Chapter 1: Fringes of Reality
Chapter 2 of 36
R J Lupins KatDrunken Brit-speak highlights the arrival of a familiar face... though he's not quite who he seems. Then there's Hermione's dreams - dominated by surrealism and... "him"...
**Reviews are much appreciated**
Chapter 1: Fringes of Reality
"You're barking, I tell you. Fairie Lights Fare... Flare... Fuh-fair..." He staggered forward, his concentration fully on the word his whisky-laced mouth refused to form. His knee regretted the change of focus, a bruise flowering from its chance meeting with the letter box.
"A-faire, mate; Fairie Lights Affair," offered his companion, only slightly less foxed. "'Twas the cornerstone of their best work." He steadied himself against the brick façade of The Rose & Guild, the pub having finally forced their leave at three o'clock in the morning. A faint streetlamp illuminated his friend's face enough to show the grimace of disgust, a sneering 'huh' his only remark.
"You never were a great fan of Witchhunt, Kent. Jus' jealous, I 'spose," he continued, a drunken air of haughtiness forcing him to straighten his tall, lean pose and continue his concentrated effort to walk upright. "Just 'cause you didn't get asked to join 'em..."
Kent snorted. "If you're gonna start that again, Nigel, I'm App'in outta here," Kent said, his slurred words clear enough. He'd heard enough about how the in-demand new band had vied for Nigel's guitar work. Bloody traitor.
"Bloody traitor," Kent added as soon as the words had crossed his fuzzy mind.
It was Nigel's turn to snort. "You're too bloody pissed to Apparate," he taunted, though he himself was hardly better. "And traitor? The band's been dead for years. Couldahadittall," he sloshed, "but a bloody 'nip in the ear... Goodnight, Hobgoblins..."
He grasped the corner of the building, using the wall to steady his turn into the alley. "Gotta leak the lizard, mate."
Kent steadied himself against the opposing wall to the alley, his bleary eyes squinting at the sooty trash bins London's finest kept filled. While Nigel attended to business in hand, Kent shuffled his shorter, pudgy frame deeper between the buildings, curious at the mound of Muggle take-away containers spread about on the pavement. Perhaps a stray bottle or two from the pub...?
A girlish squeak erupted within the alley's confined silence, causing Nigel to start.
"Nige! Nige!" cried Kent, anxiety evident in his stage-whisper. "Nige, come're!"
Recovering his form and particulars, Nigel hesitantly joined his mate, the latter staring down in horrific amazement at the lump of rags about.
"Bloody hell, mate; it's just some manky ole' knickers! Ya take the life outta me with that call," he chastised, a sudden sense of sobriety awakened in him.
"Nah, mate, look here," Kent reiterated hurriedly, leaning on the bin for support as he nudged the pile with his booted toe. The rags weakly groaned.
"For the love of... Who ya suppose that is?" Nigel asked in nervous awe.
"Looks right peaky, that one. Nearly fell over 'im, his robes covering his head. Let's have a shufti," he added, once again relying on his toe to do the dirty work and edge the material off the person's face. It was too dark to discern his features, but the shadowing of facial hair suggested their discovery was male.
Nigel recalled himself and slipped out his wand, glancing about to ensure their privacy. "Lumos," he muttered, slowly kneeling down to light the figure. The unconscious man was pale and scruffy, his long black hair straggly, his features gaunt. Kent nudged the head some more with his toe, bringing the face into full wand light.
"Blind me, Kent!" Nigel cried, reeling up so fast he lost balance and landed backwards, falling on his posterior. "It's Stubby Boardman!"
-o-o-o-
Ethereal pale light diffused within the heavy mist, giving illumination to the figure drifting nearer. Only the adjacent shorelines remained clear, their evergreen lush against the tangible, translucent white of the lake's vapors. The wooden vessel's passenger stood serenely upon the bow, a richly blue cloak shadowing her genteel features. She was exotic, of heavenly nature. Yet she was powerful.
The soft lap on the shore was the only break in the silence of the morn, the only verbal cue of the mistress' approach. Yet the figure did not appear to notice her, standing apprehensively upon the grassy sand, entranced by the unfamiliar sight, yet utterly aware of every sound and movement about her.
