of the hospital needed pockets.
"She conjured it" Luna realized with light brows high. "For you".
"What?" he didn't believe it. "She couldn't have. She's-" he once more cut himself off.
"But she did Neville" Luna smiled. "She called and her magic responded" she tried to get him to understand. Now it was her turn to fight back tears. "It's her way of showing she sees you" she got out.
Seeing Neville still not fully comprehending, Luna drove her point home.
"Your mother sees you, Neville. She knows who you are".
He sucked in a painful gasp at that.
It was impossible, wasn't it? He made this potion to bring his parents back. The healers had sworn they were too far gone to know who he was. Neville never had a chance to properly help them before their deaths.
Slowly, he turned to fully face the two as Luna gently took the vials from him.
Neville hugged his mother as his breathing became labored from holding back tears. His rounded cheek went over her heart feeling the steady beat.
Despite her little twitches, Alice wrapped her arms around Neville's short frame. Her arms closed around him with a security that he never thought he'd truly feel.
Luna covered her mouth to stop the wobble of her bottom lip.
Tears finally escaped Neville when he felt his father slowly hug his back. Arms held him tightly as his fingers stopped moving to grasp onto Neville's sleeves. His face was buried in his son's hair as slowly, Alice and Frank totally encompassed Neville with small touches finding one another.
The family stood like that as Luna silently committed the scene to memory. A gift idea popped into her head, and she wanted to be sure she remembered exactly how the Longbottoms looked as finally, they came together as a family once more.
####SCENE BREAK####
Rita Skeeter couldn't believe she was about to get an exclusive interview with the one and only Boy Who Lived Harry Potter! It was bound to make her richer beyond her wildest dreams.
Skeeter saw Potter as a pot of gold.
'This will be perfect for a front page leading to my story about the Death Knights' she thought. Skeeter believed she was untouchable thinking that any word from her and the knights would be more hated than the Death Eaters. That left her with the delusion that none of them dared come for her.
"And his eyes swam with the memories of his parents" Rita dictated to her quick quill. It was a little funny she was interviewing Potter when she planned on using nothing he said.
"Are we interrupting?" came a cool crisp voice from the doorway making her almost fall out of her chair.
Rita turned to see a gorgeous blonde man looking at her with bright eyes full of suspicion.
"I thought we were expected" came a young voice.
Rita had been so distracted by the prince charming in front of her that she hadn't even seen he had accompanied Harry Potter.
It took her a moment but soon that viper smile was back on her painted red lips.
"Harry Potter" she crooned motioning them to the seats in front of her desk. "And who is your handsome companion" she batted her lashes.
"I am Lord Rectus Latronem" he introduced himself. Bright gaze alight with a spark that Rita misread as interest. He gave a small dip of his waist a fist flexed around his silver ball topped cane.
Rita managed a flirtatious little curtsy as Harry hid an amused smirk.
"May we" Rectus gestured to the uncomfortable stiff looking chairs.
"Oh, of course my Lord" she nodded eagerly.
Sirius likened Rita to an old muggle cartoon he once saw as it seemed when she looked at Harry, American dollar signs lit up her gaze.
Unconsciously, Sirius positioned his body in front of Harry's before taking their seats.
He didn't like anyone looking at his godson like that.
"Now, Harry, I am beyond thrilled that you contacted me" Rita began. "However, what made you think of it?" she had to know.
"Professor Lockhart" he smiled thinking of the blonde.
Lockhart's stay at Hogwarts was anything but comfortable so far.
It was only going to get worse.
"Lockhart mentioned me" Rita caught herself blushing as she briefly fanned herself. "I suppose I am a fairly well-known reporter" she played modest. "And Gilderoy is such a dear man" she lied.
"Yes" Rectus grinned. "We were told you were the woman to go to if we wished word to get around" he flattered. Sirius hid Hermione's exact thoughts on the reporter.
Sirius thought perhaps Remus would be up for a prank, for old times' sake. This woman had made many of their children's lives hell. Especially Harry, Hermione, and Vivian.
Rita practically preened with back straightening as she pushed her quick quill a little. She didn't need them getting a peek at her work.
Harry grinned pleasantly. Hands hidden by the desk and unsuspecting. There was no way that he was going to let Rita actually write that trash she passed off as the truth. He was here for a reason after all. Yet, he knew that by the time she noticed the changes, it would be too late.
'Enjoy your quick quill after this bitch' Harry thought. 'You and your mate Lockhart will be closer than ever before after this' he thought.
"We were hoping that you would do a small interview so that everyone may have a chance to get to know the real Harry Potter" Rectus explained. "He's an amazing young lad. In fact, I'd say the least amazing thing he did was defeat Lord Voldemort" he saw her shutter. "The first time" he added.
