Charisse Banning: ::After spending a few minutes in the kitchen, she stops to check on Sirius in his study and then returns to the indoor gardens, closing the doors behind herself and looking around for Gerrard::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sniffs around the grounds of the garden for a few moments, mulling around between some of the rose bushes and hears the doors close and trots out, barking softly up at Charisse::
Zarek Yeran: ::wakes up, looking around sleepily before rolling out of bed, and pulling a shirt on over his tank top, and shorts over his boxers, before noticing a note on the dresser. He wanders over to read it, before nodding to himself, chuckling a bit. He then hastily respikes his hair, and heads out the room, and downstairs, to open the door behind the first floor staircase and steps out into the Garden, smiling at Charisse, then at King, patting him on the head before closing the door behind him::
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles at king and then Zarek, gently scratching behing King's ears for a minute before looking up at Zarek:: Did you sleep well?
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles a bit, grinning slightly before nodding at Charisse:: Best sleep I ever had. This house is so great..
Gerrard Rayne: ::Wiggles his ears a bit as she does and sits down, leaning against Charisse's leg::
Charisse Banning: ::Nods a bit, smiling at him:: I'm glad to hear that. Uncle Sirius wants us to meet him in his study for tea in about half an hour.
Zarek Yeran: ::Nods, smiling at that thought:: Sounds great to me. I've been looking Forward to trying your tea.
Charisse Banning: ::Chuckles softly and shakes her head:: It's just tea... ::Pats King's head once more, smiling down at him::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Cocks his head to the side in a questioning manner before barking a few times at Charisse's comment::
Charisse Banning: ::Blinks once:: Seriously... tea leaves in water... the only thing that could possibly make my tea different from anyone else’s is if the water here is somehow magically better..
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles, grinning at Charisse:: Or, the fact that your making it, could mean a lot too.
Gerrard Rayne: ::His form slowly molds back into Gerrard who is now crouching between the two and stands up, chuckling softly:: As i was trying to say...with how the food you made already was...the thought of having some of your tea is a pretty exciting thing...
Charisse Banning: ::Chuckles softly and shakes her head at both of them:: Personally, I'd be more excited about the scones... that's just me though...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shrugs a bit and smiles:: Well, to each their own...and who knows...maybe we'll be excited about both.. ::Giggles softly:: After the tea experience of course..
Charisse Banning: Speaking of, I need your favorite scone flavors...
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles, grinning at Charisse:: If the scones are anything like the food you made last night, My stomach will love you forever
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles at Zarek for a minute, thinking that he's probably a little disoriented from his somewhat long nap and chuckles softly:: Scones are my specialty.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shrugs a bit and smiles, pondering for a moment:: I don't know really...strawberry i guess...or blue berry...::Frowns for a second and then laughs a bit:: Anything really i guess i'm not that picky..
Charisse Banning: ::Chuckles softly and nods:: A blue berry and a strawberry that is... ::Looks at Zarek for a minute:: How about you?
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles, grinning at Charisse:: It doesn't matter to me which Flavor really, though I'm very partial to Chocolate and Blueberry..
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles and pats Zarek's shoulder lightly:: Chocolate... a guy after my own heart...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Grins a bit and chuckles:: Very nice taste indeed, though i'm starting to wonder...are we going to be able to see you out of the kitchen for more then a few minutes in the next couple of days? Don't get me wrong..the food is extremely excellent...just hoping we can drag you away for a night or an afternoon here and there.. ::Chuckles softly:: You know...or let us at least give you a hand with some of the stuff...we can see the master at work...
Charisse Banning: ::Chuckles softly and nods a bit:: Of course you will... I just cook nearly everything on the first day, so i don't have to do much the rest of the time...
Gerrard Rayne: Ahh..::Smiles a bit and nods:: Good idea..
Charisse Banning: Granted I will be making tea daily, but that's about it.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Ponders for a moment before nodding:: Well i'm sure we can work our schedule around that...
Charisse Banning: More than likely. He's not picky on the time... he'll have it at midnight if he has to.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles:: Another thing i'll have to thank him for...but i doubt he'll ever have to wait til midnight for tea..
Charisse Banning: I hope not, he wouldn't mind though... he rarely sleeps anymore. Seems he's afraid that they'll change their minds about releasing him and the second he sleeps they'll come get him... ::Shrugs a bit and looks around for a minute::
Charisse Banning: Though, it's about time to go, if you'll follow me...
Gerrard Rayne: But of course...lead on..::Smiles and turns towards the doors, opening them::
Zarek Yeran: ::smiles, nodding at Charisse:: Following you. I still dont know where everything is just yet.
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles and turns, stepping out the doors with a nod and a "thank you" to Gerrard and walks down the hall, turning when she reaches the bottom of the staircase and walks straight down that hall until she reaches the double doors of Sirius' study, knocking lightly before pushing them open, finding Sirius alone in a large armchair, a large book in hand::
::The study is rather large, three of the four walls covered in book cases with a small tea table, a desk, and several large armchairs scattered about, on the fourth wall is a large hearth with a fire blazing in it and on the wall next to it is a large tapestry that reaches from the ceiling to the floor, large lettering on the top reads "The Noble and Most Ancient House of Black" it contains an extensive family tree, including a couple dozen different families all intertwined, including the Malfoys, a few burn marks can be seen on it where people had been quite literally blasted off of it, if you look closely, there are two rather nasty looking marks near the bottom where both Sirius and Chari should be::
Gerrard Rayne: : ::Smiles and follows her, his eyes wandering a bit to studying this new portion of the house, steps up to the entrance of the studying, peering in for a moment, his eyes wandering to the tapestry with the family tree on it and he studies it quietly, following each of the many branches and all of the family names::
Zarek Yeran: ::Smiles, looking around the room, then at Sirius, grinning slightly:: This is a very nice study you have. ::He quickly glances over at the family tree, noticing the rather large scorch marks at the bottom, quickly realizing that Sirius and Charisse aren't on the tree anywhere, before glancing at Charisse, and frowning slightly at the tapestry.::
Sirius Black: ::Smiles as the three enter and closes his book, motioning them closer:: Come in! Come in! Why, thank you... ::Stands and places his book back on its self and chuckles, noticing the boys studying the tapestry:: I believe my mother used a permanent hanging charm on that one... we've been unable to get it down no matter what we've tried.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Blinks himself back into reality and turns, facing Sirius again, smiling:: It is, quite nice...::Ponders for a moment and chuckles:: Well, something important about it i guess...
