"Has she not written back yet?" Loid asked after their weekly Sunday brunch as he sat with Eamonn in his study. Ever since Eamonn had officially made Anya his heir, they started having weekly meetups so that she could become more familiar with Prince manor and their family history. At the moment, Anya and Yor were being given a tour of the gardens by the Head elf gardiner before they froze during the winter while they sat and talked.
"Not since her letter three weeks ago stating that I "should stop sending owls because what will Tobias think of this nonsense." To be fair, I only wrote one letter after that asking her to at least send Severus so I may meet him and he can get away from that awful Muggle for fear that man would hurt them," Eamonn sighed, feeling the weight of his years upon him. He really had screwed things up with his daughter. And of course he had been right about telling her that that Muggle was no good but maybe if he had gone about it a different way he wouldn't have driven her to his arms and she might have married a proper Pureblood wizard as she should have.
"Do you want me to pay her a visit?" Loid asked. He was genuinely worried about the domestic situation of his cousins, especially the young boy that had to suffer through so much abuse from his father and had no way out since his mother refused to leave.
"If you could do that, my boy, I would be in your debt," Eamonn said softly. The loss of his sister to her marriage, his daughter to her own, and then his wife a few years ago to the Angel of Death had left him downtrodden until about a year or so ago when Loid came knocking on his door and changed everything. Now he had a nephew that he loved almost like a son and a great-niece he doted upon as if he was her grandfather, especially given that his sister never had the chance to play the role. And although they had brought light into his life, he felt the absence of his daughter and grandson even more.
"Of course, Uncle, anything to ease your ache and help my cousins," Loid answered. Before he could add more, Anya barged in through the door followed by Yor. Both looked flushed from the cold but Yor only watched Anya adoringly as the girl sat on the arm of her grandpapa's armchair and regaled him with their adventures.
"Grandpapa, Aster showed us the apple orchard and it was so full of beautiful red apples! We even got to pick some and Aster promised me they would make us some apple tart to eat with our tea!" The first year exclaimed excitedly, the thought of the sugary concoction making her green eyes, so much like her mama's from the pictures Eamonn had seen, sparkle in delight.
"Well, why don't we ask for some hot cocoa and tea while they finish prepping it? You both must be very cold," he chuckled softly. The sweet girl's chatter had cheered his heavy heart but her beaming smile made it twinge as it reminded him so much of his own little girl. If only Anya's coloring was a little darker, she would look exactly like his Eileen in that moment.
"Okay!" Anya chirped, for once unaware of the heaviness in the room in her excitement. Yor, however, didn't miss it and mouthed to Loid 'Is something the matter?' He simply inclined his head in the way she knew it meant he'd explain later and she nodded back in understanding.
"Dahlia," Eamonn called out, immediately an elegantly-dressed matronly elf appeared.
"You called, sir?" she asked, standing rim-rod straight and making the Prince crest and the tag that said Housekeeper on her uniform shine against the dying sunlight that streamed through.
"Could you please get us some tea and hot cocoa? Oh and send the apple tarts over as soon as they're done," Eamonn asked politely as his niece and nephew convinced him to.
"Right away, sir," Dahlia said as she popped away. An instant later, a tea set and Anya's hot cocoa appeared.
"I must say you were all correct. Ever since I started doing things the way you said their efficiency has increased tremendously," Eamonn said, immensely pleased with the quick service.
"I'm glad it has worked for you, Uncle," Yor said politely. She had never liked the way house elves were treated and had discovered from a young age that politeness and kindness helped them just as much as anyone else and she was glad that Loid and Anya had shared her perspective on the matter to the point neither had ever had a house elf except for those at Hogwarts. The fact that Yuri and Eamonn had both been willing to listen to them and change their behavior and treatment of the kind creatures brightened her heart.
Anya, who had excitedly gotten off the armchair to get her hot cocoa placed, stopped before grabbing it and turned to Eamonn.
"I wish Headmaster Dumbledore was at least half as brilliant and clever as you, Grandpapa," She said, crossing her arms and pouting.
"After begging for weeks he finally agreed to give them better uniforms and quarters but still refuses to give them fair wages," she finished, stomping her feet. Ever since her meeting with the elves on her birthday she'd become their biggest defender.
Eamonn froze. He could almost see the image of a young Eloise superimposed on Anya. The fiery red, the piercing eyes, the dress skirt that almost floated with the magic vibrating around them.
"You look just like your grandmother Eloise," he finally said softly. He had never mentioned it before but each time he saw Anya, the image became clearer. He also felt in awe with the fact that someone thought him better than the "great" Albus Dumbledore.
