Chapter 9
Chapter 9
Azalea woke around dawn to the gentle stream of the morning sun shining through her window. She had slept soundly through the night despite the tumultuous day she had had yesterday. The soft sounds of nature lulled her into a peaceful mood for the moment as she gathered her clothing for the day. She planned on wearing one of her finer, more opulent sets today since she was spending time with Cassiopeia. She wanted to show off a little so she chose a high collared emerald silk fitted tunic with billowing sleeves and lilies gracefully embroidered with mithril thread that flowed down diagonally from the left side of her chest to the center right above the hem that brushed her mid calf.
The tunic split at her hips to allow for a wider range of movement and was cinched at her lower waist with a mithril woven belt that had a built in sheath that hid several throwing knives. She also had on form fitting black silk leggings embroidered with a matching pattern down the outer side of her right leg. After she gathered her clothes under her arm she rummaged through her trunk to pull out her jewelry box and one of the books Daphne liberated from the Hogwarts Library. The Enchanted Encyclopedia was an extremely thick and heavy book that had a gold gilded magenta hard cover that was written by Samael Umbre in 1739 when he was 37 for his Enchantment Mastery.
With everything gathered she padded into the adjacent bathroom. The bathroom itself looked to be carved from a cream marble. To the back right stood a spacious waterfall shower while an oval freestanding tub carved out of quartz. She placed her clothes on the marble countertop that held a quartz vessel sink and turned on the tap to the bathtub. She pulled out a lavender and chamomile scented exfoliation potion, a coconut scented hair removal potion, and a warm honey scented moisturizer potion and poured it into the water.
While she waited for the bath to fill she slipped out of her clothes and stepped into the shower and let the warm water flow over her for a bit, releasing some of her tension before stepping out of the spray to heap a good amount of her lavender and bergamot hair cleaning and conditioning potion into her hair and piled it up on top of her head while she lathered on a lavender and Sandalwood body washing potion onto her skin. After letting the potions sit for around five minutes she rinsed off and stepped out of the shower, slipped into the warm water of her bath and opened her book. She put her book down after about an hour of reading to drain the tub.
Stepping out she wandlessly cast a drying spell on herself before getting dressed and summoning her ram horn comb enchanted to detangle her hair and define her curls. When she finally finished getting all of the knots out she spelled her hair back in a braided bun and put on a face moisturiser before spelling on light makeup to emphasise her eyes. She then opened the box she brought with her and took her time glancing at the different jewelry her friends and their families gifted her with through the years before carefully choosing a pair of emerald leaf chandelier earrings along with an ornate emerald and diamond floral hair comb and threaded it above her bun. The then added an emerald and mithril tennis bracelet enchanted with a light shielding charm that would deflect some low level spells.
She then gathered her old clothes and book, throwing the clothes into a hamper by the door and strode back into the bedroom going to the nightstand and clipping an erumpent hide sheath that held a sinister looking curved goblin silver dagger with a serrated back and erumpent hide handle onto her left thigh and slid several throwing knives into the hidden sheathes on her belt. After that she belted on two short thin mithril vambraces onto her arms that peaked out from the flowing sleeves of her top and slipped into her black dragonhide low heeled ankle boots and headed out of her room with her book tucked under her arm and her dragon Hide bag attached to her belt.
“Is there a free elf around?” Azalea called out as she walked.
“Yes missy Potter, how can Zilly help you?” Asked an elf when it popped into view in front of her.
“Can you send a cup of silver needle tea to the sun room I was in last night? I’d like to have a light breakfast while I read as well.” She answered, never pausing in her stride as she headed to the aforementioned room. “Also is Aunt Cassiopeia awake?”
“No Missy Aza, madam doesn’t wake up till 8:30.” Zilly replied.
“Then inform her that instead of breakfast we’ll share lunch today around 11.” Azalea replied.
“As you will.” Zilly answered with a bow before popping away.
She reached the room and sat leaning on the left arm of the black couch with her legs curled up to the side and cracked open her book. She had only gotten through three pages when her tea and breakfast popped up on a tray in front of her so she spelled her book up to read while she ate. She had had the idea to create their own locked transportation while pondering ways to work around anti-apparition and anti-portkey wards since the floo was just as unreliable. She had thought back to the veil of death and how it seemed like a portal and that’s when it hit her. Gateway portals! If they could make it work they could key it to an item to allow people to escape the death eater raids.
“Who could I find that’s good enough in runes to help me.” She muttered to herself as she absentmindedly finished her food barely noticing as the dishes vanished as the page flipped.
Suddenly the sound of someone clearing their voice echoed through the room causing her to whip her head to the sound.
“I can’t help but notice that you might need advice, my dear.” A portrait of an older gentleman with greying black shoulder length wavy hair and intelligent light grey eyes spoke out to her. “Let me introduce myself first. My name is Arcturus Black, I was the last real Lord of Black.”
“I would love any advice you’d give me, Lord Black.” Azalea replied after a small pause of contemplation.
“Write to House Umbre. They are a vassal house to house Black and will answer the call of its Heiress. Last I checked Their Head of house’s daughter is supposed to be this generation’s guard to the heir and aide. They’re known for their runic abilities.” Arcturus replied back.
Azalea paused again, trying to remember anything she could about this family. She knew for sure that there were three Umbres in her year, the twins Raziel and Ananiel in Ravenclaw and their older sister Zuriel who was in Slytherin. She only really remembered them due to their names being that of angels which she found ironic since the Vatican hates witches and wizards. They also never picked on Luna so they were seen in a vaguely positive light unlike most of the others in Ravenclaw.
“You said the oldest daughter right?” Azalea reiterated.
“Yes my dear.” Arcturus answered back.
“That would be Zuriel if I remember correctly. Do you think she would answer a letter from me?” She inquired.
“Undoubtedly. The Umbres have been magic bound to the house of Black since they swore fealty to us as the Dukes of Blackmore. They are the strongest and closest of the six vasel houses. Asrael and his children are duty bound to serve house black.” He answered back calmly.
“May I know the names of the other houses?” Azalea inquired hesitantly.
“I see no harm in informing you.” He answered back with a look of contemplation.
“Their names are Caelus, Fulmen, Ardeo, Unda, and Conlisio. All of the vassals have different purposes. The Umbre family are our shadows. They serve by our side completing any order given to them though they specialize in assassination. The Caelus are our information specialists. They help manipulate the masses with either well placed rumors or Newspaper articles as well as cover up any illicit activities the Blacks have partaken in. The Fulmens are dueling specialists who serve as our front liners during war. They also serve as bodyguards if you need more than your Umbre shadow. The Ardeo are our shock troops and demolition specialists. When you want something or someone on fire or traumatized, owl an Ardeo, they live for it. The Unda on the other hand specializes in healing and poison making. Finally Conlisio is a family that specializes in defense be it ward, runes, spells, or physical.” He lectured as he watched the young woman in front of him.
Azalea contemplated all this while drumming her fingers on her thigh. She knew each of those names and their reputations from information gathered by the Potter family’s Vassals. If it was true that they answered to the Blacks then how did the Blacks whittle down to just her being viable for heirship, there should be more. It was suspicious how such a powerful house had faded in just three to four generations especially if they have their own hidden private army like this.
“Lord Black, pardon me if this comes across as rude but how is it that house Black has fallen to this. With the strength of our magic, political prowess and our own private forces there should be more of us.” She asked hesitantly.
