Child Of Grace: Chapter 27 - Draco Demented (Part 1)
ZeldaQueen: Well, I guess the suethor missed bashing Ron and Hermione, because guess what this chapter is pretty much dedicated to? *sigh* Strap in!
Projection Room Voices: Starting Media in 3...2...1...
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Chapter 27: Draco Demented (Part 1)
The rest of the summer passed in a blur, and it was interspersed by the slight but still continuing tension between Tom and Sirius.
ZeldaQueen: Tension which makes no sense, so I can only conclude that it's there to take up space
While it was all but unnoticeable for the most part, it did flare up at odd times.
ZeldaQueen: Much like acne
Blaise, on the other hand, was friendly to the newcomer, finding him to be a rather interesting individual. The caramel-skinned boy spent a surprising amount of time with Sirius, peppering him with questions about the Transfiguration behind becoming an Animagus and how he had managed to do it without getting caught.
ZeldaQueen: Yes, how lovely that Blaise can chat so casually with an escaped convict. Why are they all so calm about this?
During that time, Holly noticed that her Mind Magic settled, going back to how it had been at the end of the previous school term.
ZeldaQueen: I wish it'd go back to the way it was in canon - not there at all!
She was no longer plagued by strange bouts of telekinesis, a godsend since they hadn't mentioned anything about that to Sirius yet.
ZeldaQueen: Poor her! Plagued by strange bouts of a highly useful, non-canon powerful ability! However will she manage? Good thing she doesn't have to inconvenience herself by tell someone she doesn't like!
Still, the change puzzled her greatly as had the problem itself.
ZeldaQueen: (Sue) "Things aren't going exactly as I want? Inconceivable!"
Blaise's collection of books relating to the subject was severely limited, which is to say that they only went into the basics and didn't go far beyond that.
ZeldaQueen: You know, you could have just ended that sentence with "severely limited". That nicely implies what you stated in the second half
Tom had simply shaken his head when she asked him about it, but he did mention that the same thing used to happen to him during the summer months, though he had never really figured out why. He had several hypotheses about the problem but no real answers, so Holly made a mental note to ask Luna when she returned to school. Perhaps her fellow Mind Mage knew something.
ZeldaQueen: I swear to God, if this doesn't have some spectacular plot pay-off, I'm screaming
It was also during those three weeks that Sirius further recovered from his stint in Azkaban. He was looking much better now, no longer resembling a skeleton that was trying to masquerade as a wizard, which was probably due to all the food they filched for him from the kitchen. He spent most of the day outside, away from the manor, rebuilding the muscle he had lost.
ZeldaQueen: She's still Sue-ing Sirius up. I don't know how much more of this I can take!
This had the added advantage of keeping him away from the other members of the family, house-elves included, though it did take him from the Slytherins as well. There was only so much time they could spend outside without Dante and Eren becoming suspicious, especially since they knew how fond the children were of the library.
ZeldaQueen: First of all, how big are the grounds? Granted I don't live in the countryside, but I think my parents would notice if a strange man kept wandering around our yards.
Second of all, why would the parents care if the kids started to hang around outside? The little rats can make something up! Seriously, how often do you find parents who complain when their kids start voluntarily going for fresh air and exercise?
That wasn't even mentioning the fact that Blaise didn't play Quidditch, so they couldn't use that as an excuse.
ZeldaQueen: Because it's not like they could pretend that Holly was teaching him how to play or something
Plus, the youngest Zabinis had taken to following Holly around during the day, and she would be hard pressed to explain a large, black dog.
ZeldaQueen: And Holly isn't badmouthing the kids at every opportunity? Oh, that's rich! Blaise's little Sue-siblings are allowed to follow her around all they like, but when Ginny and Colin do the same, oh that's just too fucking far!
Truthfully, the only time Holly really saw Sirius was at night, but even then, they had to be careful.
ZeldaQueen: You know, I'd probably care a lot more if the author actually included some of these actual meetings instead of just summarizing!!!
They did talk some, but their discussions mostly revolved around Lily and James Potter, Sirius' schooldays, and after he had graduated. The girl noticed that he didn't mention his life before Hogwarts, except rarely and only in passing, but she didn't press, sensing it was a sensitive subject. All after, she knew what it was to have an unhappy childhood, and she could generally recognise that sign in others.
ZeldaQueen: *rolls eyes* She's going to play the "abused child" angle with Sirius. No. No, that doesn't work.
And I wonder how they're going to handwave the Black family who were, for all intents and purposes, a bunch of horrible people who favored blood purity and were almost all in Slytherin.
For her part, Holly left out all mention of her time at the Dursleys, which only left her two years at Hogwarts.
ZeldaQueen: Only two years? Considering how much stuff goes on in a school year, I'd call that quite a lot!
And wouldn't Sirius be suspicious that Holly is mysteriously neglecting to talk about ten or so years of her life?
However, there were problems with this as well.
ZeldaQueen: Exposition, ho!
Her first year basically involved trying to protect the Philosopher's Stone from Voldemort, while her second centred on the whole Heir of Slytherin debacle.
ZeldaQueen: If by "protect", you mean "get my ass kidnapped to be rescued by others", then yes, you did that most admirably. And "debacle"? She's using the word "debacle" to describe multiple students being attacked and nearly killed, turned to stone, Ginny nearly having the life drained out of her, Hagrid being unjustly arrested, and Dumbledore being removed from Hogwarts. Wow. And wasn't it the "Heir of Hufflepuff"? Using "Slytherin", it makes it sound like the only part that upsets or offends Holly is the accusations that she was the one responsible. In other words, the part that personally offended her
Neither were topics she really wanted to discuss, mostly due to the fact that would bring her dangerously close to revealing Tom's true nature.
ZeldaQueen: Oh for the love of... really? She still is being a selfish bint and lying to cover up for Riddle? Why couldn't the suethor have said, I don't know, that she didn't want to talk about it because those were scary incidents where she nearly died? Or that she didn't want attention or special treatment? I mean, it still wouldn't have been believable, but it would have been closer!
Still, a not-so-small part of her didn't want Sirius to think her life, and her by proxy, as abnormal.
ZeldaQueen: Too late. She's a Mary Sue and there's no cure
She knew it was silly and just a habit ingrained from the Dursleys, but regardless, she didn't want to disappoint the first adult who had ever taken such a personal interest in her life without her having to befriend their children first.
ZeldaQueen: *twitches and flails*
What about Dumbledore? Or Hagrid? Don't they count at all?
Basically, this all translated to mean that Holly glossed over most of her own life and focused on Sirius'. She spoke of her friends and her position as Seeker on the Quidditch team but didn't go far beyond that. It wasn't until she laid down to sleep the night before the train ride back to school that she even realised she still hadn't told him what House she was in.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, isn't that special? The Sue is just so loving that she decides that she's far too uninteresting for Sirius and only talks to him. Of course, we don't get to find out anything about him, since the suethor is too lazy to tell us.
And all this proves is that for all the talk we're getting about how close Sirius and Holly are, they know diddly about each other. Seriously, she didn't even tell him she's Slytherin? Oh, that's not going to be milked for angst and drama later!
September 1st dawned surprisingly bright and clear, a marked change from the rainy days previous.
ZeldaQueen: Hello thar, Gethesmane Symbolic Weather!
Wait a second... *blinks* Fuck, that was one fast time leap!
They arrived at the station without incident and in good time, though it seemed that everyone else had gotten there even earlier. The platform was packed with people, mostly nervous parents, who had already shooed their children onto the train.
ZeldaQueen: Skimming time, skimming time, who wants to hear this interesting crap?
Holly was willing to bet ten Galleons that she knew exactly what they were worried about. The dangerous Sirius Black was on the loose, after all.
ZeldaQueen: Why thank you, Mistress Obvious!
The train itself was complete pandemonium, and Holly and Blaise had to battle every step of the way just to get down the hallway. They finally managed to find their year-mates in the direct centre of the train, but their compartment was completely full. Quite dejected, the two left with Draco in tow. They had no idea where Luna was, but chances were that she would find them on her own, so they wandered down further, finally finding a compartment that had only one person in it.
ZeldaQueen: POINTLESSNESS, AHOY!
The slumbering man inside was thin and in patched robes with greying brown hair. His head was turned away, but Holly still thought he looked vaguely familiar. It wasn't until a minute later, when they were already inside, that it hit her.
ZeldaQueen: *waving frying pan* THIS IS FOR CANON, BITCH!
It was Remus Lupin, and he appeared to be drooling in his sleep.
ZeldaQueen: That's just lovely! Describe him in the most unflattering terms, why don't you?
Holly wondered what by Salazar
ZeldaQueen: Stop using those "wizarding" curses. You didn't hear Harry saying "by Merlin's beard" every two seconds, did you?
he was doing there, on the train to Hogwarts, but then, she vaguely remembered him mentioning a surprise in several of his letters.
ZeldaQueen: A mention which the suethor saw fit to completely ignore until now
It had slipped her mind with all the Sirius business,
ZeldaQueen: And because the suethor couldn't be bothered
but now, she distinctly recalled the veiled hints.
ZeldaQueen: Hints which would have seemed much more clever if we had been shown them!
From there, her mind jumped to a logic reason for his presence, and seeing the name stamped on his travel case, Holly knew she had guessed correctly.
ZeldaQueen: (Suethor) "ISN'T MY CHARACTER SO SMART? HUH? HARRY DIDN'T KNOW THAT RIGHT OFF OF THE BAT! DID HE? DID HE???"
Remus was the new Defence professor, and he was probably on the train to protect the students from Sirius Black.
ZeldaQueen: Or, because he was too poor to afford any other transportation. I highly doubt that if they wanted a guard, they wouldn't just use Ministry officials
She started and blinked for several seconds after coming to that conclusion, which caused her friends to look at her curiously. Nevertheless, Draco nodded in understanding after a quiet but quick explanation.
ZeldaQueen: Okay, what is with these people? They treat every little conclusion like it's some huge revelation. Holly stares and stares and stares and blinks and everyone is worried and she gives someone A Significant Look and they nod, get on with it!