Rita smelled the story of a lifetime.
Hell, if she played her cards right, she could even make a full book. Maybe a book series! Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived. Then she'd be swimming in galleons and living the life of luxury while riding the Potter namesake till her dying breath.
Harry almost rolled his eyes at the predictable woman.
"Of course, the Wizarding World would love to get to know our young hero" she spoke down to him like he was an infant. "So very little is known. And I'm sure that the stories written about you aren't as accurate as they can be" she pointed out.
"Not at all. My life was…unhappy before I went to Hogwarts" Harry caught her full attention.
"Unhappy?" there was genuine curiosity in her tone. 'How could he be unhappy? Because of his parents?' she wondered.
"Miss Skeeter. It is Miss, isn't it" Rectus put some charm on.
Eagerly she nodded.
"Harry would like to give his story to you. Free of cost" he saw her smile grow. "However, we have a contract" he waved his wand bringing the papers before them.
Her grin damped slightly but Rita figured it was not a big deal.
She still had a very useful trick up her sleeve.
Harry kept a cheeky look under wraps as he saw her begin to read. Nothing beat that rush of getting one over some cocky bastard. Even without bloodshed.
Harry's 'little shit' gene kicked in and he was more than ready to exploit it.
Sirius, with his own similar gene, didn't bother to hide his smile. These were some of the best pranks he had ever pulled, he was sure of it.
Though, this did bring the beginning of an idea to mind. An idea which concerned a certain twinkly eyed Headmaster.
####SCENE BREAK####
Gilderoy felt like he was going crazy.
'Nothing you can't handle' he tried to tell himself. Thankfully, Gilderoy was sure that the staff bought his story about being hexed by a jealous thug. Though when he mentioned how it had to be a group of Unspeakables, it looked as if the belief was tested.
Though, Dumbledore was checking up on him an alarming rate. Lockhart hadn't even had a chance to get out of the castle. He couldn't find out who cursed him or how they even knew to do so. He had barely been able to owl his agent. Horace was beyond anxious as a few people reported what they heard.
Luckily, a few gallons had shut them up.
'But for how long?' he couldn't help but wonder.
A face flashed through his mind.
"That blasted mystery woman again!" he huffed being uncharacteristically rough with his hair. He was getting ready for another class. Thankfully, it seemed Albus' mystery potion had helped at least dull the effects of the curse.
Lockhart was just lucky that no one believed what he kept saying.
'Of course, they wouldn't' he assured himself. 'I'm me, why would they believe such tosh' he thought, forgetting that it wasn't tosh he was spreading at all but rather the absolute truth. Though, the truth had never gotten in Gilderoy's way before.
Lockhart knew he had to find the woman with the striking green eyes.
He knew it wouldn't be too hard seeing as she had a lip ring. Not a common practice in their world. At least, not common with humans.
'I'm sure she's connected' he thought. Anger and lust raged inside of him. Though the worry and fear almost overshadowed all of that.
'What if Albus doesn't believe me?' he couldn't have Dumbledore finding out the truth. Lockhart was sure he couldn't obliviate the great Dumbledore. 'Snape was eyeing me as well. He was close to Evans' he remembered. 'Probably just jealous. I'll invite him to that dueling club Filius mentioned. Of course, I shall be leading it. Not the half goblin'.
It seemed to escape Lockhart's memory just how renowned Professor Flitwick was with a wand.
He was a world champion after all.
'Then, I can put Snape in his place and show the children my greatness' his mood perked up slightly. 'Speak with Potter one and one' he decided.
Gilderoy walked out of his rooms in a very bright and flattering gold and royal blues.
Making it to his desk, he waited for the students as he practiced his patented smile. "Only thirty-five fan cards today?" he counted the stack on the desk. "That's absolutely insulting. Last week it was thirty-six. What is happening" he sighed sadly.
Soon enough the chattering outside the door alerted him to the presence of students.
He posed on the corner of his desk with smile ready.
Lockhart couldn't wait to see their faces. He was sure they'd be overjoyed that their beloved professor was back and ready to instill his worldly knowledge.
Lockhart smiled brightly when he flicked his wand and the doors opened. A simple spell, but even the simplest brought him joy.
Usually because it was such a miracle it worked.
It had taken him forever to perfect his obliviate, and even still it sometimes came out…wrong.
Children came pouring in. Chatting happily with their friends and dragging along their book bags. There were a few looks at Lockhart that were accompanied with breathy sighs, however, he was devastated by how few those looks were.
Potter and his parade took their usual seats without sparing him a real look.
Neville waved to Luna at the doorway before she skipped off. She was going to make an excuse to see the headmaster. Luna and Neville expected a call from Neville's grandmother any moment.