Sirius Black: ::Shrugs a bit, shaking his head:: It's really of no use here... the only purpose it serves is to remind us that our families thought us unfit to be part of their lineage and that we're both closely related to a number of Death Eaters. But please, have a seat... ::Motions to the tea table which contains four small chairs:: I'm afraid Remus won't be joining us this afternoon.
Zarek Yeran: ::Nods at Sirius, before motioning for Charisse and Gerrard to take a seat, before sitting down himself, smiling at all of them, before taking one last glance around::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods slowly, frowning, shaking his head, staring for another moment at the tapestry, speaking mostly to himself:: Too bad... ::Turns back towards Sirius and smiles sliding into a seat at the table:: Thank you, and will he be around anymore during the break? We've missed him quite a bit since he left the school..
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles a little and settles into a chair until the time the tea will be ready, staying as quiet as she can, staring mournfully at the tapestry::
Sirius Black: ::Takes a seat to Charis left and nods a little, smiling at Gerrard:: Yes, actually. He should be around quite a bit. He had a previous engagement today. He's been doing a lot of work for Dumbledore lately... now that he can't teach anymore.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods a bit and smiles, chuckling softly:: He was the best defense teacher we'd ever had...not to mention one heck of a guy...It was really depressing to see him go.. Rolls his eyes a bit:: It's a shame people can't distinguish between the way most are and the few who do what they can despite..
Sirius Black: He hated to go. I have never seen him happier than when he was teaching... but unfortunately, the world we live in doesn't look kindly upon Warewolves and there's not much he can do. He has set up his little, training camp, if you will... it started as a way to get Chari home when we needed her, but he's actually begun teaching a few students who wits to become Aurors.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods slowly and smiles:: Well i'm glad he found a place, it's good to know that he did, it's amazing the benefits people will throw away simply because of one unfortunate moment in his past..
Zarek Yeran: ::nods across the table at Gerrard, smiling fondly in memory:: Lupin really was great, wasn't he? Maybe I will have to sign up for that class one day. I've been thinking of trying to become an Auror..
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles:: It definitely was...and it's a good profession and a needed one..i think you'd be great at it..
Sirius Black: He'll be delighted to hear that. You're two of his favorite students. He used to talk about you all the time... ::Chuckles softly, glancing at Chari for a minute who is still staring at the tapestry in silence:: You can't really blame concerned parents though... I almost took Chari out of Hogwarts when I found out Snape teaches potions...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Chuckles softly for a moment, obviously biting his tongue and simply nods:: Understandable...
Zarek Yeran: ::Grins at Sirius' comment, then frowns at the thought of not having Chari at Hogwarts:: I understand that. On both accounts actually.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles at Sirius:: Well it was very nice of you to let her stay in school..
Sirius Black: I couldn't pull her out... she can't spend all her time around here... as much as I would absolutely love that...
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Charisse across the table, following her gaze to the tapestry, and frowning a bit:: Are you alright, Chari?
Charisse Banning: ::Looks at Zarek for a minute before standing up:: The tea should be ready. I'll be back in a couple minutes... ::Disappears out the double doors::
Sirius Black: ::Watches Chari leave and heaves a great sigh as the door closes behind her, letting his head fall to the table:: I am a horrible uncle...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles at Charisse for a moment and nods slowly, looking back at Sirius:: True enough...but from what i hear from her...we have a lot to thank you for...::Turns his head around the chair at her quick exit, stuttering for a moment as she disappears and then turns back to Sirius frowning:: Now how could you say that?
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks across the table, shaking his head at Sirius:: You should see the way her eyes light up at the very mention of your name. She loves you more than anything.
Sirius Black: ::Lifts his head after a minute, glancing across the room to the floor by his desk where the red carpet is darkened in a pooled stain:: She almost died in this very room! ::Looks back to the two:: It's my fault, too... I shouldn't have left them alone. I shouldn't have pushed her to give David a chance... I thought he could help her... I thought... ::Shakes his head a bit:: I thought that he would be able to use his family's notorious aversion to Slytherins to understand how she had been hurt... but he couldn't see past her lineage... He couldn't see that she's nothing like any of them... She's been through so much... it broke her heart when her family cast her out, but she was starting to get better... to accept it... and then he turned his back on her... because of the very people that didn't want her, and all that pain and all those memories cam crashing back down on her a hundred times stronger.
Zarek Yeran: ::Chuckles, reaching over to pat Sirius on the shoulder, shaking his head:: Its not your fault, I honestly can't say I wouldn't have tried to get her to try to work things out, too. Everyone makes mistakes that they'll later regret, but that doesn't make you a bad uncle, in any way.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head and leans over from where sits to look at Sirius:: Thats no more your fault then it was anyone else’s, no one would know that it would have happened...but she lived didn't she? She has a great home..a great Uncle, you and Mr. Lupin...::His shoulder slumps slightly and he shakes his head:: It's not easy to be hurt like that and to not have a family...but it doesn't mean that you failed her...David fooled everyone..even me for a time and i hated him more then anyone at the beginning...
Zarek Yeran: ::Nods across the table at Gerrard:: We didn't approve of him at all at first, but he tricked us as well as anyone else. The day she told me what happened, I am honestly glad he was in Azkaban. I couldn't have helped but curse him I if he was anywhere near Hogwarts grounds. Charisse is one of the people I care about most, I'm certain I can say that for Gerrard and I..
