Chapter 24 (~11,000 words):
– Sirius –
Sirius Black had to admit that life as a dog wasn't half bad.
He lay stretched out lazily on Hagrid's rugged wooden floor, heavy eyelids drooping slightly, half-closed as the evening shadows played around the small cabin. After the horrors of Azkaban and the endless months of hiding in caves and surviving off rats, the warm firelight, the hearty meals, and the comforting scratch of Hagrid's massive fingers behind his ears felt nothing short of luxurious. His ribs no longer stuck painfully from his sides, his fur was thick and glossy, and he'd even grudgingly tolerated Hagrid giving him his shots and a humiliating but admittedly effective flea bath.
Sirius released a slow breath and lazily shifted closer to Fang, the enormous boarhound that had taken to him immediately. The oversized hound snored gently beside him.
All things considered, he supposed being Hagrid's dog was better than he'd dared hope. Hagrid was as good at caring for animals as Sirius had remembered from their school days.
But Sirius knew he was not truly a dog, and he could never truly rest until Peter Pettigrew—the rat—was dead. He felt the rage simmering just below the surface whenever he remembered the betrayal, and even Hagrid's warm hut could not erase his burning need for revenge.
More than that, though, Sirius longed desperately to protect James' children—Harry and Jasmine—from the horrors of the wizarding world that had claimed their parents. It tore at him every night, the guilt and helplessness at having failed to protect his best friends and their children.
The scent of roasted meat and potatoes drifted from the open fireplace. Hagrid stood hunched over a large pan, humming cheerfully to himself as he cooked. For a fleeting instant, Sirius allowed himself to pretend this could actually be his life—just a dog, curled by the fire, loved and safe.
Both he and Fang suddenly lifted their heads sharply at the unmistakable crunch of footsteps approaching from outside.
There was a knock at the wooden door, and Hagrid turned around with a broad grin. "Wonder who tha' could be at this hour," he muttered good-naturedly. Wiping his hands on his oversized apron, he stomped across the room and swung open the door. "Oh!" Hagrid straightened in surprise, his bushy eyebrows climbing upward. "Evenin', Professor Dumbledore, sir! And Professor Lupin—and Miss Jasmine! Wha' brings you lot out here tonight?"
From his vantage point near the fire, Sirius froze, his canine body stiffening in shock.
Albus Dumbledore stood tall in the open doorway. He offered Hagrid a gentle smile. "Good evening, Hagrid. Please pardon our intrusion at this hour."
"Nonsense, Professor, yer never an intrusion!" Hagrid boomed cheerfully. "Was jus' puttin' dinner on. Care to join me?"
Dumbledore raised a polite hand. "Thank you kindly, Hagrid, but I'll be dining in the Great Hall tonight. I merely have a small matter to discuss."
Behind Dumbledore, Remus Lupin stepped cautiously into the hut. He had changed in the years they'd been apart—he looked thinner, more haggard, streaks of premature grey peppering his brown hair, deep lines etched in his face. Yet to Sirius, he was unmistakable. He'd recognize his old friend anywhere. Sirius' heartbeat thundered rapidly.
But the biggest shock stood slightly behind Lupin, stepping carefully into the hut as well. Jasmine McKinnon—though Sirius knew all too well that her true name was Potter—walked in after Lupin. She had grown into a strikingly beautiful young woman, just like her mother had been. Although instead of Blonde hair, she had messy brown just like James. She also had a pair of glasses on her face just like her old man as well.
His goddaughter—the girl he had sworn to protect—was standing mere feet from him, unaware of who he truly was. Just like she was when she brought him to Hagrid the first time, thinking Sirius was a sick dog that needed help.
And admittedly, Sirius really did need help.
But when Lupin's eyes fell upon him, Sirius' entire body froze.
The werewolf instantly stiffened. Even after all these years, Remus knew him at a glance—knew Padfoot the instant their eyes met.
Sirius felt dread knotting his stomach. Lupin—his Moony—thought he was a traitorous Death Eater scum who had betrayed their best friends. Sirius' mind raced. Did he need to bolt, right now, shatter the nearest window and run as fast as his paws could carry him into the forbidden forest?
"Padfoot," Lupin murmured quietly, the suspicion and confusion clear in his voice. Sirius flinched slightly, preparing to spring to his feet.
Then, to Sirius' immense surprise, Dumbledore calmly raised one hand toward Lupin, signaling the younger wizard to relax. His voice was gentle, knowing, and calming as he addressed Sirius directly. "There's no need to be frightened, Sirius. Remus and Jasmine are quite safe, and so are you."
Sirius blinked, frozen in confusion and disbelief.
Dumbledore's eyes twinkled softly as he offered a sad, gentle smile. "We know the truth, my friend. We know what truly happened all those years ago—with you and Peter Pettigrew."
Hagrid looked utterly baffled, scratching his enormous beard in confusion. Lupin's eyes widened, surprise and hope dawning in them as he glanced sharply toward the Headmaster.
Jasmine merely stared curiously, clearly unsure what was happening or why her professor was suddenly addressing a random dog as though it were a man.
Slowly, carefully, Sirius rose from the floor. His canine form rippled and blurred, fur melting into skin, bones shifting and reforming until Sirius Black stood tall once more.
"Blimey!" Hagrid bellowed in shock from nearby.
…Sirius sat outside Hagrid's hut beneath a blanket of stars, his back pressed against the rough wooden logs. It had been a long, draining conversation inside—one that had left him dizzy and drained.
Amazingly, Hagrid hadn't been angry or upset upon discovering that his "pet dog" had actually been Sirius Black in disguise. Instead, he'd chuckled good-naturedly and patted Sirius firmly on the back, saying, "Well blimey, ye' were a damn good dog, weren' ye? Feel free to stay as long as yeh need, mate."
Sirius couldn't help but appreciate the man's kindness. Good old Hagrid—he hadn't changed a bit since their own Hogwarts days.
Moony—Remus Lupin—and Dumbledore had left just minutes before, needing to get back to the castle before it got too late. Sirius had promised Remus they'd talk again soon, properly this time. They both had too much left to say. Too many unresolved questions and half-healed wounds.
But now, as the quiet settled once more around Hagrid's small hut, Sirius found himself sitting alone, staring blankly up at the stars, his thoughts spinning like a hurricane inside his head.
He was angry.
Not at Hagrid, not at Remus, certainly not at Jasmine, who'd volunteered to remain behind and was currently somewhere inside chatting cheerfully with Hagrid. No, his rage simmered like molten iron, directed squarely at one man—Peter Pettigrew.
The fucking rat had finally been captured. Amelia Bones—the head of the DMLE herself—had had the cowardly traitor securely in her grasp. She'd known the truth, had known Sirius was innocent and that Pettigrew had betrayed James and Lily.
But of course, the universe couldn't let things be that simple. It never fucking was. A fucking swarm of Dementors had somehow attacked Hogwarts, and that spineless, disgusting vermin Pettigrew had managed to slip away once again!
And now, Pettigrew would surely vanish for good, cowering and crawling into whatever filthy sewer he'd scuttled out of, terrified of ever showing his ugly face again now that his cover had been blown wide open.
Sirius clenched his fists tightly at the thought, his jaw grinding painfully.
"Are you alright, Mr. Black?" came a soft, tentative voice from just behind him.
Sirius turned quickly, startled. He hadn't heard Jasmine step outside. His mind had been too wrapped up in his own brooding thoughts. She was looking down at him with wide, worried eyes, one hand nervously adjusting the glasses resting on her nose.
He forced himself to relax, offering her a tired but reassuring smile. "Just call me Sirius. 'Mr. Black' was my father, and he was a right asshole. Trust me."