It was then she felt him. His presence. His essence. Behind her; just behind her. Him. She dare not move lest he fade into the very mists she stood within. The damp breeze kissed her flesh, carrying his scent. Her attention heightened to absolute awareness, his aura commanding her every sense, the lady of the lake forsaken to the Firmament. Wisps of his breath caressed her skin, tittering across her ear. He was near. So near the fine hairs upon her neck flitted at his soft exhale. Heat radiated from him, sweet and damp, enveloping her with confirmation of his embodiment. He was real; he was here.
She could not turn, could not breathe but the shallowest of breaths. Every nerve was sensitive to the slightest fluttering of displaced air. Her eyes drifted half closed, a strain upon her so tight she felt faint. He was drawing yet nearer, his fingers grazing the slight divot beneath her earlobe. A rippling shiver danced down her body. He was going to touch her, turn her, show his image, tell her fate, reveal her soul's desire. Reveal himself.
Emotional restraint gave way to unbidden tears, the energy within too powerful to keep in check. Fingers barely brushed her chin, his soundless whispers played upon her lips. The lightest pressure pulled her face toward her shoulder, toward him, her eyes drifting open, and she knew she knew
"Hermione? Hermione? Hull lo?" A well-manicured, ringed finger waved before her, snapping her reverie. Damn it.
Her internal swearing was born of both the loss of his identity and the fact that she'd been daydreaming again. The third time that day, in fact, over that that dream. It was getting rather annoying, actually.
Hermione J. Granger scowled briefly at herself and turned to the elegant hand, its owner smiling indulgently at her.
"Sorry, Mr. Bailey. I was just admiring the view. It's quite lovely, don't you think?" she added, hoping he'd not delve further into her behavior. It was not like her to become so distracted, and she was afraid he'd regret his decision to bring her along. She was supposed to be his aide, after all, not a holiday-maker taking in the sights.
"It's all right, Hermione. 'Tis a right lovely sight, to be sure." The debonair gentleman clad in navy dress robes allowed his eyes to travel back to the sight before him, wistful in expression. The rich foliage before them trailed thickly into the inlet of the Atlantic. "Of all the lands I've transversed in my years of service, I must say that Eire has always held a special cove in my heart. Reminds me of when I was a lad, a fresh young wizard out to conquer the world..."
His reminiscent monologue traveled a tour of distant lands and witches fair, all the while Hermione's mind drifted yet again.
Who was that upon the lake, the lady so entrancing, so charismatic? And that man behind herself she knew it was a man who exactly was he? And why did he make her feel so... so intense? A part of her way down deep in a place she'd never admit to wished she'd followed Divination just hair longer. She'd love to interpret this particular dream.
No, no she wouldn't, she reminded herself firmly. Divination was wooly at best, and certainly not to be relied upon for any sort of wise counsel. It was just her subconscious working overtime, making up for the tediousness of the past few weeks. By incorporating the landscapes of the locations she'd been subject to this past fortnight and a half, her mind was attempting to rectify the boredom of reality with the excitement of expectations.
Acting as an intern aide for a Ministry International Diplomat for the summer was, to Hermione's way of thinking, a perfect manner in which to spend her holiday from university. She had just completed her second year as a Political Science major, her intent to enter international relations within the Magical community upon graduation. The Good side her side needed all the help it could receive. What with Voldemort not quite gone...
An involuntary shudder passed through her. She did not care to relive those memories. An occasional nightmare reminded her enough of the trials at the end of her seventh year at Hogwarts. She'd never seen first hand the dark wizard who'd brought such terror, such upheaval, such hatred to Man- and Wizard-kind. Not until then.
She shuddered again. She didn't bear reminding.
"Thus if you can acquire appropriate dress robes for the occasion, I believe it would be a grand experience for you." Mortimer Bailey had switched subjects on her, and she hesitated in an effort to recover.
"Dress robes I have, Mr. Bailey," she offered, hoping for a guide of direction from him. He didn't fail her.
"Subtle and conservative, Hermione," he lectured with a parental smile. "It is a charity formal, not a Bonfire Night gala. There will be refreshment of the intoxicating nature, as well as music, art, and a silent auction. All proceeds, of course, go to Saint Mungo's."
"Of course," Hermione conceded quietly, still hoping for more information so she would not have to admit she'd been distracted. Again. "Will your wife be attending as well?"
He chuckled. "Melva? Oh yes; she is very much in her element at charity functions. We will subscribe to the affair as patrons of a cause; however, I will also need to act my part as an ambassador of goodwill, as many foreign dignitaries will be in attendance. Thus you come in, my dear," he explained courteously. He was not unkind, but Hermione could feel his tendency toward self-importance and condescension, however unintentional it may be.