Blaise, on the other hand, immediately tensed and backed away. He stopped after Holly shot him a glare, knowing that he really didn't have anywhere else to go.
ZeldaQueen: Over-the-top foreshadowing, ahoy!
But he made a pointed gesture to Holly's pocket where Tom was safely tucked away before his eyes flickered to the animal basket in his hand. She got his message, but there wasn't really all that much she could do.
Everywhere else was full. They had to sit here.
ZeldaQueen: Contrived coincidence, ahoy!
And it was at that moment that Holly wondered if Fate really did have it in for her. Trust her luck that when she was trying to smuggle an escaped criminal to Hogwarts in the guise of a rather cute kitten, the one person who could identify him was present.
ZeldaQueen: A "rather cute kitten"? Sirius? Okay, I guess I can live with that.
But how could Lupin recognize Sirius like that? He only knew Sirius's Animagus form, which was a big, black dog! He wouldn't know Sirius had been turned into a kitten, and certainly wouldn't suspect that Holly would be carting him around
Still, she couldn't help but chuckle at the irony of it all, wondering how Sirius would have taken the situation if he was conscious.
ZeldaQueen: I really hope that means Sirius is just asleep and they didn't drug or knock him out.
And yes suethor, we see the (bad) irony. Stop holding our hands and pointing it out
Currently, he was spelled asleep since he hadn't exactly been thrilled by the prospect of a six hour journey in a basket, transfigured into a cat no less.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, so he let them magically drug him. That's so sweet!
He had originally wanted to come as a dog or even a puppy, but Tom had immediately shot down that idea by pointing out that neither was allowed.
ZeldaQueen: Or how about the fact that people know he can turn into a dog, so they'd watch for that? Logic, please?
Further, they couldn't risk turning him into an inanimate object again, something quite dangerous if they continued to do it for extended periods of time. Besides, bringing a black cat wouldn't draw much untoward attention, and who would ever suspect a kitten of being dangerous?
ZeldaQueen: *cough* Crookshanks *cough*
Sirius hadn't been pleased by this, but he had eventually acquiesced,
ZeldaQueen: - because the Sue demanded it
even helping come up with a cover story for his sudden appearance. If anyone asked, he was the replacement for Mr. Momo, Blaise's real cat who had sadly died at the end of June.
ZeldaQueen: ... Mr. Momo? That's really what the suethor thinks a snobby, rich boy like Blaise would name his cat?
Right. I've got nothing. Moving on!
It was a sound plan and seemed to have worked so far. Plus, it had the added benefits of allowing Sirius free access to their dorm and providing further protection in case Remus had told someone of his former friend's Animagus abilities.
ZeldaQueen: Okay, bets are open as to how long it takes before this cover is conveniently blow. Any takers?
The only inherent draw back was that Sirius couldn't change forms himself while he was under another Transfiguration, so he had to rely on others to do it for him.
ZeldaQueen: And of course, Sirius Black would be just fine with being utterly dependent on leaving his fate in the hands of other people
They had several ideas on how to circumvent that little annoyance, but they wouldn't be able to try anything until they got to Hogwarts and a better Potions lab.
ZeldaQueen: What is this, Harry Potter - Frankenstein edition? Potions don't fix everything!
Despite all that, Holly was a bit hesitant to take a seat, especially when she remembered that werewolves were supposed to have a very advanced sense of smell. Thankfully, there were enough strange scents around to cover Sirius', but there was still a chance he would be recognised. On the other hand, she didn't really have much of a choice.
ZeldaQueen: Oh my God, is she still angsting about getting in the carriage?!? Get on with it!
Everywhere else was full. They sat here, in the corridor, or found separate places elsewhere.
ZeldaQueen: GET ON WITH IT!
Reluctantly, she shuffled the rest of the way in, the two boys following behind and staying as close to the door. It was the farthest they could get from Remus, who was propped up against one of the windows, and still be in the same compartment.
ZeldaQueen: Given her behavior thus far, it really just looks like the Sue can't stand to be near him
Blaise was visibly unhappy with their choice, his mind very agitated, but he kept his mouth shut. And unfortunately for him, Draco nipped in the seat next to Holly, which meant that he either had to sit across from Remus or on the same side. Frowning mightily, the boy lowered himself next to the entrance. He deliberately didn't look at the lone adult and busied himself with making sure the door was unlocked so that Luna could join them later on.
ZeldaQueen: First of all, if these kids are such good friends, why doesn't Draco or Holly just move so that Blaise isn't forced to sit somewhere he's visibly upset at?
Second of all, who wants to bet the unlocked door will bite us in the rear, plotwise?
A fact that the three off them would soon come to regret.
ZeldaQuen: Called it. Well, regret is pretty strong, considering all they've been through. They must be referring to the Dementors! I mean, it's not like they'd be so worked up over something silly, like a couple of Gryffindors getting in the compartment...
It wasn't more than a minute after they had gotten themselves situated when the only girl felt a tingle of forewarning shoot down her spine. Unexpectedly, the door slid open, and bushy head popped in.
ZeldaQueen: ...Dear lord, smite me with lightning
"Oh, there's room here."
ZeldaQueen: No, Hermione! Run! Scurry! Flee! Escape! Before it's too late!!!!
Holly had to bite her lip to keep from groaning, and she mentally berated herself for becoming so distracted that she hadn't realised they were there sooner. She turned annoyed eyes to her friends, who were looking rather exasperated themselves.
ZeldaQueen: Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to remind you all that throughout the entire summer, Ron and Hermione have done nothing but send Holly birthday presents, written her letters, and - by her own admission - would have provided her with lodgings if she unexpectedly showed up at their doorstep.
Now, I ask you people, if you saw someone sigh and look annoyed when people like that showed up, would you not consider them bitches of the highest order? You would? I thought so
Without warning or so much as a by your leave, Hermione Granger shoved the door the rest of the way open and stepped in. She immediately descended on the empty space next to Blaise after hastily hefting her trunk out of the way.
ZeldaQueen: Hur hur, the suethor's trying to make Hermione look rude. Shove it, it's a public compartment
"Hello, everyone. Holly, Blaise." She nodded to both of them, adding an instant later, "Draco."
ZeldaQueen: Alrighty, I'm taking notes here. Thus far, we see Hermione nicely saying hello to everyone, including Blaise and Draco
Before anyone could comment another person appeared in the doorway, and like his Housemate, he simply barraged in without invitation.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, SHUT UP!
Yet, unlike Hermione, Ron Weasley merely grunted in greeting. He growled at his trunk as he lifted it, nearly clipping Draco in the head.
ZeldaQueen: Now, despite the suethor's best efforts, I don't feel the least bit sorry for Draco or angry with Ron. Why? Well, let's recollect the last time Draco and Ron met, face to face. It involved Draco making rude accusations to both him and his younger sister, regarding Ginny trying to nicely send Holly a card. I am still not impressed
The redhead paused in taking a seat once he was finished since his only options were to either fit in the space between Hermione and the sleeping Remus or to sit on the other side of his most hated Slytherin.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, does he have his own personal Slytherin to hate? Where do you order those from?
Even with only those choices, he continued to stand for another moment, trying to decide. Finally, right about the time his fellow Gryffindor opened her mouth to berate him, he reluctantly moved next to the blond, pushing himself against the wall and as far away from the other boy as he could get.
ZeldaQueen: Why wouldn't Ron pick sitting between Hermione and Lupin? I'd think that he'd rather sit between the girl he's crushing on and a sleeping dude than "his most hated Slytherin"
Afterwards, they sat in a rather awkward silence. The Slytherins couldn't talk amongst themselves with conscious witnesses.
ZeldaQueen: Isn't that just like those stupid Gryffindors, daring to want to find seats and fucking this up for Our Heroes?
Truthfully, it wasn't like that they would have said anything important with another person there, even if he was unaware.
ZeldaQueen: So what's it matter if Hermione and Ron are there or not?
Additionally, Holly wasn't really in the mood to chat with the Gryffindors due to their actions the previous school year, and it seemed that they didn't really know what to say to her either.
ZeldaQueen: Holly? Dear? Step over here for a minute.
*bitch slaps her*
There. Now then, I have already reminded you of all the nice things Ron and Hermione have done for you. Any decent person would look back on her previous actions, realize that she was partially to blame for the misunderstanding, or at least recognize that she could have done more to have prevented it, and forgiven them and moved on. Or, if she was incapable of that much, she would at least see all of the nice things that they have been doing for her and perhaps consider the fact that those kind gestures were their own way of apologizing or attempting to make amends. Or even thing that said gestures were enough to make up for the slight and that it's time to move on and be the bigger person.
You, on the other hand, will be dragging this instance around like a security blanket. I just know it. It's an excuse for the suethor to justify you being a complete and utter pig to people who are perfectly nice to you.
Oh, and sweetie? The reason they're not talking to you? Maybe it's because you're being a frigid bitch and making them feel uneasy or unwelcome
Taking a deep breath, the Slytherin girl secretly wished she had a book on hand so that she could read instead of just sitting there. Nevertheless, it would be rude to fetch one from her trunk, and Hermione would be sure to call her on her lack of manners, despite the fact that the bushy-haired girl was known for doing the exact same thing.
ZeldaQueen: YOU LITTLE WHORE!!!
Okay folks, point to one instance where Hermione would do something like that! She corrects the manners of her close friends and given the distance between the two? Holly ain't one of 'em.
And leave Hermione alone. That's a rotten jab and you deserve to be coated in tar and dropped in a fiery chasm
Holly would just have to tough it out, and a single discreet glance at her Housemates let the girl know they were feeling much the same.
ZeldaQueen: POOR, PUT-UPON YOU! FORCED TO STAND THE COMPANY OF TWO PEOPLE WHO SEEM PERFECTLY LOVELY TO YOU! HOW WILL YOU EVER MANAGE?
A sudden noise across from her caught Holly's attention, dragging her from her musings. She looked up to find Hermione fiddling with the straps on an enormous cat basket.