Jasmine's expression softened into a small smile at his blunt honesty. With a gentle sigh, she lowered herself onto the grass beside him, pulling her knees up to her chest and wrapping her arms around them.
"It's alright, Jasmine," he said softly, feeling the need to reassure her. "I'm fine—or at least, I will be. Eventually." He waved a hand dismissively, trying to play off just how deeply the whole situation had wounded him. "Things never seem to go smoothly for me. Not ever. I'll figure something out."
Jasmine studied him for a moment, her eyes sympathetic yet hesitant. "It's really unfair, you know. What happened to you, I mean—about how Pettigrew framed you. It was horrible, and I'm sorry for thinking for almost two decades that my dogfather was a monster," she said with a small grin.
Hehe… Dogfather. She definitely had some of her father's humor in her.
Eager to distract himself from the bitter thoughts of Pettigrew, Sirius cleared his throat gently, turning to face his goddaughter more directly. "Anyway, enough about all my issues. I'd like to hear about you, Jasmine."
She looked up, surprised but pleased by his interest. Her expression brightened immediately. "What do you want to know?"
Sirius shrugged lightly, smiling. "Anything, really. Tell me how you've been finding Hogwarts. Do you like it here? Have you made friends?"
Her eyes sparkled excitedly as she nodded. "Oh yes—Hogwarts is amazing, just like Mum always said it would be. And I've made some brilliant friends, Sirius. Lavender Brown and Parvati Patil—they're my absolute best friends. We do practically everything together." Jasmine beamed with pride, her expression glowing as she spoke. "Honestly, I can't imagine Hogwarts without them. Definitely best friends for life!"
Sirius chuckled softly, her enthusiasm infectious. "Good. Friends like that are important. James and Remus were always that way for me." Jasmine smiled at him fondly, then suddenly blushed, looking away shyly. Sirius raised an amused eyebrow, sensing he was on to something. "And… any particular boy catch your fancy?" he teased gently, a sly grin tugging at his lips. "Don't worry…if someone needs the shovel talk, I'm more than happy to deliver it. Honestly, getting threatened by a dangerous escaped convict should properly scare the shite out of any boy at Hogwarts who might hurt you."
Jasmine blushed even deeper, biting her lip nervously as she stared down at her lap. "Well, actually… yes, there is someone I'm interested in," she admitted quietly, glancing hesitantly back up at him. "But I don't think he'd need the shovel talk… Or maybe he does due to all the girls surrounding him…?"
"Oh? And who might this boy be?" he asked with narrowed eyes.
"Harry…" she mumbled.
Sirius sputtered, nearly choking on his own breath as he tried to process Jasmine's quiet confession.
"Wait… hold on—" Sirius raised a trembling hand, pinching the bridge of his nose as he exhaled slowly. This conversation was not one he had been prepared for. "Listen, Jasmine," he began again, carefully keeping his voice calm, though alarm edged into his tone. "I understand you two are only technically half-siblings, but… Merlin's sagging balls, you cannot be attracted to your brother like that!"
Jasmine's cheeks flamed scarlet beneath her glasses, and she quickly turned away, clearly embarrassed.
But Sirius pressed onward. "I mean, honestly, Jasmine. You're going to end up just like the Black family at this rate," he insisted earnestly. "And trust me—when you see the family tree literally carved into the bloody wall of our ancestral home, it's absolutely horrifying. Way too many of those branches are… well, touching, if you know what I mean."
Jasmine's face turned an even darker shade of red, and she quickly shook her head, stammering awkwardly in protest. "No—no, Sirius, it's not… it's not like that at all!" she squeaked, eyes wide behind her glasses. "What are you talking about? Everyone at Hogwarts already knows that Harry isn't actually my brother. I—I thought you knew, too! James… he wasn't Harry's real father!"
Sirius froze abruptly, every muscle in his body seizing with shock. His pulse hammered violently in his ears, drowning out every other sound. He stared at Jasmine, speechless, eyes wide in complete disbelief. His mouth opened, closed, then opened again before finally managing to croak out a weak, strangled, "What!?"
Jasmine shrunk slightly under his astonished gaze, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her robes. "Oh… oh, Merlin," she murmured sheepishly. "I—I really thought you knew. I figured… I mean, it was a whole thing for like a week when everyone found out…"
– Harry –
I woke up earlier than usual that Friday morning, making sure not to wake up Hermione, Lyra and Lyna still sleeping in my bed.
Something about knowing I'd be seeing Sona again gave me all the incentive I needed to rise before dawn. I picked her up from Ravenclaw Tower. We slipped unnoticed from the castle into the Forbidden Forest.
Practicing magic in the forest had become a comfortable routine between us. Out there, hidden by thick trees and far from prying eyes, we were free to stretch our magical muscles to their fullest. Today had been particularly intense, both of us pushing ourselves. By the end, we were breathing hard and flushed, sweat glistening softly on Sona's porcelain skin with the front strands of her usually immaculate black hair sticking adorably to her forehead.
After finishing, we walked slowly, leisurely winding our way along the "dangerous" forest, with our fingers laced intimately together.
We couldn't openly express affection like this back at Hogwarts, not without dealing with unwanted whispers and rumors. Technically, as devils, human rules held little meaning for us, but we weren't in the underworld where no one would care if I was in a relationship with my aunt.
"So, it turns out I've awakened a Sacred Gear," I said casually.
"Oh? What can it do? You didn't get a boring Twice Critical did you? I swear, Big G made thousands of those things…" she replied with a small chuckle.
"No, it's definitely not one of those…" I admitted, rubbing my neck sheepishly. "According to Mother, it's an artificial Sacred Gear created by Merlin himself. It allows me to copy and permanently use the bloodline powers of women I… have sex with."
Sona halted abruptly in mid-step, nearly stumbling. She gave me one of her trademark deadpan looks that she reserved exclusively for me when I said something particularly absurd. "Of course," she finally murmured dryly, "of all the Sacred Gears you could awaken, it would be something as perverted as that."
I chuckled openly at her blunt observation. "Hey, I didn't choose it," I protested lightly, squeezing her hand playfully in mine. "But honestly, given my circumstances, I'm not exactly complaining."
She rolled her eyes, though the affectionate glint in her gaze betrayed her amusement. "No, somehow that doesn't surprise me in the slightest. I doubt any healthy man would in your exact circumstances…"
We resumed our peaceful walk. Eventually, I remembered something else I'd been meaning to ask her about. "You know, I was a bit worried about you yesterday," I admitted quietly. "I noticed you, Tsubaki, and Luna all skipped dinner. Everything okay?"
Instantly, Sona's blush returned, stronger than ever. She bit her lip softly, avoiding my gaze as we continued to walk slowly. Her fingers tightened unconsciously around mine, and the tips of her ears turned a shade of crimson I rarely saw.
"Sona?" I gently prompted when she remained silent. "Did something happen yesterday?"
She exhaled slowly, visibly steeling herself. "My sister happened," she finally mumbled softly.
I smirked knowingly. "Given how she was with me yesterday, I can imagine exactly what sort of trouble she caused for you. She seemed REALLY pent up…"
Sona's blush deepened even further. "She stormed into my bedroom—didn't even bother knocking—and she was more… touchy-feely than she's ever been before."
"Define touchy-feely," I pressed gently. "Did Serafall push things further than usual?"
Her blush intensified into a truly adorable crimson hue that reached all the way down her graceful neck. She stubbornly refused to meet my gaze, but the shy, bashful expression on her face revealed everything I needed to know.
"Come on, Sona," I teased affectionately, pulling her just a bit closer, savoring how naturally her slender body leaned into mine. "I can't imagine she did anything that you absolutely hated, right?"