He was sure of it.
Vivian toyed with the ring portkey Narcissa had sent after her responding letter. Ron had an arm around her while doodling on some parchment.
Hermione's pout was adorable as she looked at Lockhart's book in front of her.
He had done the unforgivable in Hermione's eyes.
The blonde had made a mockery of the written word. Her faith in books had been shaken and she was not pleased about the reminder.
"Hello all" Lockhart greeted getting the children to settle.
Many of the Slytherins watched with keen eyes. Lockhart's curse had him divulge some very interesting information, even if he claimed it was all false. Many of the Slytherins had been writing home with news.
Of course, besides claiming he was a fraud, Lockhart hadn't spoken about much else.
Though, there was one questionable incident before Dumbledore had rushed him out of the room.
Draco knew his father was especially interested. He had said something about it being just what he needed to have a closer look. Draco assumed his father meant a closer look at Lockhart, though he couldn't figure out why. 'Perhaps he'll have him arrested. Father is close to the minster' Draco thought.
His father had also muttered something about a book before seeing Potter and his group of misfits.
Surprisingly, his father had left then.
That was the last time Lucius came to visit Hogwarts, much to Draco's disappointment. He hadn't even been able to show his father his quidditch uniform!
Harry knew what was on both Lockhart and Malfoy's mind.
It wasn't hard to guess. Ron and Harry had both been annoyed when Dumbledore had been able to help Gilderoy 'curb' the curse's affects. The headmaster had taken the blonde at his word that he was a victim.
Though Albus had been shaken when Lockhart had all but blurted 'You can do whatever you want to a woman if she can't remember'.
Harry and Ron passed notes and unflattering pictures of Lockhart. If anyone un-glamoured the parchment, then they'd see Harry and Ron's plans on umping Lockhart's ordeal.
They always thought that having his own spell turn on him had been too kind of a punishment for Lockhart. This time, he would destroy his precious image and bring justice to all he had wronged.
Harry hid a smirk behind a smile thinking of Lucius' plans.
It was obvious he wanted to find the book. Or at least figure out why nothing drastic had happened at Hogwarts.
Seeing Vivian constantly had the blonde now keeping his distance.
However, with everyone writing their guardians, another opportunity presented itself. Lucius could rightfully claim that he and other boards of the committee were worried about the student's safety.
That someone needed to be instilled to check out Lockhart. Either he was a threat, or someone cursing professors was.
It was too good of an opportunity for the blonde to pass up.
'Maybe he'll send me a thank you card' Harry almost snorted.
He looked up seeing Lockhart's eyes already on him. Harry sent a smile, looking like any other twelve-year-old.
Lockhart sent the boy a wink before beginning his lesson.
Ron mimed gagging to Neville who shook his head with a small grin.
"Today, I will describe to you some of my harrowing adventures across the world with the most dangerous of beasts and men" Lockhart explained while waving his short cape over his shoulder.
'Who talks like that' Harry couldn't help but think.
"What kind of beasts?" Vivian asked with a small head tilt. She held Lockhart's stare as once more he was reminded to tread lightly given her affliction.
However, something else caught his attention.
Those big, striking green eyes. They looked like a swirling potion.
Lockhart's mind began playing tricks on him. One moment he saw young Miss Lupin and the next there was a flash of that mystery woman from his dreams.
Suddenly, everything but her was blurred. Inconsequential compared to the beauty that haunted his memories. Just out of reach, like the day he was hurt. Both his memory and the woman were so close, yet so far.
Gilderoy was transfixed. She was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.
Her dismissal made her all the more appealing.
The air felt heavy, and Lockhart felt as if he had been hit with a lightning charm. Everything was alive and magnetic.
He was drawn to those green eyes.
The woman simply stared back at him. Shadows hidden behind her that seemed to be holding her like a blanket. Her pale skin shined like moonlight as that uncaring frown turned down her mouth bringing attention to her lip ring placed over the painted purple lips.
Lockhart was getting lost in the woman's gaze when suddenly he ran into something.
His teaching podium.
Gilderoy blinked as once more his surroundings came into perfect view.
The woman was gone and in her place was young Miss Lupin looking at him as if he were a proper nutter.
Her boyfriend, Weasley, was glaring at the man in such a manner Lockhart actually took a step back. He had never seen such rage before. Not aimed at him and definitely not by a child.
Longbottom leaned over whispering something into the ginger's ear. Whatever he said caused Weasley to relax some. His arm still resting around Lupin's shoulders. Even still, the fire behind his gaze didn't die down completely.