Anya froze, shocked before glancing at Loid worriedly. There were two secrets in this world she kept from everyone except Bond, her true age and her mind reading abilities, but her papa, the one other person who knew almost everything about her, was her one human confidant and he easily came to her rescue sensing her panic.
"Well, I'm not sure about behavior-wise, Uncle, as you and I remember mum very differently," Loid said, chuckling softly to try and lighten the mood, "but I must agree that if Anya's hair was just a little redder and her eyes a little bluer, she would look like the pictures I've seen of her when she was at Hogwarts."
Eamonn chuckled at that, "Remind me to tell you more stories about when your mother was younger, my boy. You will soon see she had the same fire and temper as your little princess. Now, I'm sure if you keep at it Anya, you might just convince the old coot," he finished with a sweet smile at Anya.
Anya smiled back nervously, still a bit on edge, and finally grabbing her cocoa she moved back to her grandpapa's armchair. She made a move to sit on the arm but Eamonn grabbed her mug and placed it on the side table before hugging her to him and sitting her on his lap. Anya squeaked in surprise before settling down as he handed her the cocoa.
"There now, sit on your Grandpapa's lap so that you don't spill that hot cocoa all over us," he said to ease her some more.
Anya nodded and soon the conversation switched to politics and other boring adult topics. Snuggled into her grandpapa and soothed by the feeling of his voice in his chest, the warm hot cocoa, and roaring fire she soon fell asleep. Immersed in their conversation, the adults were unaware of the situation until a couple of large apple tarts appeared and there was no excited reaction from Anya.
"Well, it seems she's down for the count," Loid chuckled softly.
"Given how much running around she did outside I'm not surprised," Yor chuckled too.
"Well, I believe you must head back then," Eamonn said, knowing all three had classes the next day, "Take one of the tarts with you."
Saying their goodbyes, Yor got their stuff together as Dahlia brought their coats and Loid and Eamonn switched hold of Anya in that perfected shuffle parents used to not wake up their children. With a last promise to speak to Eileen, they finally left.
"Hello, Eileen," Loid said as soon as the door to number 7 on Spinner's End opened. He had decided to listen to Yor and try to calmly talk to his older cousin.
"Oh, it's you again," Eileen said, sounding deflated and tired. She moved to close the door on his face but Loid shoved his foot on the way, stopping her.
"Please, just listen to me. I know you don't want to, but think about Severus," Loid urged her.
"Fine, but not here," Eileen said, moving to grab her old bag and tattered coat. Glancing with disgust at her deadbeat husband who was snoring, passed out drunk on the sofa, she moved to lock the door and started marching down the drive.
Loid followed quietly as they walked the dilapidated streets of Spinner's End. After a few more moments of silence, he finally spoke again.
"I know you hate me, I know you hate Eamonn. And I understand. I should have been there for you before and Eamonn was an idiot to kick you out like that. But for Severus' sake, I think you should let Eamonn make amends to the boy," Loid said. He still berated himself for not helping his cousin before. Especially because of her young son.
"I don't hate you," Eileen scoffed as she worked on tying her dirty blonde hair into a messy bun and out of the wind's way. "My father is... a different matter but I don't hate you. You were just a child at Hogwarts when I ran away and it's not like aunt Eloise didn't help me out where she could."
Loid nodded, a sudden heaviness surrounded them as they remembered his dear mum. The woman had been the most lovable of beings, sneaky enough to outsmart any Slytherin, clever enough to be the envy of all the Ravenclaws, loving enough to put all Hufflepuffs too shame, and brave enough to make any Gryffindor appear like a wimp. Really, his uncle wasn't far-off when he said that personality-wise, Anya took after his mother. A fact that surprised him for obvious reasons but they had that same passion for life, that enviable joie de vivre, even with all of the hardships they had lived. Glancing at Eileen, who's tired chocolate eyes were darkened by the bags under them and made her look even paler, he wished once more that she hadn't lost that passion. That she could have managed to be more like the aunt she had so adored.
"I'm still sorry, I should have been there for you after her passing," Loid whispered as he kicked a rock on their path.
"I never expected you to," Eileen said softly, finally glancing at her cousin once more, "You were just 19, Loid, and even if that made you legally an adult in both worlds, you were still just a child who had just lost his parents."
"I still feel I could have done more," Loid replied, unconvinced. He'd always regretted not helping Eileen more, especially so because his mum had always been devoted to her niece, and now that he had a child of his own, his sorrow felt tenfold. Because even if Anya had lived her own sorrows and he only adopted her for the sake of the mission, he couldn't help but feel a horrible guilt at the thought of everything Severus must have gone through and was still experiencing. Because at least now Anya was in a better, safer place.
"So are you finally gonna say what you came here for?" Eileen asked, as she wrapped her arms around herself to keep warm against the biting cold. The wind had picked up as they walked. Noticing this, Loid cast a silent warming charm and Eileen nodded her thanks as she saw him put his wand away.
