“Why, is she that beautiful or that strong?” he smirked

“Neither and both.” Elsabeth replied, matching his smirk. “She is a lovely woman, not gorgeous, not stunning, but she has an inner strength and beauty that tends to mesmerize us. She is open and welcoming to any ally of her clan, including beings that most others would shun and fear.”

“You mean beings like the Nosferatu?” Drew asked quietly, his eyes cast towards the ground.

“Among others. She has with her now the Garou, several clans of Kindred, Sidhe, Elf, Fae, even a few demon spawn and changelings.” Elsabeth grinned. “She obviously does not base her judgements upon physical beauty, or on any traditional views of ‘morals’. Actually, now that I think of it, I’m not really sure ‘what’ she bases her judgements on.”

Drew laughed softly as he shook his head, “Sounds like my sort of woman; pretty, accepting and obviously not right in the head. And if it comes to a battle, my lovely Elsabeth, what camp shall you side with?”

The Toreador primogen smirked knowingly at Drew, “The same one as always, dearest, the winning side……my side.”

Severus sighed deeply as he tried to convince himself to wake up and get out of bed, not that he really had any reason to. Catri wasn’t here, not in the school, not in his life, and most certainly not in his bed. As if to confirm this, Sev rolled over onto his side, flinging his arm over where she would lay and froze as he felt a body there.……….. His eyes turned as large as saucers as he realized not only was Catri NOT in his bed with him, but someone else WAS.

A wave of shock and panic shot through Severus as last night replayed in his mind. The battle at the pit with Gustavas, escorting Minerva back with the others, Cash bursting into his chambers, Minerva coming to his aid… no where in his recollection was Rick. The last he had seen of him was just as he apparated to Fernglennis to give Catri his letters. So how on earth did Rick end up in ‘his’ bed, and more importantly, why.

Still staring intently at Rick, Severus slowly moved his fingers to his own neck, feeling for any puncture marks or other tale tell signs. A large part of himself felt horrible for thinking such a thing of Rick, but another, more cautious part, reminded him of what he had witnessed time and time again were vampires were concerned. Nothing but ruthlessness and brutality, even to the most innocent of victims.

Chancing another look at the Gangrel, Severus was once again struck by sheer physical beauty of the man. It was unnerving to him to realize he could even look at another man the way he was looking at Rick. Its not that he desired him, far from it, but his features were so striking that Severus had often wondered if they were natural or a trick of his vampiric blood.

As such thoughts crossed his mind, Sev began to wonder if Rick could hear the pounding of his heart, and if it would wake him; for it certainly sounded nothing short of deafening to his own ears. Trying to compose himself once more, he forced his mind to focus on anything but the thought of blood and vampires, only to feel his body flush as he realized that not only was Rick a vampyre, he was a man…..a frightening thought that once again sent his pulse racing.

Looking over at Rick to see if the sound had awoken him, Sev realized for the first time how angelic Rick truly looked. His sable hair and long dark lashes contrasted so beautifully against his ivory skin, he looked like a Caravaggio portrait, utterly perfect in his immortal flawlessness. A soft smile spread across Sev’s lips as he imagined how happy Catri must have been to see Rick last night, she probably ran up to him and threw her arms around his neck. She seemed to greet all of her friends with such warmth and exuberance. He wondered how she would greet him, would she hug him with joyful enthusiasm, or perhaps a softer, more timid embrace. Or then again, if he were very fortunate, she would greet him with a passionate kiss and a look of longing in her eyes, just as he had dreamed she would.

Gods, how often would he have to dream about her before she returned to him? How many times would he awake to the sounds of her passion filled moans, only to find her still gone. How long would he have to wait before he stood at her side once more, his ring on her finger, and his child in her womb? Had his letters moved her heart at all, had she mentioned anything to Rick about when she might return?

Sev found himself staring at Rick as he longed to wake him and find out exactly how Catri had responded to his letters. Was she happy? Relieve? Angry? Or was she so busy with Potter and Black that she couldn’t be bothered one way or another? Sev’s heart and mind felt as it they would explode simultaneously as every possible scenario played through his mind at once.

His dreams had run the gamut of possibilities; everything from her running into his arms and smothering him with kisses, to her sneaking into his bed in the middle of the night - only to wake him in the most delightful of ways. Not that all of the endings he dreamt of were pleasant, there were, of course ‘those’ dreams, the one where he walked in on her and Black making love, or the one were she told him she didn’t want to be with him anymore. But the worst one by far, the one that would find him waking in a cold sweat, was the one where she simply ignored him, no love, no anger, no anything at all, she would look through him, as if he never even existed, echoing the tones of her letters. Sev felt a whimper catch in his throat as he recalled the consuming emptiness that that dream arouse within him.

“Relax and sleep, Severus” Rick whispered as he heard Sev‘s soft yelp, “you need to sleep as much as I do, even more if truth be told.”

“Rick?” Sev gasped, “I thought you were asleep.”

“I was, and I want to be again. I’ll tell you everything that happened later“ he promised as he yawned sleepily, almost wrapping his arm around him as he would any of his brothers. “You don’t mind me sharing your bed, do you? I’ll leave if I make you uneasy.” He asked as he felt Sev cringe as he moved to hold him.

Severus hesitated, now would be the perfect time to say something, to tell him how anxious the situation made him. How vulnerable it made him feel, the bad memories it brought to the surface, the conflicts that were rising within him at this very moment.

“Rick….I…I..” he stopped as he saw the look of pain and concern on Rick’s face. Yes, he felt awkward and frightened, yes, he felt like a first year student again, being forced to do things he knew he shouldn’t, but as much as he hated to admit it to himself, much less anyone else. It felt nice to know Rick was there, that he wasn’t alone in the world anymore, that he had a friend, someone he could actually trust who wanted nothing in return, save his friendship. “No, not really, in fact” he whispered “its oddly comforting.” He gasped as he felt Rick give his hand a quick squeeze, smiling happily at him. “Rick, before you fall asleep again, tell me one thing, …will she come back?”

Rick smirked knowingly, “I can’t say for certain if she will be allowed to return or not, but I can promise you this, Severus. If she cannot come here, then you will go there. Aunt Orpha is quite interested in meeting you, she’ll come get you herself if it comes down to it. She must have asked me nearly a hundred questions about you while I was there.” then, knowing instinctively what Severus truly wanted to know, he added. “Besides, it appears the letters she left you were tampered with, she was very upset you didn‘t join them for the holidays. She wants you to meet the rest of the clan, get to know the family.” he explained as he drifted off to sleep once more.