“In truth there is more, Hidden by magic yes but not viable for heirship. My cousin Marius has descendants but they’re squib-born. They could be viable for heirship but you have a higher legitimacy due to being Sirius’ blood adopted daughter and Dorea’s granddaughter, they have a better claim than Narcissa’s spawn though. Cassiopeia and I had hidden them from the rest of the family. I haven’t even told my son because of his Harpy of a wife. My sister and I became aware of the sharp decline in 1949 but by then it was too late. Cygnus had been cursed to only have female children by his wife who did everything to separate him from his children while Walburga had been dosed constantly with potions while in Hogwarts driving her to insanity while trapped in her own mind. Alphard was cursed impotent by Abraxes Malfoy and died before we could undo it, killed by Voldemort as he tried to evacuate children from Diagon alley during a Death Eater attack. My cousin Regulus had his lover and unborn child killed by Grindelwald and could never move on. Honestly we were systematically attacked and the only one who gained anything from this is the same person who locked Sirius up without a trial. The same one who then usurped the Black Wizengamot seat after he put the rightful heir away.” He growled out with derision.
“Dumbledore.” They both spat out.
“Can I bring the other Blacks back into the fold?” Azalea asked after a second of internally cursing the old goat fucker.
“You can try. Their Names are Altair, Castor, Carina, Alasia, Illyrian, Corvus, Atlas and Lyra. If you're bringing them in you might as well write to the vassals and have a proper war meeting and assign their guards while taking your own. It is tradition for the next Head Of house Black to take the firstborn of each family as
Their personal vassals.”
“Zilly, can I have a couple prices of Parchment as well as a quill and inkwell and House Blacks seal please?” She called out as she wordlessly and wandlessly transfigured the food tray into a desk for her to work on. She got to writing as soon as the aforementioned items popped into existence.
Dear Lord Umbre/Caelus/Fulmen/Ardeo/Unda/Conlisio,
I am formally writing to both introduce myself as the next Head of House Black as well as to summon you all for a war council. The date of this meeting will be set for three days from now at 10 am. Feel free to bring your spouse and your children as well if they are above the age of 15. I will require a report of your movements for the past five years as well. Feel free to wear casual clothes as I will not be bothered to dress up in formal wear. I plan on introducing you to my own war council that I have built up as well. I expect a reply with the Names of who you plan to bring with you to prepare enough food, drinks, and seats.
Lady Azalea Dorea,
Head of House Potter
Head of House Peverell
Heir of House Black
Heir of House Rosier
“Zilly send these off to the vassal houses please.” Azalea ordered as she sealed the envelope with the Black and Silver seal of house Black, before working on the next letter.
Dear Zuriel Umbre
It was recommended to write to you by the portrait of Lord Arcturus Black for your help in Runes as well as to formally invite you to House Black as the role of my shadow. If you are free tonight I would like to discuss this in person. You may bring up to three people with you if they are also Umbre. The Floo will be open for fifteen minutes at 8:30 tonight. Cassiopeia will be waiting in the floo room.
Sincerely A.D.P.
Ps. This letter will self-destruct 15 minutes after opening. Don’t burn yourself.
After sealing this letter with her own personal seal of a Green and Black badger she spelled the window open and waited. After thirty seconds Hedwig flew in gracefully and landed on her outstretched arm and gently preened a lock of her hair.
“Hello beautiful, do you think you can get this letter to Zuriel Umbre for me.” Azalea cooed as she gently nuzzled her familiar. She waited until she got a soft hoot before tying the letter to her foot and summoned an owl treat before sending her off with a kiss to Hedwig’s beak. She then got down to writing her next letter.
Dear Padfoot,
I called for a war council of the Black kind. If possible, sneak away from the order of fried chicken three days from now. The meeting is at 10 am so be there before then. I am also bringing in Marius’ descendants to help revive house Black.
Your daughter,
Badb
Ps. This letter will self-destruct.
“Kreacher!” Azalea called out as she sealed the letter with her personal seal.
With a pop Kreacher appeared next to her. “ Yes Missy Black?”
“I need you to give this to Sirius when he is alone. Do you think you can do that?” She asked seriously.
“Yes, Kreacher will give it to the mutt.” He grumbled about as he took it and popped away muttering about blood traitors and flea bitten mutts.
Azalea could only snicker in amusement as she watched. She then turned back to the parchment to write her last letter.
To the Descendants of Marius Black
I am Writing as the acting Head of Black as well as the Heir. I formally invite you to rejoin the main branch of Hous Black and to invite you to the Black manor to formally meet you face to face. If you choose to rejoin House Black you will receive the training that all descendants of House Black are entitled to as well as limited access to the main vaults and the creation of your own personal vaults and allowances. I will also personally train you in Defence and hire tutors for any other subjects that peak your interest. If you are interested in meeting face to face for more information before making your decision I am available tonight at 4:30.
Lady Azalea Dorea,
Head of House Potter
Head of house Peverell
Heir to House Black
Heir to House Rosier
With a flourish she sealed the letter with the House Black seal and called for one of House Black's many messenger owls. Within minutes a massive black great horned owl with piercing golden eyes landed gracefully on the desk.
“Ah, that's my last owl before I died in 1991. Her name is Nyx. I only had her for four months. It seems she grew up well.’ Arcturus said from the portrait.
“Hello Nyx. My your beautiful.” Azalea spoke after acknowledging Arcturus with a nod. She summoned another owl treat, feeding Nyx before continuing. “Do you think you can send this to Altair Black.” At the resounding hoot Nyx let out she tied the letter with a dragon hide thong that she enchanted with protection and stealth magic.
After setting Nyx loose she glanced at the clock before doing a double take. It was now 10:50. She had been in this room for almost five hours and didn’t even realize how fast the time flew.
“Well I’m off to the dining room Lord Arcturus, I have lunch plans with aunt Cassiopeia. You're free to tag along if there is a suitable painting there I would love to continue our chat.” Azalea said as she heaved herself off the couch and stretched. She then bookmarked the page that was open before slipping the book into the bag at her waist.
“Sounds splendid, dear. You might as well call me uncle as well. May I ask you who taught you pureblood etiquette. I know you grew up in the muggle world but you portray yourself flawlessly.” He inquired.
“I asked Madam Dowager Longbottom at the end of first year after taking cues on how to act from Nelda. I was also taught by Lord Thorros Nott, Lady Dahlia Zabini, and Lord Martin and Lady Cassandra Greengrass and Head Auror Amelia Bones on the side since Nelda, Theo, Luna, Blaise, Daphne, Susan, Hannah and I rotate what manor we stay at during the Holidays and the summer. All of us would take lessons for three weeks under the tutelage of each head of house. One week for Politics, one week for etiquette, and the last week to observe how they acted at Balls and Gatherings to see what we learned in action. We learned one type of dance at each break too. Aunt Augusta taught us the Viennese waltz and regular Waltz, uncle Thorros taught us the Foxtrot and Samba, aunt Dahlia taught us the Tango and Rumba, Aunt Cassandra taught us the Salsa and Cha cha and aunt Amelia taught us the quickstep and Jive.” She answered with a slight smile reminiscing of the fun she had while learning. They had to bring in Albert and Cale Molan and their cousins Lloyd and Javier Molan.
They were the sons of one of the Potter vassals due to their not being enough men. Thanks to that she had learned of their existence and Role as the Potters Assassins and tacticians disguised as regular servants. Thanks to Cale who was a well of information, she had learned of the other Vassal families. The Meyer family who supplied information, the Eckhart family who were a militant family, the Seymour Family who dealt in intimidation tactics and the Agriche Family who was a barely leashed beast.