"Yes, sir," she replied, checking her abrupt desire to say that yes, she knew her position, that that was her whole reason for spending her holiday working for him rather than attending summer classes and speeding along her education. For all the good it seemed to be doing for her, that is. For weeks she'd been little more than a glorified errand girl, learning little of diplomacy and more than her share of tea service sets. This was not what she'd had in mind.
"Excellent, my dear. Now I'd best return. Chairman O'Shea will be ready to conclude our meeting for today, and we've a dinner to prepare for this evening." He looked at her with a hint of concern. "You will be focused for our soirée tonight, yes?" So he had noticed.
"Yes, sir." She blushed at being caught and rushed an explanation. "I'm sorry; I didn't sleep well last night," she added in all honesty, "and I'm rather weary. I'm sure a healthy nap will bring me back to par, sir."
"I'm sure it will," he agreed indulgently. "If you'll excuse me, I'll leave you to your musings." He glanced back over his shoulder to the gathering in the distance beneath the Irish colored tent. "Chairman O'Shea appears refreshed. Until this evening, Hermione," he concluded, a tip of his head toward her an echo of his propriety.
She watched him go, his manner a mantra of assuredness and control. She had to give him that he knew his affectation for his role of diplomat. She supposed there was something she would take from this mind-numbing position. Perhaps this upcoming charity she didn't even know when it was would be a generous break in the monotony.
Hermione looked back over the water encircled by the land of Kerry. It truly was beautiful, she admitted. But she could not appreciate its grace for the haunting memory of a shrouded loch and a fleeting figment of... longing.
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Latest 25 Reviews for The Valiant Never
55 Reviews | 8.78/10 Average
Harry has the worst timing. Stupid prat. I'm excited to see how this all ends up, I've really enjoyed reading it.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
hahahah... yeah, he really does. But Sirius needed the moment to clear his head. Wouldn't want to do something out of a moment of incomprehension, and then regret it, eh? 
Thanks! We're nearly to the end, and a question or two will not be answered until that very end.Thanks, again!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
hahahah... yeah, he really does. But Sirius needed the moment to clear his head. Wouldn't want to do something out of a moment of incomprehension, and then regret it, eh? Thanks! We're nearly to the end, and a question or two will not be answered until that very end.Thanks, again!
I can't believe it is already nearing the end. I had a feeling this chapter that Hermione was quite the lucky girl to have so many men recognizing her appeal. Someday when she gets old (and people are calling her Aunt Hermione), she'll look back on it and come to that realization and regale the young girls with tales of rivaling amours.By the way, you never said which painting she chose. I almost thought Zelda would gift her the copy she had admired so much. The dueling wizards were kind of cool too, in a horrific sort of way. No bearing on the story perhaps, but curious nonetheless.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
lol... yes, I can see now that would be something for her to share. I'm envious, now. 
Um... I don't think she actually chose one. She was too much hit with the information that finally clicked that she left without choosing one. However, you're more than welcome to assume it was the dueling wizards - that one was pretty cool. Yes, we're near the end. I think the next few chapters you'll find interesting. The next is loads of information/tie-ins with a cliffie at the end, the one after that is very attentive, then the final chapter of 'wow, really?' lolIn case I forget to tell you later - thank you for all of your help and support! You've been a gem, really! 
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
lol... yes, I can see now that would be something for her to share. I'm envious, now. Um... I don't think she actually chose one. She was too much hit with the information that finally clicked that she left without choosing one. However, you're more than welcome to assume it was the dueling wizards - that one was pretty cool. Yes, we're near the end. I think the next few chapters you'll find interesting. The next is loads of information/tie-ins with a cliffie at the end, the one after that is very attentive, then the final chapter of 'wow, really?' lolIn case I forget to tell you later - thank you for all of your help and support! You've been a gem, really!
So... Her 'stalker' all this time has been Draco instead of Lucius? 
I wonder if that means he's simply been trying to get her on her own long enough to offer to take her to Harry. 
Looking forward to the next! 
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Hahahahaah.... um.... not saying. Will be explained in the next couple of chapters, I promise.I will TRY to get the next chapter into queue this evening, and hope notsosaintly has time to look it over soon. There are only five more chapters... 