Sirius Black: ::Sighs softly and nods a little:: I suppose so... I'm just worried about her... I don't think anyone knows how badly he really hurt her... I don't think she even really knows. She's locked it all so deeply inside of her. She's usually so open with her emotions... but she hasn't so much as shed a tear... She's so stubborn that she won't let it get to her, but the weight of it all very well may crush her. She's only being strong out of necessity, but it's just a matter of time before she completely snaps and I only hope I can be there for her... but if I can't will you be? Please? She trusts you...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods slowly at Zarek, before sighing:: I felt about ready to murder him when i found out..i don't know to the extent that she's feeling it...but i know what its like to be blocked off from your family... ::Forces a small smile at Sirius, nodding slowly:: You'd be hard pressed to stop either of us from doing so..
Zarek Yeran: ::nods at Gerrard, smiling at Sirius:: We're there for Chari any time she needs us. I'm not sure much could stand in the way of that.
Sirius Black: ::Smiles just slightly at each of them, rubbing his eyes for a minute:: Thank you... and I'm sorry... I just keep seeing more and more signs and I'm afraid that if it does happen the way they expect it will, she'll end up in St. Mungo's in a full body bind... she's really not well, you know...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head, frowning slightly:: She won't...not again as long as we're around...after these past couple of years i'll promise you if it's within our power alive or dead it won't again..
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Sirius, nodding gravely:: I would have thought that at the beginning of this year. I have noticed shes been much happier lately though. I would give my life to keep her out of St. Mungos again, she doesn't deserve that, at all.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shrugs slightly:: It's nothing for your to apologize for...theres only so much one person can do...and from the looks of it your doing everything in your power to give her the best home and the best life that she could ask for... ::Lets out a long breath, smiling just a bit:: Just those last few pieces to the puzzle that need to be found...
Sirius Black: I am trying... I just... ::Shakes his head slightly:: She keeps getting worse... and she has been happier lately, but she's also been more depressed... moody. Have either of you noticed? She'll be so open and really actually very normal... and then she'll close up and seem almost cold for a while, and then simply sad... and then slightly angry... then the next thing you know, she's her normal self... happy and smiling and joking...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods slowly, eyeing Sirius for a few moments:: A little bit...i wasn't sure if it was just after effects or nerves from having so much change in the first few years...i mean...the both of us ::Nods at Zarek:: Have a two year gap in our relationships with Charisse of which we know very little...we know the big things..but the little things we missed...so it's hard to tell one way or another...You have any ideas...or..?
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Sirius seriously:: Any advice you can give us, any at all, would be appreciated. We want to help her as much as possible..but honestly dont know much of whats been happening.
Sirius Black: ::Shakes his head slowly:: She was just like she had always been, perhaps a little less eager to get in trouble, but really very normal... up until about the begining of summer... when David figured out who her parents were...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head and sighs:: Seems this all started with that slimy little wretch...
Sirius Black: ::Shakes his head:: The doctors at St. Mungos wanted to keep her under constant survalence and on half a dozen different medications... They said she was bordering on manic depression... and she was beginning to develop multiple personalities...
Zarek Yeran: ::Mutters something that isn't very understandable, his eyes glowing with anger, before shaking his head::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head and frowns:: What she needs is to just get away...from everything....
Sirius Black: I thought that returning to school and her normal schedule would help her... but the stress of fifth year and O.W.L.'s is too much... and I forgot that Zeik would be attending this year...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods a bit:: I remember her reaction to that during the sorting on the first day...she looked afraid..
Zarek Yeran: ::nods, chuckling a bit:: Thankfully, we havn't seen much of Zeik, though during the sorting, she looked terrified..
Sirius Black: And then she left the Great Hall, wanting to be alone and proceeded to cry for half an hour before smiling happily and joking with the two of you and returning to cry herself to sleep... ::Sighs softly:: I know...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head and eyes Sirius for a moment:: How...did you know?
Sirius Black: We've been watching her whenever possible... Remus, Minerva, and I...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nods a bit, smiling slightly at the thought of others watching her:: It's good to know you have been...
v Walk Me Home v: Of course... I wouldn't send her away in this condition without keeping an eye on her... Cedric's been helping us as well... that's why she's so close to him lately...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Chuckles softly and smiles:: He's a good guy, which is also good that theres someone in Hufflepuff that she talks to
Sirius Black: We thought so... though we had hoped that she would open up at least a little to one of you... ::Shakes his head a bit:: But she's not... it's worse than we though... maybe I should send her to St. Mungo's for the rest of the year to get her back on her feet... than she can live at least a somewhat normal life...
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles, shaking his head, looking somewhat angry with himself:: Now I feel bad for being angry with Cedric. I've always thought he was a good guy, but it seemed he was trying ot get a little too close to Chari..Now that I know why, I feel like somewhat of a Jerk.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head, frowning slightly:: I don't think you should...i doubt that would help at all...she would probably withdraw even further from people at that..
Sirius Black: Well, he kind of is... he's not really trying, but he's wishing which is enough, and that's why we're using him.
Zarek Yeran: I doubt St. Mungos would help her honestly. She seems very content with where she is now. Though, pulling us all out for 'camp' for the rest of the year could be good for her ::winks at Sirius, grinning a bit:: But that would get us all terribly behind on our school work and things..
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head, studying Sirius for a moment:: Forgive me for saying so...but...maybe you should just let her get on naturally for a while...without steering her to people...as many problems as she may have...deep down she knows something of what she wants her life to be... ::Lets his eyes drop to the table for a moment, shrugging slightly:: At least thats what i gather...
Sirius Black: No, no. you misunderstood me... I'm not trying to steer her anymore. We just took a friendship that was already there and asked him to watch over her a little, be there if she needs to talk. The fact that he's been trying to get close to her for years only means to us that she won't be able to shrug him off easily. She's not the slightest bit interested in him. As for St. Mungo's I don't plan on sending her there unless she gets dramatically worse.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Chuckles a bit and shrugs:: I guess i did.....i apologize...
