Harry

Potter Jedi
by zajinn
The somewhat realistic and humorous story of Harry Potter, if he grew up watching a
little too much Star Wars. - This takes place in the real world, where Harry is inspired
by Star Wars to learn magic and discover the wizarding world in new and interesting
ways. Canon secrets are revealed and hints are hidden throughout the story to
discover what is really happening at Hogwarts.
Rated: Fiction T - English - Adventure/Romance - Harry P., Hermione G. - Chapters:
27 - Words: 236,805 - Reviews: 587 - Favs: 1,276 - Follows: 1,641 - Updated:
12/25/2014 - Published: 11/5/2013 - id: 9824728
URL: https://www.fanfiction.net/s/9824728

Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1. Chapter 1 - Wizard
2. Chapter 2 - Shopping
3. Chapter 3 - Sorting
4. Chapter 4 - Classes
5. Chapter 5 - Explanation
6. Chapter 6 - Overture
7. Chapter 7 - Rumors
8. Chapter 8 - Memories
9. Chapter 9 - Adventure
10. Chapter 10 - Trolls
11. Chapter 11 - Gambling
12. Chapter 12 - Apologies
13. Chapter 13 - Friends
14. Chapter 14 - Celebrations
15. Chapter 15 - Revelations
16. Chapter 16 - Surprises
17. Chapter 17 - Preparations
18. Chapter 18 - Christmas
19. Chapter 19 - Afters
20. Chapter 20 - Secrets
21. Chapter 21 - Danger

22. Chapter 22 - Plans

23. Chapter 23 - Alumni
24. Chapter 24 - Forgotten
25. Chapter 25 - Valentines
26. Chapter 26 - Eggs
27. Chapter 27 - Caught

Chapter 1 - Wizard
Author's Note: As usual, I don't own Harry Potter and whatever legal disclaimer
needs to be said here, consider it said from now on.
A small warning. This is not a crossover, despite the title.
This story tries to be a little more realistic in it's portrayal of the Harry Potter world,
and deals with the consequences of young children having access to powerful
magic. It is also a slower paced story that explores the magical world in depth with a
new perspective which changes canon events.
Most of the first book is already written and I will be continuing on to the second as
well. Reviews are more than welcome.
Chapter 1
Wizard
"What?"
The massive giant stood still while shaking the boy's world apart, and repeated
himself, "I said, yer a wizard Harry!"
Harry James Potter blinked a few more times and adjusted his glasses, gazing
skyward at gleaming dark eyes, hidden in a wavy mass of hair, "Is this some kind of
joke? Because I don't really get it."
"No joke, but I know a few if yeh like."
Shaking his head, Harry looked back down at the letter addressed to him and read
aloud, "Dear Mr Potter, We are pleased to inform you that you have a place at
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all
necessary books and equipment. Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl
by no later than 31 July. - Are you sure this isn't a joke?"
"Sure as Dumbledore's the greatest wizard I ever met. - Er, there ain't anyone else
inside is there? Need ter tell yer folks as well. Maybe have a word or two about
birthrights an' such."
Harry was standing in the doorway, looking over the list of required items, "They're
out celebrating Dudley getting into Smeltings academy and won't be back until late. I

don't think they would want to hear this though. - Just for the sake of argument, how
am I supposed to find a wand or any of these books? And I'm pretty sure no one
sells dragon hide gloves around here."
"That's why they sent me, I'm ter take yeh shoppin'. Get all yer stuff fer school. An'
why'd the Dursleys leave yeh home by yerself, don' they know better than that?" He
bent down his large hairy head to look inside and gave a gruff laugh at the decor.
Glancing up again, Harry spoke hesitantly, "Yeah... well they weren't exactly
expecting a giant ...wizard to come knocking. Since our neighbor is getting her cast
off today, I convinced them to let me stay home without a babysitter. - But now you,
want to take me shopping, for a school I've never heard of, after you tell me I'm a
wizard, on the first day we meet."
"Yup, that about sums it up. How's Mrs Figg doing, still havin' trouble with her cats?"
"Uh, Mr Hagrid is it? Obviously you're familiar with the people around here, but, I'm
going to need a little more convincing. Can you do anything... magical? Maybe move
something with your mind?"
"Strictly speaking, I'm - er - not supposed ter do magic. Never really finished school
at Hogwarts." Harry's face fell, "But if yeh need ter see somethin', how about we go
inside so the whole neighborhood don' gawk."
With skepticism written across his face, he let the giant into the house, yet didn't feel
afraid of this monstrous man. Harry didn't view himself as defenseless by any
means, but that didn't concern him, for over the years Harry prided himself on being
able to judge people's intentions, and while Hagrid might have escaped from an
over-sized mental institution, there was no sign of deception on his face, the parts he
could see at least. This large man truly believed what he was saying, and wanted to
help. Crouching low to enter the house, Hagrid made his way into the living room,
settling down on the couch with a resounding crunch. Harry squinted in anguish,
knowing that would cost him later.
"Alright, now if yeh don' mind keepin' quiet about this at Hogwarts, I'll - er - show yeh
some magic." Harry sat down opposite him and nodded in acceptance, if only to get
this charade over with. "Wanted to see something move eh? How's about float?"
Reaching deep within his massive jacket, Hagrid pulled out... a ratty pink umbrella. A
bit anticlimactic Harry thought, but almost fitting. Hagrid pointed up at the ceiling with
one finger as a distraction, while his umbrella made a small movement under the
table.
"What?" Harry asked, as he saw nothing on the ceiling. He looked down

disappointed, only to see the coffee table floating a few feet off the ground. With the
umbrella back on his lap, Hagrid chuckled at the intense expression Harry had on.
He waved his hand over the table, under it, and around all sides trying to make sure
it wasn't a trick. "You can do it too!" He yelled.
"Can do more than that, jus' keep an eye on the fireplace." Harry looked over his
shoulder and saw a thin stream of flames shoot towards it, erupting into a blazing
fire, already warming the cool room. He twisted around, eyes wide to catch sight of
what he thought was the umbrella being settled back in place.
"An' how about an enlargement charm on those flowers outside?" Harry was about
to turn again, but caught himself, watching Hagrid make a quick circular motion with
his wand and enlarge the biscuit tin on top of the table. Glancing up to see Harry
staring at him, Hagrid quickly hid the umbrella away again.
"Convincin' enough for yeh?" He opened the now enormous tin to grab a biscuit and
take an equally large bite.
Nodding with an eager and jubilant smile on his face, Harry almost laughed out loud,
"YES! - When can we go?"
"...After I tell yeh a story."
oOoOo
Leaving an overly simple note on the hallway table in case he didn't get back in time,
Harry felt it was for the best. 'Gone shopping' was all it said. He pocketed the little bit
of money he had and threw on a thin hoodie in case it rained wherever they were
going. He knew the whole situation was simply barmy, feeling like he was falling
down a rabbit hole with Alice, yet it was what he'd been waiting for. Something to
take him away from being the odd one out, and everything else. While it wasn't
exactly what he wished for, especially the bit about the evil wizard who killed his
parents, and tried to kill him, it would have to do. He pinched his arm just to make
sure this wasn't an incredibly vivid dream.
Taking the stairs from his room two at a time, he locked the house behind them, and
caught up to Hagrid at the curb. "Are we headed to wonderland, because I'll need to
get some money out of the bank first. How much does a wand cost anyway, or do
you have to make one yourself?"
"Seven Galleons. Ready?" Mumbled Hagrid as he slipped out the umbrella, gave it a
quick wave and hid it once again.

"I hope you don't mean seven war ships, because that's a little out of my price range.
By the way, how did you even get here Hagrid?"
A resounding BANG woke the dreary street as Harry nearly fell over from the shock.
Right in front of him a wall of intense purple rolled to a halt. It turned out to be a
triple-decker bus, straight out of a road tunnel's nightmare. Hagrid stepped on, with a
grin hidden behind his scraggly beard.
"This, is the Knigh' Bus. One o' the ways wizards get around. Hop on." He waved
Harry aboard while pulling out a handful of shiny coins from his pocket, then handed
them to the driver who nodded in thanks.
Peering around the street for anyone who might see him, Harry shook his head
again and hopped aboard like he was told to. He sat down next to Hagrid's extra
large seat near the front and was thrown backwards as another cacophonous BANG
brought them up to speed.
"Where ya headed now?" Inquired the driver, who spun around in a worn recliner to
face them.
"The Leaky Cauldron, thank yeh." The driver nodded and casually picked his teeth
while something else kept steering.
The bus was nearly empty for the size of it, yet the seats were a comfortable beige
fabric and didn't smell, so Harry liked it. He peppered Hagrid and the driver with
questions the whole way there, trying to ignore the streets, buildings, and people
whizzing by in a nauseating fashion around the bus. He learned that they had to go
through a pub to get to where they wanted to go, and that his money would be no
good there. A few more loud BANGS and there they were, in London by the look of
things. Hagrid ushered Harry off the bus to stand outside a shabby old pub, as
another middle aged woman in a yellow cloak got off as well and hurried inside.
"Didn' get ter explain much earlier," Hagrid said while he brushed the biscuit crumbs
out of his beard, "But Dumbledore wanted me to warn yeh, people migh' notice that
scar o' yers a lot more in the wizarding world. Means somethin' precious ter them,
somethin' good, jus' warnin' yeh."
"How would anyone even know about my scar if I was with the Dursleys since the
day after it happened?"
Looking uncomfortable, Hagrid mumbled again, "Oh - er - yeh know how stories
start. One thing gets said, 'an next yeh know, someone's a hero."

Pulling up his hoodie, Harry looked away from the disappointed face, "I'd rather not
be a hero. I'd rather just be me."
They passed through the dimly lit pub to be greeted by loud cheers all around, and
all for Hagrid. He waved and said hello, but told them he couldn't stay, urgent
Hogwarts business to attend to or something like that. Light smoke filled the air
along with the scent of varying spirits. Harry was barely noticed in the background
with his hood pulled down, some people even bumped into him as they weaved
through the crowded tables. Strange people in strange outfits was all he noticed,
none of them stood out in any way. Tom the landlord, was the only name he caught,
mostly because Hagrid said it in his booming voice right towards him.
Outside the back door Harry looked around to barren brick walls and floor, with a
dustbin to liven up the place. Hagrid waved him over to one section of the wall,
counting out bricks, doing another crazy impression. That was until he pulled out his
umbrella once again and tapped three times, making Harry's references to
wonderland seem quite at home as a portal to another world unfurled right in front of
him. Twisting open into a wide archway, a cobblestone street could be seen
meandering off into the distance, every inch lined with wondrous looking shops
begging to be explored.
"Welcome, to Diagon Alley." Hagrid smiled anew, noticing the delight on Harry's face.
oOoOo
With hungry eyes Harry surveyed the magnificent selection of, things, much more
than he could imagine uses for. Every shop had an aged look, worn from service and
time, a lot of time. Strange scents mingled and grew pungent as they started to stroll
down the twisting alley.
"So where to first? And how am I supposed to pay for things if you use a different
type of currency? Will people just give me things like some returning hero if I show
them the scar?" The alluring sight of a tidy bookstore called to him which he resisted
by studying the colourful displays in a real apothecary opposite it.
"It's Gringotts first, that's where yer money is. Only wizardin' bank around, an' where
yer parents kept it all." He pointed at the towering white building far ahead.
Harry was almost as surprised by that, as he was by the sight of flying broomsticks.
"I have an inheritance? Why wasn't I ever told?" He looked up at Hagrid to see a
sneer forming, "Never mind... I can guess, my relatives again."
They passed by manikins in clothing shop windows that twirled and moved to display

their wares. Owls upon hooting owls were kept in cages outside and in a pet shop
that gave a distinctive gamey odor to area. Equipment shops dotted the street for
something called quidditch, to quills, to potions, to general purpose wizard supplies.
An ice cream parlor lured in children and adults alike with strange sounding flavors
and combinations, while people squeezed by the outdoor tables in reckless
abandon. The people wore unique outfits and funny hats, but their attitudes were the
same as every shopping center around, if a little happier. There were old men
complaining about prices and quality degrading, older women talking about the men,
while young children marveled at the latest toys and candy shop windows. Rough
individuals haggled about prices while posh ones acted indifferent. Couples walked
together pointing and chatting, as Harry was led down the busy street, taking it all in.
A black cat meowed in the window of another pet shop, pacing back and forth while
watching people pass by. Harry was stunned to see a decidedly normal looking
couple walking towards them with a girl his age leading them along. She was
wearing a grey knitted cap and carrying an arm full of boxes, with a bright infectious
smile, seeming to be the happiest around. They exchanged glances as Harry
stumbled on the uneven cobble, practically running into a rack of brooms. Nothing
fell over except his pride, so he rushed away after Hagrid, not paying attention to the
minuscule guards in uniform they passed on the polished white steps.
Shiny silver doors with words he didn't catch opened outward as Harry finally noticed
the workers. They wore tailored suits covering pale, almost greyish skin, and some
grew manicured beards with most all at some stage of baldness. Long pointed ears
stuck out nearly as much as their bulbous heads and sharp noses, yet the keen
jagged teeth caught Harry's eyes. He tried not to stare as probably a hundred or
more sat counting coins, weighing gems, and scribbling numbers into oversized
books. The grandiose marble hall definitely shouted 'bank' despite the unusual
clerks, and more surely than any coins or high wooden counters might. Wizards
stood waiting in lines, some being led through doors while others negotiated with the
short clerks.
"Why do they look like that?" Harry whispered.
"Goblins, they run the place. Would be a fool to try stealing from them."
"Right, magical creatures, of course." Harry shook his head in bewilderment,
wondering if he might faint from all the surprises today.
Making for an open counter, Hagrid began to talk, while Harry closed his eyes and
let himself relax. Ignoring the outside world, he calmed his mind and let the day sink
in, feeling at ease with his surroundings, and freeing himself from built up stress to

experience the present. He'd read up on meditation years ago, and while he didn't
know if he was doing it the right way, it worked for him. Opening his eyes to the
hustle and bustle of the active bank was strange, because it was suddenly quiet. All
the goblins were staring - at him.
"Harry, this way." Urged Hagrid, while waving him over towards one of the side
doors. Harry looked around for a second, then hurried off as the noise began again.
The plain stone passageway they entered was in stark contrast to the opulence they
just left. With what looked like a rickety mining cart for transportation, Harry was not
impressed by the layout or practicality of the place. The winding maze of tunnels
seemed to have no purpose except to make people sick, namely Hagrid. They
picked up speed and dropped lower, becoming more of a rollercoaster, passing by
an underground lake and making steep curves and dives.
Eventually they came to a halt in front of a humble curved door, in which their goblin
guide unlocked, revealing stagnant green smoke that Harry covered his nose and
mouth to avoid breathing. Looking up as the air cleared, he saw it, a mountainous
pile of gold, silver, and bronze coins, some neatly stacked while others were strewn
about the place. His eyes danced in glee at the sight, unable to estimate how much
was there.
"All yers, Harry." Hagrid forced the words out while holding his mouth as well, but for
another reason.
Some other artifacts and jewelry were hung up on the walls, with a small shelf to one
side containing scrolls and drawers of other things. Hagrid handed him a bag to
carry some coins, which he stuffed full, noticing the lightness of them and then saw
another few purses already full, which he looked into and pocketed.
Breathing deeply, Hagrid managed to explain a bit, "Gold ones are the Galleons I
was talkin' about, which're worth seventeen silver Sickles, and each o' those turn into
twenty nine bronze Knuts. - That's good enough Harry, we best be off, got lots ter
buy."
Harry gazed up with puppy dog eyes, pleading with the giant, "Can't we stay just a
bit longer, there's so much to look through in here."
"Sorry, already runnin' late. Yeh'll get all the time yeh need another day."
Dropping his head in disappointment, Harry urged the giant the same way he
convinced his relatives, "Please?"

Hagrid jerked his head away as if someone threw something at him, "What the?" He
looked around in confusion, "Where did that..." He looked down at Harry and at his
empty hands, "Did yeh...? Naa, couldn't be. - We better go now."
Wearing a perplexed expression himself, Harry picked up the few extra bags when
Hagrid turned away and stuffed them in his pockets too, then followed after. Before
they took off, he asked the goblin a question, "Are these coins solid gold and silver?"
He shook his head with a smirk, "Hollow, charmed to never age and always contain
the exact amount of metal they're worth around the world. Makes 'em easy to carry
too." They all got into the cart again, "Don't worry, greater minds than yours have
tried to take advantage of goblins, and lost dearly." The diminutive creature raised
his eyebrows suggestively and off they went again.
Another long twisting journey down even steeper curves and turns, growing colder
and colder as they descended, which brought them to a large ornate metal door. It
seemed rather extravagant for Hagrid's tastes, Harry thought, but he didn't even
know why they were coming here. With a reverent motion, the goblin brushed a
finger down the door, causing it to fade away. What surprised Harry more though,
was that all it contained was a tiny crude bag, which Hagrid pocketed, not even
bothering to look inside.
The goblin spoke up again in a superior tone, "If anyone but a Gringotts goblin tried
that, they'd be sucked through the door and trapped in there."
"How do you know when that happens?" Harry inquired.
"We check, every ten years." He nearly snarled in pleasure.
"...So you kill people for attempted theft?"
Narrowing his eyes, he brushed the question off, "We don't kill them, it's their own
fault for trying. But I did say other's lost dearly."
Harry continued on, not noticing the irritation growing on the goblin's face, "Setting a
trap to kill someone and killing them yourself isn't much different. And shouldn't the
punishment fit the crime?"
Stepping between the irate goblin and Harry, Hagrid grunted, "Enough Griphook,
we'll be goin' now."
Lost in thought all the way back, the sudden halt woke him from his revere. Back
inside the bank, Harry stopped by another free clerk, and asked him a few quick

questions, the price of opening another vault, if there was a way to access his gold
without the cart ride, and what the exchange rate for the British Pound was. Some of
it was depressing, but he offered an idea to the clerk.
"Have you ever thought about keeping individual written accounts just for money?
So people can deposit, and receive their money from you without having to spend so
much time riding carts all day? You might save a lot on labor as well." The Older
goblin looked baffled by what was said, but also thoughtful. "Only an idea, but the
British banks have been doing it for ages, and it's a lot quicker. Bye." He bounded
away after an impatient and peaky giant.
oOoOo
Basking in the radiant sunlight of a wonderful day, full of possibilities, Harry stretched
wide and smiled, "Now, to go exploring."
Hagrid shuffled his ample feet down the steps, "Would yeh mind if I rested for a bit
while yeh buy yer uniform? Those cart rides don't agree with the haggis I had this
mornin'." Harry nodded in agreement and sympathy, "Be on that bench if yeh need
anythin'." He pointed to one close by.
Harry took out his list and glanced around at the shops. Clothing sounded boring,
and so did cauldrons and scales. He wanted to save the books for last to spend any
time left he had there, so his wand would be first. Ollivander's wand shop seemed a
good choice, as he saw the people milling about inside. He nodded to Hagrid and
pointed where he was going. Walking up to the door, it opened before him to be
greeted by that exuberant smiling girl again. This time she was carrying a long thin
box, not paying attention to a thing around her. Harry stepped out of her way, yet she
still bumped into him and apologized absentmindedly, already on her way
somewhere else. Her parents followed after, giving him a kindly smile as they
passed.
Chuckling to himself, he entered the meager sized shop to the jingling bell above the
door, noticing the austere atmosphere of a single chair and large wooden counter
beside it. Everywhere else was crammed full of dusty narrow boxes lining every inch
of the walls and few aisles, except in a far corner where a pleasant light was shining.
No one seemed to be around so he made his way over, noticing it came from a
locked display case. Inside was an oddly colored wand, dark with blue and green
highlights, carved with hundreds of delicate swirling patterns up the entire length, as
if someone tried to imagine the wind trapped in wood. Laid upon a purple pillow
similar to the display in the window, it gave off a faint blue glow, growing brighter as
he stepped closer. His hand hit glass before he realized what it was doing.