"Uncle Eamonn wanted me to reach out," Loid said, knowing this conversation wouldn't go down well.
"Oh yes, now that he has the perfect heir, he cares," Eileen snorted in derision.
Loid paused and moved his hand to scratch the back of his neck, he replied, "You heard about that, huh?"
"Yep, dear old daddy couldn't wait to tell me all about it and how 'perfect little Anastasia is'," Eileen replied, sarcasm dripping at the last bit.
"Sorry, sorry, I'm sure your daughter is absolutely lovely," Eileen said, trying to recover. She had never met the girl and really had no hard feelings towards her, "It's just that my father's hypocrisy drives me up a wall."
"No it's fine, I get it. But Ellie," Loid urged, slipping into the childhood nickname she shared with his late-mother, "I'm worried about you and Severus. I understand that you want nothing to do with Eamonn but you know we can help you. You could leave him at any moment, just say the word," His eyes practically begging his cousin to leave.
Eileen valiantly looked away and hugged herself closer, "I can't, Loid, I really can't."
Loid sighed and stared at the ground in defeat, "Then at least let us take Sev with us."
"That silly boy is too much like me. He won't leave so long as the Evans girl is here," She replied, laughing sardonically and mirthlessly.
"She's the one starting at Hogwarts next year?" Loid asked, vaguely recalling Severus talking about the Evans sisters when Loid visited and how the youngest one who was his age was a Muggleborn witch.
"Yes, Lily. They're attached at the hip," Eileen said with a sorrowful smile.
"Ok, then let us at least invite him over for the Christmas break. I know you have no desire to see your father but Severus deserves to get to know his grandfather and since we would be there, he would never be alone with Eamonn. Plus, it would at least give him a break from Tobias while not taking him away from Lily, was it, for too long," Loid replied, hoping she'd agree. At least, this way, he could help Sev while Ellie decided what to do for herself.
Eileen remained quiet for a while as they resumed their walking. She knew her fear and inability to leave Tobias was hurting her son but she also knew that the stubborn boy would never leave his red-headed friend. But maybe she could at least offer him a break and maybe, just maybe that would change his mind and make him leave even if she couldn't. Not yet, at least.
"Yes, I'd appreciate that. I would, however, like to see at least him for a bit on Christmas and New Year's Day. But let us meet somewhere else, we can coordinate for you to pick him up and drop him off. I don't want to risk reminding Tobias of who we are with you apparating or something around him," She said, whispering the last bit.
"Of course, we can certainly do that," Loid replied softly back. He hoped that this would be enough to set the gears in motion.
"How are you feeling, sweetheart?" Yor asked Anya softly as he caressed her hair while Anya leant on her shoulder.
"Excited, nervous, jittery," Anya murmured, feeling like she sounded like the thesaurus her papa made her study so she would sound like a proper pureblood.
"Well, getting to meet your cousin for the first time is definitely something that will have that effect," Yor replied soothingly as she patted her head softly. Loid had explained the Eileen-Severus situation in detail. How he had barely seen his cousins since Eileen's marriage to Tobias Snape. How he was afraid of Tobias even knowing of Anya's existence. It all made her as nervous as Anya but she tried her best to hide it and comfort her little girl instead.
"Yeah," Anya replied just before their fireplace roared to life. Moments later, Loid exited beside a young boy with black, long hair and the darkest brown eyes that looked like they could swallow you whole.
"Severus, I'd like you to meet my wife, Yor, and our daughter, Anya. Ladies, this is our cousin Severus," Loid introduced them casually. He'd forgone all of the rigorous, pureblood ideas of proper manners and introductions in order to make everyone more comfortable. It also fit their family much better.
"Hi, nice to meet you," Anya said softly as she leaned into Yor's safety.
"Lady Briar, Heiress Prince, well met," Severus replied, bowing formally, a bit of bitterness could be heard in the middle part. However, he may have been raised in the Muggle world but he had always wished to leave it so he had gotten his cousin and mother to teach him the proper customs and decided to put them to use. And maybe even manage to show off against his cousin Anya.
"Well met," Yor replied with a small nod. If strict etiquette made the boy feel more comfortable she'd follow it. However, that didn't stop her from taking in the greasy, matted hair and the worn-down clothes. Loid's plans of shopping today, an activity he hated, before leaving for Prince Manor tomorrow made all the sense now.
"Well, as I explained to your mother, we will have to go shopping today. The Blacks have invited us to their Yule Ball and we need to get you the appropriate formal robes as well as everyday robes for all of the dinners, teas, and visits we will have during the holiday. Anya needs some too, of course, as she's grown quite a bit recently," Loid explained. He purposely avoided mentioning how his torn clothes weren't even appropriate for the Muggle world so as to not embarrass the boy he was sure was aware of this fact.