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles softly, looking at Sirius:: If we notice her get Dramatically worse, we will be sure to let you know. We dont want anything to happen to her, anymore than you do..
Sirius Black: ::Smiles just slightly:: Thank you... I really appreciate it... I just... she's not a naturally strong person, and we're afraid that she's about to exhaust her life's supply of strength. You should see her at night sometimes... She reminds me of a scared rabbit... I don't know what to do... she just needs people to be there... to watch over her...
Zarek Yeran: ::nods at Sirius:: Thats not a problem when we are around. Gerrard and I make special trips in between classes, to check on her.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head and frowns:: It's true...just too much seperation i guess...
Charisse Banning: ::A soft clanking can be heard just outside the door, sounding strangely like china rattling against metal and she pushes open the door, visibly trembling from head to toe, her cheeks flushed and her eyes flashing in something between anger and despair:: I can take care of myself! ::Walks over, nearly slamming the tray on their table, glaring at each of them in turn:: Here's your tea!
Gerrard Rayne: ::Blinks slightly and nearly jumps out of his chair:: Charisse!
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Charisse, a deep frown playing across his face:: Charisse..we're just concerned about you. You mean so much to all of us..
Charisse Banning: I am not crazy! How dare you sit here talking so calmly about how at any second I could crack like a common nutcase?! You should be ashamed, all of you! ::Tears rise in her eyes and spill over onto her cheeks:: I thought you were my friends! Not guardians sent to watch my every move and record each little thought and send them on to my Uncle... and You! ::Turns her gaze upon Sirius:: You're supposed to be on my side... since when have you ever trusted healers? I can't believe the lot of you! ::Turns on a heal, storming out of the study and down the hall, the front door can be heard slamming behind her as she steps out into the snow::
Zarek Yeran: ::shakes his head, frowning still, looking at Charisse, then down at the floor:: We dont think your crazy. We just care about you. Gerrard and I have been your friends since our first day at hogwarts, before any of this ever
Gerrard Rayne: ::Stands up and leaps over the arm of his chair, landing a bit awkwardly on his foot, stumbling a step or two, his shoulder meeting with the door as he runs down the hall after her:: Charisse! Dont..!
Sirius Black: ::Sits rigid in his seat, stuttering and shaking his head, looking scared::
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at them for one moment, before standing up slowly:: Excuse me. Im going to go try to talk to her. ::Hurries down the hall, out the front door to where Charisse stands in the snow:: Chari..I understand if you dont want to talk, but at least listen for a moment, alright? Please..
Gerrard Rayne: ::Skids to a stop at the front door and opens it, running out into the snow, unwittingly in his socks and pads over the packed snow to Charisse, shivering::
Charisse Banning: Leave me alone! ::Runs quickly down the street and turns a corner into an old park, sitting down on one of the old rusting swings::
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks over at Gerrard, shaking his head, seemingly on the verge of tears:: What now? I dont think she'll talk to us right now...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Watches her in sheer horror for a moment, shivering and shuddering from head to toe, his socks completely soaked through and he turns to Zarek with a grave look on his face, whispering through chattering teeth:: We leave her alone.. ::Shakes his head:: For now...
Zarek Yeran: ::Sighs a bit, and plops on the front step, leading to the porch and int the house, shaking his head and frowning::
Charisse Banning: ::Wraps her arms around herself as she shivers, having been wearing only a spaghetti strap top with her jeans and a pair of tennis shoes, her tears forming a thin layer of ice on her cheeks::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Pats his shoulder and points to the house:: G-grab her coat...we'll go in a minute once she has a chance to calm down..i hope
Zarek Yeran: ::looks up, suddenly in horror, before muttering:: Wait right here..give me one second ::hurries in the house to grab her long black jacket, returning to the front porch:: Give me one minute. I'm going to run this over ot her, then come back. Then we'll go try to talk to her. I dont want her to freeze to death in the meantime though.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head:: We may as well just go n-now... It's getting colder anyways...
Zarek Yeran: ::nods a bit, shivering visibly:: Go get your shoes first. I wont have you getting frostbite either.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Looks down at his feet for a moment and chuckles softly turning to go back into the house, slipping off his socks, his toes slightly blue and slips them into his shoes, striding back to the study:: S-sirius...do you want to come?
Sirius Black: ::Sits as he did when they left, visibly shaken and looks up at Gerrard for a minute, shaking his head slowly, managing to whisper:: She doesn't want to talk to me...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head, still shivering a bit in his tank top, shrugging slightly:: If she had her way right now she wouldn't want to see another living soul for a long time...but we're going to try...you know she loves you..more then any of us..
Charisse Banning: ::Sits in the swing, her back to the street, pushing herself back and fourth a little bit as she stares at the untouched snow in front of her::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Turns towards the open door and yells:: Go ahead Zarek...we'll be along in a minute...
Sirius Black: She needs you now more than me... I'll talk to her later... Now I have to go watch the stew, it's close to a pivotal point in it and she'll hate herself if she lets it get ruined...
Zarek Yeran: ::Nods at the door, before heading off in the direction Charisse left, somewhat quickly, striding across the park to her, silently praying that she doesn't get up and run off again:: Charisse, its freezing out here. I know you probably dont want to talk to me right now, but at least take this. ::offers her the jacket:: Though, I wish you'd hear me out as well..
Charisse Banning: ::Bows her head, her hair falling around her face in a veil which hides it perfectly and she sits very still, giving no indication that she comprehends Zarek there::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sighs slightly and looks at Sirius, frowning:: I don't mean to demand...you've been a wonderful host...but ten minutes..and i'd like to see you out there..::Shakes his head:: She needs you ya know...more then any of us probably realize..
Zarek Yeran: ::Frowns a bit, before wrapping the jacket around Charisse's shoulders:: Well, I refuse to let you freeze to death out here. Charisse, Gerrard and I have been your friends since day one at Hogwarts. We all loved you before any of this happened, and still do. We aren't spying on you, or watching over you to report to your uncle. We're watching over you because we care. I dont want anything to happen to you Chari..your one of my favorite people in the whole world.