"I thought I'd be seeing you in here soon. Harry Potter." Harry jumped at the quiet
voice beside him, bumping into a wall of boxes. "Terribly sorry, I didn't mean to
startle you." An older man with disheveled white haired came into view, wearing a
slightly tattered suit, a long face and stark silver eyes that studied Harry intently.
"That is a fascinating wand is it not? Oh my, quite fascinating..." He was transfixed
with the glowing case now, giving Harry a reprieve.
"How?" Harry noticed his hood had fallen back, exposing his scar, "I mean, yes, it is
a nice wand. How much is it?"
"I'm terribly sorry again, but this one isn't for sale. Come, come, let us find you a
proper wand like your parents. I remember them coming in for their first wands as if it
was only yesterday." He led Harry back towards the counter and began measuring
his arm and height, leaving the device to continue on it's own as he walked off
picking out a few boxes. "Yes, willow and mahogany were your parent's chosen
wands, good quality woods, both made with unicorn hair, possibly from the same
animal even. Let's see what is in store for you today." The tape measure stopped
after he waved it off, and handed Harry the first one to try.
Handing Harry wand after wand, telling him to give them a good swish but snatching
some of them back mid-swing even, began to get tiring. "Peculiar, but that's what
makes things so much fun. Finding that one elusive wand that connects. It's the
wand that chooses the wizard, I'll have you know."
Harry kept glancing back to the display in the corner, wondering if he should try
convincing anyone else to do what he wanted in this odd world of magic. In the end
he decided against it. "Here now, an unusual combination, holly and phoenix feather,
but just may be..."
Gripping the simple and smooth wand tightly, Harry felt warm tingling along his arm,
like the blood was rushing through to his hand in an attempt to get closer. He
brought it around in a quick flourish to produce tremendous scarlet flames in the air,
burning to gold as they slowly faded away.
Ollivander clapped and smiled, "Bravo, that is quite a unique wand, and how
curious... how curious indeed..."
Harry smiled at the pleasant and satisfying feeling of his own wand, but now that he
knew what it felt like, wanted more. "Would you mind if I looked at that other wand
one more time? It was just so, interesting." He nodded at the far corner, where they
met.
Pursing his lips in contemplation, Ollivander tentatively agreed, "I suppose I could

tell you a small story about it as well, but you mustn't get your hopes up, for even
adult men have longed for that wand since childhood. I was even thinking of putting
it away, since all it does is tempt people with what they cannot have. Yet it does bring
in customers."
The blue glow shined brighter once again as they moved towards it, and Ollivander
began his story. About how the core was so rare it was passed down from his
grandfather, to his father, to him, never finding a suitable wood until forty some years
ago, when he accidentally stumbled upon the perfect piece already carved into
something else, lost in a small forest. It took him a year to carve it down into a wand
and imbue the core within the wood, being extremely careful so as to get everything
perfect. It was one of his favorite creations, an experimental piece and too
unpredictable to sell, he had never before made anything like it, nor know of anyone
else who had either.
Building up his courage Harry asked a few questions, "What is it made from?"
"The wood is twelve inches long, a special kind I rarely ever try, due to the difficulty,
rarity, and cost, it is called Lignum Vitae. And the core... the core, is Nundu whisker."
He said it in awe at the mere name.
"Do - do you ever let anyone hold it?"
He became cagey again, inspecting Harry once more, "...I have, in the past, ...very
rarely. But no one has yet to get a positive reaction from it." Glancing back and forth
from the radiant wand to Harry, he became more uncomfortable.
"If the wand chooses the wizard, why don't you let more people try it?" Harry tried to
sound curious, rather than desperate.
"I did, at first, but one naive boy very nearly brought down the roof on himself, trying
to get it to work for him. Since then I've only let those who seem compatible hold it,
yet no longer wave it about."
Harry's eyebrows rose at that, "If I promise not to wave it, could I perhaps try holding
it for a second?"
The faltering look in his wrinkled, strained eyes said much, as if he wanted to see
what might happen, but feared it just as much. He fiddled with his buttons and
chewed his lip in anxious consideration. Finally he replied, "Alright... but only if you
promise!"
"Of course."

Shaking his head at the madness, Ollivander began opening the locked case, one
spell at a time, and finally using an actual key at the last to open it up completely.
"Go ahead, but be gentle." Harry reached in slowly, noticing the blue light grow
stronger, brighter the closer his hand got, becoming hard to see as he was nearly
touching it. With a single finger he made contact and the light disappeared,
transforming into dazzlingly blue flower buds sprouting from the surface of it. Harry
pulled his hand away in shock, feeling a strange electricity along his skin, a little light
headed and giddy, not knowing if he did something wrong.
"Oh, my..." Ollivander scratched his chin and closed the lid to stare. The buds stood
still, giving off a faint light of their own.
"I... I need to try that again."
Ollivander shook his head, "Even I don't know what this means Mr Potter. Not for this
wand. It could be a sign it is choosing you, or a deadly poison, forming to stop you
from trying. That is the nature of the core, deadly yet fascinating."
"They're just flowers! They don't come from a monster, but the wood. I can feel it
now, calling out to me." Harry was nearly pleading, begging just to touch it one more
time. "Please, you have to let me just hold it."
Taking out his own wand again, he pinched the bridge of his nose and gently
nodded, "Fine, but hold it over the pillow, and drop it immediately if you I tell you to,
or you sense anything awry." He pulled open the case one more time and held his
wand at the ready.
Confidently but smoothly Harry reached for the wand, and gripped it in his hand with
an exhilarating rush of energy flowing through him, feeling as if the world around him
slowed its pace. The flowers began to bloom, and a breeze rushed through the shop,
bringing with it a pleasant floral scent as petals flew off into the air circling around
them. The blue glow was back, centered around the flowers and Harry took a deep
breath lavishing in the tingling sensation in his hand. It demanded to be waved,
feeling an overwhelming urge to do so, Harry resisted, if only not to upset Ollivander
again.
"Marvelous... how long I've been waiting for this day..." He studied the wand for a
while, then looked down at the petals on the floor and around at the breeze still
kicking up dust in the shop. "I must ask you to put it down now. I still cannot sell it to
you."
"What!? You saw how it reacted when I only touched it, and I haven't even waved it
yet. It belongs with me, not sitting inside a locked case for eternity!" Harry could

barely contain his outrage.

Walking over to his counter, he packed up Harry's other wand, wrapped it in red
paper and set it aside, ignoring the incredulous looks thrown his way. "It is too
dangerous, especially for one so young who has not even learned to produce a
single spell yet. Even regular wands can create disasters in untrained hands, let
alone one such as this. No, I could not in good conscious sell it. At least not until you
are much older with complete control of your magic."
"You want me to wait how many years, or decades until I even get to try using it?
You can see it's not dangerous, if you just let me prove it to you." He stopped talking,
trying to resist the urgent need building in his hand to wave it, feeling like it had been
itching for a week straight.
"No, I should never have even made it, being so reckless and arrogant in my youth I
didn't consider the ramifications. More importantly it is incredibly dangerous to tempt
fate and allow one person to carry the destiny of two such powerful wands."
Harry shook his head, "That's what this is about? Some superstition about destiny?"
He threw his arms in exasperation, and realized what he'd done at the last second,
his eyes widening in alarm. The wooden counter-top sprouted, burgeoning forth into
a sapling, growing taller by the second and branching out to fill the entire ceiling of
the shop. Ollivander eventually recovered from the shock, rushing to cast spell after
spell, finally halting it's progress before it broke through the roof.
Mumbling something under his breath, Ollivander stared up in amazement. He stood
there for a minute, taking it all in, and then turned towards Harry, noticing the
apologetic expression he had on. "At least no one is hurt. But I must insist you-"
The tree began growing again, slower this time, but the roof creaked at the strain.
Quickly recasting his spells got it under control. He readjusted his waistcoat and tie,
then began again, "Now, I must ask-"
Again it swelled upwards, and the roots spread towards him before he finished the
spells again. It took him a few more times of being interrupted mid sentence before
he noticed what was causing it, his own words. Giving up in dismay, he put his
hands on his hips and glared at the wand, "Fine! Fine, just don't say I didn't warn
you. One destiny should be enough for anyone, but we'll see what you do with two!"
No more growing occurred, as he waved Harry forward and pulled out a new box
and wrapping.
Harry could barely restrain his overjoyed smile, not wanting to rub in Ollivander's
defeat at the hands of a tree. A weak grin was the least he could manage. He pulled

out a small sack of coins, watching as his two wands were wrapped up and placed
before him in a bag, beside the indoor tree. "So how do most people carry their
wands so they don't ever break? Do they make special pockets, or have.. holsters or
something?"
Ollivander glanced at the sack of coins and responded, "Correct on both counts, but
generally people ignore the safety of their wands, preferring to find what is
comfortable. Most use a special pocket, but some prefer custom made holsters,
designed with concealing and protective enchantments."
Looking up at Harry not in defeat, but in victory, Ollivander spoke evenly. "The
price... comes to fifty seven galleons." Sure that Harry couldn't hold that much in
such a small container, he looked away to avoid any argument, fiddling with the
register. "I'm sorry if you are unable to pay, but only your first wand costs seven
galleons, due to the ministry providing assistance for new students. Regular wands
cost fifty, which I think is an amazing deal, considering the nature and time it took to
create your second wand." He faced forward again with a regretful smile.
Which immediately changed to a frown of distress, as Harry plunked down the whole
amount on the table. He picked up the bag and thanked the eccentric old man,
apologized about the tree, and inquired about a holster shop before he left. It took a
little more convincing to tell him, but Harry was already home free. He exited the
shop feeling triumphant, almost running into Hagrid carrying two large ice cream
cones.
oOoOo
They ate while window shopping, and Harry told Hagrid about his wands, glossing
over the details, and pretty much everything else as well. Still surprised by the idea
that he got two wands, rather than the magic that came out of them, Hagrid
recounted his experience getting his first wand. Admitting that his was broken upon
being expelled from Hogwarts, hinting that he might keep the second one a secret,
just in case. At least that's what Harry took from it.
An owl swooped down from the sky, dropping a letter right into Hagrid's beard, which
somehow caught the edges and held it there. He picked it out and read, "Don't have
much time, not enough for all yer shopping today. - What do you say to coming back
next week, on yer birthday? We can spend the whole day here."
Harry thought it over for a second, "I'd like that, but could we please get my books
before we leave? I might go crazy if I don't have anything to read about magic after
coming here."

"Sure, but we need to make it quick."

Heading for the closest one they entered Flourish and Blotts, to see the normal
couple once again, the father and mother holding multiple bags of supplies and
books while talking with the manager. The young girl was nowhere to be seen,
probably down one of the many isles. Harry walked up to an older lady behind the
counter who wore green leaf shaped reading glasses and a simple sky blue jumper,
"Could I please have the first year books for Hogwarts?"
She glanced up at him from the green oval book she was reading and grinned,
"Certainly." With a wave of her wand, a whole set of books flew to the countertop,
stacking neatly in front of him. "New to Hogwarts are we? It's such a wonderful time,
your first year. Will there be anything else today?"
"Um, would you recommend any books for those new to the magical world?"
Her smile dimmed momentarily but came back stronger than ever, with a tinge of
sympathy, "There's a whole section at the back, behind the aisle on muggle studies.
I recommend Hogwarts, a History and Great Wizarding Events of the Twentieth
Century, for those interested. Your school books should get you up to speed the rest
of the way, and what they don't, is picked up along the way."
"Muggle studies?"
"Ah, regular non magical people. The section is entitled Muggleborn, for those with
magic born outside of the wizarding world."
Harry thanked her and made his way down the aisle she pointed towards, skimming
through the laughable titles of books he passed, such as When Muggles Attack, and
The Philosophy of the Mundane: Why the Muggles Prefer Not to Know. Around the
corner was the cubbyhole of mentioned books, where the same smiling girl sat cross
legged on the floor. Her eyes were locked onto the pages of an extra large book
laying in her lap, humming pleasantly to some unknown music.
Trying to act casual after his earlier blunders, Harry scanned the shelves above her,
noticing the suggested books, then searching for something else that seemed
interesting. In between curious glances at the cute looking girl, he saw a few that
looked good enough, such as Where There's a Wand, There's a Way, Powers You
Never Knew You Had and What to Do with them Now You've Wised Up, and Don't
Panic, You're a Wizard Now. Most of the others seemed to be history or reference,
with a few how-to books for good measure, which he felt could be saved for later.
Debating about how best to get the books, whether to reach over, or interrupt her

reading, he was startled instead by a rather emphatic stomach growl. Another

gurgling rumble emanated from the small girl a few seconds later while Harry stared.
She ignored it all, not moving except to turn a page, at least until she heard Harry's
subdued giggle. Letting go of the book, her eyes gradually rose to meet his with a
blush suffusing her cheeks.
Just then a noisy ruckus started up, drawing their attention away. What sounded like
three rowdy boys entered the shop, then suddenly quieted after hearing a low grunt,
resembling Hagrid's. They could still be heard shuffling along an aisle, talking quietly.
"You won't believe it, they actually have a muggleborn section here. All they do is
take some books from other areas and double the price, since not a one is smart
enough to catch on." The other two laughed, and the first spoke again, "I bet
Hufflepuff gets all of them this year, since it's all that house is good for, picking up the
trash." Another round of snickering concluded upon rounding the corner and seeing
people there.
Harry marked them with a withering glare, and continued browsing the books,
ignoring them, but the girl had pulled up the large book to hide her face with a white
knuckled grip holding it steady. The three boys coughed and one stammered out a
weak, "Sorry..."
Followed by an elbow to the ribs from the leader, "Shut up Zach."
They started to turn around, but one strayed for a moment, wanting to say
something. "Come on Anthony, we're leaving." Commanded the leader again, and off
they went, giving the first impression of wizard born students.
Closing her book and getting up with a frown on her face, the girl grabbed some
other books sitting on the floor beside her and began to leave. Harry wanted to say
something witty and insightful but settled for, "I liked your smile better." She sped up
at his words, leaving him standing there with his head hanging from the final blunder.
After two seconds of self pity, he shrugged and began loading his arms with books.
Enough to last him a week at least. But before going to pay for them, he walked
around the other sections, noting topics of interest and fields of study that weren't
included in Hogwarts curriculum. As well as satisfying his skepticism about the rude
boy's words. The staff did gather books from different areas of the shop for
muggleborns, but none of them were priced differently. Harry headed for the front
when he was taken aback upon seeing the Necronomicon on a shelf, but laughed
when it turned out to be a boring list of famous dead people. He grabbed one last
book labeled Common Magical Devices and headed back.

Hagrid was glancing at a beat up old pocket watch while holding a newspaper on his
lap, he looked up at Harry's arrival and his arm full of books with a smile, "Get
enough did yeh?" Harry nodded happily and brought them to the counter.
"My, what a good selection you have here." Noted the kind older lady, she waved the
manager away as he came to help, and cast a spell for a quill to write down the book
prices and add them up for her. With another wave of her wand they all packed
themselves in one sizeable bag, made from some strange brown and orange cloth.
She threw in a few magical bookmarks and smiled, "I can tell that you'll be coming
back often. Do remember to bring this canvas bag with you, it makes caring things
much easier. - And if you need anything sent by owl, let me know." She handed
Harry her card, Grace Flora Flourish, Owner, "Everyone just calls me Flora." Then
told him the price with another smile.
While he counted out the right amount of coins, not even caring about the cost, the
door chimed again as someone else entered. "My, Hagrid, what a pleasant surprise.
Come to find that book on Thestrals I was telling you about?"
Hagrid stood up swiftly, "Hullo Amos, no time for that today. Bin escorting a new
student around for school supplies." Harry thanked the owner one more time and
picked up his incredibly light bag of books to walk over near Hagrid. "This is Amos
Diggory, Harry, he works in the department o' magical creatures. - And this, is Harry
Pot - er - Just Harry."
He shook the tall man's hand, noticing his genial smile, florid complexion, and
scrubby brown beard, that evoked thoughts of what Hagrid might have looked like
when he was younger. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, young man. It seems
word has already gotten around that you're finally attending Hogwarts this year. My
son Cedric is going on his third year now, and I'm sure he would be more than glad
to help if you ever need anything there."
"Thanks..." Harry made sure his hood was pulled up still and nodded to Hagrid, "I'm
sorry, we're running a little late, but it was nice meeting you Mr Diggory, maybe we'll
meet again sometime."
"Of course, it's a wonder I've gotten to meet you in the first place. But you know the
old saying, 'lightning strikes twice when you least expect it'."
On the verge of saying something back, Harry stopped and gave a slight nod of
acknowledgment. Exiting out the shop with Hagrid trailing behind, he had a new
perspective on the people here and the wondrous world he was now apart of.

What kind of rabbit hole did I just fall into?

Chapter 2 - Shopping
Author's Note: As some might notice, I do not have any beta readers. So at times I
come back and fix things, and improve stuff as well. Meaning by the time the first
book is done, a second read through might even be better.
Chapter 2
Shopping
The sun still shined brightly in the sky as Harry was dropped off in front of his house
once more. He waved goodbye to Hagrid while gripping his bag of curiosities tightly
in his hand, not wanting to let go for fear of losing it all in the wind. Unlocking the
door he picked up his note on the table and was a relieved to see his relatives
weren't home yet. Then he saw the broken couch and groaned. He had forgotten to
ask Hagrid to fix it before they left. And was too distracted reading his new books on
the bus ride home to remember. Plausible excuses and lies ran through his head for
a moment before the extra-light books weighed on his mind.
I can do magic too.
There was even a spell in one of the books he skimmed through, specifically to
repair things. He looked at the living room clock, since his digital one stopped
working in Diagon Alley. It was only two pm, and no one would be back until eight at
the earliest. He had six hours to learn one spell, something that he guessed might
take months to perfect based on the light reading he'd done. Whatever the results, it
sounded better than trying to come up with a lame excuse and still be grounded until
he left for school. That was another question rolling around in his mind, will my
relatives even allow me to go? Hagrid said he needed to speak with them about a
few things next week, before they left, but even with his intimidating stature and
magic, could he convince them? Maybe with my help he could...
Shaking his head at the extraneous thoughts he quickly ran upstairs and laid out the
books on his bed. It took a moment to sort through them and find the spell again,
then another to read the relevant chapter which was highly confusing. He skipped
through the Magical Theory book trying to find any advice on practical applications
but came up with little. Quicker than he probably should have, he read through the
beginning of the spell books, trying to glean any hint of secret techniques or
understandable methods to succeed faster. One even warned of trying to perform
any new spell on your own unsupervised. That made him wary, slowing down to read
more thoroughly, but didn't change his mind.