Thank you for the review! Hope you will enjoy the next one.Cheers! 
First of all:Yay! 
For the quick upate! 
So... 
if things had gone differently that New Year's, Sirius might have not only been Harry's Godfather, but his Uncle to... *shudders* Or at least Aunt Petunia might have not hated him/magic quite so much... 
Liked this line: Just great. She was mentally arguing with herself not only over logic, but in testy form and flippant sarcasm. With herself. Grand example of just how taut her nerves were. 
Looking forward to the next!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
You are most welcome for the quickness, and hopefully the remaining chapters will be approved as rapidly. hahah - um, no, definitely not his uncle. Sirius wasn't that intoxicated. 
However, yes, you're right on that aspeact - Petunia wouldn't have hated him so much. Sirius was just a very affectionate teenager (read: ladies' man) and... well... affectionate adult, too.Thank you - I think I've lived that line, actually. heeheeheeThanks again for the review and loyalty to the story. Cheers!
Petunia knows him?!? Not 'in the biblical sense', I hope. That's just all kinds of icky right there, just thinking it even!Love the fic! Hope to see more soon!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Hahahahha... um... I can see the 'ickiness' factor there, yes. The answer to your unspoken question is in the next chapter.Thank you! I'm glad you're still enjoying the story. Updates will be relatively quick, now, as everything has been written but for the last chapter, which I am currently dabbling on.Thanks for the review!
After so long with no updates, you're certainly whipping them out now! I'm gonna get spoiled. So love this fic!
Very interesting trip through the pyramid. And Raj finding a parchment of Merlins' in the shop was quite a surprise.
I had wondered, from a few comments here and there, if Regulus had had someone special at one point in time. Will we find out more about this Tia person later on? 
I realize Sirius said she never forgave him, but he did turn on Voldemort in the end ('dying' in the process) and is working for the good guys now, so if she's still around somewhere...
Liked the little bit of snuggling at the end too, even if it was 'just' for warmth. 
Looking forward to the next!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
hahaha... well, sort of. I'd already had a number of chapters done - had been lazy in getting them in queue here, though. 
But I'm catching up now. I've one more chapter ready to be queue'd, and am currently working on the following chapter (which may take another week or two). There are only about six chapters after this next one left. Then, on to the next story (already begun).*Blushes* I'm glad you are enjoying this story so much. Forewarning - the rating will probably change before the end, but as you're a member, you're old enough to get in to read it. Ah, yes, the parchment. Recall the reference of McCaine and Thomas' finding of Merlin's letters... I 
just 'lurve' Regulus. lol... Good job on catching those comments. The mumbling of 'sure you're not in Ravenclaw?' was a reference to her. More will be shared about that later, but not a great deal, as.... that's the tale of my next story. Thank you for the very lovely review! Hope you continue to enjoy the story. Cheers!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
hahaha... well, sort of. I'd already had a number of chapters done - had been lazy in getting them in queue here, though. But I'm catching up now. I've one more chapter ready to be queue'd, and am currently working on the following chapter (which may take another week or two). There are only about six chapters after this next one left. Then, on to the next story (already begun).*Blushes* I'm glad you are enjoying this story so much. Forewarning - the rating will probably change before the end, but as you're a member, you're old enough to get in to read it. Ah, yes, the parchment. Recall the reference of McCaine and Thomas' finding of Merlin's letters... I just 'lurve' Regulus. lol... Good job on catching those comments. The mumbling of 'sure you're not in Ravenclaw?' was a reference to her. More will be shared about that later, but not a great deal, as.... that's the tale of my next story. Thank you for the very lovely review! Hope you continue to enjoy the story. Cheers!
Yay! An update! I've missed this fic!
Love your OC's and how you've incorporated Arthurian legend with the Harry Potter universe. 
Adore what you've done with the Black brothers, and their sibling rivalry - especially over Hermione. Still giggling over the hiding place for the Grail. 
I can't wait to see what happens next!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Hey! Thank you! It is good to be missed 
Love the Arthurian legend, so I thought, what better way to go than incorporate it into this story? From the very beginning, mind you, where I had to very carefully drop hints, such as in Chapter 9 (I think?) where, at the end, Sirius is reading the Quibbler and reads the part about some magical/powerful item being hidden in the Department of Muggle Artifacts. I'm especially proud of that one. 