"Uh, well" Lockhart tried to get back on track. "Today we'll be talking about how I cured a werewolf" he tried to impress Lupin. He hoped she'd see him as more of an ally.
Trying to shake his disturbing thoughts away, Lockhart then called "Potter. Yes, Harry, why don't you come up and assist me?"
Potter looked less than thrilled. He shot Malfoy a low two finger solute when the boy snickered. Harry dragged himself up and over to the front of the class.
"Now, Harry" Lockhart continued taking liberties when addressing the young boy. "You're going to come at me like a werewolf" he instructed.
"What's my motivation" Harry asked stone faced.
Many muggleborns and half-bloods around the room tried to keep their amused chuckles low.
Ron shook his head thinking of the first time he and Vivian saw a muggle film. Suddenly, a smile broke over his face.
Vivian looked over before snickering, shaking her head.
She didn't need to ready her boyfriend's mind to know what was on it.
"His outfit offended your sensibilities" Neville easily called out to Harry.
More giggles and chortles followed.
Lockhart's jaw dropped momentarily. He looked stunning! How could Longbottom be so blind?
"Thanks Nev. I thought that one was a given" Harry tossed back.
Seamus could be heard trying to muffle his laughter as Dean smiled widely.
Lavender and Parvati did not look amused.
Neither did Pansy, to Draco's annoyance.
Vivian was pleased to see smirks on Tracey and Daphne's faces. She knew they thought Lockhart was cute, but it was a relief to know that they saw past that. Even now.
Blaise looked bored out of his skull as Theo continued throwing parchment planes at Crabbe and Goyle. He only stopped when one hit Millicent in the back of the head and she looked at him in warning.
He didn't feel like ending up in a choke hold.
Blaise smiled briefly at that before Theo pushed him a little.
Everyone's attention snapped back to the front of the class as Harry let out a loud, anguished howl that made a few people wish for the lavatories.
The only ones to not jump? Vivian and Neville. Hermione's hand was over her heart as Ron was sending silent curses up to the ceiling.
Some who noticed thought that it was amazing that Neville didn't seem affected given the boy's history.
Vivian didn't because she recognized the call.
Like his father, Harry had a pension for staying with his moon phased friend when needed. Distracting when it was needed. Though, he never got around to becoming an Animagus.
Harry had asked if that was something Sirius would be willing to teach the others. Though Vivian's potion helped, it would help to finally ease that burden of fear over attacking one of her friends when she was fully transformed.
A fear that she always had, even as a Death Knight. One of the few fears Vivian was sure she'd have forever.
"Is that convincing enough?" Harry asked before another thought hit him. "Wait, if it's daytime then why am I howling? I should be doing taxes or something" he told Lockhart. "Or working at a bookstore or something. I'm just a normal person right now" he sat at Lockhart's desk.
"Ugh, more assignments" Harry sighed. He was going through different parchments.
"What are you doing?" Lockhart felt lost.
"I decided my person is a teacher" Harry said making Vivian have to cover her mouth.
He moved his glasses to the ends of his nose as he massaged the bridge tiredly. She couldn't count how many times she had seen Remus do that when he read something 'not particularly bright' as he put it.
"Alright, well will you please pretend that it is a full moon?" Lockhart posed to the boy trying to rein Harry in.
With another sigh, Harry moved back and just stood there.
"Well, are you going to howl?" Lockhart asked.
"What a rude question" Harry proclaimed. "I've taken my potion thank you" he turned, crossing his arms.
The class was beyond delighted. It was always funny to see a teacher up against a student. That's why half of them watched Harry and Snape. Harry seemed to effortlessly come up with thousands of things to say which both annoyed but also stumped many adults.
Something many in the room had witnessed at one point or another.
Vivian had to hide a smile of appreciation for her brother in all but blood.
"You are a blood thirsty-" Lockhart began to lose his composer before something once more caught everyone's attention.
McGonagall all but burst into the room with a wild look.
"Neville Longbottom" she said making him perk up. "You are needed immediately" she told him.
"Minerva" Lockhart began but she quickly had Neville stand, leaving his things. A familiar blonde head showed itself behind McGonagall.
"I was sent to get you, but Professor McGonagall wanted to come as well" Luna's airy voice carried.
"Yes, I-" Minerva stopped. She couldn't believe it.
She had been in Albus' office speaking with Flitwick and Albus concerning young Miss Lovegood. She had admitted that someone had been pulling pranks on her which were gaining cruelty levels.
Suddenly, amid the discussion came an urgent call from Augusta Longbottom. She was at Saint Mungo's in the Janus Thickey Ward visiting her son and daughter-in-law. She claimed there had been some sort of miracle and needed Neville at once.
Luna, introducing herself as Neville's girlfriend, much to his Gran's surprise, demanded the young girl find her grandson and bring him at once.