After rereading the basic instructions on the spell and how it was performed, then
ignoring the rest, it finally can time to take out a wand. Staying on the safe side, he
unwrapped the phoenix feather one, while wondering what an actual phoenix looked
like. He practiced the simple wand movement, again and again until he had it down.
Then repeated the incantation, which was even simpler. With great hesitation, he
performed them together, pointing at his wall. When nothing bad happened, he
continued, making sure it all felt natural by the time he was satisfied.
A brilliant notion struck before heading downstairs. He would test it out on one of
Dudley's broken toys. It would be perfect, since most of them were hidden in his old
room, the cupboard under the stairs, which no one ever opened except to throw
another broken item into. Rushing down to pick one out, he grabbed the first thing he
saw, a remote controlled airplane Dudley recently got for his birthday, with one wing
hanging on by only a bit of plastic. Back in his room, he set it in the middle of the
floor, and arranged his computer chair in front of it, sitting down to practice another
few times. His anxiety built, skin prickling, itching, worrying about what might
happen, what could go wrong, and how he might be punished even worse.
He breathed deep, closing his eyes and letting it all float away. He could feel the
wand reacting to his increasingly relaxed state of mind, the tingling sensation on his
hand returned, urging magic to flow. He let it, performing the spell and directing the
feeling through the wand and at the broken toy sitting alone on the ground. It moved,
jumping up into the air and falling back down, breaking the wing completely off this
time.
"Well that's disappointing."
Speaking to the empty room he looked closer at the toy, seeing nothing different, he
laid the pieces together to try again. But after repeating the entire process he only
succeeded in sending it flying higher into the air. He tried a few more times without
success. Checking back over the books again wasn't very helpful, especially once
he got lost reading through the Standard Book of Spells, closing it to find he only had
an hour left until his doom. His stomach growled, reminding him of a missed dinner,
and of the girl in the bookstore.
Plodding down to the kitchen, he picked up a couple pieces of fruit and a half eaten
sandwich leftover from the three Dudley had the day before. He placed a new biscuit
tin on the coffee table and took a few out to match the enlarged one already hidden
in his room. If he managed to get that spell down he figured it would make sneaking
the good food a lot easier. While eating an orange one slice at a time, he headed
back to his books, pulling out one he hadn't tried yet. Don't Panic, You're a Wizard
Now was a lovely title, but it started out simply listing the easier ways wizards did

things than muggles. Starting fires, cleaning dishes, growing food, traveling places,
and his current problem, fixing things. It listed the spells commonly used for each,
and some useful ideas for spells that even wizards commonly forgot about. Yet the
reparo chapter was surprisingly boring, giving loads of useless ideas on what you
could repair.
He kept reading, if only to occupy his mind from his forthcoming punishment and
screaming lecture. Despite his success at stopping his relatives from hitting, nothing
seemed to deter them from screaming. Except his appearance of being completely
innocent, which wasn't likely to happen this time. Coming to the end of the list, he
was nibbling on a piece of inflated biscuit and noticed a footer at the bottom of the
page, referencing how to get liquids back in containers during repair. 'If you are
having an especially hard time doing so, concentrate on and imagine exactly what
you want to happen, in the exact order needed.'
That's what I was doing... wasn't it? He's thought back, remembering how he cast
the spell, his whole process, and what he thought about. But couldn't, because he
was simply expecting it to work, putting no effort or imagination into it. Now that he
understood the point, he realized the other books said to do the same thing, yet in
not so simple terms which he was ignoring, such as 'recreate the process by which
the target is constructed. Allowing for standard deviation of intelligent feedback on
visual and sub-visual levels.' Or at least it sounded like the same concept.
Looking at his now reset watch left him with fifteen minutes, and while he could
never count on the Dursleys being on time, he didn't like his odds. Sitting back down
in his chair he ran through his meditation once more, enjoying the feeling of magic
rushing through him to get at the wand. With careful consideration, he opened his
eyes and stared at the dismal looking toy. Imagining exactly how it should come
together and stay that way. Replaying the thought in his mind as he cast the spell
gave him a shock, as the exact movement was recreated in front of him. No flying, or
falling, or further breaking this time. It was fixed.
Picking it up with a mistrustful laugh, Harry inspected it completely, turning it over
and over in his hands and running his finger over the space where a seam ought to
be, but felt nothing. He gave a triumphant cheer and headed down the stairs
absentmindedly, to look for the remote in the cupboard. The idea of being able to fix
every broken toy and device in the house had him giggling in delight, until what he
did fully set in. He had cast a spell, with a wand. It was real magic.
As he was opening the cupboard door, lights passed by the windows, and the roar of
an engine pulled up and stopped in front of the house. They we early, for once.

Throwing the plane in and closing the door, he bolted toward the couch, taking aim
with his wand. His mind was screaming in panic about being caught, and was about
to cast without thinking or even relaxing again, but forced himself to stop. His heart
kept pounding, shaking his whole chest, racing, thundering past even the escape
from Ripper, being chased up a tree. His hearing was drowned out, his hands
trembling, and just like that time, he breathed deeply and took control. With a slow
and measured motion, he swung his wand at precise angles, imagining the couch
whole, restored fabric sliding back into place, mended wood fitting back together,
and then let loose his magic, "Reparo!"
And there it was. Fixed, hovering two inches in the air.
He jumped on top of it as the front door opened up, letting in the noisy arrival of
cranky relatives. Harry noticed the couch still wasn't flat on the floor, so he mentally
pushed it down, flicking the light switch on across the room with a thought, and
summoning the remote to turn on the TV. Remembering his room, he gently closed
the door and locked it. With one last moment of clarity, he slipped his wand up a
sleeve and changed the channel to something interesting.
"Not that again!" Dudley came charging into the living room, having obviously
pushed past his parents from their annoyed groans, "Mum, Harry's watching Star
Wars on our TV again."
Holding up his hands in surrender, Harry slowly stood, hoping the couch wouldn't
move as he removed his weight. Petunia rounded the corner with a grim look, "Now
what did we say about that insufferable show?"
"Sorry, sorry, I didn't think you'd mind when no one else was home. I'll just go to my
room and read." He handed the controller over while Dudley plopped down on the
couch, making sure it could never move again.
As Harry entered the hallway, Vernon crooked a finger at him once he managed to
wiggle free of his jacket. "You haven't been up to any, funny business, while we were
gone, have you? Because if I even smell-"
"I promise, you probably can't imagine how boring it was, but at least it was better
than watching home movies about cats all day long. I'll get out of your hair now."
Vernon sniffed in agreement, making his way to the couch beside Dudley. Harry
winced at the loud THUMP he heard while walking up the stairs, but there were no
cracks or screams that followed. Unlocking the door to his room from the outside, he
closed it behind him and slumped down in relief, his heart still thudding in his chest.

oOoOo
Nearly the whole week long Harry pretended to be sick, staying in his room, reading
his books, and practicing magic. Making a list of what he wanted to do and buy on
his birthday, while thinking constantly about the wizarding world, and what it all
meant. It was hard for him not to race outside and catch a ride back to Diagon alley
on the knight bus again, after reading a chapter on wizarding transportation that
explained how to get its attention. However during the nights, he would sneak
downstairs to gather broken things and repair them, wondering if savvy wizards
bought up broken antiques to sell them back to muggles, as regular people were
called. But from reading a bit about wizarding laws, there was probably one
designed to stop that.
While some books caught his interest and absorbed his attention until they were
read, others were so boring and made no sense that he saved saved them for later,
most of which were for school subjects. Hogwarts, a History, was rather fascinating
in some parts yet extremely dull in others, making him question the authenticity
sometimes, or be baffled by seemingly outlandish facts included within. Such as how
every founder just happened to have parents who loved alliteration so much they
wanted to torture their children with it. Maybe that pain of related childhood brought
them together, or maybe Stan Lee is really a time traveler. The more likely scenario
he figured might be that it was simply popular to alliterate names in wizarding
culture, since even the author suffered from that curse.
Not until the day before his birthday did Harry pretend to be getting better, asking
Petunia and Vernon if he could talk to them about his school choice tomorrow. He
mentioned it late at night, so they only grumbled instead of starting up a tirade about
how ungrateful he was. That night he had trouble sleeping, if only in eager
anticipation of what would come.
The next morning he woke to a incessant hammering on his door, having overslept
his alarm. He jumped up in frantic search for respectable clothes he could blend in
with, called out in answer that he'd be up in a moment, and threw back on his grey
hoodie which he had altered to hold his wands securely up his sleeves. The
hammering never ceased as he finally answered it in frustration.
"What?" But it was only Dudley and his gang, come for a round of insults, thinking to
corner him in his room so no one would get hurt falling down.
That was Harry's favorable discouragement which worked to persuade Dudley from
early attempts at 'Harry Hunting', yet they still manage to brave their past scrapes
and bruises, in order to taunt him and try getting him in trouble. It took effort trying to

curb their mob mentality, even with his blase approach to their insults.
They stepped back at his vehement question, not sure if this was a good idea or not.
One in the back felt less vulnerable and piped up, "Where's the nutter going today?
Back to the loony bin he grew up in?"
Harry chuckled along with them, "Good thing I grew up here, so that'd be a short
journey, but actually I have other plans. You're welcome to stay if you like, there's
free straight jackets in Dudley's room, and I'm sure you'll fit right in."
Being bigger and stronger, they didn't budge at his attempt to push past them. "Hey
mong, how'd you get a new cine-cam, did ya nick it?"
"Oi! That's mine!" Dudley shouted, pushing Harry away as he barged into the room
and grabbing it off his table.
Rolling his eyes, Harry complained, "Well thanks for ruining the surprise Dennis. I
was fixing it for when he left for Smeltings, but now that's all cocked up. Better go
outside to test how well it works." He ushered them out of his room, following along
behind the confused bullies, down the stairs, and out into the back yard where he
locked the door behind them.
Making his way back to the kitchen, he caught Petunia and Vernon there and sat
down at the table. "About my schooling... I got an offer to go to a prestigious
boarding school far away." He held up his hands to stall their comments, "Don't
worry, it won't cost you anything, completely paid for by a special scholarship. But
the thing is, there's a staff member that wanted to come by and talk to you today.
He'll be here in about ten minutes."
The outrage and indignation started bubbling out of uncle Vernon as petunia
appeared shocked and unprepared by an unexpected guest in her home. She began
cleaning up while Vernon lambasted him with scathing remarks, "Why you
ungrateful, bothersome, useless... smarmy... did you say 'far away'? But still, we
take you into our home, feed you, put clothes on your... did you also say 'paid for'?"
His red faced impression of a puffer fish didn't last long as he considered things and
Petunia took over.
"Why didn't you say something about this yesterday, you unruly, spoilt brat! I could
have been cleaning all morning, but here you wake up after breakfast, throwing this
nonsense at us-" She stopped mid-scrubbing and looked up worried, "What did you
say the name of this school was?" unable to keep her voice from cracking at the
end.

"You don't have to worry about cleaning, he just wanted to talk for a minute or two.
And I think it best to leave describing the school up to him." Harry observed her
strange behavior carefully, noting her jaw trying and failing to form words.
"VERNON!" She finally screamed, "It's that school he's talking about!"
Jolted out of is contemplative sip of tea, Vernon flew unnaturally up from his seat.
His face and body began to twitch in disgust and extreme aversion, as if he was
being shoved head first down a sewer pipe. "You mean... where they learned it all!? NO! I will not have it in my home!"
Harry sat there amused, understanding it all at last. The early revulsion at his curious
questions, the fear and unease any time he would do something strange, and the
complete unreasonable anger at his reading fantasy books or magic tricks. They
knew there really was magic, yet tried to deny it everywhere, even in him. Then the
doorbell rang. "Would you like me to get it?"
Their eyes flared open in dawning horror as Vernon scrambled down the hallway and
Petunia seized a rolling pin. Harry chuckled, and got up to calmly walk towards the
door as well. It was already locked with a large mass of yellow striped blubber
leaning against it in panic. The doorbell rang again, and then a weighty knock
vibrated the door right after. "Go away!" Shouted his uncle, squeezing his eyes
closed in prayer. Harry walked up and then kneeled down to look him in the eyes.
"Uncle Vernon," His eyelids shot open in alarm, "you already know I can do magic,
you've known it for four years. I may not have known what it was called, but we both
have come to accept what I can do, if not out loud." Vernon gritted his teeth and held
on for dear life as the whole wall shook with the next knocks on the door. "You're
only making this harder for yourself, and for your family when you resist the
inevitable." Harry looked back at Petunia, Dudley, and his gang, all staring at them in
worry. Vernon Shook his head vigorously and snarled his defiance at an unjust
reality as more vigorous knocks vibrated the house. Harry shrugged in return and
stood up, "If that's how you want to act, then you're just in the way." The door
unlocked on its own as Vernon looked up in terror. The doorknob began to turn and
his hands latched on, trying to keep it still, but only started turning with it. Finally the
door cracked open, slowly squeezing his mound of flesh to the side, as he struggled
and whimpered in futile arm waving.
"Mornin', bit sluggish today aren't we?" Hagrid's massive head bent low to peek into
the house.
With a smile Harry waved him inside, as scuffling feet could be heard running away

behind him. "Got off on the wrong foot this morning, but everything should be alright
now. Would you like a cup of tea?"
"Don' mind if I do." The door slammed shut behind him with a dumbfounded uncle
Vernon sprawled out in front of it. Hagrid looked back in reproach, "Dursley." He
nodded at Petunia's rolling pin and made his way to the living room, once again
breaking the already weak couch.
It only took twenty minutes to explain how things would work, coming home for
summers, being taken to Diagon Alley to buy school supplies, and leaving on
September the first for Hogwarts. Meeting little resistance from an already defeated
uncle, crouched despondently in his chair, and an aunt who was too flabbergasted
by the giant man sitting on her ruined couch, daintily drinking tea from her best set.
The boys looked in the window once, but ran away again as Hagrid waved hello. He
admonished Harry's relatives for not explaining about his parents, or his heritage,
but couldn't keep going for long at the pitiful looks they were wearing. Finally
informing them he was taking Harry out for his birthday and shopping, which they'd
be back sometime near dark. They didn't even get up, until Harry repaired the couch
one more time in front of them, right after Hagrid exited out the door. Vernon nearly
choked as Petunia screeched in such a high pitch that a window pane cracked.
Quickly grabbing the purses of money and canvas bag hidden in his room and
locking it after, Harry met up with Hagrid on the curb. "Mind if I try this time?" He
asked while taking out his wand. A grin and a nod of approval was all he needed,
within moments of a simple wand wave came a familiar exciting BANG in front of
him. The violently purple triple-decker bus appeared, opening its doors as it came to
a stop, and they were off.
oOoOo
Passing through the dim pub and through the back door, Harry's stomach grumbled
at the pleasant smells of bacon and eggs they just passed. Hagrid put one enormous
hand on his shoulder and turned him back around, directing him to one of the barely
lit booths off to one side of the room. "Can't have yeh playin' all day on an empty
stomach, now can we?" He easily got the attention of a waitress and ordered two
breakfasts with some pumpkin juice for Harry. Drinking and eating with his hood still
up gave him a feeling of being watched; uneasy, he scanned the room but spotted
no one starring. They ate quickly, both enjoying it and hungry enough for the rather
generous portions before them. Hagrid paid and thanked Tom and the waitress on
their way out.
"Want ter try yer hand at this one too?" Hagrid pointed at the brick on the wall.

With a pleased expression, Harry got out his wand again, "Sure." and tapped three
times as the archway opened before him. Back were the smells and sounds of a
bustling wizard center, welcoming them once again. The street was crowded tighter
than last time even for so early in the morning, but following close behind Hagrid
made travel easy.
Entering the cauldron shop first, they browsed around, looking at all the different
types and features. Hagrid suggested the basic pewter model for the price, but Harry
latched onto a collapsible one with spill resistant sides, which happened to be on
sale for not much more. Next was a potions supply shop, where Harry got some
plain glass vials, a silver knife, mortar and pestle, brass scales, and dragonhide
gloves, not seeing the need for anything special there, except a self grinding mortar
and pestle kit; as any other added features were extremely expensive. Outside Harry
examined the gloves carefully, trying to imagine them attached to a real dragon at
some point, while making their way down the busy cobble street.
Stopping in Scribbulus Writing Implements, Harry reluctantly purchased a few quills,
some ink, and parchment, inquiring why they didn't use pens or pencils. Hagrid didn't
know, especially because he'd never heard of either. While some of the inks
sounded useful, others were merely decorative, yet pretty. He bought a small bottle
of self correcting ink, just to try it out, and wandered around the shop, fascinated by
all the expensive quills from different magical and non magical birds with special
enchantments on some.
A strange man in a turban bumped into Hagrid outside, apologizing profusely with a
rather annoying stutter. Hagrid clapped him on the back with a smile, "Why professor
Quirrell, good ter see yeh out an' about. Gettin' more books before yer finally
prepared?"
"Why y-y-yes, just f-f-finishing up. And y-you?" He peered around nervously, like he
was afraid of some monster about to pounce.
Harry hid on the other side of Hagrid, valuing his anonymity while pretending to
examine a shop window. Glancing around quickly, Hagrid caught sight of what he
was doing, "Shoppin' is all," He held up the few packages he was helping to carry
and shook them, "Best get to it though, got lots ter do. Was nice seein' yeh." The
man walked away reluctantly, and then picked up speed soon after, making for The
Leaky Cauldron.
"You're not going to tell me he's the professor of pronunciation at Hogwarts are you?
Because there's a limit to how much irony I can take in a day." Harry asked as they
walked towards an apothecary.

"Nope, Defense Against the Dark Arts. - Not much better, I admit, but he knows his
stuff, otherwise Dumbledore wouldn' have hired him for it."
Inside the shop, Harry marveled at varied parts from all kinds of creatures, magical
or otherwise, while trying to ignore the pungent smells. One side of the room stocked
jars of frog brains, baskets stuffed full of glittering fairy wings, and bundles of dark
werewolf fur. Bowls of assorted animal eyes were stacked on shelves in the center of
the shop, next to tubs of colourful eggs underneath, with bottle after bottle of
assorted fluids on top. Some of those held viscous and bright red bloods, or yellow,
black, and clear venoms, while others contained the dull green mucus of slugs, and
something called a flobberworm. On the other side, he looked through dried herbs
and powdered roots stacked in the window display, beside preserved flowers and
fresh clippings of unique plants. Hagrid ordered the first year set of ingredients from
a shop clerk while watching Harry inspect all the claws, fangs, and feathers hanging
above their heads. The shop was constantly busy with witches and wizards moving
in and out of isles, gathering much needed supplies, with the constant babble of
lively people.
Noticing many of the ingredients he saw in his potions book, it made Harry wonder
how long they lasted for, and what method was used to find new potions. The old
fashion style of the shop also had him questioning if anyone had ever tried
automating the potion making process, at least until the wand waving part. The cash
register rang, bringing him back to the present to receive his change for the
purchase.
Leading them to the next stop on his mental list, Harry found it easily from the
directions Ollivander gave him the other day. It was a large leather shop, which
carried all variety of dragon hide clothes and gear, along with a few other varieties of
unique leather as well. Searching all around, he finally spotted a scant few wand
holsters in a far corner. One attached on the hip, another fit under the arm around
the chest, and the last gripped below the wrist with a simple mechanism to send it
quickly to your hand like a sleeve gun from a James Bond movie. Knowing exactly
which one he wanted, Harry looked for a second to match, but found none. One
would have to be enough for the present.
He had a bad feeling about bringing it to the front counter without a price on it, and
wasn't disappointed when finding out how much they asked. While trying to haggle
the price down a bit, the manager extolled all it's virtues, such as the slim profile, a
notice-me-not charm on it, how the wand was held by a retractable wire, and that it
was enchanted to protect it from any manner of mischievous spells. Although it
wasn't until Hagrid came to tower over the conversation that the man lowered the
price to something reasonable. Harry eventually talked him down a little more and

bought it, putting it on with his wand already locked in place.