He had also instilled in her the importance of keeping her relation to those families a secret to anyone who wasn’t a Potter. The existence of vassal families was kept silent to everyone but a select few of the Pureblood Families. It was also thanks to him that she was able to get in contact with the others introducing her to Ross, Deborah and Enrique Seymour as well as Reynold, Penelope and Ivonne Eckhart and Dimitri and Lamaine Meyer and Giselle, Dion, Roxanna and Jeremy Agriche.
Before she could get anymore lost in thought she walked into the dinning room and spotted Cassiopeia who was dressed in a light silver silk high collar loose sleeve blouse with ruffles tucked into a black double breasted wide legged trousers with pearlescent buttons and high heeled boots. She had her hair pulled up in an artful bun that had diamonds threaded throughout
“Good afternoon Aunt Cassiopeia. Did you rest well?” She asked as she pulled out a heavy oak dining room chair and gracefully folded herself into it and laid a cloth napkin over her lap.
“Good afternoon my dear niece, I had a lovely night and a leisurely morning so I would say yes. How has your morning been so fare?” The older woman quipped back with her silver eyes shining in amusement.
“It was quite productive and informative. I talked with uncle Arcturus about our vassals and sent out a good amount of letters. We might have guests later on this evening if everything goes right.” Azalea informed with a pleased smirk.
“Oh? Pray tell who, if I might aske?” Cassiopeia inquired with a raised brow, intrigued.
“I invited Marius Blacks legacy 4:30 and Zuriel Umbre 8:30.” Azalea replied back quickly. “Do you mind escorting Zuriel into the heir’s office? I would really appreciate it if you could verify her identity if she floos in and make sure that she doesn’t bring anyone who isn’t an Umbre. Can’t have my location leaked to Dumbledore or Riddle.” She spoke as she watched lunch pop up in front of her. The elves had made lamb chops in a juniper sauce with mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables served with a red elf wine.
“Of course. I’ll have Zilly clean the office since it hasn’t been used since the seventies. Feel free to decorate it however you like since you are the Heiress.” Cassiopeia responded back calmly before a look of curiosity flashed across her face. “Do you want me to sit in on any of the meetings as support?”
Azalea thought for a bit as she took a bite of the lamb. “Honestly I wouldn’t mind. I would normally have Nelda or Theo sit in with me but since they’re not here, I wouldn't mind the back up.” Azalea answered back before taking a sip of the wine.
There was a brief lull in the conversation as they ate before Cassiopeia pulled out an ornate Ebony jewelry box inlaid with Mithril filigree in the corners and in the middle of the lid was the Black family coat of arms. She opened the lid and slid it closer to Azalea allowing her to see what’s inside. There, sat on a shimmering silver velvet, was a Mithril ring with a 3/4 round cut black diamond. It had bold chevrons set with smaller black diamonds flanking the main stone. There were also black diamonds that were gracefully laid upon an open double shank. On the inside of the band Toujours Pur was artfully etched along with impressive rune work.
“Is this…?” Azalea trailed off choked up with an emotion she was unfamiliar with.
“Yes, this is the Black Heirship ring. It is rightfully yours. Honestly I’d rather give you the Head ring instead of having Sirius keep it but he swiped it when he was last here.” Cassiopeia spoke with a smirk startling a laugh from the young woman as she took out the ring and slid it on her right ring finger in front of the Potter ring. There was a brief flash of light as it resized to fit her finger and melded against the other ring, making it look like a set. As with the last two times information about the ring enchantments was dumped in her mind. This time the ring protected her from surface Legilimency further strengthening her own occlumency shields.
“Dorea would be so proud of you little star.” Cassiopeia said with a small smile.
“What was she like?” Azalea asked, her eyes sparking with curiosity.
“She was a spitfire.” She answered back with a nostalgic grin. “I have never met anyone else like her. She made Charlus work for their courtship, led him like a dog as she willed. Fiercely possessive too. She entered the war against Grindelwald because one of his followers dared to flirt with her Charlus and ended up in a lot of duels with women and men who briefly glanced his way.” Dorea reminisced as she played with a loose lock of hair.
“She was a brat. Always playing pranks, leaving entrapment runes all over the place. She later on became a runes mistress and used those runes to capture enemies for me to interrogate during the war since Charlus couldn’t be bothered to keep them alive enough for me to extract information.” Arcturus piped in from a portrait depicting a throne. “She loved visiting the villas in Spain and Italy. Maybe after the war you should see if she left anything behind there.”
“That sounds like a lovely plan. Maybe I’ll take my soldiers on a nice month-long vacation as a reward for winning.” She answered back with a smile. “Now, please excuse me. I’m going to make my way to the office and set up. I have 3 hours until our extended family might show up…” Azalea trailed off at the sound of powerful wing beats, automatically lifting her arm just in time for Nyx to land gracefully. Seeing a note tied to her powerful talons she slips it out of the leather thong leaving the leather in place on the bird's leg.
Dear Heiress
We’ll see each other soon.
Sincerely,
Marius’ hell spawn.
“Looks like my cousins will definitely be here.” Azalea muttered amusedly. “Well off I go.” She told her aunt before sweeping out of the room. “Zilly! Show me to the Heirs office please!” She called out watching as the house elf popped up in front of her leading her down two corridors to an intimidating looking office.
The room had cat silver marble flooring with a black fur rug set in front of a massive stone fireplace. The walls were a medium silver colour with burgundy tapestries and drapes. On the furthest side of the room sat an ebony desk inlaid with Mitchell filigree. There were two silver clawfoot sofas facing each other about a foot in front of the desk and a black clawfoot wingback chair facing the desk directly. Behind the desk sat a black leather office chair. On the right side of the chair sat an empty weapons rack. Seeing it she opened her bag and summoned her spare Falchion and dagger, placing them lovingly on the rack.
“Zilly air out the room please and bring me a wormwood incense.” Azalea ordered as she plopped into the office chair taking note of an ornately carved quartz inkwell and quill holder with an iridescent harpy feather quill inside.
She still had time to waste so she pulled out the book she was reading previously and took out a sheath of parchment to jot down notes on. She got done twenty more pages from the book before a brisk knock resounded through the room.
“Come in.” She called out sternly as she continued to jot down the last line of notes. At the sound of the heavy mahogany door opening she glanced up. Four adults and eight teenagers filed in along with Cassiopeia who strode over to stand to her left slightly behind her. At this Azalea stood from behind the desk and slightly bowed. “Hello, you must be my cousins. My name is Azalea Dorea Potter-Black, current head of house Potter and Heiress and acting head of house Black. Please introduce yourselves.” She said as she waved them to the chairs, waiting for them to seat themselves before sitting down herself with Cassiopeia still standing behind her.
“Well I’ll go first then. My name is Volans Altair Black, current head of our immediate family. This is my wife Siobhan Black who is a squib from the MacNair family.” The closest man answered with a silken voice. He had jaw length artfully curled hair swept back and cold silver eyes, a strong jaw and a straight aristocratic nose with high cheekbones. His tall lithe form was folded gracefully in the couch as he held his chin up with his fist with his right leg crossed over his left. He was dressed in a black button up with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows and black slacks with a grey leather belt and black leather boots. On his left wrist sat a silver Rolex.
The woman he waved his hand toward carelessly sat elegantly with her ankles crossed. She had one dainty hand laid on her husband’s knee which was swiftly covered by his larger one and the other was laid gently in her lap. She had long auburn hair done in an updo and stunning ocean blue eye and a heart shaped face with full lips. Her willowy body was clad in a light silver knee length a-lined dress and black suede pumps with a thin ankle strap. She had a platinum and diamond jewelry set with a necklace, bracelet and earrings along with a diamond and sapphire wedding band.