Luna had run off to do just that with McGonagall hot on her tail.
Of course, Luna knew the miracle that Augusta was speaking about. However, she and Neville had had to leave shortly after administering the potion last night. That meant they hadn't been able to see the affects as Neville had only stayed long enough to make sure they weren't hurt.
He was already working on the second patch with Kreacher dutifully watching the cauldron.
The rough elf had been magically sworn in as Neville's helper. He was showing an apt talent for potions.
Something Sirius contributed to having grown up healing many of the House of Black children when elf magic wasn't enough.
"Come along. Your grandmother wishes to see you" McGonagall stirred Neville and Luna out of the room without a backward glance. Before running after Lovegood, she had asked Augusta what had happened. She feared for the fate of two more of her lions.
"They're coming back" Augusta had shocked her with the tearful comment.
Minerva had known Lady Longbottom from their school days. This was the second time she had ever seen her old friend cry. Especially so openly.
Harry and the others sent Neville supporting looks as he was carted away.
####SCENE BREAK####
Neville couldn't believe this was really happening. He was grateful when he felt Luna slip her hand into his.
He knew that his parents would be…different. Different from any time he could remember of them.
However, how different was the question.
Neville's potion wasn't a miracle worker. That's why there were multiple doses. His parents' minds were like scattered puzzle pieces. They needed to be worked out slowly so that everything was put together correctly with as little pain as possible.
Two much too soon could be disastrous.
'I'm sensing a theme' Neville thought with sarcasm. The Death Knights' training, their magical cores, his parents, everything took time. If they didn't have time, then everything could and probably would come undone in the worst ways possible.
'Be patient' he kept telling himself. A trait Neville was familiar with.
He knew Luna and Hermione were right. Right now, time was their greatest ally.
It was the only thing that would help them properly channel their magic and grow. And now, time was his greatest tool with brining his parents back. Time and patience would help Neville stabilize their minds.
'Be patient' was the repeated mantra.
'I'll be with you the whole time' Luna's voice rang softly in his head making his lashes flutter for a moment.
Soon enough, Neville and Luna were with Augusta at Saint Mungos. McGonagall was there as their chaperon and ride back.
Augusta took Neville's free hand and quickly led him to his parents' room.
There, he saw the changes.
Physically, Alice and Frank looked the same.
It was something in their eyes that was different.
It was slight, but there none the less.
Awareness.
Seeing Neville and the two made their way over. Just a second faster than last night, but with less shake in their movements.
"Baby" Alice actually spoke.
"Baby" Frank repeated.
Augusta had to cover her mouth. It had been so long since she had heard her son's voice.
"Mum, Dad" Neville teared up. He couldn't help it.
He had known this would happen but experiencing it firsthand was completely different. How long had he dreamed of something like this?
"Neville" Luna said gently.
He looked to see what she needed. Yet, Luna wasn't looking at him. She was looking at Alice.
"Neville" Alice repeated.
"Neville, baby" Frank said reaching up a hand. His fingers were less twitchy. He brushed a few fingers over Neville's rounded cheek.
Neville laughed though tears fell down rolling over his father's hand.
Alice slipped another wrapper into his hand. "Baby. Neville" she said again. Both of their voices were horse from neglect.
Luna smiled up at Neville and his Gran. Augusta turned to the still perplexed healer as Alice and Frank stayed close to Neville. Memorizing his face.
"Mum, Dad" Neville cleared his throat as best as possible. "This is Luna" he saw them look at the girl curiously. "I love her" he said honestly.
Luna looked up in surprise. She could remember the last time he said that in painful detail.
She tried to smile through her own tears as Alice touched her face. "And I love him" she whispered, seeing Neville looked down at her happily.
Neville felt as if he had everything he had ever wanted.
His parents finally meeting the girl who had his heart.
####SCENE BREAK####
"Ok, I get why I'm nervous" Vivian told her boyfriend. "I even get why Harry's nervous" she mentioned her blood brother who was on his way to meet Hermione's parents.
Rectus had taken him seeing as it was a weekend and Albus was too busy to stop them.
"But why are you a wreck?" she asked, sitting in the Three Broomsticks. They were waiting for Remus. After that, they'd walk upstairs to a private booth.
They were meeting Narcissa.
"Well" Ron knew he had to come clean. "It's no secret the Malfoys hate anything Weasley" he shrugged.
"And" Vivian probed with a poke to his arm.
"And" he tried to play off how much his thoughts were affecting him. Ron may not have always been the best at expressing his emotions, but he definitely had a range far wider than a teaspoon. "What if she thinks I'm not good enough? For you I mean" he finally revealed, biting the inside of his cheek.