ZeldaQueen: Enter Crookshanks, stage left
"Don't let that thing out!" Ron stated loudly, causing Remus to stir.
The redhead instantly shut his mouth, flushing. The three Serpents blinked but didn't say anything. Hermione merely ignored him, still loosening the straps. Blaise reached over to help her, though it was more out of a desire to see inside than to actually be nice.
ZeldaQueen: Okay suethor, why'd you do it? Took you just one half of a sentence to make something Blaise was doing go from being marginally nice to selfish and rude
"I see that you have a new pet," the boy commented, trying to start up a conversation.
"Oh, yes," the Gryffindor gushed, finally taking the lid off. She lifted out a large, ginger-coloured ball of fur, wrapping her arms around it tightly and holding it out to the three Slytherins for inspection.
ZeldaQueen: Something tells me that the sueuthor will be using Hermione's Crookshanks love for mocking
"He's gorgeous, isn't he?"
ZeldaQueen: She hardly-contained rudeness in 5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1...
Blaise's eyebrows rose until they were nearly even with his hairline, and he made a neutral sound. Draco started to laugh but thankfully turned it into a rather believable cough. Holly discreetly elbowed him in the side, though she couldn't help but agree with his assessment.
The thing before them had to be the ugliest creature she had ever seen, including Dudley Dursley. The "cat", though she shuddered to even mentally call it that, had impossibly thick fur, which stuck up in all directions. Conversely, its tail was pencil thin, despite the rest of its body, and wiggled around like it had a mind of its own. The creature was bowlegged to the point that she couldn't fathom how it could possibly walk, and its very grumpy face was completely squashed in, making it look like it had run repeatedly into a brick wall.
ZeldaQueen: There we go. That... just infuriates me to no end. Holly spends all of her time passing herself off as a Purity Sue, acting like she's a friend to all living things. She pitches fits because people are big meanies who don't give Slytherins a chance. And the first thing she does when she sees Hermione's clearly-beloved pet? Start describing it in the most horrible manner possible, with absolutely no flattering details at all. No, suethor, don't tell me it's canon. Harry described it as ugly, but he didn't shudder and gag at the sight of it. And he still took care to mention that it had a pleasant expression while Hermione held it
"What type of… cat is that?" Holly asked, almost stumbling over her word choice.
ZeldaQueen: WE KNOW HOLLY THINKS THE SIGHT OF CROOKSHANKS MAKES BABIES CRY! SHUT UP!
Hermione shrugged, rubbing the thing's belly.
ZeldaQueen: "The thing". Oh, that's nice!
"I'm not sure. The store manger only said that he'd been in there for ages." She turned the animal around in her arms, rubbing her face against its own. "I can't imagine why, though. Crookshanks is such a sweet baby."
Ron made a gagging sound, Draco faintly echoing it.
ZeldaQueen: Okay, "sweet baby" is stretching it a little, but at least this is moderately normal for Hermione. She did love her cat. I hate how she's being treated like an idiot for it, though
"Sweet? Hermione, that thing nearly scalped me. It's not a cat; it's a small tiger! And don't let it around Scabbers anymore." He turned to Holly, pointedly ignoring the blond between them. "The bloody thing has it in for him."
ZeldaQueen: (Ron) "I'm going to randomly start spewing my lines, so the suethor can speed through!"
Hermione humphed, turning away and noting the other basket that was between Blaise and her.
ZeldaQueen: Shouldn't that be "herself and Blaise"? I dunno...
"Aren't you going to let out your cat, Blaise?" she questioned, petting the monstrosity's head again.
ZeldaQueen: *twitching at the word "monstrosity"* Yes Blaise, let the cat out of the bag
"Er… no, he's been a bit under the weather lately," the boy said smoothly. "I best not chance it."
ZeldaQueen: (Blaise) "I might be too worked up and even use...contractions!"
She leaned forward and peeped inside, nearly squashing her own pet in the process.
ZeldaQueen: Um, no. Hermione would never hurt Crookshanks, even involuntarily. She's not Elmyra
"This isn't the same one you had before," Hermione commented, looking at it more closely. "Oh, it's only a kitten, but he's sleeping. Look, Crookshanks. Isn't he beautiful… although not a beautiful as you," she added, holding him up so that he could see inside.
ZeldaQueen: This pointlessness, brought to you by Child of Grace
Crookshanks growled, and Hermione merely shrugged before clutching him tighter to her chest.
ZeldaQueen: I'm going to pretend that Crookshanks growled because he knows Holly is a Sue and is untrustworthy.
And for God's sake, Hermione's not a five-year-old with her teddy bear! When did she ever suffocate Crookshanks like that?
Her eyes roved around the compartment, landing on the man sitting just down from her. Ron followed her gaze, but unlike his friend, his eyes didn't flicker to the name on the travelling case.
ZeldaQueen: Because Ron's an idiot and the suethor feels it's vital we remember it
"Who d'you reckon he is?" the redhead asked, jerking his head toward Remus like they didn't know who he was talking about.
ZeldaQueen: Leave Ron alone!
"Professor Lupin. He's the new Defence professor," Holly answered, trying to keep her obvious relief from her voice.
ZeldaQueen: Obvious relief at what? Did she just release the contents of her bladder or something?
She was glad that they were no longer curious about Sirius,
ZeldaQueen: Oh
but she was still uneasy about their interest in Remus, especially since they might recall she had a pen friend by that name.
ZeldaQueen: Why would they know that? I never got the feeling she was close enough to tell them anything like that. And they aren't even in the same Dormitory, so it's not like one of them was looking through her stuff.
And more importantly, why would they care that her pen pal is their new teacher?
Still, the less attention the two nosy Gryffindors paid to little "Snuffles" the better.
ZeldaQueen: Nosy? Nosy??? Excuse me, but when have Ron and Hermione been "nosy" throughout this entire scene? If anything, they've been the exact opposite! The only time they've questioned anything is about Blaise's new cat, which was to break the ice, and who Lupin was!
Oh, and Holly? I might remind you of how you mindraped Hermione in the previous year, while she was asleep in the Hospital Wing. You have no right, none whatsoever, to call anyone "nosy"
Ron inclined his head, thinking it over. "I guess." He nodded to himself, deciding to change the topic. "So how was your summer, Holly?" he asked, almost kicking Draco in the shin when he moved his leg.
ZeldaQueen: Good. I hope Ron bruises the smug ape
Only the other boy's quick reflexes saved him.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, well bully for him
"I tried to call you on the fellytone," Ron went on, completely oblivious to the dark look the blond shot him or perhaps just ignoring it. "But I must have gotten the wrong number. Some bloke answered, and he was right pissed. Screamed that he didn't know you."
ZeldaQueen: Okay, ladies and germs, what can we gleam from this? Ron made an active effort to talk to Holly and keep in touch with her over the break. And more than that, he made an effort to do it through a telephone, which he has no experience with, because presumably he knew that it was more convenient for Holly. No idea how he knew to use it or how to call her, since she never taught Mr. Weasley about phones or gave any of them her number, but whatever. So, how does she react?
Holly had to fight to keep the grimace off her face, remembering a call she had received a week into break. She had been in the kitchen at the time and hadn't been able to make out any words, but she had still been close enough to hear whoever it was screaming over line from the other room. The girl had figured it must have been for her, though she couldn't imagine who it could possibly be, when Vernon had slammed the phone down. He had then stormed up to her, screaming himself hoarse and raging about freaks the entire time.
In any case, she did briefly wonder where Ron had found her number but figured he must have gotten it from Hermione, who had had it since first year. Not that the other girl had ever called her or anything.
ZeldaQueen: Well, that's a lovely little bit there!
First of all, no gratefulness at Ron for taking the initiative to get Holly's phone number and try to talk to her. If this had been anyone else, I could possibly accept her being upset with him for unknowingly causing her to get yelled at, but this is Holly and I don't want to give points.
Second of all, suethor skimming, ahoy! Congratulations, suethor! You took a scene which was supposed to be silly while showing Ron's friendship with Harry and twisted it to be a short, angsty piece of work. Your parents must be proud!
Third of all, she has the gall to complain that Hermione didn't call her. After, by her own admittance, Holly gave short, reluctant replies to all of her mail from Hermione. After not telling Hermione to call her during the summer. After complaining just now that when Ron called, it got him into trouble. She turns and complains that Hermione didn't call.
...I think Holly just shot her way up to the top of my "Sues to Write Painful Deaths For" list
Holly's entire recollection only took a moment, but Hermione interrupted before the Slytherin could even begin to fashion a reply.
ZeldaQueen: Thank God. It would probably just be a bitchy reply
"Honestly, Ron." She shook her bushy-head so furiously that her cat actually hissed. "It's a telephone."
ZeldaQueen: Unsavory descriptions of characters, ahoy!
Somehow, Ron managed to bite back a retort, and the conversation lulled.
Instead, the redhead seemed to take out his frustrations by glowering at Draco, twitching his foot toward the other boy's ankle sharply. The Slytherin shifted out of the way, practically sitting on Holly to avoid being hit. Hermione, in turn, twitched nervously, petting the now dozing Crookshanks. The Serpents merely exchanged glances.
ZeldaQueen: I don't care. I'm cheering Ron and Hermione on right now. Kick harder, Ron! I don't want to see Malfoy be able to walk out of the compartment!
"So…" Holly began, trying to distract the redhead. "Where's Neville?"
Ron frowned, looking away from the blond. "Not sure. We got separated earlier. One minute, he was behind us on the platform. The next, he was nowhere in sight." He moved his foot again, almost kicking Draco for a third time.
ZeldaQueen: Hey, Neville was smart and got out of this fic! Good for him!
"And you just left him behind," the blond put in with a condescending tone. "How considerate of you." He had a very malicious gleam in his eyes, and Holly had the distinct feeling that he was out for trouble.
ZeldaQueen: And what do you all want to bet Holly does nothing to prevent said trouble?
Oh, and what did Malfoy expect them to do? Miss the train?