“Good evening Lady Potter-Black. You may call me aunt Von if you please.” Siobhan’s sultry voice was thick with a Scottish brogue. “This is my first born Altair Perseus Black, his twin Castor Alphard Black, my oldest daughter Carina Maia Black and my youngest Alasia Polaris Black. Altair graduated four years ago and has entered an enchantment apprenticeship to become a master, Castor is working on an Arithmancy mastery while Carina just graduated and plans to try for a dueling a mastery and Alasia is working on a ward mastery while working at Viveka’s wand shop to learn wand craft.” She continued with a soft smile that contrasted with the sharp intelligent glint in her eyes.
The young man she pointed at gave a small smirk and a nod of acknowledgment. Altair had jaw length curly hair swept back and layered. His sharp fox-like silver eyes were lined lightly drawing attention to them. He had the high cheekbones and strong jaw of his father and the full lips of his mother. He was dressed in a dark charcoal grey button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up and white slacks with a black leather belt that had a dragon leather bag attached. He also had on grey dragon hide boots. On his left ear dangled an obsidian earring that matched well with the silver watch embedded with black diamonds.
His twin Castor had shoulder length black curly hair half pulled back in a bun with the same sharp fox-like grey eyes as his twin and the same face as him but with a small beauty mark under his left eye. He wore a wine red silk button up with the sleeves rolled up and black slacks and dragon hide boots. On his left wrist he had a platinum wristwatch embedded with garnets. Lastly he has an amber earring dangling off his right ear.
One of the young women on the other hand gave off a welcoming smile and a little wave. Carina was a stunning woman just like her mother. She had wild curly black hair that went to her shoulder blades with the left side braided back in warrior braids that had copper wire woven in. Her fox-like molten silver eyes were lined with long eyelashes that graced her cheeks every time she blinked. She had a heart shaped face like her mother as well as her full lips. She was relatively tall for a woman and had her fathers lithe build like her brother. Her body was clad in white high waisted slacks and a deep blue silk button up blouse that also had her sleeves rolled up exposing strong arms and a platinum watch on her left wrist. She also had a matching obsidian earring to her brother on the opposite ear.
Alasia on the other hand kept her face blank as she gave Azalea a nod of acknowledgment. She had loosely curled black hip length hair that was half pulled back in a braid with smaller braids wrapped in long copper coils with amber and garnets looking like they are dripping off it scattered throughout the loose strands. Her fox-like eyes were uniquely a silvery blue that none of the others had and gave off an arctic feeling. Her willowy body was clad in a loose burgundy off the shoulder wrap cashmere sweater tucked into high waisted white tight fitted slacks with a brown dragon hyde leather belt and matching ankle boots. She had a rose gold watch embedded with garnets on her left wrist and an amber earring matching Castor dangling off her left ear.
“Then my brood and I are next. I’m Volans younger brother Caelum Marius Black and this is my lovely wife Maleia Black, a squib from the Bones family.” Caelum’s jovial voice boomed through the room. He had shoulder length black curly hair half pulled up in a bun and sharp wolf like ice blue eyes lined with laugh lines. He had a strong jaw along with a straight nose, finely arched brow and the same aristocratic features of his older brother, matted of fact they could pass as twins if not for the slight differing of eye colour. He had a taller, more stocky build from his brother that was clad in black slacks with black leather boots and a copper coloured button up shirt. His sleeves too were rolled up exposing strong forearms and a gold rolex on his left wrist.
His wife Maleia had a warm look to her that brought to mind a Bonfire in fall. She had fiery red hair that fell in gentle waves to her waist and warm cinnamon puppy shaped eyes. She had a soft round face with a softly upturned nose and full pouty lips that pulled back in a mischievous smile. She was shorter than Siobhan and had a softer curvier body clad high waisted tight black trousers and suede wedges with a thin ankle strap. She also had on a champagne silk halter blouse tucked into her pants with a black lace shaw. She had on a delicate ruby teardrop necklace and earring set that matched well with her ruby and diamond wedding band.
“This is my brood. Illyrian Caelum, my first born and his twin Corvus Hydrus. Next to Corvus is Atlas Regulus and his twin Lyra Vega. Illyrian and Corvus are in the year below you and Atlas and Lyra the year below that.” Caelum continued as he pointed out each of his children.
Illyrian had shoulder length curls that were swept to the right and liquid fox-like silver eyes. He still had signs of his youth on his face but it couldn’t hide the sharp high cheekbones and jaw. He had his mothers pouty lips along with his father’s nose and finely arched brow. He was still growing into his lithe form, seemingly inheriting his fathers height. He was clad in an emerald button up with rolled up sleeves and black slacks and belt with black dragonhide boots. On his left wrist he had a black leather watch along with an obsidian bracelet.
His twin Corvus was completely identical to him except for the fact that he had the left side of his hair braided back like his cousin Carina. He was clad in an Aegean blue button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up and white slacks with a silver belt and dark grey dragon hide boots. On his left wrist sat a silver watch and a matching obsidian bracelet to his brother.
Next to Corvus sat the last male, Atlas. He too looked identical to Illyrian and Corvus though he had his shoulder length curls half pulled back like his father. He was clad in a teal button up with the sleeves pouch up and black slacks with a charcoal grey belt and dragon hide boots. On his left wrist sat a grey leather wristwatch and obsidian bracelet.
His twin Lyra though was as beautiful as a doll. She had neat ringlets that flowed to her waist and sharp fox-like molten silver eyes lined heavily with long eyelashes that kissed her cheeks. She had her fathers aristocratic facial features still rounded with baby fat and her mother pouty full lips. She sat demurely with her ankles crossed and her hands folded into her lap. Her lithe form was clad in a 3/4 sleeve magenta wrap tunic that fell to mid thigh and silver leggings tucked into darker grey flat ankle boots. She had a silver wrist watch on her left wrist and had a silver necklace with an obsidian and diamond teardrop pendant.
“Mother magic has truly blessed your unions Volans, Caelum. You have such beautiful children. I am Cassiopeia Lyra Black, the younger sister of the late Lord Arcturus black and Marius’s younger cousin.” Cassiopeia introduced herself with a slight curtsy look stunning with her hair still done up in an intricate bun from this morning but she had changed her outfit. She was now dressed in an aubergine high lace lined collar acromantula silk blouse and white double breasted high waisted skirt with amethyst buttons that had extra fabric in the back giving the illusion of a bustle with silver high heeled dragon hide boots. Her collar was pinned closed with an oval amethyst brooch that matched her amethyst chandelier earrings.
For not even the first time today Azalea praised her morning self for picking out one of her fancier outfits instead of going with her typical plain silk tunic and legging combo. While they were comfortable they wouldn’t have been appropriate to wear for this meeting and would have more than likely put her at a disadvantage. Fucking Blacks and their need to subtly intimidate everything that exists. ‘I bet they weave fresh flowers in their hair to go to a flower viewing festival or better yet I bet they were exotic fur to a P.E.T.A. protest’. She thought to herself as she observed them during their introductions.
“Thank you Lady Cassiopeia. I feel blessed to have such a healthy family. Mother Magic has finally returned to our line, first with our younger sister and now with Caelum and my own children.” Volans answered back politely. “Now I wonder, why are you inviting us back into the fold, young heiress?” He continued as he slid his eyes back to Azalea.