"Then she can sod off" Vivian said so bluntly with a matter-of-fact tone that Ron couldn't help but double over in laughter. Some of it sounded like relieved laughter.
Vivian smiled before looking serious. She took his freckled cheeks between her thin pale hands. "Nothing in the world or the next could make me leave you" she told him. Ron's smile took on a gentler note as Vivian spoke to his unruly thoughts.
"You are my everything" she tried to get him to understand.
Ron's chuckle got caught in his throat. The fact that Vivian loved him still blew him away at times.
Ron had many insecurities. Coming back had only helped some resurface.
"It's just" he shook his head. "I know I'm not the smartest" he began.
"You are plenty smart. You're absolutely brilliant when you want to be" she countered.
"I know I've made mistakes" Ron then mentioned.
"Who hasn't?" Vivian once more shot it down. "The point is each time you make a mistake you come back stronger than ever" she continued to cup his face lovingly.
"I'm not special like-" he went to say, hands over hers.
"That's enough" Vivian's voice rose. She stood making him look up at her as she got in his personal space. "You, Ronald Bilius Weasley, are the most important, special amazing person I have ever met in my whole life" she told him passionately. "Dad saved me, but you made me feel like a real person worthy of life. Of your love. You made me believe that I could love someone and have them love me, despite what had been done to me".
Vivian cut off anything Ron would have said with a kiss.
They stood like that for a moment. Slowly, they separated with Ron's head going to her stomach as his arms wrapped around her lower body. Scarred arms found their way loosely encompassing Ron as Vivian held him to her, allowing him to take comfort from her touch.
She let one of her hands run through his red locks. Ron burrowed his face against her flat stomach not intending to leave the warm embrace any time soon.
Vivian smiled gently down at him as her eyelids drooped slightly. Holding Ron was so relaxing, it almost made her wish they were somewhere where they could simply hold one another until drifting off to sleep.
"I hope I'm not interrupting" came the soft voice of Remus.
He had heard the children talking deciding to give them a much-needed moment.
Vivian felt Ron sigh against her as he reluctantly put some space between them.
It didn't escape Remus' notice that neither fully let go of the other.
"Shall we?" he asked. As the two met him heading for the stairs, Remus added "Padfoot reminded me just how hard Narcissa could be to read at times. I'm not sure if that has changed" was a kindly warning.
Vivian nodded, feeling as if her heart was in her throat.
She could feel herself begin to sweat as they caught sight of the beautiful Lady Malfoy.
Ron caught Narcissa fidget her fingers before folding the gloved hands together.
"Narcissa Malfoy" Remus greeted neutrally gaining a sharp turn of the head. Narcissa went to nod to him, however her eyes were already searching behind. She pasted Remus and Ron before landing on those green eyes with the sparkling gray spots that she remembered so well.
Narcissa gulped, mouth parting slightly as she came face to face with the child that she honestly believed she would never find again.
"Vivian" she whispered.
Vivian tried to fight her own nerves. "Mrs. Malfoy" she used the only polite title she could think of for the other woman.
Remus looked between the two as both he and Ron began to fully take in just how alike the two were.
They weren't identical, yet, looking at them side by side, really looking at them, one could definitely assume them for mother and child.
Narcissa stood and hesitantly made her way over to Vivian. A hand went to the young girl's cheek but stopped when Vivian was unable to fight back a flinch like motion at the action.
"Perhaps we should all sit down" Remus suggested, warm hand going to Vivian's shoulder in a comforting motion.
"Of course" Narcissa managed. Mist was swimming in her eyes as she saw how comfortable the girl was with Remus' touch compared to hers.
"How about we order some food" Ron suggested as they all sat. "Nothing relaxes me like a good meal" he said seeing Vivian unable to fight a small smile. He sent her a little wink seeing her shoulders slightly relax.
Narcissa saw as well wondering about her daughter's involvement with Weasley's youngest son.
She wasn't sure how to feel about that. Here she had a chance to get her baby back, yet she felt as if she had already lost her all over again to Weasley.
Still, she kept silent.
Narcissa had learned greatly from Bellatrix's mistakes. She even learned from Lucius', though her husband would deny he ever made a mistake in his life.
"Allow me" Narcissa felt the need to offer.
She knew about the Weasleys and their money situation. It was one of her husband's favorite dinner discussions.
So, it was a surprise when Ron declined. "Sorry, Mrs. Malfoy" he told her. "What kind of future son-in-law would I be allowing you to buy our first meal together" he offered, taking a coin bag from his pocket.
Vivian tried not to chuckle. Of course, Ron wouldn't miss a chance to assert his ability to take care of Vivian. Mentally, she thanked Hermione for thinking of the Knights' shared vault.