Severus smiled warmly; she wanted him, she hadn’t forgotten him, their night together ’did’ mean more than mere sex to her. So much that she wanted him to meet her family, this had to be a good sign, a very, very good sign. He smiled contentedly as he thought of going to Catri’s home. He imagined it must be a happy, warm, and very loving place to be, after all, what else could it be with people like her and Rick there. Even Cash, for all his short comings loved his family with a fierceness that never ceased to amaze Sev. He sighed as he found himself wondering yet again what his life would have been like if he had been fortunate enough to grow up in a family where love was given and received so freely. Sev was certain that, at the very least, he would never of had to suffer the terrible loneliness and self doubt that accompanied him every day of his life.

After all, look at how much different his life had been since Catri and Rick had entered into it. The old Severus Snape would have sooner killed a vampyre as shared his room, much less his very bed with one. But now, he felt strangely content to know that Rick was so close to him, although he would have been even more content had it been Catri who was here. And what of Rick’s last comment, ‘someone had tampered with Catri’s letters’, had she actually invited him to join her? And what did she think when he didn’t reply? Did he still had a chance?

But even if she did still care about him, what about ‘her son’. Potter had quickly taken over nearly every aspect of Catri’s life, all but monopolizing it from end of classes to curfew. He smirked as he imagined that Harry must feel as if he were in heaven. For a boy who had known nothing but isolation and contempt his entire life to now be the centre of Catri’s world, having love and attention lavished on him at every turn…. If only it weren’t for the boy’s father and god father, he would gladly accept Harry even if only for Lily and Catri’s sakes, but those men, Potter and Black. He could feel his blood boil at the mere thought of them.

Trying to think about anything but Black and his envious position within Catri’s home, Severus instead turned his attentions to the ceiling, hoping to stare his resentment and anger away by ‘losing’ himself in the flickering shadows as they danced upon the uneven stones. He shook his head and smiled as he realized that Rick must have stoked the fire before falling asleep, it was such a simple kindness, but one that spoke volumes…...

Merlin narrowed his eyes as he watched Rick sleeping so peacefully next to this ‘Professor Snape’ he had heard so much about over the past few weeks. Well, he wasn’t much to look at, but then again, neither was Sirius when he first came to Fernglennis. “Orpha, I hope you know what you’re doing.” Merlin sighed as he moved closer to the bed, waiting for the professor’s eyes to finally close. As it was, they were drooping lower and lower with each passing minute. Trying to pass time as he waited for Snape’s inevitable descent into slumber, Merlin silently strolled around the professor’s room.

He took notice of the complete lack of family photos, or any ‘family’ memorabilia of any sort, he had been positive Kitty had mentioned him having a daughter. Yes, she had distinctly remarked on how much the man wanted to be a father ’again’. In fact, Merlin seemed to recall seeing the adorable little girl himself when he last checked up on Severus Snape sixteen years ago….sixteen years, had it truly been that long since he had looked in on the boy? Looking and seeing the man had finally fallen back asleep, Merlin approached him silently, holding his hand directly above Sev’s heart. He smiled softly as he saw the all too familiar golden glow rise from the man’s chest. “Its in the blood, it always goes back to the blood” he sighed as he shook his head.

It looked like Kitty was right after all, trust his god daughter to accidentally find what everyone else had been searching for. Now, all he had to do was convince the man to join them for dinner in Fernglennis sometime soon and see how he handled the clan…….

“I am telling you, Orpha, I think we need to send them away.” Luke insisted, rather adamantly, “This is getting more and more out of hand as the days go by. First it was little things, a few stray snowballs, a sudden dip in the field where an ankle could be turned, then Calli having her little accident near the barn and nearly taking Siri out with her. Not to mention what ‘s been going on with my sister.” he added as he crossed his arms over his chest. “I have NEVER seen her so weepy and emotionally unstable as I have over the past week and a half. And don’t even think to tell me its ‘hormones’ or anything like that. I grew up with her, I can tell hormones from turmoil, besides, if it was just hormones she’d have eaten all the chocolate she could get her hands on. And as it is, she’s hardly eating anything at all now.”

“In fact, she’s lost several pounds and I am NOT at all happy about it, and heaven forbid father should see her like this. Its not right, and its not natural. I say they go and they go now.”

“Luke, you can’t be serious” Tris countered. “A few accidents do not a conspiracy make. You cannot jump to conclusions like that…”

“A few accidents?! Fine, Tris, lets just disregard those ’accidents’ and the lump the size of an emu egg on Duncan’s forehead.” Luke said flatly, “And let us turn instead, to the events of this morning. Kitty is fine at breakfast, a little tired, a little pale, granted, but in good spirits. She goes to her room to read some letters Rick brought back with him, she’s still fine. In fact, according to Amber and Lia, she was smiling and joking with them until they started opening that stupid box.”

“Yes, the box…” Orpha deadpanned, “I don’t suppose anyone knows how that got into my closet? And the date on the box was from over fifteen years ago…”

“And it was full of letters from her wizard friends, ‘including’ Sirius.” Luke finished for her. “I don’t care what you say, Tris. Someone has been orchestrating heartache and pain for my baby sister, and it stops now. I am the oldest, an in the absence of our father, “I“ make the decisions…. Don‘t you dare give me that look, Tris.” Luke warned.

“I’m a lot older AND a lot meaner than you, Luke dear, don’t push your luck.” Tris warned, becoming more and more edgy as she attempted to get Orpha alone and tell her what she had seen inside of Kitty‘s mind. She had half tempted to blurt it out right now, but that was all Luke needed to send him completely over the edge.

“I don’t care how old or mean you think you are. This is my sister, and obviously she means more to me than to you, or you wouldn’t be sitting here arguing with me. You would be agreeing and finding out how soon we can get her somewhere safe.”

Before the argument had the chance to get any further out of control, Orpha stood up and stared intently at Tris and Luke. “That is quite enough! You both love her, just as I do, and Luke, despite your good intentions, “I” am the one who will be making the decisions regarding your sister.” she paused to see if he would offer her any arguments, but it appeared he was at least waiting to see what she would say. “I do agree with you, someone has been conspiring to keep her unbalanced, alone, and quite possibly trying to harm her as well. I’ve thought this for some time now, which is why I contacted Deo last week.”

Orpha had to pause again as Tris gasped and Luke smiled broadly. “But Orpha, he’s not even clan” Tris insisted.