"You don't mind if we make a stop to get Anya a haircut first, do you? It's gotten a bit too long," Yor added, as she caressed Anya's hair. She'd noticed how greasy and long the poor boy's hair was and hoped to convince him to get it washed and cut.
"I wouldn't want to disturb your plans," Severus said awkwardly. Clearly extreme formalities were his comfort around strangers as they were still that to him.
"Very well, since that seems to work for everyone, I think we best get going," Loid replied, ushering them all to the Floo. He'd noticed the same things as Yor and hoped that their little trip would be even more fruitious than they had planned.
"Do you want to get that?" Yor asked as she watched little Severus stare in awe at the little Quidditch player figurines as they enacted a tiny Quidditch game. The little boy looked so different now, all prim and proper with his new clothes and haircut, making his physical similarities with Eamonn all the more obvious. His now shorter, cleaner hair looked more brown than black and he looked less pale.
"Oh, I wanted to get something for Lily," Severus replied shyly, "But I'm not sure what to get for her and I don't have much money," he added, pulling out the money he had exchanged at Gringotts. He had saved up what little money he had and also had what little money his mum had given him as everything they'd bought for him so far came from the Prince coiffers and well, his mother may be proud but she wasn't stupid. So given that Eamonn had insisted any new clothes, accessories, books and even toys and new trunk -as he would soon need one for Hogwarts anyway- should all be bought from the Prince family accounts, they had done so. But that also meant Severus had a little bit of money he could freely spent and he wanted to get his best friend a gift.
"Well, does she like sports?" Loid asked beside Yor. They had sent their bags back to Prince Manor with Daisy, one of the many house elves, and were free to do some pleasure shopping so they were going around with the kids to help them find presents for their friends.
"Not really," Severus replied, shrugging. Throughout the day he'd grown more comfortable around the little family.
"Oh, well, then we should probably look for presents somewhere else," Anya replied, biting her lip as she stared at the door of Quidditch Quality Supplies. She was hoping they'd go in so she could buy Emma, maybe even the boys, something.
Loid noticed her hesitation and glanced at Yor. Silently communicating as they often did, they came up with a plan.
"How about we go inside really quickly first before we move on? I know you wanted to buy your roommate and the boys something and given how Quidditch obsessed those four are, this seems like the perfect place," Loid said, moving the kids towards the door.
"And then, we can go look for another store to buy some presents for Lily and Becky and any other friends you two might want to buy something for. And maybe even get some hot cocoa afterwards," Yor added as they went into the crowded store.
"Hello, Uncle, are you home?" Loid asked as the foursome stepped out of the main floo and into the main foyer of Prince Manor.
"Evening, sirs and ladies. Lord Prince is in his study. Allow us to take your last bags to your rooms," Dahlia greeted them and motioned for Axel, the butler, to grab their bags and coats.
"Oh yes, but could you send them all to our room? Some of the presents still need to be wrapped and I wish to take care of that," Yor said, with a quick glance at Loid. He gave her an imperceptible nod. They were hoping that the presents they managed to buy for the kids during their trip remained a secret.
"Of course," Dahlia acknowledged, "Now, if you would follow me to the family sitting room, Axel will take care of your stuff and Lord Prince so that you may all have some cocktails and other drinks," she added, glancing at the children, "While the cookstaff finishes getting dinner ready."
"Of course, thank you," Yor replied as they followed her. The walk down the hallway was already familiar to the Forger trio and although Anya did glance around in wonder, as the evergreen garlands and general holiday decor that covered the manor made it feel more magical than ever, little Severus kept staring at everything in awe for a different reason. The manor was bigger and more elegant and ancient than any house he'd ever been to or seen and the moving family portraits along the halls were both exciting and unnerving.
"That boy is definitely a Prince, I'm telling you," one of the old ladies in the portraits exclaimed.
"Oh, most certainly. He has Eamonn's nose, no doubt about it," another replied. Severus nervously touched his nose at that.
"Oh, that is surely Eileen's son, is it not? Well, I cannot believe Eamonn! First he allows Eloise's halfblood son to bring his own little pest and now this? How can he allow the shades of Prince Manor to be thus polluted?" An old man in the paintings replied, causing both Yor and Loid to glare at him while Severus and Anya shrunk into themselves.
"And he made that little nobody, Anastasia is it, his heir. Can you believe the audacity?" another lady screeched. Anya shrunk further in, eyes downcast. The portraits had never been particularly kind and she often avoided this hallway because of that but their vitriol was especially harsh this evening.