There was no way Vivian could fault Ron's actions.
Remus himself hid a smile before adding, "Why don't you buy the food and I'll get everyone a refreshment?" he offered. It was a subtle flex about his ability to be a good, providing father.
"Great" Vivian said capturing Narcissa's attention. "Don't be too long. We have a lot to talk about" that last bit was aimed at Narcissa, who nodded.
As the men made for Rosmerta, Narcissa tried not to fidget under Vivian's unwavering stare.
"I'm sure you have a lot of questions" Narcissa told her. "You have no idea how long I've dreamt of this moment" she admitted quietly.
"Did you know where I went? Did you help?" Vivian fired.
"No, no!" Narcissa was quick to deny. She looked at Vivian with such open emotion that the dark-haired girl had to wonder if this was really Narcissa Malfoy. The blonde- and brunette-haired woman never showed such vulnerability. Blue eyes held a pain that Vivian's green matched.
"If I had known where you were, I would have gotten you right away" Narcissa promised. "Lucius and Bella would never tell where Rodolphus and Rabastan had taken you" her bottom lip quivered.
That haughty look she usually sported now was completely abandoned. "I thought I'd never see you again" she admitted. "But I never gave up hope".
Vivian wasn't sure what to say. She had so much anger inside of her. So much pain.
However, there was this voice inside of her which desperately called for a mother. Her mother.
Tonks had been amazing, would be amazing still as Vivian was determined to give Remus the life and love he deserved. However, Narcissa was different.
Something about her being Vivian's mother just clicked in a different way. A way that Vivian couldn't even understand. However, even now, she felt it. It was something she'd have to explore more at a later date.
Remus had clicked as a father for Vivian right from the start. She loved Tonks and the light she brought into Remus' life. Yet, Vivian longed for more.
She would never accept Lucius as her father. She was sure of that. Remus was her father, pure and simple.
'But am I open to Narcissa being my mother?' she wondered.
"Tell me" Vivian finally spoke. She stopped for a moment. She wanted to know about Narcissa's sudden ability to speak to her. She also wanted to know what had happened that night after Greyback left.
However, she settled on an easier opener. Giving some mercy to Narcissa, Vivian asked "What things were like before that night".
Narcissa looked at her, feeling for the child. She could only guess that the girl remembered what Greyback had done to her. Yet, at the same time she really prayed that memory had left her daughter.
'He's dead now' Narcissa remembered Lucius trying to rush her off after she had gone to the square to spit on Greyback's body.
"The day you were born was the happiest day in my life" Narcissa began.
Ron and Remus returned to the table hearing Narcissa begin to regale Vivian with memories of the life she had once lived.
####SCENE BREAK####
Harry sat with the others at the Gryffindor table. His correspondence with Amelia Bones burned in his pocket matching his excitement.
The court date was officially set. The last to know would be Fudge.
Then again, last time Harry and Remus met up with Madam Bones, Fudge had been talking with Lucius in worried hushed tones. Harry was sure he heard Dumbledore's name mentioned every few moments.
Harry had to wonder if that was why Dumbledore, Snape and McGonagall were missing from the head table. 'Hagrid and Flitwick are gone too' Harry's brows rose to his hair line. 'Uh oh, someone pissed off the Hufflepuff' he saw the less than friendly look on Professor Sprout.
Knowing how ruthless a Hufflepuff could be once someone offended them, Harry almost felt sorry for recipient.
Perhaps he would have felt totally sorry…if there wasn't a sickeningly familiar noise coming from the doorway.
"Hum-hum" came a tell-tell cough.
Vivian looked up with a wide-eyed look that Harry knew he mirrored.
At the same instant, Ron and Neville's faces fell into unwilling scowls. Luna's smile disappeared.
Hermione was the worse. She turned with lips parted slightly, breathing harsh as her brown eyes, also wide but rather with hate instead of surprise, looked as if they reflected the gates of Hell.
Gates that were opening as she looked at one of her most personally loathed enemies.
Dolores Umbridge.
The she-devil was there in her overtly pink and frog like glory. The bow in her short, pristine hair looked just as much of a fly waiting to be caught as the Knights could remember.
Harry hated Umbridge. Vivian hated her. They all hated her.
She was the epitome of the majority of the British Wizarding World.
In short, she sucked.
Harry knew he would face her at some point. He was planning on it. Umbridge had a lot to answer for. The woman was evil.
However, for some reason, it was a bit of a shock seeing her so suddenly at Hogwarts.
'She can't be-? Oh, for Merlin's fuck!' Harry thought annoyed.
Fred and George noted the mood change of the little group. Lee nodded his head at Luna, who had lost that serine look. She looked grave, serious.