Ah, the Black Brothers... gotta love 'em. I've another two chapters already done, then abot 6 more to go to finish. Thanks for sticking with me - it's wonderful to have one's story loved. (You did read the chapter before this, yes? It was posted very close in time to this one, so just wanted to be sure! )Thanks, again!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Hey! Thank you! It is good to be missed Love the Arthurian legend, so I thought, what better way to go than incorporate it into this story? From the very beginning, mind you, where I had to very carefully drop hints, such as in Chapter 9 (I think?) where, at the end, Sirius is reading the Quibbler and reads the part about some magical/powerful item being hidden in the Department of Muggle Artifacts. I'm especially proud of that one. Ah, the Black Brothers... gotta love 'em. I've another two chapters already done, then abot 6 more to go to finish. Thanks for sticking with me - it's wonderful to have one's story loved. (You did read the chapter before this, yes? It was posted very close in time to this one, so just wanted to be sure! )Thanks, again!
Wow, those two brothers really have no idea what the other is really like, do they. Good chapter, the anticipation is definitely building.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Thank you! Yes, you're right; on one level, they really don't know what the other is truly like. On another... they're very much like the other.I love writing the Black brothers. My next story has already been started upon (we've only about 6 or 7 chapters left from Chp 28 - I'm behind on posting here), and it is Regulus-centric, so more interaction of those two. 
Thanks, again!
That really had quite a bit in there. But it was fascinating.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Yes; I've realized there is a lot more to happen that hasn't even been approached yet, and thus the info was a bit behind as far as chapters. Things will speed up a bit from here.Thank you!!!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Yes; I've realized there is a lot more to happen that hasn't even been approached yet, and thus the info was a bit behind as far as chapters. Things will speed up a bit from here.Thank you!!!
This keeps getting more and more interesting.
The scene with Sirius giving Hermione a demonstration of just what SHE did to HIM the night before was delish :D
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
*chuckles deeply* Why, thank you! What I'd give to have him educate me that way!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
*chuckles deeply* Why, thank you! What I'd give to have him educate me that way!
I'm really enjoying this!
I like all the OC's and your Regulus a lot.
The story is very original and I like how you've had the characters grow in the time between HBP and this fic's setting.
Looking forward to the next update!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Thank you! I love Regulus, too. Such a complex character.The next chapter is already done; I just have to put it into queue.Hope you continue to enjoy it!
I've always wanted to see Regulus back, and good. I loved that chapter. But now, which Black will Hermione end up with?
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
I'm glad I could accomodate you on both counts! Ah... that is indeed the question. But that is assuming it is all up to her to choose! Poor Hermione... Sirius is just too caught in the past. Even when he sees her as she is, is that enough of what he wants?Ah... the update to come...Thanks for the review!!
I've always wanted to meet Regulus. Thanks!
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Excellent! I'm thinking/hoping he'll actually show up in DH, so I am hoping also that my intended portrayal of him comes off right. We'll see, eh?Thanks for the review!
Good for Hermione. I don't quite know what to think about Sirius, but I'm really enjoying this.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Ah, Sirius.... he's being a typical male with the immaturity spurts of a 23-year-old. Honestly, I think it fits him, as he really is 'wise/serious/mature' mostly, but he's having a bit of time coming back into himself. He's not 'allowed' to be himself to the world, so he's still in hiding in a sense, and a bit resentful about it. Plus, that memory of childhood... he's realizing what he missed there.He also doesn't realize how Hermione feels yet, so he sort of still sees her in the relation of his godson's friend, rather than as a 'potential love interest.' His eyes will soon open. 
Thanks for the review!!!
... And things begin to coalesce. Wow.
I feel like slapping Sirius though. He lacks sympathy, as do many men. Is there a spell that bestows maturity, I wonder?
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Poor Sirius... hehehehe,,,I so wish there was such a spell. Would come in very handy!Ah, yes. Things are starting to paint a picture. Just wait until the next chapter!Thanks!!
Go, Hermione! And Sirius was being deliberately cruel. It is the part of him I truly dislike. I'm starting to root for Hermione to find someone else. Really.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
hahahah... yes, it was a bit cruel, but he wasn't intending it to be cruel, per se. More like the taunts boys do to girls at school. He knew it would embarrass her, and would get her off his back. He really did want to enjoy a night out. Don't forget, he was locked up for 12 years (as a 20-something), on the run for one, locked up at Grimmauld for another. Then when he comes back, he's clueless. Poor boy needed a night out. But agan, he's also clueless now, as he doesn't realize her feelings. He will soon enough, I promise. And once he does, he's not really a cruel guy, just a bit immature.
