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Chapter Text

“Your Hogwarts letter should be here soon. Are you excited?”

Violet Lily Potter, who went by Peverell so as to not cause a stir, looked up from her breakfast, bright green eyes startling in their intensity and the wealth of knowledge they held. Knowledge that was beyond her years, but well-deserved. Violet was a voracious reader, and absorbed knowledge like a sponge. “Yes. I will get to meet so many new people! And… I'll get to see him.” She said, tucking her brown curls behind her ear. Her hair was shot through with red streaks, and she was quite sure that Harry would look different. They were fraternal twins, after all. She wondered if they would have the same eye colour.

Evan Rosier smiled sadly. “The way we raised you, you'll make Slytherin. He may be led to hate Slytherin as a whole.”

Violet frowned. “Don’t you think I know that?!” She snapped.

Indigena Yaxley came in from the gardens and shot her a quelling look. “Don't speak to your elders that way, Vi. We raised you better than that.” She said firmly.

“Yes, Mum.” Violet said softly. “Sorry.” She said to Evan.

“It's fine, emotions are bound to be running high right now.” He said evenly.

An owl swooped in through the window and dropped a letter—directly into Violet’s porridge.

She looked at the soggy parchment in disgust. “Urgh. I think I’m finished with breakfast for the day.” She picked it up and grabbed her wand—the relic of Death she had asked him to steal back for her.

The elder wand, part of her birth right.

She cleaned the letter with a spell and opened it.

“Aren’t you ever worried you'll get caught using magic early?” Evan asked.

Violet rolled her eyes. “No, Dad, I’m not worried. This wand can’t be Traced. As long as I’m using it, I’m fine.” She told him—for the hundredth time.

Evan just shrugged. “Well, there haven’t been any letters from the Ministry yet, so I suppose you're okay.”

Violet nodded distractedly. “We're going to get my school things today, right?” She asked.

“Yes, Vi, as soon as you're dressed, we’ll drop you off at the Orphanage, where Dumbledore still thinks you are. You'll meet the teacher who will be taking you to get your things there. We'll pick you back up when you send a Patronus letting us know you're done.” Indigena said, sipping the tea she had just brewed.

“I'll go get ready, then.” Violet murmured, getting up and heading to her bedroom.

*****

Violet looked up from her contemplation of her feet as the man she assumed was the teacher that was sent to take her to get her things drew up to her. “H-hello.” He stuttered. “I’m P-professor Quirrell.” Violet raked her eyes over him and found him lacking, though she had little choice but to go with him.

For some reason, she was drawn to him, despite her disgust with the stuttering man. “Yeah, let's go.” She said wearily, already annoyed from the long wait in the heat.

He held out an arm and Violet took it, and the man Apparated them. She could feel something else in him, some other presence that he held. She looked up at him, assessing him as they stood in the alley they had landed in.

“W-why are you looking at m-me like that?” He asked.

Violet frowned and slowly shook her head. “Nothing.” She said, sure she had been mistaken.

They walked to Gringotts and Violet took stock of the bank. “There’s something extra I want to do here. Can you keep it to yourself, or should I go in alone?”

Professor Quirrell laughed nervously. “I'm af-afraid I have to be w-with you everywhere you go, little lady.”

Violet scowled. “Then keep what I do here to yourself. If you go to Dumbledore, I'll know.” She snapped. She knew she had blocks on her, she had spoken to Death several times, and he had confirmed what she could feel. She didn’t intend to keep them on her any longer, and only the goblins would be willing and able to keep it a secret when she got them removed.

Professor Quirrell was silent as she went in ahead of him and strode confidently up to the counter. This girl was strange. It seemed like she knew the Wizarding World already, but that couldn’t be right.

The goblin behind the counter looked up as she approached. “Your business?” He asked.

“First, I want to be tested for blocks and compulsions, and have any that are on me removed.” She stated.

The goblin narrowed his eyes. “How old are you?” He asked.

Violet lifted her chin. “I turn eleven in three days.” She stated.

The goblin sniffed. “No-one would put any compulsions on a child so young, but we will test you for blocks, and the test will find any compulsions on you, as well.” He told her.

Violet nodded. “That will suffice, thank you.”

The goblin went and retrieved a paper, bringing it to her and setting it in front of her. “Prick a finger and place a drop of blood on the parchment.” The goblin told her.

Violet held out her hand to the Professor. “Will you do the honours?” She asked.

“C-certainly.” Professor Quirrell drew his wand and conjured a pin, sticking her with it and banishing the pin.

Violet let the drop of blood fall onto the parchment, then stuck the finger into her mouth as she watched the blood absorb.

The parchment began filling and the goblin's eyes widened as it lengthened to include everything.

The parchment read:

Blocks:

Magical core blocked by 60% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Magical leech active, 20% drain cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Inactive mating bonds (2) blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Horcrux bond blocked by 25% cast by: Tom Riddle

Magical resistance blocked by 85% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Elemental magic blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Weather control blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Mage ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Sight blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Familiar magic blocked by 85% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Healing blocked by 90% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Magical twin speak blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Metamorphmagus ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Parseltongue (written word) ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Parselmagic ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Parsel form blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Avistongue (spoken and written word) ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Avismagic ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Avis form blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Felistongue (spoken and written word) ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Felismagic ability blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Felis form blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Necromantic ability (speaking) blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Memory blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Judgement blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Magic creation blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Legilimency/Occlumency blocked by 75% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Language aptitude blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Patronus ability blocked by 85% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Transfiguration aptitude blocked by 50% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Charms aptitude blocked by 50% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Potions aptitude blocked by 90% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Astronomy aptitude blocked by 85% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Herbology aptitude blocked by 85% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Arithmancy aptitude blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Ancient Runes aptitude blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Alchemy aptitude blocked by 100% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Defence Against the Dark Arts aptitude blocked by 10% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Care of Magical Creatures aptitude blocked by 10% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Divination aptitude blocked by 45% cast by: Albus Dumbledore

Compulsions:

Hatred toward Severus Snape, Tom Riddle

Ignore self-preservation instincts

Hate all Slytherins

Slack off on schoolwork, turn in sub-par work

Hide Slytherin side

Become a model Gryffindor

Potions:

Mentor potion keyed to Albus Dumbledore

Loyalty potion keyed to Albus Dumbledore

Violet only got to read a small portion of the parchment before it was snatched up by the goblin, his eyes widening dramatically as he read. He finally finished after what felt like an eternity and lowered the parchment.

“Albus Dumbledore must hate you.” He said, in awe at the amount of tampering that had been done with this little girl's magic and abilities. She was powerful, but she was so bogged down with malicious spells that she would never realize her potential without the goblins' help.

Violet shrugged. “I don’t remember ever meeting the man, so your guess is as good as mine as to why. But I suspected as much. Can you help clear all the unwanted effects from me? I want to start school in top form.” She stated.

The goblin smiled. “Of course. It will be painful, I’m afraid. And part of it must be done without your chaperone.” He said with relish.

Professor Quirrell straightened. “I m-must protest! She is n-not to go anywhere w-without me. My instructions were v-very clear on that.”

“Are you so in Dumbledore’s pocket that you won’t allow me to cleanse myself of the taint that despicable man put on me?! What kind of low-class man are you?!” She shouted at him, hands balled into fists at her sides.

“Let her go.” A voice spoke.

Violet frowned. That voice had come from… The turban? Odd.

But Professor Quirrell bowed his head. “Yes, My Lord.” He murmured.

“So I can go with him, right?” She asked, nodding to the waiting goblin.

Professor Quirrell nodded in resignation. “Yes. When you are done, come straight back. No detours.” He told her firmly.

Violet simply sneered at him and followed the goblin to a hallway, hoping the coming ordeal wouldn't be too painful.

Chapter Text

Violet sat in the chair the goblin waved to, and the goblin sat behind the desk.

“Are there any blocks you want to keep? Perhaps the magical leech so that Albus Dumbledore is unaware that you've found them and had them removed?” The goblin asked.

Violet shook her head. “Let him know; I don’t care.”

“Bold words. But very well. The process will be excruciating, but it will only be once and then you will be free.” The goblin told her.

Violet steeled her nerves and nodded. “I’m prepared for pain.” She said.

The goblin nodded. “Very well.” He opened a drawer and pulled out two potions, handing her a black one.

Violet didn’t touch it. She only knew of two black potions, both of them deadly neurotoxins.

“That potion is goblin-made, you will not recognize it by sight, scent, or taste. It is safe to consume. It will protect your mind from insanity due to the pain the next potion will cause. Anyone who will need more than four strong blocks removed needs to take this potion. The number of blocks increases the amount of pain.” He explained.

Violet reached out and took the potion in hand. “How does it taste?” She asked.

“You are familiar with the taste of liquorice?” The goblin asked.

Violet nodded.

“That is the taste it has. It will coat your mind, shielding you from insanity for an hour. Then, it wears off. You will be in pain for…” He consulted the list and seemed to make quick calculations in his head, “Sixteen minutes, while the other potion burns through the blocks. There will be residual aches for three days while your magic resettles, but it will be nowhere near intense enough to cause insanity.” The goblin assured her.

Violet nodded once more and opened the potion, then drank it. She felt it seep through her bloodstream, then it covered her mind, making things seem muddled and somewhat distorted.

“The effects will ease with time. Take this next, and prepare for unimaginable pain before you do. You must take it all.” The goblin said firmly, handing her a blue potion.

Violet took it, opened it, and drank it, swallowing too quickly to allow for second thoughts as it raced through her veins like lava. The potions vial slipped from her fingers as she clutched her middle, feeling the most terrible pain centring in her chest. She knew she screamed, as she lost track of time, only aware of the burning, seething, volcanic agony she was in. Nothing else mattered, nothing else existed past the intense torment she was under.

After what seemed like an eternity, she felt the pain recede. She began to uncurl from her position before a sharp pang tore through her chest, searing her anew, and she curled up in pain again.

A while later, the pain eased down to a burning discomfort, and she stayed curled into a ball, unwilling to chance another relapse.

The goblin was staring at a clock. He took a deep breath, observed her a moment, then declared, “It is done. We must address the other issues.”

Violet looked up at his words. “Other issues?! That was horrible! I don’t want to do anything else!”

The goblin gazed at her impassively. “There is a reason we do this in the order we do. That was the worst you will face today. Removing compulsions, leeches and potions is far easier and a good deal more pleasant. You have nothing more to fear if you could survive that, I assure you.”

Violet uncurled and sighed. “I suppose I may as well.”

“I will remove the leech first.” The goblin got up and moved to her, placing one gnarled hand on her forehead and chanted in a strange language rapidly.

Violet felt her power grow as the chanting went on, and finally, he stopped.

“The leech is gone. Your power is now your own again. Next, the compulsions. There are a number of them. You must take another potion—it is painless—to cleanse your mind of influences not your own. Keep in mind, everyone you knew will appear differently for a time, while you relearn them without the compulsions tainting your views.” He warned.

Violet nodded. “I am ready.” She said.

The goblin handed her another potion.

Violet took it quickly, and was surprised when her reality, already distorted by the previous potion, suddenly tilted on its side, and everything she thought she knew was called into question. She gasped.

“Yes, it has that effect. You will be able to see people as they truly are, now. The last potion will not alter anything noticeably. It will simply clean the traces of permanent potions in your system, which will leave you free to pick your own mentor to follow, and your loyalty will be your own, to give or withhold as you see fit.” He said, handing her a clear potion.

Violet took it and drank it, feeling it soothe the remnants of burning that remained in her chest, as it flowed through her body like cool water.

“We are done here.” The goblin said.

Violet nodded. “I want you to promise me that you will not tell anyone of what transpired here. But I want that—” She pointed to the parchment the goblin was clutching, “—for my records, if you please.”

The goblin made a copy and held it out to her.

Violet shook her head. “No, you keep that. I require the original.” She said firmly.

The goblin frowned. “I cannot—”

Violet’s eyes narrowed, and magic crackled around her as she grew angry. “I most likely command magics you cannot even conceive of! I need to train them, and I will accept nothing less than the original record of my visit. Whether you give it to me alive or dead is your choice. Make it now.” She ordered, drawing her wand.

The goblin cleared his throat and handed over the original.

Violet smiled and called her magic back, reining it in with intense effort. Control was going to be an issue, she could already tell. “Thank you. Now let us find my chaperone.” She said, leading the way back to the lobby.

The goblin followed her, silent and likely angry with her. She didn’t care. She needed the original as proof positive of Dumbledore’s crimes. Also, to figure out what skills she had now, so as to train them.

They went out and she looked around, in shock. “Am I supposed to see everyone's magic?” She asked.

“You have Mage Ability. You can see magical cores now. It was blocked before, but from now on, yes, you will see the strength and leaning of everyone’s magic.” The goblin said reluctantly.

“Leaning?” Violet asked.

“Toward light or dark.” The goblin answered shortly.

“Oh.” That could certainly be useful.

They met back up with Professor Quirrell and the goblin said, “Wait here a moment.” He went and spoke rapidly to another goblin.

The new goblin’s eyes widened, and he glanced at Violet, then nodded. He came over. “I am Griphook. I will be dealing with your accounts from now on. Do you have any more business to conduct here?”

Quirrell nodded. “She n-needs to make a withdrawal. I h-have her key here.” He said, placing it on the counter.

Griphook took it and nodded, handing it back. “Very well. Everything seems to be in order. Come with me.”

They followed him to a cart, which they all got in and rode down to the vaults.

“Vault 687, Potter family.” Griphook announced. “Key?”

Quirrell handed it over and Griphook opened the door.

Violet looked at the amount of money approvingly. Coming from an old family paid off, it appeared. James Potter had obviously been loaded. She got out and asked Griphook, “Can I get a refilling bag to use before I leave?”

Griphook nodded. “When we get back up to the lobby, I will get you one.” He said.

Violet nodded. “Thank you.” She said, and went about filling the pouch he had handed her for now.

Once it was full, Violet went back to the cart. “May I have my key, or do you need to keep it? I don’t need it, if I’m going to have a refilling bag, but I would like it, all the same.” She said to Quirrell.

Quirrell shrugged. “I-I don't kn-know if I can give it to you. Y-your brother might n-need it.”

Violet shrugged. “I suppose you’re right. You'd think they’d make an extra key for twins, but in the Wizarding World, you never can be sure.” She said lightly.

They went back up and Violet received her pouch. They thanked the goblins and left.

“How long do you have to spend with me? It’s already noon, are we on a time limit?” Violet asked.

Quirrell shook his head. “Taking you to get your things is my only t-task today.” He said.

Violet sighed explosively. “Could you cut the stuttering crap?!” She asked. “I know it’s an act, since you didn’t stutter when the goblin took me back. You can stop now.”

Quirrell chuckled. “You’ve found me out.” He said, normally this time. “You are perceptive.”

Violet sniffed. “I’m a lot of things.” She said dismissively. “Where to first?”

“Let’s get your school clothes.” Quirrell said.

Violet looked him over as they walked toward the clothing store. “Why do you have two magical cores?” She asked.

Quirrell stumbled, then looked at her in shock. “You can see that?!” He asked.

Violet nodded. “Now that the block is gone, yes. I can also tell that one is quite a bit darker than the other.”

Quirrell nodded. “I will find out if I can tell you while you are being fitted, and if I can, I will tell you later.”

“That’s acceptable, I suppose. I’m going to want an explanation for why  you can’t tell me, if that happens to be the case.” She added.

Quirrell nodded. “I will explain as best I am allowed to.” He agreed.

“Good.” Violet said as they entered the store.

The shopkeeper bustled over. “Here to get your school clothes, Dear?” She asked.

Violet nodded. “Yes. Can I get them in silk, please, with one robe in velvet for cooler weather?” She asked.

The shopkeeper sighed. “Another special order, I see. Yes, I can do that, though it will take an extra half an hour. You will have to come back for them if you don’t want to wait.”

Violet smiled at her. “We can go for ice cream and then come back.” She said.

The shopkeeper smiled. “That’s the spirit! Thank you for understanding.”

Violet nodded. “This time of year must mean a lot of extra work for you.” She said.

The shopkeeper laughed as she situated Violet on a stand to take her measurements. “Goodness, yes! But you came just at the beginning of the rush. It’s at its worst in a week’s time; no rest for me then.” She said gaily.

Violet settled in for a long while standing. At least this woman was chatty. The time would pass easily with someone to talk to.

Chapter Text

“So what does this mean?” Violet asked, pointing to a word she didn’t recognize.

Quirrell looked over and shuddered. “Nasty bit of magic, that. However, the fact that it's a bond… You've got a bit of this ‘Tom Riddle’s' soul inside you. You are a horcrux.”

“She's a what?!” The voice from the turban spoke again. “Damn. That was unintended.”

Violet huffed. “Explain the voice, please. This is getting annoying.”

Quirrell cleared his throat and began in a quiet voice that wouldn’t carry, “I have the soul of Lord Voldemort residing in my body. It's his magic you see alongside mine, and his voice you are hearing.” He laughed softly. “His face is on the back of my head, it's really rather nasty-looking.”

Violet’s eyes were wide. “But… Doesn’t he have a body of his own anymore?” She asked.

“The night you and your brother defeated him, his body turned to ash. He needs to drink unicorn blood to even have the strength to possess someone.” Quirrell explained.

“Oh, but My Lord! That will curse you!” She said, looking at the turban worriedly.

“I know.” Lord Voldemort replied. “But it is the only way.”

“Your Lord?” Quirrell asked.

Violet nodded. “I’m being raised by Indigena Yaxley and Evan Rosier. If—when—he comes back to power, I plan to join him. I believe that the Muggle world needs to be separated from ours, as well. Not using the same means, of course, but I also believe with a little work he can be reasoned with.”

“So Evan finally got her, did he? He always said he would.” The voice of Voldemort said.

Violet laughed and shook her head. “Oh, no! He's trying to win her over, but they're always on-again-off-again. The only things they seem to consistently agree on is the way I should be raised. But they have been intimate. I’ve caught Dad leaving her room loads of times. In the middle of the night. And I’ve seen them kissing twice. Only twice, but I’m sure they've shared plenty of kisses when I wasn’t there to see them.” She grinned widely. “But oh, what spectacular duels they have! Mum is always the one that whips her wand out and fires the first spell, and she usually wins them, too.” She glanced down at the parchment. “Anyway, about this bond: will it hurt me?”

Voldemort answered again. “It shouldn't.”

“Will it help me in any way?” She asked next.

Again, Voldemort answered. “Only to know what I am doing.”

“Hmm. Could be useful. I'll let it be, then.” She continued down the list. “Mage ability is only seeing magical cores and magic leaning, right?” She asked.

“It varies, but usually, yes. You may have more than just that, though, if you are very lucky.” Quirrell said.

“Okay. So wait and see. I can do that.” She stopped again. “Magical twin speak?”

“An alternative language twins share, usually paired with a mental bond you can use to call on each other.” Quirrell supplied.

“Too bad I can’t use it with Harrison’s blocked.” Violet muttered. “Ooh, I’m a Metamorphmagus?! Hang on!” She concentrated, and the scar over her right eye shaped like a lightning bolt slowly smoothed out and faded away. “Is the scar gone?!” She asked excitedly.

Quirrell nodded. “As if it never existed.” He said mildly.

“Brilliant! Mum and Dad tried everything to get rid of it, since it was so unsightly, but nothing worked. Now I can blend in and not look freakish anymore.” She said happily. “If he blocked us from reading and writing Parseltongue, why not block the speaking of it, as well?” She mused.

“To give you a Dark talent. If he can claim you are Dark, it will keep you easily mouldable and manipulable. He can claim you are Dark at any time, and with that talent, people will be wont to believe him.” Voldemort revealed.

“Oh.” Violet said. “Yes, that makes sense, I suppose.” She continued down the list some more. “Avistongue… Speaking to birds?” She asked.

“Correct.” Quirrell said.

“Felis, the same for cats. Necromantic ability. I can talk to the dead!” She said excitedly. “That’s so awesome!” She continued and frowned. “Why block my memory? Don’t I need that?”

Quirrell laughed. “That refers to an eidetic memory. Remembering everything with perfect recall, down to the last detail. You will also remember conversations word-for-word. It’s a useful skill.”

Violet nodded. “That would be useful, yes. Judgement?” She queried next.

“You will be able to tell who is trustworthy by trusting your instinct. Also, you will be able to tell when others are lying.” Quirrell explained.

“Magic creation. I can create spells?” She asked.

“And potions, and runes, and anything else magical. With ease. Or at least that’s how it will seem to others. I have no idea if you will find it easy, as I have never known anyone else with that ability. It is a very rare gift. Treasure it.” Quirrell told her.

“Well, I’m already an Occlumens, but that explains the trouble I had learning.” She said, pointing to the list. “Nearly drove Dad spare, trying to teach me.” She added. “And that explains my problems learning to cast a Patronus.” She pointed again. “The rest is just to make classwork harder, looks like. Bitter old man.” She spat, folding the parchment and putting it in her pocket.

“You can cast a Patronus?” Quirrell asked.

Violet froze, then rallied. “Er, yeah. I used Dad's wand.” She lied.

“With a wand that is not your own?!” He asked, stunned. “At your age, and with a block on the ability?! That’s extraordinary!”

Violet blushed. “It’s not all that great. It took me a year to learn, with no Dementors around. Not so sure how I’d do if you put one in front of me.” She laughed nervously. “Anyway, I’m finished with my ice cream. Let's go get my clothes, then we can hit the other stores." She said.

She didn’t mention that she was sure she'd make Slytherin, which meant the compulsions to hate them and become the perfect Gryffindor would have been more than a little problematic.

*****

Violet sat on her bed, twirling her new wand between her fingers as her new kitten explored her home—or, well, where she'd be living for now.

The tiny Himalayan kitten, who Violet had named Arisa, was pouncing on dust motes that were swirling through the air, tail and ears twitching every time a new sound reached her ears.

“You need to go back.” Violet whipped her head around to stare at Death, glad she hadn’t jumped at the first sound of his voice this time. He had a horrible habit of sneaking up on her.

“Back where?” She asked. “And why?”

“To the bank.” Death answered. “Dumbledore has hidden a relic there that you will need if you intend to return Lord Voldemort to his former glory. And grant him and anyone else you wish it for the gift of immortality.” He said.

Violet hummed, tapping her chin. “Can you get me into the bank?” She asked.

Death inclined his head. “I can get you up to the vault door, but you will need a goblin to open it.” He told her.

“Can you get me into the home of a goblin named Griphook?” She asked.

Death inclined his head again. “He has two children. You would be wise to use one of them. It does not need to be an adult, just a goblin.” He said.

Violet grinned. “Good. Come back at midnight. We'll do this then.”

Death nodded once more. “Look up the philosopher's stone in your alchemy book, and create a replica to leave in the vault. We must leave no trace that the vault has been tampered with.”

Violet nodded. “I'll do that.” She said. “Thank you for letting me know.”

“It is a duty and a pleasure, Mistress.” Death said, before disappearing.

She picked up her wand again; yew, from the same tree Voldemort's wand had come from, and dragon heartstring. Ollivander had said it was powerful, and Violet was sure that it would be well-used in the future, but it had the Trace on it, so she couldn’t use it for this. She set it aside and picked up the Elder wand from her bedside table, then grabbed her alchemy book and began flipping through the pages. She had a task to complete.

*****

At midnight, Death appeared in her room again.

Violet stood and held out her hand. “The replica is in my pocket.” She told him. “Let's go.”

Death took her hand and transported them to Griphook’s home by stepping through the ether. He pointed to a bedroom, wordlessly, and Violet nodded, walking into it and waking the child, quickly casting a confundus charm on him so he would think the entire trip a dream when he awoke in the morning.

She silenced the child for good measure and led him by the hand to where Death waited.

He took her hand, and Violet held fast to the child as all three were transported through the ether, so as not to lose him.

She needed him, and she intended to bring him right back when they were done, so he needed to make both trips safely. She couldn’t drop him in the realm Death hailed from. There was no coming back if you were left there.

Violet surveyed the door in front of her. “How does it open?” She asked.

“The goblin must stroke one finger down the centre. It will open once it feels the touch of goblin skin.”

Violet nudged the child forward. “Go on. You heard him.” She urged.

The child stepped forward and stroked the door, which melted away to reveal a small package on the floor.

Violet went in and quickly switched the real stone for the fake, then rushed back to Death and the goblin child.

“Okay, let’s return the kid and get me home.” She said.

Death took her hand again and transported them back to the child's house.

Violet tucked the child back in bed and reversed her spell work after putting him to sleep with a gentle spell.

She went back to Death. “Take me home.”

Death hesitated. “I cannot return you to your bedroom.” He told her.

Violet sighed. “My parents?” She asked.

“Are in your bedroom waiting for you.” Death confirmed.

