A kingdom of isolation

Now that, my dearest Fayne — sounds like a plan. The beast might potentially harm some of the students we dislike, perhaps we could even egg it on and send it in certain people's way, and we get Sirius Black expelled? You have a wicked mind.

#c: dahlia #conversation

dahliaheart

Studying is optional, everyone knows the library is really for the illegal trade ring of dragon eggs. Sleeping is how you show you’re interested.

Oh, well then — have you thought of a name yet? For your dragon, I mean. Perhaps you should call it Narcissa if it's particularly pretty. Then again, I'd rather not have a Beast carry my name — no matter how imposing they are.

#c: dahlia #conversation

dahliaheart

Excuse me. I’m sleeping here.

Pardon me if I am mistaken — here I thought the library was for studying, not for napping.

#c: dahlia #conversation

[He walked quickly from his previous destination —— embarrassment flooding his weary features. His best friend had just endangered the lives of countless students as well as almost unveiled his role as an illegal animagi; where was the sense in it? Not to mention, Remus had actually been looking forward to the evening. He should have known things wouldn’t have gone according to plan.]

[A tap on the shoulder had caught him off guard as he jumped slightly. Though, upon seeing who it had been, he eased up a bit. Narcissa looked disheveled; completely plausible considering the circumstances. Still, despite the event, he couldn’t help but gawk; he blamed it on the surprise of her appearance.]

I…..I really don’t know.

—— I take it that doesn’t normally happen? It must have been my lucky night.

[He smiled weakly and shrugged while attempting to cover up his previous demeanor.]

#c: lion boy #messr--moony #hi emma

[His gaze on her was enough to deepen the blush on her cheeks — she could hardly blame him, though. If there was one thing people knew about her it was that she was always proper - never a hair out of place and her current appearance had left her feeling uneasy. Adjusting the crown on her head as she smoothed down the locks of her blonde hair as quickly as possible, though the blush didn't fade even though she wished it would. Showing discomfort was, well, uncomfortable.]

No — the wild animals are usually let loose at Slughorn's Yuletide party. Perhaps it was your custome - or lack there of, that drove the animal to outrage.

[Nervous laughter spilled from her lips — the event had shaken her more than she would admit, her heartbeat only slowing down to its usual pace as she spoke. She wasn't quite sure if it was the stag's sudden apperance that left her mood sour, or the fact that the party she had been hoping to enjoy had ended much too early.]

In case you were wondering — Morgan Le Fay, although I have to say I improvised a lot. My custome pretty much consists solely out of the crown. Oh — and I apologise.

#c: lion boy

[She had seen him in the corner of her eye and when she was just about to meet his gaze - a stag had come bursting through the door, destroying pretty much everything in its wake, and Narcissa had escaped to safety, hurrying after him. Flushed cheeks, the crown on her head had slipped to the side, punch staining the hem of her dress. She finally caught up with him - hand reaching out to tap him gently on the shoulder to make him aware of her presence.]

"What just happened?"

Apology accepted.— Hmn. — No harm in trying though is there? I doubt he’d be so cruel…If you said please.

Thank you, — Hmn? Why do you care whether I would want to go with him or not? Perhaps you are right.

Evan?

#c: evan #conversation

That……is actually very possible. The downside of being a potions professor, I suppose. Yes, I bet that position just keeps getting better in your eyes; still think it’d be a suitable profession? Hey now —— I’m being completely honest here. I’ve come to the realization that my “popularity” with Slughorn is lacking both significantly and, eh………permanently. He must not like my face, or my posture………or whatever normally bothers him. Either way, it’s my last year so I’m not really going to worry about it.

Also, learning a new language seems awfully exhausting at the moment; I may just try my luck with a few guesses here and there.

You have yet to disappoint anyone? Such confidence. I mean, that’s quite the statement right there. But I do recall you mentioned that before. This may be irrelevant, but I don’t plan to underestimate you anytime soon. Something tells me it wouldn’t end well. And I’d like to remind you, for my sake, that there is a b i g difference between underestimating someone and being surprised by their actions.

……Oh.

That’s uh……that’s very nice of you. I have always wondered what those get-togethers were like. But, I don’t really think that……y’know what? Yeah. I’d love to go…..as your friend, as you kindly put it. It could be fun.

You write down your thoughts only to set them on fire moments later? Hmm, well that is certainly interesting. A temporary journal, so to speak. But yes, I will have to agree with you there. I would feel far more inclined to send off a letter had the circumstances been more…..well….urgent. “Some things are more important than pride” —— I like that. I may have to write it down for future reference.