"Nobody?! The girl is a Rosier, Prince, and, as of recently, a Briar! She will even inherit the Briar House and she's also connected to Black line through the Rosier line! She's better connected than most of you!" a loud booming voice replied, as an elegant older figure stepped in front of them in the hallway.
"Sir," Dahlia said, bowing to man.
"Thank you, Dahlia. I'll take it from here. Please send over some apple cider for the children and check on dinner," Eamonn said kindly. Dahlia simply nodded and popped away.
"Well, I do apologize for that. I have no idea what has happened to this lot to make them so fiery lately. I believe it is time to create a different location for them. Maybe a portrait room under lock and key on the West wing could work," Eamonn said to the foursome, looking almost sheepish and nervous.
"Oh, it's not your fault Uncle, but I believe that would be a good idea," Yor replied, trying her best to wave it off.
"Unto happier thoughts, Uncle. Allow me to introduce your grandson, Severus. Severus, this is your grandfather Eamonn," Loid said motioning for Sev to step forward.
"Well met, Lord Prince," Severus said hesitantly as he bowed.
"Oh, none of that, come here," he motioned and Severus stepped forward only to be crushed on a bear hug.
"My dear boy, I'm terribly sorry I have let my own blindness force your mother away and kept me away from you. But please know that from now on I'm always here for you," Eamonn whispered as tears welled up in his eyes. Severus' own eyes got teary. He'd never felt such genuine warmth before. His poor mother was too worn down. He also appreciated the fact that he didn't ask to be forgiven. Severus didn't think he could manage that any time soon. They hugged tightly for a few seconds more until Severus started moving a bit uncomfortably, unused as he was to so much affection. Really, only Lily hugged him nowadays and she knew to keep her hugs short and concise. Sensing his discomfort, Eamonn let him go before turning to the rest of his family.
"Well, my darlings, welcome back and Happy Holidays!" He exclaimed jovially.
"Happy Holidays to you too!" Anya exclaimed, happy to see him again and also hoping to make the awkwardness go away.
"Come now, none of that nonsense. Give your Grandpapa a hug," Eamonn replied and Anya jumped into his arms hesitantly but happily.
If Severus felt a bit of jealousy at the ease between his grandfather and his cousin, he kept it to himself.
"Oh, Sevvie, I must introduce you to my cousins," Anya said as she pulled him by the arm, easily making her way through the main ballroom in Black Manor.
"Anya, over here," she heard a sweet voice calling her. Turning to the voice, she saw her two youngest Black cousins and excitedly made her way to them while dragging Severus behind her.
"Andy, Cissy, you must meet my cousin Severus Prince. Sev, these are my other cousins Andromeda and Narcissa Black," Anya said, purposely avoiding Severus' real last name (they would be officially adding the Prince soon anyway, she would make sure of it) and completely ignoring social norms. Narcissa and Andromeda glanced at each other before smiling indulgently at the girl. After several months at Hogwarts together and also often spending time together at Pureblood events, they had gotten used to the sweet little strawberry blonde girl and absolutely loved her as much as they adored their baby cousin Regulus.
"Well meet, Master Severus," Andromeda replied, purposely ignoring the truth about the young boy, as they all knew, was only a halfblood. Narcissa just nodded in greeting beside her. Politeness demanded they be on their best behavior as hosts and it would not do to lose the alliance of the Princes and Briars.
"I'm so glad to see you, I wanted to thank you for your gifts. But where is Bella? I'd like to thank her too," Anya gushed. The girls had all sent her different personal: a new headband with delicate pearls, a variety of intricate silk and lace hair ribbons, and a decorative silver lighter with Prince family emblem and motto (that she had no use for but it was the tamest thing they could convince Bella to send, not that Anya would ever know) alongside the gift from her aunt and uncle and she wished to let her appreciation known.
"You're welcome, Anya, and thank you for yours," Narcissa answered, polite to a fault as manners were everything. Anya blushed at that, she'd honestly forgotten about her cousins and wouldn't have bought them anything if her mama hadn't recommended it. It was really just three simple but delicate matching silver necklaces. All the same style but with a slightly different pendant: one with sapphires for Narcissa, one with rubies for Andromeda, and one with onyx for Bellatrix. She was glad they enjoyed the little gifts, though. Beside her, Severus shifted uncomfortably, he had no part in this conversation but didn't know anyone else and was too afraid to leave.
"As for Bella, mother is dragging her and her new husband around to be shown off and paraded in front of the masses," Andy replied, snorting.
"But wasn't pretty much everyone here at the wedding too?" Anya asked, confused. She recalled being stuck in a stuffy dress with itchy crinoline for Bellatrix's fall themed wedding. Apparently, All Hallow's Eve was a particularly favored time for wizarding marriages as they believed it promised a successful marriage. Or so her Tante Druella had explained. Severus only nodded along, thinking the whole matter sounded unpleasant.