“That is the point, Tris.” Orpha replied calmly. “It is obvious that ’someone’ within the clan does NOT want to see a liaison between Kitty and the wizarding world. So the safest place for her is somewhere that our clan does not hold absolute power. Dia is the perfect place, it is small, secluded, and run by Deo, who would do anything to stay in the good graces of our clan. He will see to it that Kitty and the others remain safe, no matter what or WHO thinks otherwise.”

“Do you honestly think she is just going to leave because you say so?” Tris asked Orpha, only to be answered by Luke.

“MY sister?! Puh-leez, Hey, Kitty, what do you say to taking Sirius, Harry and a few of the kids to Greece, you know, fun, sun, …warmth….” he smirked as Orpha giggled. “She’ll have her bags packed before the sentence is even finished. Besides it will give us more time to figure out who is behind all of this and who the spy at the school is. And while she‘s there, she can visit with Mickey, in fact, I recall her telling me Tanta Minnie gave her presence to deliver to Mickey and the kids.”

“Oh, wonderful, we don’t have our hands full enough now, you want to send her to Michael McGonagall to boot. He’ll have her singing in that bar of his before he’s done. That is if he hasn‘t resorted to pirating again….” Tris sighed, smiling all the same

“Ah, Yes, the Mucky Duck, a wonderful place if ever there was one.” Duncan bellowed as he walked in on the conversation, holding a large bag of ice up to his forehead.

“How bad is it, Duncan?” Tris asked, wincing slightly as she pulled the ice away to look at the large lump. “Gheez…. What ‘did’ happen to you anyway?” she asked as she had him sit down so she could take a better look at the wound and tend to it properly.

“Didn’t Luke tell you? Sirius and I were supposed to go to the barn to let the chats out, you know with all the talk of possible intruders and all. Well, needless to say, Kitty’s situation needed his immediate attention, so Paddy and I went instead.” he explained, “All I can say is it’s a good thing Paddy has such great reflexes, or Edana would be an orphan right now.”

“What do you mean, an orphan” Tris asked as she froze to the spot, completely heedless to the thin trail of blood now dripping down Duncan’s face.

“Luke, help me with Tris” Orpha prodded gently, “I don’t think she realizes half of what’s been going on.” She sighed as she and Luke escorted Tris back to her seat, while Orpha moved back to Duncan to continue healing his wound. She kept a careful eye on Tris as Luke explained one by one all the ‘accidents’ and ‘oddness’ that had plagued them over the past week.

“There you go, pumpkin” Orpha cooed as she placed a fresh gauze over Duncan’s injury, “it will be all better by morning, just like always.”

“Aunt Orpha, please, don’t call me pumpkin” Duncan sighed, “I’m not a little child anymore.”

Smirking playfully, Orpha nodded her head “Does that mean you don’t want a biscuit for being such a brave boy?” she winked, signalling for Duncan to join her as she walked to the other side of the kitchen.

“So, what is going on?” Duncan asked as he stood shoulder to shoulder with Orpha. “Tris is awfully quiet, and I can’t remember the last time I saw Luke so aggravated.”

Orpha nodded, “I honestly believe Tris was unaware of some of the more sinister pranks that have been played on our household. In fact, now that I think of it, none of them have happened in either her presence or mine. I doubt that is merely coincidence.”

“You think its Maharet, don’t you?” Duncan asked, knowingly. Seeing her nod, he grinned mirthlessly “So do we. Luke, Paddy, Bruid, Remus and I all had a little chat, we’ve been racking our brains, but she’s the only obvious choice. No one else here has any reason to harm one of our own, and no one outside the clan has enough power to do these things.” Turning to take another quick look at Tris and Luke, Duncan asked. “So, is Kitty going to Greece like Luke suggested? And has father answered Luke’s letter yet? Will he give his blessings?”………

Cash grinned wickedly as Shashe purred at his ankles. She had led he and Kara right to where Raul was sleeping - in Harry’s wardrobe in the Gryffindor tower. “Kara, you may want to wait outside, or at the very least, up against the wall and out of harms way. I’m not really sure how this is going to play out.” he thought to her as they both shifted back into more human forms.

“You and Fang said we stick together” Kara thought back. “I’ll wait over here, behind the bed, but I’m not going away, not unless its to bring Fang here.”

“Fair enough” Cash whispered, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek as he gently pushed her towards the far side of the bed and hopefully to safety. He hated to think that Raul may be the spy, but he couldn’t take anymore chances. Roel was hanging on by a sliver of a thread, he more than likely wouldn’t make it to the full moon. In his heart, Cash had accepted that he was going to lose his childer, a fact that made him determine to see to it that he never lost another member of his clan.

Taking off his leather jacket, Cash tossed it carelessly onto Harry’s bed as he rolled up his sleeves and smirked mirthlessly, wondering how this little scene would play out. With out a sound, Cash opened up the doors to the wardrobe, grabbed Raul by his shirt and yanked him out of the wardrobe. “Raul, Raul, Raul…tsk, tsk. What ever have you been up to?” Cash asked as he drug the shocked and dazed primogen across the floor of the dorm, coming to rest against the large stove that occupied the centre of the circular room. “Come on primogen, wakey-wakey, you have some serious explaining to do.” he sing-songed as his smile widened, revealing his sharp canines, which appeared to be growing with amazing speed.

“What?! Who ?!…. Cash?!” Raul stuttered as he tried to get his bearings, “What are you doing? Get your hands off of me, have you gone mad?” he blurted out as he tried to pry the Methuselah’s claw-like fingers off of himself.

“Mad?!” Cash replied, “I’m bloody well pissed is what I am. Did you really think I wouldn’t find out what happened?” he asked, tauntingly. “You risked everyone’s life! Minnie’s, Snape’s, even Mohrg’s. All of whom are under the protection of the clan, MY clan, Clan MacLeod. Yet , for ’some’ reason, you don’t seem to see fit to even include me in the festivities.” Cash snarled as he twisted the cloth of Raul’s shirt tightly around his hand, pulling the primogen several inches off of the floor and hissed. “It makes me wonder what else you haven’t told me.”

Raul could feel the blood in his veins turning to ice as Cash’s eyes glittered menacingly at him. If it were any of the others, even Mohrg, he would have been fine, after all, there were laws and traditions that they all obeyed. But not Cash, Raul knew that he would not be the first primogen Cash had killed, and he also knew no one would act against him, he wielded almost as much power as any prince. He also knew that once Cash told ‘his’ version of the story, everyone would consider any actions he may take as justified, they may even come to believe that he, himself, was the spy. After all, Kindred justice was both swift and harsh, and any betrayal of clan was met with only one response; final death.