I wasn’t being serious; I’d hardly consider myself a “mastermind” —— especially in the prank department. And if I had come up with a prank…….which I’m not saying I did, but if I had.…I don’t think telling my friends would be the best idea. Do you?

The infirmary is a possibility, yes. Though I doubt even the best liar could convince someone of that little tidbit. Right, right, of course. Keeping track is a necessity. We’d hate to lose sight of the goal, after all.

You know, I’m growing quite fond of that name. Soon ‘Remus’ will lose its fluster and I’ll take to signing all documents with those two words.

#c: lion boy #conversation

Perhaps you have a point there, then again, ordering people around and brewing potions is something I am extremely good at. Maybe we should leave the teaching to you — you would make a decent teacher, if we forget about the whole chess debacle. I still say the pieces have it out for me. Hm, I do doubt it's your face or your posture — perhaps it's the hair?

New languages are exciting, lion boy. Sarcasm is one rarely truly mastered, and you would have an excellent teacher at your disposal.

You are correct — I am highly confident in my capabilities. My family is an unforgiving one, I have learned — this House even more so, we are an ambitious bunch and if one of us fails, we all do. That is a wise decision and you are once again correct in assuming it would not end well. Well, for your sake, I will try and remember that.

— Oh, I was merely offering..You do not have to say yes if you don't want —— okay. Time for you to eh, unravel the mystery, so to say.

Indeed I do — an untraceable diary. People often say or write things in the heat of the moment that they do not mean, by burning them there is no way for anyone to know. Let's say I had an argument with my sister — I would probably write something nasty about her, but if I did not burn it she might possibly find it later and that would only create more problems even though by the time she finds it, I already regret the words. It's self preservation at its finest, really. You may do that — future reference, you say? Perhaps you are planning on writing that novel about your tales with the Poltergeist, after all?

Hmm, you could surprise them by coming up with the most elaborate and wonderful prank Hogwarts has ever seen and then only take credit months later when they have been wondering who could have pulled that all off - the looks on their faces would be quite enjoyable, I imagine. Ouch, lion boy — one point to Gryffindor for that. Maybe I will have to come up with a schedule and plan in extra practices, what do you say — the final test would be for you to convincingly lie to me about something and the moment it sounds believable, you pass.

Did we not just agree not to use it in public? I thought it was our little secret — after all, I am the one who came up with it.

Your tone implied otherwise.— Is that right? — Well then, who would you like to go with? I’m sure the bloke wouldn’t mind if you were gracious in your request.

Well, I apologise for the fact that you disliked my tone. Yes. How can you be certain — perhaps my manners have offended him and he no longer wishes to take me. The sheer embarrassment of his rejection would be a lot to bear, you know.

#c: evan #conversation

Yes I’ve always asked you.— Be that as it may however, I’m hardly property. I treat you with respect. And while your affection is flattering, you were al— Invite him then. — I’m sure your parents would be delighted you’re being proactive in so far as searching for an intended goes.

#c: evan #conversation #narcissa is bratty i have nothing else to say

Never said you were — you should know better than to think I would see you as property. Excuse me for assuming you would wish to go with me like always — I do not want to go with him. Of that I am certain, yet it would be much too soon for any kind of celebration as it will not be happening.

Oh? Well then by all means. Ask me out Miss Black.

#c: evan #conversation #o o p s

Is that how these things work, all of a sudden? Correct me if I am wrong, but haven't you taken me to every other party so far? Then again, if you do not wish to go with me ... I'm sure Lucius would be willing to take me..

A date hmn?

#c: evan #conversation #what do you mean cissa is possessive

I believe that position has already been filled by yours truly.

But I am so curious as to why he is the way he is. Giving up just doesn’t seem appealing to me right now —— who knows? I’ll most likely follow suit and stop, eventually. And I’m sure there is a plausible reason as to why I wasn’t invited. I’m not too bothered by it……I was just playing around. But, honestly, I’m beginning to lose sight as to what is real and what is sarcasm; you are far too good at this.

I like to switch it up every once in a while and try not to assume or expect things from others. My sincerest apologies. And……I suppose I would, yes. People get excited over it so I figure it’d be a lovely evening. Of course, for me, it will be left to imagination.

While that is completely true, you must also remember that sending off the letter would be far more difficult than actually putting words to paper. I know that if I were to record all of my thoughts…..I’d never send it off. I know that makes me sounds cowardly, but I’m being honest. Would you? And really think about it first.