Hermione sniffed. "We didn't leave him behind. The train was about to leave. We had to get on."
ZeldaQueen: Hooray for logic!
"Even better," the blond stated sarcastically, gesturing for emphasis, "you abandoned him at the station, didn't even make sure he was on the train." He paused for a moment, something flashing across his face as a sudden idea occurred to him. "Now, he's all alone in London, stranded without a single friend to guide him, deserted by those he trusts."
ZeldaQueen: What the hell? How's that supposed to bother them? Neville's not a two-year-old! I'm sure he knows enough to get on the train without Hermione and Ron holding his hand
Blaise snorted, but Draco ignored him. Holly could feel his desire to antagonise the Gryffindors, Weasley in particular, but she couldn't find it within herself to make him stop.
ZeldaQueen: *tiredly* Of course she couldn't. Just like Bella conveniently was too tired to feel ashamed that she was glad it was Leah who was hurt instead of Jacob.
Oh, and considering the suethor's been trying to suggest that Holly sort of is friendly with Neville, that's kind of mean. She's basically letting Malfoy go on like Neville's a complete idiot who can't manage himself. How sweet
"We didn't desert-" Ron furiously tried to interrupt, sitting up sharply, but the blond had built up steam now and refused to be headed off.
"He's probably wandering around Kings Cross as we speak," Draco went on dramatically, adopting a sad expression. "He's wasting away with worry, wondering where everyone has gone. But his friends left him in his moment of need-"
ZeldaQueen: Ron, please, pull a Deathly Hallows and punch him! Or Hermione! Or wait, Neville! Come in with the Sword of Gryffindor and cut all of their heads off! Please!
"We didn't leave him!" Weasley all but shouted, his face reddening and making him look like a tomato with a sunburn.
ZeldaQueen: Why would this bother Ron? He'd just make a snarky remark and ignore it. Or leave the compartment.
And notice how the suethor has suddenly started referring to Ron by his last name
Across from him, Remus mumbled in his sleep, causing the Gryffindor to instantly silence, though he still shot daggers at his seatmate.
"Poor, poor Neville," Draco clucked. "Lost and alone. Whatever will he do?" His grey eyes flashed nastily. "And with Sirius Black on the loose no less."
ZeldaQueen: Wow, Holly's such a sweet girl, letting her friend antagonize someone so pathetically. Geez, if it was me, I'd put a stop to it if only because this is just sad to listen to
Ron gaped at him with his mouth hanging open, but he couldn't think of anything say. Hermione paled dramatically, her lip trembling. Both couldn't quite hide the guilty expressions on their faces. Holly and Blaise froze for an instant, but they managed to cover it up, adopting blank looks.
ZeldaQueen: Oh COME ON! Like I said, Ron and Hermione would not be worried by this! They ought to know that Neville is capable of boarding the train without him! And even if they somehow didn't, Hermione at the very least should be smart enough to know that Black is probably not going to attack a kid in a public place like a train platform!
Draco seemed satisfied, nodding to himself. He mission was accomplished. The Gryffindors were now silenced.
ZeldaQueen: Weren't they quiet before?
Ron, please kick him some more
The conversation was effectively dead after that, and this time, nobody attempted to revive it. Minutes passed in silence. Hermione eventually produced a book and buried her head in it. Ron scooted as close to the window as he could, practically hugging the glass as he looked out at the ever darkening sky. Crookshanks abandoned his witch a few moments later and settled near Weasley's feet, which only seemed to annoy him, but it did have the benefit of keeping him from kicking at Draco. The three Slytherins didn't really have much to do, so they eventually settled for taking turns with Blaise's chess set. They would have played Exploding Snap, but it was often loud and might wake up Remus.
ZeldaQueen: Wow, what a complete and utter bitch Holly is! Instead of intervening and telling Malfoy and Ron to both knock it off, she just let her friend imply that Neville was at risk for death by serial killer. She didn't even consider breaking up the fight so she could have the higher moral ground.
And she has the nerve to go on about Ron and Hermione not making her feel welcome! What the hell, suethor? What the hell?
The lunch trolley came and went, and everyone ate in relative silence. Hermione momentarily attempted to wake up their slumbering companion, who looked like he could use a good meal or three, but her tries were in vain. He simply slept on, his mouth still open.
ZeldaQueen: *hugs Ron and Hermione* Don't worry guys, you can take turns beating the Sue like a pinata when this is over
Hours went by with no sign of Luna or Neville, for that matter. The former concerned the Slytherins somewhat until Holly reached out with her mind and located the second-year, who was with their other friends. Holly eventually broke down and also found Neville, though it took her longer to do so. He was with Ginny and a few other Lions, apparently having made the train, despite being left behind.
ZeldaQueen: First of all, lovely how Holly can only be bothered to look for the one who kisses her bum. She has to "[break] down" to bother looking for Neville, even though it seems to take zero effort.
Second of all, stop calling them "Lions". It's stupid.
Third of all...DUH? Did you really think that Neville was so stupid that he wouldn't know to board the train if Ron and Hermione weren't with him?
Still, Holly could hardly tell Ron and Hermione this, and a small, vindictive part of her thought their worry served them right.
ZeldaQueen: Oh Holly, that vindictive part of yours isn't small, by any means.
This is just hateful. There is no way I'm going to buy Holly going on about how they don't like her. No way at all. This is how she treats them! Just look!
The day progressively darkened as they went, rain beginning to fall, and not long before the normal time they should be at Hogwarts, the train began to slow. Ron perked up at this, thinking they had finally arrived. The rest of his companions weren't so sure.
ZeldaQueen: Well, of course Ron's wrong! He's an idiot!
Draco lit his wand and attempted to peek out the window to see why they were slowing, but the rain beat against the glass too heavily for him to make out much of anything.
ZeldaQueen: *snarls* Stop stealing Ron's parts!
The train stopped with a jerk,
ZeldaQueen: And it had several jerks in it
accompanied by the sound of various pieces of luggage being strewn about. The lights flickered once and died, and a pitiful mew came from Snuffles' basket.
ZeldaQueen: Oh yeah, I forgot about him
Ron took over looking out the window, all but shoving Draco away.
ZeldaQueen: GAWD!!!
The redhead stuck his nose to the glass, muttering something about people moving around outside and coming aboard. But that didn't really make much sense, and everyone exchanged confused looks in the semi-darkness.
ZeldaQueen: (Everyone) "What's going on? Why won't the suethor give us any details about what's going on?"
It was about this point that Holly became aware of a myriad of presences outside, but they weren't like anything she had ever felt before. They were misty, hard to hold onto… like they were trying to float away, and even when she dropped most of her mental shielding to get a better feel for them, she still couldn't really keep track.
ZeldaQueen: Ah great. We get to hear her going on about her mental contact with the Dementors
The girl stood and moved to the other side of the compartment, gazing beyond Remus, who she belatedly realised was now awake and only pretending to be asleep.
ZeldaQueen: Um, that makes no sense. Why would he pretend to be asleep? Does he just like to watch kids stumbling around in the dark?
She wanted to see the things that she was feeling, needing to put a face to them. But a sudden flash in her mind caused her to hesitate. She whirled around, wand now in hand, and faced the door.
ZeldaQueen: It was a group of PPC Agents. Shit just got real
Remus chose that moment to make himself known, startling the other people in the compartment when he created a silvery, hand-held fire to light the area. His tired eyes flickered about, looking at each of them and lingering on Holly the longest. Yet, he didn't say anything to her personally, only telling the lot of them to stay put.
ZeldaQueen: STOP. SUMMARIZING!!!
He headed for exit, but it opened before he even got there.
A cloaked figure was in the doorway blocking his path. Holly saw a greyish, almost decayed hand on the side, but it immediately disappeared within the sleeves of its cloak. Whoever it was took a deep, shuddering breath…
And then, all Holly knew was that she heard screaming.
ZeldaQueen: That was me. And it'll be you, after I start stabbing you with my spork!
The girl heard it everywhere, all around her, coming from every direction. There was a torrent of voices in her mind, each one shrieking. She felt emotions that she knew weren't hers, couldn't possibly be hers, but they felt so real. And there were people in her mind, dozens… hundreds. She recognised some of them, but they were weighed down by the others.
ZeldaQueen: Now those are the sane readers of this abomination. They're furious and weeping over the destruction that you've wrought on the Harry Potter world
But soon, one seemed louder than the others, closer to her, and she started when she realised it was Draco. Holly latched onto his presence, pulling herself to him.
ZeldaQueen: Oh yes, even in this time of trouble, she must cling to the closest man! *rips at hair*
There was a flash of a tall man with white-blond hair, and he was covered in blood. He was face down on the marble floor, his neck at an odd angle, and there were long gashes all over his back and arms. She heard a choked sob that sounded like it came from a small child, high-pitched but soft. In her mind's eye, Holly saw little hands reach out and struggle to turn the man over before cupping his face.
ZeldaQueen: Oh sweet jeebus, no. No, please don't, suethor. Please don't show us some tragic, angsty past that Malfoy has, to try to woobie-fy him more. I don't think I could take it!
He looked like Lucius Malfoy but wasn't him. His dead eyes were the wrong colour. They weren't grey, but rather a light, frosty green.
ZeldaQueen: This is probably what the canon mysteries were shoved aside for
And just like that, the image was slipping away, replaced by even more shrieking. Holly finally managed to raise her mental defences, but all she really succeeded in doing was filtering out most of them until only one remained.
ZeldaQueen: Oh great. The Sue is just soooo angsty that she is actually plagued by multiple bad memories! She only saves herself from all but the worst by her Sue-powers. Gah!
It was a woman's voice, sharp and clear, filled with determination. She was begging, pleading with someone, but Holly couldn't make out the words. A second later, the woman was screaming again.
ZeldaQueen: That's not very interesting
Holly instantly threw up her strongest shielding, putting every part of her mind behind it, and then… there was blessed silence.
ZeldaQueen: The Sue died and her God-awful angsting was done. Hooray!