“Well I’m going to have a hell of a hard time telling you anything with your hands around my throat, aren’t I?” Raul spat as he tried to escape Cash’s vice-like grip, but only managing to tear his shirt. “I’m warning you Cash, release me now!”

Cash gave a hollow laugh as he glared down at Raul. “Warning ME….that’s rich. Really, go on, pull the other one.” he added, lifting Raul off the floor so that their noses were practically touching. “I’ve had enough of the games, ‘primogen’, I’ve had enough of the lies. Tell me everything and tell me now.” he growled as his fingernails quickly extending into dangerous, curved claws which pierced the delicate skin of Raul‘s throat, causing a thin trickle of blood to slowly wind its way down his chest. “Or I will gladly pass judgement against you, just as kindred law dictates.”

Raul flinched as he saw Cash’s lips draw back into a snarl, his blue eyes darkening into a deep scarlet as they began to glow with an eerie light. The Methuselah was not joking around, not even a little bit, he fully intended to kill him if he didn‘t like the answers he heard. “Cash! Stop and think of what you are doing!” he yelled as he struck out, landing several blows squarely on Cash‘s face, all to no avail, the man barely even flinched.

“I haven’t done anything lately but think.” Cash replied as he threw Raul across the room, watching emotionlessly as the primogen hit the wall with a wet thud, causing Kara to scurry off to a safer spot. “I’ve been thinking about my childer, dying in his bed; I’ve been thinking about my little angel and how her heart has been broken and abused, how her womb has been used as a proving ground for some damn prophecy,” he continued as he slowly, purposefully, walked toward Raul, much like a panther stalking its wounded prey. “I’ve been thinking about her son and husband, how they were all but tortured to death. AND I’ve been thinking of how you turned my suspicions towards Fang and the Garou; they would be the last to betray us, only Gaz was untrustworthy.”

“I’ve also been thinking about how much you hate me and my authority. I’m awfully sorry if my clan listens to me before they listen to you, but I’ve kept them safe and whole for centuries, ……what have you done for them? What have you done for any of us? Olia is dead, Roel will be joining her, did you think to add Minnie or Snape to that list? Or maybe Rick? He’s a favourite of quite a few, you’d certainly get more of an emotional impact with him, wouldn’t you? And we all know how you feel about Rick; you‘ve hated him for years” he snarled as he glowered down at Raul

“How DARE you! You arrogant, self serving, addled-headed twit!” Raul snarled back, “How dare you blame me for Roel! If you recall, ‘I’ wasn’t even there when you put your little plan into action.” he stated as he rose on his unsteady legs, wiping the blood from his face as he spat on the ground. “You are the one who didn’t see fit to include me in SEVERAL plans. And just in case I need to clarify this for you, I have no interest in the affairs of ANYONE’S womb. I’ll leave that to the experts, and YOUR mortal clan seems to be full of those.” Raul never even saw the blow that sent him sailing across the beds and sprawled across the floor………

Those comments had hurt Cash more than any physical blow ever could. Raul was right, it had been his own actions that had led to Roel’s current condition. It was his own guilt that was tearing him apart from the inside out, it was his own clan that was all but killing Kitty, forcing her to make horrible, heartless decisions. He knew that, he knew all of it, but he sure as hell didn’t want to hear those truths come out of anyone’s mouth, most particularly Raul’s. With a fierceness usually reserved for a hated enemy, Cash fell upon the Primogen, pummelling him with both his fists and his feet.

It wasn’t until Cash felt a burning slash across his chest that he realized Raul had pulled a knife out of his boot, slashing widely as he tried to defend himself. It was a act that drove Cash over the edge……

It wasn’t until Cash felt a burning slash across his chest that he realized Raul had pulled a knife out of his boot, slashing widely as he tried to defend himself. It was a act that drove Cash over the edge……

Kara’s eyes grew large and fright-filled as she watched the vampyres attack one another as their bight, crimson blood stained the drab grey stones of the floor. She tried to reach out to them mentally, only to recoil as their anger and pain hit her with enough force to bring her to her knees…… Fang, she had to find Fang, he would know what to do. It was Fang who had promised them that Cash would never really turn his back on them, and he was right. He was also right when he told them that they would be safe if they listened to him, obeyed his orders, and once again, not one of them had been harmed. He would be able to stop this madness, he would know exactly what to do, he ‘had’ to know, he was their Alpha…..

Mac Lir stroked his beard thoughtfully as he replayed his recent conversation with Magnus. So it had finally happened, Maharet had finally pushed to many people too far. And then, to top it all off, Magnus had gotten an urgent letter from Luke as they had been talking. At first, Mac Lir had thought it was bad news, judging by the shocked and somewhat dumbfounded expression on Magnus’s face. But the look of shock soon turned to one of amazement, then of joy as he continued reading. Mac Lir smiled widely as he recalled the exact words Magnus had used. “Praise the maker, its finally happened. Not only has my baby finally found someone fit to spend her life with, it seems her brother’s are fond of him as well. And her son has referred to him as his ‘father’ on many occasions.”

Mac Lir didn’t have the heart to tell him he had already heard of this wizard, and from his own grandson’s lips, none the less. But if what Orpha had told him was any indication at all, the wizard was both strong-willed and kind-hearted, especially towards Catrianna and her son. If only Kitty had brought him with her, this wizard was becoming more and more interesting to his mind. To have Kitty’s heart was a large step, but to win the approval of not only Orpha, but her brother’s as well. He laughed softly to himself, ‘her brother’s approval‘, it must have gone far beyond that point if they had written their father.

Mac Lir’s thoughts were interrupted by the sound of Leumadair closing the door of the study. “Back so soon, my son? I had thought it would take quiet a bit of convincing to make Aeranna call the sisterhood together, especially after Magnus‘s last intervention.” He paused as he saw the strange look on his son’s face and his dishevelled clothes, “Leumadair?” he repeated as he rose from his chair and walked towards his son, concern evident in his voice.

“Don‘t ask Father, please…” Leuma sighed as he hung his head, his silvery-white hair obscuring his eyes as he tried vainly to wipe away the red stains from his face. He sighed as he felt his father’s hand on his shoulder, squeezing it slightly as he tried to get a look at him. “It was just a miscommunication, Father, that’s all. I’m fine and the alliance is well.” he murmured as he tried to walk away.