For several seconds, she didn't respond, clearly wrestling with her embarrassment. Finally, in a soft, hesitant whisper, she answered, "No… I didn't exactly… hate it."
My heartbeat sped up slightly at her confession. "So, just to clarify…" I gently teased, my voice dropping slightly lower and huskier, as I leaned in closer, our faces mere inches apart. "My mother, Serafall Leviathan—your older sister—visited your bedroom, was unusually affectionate with you, and pushed your limits further than ever before… and you didn't mind it? Not even a little bit?"
Sona bit her lower lip again, clearly debating internally whether to deny or confirm my suspicion. Finally, she seemed to give in, releasing a tiny, defeated sigh. Her shoulders relaxed slightly, and she met my gaze with rare, open vulnerability. "Okay, fine," she finally whispered quietly. "I… more than didn't mind it. Your mother can be extremely persuasive when she wants to be. And yesterday, she was extremely persuasive..."
Now I really wanted to know the details, but before I could ask more, we heard some barking and a large black dog sped towards us through the woods.
The black dog bounded toward us at full speed, its paws thudding softly against the moss-covered ground. Sona abruptly let go of my hand as her delicate brows drew together in surprise.
"Is that… Sirius Black?" she asked incredulously.
As if hearing his name had triggered something within him, the enormous black hound skidded to an abrupt halt several feet away. His canine form rippled, shifted, and transformed rapidly back into a tall, lean human shape.
Sirius Black himself stood before us, his expression twisted in clear annoyance as he scowled at Sona. "Oh, for fuck's sake," he growled irritably, his voice dripping with sarcasm and exasperation. "Does everyone suddenly seem to know my secret animagus form?"
I couldn't help the faint smirk that tugged at the corner of my lips. "Not everyone," I replied, trying to defuse the tension. "Just most of my girlfriends. It's nice to finally meet you properly in your human form, Sirius. I'm Harry Sitri."
I held my hand out, but he ignored it and left me hanging. Not cool…
Rather than calming him, my polite introduction seemed only to deepen his scowl. His stormy gray eyes darkened further as he took a purposeful step closer to me.
He suddenly spat on the ground between us.
"Well, it's not fucking nice to meet you," Sirius snarled bitterly, his lips curled in an expression of open hostility. "Now that I'm seeing you more clearly for the first time with my human eyes, it's bloody obvious you're not James's kid at all. I can't believe it took me this fucking long to realize. You don't look a damn thing like him!"
I bristled slightly. That's what he was upset about? Didn't people know about this weeks ago? It was yesterday's news, how was he just finding this out now?
"James Potter was my best friend!" Sirius spat out at me like it was my fault. "My brother in all but blood. He fucking died trying to protect you—and you're not even his son! Just some bastard spawn Lily had on the side. All this time I spent rotting in Azkaban blaming myself, thinking I'd let James down… and for what? You're nothing but a fraud!"
Sona stepped forward sharply, her usually impassive expression shifting to a frigid glare as she positioned herself defensively between me and Sirius. Her normally calm pink eyes were now sharp and filled with cold fury behind her glasses.
"Do you have some business here, Mr. Black?" Sona asked icily, her voice low, dangerous, and utterly unforgiving. "Because if you don't, I suggest you move along quickly."
Sirius barely spared her a glance, eyes still fixed firmly on me, brimming with loathing and disdain. "Stay the fuck away from Jasmine, James's real child! She's far too good for a selfish, arrogant playboy like you! I won't have you dragging her down and corrupting her. And another thing—you'd best stay out of my way! I'm leaving Hogwarts soon, no thanks to you! Since you so spectacularly failed at capturing that worthless, cowardly rat Pettigrew—letting him slip right through your incompetent fingers—I'll have to hunt the traitorous piece of shit myself!"
His bitter rant ended with him loudly spitting at the ground again. Sirius spun dramatically to leave.
Beside me, I could feel the frigid spike of Sona's demonic aura flare violently, crackling in the air as she tensed. Her eyes were glowing dangerously, her hands trembling faintly as she summoned her magic.
Instinctively, I reached out and placed a calming hand gently on her arm, silently restraining her before she froze Sirius solid.
Sirius transformed back into his canine form, not even sparing us another glance as he sprinted swiftly away through the trees, vanishing quickly.
I released a slow, irritated breath through gritted teeth. "What an absolute fucking asshole," I muttered quietly. "And to think I went out of my way to help that guy, telling Dumbledore and everything…"
Tonks would be disappointed too. She'd told me stories about her "cool and nice" uncle Sirius, but obviously prison changed him a lot.
Sona exhaled sharply, clearly struggling to regain her composure. Her lovely porcelain cheeks were still faintly flushed with rage, her pink irises practically burning crimson beneath her glasses.
After a tense moment, she turned to face me. "Harry," she said slowly, her voice carefully controlled yet still edged with suppressed fury. "Can you do me a favor?"
"Of course, Sona," I replied immediately. I reached for her hand again, carefully intertwining my fingers gently with hers in an attempt to soothe both of us.
She stared deeply into my eyes. "I want you to make sure you fuck Jasmine Potter soon!" she declared bluntly, her voice dripping with vindictive satisfaction at the mere thought. "And then I want you to take her into your peerage immediately afterward!"
My jaw nearly dropped in shock. Of all the things she might have said, I certainly hadn't expected that. "Wait… what!?"
She gently squeezed my hand again, pulling herself closer until our bodies were pressed intimately together. Her voice lowered softly, her tone measured but firm as she explained. "Sirius Black needs to learn that no one gets to talk to you—to us—that way. Insulting your honor and capabilities is insulting my honor, too. He clearly cares deeply for Jasmine and wants you nowhere near her. So, what better way to teach him a lesson than by taking her for yourself—mind, body, and soul—and permanently binding her into your peerage?"
I grinned mischievously, unable to resist teasing Sona further. "You know, I have to ask," I began lightly, giving her hand another playful squeeze as we slowly walked beneath the forest canopy. "Exactly how far did Serafall push you yesterday? Because I have to say, this is the sexiest and most uninhibited I've ever heard you."
Sona's face instantly flushed deep crimson at my bold remark, and she abruptly turned her head away, sputtering in embarrassment. "Th—that's none of your business, Harry!" she protested indignantly, pushing up her glasses with one finger as she pointedly avoided my amused gaze. "H-how far she went… is strictly a secret between me and Serafall."
"Oh, come on, Sona," I coaxed playfully, tugging her closer against my side as I lowered my voice to a husky whisper. "You're really going to tease me with something like that and then refuse to elaborate? That's cruel."
She huffed in faux annoyance, though the blush staining her porcelain cheeks only intensified. "I—I'm not teasing! You just… caught me off guard with that question, that's all."
I chuckled softly, savoring how adorable and flustered she was right now. I knew better than to push too hard, though, or she might clam up completely. Instead, I gave her a casual shrug, deciding to share something juicy of my own. "Well, if you're not going to share, I suppose I could tell you exactly how far she went with me…" I offered smoothly, shooting her a sly, provocative smile.
That got her attention instantly. Sona whipped her head back toward me, narrowing her pink eyes sharply behind her glasses, suspicion clearly warring with curiosity on her gorgeous face. "And just what exactly did you and my sister do yesterday?" she demanded slowly, her voice edged with barely-concealed jealousy.
I leaned in closer, putting my lips directly beside her ear as we continued to walk. My tone dropped to a low, sinful murmur as I answered shamelessly, "Serafall decided to give me a lap dance yesterday—an extremely explicit one, I might add. She ground that perfect ass of hers against my cock until we both came hard. Right there in broad daylight, too. Fleur and Gabrielle were both watching right next to us…"
Sona let out a startled gasp, eyes widening with disbelief as her mouth fell open slightly in pure shock. "She… she actually—" Her words broke off sharply. "Of course she did," Sona finally muttered with a cute, irritated pout. "That woman has absolutely zero self-control when it comes to you."