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Onward to: Chapter 27: Draco Demented (Part 2)
Back to: Chapter 26: Semper Fidelius (Part 2)
Return to: Table of Contents
Projection Room Voices: Starting Media in 3...2...1...
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Chapter 27: Draco Demented (Part 1)
The rest of the summer passed in a blur, and it was interspersed by the slight but still continuing tension between Tom and Sirius.
ZeldaQueen: Tension which makes no sense, so I can only conclude that it's there to take up space
While it was all but unnoticeable for the most part, it did flare up at odd times.
ZeldaQueen: Much like acne
Blaise, on the other hand, was friendly to the newcomer, finding him to be a rather interesting individual. The caramel-skinned boy spent a surprising amount of time with Sirius, peppering him with questions about the Transfiguration behind becoming an Animagus and how he had managed to do it without getting caught.
ZeldaQueen: Yes, how lovely that Blaise can chat so casually with an escaped convict. Why are they all so calm about this?
During that time, Holly noticed that her Mind Magic settled, going back to how it had been at the end of the previous school term.
ZeldaQueen: I wish it'd go back to the way it was in canon - not there at all!
She was no longer plagued by strange bouts of telekinesis, a godsend since they hadn't mentioned anything about that to Sirius yet.
ZeldaQueen: Poor her! Plagued by strange bouts of a highly useful, non-canon powerful ability! However will she manage? Good thing she doesn't have to inconvenience herself by tell someone she doesn't like!
Still, the change puzzled her greatly as had the problem itself.
ZeldaQueen: (Sue) "Things aren't going exactly as I want? Inconceivable!"
Blaise's collection of books relating to the subject was severely limited, which is to say that they only went into the basics and didn't go far beyond that.
ZeldaQueen: You know, you could have just ended that sentence with "severely limited". That nicely implies what you stated in the second half
Tom had simply shaken his head when she asked him about it, but he did mention that the same thing used to happen to him during the summer months, though he had never really figured out why. He had several hypotheses about the problem but no real answers, so Holly made a mental note to ask Luna when she returned to school. Perhaps her fellow Mind Mage knew something.
ZeldaQueen: I swear to God, if this doesn't have some spectacular plot pay-off, I'm screaming
It was also during those three weeks that Sirius further recovered from his stint in Azkaban. He was looking much better now, no longer resembling a skeleton that was trying to masquerade as a wizard, which was probably due to all the food they filched for him from the kitchen. He spent most of the day outside, away from the manor, rebuilding the muscle he had lost.
ZeldaQueen: She's still Sue-ing Sirius up. I don't know how much more of this I can take!
This had the added advantage of keeping him away from the other members of the family, house-elves included, though it did take him from the Slytherins as well. There was only so much time they could spend outside without Dante and Eren becoming suspicious, especially since they knew how fond the children were of the library.
ZeldaQueen: First of all, how big are the grounds? Granted I don't live in the countryside, but I think my parents would notice if a strange man kept wandering around our yards.
Second of all, why would the parents care if the kids started to hang around outside? The little rats can make something up! Seriously, how often do you find parents who complain when their kids start voluntarily going for fresh air and exercise?
That wasn't even mentioning the fact that Blaise didn't play Quidditch, so they couldn't use that as an excuse.
ZeldaQueen: Because it's not like they could pretend that Holly was teaching him how to play or something
Plus, the youngest Zabinis had taken to following Holly around during the day, and she would be hard pressed to explain a large, black dog.
ZeldaQueen: And Holly isn't badmouthing the kids at every opportunity? Oh, that's rich! Blaise's little Sue-siblings are allowed to follow her around all they like, but when Ginny and Colin do the same, oh that's just too fucking far!
Truthfully, the only time Holly really saw Sirius was at night, but even then, they had to be careful.
ZeldaQueen: You know, I'd probably care a lot more if the author actually included some of these actual meetings instead of just summarizing!!!
They did talk some, but their discussions mostly revolved around Lily and James Potter, Sirius' schooldays, and after he had graduated. The girl noticed that he didn't mention his life before Hogwarts, except rarely and only in passing, but she didn't press, sensing it was a sensitive subject. All after, she knew what it was to have an unhappy childhood, and she could generally recognise that sign in others.
ZeldaQueen: *rolls eyes* She's going to play the "abused child" angle with Sirius. No. No, that doesn't work.
And I wonder how they're going to handwave the Black family who were, for all intents and purposes, a bunch of horrible people who favored blood purity and were almost all in Slytherin.
For her part, Holly left out all mention of her time at the Dursleys, which only left her two years at Hogwarts.
ZeldaQueen: Only two years? Considering how much stuff goes on in a school year, I'd call that quite a lot!
And wouldn't Sirius be suspicious that Holly is mysteriously neglecting to talk about ten or so years of her life?
However, there were problems with this as well.
ZeldaQueen: Exposition, ho!
Her first year basically involved trying to protect the Philosopher's Stone from Voldemort, while her second centred on the whole Heir of Slytherin debacle.
ZeldaQueen: If by "protect", you mean "get my ass kidnapped to be rescued by others", then yes, you did that most admirably. And "debacle"? She's using the word "debacle" to describe multiple students being attacked and nearly killed, turned to stone, Ginny nearly having the life drained out of her, Hagrid being unjustly arrested, and Dumbledore being removed from Hogwarts. Wow. And wasn't it the "Heir of Hufflepuff"? Using "Slytherin", it makes it sound like the only part that upsets or offends Holly is the accusations that she was the one responsible. In other words, the part that personally offended her
Neither were topics she really wanted to discuss, mostly due to the fact that would bring her dangerously close to revealing Tom's true nature.
ZeldaQueen: Oh for the love of... really? She still is being a selfish bint and lying to cover up for Riddle? Why couldn't the suethor have said, I don't know, that she didn't want to talk about it because those were scary incidents where she nearly died? Or that she didn't want attention or special treatment? I mean, it still wouldn't have been believable, but it would have been closer!
Still, a not-so-small part of her didn't want Sirius to think her life, and her by proxy, as abnormal.
ZeldaQueen: Too late. She's a Mary Sue and there's no cure
She knew it was silly and just a habit ingrained from the Dursleys, but regardless, she didn't want to disappoint the first adult who had ever taken such a personal interest in her life without her having to befriend their children first.
ZeldaQueen: *twitches and flails*
What about Dumbledore? Or Hagrid? Don't they count at all?
Basically, this all translated to mean that Holly glossed over most of her own life and focused on Sirius'. She spoke of her friends and her position as Seeker on the Quidditch team but didn't go far beyond that. It wasn't until she laid down to sleep the night before the train ride back to school that she even realised she still hadn't told him what House she was in.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, isn't that special? The Sue is just so loving that she decides that she's far too uninteresting for Sirius and only talks to him. Of course, we don't get to find out anything about him, since the suethor is too lazy to tell us.
And all this proves is that for all the talk we're getting about how close Sirius and Holly are, they know diddly about each other. Seriously, she didn't even tell him she's Slytherin? Oh, that's not going to be milked for angst and drama later!
September 1st dawned surprisingly bright and clear, a marked change from the rainy days previous.
ZeldaQueen: Hello thar, Gethesmane Symbolic Weather!
Wait a second... *blinks* Fuck, that was one fast time leap!
They arrived at the station without incident and in good time, though it seemed that everyone else had gotten there even earlier. The platform was packed with people, mostly nervous parents, who had already shooed their children onto the train.
ZeldaQueen: Skimming time, skimming time, who wants to hear this interesting crap?
Holly was willing to bet ten Galleons that she knew exactly what they were worried about. The dangerous Sirius Black was on the loose, after all.
ZeldaQueen: Why thank you, Mistress Obvious!
The train itself was complete pandemonium, and Holly and Blaise had to battle every step of the way just to get down the hallway. They finally managed to find their year-mates in the direct centre of the train, but their compartment was completely full. Quite dejected, the two left with Draco in tow. They had no idea where Luna was, but chances were that she would find them on her own, so they wandered down further, finally finding a compartment that had only one person in it.
ZeldaQueen: POINTLESSNESS, AHOY!
The slumbering man inside was thin and in patched robes with greying brown hair. His head was turned away, but Holly still thought he looked vaguely familiar. It wasn't until a minute later, when they were already inside, that it hit her.
ZeldaQueen: *waving frying pan* THIS IS FOR CANON, BITCH!
It was Remus Lupin, and he appeared to be drooling in his sleep.
ZeldaQueen: That's just lovely! Describe him in the most unflattering terms, why don't you?
Holly wondered what by Salazar
ZeldaQueen: Stop using those "wizarding" curses. You didn't hear Harry saying "by Merlin's beard" every two seconds, did you?
he was doing there, on the train to Hogwarts, but then, she vaguely remembered him mentioning a surprise in several of his letters.
ZeldaQueen: A mention which the suethor saw fit to completely ignore until now
It had slipped her mind with all the Sirius business,
ZeldaQueen: And because the suethor couldn't be bothered
but now, she distinctly recalled the veiled hints.
ZeldaQueen: Hints which would have seemed much more clever if we had been shown them!
From there, her mind jumped to a logic reason for his presence, and seeing the name stamped on his travel case, Holly knew she had guessed correctly.
ZeldaQueen: (Suethor) "ISN'T MY CHARACTER SO SMART? HUH? HARRY DIDN'T KNOW THAT RIGHT OFF OF THE BAT! DID HE? DID HE???"
Remus was the new Defence professor, and he was probably on the train to protect the students from Sirius Black.
ZeldaQueen: Or, because he was too poor to afford any other transportation. I highly doubt that if they wanted a guard, they wouldn't just use Ministry officials
She started and blinked for several seconds after coming to that conclusion, which caused her friends to look at her curiously. Nevertheless, Draco nodded in understanding after a quiet but quick explanation.
ZeldaQueen: Okay, what is with these people? They treat every little conclusion like it's some huge revelation. Holly stares and stares and stares and blinks and everyone is worried and she gives someone A Significant Look and they nod, get on with it!
Blaise, on the other hand, immediately tensed and backed away. He stopped after Holly shot him a glare, knowing that he really didn't have anywhere else to go.