I w i l l deny that, actually. Most of those pranks were both messy and ill-thought-out; obviously not my style —— come on, now. My wonderful ideas are never pegged to someone…..only witnessed. And I don’t like to use the term mastermind, but I’m okay that you did.

An essay? Wow, I’m really going to have to study. And should I run up to people and spout of ridiculous lies as a practice method? You are the professor, after all. Also, I have to ask….are there forms of extra credit?

Hmm, that is quite the compromise. I’d be a fool not to take it.

….You’ve got yourself a deal.

#c: lion boy #conversation

It is merely a personal theory but I suspect the potion fumes have gotten to his head — it’s the only logical explanation for his choices. I suspect it would be best if you did, indeed. You might lose your way as well. Ah, sure you aren’t. This is what conversing with a Slytherin is like, we prefer sarcasm to regular English — best get used to it. That is interesting, I will admit. If you do not expect anything from people, it is much harder to be disappointed. Then again, I can assure you I have yet to disappoint anyone — that might have something to do with the fact that most people seem to underestimate me at first, to be quite honest. I mean —— would you like to go? With me. The invitation said I could bring a date – a friend, I mean. It’s the least I could do. After all, you have accompanied me on a few boring prefect rounds, recently and I dislike feeling as if I owe someone. It is no big deal, and you could finally solve the mystery of Slug Club.

The common room has a fireplace, very willing to destroy any evidence that I have ever written down my thoughts. Many crumpled up pieces of parchment have been devoured by that one, to be honest. It truly depends on the situation, I believe. Life or death, a last chance, something you have to say but cannot possibly say out loud — I would be sure I would regret it if I did not send it. Some things are more important than pride. Why not inform your friends of your ideas, then? Wait, forget I said that — enough pranks have been pulled that were targeted at Slytherins. Humble, aren’t you? Ah, I am glad you came up with your own methods to work on this. Yes, that will be a nice start — perhaps try to convince people that you have decided that Slytherin really is the better house or will that possibly get you landed in the Infirmary? Professor Black it is, indeed. Extra credit , hm — we will have to meet up again to discuss that, and to keep track of your progress, of course. A deal it is. Considering we are alone, this does not quite strike as public to me, lion boy.

cordy-peltier-deactivated201403

He’s a Gryffindor, very polite. — Isn’t it the best? Being the youngest I mean…There’s very little I can’t get away with at home because of it. Really? I’ve only ever caught him asleep or smoking. It might just be the general apathy in his expression…Well the secret is certainly safe with me.

#c: cordelia #conversation

What is it with Slytherin women and their Gryffindor men? I want names, Cordelia — I have invited a Gryffindor of my own. A friend, that is. Hm, it certainly has its perks. I suppose it helps that I'm petite, as well, people often assume I'm harmless. Adorable. Possible, I have grown used to it after all. Now all I see is my dearest cousin Reggie.

You’re certainly entitled to it.— Well then, lets hope I never happen to go mute hmn? It’d be a great loss to the wizarding world if no one were capable of making The Narcissa Black smile. I’ll make sure to keep consistent darling. —

Kings and Princes never get to have their fun I’m afraid, I’ve heard it’s a bestseller. Oh? — Possibly. [Amusement clear in his gaze at her reaction, he keeps his facial expression demure, before righting himself properly and releasing her chin.]

Narcissa. [His own response is polite and only the tiniest bit teasing as he quirks a brow. Dimpled smile on display. At times he’s very grateful for her fair countenance…It’s so much easier to enjoy the fruits of his efforts. In this case:? Her rosy cheeks.] Well, it certainly makes you something other than passive. Quite winsome this change in you. I like it. — My inability to settle for one.

I’d say you’re very fortunate she favors you, she’s quite greedy with my time herself when I’m not fit to travel.

That would have disastrous results — my smiles are hard to come by to begin with. Would you be left without a voice, chances are my world will be very grim from then on and to be quite fair, no one wants to see Narcissa Black unhappy. I have heard it's not a pleasant sight. I expect nothing less of you, love. True — I would say the princess is quite lucky to have the jester by her side, without him I think she would grow bored easily. Then again, perhaps he has terrible influence on her. I do not do grumpy, Rosier.

[Her hands need something to do – fidgeting a habit she will never grow out of, despite the knowledge that it does not fit the lady she is, fingers curling around the hem of her skirt. Everything he does grants him a reaction, the sight of his smile making her avert her gaze from his face as teeth come down on her bottom lip once again, the youngest Black with nervous habits that she dislikes showing, and he draws them all out with everything he does.] I suppose it does. Luckily for you, you are one of the few to whom I can say ‘I aim to please’ without it being a lie. Then perhaps you should try harder.