“Just leave me outside in the yard, then.” Violet said.

Death transported them back and bowed. “I will take my leave now, Mistress.” He said before vanishing again.

Violet walked into the house.

Indigena and Evan came out of her room.

“Where were you?!” Indigena asked, hugging her.

Violet hugged her back. “I’m fine, I was safe. But—”

“You can’t tell us?” Evan asked wryly.

“Afraid not.” Violet said regretfully. “Sorry.”

“Vi, don’t you trust us?” Indigena asked.

“I do, Mum, but this is something I'm not allowed to share with anyone. I may never be. I told you this a long time ago, and it's not going to change. Again, I'm sorry.” She repeated.

Indigena sighed. “Well, it's been a long day. Get into your pyjamas and into bed, and we’ll see you in the morning, Vi.”

“Alright.” Violet said, hugging Evan next. “Goodnight, Mum. Dad.”

“Goodnight, dear.” Indigena said, closing the door behind herself.

Arisa curled up next to Violet as she got into bed. “You smell like that strange man.” The kitten said.

“His name is Death, and yes, I imagine I do. Get some sleep.”

“Goodnight.” The kitten said.

Chapter Text

Harry sat up in alarm as the shack they were in shook at the force of the impact on the door.

Someone obviously wanted in very badly.

There was another thunderous knock, and Dudley woke up, asking where the cannon was. Harry just shook his head mutely.

There was a crash from behind them and Vernon came into view, holding a rifle. “Who's there?!” He shouted, followed by, “I’m warning you—I'm armed!”

There was a short pause before the knocker slammed on the door again, knocking it clear off its hinges and onto the floor.

A giant man came in, stooping to fit through the door, and fitted it back into place. He walked over to the sofa and ordered Dudley to move, which he did with alacrity, running to hide behind Aunt Petunia.

“An’ here's Harry!” The man said, smiling at him.

Harry nodded slowly.

“Last time I saw you, you was only a baby!” He said. “You look a lot like your Dad, but you've got your Mum's eyes.”

Vernon stuttered something about “Breaking and entering,” but the giant man simply reached behind himself, plucked the gun out of Vernon's hands, and folded it into a knot, throwing it in the corner of the shack.

“Shut up, Dursley, you great prune.” He said. “Anyway, Harry, happy birthday! I’ve got something for you here—I might've sat on it at some point, but it'll taste all right.”

He reached inside his coat pocket and pulled out a slightly battered box. He handed it to Harry and Harry opened it, nervously. Inside was a chocolate cake with the words “Happy birthday, Harry” written on it in green icing.

Harry looked up at the man, intending to thank him, bit what actually came out was, “Who are you?”

“True, I haven’t introduced myself.” The giant agreed. “Rubeus Hagrid, keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts.”

“Hogwarts?” Harry asked blankly.

“Yeah.” Hagrid said evenly. “Hogwarts school of Witchcraft and Wizardry.” He said.

“Witchcraft? But, isn’t that a sin?” Harry asked.

The next hour was spent explaining to Harry that he was a Wizard and was to go to a special school. He finally got his letter and was allowed to read it.

Hagrid explained to him that he was famous, told him the story of Voldemort, and his parents. And him.

After talking for a good long while, they went to sleep for a few more hours before Hagrid and Harry left to collect his school things.

They went to Gringotts first and Harry got some of his money, then they travelled to vault 713, where Hagrid picked up what he thought was the real philosopher’s stone.

Then, it was off to buy Harry's school things.

The first stop was Ollivander's.

Harry walked in and looked around. “Why's it so dark?”

“Because too much light may damage some of the supplies I use, which are stored wherever there is space to store them, Mr. Potter.” An old man said, coming out of the back room. He chuckled at the surprise on Harry's face. “Oh, yes, I know who you are. I was wondering when I’d see you. You look just like your father, and I never forget a face.” He turned and took down a box. “Try this one. Ash, dragon heartstring. Ten inches. Good for charms.” He said, opening the box and holding it out to Harry.

Harry picked up the wand.

“Well, give it a wave.” Ollivander prodded.

Harry waved it around, and the low lighting in the room flared up alarmingly, then dropped back down to normal.

Ollivander shook his head. “No, I don’t think so.” He said.

Harry set the wand back in the box Ollivander had set on the counter.

“Perhaps this one! Beech and unicorn hair, eleven inches. Nice and whippy.” He said, handing over a second.

Harry gave it a wave, and a shower of angry red sparks came out.

“No, that one doesn’t like you either.” He said. “Perhaps… Like Violet’s...?” He went halfway down an aisle and came back holding a box. “Holly and Phoenix feather, eleven inches. Try it.”

Harry took it and gave it a wave. Green and red sparks came out, but instead of dropping to the ground like the red ones had, these ones serenely and slowly floated downward, fizzling gently out before hitting the floor.

“Hmm. Curious.” Ollivander murmured.

Harry frowned. “What's curious?” He asked.

“I remember every wand I’ve sold, and it’s very curious that this wand would choose you. As it so happens, the Phoenix whose tail feather rests in your wand gave another feather. Just. One. Other. It’s very curious that this wand would choose you when its brother gave you that scar.” He said, gently brushing a lock of Harry’s hair away from said scar to briefly reveal it. “I think you will prove to be a very powerful wizard, young Mr. Potter. It seems you have hidden depths to you.”

Harry and Hagrid left the shop, both in deep contemplation.

Ollivander shook his head in a bit of a daze. ‘So,’ he thought to himself, ‘the other yew wand chose the sister, and the other Phoenix feather went to the brother. This pair will be unstoppable, if ever they come together and pool their power.’

“But to do that,” He said aloud to himself, “they will first have to find each other.”

*****

Harry stroked the downy feathers of his new owl as they headed back toward the leaky cauldron. “So, when school starts, will I be able to visit you?” He asked Hagrid.

Hagrid beamed at him. “’Course you can!” He said happily. “I’d be happy to have you!”

They headed back to the shack, only to find it empty.

“Blasted Dursleys. Well, let's get you back to the house, I suppose.” Hagrid said.

They headed back the other way, delivering Harry back into the dubious care of his relatives.

He received a special punishment that night, and Dudley and Petunia knew by now to just leave them to it, despite Harry’s screams and begging for Vernon to stop.

*****

“Well, there you are. Platform nine, and platform ten. Have a good year. And remember, don’t tell anyone about anything, or you'll get worse when you come home this summer, boy.” Vernon told him quietly.

Harry didn’t know what could be worse than the reason his arse was so sore and tender, but he knew better than to ask. “Yes, Uncle Vernon.” He mumbled.

Vernon ‘hmphed’ and strode away.

Harry looked around, wondering what he was supposed to do now. There didn’t appear to be a platform 9 ¾, but his ticket said that that was where his train would be.

Suddenly, he saw a family of redheads heading his way, the mother yelling about “Muggles.”

He pushed his trolley up to her and asked, “Ma'am, how do you get onto the platform?”

The woman looked him over and smiled. “Oh, that's easy, Dear! Just watch. Percy, you first.” One of her sons pushed his trolley toward the archway separating the platforms and disappeared through it. “See? You just walk on through. Keeps the Muggles out.” She said lightly. “Fred, George, you next.” The two twin boys with her went through next. “You can go through with Ron. Best take it at a bit of a run if you're nervous.” She advised.

Harry nodded to the youngest boy, who nodded back, and they raced toward the archway. They made it through and moved out of the way. The woman came through with the little girl.

“Dear, why are you limping? Are you hurt?” The woman asked Harry.

Harry blushed bright red and stammered, “I-I fell out of bed this morning! I think I may have bruised my tailbone, but I'll be fine! I’m really very clumsy!”

The woman gave him a look that said she didn’t quite believe him, but otherwise kept silent. “Well, here.” She cast something at him and all the aches and pains he was feeling, including the burning feeling in his arse, faded into nothingness.

“Thank you!” Harry said in surprise.

The woman smiled. “Just a simple pain-relieving charm. You two should best get on the train now. I'll see you at Christmas, Ron.” She said.

Harry and Ron hurried onto the train and found a compartment.

*****

Violet was sitting alone when a girl came into her compartment.

“Is anyone sitting here?” She asked.

Violet looked up. The girl had an unfortunate face that looked rather like a pug, but her magic was strong, and leant firmly dark. “Not yet. You can join me if you like.” She offered.

The girl sat and offered a hand. “My name’s Pansy. Pansy Parkinson. You are...?”

“Violet Peverell.” Violet answered, knowing that Dumbledore was aware of her name change, at the very least, since that’s how her Hogwarts letter had been addressed.

“Nice to meet you. Peverell… That's a dead bloodline.” Pansy said shrewdly.

“It's inherited. Through my paternal line. And no, I’m not going to tell you which line that is. Although you're free to guess.” Violet said with a small smirk.

Pansy hummed and sat back. “Well, where are you hoping to sort?” She asked.

Violet looked up and gave a small laugh. “I know where I'll be. Slytherin, of course.”

Pansy looked at her with new appreciation. “I’m hoping to make Slytherin, too.” She said.

Violet nodded at her. “Best of luck to you, then.”

Chapter Text

“Pans, thank Merlin you're here!” A blond boy said upon opening their compartment door and seeing them. “Who're you?”

Pansy smiled. “Draco, this is Violet Peverell. Violet, Draco Malfoy. What happened, Draco?”

Draco came into the compartment. “Well, I found Potter on the train. I offered my hand in friendship, but he chose a Weasley over me!”

Violet finally found her tongue after seeing his magic and how dark it leaned, and said, “He's going to sort Gryffindor.” She raised a brow and added, “You know that, right?”

Draco sneered. “How would you know that? There’s no way to know for sure until we're sorted.” He said, sitting next to Pansy.

Violet simply shrugged and replied, “I have my sources. Just wait and see.”

She had had Death check up on Harry one last time the night before school, and he had confirmed that he still had all the blocks, compulsions and potions in effect as she’d had, plus several additions.

The compartment door slid open again, and a girl with strong magic that leant slightly dark peeked in. She had wild, bushy brown hair and soulful brown eyes. “Have any of you seen a toad? A boy named Neville has lost one.” She said.

Violet shook her head. “I haven't. You guys?” She asked her companions.

Pansy and Draco shook their heads.

The girl huffed and left, closing the door again.

“Toads went out of fashion years ago. Who would bring one?” Draco asked snidely.

Violet shrugged. “Maybe this Neville has sentimental reasons. You never know.” She said. Arisa meowed and came out of the basket at Violet’s feet.

Pansy cooed at her. “Oh, what a pretty little thing you are! Can I pick her up?” She asked Violet.

Violet smiled, and leaned down to her cat. “Pansy wants to pick you up. Is that alright with you?” She asked.

The kitten sat down and regarded Pansy for a few minutes, then looked back to Violet. “That sounds fine to me. But only for a little while.” She answered.

Violet nodded. “You can hold her, but only briefly. She'll let you know when she wants to be put back down.” She said.

Pansy picked the kitten up. “You speak felistongue.” She said in appreciation.

Violet nodded. “And avistongue, and parseltongue.” She added. “I could have gotten an owl, but the kittens were so much cuter.”

Draco was staring at her with a kind of awe. “You could have gotten a snake!” He said. “Why a kitten?!”

“Because I don’t have to hide her, of course! You know they're probably going to search our things. Maybe not the other houses' things, but the Slytherins'? We’re almost certainly going to be searched.” She said surely.

“You have a point. Dumbledore favours the Gryffindors. Too bad one of them doesn’t have a snake.” Draco said, crossing his arms over his chest. “Father says he’s the most Anti-Slytherin headmaster the school's ever had!”

Violet nodded. “And that may be true. But I’m sure if we don’t cause trouble and keep our heads down, he'll leave us alone. If not, there are ways to set things straight. Once we get old enough.” She said.

Draco sniffed. “My Father would take him to court over unjust treatment if need be.” He said.

“And win the case when Dumbledore's got the entire Wizengamot on his side? Are you mad, Malfoy?” Violet asked incredulously.

Draco scowled. “Well, you have a good point. The ‘keep our heads down' bit is starting to sound really good right now.” He said bitterly.

“It’s only for seven years.” Violet said. “Maybe even less.”

Pansy’s gaze sharpened as she set Arisa down. “What do you know?” She asked.

“A great many things.” Violet answered. “But one of them is that the Defence Professor is on our side. Perhaps not openly, but I have a feeling he will be looking out for us, all the same.” She said simply.

Draco frowned. “Why do you say that?” He asked.

Violet pursed her lips, then answered, “Well, I’m not at liberty to say, but you'll have to trust me.”

“Merlin, I hate know-it-alls!” Draco proclaimed, crossing his arms over his chest as he sulked.

Violet laughed. “I never claimed to know everything.” She said. “I’m going to Hogwarts to learn, same as you. But I’m intelligent, don’t get me wrong. And I have certain sources of information that I can’t share with you that not everybody has. If you do choose to put your trust in me, it will be rewarding, I assure you. But I’m not going to make you.” She finished.

“You'll probably end up in Ravenclaw.” Draco sneered.

Violet giggled. “I doubt that very much. But we'll see.”

*****

Harry and Ron got off the train and heard a booming voice calling “First years, over here!”

Harry looked over and smiled. “Hagrid!” He cheered, running over and hugging the huge man around the middle.

“Hiya, Harry! First years, over here!” He continued to call.

Harry and Ron surveyed the first years as they approached, some with trepidation, some in awe of the huge man, and some with obvious excitement.

Harry noticed two girls standing with the one named Draco Malfoy, and felt a niggling sensation in his head. He had a feeling he should know one of the girls, but had no idea which one was causing the strange feeling. He shrugged it off and continued to watch the rest of the first years approach.

When they were all assembled, Hagrid led them to the bank of a lake, where there were rowboats waiting for them.

There was a huge castle in the distance. Hagrid motioned to it. “There it is, your home for the next nine months. Everyone get in a boat, no more than four to a boat.” He said.

Harry and Ron shared a boat with Hermione and Neville, and the girls that were with Draco ended up sharing with a black boy.

“Everyone in?” Hagrid checked. “Alright, then. Forward!” He called, and everyone began rowing.

They ended up rowing until they were below the school, and when they got out of the boats, a few students slipping on the slippery ground, Hagrid checked the boats.

“Oi, you there!” He called out to Neville, “This your toad?”

“Trevor!” Neville called out blissfully, taking his toad from Hagrid.

Hagrid knocked on a large door, which opened to admit the students.

They all walked into the Hall, clustering together in little groups as they waited, Hagrid telling them that the doors would open to admit them momentarily.

After a few moments, the doors opened, and they followed the woman with the roll of parchment up to the front of the room.

The woman explained the procedure, then began calling names.

When she got to Draco's name, the hat barely touched his head before declaring him Slytherin. Pansy took a few seconds, but her sorting was fairly quick, too.

Then, it was Violet’s turn, McGonagall thankfully calling out Peverell instead of Potter. Violet knew she probably knew who she really was, but she seemed content to keep the secret as long as Dumbledore felt it would serve him to do so.

Violet took a seat, and the hat was placed on her head.

“Ooh, a Potter in disguise, eh? Been a while since I've seen such a secretive, sneaky little Potter, too.”

Violet tensed. “So you know what to do, don’t you?” She asked it.

The hat seemed to chuckle. “Oh, yes, I know exactly where you belong. Slytherin!” It called out loud, and Violet smirked, getting up and joining her new house.

“Told you I'd sort Slytherin.” She said, sitting beside Pansy.

Draco scoffed. “I still think you should be Ravenclaw, but whatever.” He said.

Harry was next. Violet watched with everyone else as her brother sorted Gryffindor and shook her head. “Such a waste.” She murmured.

“What?” Draco asked.

Violet shrugged. “Potter's got so much potential. It’s a shame, to see it all go to Gryffindor. That’s all.” She said.

Draco snorted. “Your ‘sources’ again?” He asked.

“Yes.” Violet answered.

Draco chuckled. “I think they're wrong on that one.”

Violet shook her head. “Give it time. You'll see.” She said.

Draco just rolled his eyes.

After all the first years had been sorted, ending with Blaise Zabini, who sorted Slytherin, Dumbledore stood up. He said a few words—literally—and the feast appeared.

Violet loaded her plate and focused her attention on the boy sitting next to Draco. “So who are you?” She asked in interest.

“Blaise Zabini,” He answered, “from Italy.”

“Pleased to meet you. I’m Violet Peverell.” Violet said. Her magic was slightly drawn to this boy. She obviously needed to get to know him better, to find out why.

Blaise smiled at her. “Pleased to meet you, as well.”

“So what is everybody most excited to learn?” Pansy asked. “I’m interested in Charms, mostly. Some of them are dead useful.”

Draco grinned. “Potions. The Potions Master we'll have teaching us, Professor Snape, is my Godfather. He's already taught me the beginner's things, some of the interactions, how to prepare the ingredients, things like that.” He explained.

Violet grinned. “So you’ve got a head start.” She noted.

“I suppose I do.” Draco said with a smile.

Blaise smiled. “I want to learn Transfiguration. Changing things from something to something else is something only magic can accomplish. My mother is particularly gifted with it. Divination, too, but I've heard we don’t choose electives until third year.”

Violet hummed. “All those sound interesting, but I’m most interested in things you can't learn from the classes here. I've started looking into both Alchemy and Creature Inheritances.”

“Potions is linked to Alchemy.” Draco said.

“Yes,” Violet answered, “But they are not the same thing. They are brother arts.” She said. “It helps to know both, but they are separate techniques.”

The conversation continued in that vein all through their meal.

Chapter Text

They got to the common room and Violet looked around. It was dark and damp, but there was a fire burning in the fireplace and most of the chairs were grouped around tables that had lanterns on them. Probably still where they were left from the last-minute studies done last year.

After a few minutes, Severus Snape strode into the room. “First years, line up before me. Everybody else, do what you will. Except for you, Marcus, you could stand to hear this again.” He said, singling out an older student who came over and stood off to one side, arms crossed before him and a sullen, sour expression on his face. Severus looked over the first years. “Congratulations on making Slytherin. Some of the greatest Wizards known came from this house, most notably the great Wizard Merlin himself. Salazar Slytherin was known to pick those of Pure blood, but even so, there may still be half-bloods or Muggleborns among you. They are your friends and comrades, regardless of blood status, so get to know them and at the very least try to be courteous. There is no telling where the people in this room will end up. Most of you have what it takes to succeed in life, and the levels of determination Salazar Slytherin looked for ensures that many of you may even be able to earn high-ranking places in the Ministry one day, if that is where you aspire to end up. I will do what I can to shield you from the harshness of the rest of the school, but rest assured: you are outnumbered and unliked by most of the populace here. You must show a united front to the rest of the school, at all times. If one of you is being threatened or bullied, reach out for help. If you get approached and asked to help, do so without asking for more than the other person can offer in return. We are all in this together, and those you see around you tonight will be the only ones that understand you fully.” He looked around. “You are all worth more than you know, and hard work will pay off. You have Prefects,” He waved an arm and six students stepped over to flank him, girls on one side, boys on the other. “If you need help and cannot get another student to help you and I am unavailable, they are here to assist, and you may always come to one of them. If you have a problem with another Slytherin, you may make it known and argue as you wish, but do it in here,” He waved to the door, “And not out there. A lot of you may already know each other, from traveling in the same social circles, but reach out to those you do not know and make an attempt to befriend new people. I will have class schedules for you tomorrow. You are dismissed. Except for you, Miss Peverell.”

Violet froze, back already to him, and turned around. “Sir?” She questioned.

“Come with me to my office for a word, if you will.” He said, then turned and left the room.

Violet followed him, feeling like she was marching to her doom.

Severus opened his office and let her in, pointing out a chair before his desk.

He took the seat across from her and folded his hands before himself. “The Peverell line is dead.” He said flatly. “How did you come by your last name, and tell me your real name, if you will.”

“It is passed down from my father's line, and I claim it by birth right. I am the current Lady Peverell, though I am not publicly claiming the title just yet.” She said, chin tilting upward in pride.

Severus' eyes narrowed. “That would mean your father was—”

Violet cut off his musing with a firm, “My true name is Violet Lily Potter.”

Severus reared back in shock, which would have been funny if Violet wasn’t so worried about her secret being out. “But… A Potter twin in Slytherin?” He shook his head. “How did this happen?”

Violet smiled. “I was adopted at the age of eight by Indigena Yaxley and Evan Rosier. They've raised me right, is all.”

Severus thought on this for long moments, then his lips curved upward, just a bit, as he leaned back. “I suppose they did, at that. I will not out you, your secret is safe with me.” He said.

Violet smiled. “Thank you.”

“However, I know what you are capable of; what your mother was capable of. I expect you to apply yourself and show some talent in my class. Herbology aptitude will also help, so be prepared to study in that class, too. You can go far. I know this. Prove me right, Miss Peverell.” He said warmly. “You may go.”

Violet got up and left the room, heading back to the Common Room.

Hushed conversations were going on as small groups talked about their summers to each other.

She went over to where the rest of the first years were, sitting down next to Blaise.

“So what did Snape want?” He asked.

Violet smiled. “He wanted to know who my parents were, and why I was going by a dead name. We straightened things out.”

Blaise smiled and nodded. “That makes sense. Why are you going by a dead name, though?”

“I claim the name by birth right. My father was descended from the bloodline. And yes, I know who my real father was, and also, no, I am not going to tell you. Go do some research, if you really want to know, but if you find out, or think you've found out, come to me privately instead of telling everybody. I like things the way they are right now. I don’t need everyone knowing everything about me.” Violet said.

“Understandable.” Blaise said. “I’m off to bed now. Still have to get used to the time change here.”

“Good night.” Violet called out as Blaise headed for his dormitory. Violet decided to seek her own bed.

She got to the dormitory and found that Pansy was already there with another girl.

“Hi, Violet. This is Daphne Greengrass, and Millicent Bulstrode is also rooming with us. She chose that bed,” Pansy said, pointing out the bed closest to the door, “Which leaves you with the window seat.” She pointed out the last free bed, next to the window.

Violet sighed. “If I get too cold sleeping next to the damn lake, I’m climbing in your bed, Pansy.” She warned.

Pansy giggled. “That'll serve you well; I put out a lot of heat.” She returned.

Violet took out her book on magical beings and picked up where she had left off, trying to guess which creature she'd become and when her inheritance would hit.

*****

When Harry and Ron were led to the Gryffindor Common Room, Percy directed them to their dormitories. “Get to sleep early if you can, you've got a big day tomorrow.” He told them.

Harry and Ron took the two beds closest to the door and got comfortable.

“What do you think tomorrow's going to be like?” Ron asked no one in particular.

“Wild.” Seamus Finnegan pitched in. “I’m ready to start learning everything there is to know about magic. Let's all get to sleep. Tomorrow will come faster that way.” He suggested.

Harry and Ron agreed, and the five boys sharing the room drifted off to sleep, eager for the next day to come.

*****

Harry and Ron were waiting by the potions classroom when Draco, Violet, Blaise and Pansy showed up.

Harry stiffened. “Malfoy.” He hissed.

Draco smiled maliciously. “Potty and the weasel.” He said.

Violet placed a restraining hand on his arm, and when Draco turned to her, shook her head. She then stepped forward. “Hello, Harry. My name is Violet Peverell. It’s nice to finally meet you. I've heard so much about you.” She said, offering her hand. “I'd like to become friends, if we may.”

Harry eyed her cautiously, then took her hand and shook it, briefly. “Nice to meet you.” Harry said. When he'd touched her, he'd felt a niggling sensation in his mind, like something was trying to stir, but before he could pin down the strange sensation, it had stopped abruptly.

Violet, too, had felt the twin bond trying to connect, but the lack of a connection further confirmed her theory: Harry was still blocked.

“You might want to see about getting your magic tested at Gringotts.” She suggested. “It might prove beneficial.”

Harry frowned at her. “Okay.” He said doubtfully.

“Weird girl.” Ron whispered, though it carried enough for all the Slytherins to hear it.

Draco and Blaise stiffened at the insult, but Violet simply smiled. “Weird, perhaps. But you'll find I’m also very perceptive.” She said to Ron, before turning back to Harry. “Take my suggestion under consideration, please.”

Harry shrugged. “Alright, I guess.”

Severus came upon them and led them into the classroom.

They all sat, Violet opting to sit next to Draco at the front of the class, though part of her wanted to sit in the next row back, beside Blaise. But no, since Severus was keeping her secret, she owed him her full and utter attention in return. There would be time to chat with Blaise and get to know him better later. She contented herself with that.

Severus took roll first, eyes flicking up to identify each student as they verified their presence. When he finished, he looked up and assessed the class, his coal-black eyes roving over the new batch of students for him to attempt to instil his vast knowledge of potions in. Most would show themselves to be inept. He already knew this.