They exited out into the late summer morning, birds chirped in the distance, and a
street vendor pushed his cart by, along with the smell of fresh buttery popcorn.
Hagrid waved him down the next moment, purchasing two bags to stave off hunger
until lunch. "Jus' yer clothes left, - an' what would yeh say ter a pet owl fer a birthday
present? Dead useful for carryin' post, an better than a simple toad by any means."
Harry coughed on a piece of popcorn but quickly recovered, "Oh, that's okay... I
wasn't really wanting a pet yet. I'm not much good with animals anyway..."
Looking a little downcast, Hagrid tried again, "No pet... - how about a gobstone set,
those are always popular?"
"A what?"
"Ah, forgot yeh don't know any wizardin' games. I can't jus' get yer clothes, that's not
much of a present, now it's it? Got anything yeh might be wanting lately?"
Adjusting his glasses, he looked up at Hagrid, "Now that you mention it... I have
been needing a new set of glasses, but I don't suppose there's a way to fix people's
eyes magically, is there?"
"Er - not that I'm aware of, healin' spells only gets yeh back ter the way yeh was
before. But there's bound ter be all kinds o' improvements on muggle glasses. Let's
check after gettin' yer uniform." He opened the door they just arrived at, waving
Harry in. Only to be cast back out again by an unknown spell, with the door closing
in their face. A blank sign on the door flooded with angry red letters, 'No Food
Allowed!'
"Huh, that's one way to tell people." Harry gave a mirthless chuckle.
Hagrid guffawed at the sign but shrugged his shoulders after a bit. "No use fightin' it,
I can wait outside with the popcorn." Harry nodded and handed off his bag to enter
the shop alone.
Walking up to the counter, a stocky witch who seemed to be the manager looked at
him levelly, "Can I help you with something?"
"I need a Hogwarts uniform please, and I was wondering what enchantments could
be put on them?"
She perked up at the first part, but shook her head at the last, "I'm sorry, Hogwarts

robes are not allowed to have special enchantments. But come this way, we'll get
you fitted up. And take off that silly hood, this isn't Knockturn Alley." Harry complied
reluctantly, and when the lady finally noticed his scar she stopped suddenly, "Oh..."
But instead of gushing over him like the last man to figure it out, her smile only grew
and she continued working. Measuring here and there, as the bell rang to announce
another customer. "Would you get that Marry, I'm with a customer already." She
called out to the back, and a pretty young woman in a simple red dress stepped out
from behind a curtain with a smile plastered on her face.
It turned to shock seeing the new customers, she gulped and looked towards the
manager and then caught sight of Harry's scar. Her eyes grew bigger than seemed
possible, becoming very nervous and glancing between the new customers and him,
as if wanting to run for her life. She was able to croak out a few strangled words,
"Madam Malkin! It's them!"
Glancing up impatiently, the older woman noticed the worried expression on the girl's
face and nearly fell over when seeing who entered. Harry glanced around as well but
only noticed a stuffy middle aged woman and her son with his back to him. Madam
Malkin jumped up and pulled harry with her towards the girl. "Take him into the
dressing room, and finish up. I'll handle this."
Pulled along into a fancy dressing room with mirrors everywhere, he watched the
nervous girl try to breath. "I take it this doesn't happen very often?"
The girl gave a sudden snort, "No, I should say not. A former... and the boy... never
mind." She shook her head wearily while doing the same measurements over again
with shaky hands. Harry's look of confusion seemed to halt her words but he couldn't
tell why. Obviously she wasn't comfortable discussing it.
He moved on, "I take it pretty much everyone around here went to Hogwarts, any
advice for a new student?"
"Umm..." She bit her nail while stopping to think for a moment, "I guess you should
study more than I did. Joining clubs are fun, and don't get caught up in all the drama
of house rivalries. Even though everyone makes fun of Hufflepuff and talks bad
about Slytherin, they're just normal people. Although you might want to watch out for
a few bad eggs, no matter which house they get in. - Oh, and avoid Peeves, and
Filch and his cat if you can, nothing good ever comes from getting close to them."
"Thanks, I'll remember that. By the way, do you know why enchantments aren't
allowed on the school uniform? I would imagine that would be the best place for
them."

"Hum, I think it's something about keeping things fair, price and what not, maybe so
posh kids don't show off and no one's singled out. But that happens anyway, even by
teachers. That reminds me, don't get on the bad side of Snape. He was a teacher for
most of my time there, and made it quite painful for those who irritated him. And
don't get too close to any defense professor either. Something always goes mental
with them." She was finished with her measurements ages ago but kept close,
peeking at his scar now and then.
Madam Malkin burst in, scanning the room to make sure everything was okay. She
let go of the scowl she was wearing and replaced it with a cheerful smile. "Well now
that that's over with, let's get your uniform. Maybe add in a protective charm or two."
She gave a conspiratorial wink and ushered him into the main room, as Marry wore
her stunned expression again.
oOoOo
Outside and with his canvas bag nearly full of everything but books, Harry found
Hagrid munching on a fresh bag of popcorn in his hand, the other two long gone. He
wore the new school cloak over his plain clothes at the recommendation of Marry to
blend in better, and hide his scar. So Hagrid didn't recognize him until he said hello.
With Harry's refusal of more popcorn, they traveled to a specialty lens shop that
apparently even Dumbledore himself frequented. That got Harry a little excited, but
he felt too cool in his new cloak to show it.
Taking a few minutes of searching down the far end of the street, they finally arrived
at a extremely tidy shop, full of assorted glasses, binoculars, cameras, and
telescopes. That's when Harry remembered he needed one of those as well. The
shopkeeper called out from the back after hearing the bell, "Be right with you." As
things could be heard being put away. Harry strolled around, inspecting the different
items behind glass displays, similar to a fancy jewelry shop. While Hagrid tried to
stick to the center so he wouldn't break anything.
Antique cameras were set up in one area, yet some looked brand new. Old fashion
microscopes in many styles were displayed on shelves, and a wide array of
magnifying glasses sat on a green felt table, waiting to be examined. The number of
frames for glasses were nearly endless, hung up on the walls around the whole
shop, with many unique designs. Hagrid grunted, "Wonder what those are fer. So
tiny." He was carefully bent over a glass display with something on top.
Harry wandered over to see what he was talking about. It was a tray of tiny lenses
on their own, some stood on their side to show how extremely thin they were, and
appeared to come in pairs. They were labeled 'Conspecs' and had a special notice,

'Never before seen, New Item. Please inquire for details.'

The shopkeeper entered wearing a brown waistcoat, multi-lens glasses and spoke
with an unsure tone, "May I help you, kind sirs?"
"We were wondering what these were." When Harry looked up at him, his demeanor
changed to one of supreme confidence in his field, and extreme pride at the work he
did.
"Of course, those are a new product line I invented, made specifically to avoid the
need for frames like yours, have almost zero chance of breaking, correct your entire
field of vision, and have no need for expensive enchantments like glasses do to keep
them in place, or to stop fogging up. It may seem too good to be true, but there is
only a minor inconvenience to achieve all this."
He hesitated to keep going, so Harry interrupted, "So they're contacts?" And the
man's head dropped dejectedly.
"...Yes... I suppose you already know you don't like them. It's almost impossible to
get wizards to try new things these days. Even with so many improvements, and
useful ideas I've had. And muggleborn don't even consider wizard glasses let alone
wizard contacts when they have optometrists everywhere. Not even changing the
name helped, or offering lifetime guarantees. Can you imagine, the only thing
wizards fear more than the dark arts, is something touching their eye?" He lamented
pitifully, swaying in a dispirited manner about the shop. Hagrid squinted away in
distaste at the thought of what he said.
Harry almost laughed at the severe bipolar personality this man had, but held back.
"Actually, I would like to hear more, I've never got to try contacts before, just getting
a new pair of glasses now and then has been enough so far." The man was back
again, smiling and clasping his hands together in abject glee.
"Really? Why that's marvelous, there might be hope for the next generation yet. Let
me explain it all. Every set comes standard with a self cleaning charm, so there is
absolutely no worry about infection. Some have an anti-theft charm so only you can
summon them to take them out, and the very best hover right over the eye so they
never need to be taken off." He picked out one set near the top, "And these are my
masterpiece. They include all the other features, and a special adaptive vision spell,
fitting to any person's eye as they try to focus. From extremely near, to exceedingly
far, and even allow you to see in the dark." Giggling at his own achievement, he set
them down again in front of Harry.
"Er, How much would somethin' like that go fer?" Hagrid inquired, seeing the interest

on Harry's face.
"Oh, for a lifetime fitting like these? I couldn't take less than one hundred galleons!"
Seeing the incredulous reaction on Hagrid's face, the shopkeeper once again
deflated into remorse at his own words, "But, but, the standard modules are only
forty five to start." Hagrid shook his head again, barely able to comprehend why
anyone would spend that much on miniature pieces of glass.
"Harry... I, um, don't -"
"It's okay Hagrid, I understand" He wiped the sweat away from underneath his cloak,
finally feeling the effects of the winter piece he wore. "I can get-" But he was
interrupted by the frantic shopkeeper this time.
"Are you really? I can't believe it, before by very eyes! Harry Potter! The boy who
lived!" He looked around nervously, and taped his fingers together, then picked up a
camera from behind the counter. "Tell you what, forget the price, you can have the
very best, if I can just get a picture of you putting them on. With Harry Potter wearing
my conspecs, they might actually sell! I could put an ad in the Daily Prophet, get
people coming in to see them even. What do you say?"
Harry looked up at Hagrid and they both shrugged, "Alright," said Harry, "but maybe
hold off on the ad in the paper until school starts? I'd like to stay anonymous for as
long as possible.
"By all means, I've waited two years to sell one of these, another month isn't going to
hurt."
This time it was Harry's turn to hesitate, "These are safe though, right? You've tested
them out?"
"Oh my, yes. I've been wearing my own since I first made a pair, but the only other
person I've managed to convince to try them is my wife, and it took a long time for
that."
"Uhh, have you always been so... excitable like this? Or could it be more recent, like
since you started wearing these?"
He gave a hearty laugh at the question, "Oh, no, I've always been a little as you say,
excitable. My wife claims that's the reason she married me, getting two people in
one." Then he began giggling again.
A brief demonstration was all it took for Harry to try them on, and get a couple

pictures taken at the same time. Opening his eyes and blinking a few times to let
things come into focus brought on a whole new world. "WOW! Everything's so crisp
and clear! Is this how everyone sees?"
The shopkeeper squeezed his lips together in contemplation, "It's hard to say, since
it took my eyes months to fully adjust, getting better all the time. While my lovely wife
only took a day or two. The focusing spell used is quite unique, and is very costly to
get put on. But it does work wonders, doesn't it? Eventually you will be seeing better
than all your friends, so do let them know where they can get some of their own,
won't you?"
Still looking around in wonder, Harry nodded absentmindedly, "Of course, these are
amazing!"
oOoOo
It wasn't until they were out the door with a modest brass telescope in hand as well,
that Hagrid spoke up again, "Got anythin' else yeh might want?"
Harry gave a sheepish grin, "Sorry about that, but why don't we get lunch and think it
over? It's..." Harry pulled out his watch, only to see it stopped again, "time to get a
new watch apparently. That's right, I remember reading that electronics don't work
around magic."
"Now that's a birthday present - everyone needs ter be on time fer school." He
clapped Harry on the shoulder happily and they went to lunch, back at the Leaky
Cauldron. Where they were greeted with another brilliant meal, succulent prime rib
sandwiches with loads of chips, and a large slice of bakewell tart to end it with.
Hagrid had a pitcher of specialty mead to wash it down and while Harry liked the
pumpkin juice from earlier, he tried some gillywater instead, to be adventurous.
The next stop on their outing was to Grand Tempi's Clock Shop, drawing them in by
the soaring clock tower atop the roof, like a beacon in the middle of a street. Every
inch of the shop front was covered in one type of clock or another. Hanging wall
clocks with dragons carved into them, elegant grandfather clocks with detailed
cabinetry and the phases of the moon displayed on top, stately glass anniversary
clocks with silver or brass mechanisms whirring inside, and a diverse mix of metal
sun dials, all finely crafted to look very expensive. The inside was much the same,
yet had a lot more variety, including a massive display table, featuring hundreds of
wrist and pocket watches to tantalize the eyes.
Voicing his concerns outside, Harry offered to go somewhere else that might have a
simpler selection. But Hagrid grunted happily, explaining he knew the owner well and

he would give them a fair price. Upon opening the door, they heard a small popping
sound over all the ticking, seeming to alert the shopkeeper to a new guest. A man in
fancy gold wizarding robes and pointed hat wandered over from one corner to burst
into laughter, "Why Hagrid my old friend, what a surprise to see you! Dedalus was in
here a mere hour ago, commenting on how you were helping a very special student
around-" He saw Harry come into view with his hood up and the words caught in his
throat.
All the clocks seemed to tick louder and louder until Hagrid finally spoke up, "Clagan,
as yeh heard, this is Harry Potter. And Harry, this is Clagan Tempi, a good friend.
Who's very discrete." He nodded meaningfully at the man.
"Hmm? Oh. Oh yes, of course. It is a pleasure to meet to young man, a real
pleasure." Bowing regally and grinning awkwardly, he continued, "I guess you didn't
come by to just say hello, so what can I do for you two today?" He regained his
composure and waved his wand at the door which locked with a closed sign flipping
around. "A dignified family clock for instance?" He indicated a giant lion's head wall
clock with a flourish of his hands, "Or perhaps something simple like a bedside
alarm?" Proffering a smaller glass box containing hundreds of spinning gears,
bouncy springs, and swaying counterweights only displaying the time. "Maybe even
a grand exhibition piece for Hogwarts?" He pointed at the huge rotating ceiling clock,
illustrating the movement of the solar system relative to the time of day and shape of
the moon, as well as highlighting planets within view.
Harry smiled at the continued eccentricities of these shop owners, or perhaps it was
all wizards. "Actually, I needed a new wristwatch, preferably something that isn't too
flashy."
"Flashy? We don't carry those type of gaudy things in this kind of shop, do we
Hagrid?" A sarcastic smirk peaked from beneath Clagan's long mustache as Hagrid
gave a good humored chuckle. "We do only have the best of the best though, right
this way." Leading them past a towering shelf full of multiple sized hour glasses, he
picked one up and circled around the large counter of timepieces. Setting down the
hourglass, he twirled his wand and every wristwatch floated into the air, presenting
the simply designed ones up front.
With a wave of his hands towards the items, he gave a sales pitch, "Each one is
enchanted to keep perfect time, the day of the week, and month, which should last
for a century. Most all come with multiple alarms, and unbreakable charms to keep
them running smoothly. Others have stopwatch capabilities, phases of the moon,
compasses, or can perform simple spells when activated, and the most impressive
can become permanent portkeys. Although each one can be improved at a later time

by replacing specific parts, but is costly to do. - So, which one would you like to try
on?"
Gold watches sparkled while silver ones flashed in front of Harry's eyes. Some had
emerald or ruby gems set in the frame while few contained glowing dials and second
hands that seemed to leave colourful trails as they spun around. One seemed to
even be made of bone with small fangs around the edges, and another was crafted
entirely out of glass. There were antique sorts with fancy numbers and gears
showing, creative types with unique plants or animals moving about the insides, and
then Harry saw a simple bronze one with black leather straps off to one side. "What
about that one?" He pointed.
"Ah, a very good choice indeed, although some prefer that style after attending
Hogwarts." Clagan let the rest settle to the table and brought the single watch over to
float in front of them. He kept talking but Harry became distracted after putting it on.
Assuming it was a cheaper model at first, Harry had a hard time believing his newly
crystal clear sight as the center of the watch curved deeper than was possible for the
thin bit of metal. Inside was a dark blue night with a sea of white stars floating in the
background. Stuck in the very center was an eerily realistic earth, with white clouds
dotting the landscape and a dark crescent forming on the edge, appearing to show
the night horizon. The equally detailed moon sat off to the side, with it's own shadow
crescent giving stark contrast to the cold bluish light that reflected off it's surface.
Around the outside a small asteroid circled the entire scene, slowly revealing the
minutes as they passed. The earth had a similar satellite creeping gradually around
it, but this one cast a thin ray of light outwards to denote the hour. Faint lines in the
glass revealed the numbers and lines along the edge, and was the last thing he
noticed before Clagan slipped it away to ring it up. "But!" He looked up in concern.
Hagrid laughed at him, "Yeh were staring fer a good five minutes. 'Bout time we buy
it so Tempi here can get back ter work. Yeh do want it, don't yeh?"
"Yeah... thanks." Said Harry sheepishly. Hoping it wasn't too much, he watched the
chat they had about the price, but instead of money being handed over, it was a
meager wooden box that Hagrid pulled out of a pocket and gave to the grateful
watchmaker. Something appeared to glow through the cracks but that even confused
Harry more.
As they exited the shop another distinct pop was heard after waving to Clagan.
Hagrid handed over the wrapped package outside the door, "Happy birthday! - Go
on, might as well wear it." Unwrapping it eagerly, Harry once again marveled at the
enthralling scene after putting it on, but Hagrid interrupted him again. "Where to

now? Or have yeh had enough shoppin'?"

Harry shook his head vigorously, "Books."
And so the wonderful day continued, going from bookshop to bookshop, gathering
an ample supply to last the rest of summer holidays. Ending with another stop at
Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour to celebrate with a giant ice cream cake of
many different flavors. It took a while to eat it all, but when done it was finally time to
head home. On the bus ride back Hagrid thankfully remembered to hand Harry a
ticket to the Hogwarts express at the last moment, and waved a fleeting good by as
the last BANG of the night brought an end to the day.
Dusk soon came with the dimming light of the quiet little neighborhood. Harry stood
there with all of his packages on the pavement in front of him, looking around at the
normal world that wasn't quite as mundane anymore.

Chapter 3 - Sorting
Author's Note: Yes, I realize the story name is somewhat strange, and I have
consider changing it. Thank you for the reviews so far, they do help.
Chapter 3
Sorting
All month long seemed a torture and adventure rolled into one, learning about the
magical world and then waiting to see more. Harry spent most of his days locked in
his room, reading books and ignoring his relatives, who kindly returned the favor. It
turned out that Dudley hadn't seen the magic performed on the couch yet got in a
row with his parents after being banned from ever talking to Harry again, especially
to insult him. Which suited Harry just fine. Practicing magic on the other hand didn't
go as well. After succeeding wonderfully with the repairing charm, he moved on to
locomotor which was even easier. Yet that only encouraged him to skip to the
second grade spellbook he purchased ahead of time and try out the engorgement
charm, which he assumed was what Hagrid used on the biscuits.
That's how he came to realize the dangers of magic.
Nicking a single strawberry delight from an extra large tin of chocolates in Dudley's
room, Harry brought it back to experiment on. The rest of the day he tried to forget,
after witnessing a football sized sweet explode in his face, then having to scrape and
clean the sticky icing and chocolate off every surface in the entire room, including
himself. He thought about trying to learn a cleaning charm half way through, but was
afraid his solo practice should wait until he got to school, where there was a capable
nurse who knew how to heal magical injuries.
Near the end of summer, Harry was again tempted to sneak back to Diagon Alley to
pick up a magical trunk he read wondrous things about. But Hagrid had specifically
warned him not to go venturing off on his own, telling him how dark wizards and
hags preferred to prey on the young and unaccompanied. He guessed it was just a
scare tactic to keep children in line, but it still worked. If anything the magical books
had taught him so far, it was to suspend his disbelief about what he thought was
impossible. Magic it turned out was like reality, it didn't always make sense. But at
least it was consistent, that was a start.
Asking uncle Vernon if there was something he could use instead, led him to the
garage, where he found a huge, ratty brown trunk that barely fit together anymore.