ZeldaQueen: Over-the-top foreshadowing, ahoy!
But he made a pointed gesture to Holly's pocket where Tom was safely tucked away before his eyes flickered to the animal basket in his hand. She got his message, but there wasn't really all that much she could do.
Everywhere else was full. They had to sit here.
ZeldaQueen: Contrived coincidence, ahoy!
And it was at that moment that Holly wondered if Fate really did have it in for her. Trust her luck that when she was trying to smuggle an escaped criminal to Hogwarts in the guise of a rather cute kitten, the one person who could identify him was present.
ZeldaQueen: A "rather cute kitten"? Sirius? Okay, I guess I can live with that.
But how could Lupin recognize Sirius like that? He only knew Sirius's Animagus form, which was a big, black dog! He wouldn't know Sirius had been turned into a kitten, and certainly wouldn't suspect that Holly would be carting him around
Still, she couldn't help but chuckle at the irony of it all, wondering how Sirius would have taken the situation if he was conscious.
ZeldaQueen: I really hope that means Sirius is just asleep and they didn't drug or knock him out.
And yes suethor, we see the (bad) irony. Stop holding our hands and pointing it out
Currently, he was spelled asleep since he hadn't exactly been thrilled by the prospect of a six hour journey in a basket, transfigured into a cat no less.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, so he let them magically drug him. That's so sweet!
He had originally wanted to come as a dog or even a puppy, but Tom had immediately shot down that idea by pointing out that neither was allowed.
ZeldaQueen: Or how about the fact that people know he can turn into a dog, so they'd watch for that? Logic, please?
Further, they couldn't risk turning him into an inanimate object again, something quite dangerous if they continued to do it for extended periods of time. Besides, bringing a black cat wouldn't draw much untoward attention, and who would ever suspect a kitten of being dangerous?
ZeldaQueen: *cough* Crookshanks *cough*
Sirius hadn't been pleased by this, but he had eventually acquiesced,
ZeldaQueen: - because the Sue demanded it
even helping come up with a cover story for his sudden appearance. If anyone asked, he was the replacement for Mr. Momo, Blaise's real cat who had sadly died at the end of June.
ZeldaQueen: ... Mr. Momo? That's really what the suethor thinks a snobby, rich boy like Blaise would name his cat?
Right. I've got nothing. Moving on!
It was a sound plan and seemed to have worked so far. Plus, it had the added benefits of allowing Sirius free access to their dorm and providing further protection in case Remus had told someone of his former friend's Animagus abilities.
ZeldaQueen: Okay, bets are open as to how long it takes before this cover is conveniently blow. Any takers?
The only inherent draw back was that Sirius couldn't change forms himself while he was under another Transfiguration, so he had to rely on others to do it for him.
ZeldaQueen: And of course, Sirius Black would be just fine with being utterly dependent on leaving his fate in the hands of other people
They had several ideas on how to circumvent that little annoyance, but they wouldn't be able to try anything until they got to Hogwarts and a better Potions lab.
ZeldaQueen: What is this, Harry Potter - Frankenstein edition? Potions don't fix everything!
Despite all that, Holly was a bit hesitant to take a seat, especially when she remembered that werewolves were supposed to have a very advanced sense of smell. Thankfully, there were enough strange scents around to cover Sirius', but there was still a chance he would be recognised. On the other hand, she didn't really have much of a choice.
ZeldaQueen: Oh my God, is she still angsting about getting in the carriage?!? Get on with it!
Everywhere else was full. They sat here, in the corridor, or found separate places elsewhere.
ZeldaQueen: GET ON WITH IT!
Reluctantly, she shuffled the rest of the way in, the two boys following behind and staying as close to the door. It was the farthest they could get from Remus, who was propped up against one of the windows, and still be in the same compartment.
ZeldaQueen: Given her behavior thus far, it really just looks like the Sue can't stand to be near him
Blaise was visibly unhappy with their choice, his mind very agitated, but he kept his mouth shut. And unfortunately for him, Draco nipped in the seat next to Holly, which meant that he either had to sit across from Remus or on the same side. Frowning mightily, the boy lowered himself next to the entrance. He deliberately didn't look at the lone adult and busied himself with making sure the door was unlocked so that Luna could join them later on.
ZeldaQueen: First of all, if these kids are such good friends, why doesn't Draco or Holly just move so that Blaise isn't forced to sit somewhere he's visibly upset at?
Second of all, who wants to bet the unlocked door will bite us in the rear, plotwise?
A fact that the three off them would soon come to regret.
ZeldaQuen: Called it. Well, regret is pretty strong, considering all they've been through. They must be referring to the Dementors! I mean, it's not like they'd be so worked up over something silly, like a couple of Gryffindors getting in the compartment...
It wasn't more than a minute after they had gotten themselves situated when the only girl felt a tingle of forewarning shoot down her spine. Unexpectedly, the door slid open, and bushy head popped in.
ZeldaQueen: ...Dear lord, smite me with lightning
"Oh, there's room here."
ZeldaQueen: No, Hermione! Run! Scurry! Flee! Escape! Before it's too late!!!!
Holly had to bite her lip to keep from groaning, and she mentally berated herself for becoming so distracted that she hadn't realised they were there sooner. She turned annoyed eyes to her friends, who were looking rather exasperated themselves.
ZeldaQueen: Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to remind you all that throughout the entire summer, Ron and Hermione have done nothing but send Holly birthday presents, written her letters, and - by her own admission - would have provided her with lodgings if she unexpectedly showed up at their doorstep.
Now, I ask you people, if you saw someone sigh and look annoyed when people like that showed up, would you not consider them bitches of the highest order? You would? I thought so
Without warning or so much as a by your leave, Hermione Granger shoved the door the rest of the way open and stepped in. She immediately descended on the empty space next to Blaise after hastily hefting her trunk out of the way.
ZeldaQueen: Hur hur, the suethor's trying to make Hermione look rude. Shove it, it's a public compartment
"Hello, everyone. Holly, Blaise." She nodded to both of them, adding an instant later, "Draco."
ZeldaQueen: Alrighty, I'm taking notes here. Thus far, we see Hermione nicely saying hello to everyone, including Blaise and Draco
Before anyone could comment another person appeared in the doorway, and like his Housemate, he simply barraged in without invitation.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, SHUT UP!
Yet, unlike Hermione, Ron Weasley merely grunted in greeting. He growled at his trunk as he lifted it, nearly clipping Draco in the head.
ZeldaQueen: Now, despite the suethor's best efforts, I don't feel the least bit sorry for Draco or angry with Ron. Why? Well, let's recollect the last time Draco and Ron met, face to face. It involved Draco making rude accusations to both him and his younger sister, regarding Ginny trying to nicely send Holly a card. I am still not impressed
The redhead paused in taking a seat once he was finished since his only options were to either fit in the space between Hermione and the sleeping Remus or to sit on the other side of his most hated Slytherin.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, does he have his own personal Slytherin to hate? Where do you order those from?
Even with only those choices, he continued to stand for another moment, trying to decide. Finally, right about the time his fellow Gryffindor opened her mouth to berate him, he reluctantly moved next to the blond, pushing himself against the wall and as far away from the other boy as he could get.
ZeldaQueen: Why wouldn't Ron pick sitting between Hermione and Lupin? I'd think that he'd rather sit between the girl he's crushing on and a sleeping dude than "his most hated Slytherin"
Afterwards, they sat in a rather awkward silence. The Slytherins couldn't talk amongst themselves with conscious witnesses.
ZeldaQueen: Isn't that just like those stupid Gryffindors, daring to want to find seats and fucking this up for Our Heroes?
Truthfully, it wasn't like that they would have said anything important with another person there, even if he was unaware.
ZeldaQueen: So what's it matter if Hermione and Ron are there or not?
Additionally, Holly wasn't really in the mood to chat with the Gryffindors due to their actions the previous school year, and it seemed that they didn't really know what to say to her either.
ZeldaQueen: Holly? Dear? Step over here for a minute.
*bitch slaps her*
There. Now then, I have already reminded you of all the nice things Ron and Hermione have done for you. Any decent person would look back on her previous actions, realize that she was partially to blame for the misunderstanding, or at least recognize that she could have done more to have prevented it, and forgiven them and moved on. Or, if she was incapable of that much, she would at least see all of the nice things that they have been doing for her and perhaps consider the fact that those kind gestures were their own way of apologizing or attempting to make amends. Or even thing that said gestures were enough to make up for the slight and that it's time to move on and be the bigger person.
You, on the other hand, will be dragging this instance around like a security blanket. I just know it. It's an excuse for the suethor to justify you being a complete and utter pig to people who are perfectly nice to you.
Oh, and sweetie? The reason they're not talking to you? Maybe it's because you're being a frigid bitch and making them feel uneasy or unwelcome
Taking a deep breath, the Slytherin girl secretly wished she had a book on hand so that she could read instead of just sitting there. Nevertheless, it would be rude to fetch one from her trunk, and Hermione would be sure to call her on her lack of manners, despite the fact that the bushy-haired girl was known for doing the exact same thing.
ZeldaQueen: YOU LITTLE WHORE!!!
Okay folks, point to one instance where Hermione would do something like that! She corrects the manners of her close friends and given the distance between the two? Holly ain't one of 'em.
And leave Hermione alone. That's a rotten jab and you deserve to be coated in tar and dropped in a fiery chasm
Holly would just have to tough it out, and a single discreet glance at her Housemates let the girl know they were feeling much the same.
ZeldaQueen: POOR, PUT-UPON YOU! FORCED TO STAND THE COMPANY OF TWO PEOPLE WHO SEEM PERFECTLY LOVELY TO YOU! HOW WILL YOU EVER MANAGE?
A sudden noise across from her caught Holly's attention, dragging her from her musings. She looked up to find Hermione fiddling with the straps on an enormous cat basket.
ZeldaQueen: Enter Crookshanks, stage left
"Don't let that thing out!" Ron stated loudly, causing Remus to stir.