I chuckled again, thoroughly entertained by Sona's adorable reaction. She was so damn cute when she was jealous that I simply couldn't resist anymore. I stopped walking and gently pulled her into me, tilting her chin upward so I could capture her lips in a soft, tender kiss.
Sona's eyes widened slightly in surprise at the sudden gesture, but she quickly relaxed into my embrace, her body melting warmly against mine as her lips yielded eagerly to my kiss. I savored her sweet, delicate taste, my hand drifting to rest at the small of her back and pulling her body even closer to mine.
After a long moment, I slowly pulled back, gazing down affectionately into her beautiful, flushed face. "Have I mentioned lately how fucking adorable you are, Sona?"
Her blush deepened slightly, but a shy smile slowly curved her soft lips. "Not nearly enough," she whispered back playfully, eyes sparkling with quiet amusement now that the embarrassment had passed.
After several comfortable moments, another thought crossed my mind, prompting a shift in the conversation. "So, changing the subject slightly," I began, squeezing her hand again, "what do you think the task later today will be? It's gotta be something important considering the entire school canceled classes for it."
She pursed her lips thoughtfully, her gaze distant for a moment before sighing softly. "Honestly, I have absolutely no idea. I'm surprised myself, actually—the staff at Hogwarts has proven annoyingly good at keeping secrets."
I gave her a challenging smirk, "I'm looking forward to competing against you tonight. After all, don't forget I won the first task by a few points for surviving that Imperiused Krum fiasco and rescuing Fleur and Gabrielle."
Her expression immediately turned competitive. "Trust me, Harry, I haven't forgotten that fact for even a second. But rest assured, whatever today's task entails, I will absolutely crush you this time."
I laughed heartily, thoroughly enjoying her competitive spirit and how seriously she took these challenges. "Is that right? Feeling cocky, are we? Should we perhaps make a little wager on this then?"
"A wager? What exactly did you have in mind, Harry?"
– Narcissa –
"This is pretty cool," Narcissa heard her niece declare cheerfully from across the room.
Narcissa turned her head slightly, glancing over her shoulder toward the younger woman.
Tonks stood near the vanity table, eyes sparkling brightly as she eagerly flexed and twisted her fingers. Vibrant jets of magic sprang effortlessly from her palm—fireballs glowing molten orange, spheres of crystal-clear water, miniature gusts of swirling air—each manifesting spontaneously and seamlessly over her hand. The enthusiasm dancing in her wide eyes was almost childlike as she played gleefully with her newfound abilities.
"The imagination-based casting of our new race truly is quite extraordinary," Narcissa agreed, her voice smooth and composed, though privately she felt an equal measure of wonder at the magic's sheer versatility.
Turning back to the mirror, Narcissa resumed examining her own reflection. She allowed a faint, appreciative smile to curve her full lips. Although she now occupied the dignified role of "Professor Black" at Hogwarts, she had not lost an ounce of her impeccable taste or her natural talent for fashion.
In fact, now that robes were no longer strictly necessary as her only choice of apparel, Narcissa's passion for clothing and style had flourished dramatically.
Her visit to the Underworld had opened an entirely new realm of fashion to her eyes. The devils wore ensembles ranging from daring and seductive to elegant and refined. Harry's mother, Serafall Leviathan, had eagerly introduced Narcissa to what she called "cosplay" and "modern Muggle trends," two areas Narcissa previously would have scorned as beneath her pureblood dignity.
Now, however, Narcissa relished every moment spent selecting new dresses, tops, and skirts to perfectly emphasize her mature, womanly charms. She thoroughly enjoyed flaunting her figure, each outfit carefully chosen to ensure she always captured the attention of the young man who now claimed her soul.
Today she had selected a breathtaking white dress. The smooth fabric hugged Narcissa's slender curves tightly, embracing her hourglass figure like a second skin. The dress flowed down past her hips, ending just above her knees. Its most tantalizing feature was undoubtedly the daring window cut out directly over her ample cleavage, showcasing the flawless swell of her generous breasts. Narcissa's blue eyes glittered with quiet satisfaction as she adjusted the neckline slightly, lifting and enhancing her cleavage even further. A playful, secretive smile curved her lips—she knew exactly how this particular dress would affect her young master.
Of course, Tonks had gone the opposite route. Her niece clearly cared little for feminine allure or elegant style. Beneath her standard black Auror robes, Tonks had chosen to wear what Narcissa now understood to be "punk" clothing—complete with a pair of edgy, goth-inspired boots.
The contrast between them was striking, but Narcissa held no judgment. As far as she was concerned, Tonks could wear whatever she wanted. Her niece was sweet, lively, and full of youthful charm—but she still had much to learn about using her femininity to its fullest potential.
That particular knowledge Narcissa had every intention of keeping to herself—at least for now. Narcissa knew well enough that many other lovely young ladies had a head start in gaining Harry's affections, but she was supremely confident in her abilities to swiftly close that gap.
The sound of the bedroom door opening smoothly caught Narcissa's attention. In the mirror's reflection, she watched Harry step into the room. He smiled warmly, first toward Tonks—who instantly brightened, flashing a cheerful, flirtatious grin and chirping out a lively "Wotcher!" in greeting.
But then Harry's sea blue eyes shifted toward Narcissa, and his gaze froze abruptly. A look of open admiration and desire flickered across his face as he drank in the sensual vision of Narcissa standing there in her provocative white dress, every enticing curve proudly on display for him.
Narcissa's heart beat just a touch quicker at seeing the visible hunger flare in his eyes. Exactly the reaction she had hoped for. A coy, satisfied grin slowly curved her full lips. Her eyelids lowered just slightly, and she tilted her head gracefully, offering him a welcoming, seductive smile that spoke volumes without her uttering a single word. "Good morning, Master," Narcissa purred softly. She slowly pivoted to face him fully, making certain his eyes never left the exposed curve of her ample cleavage.
He exhaled quietly. "Good morning, Narcissa," he returned smoothly, stepping further into the room and closing the door firmly behind him.
Tonks, oblivious as ever to the charged tension between her aunt and Harry, laughed cheerfully. She bounded toward Harry, looping her slender arm playfully through his. "What brings you here so early, Harry? Are you thinking of sneaking out of the castle again?"
"I already had my fill of sneaking out this morning, actually," Harry told Tonks with an easy chuckle, gently disentangling his arm from her eager grasp. "I had a rather intense training session with Sona earlier."
Tonks immediately scrunched up her face in an exaggerated pout, her lips pressing together in an adorable show of disappointment. "Harry! You know I'm supposed to be around to keep you safe. I'm your personal Auror, remember?" she complained lightly, crossing her arms beneath her modest chest as she frowned petulantly. "Not much point in that if you keep sneaking off without me…"
"For the moment, perhaps you are, my dear niece," Narcissa gently reminded Tonks. "But I doubt your career as an Auror is destined to survive past the end of this school year."
Tonks's playful expression faltered briefly. Her eyes now dulled noticeably. "What do you mean by that?" she questioned softly, her previous exuberance fading. "They wouldn't just sack me out of nowhere, would they?"
Narcissa turned fully toward her, softening her tone slightly as she patiently explained, "You forget, Nymphadora, your new life as a devil complicates matters rather significantly. For the next three years, you'll need to spend at least an hour per day near Harry—your King. That is something you HAVE to do if you don't want to become a stray devil. Also, it is not good for you to be employed by a family that isn't the Sitri Clan. People would start questioning where your loyalties lie…"
The realization visibly sank in for Tonks, who bit her bottom lip softly, her expression shifting into a worried frown. "I hadn't really thought about all of that yet," she admitted quietly. "I mean… I suppose you're right…"
Harry, clearly sensing Tonks's sudden anxiety, reached out immediately, gently resting a comforting hand on her slender shoulder.
