I know, I know. I need to update the Templar, but I couldn't get this out of my head. Don't own it. Enjoy.

Prologue

James nudged his best friend and nodded toward the Slytherin table. "Look, next to Malfoy." He hissed. Sirius looked up and his eyes narrowed.

"There's a new Death Eater-in-training?" He asked his brother in all but blood.

"Yeah, and look. House crests, and a ring. Last one of a pureblood line. I'd recognize that crest anywhere. That's a Conte. Be careful Sirius."

"I saw them too." The dog animagus whined. He looked down the table as something caught his eye. "Look, next to Evans!"

James's eyes flew to his not-so-secret crush. Next to her was a pretty brunette, with the Conte crests displayed over her heart. The location told James she was under the protection of House Conte, possibly as a ward or family member, blood adopted or born, and the color, silver, meant she was unmarried, unbetrothed, and available. Gold was the symbol of those in a Lord's house who were married, betrothed, or otherwise off-limits. "Another Conte? And a Gryffindor?"

Her eyes roamed the table and stopped on them for a moment, before moving on. Sirius looked at her oddly. "You know, she reminds me of someone, in her manner. I just can't put my finger on it." They quieted as Dumbledore stood and made his usual opening statements.

"This year, we have to welcome to our number two very special people." Dumbledore boomed. "Hadrian, Lord of the Ancient and Noble House of Conte, Lord of the Ancient and Noble House of Chandler, Seigneur Régent de la Maison Antique et Noble de Dubois." Sirius looked at the Slytherin, who had taken a moment to stand and nod respectfully at the Headmaster. "Also, we welcome Hermione, daughter of House Conte." The girl also stood. They stayed up for a brief moment of cheers, welcomes, and applause, before gracefully taking their seats again. Sirius noticed Conte was seated next to Snape, as well as Malfoy, and groaned. Conte and Chandler were both grey names, but those two were anything but.