Sirius Black: ::Nods slowly and looks up at Gerrard:: You're a great friend to her... I will be there...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles slightly and nods, walking over to the table, slowly on his thawing toes and looks up at Sirius:: Thank you...but uh...do you have a thermos i could borrow?
Charisse Banning: ::Shrinks away from Zarek, shrugging her shoulders so that the jacket falls to the ground and she looks up at him, looking more like a corpse than herself, her skin a deathly white and her lips are blue and she has dark circles around her eyes, her cheeks an unearthly smooth from the layer of ice clinging to them and she narrows her eyes, venom in her voice as she hisses:: Maybe I want to freeze to death.
Zarek Yeran: ::Picks up the jacket, wrapping it around Charisse’s shoulders again, shaking his head:: Well, i'm sorry, but I refuse to let that happen. I'll die myself, before I let anything happen to you.
Sirius Black: ::Looks around for a minute before nodding and picking up his wand:: Accio thermos ::A thermos flies into the room, landing lightly on the table::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles again:: Thank you Sirius...::Takes the kettle of tea, pouring what didnt spill into the thermos and screws the cap on tightly, sighing slightly, his eyes pleading with Sirius for a moment but just walks over and gives him a quick hug for security or re-assurance he doesn't know and turns, shuffling his way out of the study and out the open front door, striding through the snow towards the park::
Charisse Banning: ::Takes the jacket angrily from her shoulders and throws it on the ground, pilling out her wand and muttering:: Avifors ::The jacket turns into a bird which promptly flies away and she points her wand at Zarek:: Go... away...
Zarek Yeran: ::Shakes his head at Charisse, flinching a bit, but looking determined all the same:: If you want to curse me, go ahead. I would understand if you did. But I'm not going to leave you here alone, Charisse. I care about you too much for that.
Charisse Banning: Ah... I see... if cursing you won't work, then perhaps this would be the easier solution... and somewhat warmer if I do say so myself... ::Cackles maniacly and turns her wand on herself, yelling the beginning of her spell:: AVADA...
Gerrard Rayne: ::As he turns into the park he sees the wand raised and on the edge of his hearing he drops the thermos and yells:: Charisse! NO! ::Draws his wand and points it at her, yelling "Expelliarmus!"::
Charisse Banning: ::Screams as her wand flies from her hand, diving after it into the snow, her hair flying wildly in all directions making her look like some kind of animal::
Zarek Yeran: ::Draws his own wand, pointing it at hers, muttering 'Acio Wand!' causing her wand to fly into his hand. He pockets his own, holding hers in his left hand, down at his side, before dropping to his knees in the snow, looking at Charisse in despair, unable to talk at all.::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Takes off at a run and dives over the seat of the swing, sliding across a foot or so of snow and grabbing her legs, yelling and half-panting:: Charisse, CALM DOWN!
Charisse Banning: ::Squats in the snow, glaring at Zarek through her hair and kicks off Gerrard, leaping at Zarek, her fingernails of her right hand aimed staright at his neck while the other reached to grab her wand::
Gerrard Rayne: Ugh! ::Rolls over holding his chest where she kicked him and draws his wand, yelling, "FERULA" spinning bandages around her arms::
Zarek Yeran: ::tosses her wand to Gerrard, falling over at the unexpected attack of Charisse, unable, or unwilling to do anything to strike back, or restrain her now::
Charisse Banning: ::Lands on top of Zarek and snarls as she finds herself unable to use her arms and watches her wand fly away, turning quickly to spring at Gerrard, her mouth coming down on his shoulder, her teeth sinking deep into it::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Screams as he feels the teeth in his shoulder and drops his wand and hers, in a fit of rage turns, wrapping both his arms around her waist and hoists her into the air, throwing her a foot or away into the snow and stalks heavily across the snow, his wand in hand and blood gleaming on his shoulder and running down his shirt and he yells, pointing his wand at her:: PETRIFICUS TOTALUS!
Zarek Yeran: ::sighs, drawing his own wand, muttering 'Petrificus Totalus' and pointing it at Charisse where she lies in the snow::
Sirius Black: CHARISSE! ::Comes skidding across the snow, landing on his knees next to Chari's very still form, a choked sob emitting from him::
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Charisse, tears streaming down his face now, before glancing at Sirius, not even able to speak. He turns around, and drives his fist into the pole of the swing in frustration, before looking back at Charisse, his head in his hands::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Lets his own wand fall weakly from his hand and he trudges through the snow towards Sirius and Charisse, trembling from head to toe and slinks towards his knees, his eyes puffed and red and he stares up at Sirius:: I...Sirius...
Sirius Black: ::Shakes his head and waves his wand at her, muttering the counter curse to the body binds and takes his cloak from around his shoulders, spreading it over Chari::
Charisse Banning: ::Lies very, very still, her eyes staring up in horror at the taste of blood in her mouth and the sight of Gerrard's shoulder, tears once again forming in her eyes, and she manages to mouth the word "Sorry...."::
Zarek Yeran: ::looks at Sirius, then at Charisse, managing to choke out 'We better get her inside..its freezing'::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Stares at her blankly, horrified for the most part and reaches out a trembling hand, touching hers lightly, unable to speak or think::
Charisse Banning: ::Shows no sign that she can feel Gerrard's touch, her hand a sickening purple black color::
Sirius Black: ::Carefully unwraps the bandages from around Chari's arms, his eyes red rimmed and puffy and he whispers soft words to her in a strange language::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Looks up at Sirius slowly, his mouth moving but only parts of words can be heard:: .ou...shou...get...er...nside...
Zarek Yeran: ::Pokes Sirius in the ribs, muttering:: C'mon, we have got to get her by a fire, quickly.