Yet one reparo charm later and it was as good as new, except for some bits of wood
and fabric that were missing. He packed nearly everything he could in it the night
before leaving, not even bothering to ask for a ride the next day. The rest he stuffed
in his canvas bag to keep close.
That night lasted an eternity, worrying and wondering about the day to come. Not
even meditating helped him get to sleep at even close to a reasonable hour, which
per usual made him wake up late the next day, tired and groggy. Taking a very quick
shower and slipping on his new robes and cloak to start, he rushed downstairs to
grab two pieces of toast and some bacon from a late Sunday breakfast, Harry said a
quick goodbye to his disinterested relatives and floated his trunk out the door. Only
getting a startled and angry response after Dudley had noticed and fainted on the
kitchen floor. A minute later he was riding an extremely packed Knight Bus to Kings
Cross station, mostly filled with older students towing even larger trunks and animals
in cages.
A friendly older girl in blue trimmed robes sat next to him and helped him store his
truck, then get it down again as everyone rushed to disembark at Kings Cross. Harry
thanked her and followed behind the line of students all gathering trolleys and
heading towards the same place. He was relieved not having to find the magical
platform on his own, until people suddenly started disappearing. Soon he was left
staring at the last of someone's heel, which magically traveled through a brick wall.
The girl who helped him still stood off to the side, checking her luggage to make sure
she didn't forget anything. Not wanting to bother her again, he walked up cautiously
to the wall and tried to see past some illusion that might be there, but only saw
bricks. With a single book from his bag, he surreptitious slid it into the portal,
watching it closely.
"Do you mind?" Harry jumped at the unexpected words, then looked up to a family of
redheads all watching his every move. The youngest girl with freckles for cheeks
was short enough to see under his hood and appeared recognize him, as an eager
and predatory expression formed on her face. The oldest boy repeated himself, "Do
you mind? We need to get through."
"Sorry..." Harry pulled his hood further down, feeling uneasy from the scrutiny and
strange looks. Trying to ignore all that, he pushed his fears away and turned his
trolley around towards the portal. With a casual stride forward it started to melt into
the wall, taking him with it. He watched his hands go through the brick as if it wasn't
even there, and he couldn't help but cringe as his face met the wall, passing right
through it. Shaking off his unease with a shiver, he pushed on ahead, reassured by
the sign that said Hogwarts Express, and aimed his trolley at the back of the of the
long crimson train.

Meandering through the crowd of concerned parents and mingling students, Harry
overheard an array of accents from all over the country and beyond. Animals ran
loose through the throngs of people, making strange noises or causing people to
make even stranger ones. Quite a few younger students were running around with
their hoods up as well, shouting at each other and playing some game. He passed
two Indian girls near his age getting a lecture from their mother.
"I don't want to hear one more word about tricking your teachers or I'll send an owl
telling each of them exactly how to tell you two apart." The twin girls paled at that
and nodded sullenly.
Harry noticed a group of enthralled boys gathered around central figure showing off
his new broom, "Do you really think you'll get on the team this year Cedric? The
competition is fierce this time." One was keen to ask.
"Just have to try harder is all." He replied with a simple grin.
Steam began pumping into the air from the large engine up front, while a gaggle of
older girls all screamed in the distance. It was becoming clearer to Harry that the
only real difference between wizards and regular people was their environment,
which only changed the usual range of how different they could be, physically, and
probably mentally as well. Eventually finding an empty compartment, he floated his
things in and settled down on the bench, taking out one of his books in the process.
He tried to ignore the madness outside until it came in to greet him, in the form of a
small Asian girl carrying a giant toad, which croaked loud enough to shake the
windows. She apologized quietly, and looked on the verge of saying more to him, yet
couldn't bring herself to do so.
A whistle blew far away, and someone else opened the compartment door.
"Do you mind if we sit here? Someone brought a giant tarantula on board and it
escaped near the front."
The girl opposite him smiled at the company but looked to Harry in question. It
turned out to be the same two Indian girls standing at the door with their trunks
trailing behind. "Sure," he mumbled over his book and the train began to move. They
all exchanged polite greetings while the girls hefted their trunks and owls into the
compartment as if they weighed nothing. One carried a beautiful snowy owl that
looked him directly in the eyes and hooted. The other was a brown, crazy-eyed elf
owl that was barely big enough to carry a stamp, let alone a letter. Harry gave only
his first name while learning theirs, the twins were Padma and Parvati Patil, and the
one with the toad was Sue Li. They chatted for a bit about the train and crowds, but

he pretended to become absorbed in his book after conversation didn't go much

further than that. A while later the quiet was cut short by one of the twins getting up,
"Well I'm going to look around and see what they have on the trolley, anyone want
something?" They all refused as she shrugged her shoulders in defeat.
oOoOo
Halfway through the trip Harry fell asleep with a book in his lap, listening to the
gentle clicking of the wheels along the track. Being partially woken by the door
sliding shut, a new girl sat down right beside him and began to talk quietly. Although
he didn't look up from beneath his hood, it was easy to tell she was a girl by the nice
smell and soft voice. She was talking about books and toads of all things, but he
didn't catch much after just waking. Leaning over him, she read the title of his book
out loud.
"Important Modern Magical Discoveries, looks like he's off to a good start, except the
whole sleeping bit. Anyway, I should be going now, but I'm sure we'll see each other
around."
Getting up to leave, she took the familiar scent with her and closed the door silently.
But right before Harry decided to wake up fully, the door banged open once again.
He peeked around the edge of his hood to see a pale blond haired boy and two
others behind him, not who he was hoping for.
"Have you seen Harry Potter? They say he's on the train somewhere but no one can
find him." Harry cringed in discomfort.
The two girls shook their heads after a quick glance at each other.
"Useless..." The boy mumbled and slammed the door shut again.
Their whispered conversation picked up again, mostly to do with how rude some
people could be. Stretching and yawning in his seat, Harry finally got up and smiled.
"Thanks for that. He didn't sound too pleasant to wake up to."
They looked up with confused expressions, but slowly it began to dawn on them.
Then he pulled back his hood, "No way!" Yelled the only twin there, but Harry
couldn't guess which one. "You've been hiding the same way as the rumor this whole
time? Everyone was suspecting you'd be changing disguises left and right after
being spotted wearing a cloak in Diagon Alley. You even started a fad for kids to pull
their school hoods down and pretend to be Harry Potter!"
Harry snorted in laughter, "Really? Well, I can't blame them... I do look pretty cool."

"Pfft! Everyone else has been complaining about how silly it's-" She clapped her
hands over her mouth, realizing who she was talking to.
Sue spoke up softly, "It certainly removed suspicion about him being the real one
though. Did you get spotted on purpose? Was that really your intention all along?"
Wearing a wry grin, he tilted his head in modesty, "Was it that obvious?" The looks of
astonishment were good, but he couldn't keep up the act and began to laugh again,
"Only kidding, sorry, I really had no idea anyone would care that much about seeing
me. Even though I recently read some books talking about me, I didn't spend much
time considering my celebrity status. By the way, where's your sister? Out getting
more snacks?"
"Parvati left an hour ago, probably to gossip about you as well. And why are you
revealing yourself now? Couldn't wait to surprise everyone at the sorting ceremony?"
"I'd rather avoid all that if possible, but I didn't want to get questioned the whole way
there either, so I hid. I suppose I better wander around a little, maybe get a snack
myself before we get there. Anything good I should try?" Padma rolled her eyes, but
Sue suggested the cauldron cakes and peppermint toads, and warned him the
trolley was all the way up front.
On the way there he drew many stares and double takes at his scar, along with
hushed whispers which followed him down the corridor. But no one really bothered
him, until he got to the trolley. There he saw two boys of the same red headed family
he met earlier, who were buying up boxes of something called pepper imps. Harry
became distracted by the variety of curious sweets displayed by the kind older lady,
but only purchased a few pocketfuls so as to not get sick. All the while the red
headed boys, another set of twins, were gawking at him.
"Hello, are those any good?" Harry asked to relieve the awkwardness.
Their eyes widened and one automatically extended an open box to him, "Try one."
"Oh, thanks." He pulled one out and took a bite, feeling the heat right away. Their
eyes widened and looked at each other, then backed away slowly. A group of
younger students came flocking up to the front, some wearing cloaks with their
hoods up still, and caring books for him to sign. He shoved the rest of the sweet in
his mouth and smiled weakly at them, as one blonde haired girl pushed to the front.
Just then he got a sudden, burning urge to burp, he tried to repress it as she got
closer but the blazing fire in his mouth became overwhelming. It burst open to roar
real live flames, right into the girl's eager face.

Everyone screamed and ran the opposite direction, all except the twins howling with
laughter in the corner, the trolley lady shaking her head, and the completely stunned
girl still in front of him. Her hair was frazzled and blown back from the heat, but not
singed to cinders, thankfully. She coughed out a bit of smoke from rosy cheeks and
extended her book out to sign, barely conscious of what was going on. Harry took
the quill and signed it awkwardly, apologizing again and again.
"I'm really sorry... I didn't mean to..."
She put on a brave half-smile and stiffly walked back to her compartment. The twins
were rolling on the floor now, cackling in glee and offering him another imp from the
box.
"Thanks, but no thanks." Harry managed, and slipped on his hood again to make his
way back. Doors were opened at the commotion of people running past and older
students were looking out in question, but no one stopped him in concern. The blond
boy and his trailing groupies passed him by in a rush, not even sparing him a glance.
He sat down across from Sue and Padma again, offered them some chocolate and
ate in peace, until the door opened once again.
"Did you hear what all the commotion was about? Someone said Harry Potter
jumped onto the train and turned into a fire breathing dragon?" It was the same girl
from earlier who read his book title. Harry hid his face and shrugged. "Sounds like a
bunch of rubbish, but..." She shook her head, "Well, no matter, we'll be there shortly.
You all better get changed, and I would suggest you take off that silly hood before
the ceremony as well." Padma chucked and the girl left.
"No, nothing like that happened, I simply tried a pepper imp. And the hood isn't silly."
They all laughed quietly at that.
Sue cleared her throat after a moment, and Harry sat being glared at by Padma
before coming to realize what the girls wanted. He stepped outside and waited for a
while, watching the golden sky leisurely bleed away to darkness, and a sprawling
forest come into view.
An authoritative voice reverberated through the hallway. "The train will arrive in five
minutes. Please leave your luggage as it will be transferred for you." The
compartment door clicked open to let him back in, but the next second Parvati
charged past him and closed the door in his face.
Soon the train came to a complete stop at a small station surrounded by trees and
darkness, both melding into a spooky greeting from their new school. Everyone
scurried outside, some donning their cloaks in the cold, when a lantern came into

view, highlighting a bushy beard high above their heads.

"Firs'-years, this way! Follow me. All right there Harry?" Everyone turned to look in
his direction, but Hagrid soon had them moving along, the youngest following him
down a dim and slippery trail, heading somewhere unknown. He kept talking, holding
the lantern high to keep their attention as Harry tried to get his night vision to work.
Finally managing to focus as they rounded a bend in the path, the shadows faded
away before him, and a score of brilliant lights caught his attention. The stars were
brighter than ever but they paled in comparison to the radiance coming off the high
cliff in the distance. Harry pulled his hood back to get a better look.
Ooohs and awwws could be heard as everyone noticed the towering castle hanging
over the edge of the vast reflective lake, a smooth black mirror of the night sky.
Harry's eyes adjusted gradually from the light, to see the massive stonework of
unique towers and many crenelated turrets all over the expansive grounds.
Impressive, was the only word that caught in his mind.
"All aboard, an' no more'n four in each." Called Hagrid, waving them over to a fleet of
miniature boats.
They all piled in and Harry was finally confronted by the blond haired boy who
elbowed his way into the same boat at the last second. A lanky redhead youth
already in his seat beside them gave a dark look, while the round faced boy next to
him whimpered some more. Both were ignored as he spoke to Harry.
"Name's Malfoy, Draco Malfoy." He said, and Hagrid called out again propelling the
boats forward, barely covering up the snicker and whine from the two other students
beside them.
"Harry Potter, but I'm sure you already guessed that." He shook Draco's clammy
hand, as more strange noises erupted from the others in their boat, and some
whispers started close by.
The red headed boy stuck his hand out as well, "Ron Weasley, pleasure to meet
you. And this is Neville Longbottom." Neville gave a quiet sob in response, "He lost
his toad on the train."
Draco sneered at them, "I should warn you Potter, there are some riffraff you
shouldn't associate with here at Hogwarts. They might drag you down into the
gutters with them."
Before Ron's face burst into scarlet flames, Harry interrupted, "What does that
mean?"

"You'll come to find out some wizarding families are much better than others, their
blood is more pure, and their magic stronger."
Ron jumped up to yell, but was jerked back in confusion, finding he was stuck, and
angrily looked around at his seat. Harry continued, a little confused, "You mean to
say that ancestry determines your skill in magic? How is that possible?"
Slightly stunned by the question, Draco's eye twitched, "It's just obvious, the further
back magic goes in your bloodline, the better you are at it." His lip curled at Nevil,
"Though sometimes even the oldest families get a squib now and then." Ron was
still distracted fighting with his seat to comment.
"Wait, you mean no one has actually tested this idea? Have you heard of genetics?"
"What?" Draco didn't seem to like where this was going. "It's a simple fact, no one
has to test it."
Giving up on attacking Draco physically, Ron tried verbally, with as much scorn and
disdain as he could manage. "Everyone knows that's a load of rubbish, you slimy git!
Your nasty family wouldn't look so pure without your money. And Dumbledore's the
greatest wizard alive but he's only a half blood!"
"Obviously we have different definitions of what 'great' is." Retorted a smug Draco,
but a violent growl from behind startled him before saying more. Everyone looked
around uneasily at Hagrid.
"We're here." He grumbled, looking unhappy while ushering them all out of the boats
and up a lengthy stone passageway to the castle high above. They excited out onto
a hill of fine grass and followed him up one more set of stairs to the front entrance.
He knocked heavily against the grand oak doors.
oOoOo
An austere, dark haired woman in emerald-green robes and a decidedly witchy hat
opened the doors to greet them. She wore a tight expression with pursed lips to give
the impression she wasn't one to be trifled with.
Hagrid gave a polite bow. "Here's the firs'-years professor."
She thanked him, and invited the students in. Leading them through the imposing
entrance hall, lit with burning torches and a distant ceiling, giving off a peculiar
feeling of foreboding. Definitely not the joyful welcome Harry expected. They passed
by two immense double doors, worn from much use, and hiding what sounded like

the rest of the student body. Before they got to the majestic marble staircase directly
ahead, a side door opened, calling them over. After they were all crowded inside,
she began.
"Welcome to Hogwarts! I am Professor Minerva McGonagall and you all will join the
start-of-term feast shortly. But first-" She kept talking, yet everyone else had become
distracted, staring at the silvery translucent person floating behind her. He waved
pleasantly at them to get their complete attention, then grabbed a tuft of his hair and
pulled off his head.
Nearly every child screamed in fright, most scrambling to the back of the room and
one fainting dead on the spot. Harry snorted silently at their reaction and glanced
around as Nevil got stepped on by others in their flight. An equally unimpressed girl
ran over to help him up. It was apparent that only a minority had experience with
ghosts, or read about them in Hogwarts, a History like he did. Although it raised
many, many questions about reality, magic, seemed to be the only answer given.
McGonagall finished berating the now downtrodden ghost to calm the first years,
check on Neville, and finish her speech about house points. Leaving them alone for
a second to check on things, the room immediately broke into murmured speculation
about which house was the best or the topic of spirits. Harry stood back and
observed them all, wondering what the future would hold.
A minute later they were being led inside the Great Hall single file, to be judged by
an ancient singing hat if the books were to be believed. The doors opened before
them, exposing a majestic and dazzling scene. Thousands of white candles writhed
up and down over four impossibly long tables, perfectly lined with golden trimmed
plates and goblets next to sparkling silver utensils. At the front sat a regally
decorated table for all the staff, with an opulent golden throne in the center. Behind
that hung a giant, shimmering stained glass window, yet every first year's eyes were
drawn to the crystal clear night sky for a ceiling, a brilliant half moon and stars
helping to illuminate the assembly. Hundreds and hundreds of students watched
them pass, all with great interest for reasons Harry could only guess at.
Coming to line up in front of them, Harry noticed the nearby open seats, and a few
familiar faces from the trip. He began inspecting his prospective house carefully,
passively listening to the hat's strange song while doing so. More ghosts floated
through the walls as "HUFFLEPUFF!" was shouted into the crowd. It appeared the
sorting had begun. Looking behind at the sound of clapping he saw older faces
peering down from a high table, eagerly watching the main attraction. A central figure
sat a little higher than the others, wearing flaming red robes and a matching pointed
hat. He grew a lengthy diamondish beard around his smiling face, with a twinkle in

his eyes he could only be the headmaster, Albus Dumbledore. The single person to
notice Harry was an oily, black haired man with pallid skin and venom in his dark
eyes. Harry turned back around and shivered at the chill in his bones.
"RAVENCLAW!" Brought his attention back to the task at hand, and so he watched
everyone being sorted, slowly and deliberately, trying not to let his mind wander too
far. There were more Hufflepuff called and then Gryffindors and Slytherin started
appearing to great cheers from each individual table. Some were more enthusiastic
than others, but it finally felt like a proper welcome to school, even if they were being
divided in teams, for some unknown reason other than sports.
Ron made a fake gagging sound as a bushy haired girl got into Gryffindor, which
Harry found quite rude. He saw Sue grin at getting into Ravenclaw, Neville falling
clumsily from the stool after gaining entry to Gryffindor, and Malfoy unsurprisingly
went to Slytherin, given what was written about it. Soon it was coming to Harry's turn
as he heard Padma was sent to Ravenclaw while Parvati almost jumped for joy at
being chosen for Gryffindor. That seemed to confuse some in the audience, seeing
twins go to separate houses, but died away quickly after the next girl was ignored.
Then his name was announced.
"Potter, Harry." It was followed by a dull roar of excited whispers, heads craning
around to see, as all eyes latched onto his awkward gait towards the hat. He
viscerally felt the nervousness that had been building all day long, and tried in vain to
push it from his mind as he picked up the millennium old magical artifact.
It felt worn and heavy, but surprisingly spry for its age. The hat fell over his eyes and
shook all by itself to get comfortable. Then whispered quietly in his ear, "Ah... not
interested in any other house but one are you?"
'Is there some reason I should be, that I don't know about?' Harry thought in honest
curiosity, while wondering if the hat could really read his mind, like the books said.
"Yes, I can read your thoughts and there are... many friends you could make in other
houses, yet you think one would understand you best. Although you care little for
power or fame, honor or fairness, and cunning or bravery would be only a means to
an end, yet there is much you could learn from another house. But it seems you
made up your mind long ago, before ever coming here, haven't you?"
'I suppose. The other houses seem fine, but if we have to choose, wisdom is mine. By the way, got any tips or tricks in magic after nearly a thousand years of existence
that you can pass on?'
"Not a one, I'm a sorting hat, that's all I'm for. But I will give you a piece of advice you

already know, be yourself. - Now, let's be on with it."