Suspense wrings my hands, tatters my lip. This reader bides time, awaiting the next chapter ... awaiting clarity.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Ahhh... you stayed with me on this! Wonderful!!!Tatters your lip, eh? We shall have to remedy that. Answers, milady. Answers, I tell you! They are there, waiting to be read like hieroglyphics to be transcribed... A lot more forthcoming in the next chapter, promise.Thanks!!!
All these twists and turns. I'm glad to see Remus.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
The road will soon start to straighten out... at least, be a bit more clear. It was time for Remus to join in, yes, though his part will be primarily peripheral. At a future date I may perhaps write a story focusing on him! He's a wonderful character.Thanks for the review!
This is just complex enough to be intriguing without being so vague as to be annoying. Looking forward to more, including the Lucius Malfoy puzzle, the 'what was Harry trying to say' question, and the Raj, Sirius, David or Fred decision. I didn't say Ron, because he obviously isn't even in the runnning.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Thank you!Things will begin to clear up as answers trickle in, bit by bit. The next chapter sheds light on a number of things, and the plot begins to come together. Look for information regarding Harry's message, and the return of familiar faces.Thanks for the review! Love to hear from readers. 
Oh, that was a cute chapter.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Thank you! 
I feel like I have more questions than answers after every chapter, but I'm hooked (and have been for many chapters now).
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
lol... yes, well, it does tend to delve deeper into loose ends. But starting with the next chapter, some of those ends will see some light. Promise!Thank you; it's always wonderful to hear that your little tale has garnered such interest. Hope you continue to enjoy it.Cheers!
Very cool. I hope Hermione figures things out soon. Oh, and lets Ron off the hook.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Thank you! Hermone has a number of things to figure out at this point, with one being how to save her friends (and thus the wizarding world), another on who haunts her dreams (and why), and just what is it that disturbs her so about Sirius. Talk about a busy agenda! ;-)Thanks, again!kat
When I think I'm starting to figure things out, you throw in a new twist. Intriguing and confusing all at once. And I really liked the bit with the real Stubby; didn't see that coming.
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Oh, it's all about the twists, turns, and unexpected events. Wouldn't want any of you lot to become too comfortable, now would I? Oh yes, Stubby has further purpose; you will be seeing him more at a later date.I hope within all of this confusion and intrgue, you are at least enjoying your run-in with all my deceptions!Thanks for the review - they are always much appreciated.Cheers!
I can't believe he shoved her up in the ceiling. *lol* Now that is something I wouldn't have thought of (though I'm way to short and weak for that to be an option).
It seems Sirius and Hermione are living their own nightmares in this chapter. I don't know who to feel sorry for more. I sure as heck wouldn't want to be stuck up in the ceiling, crawling around, trying to avoid security.
And who were those two blokes talking about, I wonder? The girl? Glad to see a mention of Raj. I sort of miss him. (I'm sure Hermione does too at this point.)
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
You know, the ceiling just sort of came to me. I think it was a combination of "The Breakfast Club" and my little mind being bored at work, figuring out how to sneak around should people of ill-intention come a-knockin'.I never thought of it that way, but you're right; they are each living their own nightmare at this point.Not finished with Raj, yet. In fact, he is very important to the story, and will be returning soon. And which two blokes? The ones discussing the girl? Hmmm... good question.
Your e-mail reminded me that I haven't reviewed in a while. (You are so right: I need to quit working so hard.)
Yes, I am still enjoying this story! I am really happy that Hermione realized in this chapter what is wrong with Sirius. The ending had me groaning 'Oh, no' out loud. She didn't splinch them, but she sure landed them in a pickle. I'm looking forward to the next chapter. Oh, and I think I need to go back a chapter or two and leave another review....
Response from R J Lupins Kat (Author of The Valiant Never)
Oh, I wasn't hinting for a review (though they are always lovely to receive, particularly yours!); I was just kind of worried that the story had gotten a little wonky, and perhaps you didn't feel it was still interesting enough to follow. And if that was the case, I'd like to know so that I could correct it. It's sometimes difficult to realize how it comes across when you live with the story. But thank you much! I'm actually, at this moment, working on the next chapter. I have a feeling it will surprise everyone - at least the beginning. Cheers!