"Yes, that's why it makes the whole thing even more ridiculous," Andromeda laughed merrily at that. She may look almost exactly like her older sister, but they couldn't be more different. Where Bellatrix was cruel and mean, Andromeda was mischievous and kind.
"I think Mother wants to make sure Bella behaves. She probably is also getting some payback for all the other times Bella has annoyed her," Narcissa said, in that ever-soft tone of hers. Where her sisters were loud, boisterous, and proud, Cissy was soft, calm, and quiet and it was often hard to get a read on her but Anya had long since figured that she was as kind as Andy. It was therefore a shock to the other two Rosiers there to hear something so cutting from her.
"My, my, baby sister, you do have some edge to you," Andy teased her. Cissy just rolled her eyes good humoredly.
"Cissy! Andy!" childish voices exclaimed as two dark heads crashed into the sisters.
"Hello, Regulus," Narcissa said, hugging her baby cousin close.
"Well, hello there Sirius," Andy teased the cousin in her arms.
"Thank the stars we found you two! I thought we'd never escape Uncle Cygnus and his talks of politics and 'adequate pureblood behavior'," Sirius ranted.
"Well you are the heir, you will have to learn these things," Narcissa said, rolling her eyes. She never managed to have much patience for Sirius, Regulus' sweeter and quieter behavior fit her tastes better.
"Why can't Reggie be the heir?" Sirius whined. Regulus froze, terrified.
"Because that's not how it works," Andy shrugged as Cissy comforted Regulus.
"Now, stop being rude and say hello to Anya and her cousin," Narcissa added with a glare to Sirius.
"Siri, Reggie, you both obviously know Anya, but this is Master Severus Prince, her cousin. Severus, these are my annoying baby cousins, Sirius and Regulus Black. Sirius will be your classmate at Hogwarts, from what Narcissa told me," Andromeda introduced.
"Well met, Heir Black and Master Regulus," Severus replied, nervously bowing in front of the boys.
Sirius barely inclined his head, looking curiously at the boy. He was surprised his family would ever allow any association to half-bloods, but it seemed the Prince family was an exception. That was weirdly fascinating.
Regulus bowed politely to Severus and softly said, "Well met, Master Severus and a pleasure seeing you again, Heiress Prince."
"It's Anya, Reg, we're practically cousins," Anya replied merrily. Regulus merely nodded.
Suddenly, a commotion in the entrance of the Ballroom drew their attention.
"Are those Desmond and Blackbell?! And their families too?! I thought they never came to these things. They didn't even go to Bella's wedding!" Sirius exclaimed in shock.
"Well, young Master Damian and Lady Rebecca are Anya's friends. I imagine they managed to convince their parents to come," Andy said, trying her best to hide her own awe. Well, her and Cissy's estimations were more accurate than they could have ever dreamed of. Anastasia Celeste Eloise Forger-Prince, Heiress Prince and soon to be Heiress Briar -if what they had been told was true- was going to be the biggest asset the Rosier and Black Houses could have ever dream of gettting and it was by pure luck.
"Oh, they have arrived! I need to introduce you to Becky and Sy-on. Hopefully, Ewen, Emile, Emma, and Dora made it too," Anya gushed at her cousin, happy to introduce him to her friends, especially since she had missed them and wanted to thank them for her gifts. Especially the very pretty emerald pin for her school suit jacket that Damian had given her.
"Father, please allow me to make the introductions. These are my parents, Lord Donovan and Lady Melinda Desmond and my uncle and aunt, Lord Reginald and Lady Dianthe Blackbell and their son, Heir Reynauld Blackbell. I believe you are all familiar with my brother Demetrius, the Desmond Heir, and my cousin Lady Rebecca, of course. Family, this are Lord Eamonn Prince, Lord Yurick Briar, Lady Yordanna Briar-Forger, Professor Elloid Forger-Prince, and Lady Anastasia Forger-Prince, the Heiress Prince," Damian said, utilizing his perfected high society persona. He stood tall and regal, willing to impress his father.
"An absolute pleasure to meet you all," Eamonn answered with a slight bow as Loid, Yor, Anya, Yuri, and Sev bowed and curtsied accordingly. Like Eammon, Yor and Yuri kept their greeting minimal. The Desmond and Blackbells responded in kind, minimal greetings for all. The fight of status in their demeanor was clear to all of the observers in the ballroom.