“Leumadair? Why wouldn’t you be fine? Has she done something to you?” Mac Lir asked, refusing to release his grip on his son. “Leuma, answer me.” he added softly as his son let out a heavy sigh, his shoulders sloping as he did so. It was then that he noticed the bright red streaks on his son’s skin, streaks that resembled blood.

“No reason, father. Please, just let me be….” he knew it was all over when his father gasped. He must have seen what Aeranna had done to him. “Father……”

“Did that vampyre wench do this to you? Did she actually try to attack you?” Mac Lir asked, his voice growing louder and more angry as the sea around them churned dangerously. His eyes were still fixed upon the crimson smudges that littered his son’s ivory skin.

“Yes…., she attacked me, but not in the way you are thinking.” Leuma admitted, blushing profusely as his father stared at him “Apparently Shane had led her to believe my feelings towards her were more than …..friendly…. And obviously, she’s been alone for quiet some time.” he added, the crimson blush creeping up his face as he recalled the way Aeranna had greeted him.

To say she had been exuberant simply didn’t do her justice. He had barely gotten his feet over the threshold of her door before she rushed him, pressing him against the smooth marble walls of her sanctuary as her mouth covered his in a deeply provocative kiss. He had tried to fight her off, honestly he had, but she was amazingly strong, and she had one thing on her mind from the moment she had laid her eye upon him.

Leumadair remembered gasping as he felt her pulling his shirt up, tearing it as she tried to reach his flesh, her soft hands rubbing over his chest pausing to pinch his sensitive nipples as her mouth travelled down his neck. “Aeranna, please….my Father asks you…. No….no wait..” he never even got his fathers request out of his mouth.

Once again, her tongue was inside of his mouth as her perfectly manicured hands pressed against his flesh, moving from his chest, down over his muscular abdomen, quickly heading towards his manhood.

He tried once more to push her away, only to have her grab his wrists and push him roughly into the wall as she growled a warning. “Aeranna, please, my father, he…he…ohh….” his sentence ended in a nonsensical groan as the toreador’s free hand cupped his manhood, grinning happily as she felt the weight of both the shaft and balls. “Aeranna, please…”

“Please what? Please stop, please go?” she asked, smiling seductively as she licked his chest, flicking her tongue over his nipples. She grinned as she heard him moan, feeling his hips shift instinctively. “Do you want me to stop?” she purred, “Am I frightening you?”

She sincerely hoped not, she hadn’t been with a real man… a ‘warm’ man in far too long. Most simply were not strong enough to survive her passion. But this; this was Leumadair, son of Mac Lir, practically a god in his own right. Surely he would be capable of withstanding her, and, more importantly satisfying her.

“Aeranna…for the love of heaven…what are you doing?” Leuma replied weakly, torn between what he ‘knew’ was right, and the intense physical sensations rocketing through his body.

He turned his face as Aeranna moved to kiss him again, he needed to give her his father’s message. But she wasn’t going to wait, she simply went for his neck instead, kissing and biting him as she pressed her body against his, arousing him with her provocative ways. He tried to behave, to force his body not to respond, but the moment he felt her tearing the buttons from his trousers and releasing his shaft, he knew he wasn’t going anywhere.

He looked down to see Aeranna staring at his manhood with rapt fascination and appreciation. He watched as she took it in her hands rolling it between her palms, alternating between stroking and squeezing, licking her lips as it quickly came to life in her expert hands.

“Oh, Leumadair” she sighed as she slowly sank to her knees, her eyes fixated on his thick shaft. “Its gorgeous. Do you mind if I give it a kiss.” she asked as she finally looked up, smiling as she saw the look of lust and confusion on his face. This was one of the things she adored most about the men of Clan MacLeod. They were used to being in charge, but give them a strong, wilful woman, and they were perfectly content to do as they were asked. “Well?” she asked once more, barely placing her lips on the head, “may I kiss it?”

She didn’t bother waiting for his answer, she didn’t need to, in fact, part of her wondered if he was even capable of speech at the moment. Although she did hear a low moan as her lips pressed firmly against the pulsing head, leaving a tell-tale signature of crimson lipstick. Quickly, she stole a glance at him, smiling as his body tensed, his fingers practically clawing the smooth marble walls as he stared down at her. Gods but she loved this part, she was in control now, he was her plaything, her toy, there was no way he was going to try and get away now….

Leuma felt his body go tense as her lips pressed against the tender flesh of his passion, leaving a bright streak of crimson on its head. The contrast of her red lips upon his ivory cock was almost enough to bring him off alone. But his mind was in turmoil, he had never been in this sort of position before and it confused him. He felt as if he should be enjoying himself, but he was old-fashioned, sex was not a diversion to him, it was a gift, one that was not to be given so frivolously. But any chance he had of explaining this to Aeranna left the moment he felt her mouth close over his shaft.

Slowly she slid her rich red lips down over his erection, once she reached as far down as she could go she moved her hands to his hips; moving her whole body to work up and down his thick, pulsating shaft. Her pink tongue massaging the ridges and ripples as she slowly increased the suction.

Aeranna sighed as she felt his entire body tense as he felt the gentle suction and the movement of her tongue over the many ridges of his shaft. She could feel the shudder passed through his body, he had no choice but to drop his head back and allow her to do as she would. Her tongue flicked against his cock as she sucked, lewd slurping noises rising above the sounds of waves; her lips sliding up and down his length as his hips thrust towards her. She was almost taking his entire cock deep into her throat now, casting glances up at him to see how he was responding to her attentions. It was so incredibly exciting to work him up to a frenzy, to feel his balls tighten a second before he sent his juice hurtling up the shaft and into her warm, waiting mouth. …..

Leumadair groaned loudly as he erupted into her, his cum blasting forth and muffling her gasps, filling her mouth too quickly for her to swallow. A small trickle escaped dripping from the corner of her mouth, a creamy contrast to her stark red lips. Slumping slightly he struggled to stay on he feet as his wet cock slipping from the warmth of her lips.

“Aeranna?” he said hoarsely, trying to find his voice as his climax still echoed through his flesh. “What did you do?” he asked as he backed away from her on his still unsteady legs.

“ ‘Did’ I do? You make it sound as if I’m finished.” she purred as she undid the fastenings of her form-fitting bodice, revealing the curves of her breasts as she walked towards him, looking for all the world like a tiger closing in on its prey.

“Why are you moving away from me?” she pouted, licking her full lips as her hands slowly caressed her own breasts. “Don’t you want to touch them?” She felt her body shiver as he stared at her, his mouth slightly open as his manhood quickly returned to its stiff condition.