It didn't fit the blonde's face.
Umbridge's dark, beady eyes scanned the student body as she pushed past McGonagall to walk in front of an obviously unhappy Dumbledore.
Harry shook his head. Despite his own issues with the headmaster, seeing Umbridge act so above or even equal to Dumbledore really turned Harry's stomach.
Subconsciously, Harry rubbed his right hand. There wasn't a scar, but it was as if he could almost feel the words under the flesh. 'I must not tell lies'.
Vivian's eyes were on Umbridge like an untrusting predator.
Like Harry, she flexed her hand. 'Dangerous Half-breed' ghosted over where her own scars had resided.
Ron put an arm behind Vivian, his gaze matched his wife's as the two continued watching Umbridge.
Harry and Vivian had had the worst of the woman's anger. Especially seeing as they kept taking punishments in order to save their loved ones.
Neville's hands clenched and Luna gently took his arm as Hermione resisted the urge to wandlessly set Umbridge on fire.
Her actions during her time 'teaching' at Hogwarts were mild compared to the atrocities she committed when empowered by Voldemort taking over the ministry. Even after, when she officially joined the Death Eaters, she continued with her dastardly ways.
At least she did until Hermione had caught up with her.
The memory brought a smile to Harry's face.
Dumbledore smoothly slid in front of Umbridge gaining a small frown to the back of the head.
Umbridge zeroed in on Vivian's glare. She sent the girl a superior look to show her dominance. However, at the girl's unwavering gaze, Umbridge had to look away. Something in the girl's green eyes sent odd slithering like chills down the woman's back.
She was surprised to see the Slytherin crest on the girl's tie. Interrupting her inspection of the odd little girl, Dolores caught sight of Potter.
A nasty smile overtook her face. Yet, once more she was brought up short.
The smile on Potter's face as he looked at her… No child should smile like that.
As she kept her eyes on him, no one noticed the carpet suddenly gain a small bump. Umbridge especially didn't notice. At least, not until she tripped falling face forward towards Dumbledore's back.
However, before she made contact, he gave a large step bringing a gap between them.
That saved Dumbledore from Umbridge's desperate attempt to catch herself. She did catch herself.
More accurately, her face caught the hard floor.
Dumbledore didn't look back.
McGonagall looked around for evidence that this was possibly on purpose. Just a few hours with the woman, and she wouldn't blame any of the children. That being said, Minerva couldn't just sit back and do nothing. She tried to be a fair woman after all. She saw Severus walk in and look at Umbridge, coming to stop at Minerva's side.
No one was offering the woman help as she got up, face heated over the snickers around the room. Minerva sighed, offering her hand.
There were gasps around the room as Dolores smacked Minerva's hand and stomped after Dumbledore.
Albus had looked back to glare as Severus looked ready to strike Dolores as he quickly made sure Minerva wasn't about to fall back.
"Well, whose wand did she sit on" came Minerva's quiet snark.
"She's a bitch" was Severus' dead panned answer as he escorted Minerva the rest of the way to the table.
Harry almost snorted at that. He hadn't noticed in fifth year just how close McGonagall and Snape were. Especially when against Umbridge.
A thought hit Harry then. If asked, he'd claim it was more brilliant than his plan for Voldemort. Harry knew everyone was caught up with what they all needed to do.
And that was important, really it was. Harry knew just how important.
However, if his life had taught him anything it was that life without the normal and fun moments was almost a life not worth living.
'What kind of Potter would I be if I didn't take part in the obvious Marauder in me' Harry thought while managing to taper down an almost evil like laugh. Thankfully, it had more to do with pranks rather than anything truly evil.
He saw Hermione pull out a book with a huff. Harry knew that she wanted to beyond ace all of her schoolwork. As if she hadn't done that before.
'Old habits die hard' he thought humorously. That went doubly for Ron seeing as Vivian was laughing at the red head's stuffed cheeks.
'The Marauders only had four members. Three if you mark Pettigrew's betrayal as a desertion from the group' Harry thought as his eyes moved to Neville and Luna. 'It would make sense we'd have more. Bigger plans and bigger pranks' he thought smiling at the look Neville and Luna shared before blushing and looking at their plates.
'Oh Umbridge' Harry thought as he caught sight of Fred, George and Lee whispering together. 'I think you're in for a very warm welcome. Hogwarts style'.
A/N: What do you guys think? Next chapter will expand on some of the things talked about in this one. A chapter or two of pure mischief rather than murder. Review, ask, or suggest if you'd like. I love hearing from you guys. As usual, I'll be going over the chapter to fix grammar mistakes. I swear I only see half of them after I post. Until next time, stay safe.