"Hey, don't worry about that right now, Nymphadora," he said soothingly. His deep voice was gentle, soothing away the younger witch's apprehension. "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. And I'm sure there's openings in the underworld if you still want to be a cop in the future."
The softness in Tonks's gaze returned immediately, her previously tense posture relaxing beneath Harry's calming touch. "Thanks, Harry," she whispered softly, her voice filled with genuine relief. "I appreciate that… And don't call me Nymphadora!" she added playfully.
"Ill never stop calling you that," he said cheekily, making Narcissa giggle at the pout that put on her niece's face.
After a moment, Harry's attention shifted once again toward Narcissa herself. His eyes roamed appreciatively over her figure, lingering particularly on the enticing window in her dress that showcased the flawless swell of her generous breasts.
– Tonks –
Tonks shifted uneasily where she stood, eyes flickering between Narcissa and Harry. She could clearly see the way they were staring at each other with his eyes lingering on Narcissa's impressive figure and her aunt returning his gaze with a sultry, seductive smile.
Tonks's cheeks flushed hotly, an unexpected wave of jealousy and embarrassment flooding through her at the blatant attraction radiating between them. And yet, much as she hated to admit it, there was something embarrassingly arousing about watching the silent exchange of desire playing out so openly before her eyes. The warmth pooling low in her belly left her even more flustered and confused.
Bloody hell, being a devil was definitely making everything more complicated—feelings and desires constantly amplified to almost overwhelming intensity. Tonks suspected Narcissa was handling the transition with far greater ease and grace.
Realizing she needed to intervene before Narcissa decided to rip Harry's clothes off right here and now, Tonks cleared her throat loudly, desperately attempting to dispel some of the charged tension saturating the air. "So, Harry," she said a little too loudly, drawing both of their attention back toward herself. Narcissa glanced briefly her way, irritation flickering subtly across her lovely features before being quickly smoothed over again.
Tonks stubbornly ignored her aunt's brief annoyance. "What exactly brought you here this morning?" she said, forcing a smile onto her lips.
"I actually came here because I wanted to finish our conversation from last night," he explained. "What should we do with Lockhart? Or whoever the hell is impersonating him, anyway."
"Oh, right," she murmured seriously, crossing her arms thoughtfully beneath her breasts.
Harry nodded grimly. "We need to figure out exactly what we're going to do about him. If he really is an imposter, we can't just ignore the situation."
Tonks squared her shoulders determinedly. "We obviously need to hand him straight over to the DMLE," she said firmly.
But surprisingly, Narcissa shook her head. "I'm afraid that might not be the best idea, my niece."
"And why exactly wouldn't it be?" she asked incredulously. "We can't just let some fraud continue impersonating a Hogwarts professor!"
Narcissa sighed quietly, stepping toward a nearby table and picking up a folded newspaper lying there. Her face was set in an expression of mild disdain as she held out the copy of that morning's Daily Prophet for them both to see clearly. "Perhaps this will explain," Narcissa murmured softly, her voice cool and measured.
Tonks took the paper from her aunt's outstretched hand, quickly scanning the dramatic headline.
"Even More Trouble at Hogwarts! Over 20 Dementors Attack the School! Boy-Who-Lived Fights Them Off in Daring Show of Bravery! Is Dumbledore Growing Too Old to Control His Own School…? Talks of replacement are in the air…"
"Merlin's balls," she muttered irritably. "Those bloody vultures never miss a chance to stir up drama."
Harry scowled in equal annoyance.
"Of course," Narcissa confirmed sadly. "As irritatingly dramatic as this article is, however, it highlights an unfortunate truth—Dumbledore's reputation and authority are currently hanging precariously by a thread. Our master Harry returning to the Magical World. This tournament. All of these attacks. It's not painting a great picture in the eyes of the public…"
"You think revealing Lockhart as an imposter would make things even worse for Dumbledore?" Tonks guessed hesitantly.
"Precisely," Narcissa confirmed. "The moment it comes to light that a Hogwarts professor has been replaced without the Headmaster's notice, it would be used as irrefutable proof that Dumbledore has completely lost control over his own school."
Tonks frowned as she considered Narcissa's words. Harry's brows were furrowed deeply as he stared down at the paper, clearly troubled.
Narcissa looked between the two of them and sighed softly. "Personally, it makes no real difference to me who runs this school. But I know you have a certain fondness for the old man, Harry.
"Of course I do," Harry told them. "He personally invited me to come to Hogwarts, and I wouldn't have met either of you otherwise."
Narcissa blinked a few times at his words, then she nodded. "I suppose I shockingly do have some fondness for the old man then. But this could still be the nail in the coffin for Dumbledore's tenure as headmaster…"
Harry scowled in displeasure. "If it comes out publicly that Lockhart's been secretly replaced by an imposter, you're right. There's no way Dumbledore could avoid the fallout. They'd crucify him in the press for this."
Tonks chewed anxiously on her lower lip. "And you're certain it would be enough to remove him?"
"Quite certain," Narcissa confirmed, her pale blue eyes hardening slightly. "The Board of Governors has been watching Dumbledore's every move like a pack of starving vultures ever since this year started. If there's even a whisper of incompetence—such as allowing a fake professor to infiltrate the school—they'll leap on it instantly."
Harry's expression darkened further. "Who would they replace him with, though? I can't imagine anyone else capable enough—or trustworthy enough—to fill his position right now."
Narcissa's lips twisted into an unpleasant grimace. "That's precisely what worries me. My dear ex-husband, Lucius Malfoy, is one of the most influential members on the Hogwarts Board. He's spent years quietly positioning himself and cultivating favors from other board members. I can assure you, he'd seize this chance eagerly to appoint someone loyal to him. In fact, he'd likely attempt to take the headmaster position himself."
A low growl of irritation escaped Harry's throat at that suggestion, and Tonks felt her stomach twist with disgust. Lucius Malfoy, headmaster of Hogwarts? The very idea was sickening. Lucius Malfoy was arrogant, ruthless, and had no regard whatsoever for anyone but himself and his precious pureblood ideals. Allowing him to run Hogwarts would be catastrophic for every student and staff member alike!
Narcissa crossed her arms tightly beneath her ample breasts. Her delicate jaw clenched briefly before she spoke again. "Lucius has been absolutely furious ever since I divorced him and stopped playing the role of his obedient little trophy wife. He's written me numerous letters since—each one more venomous and threatening than the last. I've burned every single one of course." She paused momentarily. "Draco has also been particularly unpleasant. I've refused to engage him outside of the classes I teach..."
Tonks watched as Harry frowned deeply at Narcissa's revelation. Finally, Harry shrugged casually and broke the tense silence. "Well, we could just kill Lucius, then. Problem solved."
Tonks blinked in surprise, momentarily caught off-guard by how bluntly he'd suggested murder—before realizing that, devil or not, she completely agreed. Lucius Malfoy was nothing more than a festering sore on wizarding society, an arrogant bully who delighted in making others miserable. He'd spent decades skirting the law, using his influence and wealth to keep himself immune from consequences. Tonks glanced at Narcissa, seeing an identical expression of amusement and agreement in her aunt's cool blue eyes. Meeting Harry's gaze squarely, Tonks nodded firmly. "Honestly, fuck that guy. No one's going to mourn Lucius bloody Malfoy."
Harry chuckled appreciatively at her blunt agreement, clearly pleased by her immediate willingness to back him up. Tonks's cheeks flushed slightly as warmth blossomed in her chest. Damn, she enjoyed impressing him far more than she cared to admit.