The redhead instantly shut his mouth, flushing. The three Serpents blinked but didn't say anything. Hermione merely ignored him, still loosening the straps. Blaise reached over to help her, though it was more out of a desire to see inside than to actually be nice.
ZeldaQueen: Okay suethor, why'd you do it? Took you just one half of a sentence to make something Blaise was doing go from being marginally nice to selfish and rude
"I see that you have a new pet," the boy commented, trying to start up a conversation.
"Oh, yes," the Gryffindor gushed, finally taking the lid off. She lifted out a large, ginger-coloured ball of fur, wrapping her arms around it tightly and holding it out to the three Slytherins for inspection.
ZeldaQueen: Something tells me that the sueuthor will be using Hermione's Crookshanks love for mocking
"He's gorgeous, isn't he?"
ZeldaQueen: She hardly-contained rudeness in 5 - 4 - 3 - 2 - 1...
Blaise's eyebrows rose until they were nearly even with his hairline, and he made a neutral sound. Draco started to laugh but thankfully turned it into a rather believable cough. Holly discreetly elbowed him in the side, though she couldn't help but agree with his assessment.
The thing before them had to be the ugliest creature she had ever seen, including Dudley Dursley. The "cat", though she shuddered to even mentally call it that, had impossibly thick fur, which stuck up in all directions. Conversely, its tail was pencil thin, despite the rest of its body, and wiggled around like it had a mind of its own. The creature was bowlegged to the point that she couldn't fathom how it could possibly walk, and its very grumpy face was completely squashed in, making it look like it had run repeatedly into a brick wall.
ZeldaQueen: There we go. That... just infuriates me to no end. Holly spends all of her time passing herself off as a Purity Sue, acting like she's a friend to all living things. She pitches fits because people are big meanies who don't give Slytherins a chance. And the first thing she does when she sees Hermione's clearly-beloved pet? Start describing it in the most horrible manner possible, with absolutely no flattering details at all. No, suethor, don't tell me it's canon. Harry described it as ugly, but he didn't shudder and gag at the sight of it. And he still took care to mention that it had a pleasant expression while Hermione held it
"What type of… cat is that?" Holly asked, almost stumbling over her word choice.
ZeldaQueen: WE KNOW HOLLY THINKS THE SIGHT OF CROOKSHANKS MAKES BABIES CRY! SHUT UP!
Hermione shrugged, rubbing the thing's belly.
ZeldaQueen: "The thing". Oh, that's nice!
"I'm not sure. The store manger only said that he'd been in there for ages." She turned the animal around in her arms, rubbing her face against its own. "I can't imagine why, though. Crookshanks is such a sweet baby."
Ron made a gagging sound, Draco faintly echoing it.
ZeldaQueen: Okay, "sweet baby" is stretching it a little, but at least this is moderately normal for Hermione. She did love her cat. I hate how she's being treated like an idiot for it, though
"Sweet? Hermione, that thing nearly scalped me. It's not a cat; it's a small tiger! And don't let it around Scabbers anymore." He turned to Holly, pointedly ignoring the blond between them. "The bloody thing has it in for him."
ZeldaQueen: (Ron) "I'm going to randomly start spewing my lines, so the suethor can speed through!"
Hermione humphed, turning away and noting the other basket that was between Blaise and her.
ZeldaQueen: Shouldn't that be "herself and Blaise"? I dunno...
"Aren't you going to let out your cat, Blaise?" she questioned, petting the monstrosity's head again.
ZeldaQueen: *twitching at the word "monstrosity"* Yes Blaise, let the cat out of the bag
"Er… no, he's been a bit under the weather lately," the boy said smoothly. "I best not chance it."
ZeldaQueen: (Blaise) "I might be too worked up and even use...contractions!"
She leaned forward and peeped inside, nearly squashing her own pet in the process.
ZeldaQueen: Um, no. Hermione would never hurt Crookshanks, even involuntarily. She's not Elmyra
"This isn't the same one you had before," Hermione commented, looking at it more closely. "Oh, it's only a kitten, but he's sleeping. Look, Crookshanks. Isn't he beautiful… although not a beautiful as you," she added, holding him up so that he could see inside.
ZeldaQueen: This pointlessness, brought to you by Child of Grace
Crookshanks growled, and Hermione merely shrugged before clutching him tighter to her chest.
ZeldaQueen: I'm going to pretend that Crookshanks growled because he knows Holly is a Sue and is untrustworthy.
And for God's sake, Hermione's not a five-year-old with her teddy bear! When did she ever suffocate Crookshanks like that?
Her eyes roved around the compartment, landing on the man sitting just down from her. Ron followed her gaze, but unlike his friend, his eyes didn't flicker to the name on the travelling case.
ZeldaQueen: Because Ron's an idiot and the suethor feels it's vital we remember it
"Who d'you reckon he is?" the redhead asked, jerking his head toward Remus like they didn't know who he was talking about.
ZeldaQueen: Leave Ron alone!
"Professor Lupin. He's the new Defence professor," Holly answered, trying to keep her obvious relief from her voice.
ZeldaQueen: Obvious relief at what? Did she just release the contents of her bladder or something?
She was glad that they were no longer curious about Sirius,
ZeldaQueen: Oh
but she was still uneasy about their interest in Remus, especially since they might recall she had a pen friend by that name.
ZeldaQueen: Why would they know that? I never got the feeling she was close enough to tell them anything like that. And they aren't even in the same Dormitory, so it's not like one of them was looking through her stuff.
And more importantly, why would they care that her pen pal is their new teacher?
Still, the less attention the two nosy Gryffindors paid to little "Snuffles" the better.
ZeldaQueen: Nosy? Nosy??? Excuse me, but when have Ron and Hermione been "nosy" throughout this entire scene? If anything, they've been the exact opposite! The only time they've questioned anything is about Blaise's new cat, which was to break the ice, and who Lupin was!
Oh, and Holly? I might remind you of how you mindraped Hermione in the previous year, while she was asleep in the Hospital Wing. You have no right, none whatsoever, to call anyone "nosy"
Ron inclined his head, thinking it over. "I guess." He nodded to himself, deciding to change the topic. "So how was your summer, Holly?" he asked, almost kicking Draco in the shin when he moved his leg.
ZeldaQueen: Good. I hope Ron bruises the smug ape
Only the other boy's quick reflexes saved him.
ZeldaQueen: Oh, well bully for him
"I tried to call you on the fellytone," Ron went on, completely oblivious to the dark look the blond shot him or perhaps just ignoring it. "But I must have gotten the wrong number. Some bloke answered, and he was right pissed. Screamed that he didn't know you."
ZeldaQueen: Okay, ladies and germs, what can we gleam from this? Ron made an active effort to talk to Holly and keep in touch with her over the break. And more than that, he made an effort to do it through a telephone, which he has no experience with, because presumably he knew that it was more convenient for Holly. No idea how he knew to use it or how to call her, since she never taught Mr. Weasley about phones or gave any of them her number, but whatever. So, how does she react?
Holly had to fight to keep the grimace off her face, remembering a call she had received a week into break. She had been in the kitchen at the time and hadn't been able to make out any words, but she had still been close enough to hear whoever it was screaming over line from the other room. The girl had figured it must have been for her, though she couldn't imagine who it could possibly be, when Vernon had slammed the phone down. He had then stormed up to her, screaming himself hoarse and raging about freaks the entire time.
In any case, she did briefly wonder where Ron had found her number but figured he must have gotten it from Hermione, who had had it since first year. Not that the other girl had ever called her or anything.
ZeldaQueen: Well, that's a lovely little bit there!
First of all, no gratefulness at Ron for taking the initiative to get Holly's phone number and try to talk to her. If this had been anyone else, I could possibly accept her being upset with him for unknowingly causing her to get yelled at, but this is Holly and I don't want to give points.
Second of all, suethor skimming, ahoy! Congratulations, suethor! You took a scene which was supposed to be silly while showing Ron's friendship with Harry and twisted it to be a short, angsty piece of work. Your parents must be proud!
Third of all, she has the gall to complain that Hermione didn't call her. After, by her own admittance, Holly gave short, reluctant replies to all of her mail from Hermione. After not telling Hermione to call her during the summer. After complaining just now that when Ron called, it got him into trouble. She turns and complains that Hermione didn't call.
...I think Holly just shot her way up to the top of my "Sues to Write Painful Deaths For" list
Holly's entire recollection only took a moment, but Hermione interrupted before the Slytherin could even begin to fashion a reply.
ZeldaQueen: Thank God. It would probably just be a bitchy reply
"Honestly, Ron." She shook her bushy-head so furiously that her cat actually hissed. "It's a telephone."
ZeldaQueen: Unsavory descriptions of characters, ahoy!
Somehow, Ron managed to bite back a retort, and the conversation lulled.
Instead, the redhead seemed to take out his frustrations by glowering at Draco, twitching his foot toward the other boy's ankle sharply. The Slytherin shifted out of the way, practically sitting on Holly to avoid being hit. Hermione, in turn, twitched nervously, petting the now dozing Crookshanks. The Serpents merely exchanged glances.
ZeldaQueen: I don't care. I'm cheering Ron and Hermione on right now. Kick harder, Ron! I don't want to see Malfoy be able to walk out of the compartment!
"So…" Holly began, trying to distract the redhead. "Where's Neville?"
Ron frowned, looking away from the blond. "Not sure. We got separated earlier. One minute, he was behind us on the platform. The next, he was nowhere in sight." He moved his foot again, almost kicking Draco for a third time.
ZeldaQueen: Hey, Neville was smart and got out of this fic! Good for him!
"And you just left him behind," the blond put in with a condescending tone. "How considerate of you." He had a very malicious gleam in his eyes, and Holly had the distinct feeling that he was out for trouble.
ZeldaQueen: And what do you all want to bet Holly does nothing to prevent said trouble?
Oh, and what did Malfoy expect them to do? Miss the train?
Hermione sniffed. "We didn't leave him behind. The train was about to leave. We had to get on."
ZeldaQueen: Hooray for logic!