“The first and most important reason is that you are family. As an orphan that is reason enough for me, but as acting Head of House Black I have more clinical reasons as well. As I’m sure you noticed House of Blacks members have dwindled down to almost nil due to mainly outside forces. Our Head of House is a fugitive without a trial, Walburga was driven insane during her Hogwarts years and almost caused the family to self-destruct, Andromeda was driven out while Bellatrix and Narcissa are dead. With your reintegration the next generation is secured and we fuck over who was trying to wipe us out. The third reason is if I die during the war I will have an heir ready to take over the family to keep it from dying out. The final reason is that I can foster better talents. The more you achieve the more our name will be spoken and the more House of Black returns to its previous power. The world has forgotten our name and the fear it instilled, it's time to remind them.” Azalea answered back as she laced her fingers together on the desk.
“And what do we get in return for this?” Volans inquired.
“You mean beyond what I hinted at.” Azalea quipped with a wry smirk. “First is the entirety of the Black family's political force standing behind you. You also get to benefit from the connections I myself have fostered, such as the Longbottoms, Greengrass, Zabinis, Notts, Lovegoods and more. You get access to the Black family vault as well as a stipend at the end of every month. Access to exotic and rare potions ingredients and to the Black family library and finally you get to fuck up Dumbledore’s day which is the sweetest part of the deal if you ask me.” She answered as she unwound her fingers and ticked off each point.
“Honestly I would do it just to fuck over Dumbledore.” Illyrian’s silken voice grumbled out.
“Yeah honestly Fuck that guy.” Corvus muttered back to his twin.
Alasia hummed in agreement before tacking on her own comment. “Honestly it’s not his fault, he was just faster than the wisdom chasing him.”she said dryly causing both Carina and Lyra to break out into a soft chuckle
“Fucking pretentious asshole.” Altair responded back to his younger cousins and sister.
“Language.” Carina muttered to her brother with an elbow.
“English.” He snipped back before quieting down.
“He has the personality of the colour Chartreuse.” Castor muttered to Alasia while Altair and Carina bickered.
“Would you expect us to fight in the war?” Volans asked as he shot a look at his children.
“No. Honestly that’s your decision not mine but if it were up to me I’d ask you to stay out of it. We do not need more child soldiers. My friends and I got that covered. I don’t want to have to kill you if you're on the opposite side either.” Azalea answered back immediately.
“Oho! You think you could kill me!” Altair quipped back at the younger girl as Castor smacked his shoulder.
“Yes.” Azalea answered with a bright smile. Honestly what purpose did he even have to ask that of a child soldier who has been fighting to survive since first year. After all, she was a traumatized teenager with a proclivity towards homicide, arson, or both. “Let’s pray that we don’t have to find out first hand, dear cousin, I have been killing since I was eleven after all.” She continued while staring him down like he was prey while keeping the smile on her face.
“What if we’re targeted due to our relation to you?” Volans asked to change the subject, not wanting his son to run his mouth anymore than he already did.
“Easy, I’ll assign guards. Since your sister is married to the head of the Umbre family you should know about their role. If you want I can send you to one of the vacation homes out of the country till the war is over. Honestly though, do you really need it?” Azalea questioned as she tilted her head bewildered.
“What do you mean?” Volans asked back with an arched brow.
“You might need to be reinstated for the family magic to fully activate but you're still members of the Black family. No Black would run from a fight. It’s just not in our blood” Azalea answered back with her gaze now singling back onto Volans with an unholy smirk. “I mean sure someone else can kill them when you're the one who planned the whole thing but having someone attack you and not responding back yourself tenfold is just bad taste.”
“Ha! Well said niece. Alright, we’ll rejoin the family but I want one of your children to marry one of Altair’s if they can’t find their soulmates before 20. If they find their soulmate afterwards then an amicable split is viable as long as there is a child between them who can inherit the Lordship.” Volans tacked on with a sly smirk.
Azalea contemplated this for a second. It was true that they were related but it was distant enough that it shouldn’t matter. If she counted right the last distant relative they had gone back five generations which was a lot better than most pureblood marriages. Contract marriages irked her slightly but by all means this wasn’t a bad deal, matter of fact if she hadn’t already found her soulmate she herself would have taken them up on the deal for either Illyrian or Corvus since they were closer in age. Unfortunately though she wholeheartedly believed that if she took another lover that Lucius would off them expeditiously with a brutality rarely seen in a civilized community.
“Alright. I don’t see an issue as long as the kids can decide to back out or proceed with it themselves. Also I believe we should pick who specifically later after seeing how the children interact with each other. It would make sense not to pair up kids who hate each other, after all we don’t want another Walburga and Orion situation.” She answered back as she leaned further back in her chair and crossed her leg over her knee. Glancing over to the clock caused her to let out a little hum of surprise. She hadn’t realized that it was half past six already.
“Shall we move this conversation to the dining room, I’m sure the elves have made another exquisite meal.” She asked as she glanced over at her aunt for confirmation, receiving a discreet nod.
“That sounds lovely, Lady Potter-Black.” Siobhan answered after a brief glance to her husband and Caelum.
“Great, follow me. Oh and feel free to address me as Azalea.” Azalea said as she pushed up off the seat to stand up and strode out from behind the desk with the grace of a barely restrained predator while Cassiopeia glided with the elegance of a bird in flight.
Now that she was out from behind the desk her own lithe stature could be observed. Her body language lulled the unobservant into a false sense of security with her languid, almost lazy gait like that of a bored feline. Her 5’8 form being the shortest in the room, the only sign that gave away her vigilance being the sharp glint in her eyes. The emerald silk of her tunic brought out the colour of her eyes while the lighting in the room made them seem to almost glow ethereally.
Ignoring the curious glances she glided to the door with Cassiopeia trailing behind her protectively. “Follow me. I’ll lead us to the dining room.” She informed the group as they stood up from their chairs fluidly. Azalea led them down the corridor to the dining room that Cassiopeia and her had eaten lunch together in.
After a subtle signal from Cassiopeia she sat at the head of the table for the first time while Cassiopeia sat to her left leaving the right seat vacant. At the other head sat Volans with his wife Siobhan to his right followed by Altair, Castor, Carina, then finally Alasia. To his left sat his Brother Caelum then Maleia, Illyrian,Corvus, Atlas and finally Lyra.
When everyone settled plates settled in front of each person. The elves had made lemon herb baked salmon with roasted asparagus and wild rice with mushrooms and green onion. Glasses of aged elf wine appear in front of everyone though for Atlas and Lyra it was watered down with white grape juice. Each person also had a bowl of caesar salad with freshly grated romano.
Easy conversation flowed around the table. The atmosphere was surprisingly warm even as the teens discussed different charms that could double as a defense spell like casting a repulsio on glass shards or wingardium on a boulder and releasing it over top of the opponent's head. Before Azalea realized it was already 8 and she needed to get ready for Zuriel to come.
“Well as lovely as this meal has been for me, I have an 8:30 appointment with Zuriel Umbre and whoever she chooses to bring with her.” Azalea sighed out as she put her napkin down on the table. She watched quietly as everyone followed suit. “If you would like to stay overnight I will have Damien prepare rooms for you. Stay as long as you like, after all we are family and I would like to get to know you more. If you decide to leave I will walk you to the floo. If you want to stay for a bit and explore before you leave you are welcome to — ” Azalea was cut off by a pop as Damien appeared to Azalea’s right in a slight bow.
“Lady Azie, you have unexpected Guests. I have taken the eight of them to the foyer. They said to tell you ‘your moonbeam has arrived’. What are your orders?” He squeaked out as his ears flopped when he snapped straight.