Charisse Banning: ::Seems to understand or at least respond to the words as she seems to respond to the words, though she still looks very simply horrified::
Sirius Black: His hands shake slowly as he lifts the cloak from her, the source of his hesitation being revealed by the pool of blood forming in the snow around her midsection::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Nearly chokes on his tongue, realizing exactly whats happened and lets out a half yell-scream::
Zarek Yeran: ::blinks, unable to respond, choking audibly, before gasping:: What happened there??
Gerrard Rayne: ::Looks up at Zarek, angry or frustrated and chokes out:: Her wound! Zarek..you remember what she said..!!
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Gerrard in confusion, then back to Charisse, before sighing:: Of course..Forgive me for being an idiot. ::looks to Sirius quickly:: What can we do?
Sirius Black: ::Lifts the bottom of Chari's shirt to reveal a hole in her stomach about the size of a grapefruit and he chokes back a sob before looking around frantically, crawling around the snow, sliding his hands around in it::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Reaches over and digs his wand out of the snow, tossing it to Sirius, whispering:: Help her..
Sirius Black: ::Lets the wand fly by him as he continues the search muttering:: Her skin... find her skin...
Gerrard Rayne: Y-you...want me to do...WHAT? ::That being the last of his argument he starts reaching out into the snow, not knowing what the hell to feel for but does it anyways::
Zarek Yeran: ::falls to his knees in the snowbank where Charisse charged him the first time, digging around in it quickly, knocking snow aside after checking it carefully. After a minute, he pulls a large layer of detached skin up, not even looking revolted:: Here! ::hands the large layer of skin to Sirius, looking at him hopefully, then to Charisse::
Sirius Black: ::Takes the skin with a thankful look and rushes back to Chari, placing it back into the hole, turning it a few times until it fits and then takes his wand, muttering a number of spells in succession until the skin begins to bind back together and then conjures a large pile of bandages, very carefully wrapping them around her mid section, lifting her gently to push them under her and then ties it off with a seamless spell::
Zarek Yeran: ::Kneels down next to Charisse, all recent happenings forgotten, just looking pleadingly at her, muttering:: Charisse, hang in there. Your going to make it through this ::Pats her hand, as a single tear rolls down his cheek::
Charisse Banning: ::Stars wide-eyes up at Zarek, her entire form taking on a blue tint and her eyes seem to dim just a bit, but look determined despite the horror in them, Gerrard's blood having frozen to the inside of her mouth::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Slinks down next to her again, simply staring a feeling of utter emptiness and fear coming over him as he stares at her as Sirius works::
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks over at Sirius, plainly still fearful:: Can we move her inside now? She is freezing, Sirius..
Sirius Black: ::Lies his cloak back over her and looks up at the two boys with a worried expression before standing, casting a spell to levitate Chari, stiff as a board, a few feet in the air and follows her into the house::
Zarek Yeran: ::Follows Charisse and Sirius into the house, still looking as if he could faint at any moment, looking over Sirius' shoulder at Charisse::
Sirius Black: ::As they enter the door of the house, Sirius yells:: Kreacher! Blankets! Now! ::Continues onto the main parlor, careful not to bump Chari on anything::
Kreacher: ::The little, disgruntled looking elf scurries into the parlor ahead of Sirius, spreading half of his large pile of blankets on the floor near the roaring fire, leaving the other off to the side and then hurries off::
Sirius Black: ::Very Carefully sets Chari on the pile of blankets, pulling the cloak away and shakes his head, muttering:: We have to get you out of these wet clothes...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sits quietly in the snow for a moment, staring down where the indent of her body is left, his head turns slowly just in time to see the last of them disappear around the corner and he turns more, shuffling through the snow slowly he comes upon his wand and then Charisse's, staring at them for just a moment and stands from the snow, sticking them both into the small pocket on the side of his wet jeans and starts on his way back to the house::
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Sirius, shuddering slightly:: What can I do to help? Anything..
Charisse Banning: ::Her teeth begin to chatter a bit as she starts to warm a little by the fire, not really caring at the moment about anything but getting warm and that Gerrard and Zarek are alright::
Sirius Black: ::Looks up at Zarek for a minute, spotting a pair of scissors on the able next to him:: Hand me those... please...
Zarek Yeran: ::Grabs this scissors quickly, handing them to Sirius, looking a bit confused::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Strides up through the front of the house and closes the door quietly following the trail of wet ground to where the three are and stands in the doorway, staring::
Zarek Yeran: ::Now that he has warmed up, a drop of blood falls from his neck, where Charisse's middle finger managed to scratch him, before Gerrard wrapped her up. He looks down at his hand, as the drop of blood hits it, and notices the considerable swelling caused by hitting the swing pole, not really caring at the moment. He wipes the blood away quickly, and stares back at Charisse::
Sirius Black: ::Takes the scissors with a nod and carefully cuts the fabric of Chari's shirt and jeans so that he can slip them away, leaving her in her underwear as he lies a few blankets over her, leaving only her head visible::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Watches on quietly as Sirius does his work, knowing now that things should be fine, his mind still trying to comprehend what had happened, flashes of her eyes and her face plaguing his mind, moving his right arm slowly the blood from his shoulder which had snaked it's way down and frozen to his skin splits slowly, some of it crumbling off onto the floor::
Kreacher: ::Kreacher pushes past Gerrard, a basin of warm water and a washcloth, a tea kettle and four cups floating before him and he sets the basin next to Sirius and the tea on a table nearby::
Sirius Black: ::Nods thankfully to Kreacher and dips his hand into the water, wringing out the cloth and dabbing the blood from Chari's face, tenderly brushing back her hair and whispers to her:: You're going to be okay... ::Reaches over to pick up an empty glass and fills it with a mouthful worth of the warm water, carefully lifting Chari's head and holding the glass up to her lips, letting the warm water fill her mouth::
Charisse Banning: ::Blinks once as he lifts her head and sloshes the water around her mouth for a minute before letting it run, not slightly red, black into the glass and then lies her head back down, turning her silent, worried gaze to Gerrard::
Sirius Black: ::Sets the glass down and leans down to kiss Chari's forehead lightly and then stands, walking to Gerrard with the washcloth in hand:: Let's see that bite...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Returns her gaze for just a moment, disbelieving and worried for a moment and then looks up at Sirius, shrinking away from his touch:: No..i..::Nods back into the room at Charisse:: Stay with her..i'll...be back.. ::Steps backwards out of the doorway, staring at the three of them for a moment before turning away towards the staircase::
Sirius Black: ::Blinks and nods a bit, beginning to protest but thinks better of it and walks to Zarek, studying him for a minute before kneeling next to him:: Here... let me lean that up...