"RAVENCLAW!" It bellowed, to mixed reactions all around.
oOoOo
Harry breathed deeply and pulled the hat off to see his new housemates clapping
and cheering loudly. Other tables had looks of disappointment or curious smiles, but
most still clapped along. Standing up he felt a headache coming on, but set the hat
down gently and made his way over to sit opposite Padma and Sue. A mature curly
haired girl next to him smiled warmly and held out her hand in greeting.
"Hello again, my name's Penelope Clearwater, or Penny for short. I'm the Ravenclaw
prefect." And she just happened to be the same one who helped him on the night
bus as well. Which Harry thanked her for again while shaking hands. Now that he
thought back, she probably didn't need to check her bags either, but was making
sure he got through to the platform okay. Mentioning that only received a smirk in
return, as she nodded towards the continuing ceremony.
Before turning around, a stunning female ghost at their table caught his eye, gazing
directly at him with a knowing smile. But it was gone in a flash, peering up at the
sorting hat with mild interest instead.
"GRYFFINDOR!" Was shouted out as another boy was cheered to his table. A
"RAVENCLAW," for Turpin, Lisa prompted Harry to clap along with those around
him, as the square faced girl with thin lips and brown hair awkwardly sat down
beside him. Appearing extremely nervous to be so close to a celebrity. Next, Ron
was cheerfully greeted into Gryffindor by his family, and Zabini, Blaise ended the
affair, seeming aloof at getting into Slytherin.
The whole hall of students began to settle down, seeing the headmaster stand. He
wore a radiant smile, and held his hands high to cease all noise. Which made Harry
want to clear his throat just to see if it was magic, or respect.
"Welcome, one and all! I'm overjoyed that you're all here at Hogwarts for yet another
wonderful year! But before we tuck in, I have a few words of wisdom for you all. And
they are: Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! - Thank you."
He sat back down to loud clapping, cheers of celebration, and a couple odd looks.
Harry turned to Penny in worry, "Did he just have a stroke? Did no one else notice he
just had a stroke?"

Chuckling in response she shook her head, "No, I'm sure those are words of wisdom
in some way. What they mean... well, maybe you can guess."
Right then, the feast instantly appeared on the table to distract them, masses of it, all
looking and smelling amazing. Steaks, roasts, hams, and meats of every kind filled
the tables, separated by all sorts of potatoes, salads, and vegetables galore. Heavy
baskets of assorted rolls, fresh breads, and Yorkshire puddings were spaced
throughout, and sprinkled everywhere were sauces or condiments to go with
everything. Harry tried to ignore it all and raised his eyebrows in question at Sue and
Padma across the table, but they only shrugged helplessly and began scooping
things onto their plates. He looked back at Penny, only to see her smirk again and
stab a large slice of roast beef.
Shaking his head, Harry gave up and decided right then and there, he wouldn't let
the madness get to him. And simply had to hope it was possible, as he began
dishing up his plate, trying a little of everything.
That was until he came to a golden bowl of flying saucers behind the potatoes. He
looked at the colourful and out of place sweets in confusion, wondering if he was
already starting to crack. Reaching a hand out to make sure they were really there,
he picked one up to inspect it, wondering if it was some strange wizard variation that
contained a magic spell like pepper imps. No one else seemed to pay them any
mind as he gently broke one open and touched it to his tongue. It was ordinary
sherbet, which almost confused him more. He placed it to the side and added it to
the list of things he would ask about later.
The meal was every bit as good as it appeared, much better than the dishes served
at his relatives, especially the ones he didn't help with. Even the pumpkin juice in his
goblet tasted better than last time, though the atmosphere was more boisterous than
any pub. A few seats away, one first year boy kept glancing up at the candles in
worry, Harry remembered his name was Kevin as he began to speak.
"Does it bother anyone else, there being burning candles over our heads while we
eat? It feels like hot wax is going to drip down any second."
Another older boy beside him grinned, "Muggleborn huh? Just wait until you see the
owl post during breakfast. Imagine what could fall down from that." He snickered at
the disgusted expression of the girl opposite him, and then cursed as he was kicked
in retaliation.
Penny gave them both a withering look, and aggressed Kevin, "There's a special
vanishing enchantment around the tables that removes all unwanted... stuff before it

falls on anything. Although I heard this year they're moving the owl post to right after
breakfast, so you needn't worry."
Someone else added on, "You know why right? Cause in someone's pumpkin juice
they found a piece of sh-"
"Chambers!" Penny nearly yelled.
He shrugged, "Well it's true, no spell works perfectly."
On the opposite side of Harry, someone cleared their throat, "Why don't we introduce
ourselves properly, since we're all going to be spending seven years together, we
might as well get it out of the way. My name's Anthony Goldstein, I'm a pure blood
from Mucking, Essex."
Most nodded hello and began introducing themselves in between bites of food. "I'm
Terry Boot and this is Michael Corner, we're both half bloods from Dent, Cumbria.
Grew up neighbors in the same wizarding community."
Sitting beside them, Mandy Brocklehurst embarrassedly mumbled that she was a
half blood too from a village named Bunny. While a familiar looking boy named
Stephen Cornfoot didn't seem too honest as he claimed to be a pure blood from
Plush, Dorset. Kevin Entwhistle mentioned he was a muggleborn and lived in lower
London, not too far away from Diagon alley. But it piqued the most interest when
Morag MacDougal told them she was from Hogsmeade and had an older sister that
graduated from Hogwarts last year. Nearing the end of the meal, many were full and
playing with their food, so she was badgered with questions about the town and what
her sister did now.
Rescuing Morag from the siege of curious Ravenclaws, Padma chimed in, "My
parents are originally from Agra in India, but now we live in Yorkshire. No one really
kept track of wizarding lineages there... though we have magical heirlooms passed
down from a thousand years or more."
The main courses suddenly disappeared from the table and even from their plates
as well, replaced by a veritable smorgasbord of fantastic desserts. Delicate
chocolate, sponge, and cheese cakes were stacked on tiered stands, next to fruit,
custard, and treacle tarts just the same, all pre-sliced for them. Giant silver platters
filled with stacked pastries were circled by individual bowls of every flavored ice
cream imaginable. Many students reached for those first before even more
appeared. Decadent dishes of trifle and rich puddings arrived, interspersed with
plates of fresh fruit to torment those knowing they should eat better. Harry on the
other hand, wanted to try it all, since it looked like someone opened a fancy dessert

shop, right in front of them.

Everyone was digging in while Sue struggled to talk over the rabble at other tables,
"I'm from Penglai, a Chinese island of witches. My father was a muggle but is no
longer considered one in our culture, since he married my mother. I came to live in
London last year with my uncle to practice english and get ready for Hogwarts."
"That's amazing!" Gushed Lisa, while trying to talk around an eclair, "I read a book
about your island once and it said there was so much magic used there that you
could actually see it in the air! And your English is great for only a year."
"Thanks, but I've been learning english from my father for many years as well, and
there are lots of fanciful legends and myths that have spread over the years about
our island, but most are simply made up. What about you Lisa?"
"Oh, me? I'm just a muggleborn that found out about wizards when I was eight, after
turning everyone's hair blue in my town." She blushed but forged on, "The ministry of
magic had to send a team of Obliviators out twice, but tracked me down after the
third time to try teaching me not to do it. Ever since then I've been learning about the
wizarding world as much as I can. But, I'm not supposed to tell people where I live
for some reason, sorry..." Her eyes widened in shock as a glop of filling fell in her
lap.
That put a damper on introductions for a minute as they all ate quietly and
remembered their own incidents with accidental magic. At least until Harry caught
Padma staring again.
"Well, aren't you going to introduce yourself, or did you want to avoid your own name
as well?" She grinned, seeming to enjoy teasing him already.
Harry finished his last bite of cherry stuffed cheesecake and wiped his mouth,
"Thanks for the polite segue, but I'm sure everyone has heard enough of my name.
And I bet some of you know my family history better than I do. Though I suppose you
might want to know I grew up in Surrey with my muggle relatives, not exposed to any
of the wizarding world until July." There were murmurs at that, which he tried to
ignore while grabbing a scoop of tiramisu and bowl of what looked like mango ice
cream.
Great booming laughs up at the high table interrupted any prying questions aimed
Harry's way, as he looked up to see Hagrid holding a small tankard of ale in one
hand, and a whole pie in the other, still laughing, presumably at a joke told by the
ragged old man smiling along beside him. Harry watched the teachers talking and
eating which seemed to bring his headache back, especially after getting another

glare from the dark haired man again.

Penny nudged him, "Are you feeling alright Harry? Too much ice cream at once
maybe?" He was rubbing his throbbing forehead, and nodded.
"Maybe..."
Without warning a new ghost sprang up out of the Hufflepuff table to great dismay,
throwing pies and pastries at students around the room. Slytherin caught a giant
chocolate cake shot their way, exploding all over their table. A smattering of fruit hit
Gryffindor, with a slice of kiwi smacking Ron in the ear, and trays of other goodies
got flung around the Ravenclaw table. Catching Lisa in the side of the head with a
jam doughnut as Harry dodged. Frenzied cries rang out as a heavy chair screeched
in protest.
"Peeves!" Dumbledore called out in warning.
The milky white ghost with fiendishly dark eyes stopped mid-throw, dropping a cream
pie on his own head. His cheshire smile almost reached wider than his partially
covered face, then he disappeared with a pop. Letting the large pudding he was
holding fall to the table, splattering some young Hufflepuffs. Another evil looking
ghost, disturbingly dressed in bloody robes flew off after him.
"I didn't know ghosts could throw things." Terry wiped some chocolate frosting from
his robes.
"Peeves is termed a poltergeist, and is much more substantial than a regular ghost."
Penny addressed the first years, as she got up to help clean people off. "It's best to
avoid him if you can, that, or try distracting him with a difficult question. He gets
stumped easily if you can keep his attention."
As things finally calmed down much later, and everyone was more than stuffed with
sugar, all the desserts began to fade slowly away, allowing those few who wanted
extra to carry it. Leaving pristine plates and sparkling silverware once more.
Dumbledore stood up and cleared his throat.
"Now that we are all sated and clean again, I have some school notices to
announce."
Harry was rubbing his temples again, trying to relax while they were warned about
forbidden forests, magic in the corridors, quidditch tryouts, and something about
dying on the third floor. He wasn't really paying attention as he closed his eyes now
and then.

"And now, before we retire for the night, let us sing the school song."
Woken to the shuffling of feet and scooting of benches, Harry got an adrenalin rush
of embarrassment as Padma looked at him in concern. They all filed out of the Great
Hall, first years at the end, being led around by prefects. Penny led them past the
Hufflepuffs and Slytherins going downstairs, then away from the Gryffindors, going
around a different way up to the higher levels. It was a long trek through corridors,
past talkative portraits, around shining suits of armor, and up many flights of...
moving stairs, which Harry found quite disconcerting. All of it was dimly lit with
burning torches or hanging braziers along the way.
Finally, after climbing one last twisting staircase they arrived at a refined wooden
door, featuring only a large brass knocker in the shape of a flying eagle. It spoke.
"I run and run, never tire. Down and Down! Never up! - What am I?"
Penny turned around and smiled at them, "We have to answer riddles any time we
want to enter our common room. Normally Robert Hillard, our other prefect this year,
would answer it for the first years, but I want to see what you can do instead. Anyone
have a guess?"
They all looked at each other, as Harry hung on to his waning shred of alertness.
"A river." Answered Sue, and the door swung open.
The whole room clapped cheerfully, officially welcoming them to Ravenclaw. Entering
the expansive and airy room, the first years were greeted by a wonderful fragrance
of fresh air, and masses of parchment. Imparting the vision of a giant open bookstore
on the top of a mountain. The room was filled with students all congregated around
casual, maple wood furniture, long couches, stately desks, and a myriad of reading
chairs, nearly all of it covered in soft cushions and velvety blue fabric. They walked
over midnight blue carpets strewn with bronze stars towards the center of the room,
which was clustered full of ornate tables and comfortable sitting chairs, giving off a
trace of ink in the air. Gazing skywards at the domed ceiling, it reflected the dark
carpets beneath, having elegantly painted stars which twinkled merrily at them,
reminding Harry of a similar scene.
Blue and bronze silk curtains framed the gracefully vaulted windows, granting a
substantial view of the massive grounds and surrounding mountains. A few first
years drifted to the large fireplace which sat to one side, lit with a magical bluish
flame, seeming to warm the whole room evenly. Lastly they all noticed the
surrounding bookshelves, built into the walls around the room and heavily stocked,
looking more like colourful wallpaper with how tight they were squeezed together.

Others wandered off to inspect them more thoroughly.

Harry rolled up his sleeve to see his bronze watch, placing the time at nine o'clock
and finally realizing what Clagan meant, that most would purchase it after attending
Hogwarts. It was the hallmark of Ravenclaw, right down to the same stars in the
night sky.
Penny looked over his shoulder, "That's a nice watch you have."
She gave him another smirk and gathered them all around again, explaining a few
details about the school. How to find your way by asking portraits, not to go exploring
on your own, where to find the libraries, and then handed out timetables for classes.
She finished by showing them to their dormitories, off to the sides of a realistic
marble statue depicting Rowena Ravenclaw.
Trudging up more stairs after the rest of the boys, Harry idly wondering if he would
manage to change before falling asleep in his new bed. They entered to find it
similarly decorated to the rest of the tower, much smaller than the common room, but
spacious enough to feel comfortable. Fourposter beds circled the room, covered with
cerulean silk eiderdowns underneath thicker curtains, and spaced between were
cabinets and chairs for each of them. In the center of the room was a miniature cut
stone fireplace, containing the same blue flames as before and encompassed by
comfy tweed pillows to sit on. Harry found his trunk and bag under one bed right by
the door, with almost all his things neatly stored in the side cabinet. A couple of the
boys began hanging posters or looking out the small windows, while Harry
mechanically replaced his robes with pajamas and crawled under the warm blankets.
Feeling surprisingly content for the first time in ages.

Chapter 4 - Classes
Chapter 4
Classes
What could be worse than waking up in a strange bed, at a strange school, around
unfamiliar and even stranger people? Waking up in bed, unable to move. That was
the start of Harry's first morning at Hogwarts. He lay there looking around the room,
contemplating what it could mean, who would have done it, and ended on it likely
being some kind of hazing ritual. Probably done to the whole class of first years,
except he woke up late, again. It seemed to be some kind of spell keeping him
trapped, but while testing out how far his arms could move, he saw them. Countless
subtle strings, wrapped thinly around the covers, resembling fishing line, but not.
Now he had a dilemma.
During the month long wait to get here, it became obvious through his reading that
wandless magic was uncommon, if not unheard of at his age, and not wanting to be
treated like a freak once again, he was determined to hide his abilities, at least for
now. Having hidden his wands in the binding of a large book, which he left in his
trunk; seeing no need for having them close at night, gave him little to no reasonable
excuse for how he could escape. Although he figured it might be best to play along
with the prank, calling out for help and such, it didn't sound very appealing at that
moment. Instead, he snapped the strings apart with his... wandless magic, and
wound them up in a ball, throwing it into the trash as he got dressed. Coming to find
that all his robes had gained blue trim during the night, and the clothes he left in a
nearby hamper were now cleaned and folded, back in his drawer. Letting him
appreciate the nicer aspects of Hogwarts, while hurriedly brushing his teeth and
combing his unruly hair in the first year bathroom, since his watch revealed it was
almost time for breakfast.
Walking down to the common room, he secured his wands in place, one attached to
the wrist holster on his right arm, and the other in the standard waist pocket for
wands, sewn into his robes. His smile grew, looking forward to the surprised
expressions on his tormentors faces when they saw he didn't need help escaping.
That was the plan at least.
Except for the part where everyone in the whole common room looked around at him
with interest upon arrival. Having almost forgotten that he was the Harry Potter,
savior of wizarding Britain, and they couldn't all be in on it. The majority turned away
again after seeing what the commotion was about, yet others began whispering like

last night, bound to be discussing the most important of topics, like how he took his
morning cereal.
A baroque wall clock in the shape of a large book chimed a five minute warning,
reminding them to be on time. Masses of students poured out of the room, some
carrying books, others with satchels, and a few with cauldrons full of potion
equipment. Harry decided to come back later and get his transfiguration book,
following down a group of older boys through a rout that seemed shorter than last
night. They began chatting about girls, expressing opinions on which ones improved
over the summer and chuckling at the ones that did not. Harry watched the passing
scenery of typical, and not so typical castle architecture while unintentionally
listening in.
They exited out the marble staircase as the main school bells rung a pleasant and
inviting harmony. Entering the great hall, he was sure there were Ravenclaws
already eating that left later than he did. Harry made a mental note to find out a
better way to navigate the school, and sat beside Penny again at the far end of the
table. Breakfast passed by quickly, with a much simpler fare than the night before. A
bit of toast, sausages, and scrambled eggs was enough to satisfy him, before
skipping out on the coming owl post in favor of being on time for class with his book.
Harry trailed behind a senior Ravenclaw, out and up a few stairs to the third floor but
was alarmed to see him open a classroom door and take a seat, leaving Harry lost
and alone with no idea where to go. The nagging sensation of embarrassment came
crawling up the back of his neck, reminding him to relax and focus. He closed his
eyes and let his mind reach out, feeling for familiar people and the direction they
were located. One of his practiced skills that he had mastered back at his relative's,
or so he thought.
He couldn't even sense where the person he just left was, and that was right across
the hall. The whole world felt fuzzy and indistinct compared to the clarity from the
past. Checking his watch, it was still twenty till, but it clued him in on why wizarding
places might be different for his senses. Magic, enough to disable electronics,
watches, and possibly more. Years of practice made useless, by the very thing he
came to learn.
Giving up with an uncomfortable knot in his stomach, Harry walked over to a nearby
portrait, "Um, excuse me?"
"Huh? What? Who's there?" Replied the portrait of a scholarly figure, with his face in
a book. He peered over the top suspiciously, "Who are you, an' what d'ya want?"

"Sorry to bother you, I'm Harry Potter, could you direct me to the Ravenclaw tower?"
"Ha!? Can't even remember where your own common room is? An' here I thought
you lot were supposed to be the ones with brains!" He grumbled under his breath,
and sat up to get a better look.
"Uh, it's only my first day of school, how long is it supposed to take to learn your way
around?" Harry glanced around for another portrait, not expecting to have to coerce
information them.
"How am I supposed to know that? I wasn't painted to pay attention to students, ask
me something I can answer!"
"You don't even know what day it is? Never mind... I need directions to the
Ravenclaw tower. Please." Eventually the portrait got around to explaining how to
get there, but lost Harry at the end. Walking away, Harry thought of another question
to ask, and turned around to try getting a quick answer.
"Excuse me again, just one more question for you."
"Huh? What? Who's there?" He imitated the exact routine as before, "Who are you,
an' what d'ya want?"
"It's Harry Potter, we just talked, you gave me directions?"
"You again? You'll be needing directions to Ravenclaw tower I suppose?"
Harry shook his head and hurried away, while pondering how paintings could be
programmed to become intelligent. The directions he got were helpful enough, until
getting turned around on some moving stairs. The next portrait was difficult to
understand through a heavy Scottish accent, but steered him close enough to notice
familiar sights, making the rest of the way on his own.
The day was disturbing so far, but looking less bleak as the confidence in his
memory gave Harry a renewed spirit. Before it was dashed to the floor by a band of
students waiting in front of the common room door.
There were both boys and girls loitering around, some up to three or four years older
than him, all pondering the riddle and making random guesses. His hopes of even
getting to class on time were dwindling quickly. A tall and stocky boy came up behind
Harry and mumbled out, "A riddle-lock already?" Then shouted louder, "Oi, what's
the riddle?"