“Well, I best be hurrying then.” Azalea said as she stood and ignored the other teens trailing after her quietly in curiosity. She had just turned the corner to the foyer when she was slammed into by a blonde blue.
“Badh I have brought Andraste, Annan, and Andarta plus their families!” The blur said as she nuzzled into Azalea's shoulder.
“Luna, my dear Nemain, you are a sight for sore eyes but why are you here? Did something happen?” Azalea said as she wrapped her arms around the smaller girl and rocked her side to side. Lifting her eyes she became slightly alarmed at noticing that Nelda, Luna, Susan, and Hannah were wearing their silver acolyte uniforms without the hood and mask while the adults wore their own dueling robes in their house colours.
“Mm, well, yes I guess…” was Luna’s muffled reply.
“What Luna means to say is she appeared at LeStrange manor and stole me away from my soulmate and his brother before going on to capture my Nan and taking us to pick up Susan, lady Amelia Bones, Hannah, lady Elise and Lord Lukas Abbot who where surprising already completely packed and at Bones manor.” Nelda said as she stepped forward and clasped a hand on Azalea’s shoulder.
“Susan, report please.” She commanded in a soothing tone realizing the state that two of her inner circle were in. Both were pale and slightly trembling but with looks of rage in their eyes.
“It seems both Hannah and I got the same letter basically. It was a warning. It seems our soulmates chose us as they sent a letter warning us that the Death Eaters were going to raid our manors. We had packed up and gathered in Bones manor to plan where we would go, next thing I Know Luna, Nelda, and Dowager Longbottom are in my foyer whisking us away to the gates of Black manor.” She answered back as she joined the hug with Hannah. Both taking a moment to bask in Azalea’s protective magic before they all stepped back. Without another word she handed Azalea the letter she pulled out of her pocket.
Zhizn Moya,
You need to escape the manor with your aunt tonight. The Dark Lord plans to raid it to kill Amelia to replace her. Hopefully our next letter can be much lighter. I’m sorry.
Azalea frowned as she read it, her eyes rapidly scanned the small piece of parchment before snapping to Hannah.
“Is yours similar?” She asked softly, getting a firm nod in response. Hannah handed her letter over with a soft sigh.
Elskan,
I regret having to write this as my first letter to you. I would have liked for our first communication to be happy, full of promise or even just a friendly introduction, regretfully I must instead send you a warning. The Dark Lord will be coming for you and your family tomorrow. I cannot allow you to perish hence the letter. Please take this warning to heart and flee to safety. I cannot say why your family is being targeted because I honestly don’t know. Stay safe.
With a hopeful heart,
T.
“The fucking dickless Dark Lord, always causing headaches.” Azalea muttered as she ran her hand down her face. “Alright, you're staying here with me. I’ll set you up with the rooms in the same wing as mine. I’m meeting Zuriel Umbre in five minutes so Luna, Nelda you're with me. Damien will lead the rest to their room.” Azalea said before waving her hand toward the hallway where the Blacks were watching silently. “Guys, allow me to introduce you. These are Atair, Castor, Carina, and Alasia Black and their cousins Illyrian, Corvus, Atlas, and Lyra Black. They are being reinstated into the Black family.” She informed me as she pointed each out individually. “These four are some of my very best friends along with three others. Their names are Nelda Longbottom, Luna Lovegood, Susan Bones and Hannah Abbott. The eight of us have gone to hell and back together. Just fair warning, don’t get on Luna’s bad side.”
With that she turned on her heel and walked out of the foyer with Nelda and Luna flanking her, leaving the rest to Damien to handle.
“First of all I should warn you that the Umbres are a vassal house to the Blacks. I plan on taking on Zuriel as my aid if all goes to plan. They’re known for runic work. I told her that she can bring up to three others though I don’t know who she will choose.” She spoke as she entered the heirs office once again, this time leaning on the front of the desk, Nelda took her place standing at her right while Luna sat on the left corner of the desk reading over the contract she made with Volans earlier.
Not even a minute later she could hear the sound of heels clicking down the marble hallway. Silence came before a sharp knock resounded through the room.
“Come in.” Azalea called out firmly. She crossed her arms as she watched the door swing open and four teens trail in after Cassiopeia and lined up in front of her like soldiers reporting for duty.
The first one was a young woman just slightly taller than herself with straight purplish black shoulder blade length hair with jaw length bangs. She had fox-like pure gold eyes set on high cheekbones. Her lithe body was clad in an aubergine purple silk tunic with a thick black leather belt holding multiple throwing knives on each side with form fitting dragon leather leggings tucked into calf length dragon leather boots which had a dagger tucked into the outer side. To complete the outfit she had on leather gloves.
“My name is Zuriel, heir Black, it is an honor to be called upon. I hope to serve you well. I have brought with me Erebus Caelus, Indra Fulmen, and Akalina Ardeo as they won the right to come over Calypso Unda and Aurelian Conlisio. We are the group who are to serve this generation's heir as we are the strongest in our respective families.” Her voice was like honey, low and husky.
The young man next to her had ash blond soft wavy cheek length hair with fox-like mischievous jade green eyes. He wore a burnt orange short sleeve tunic showing off his muscular arms with a black leather belt and matching gloves. His legs were clad in form fitting black leather pants tucked into calf leather boots. He had twin 5 inch daggers strapped to his right thigh in a black leather sheath. “I am Erebus, my Lady. It is an honor to serve you. I am the heir to the Caelus line. I hope we all can build a strong cohesive unit.” He spoke calmly in a low smooth voice.
The last male had soft honey blonde waves to his jaw and sharp silver wolf like eyes that held a cunning glint in them. He stood the tallest of all of them dressed in a rich dark blue long sleeve tunic with a black leather belt that held throwing knives at the sides with a matching set of leather gloves and black leather trousers tucked into equally black leather calf length boots. “I am overjoyed to finally serve my master. I have waited many years to meet you. I am called Indra, heir to house Fulmen.” His voice was like velvet, dark yet warm. His eyes seemed fixated on her with an intensity she had only seen on Hermione's face when she got her hands on a rare tome.
Finally the last person was a woman with straight red hip length hair pulled back out of her face in braids with wild wolf-like orange amber eyes. She showed the most emotion with a feral grin plaster on her face. She stood a bit taller than Zuriel and her curvaceous body was clad in dark red and brown dueling robes with dark brown dragon leather armor and vambraces. She also had on dark brown leather leggings tucked into calf length brown boots. Unlike the other three who clearly had their main bladed weapon hidden she had her cutlass sheathed at her hip on blatant display. “Names Akalina Ardeo, just call me Kali. Nice ta meetcha! I look forward to setting shit on fire for you. I’m the oldest child of the Ardeo family.” She spoke in a silken yet jovial voice.
“Nice to formally meet you. You might recognize me from school but I’ll introduce myself anyway. My name is Azalea Potter-Black, you may call me Azalea. I have brought with me two of my closest confidants, to my right is Heiress Nelda Longbottom and to my left is Heiress Luna Lovegood. If you are going to be working with me I will introduce you to the rest. Please take a seat.” Azalea said, waving towards the couches. She watched as they sat on one couch before leading Nelda and Luna to the one across from them.
“Now that introductions are over I was advised by Lord Arcturus’ portrait to reach out to you, Zuriel, about a runic project that I’m undertaking.” Azalea said as she leaned back further into the couch and crossed her right ankle over her knee. She kept her eyes on Zuriel even as she felt Luna lean into her side and rested her head on Azalea’s shoulder.