“You are here,” He began, his soft voice carrying in the silence of the classroom, “to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion-making. As there is little foolish wand-waving here, many of you will hardly believe this is magic. I don’t expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses… I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory, even stopper death—if you aren’t as big a bunch of dunderheads as I usually have to teach.”

There was no sound as he looked over the classroom once again. Violet and Draco were paying rapt attention to his words, mulling them over and considering what they most wanted to learn from him.

“Potter!” Severus suddenly snapped. “What would I get if I added powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of wormwood?”

Violet turned to Harry, hoping to hear a correct answer. She knew from Death that his things had been locked away before school, but hopefully he had at least skimmed through his potions book since then.

“I don’t know, Sir.” Harry answered.

Violet resisted the urge to groan. Apparently not.

Severus sneered at him. “Tut, tut—fame clearly isn’t everything.”

He ignored the girl whose hand had risen into the air, and went on.

“Let's try again. Potter, where would you look if I told you to find me a bezoar?”

The girl’s hand rose as high as it could while she was still seated, and Draco began to silently laugh beside Violet.

“I don’t know, Sir.” Harry answered again.

“Thought you wouldn’t open a book before coming, eh, Potter?”

Harry calmly met Severus' eyes and refused to break the stare.

The girl still had her hand up.

“What is the difference, Potter, between monkshood and wolfsbane?” Severus tried again.

Harry shook his head. “I don’t know, Sir.”

Severus shook his head in disgust. “Read your book a bit before your next class, Potter. Miss Peverell, can you answer any of those questions, perhaps?” He asked, turning to Violet.

She sat up straighter. “A bezoar is a stone from the stomach of a goat. It's a cure for most poisons. And monkshood and wolfsbane are the same plant, Sir, just two different names for it.”

Severus nodded. “And the first one?” He prompted.

“It sounds familiar,” Violet said regretfully, “but I can’t place it.”

Severus nodded. “It creates the Draught of Living Death.” He informed the class, before narrowing his eyes at them. “Everyone who didn’t know this should be writing it down!” He snapped.

Violet felt her heart sink. She could tell her head of house and brother were going to find themselves at odds until Harry got his blocks removed. She could only hope it happened soon.

Chapter Text

Violet was leafing through a genealogy book in the library when Blaise came upon her. She immediately slammed the book shut before he could see which family line she was looking at.

Blaise smiled ruefully. “I wasn’t going to sneak a peek. I want to know who your parents are, of course, but I’m not desperate to find out. You're just a curiosity, at this point.” He grinned. “That's not to say I’m not looking. Everybody wants to know more about you. You are new to the social scene, and all the local Slytherins are wondering where you came from. But I'm Italian. I wouldn’t have known you from Morgana, anyway. So I'm curious, but not as much as the others are. Figured out what creature you are yet?” He asked, digging his charms book out of his bag.

Violet shook her head. “I was working on that when I was so rudely interrupted.” She teased, a smile on her face. “For your information.” She added.

Blaise chuckled. “I see. Any possibilities yet?” He asked.

Violet nodded. “A few. My parents got me checked for the Alpha/Omega gene already. I'm a beta. But as far as other creatures are concerned, they wanted any potential inheritances to be a surprise on my birthday. So far, it looks like I could be Faurae,” She said, “or Sinicus, or possibly Kitsune. But I doubt that last one. It’s far back there, and has only popped up once in my father's line.” She finished.

“That inheritance hits at fourteen. It's an early one.” Blaise said.

Violet looked at him in surprise. “You know of them?” She asked.

Blaise smiled sheepishly. “Creatures are one of my guilty pleasures.” He admitted. “I’ve looked into a lot of different inheritances.”

Violet leaned back in her chair. “Why the interest?” She asked.

The smile on his face turned secretive. “Maybe someday I'll tell you.” He said before turning to his book.

Violet hummed. “Well, I’ll just have to earn your trust, then, won’t I?” She asked with a smile. “I think we're going to become good friends.” She told him before getting up and putting the genealogy book back. She grabbed the book on magical beings that was in a shelf hear the genealogy book and brought it to the table.

“Looking up the possibilities?” Blaise asked distractedly.

Violet smiled. “Of course. Have to know what I’m looking for, after all.” She answered.

*****

“I can't wait to see Potter make a fool of himself on a broom! This is going to be brilliant!” Draco said as they headed toward the area where they'd have their first flying lesson.

Violet sighed. “He might actually be good at it.” She said. “His dad was on the Quidditch team when he went here. It's in his blood.”

Draco snorted. “Well, at least one of the Gryffindorks are bound to do something stupid.” He said surely.

“And here they come.” Violet said, watching the group of Gryffindors approaching them.

As the Gryffindors drew even with the group of Slytherins, standing slightly apart, the teacher appeared. She had short grey hair and her eyes were yellow, making Violet think there was creature blood in her family somewhere.

“Well, what you all waiting for? Everyone stand by a broomstick. Come on, hurry up!” She barked at them.

Everyone took a spot next to a broom and waited.

“Stick out your right hand over your broom and say, ‘up!’” She commanded.

Everyone started shouting, and only Harry, Draco and Violet got their brooms to obey them the first time.

Madam Hooch showed them how to mount their brooms and went through correcting their grip. She told Draco he'd been doing it wrong for years, and he sulked.

Madam Hooch explained to them how to kick off and said, “On my whistle. Three—two—”

Neville Longbottom kicked off before the whistle had touched her lips, and they all watched him rise higher into the air, a terrified look on his face.

Madam Hooch shouted at him to come back, but he either didn’t hear her in his terror, or didn’t remember how to get down.

He slid sideways off his broom and met the ground with a thud and a sickening crack of breaking bone. His broom kept going without him, drifting over to the forbidden forest.

Madam Hooch bent over Neville and muttered, “Broken wrist. Come on, boy, it'll be all right. Let’s get you up and get that fixed.” She warned them all not to move until she returned and took Neville to the hospital wing.

As soon as they were out of earshot, Draco started laughing. “Did you see his face, the great lump?”

Most of the other Slytherins joined in, with the exception of Violet and Blaise, neither of whom found the aborted lesson and lost time very funny.

“Shut up, Malfoy!” One of the Gryffindor girls snapped. Parvati Patil, Violet remembered her name from the sorting.

“Ooh, sticking up for Longbottom?” Pansy asked. “Never thought you'd go for fat little cry-babies, Parvati.”

“Oh, look, he dropped this!” Draco said, picking up the Remembrall Neville had gotten from his Gran that morning.

“Give that here, Malfoy.” Harry said quietly.

The class went silent and watched the drama unfold.

Draco smirked at him. “I think I’ll leave it somewhere for Longbottom to find. How about—up a tree?”

“Give it here!” Harry yelled again, but Draco had already taken off on his broom.

Violet sighed, watching at Draco taunted Harry. They were like children, both picking on each other because they weren’t sure how to deal with, in Draco’s case, rejection, and in Harry’s case, probably a grudging admiration. Or envy of Draco's situation, which might be more likely.

Before she even realized what was happening, Harry was up in the air with Draco, threatening bodily harm if he didn’t return  the item.

After a few more exchanges of words, Draco tossed the Remembrall into the air and shot back toward the ground.

Harry took off after the ball, going into a steep dive, and Violet drew her wand, a cushioning charm on her lips in case he should fall as everyone else screamed. Honestly, they'd rather scream than try to be useful?!

At the last second, his hand closed around the ball and he slowed the broom enough to slide off onto the ground unhurt.

“HARRY POTTER!” Professor McGonagall was striding toward them. “Never—in all my time at Hogwarts—” She looked furious. “How dare you—might have broken your neck—”

Two of his housemates tried to defend him, but were silenced by the witch quickly.

“Follow me.” McGonagall said, leading Harry away.

Draco, Crabbe and Goyle looked triumphant.

Violet sighed. “You know that the most he’s going to get is a slap on the wrist, right?” She asked Draco.

Draco opened his mouth to reply, but Violet continued before he could.

“I mean, if Dumbledore expelled Harry Potter, can you imagine the public outcry he'd face?" She lowered her voice. “Besides, I thought you wanted to be friends with him?”

Draco flushed. “Well, I do, but—”

“Then stop antagonizing him. I’m working on becoming his friend, and once I get there, I can put in a good word for you, which might help.” Violet said reasonably. “If you can be civil.”

“He picked the Weasel over me.” Draco told her, still in a low tone.

Violet nodded. “And I understand that that probably stung, but the only way you’re going to get into his good graces is by accepting the friends he has already. That means Ronald Weasley and probably Neville Longbottom, too, by the looks of things.”

Draco seethed. “I could never be friends with Weasley.” He said.

“Why not?” Violet asked evenly.

“Our fathers hate each other!” He said quietly, but vehemently.

Violet looked at him with a raised brow. “And are you your father, or are you your own person?” She asked.

Draco scowled at her. “I respect my father.” He told her firmly.

“I never said you couldn't, or shouldn't. But you can respect him and still have friends he perhaps disapproves of. I’m sure he wouldn’t approve of me, if he knew of my parentage, but we're something like friends, aren’t we?” Violet asked.

Draco smiled. “Something like.” He agreed. “It’s a strange relationship we have. But, then again, you’re a strange girl.” He added with a smile.

Violet returned his smile. “I’ve been called worse.” She said lightly.

Madam Hooch came back with Neville and frowned. “Where is Harry Potter?” She asked.

“He was flying, but Professor McGonagall caught him and took him away, Ma'am.” Violet answered.

Madam Hooch shook her head. “This year's class is trouble, I think.” She muttered. “Anyway, mount your brooms.”

The rest of the class passed without incident, and Violet discovered that she quite liked flying, and had natural talent for it.

*****

“So, why are you studying a fifth-year potions book?” Draco asked, sitting down beside Violet.

Violet looked up from the library book and smiled secretively. “Wouldn't you like to know?” She asked.

Draco looked at the potion she was looking up. “Creatura Reveale?” He asked. “Why are you looking that up?” He frowned. “It's waay past your skill level right now.” He told her.

Violet sighed explosively. “Don’t you think I know that?!” She huffed. “But… I need to know. Some of the inheritances I could have… They're dangerous if you don’t know the signs and what to look for beforehand. I need to know.” She said, sounding a little lost and worried.

Draco looked at her closely, seeing the lines of tension in her forehead and around her eyes. She really was worried.

He smiled at her. “Don’t worry so much. Severus… He'll help you, when it’s time. Trust me, he always seems to know how to help Slytherins through their transitions. He can somehow tell when they’re going to happen, so you’ve in good hands here.” He assured her.

Violet shook her head. “My birthday isn’t during the school year. I’m going to be at home, but… I’m adopted, and my parents need to know what to expect. And when to expect it. I could only have three years to prepare them, and if that’s the case, it’s going to be one of the toughest inheritances to work through the aftermath of.”

Draco frowned. “Oh. Maybe we could just check for that specific inheritance, then?” He suggested. “So we know?”

Violet’s eyes flashed. “No.” She said firmly. “If I have to check them individually, I’m doing it alone. You'd be able to tell by the creatures which line I’m going by, and I can’t let anyone know that. Until I'm ready.” She finished.

Draco rolled his eyes. “I’m hardly going to use your family against you.” He said.

Violet rubbed at her face wearily. “Leave it. If I need your help, I'll ask for it. For now, all I’m doing is research. I've got some time before things need to be done.”

“Fine.” Draco said lightly. “Just don’t blow yourself up trying to do something beyond you. I'd feel bad.”

Violet smiled at him as she put the book back. “And we can’t let the great Draco Malfoy feel bad. What would your father say?”

Draco smiled. “What, indeed.” He agreed.

Chapter Text

Violet knocked on the door and waited. After a few moments a terse, “Enter,” reached her ears. She opened the door and went in, closing it behind her.

Severus looked up, then back down to his grading. “To what do I owe the pleasure, Miss Peverell?” He asked. “I assume this is not a social call?”

Violet smiled. “Indeed not, Sir.” She took the seat in front of his desk. “I need your help. I have exhausted all other options, or I would not have wasted your time with this, but it is important.”

Severus dropped his quill in the bottle of red ink and gave her his full attention. “What is it?”

Violet took a deep breath. “Sir, I have a creature inheritance, though I am not sure yet which it may be, and I need to know before it hits, in case my parents need to be prepared for any special circumstances. I've uncovered three possibilities, two of which will need them to be informed before they happen, and I cannot brew the Creatura Reveale potion myself. I was wondering if you had a vial set aside that you would permit me to use? I will let you witness the results, as I know you will not spread tales about it. I trust you.”

Severus hummed. “Your father would be rolling in his grave to hear you utter such words. We never did get along. I have a vial. Which inheritances would the ones in question be?”

“I might be kitsune, Sir, in which case they will have to be ready for the deafness and blindness associated with the first couple of weeks after the change. Or, I may be Faurae, in which case they will need to leave me the first day to allow my wings to emerge.” She finished.

Severus hummed. “Isolation is detrimental to a newly-fledged Faurae. Would you have anyone you could spend time with while your wings are out?” He asked.

Violet shook her head. “I don’t know of any Fae or High Elves, Sir. And Faurae are rare, there may not be any more in this area.”

“That much is true.” Severus murmured. “You seem very sure you will have an inheritance. Why are you so certain?”

Violet pulled out the parchment from Gringotts. “When I went to Gringotts, I got tested for blocks and compulsions. I’ve always suspected I had at least a few on me. These were the test results.” She slid the scroll over to him.

Severus unrolled it and read, eyes widening. “No.” He breathed. He set it down, drew his wand, and cast a spell on the parchment. “Written in… Your blood.” He met her eyes, stunned. “You have the original?!” He asked.

Violet smiled. “I do. If you’ve gotten to or past the point that mentions my blocked mating bonds, I’d like the list back, please.” She said, holding out her hand.

Severus held up a hand and finished reading it, then let out a long breath. “This raises a lot of questions, and several alarms, in my mind.” He said, handing it back. “Do not move against the Headmaster, privately or publicly. It could be dangerous, if he is willing to do this. I will have my eyes and ears open from now on, and we will see what information presents itself in light of this.” He got up. “Follow me.”

Violet followed the man to his private potions lab, Severus whispering the password so she couldn’t hear, and they went in.

He walked to the storage cupboard, one of three, and opened it. There were many vials inside, containing various potions, most of which she couldn’t identify by sight alone. Severus picked one up and brought it to the table. He set it down and conjured a pin.

Violet took the pin and pricked her finger, letting a drop of blood fall into the potion. It absorbed the blood and shimmered, then turned amber. Kitsune. Then, it shimmered again, and turned green. She cocked her head and looked questioningly at Severus, who was observing the potion interestedly.

“Hm. You have a dual inheritance.” He said.

“What’s the green? I didn’t find that in any of James’ bloodline.” She asked.

Severus smiled. “You are an elemental. An Earth elemental, to be precise.” He revealed. “However,” He frowned, “Elementals are highly genetic. One of your parents had to have supplied the gene, there is no other way you could be one. You said you found no mention of an Elemental in your father's family line?”

Violet shook her head. “Not a single one, and the list goes all the way back to when the Potter’s gained their last name, Sir.”

Severus’ frown deepened. “Then it had to be from Lily. But… She was a Muggleborn.” He murmured.

Violet sighed. “This raises a few questions of its own, I suppose. I'll look into things further, Sir.”

“As will I.” Severus murmured. “You are free to go.”

Violet smiled at him. “Thank you, Sir. Knowing makes things so much easier.” She said before leaving the lab, questions swirling around in her head.

*****

Marcus Flint came into the common room, steaming mad, followed by the rest of the Quidditch team. “Wood's booked the pitch. They have a first-year as their new Seeker. We’re going to need to find someone special to take the little tyke on.”

“First years can’t be on the team, though.” Draco said. “How did they get on?”

“Special dispensation, probably.” Flint sighed. “We need someone small and speedy.” He said.

Violet got up and walked to Severus' office. She knocked and waited for him to bid her enter. When he did, she went in. “I heard that Gryffindor has a first-year Seeker. We're going to need someone small and fast to take them on. We need a first-year with talent on a broom. Slytherin has two: me and Draco Malfoy.”

Severus sighed and rubbed at his forehead. “I cannot get special permission to put a first-year on the team.” He said heavily. “As much as I would love to keep Slytherin's winning streak going.”

“You can.” Violet said. “If you go to the Board of Governors about it.”

Severus frowned. “I could go over Dumbledore's head, couldn’t I?” He mused.

Violet smirked. “It would work if enough Slytherins are on the board. Equal treatment is only fair, after all.” She added innocently.

Severus smirked. “There are several, the most prominent being Lucius Malfoy. He’d want Draco on the team, though.”

“If I’m better, or faster, and I suspect I am, we could always promise to put Draco on the team somewhere next year. He’s got amazing aim, he’d make a wonderful Chaser.” Violet pointed out.

“Hm. I have the strangest urge to write Lucius a little letter right now.” Severus murmured.

Violet smirked conspiratorially. “I’ll leave you to it, then. Have a good day, Sir.”

Severus nodded, pulling a sheet of parchment toward himself.

*****

Violet strolled back into the Common Room. She went straight up to Marcus Flint and got his attention.

“What do you want, Firstie?” He snapped.

Violet raised an unimpressed brow. “I just got Snape to petition for an even playing field. If this works, you will be allowed one first-year on the team, and there might be an added stipulation that it must be a Seeker. But ours just left last year, so you’re in the market for one, anyway. Be ready. He’s going to the Board with the request as we speak.” She said, then turned to walk away.

“Wait!”

She stopped. “Yes?” She asked, not turning around.

“Thanks. Now I just have to find a first-year with talent.” Marcus said.

Violet turned and smiled. “I’m good, and so is Draco Malfoy. We could go head-to-head to see which of us is better suited for the spot.”

Marcus nodded. “As soon as I get the go-ahead from Snape, I’ll let you two know. We have to let anyone else that wants to try run through the drills, but if you’re both as good as you say, you’ll be the last two standing. Then we’ll see who’s better. I owe you, but the best player gets the spot, even if that’s not you.” He warned.

Violet laughed. “Oh, I didn’t want the position. I just want Slytherin to win. If I have to play, I will, if Draco is better than me, I’ll cheer him on. Whatever gets us the Cup at the end of the year.” She said lightly. “Now, I want to go build some friendships. I’ll be seeing you later, I think.” She told him, then walked over to sit beside Blaise.

Draco was in the armchair to her left, and was reading his Charms book. “I can’t make heads or tails of this.” He muttered.

Violet got up and went to read over his shoulder. “That’s because we haven’t gotten that far, yet. Why are you reading ahead?”

Draco huffed. “I want to be better than Granger. Father will get upset if I’m not first in my class. And she’s got everything memorized already!’

“Rote memorization will only get her so far. You need innovation and a quick mind to employ your knowledge effectively. Focus on cultivating creativity, no matter what your father thinks is important. That’s what will get you far.” Violet suggested.

Draco sighed. “I suppose, but I want him to be proud of me.”

“Suit yourself.” Violet said. “Oh, and since I want us to be friends, and I think you can be trusted not to spread tales,” She leaned down next to his ear and whispered, “I’m a Kitsune.”

Draco’s head shot up and whipped around to stare at her. “Why are you telling me?!”

Violet smiled. “I think you can be trusted. Like I said.” She said simply, then walked over to sit next to Blaise.

Draco smiled. “Well. Thanks for the info. I’ll keep it safe.” The smile morphed into a smirk. “And use it to figure out your parents.”

“I figured you would. Don’t tell anyone. And I mean anyone. It’s my secret to tell or withhold.” Violet said.

Draco nodded as she returned to her seat. “Does anyone else know what you are?”

“Snape.” Violet said lightly. “But he won’t tell, so it’s safe with him.”

“That's true; he’s very trustworthy.” Draco agreed, then went back to his reading.

Blaise smiled at her. “Found out what you are?” He asked.

Violet returned the smile. “Mm-hm.” She hummed. “Would you like to know? You've been quiet and kept to yourself mostly, so you're probably not one to gossip.”

Blaise chuckled. “That I’m not. If you feel comfortable telling me, I am curious, but if you don’t want to, I'll live with that.”

Violet thought for a second, then leant over and whispered to him, “Kitsune. But don't tell.”

Blaise eyed her as she pulled back, then nodded. “It'll suit you. You'll become even more cute.”

Violet blushed. “You think I’m cute?” She asked.

“Definitely. But there's an air of danger about you, too. I think you'd be a very scary enemy to have. I prefer you as a friend.” He said firmly.

“Then don’t get on my bad side, and you won’t have to worry about that, will you?” Violet asked sweetly. “So far, you're doing well with that.”

Chapter Text

Severus folded his hands before himself, looking over the list of missing children from around the time Lily was born. Three of them were girls, and he was going to start his search with those three.

There had to be some connection between the missing children and a supposed Muggleborn passing down an Elemental inheritance. The easiest way to narrow down his search was to look up which families with missing children had the possibility of passing down Elemental affinities.

Severus opened the genealogy book he'd checked out—something only teachers were allowed to do—and flipped through until he got to the first possible family: the Burkes.  

He combed through the book, looking for any members of the family to boast an Elemental inheritance, and came up blank.

He wasn’t surprised. The Burke family all seemed to share the same olive complexion, where Lily had been, well, lily-white, for lack of a better term.

He checked the other two, and by the end, only had more questions. Elementals were rare and revered; no family would cover up having that inheritance as a possibility. And neither of the others boasted an Elemental, either.

Just who had Lily Evans really been?

*****

“You’re Potter's sister! The one that went missing!” Draco hissed in Violet’s ear the next morning.

Violet pulled away from his mouth and turned to scowl at him. “Yes, and?” She asked peevishly. Arisa had woken her with an offering of a dead mouse she had caught. Violet had thanked her, but informed her that she could have it, as Violet preferred bacon and eggs for breakfast. Still, the early start had done her temperament no favours.

Draco eyed her. “How did you find out who you were?” He asked.

Violet sighed. “Those sources I can’t tell you about.”

“Of course.” Draco muttered. “Why haven’t you told him?” He pressed.

“Right now, he thinks the sun shines out of Dumbledore’s arse.” Violet said shortly.

Draco sniggered.

“Telling him anything that contradicts that assessment is only going to earn me his ear once he realizes who that man really is. Right now, it will only make him hate and distrust me. I can’t take that kind of risk unless absolutely necessary. So for now, I watch. And I wait. I believe I will know when it is time to try and earn his friendship. I'd like to get it early on, and build trust, but these matters are delicate, considering our opposed Houses and the animosity between them.” She finished. “Now let me eat, please.”

Draco hummed, then turned his attention to his own food. ‘She has a point.’ He mentally conceded. ‘She does need to tread carefully when attempting to earn a Gryffindor’s trust.’

Violet was eating when she heard it.

‘So, are you going to ask Angelina out?’

Violet had to blink a few times. She knew she had the ability of twin-speaking, but this was the first time she'd ever heard something through it. The voice was coming from inside her mind, though, so there was nothing else it could be.

‘I don’t know, George. Do you think she's interested in me like that?’

Violet smiled. Of course it was the Weasley twins. They were the only male twins in the school besides hers, and his ability was probably still blocked.

‘You two do realize you're being overheard, right?’ She asked, just in case they didn’t realize their discussion was being eavesdropped on unintentionally.

‘I was just about to say the same thing.’ Came the voice of one of the Patil twins.

‘Oh. Right. Usually we're alone when we use this ability.’

‘Not far enough away from me.’ So the speaker was Parvati, the Gryffindor sister. ‘I hear you two even when you're in your dormitory.’

‘Huh.’ Said Fred. ‘Didn’t know its reach extended that far. Interesting.’

‘Maybe you two should learn to speak quietly, and have your conversations out loud.’ Padma's voice came through.

‘But where's the fun in that?!’ George asked.

‘Whatever.’ Violet said dismissively. ‘I won’t spread tales, but the other two girls might, so be careful what you discuss.’ She warned.

Padma’s voice came through. ‘I don’t gossip. But Parvati might, if she hears anything juicy enough.’

Parvati, across the Great Hall, was smiling. ‘Watch what you say.’ She told them in a sing-song voice.

Violet snorted and turned her attention to her food.

“What’s so funny?” Draco asked.

“Twin-speak conversation. I really shouldn’t share.” Violet explained too quietly to carry.

Draco hummed. “With whom?” He asked. “Not Potter, I’m sure.” He whispered.

Violet shook her head. “Weasleys and Patils.” She explained. “We're all hearing each other, since we’re all close enough to do so. My brother is still blocked, I’m sure.”

“If you could get in close with the Weasley twins, it might help you earn Potter's trust sooner.” Draco murmured. “He does hang out with their little brother, after all.”

“True.” Violet murmured. ‘Hey, are you two boys willing to help out a Firstie from another house?’

‘Wait, which house?’ Fred asked.

‘Look up.’ She said.