"Allow me to also introduce my lovely grandson, Master Severus Snape-Prince," Eammon said, his words making his meaning clear. He was claiming Severus as not only a reinstituted official member of his family but also as the second possible heir for the House of Prince. Anya barely kept from squeeling in delight, happy she wouldn't have to go on a crusade on her cousin's behalf. He was now at least somewhat back in his rightful place, even if she had unfortunately stolen most of his inheritance by accident. She would fix that with time, however, she promised herself.
"Lord and Lady Desmond and Lord and Lady Blackbell, we're terribly delighted that you have chosen to join us this evening," Cygnus spoke now, as they had had their own introduction just moments before the Princes and Briars joined them. His wife stood beside him and their daughters stood just behind them.
"We are also delighted to see that Master Damian and Lady Rebecca are such dear friends to our beloved Anastasia," Druella added, pulling Anya by the shoulders as subtly as possible and placing her before them.
"Yes, thank you for being such wonderful friends," Anya replied robotically, tense and uncomfortable in her new position at the center of the group. Loid decided to intervene.
"You're quite right, Lady Black. Yet, not only are they wonderful friends but excellent students according to my dear wife," Loid said, even more subtly pulling Anya back towards him.
"Oh yes, extremely brilliant. They are at the top of their year and some of the best in our school, including Lord Demetrius, of course. And well, we all know Lord Reynauld was at the top of his year when he graduated," Yor supplied, stepping up to stand beside Loid and help hide Anya. Damian and Becky primed at her words, standing proudly by their parents but the older brothers remained impassive and appeared bored. Having pity on their classmates, and former classmates in Bella's case, the Black sisters intervened, drawing their attention. For once, Druella let them, pleased that they were forming such formidable connections. Once the adolescents broke from the group, the rest followed, the kids going one way and the adults remaining there except for the hosts who had others to attend to.
"I'm glad we found this cousin of yours, my dear. She's a veritable gold-mine of connections," Cygnus whispered to his wife as they moved to announce to their guests that supper was ready in the adjacent dining hall.
"Your dress is so pretty, where did you get it?" Becky asked Anya excitedly, admiring the velvet, winter green dress that once more brought out her eyes. They were sitting together with their classmates and other young children around their age at their own kids' table. The older ones had joined the adults at the main table.
"Thank you, we got it especially made at Madame Garderobe's Boutique. Yours is very pretty too," Anya replied, admiring the ornate navy dress.
"You bought yours in London? Don't you usually vacation in France?" Becky asked, shocked at the fact that the dress was local. What pureblood French girl would do that? Even one just half French and raised in England.
"Well, the Boutique is still French, obviously. But since Grandpapa wanted us to spend the holidays with him and then Sev was added to our group, it got a bit complicated," Anya said honestly, glancing at Severus who was thankfully enjoying himself in quiet conversation with Regulus. She did somewhat bitterly note that Sirius, Damian, Ewen, and Emile all ignored him. And Sirius didn't have an excuse as sat silently sulking since the Potter boy hadn't even come because he was sick and the Longbottom boy was taking turns talking to the other two groups.
"Plus, we usually go to France in the spring and some of the summer. Although we also tend to visit Italy in the summers. It's the best way to ensure the latest fashions. Milan is a must, after all," Anya added, lying through her teeth. She'd only visited both countries once with her papa, but he had promised they would visit again around those dates. And well, even if it wasn't a habitual trip yet, there was at least some truth to her answer. The fact that the only reason she even knew about these countries being fashionable was from older girls in the orphanage gossiping over magazines was not something Becky needed to know.
"That's a good point Anya, plus your dress is still gorgeous," Pandora added softly, ever the peacemaker before adding dreamily, "I only get to visit my home country of Greece in the summers. I can't wait to go back."
"Do you usually vacation in France during the Winter Holidays, Becky?" Emma asked, trying to keep the peace and conversation going, as well as out of genuine curiosity. This was the first time in all her life that the Blackbells and Desmonds came to the Black Yule ball, after all.
"Actually, we usually go skiing in Switzerland. We've even met the Malfoys there often, although they always make sure to be here for the Ball. We're planning on still visiting this year, hopefully leave in a couple of days," Becky answered, aware of where the questioning was going. After all, it was obvious that as Narcissa Black's fiance, Lucius Malfoy would love to spend as much time with her as he could. Especially since he seemed genuinely enamored with her.
"Of course," Emma replied and she pursed her lips, unable to figure out how to continue the conversation as she'd never visited the country or traveled for the Christmas break. Sometimes, they would travel in the summer, but mostly just to visit family in the United States.
"I have yet to visit Switzerland, is it really beautiful? If so, I must try to convince Grandpapa to take us there next year. If only for a few days, like the Malfoys," Anya asked, saving the conversation.
"Oh yes, the Swiss Alps are majestic! You must join us!" Becky replied, excited at the idea of spending holidays with her best friend.