“I would be delighted to help. My father has been training my siblings and I in runes since we could talk. I will admit though that my brother Raziel is a little better at it than Ananiel and I, though not by much. If you would like I can call my siblings over and we can get started immediately on this project. Are there other people we might be working with on this or would it just be us?” Zuriel asked with an excited look in her eyes.
“Right now it’s just us though if I need to I can get more people. I’m sure Luna and Nelda could help but while they are good at runes I wouldn’t say it’s their expertise. Theo would be a better choice since I have Hermione and Daphne doing other projects.” She answered back thoughtfully. The thought of asking Altair had also crossed her mind since he said he was in an apprenticeship for enchanting but unlike Zuriel who was a vassal Altair was a Black. One who she just met and one who she didn’t know where exactly his loyalties lie besides his core family.
“If needed I could bring in my cousins Asmodeus and Asteroth or even my boyfriend Amantius’s cousins Enyo and Enya Selwyn who are part of the Selwyns neutral branch. I could also ask my father, he is a master enchanter and a Rune master.” Zuriel hedged.
“Hmm.” Azalea hummed out before glancing at Luna. At her slight nod she turned her attention back onto Zuriel. “I would have to meet Enyo and Enya myself but I wouldn’t mind your cousins and your fathers help.”
“I could also help master. I am the best in my year at runes and I’m not far off from Zuriel's skill. I am apprenticing for a runes mastery currently though I’m in my first year of it.” Indra practically purred out ecstatic at the prospect of both a new project and scoring points from his new master.
“I mean I’m better at arithmancy than runes but I still got an O on my N.E.W.T.S. I could also run the numbers to help find the best outcome.” Kali shrugged while scratching the back of her head.
“I’m not the best at runes but I could procure the items needed so you aren’t seen buying it. It would keep they’re notice off you. It wouldn't be out of character for me either since my youngest cousins Eris and Pasiphae like to create and enchant jewelry for the family as gifts. They are a year younger than you.” Erebus offered feeling a little left out.
“That’d be perfect, thank you. Also if you wouldn’t mind inviting Aurelian and Calypso here in two days' time, I would like to meet them before I meet the heads of the vassal houses.” Azalea inquired with a smile. “I will be gone from late morning and don’t know when I’ll be back.” She tacked on thoughtfully watching as her new subordinates glanced at each other in a silent conversation.
“Well master since the Caelus can’t be seen with you due to their role and Zuriel will be collecting her siblings and cousins tomorrow to prepare for your project. Do you mind if I accompany you on your errands?” Indra asked hesitantly.
“You don’t need to. I’ll be with Luna, Nelda and the rest of my group. I'd rather keep you guys separate from my army to keep you under the radar. It’ll make it easier for you to complete the tasks I’ll give you, though I wouldn’t mind if you were to discreetly patrol the Alleys while I handle my business in gringotts. Why don’t you stay the night and I’ll create a way for you to communicate what you see.” Azalea said as she uncrossed her legs and sat up straighter. She pulled out seven mythril ear cuffs each shaped like a dragon with quarts eyes from her bag on her hip.
“Just a moment.” Azalea said as she stood up and walked to the desk, sat back down and pulling out her engraving tools and a magnifying monocle then got to work engraving the eihwaz, Laguz, raido, ehwaz, dagaz, ansuz, and isa runes down the back connecting the sequence to the quartz stones to power the runes. She then cut her hand and let her blood flow over the cuffs watching as it absorbed into the metal, allowing the magic in her blood to lock it for anyone but the eventual second blood source.
“Here, you just need to nick yourself and add your own blood so it can’t be used by others.” She said as she held out one for each of them, keeping two on her desk while putting hers on. Watching them as they did so without an ounce of hesitation brought a slight smile to her lips, it was a rare sight for Azalea, watching people accept her without having to first prove herself. Only Nelda, Luna, Theo, Blaise, Susan, Hannah, Sirius, and Cassiopeia have ever done so, not even her soulmate. Lucius hated her before the mark, now she had no clue what he thought and she was honestly scared to find out.
“I can take Calypso’s and Aurelian’s to them tomorrow, Azalea.” Erebus offered as he fiddled with his cuff, trying to put it on without a mirror.
“Sure that sounds perfect. All you need to do is brush your magic against the metal and think what you want to pass on and anyone with a linked cuff will receive it. If you want to send it to one person specifically you need to picture them clearly in your mind. It will sound like the person is speaking directly into your ear. If you want to send an image then you need to focus solely on the image, kind of like occlumency, and project it as loud as you can.” She informed me as she waited for them to all have their cuffs on. “You should be able to hear me now. Try projecting your answer to me.” She projected towards them, watching their reactions as she did so.
“Interesting. Did I do this right?” Came Zuriel's voice as she had a look of intense focus.
“I heard you, Zuriel.” Erebus answered with a look of intrigue.
“I will never take mine off mistress. If you need me you can summons me at any time.” Indra projected with a slight manic look. “Calypso is going so jealous.” He muttered out loud with a euphoric look of victory.
“Calypso is his cousin. They both have a strong possessive streak which seems to have centered on you. Most of us have, so I apologize in advance.” Akalina projected smugly.
‘Oh my’ Azalea thought to herself. ‘Why do I always attract people who are unhinged?’ She thought as she glanced towards Luna only to be met with an unblinking stare.
“Well, is that everything?” Nelda asked, speaking up for the first time.
“I believe so.” Luna answered back as she hopped to her feet and rounded the desk to lean against the back of Azalea’s desk.
“Yep, that was everything on my agenda today. Remind me to try and limit having meetings once a day. I hate feeling like I’m rushing.” Azalea answered, stretching in her chair. Would you all care to join me for a cup of tea?” She continued as she stood up and rounded the desk again with Luna trailing after her to stand next to Nelda who stood up to her full height of 5 '10.
At everyone’s nod of approval she led them to the sun room that she was starting to love. She walked into the room to find the sight of Susan, Hannah, and the Black cousins sitting around the coffee table with three more couches facing each other and a teapot sitting in the middle of the table with a tray of tea bags next to a trey of finger sandwiches.
“Azalea, Nelda, Luna I hope you don’t mind but I chose your teas.” Susan said with tired eyes but a gentle smile.
“Thanks Sue. What did you pick out?” Azalea said as trailed to the couch with Nelda and Luna. Nelda sat down next to Susan while giving her a warm half hug. Azalea sat next to Nelda followed up by Luna. She nodded to the last couch for Zuriel, Akalina, Erebus and Indra to sit down at.
“For you Azalea I picked out a lavender Chamomile. I picked out Honey and Vanilla for Luna and finally I picked out mint chamomile for Nelda. Hannah and I are drinking ginseng and valerian chamomile with lemon. I thought it best for everyone to have a soothing tea after the day we had.” She answered sheepishly. Both her and Hannah still had the stress from earlier resting heavy in their eyes. In fact Susan constantly had one of her hands trailing to where she knew Susan hid one of her daggers.
“I promise you Susan your family and Hannah’s will be safe here. The Black Manor has some of the most extensive wards I’ve ever felt, even more than Nott Manor. If anyone tries to break in they’ll meet with a nasty surprise. We’ll talk to Blaise, Theo and Daphne tomorrow and see if they want to join us here. We have a couple more rooms in my wing let alone the untold free rooms in the west wing and this is the first floor only. I haven’t explored the second or third floors. There is also an annex to the south that’s two stories as well. Soon Peverell manor will be fixed up too. I’m a little worried about Rosier Manor though because Even Rosier escaped Azkaban. I mean I met him with Padfoot and while it seems he accepted me it was rocky and I don’t know if I trust him with you guys yet.” Azalea rambled trying to put her friends at ease, knowing well enough that she wasn’t the best at comforting but what she was best at was protecting who she considered as hers.