Narcissa smiled softly but shook her head slowly. "Unfortunately, satisfying as that idea is, we can't get rid of Lucius quite so soon. Right now, I would undoubtedly become the prime suspect if something happened to him. Everyone in Wizarding Britain knows about our bitter divorce. We'll have to wait at least a few months—long enough for suspicion to ease off—before removing him permanently!"
Tonks huffed in irritation but grudgingly saw the logic in her aunt's reasoning. She certainly didn't want Narcissa landing herself in trouble over Lucius's miserable hide. "Alright," Tonks admitted reluctantly. "Then let's circle back to Lockhart. We need some other solution. I suppose that we don't actually need to expose the imposter publicly. All we have to do is find out what happened to the real Lockhart. Once we've rescued him, we simply… dispose of whoever replaced him—quietly and without any public fuss…"
Harry nodded in approval. "And Lockhart will undoubtedly be so grateful to us for saving his worthless arse, he'll eagerly cooperate and keep quiet about the entire incident."
"Exactly!" Tonks agreed, beaming proudly at him. "And then we gentlyconvince Lockhart that Hogwarts isn't safe anymore. He'll voluntarily resign his teaching position, leaving the Defense Against the Dark Arts job wide open for Aunt Narcissa to officially claim!"
Narcissa's gorgeous face split into an openly delighted grin. "Oh, Nymphadora, you're positively brilliant," she purred happily. "You've just described precisely the original plan I had in mind—long before Lockhart was replaced, of course."
Harry laughed warmly, looking between the two women fondly. "Merlin, I'm glad my girls are so smart," he praised them both.
Narcissa's smile immediately shifted into something far more sultry. With purposeful, provocative steps, she crossed the small distance toward Harry, each sway of her generous hips mesmerizing to watch.
Tonks's heart thumped faster, her breath hitching slightly as Narcissa paused mere inches from him, her lush body nearly pressed against his broad chest.
"You'll find," Narcissa purred throatily, her voice dripping seduction as she leaned forward, ensuring Harry's eyes were drawn irresistibly to the exposed swell of her ample breasts, "that the two of us are far, far more than just girls, Master."
Harry's throat visibly tightened, his gaze lingering hungrily upon Narcissa's perfectly displayed cleavage. The air grew charged once more with palpable tension.
Tonks felt her own cheeks flame hotly at Narcissa's shameless forwardness. She bit her lip softly, suddenly vividly aware of how long it had been since she'd been with a man herself. She wasn't exactly a blushing virgin—far from it—but bloody hell, it had been far too long since she'd allowed herself any fun herself.
Tonks watched with growing nervous excitement as Narcissa's pale blue eyes slowly roamed Harry's athletic body.
"You must have been working out pretty hard with Lady Sona this morning. You're absolutely covered in sweat, Harry," Narcissa pointed out with a teasing smirk, stepping closer to gently trail her fingertips along his chest. Tonks's breath hitched slightly as she watched her aunt trace Harry's firm muscles without any reservation.
"I suppose I am," Harry chuckled warmly, clearly amused by Narcissa's blatant appreciation.
Narcissa tilted her head slightly, a mischievous gleam dancing in her eyes. "Well, instead of making you trek all the way back to Gryffindor Tower just to get cleaned up, perhaps you'd prefer to take a shower here, in my private bathroom?"
Tonks's heartbeat quickened abruptly. She immediately recognized the sultry edge in her aunt's voice.
Harry's eyes sparkled knowingly as he raised a playful eyebrow at Narcissa. "Hmm, I suppose that does sound rather tempting," he admitted casually, glancing meaningfully between both women.
Narcissa's smirk deepened into a sultry smile. "And perhaps I could even help you wash up," she purred enticingly, her voice dripping seduction as she leaned forward, deliberately emphasizing her cleavage once more.
Tonks felt her cheeks flush hotly. Bloody hell, Narcissa wasn't joking at all—her aunt was completely serious about her offer.
Harry's lips curved into an amused yet regretful smirk as he replied, "Unfortunately, since I still have no idea what tonight's mystery tournament task will involve, I'd prefer not to wear myself out too much beforehand. It might be risky to indulge too much right now, as much as I'd thoroughly enjoy it."
Tonks saw the immediate, adorable pout that formed on Narcissa's perfect lips at Harry's gentle rejection. But her aunt recovered swiftly, giving him a sly, challenging look. "Well then," Narcissa countered smoothly, her tone playful but still filled with innuendo, "if that's your only concern, simply allowing me to help wash you shouldn't pose any problem at all, should it?"
Harry paused momentarily, clearly tempted by Narcissa's sensual logic. Tonks's heart thundered wildly in her chest, knowing exactly where this conversation was headed.
After a long moment, Harry finally smiled warmly, clearly surrendering to the enticing suggestion. "Alright, Narcissa," he agreed quietly, giving her a heated, appreciative stare. "I suppose a quick shower wouldn't hurt, would it?"
Narcissa's delighted laughter was warm and triumphant. Without hesitation, she reached out, slowly and deliberately undoing the buttons of Harry's shirt, guiding it gently off his strong shoulders and down his powerful arms. Tonks swallowed hard, watching the scene unfold in front of her. When Narcissa's fingers moved confidently to his trousers next, Tonks felt her breath catch sharply.
Within moments, Harry stood gloriously naked before them both, his clothes carelessly tossed to the floor around his feet. Tonks's eyes widened, an involuntary gasp escaping her lips. Merlin, he was breathtakingly masculine—every inch of him perfectly toned and sculpted, his body radiating power and confidence. Her eyes dropped lower, and Tonks's cheeks flared bright crimson as she took in the sight of Harry's cock between his muscular thighs. He wasn't even fully hard yet, but he was still impressively massive, far bigger than any man she'd seen before.
Her heart raced furiously, and heat instantly pooled between her legs, arousal surging through her body in response.
"Impressive, isn't he?" Narcissa chuckled knowingly, clearly noticing Tonks's blatant reaction and flushed cheeks. Her aunt smirked teasingly as she stepped back slightly, fingers finding the zipper on her elegant white dress. Tonks's eyes widened further, her pulse pounding relentlessly in her ears as Narcissa slowly slid the gown off her body, letting the dress pool gracefully around her feet.
Tonks swallowed hard, her mouth suddenly dry as her eyes were drawn irresistibly to Narcissa's perfect naked form. Narcissa's voluptuous figure was absolutely flawless—her ample, firm breasts full and tempting, capped by rosy pink nipples already hardened with arousal. Her creamy, toned thighs and slender waist made a captivating hourglass silhouette. Tonks felt her eyes inevitably drift downward, landing on the neatly trimmed patch of platinum-blonde hair that crowned Narcissa's invitingly smooth pussy.
"I'm going to go wash up our master properly, Tonks," Narcissa purred softly, her voice rich and seductive. She placed a possessive hand against Harry's toned chest, gently urging him towards the bathroom. "You don't have to wait up."
Tonks remained frozen in place, mouth open slightly in speechless shock as she watched Narcissa confidently lead a fully naked Harry toward the private shower. Harry glanced back over his shoulder, giving Tonks an amused, teasing smirk before disappearing into the bathroom with Narcissa at his side.
Once the door clicked shut softly behind them, Tonks released a shuddering breath she'd been holding. Her entire body trembled faintly, heart pounding wildly in her chest. Her mind raced with vivid, erotic images of precisely what was happening right now behind that closed bathroom door.
Bloody hell, she desperately needed a shower herself now—a very, very cold one.
– Harry –
One very hot and steamy shower later…
I couldn't stop the wide grin from spreading across my face as I walked leisurely down the school corridors, making my way toward the Great Hall.