“Now don’t play coy, Leumy, you know you want to feel them.” she cooed, taking his hand and placing it directly over a firm nipple. “mmm, that’s it,” she encouraged, pressing herself into his hand.

Leuma paused for a moment, lost in the delirious contrast of her hard nipples and soft breasts. His hands caressed the curves of her breasts, pausing only to roll her thick, dusky nipples between his fingers and thumb. He felt his own passion rising when he heard Aeranna’s soft moans and felt her hands moving over his flesh once more.

But as delightful as this was, it was just as wrong. He didn’t love her, in fact, if truth be known, part of him was frightened by her, by her obvious disregard for his feelings. He had told her ‘no’, had asked her to stop, but as usual, she paid no attention. And he knew that if he were to bring it up her reply would be the same as always - men never say no.

“Aeranna, I have to go.” he insisted, removing his hands from her body, “I only came at father’s request, he wants you to call the sisterhood together again. He feels that Kitty…. Aeranna! Please!” he yelped as he felt her hand wrap around his shaft once more. “You have to stop.”

“No I don’t.” she replied, her crimson smile wider than ever, “If you didn’t want it your body would not be cooperating with me, now would it?”

“My body has a mind of its own.” He insisted as he slapped her hand away, doing his best to get away from her, only to realize she had backed him into the proverbial corner.

“What are you going to do now? You don’t have anywhere left to run?” she taunted, completely removing her bodice exposing her full breasts and flat stomach. She smirked as she saw the look of indecision in his amazingly blue eyes. He may not know how much he wanted her right now, but he would thank her for it in a few minutes. “Leumy, come on baby, you know you want to.” she insisted as she stepped out of her skirt, revealing her neatly trimmed sex and long, taunt legs.

Leumadair gulped loudly, this was simply too much for him; he loved women there was no denying that fact. But he loved women who loved to be seduced, to be swept off their feet; he adored romance and passion. But this? This was nothing more than sex for the sake of sex, no romance, no love, only lust. “Aeranna. NO.” he insisted, only to cringe as he felt his back hit to cool, marble wall. She was right, he had no where left to run…..

“What? Leumadair, what in the name of……oh…” Mac Lir stated as he turned his son to face him and suddenly realized that his clothes were in more a state of disarray than he had originally noticed. His shirt was torn at the neck and untucked from his trousers, and speaking of trousers, his seemed to have a few buttons missing. “My son?”

“Father, please, not a word, not a single, solitary word.” Leuma pleaded as he rubbed his hand across the back of his neck, smearing the crimson lipstick that Mac Lir had originally mistaken for blood. “Let’s just say she was very happy and enthusiastic to see me, and she had already called the sisterhood, it seems we are not the only ones involved in this.”

“What?! Who else is aware…..and is there anything else I need to worry about?”

“IF there was, I wouldn’t be here.” Leuma groused, “I doubt I would have survived if I hadn’t run away, she has more hands than …..gods, I, Leumadair, son of Mac Lir, running away from a woman. I feel so…so….”

“Shhh, you did the right thing, Leuma.” Mac Lir said softly. “It never does well to battle with a woman. If you win, you’re a bully and a brute, if you lose, you’re a weakling and a fool. There is no fighting with them, the only choices we have as men is running, agreeing, killing, or of course the last resort, marrying them.” he winked…..

Sirius smiled tenderly as he felt Cat snuggle against him, sighing softly as she slept in his arms. He could still see the tear stains on her face, but all in all, things were much better now, even her breathing had become more regulated and peaceful. Feeling it was finally safe to relax, Siri kissed her forehead as he got comfortable, he had the feeling they would be here for quite a while.

He felt himself drifting off as he thought of what sort of future they might have together. Try as he might, he just couldn’t imagine her staying with Snape, not as long as Harry was with her, and he knew she would never abandon Harry. He sighed as he gazed at the pictures on her dresser, smiling sweetly as he saw the photo of them together outside of her home in Hogsmeade. It had been years since he had been there, but he remembered it as if it was yesterday.

The little garden was full of honeysuckle, roses and nightstock, by day it was bright and buzzing with bees as they gathered the nectar of the sweet flowers; by night, it was fragrant and inviting, a perfect place for them to ’picnic’ under the moon. Zeus but he loved that house, or more correctly, what they had done within the house. They had been so young, so foolish….they had acted as if they were married, this their honeymoon cottage.

Sirius felt a shudder pass through his body as he recalled one ‘picnic’ in particular. Originally it was meant to be just that, supper in her garden. She had made a simple meal and he had managed to nick a bottle or two of wine from the school’s kitchen. He had hoped they might be able to fool around a little, but never in his wildest dreams did he imagine the night would turn out as it did.

Her perfume had been captivating, flowery and light, but with the spicy hint of pleasures he hoped would come. Her sundress was an amazing shade of green that made her eyes all the more spectacular. He smiled as he realized that she had left her hair loose, she knew he preferred it that way, especially when they were alone.

Their meal had hardly begun before he found his hands roaming over her curves, she was simply too wonderful not to touch. His fingers soon found their way to her shirt, slowly undoing one button at a time, smiling as she gasped and sighed under his constant attentions.

It had taken a little encouragement on his part, but soon she was undressing him as well. She seemed so unsure of herself at times like this, a fact that only endeared her to him all the more. He had had his fill of women who wanted nothing more than to trap him with sex, hoping for a chance at his name and fortune….No, he would gladly endure a hundred explorations like this over any of them. In fact, he found her naiveté not only charming but seductive. He loved the fact that she looked to him for guidance on such matters, that she had absolute faith in him, trusted him to never hurt her, to never push her farther than she was ready to go.

He was pulled from his thoughts as he felt her teeth biting into his neck, she was obviously becoming very excited already. Pulling himself away from her, he understood that if he wanted to make the most of their unchaperoned time together, he had better slow things down. “Shhh, gra, take a deep breath and relax. We have all night…” he smiled tenderly as he saw her pout. Merciful goddess but he loved her; he had been so horribly frightened of hurting her the first time that it had never occurred to him that she may actually have enjoyed it, but enjoyed it she had, that day and many times since.

He kissed her softly as he rolled her on top of himself, his hands moving to unhook her brassiere, allowing her breasts to spill out. A low moan escaped her lips as he cupped one of her breasts, squeezing and playing with it, teasing the nipple by pinching it between his thumb and forefinger. Not wanting to discriminate, he slid his hand down the slope of her breast and gave the other equal treatment, thereby being greeted with a another low moan as his hands toyed with her.