A very lucky girl I am, indeed. Think of it this way, your mother has had you your entire life — we, however, only have limited time until we are expected to marry and start our own lives.

#c: evan #conversation

Seems a bit ridiculous, does it not? He worries no one will come……..yet his invite list is only in the fifteen, er……seventeen, student range. You’d think he’d ask more people to show up if appearances were such a big deal. But it’s nice of you to go along with it; And, in case you were wondering, I’m choosing to ignore that part where you admitted to going only out of fear of losing your potion privileges.

Oh, Merlin —— that was brilliant. You’ve got me there…..I’m curious again. I suppose it will continue to be a mystery.

Naturally brave is subjective. Even the most courageous of people could need a little bit of sauce for certain things. I, however, prefer to face my fears head on…..or through a fairly worded letter…..Kidding.

…..Yes, yes, it was all my fault. I get all of the credit for convincing you to go with me. It was rather easy too; you simply…...a g r e e d. Corrupt you? As if I’d have to try. I don’t plan out those kind of things; I’m a wild card….a spontaneous mess.

I….can’t do this anymore. Look —— I’m horrid at keeping a straight face.

Alright, okay………if you’d prefer me not to repeat the name then I shall try my best. I make no promises though, because, honestly, it’s a winner. And If Peeves happens to overhear….shame on me. That’s all I can really say.

#c: lion boy #conversation #so much rambling???

I have long stopped trying to decipher Slughorn's ways — it would be best if you did too. After all, where is the sense in not inviting you? Good, please forget I said that. In fact, perhaps I was lying again. Slughorn's parties are a blast, I would beg to be invited if I weren't . Truly.

Ah, of course it was. Did you expect less than brilliance from me? That's rather insulting. Curious, hm. It doesn't have to — would you like to go?

As you say — after all, I was not sorted in the house of the brave. Seriously, though. Sometimes it is much better to write someone a letter than to confront them, writing gives you time to think whereas chance are you will blurt out your feelings if faced with that person. Perhaps it is braver to write someone a true letter than to say things you do not mean afterwards, even if it were face to face.

Indeed it was! You Gryffindors are all the same, aren't you? They say such bad things about the Slytherins yet we all know who the true troublemakers are, but perhaps..Perhaps you are the mastermind behind those pranks your friends pull — would you deny this?

Oh, disappointing, lion boy. Truly. At least you have something to work on now — keep your face straight. You could practice, though. Tell yourself the most ridiculous lies in the mirror. I expect an essay on this.

You are severely lacking in taste — then again, if you agree with Peeves on nicknames, I suppose I ought to have known. I had no idea you were capable of such cruelty. What about I will not call you lion boy in public, and you will not refer to me as baby snake in public?

Ah, so it’s more of an implied blackmail situation? Well, this just keeps getting better, doesn’t it?

—— Though I have to admit that I’m extremely disappointed. Considering I won’t be going, I figured you’d at least entertain the idea of countless monocles….or maybe just build it up. Perhaps throw in an ice sculpture or two; those are always nice. But yes, I think we should probably change the topic because I’d hate for Slughorn to hear about this. You need to keep the mystery alive and what not.

…….That’s good. The alcohol bit, I mean. I happen to be a firm believer of doing things without the addition of liquid courage. Unfortunately, not many agree with me. Eh, no. I wasn’t. It’s obviously due to my horrid decisions and rebellious streak.

A hit? Excuse you, I happen to really like the name. As I said before —— it flows.

…….Peeves did something right with this.

#c: lion boy #conversation

That is definitely more like it. Personally I believe he is merely afraid no one will actually come to his parties if he doesn't tell everyone personally that he will be expecting them - it creates this sort of fear of disappointg him, to be fair. After all, he is an old man and you can only brew so many potions before you've brewed them all.

There are ways to keep the mystery alive — in fact, I can bring it back to life easily. Perhaps I have lied about the monocles, you could never be certain unless you see for yourself, now could you?

Liquid courage — and here I was, thinking you cubs were naturally brave and had no need for such things. I'm appalled, lion boy. Appalled. Interesting. That has to be it — I must say, I probably should not be seen with you. Terrible influence you are, truly. You have gotten me to break into a library after hours, what is next, dear? Surely you are not out to corrupt me?

Excuse you. Well, and I happen to like calling you lion boy. I suggest you do not repeat that — ever. He might hear you and insist on calling me that forever. Baby snake Black.

edmundsaxon

Do you plan on going, Narcissa?