Narcissa had promised to clean me up, and she'd absolutely lived up to that promise. A quick shower to wash away sweat had turned into something far more intense—far more satisfying.
I especially liked the part where she used those large breasts of hers as makeshift sponges to make sure she could properly clean my cock. Yes, she ended up getting dirtier and stickier at the end there, but she certainly didn't seem to mind.
I shook myself from the vivid memory as I finally reached the Great Hall, pushing open the enormous wooden doors and stepping inside. The loud buzz of conversation immediately washed over me, and I saw the room was already packed with students from all schools, eager for the next stage of the Triwizard Tournament.
I moved casually toward the Gryffindor table, taking my usual spot as I waited for Dumbledore to begin. Hermione was already there, flashing me a knowing smile and rolling her eyes playfully at the smug expression I knew was still plastered across my face.
"Hello, Harry," she teased softly, voice filled with amusement. "You certainly seem pleased about something…"
"You could definitely say that," I replied casually, not bothering to hide my satisfaction.
Just then, Dumbledore rose from his chair at the Head Table, drawing everyone's attention toward him as he smiled warmly at us all. His clear voice rang out confidently, magically amplified to reach every ear in the hall.
"Welcome, everyone," Dumbledore began. "Today we will commence the next stage of our Triwizard Tournament. Previously, our champions faced the daunting task of evading capture by their fellow students. Today, however, the challenge shall be reversed." He paused dramatically. "Today, we shall see precisely how adept our champions are at commanding those very students."
A ripple of murmurs filled the hall as we all exchanged curious, surprised looks. Commanding our fellow students? Where exactly was Dumbledore going with this?
"Allow me to explain," he continued calmly. "Today's task is something known as a mock Rating Game."
My heart skipped a beat at the words. A Rating Game? Here, at Hogwarts? Was the old man serious? Damn, this was definitely my mother's idea once again. The students around me all looked baffled—mumbling about what was a Rating Game?—but across the hall at the Ravenclaw table, I saw Sona immediately perk up!
"Each champion will command a team of ten students chosen from their assigned houses," Dumbledore elaborated patiently. "Harry Sitri will select five students from Gryffindor and five from Slytherin. Likewise, Sona Sitri will select five students from Ravenclaw and five from Hufflepuff. The remaining two schools—Durmstrang and Beauxbatons—will similarly divide and choose their own teams."
My stomach dropped slightly. Gryffindor was fine. I knew I could trust Hermione, Fred, George, Jasmine, and a few others to follow my instructions. But Slytherin…?
Other than Daphne and Tracy… I was completely fucked. Maybe they knew some other trustworthy students…?
I glanced quickly toward the Hufflepuff table, where Rias and her entire peerage sat watching with obvious interest. My heart sank even further. Sona's lips were curved in a victorious little smirk, her pink eyes sparkling with undisguised delight as she eyed Rias's group eagerly.
Fuck. She'd clearly won the lottery for this task. She was going to immediately snap up Rias's peerage without hesitation for her team.
Hermione gave me a concerned look, noticing my suddenly grim expression. "Harry? You alright?"
I sighed deeply, resigned to my fate. "Let's just say I've got a bad feeling I'm going to lose a very important bet today."
– Lilja –
Lilja effortlessly pivoted on her heel, narrowly dodging a powerful bolt of magical lightning that crackled violently as it streaked past her. She responded instantly, spinning gracefully in mid-air as she hurled her own brilliant silver-blue spellfire back toward the Valkyrie who'd attacked her. Her spell hit with pinpoint precision, sending the older Valkyrie sprawling backward with a startled yelp.
"Ugh, she's just as terrifyingly powerful as her older sister!" one of the defeated Valkyries groaned, wincing as she carefully rose to her feet, brushing dirt from her tight-fitting silver training armor.
Nearby, another valkyrie rolled her eyes, huffing in playful irritation as she retrieved her sword from where it had clattered to the ground. "Only eighteen years old and Lilja is kicking all our asses. Honestly, girls—I feel like we're getting old."
Lilja pouted adorably at that teasing comment, placing her hands defiantly on her ample hips. "Oh, come now," she protested sweetly. "You all know as well as I do that Valkyries stop visibly aging at twenty. You're all going to remain gorgeous and young forever. You're being a bit dramatic, don't you think?"
Another Valkyrie snorted, although she was smiling good-naturedly. "Easy for you to say, Lilja. You and Rossweisse are complete monsters in combat!"
Lilja giggled softly, playfully sticking out her tongue. Her beautiful face was glowing warmly from exertion and excitement. Her bright-green eyes sparkled mischievously as she bounced lightly on the balls of her feet, eager to continue the session. Her long, fiery-red hair cascaded in luxurious waves down her back, swishing gracefully behind her as she moved.
Lilja loved these training sessions with her sisters-in-arms. As one of the youngest Valkyries in Asgard, it was important to her to constantly push herself harder and harder, striving every day to reach and even surpass her older sister Rossweisse!
"Come on, ladies," Lilja called cheerfully. "Quit your whining and get back up. I have a new spell I've been dying to test out!"
A collective groan erupted around the training grounds, and a couple of Valkyries jokingly made the sign of Thor's Hammer in mock fear. Lilja giggled softly at their antics.
"She's just as terrifying as Rossweisse," one more Valkyrie muttered in feigned despair, drawing laughter from the others.
Yet just as they all began to ready themselves once more, training came to an unexpected halt.
Lilja turned curiously as murmurs rippled through the assembled Valkyries. The reason for their sudden distraction quickly became apparent. Approaching was none other than her older sister—Rossweisse herself.
Lilja felt a surge of pride and affection at seeing her beloved older sibling. Rossweisse was stunningly beautiful, easily recognizable even from a distance. Her radiant silver hair flowed behind her like liquid moonlight, contrasting starkly with her perfectly tailored secretary outfit—something that Odin himself insisted she wear as his personal assistant.
Lilja found the sight endlessly amusing. Despite being so young, Rossweisse was unquestionably the strongest Valkyrie alive, a powerful, proud warrior whose combat prowess was legendary throughout the Nine Realms. Yet Odin insisted on dressing her like some glorified secretary, complete with a figure-hugging pencil skirt, sheer stockings, high heels, and a snug, buttoned blouse barely capable of containing her massive, full breasts.
Rossweisse regularly complained that it made her look ridiculous, but Lilja disagreed vehemently. In her opinion, the sexy, alluring outfit only enhanced Rossweisse's goddess-like beauty, emphasizing her sensual curves and highlighting her perfect figure. Her big sister was drop-dead gorgeous—the very epitome of female allure, with flawless, creamy skin, an impossibly curvy hourglass body, round, lush hips, long slender legs, and breasts so large and enticing that it was difficult not to envy them.
And yet, despite Rossweisse's legendary beauty and fearsome reputation, Lilja knew her sister had never managed to secure herself a romantic partner. Men found Rossweisse beautiful, certainly, but they were always ultimately intimidated by her sheer, overwhelming strength.
Her reputation as Odin's most powerful shieldmaiden left most suitors terrified.
It was easy for anyone to tell they were sisters—both women shared the same vivid bright green eyes and a strikingly similar beauty. Yet where Rossweisse's hair cascaded down her back in shimmering silver, Lilja's fell in thick waves of fiery red, a vibrant flame against her fair, creamy skin. She'd always loved that about herself. It made her stand out, a vivid splash of color amid the more common blonde and silver hues of the Valkyries.
But hair wasn't their only similarity. Lilja's lush, curvy body was nearly a perfect mirror of her older sister's impressive figure. Her full breasts were every bit as generous as Rossweisse's, straining slightly against the silver training armor she wore—armor that hugged her feminine curves rather tightly. Her slender waist flared into round, sensuous hips, and her long, toned legs moved gracefully beneath her. There was no doubt she was Rossweisse's younger sister, possessing the same stunning allure and powerful physique.