He heard a similar moan come from his own mouth as Cat’s lips brushed down his neck and over his chest, fanning the fire that was quickly growing within him. He trembled as he felt her now hard nipples grazing his chest hair as she continued to kiss her way down his chest. He groaned as she paused with uncertainty at the waistband of his trousers, he looked down, only to see her looking up at him, a questioning look in her eyes that all but begged for guidance.

“Don’t tempt me like this, gra.” he sighed, she had recently begun asking him questions about oral sex and as much as he longed to teach her, now was not the time. Pulling her up along his body, Sirius kissed her on the mouth again, this time harder, wetter, letting his hands slide down to her curvy bum. He pushed his tongue deeper into her mouth as each hand grabbed a cheek, squeezing playfully as he withdrew his tongue and kissed his way down her cheek towards her neck.

A host of giggles escaped her lips as he nuzzled her throat, only to be followed by soft throaty sighs when he shifted his weight and rolled on top of her. He easily slipped her the rest of the way out of her sundress, leaving her in nothing but panties as he quickly removed his trousers. He smirked as he saw his erection tenting his boxers, this was becoming an almost daily occurrence for him now. Every time he saw her, thought of her…thought of touching her, his groin tightened and his shaft grew hard; wanting nothing more than to plunge into her again, to hear her call out his name with both love and passion.

Supporting himself with one arm so his entire weight wasn’t on her, his hands continued their work. While his left hand continued to play with one breast, his mouth closed around the other’s nipple, suckling gently as she sighed and twitched underneath him. A tingling started in his belly as his hand slipped from her breasts, drifting down her velvety stomach, sliding past her navel and down to that sweet juncture between her thighs

There was something special about the feel of the soft, protected flesh between the stockings and panties. It was a secret place, so warm and inviting to him, it promised a glimpse of heaven, a true taste of love and peace. His hand ran over the silky material of her panties as his finger pressed gently into her cleft. He could feel the overwhelming moisture of her honey pot soaking through her dainty undergarments, thrilling him all the more. He smiled as he felt her hips rise up to meet his fingers, she was as needy, as wanting as he was.

Sirius hooked his thumbs on either side of her panties, easily pulling them down and off as her hands groped for his manhood in the impending darkness. He gasped loudly as her fingers found their prize, it took her mere seconds to relieve him of his own underwear, allowing her full access to his erect penis. He smiled dreamily as he felt her touching him, hearing her gasp every now and again as it twitched in her delicate hands. It was still all so new to her, everything was still an adventure to her and she did love to explore.

He groaned when he felt his throbbing shaft bounce against her belly as she moved under him, panting softly as his fingers slipped inside her dripping box. He still found it hard to believe how wet she got, he had barely broached her entrance and already the creamy fluids were dripping down her thighs. He fought off the urge to plunge himself into her as her body started to rock in time with the thrusts of his fingers, making his erection harder and painfully sensitive.

However his resolve softened as he felt the heat rising from her body, warming the cool darkness of the Spring night. He wanted to be inside of her, to share their passion, to be one with her yet again. He watched in the dim light as her mouth opened slightly, a soft moan escaping her lips as he tightened his hold on her and grinded his crotch roughly against hers. He knew when he heard her passionately whisper his name any chance he thought he might have had of prolonging the moment was done for. His long, hard, erection slipped all the way into her in one slow, grinding stroke; they fitted together perfectly. He had started with long deep thrusts but quickly degenerated into a hard, rapid pumping when he heard the obscene sound of it slipping in and out of her. The wet smacking sound echoed throughout the small garden, frightening off a pair of rabbits that had nestled beneath a nearby clump of daisies. He groaned when he felt her scoot down to get him deeper into herself, he responded by moving faster and harder.

Sirius felt his manhood swell inside her as he returned to his long, deep strokes, he had always preferred to be gentle with her no matter how wild or horny they became, he never wanted her to forget how much love and passion he held for his within his heart. But once again she pushed herself down and Sirius could swear he actually felt himself banging against her womb; the feeling sent shivers up and down his spine.

The thought of accidentally creating a child echoed through his mind, but she was already in the beginning throws of pleasure when his cock pressed into her to amplify the sensation, quickly squelching any thoughts of pulling out. He threw back his head and began to ram her, deep into her as a low guttural growl escaped her lips. Her fingernails were digging into his flesh but he didn’t feel the pain, she was about to explode, he could feel the contractions already rippling down her tunnel, massaging his shaft as he pounded against her like a madman, determined to share the orgasm with her.

Then it finally happened, she came. At first her body hardened against his, her mouth opening into a soundless moan, her beautiful green eyes went wide as her sex exploded into a ball of pure pleasure. Her body suddenly went as soft as butter, melting into him, her hips jerking against his with involuntary thrusts and grinds. Sirius was forced to grab her by the shoulders, wrapping his arms around her to hold her in place as she squirmed around his throbbing, spurting rod.

Sirius felt himself growling with pleasure as his seed poured into her, her muscles still contracting, milking him of every last drop of sperm he held. Circe, he never wanted to move again, he wanted to remain like this for eternity; sharing their passion and their love; but her body was quaking now, it always did that after she came, she simply was so unused to the experience.

“Shh, mo gra.” he hushed as he gently removed himself from her body and cradled her. Laying back, Sirius pulled Cat with him, resting her head against his chest as he stroked her soft, auburn hair. He smiled tenderly as soft strands of hair tickled his skin and her warm breath caused him to tingle, not to mention the fact that her smooth, soft skin felt exquisite pressed to his body. As she lay there quaking, Cat’s hand happened to come to rest near his, Sirius reached over and take her hand in his. Their fingers intertwined. The entire time they lay there recovering, their hands remained clasped together, symbolic of the bond that had been formed between them.

They had laid there like that for nearly a hour, basking in their shared love and the gentle breeze of a warm spring night. They had planned their future together that night, discussing what to do when they graduated next year; where they would live, what job he would chose, how many children they would have. Looking back, she was in the perfect position to receive him and his sperm. He had literally been knocking on the door of her cervix, aiming her fertile womb right at him. He often wondered how it was they avoided becoming pregnant, it certainly was not for lack of trying.

He soon found himself remembering Harry’s dream of the three of them, including a very pregnant Cat living in the home. Closing his eyes, he imagined what the holidays would be like for them there. He held in a chuckle as he pictured Harry and Calli ice skating on the pond as Edana toddled through the snow, laughing and squealing as she threw the strange white material into the air and watched it land at her feet. Turing around, he could see Cat smiling out at them from the kitchen window as she finished baking another batch of biscuits. Siri felt his heart swelling with love and pride as he watched his family and thought about their newest addition, growing very quickly inside of Cat.