Zarek Yeran: ::Shakes his head, looking at Sirius:: Charisse is more important..I just have a little cut, and a swollen hand..::glances back to Charisse, seeing that her breathing finally regulated, and she seems ok, then winces as he removes his hand from his neck, allowing Sirius to clean it::
Sirius Black: She'll be fine... she just needs to rest and warm up:: Very gently dabs Zarek's neck clean, whispering a small spell to heal it completely and then takes his hand, whispering an anti-swelling charm:: Unfortunately, this will take almost as long as letting it go down naturally...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Strides away from the study and turns, heading up the stairs as quietly as he can and into their room, sitting down on his bed he stares at the floor and at both of his hands, turning over his right arm, staring at the crusted blood, trying to believe what happened did but somehow still can't come to grips with it and shakes his head, closing his eyes and holds his head in his hands::
Zarek Yeran: ::Shrugs a bit, shaking his head:: Thats fine. It was my fault anyway. Thank you for your help though Sirius. ::Looks back at Charisse, still seemingly concerned for her softy, sighing a bit::
Sirius Black: I'm sorry... ::Looks up at Zarek:: That's what she's thinking... over and over... only she can't speak it... Will you stay with her for me for a few minutes, please?
Zarek Yeran: ::Nods at Sirius:: Of course. ::Kneels down by Charisse, patting her hand, smiling down at her, just glad that she is ok::
Charisse Banning: ::Manages a weak smile in return and mouths the words "I'm sorry"::
Zarek Yeran: ::Shakes his head, patting her hand still:: Dont you worry about it. If you want to, we can talk about that later. You just worry about getting better now..
Sirius Black: Thank you... I'll be right back, alright? ::Steps out of the room and hurries up the stairs, stopping in the doorway to the room that the boys share and watches Gerrard for a minute before speaking softly:: You're going to have to let me clean that sometime...
Charisse Banning: ::Nods very slightly a worried look coming over her face and she whispers almost inaudibly:: Gerrard....
Gerrard Rayne: ::Lifts his head out of his hands and jerks to the side, a bit away from the voice and looks up at Sirius:: I know...i just uh...::Chokes on his words for a moment and then sighs, concentrating:: I just needed to think..
Zarek Yeran: ::looks down at Charisse, managing to understand what she said and speaks in a very soothing voice:: Gerrard is fine. Sirius went to clean him up now..Please dont worry Chari, everything is Ok.
Sirius Black: ::Nods slowly, not moving any further into the room:: Would you like to talk about it?
Charisse Banning: ::Looks somewhat less than convinced but doesn't try to say anything else, simply staring up at Zarek with those large dark eyes::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Looks up at him gratefully for a moment and yet a bit angrily, shrugging slightly:: Everything comes out sometime..::Frowns slightly and motions him in with his undamaged arm:: It's alright...you can come in..
Zarek Yeran: ::Smiles slightly, though noticing the not convinced look on Chari's face, but pushing it away. He looks back into Charisse's eyes, before looking away, as another tear rolls down his cheek. This time, the tear seems to be happy, he is obviously glad Charisse wasn't severely injured.::
Sirius Black: ::Steps quietly in to the room, pulling a chair up to sit across from hin and watches him for a minute:: You know she would never hurt a fly normally... she's really not well, Gerrard... I doubt she was even thinking like a human out there...
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles just slightly at Zarek, though still looking rather worried as some of the color beginning to return to her face::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sits quietly on the edge of his bed for a moment, picking slowly at the lines of dried blood on his arm before shaking his head, whispering quietly:: It's not her i was talking about...i know she wasn't..
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks down at Charisse, smiling a bit more, at her smile:: Is there anything you would like to talk about now? I'm sure you want to rest, but if you need to talk, i'm all ears..
Sirius Black: ::Raises an eyebrow, studying him for a minute with a deep frown, waiting for him to go on::
Charisse Banning: ::Nods slowly and whispers softly:: I want to hear you talk... about anything...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sighs slightly and shakes his head, looking at Sirius and standing slowly, starting to pace the room, small red flakes falling from his arm as he continues to pick at it:: It's me...what i did...I-i can't believe what i did...
Zarek Yeran: ::Chuckles, thinking for a minute, before grinning:: Remember the first day we saw the Squid? Gerrard and I decided it would be a good idea to play with it and we both ended up getting drug out to the middle of the lake. ::Smiles fondly at the memory:: You were laughing your head off on the shore, already on your break. I think Gerrard and I were fifteen minutes late for Transfiguration that day. That was our first detention..After that, they just seemed to roll in, one after the other.
Sirius Black: ::Shakes his head, watching him pace:: Anyone would have... maybe even worse... no one can blame you for it...
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles a little more, her eyes lighting up with silent laughter and nods, seeming to relax a little::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Stops for a second and eyes Sirius, shaking his head:: I can blame me for it ::Bites his tongue for a second and then yells:: I COULD HAVE KILLED HER! ::Shaking with utter frustration and anger at himself he stalks across the room:: In one moment of stupidity i could have ended her life and i damn well nearly DID! Don't you get!
Zarek Yeran: ::Laughs softly, shaking his head:: What about our first flying lesson? Three days into the term, and I fall off my broom, landing in a tree. Then Gerrard and I played chicken with each other, then dove at Malfoy, scaring him silly I thought Madame Hooch was going to ban us from flying ever again..That was a fun day though.