One of the twins turned around and she stuck her hand in the air and waved.

He turned around. ‘Hm. Maybe.’ He said, proving that Fred had been the one to turn and look.

‘I don’t bite.’ Violet assured him.

‘All snakes bite.’ George chimed in.

‘True.’ Violet agreed. ‘But mine's non-venomous. Unless you make me really angry.’

There was a laugh, then, ‘We'll meet you in the library, after dinner.’

‘Come alone.’ George pitched in.

Violet smiled. ‘Fine. You two do the same.’ She said.

‘Deal.’

Violet turned her attention back to her meal.

*****

“So why do you want to talk to us? And who's your twin?” Fred asked.

“Actually, that's the reason I want to talk to you. He's in your house.” Violet said.

“Fred, do you know of any Peverells in our house?” George asked.

Fred hummed. “Not a one.” He said lightly.

“Try again.” George said.

“He doesn’t know who I am, and I’m using a false name. He's got a lot of blocks on him, and I can’t get close to him until he has them off.” Violet said. “He'll be compelled to hate all Slytherins on principle.” She told them.

Both of them looked interested now. “Who is it?” They asked in unison.

Violet eyed them both, then asked softly, “Promise you won't tell?”

They both nodded.

“I’m Violet Potter.”

Both twins stared at her. “You're supposed to be dead.” George said.

Violet looked insulted. “Well, I’m not!” She said hotly.

Fred nodded. “We can see that. Why would Dumbledore lie to our Mum, though?”

Violet frowned. “Not a bloody clue. When did he start the lie?” She asked.

“He told her you had died the night of the attack. That, or you were taken.” George said.

“Said he couldn’t find you anywhere.”

Violet frowned. “How close is your Mum to him?” She asked.

“Bosom buddies.” Fred said.

“Hm. I’m not sure why he’d say that, except that it would be easier for him if we were separated, obviously. Because I know he had a hand in that.” Violet said. “But I intend to get to know my brother. And I need your help with that.”

George smiled. “We'd be happy to help you, little Slytherin. It will make for all sorts of fun, we're sure.”

*****

Violet sat beside Blaise with a heavy sigh.

“Boys, girls, or school?” The Italian asked.

Violet frowned. “What?” She asked back.

“There’s very few things that would draw that big a sigh from someone our age. So, is it love trouble, or school trouble?” Blaise asked.

Violet laughed. “Neither. Family trouble, actually.” She told him.

Blaise nodded. “I see. Well, with your family, it was bound to happen.” He said lightly.

Violet cursed. “It’s not that rare, how in the world—”

“Only one family comes from the Peverells and boasts Kitsune inheritance.” Blaise told her. “It wasn’t hard to figure out.”

Violet deflated. “Oh.” She said flatly.

“But I have something to show you in return for that rather big hint. It's a secret, though. Only Snape knows so far.” He said.

Violet looked interested. “Alright, tell me.”

Blaise stood up. “Come with me to the boys dormitory. I'll show you.” He said.

Violet got up and followed him.

Once they were alone, Blaise dropped a glamour, and Violet stared. “Wow.” He was hiding longer hair and onyx eyes. His hair was smooth, though. He was definitely some kind of creature, but Violet couldn’t place it. “What are you?” She asked.

Blaise smirked, displaying wickedly sharp fangs. Whatever he was, he wasn’t submissive.

“Dark Veela. Full-blooded, both my parents are, so I’ve had the traits since birth.” He explained.

“Oh. You're a dominant.” Violet noted.

Blaise shook his head. “I’m not, actually. I’ve already found one mate. I’m a switch, and Severus Snape is my dominant. My creature reacted to him when we met. He called me into his office our second day here, remember?”

Violet nodded. “Yes, I remember.” She smiled. “You two would make a very striking pair, it’s too bad I won’t get to see it.”

Blaise eyed her. “He won’t do anything with me until we have our submissive, anyway. But who says you won’t get to see it?” He reached out and stroked her blushing cheek. “We could do much worse than you for a sub. Honestly, I’m hoping you're a sub, and that you're ours.” He sighed. “But for that, you'd have to have a dual inheritance.” He added sadly, dropping his hand.

Violet smiled secretively. “Maybe I do.” She said. “Maybe I just don’t want anyone to know until I’m sure where the other creature bloodline is coming from.” She said, then left the room, tossing a smile over her shoulder at the boy.

Blaise smiled. “I can only hope.” He said to himself.

Chapter Text

Violet lined up with the other first years, wondering why they were being singled out for this.

Gemma Farley, the fifth year prefect, came to stand before them. “Alright, listen up, we can’t have you mucking this up! Slytherin has a tradition during Samhain, and we will all enter the Great Hall for meals together for this one day. We line up by years, first years first, seventh years last, in order of who has lost loved ones close to them who they are remembering on this day, when the veil is thinnest. Those who have lost parents are first, then those who have lost siblings, no matter the age, even stillbirths count. Then those who have lost grandparents, followed by aunts and uncles, and finally, those lucky few who have not lost a family member will bring up the rear for their year. I assume, Violet, that you will be going first?”

Violet nodded. “Yes. I know who my parents were, and they are very much dead.” She said softly, but it carried in the attentive stillness of the room.

Gemma nodded. “My condolences, then. You'll lead our house at a measured pace, head held high, and don’t mind the fact that everyone will be watching you as you enter. We are the only house here that still observes the old ways publicly, and we will not be shamed by it!” She finished fiercely. “Now, everyone line up!”

Violet walked over to the door and waited while everyone took positions behind her. “I'm right behind you.” Blaise whispered to her. “My Dad.”

Violet nodded, and whispered back, “I’m sorry.”

Blaise sighed. “Me, too.” He said.

Gemma waited until everyone was lined up, took her place in the fifth years and spoke once more. “Off we go!”

Violet led the way out, passing Professor Snape on the way, who nodded at her and waited until they passed, to bring up the rear.

Violet led the way, head held high and face impassive, and set a sedate pace through the castle.

When they got to the Great Hall, as Gemma had said, every eye was on her, as the rest of the school took in the procession of students. Whispers started up, but Violet ignored them and headed for the Slytherin table.

She sat, Blaise sitting next to her, and the rest of the table filled silently.

After the table had filled, Gemma nodded, and quiet conversations started up.

Blaise turned to Violet. “When are you going to talk to your brother?” He asked curiously. “Again, I mean. You offered your friendship already, but haven’t done more. It’s strange to not try to get his ear, what with your relation.”

Violet sighed. “See, he’s in Dumbledore’s pocket, and I'm pretty sure he'll have the same potions in his system that I had. Mentor potion, loyalty potion, all sorts of nasty stuff. He needs to get an accounting from the goblins and be cured of all the unpleasantness before he'll even be willing to become close to me at all. Did you know I was under a compulsion to hate Slytherins? Kind of made my early life difficult, as both my parents are former Slytherins. At least now I know why I didn’t trust them like I should have. It’s being fixed slowly, though. We are keeping in contact. They write weekly letters, and I respond.” She told him.

Blaise hummed. “Well, at least it’s getting righted.”

“Yes. Dumbledore may have interfered in my life, but his influence is gone now, and I intend to keep it that way.” She said.

An owl dropped a letter in front of her and flew off.

Violet frowned and opened the letter, and sighed. “Apparently, I have to deal with him anyway.” She muttered, showing Blaise the letter.

“Ms. Peverell,

I would like to speak with you. Please visit my office at your earliest convenience. The password is ‘Fudge Flies.’

Albus Dumbledore"

Blaise hummed. “Well, I’m sure it'll be fine. You haven’t done anything wrong.”

Violet groaned. “Yes, I have. I sorted Slytherin.” She told him.

“That’s not your fault.” Blaise said firmly.

“The fact that I wasn’t still prejudiced against them by that point is, though. He knows it, I know it. Good thing I know Occlumency.” She added.

Blaise shrugged. “I’m sure he just wants to talk.”

‘Which is what I'm afraid of.’ Violet thought darkly.

*****

Albus called up his grandfatherly mien at the knock on his door. “Come in!” He called out.

Violet Potter walked into the room, looking calm and unruffled. She seemed Slytherin, already. Perhaps the damage was already done.

“You wanted to see me, Sir?” She asked.

Albus motioned to the chair in front of his desk. “Please, sit.”

Violet sat in the chair, staring fixedly at the man's nose, no matter how badly he was  trying to get her to meet his eyes. “Why did you call me, Sir?” She asked.

Albus frowned. She seemed to know about Legilimency. Was it from her Slytherin friends telling her, or had she been told about it by someone else? Someone he should be concerned about? “I noticed you leading the Slytherins today. Who did you lose, if I may ask?”

Violet frowned. “My parents, Sir. I’m sure you know who I really am, despite the name I am using.” She added.

“I am aware.” Albus confirmed. “How do you know?”

“I read about them, Sir. Shortly after I was adopted, I was told about them. And Voldemort.” She had to say the name to him, she knew. Calling him by his title, or seeming unduly frightened of him would arouse suspicion.

Albus' eyes sharpened. “And saying the name doesn’t bother you?” He asked.

“It bothers my parents. Not me, though. It is just a name, after all.” She said.

Albus nodded in understanding. “The name bothers many people. If I may, who are your parents?” He asked.

Violet swallowed. Known Death Eaters would be a bad answer. As would their names. She had little choice here. “I don’t particularly feel like sharing that, Sir. I hardly know you—"

“And the fault for that lies with me.” Albus cut her off, sounding regretful. “I should have called you up here much sooner. How are you faring in Slytherin? Are they rude to you?” He asked.

Violet shook her head. “No, Sir, everyone has been kind to me, and I have a few friends there already.” She told him. “I’m not exactly advertising who I am, though.”

“Are you comfortable there?” Albus asked. “I could have you re-sorted, if you like. I’m sure you could convince the hat to put you in Gryffindor with your brother.” He said.

Violet frowned. “I’m perfectly fine where I am, Sir, but thank you. Slytherin suits me better. The green in my uniform matches my eyes, even.” She added cheerfully, as if that mattered to her.

Albus hummed. “Very well. You seem to be doing very well in your classes; much better than your brother. I admit to some surprise there.” He said shrewdly.

Violet tensed. Uh-oh. “Well, Sir, my parents did what they could to prepare me for school. They didn’t want me falling behind. They intend for me to make them proud, and I don’t want to let them down.” She told him.

“Would they punish you harshly for that?” He seemed very interested in the answer, almost hopeful, and the very idea made Violet feel ill. He did plan the abuse Harry suffers, she realised. Death had been right. It was all carefully orchestrated.

“No, Sir, but I don’t like the feeling of letting them down. I respect and care for them. They took me in and gave me a home, I want them to be proud of me.” Violet explained.

“Could you meet my eyes for a moment?” He asked, and Violet internally groaned. Well, he’s going to find out about my Occlumency now.

She met his eyes briefly, and she felt him gently probe her mind without success.

He sat back, folding his hands in front of him. “I’ve never met someone as young as you with such good Occlumency skills.” He noted.

Violet cleared her throat nervously. “Well, both my parents have some training there. They felt it was an important skill to have. I had a lot of trouble learning it, though.”

That seemed to mollify the man some. “Did you?” He asked.

“Yes. I also had some difficulty learning what I needed to for school. They kept trying, though, and I steadily improved, little-by-little.” Violet told him.

“Exactly how young were you when they began teaching you? Occlumency specifically?” He asked, very interested in the answer.

“I don’t see how that’s any of your business, Sir.” Violet answered.

Dumbledore's eyes narrowed momentarily, before he schooled his expression.

Violet caught the motion, though, and didn’t like what it implied about the man.

“Do you plan to make friends with your brother?” He asked.

Violet shrugged. “Perhaps. In time. I haven’t decided for sure, but he is family. Family is important. If he turns me away for being a Slytherin, I will go. I’m not going to force myself on him. And please don’t interfere with that, Sir. I don’t need him knowing who I am until I decide he needs to know. Just like everybody else.” She said.

Dumbledore inclined his head. “Then I will not try to sway him either way. Thank you for coming to talk with me, Miss Peverell. This talk has been most enlightening.”

Violet smiled disarmingly at the man. “Likewise. May I go?” She asked.

“Yes. I believe you have missed most of your first class, but you can make the second easily.” He told her.

Violet nodded. “Thank you, Sir.” She left the office and let out a shaky breath. Her whole body was trembling, though she was sure she had hidden that from the man.

She was worried, though.

He was certainly meddling with Harry, and wanted her as a pawn, too.

But that was not in her plans, and she was determined to be her own person.

Her own mistress.

No matter what the old man had planned.

Chapter Text

Harry was pushing his food around on his plate, listlessly.

“Not hungry?” Ron asked.

Harry sighed. “My parents died exactly ten years ago tonight. I’m not exactly in the best mood right now.” He said.

“Oh.” Ron said. “Right.”

Harry sighed again, putting a bite of mashed potatoes into his mouth and swallowing.

Halloween was a night he’d been dreading, both for the fact of what it represented—the veil being thinnest on this day—and what it meant to him personally—the day his parents had been stolen from him by a madman.

Fred and George looked at each other, and used their ability to converse, doing so cryptically now that they knew they'd be overheard. ‘Shall we start the process?’ George asked, and Violet perked up from across the room, hearing him.

‘Let's.’ Fred agreed.

Violet smiled, focusing on her dinner.

Finally!

“Hey, Harry?” Fred asked.

“Hm? What?” Harry asked, looking at him.

“The Slytherins, you've noticed how they've been coming to meals today, right?” George continued the thought.

Harry frowned. “Yeah, but what does that display even mean?!”

Fred smiled sadly. “They're respecting the Old Ways by displaying who among them is honouring loved ones who have passed. Blaise Zabini lost his father some years ago, we've heard, but he wasn’t in front. The girl, Violet Peverell, was. Which means she has lost both parents. She'd know how you feel. You could try talking to her.”

Ron scowled. “She's a Slytherin!” He spat.

George snorted. “So? We've talked to her. She's actually pretty decent, really.” He said. “You can go see for yourself. You don’t have to let Ron's prejudice get in your way.” He told Harry conspiratorially.

Harry grinned. “Yeah, maybe.” He said mildly.

Ron scowled, but shut his mouth and silently fumed.

*****

As dinner was winding down and students were finishing up dessert, Professor Quirrell came sprinting into the hall, his turban askew and terror on his face. Everyone stared as he reached Professor Dumbledore’s chair, slumped against the table, and gasped, “Troll—in the dungeons—thought you ought to know.”

He then sank to the floor in a dead faint.

Pandemonium was the reaction, and it took Dumbledore setting off firecrackers from his wand to quiet the hall.

“Prefects, you will lead your houses to their common rooms.”

Violet stood up and cast Sonorus on herself, not caring that it should be way past her skill level. Some secrets had to be sacrificed in circumstances like these, when lives were at stake. “Professor, perhaps you’ve forgotten, but the Slytherin common rooms are in the dungeons!”

Dumbledore looked taken aback. “Right.” He said, rallying quickly. “Professor Snape, please escort your students to their common room.”

Severus looked incensed, but nodded. “Of course, Headmaster.” He said through gritted teeth.

Gemma Farley and her fellow prefect followed Severus, whose wand was out as he scanned the halls ahead of them, looking for danger.

They made it to the common room unharmed, and Severus told them to stay there. “The troll can’t get in without the password, so you will be safe if you do not go wandering.” He told them.

Violet nodded, and said, this time at a normal volume, “We’ll stay put, Professor. Thank you.”

He nodded and left.

Violet sighed and flopped gracelessly onto the couch. “Well, this night is shot.” She muttered.

Draco sat beside her. “Not entirely.” He said. “Want to make out?” He asked, throwing an arm around her shoulders.

Violet looked him up and down, appraisingly, then made a face. “Not with you.” She said teasingly.

Draco leaned closer, smirking. “Come on, give us a kiss.”

Violet pushed him away, laughing. “No!”

Draco pouted. “Well who are you saving that for, anyway?” He teased back.

Violet snorted. “Not you.” She said.

“You wound me.” Draco said. “My masculine pride is in tatters.”

“Good. You look more feminine, anyway.”

Violet screamed with laughter as Draco began tickling her mercilessly. “I'll teach you to say I look like a girl!” He said in mock anger.

Blaise took the chair near the couch and watched the tickle torture, a smile on his lips.

“Blaise!” Violet gasped out, “Help!” She was still laughing.

Blaise shook his head. “You brought this on yourself.” Was all he said.

*****

“Violet is just a little better, Malfoy. Sorry, but try out for Chaser next year, I think you'd be an excellent addition to the team.”

Draco looked a bit upset at that. “Fine.”

Violet frowned. “We should keep him in practices as a back-up, in case I get sick or something.” She said.

Marcus nodded. “Good idea. Malfoy, can you get a hold of a practice snitch you can use?” He asked.

Draco smiled. “I’m sure Father can get me one.” He said.

“Get one, and use it every weekend, to keep yourself sharp. We may need you.”

Draco nodded.

Violet hummed. “So, I got onto the team.” She mused.

Draco huffed. “Congratulations.” He said, a bit bitterly.

“I just want to keep the Quidditch Cup where it belongs; in Professor Snape's office.” Violet said. “I didn’t set out to be better, I just happen to have really good balance and I’m smaller. I have an edge, but you'll definitely get on the team next year, so don’t worry about it. It’s one year, it means nothing.”

Draco sighed. “Yeah, sure.” He said.

“Let's get our showers and meet back in the Common Room. You can tell everybody if you get back first.” Violet told him.

She intended to take a long shower so he could get over his upset by making snarky comments behind her back. He liked to do that when things didn’t go his way.

*****

“Draco seemed pretty put-out that you got the Seeker position.” Blaise commented. “He called you some choice names.”

Violet sighed. “I don’t want to hear them; it’s why I let him come back first. If I didn’t hear his little tantrum, I have no reason to retaliate.” She said.

Blaise nodded. “Good point.”

“Where is he?” Violet asked, looking around.

“In our room.” Blaise answered. “Pouting.”

Violet rolled her eyes. “Of course.” She muttered.

“I'll cheer for you.” Blaise said with a smile.

Violet smiled back. “I appreciate that. Are you a fan of Quidditch?” She asked.

Blaise shrugged. “It’s alright, but I’m not a huge fan of anyone in particular.” He said mildly.

 Violet sat beside him. “I bet you'll be my fan.” She said coyly.

Blaise laughed. “Maybe. Will it get me special perks?” He asked.

“Don’t know yet. You'll find out in another few years. Worth it?” Violet asked him.

Blaise shrugged. “I’ve done harder things for lesser rewards.” He said lightly.

Violet smiled and headed to her dormitory to tell Arisa her news.

*****

“What’s it like to be able to talk with your familiar?” Pansy asked, sitting down next to Violet.

Violet blinked at her. “What, you mean Arisa?”

Pansy huffed. “No, I mean your dragon. Yes, your cat!” She snapped.

“Honestly, now I’m feeling a little disinclined to tell you at all.” Violet said mildly, turning her attention to her eggs.

“Sorry, I’m usually not so irritable in the mornings.”

Violet pushed a pot of tea her way, wordlessly.

Pansy chuckled and poured a cup. “Alright, yes, I probably could use it. Will you please tell me what it’s like?” She tried again.

Violet hummed. “It just like talking to anyone else, except for the weird looks people shoot me. She tells me things she likes—what foods, animals, places I should pet or scratch—and what she doesn’t. And I was able to explain that I don’t like to eat mice, which has saved me a lot of unpleasant surprises on my pillow in the mornings.” She said in amusement.

Pansy nodded. “Are cats the only thing you can talk to? Do you have all-speak?” She asked eagerly.

Violet shook her head. “No. Just Parseltongue, Avistongue and Felistongue.”

Pansy smiled and her eyes shone. “That’s still amazing.” She said.

Violet smiled. “It is nice.” She agreed.

Chapter Text

Violet stayed after DADA after thoroughly considering her idea. She waited while all the students filed out, then went up to Quirrell's desk. “I have something for Our Lord, which I am keeping, but will let him use.” She said firmly.

Quirinus scoffed. “And what would that be?” He asked.

Violet took a step back out of his reach, and pulled the stone from her pocket. “I know he wants this. If he helps me learn to brew the elixir of life with it, I will let him use it to get a new body.” She offered.

Voldemort’s voice came from under the turban. “I will do it. How did you get the stone, little girl?”

Violet smiled. “I have sources.” She answered, putting the stone back in her pocket. “We can work on this over Christmas break, and if we don’t get it then, we can meet near my home over the summer.”

“The stone that is being guarded?” He asked.

“Is a fake. This one is real.” Violet said lightly.

“When do we get me a body?” Voldemort asked.

“When I have three vials of elixir, My Lord.” Violet said, then left the room.

*****

Harry approached the girl sitting at the table alone, and sat down in front of her.

She glanced up, nodded to him, then dropped her eyes back to her essay and finished the sentence she was writing before setting down her quill and giving him her full attention.

“Hello, Harry.” She said evenly.

“Hi. Fred and George said you’d lost both your parents, and that’s why you led your house in at Halloween. Did you even know them?” He bit his lip. “I’m sorry if that’s a rude question, I’m just really curious about you now. I’ve got this feeling I should know you. You feel familiar, if that makes any sense.” He said, flushing a bit at the way the words sounded.

Violet smiled. “I knew them, but they died when I was very young, so I never knew them long enough to remember them. I do know how you feel, though, losing a parent is hard, even if you lose them young. Sometimes it’s harder to never know them well. But I was lucky, and got adopted by two people who love me dearly, and they raised me to love and value my magic, and they let me pretty much do my own thing, since I have proven myself capable. I keep surprising them, they both say.” She lowered her voice. “And I understand what you mean about feeling like you should know me. I feel the same, something in me calls to you. I don’t think it’s romantic, but I feel we should definitely get to know each other, at the very least. Who knows—someday we could be the very best of friends!”

Harry laughed. “Maybe. Who were your parents?” He asked. “I’ve heard Peverell is a dead name.”

Violet nodded. “It is. My father was the last of a bloodline descended from them. You should look them up; you might find out some interesting information.”

That was the only clue she could give him right now, but if he had the effort to push through the blocks on him or his curiosity was enough to drive him to looking diligently, that would be enough to tell him—or at least make him guess, or wonder—who she was. Potter was the only family left that could claim the Peverell name, after all. The Prewetts had died years ago, and the gaunt family was Voldemort’s bloodline. No others remained.

“I might look it up. Mione would help, I’m sure.” He mused, then looked up and smiled at her. “Challenge accepted. You’re not going to know what hit you when I learn all about your bloodline.” He said surely.

Violet smiled happily. “Good luck.” She said. “And do have fun, Harry.”

Blaise came over and sat next to her, interrupting them. “Hello, Potter.” He said amicably. “Nice to see you.” He added.

Harry looked uncomfortable. “Er, yeah, you too. I was just going.” He stuttered, and got up to head away, leaving the library.

Blaise frowned. “Was it something I said?” He asked Violet.

She shook her head. “It’s a compulsion on him; hate all Slytherins. He made great progress if he was able to push it aside enough to talk with me so nicely for as long as he did. I’m not going to push for more, just yet. It’s enough of a start, and I can be happy with it for the time being.” She said. “Help me with Charms.” She changed the subject.

*****

Violet was wandering the corridors, looking for a private space she could use. She had been meaning to speak to Death since she had noticed the cloak was not where it belonged—in the Potter vault, but for some reason it kept slipping her mind. She noticed a door she had never seen before, and opened it to find a comfortable room—with privacy spells layered all along the walls.

“Perfect.” She went in and locked the door, then cleared her throat. “Death?” She called out. “It’s important that you come to me. I won’t keep you long.” She called out, to let him know he didn’t need to assign someone else to watch his duties. The visit was only going to be long enough to ascertain where the cloak was, she could plan its retrieval once she had that information.

Death appeared. “Yes, Mistress?” He asked.

“Where is the cloak? And why can’t I remember it when I need to?” She demanded.

“Dumbledore has it in his possession at the moment.”

“What?!”

“He plans to pass it along to Harry on Christmas morning.” Death added.

Violet calmed. “Oh. Harry can have that one; it’s only fitting since I have the other two. But if he changes his mind, bring it to me.” She told Death firmly.

Death bowed. “Your will is mine, Mistress.” He said.

Violet nodded. “And the reason I can’t remember to ask about it without difficulty?”

“Dumbledore has placed forgetfulness spells on certain things; the cloak being one of them.” Death answered.

“That makes sense.” Violet mused. “Remove them once Harry has it in his possession.” She told him.

“It will be done.” Death agreed.

“Alright, you can return to your work now. Sorry for the interruption.” Violet said.

Death chuckled. “It is my duty to serve you and my Master. I am not resentful about it.” He reminded her, then left.

Violet sighed. Why was Dumbledore making things so much more difficult than they needed to be?