Before he knew it, the sun had set and they were all heading back inside to the welcoming warmth of home and hearth. His cheeks were all but burning from the cold, but he was still smiling, even as he heard Cat reminding the older children to take off their boots and hang the skates by the door. He had placed Edana, his little firebolt, down in front of the fireplace as he undid her snow suit, pleading with her to stay still for the fifteen seconds it took to undo her. Only to laugh as she all but leapt out of the suit to rush on unsteady legs to Cat, who quickly caught her in her arms, giving her a large hug as she did so.

“Now, Cat, don’t go lifting her,” he warned, ‘you remember what Siobhan told you, any unnecessary strain and that’s the end of that. And I personally do NOT feel comfortable delivery a baby, so please, gra…Please. Please. Please…listen to her and let me..”

“Oh, Sirius, honestly” she sighed, “its not like I’m lugging a sack of potatoes, I just want to cuddle with my little girl.”

“Then sit on the sofa and let me bring her to you.” he insisted, shooting Calli and Harry a look as he heard them exchanged a few comments regarding ‘mother hens’. “Come here you little rascal” he teased Edana as she squealed and covered her eyes. “oh no you don’t, Daddy sees you.” ………

‘Daddy’ it was a word he once thought he would never be called, and oddly enough he still wasn’t, not really, not in the truest ‘definition’ of the word, but he certainly was in the truest ‘meaning’ of the word. Harry, his godson, had all but become his own flesh and blood, in looks, in behaviour…it was positively frightening at times. And Calli, she had taken to him so easily, although she never referred to him as her dad, she treated him like one, even to the point of being embarrassed by him at the Yule ball. And of course, his little Edana, she would never be told that he and Cat weren’t her ‘natural’ parents, not ever, it wasn’t the clan way. But he always made it a point to see to it that her ‘Uncle’ Paddy was included in every important decision and family event.

Scooping the feisty toddler up into the air, making her giggle as he pretended to give her a broom ride, he spun around the room, only to fall onto the sofa right next to Cat who was now shaking her head and laughing at them both. “You spoil them so badly” she sighed as she took Edana from him, smiling sweetly as the little girl curled up on what little lap she had left and rubbed her belly, talking gibberish to the baby.

“Come on, gra, look at her, how can I not spoil her.” he asked, grinning from ear to ear as Cat rolled her eyes and smirked. “Besides, the others haven’t turned out half bad, and I spoil them something horrible, don’t I kids?” he asked, winking at them as Harry and Calli laughed at him. They had heard this discussion far too many times to not know how it was going to end. Cat was the disciplinarian, she had grown up in a large family where discipline was almost as important as love. But he had been an only child with very few limits or expectations placed upon him. And it had greatly influenced their ideas on how to raise children.

But luckily, as always, they had come to an understanding. She was the mommy, what she said went. It was a lesson learned hard and fast the first time Calli had crossed over the line, he had been beside himself, wondering how to protect Calli, while teaching her that her behaviour wouldn’t be tolerated, but not Cat. She marched into Albus’s office with a glare in her eyes that could have melted stone, and Calli’s pretence of arrogant ease vanished immediately. Even the Weasly boys sat quietly as Cat laid into all those involved, it was a display that even Molly Weasley would have found inspiring. After the Goyle’s had slunk off to lick their wounds, both the physical ones Callia gave them, and the verbal ones Cat inflicted, everyone had thought the storm was over, at least everyone but Albus, who had pushed his chair as far away from Cat as he could without being conspicuous.

Then things really got interesting, by the time she was done with them, the three Weasley boys were red faced and verging on tears, Harry was pale as a ghost and Calli was sobbing, claiming she would never, ever use a sword against another student. To say the least they were all very contrite about what they had done. It was only later that night, after all the children had been sent back to the tower and she and Sirius were alone that she confided in him. Cat had hated to put on a display like that, but she was worried if she didn’t the kids would only take it further the next time, and then someone may well die. Calli had far too much experience with a sword to not be deadly, and Harry was learning very quickly, he was a natural just like Duncan was.

Sirius had almost dropped Edana as he listen to Cat. “You mean you aren’t honestly upset by what they did? It was all an act?!”

“Oh no, I’m very upset that it happened, but to be perfectly honest, I think what Calli did was right, and if we were in MY land, that boy would be lucky to have escaped with his life once her uncles found out about it. But this isn’t my land or my world, and I have to play by their rules.”

Sirius jolted when he heard Cat calling his name. “Sorry, gra, just thinking of what a year its been” he smiled as he placed his hand on her belly, grinning like a fool as he felt the baby moving under his palm. “So, any names yet? You know, if it happens to be a girl.”

“You’re still insisting we name him Angus, aren’t you?” she teased, knowing very well that as far as Sirius was concerned the subject wasn’t even open for discussion. A point well proven as he raised an eyebrow at her, as if daring her to chose any other name BUT Angus. “Alright, alright… I’m thinking either Lily or Iris if it’s a girl.”

“Iris? Why on Earth would you name her Iris, … I mean, Lily I understand.” Sirius questioned, a bit shocked at the sudden divergence from the usual clan names.

“Well, Harry’s not that far away from having his own family.” Cat replied softly, and I may not want to use Lily, he would probably want to name his own child after his mother.”

Sirius nodded, “That I can understand, I honestly don’t think he’d mind, but I understand, My question is where did Iris come from? Have you been reading something…” he paused when he saw a strange smile cross her lips. “Gra?”

“You really have no idea, do you?” she asked tauntingly.

“My dear and loving wife, first of all, its cruel to tease me like this. Secondly, I learned a long time ago that its very painful to try and figure out the mind of a woman, and you in particular.” he laughed as she swatted playfully at him, making Edana giggle.

“I wanted to keep the whole flower thing, for Lily’s sake.” Cat explained, “and as I was writing down names, it occurred to me that Iris would be perfect,……” she paused as she waited for Sirius to ‘get’ it.

“Perfect……..how?” He felt himself blushing slightly as Cat stared at him, her eyes hinting that she thought she may have married an idiot.

“Siri…..Iris….Siri….Iris….”she stared at his blank expression for a few more seconds before slapping her palm to her forehead. “Gheez Louise, Black… Iris is Siri spelt backwards….”

“Ahhhh, okay… uhm…. Yeah.”

“Here, Mum.” Harry offered, “have some biscuits and chocolate milk…. It is still chocolate right? Or have your cravings changed again?”