Patience and diligence, like faith, remove mountains.

- William Penn

Three Snakes and a Lion

Epilogue: Chapter Twenty-Two

The Serpent Awakens

Beneath the stones of Hogwarts lay a labyrinthine chamber.

In the center stood a statue; its head brushing the ceiling; its beard sweeping the floor.

Within the mouth of the monkey faced visage a serpent stirrs.

Her master's power had faded now, but the traces lingered.

Her tongue flickers in the musty air. She can taste the remnants of his magic still.

Her eyes gleam, massive golden orbs opening fully, the translucent membrane fluttering away.

Slowly she shifts her massive coils, her huge blunt head rising high.

She hisses irritably at the entrance of her den. Sealed again.

Softly she speaks her master's name. "Serpent-Tongue."

She slithers out as the mouth opens wide, slowly slithering down the sides of the statue.

Her master is not here now, but she will wait.

She will feed and grow strong and when he returns she will be ready.

Ready to serve him.

The other, her friend, Cobra-Sting. His scent was strong once more.

He, too, has returned. He will help her find her master.

The membrane slides down over her golden eyes.

Her breathing deepens and she slips into a light doze.

Soon she would be at her master's side once again.

Soon.

3S&L 3S&L 3S&L 3S&L 3S&L

AUthor's Note: And the Three Snakes and a Lion is OVER! The next book is The Queen of Serpents. Characters will probably be Dudley Dursley and Salazar Slytherin. Votes indicate that most ppl. want a new story.

If anyone is wondering what Sa'zar did in chapter 20 read the Belgariad. Or wait for the story to explain it! (I DO know how he did it, y'know.)

Either way, join the boys for their second year. The question system will be used to determine the house cup once again. Enjoy!