*****

“I never want to go through another Quidditch practice!” Violet complained, throwing herself down on the couch facedown across Blaise’s lap. “Rub my back? I ache.” She begged hopefully.

Blaise chuckled softly and began kneading the tender muscles between her shoulder blades. “You’ll have to get better at handling the abuse of practices, because a true match is going to run even longer.” He warned.

“And hopefully by the time they come about, I will be in better shape to play a ruddy game on broomstick, but right now, I am not accustomed to being in the sky for more than twenty minutes at a time. I enjoy flying, but I have never had much of a love for it.” She pointed out.

“I see.” Blaise moved to her shoulders. “Why didn’t you have Flint give you a rubdown after the practice? He does that for some of the players, especially newbies.”

Violet gave a small shudder and softly told him, “I’m worried that it would turn too sensual, me being a girl, and young and supposedly naïve. No, thanks. You I feel I can trust. If we aren’t mates, you’ll go your own way once I present, and in any case, someone our age is the safer bet. You won’t try to get anything out of me I am unwilling to give right now. I’m too young to be doing anything yet, and I want to make sure that is saved for my mate or mates. Only a mate is deserving of that kind of thing, after all.”

“Actually, yeah, that makes sense.” Blaise admitted. “I can see what you mean. And I wouldn’t want Flint’s hands all over me, either.”

“Your hands are wonderful, though.” Violet arched into them. “Keep going. I took a bludger to the ribs. Left side.”

Blaise laughed a bit and began carefully rubbing the spot, adding a bit of his magic to the rubbing to soothe the hurt he could. Veela were natural healers, so he could help ease the bruise that was forming to a small extent.

“Ooh!” Violet melted into the couch bonelessly. “That’s great!” She sighed.

Blaise finished the rubdown and patted the small of her back. “All done. Get off me.”

“But you’re so comfortable!” Violet wiggled a bit in his lap. “I like it here!”

Arisa jumped onto her back and Violet laughed. “When did you get out of the dormitory?” She asked.

“Pansy let me out.” Arisa told her.

Violet nodded. “Remind me to thank her.”

“Could you get off now?” Blaise asked.

Violet carefully got off of his lap, Arisa jumping down as she moved to a sitting position. “Thanks for the rub. I feel loads better now.”

“Happy to help.” Blaise said, shifting so his robes more fully covered him.

Violet noticed, but kindly didn’t remark on it. She knew he’d be embarrassed enough without it.

*****

“Want to do some research?” Harry asked Hermione. They had become fast friends after taking out the troll on Halloween.

Hermione smiled. “I’d love to, yes!” She said excitedly. “What are we researching?”

“The Peverell family.” Harry told her. “I want to find out who Violet Peverell really is. She said to start there.”

“Ooh, a mystery! How exciting!” She got up. “Coming, Ron?”

Ron got up with a sigh. “Yeah, I guess. Let’s go.”

They headed to the library, and Hermione immediately went to a section of books. “We need genealogy books, and these ones are the older ones. Peverell is an older family, they’ll be in here, and we can trace the lines on down until we find her parents.” She said determinedly.

“And when we find them, what are you planning on doing with the information?” Ron asked, as Hermione set the book on the table and opened it.

Harry shrugged. “I don’t know yet. I suppose it depends on who she is. Maybe she wants me to know because we are related? It would be nice to know I have family. Even if it’s a several-times-cousin. It’s still a connection.”

“Slytherins are weird about family. I wouldn’t get your hopes up, Harry, maybe she just wants you to know she’s got higher standing than you do. The Peverells were pretty high up there.” Hermione pointed out.

“Maybe, but there’s something there, I know it. There’s no reason I’d be getting such a weird feeling, like I should know her. No one else gives me that feeling, so why her?” He asked. “It’s just really weird, and I need to know where it’s coming from.”

Ron frowned. “So you feel like she’s familiar? But she’s not? I don’t know if you should trust that feeling, Harry. She is a Slytherin, and they can do some pretty bad things with certain Dark Arts spells.” He warned.

Harry shook his head. “This isn’t anything bad, I don’t think. Just strange, but in a totally neutral way. I have pretty good judgement of people usually, Ron, and I think she’s not all that bad. For a Slytherin, of course.” He amended.

Ron shrugged. “If you say so, but I wouldn’t trust her too much unless she proves she’s worth the risk. I know you don’t really understand this world, but that’s why you need friends like me. I can be the one to warn you that Slytherins are bad news.”

Harry hummed. “I understand that. But maybe not all of them are that bad.” He said evenly.

Hermione made a soft sound. “Found them!” She pointed to a page, and Harry and Ron leaned over the book to see.

Chapter Text

Violet knew it would take some time for Harry to find the connection to the Potter family through Peverell, but she was impatient, and couldn’t keep her eyes from seeking out Harry. He seemed unconcerned, and if he was looking into it, he was doing it slowly, and quietly.

That was fine, she told herself firmly, he deserved to have free time now that he was away from his abusive relatives.

Her hand balled into a fist at the thought of what Death had told her he suffered. She wasn't allowed to interfere, she couldn't push, and everything had to happen in its own time. Besides, if she tried to get him to move in with her—with two Death Eaters—too soon, it would push him further away, and there may be no recovery from that.

He needed her, yes, but he needed to see that in his own time, he had to turn away from Dumbledore on his own and get all the blocks and compulsions removed. Only then could she begin leading him to the right conclusions, showing him the truths he needed to see.

Lord Voldemort had the right idea—separation, not annihilation—for their world. Muggleborns would be accepted, especially those that leaned Dark, like his friend, and would be urged to find their lineage, and inherit vaults and families they were entitled to.

It would be a better world, but Dumbledore was twisting her Lord's ideals and words and making them sound wrong. Unhinged, deranged, and worse.

Violet got up and left the library after one last glance at the brother she wanted so badly to hug. Her sigh of longing was held firmly inside, only emerging through her sorrowful eyes, a soundless plea.

*****

“It’s alchemy.” Violet said as Draco frowned down at the cauldron.

“Looks like Potions to me.” He said.

Violet snorted as Blaise went to retrieve the dandelion roots she’d need. “That’s because you’re an idiot.” She said flatly, adding two small roots to the brew.

Blaise laughed and Draco shot him a betrayed look. “Just don’t give her ammunition, Draco, you know she’s too quick with comebacks for that by now.” He told his friend.

Draco scowled and crossed his arms over his chest. “I don’t think it’s going to work. These ingredients are never used together in sleeping potions!”

“This isn’t to make you sleep, I told you! It’s to induce prophetic dreams.” Violet reminded him.

“And to dream, you have to sleep.”

Violet sighed. “Details like that are largely irrelevant. It will induce the dreams the next time you sleep, not make you sleep right away.”

Draco rolled his eyes. “Whatever.”

The potion—or the alchemical brew, as Violet insisted they were called—bubbled one last time, then shimmered and turned the same shade as the flower Violet’s name came from, and she smiled. “One small sip, that’s all you need.” She said softly, handing over the ladle. “Don’t be greedy, you’ll miss Potions tomorrow, and Snape doesn’t like that.”

Draco took a small sip, then handed the ladle to Blaise. “I don’t feel any different.” He said.

Violet shook her head. “You won’t. You’ll just have a dream that you’ll remember with perfect recall tomorrow, that will prove to be true—or close to it—in the future.”

Blaise took a sip. It tasted like blueberries, and he wanted more, but he heeded her warning.

Violet took the ladle next, and took a large swallow.

Draco gaped at her. “You said a sip!” He spat in outrage.

Violet straightened. “And I slept only two hours last night, waking at four AM this morning. I’m going to bed directly after dinner. Since I will be asleep longer naturally, by my own design, I can have a longer vision and still wake in time for Potions class.” She smiled sweetly. “If you want to be late, or miss class entirely, have more.” She waved at the cauldron full of the brew. “Be my guest.”

Draco scowled. “No, but I’m watching you.”

“Good.” Violet said lightly. “It’s always a good idea to have an audience. You’ll keep me honest.” She vanished the brew, and Draco cried out.

“You can’t just Vanish a Potion! They react badly to that most of the time!”

Violet made a sound of disgust. “Brews are different!” She snapped at him. “Look it up over Christmas!”

Draco made a face. “I’m staying here for Christmas.”

Violet hummed. “Well, have fun. I will be busy doing some more alchemy, without you two.”

“Why without us?” Draco demanded.

Blaise was watching interestedly. There was something to be said for free information, after all.

“It will be with our Defence Professor. It needs to be private. You’ll understand in a few years.” She added.

Draco huffed and stalked out of the room.

“I’ll be going home for Christmas.” Blaise said, when she turned to him. “But I wish you luck, whatever you will be doing.”

Violet smiled at him. “Thank you.” She said in relief. “Shall we head out, then?”

“After you, My Lady.” Blaise waved her on.

Violet smiled and preceded him out of the abandoned classroom.

*****

Violet lay down and soundproofed as well as locked her curtains, ensuring she would not be woken prematurely. Arisa was the only creature that could get past her curtains at this point, and she knew if Death really needed her, he could intrude on the dreams, so there was no reason to key him into the locking charm.

She gave a long yawn and closed her eyes, letting her much-needed sleep drag her into dreams.

She woke to two bodies pressed against her, one in front—Blaise—and one behind. She shivered, realizing who it must be.

A hand pulled her hair off her neck with slender, sure fingers, and warm lips were pressed to her pulse point. “Good morning, my Vixen.” Severus’ voice purred.

Violet looked down at herself to see her own naked body—but several years older than she really was. Her breasts were fully developed at this point, and she had a long, thick tail. She could feel kitsune ears atop her head as well. “Hello, love.” She answered, stretching.

Blaise’s eyes opened and he hummed, threading his fingers into her hair and kissing her deeply. “Morning.” He said once he pulled away.

Violet sniffed the air, and smelled sunshine and wildflowers. “A beautiful one, it smells like.” She agreed. “And Wilky has already opened the windows.”

Severus growled. “Damn elf.” He got up and cursed. “He did. I have to go salvage the rose thorns we left out last night. Store in a dark place, Wilky! Sunshine is not dark!” Severus snapped as he left the room.

“Wilky is sorry, Master! Mistress likes the sun!”

Violet laughed a bit and rolled onto her back.

Blaise bent down and nibbled at her throat. “We should get up.” He murmured against her skin. “We have work today.”

“Work, work, work. That’s all you ever talk about!” Violet grumped.

Blaise laughed. “Well, if we don’t work, Our Lord will have our hides!” He pointed out.

Violet shrugged. “Easy for you to say, you don’t have to teach those cretins every day!” She said with a smile.

Blaise rolled his eyes. “I just have to waltz around with your brother and chase Light Wizards against us while he interrogates me about you. How are you, how does Severus treat you, are you pregnant yet?”

Violet laughed. “Never thought he would have children before me.”

“He says you’d better get a move on, or yours will be too young for his to be friends with.” Blaise told her as he got out of bed.

“I’ve got a year or two.” Violet said. “I don’t want to let my career lapse too soon.”

Blaise rolled his eyes. “If his career can survive having a baby, you know yours will, too.”

Violet snorted. “He’s married to the Minister.” She pointed out. “He’ll be an Auror as long as he’s on his feet and willing.”

“True enough.”

Severus came in and scowled at them both. “You,” He pointed to Blaise, “Shower. You,” He pointed to Violet, “Breakfast. Honestly, if I don’t separate you two, nothing ever gets done around here!”

Blaise headed toward the bathroom as Violet got out of bed and kissed Severus. “Yes, Dear.” She said sweetly, then headed naked into the kitchen, feeling Severus’ eyes on her gently swishing tail the whole way.

She sat down and Wilky, their elf, brought over her breakfast—waffles with banana slices on them, topped with blueberry puree, and thick strips of maple bacon. She ate happily, listening to Severus complaining about lesson plans as he puttered about making tea.

“Two things to be happy about, Severus.” She pointed a piece of bacon at him, “You don’t teach Potions anymore, I do.” She bit off the end and waved it around as she chewed, then swallowed and continued, “And you get to teach seventh-years with the talent for it Alchemy.” She propped her head in her hand and pouted at him. “You've got it good.”

“You got offered Alchemy first, you could have had it.” Severus said, only a little bitterly.

Violet smiled widely. “I’m better with the little idiots than you are. They don’t cry as much with me teaching them.”

“And you have one Potions-related accident per month!” Severus snapped.

Violet laughed. “Honestly, if you don’t let the occasional explosion happen, how are they supposed to learn what not to do? I never let the toxic ones happen!” She defended herself.

“Bloody Minerva, letting a kitsune with a Gryffindor streak take over Potions; what was she thinking?!” Severus grumbled.

Violet smiled brightly as she watched him and ate.

He finally ran out of steam just as Blaise came out to the kitchen and sat down.

Violet got up. “Be back after my shower!” She called out as she headed toward the bathroom.

She took her shower, marvelling at the feel of her tail and how silky it was, and she realized why it was so lush as she carefully shampooed it with a special shampoo and conditioned it twice, then did the same with different products for her hair.

It seemed incredibly soft now, too, so the extra treatments were at least doing something right.

She got out and dried off, then realized in dismay that her vision was ending.

She got one last glimpse of Severus as he came into the room and began to say something to her, but she couldn’t make out words as the vision dissolved into nothingness.

She woke and heaved a heavy sigh before checking the time. 6 AM. She had time to get ready slowly as she pondered her vision.

*****

Draco opened his eyes and was startled to find Harry in bed with him, and another man he didn’t recognize behind the other teen.

He felt himself reach out as Harry’s eyes fluttered open and he smiled. “Morning. Feel alright? You don’t need to stay home today, do you?” He asked, tracing a finger down the bridge of his nose.

“You can, you know.” The man behind him said as he roused. “I won’t hold it against you.” He added.

Harry smiled. “I’m not going to take advantage of being mated to the Minister like that.” He said, and Draco tried desperately to place the man before him.

It wasn’t Fudge, so who was this mystery man?!

He got up. “Well, I have Potions coming today, both from Violet and Severus, so I have to get to the hospital wing. You both,” He sneered, “Are allowed to have a bit of a lie-in, you lazy sods.”

Harry and the other man grinned at him unrepentantly.

Draco went into the bathroom and showered, carefully tending to his hair—his best feature—and exfoliating his skin. It was best to stay silky smooth for his mates, after all.

He got out and found the two men in bed, kissing each other. “Oi!” He threw his towel at Harry’s head. “Not without me!”

Harry laughed. “Sorry, forgot. I’ll just get my shower now.”

“Good.” Draco picked out some clothes and remembered right before the door closed to shout, “Condition your damn hair!” At Harry.

“Yeah, yeah.” Harry’s voice said before the door shut behind him.

“He needs a minder.” Draco muttered.

The mystery man was watching him dress with heated eyes. “Don’t waste your energy on that. Come and give me a kiss, beautiful.”

Draco thought to himself, ‘well, at least he gives credit where it’s due,’ as his legs brought him over to the man, and the dream dissolved as warm, soft lips met his.

Chapter Text

Violet found Draco and Blaise waiting for her in the Common Room, and blushed when she met Blaise's eyes. “So?” She asked the two.

Blaise cleared his throat. “Well, I think it was a success. I now know who I will end up mated to. As well as how to motivate one of them.” He added with a laugh.

Draco grinned. “I'm happy with mine. Are those futures set in stone?” He asked eagerly.

Violet frowned. “Well, not entirely. If you don’t want it to happen, it can still be changed if you intend to fight against it, but if you go on as you have been, it would have shown the most likely situation for your future.” She informed him.

Draco smiled. “Good.” He said in satisfaction. “Let's head to breakfast.”

Blaise stopped Violet from following Draco with a hand on her arm, and whispered, “After class, we need to talk. In private.”

Violet nodded. “Yes, we do.” She agreed with a smile before following Draco toward the Great Hall.

*****

Class was fun for Violet, as she watched the man she now knew to be her mate stalk to the front of the class, sneer and make a few targeted insults, and then point his wand to the board and tell them to begin their Potions.

She left class satisfied that she would see a new side of the man in a few years and went to lunch with Blaise and Draco, chatting about the differences between Alchemy and Potions to an interested Draco who nevertheless believed little of what she told him, and waited until she and Blaise could find a private area to discuss—things.

After lunch Blaise dragged her off to an abandoned classroom after telling Draco to save them a spot in History of Magic, and locked the door. “If that brew is to be believed, you are our third mate.” He said.

Violet smiled and inclined her head. “Apparently, yes, I am.” She agreed. “I’m happy about it. Are you?” She asked.

Blaise grinned. “Yeah, but... Severus is going to be upset.” He told her, face falling.

Violet rolled her eyes. “Why would he be more upset about me than he was about you?” She asked.

Blaise licked his lips. “You need to talk with him. I can’t be the one to explain... Things. They’re his secrets to tell, and I only know because he believes in being perfectly candid—and honest to a fault—with his mates. He’ll tell you if you can convince him that you know who your mates are now. He might not believe you at first, though, and... Well, you’ve seen how he is.” He winced. “Good luck, but if you want to be present this summer when we draw up our marriage contract draft, I’m going to leave it to you to explain things.”

Violet hummed. “Great. I’ll come up with something.” She said.

*****

Violet sat in History of Magic, doodling on a piece of parchment absently. She hummed, wrote a quick note to Blaise, and passed it over.

Whose name are we taking?

Blaise rolled his eyes. Probably his. He’s a Professor, which outranks us. He wrote back.

Violet made a face. I don’t want to be Violet Lily Snape! She wrote back.

Blaise’s eyes widened and he gulped. Tell me he doesn’t know your full name!

Violet frowned in confusion. Why? He knows it. She told him.

Blaise sighed and ran a hand over his face. We’re fucked. Was all he wrote.

When Violet tried to get him to elaborate, he shook his head and wrote, Talk to him. He refused to say more.

*****

Violet entered to office at her Professor’s spoken, “Enter.” She steeled her nerves and went in preparing for a tense conversation.

“Miss Peverell. To what do I owe the pleasure? It will be pleasure today, I hope.”

Violet sat down with a smile. “I do hope so, Sir. I have some news regarding our future.” She told him.

“Our?” Severus asked suspiciously.

“Yes, our future. I brewed the future glimpse brew, and Blaise, Draco and I took it.” She informed him.

Severus sneered. “I don’t believe that works. I brewed it myself my second year, and it lied to me.” He told her.

“It could only have shown you up to your thirty-second year, then. Blaise and I just started here this year, Sir, and I don’t believe you are that much older than my parents. I believe you are younger. Otherwise, my mother would not distrust you so much.” Violet said.

“I am thirty-one now.” Severus told her cautiously.

“Well, there you go! It probably showed you a vision from your twenties.” She told him.

“It is likely.” He agreed. “What did you see, then?”

“You. Me. Blaise. Living together, quite happily.” She added.

Severus sighed and rubbed a hand over his face. “Of course I’d be stuck with you.”

Violet’s face fell.

“If it wasn’t the switch sent to give me grey hairs, it had to be the submissive. I’m going to have to shelter your identity for the rest of my life, aren’t I?” He asked, already sounding resigned to it.

Violet scowled. “Only until Harry knows. Once he has found out, I will make it known. He needs to know first, though.”

Severus sighed heavily. “And you are sure you made the brew correctly?”

“You know that if I didn’t, we would have gotten nothing at all out of it!” Violet said in indignation.

Severus smiled. “Indeed. So why are you telling me this?”

“Blaise mentioned something about a marriage contract—”

“Oh, that blasted thing!” Severus burst out. “Did you know, Arabella Zabini has already contacted me? ‘Am I treating Blaise right? I am looking for our other mate, right? How many children do I want?’” He sneered. “The woman is full of questions for me.”

“It’s a serious thing, creature bonds. We—Blaise and I—literally have no other choice.” Violet pointed out.

Severus sneered at her. “Neither do I, little girl!” He pointed out. “You think you are the only creatures here? How else would I be able to sniff out oncoming inheritances? Why would a simple human be involved in a three-way bond?”

Violet frowned. “Well, what are you, then? And I’m sorry you took so long to find your mates. That must have been hard.” She added.

“It wasn’t awful.” Severus told her calmly. “I am a Sinicus, we don’t require mates. And… We are violent. I dread Mrs. Zabini’s reaction to my creature side.” He added.

Violet nodded. “Yes, but you will only be violent to a certain extent. Sinicae involved in other bonds can temper their urges, I’ve read about them.”

Severus chuckled darkly. “With any luck, you two will grow to realize you don’t want me to temper those urges.” Violet frowned in confusion, and Severus’ smile widened. “So innocent. That won’t last long in Slytherin.” He added.

“I have time to grow up, it will happen.” Violet said surely. “But we need to have some discussions. Apparently, Blaise knows more about you than I do.”

“He knows that I was in love once, and only once. He also knows who it was with. I will tell you, but you must promise not to see me differently once you know.” Severus said, sounding hesitant.

Violet nodded. “Alright, who was it?”

Severus sighed heavily. “Your mother. It may create some tension between us.”

Violet sat there for long moments, considering the news. Finally, she came to a decision. “Just don’t get us confused. The first time you call me Lily, I’m taking off vital body parts.” She threatened.

“You won’t have to worry about that. You already look different enough.” He assured her.

Violet let her scar momentarily appear, then flashed him a smile. “I hope so.” She said.

“What in the name of Merlin—” He gaped at her as it disappeared again. “You’re a Metamorphmagus.” He deduced, then smiled. “Oh, this opens up so many possibilities.”

Violet snorted. “Don’t get too excited, I don’t intend to use the ability much. I can disguise the ugly scar, and for now, that is enough for me.” She said.

Severus sighed. “A pity. Perhaps in time I can persuade you around.”

“Doubtful. Anyway, I need to get to dinner, and you should come to. I’ll leave now, you can follow in five minutes. See you there, Sir.” She said happily before leaving.

Severus smiled. It might not be all bad, having those two as mates. At least they were Slytherins.

*****

“Oh!” Hermione’s eyes widened. “Look here!” She pointed to a section in the book. “The only family that can still claim the Peverell name are the Potters!”

Ron frowned. “Harry was supposed to have a twin sister, but she disappeared the night of the attack. What if this Violet girl is her, and Death Eaters took her?” He asked. “She could be a bad egg if she was raised wrong.”

Harry gaped at the book. “I have a sister?” He asked in awe. Then his face fell. “A Slytherin sister, who didn’t tell me who she was.” He added.

Hermione hummed. “She might be waiting for you to figure things out. She did give you a pretty big hint.”

Ron scowled. “Still a Slytherin. You can’t trust her.” He said surely.

“I want to talk to her.” Harry said softly. “I think I need to.”

Hermione smiled widely. “That’s a great idea, Harry! Do you want to do it alone?”

Harry nodded. “Yeah, I want it to be just us two.” He told them.

Ron huffed. “Can’t trust a Slytherin.” He repeated.

*****

The next morning, Harry sent Hedwig to Violet, asking to meet her after dinner in the library, and she looked up, meeting his eyes over the Great Hall, and nodded her acceptance, looking pleased.

Harry grinned and focussed on his meal, looking forward to later this evening.

He got a letter from Dumbledore later that day asking him to meet with him after lunch. He went to his office after lunch and smiled at the man.

“Hello, my boy! I noticed you were sending letters to Miss Peverell this morning. May I ask what they were about?” Dumbledore asked kindly.

Harry grinned. “Sir, it turns out she is my sister! I have a twin!”

Dumbledore’s face fell. “I doubt that very much, my boy.”

“She says she has a connection to the Peverell family through her father’s line, and the only family that can claim that is Potter! Hermione helped me find out!” Harry exclaimed excitedly.

Dumbledore sighed, drawing his wand with what seemed to be great reluctance. “I am sorry I have to do this, my boy, but you cannot be allowed to know this.” He obliviated Harry, making a note to remove the books that had the most recent families descended from Peverell. He hid the wand before Harry was back to his senses. “Please, my boy, send Miss Granger to me. I need to have a word with her, as well.”

Harry smiled at him. “Alright, Sir.” He left, heading to class to tell Hermione to visit him next.

Dumbledore sighed wearily. These children were treading some very dangerous ground right now. He had to make sure they did not go too far into finding family he did not want them to have.

Certain things had to play out a certain way, and Harry needed to have exactly the friends Dumbledore wanted him to have, and not others that could potentially cause him to question Dumbledore.

And Violet Potter would no doubt be one of those such friends.

She was dangerous, and if Harry found out about the blocks and compulsions on him and had them removed, far too many things could go wrong. If Violet got too close to Harry, she would tell him.

And all his plans would fall apart.

Dumbledore waited for Hermione to arrive, deciding that there was only one way to ensure this all worked out.

He had to enlist the help of Ronald Weasley.

The boy would need to try harder to keep Harry away from Slytherin influences.

This was too close for comfort, and no more mistakes could be made.