One frustrated girl up front slammed the knocker emphatically, gaining quiet while it
spoke, "Sir, I bear a rhyme excelling - In mystic force and magic spelling - Celestial
sprites elucidate - All my own striving can't relate."
"It... it doesn't make any sense!" Complained another.
"It's a circle!"
"It's not a circle! ...We already tried that."
"What if it's a code or anagram? Someone write it down." Commanded another older
boy.
Terry Boot was standing near Harry counting on his fingers, which sparked a
thought, somehow bringing it all together. Making sure by imagining the words in his
mind, Harry began counting as well.
"It's Pi!" He called out.
"What the hell does PIE have to do-" But the door was opening on its own, stopping
any further words of disbelief as the crowd surged past it. Scarcely any looked back
in curiosity at him, rather than running carelessly across the room like the rest.
Harry pulled Terry out of his pointless calculations and they hurried after the rest,
only having ten minutes to get to class. It turned out Kevin was ahead in the group
and was throwing clothes all over his bed, trying to find his Transfiguration book as
well. All three of them met Lisa near the statute of Rowena on their way out, joining
up to realize no one had a clue where to go, except down.
Classroom 1b, a sparsely furnished room in the Transfiguration department was
finally reached with one minute to spare and no breath left. They had been running
from one portrait to another, getting led in different directions as each one thought of
a better way to get there than the last. Lisa and Terry found seats with others,
leaving Harry and Kevin to sit together at an empty table, looking at odd text on
some blackboards and anxiously waiting for their first class to begin.
Professor McGonagall marched into the classroom as the bells rang in the distance,
"Transfiguration is some of the most complex and dangerous magic you will learn at
Hogwarts." She began her lecture. "But as this is your first lesson in magic I feel it is
my responsibility to fully instruct you on proper safety procedures, wand care, and
the dangers of magic, along with answering any questions you may have about your
future schooling. - You may put away your books, we will not be using them today."

Groans were heard but quickly cut off at a sharp look of warning from McGonagall.
Harry chuckled silently, having already learnt his first lesson on being prepared, and
accepting that it would be useless at times.
oOoOo
Transfiguration, or rather safety class was just as boring as expected, yet they still
learned enough to make it worthwhile. Covering topics on attempting new spells with
supervision, what not to try without practice, spells never to be used on humans, and
how even the simplest of spells could go wrong. Something Harry had experience
with. Basic wand care such as not smacking it against things or using it after being
broken was also mentioned, along with a strict warning to never experiment with
spell creation until at least seventh year, and preferably later if they wished to keep
all their limbs.
Having seldom used his quills before, Harry had a little trouble writing things down,
as did Kevin, so they struggled together to learn how to use them properly, dripping
ink and smearing it often along the way. Eventually getting the hang of it, while
quietly lamenting the the lack of pens or pencils.
Class approached its end with numerous questions, which devolved into telling
horror stories about relatives and people they knew who had ignored every safety
precaution explained and barely lived to tell the tale, or sometimes didn't.
McGonagall corrected many outlandish and superstitious rumors some students had
heard about over the years, while skirting around a few ambiguous topics with skillful
words. She excused them all with one last warning.
"Next lesson will involve actual transfiguration, so if I catch anyone messing about in
class, ignoring what you learned today, you will not be coming back." With that, they
got up and left.
Being their first break, several already prepared students gravitated towards the
Hogwarts library, exploring, but most headed back to Ravenclaw tower to get their
cauldrons, having Potions next. Gossiping about this and that along the way, and
passing many other students in the hallway, as Kevin fell into step beside Harry.
"Rotten luck we have, isn't it? Even after the prefect warned us last night about
bringing everything we need for classes, we still forget. I'm getting all my books and
stuff this time, what about you?"
"Same, but I hope we get to try some real magic in charms later, or I might have to
ignore that safety lesson we just had and practice on my own."

"Is that right?" Asked Professor McGonagall behind him. Her severe tone shattered
the casual atmosphere around them, halting every student in their tracks to look
back in paralyzed interest.
Harry turned around with a tentative smile, "Just seeing if you were still there
Professor, since I couldn't hear your footsteps anymore." Her glasses flashed in the
flickering torchlight, as her stern gaze seemed to be picking him apart. Harry gulped,
"Sorry about the poor joke, but I wasn't really going to do anything..."
"See that you don't." She began striding through the small crowd of students, "All of
you follow me, and Mr Potter, I do hope you learn better jokes than your father, his
comedy skills were rather lacking as well."
Many classmates gave Harry dirty looks, thinking he got them in trouble, as they
trudged demurely behind her, up new stairs. She tapped passing statutes, ornate
portraits, and dashing suits of armor with her wand, emitting small red sparks as if to
keep their attention focused. They arrived at a finely wrought door with familiar
looking wood. Some hissed a few angry words at Harry, assuming it was a detention
hall, before getting interrupted.
"I hope everyone remembers their way here next time, as I expect you will be
coming here often." She opened the door, not to a drab detention hall, but a
wonderfully bright library, furnished with blue and bronze colors throughout. "The
Ravenclaw tower is right through the opposite doors and up the stairs, but I thought
you might like to see your own house library as well. As Professor Flitwick is busy at
the moment, he asked me to make sure you all knew you can come here at anytime
before curfew, and spend your breaks here as well as in your common room."
The students flowed inside, marveling at all the books and large open windows
looking out onto the vast lawns and dense forest around the school. There were
study tables and more comfy reading chairs like in their common room, but it was
much quieter, as even their footfalls made barely any noise.
McGonagall spoke one last time, "Be sure to make it to potions with Professor
Snape on time, and keep an eye on your fellow classmates who become distracted
here." Then she left, closing the door behind her.
Anthony Goldstein stepped in front of Harry with a grim look, "That was stupid Potter,
you could have lost us points already. Do you want Slytherin to win the house cup
seven years in a row?"
"Seriously? You're worried about a trophy the first day of school?"

His eyebrows knitted together in response, "I'm worried about Ravenclaw's

reputation and how you might damage it. You should be too, unless you don't care
about anyone but yourself."
"Ah, I see where you're coming from now. Not to worry though, everything will make
sense in time." Harry tried to veil his sarcasm as best he could, and walked away,
hoping he could avoid any overbearing accusations for a while.
oOoOo
Luckily enough, Harry evaded all further comments or criticisms as he climbed the
stairs to the tower and caught the door opening for someone else. He picked up his
canvas bag and threw his collapsible cauldron, potion supplies, and other books he
needed for the rest of the day into it. Then snuck downstairs to go reading in the
great hall where he could be closer to potions class.
A few minutes later, he arrived to see it sparsely populated by Hufflepuff, Slytherin,
and a small group of Gryffindors. Yet not a single Ravenclaw sat at their bench as he
chose a spot near the doors. To his surprise a small plate full of fruits, cheeses, and
scones with jam appeared in front of him upon sitting. Next to that was a cup of tea
that smelled delicious and bowl of lemon infused sugar cubes besides. Harry looked
around the room seeing no one else eating except two Hufflepuffs, but his mind filed
those questions away for later as he tried a scone and took out a book to begin the
next chapter.
Part way through, the next bell rang once to give them warning. As he looked up
there were quite a few people staring, at him and his plate and tea, but he didn't
have time for that either. Snatching up his bag he saw the dishes disappear, so he
fled out the doors before anyone came over to pester him with questions.
Asking one portrait on the way down to the dungeons was easy as there was no fuss
of introductions or explanations, instead he got pointed in the right direction and
there was only one dark hallway to walk down. He entered the classroom a few
seconds after Sue and Padma sat down together, noticing no one else was there
yet. Sitting down beside them, others started drifting in a few at a time, giving him a
few minutes to look around. The gloomy room reminded him of the apothecary shop
in Diagon alley, save for the dim lights, chilly air, and creepy jars arranged
everywhere around the room, mostly it was the variety of pungent smells.
The whole of Hufflepuff first year joined them in one long stream of students, all
congregating near the back except for a couple of seats that were already taken,
leaving one hesitant blond girl to sit beside Harry. She smiled nervously at him as he

apologized one more time.

"Sorry again, and don't worry, I haven't had any pepper imps since."
Her smile brightened a little as she spoke, "It's okay, my name's Hannah Abbott by
the way. I uh, only wanted your autograph for my cousin is all..." Padma snickered
while listening in.
The back doors crashed open as Snape swept into the room, trailed by his flowing
black robes, stained with moderate age and heavy use. He kept his sallow face and
hooked nose pointing down, not looking at a single one of them while reading off the
register on his podium, until he reached Harry, of course.
"Harry Potter, ah yes, our hooded - hero of Britain." He intoned, with more hidden
sarcasm and scorn than Harry thought it warranted, or was possible. While his
intense dark eyes scrutinized Harry for a reaction, yet none came.
Moving on, he finished calling out names and began what sounded like a prepared
speech, "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion-making. As
there is little foolish wand-waving..." He rambled on, sounding as if he almost meant
what he said, rather than just repeating the same tired lines over and over to new
students. "I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory, even stopper death " if you
aren't as big a bunch of dunderheads as I usually have to teach."
He sounded especially pleased, implying that they all might turn out to be pathetic
idiots, incapable of learning, while Harry found his impossible claims to be more
boastful than educational, giving a poor impression on the kind of teacher he was.
Although stopping death peaked his interest, no matter if Snape stretched the truth
like taffy. Although just when thought provoking ideas were forming in Harry's mind,
his peace was interrupted.
"Potter! What would I get if I added powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of
wormwood?"
Harry sat staring off into space for a moment, and right as Snape was about to shout
again, he responded, "I don't know, what page is that on?"
Ignoring him, Snape sneered and continued, "Let's see if you can respond faster to
an easier question, where would you look for a bezoar?"
That made Harry chuckle soundlessly at the irony, having a graphic novel help him in
magic school, "I believe they're traditionally found in goats, but horses and cows
produce similar stones."

Halfway between forming a smug grin on his face, Snape's head jerked around at
the unexpected words, but he recovered in a flash, "Too easy, list the twelve uses of
dragon's blood."
Hanna paled at being so close to Snape's scrutinizing glare and began squirming
away from Harry while barely staying in her seat. After a brief moment of recollection
again, Harry began listing them off, "Spot remover, incense, enchanting component,
dye, varnish, healing salve, toothpaste, diarrhea treatment, blood thinner, potion
ingredient, body oil, and oven cleaner." Excited whispers spread through the class
while he was listing them, as well as pages being shuffled to doublecheck.
"Hav... have you been studding with Granger?" Asked a chubby faced Hufflepuff
behind him.
"Enough!" Commanded Snape, silencing the room save his echoes. "You made a
mistake Potter, but that level of knowledge is - tolerable enough for your first day."
He spun around and began bludgeoning the chalkboard behind him with a heavy
piece of chalk, scraping out the right answers and then instructions for the Cure for
Boils potion they would be preparing that day.
Through the rest of the class he stalked between desks, criticizing students left and
right, seeming to cause problems as he got close. Harry had to steady Hannah's
hand when it began to shake, trying to add the bits of horned slug into their cauldron
while Snape hung over her shoulder like a waiting noose. During his seventh sweep
by their desk, Harry got the sudden urge to trip him or at least make him stumble on
his way, but shook his head in refusal, knowing that would only cause more
problems. Some groups made minor mistakes to receive hostile tirades, while other
students yelped in fright as they saw a black cloak glide past them. Those seemed to
come more often from the back of the class, but even at the front, Lisa was startled
by a tap on the shoulder, dropping her silver knife into the tip of her shoe and barely
missing tender flesh. Her thick glasses made the surprised expression she wore
excessively comical, which gave others further trouble in restraining any bleak
laughter.
Their suffering ended in relieved gasps at the end of class, as everyone managed to
get something into a vial and up on the Professor's desk, even if several were dark
brown and still bubbling. Hannah smiled at Harry after she handed in their deep red
sample, pleased with how similar it was to the description in the book. Snape
glowered in response, giving Harry chills and another oncoming headache as he
followed the entire room to lunch.
oOoOo

The atmosphere of the great hall felt routine already, chatter permeated the tables in
between bites of food and curious glances his way, with another tradition being
hammered into place, for Padma to tease him sarcastically about the days events.
"Got a photographic memory to go with the loads of money and hero mania we
already know about?"
"Just mnemonics, and how did you know I have loads of money? Has someone
written my life story already?"
"Pfft, the specialty Kneazle bag from Flourish and Blotts you are showing off is the
only hint we need. They only give those to elite clientele, and what's a nemonic?"
Confused a little, Harry didn't think the owner of the shop had recognized him, but it
did make sense for why she was so nice. "It's a way to remember things, and are
you going to keep this up at every meal?"
Padma narrowed her eyes at him, "Maybe, if you're hating it as much as I think you
might be secretly liking it as a cover for indifference." Sue elbowed her in sympathy
for Harry.
But he just laughed, "I can't imagine what your sister has had to deal with all these
years." Which broke the table into quiet chuckles around them.
All of the first year Ravenclaws were looking forward to charms class and to meet
their new head of house officially. Finding it easy enough, they filed into the empty
classroom strewn with books, taking their seats as a bizarre noise came from the
front. Sounding like a mouse making miniature motorcycle noises, yet couldn't get it
quite right. It drew their attention to the central pile of books on the front desk, which
appeared to be moving slowly up and down. Harry took a seat near the wall to watch
as Mandy and Morag tried to drag Lisa along with them to investigate. Others stood
around watching as well, resembling a crime scene investigation with curious
bystanders edging in closer.
The school bell rang violently, throwing the room into chaos. Stacks of books
crashed to the floor, attacking the scouting party of girls with sharp corners aimed at
their vulnerable legs, causing squeals to echo through the classroom. While those
standing danced away from the commotion, bumping into desks and chairs, scooting
some back and tipping over others. At the same time a tiny man with ruffled white
hair and olive green robes leapt out from under the pile of books, wand at the ready
and scanning the room for signs of danger.
Quickly gauging the situation, he hopped down lightly from the desk and waved his

wand in a complicated pattern, flinging the fallen books back into some semblance of
order. He helped the three girls up and vanished their slight bruises at the same time
as righting the desks behind the other students.
"Welcome!" He squeaked out. "I am Professor Flitwick, your head of house, and I
apologize if that startled everyone. Good to stay on your toes though, isn't it?" He
smiled pleasantly and climbed back on his desk and up the stairs of books, taking a
seat near the top. "Well now, your first lesson in charms, such a magical time. Why
don't we all get comfortable and start out with something fun. The softening charm
shall do nicely, it's one of my favorites." His grin radiated across the room.
They finally got situated as Flitwick floated a wooden block onto each of their desks,
then wrote on one of the large blackboards by deftly controlling a piece of chalk with
his wand. He wordlessly cast the softening charm on a nearby book to demonstrate,
and started playing with it, bending and squashing it into different shapes.
"Before we begin reading how this is achieved, I would like everyone to take out their
wands and simply attempt it on their own. It's perfectly alright if you don't succeed,
this is just to determine if we are all on the same page."
Harry thought he might have a head start, already reading about the charm
previously. He began by practicing the wand movement and then repeating the
incantation he remembered, but noticed many others were doing the same. It was
obvious that Ravenclaws shared a few similarities. Closing his eyes, he ignored
them and focused magic into his wand, and cast, making the wooden block spin
around on his desk with a small whistling sound emanating from it as well. It was still
plain wood, if a little warm to the touch. Although no one else managed the feat
either by the time Flitwick reigned them in.
"Good, good. I see many of you have started early in your reading, but we are all
going to learn together, and help each other along the way. Please turn to the correct
page in your books and, Miss Patil, would you read aloud?"
It turned out to be a much better class than any so far, the diminutive professor
involving them in fun and interesting ways, demonstrating and correcting the wavy
wand movement for each of them, telling them stories about using the spell on
unusual objects at often hilarious times. Even making a joke out of breaking down
the incantation into easy to say parts.
"SPUHN, as in soft spuhn yarn, Jee, as in jee these pants are elastic, and Fye, as in
fee, fye, foe, fum, how squishy it feels under a giant's bum. And all together we get
SPUHN-jee-fye, to make things sponge-like, all rubbery and stretchy to the touch, in

your hands, between your toes, or against the cushion on your seat. - Now, try it out
on your own." Girls giggled while boys snorted in reply, trying to hold back their
laughter at the professor acting out each part.
Sitting beside Harry again, Sue covered her smile with one hand while trying to cast
with the other. Hitting wands repeatedly with Padma in the process, causing a class
discussion about the differences between left and right handed casters. Harry kept
practicing quietly while only vaguely paying attention, recalling Flitwick's instructions
and almost feeling the connection forming in his mind. Padma seemed to be
distracting him on purpose, playing around by wiggling her wand up and down to
make it appear to be made of rubber.
"Spongify!" He cast, and this time could feel it work, just like the repairing charm
before. Reaching his hand out hopefully, he touched it, feeling the wood give under
his fingers as a sense of elation breezed through him. He wondered how it changed
the alignment of atoms or molecules, then squeezed it harder, looking around with a
pleased grin. But everyone else was in an animated debate together, about how big
giants grow and how stinky they could be. The spell long forgotten, and Flitwick lost
somewhere in the middle, hearing his light hearted giggles now and then.
Older students complained about all the essays and reading that charms required,
when they were discussing it during lunch, but none of that was apparent until
Flitwick caught their attention with crackling words of fire written in the air. Giving
them homework on reading the next chapter, and practicing the spell by next
Wednesday.
School bells shook the classroom again, stirring them from the carefree exchange
they slipped back into, and spurring a rush to gather their things to head for the next
class. Chatting all the way there.
As the last to exit, Harry followed along, leaving his squishy block of wood on top of
the others.
oOoOo
Defense Against the Dark Arts was another doubles class, with Gryffindors this time.
But having learnt his lesson from Snape, Harry took the earlier warning in Diagon
Alley and stayed far away from the Defense Professor. As well as avoiding the most
pungent of old garlic smells, which seemed to emanate from Quirrell himself. The
stutter he had in Diagon alley was more pronounced in front of the class, as he gave
off a skittish impression of a deranged squirrel.
Sitting in the far back, Harry was able to observe the differences between Gryffindors

and Ravenclaws first hand, in addition to the grotesque looking creatures stuffed and
hung along the walls.
Ghouls were the topic of choice for the day, as students muttered amongst
themselves about their experiences with them.A few seats away Ron was bragging
about having one that lived in his home and rattled the pipework at night, while
another Gryffindor began answering questions up front, eager to show how much
she knew. Class drifted on, listening to a long lecture on which spells were used to
get rid of them, and how to keep them away, all of which Ron and his friends weren't
paying attention to, but Harry couldn't blame them. Taking notes was about the most
effort he could muster, as the constant stutter was beginning to irritate him.
Near the end of class Harry learned what the Hufflepuff boy in potions meant, as
Quirrell called on Miss Granger for the fourth time in a row to answer his questions.
She was the bushy haired girl from the sorting ceremony that Ron disliked, and
making an impression on students and teachers alike it seemed. Barely able to see
more than her mane of hair and raised hand, Harry was intrigued by her intelligence,
especially because she was in Gryffindor, who were not commonly known for their
brilliant minds.
With class ending and the day finally over, the jabber of restless first years was
overwhelming, having to listen to it all the way to dinner and throughout it as well.
The delicious food made things bearable, as Harry ran the day through his mind,
recalling specific things he wanted to remember and savoring the fun of learning a
new spell while moving on to dessert.
Penny threw a sweet roll on his plate, interrupting his thoughts, "You sure are quiet
tonight, were classes that bad?"
He put on a slight smile, "Not especially, but the reality doesn't exactly live up my
imagination. I guess that happens when you read too much."
"Or if you live in your head all the time. You have to let go and just experience things
once in a while, and don't worry, things liven up after learning a few more spells."
With a wave of her wand she made the roll dance wildly around his plate, bouncing
up and down, and dodging his attempts to stab it. With a lucky jab, he skewered it on
his fork to watch it act out a dramatic death, stumbling around his plate and falling
into his chocolate pudding with a splash. The others around him clapped at the sight,
only to see it get up and bow awkwardly with the fork still in it. Drawing laughs and
calls for an encore.
After dinner, they had time to play before curfew, though were warned not to go

exploring by themselves. Harry declined an invitation from a group of boys to join

them in creeping around the dungeons, instead he visited the colossal school library,
walking through endless aisles, reading peculiar titles, and peeking around the
restricted section. Until the old crone of a librarian caught him, and began lecturing
about age restrictions and proper teacher approval. He made many hurried
apologies and escaped to a far off section on healing spells. Spending his time
browsing through a multitude of topics on the subject, from splinters to strokes, and
beyond every normal occurrence possible.
He was scanning through a book on spontaneous duplication, when a cluster of girls
ran past, giggling about the size of some boys wands and blushing as they noticed
him sitting on the floor between aisles. They hurried down to another section,
whispering while grabbing books off a high shelf, and giggling even more amidst
furtive glances his way. Harry chuckled, having snuck enough mature books past his
relatives over the years to understand. But soon the bells for curfew disturbed things
again, forcing him to put away the books and head off to bed. This time stuffing his
wands under a pillow and pulling the curtains tight.
The next morning back in transfiguration, things finally got interesting, as they were
taught the basic concepts of how transfiguration worked, through a few simple
equations and variables that determined how each spell should be achieved,
seeming no harder than regular physics. They were assured though, that as the
complexity of their transfigurations increased, so too would the difficulty and
equations. Harry was relieved that the math to solve them would also be taught in
class, as some of the seventh year problems looked more complicated than any
calculus he'd heard of. However their first spell was to change a match into a needle,
requiring little math. Unlike charms though, there was no talking or distractions.
While practicing, Harry considered the classes so far. Transfiguration is similar to
engineering, putting special math into practice, while Charms is almost an art, like
writing, painting, or music, requiring an almost intuitive understanding built on basic
principles. That fits the skills taught in each at least, math and writing. Whereas
Potions resembles chemistry, yet not as straightforward, rather like a very strict
cooking class. I suppose Herbology will imitate botany or simple gardening, with
history and astronomy hopefully staying the same. Flying... maybe flying is like
swimming, or riding a bike, only much more dangerous. And as for Defense, it's
almost like an amalgamation of the others with zoology thrown in on the side.
The class clapped for Anthony and Padma, showing off their slightly greyish
matches. And although Harry achieved an adequate point on one end and hoop
though the striking head, he showed no one. Yet McGonagall must have caught on
as she gave him an approving nod while walking past his desk.