Sirius Black: No, you couldn't have, Gerrard! Not like that... you know why? Because you didn't want to kill her... ::Stands and clears the distance between them placing one hand on each of his shoulders, careful of the bite:: Get a grip, Gerrard you kept her alive by stopping her! Don't you see?
Charisse Banning: ::Delight glitters in her eyes as she pictures Malfoy's face and nods, whispering softly:: I wish I could have seen...
Zarek Yeran: ::Chuckles, nodding a bit, smiling at Charisse:: I seem to manage to lose my broom quiet often. I think i'd rather hit the ground than the tree though.
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles a little more and nods, imagining that a tree would not be very forgiving::
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shudders at his touch and stares up at Sirius in surprise, unable to keep himself from shaking, his voice now showing it too:: I-i...There were a hundred different ways i could have stopped her...
Zarek Yeran: Another day that I wont forget..The day Varian and King were born. That was an amazing day as well. We couldn't have done that without your help. ::smiles at Charisse, noticing that she is looking much healthier, and relaxes a bit::
Gerrard Rayne: Y-you dont know what i almost did! You weren't there..! ::Wraps both his arms around Sirius' trying to break his grip, unsure of what it would accomplish but struggles for a moment longer before his arms go limp and he nearly squeaks out at a whisper:: Y-y-ou have no idea...
Sirius Black: ::Nods slowly, not releasing his grip on Gerrard:: Yes, there were, but only a couple better than what you did... Who knows what she would have done to you, had you hesitated? Or Zarek? Or herself? I saw what you did do, Gerrard... it doesn't matter what you almost did. She almost slit Zarek's throat with her fingernails...
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles a little more and moves her hand a little toward Zarek's, needing to be close to someone now and whispers:: You couldn't have done it if you weren't determined...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Leans forward slightly against Sirius' hands, his shoulders now limp and his voice all but gone, every ounce of strength he had used in an effort to condemn himself in his own mind or some other and he shakes his head slowly::
Zarek Yeran: ::reaches out to Charisse, resting his hand near hers, patting it lightly:: I couldn't have done it without your help in the first place though. You were the one that showed us the proper way to do it, and how to concentrate the right way.
Sirius Black: ::Pulls Gerrard into a comforting hug and pats his back lightly, speaking softly:: I'm not going to let you see her until you can forgive yourself...
Charisse Banning: ::Shakes her head a bit with a smile smile, whispering:: It was Uncle Sirius' idea...
Zarek Yeran: ::Chuckles, grinning at Charisse:: Well, I still think your amazing, even if that wasn't your idea.
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sits limply against Sirius for a second before his arms come up, wrapping them tightly around him, his face buried for the moment in the center of Sirius' chest, speaking though its a bit muffled:: I'll try...
Charisse Banning: ::A little more color floods her cheeks, though whether it's because she's getting better or simply blushing, it is impossible to say and she whispers softly:: Thank you...
Sirius Black: ::Rubs his back gently, standing for a long moment before speaking softly:: It'll only make you both feel worse...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Shakes his head weakly, taking a deep breath, a hint of sarcasm in his voice:: I think we've hit bottom..but in case we haven't, i'll do my best...
Zarek Yeran: ::Smiles at Charisse, chuckling a bit, still talking about happy memories:: I think one of the best times I've ever had at Hogwarts was this Halloween party. Those costumes were awesome. I'll never forget the look on Malofy's face, at the animals, or the look on almost every guy in the great hall, when you walked in, in your costume..
Sirius Black: ::Pushes Gerrard back, holding him at arms length and fixes him with a stern look, shaking his head:: You're nowhere near bottom, and it'll have to get quite a bit worse than this for you to even see it...
Charisse Banning: ::Smiles a little more and studies him for a minute, whispering:: I wish I could have seen him then, too...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Frowns slightly and nods slowly, speaking in a somewhat sullen voice:: I know...don't mind the comment...::Shakes his head:: Bad habit i have...
Zarek Yeran: ::chuckles, grinning at Charisse:: You didn't see him, but I know you heard him screaming..I think everyone in the castle did..
Sirius Black: ::Nods once and smiles just a little:: You really did do more help than good... you probably saved all three of your lives tonight...
Charisse Banning: ::Giggles very softly and nods, whispering:: I think Diagon Alley heard it...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Sighs softly, almost wanting to argue the point until death but simply nods, forcing a small smile in return:: Once she's up and this is done with...i'll believe all three... ::Pats one of Sirius' arms:: But thank you... Though...if you don't mind...::Suddenly realizing the feeling in his entire body returning to him he shrinks away from the grip he's got on his right shoulder and smiles weakly::
Sirius Black: She's going to be fine you know... she'll want to see you soon... ::Lowers his hands and motions to his shoulder, holding up the cloth:: Sorry... May I?
Gerrard Rayne: ::Smiles slightly and turns, offering the wound so he can clean it, nodding slightly:: I'd really appreciate it...::Chuckles softly as he notices the blood staining his last tank top and he shakes his head slowly, whispering more to himself than Sirius:: Two for two, Chari…
Zarek Yeran: ::Looks at Charisse, suddenly unable to contain himself, and leans down to hug her softly, not wanting to rustle her much, before whispering:: I'm so glad your ok Chari..
Sirius Black: ::Very carefully cleans the blood from his shoulder and arm and waves his wand, whispering three spells, one to prevent infection, one to help the wound begin to heal, and the last to remove the blood from his clothing::
Charisse Banning: ::Returns the hug as best she can through the layers of blankets and smiles a little:: I'm glad you're okay, Zarek...
Gerrard Rayne: ::Looks down at his shirt, chuckling softly before looking at Sirius:: One for two i guess...Thank you...::Moves his arm around, not able to go above his head yet and lets it set at his side:: Feels much better..
Sirius Black: Of course... ::Smiles a little:: I'm glad it's better... Now, ::Eyes him for a minute:: Would you like to come with me to check on her?