Chapter Text

Violet came into the library and made a beeline for Harry and Hermione’s table. “You wanted to see me?” She asked.

Harry and Hermione both frowned.

“No, we didn’t.” Harry said.

Violet gently probed his mind and found the there was absolutely no knowledge of the Peverell family there, and there was a blank spot indicative of a memory charm, and her heart sank. “Alright. Sorry for disturbing you.” She said before turning to leave.

It seemed this would take another try, and she would have to come up with a better ploy than letting him research things and go to Dumbledore.

She needed to reconsider her options.

As she was leaving the library, she met Ronald Weasley coming in. He scowled at her fiercely, and hissed, “Stay away from Harry! Or I’ll tell Dumbledore!”

Violet paled. “I’ll stay away.” She said softly, watching as he walked over and joined his friends, all smiles.

She’d never be able to get close to Harry with his best friend actively working against her.

Now what could she do?

She heaved a sigh and headed to the Gryffindor Common Room. At the moment, she only had the twin terrors to turn to, but they were better than nothing.

She stood in front of the portrait that covered the entrance and used the twin-bond to call out, ‘Fred? George? I need to talk to one—or both—of you.’

After waiting for about two minutes, the portrait opened, and the two redheads poured out, falling to her feet, one on top of the other. They looked up with identical grins.

“How can we—”

“Help you, Milady?”

Violet sighed. “I need someone to get Ronald out of the way.” She said.

Their eyes widened and she quickly added, “Not killed, but removed from a situation.”

“Oh, that.” One of them said.

“We can do that.” The other said.

“I assume,”

“You have a timeframe in mind?”

Violet groaned at the incipient headache forming behind her eyes. “I was hoping Christmas. The whole break if you can, but if not, then around the beginning of January?”

“We can do the first of January.” One of them volunteered.

“We’re busy after that.” The other warned.

Violet nodded. “Alright, then, the first will work for me.” She said.

Fred and George grinned and nodded. “First it is!”

“Need anything else?”

“Dating advice, perhaps?” They both asked.

Violet sneered down at them. “Not from you two. I’m taking that road at my own pace, thanks.”

They both laughed and got up.

“I’ll let you know if and when I decide I do need your advice, though. Thanks for the offer.” She said, then waved and walked away.

She could hear them muttering to each other as she headed off, and hoped they were making plans to benefit her.

*****

Violet groaned, sinking into her usual spot on the couch. Arisa padded up to her, jumped in her lap, and began purring as Violet stroked her head.

“You look tense. Meeting go badly?” Draco asked, sitting beside her.

“There was no meeting.”

Draco’s eyebrows hit this hairline. “That is bad. Why not?”

“Dumbledore.” Violet growled.

“Did what?” Draco asked evenly.

“Obliviated my brother. Probably his pet Muggleborn, too, because she didn’t seem to remember that they had looked up the Peverell family and found out about me, either.” Her hand not petting Arisa clenched into a fist. “Weasley still knows, I’m sure, and has warned me off with threats of ‘going to Dumbledore’ if I don’t stay away from my own damn brother!” She said softly but with venom.

Draco snorted. “Well, of course he still knows. You know he agrees with Dumbledore that you can never trust a Slytherin.” He sneered.

“I hate bigots.” She spat.

Draco’s lips twitched. “That’s rich, coming from a future Death Eater.”

Violet smiled and shoulder-bumped him. “Shut up, you know what we’re really like.”

“Oh, definitely, but no one else does.” Draco agreed as Arisa gave Violet a lick and jumped down.

“I’m going to go find Severus.”

“In his office.” Draco helpfully informed her as she got up.

Violet smiled. “Wonderful.” She said as she left the room. She headed to Severus’ office and knocked, receiving permission to enter. She went in and sat in front of him. “So, Dumbledore.” She began.

Severus’ eyebrow rose. “And what did he do this time?” He asked.

“Well, I told Harry—and Hermione and Ron, apparently, by extension—where to look to figure out my identity. He sent me a very friendly letter telling me he’d found out who I was, and wanted to get to know me as a sister. But Dumbledore apparently got wind of this, somehow, and obliviated Harry and probably Hermione, too. And then Ronald—” She spat the name, “Warned me that if I don’t, and I quote, ‘leave him alone,’ he’ll go to Dumbledore. So at least he seems to still know. But he’s clearly up Dumbledore’s ass, so there’s no talking to him.”

“That is troubling news. Is there any reason he would not trust you around your brother?” Severus asked.

“Who, Ron or Dumbledore?” Violet asked.

Severus sneered. “I doubt Weasley even has a brain between his ears. The latter, clearly.”

Violet stifled a giggle. “Well, he knows now that I know Occlumency, so he can’t get into my mind, and I wouldn’t tell him who adopted me. They are, however, obviously Pureblooded and know their family lines. He’s probably guessed—rightly—that it’s a dark family that took me in.”

Severus hummed. “Will you tell me who they are?”

Violet smiled. “Indigena Yaxley.”

Severus paled.

“And Evan Rosier.”

His eyes widened as he blanched even further. “He would be wise to worry—”

“Oh, sod off with that! I know you were a Death Eater, too!” She snapped.

Severus flushed in righteous indignation. “I turned from him!” He snapped hotly.

Violet smiled. “And that was your first mistake. I have leverage with him now, and I am going to appeal to his good sense. I have a feeling I can get him to listen.”

“That’s a fool’s errand if I’ve ever heard one.” Severus muttered.

“Believe what you want, but I aim to succeed. I think I have a fair chance at bringing My Lord around.”

“What so-called ‘leverage’ do you have that you are so sure will work with him?” Severus asked, amused despite himself.

Violet smiled secretively. “I don’t know that I want to tell you that, Sir. You might go to Dumbledore. Perhaps later. Good night, Professor.” She said amiably, then left his office.

*****

“I want to get to know Severus better.” Violet said, handing over her book on Kitsune. “And this right here says that’s a good idea.” She pointed out the pertinent passage.

Blaise read it, then laughed. “It does say it’s not required.” He pointed back.

“Yes, but it’s helpful.” Violet persisted.

Blaise shrugged. “You’re on your own there. Good luck.”

Violet made a face. “This would be much easier if I had the help of my switch.” She muttered, taking the book back.

“Do your Potions work.” Blaise said evenly.

“’Do your Potions work.’” Violet mocked him. “Prat.”

Blaise smiled down at his own work. “Just do it.” He told her.

Violet glanced across the library to see Harry, Hermione and Ron poring over books.

Blaise cupped her chin in his hand. “Don't worry about it.” He turned her head to face him. “We'll work on that later.” He assured her.

“It’s going to be hard.” Violet said quietly.

“Most things worth it are.” Blaise agreed. “But we can do it.”

“I hope you’re right.” Violet said, turning her focus to her work with reluctance.

*****

The day of the Quidditch match dawned bright and sunny—and cold.

Violet ate a small breakfast, mostly tea and some toast, and waited patiently for the match to start.

When it was time, she headed down to the Pitch, changing and getting out there as the rest of her team filed in. Marcus’ speech had amounted to “win this for me, I leave the school this year.” He wanted his last year to be a good one.

Violet steeled her determination and nodded to Harry as Marcus and Oliver Wood shook hands. Then they took to the air.

Violet and Harry circled high above the other players, Violet calling out a greeting as Harry scanned the area.

“Nice day!” She said. “Good day for Quidditch!”

Harry scowled. “Yeah. Now shove off, I’m trying to play!”

Violet snorted. “Just trying to make conversation. If I see the snitch, you will know.” She smirked. “Because I’ll be after it like a shot.” She added.

Harry’s scowl deepened. “Leave me alone!” He flew to the other side of the Pitch.

Violet sighed and shook her head, but gave up for the moment and turned her attention to finding the snitch.

Suddenly, Harry’s broom gave a lurch, and Violet immediately started scanning the crowd.

She saw Severus pointing his wand at Harry and muttering under his breath, but Violet felt she had the measure of the man now, and he didn’t seem the type to wish ill on Harry, despite any misgivings he had about him. She scanned a few seats behind him and found Quirinus Quirrel jinxing him.

She flew in front of him, caught his eye, and pushed a thought into his head. ‘If you want that stone, you’ll leave Harry alone! Well alone!’

Quirinus’ face darkened, he seemed to fume, and he put his wand away reluctantly.

And Harry’s broom stopped acting up.

Violet rolled her eyes—mostly inwardly—and focussed back on the game.

Slytherin was in the lead, and if they were using some underhanded tactics to ensure their lead, well, they were Slytherins. Violet had even been taught a few dirty moves herself.

She moved closer to Harry as Slytherin’s lead grew even greater, and he appeared to be increasingly agitated. She began looking for the snitch in earnest, mostly to put Harry out of his misery.

They both noticed it across the Pitch at the same time, and raced toward it, neck and neck the whole way.

Until Violet realized there was a move that she had learned that would give her an edge.

She dipped down a bit to fly under Harry, grinned wickedly, then did a quick corkscrew turn under his broom with a little buck up from the back of her broom that caught the back of Harry’s broom and set it to spinning, making him lose sight of the snitch as he fumbled and caught his broom.

Violet snatched it out of the sky and turned to grin at him, holding it up. “We win.” She said smugly.

Harry glared. “You cheated!” He snapped. “And cheaters never prosper!” He added.

Violet looked at him, looked at the snitch, then returned her gaze to him. “Well, it may not be prospering, exactly, but I think I’ll take this any day.” She said lightly, then blew him a kiss. “See you around, Potter. Make it worth my time to keep tabs on you, or I will be most disappointed.” She added.

She headed down to meet her teammates, who were happy to see her and even happier to see the snitch she held.

“That was great! You do have talent!” Marcus was saying as they headed into the locker room. “Fancy a rub-down? You are our star player, right now, and that comes with perks.” He said with a grin.

Violet shook her head. “No, I have someone who will do that for me. But thank you for the offer.” She declined politely.

Marcus shrugged. “Fine, then.” He said.

Violet cocked her head. “Can I go back to the common room immediately after showering?” She asked.

Marcus shrugged. “Sounds fair to me. Have a good time. Make sure someone goes and gets food.”

“Alright, I will.” She headed into the girl’s section and quickly showered, then headed back to the common room, where Draco was telling everyone that they had studied that tactic, as well as others, and Violet smiled indulgently.

“And who would have thought—it turned out to be useful.” She added, taking the couch next to Blaise.

Blaise smiled. “You did good. We’re all very proud of you.” He told her.

Violet smiled happily. Accolades felt good.

Immortality, when it came for her, she knew, was going to feel even better.

Chapter Text

Violet hugged both Draco and Blaise before they left for the train, then headed for Quirrell’s office. “Sir, the students have just left. When did you want to get started?” She asked.

Quirrell smiled. “You have it with you?” He checked.

Violet smiled, went into the room and closed the door before drawing it out.

“Ahh.” He looked at it closely, then went to touch it and Violet drew it back.

“Not yet. Not until I have elixir, as I said. I am, understandably, I hope, a little protective of it right now. I need to figure out how to get the elixir of life, and then we can use it to give you a new body. That will be the easy part.” She added.

“I wouldn’t be so sure.” Voldemort spoke up from behind the turban. “Even with the stone, it is said to be difficult.”

“I have looked into that, and there are instructions. There are no written instructions for how to produce the elixir of life. At least, none that I have found. In comparison, it will be easier to grant you a new body. You just need to drink some of the elixir for that. And yes, I will then share the remaining elixir and that which I will continue to produce with you. You will have your immortality, as will I, and all I am asking is to let me assist you with your revolution in our world. It needs to be done a different way. With less bloodshed. You had a silver tongue and charm, you will use that to better effect without killing those that do not need to die. Dumbledore needs to go, this I fully support. But I believe most others can be brought around, and I am willing to help you with that. That’s all I want for payment.”

Voldemort sighed. “Fine, little girl. We will plan together.”

“I will need your complete honesty when I have questions.” Violet said.

“I will give you a vow to never lie once I have a body to make that vow with. You seem smart, I could have a worse advisor at my side.” Voldemort said.

“Good! Now, when are we doing this?” She asked.

“Is tonight too soon to start?” Voldemort shot back.

Violet smiled. “What time?”

Quirrell cut in, “There is a staff meeting directly after dinner where we will get our office shifts, and I have requested the next two nights off. In exchange, I will be available all day during Christmas day. I can meet you right after that meeting, if you come by around eight PM.”

Violet smiled. “Deal, if you walk me back to my dormitory every night I am with you past curfew to make sure I do not get in trouble for it.”

Voldemort laughed. “Wily girl. Yes, we will do that.” He agreed.

“Good. I will be by at eight, then.” She said brightly, put the stone back in her pocket, and skipped away.

Quirinus watched her go with a smile. “That girl is trouble.” He said fondly.

“She will be, once she grows into those stilettos she is so eager to fill already.” Voldemort agreed.

Violet hummed as she skipped back to the dungeons. With the elixir and regular doses of de-aging potion, she could be young and powerful as long as she desired. And as she had so very much to do, she planned to live a good, long time carrying out her plans.

The world would be hers for the taking.

Hers and Harry's, once she had her brother back and whole.

It would only take time.

*****

“And try adding moondew.” Voldemort added. “The properties should invert with the dandelion roots.”

Violet frowned. “No, they won’t, because of the Dragon’s Blood. Are you sure you’ve attempted Alchemy before, My Lord?”

Voldemort snarled. “What do you suggest, then?!” He asked tightly.

Violet hummed. “I don’t... Perhaps runespoor egg?” She asked more to herself than anyone else, and began crushing one in a mortar.

*****

“I think we need to continue this tomorrow. Clearly we are not going to figure things out tonight.”

Quirrell sighed. “I believe you are right.”

“Fine. Take her back, Quirinus, and we will try again tomorrow night.”

Violet sighed and tucked the stone back into her pocket. “Hopefully we will have better luck tomorrow.”

They didn’t.

This went on until the day after Christmas, when Violet froze, holding a cauldron full of water. “It can’t be that easy, can it?” She breathed. She walked over to their workstation and set the cauldron down, then dropped the stone in. “Don’t add anything. Let’s boil it as is and see what happens.” She instructed. “We should have tried this first, it might actually just be this easy.”

Voldemort’s eyes widened. “Surely not?”

“We might as well try, we have nothing to lose.” She said.

They waited.

After an hour, it started to turn pink and Violet let out a loud whoop, pumping her fist in the air. “We’ve figured it out!”

“Not so loud!” Voldemort hissed.

“Sorry.” Violet said, grinning. “I’m just glad we found it out, because I have plans in a few days.”

Quirinus’ eyes narrowed, but he didn’t ask what these ‘plans’ were, which was best for Violet.

After another two hours of boiling, the water had turned a vibrant red, and they deemed it ready.

Violet smiled as they decanted it and found it filled twelve vials.

“One for you, My Lord.” She said, handing one vial over.

Voldemort’s grotesque face was revealed at the moment, and she saw his eyes narrow. “I will need more.” He told her.

Violet nodded. “It will be provided, once you have held up your end of the bargain.” She said firmly.

He took the vial and looked at it. “I will wait.” He said after a few moments. “This will not provide me with the body I will need, if you intend for me to use charm to woo the masses. I require something from Lucius Malfoy first.” He slipped the vial into his pocket. “I will keep this until later. Come see me on January 3^rd, right before the students are set to return. We will finish this then.” He told her.

Violet nodded, then curtseyed. “Your will is mine, My Lord. It will be as you say.”

Voldemort’s lipless mouth curved in a mockery of a smile. “Good girl. Take your bag and the remaining vials and run along, now. I will see you in eight days.”

Violet nodded, took her elixir and the stone, which had cooled, and left the room in high spirits.

Her plan was coming along nicely already.

*****

Violet smiled down at the letter she had gotten from Blaise.

“Hi, Beautiful!

Thank you for the brewing gloves, they are lovely and the charms on them will make them very useful indeed.

I wanted to give you something special for Christmas, and Mamma is excited to meet you. She said I could give you this, sorry if it comes a little late, it’s coming from a long way away and it took us until Christmas Day to find it.

This ring was my Grandmother’s, and it is a very sentimental piece for both my mother and me. She said you can have it, since you are my mate, and it has protections on it and anti-theft charms, as well as the Zabini Crest on the inside of the band.

Severus was also sent a ring, as my other mate, but he may not wear it openly.

These are our engagement rings, the real ones at least, even though the formal ones must wait a few years.

You can wear it either on your finger or on a chain around your neck, but please wear it.

All my love,

Blaise Zabini”

Violet opened the small jeweller’s box and found a beautiful diamond ring with two small sapphires set to each side. The diamond was large, and the ring was clearly expensive.

She slid it on, and it re-sized to fit her snugly.

She was claimed, now. She’d have to write a proper thank-you.

*****

“Hello, Harry.” Violet sat down across the table from the boy and smiled at him.

“Er, hi.” Harry said warily.

“How are you doing? I hope you’re happy here.”

Harry frowned. “I am, yeah, but why does that matter to you?” He asked.

Violet smiled sadly. “You remind me of someone I once knew. A long time ago.” She said.

“Oh.” Harry said.

“Did you ever wonder if you had relatives on your Dad’s side of the family?” She asked.

Harry shook his head. “I just assumed I didn’t. Otherwise Dumbledore wouldn’t have put me with the Dursleys.”

Violet smiled. “You might. The Potter family had a lot of related families, and I’m sure some of them are still around.”

Harry frowned. “I doubt it, but I may as well check.” He said.

Violet nodded. “Looking into something is the best any of us can do. You may even discover something interesting about yourself. Or someone else.” She said, then reached over to pat his hand and left.

She felt the seed had been planted.

All she could do now was wait.

*****

Violet and Quirrell were waiting at the edge of the Wards for Lucius Malfoy.

“When he gives me the item I need, I will take the elixir. I will then spend several days down in the chamber of secrets, feeding my soul into the item. It will alter my looks, making me appear younger, but it will also allow me to shed my current monstrous appearance. I will need to be rid of that in order to get people on my side without intimidation.” Voldemort told her.

Violet nodded. “That makes sense.” She said.

Violet saw a blond man approaching, and her eyebrows shot up.

If she hadn’t already found her mates, she would have hoped Draco was one of them, because if he grew up looking like that, hot damn! She kept her appreciative thoughts to herself and simply watched the man.

He eyed Quirrell. “I was told to expect someone else, but I do not see him.” Lucius drawled.

“I am here.” Voldemort spoke from under the turban, and Quirrell turned and unwrapped it from his head, revealing his Master’s face. “I am relegated to this, but I now have an elixir that will allow me to regain a body. The item I entrusted you with will give me the strength to form a pleasing form, to regain the charm and appeal that drew people to me in the past, and I will continue to gather followers and we will take a new path. Miss Peverell will be an advisor, but she knows when to bow, she has assured me.”

Voldemort laid a hand on Violet’s shoulder and she bowed her head and murmured, “I will be a useful tool for our side, despite my youth, Mr. Malfoy.” She raised her head and smiled at him. “The Darkness of your core is lovely.” She said.

Lucius’ eyes widened. “Mage Sight?” He whispered. “Who are you?”

“Violet Peverell. A first-year Slytherin, and a friend of your son’s. I have many useful abilities, Mage Sight is merely one of them. I can be trusted, as long as your wishes run parallel to mine. For now, My Lord and I are on the same side. I do believe in his cause, and intend to use all of my skills to help him accomplish his goals. Just not through whatever means necessary. There are better ways.” She said.

Lucius hummed and handed over the small black book. “I wish you good fortune, My Lord, and I will be waiting for your summons.” He said. “It will be good to see the old crowd together once more.”

Voldemort smiled. “Yes, it will be good. Let your son know I am looking forward to him growing into his powers. He shows much promise so far, and the Malfoy family have been peerless allies to my cause.” He said.

Lucius smiled at that. “Thank you, My Lord. I will relay your compliments to him. He will be most pleased, I am sure.”

Voldemort nodded his head. “Now go, and I will see you later. It will take me no longer than until summer, so expect to feel me calling at the latest near the solstice. I will be aiming for Easter, but I am aware that may be optimistic.”

Lucius inclined his head. “I will be waiting eagerly, My Lord.” He said, then departed.

Violet smiled. “Are you ready to take the elixir?” She asked.

Voldemort hummed. “Put the coverings back, Quirinus. For now, we have what we need. I need to do some research to see if you will even survive my leaving you.” He said.

Quirrell paled at that. “I vowed to give what you needed. If that is my life, I have served my purpose.” He said quietly.

Violet made a face. “We could always have you drink the elixir first. It should save you from anything except a mortal wound.” She offered.

Voldemort chuckled. “That is exactly what I fear, little girl.” He informed her.

Violet frowned. “Oh.” She said.

Chapter Text

Violet took a deep breath. “You’re sure you want me to witness for you? If the separation does kill you, Sir, what am I to do? Won’t it be suspicious if I go to Dumbledore?” She asked Quirrell, as she held the robes Voldemort would need once he had regained his own body.

Quirrell sighed. “I hope I survive, but I will accept my lot in life if I am to lose it now.” He said heavily.

Violet nodded. “All right, then. I’ll stay and watch.”

“As for your query, my dear, if he dies, you are to come with me. You will accompany me to the entrance of the chamber, and once I am inside, you will go back to your dormitory. Tomorrow your housemates will return and you will have a day of respite where he will be discovered when he does not report to the staff meeting. You need do nothing.” Voldemort told her.

“Alright, then.” Violet said. “I do hope you survive, Sir.”

“Thank you, Miss Peverell.” Quirrell said as Voldemort lifted his vial and drank it down.

The body convulsed once, and then a slimy, grey mass began pouring out of the back of Quirrell’s head, in a sickening sort of reverse-birthing process. It only vaguely resembled a body, as it was partially fluid and formless, and seemed to have no bones until they had solidified once the thing began to climb to its feet and gained a form closer to a body, though he was pasty-white and skeletally thin, but for one—rather impressive—part.

Voldemort looked down and sneered. “Well, he served his purpose, at least. Still, he was quite close to useless.” He said of the now-deceased Quirrell, the back of whose head was now a gaping hole. “The robes, if you please.”

Violet hastily averted her eyes, flushed brightly at the sight of the man’s nudity. “Sorry.”

Voldemort chuckled, drawing the robes on. “It can be distracting to see something for the first time. You could have closed your eyes and saved that pretty blush for your future spouse.” He teased.

Violet smiled. “I was curious. I’m sure my reactions to other things will please them just as well.” She added.

Voldemort laughed. “Come.” He held out and hand. “I have need of your wand, little girl, until I can leave to reclaim my own.”

Violet handed over her wand and Voldemort cast a disillusionment charm on himself, then handed it back. “To the chamber we go.” He grabbed onto her hand and tugged her along with him.

Violet kept up, though she jogged a few times to avoid being almost dragged along in his haste to reach a safe area to do what he had to do.

He took her to a girl’s lavatory, the same one Moaning Myrtle haunted, and cancelled the charm. “I need my diary.”

Violet drew the book from her pocket and handed it over. “When will you return?” She asked.

“Some time from now, I do not have an exact date yet. I will let you know when I am successful, and have my wand again. I do thank you for your help.” Voldemort said.

Violet smiled. “It was no trouble at all, My Lord.” She said happily. “You have helped me, as well.”

Voldemort smiled and inclined his head. “I will be in touch.” He said, then opened the pipe to get to the chamber, turned the passageway into stairs, and descended, hissing again to close the entrance.

Violet let out a breath. “Back to the dungeons, I suppose. This part is done.” She said before heading back to her common room.

She got in and collapsed onto the couch.

“No Zabini here to cling to.” Millicent teased her.

“Oh, shut up.” Violet said without heat.

“You like him an awful lot. You do know he will have a mate, right?” She asked curiously.

Violet shrugged. “So will I. We can be close before that if we want.” She said.

Millicent made a face. “Yes, but you can’t do anything, so what’s the point?” She asked.

Violet’s brow rose. “We can kiss.”

“If he’ll kiss you. He’s always seemed a bit aloof to me, and I’ve known him a few years.” Millicent added.

Violet shrugged again. “I don’t mind his standoffishness. And he’s a bit more open with me.”

Millicent’s eyes narrowed. “So I’ve noticed.” She said suspiciously. “Draco, too. You’ve taken the two biggest heartthrobs in our year, and Pansy doesn’t like it. Daphne is convinced you’re just biding your time before you decide which one you are going to potion into loving you.”

Violet’s mouth dropped open. “I am not going to potion either of them! I have my own mate coming—soon—and I am more than content with waiting a few years! My inheritance will hit before fourth year, it’s an early one. I can easily wait that long.” She told the other girl. “Draco is just a friend. He knows that.”

Millicent sniggered. “I’m not the one you have to convince. She’s at home. Personally, I’m inclined to believe you. But then again, I can practically sniff out lies. You don’t smell of falsehoods very often.”