"Even better," the blond stated sarcastically, gesturing for emphasis, "you abandoned him at the station, didn't even make sure he was on the train." He paused for a moment, something flashing across his face as a sudden idea occurred to him. "Now, he's all alone in London, stranded without a single friend to guide him, deserted by those he trusts."
ZeldaQueen: What the hell? How's that supposed to bother them? Neville's not a two-year-old! I'm sure he knows enough to get on the train without Hermione and Ron holding his hand
Blaise snorted, but Draco ignored him. Holly could feel his desire to antagonise the Gryffindors, Weasley in particular, but she couldn't find it within herself to make him stop.
ZeldaQueen: *tiredly* Of course she couldn't. Just like Bella conveniently was too tired to feel ashamed that she was glad it was Leah who was hurt instead of Jacob.
Oh, and considering the suethor's been trying to suggest that Holly sort of is friendly with Neville, that's kind of mean. She's basically letting Malfoy go on like Neville's a complete idiot who can't manage himself. How sweet
"We didn't desert-" Ron furiously tried to interrupt, sitting up sharply, but the blond had built up steam now and refused to be headed off.
"He's probably wandering around Kings Cross as we speak," Draco went on dramatically, adopting a sad expression. "He's wasting away with worry, wondering where everyone has gone. But his friends left him in his moment of need-"
ZeldaQueen: Ron, please, pull a Deathly Hallows and punch him! Or Hermione! Or wait, Neville! Come in with the Sword of Gryffindor and cut all of their heads off! Please!
"We didn't leave him!" Weasley all but shouted, his face reddening and making him look like a tomato with a sunburn.
ZeldaQueen: Why would this bother Ron? He'd just make a snarky remark and ignore it. Or leave the compartment.
And notice how the suethor has suddenly started referring to Ron by his last name
Across from him, Remus mumbled in his sleep, causing the Gryffindor to instantly silence, though he still shot daggers at his seatmate.
"Poor, poor Neville," Draco clucked. "Lost and alone. Whatever will he do?" His grey eyes flashed nastily. "And with Sirius Black on the loose no less."
ZeldaQueen: Wow, Holly's such a sweet girl, letting her friend antagonize someone so pathetically. Geez, if it was me, I'd put a stop to it if only because this is just sad to listen to
Ron gaped at him with his mouth hanging open, but he couldn't think of anything say. Hermione paled dramatically, her lip trembling. Both couldn't quite hide the guilty expressions on their faces. Holly and Blaise froze for an instant, but they managed to cover it up, adopting blank looks.
ZeldaQueen: Oh COME ON! Like I said, Ron and Hermione would not be worried by this! They ought to know that Neville is capable of boarding the train without him! And even if they somehow didn't, Hermione at the very least should be smart enough to know that Black is probably not going to attack a kid in a public place like a train platform!
Draco seemed satisfied, nodding to himself. He mission was accomplished. The Gryffindors were now silenced.
ZeldaQueen: Weren't they quiet before?
Ron, please kick him some more
The conversation was effectively dead after that, and this time, nobody attempted to revive it. Minutes passed in silence. Hermione eventually produced a book and buried her head in it. Ron scooted as close to the window as he could, practically hugging the glass as he looked out at the ever darkening sky. Crookshanks abandoned his witch a few moments later and settled near Weasley's feet, which only seemed to annoy him, but it did have the benefit of keeping him from kicking at Draco. The three Slytherins didn't really have much to do, so they eventually settled for taking turns with Blaise's chess set. They would have played Exploding Snap, but it was often loud and might wake up Remus.
ZeldaQueen: Wow, what a complete and utter bitch Holly is! Instead of intervening and telling Malfoy and Ron to both knock it off, she just let her friend imply that Neville was at risk for death by serial killer. She didn't even consider breaking up the fight so she could have the higher moral ground.
And she has the nerve to go on about Ron and Hermione not making her feel welcome! What the hell, suethor? What the hell?
The lunch trolley came and went, and everyone ate in relative silence. Hermione momentarily attempted to wake up their slumbering companion, who looked like he could use a good meal or three, but her tries were in vain. He simply slept on, his mouth still open.
ZeldaQueen: *hugs Ron and Hermione* Don't worry guys, you can take turns beating the Sue like a pinata when this is over
Hours went by with no sign of Luna or Neville, for that matter. The former concerned the Slytherins somewhat until Holly reached out with her mind and located the second-year, who was with their other friends. Holly eventually broke down and also found Neville, though it took her longer to do so. He was with Ginny and a few other Lions, apparently having made the train, despite being left behind.
ZeldaQueen: First of all, lovely how Holly can only be bothered to look for the one who kisses her bum. She has to "[break] down" to bother looking for Neville, even though it seems to take zero effort.
Second of all, stop calling them "Lions". It's stupid.
Third of all...DUH? Did you really think that Neville was so stupid that he wouldn't know to board the train if Ron and Hermione weren't with him?
Still, Holly could hardly tell Ron and Hermione this, and a small, vindictive part of her thought their worry served them right.
ZeldaQueen: Oh Holly, that vindictive part of yours isn't small, by any means.
This is just hateful. There is no way I'm going to buy Holly going on about how they don't like her. No way at all. This is how she treats them! Just look!
The day progressively darkened as they went, rain beginning to fall, and not long before the normal time they should be at Hogwarts, the train began to slow. Ron perked up at this, thinking they had finally arrived. The rest of his companions weren't so sure.
ZeldaQueen: Well, of course Ron's wrong! He's an idiot!
Draco lit his wand and attempted to peek out the window to see why they were slowing, but the rain beat against the glass too heavily for him to make out much of anything.
ZeldaQueen: *snarls* Stop stealing Ron's parts!
The train stopped with a jerk,
ZeldaQueen: And it had several jerks in it
accompanied by the sound of various pieces of luggage being strewn about. The lights flickered once and died, and a pitiful mew came from Snuffles' basket.
ZeldaQueen: Oh yeah, I forgot about him
Ron took over looking out the window, all but shoving Draco away.
ZeldaQueen: GAWD!!!
The redhead stuck his nose to the glass, muttering something about people moving around outside and coming aboard. But that didn't really make much sense, and everyone exchanged confused looks in the semi-darkness.
ZeldaQueen: (Everyone) "What's going on? Why won't the suethor give us any details about what's going on?"
It was about this point that Holly became aware of a myriad of presences outside, but they weren't like anything she had ever felt before. They were misty, hard to hold onto… like they were trying to float away, and even when she dropped most of her mental shielding to get a better feel for them, she still couldn't really keep track.
ZeldaQueen: Ah great. We get to hear her going on about her mental contact with the Dementors
The girl stood and moved to the other side of the compartment, gazing beyond Remus, who she belatedly realised was now awake and only pretending to be asleep.
ZeldaQueen: Um, that makes no sense. Why would he pretend to be asleep? Does he just like to watch kids stumbling around in the dark?
She wanted to see the things that she was feeling, needing to put a face to them. But a sudden flash in her mind caused her to hesitate. She whirled around, wand now in hand, and faced the door.
ZeldaQueen: It was a group of PPC Agents. Shit just got real
Remus chose that moment to make himself known, startling the other people in the compartment when he created a silvery, hand-held fire to light the area. His tired eyes flickered about, looking at each of them and lingering on Holly the longest. Yet, he didn't say anything to her personally, only telling the lot of them to stay put.
ZeldaQueen: STOP. SUMMARIZING!!!
He headed for exit, but it opened before he even got there.
A cloaked figure was in the doorway blocking his path. Holly saw a greyish, almost decayed hand on the side, but it immediately disappeared within the sleeves of its cloak. Whoever it was took a deep, shuddering breath…
And then, all Holly knew was that she heard screaming.
ZeldaQueen: That was me. And it'll be you, after I start stabbing you with my spork!
The girl heard it everywhere, all around her, coming from every direction. There was a torrent of voices in her mind, each one shrieking. She felt emotions that she knew weren't hers, couldn't possibly be hers, but they felt so real. And there were people in her mind, dozens… hundreds. She recognised some of them, but they were weighed down by the others.
ZeldaQueen: Now those are the sane readers of this abomination. They're furious and weeping over the destruction that you've wrought on the Harry Potter world
But soon, one seemed louder than the others, closer to her, and she started when she realised it was Draco. Holly latched onto his presence, pulling herself to him.
ZeldaQueen: Oh yes, even in this time of trouble, she must cling to the closest man! *rips at hair*
There was a flash of a tall man with white-blond hair, and he was covered in blood. He was face down on the marble floor, his neck at an odd angle, and there were long gashes all over his back and arms. She heard a choked sob that sounded like it came from a small child, high-pitched but soft. In her mind's eye, Holly saw little hands reach out and struggle to turn the man over before cupping his face.
ZeldaQueen: Oh sweet jeebus, no. No, please don't, suethor. Please don't show us some tragic, angsty past that Malfoy has, to try to woobie-fy him more. I don't think I could take it!
He looked like Lucius Malfoy but wasn't him. His dead eyes were the wrong colour. They weren't grey, but rather a light, frosty green.
ZeldaQueen: This is probably what the canon mysteries were shoved aside for
And just like that, the image was slipping away, replaced by even more shrieking. Holly finally managed to raise her mental defences, but all she really succeeded in doing was filtering out most of them until only one remained.
ZeldaQueen: Oh great. The Sue is just soooo angsty that she is actually plagued by multiple bad memories! She only saves herself from all but the worst by her Sue-powers. Gah!
It was a woman's voice, sharp and clear, filled with determination. She was begging, pleading with someone, but Holly couldn't make out the words. A second later, the woman was screaming again.
ZeldaQueen: That's not very interesting
Holly instantly threw up her strongest shielding, putting every part of her mind behind it, and then… there was blessed silence.
ZeldaQueen: The Sue died and her God-awful angsting was done. Hooray!
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Onward to: Chapter 27: Draco Demented (Part 2)
Back to: Chapter 26: Semper Fidelius (Part 2)
Return to: Table of Contents