Yet, despite the similarity in their appearance, Lilja had always felt a strange difference in their desires when it came to romance. While Rossweisse quietly longed to find someone brave enough to see past her fearsome reputation, Lilja herself wasn't sure she wanted to rush into another relationship. Not after what had happened in her past life…
A young human mother who had died heartbreakingly young at just twenty years old. She had been weak, helpless, and she'd perished tragically—unable to protect the precious baby son she'd left behind.
Lilja's heart twisted painfully whenever she thought of that child, the son she'd never had the chance to meet. Since he probably ended up being slain by that monstrous wizard that killed her…
Past life memories weren't unheard of among Valkyries.
Indeed, all Valkyries were reborn from the souls of brave women who had fallen heroically in combat. But from what Lilja knew, very few Valkyries retained clear memories from their mortal lives.
Rossweisse certainly never spoke of any previous life, and she'd seemed surprised when Lilja had once tentatively mentioned vague recollections of her own past existence.
Lilja shook herself from these solemn thoughts as Rossweisse finally reached her side. Her older sister smiled warmly. "Hello, Lily," Rossweisse said affectionately, using the special nickname she'd always reserved just for Lilja. "You looked wonderful out there. You really do grow stronger every day."
Lilja blushed faintly under Rossweisse's praise, giving a shy but pleased smile. "Thank you, Rose," she murmured softly. "I still have a long way to go if I ever want to catch up to you."
Rossweisse chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling fondly. "Trust me, Lily. You're already far more powerful than you realize. Soon you'll surpass me completely."
Lilja smiled softly, shaking her head. "Never. You're the strongest Valkyrie in history, Rose. I still have so much more training ahead of me before I can even come close!"
Rossweisse opened her mouth as if to argue further, but then closed it, a hint of seriousness settling over her lovely features instead. "Actually, I didn't come here just to compliment your training today, Lily. Allfather Odin has called for you."
Lilja's eyes widened in surprise and excitement at Rossweisse's words. Her heart fluttered in her chest, suddenly beating a bit quicker with anticipation. Odin himself had summoned her? Could this finally mean—
"Oh?" she asked eagerly, her bright green eyes sparkling with excitement as she stepped closer to her older sister. "Did he say why? Am I finally going to receive my first ever mission outside of Asgard?"
Rossweisse gave her an indulgent smile, a look that said she wasn't supposed to reveal anything yet—but she would anyway. "Odin planned on explaining it to you himself, but…" she paused, glancing around conspiratorially as if checking to ensure no one else was listening, "…I suppose you wouldn't mind a few spoilers, Lily?"
Lilja's lips stretched into a wide, eager smile, and she nodded vigorously. "Please tell me, Rose!"
Her older sister chuckled softly at Lilja's enthusiasm, the silver-haired beauty's gaze warming affectionately. She placed a gentle hand upon Lilja's shoulder, lowering her voice slightly to maintain privacy. "The truth is, Odin has grown slightly concerned about recent developments involving the devils from the Christian Pantheon," Rossweisse began carefully.
Lilja's brow furrowed slightly in confusion. Devils from the Christian Pantheon? She knew a fair bit about other supernatural beings, of course, but the devils had always seemed distant and mostly uninvolved with Asgard's affairs. "What's happening with them? Has something serious occurred?"
Rossweisse shook her head gently. "Nothing overly troubling, at least not yet. But recently, certain actions taken by some notable devils have caught Odin's attention."
"Actions like what?" Lilja pressed curiously.
Her sister's lovely green eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "You already know that the devils are divided into powerful noble clans, each headed by influential families, correct?"
"Yes, of course," Lilja replied promptly. She'd studied extensively as part of her training. "The Four Great Maous rule Hell, and beneath them are various noble clans."
Rossweisse nodded approvingly. "Precisely. And two of the strongest noble clans are Sitri and Gremory. Both are closely linked to the current Maous through blood relations. Specifically, Serafall Leviathan's younger sister is Sona Sitri, while Sirzechs Lucifer's younger sister is Rias Gremory."
Lilja tilted her head slightly, fascinated. "I'm familiar with those names. But what exactly did they do that's caught Odin's attention?"
Rossweisse exhaled softly. "For years now, Sona Sitri and Rias Gremory had held significant territory within the human country of Japan. They controlled the region, managed diplomatic relations, and maintained a strong devil presence there. But recently… they suddenly abandoned those territories completely, surrendering them voluntarily back to the Shinto gods."
Lilja's eyes widened at the revelation. "They simply gave up their territories willingly?" she asked incredulously. Territories weren't something supernatural factions typically surrendered without very good reason. Power and influence were everything among supernatural factions, and losing territory willingly was almost unheard of.
Her older sister nodded, her expression serious. "Exactly. Naturally, the Yokai and Shinto factions were ecstatic, of course. They regained control over those territories without a single fight. But many other Pantheons found this behavior incredibly suspicious and strange. Most supernatural groups jealously guard every inch of their lands. For two powerful devil princesses like Sona and Rias to simply relinquish their territories without demanding anything in return… well, Odin thought it warranted investigation."
Lilja felt her pulse quicken again, realization slowly dawning on her. She looked up into her sister's beautiful face, excitement building within her chest. "You're saying… Odin wants one of us to investigate these devils directly, doesn't he?"
Rossweisse smiled warmly, eyes twinkling. "Exactly. After abandoning their territories, the two devil princesses enrolled themselves in a rather strange school located far from their normal territory. It's somewhere in Scotland, from what our information says. Odin wishes to send someone undercover into this school to find out what's really going on, and why these devils have behaved so oddly."
"And because I'm the youngest Valkyrie, I'm the perfect age to join this school as a new transfer student, aren't I?" she finished for her sister.
Rossweisse nodded again. "Exactly right, Lily. You've trained relentlessly these past few years, becoming one of our strongest warriors. Odin believes you're ready, and so do I. It's time you received your first official mission."
Lilja's heart thumped loudly within her chest, pride and anticipation swelling through her. She was finally being given the opportunity to truly prove herself and see a world beyond Asgard's shining golden halls. This was her moment. Her chance to shine.
But even as excitement surged through her veins, a small voice of caution nudged at her mind. She took a breath, forcing herself to calm slightly. "Wait… before I agree blindly… what exactly is the name of this strange school, Rose?" Lilja asked carefully, curiosity mixing with a touch of apprehension in her voice. "Have you heard anything specific?"
Rossweisse frowned slightly, her beautiful brows knitting together thoughtfully. "Hmm, Odin mentioned it briefly. He described the name as being somewhat strange… Let me see…" Her gaze turned distant for a moment as she struggled to recall exactly what Odin had said. Finally, she shrugged apologetically, offering Lilja a sheepish look. "I'm afraid I can't remember clearly. He said it was called something silly… Hog-something or other?"
Lilja froze abruptly, a sudden cold chill washing over her body like ice water.
Her mouth opened slightly, heart racing in her chest. A powerful feeling of nervousness surged up, mixing uncomfortably with her excitement from moments before. There was only one name she'd ever heard with that odd prefix—a name she hadn't expected to hear again in this new lifetime as a Valkyrie. "R-Rose," Lilja stammered, eyes wide with disbelief. "This school in Scotland… it couldn't possibly be called 'Hogwarts', could it?"
Rossweisse immediately brightened in recognition, snapping her fingers triumphantly. "Ah, yes! That was it. Hogwarts. Odin mentioned specifically how strange it sounded. Have you heard of it, Lily?"
XXX
Que dramatic sound effect: Dun Dun Duuuuuuun!