“Does anyone here?”

“Define ‘here’ for me.” Millicent said.

“Hogwarts.” Violet said. “Anyone that is here right now.” She added.

Millicent’s eyes hardened. “Dumbledore.” She said flatly.

Violet snorted and rolled her eyes. “Lucky guess.” She said.

“Professor Quirrell, when he was introducing himself.” She said. “He’s not who he says he is.”

Violet went very still. She knew the Bulstrodes were supporters, but not where exactly they stood right now.

“You know something.” Millicent said. “I won’t tell.” She added.

Violet bit her lip. “I can’t tell. You’ll understand later.”

Millicent sighed. “Loyalty, or incrimination?” She asked.

Violet snorted. “A bit of both, but mostly loyalty. I’m only incriminated by proximity and not speaking against the one to do it.”

Millicent nodded. “I’ll leave it for now. I trust your loyalties are in the right place, for you to end up here.”

Violet smiled. “My parents raised me right. Yaxleys know where their loyalties lie.”

By now, Violet had told her year who had adopted her, and put them all under the lip-locker about it. She trusted them, but not their Occlumency skills.

Millicent looked pleased, and Violet relaxed. “Good.” She went up to their dormitory and Arisa came over to curl up in Violet’s lap.

“Pet me.” Arisa said, butting at her hand. “You need to relax.”

Violet smiled and began stroking her cat calmly.

*****

The next day everyone came back and Violet was able to show off her ring properly. She had kept a glamour over it until Blaise had returned.

Blaise had glanced at it, given her a smile, and drew her in for a hug, much to Pansy and Daphne’s consternation.

They all ate and headed back to the common room.

Draco smirked. “Nice ring.” He noted, as no one else had anything to say about it.

Violet smiled widely. “Thank you.” She said.

“It was my grandmother’s.” Blaise revealed, letting everyone know where it had come from. “We’ve done enough now to realize we’ll be mates, so I felt it was time I give her something to signify that.” He said.

Millicent’s eyes widened and she nodded to Violet. “Well played, Peverell.” She said.

“Thank you.” Violet said happily.

Daphne was watching and frowned. “How can you know you’re mates? Isn’t it a bit soon for that?” She asked—quite rudely.

“We took a brew to give us truthful visions and found out who our mates were going to be. And I do have a dual inheritance, although part of it will only hit years later. There’s nothing to state I can’t have both my mates sooner than that.”

“Two mates? I suppose you’re going to tell us Draco is the other one?” Pansy sneered.

“Of course not, I would kill him before that fate got inflicted on me! I’ll let you figure it out in your own time.” She said.

“Hey, what’s so bad about having me for a mate?” Draco asked petulantly.

Violet shot him a grin. “Nothing, except the fact that I’d kill you within the first year and I have no desire to rot in Azkaban over the likes of you.” She told him.

Draco grinned. “That much is probably true.”

“Too high-strung for me.” Violet murmured.

“Too cultured, perhaps.” Draco retorted.

“Too something.” Blaise cut the argument off before it could really gain any steam.

*****

That night at dinner, Dumbledore stood up. “There is an announcement to make. I’m afraid your defence teacher was found dead in his office. Not to fear, you will have a teacher while we search for a new one! I will step in and take up the position, I have taught it before and do have a mastery in the subject.”

Violet sighed. “This is awful.” She muttered.

“I’ll say. Wonder what happened to Quirrell?” Draco asked.

Violet winced and shook her head. “You probably don’t want to know.”

“As of this time, we do not suspect foul play, but an investigation has been opened at the ministry, as the state his body was found in is still concerning. You will all be safe as long as I am here. Now, let us eat.”

Dinner appeared and everyone began speaking at once.

“You said he was on our side, do you know anything about what happened?” Pansy asked.

“I do, but I am not at liberty to say. When the person responsible comes forward, you will be told. It’s just not time yet.” Violet told her. “I’m sorry, I wish I could share.”

“You know way too much. I don’t believe you know how he died.” Draco said snidely.

“Believe what you want, but I’m going to have nightmares about it for years!” Violet said.

“Where did you even hear what happened?” Draco asked her.

“I bore witness to the event. It was disgusting.” She told him in a whisper.

Draco’s eyes widened. “What happened?”

“I’ll show you when I’m allowed to, but you’ll have to procure a pensieve.” Violet said. “As well as some patience.” She added.

Draco rolled his eyes. “I’ll wait, but you’d better deliver when you can, and it had better be juicy.”

Violet turned a bit green. “Oh, it was.” She shuddered.

Draco hummed and focused on his food.

Violet had little appetite, but Blaise convinced her to eat a few bites.

*****

Defence class for Gryffindor and Slytherin was the first day back, and Harry couldn’t wait to see what Dumbledore was going to teach them.

They got into class and Dumbledore came in just on time, with a wide smile. “So, what have you covered so far?” He asked. “It says you are working on disarming right now?”

Hermione Granger raised her hand, and Dumbledore smiled at her. “Yes?”

“Only Harry, Malfoy, Violet Peverell and I have managed it, the rest of the class is having trouble with this lesson.”

Dumbledore clapped and smiled. “Well, it is a good thing you have me to teach you all how to cast it properly. It is an important spell, it’s best to learn it early.” He enthused. “So, Mr. Potter and Ms. Granger up here, please, to give a demonstration.”

Violet watched with absolute boredom and lamented that she couldn’t do independent study. But no, Hogwarts used to offer things like that, but not since Dumbledore took over. It was a damn shame, as her history scores were going to suffer under Binns, and the rest of the classes moved at a snail’s pace compared to how quickly she picked things up.

But she sat, quietly, and waited for the practical portion of class.

Eventually, they were allowed to pair up and Violet chose to partner with Blaise this time. She corrected his grip, like Dumbledore was doing for the Gryffindors, and by the end of the class period he had gotten it down.

“Thanks.” Blaise said as they filed out.

“I have a vested interest in keeping you alive, don’t I? I’m doing it mostly for my benefit.” She teased.

Blaise snorted. “Well, I’ll repay it by helping you in charms.”

“I appreciate that.” Violet said.

Chapter Text

Violet was leant back into Blaise’s chest as he murmured in her ear.

“Ti adoro. Sei il mio fiorellino, e ti amerò per sempre.”

Violet smiled and ran her fingertips over the arm draped around her midsection. “I have no idea what you said.” She told him fondly, before adding, “But it sounds lovely.”

“Ti amo.” He whispered next, and that one she understood.

“I love you, too.” She returned softly, smiling as he pressed a kiss to the side of her neck.

“Are you two lovebirds going to canoodle all evening, or are you willing to come over here and help us work?!” Pansy asked sharply.

Violet hummed. “I don’t think I like her tone.” She said, mostly to Blaise. “Do you feel like going over and helping them?”

“I’d much rather stay here with you, but let’s not make her angry.” He whispered regretfully into her ear.

Violet sighed and got up, going to retrieve her bag while Blaise picked his up from beside the couch where he’d dropped it earlier.

When Violet got back she found Blaise explaining Charms theory to the others and took up her quill to work on defence, having already gotten his help on Charms the day before.

She didn’t hold out much hope she’d remain at the top of the class—not with Dumbledore leading the class—but she intended to at the very least pass with good marks. If he was anything resembling fair, she’d get good marks, even if they didn’t end up exemplary.

Her parents would understand, she knew.

*****

The next week, Dumbledore gave yet another announcement at dinner.

“I know most of you have enjoyed having me teach you, and I am pleased that you found my technique so agreeable, but I have procured a better teacher for the subject—someone that does not have other obligations weighting her down. Andromeda Tonks will be your new instructor for Defence Against the Dark Arts. She will be arriving tomorrow morning, and I would like you all to welcome her with enthusiasm and cheer. She is a wonderfully talented Witch, and will be more than able to guide you through the rest of the year—and perhaps beyond.” He told them all, then sat down as talking started up all over the Great Hall, all the students speculating on what Professor Tonks would be like.

“I haven’t heard of any Tonks families.” Draco sneered. “Probably some Muggleborn.”

“That doesn’t mean she isn’t skilled, though.” Violet pointed out. “Say, isn’t Granger outstripping you in everything except flying lessons?”

Draco shot her a glare. “Coincidence.” He snapped.

“So you say.” Violet replied evenly.

She could see Draco’s ire visibly rising. It was too hard to resist.

“I’m just saying, as a Pureblood with an impressive pedigree, you really should be more advanced in everything than someone who only discovered that magic existed this last year. It’s probably due to your parents not teaching you very well earlier, but—”

“My father taught me everything I needed to know!” Draco’s shout echoed through the Hall. “It’s not my fault Granger is a freak of nature!” He added, then stormed out of dinner.

Blaise watched him go, then sighed. “I hope you’re happy with yourself.” He muttered.

Violet smiled at that. “Oh, I am. I’ll make it up to him.” She promised.

*****

By their next Defence class, Violet and Draco had made up over sweets and a chat, and they were eagerly anticipating the class.

They filed in and sat down.

“Hello, everyone! My name is Andromeda Tonks, and I will be your professor for the rest of the year. My daughter just recently entered Auror training, and I will be setting the rest of you up for success as well as I am able. Now, I’m going to test your aim and ability to dodge today. There is a handy spell that will colour spots on your class mates. The incantation is pingo and you simply point and cast.” She smiled. “So if you will all stand up, we can move the desks to the sides of the room and have a little fun.”

*****

“I can’t believe you hit me!”

“What are you on about now, Pansy?” Millicent asked as they headed toward their next class. “It was a free-for-all, she was allowed to hit you!”

“We’re supposed to be friends.” Pansy muttered.

“We are.” Violet told her. “You just got into my line of fire. I couldn’t avoid you.”

“Oh. Well, I was trying to get the Gryffindors.” Pansy said evenly.

“We all were.” Millicent agreed.

They got into class and McGonagall stared in shock at the multicoloured spots on all their robes. “What on Earth happened to you all?”

Violet stepped forward and answered for them all. “Professor Tonks was testing our aim and ability to dodge in defence today. Sorry if we’re a little unkempt, I doubt she’ll need to do that again.”

McGonagall just sighed and shook her head. “Well, take your seats.” She said in resignation. “I suppose it’s just as well that today will be a practical day. I doubt you are all calm enough to sit through a lecture right now.”

*****

There was something different about the way Severus was holding himself. Something Violet couldn’t place.

She could also see the shimmer of magic over his hand, and on closer inspection, it was a glamour. Over the base of just. One. Finger.

She leaned over to Blaise. “Did you give him a ring, too?” She asked.

Blaise smiled secretively. “Perhaps.” He whispered back.

“Well, he’s got a glamour over his finger. I think he’s wearing it.”

Blaise’s eyes softened at that, and he replied in satisfaction, “Good. That ring will protect him.”

Violet looked at Severus again. He actually looked calmer, more assured. Whatever Blaise had put into that ring, it was doing him some good.

Violet smiled as she set up her cauldron. Some interesting things were going to happen. She could feel it in her bones.

*****

“I found it!” Hermione hissed at Ron and Harry. “Look, Nicholas Flamel is the only known maker of the sorcerer’s stone!”

Harry’s eyes bugged out of his head as he read the description of the stone. “That’s it!” He whispered back. “That’s what Fluffy’s guarding, that’s what he’s after!”

“It has to be!” Ron agreed.

“We have to get to it before him.” Hermione aid firmly.

The boys both agreed and settled in to read.

They buckled down and began thinking of how they could get passed the enchantments that were clearly guarding the stone. Because if Snape got to it, there was no doubt in any of their minds that Voldemort would come back.

*****

“…And they think Severus is after it!” Violet hissed, as she tucked the stone back into her inner robe pocket after showing it to Blaise. “Of course, I’ll be bringing this to our marriage, but it won’t be included in the dowry. We need to keep it quiet that we have it, until I’ve had time to ‘discover’ how Flamel made it and make my own. But we’re going to have as long as we want to enjoy life, and we can stay young as long as we want, as well, because all we have to do is drink de-aging potion and if anyone can find out how to make them permanent, our wonderful Severus can.”

“We should go to him and tell him Harry and his friends suspect him.” Blaise said.

“Oh, I’m sure he knows.” Violet said dismissively. “Besides, I don’t want him to know how I know. And I also think he may be on Dumbledore’s side.”

Blaise frowned. “Is that a bad thing?” He asked, confused.

Violet bit her lip. “I told you who my family is.” She said softly.

“You did, and I don’t see a problem with—”

“They’re supporters.” She added.

Blaise fell silent, then after a very pregnant pause added, “Of you-know-who.”

Violet sighed, nodding, and agreed. “Yes, of the Dark Lord. I’m also aligning myself with him, I have already.”

“How could you have?” Blaise asked.

Violet sighed. “Well, I did give him the Elixir of Life. For him to get his body back.” She admitted.

Blaise nodded slowly. “So basically I’m on his side now.” He groaned. “Mamma has cautioned me to stay firmly out of this war.”

Violet frowned. “I’m sorry. But I can’t do that.” She added.

“I get that, you’re kind of a key player. I’ll have to explain to her.” He rubbed a hand over his face and muttered, “Merlin, is she ever going to disapprove.”

“I’d change it if I could, but you don’t understand.” Violet said. “People like you, and me, we’d be fine under him. It’s the Muggleborns he wants to change things for, and it’s just to get us out of non-magical households, to put us with families that can help us handle our talents, that can foster our abilities and teach us what we should know before eleven, so we’re prepared equally when we get to Hogwarts.” She lowered her voice. “I was in an orphanage until I was five. It was awful. Muggles don’t understand magic at all, and they tried to have me exorcised. I was traumatized.”

Blaise’s eyes grew wide. “They thought you had the devil in you.”

Violet smiled a bit. “So you do know that much about Muggle religion.”

“I live in Italy, cara mia. You can’t escape Catholicism there, no matter how you try.” He told her. “I thought he wanted Muggleborns dead.” Blaise said.

“No, just rehomed. He also wants to preserve our traditions.”

Blaise nodded. “They’re worth preserving.” He agreed.

“See, your values are right in line with his! There’s no reason to stay out of it, you should be converting everyone you know to join him! He’s going to take a different tactic now, there’s still time to get in while he’s open to new faces making a real difference!” Violet enthused.

Blaise hummed. “I’ll discuss it with Mamma. I’ll do what I can to make her see things my way.” He told her.

*****

Violet was torn, as she glanced first at the golden cauldron, then at the crystal vials. She sighed heavily.

Blaise peered at the catalog over her shoulder. “Get whichever, and I’ll get him the other one.”

Violet whipped her head around and huffed at him. “Where did you come from?” She snapped.

Blaise smirked. “Whichever one you get him, I’ll get the other.”

Violet nodded. “The golden cauldron, then. It’s better for alchemy than potions, really, but I know he likes to dabble. This will facilitate that.”

“As for mine—”

“I have a plan, I don’t need advice!” Violet hissed.

“I see. Well, then, I’ll leave you to it.”

Violet narrowed her eyes as he walked away, heading to his own dorms.

“Bloody boys. But the two-way mirrors will be a good thing for us to have, and we’ll be able to talk to each other over the holidays.” She frowned then. “I can’t get one linked to Severus, though. Mama would break it.”

Her mother—both of her parents, really—didn’t like Severus. There was a lot of distrust there, with him being so close to Dumbledore, and a lot of Death Eaters saw him as a possible—even probable—spy. Violet was hopeful, though, that she could sway him back to the right side, and keep him invested in the world the Death Eaters were trying to build. She’d be the first to admit it looked like he’d switched, but even if he had, he now had a mate—perhaps two, though she wasn’t sure about Blaise yet—that were supporters. Staying loyal was in his best interests.

She went to the Owlery to send off her order forms, both for the apothecary, and one for the shop that would have the two-way mirrors, and headed back to the dorms.

Valentine’s day would be here soon, and she was finally ready for it.

Chapter Text

Valentine’s Day dawned bright and sunny—but still rather cold.

Blaise greeted her outside her dormitory in the morning with a single white rose, and Violet took it with a smile. “Charmer.” She said happily.

Blaise bowed and held out a hand in offering. “I believe we are headed to the same place this morning, yes?”

Violet huffed out a short laugh. “Yes, but hang on.” She scanned the short hallway to find they were alone and drew out her wand. “Disillusionment charms.” She whispered, then cast the charms on them both.

Blaise grabbed her hand. “Thanks. Come on.” He whispered, and tugged her through the Common Room and out into the hall.

Violet let him lead the way, knowing he’d smell Severus’ scent and be able to find the man’s hidden doorway, while she was still nose-blind until she reached fourteen.

Blaise guided her to a wall and she noticed a small snake guardian.

//Hello.// She hissed to it, and it animated.

//Speaker! What business do you have with the one whose rooms lie beyond here and why can I not see you?// It asked.

Violet smiled and cancelled the charm.//Sorry, that was a bit rude.// She laid a quelling hand on Blaise’s arm as he began to protest. //We are the mates of the man you guard, and we wish to give him gifts for Valentine’s Day.//

//A worthy reason to visit. He so rarely receives visitors. I believe I will let you in. My name is Aster, and I am male. I hope we will meet again.//

Violet smiled and nodded. //I’m sure we shall.// She agreed, and the wall melted away. She laughed and pulled Blaise into the rooms as the wall rematerialized behind them.

Blaise cursed under his breath. “Severus is going to be furious with us for coming in without permission.” He hissed at her.

“Or, I would be, had I not rightly anticipated that you’d find a way in, with a Potter at your side, and got up and dressed early.” A silky baritone greeted them from a corner, and Violet and Blaise turned to face Severus, who was waiting, arms crossed and a small smile on his lips. “How fortuitous that I am proven right again.” He added.

Violet blushed brightly. “I can explain!” She said.

“You came to see your mate on Valentine’s Day, and chose to do so in private. I approve of that decision. How exactly did you get in, though?”

Violet snorted.

“She’s a Parselmouth, Sir.” Blaise said.

“In addition to Avismouth and Felismouth, yes. I can speak to a wide variety of creatures.” Violet elaborated. “I had a nice little chat with your guardian and he let us in. Because apparently, you have so few visitors.”

Severus looked surprised. “I need to have a chat with him myself, it seems.” He mused.

Violet smiled. “I doubt it will work.” She told him. “I think he really likes me!”

“Of course he does.” Severus muttered. “Well, come here, both of you.”

Violet and Blaise went up to the desk he was standing behind.

Severus opened a drawer and pulled out two small boxes and handed them over. “I got you both the same thing, and you should recognize what they are.” He seemed a little nervous, and Violet opened hers eagerly.

Her mouth fell open as she saw the small silver chain meant to go around the wrist. “Security bracelets. I’m not in any particular danger you can help with, though.”

Blaise was already putting his on, though his was gold rather than silver, and it complimented his skin tone nicely, before it shimmered and disappeared.

“You are in danger from the Dark Lord every moment you draw breath.” Severus disagreed.

Violet rolled her eyes. “Honestly, I’m not in danger from him. It’s Dumbledore I’ve got to be wary of. The Dark Lord and I are closely allied. He has agreed that I am to be his advisor when he returns, which I will gladly do. He’s really the only adult that has seen some of what I have to offer and agreed to accept my help.”

Severus frowned and held out his hand expectantly.

Violet handed her wrist over and gave him the bracelet, and Severus fastened it around her wrist.

“We will discuss that particularly alarming piece of information at a later date. For now, if you are in need of me, break the chain and I will Apparate to your side. The band will fuse back together a total of three times.”

“Four uses.” Blaise surmised.

“Yes. I was unable to afford more for now. Later, perhaps, if these prove necessary that often.” Severus told them.

“Not particularly romantic.” Violet mused, looking at it. “But the whole knight-in-shining-armour aspect is kind of nice.” She looked up and batted her eyelashes, then spoke in a high voice, “Oh, good knight, come to my rescue!”

Severus cocked an eyebrow. “Perhaps I should not have sent the other part.” He teased.

“Oh?” Violet asked.

“You’ll get it at breakfast. Both of you.” He told them.

Violet smiled and drew out her small box and laid it on the desk, then resized it, and Severus’ eyes grew wide as it grew and filled the desk.

“What did you get me?” He asked in something akin to horror.

Violet smiled. “It’s a gift.” She told him firmly. “You have to accept it.”

Severus tore the wrapping off to reveal the golden cauldron and paled dramatically. “How—”

“I’m not stupid.” Violet said. “I can see all kinds of things in your supply cupboard that are not widely used potions ingredients, but are frequently used in alchemy. This will allow you to play around with some trickier brews, and like you mentioned already, I was pretty sure a teacher’s salary wouldn’t cover it. So I got you one.”

Blaise smiled ruefully. “I’m afraid mine is likewise spendy. We want you spoiled for anyone else.” He said, placing his beside it and re-sizing it so that it filled the rest of the desk as it grew into a long, rectangular package.

“I’m afraid to ask, but those aren’t going to be normal vials, are they?”

Blaise smiled and shook his head. “The gemstone set from last month’s Potions Quarterly. Saw Violet perusing the wares section and she was undecided between the two, so we got you both.”

Severus paled again and sat down hard. “Oh, Merlin, I’m in shock!”

Violet smiled and pulled out a smaller package and resized it before handing it to Blaise. “You’re the only mate Mum will approve of, so I could only get one for you.” She said, handing it over.

Blaise opened it and smiled. “It’s gorgeous, too. Mamma will approve of your taste in two-way mirrors, at least. I was actually going to suggest something that would let us keep in touch better. Good call.” He shrunk the mirror and put it in his pocket, then pulled out a small jeweller’s box. “I told Mamma what you looked like, and she got these.”

Violet frowned and took the box, opening it. Inside were two small studs for her ears. Emeralds the same shade as her eyes. “Oh. They’re gorgeous!”

“I left either a necklace or earrings for her to decide, she knows better what a girl will like. I’m lost when it comes to girls.” He admitted.

Violet beamed at him. “You’re doing great so far.”

Severus moaned softly and his upper body disappeared behind the desk.

Violet and Blaise both shouted.

“Severus!”

“Sir!”

They rounded the desk and found him seated in his chair with his head between his legs, taking deep, even breaths. His hands, which were dangling beside his head, were trembling.

“Are you alright?” Violet asked.

“I don’t deserve you two.” Severus whispered.

Violet smiled. “Ah. Well, you’ve got us, so I’m sorry, but you’ll have to accept it and let us prove that you’re worthy of everything we have to offer and more.”

Blaise knelt down in front of him. “I need someone to guide me in becoming a good man. You’re that person. We’ll be lost without you.” He got frustrated and let loose a string of rapid Italian.

“I’m sure your explanation was riveting.” Severus mumbled. “I only speak English and a small bit of French.” He straightened. “There is one more part to my gift I intended to deliver in private.” He stood and cupped Blaise’s cheek. “Don’t ask me to do this again for a few years.” He said before leaning down and kissing the Italian.

Blaise’s eyes went wide, then fluttered closed and he let out a helpless whimper, and Violet smiled widely.

When Severus raised his head, it was to find her bouncing eagerly on the balls of her feet. “Me next! Me next!” She chanted.

Severus smiled fondly and shook his head. “You don’t need to seal a bond yet, but you’re part of the bond, so yes, you next.” He cupped her cheek and drew her in.

Violet wrapped her arms around his neck and sighed into the deep kiss, and Severus explored her mouth quickly, but thoroughly. When he pulled away, she was dazed and breathless. “Wow.” She finally whispered. “You’re really good at that.”

Severus smiled. “You both need to leave before the other students start arriving. I’ll give you a ten-minute head start to the Great Hall.” He stopped them from leaving and added, “And thank you both. I will use your gifts well.”

Violet nodded. “I know you will. Thank you for the bracelets. I promise I will use it if I need it.”

Severus smiled. “Go, now, both of you. And remember, you’ll get something special from me in the post.”

Blaise and Violet left, both speculating on what the extra gift would be.

“It’s going to be something small.” Blaise was saying. “Not something big and flashy. And it probably won’t be labelled, either.”

Violet nodded. “I’m sure we’ll love it anyway.” She said, then laughed. “I can’t believe—He really did kiss us, right? I didn’t imagine that?”

“He really did.” Blaise confirmed. “And it was great.”

“Yeah.”

They fell silent for the rest of the way to breakfast, then got seated and dished up their food, chatting with the other Slytherins as they arrived.

The post came in and two small barn owls alighted, one in front of Blaise and the other in front of Violet. Both were holding a single damasked rose, and a small box of chocolates.

Violet smiled widely as she re-sized hers and found that he’d sent her the same truffles her mother sent her monthly, which just so happened to be her favourite candy. “He’s a keeper.” She said to Blaise.

Blaise nodded. “Yes, very much so.”

Chapter Text

Violet had resolved to send a note to her brother over the summer, but she kept a close eye on him all the same.