"Well, you would have to teach me how to ski, however. My physical prowess is limited to sports that are more adequate for warmer climates like pall-mall, badminton, tennis, swimming, some very poor horseback riding, and even worse flying as you've witnessed. Honestly, I'm not a fan of any of it. Well, maybe with an exception for badminton and pall-mall, I do enjoy those," Anya answered.
Becky looked at her a bit confused, not recognizing some of the sports she named but nodded, "Of course, I'll teach you."
"Teach her? You mean teach her how to fall because that's all you know how to do," Damian snorted, suddenly adding himself into their conversation. Emile and Ewen laughed behind him while the rest of the group now watched the conversation quietly.
"If you really wish to learn to be an accomplished skier, I will teach you," Damian said arrogantly before his words caught up to him and made him blush.
Anya glanced nervously between Becky and Damian, feeling caught in the middle. She didn't want you to either angry at her.
"Oh um, thank you Damian, but Becky already said she would and I…" Anya began anxiously.
"No, it's fine. I hate to admit it, but he skiis like a professional. You should let the idiot teach you. Plus, I can teach you how to ice skate," Becky replied, clearly annoyed at having to admit to her cousin's superiority in anything. Damian only smirked arrogantly in reply.
"Well then, thank you Becky and thank you Sy-on," Anya replied beaming. She was truly happy they wished to spend time with her and be her friend. That would help her papa's mission immensely.
"Don't call me that," Damian automatically replied as Becky nodded but he didn't even sound annoyed. The increasing blush made his words even less powerful.
"So, did you kids enjoy yourselves?" Loid asked as they all stepped through the fireplace and into the family room.
"Oh yes, it was so much fun to see my friends again and Damian and Becky even promised to teach me to ski and ice skate if we ever go spend the Holidays in Switzerland," Anya gushed happily but her words finished in a yawn.
"Well, we will have to see about a trip there then, won't we?" Eamonn said, "Of course, we will still have to plan accordingly to make sure we're back for the Black ball."
"Oh, Uncle, I think you're getting ahead of yourself," Loid said, trying to stop his uncle from getting too excited. He felt Anya's weight against his leg increase and picked her up. The little girl snuggled against him as he tried to tame his uncle's wild ideas down.
"Nonsense, Elloid, a family trip is exactly what we need," Eamonn argued, completely ignoring that they had already made plans to spend Easter in Valencia and summer in the French Riviera, Naples, and Milan.
"We already have two planned, Uncle," Yor chuckled as she carried a sleepy Severus in her arms. Looking at him, she added, "Plus, you still haven't checked with Eileen to see if she'll permit Sev to join us."
Eamonn sighed, it was hard to argue with his ever-efficient niece, "You're correct, my dear, of course."
"I really need to speak with Eileen," he added, with a pensive frown.
"How do you always make him listen?" Loid whispered to his wife as they carried the children to their beds.
"I just use the one thing Slytherins can't argue against: facts," Yor replied with a shrug. She had always been surrounded by Slytherins and long since learned to manage them.
"Why didn't I think of that?" Loid frowned, worried that playing family was making him lose his touch. But was the mission worth more than his and his family's happiness? Yes, unfortunately because they needed to be able to live to experience said happiness.
"You're just tired, dear," Yor appeased but took note of the worry in his eyes. Maybe if she asked once more, this time he'd tell her the truth about whatever was burdening him so much. She could only hope.
"She named him after me," Eamonn whispered, sitting in the dark, barely lit study.
"Who?" Loid asked, worried. He had never seen his uncle like this, at least not since the day he had to tell him his dear sister passed away.
"Eileen, she named the boy after me. See, here," Eamonn said, shoving the birth certificate in Loid's hands.
Loid looked at the paper. Eileen had finally agreed to speak with her father when he dropped Severus off for the afternoon to celebrate the New Year with her. He knew Eamonn told her about his wish for Severus to spend more time with them, at least the during the breaks until he made it to Hogwarts, and that he was going to add him back into the Prince family line if she would agree to it. Of course, taking him on vacations with them would require getting permission to take him out of the country and so his birth certificate was needed. It would also be needed to add him into the family line. The fact that Eileen had willingly given it to him was promising. So Loid carefully read the certificate.
Right where it said name it read "Severus Eamonn Snape". Loid had to admit he was also in shock.
"Well, it's clear she still loves you," Yor said, standing beside Loid, as she also read the paperwork.
"But why? After everything I've done," the old man said, his voice breaking as much as his heart. He had been so cruel to those he was meant to protect.
"That, she can only answer, but you could start by working on being worthy of that love," Yor replied sympathetically.
"You are right, my dear niece, that's exactly what I must do," Eamonn replied, vowing to finally become a man worthy of his family's love.