“Not to interrupt but I can talk to my father, we have a well warded vacation home in southern France That we could send non combatants.” Zuriel said tentatively with a small blush on an otherwise calm face.
Azalea flashed a thankful smile towards Zuriel at hearing this. “That’s a perfect idea, thank you Zuriel.” She replied kindly. “I can also check the Black and Potter management portfolios to see if I have any other unused properties. The inheritance test only showed the ancestral homes and the ones purchased under the family names. There might be homes bought under individuals who did not add them to the family holdings and since I’m the last Potter and the Black heiress I might be able to claim them under the premise of me being their Lady.” She tacked on thoughtfully.
“I know I have a manor in the Alps from the Potters and one in Catania Italy from the Blacks that are out of the country. The Rosiers have one in the Riviera and in Spain though like I said I don’t know if I can trust him.”
“The longbottoms have one in Romania, one in Norway and one in Cypress.” Nelda informed after taking a slow, drawn out sip of her tea.
“The Bones have one in Greece and Germany.” Susan offered up as she started to settle further into the calm that permeated the room.
“I have one in the state of Louisiana. It’s only a two story house on the Bayou that was left to my mom from her grandmother. The Bayou protects its own and it has 9 bedrooms big enough for two people each.” Hannah supplied.
“You know now that I’m thinking about it. I have an ancestor who helped create Ilvermony. He might have left a house for his descendants. I can also write to whoever the headmaster is to see if they can take transfer students for the muggle born and some half bloods. We can send Astoria, Colin and his brother Denis to take charge of the refugees and to supply news from the outside.” Azalea continued on.
“I think we should station some of our members in different countries. You know, the ones who aren’t combat oriented. That way we can get a steady supply of information from multiple area’s. I think another good option is Wayne Hopkins, Sue Li and Zacharias Smith. Don’t get me wrong they are decent fighters but their skills are best used elsewhere. Su Li could be stationed in China or Taiwan. She is fluent in Chinese since her mom comes from Yunnan Province. She can go under her real name Lí Xiùlán or by her mothers maiden name of Lú if she accepts. Smith knows German so we could send him to Germany, Switzerland or the Netherlands. He could go under the name Zeke Schmidt. Wayne could go to Australia maybe under the name Wade Hast.” Luna muttered out deep in thought.
If they could pull it off it could be extremely beneficial. They would have to come up with disguises but Lavender could undoubtedly work her magic with cosmetic charms. The only one that is iffy is Smith. He was known for his short temper and short sightedness. His attitude has been stomped down somewhat from training but she didn’t know how he would be unsupervised.
“Um, would now be the time to mention that grandfather Marius purchased a plot of land in the Highlands as a training facility. It’s remote, and has both an indoor and outdoor training area. It was bought under the fake names of Martin and Adalaide Schaur and passed down to Valentino Schaur. He made sure to buy land on a ley line so magic will be decently hidden.” Altair pipped in.
Four collective sighs of despair rang out immediately as a look of unholy glee crossed Azalea's face. “You’ve doomed us all.” Susan whimpered out with dramatic tears trailing down her cheeks.
“Oh come on, it can't be that bad.” Castor said hesitantly.
“No, it's worse.” Nelda groaned. “She has us physically train for four hours straight before we are allowed to take a ten minute rest before moving on to three hours of dueling or spell learning then a half hour of meditation in the form of kata to help with occlumency and animagus training. Sometimes we get an easy day of training in the form of an hour of runes followed by an hour of Arithmancy then two hours of sparring followed by language practice for another hour and potions for the last hour. It’s grueling every summer. Our core group has been doing this for three years now.”
“It’s easier when we are in school. We only train for two hours each session. Half an hour for physical training followed by a half an hour of dueling then an hour on interchanging subjects of Defense, charms , transfiguration and curses. After that we are handed something to work on in our own time. My favorite lesson though is the battle royal to help simulate a battle ground during war.” Luna chimed in with a wry smile, trying to look on the bright side glancing over to Azalea's face only to turn away and pale further.
Her face had gone from manic glee to an angelic smile with only her eyes glowing with crazed and vindictive glee. Did she think her training might be overkill? Yes, yes she did. Did she care? No, not one bit. It was better to be over prepared for war than underprepared in her opinion, and if driving her friends into the ground saved them then she would do so gleefully. Of course if she forgot to mention that her own endurance came from her obscene amount of magic, could you blame her? Probably. But did she care though? The answer to that was a resounding no. It was funny to see their looks of dread and disbelief on their faces as she continued to train even as they dropped. She had more experience in physical training to, what with running from Dudley and all the child labour that he aunt and uncle put her though.
“Oh my. It sounds like you guys are excited to play with me. How about we have a nice 1 v 4 tomorrow night after the Gringotts meeting.” She crooned out sweetly as static started to get her in the air around them.
“No thanks Aza I have an appointment to dance with my familiar at that time.” Luna answered serenely.
“I didn’t know harpy eagles like to waltz.” Azalea stated confusedly tilting her head as the static started to dissipate.
“Yes, it's an integral part of Calypso’s culture. How else is she supposed to dance at her debutante?” Came an even more outrageous answer.
“Huh.” Was all she could say now completely sidetracked from her earlier plans. “Well then, have you decided the venue for Calypso’s debutante. If not, we can hold it here and have Hedwig debut with her.”
“That would be lovely, thank you Azalea. On that note it is now 11 and time for me to sleep.” Luna chirped as she flounced out of the room with Nelda trailing after her quickly.
“Yes we are going to head off too. Susan and I chose the room next to yours. We plan to bunk together to save room in case others need to come.” Hannah said softly drifting out of the room with Susan.
“She gets me every time, I swear.” Azalea said with a soft laugh. “Do you all plan to stay as well?” She inquired softly.
“Our parents went home to prepare contingency plans in case of a long absence from their companies. The eight of us decided to stay here to get to know you and to learn what is expected of us now that we are under the house of Black. Cassiopeia has graciously offered to educate us on pure blood culture and etiquette.” Altair answered back with confidence.
“Ah yes I remember learning that myself after my first year. Dowager Longbottom and Lord Nott took the time to drill it into my head.” She replied with a fond smile. It was Hell and she couldn’t wait to watch them suffer like she did.
“We decided to bunk down as well. It'll be Carina, Alasia and Lyra in one room, Castor and Altair in another and Corvus, Atlas, and myself in a third.” Illyrian said calmly as they each got up to trail towards the family wing where Cassiopeia stayed.
“We will stay the night and head out in the morning if you don’t mind, Master.” Indra said as he pushed off the couch to stand.
“That’s fine. On another note Indra please just call me Azalea. That goes for all of you as well.” She responded back calmly.
“If you insist, master. Erebus and I will bunk together while Zuriel and Akalina will bunk in another room. I’m sure a house elf can guide us to a room.” Indra responded back slyly.
“Yes, yes, Zilly please guide them to their rooms please.” She called out before waving them off and walking to her room.
She opened it to find both Nelda and Luna already dressed in pajamas and laying in her bed. Letting out a fond sigh she gathered her own pj’s and headed to the attached bathroom to wash her face, brush her teeth and change. She left her braids in as well as her new ear cuff and the DA galleon but took her time to carefully unwind the coils from her hair. With that done she softly caressed the name on her wrist before padding to her bed and slipping in inbetween the two other girls and drifted off softly into Morpheus.