Draco, on the other hand, was growing increasingly obsessed, even though she told him to be patient and that things would work out.

“You don’t understand, I have to make him see me! The potion—”

“Brew, not a potion, Draco. Alchemical brews will only show the outcome you are currently on the road to. You don’t have to do anything special to make it come to pass, just let events unfold. It could be years before he notices you in any kind of positive light!” Violet reminded him.

But Draco was like a man possessed.

“I need him, Violet, it’s like he’s the only person I can be with now! The vision... It has to happen, and I just can’t leave it to chance!” He drew in a deep breath. “I’ll be out tonight, don’t come looking for me. I have a feeling he’ll be out, too, and I want to catch him and prove that I’m always two steps ahead. That will get his attention!”

“That’ll get his dander up.” Violet muttered. “But suit yourself. I’ll be in bed, where I’m less likely to run into trouble. Have fun.”

“Aren’t you even going to try to come with me?” Draco asked.

“Why would I?” Violet shot back. “I trust fate to be on my side, here. I’ll let things fall out as they’re going to, what I saw was perfectly suitable for me.”

Draco huffed and stormed off.

Violet watched him go, shrugged, and turned back to her Transfiguration essay. Honestly, if he was determined to be a thorn in her brother’s side, there was nothing she could do about that.

And why would she, when the future he’d seen would probably turn out the same either way? Bad habits could always be unlearned later.

*****

Draco got away with sneaking out to catch Harry likewise sneaking out several times, because it was Severus who’d caught him and sent him back without any points lost and no detentions.

One day during the Easter holiday Draco didn’t come back until it was quite late, and to hear Blaise tell it, he was in a sour mood for getting a detention—with the Golden Trio—for being out past curfew. His claim of trying to catch them breaking rules had fallen on the deaf ears of McGonagall, who, though she was fair, would not favour any house due to that very fairness.

“I have a detention!” Draco huffed the next morning. “With Potter!”

Violet sighed and rolled her eyes. “Yes, well, maybe he’ll notice you now.” She said in a bored tone.

Draco paused, considered that, and then smiled. “You’re right!” He said happily. “This could be the in that I need!”

Violet yawned and muttered, “Good luck,” as she helped herself to another cup of tea. She was studying up for exams, but it meant late nights and lots of work.

Blaise pushed the sugar closer and she nodded her thanks as she poured a new cup.

He wasn’t faring any better, since they both had to study even harder in History of Magic, thanks to Binns.

Exams were still a few weeks out, but the teachers were starting to prepare them for them, so Violet and Blaise were doing their best to keep up.

Violet and Millicent could usually be found in the library nowadays, quizzing each other and sharing the best books as they studied like their lives depended on it.

Neither one wanted to let their families down, and their grades had to reflect that.

Somehow Draco hadn’t gotten that memo.

Or maybe he was just that confident.

*****

Draco came back sullen and downtrodden from the detention. Nothing has really happened but him and Harry snarking at each other, and Draco seemed to think he’d pushed the other preteen even further away from him.

Violet tried once again to convince him just to give it time, and finally he seemed willing to listen.

He joined in with the rest of them in studying and the time before exams shortened.

Exams came and Violet was sure she’d done well, and as the final few days of term passed by, she almost thought nothing big was going to happen... And then Harry went missing for an entire day.

He emerged from the trapdoor later than night and came to Dumbledore with “the stone,” explaining his suspicions and reasoning.

Violet heard the tale and nearly gave the game away by rolling her eyes at his childishness, but held it in and acted interested.

At least he was okay.

Exam results came back, Voldemort contacted her by post explaining that he’d be making his reappearance that Summer, and she was invited by Blaise to work out marriage contracts with him and Severus on the fifth of July, shortly after school let out.

She accepted and told him she’d be coming without her parents, she’d tell them she was going to go play for a day, they were used to her running off and coming back later in the day, they’d think nothing of it.

Term ended, Potter earned some last-minute points that Violet was not in the least surprised by, and Gryffindor had nearly stolen the House Cup. Slytherin barely squeaked by on Quidditch victories and Violet was hailed as a heroine in her house.

All in all, the year had ended well.

But she still had Summer to contend with, and marriage contracts to draw up.

*****

Violet had Blaise explain that she’d be coming alone to contract negotiations and said she’d explain her reasoning when she got there, but it was too sensitive to explain via post.

Arabella jumped on her as soon as she arrived and demanded answers.

“Alright, come in, have a seat. Your third should be here soon.” Arabella Zabini levelled a look at Violet. “You said you needed to come alone. Why?” She asked sharply.

Violet sighed. “My parents are not going to approve of Severus, but I am well-equipped to deal with this kind of thing without them, and I will have them sign it when it is time.” She said.

Arabella laughed. “Well, they have certainly raised a bright and spirited little girl. I approve of your submissive, Blaise. You need someone with sass to keep you on your toes, and your children will be just as sharp, I bet.”

Violet smiled at the praise, and the Floo flared, Severus stepping out.

He looked particularly good in his dress robes, a dark purple that bordered on black.

At least he knew better than to wear black to a marriage contract negotiation. Maybe Blaise had coached him on that matter of etiquette.

Violet smirked at the fact that both she and Blaise wore white, although Blaise’s was of a shimmering, silver colour instead of plain white. But that was proper; he was an already-presented virgin. Violet wore a plain white dress suit, as she was unpresented, so couldn’t wear something as iridescent. She hadn’t earned that designation yet.

Severus was pretty much shouting that he was not a virgin, and while Violet had known he was not, she was still wondering who it had been.

She had deserved that gift, and she was most displeased it had been stolen from her, although she hadn’t yet found out who had been the thief.

Arabella hummed in displeasure, eyes narrowing and nostrils flaring at his choice of clothing and his impure state. She glared daggers at him as he sat down.

Severus huffed back at her, sitting across from her beside Violet. He reached out and ran a finger over the back of Violet’s hand, earning himself a smile, then nodded at Blaise. “Blaise. Violet. It is good to see you both, and better that it be under such happy circumstances.” He spoke, and Arabella’s displeasure seemed to lift a bit that he had verbally addressed her son first, respecting his place as that of a switch, to be spoken to first and respected as the second in the relationship, rather than the lowest member. A switch was every bit as important as the dominant mate, and the submissive was meant to defer to them both, even if they both deigned to spoil the submissive a bit.

At least this Severus Snape seemed to understand that.

“So, we are here to draw up a marriage contract. I will need full names and any titles you hold, starting with you, Mr. Snape.”

Severus’ lips pressed together tightly. “This will go no further than these rooms?” He checked, and Violet shot him a wide-eyed look at the impolite question. It was common knowledge that marriage contracts were private affairs until filed in the ministry after they had been either signed by all parents, or the wedding had been held.

Arabella’s nostrils flared angrily, but she simply said, a bit sharply, “No one but us will ever know of what we discuss here until your marriage ceremony is done with. That is the way of things.”

“My apologies, I needed to be sure. If Dumbledore heard of any of this, things could go very badly for me. As for my name—and titles, which you did not know to expect—I am Severus Tobias Prince, Lord Prince.” He told her.

Violet’s mouth dropped open, and she was aware she was being very rude as she hissed, “You never told us that!”

Severus smirked a bit at wrong-footing her as she blushed brightly at her faux-pas.

“And miss your reaction? Besides, neither of you asked until now.” He reminded them.

Blaise frowned, and Violet snorted.

Blaise spoke next. “Blaise Aurelio Zabini.” He said, then chuckled. “Conte Zabini.”

Violet’s eyes widened, and Severus inhaled sharply.

Neither one of them had expected Blaise to be of nobility, and Muggle nobility, no less! But there it was, and it wasn’t a low title, either. He was equal in standing to an Earl!

Arabella quickly wrote, smiling at their flabbergasted reactions. She looked up. “And you, dear?” She asked Violet.

Violet took a deep breath. “Violet Lily Potter. Lady Peverell. I’m leaving the Potter Lordship for my little brother.” She explained.

Arabella nodded and wrote it down. “Alright, firstly: Children! You need three, at least. Any gender requirements for the Prince Heirship?” She asked.

“Male line only.” Severus informed her.

She hummed and wrote that down, then added under her breath, “Conte Zabini, male line only. Peverell title can go to either?” She asked.

“Yes.” Violet answered.

She nodded and made a note of that. “So two male heirs, a third of either gender is the minimum. Who will bear them?” She asked, looking at Violet.

Blaise cleared his throat. “Mamma, I want to bear at least one.” He told her.

Arabella looked at him in surprise. “You… Want to? But darling, your figure!” She said softly.

Blaise glared at her. “I know that, but I want to! I plan to become an Auror, I will bounce back!” He insisted.

Arabella sighed. “Fine. I suppose that is acceptable. How many do you want to bear?”

“At least one, perhaps more. I will know after the first one.” He said evenly.

“And the rest will be your submissive’s duty?” She asked.

Blaise sent an apologetic look at Violet. “Yes, but she will decide when we have them. She will want a career, and I will not stand in her way. It’s a dangerous place to be.”

Arabella sent a smile to Violet. “Yes, I imagine so!” She said happily. “Titles will pass down to the children, in order of birth, I presume?” She asked.

“I’m okay with that.” Violet answered.

“Good. Prince line first, Zabini second, and Peverell will go to the third child, if the first two are male. If not, it will go to the first girl born.” Arabella said. “Schooling for the children is next. Traditionally, Zabini children have tutors in many things, Blaise will explain them to you both.” She looked to her son, who smiled and listed off what he had been taught before Hogwarts.

“Etiquette, reading, writing, calligraphy, horseback riding, mathematics, fencing, occlumency, duelling and beginner’s potions. The first seven were Muggle instructors.” He added.

Violet was impressed. “Wow. Most of those I learned from my parents. Excluding the fencing and horseback riding. And I’m not particularly good at calligraphy, but mother insisted I learn it, all the same.” She said wryly.

“I can pay for any lessons you two don’t want to, but I want my children to take all the same lessons I did. It makes for an amazingly disciplined person, as I can attest to, and I am grateful for each and every class I had.” Blaise told them.

Violet nodded. “I can agree with that.”

Severus hummed and nodded. “A fair point, I will defer to you on that matter. I never had much in the way of lessons on anything besides reading, writing, and simple maths learned in Muggle primary school.” He said.

Blaise smiled. “Then we have reached an agreement?”

“Yes.” Violet said.

“Who will be Godparents to your children?” Arabella asked.

Violet looked dismayed. “Oh, do we have to decide now?” She asked. “What if we change our minds?”

Blaise smiled. “We will decide when the children are born. The parent whose heir the child is will have the final say, but all three of us will give our own opinion on who we should trust with that. Will that suit you, Mamma?” He asked Arabella.

She heaved another sigh. “I suppose that is acceptable.” She said, and began writing. “Will you have house-elves or a nanny?” Arabella asked.

“I’m in favour of having house-elves, but they will not be the primary caretakers of our children. I’m afraid I have to insist that we split that duty evenly.” Violet said.

Arabella looked impressed with that. “Even your heir?” She asked.

“Of course, the parent whose heir the child is will be the one to teach them their duties, but that is by no means a full-time job. We will all have to put aside time for each child. Those bonds are important, and I will not see them neglected.” Violet said.

“Very admirable sentiments. I approve of the idea.” She wrote that down. “In the case of your dominants’ deaths, you will retain those children that do not have another living relative. I will take the next Conte and raise them if I am still alive, allowing you unlimited visitations with them. In the event that I have predeceased my son and the children are still not of age, you will go to our gallery and learn what you need to teach the child yourself. Preparations are in place. You will retain all titles you gained with marriage, but you are not to remarry. On to the matter of money—”

“Mamma!” Blaise said, giving her a sharp look. “We will discuss it privately. I’m in favour of splitting it evenly.”

Arabella looked scandalized. “Blaise!” She snapped. “What in the world has gotten into you?!”

“I can’t pool mine without my bother’s consent, and he can’t consent until he knows we are sharing a vault. He doesn’t even know I exist at the moment, and I can’t claim the Peverell vault until I claim the Ladyship, at fourteen. I can’t even find out how much is in it until then. I’m not old enough.” Violet said quietly.

“I can pool mine, but I am mostly living off of my salary right now, and I am trying to hold the rest in trust for any children. The Prince family are not as affluent as we used to be.” Severus added just as softly.

Blaise sent an angry glare at his mother for bringing up an issue he didn’t want discussed for his mates’ comfort. “It will be taken care of. I have enough for all of us to live on, and I know how driven Violet is. We will have enough between us three, as we will all have careers.” He told them both.

Arabella sighed and began writing.

Blaise watched her write and nodded in satisfaction when she looked at him afterward. “Good. We will come back to it when we are ready.” He said. “Violet will have a generous allowance, the same amount you were given, Mamma. With access to the vault in case of emergencies. I believe she can be trusted with that.” Blaise said firmly, and Arabella cocked a brow, but nodded and wrote it down.

“Do you have a dowry, Lady Peverell?” Arabella asked once she had finished writing.

Violet smiled. “I do. I will discuss it only with my mates, as they are valuable items and I keep them secret to not draw unwanted attention to myself.”

Arabella hummed, and her lips thinned in displeasure. “Where will you live?” She asked, apparently content to let the matter of dowry be discussed without her in attendance. She probably thought she could get it out of Blaise later. She was in for a surprise.

“I am in favour of leaving this house for you, Mamma. We can get a place closer to Hogwarts, I will explain why that will be necessary later.” He said to his mother when she went to speak.

“What do you know?” She asked suspiciously.

“A great many things, one of which I promised Violet I would not speak about in front of our dominant. We want to see when he will figure it out on his own. It’s nothing bad.” He added at Severus’ suspicious look.

Severus hummed suspiciously, but didn’t disagree.

“Fidelity is a must!” She glared at Severus. “Starting now.”

Severus stiffened. “I will be faithful henceforth. You have my word, Madame.” He said tightly.

Arabella nodded. “Good. There will be the standard fidelity clause in your contract, of course. Anything involving the three of you is acceptable, but no others at any time, even if you agree.”

Violet nodded. “I will want no others.” She said.

“Sexual relations should wait until the wedding. However, if things do happen, so long as it is between you three, it will be overlooked.” She added. “I know some creatures have heat cycles, and will not fault you for having them and seeing to each others’ comfort during them.”

“The last issue is the issue of work.” Arabella said. “Now, Violet, darling, you do not need to work, with Blaise’s financial situation.” She said.

“I still want to.” Violet said firmly.

Arabella frowned just a bit. “What do you want to do?” She asked.

Violet smiled. “I was thinking of teaching.” She said quietly.

Arabella’s lips thinned. “Not the most admirable profession, but I suppose I  can make allowances for you. Since your dominant is already ensconced in such a profession.”

“I would appreciate it.” Violet said.

Arabella nodded. “I think we are done here, then. I will take this and let you three discuss your future in private. Blaise will call the house-elves for tea.” She said, then left.

Violet turned to Blaise. “Do you want to know what I’m bringing to the marriage?”

“I know some of it, I’d like to know the rest, yes.”

Violet smiled widely and prepared to shock him.

Chapter Text

First Violet drew the stone out of her pocket and placed it on the table. 

Severus made an aborted grab for it, then stilled. “That’s not–” 

“The Sorcerer’s stone, also known in other parts of the world as the Philosopher’s stone? Oh yes, it is.” She revealed. 

Blaise nodded. “It’s genuine, Severus. She has the Elixir of Life, and has given some to her Lord already.” He told him. 

“I told you that in confidence , Blaise, I don’t know if he’s ready to hear it!” Violet hissed. 

Severus’ eyes widened and his fingers twitched. “May I?” 

“You may hold it, but it stays in my possession at the end of the day.” Violet told him. 

Severus reached out and picked it up reverently. “I hold immortality in my hand.” He said weakly. 

Violet snorted and withdrew a vial. She handed it over. “ Now you hold immortality in your hand.” She corrected. 

Severus’ eyes widened further, and the effect would have been rather comical if the circumstances hadn’t fully warranted his eyes bugging out like they were now. “You’ve created the Elixir of Life!” He added weakly. “How?” 

“Well, it was relatively easy, and once we are mated, I’ll show you.” She said. “But you won’t get a drop without me.” 

Severus shook his head. “And you’ve gifted the Dark Lord with some?” He asked. 

“In return for him taking me as an advisor to obtain a steady supply of it, yes. He’ll hold up his end of the bargain or die. We’ll see if he’s smart enough to make the right choice in time. He’s already working on getting his strength back, last I heard.” 

“Is that all you have? It is still the most precious dowry in the world, even stopping there.” Severus said. 

“There’s more.” Violet revealed, pulling out the elder wand. “I have this, and the resurrection stone, as well as the Title Mistress of Death, shared evenly with my brother, and we obtained it by having all three items in a previous life, as ourselves. Our memories were wiped and we were moved to this timeline by Death as reparations for taking so much from us, but it is up to us to change the course of this world. He will help, but only so much. We must do most of the work ourselves, he is merely a crutch. Though a very useful one.” 

Blaise rolled his eyes. “So he is your source .” 

Violet smiled and inclined her head. “He is my mentor and guide. He helped me to obtain the stone, as well, and though you will never meet him until your time, you should always trust me to know things I couldn’t possibly, with him on my side.” 

“You’ve made that much abundantly clear this past year.” Blaise agreed. 

“And I’ll continue to make even more clear over time. You’ll have to trust me, but knowing what you now know, that shouldn’t be a problem.” Violet said. “I also hold the Peverell title, as you know, and will be bringing with it a large sum of gold, but I think with what you’ve already seen, we can agree that my dowry is a suitable one, can’t we? Conte.” 

“Ah, you will make a wonderful Contessa, Violet. I look forward to our union now more than ever.” Blaise said happily. 

“As do I.” Severus said. “We will have to stay out of the public eye or risk scandal.” 

Blaise scoffed at that. “The Zabini line are known for being a bit eccentric, as well as reclusive. We’ll keep mostly to ourselves and travel abroad for holidays often, in magical communities where our triad will be much more common. It will work out; we will say you are our butler.” 

“Excuse me?” 

Blaise laughed at the affronted look on his face. “I’m joking. We’ll come up with a better story, but no one but us needs to know the truth. The Muggles would never understand.” 

Blaise called the family elf and they made their tea, chatting about what they wanted for the future as Violet slipped the stone back into her pocket. 

Severus indicated he was only working in Hogwarts until his Lord came back publically, when he would fall upon his mercy and beg forgiveness, and pray for a way out of his work at Hogwarts. 

"He may want you to stay. We have no one else as close to Dumbledore." Violet warned. "Can you stay near the old man and hold true to the Dark Lord's values?" 

"If he is really changing, yes, I can. But my eyes will stay open, and if he falters in his new ways–"

"I will deal with it personally." Violet said. "He knows his supply of the Elixir is conditional, and if he knows what is good for him, he will take my conditions and follow them to the letter , lest he lose the immortality he spent so long seeking." 

"The other Death Eaters will not like him listening to a little girl." Severus warned.

"Then isn't it a good thing he will be keeping in touch with me through correspondence books? No one will see my face. Even if someone finds the book, all they will see of me is my words, and those are not easily recognizable as the words of a child. It will all work out, you'll need to trust me. Start now, and it will be easier as time goes on." Violet advised. 

After they finished their tea, Blaise led them back out to the main sitting room, where his mother was waiting. She levelled a look at Severus. "I should like to speak to you personally, if you don't mind." 

Severus nodded and they went into the other room, and a silencing charm went up. 

"What do you think she wants to speak to him about?" Violet asked Blaise, who shrugged. "I have no idea." He replied. 

*****

"Those children deserve better." Arabella said flatly, "But Blaise wants you , tarnished as your purity is, and so I will be brief. I want you to keep from seeking out others to lie with for good . The fact that you couldn't wait is appalling to me, and you should have known that you'd have a mate who deserved to be your only, being a creature yourself!" 

Severus' eyes filled with fury, and before she could say another word, he opened the door. "It was one time , Madam, and the choice was not mine to make !" He shouted. He strode to the fireplace and Floo'ed back to Hogwarts, and Violet and Blaise traded a wary look as they realized what she'd wanted to say to him. 

Arabella came out of the room, visibly shaken. "Blaise, why did you not tell me he'd been…" She shook her head, unable to say the word. 

Blaise shrugged. "He's never told us in as many words, and we didn't want to bring it up without reason." 

Arabella sighed. "It seems I must go pen an apology now." She went up the stairs and Blaise sighed. 

"You should go home now." He told Violet. 

Violet nodded and smiled as Blaise kissed her. "I'll see you at Hogwarts." 

"I'll call you on the mirror before then." Blaise promised.

Violet nodded and left. 

She went back home and was just in time to hear her mother calling her for dinner. 

"There you are. I was just about to send a Patronus to find you." 

"No need to, I'm here now." Violet said and went in, taking her usual seat at the table. 

"What were you doing all day?" Her father asked her. 

"I was playing with Isaac." She replied, and Evan made a face. 

"I don't see the fascination with snakes." He said. 

Violet grinned. "Well, when you can understand them, they're really very interesting creatures." She told him. 

Indigena smiled. "We'll take your word for it, dear." 

*****

Violet was lying in bed when the mirror went off. She grabbed it and held it in front of her face. 

Blaise appeared and she smiled. "Hello, beautiful." He said.

"So, how much do you want to bet Severus is drowning himself in alcohol right now?" She asked. 

Blaise frowned. "I'm not taking that bet." 

"I know, it sounds exactly like something he'd do." 

"We'll break him of that habit." Blaise assured her. 

Violet rolled her eyes. "I'd rather join him ." 

Blaise's eyebrows rose. "My little vixen, a raging alcoholic?" He asked skeptically. 

"Hey, what's good for the goose is good for the gander." 

"It's not good for either , that's kind of the whole point." Blaise told her. 

Violet rolled her eyes. "Whatever, it's not like I'm allowed to drink here yet, either." 

Blaise grinned. "Thank your parents for me for protecting your liver while I'm not there." 

"Should never have bought these things." Violet muttered, and Blaise laughed. "Do you think Severus is ever going to forgive your mother?" She asked. 

Blaise sighed. "I don't know." He sounded worried. "I'm worrying about how he's going to broach the topic with us . We deserve to know ." 

Violet hummed and nodded. "We do, I just don't know how to bring it up." 

"So we don't." Blaise said flatly. "We wait for him." 

Violet sighed. "I just hope he brings it up soon." She said. 

"If he doesn't ," Blaise said quietly, "I will ." 

Violet nodded in acceptance. "Thank you." 

"Get some sleep, beautiful. I will talk to you later." 

*****

The next day, just as she was sitting down for breakfast, a bird flew through the window and alighted on her shoulder. 

"Vinculum!" She said happily. "What did you bring me?" 

The owl held out a leg and before Violet could take it, Indigena reached for it. "At least check it for spells." She chided, then drew he hand back with a curse. 

"His owner wouldn't harm me , but anyone else taking the mail is apparently fair game. You'll have to trust that he doesn't mean me harm." Violet said, taking the letter. She opened it and Indigena peered at it over her shoulder. 

"I can't read it." She said. 

Violet nodded. "Yes, it's been spelled to read like so much gibberish if anyone but me looks at it." She murmured, reading it eagerly. 

"My Lovely Violet, 

This letter is spelled to burn anyone but you, and to read like gibberish to unauthorized eyes. 

I regret to inform you that the information contained herein may give you pause, and it may cause you some distress. 

You have not asked, as such, but hearing what you did in the manner that you did makes it necessary that I elaborate further on the topic. 

The Dark Lord was the one to rob you and Conte Zabini of my innocence, and I was told that it was not an option to refuse. He did the same to any new recruits, in the hopes that we would only procreate with others true to the cause, as no one else would take someone tainted by an impure state. I was loyal and willing to prove such. 

I have had no other partners since, and have no plans to be untrue to you. The two of you have my loyalty, and while I am angry at Dowager Contessa Zabini, you hold no blame. I am not angry with you. 

I only hope that you and our mutual mate will still have me, tarnished though I am. 

I remain ever yours, 

Severus Tobias Prince

Lord of the Ancient and Noble House of Prince" 

Violet smiled and folded up the letter. 

That was all she had wanted from him. An explanation. That it had to be delivered this way, and under duress, was unfortunate, but now that she knew, and now that Blaise had been, supposedly, told, they could all move forward with their courtship, their bonding, and their lives. 

She and Blaise knew Severus' closely-guarded past, and they'd easily let it become water under the bridge. If the Dark Lord ordered you to do something to prove your loyalty, you did it, no matter how distasteful you personally found the act to be. 

She held the letter under her nose and inhaled the scent of Severus that clung to it. 

It smelled of the future.

END BOOK ONE

Story continues in Book Two, which is as yet untitled. I will post a note if a title is decided upon before the first chapter is posted. Otherwise, subscribe to the series to follow this story.