oOoOo
Herbology was attended in spacious greenhouses, feeling typically muggy and
smelling of abundant fertilizer having flowers and herbs mixed in. A stumpy older
witch in dirty brown robes and wild grey hair was puttering about the place with a
smile on her face as Harry entered the building. He groaned silently, noticing Malfoy
looked pleased to see him in their first class together. The Slytherins were all
reluctant to be there otherwise, wearing disdainful expressions, appearing not to like
the earthy surroundings and humid air. Though most of the Ravenclaws weren't
much better, except for Sue, who grinned while inspecting the plants.
Harry didn't care for the atmosphere much, but was used to similar situations, having
helped his aunt garden and haul plants around for her in regular greenhouses. The
lesson started with essential planting techniques and common knowledge but shortly
had them packing planters with the right amounts of ingredients to make their own
potting soil. That's when Draco started in.
He snuck over by Harry when a large pile of terracotta pots mysteriously crashed to
the floor, distracting the Professor. "I don't think you quite understood me last time. You won't make it far in the wizarding world without the right people backing you up.
No matter how intelligent you might be, or worshipped you are by the dimwitted
masses. If you aren't connected to the right side, things may go badly for you. But
my family and I can help you there."
Looking up at Draco in his spotless robes and pretentious grin, Harry wanted to
throw some dirt in his face, but restrained himself. Instead, he began asking
questions, "Have you ever wondered why you believe what do?"
"What's that supposed to mean? This is just the way the world works. If you want to
live in it long, you learn how to survive. Something I hear your parents forgot."
Harry cleared his throat and forged on, "There are many methods to survive, but why
do you choose a path without questioning it? How can you know whether your way
to survive is the best, if you don't look at others?
"What are you on about? Is this some sort of trick?" Draco stepped back as his
lackeys grew alert a little way away.
"No trick," Continued Harry, while scooping more peat into a large planter, "Only
wondering why you don't question your beliefs."
"Because they're right of course." He tried restraining his sneer.

"Bloody hell Malfoy, can't you see he's just stalling, not wanting to tell you to piss off
directly?" Theodore Nott hissed at them.
That brought on a sudden change in Draco, his sneer turned to tight lipped
contempt, barely holding back his disgust. While his posture became threatening
and he chewed out his words, "Fine, this is your last chance Potter, are you with us,
or against us?"
"I wasn't blowing you off, but vague threats and ultimatums are not going to
persuade me very well. I prefer evidence and rational discussion."
"Yes or no?" He growled.
"Look, can we just say that I agree with you, and then forget about it for the rest of
the year?"
Malfoy was grinding his teeth, reaching slowly for his wand, until a perky but husky
voice called over his shoulder, "That looks like some nice soil Mr Potter, wherever
did you learn about Herbology so early?" Professor Sprout smiled happily at them
both, "And Mr Malfoy, I hope you are contributing to the mess your friends are
making over at your station." She nodded at Crabbe and Goyle's stricken faces as
they were hurriedly trying to clean up.
The class laughed, as most everyone was already attempting to listen in. Draco
glared at them all, then glanced at the broken pots, stacked and whole again, leaving
no alternative but to return to his station and focus the anger on his so called friends.
Professor Sprout winked at Harry and moved on, helping some nearby Ravenclaws.
The rest of class passed quickly, while Harry ignored the hateful eyes directed his
way. They were given only a bit of reading to do until next time, and headed for
lunch.
Only to be greeted later in their next class by the whole of first year, thankfully for
Harry, Slytherin was on the opposite side of the room. For some reason, someone
decided to combine every house together and cram them all in a huge lecture hall for
History, with a ghostly and uninspired Professor Binns to keep them in line. His
dreary voice was amplified to compensate for those in the back, so everyone could
be bored to death equally. Since all he did was lecture the entire time, many
students began to gossip quietly.
"Did you hear? They finally found that Gryffindor boy's toad, it was sucked dry and
hidden on the train, probably by that giant tarantula everyone was talking about."

"Yeah, Neville is pretty broken up about it."

"At least it didn't have to suffer very long, I heard he's already melted a cauldron,
flushed his last quill, and broken a desk in charms. Imagine being his pet for seven
years, if you survived that long."
"Someone said Lee Jordan, the boy who brought the spider, is going to get him a
new pet though. Hopefully it's better than a toad."
"Maybe it'll be something he can take care of, like a pet rock. Naa... he still might
lose it."
"That's mean! How would you feel if something ate your owl?"
"Relieved, that blasted bird kept hooting at me every night over summer, and threw
up so many disgusting wads of crap on my bed that I got one stuck in my hair!"
Harry couldn't help but chuckle silently at it all, seeing a challenge in taking notes
while paying attention to the conversations around him.
oOoOo
From the most boring subject in school, they headed towards the most exciting,
flying class. At least for some anyway, seeing how much they talked about it. Harry
on the other hand didn't know what to think of flying on a broomstick. A thin bit of
wood with a cushioning charm on it was considered the height of entertainment,
thrilling and scaring students alike. It was hard to imagine it being comfortable for
boys, and he tried to ignore what it might be like for girls. As it turned out, Ravenclaw
was paired with Hufflepuff again, heading outside together on a tepid summer day.
Amid constant chatter and eager smiles, they saw the two rows of broomsticks lying
in the wavy grass, causing most to bolt towards them in order to claim the best ones.
Left with a pitifully twisted broom as he took his time in walking, Harry got in line and
waited for the teacher to arrive.
"I prefer carpets instead," commented Padma, "we used to ride them while visiting
family in India, they're really comfortable."
"Well these are for racing, and quidditch, not having leisurely picnics above a lake."
Said one of the Hufflepuff boys.
"What do they ride in China Sue? Can some people really control clouds like in the
stories?" Lisa inquired with a expectant grin.

Before she could respond, Madam Hooch interrupted the rabble, "Everyone by a
broom? Good, now stick out your wand hand over it and say 'Up', and be serious
about it!" She was a sporty looking witch with short, bleached white hair, and
uncanny yellow eyes that darted from student to student.
Harry commanded the broom, and it jolted into the air, almost smacking him in the
knees and awkwardly flying at Mandy's head before he caught it by the tip and
forced it down beside him like a few others had managed. Beside him Stephen also
had trouble keeping control of his as it held him aloft a few inches from the ground
and didn't want to respond. Madam Hooch yanked it down after casting a spell on it,
and then helped some Hufflepuff that were struggling to even move theirs.
A short lecture later on mounting and safety instructions, then they were off.
Everyone kicked away from the ground, some soaring into the sky, as others barely
hovered over the grass. It took a while for everyone to land again after being called
back, but soon the whole class was flying slowly around in wide circles at the
direction of their instructor. The faster ones passing on the outside while trying to
avoid collisions. Harry had trouble controlling his from the start, barely keeping in line
despite the constant pressure he used to force it steady. Luckily enough class was
cut short as a light shower began to have adverse side effects on some of the
brooms, including his.
Dinner was uneventful as Padma had little material to tease him with, and everyone
else was too excited about their first astronomy class later that night to ask about the
incident with Draco.
It was near nine o'clock at night when Penny led them up to the astronomy tower
with telescopes in hand, to study the starts with Professor Sinistra. Who seemed a
younger version of Professor McGonagall, strict and businesslike, but wore plush
golden robes and a regal hat over her dark skin and hair. She taught them how to
use their telescopes and find various planets on a chart. Answering questions posed
throughout.
"Professor?" Harry asked during a lull in the lesson, "How much do wizards know
about astronomy compared to muggle scientists?"
"I was waiting for that question to be asked," She had a curious expression on her
face. "As some of you know, muggle knowledge has grown immensely in recent
years, sometimes outstripping even wizard knowledge, but usually only in
unimportant subjects. In astronomy particularly, they have come up with much more
theoretical knowledge such as the formation of planets and the life cycle of stars
than wizards have had time to examine. As there are so few wizard astronomers

compared to muggle ones, it is becoming an ever increasing burden to investigate

their claims. But as always, our ability to observe the heavens is still far superior in
ways they may never be able to duplicate."
"So... what's the wizarding view on alien life?" Ventured Harry.
With a delightful laugh she gently shook her head, "Ah, some mysteries we must
leave to the imagination, for even magic can not reveal all."
oOoOo
The rest of the week and the next was much the same for Harry, Potions was replete
with skeptical glares and intimidating pacing around the room, and Herbology
became a tactical game on staying away from Draco and his gang. While Charms
and Transfiguration let him excel behind the scenes as much as possible, except
when the professors tried to drag his shining accomplishments out on display for the
class. History and Defense both dragged on with scant changes, while Flying and
Astronomy improved as Harry avoided the single manic-defective broom he got at
the first, being able to enjoy flying more, and they got to see wondrous sights of
distant galaxies in a large school telescope during Astronomy.
It was only the third week of school when the bullies came out of the woodwork, or
rather stonework in this case, to show how much they ran the school. The seniors
had already sorted out their hierarchy for the most part over the years, but now it
was the first year's turn to figure out their pecking order and learn their place relative
to the rest.
Harry was having none of it though, avoiding confrontations with everyone he could,
and those he couldn't seemed to start slipping in the halls, not able to lay a hand on
him as he passed them by. The Ravenclaws themselves rarely bothered him,
besides the random prank now and then, or the few third years offering to protect
him for money. He ignored the intimidation attempts and insults from Gryffindors and
Slytherins, but it was becoming difficult to divert Draco's constant harassment
without causing serious harm, which he wasn't sure if it could be traced back to him
somehow.
Everything came to a head in the middle of the week during potions class. Harry was
stressed from the increasingly heavy workload of things he barely understood, and
the incessant nagging of classmates about how he liked to show off. Which couldn't
be farther from the truth in his mind, but that seemed to be why they latched onto it,
and why it bothered him so much. Even the Hufflepuffs got in on the action,
complaining about how he thought he was so much better than them, as one boy

kept trying to throw things in his cauldron when Snape left the class for more
ingredients. Hanna tried to tell them to stop, but was quickly shamed for not siding
with her housemates. She meekly tried to avoid the whole situation after that, quietly
chopping ingredients to not garner attention.
Although nothing ever landed in their cauldron, Harry used his polished silver knife to
watch behind him and catch Zacharias Smith in the act. Turning around to stare at
the snub nosed boy, Harry was yelled at by professor Snape when he entered the
room again carrying a crate of supplies. Drawing laughs all around and especially by
Smith. So Harry turned back to watch the reflection in his knife, as Snape put the
ingredients away.
Right before Smith was about to throw something else, Harry bent the stand his
cauldron was sitting on and dumped the whole thing in his lap. Causing bedlam in
the class as he cursed and fell back into two more tables, knocking their cauldrons
over as well. The incomplete potions did nothing but make people itch, thus Harry
figured there wasn't any need for concern. Yet in his stressed and addled state, he
forgot the main rule of causing trouble; pretend like it was unexpected.
So upon noticing he was the only one not looking around in concern, Harry caught
sight of Snape's cold malevolent eyes as they bored into his own, and finally realized
where his headaches were coming from.

Chapter 5 - Explanation
Chapter 5
Explanation
Dumbledore looked down at the young boy who had caused such an uproar in the
school recently. He appeared so innocent sitting there in the oversized velvety
armchair, which got so many young students to pour their hearts out to a kind and
forgiving headmaster. But instead of squirming in his seat from nervous guilt or
wearing a pleading look of honest innocence, he merely gazed around the room in
curiosity at all the instruments, gadgets, portraits, and shelves of books that had
collected over the years. Dumbledore considered that maybe someday he could give
the boy a tour and share his knowledge of all the fun and interesting trinkets until his
curiosity was sated, although today he had to discover just who was sitting before
him.
Their eyes finally met and Dumbledore decided to delay no longer, since it was
obvious the boy wasn't about to confess or plead his innocence. It was only the third
week of school but staff rumors already spread that he was very straightforward with
the other professors so that was where Dumbledore started. "Harry, I am sure you
can guess why I called you in here today. I would like to know if you attacked
Professor Snape earlier today."
This is it, Harry peered up at the white haired wizard with his crooked nose and halfmoon glasses. The long awaited confrontation with authority I knew was coming, and
it isn't starting how I hoped. He was glad the Headmaster wasn't trying to manipulate
or guilt him into a confession like others tried in the past. But this time there was no
escaping, no tricks or secret mind games could work on someone so old and
experienced in dealing with misbehaving students and magical subtlety. If rumors
and history books could be believed, he was sitting in front of the most revered and
strongest living wizard in the entire world, who was proficient in law, politics, and who
knows what else he might be capable of. It was time to see if this tower of authority
he was facing could be trusted. Harry couldn't guess what he might already know or
suspect, so simple honesty was the strategy of choice.
"No sir, I didn't attack him."
Mulling over the boy's short response, Dumbledore could see his apparent honesty,
but knew the young so often had a way of viewing the world from a distorted vantage
point. He found it doubtful that Severus would lie to him about being attacked with
magic in his own classroom, in front of the entire class. It was far more likely Harry

was a good liar or didn't view it as an attack but retaliation for some slight. This was
not starting off well.
"If you do not mind my asking, what do you think happened to Professor Snape that
forced his head to be thrown against the classroom wall and lose consciousness?"
Quick and simple was a sign of honesty, use contractions and be convinced of your
statements, Harry reminded himself. "I don't know sir, but I'm curious as to why I'm
suspected." Too much, shouldn't have given him more than an 'I don't know'.
A puzzled expression crossed Dumbledore's face. Having heard the Snape's report
after the event, and also the testimony of a few students that saw the incident, there
was no obvious conclusion. No one saw Harry or anyone else use a wand or say a
curse, let alone the girl right next to him. Unintentional magic was the likely culprit,
yet a distant memory of Tom as a charming young student, sitting in the very same
chair, crept into his mind. A shake of his head dislodged the disturbing thought. Harry
gave no other signs of malevolent behavior or similar mindset, but his answers were
almost too measured for such an age, it seemed he had to be confronted.
"Professor Snape claims you were the one to attack him in the middle of class,
although no other students saw anything, he does have my utmost trust." The split
second look of disdain from Harry was all Dumbledore needed to know about what
he thought of Snape. "I'm sorry but I must ask to see your wand to verify what spells
have been cast recently."
Attempting to restrain his feelings at the thought of trusting a man like Snape, Harry
was lucky enough to keep his face a composed mask as the delighted smile of
victory surely would have given him away when he handed over his phoenix wand
that wasn't used since breakfast. He watched the headmaster cast a detection spell
over the wand and another two he had no idea what might be for, especially since
the headmaster mumbled them under his breath. Knowing his wand wouldn't convict
him, Harry felt it was better to be himself and show his curiosity instead of acting so
reserved all the time. "I've heard what that first spell does but I was wondering, what
the other two are for?"
Dumbledore waved his question away, "Merely making sure the wand is yours and
un-tampered with. It would appear you are indeed innocent of casting any curses or
hexes. Tell me Harry, what were you thinking about when the professor was
assaulted?" The negative results suggested it was indeed accidental magic, but that
begged the question of why Severus thought Harry was responsible. Dumbledore
could only guess, but students did often complain about being provoked by the
hostile Potions Professor act.

Harry knew he should distract the headmaster from that line of questioning, but
didn't know what would work. Might as well bring out the reserve strategy; he's
bound to find it out sooner or later.
"I'm not sure, but I think you should know something else. That isn't my only wand."
Producing his other wand from the holster on his arm made Dumbledore's eyebrows
shoot up in surprise. Perfect, that might be good enough to keep him off track for a
while.
"It seems I have underestimated the inventiveness of students these days. Not many
adult wizards think to carry multiple wands, and even fewer wear them in holsters,
excluding experienced aurors. Did you happened to meet a man named Alastor
Moody who gave you some tips?"
A shake of Harry's head prompted him to continue.
"Well no matter, I am glad you came forward with this, so there shall be no doubt to
your culpability." Dumbledore marveled at the unusual beauty and exceptional power
of this second wand but put it out of his mind after he checked it with the same
spells. He paused to considering things in a slightly new light. Harry appeared more
clever than anticipated, but almost seemed too sure of his innocence from the hint of
a smile on his face.
Dumbledore realized he would have to be careful with how to treat him. "You would
not happen to have a third wand just in case, would you?"
Glad for the distraction Harry answered in depth, "No, I didn't see the need for
another wand yet. But it seems I am the only other student I know of to have two, for
some reason most people don't see any purpose to have more than one. I'm glad at
least some experienced individuals see the need. As for the holster, I was curious
how others carried their wands, and Mr Ollivander mentioned where to get one. The
price seemed excessive but I supposed the hiding and protection charms are what
makes it worthwhile. If you don't mind me asking, how many wands do you have
sir?" Things were going smoother now and he hoped he could ingratiate himself
somewhat with the Headmaster, at least to see if he was trustworthy. Learning a bit
from one of the most powerful wizard alive wouldn't hurt either.
Dumbledore studied Harry and his open expressiveness when talking about a
subject he was interested in. His calculated and reserved attitude was gone,
implying it was due more to nervousness than deceptions. Which gave Dumbledore
a hint on how to lure him out of his shell, by offering a little knowledge and wisdom to
stimulate his Ravenclaw interests. Coming back to the subject at hand, it was very

unusual for students to have uncontrolled bursts of magic in an everyday situation as

a potions classroom, especially for one so intelligent and already skilled in wand use.
Further memories cascaded through his thoughts, this time of his young sister. He
coughed, and cleared his throat too rid himself of them.
"While I encourage preparedness for all things magical you need not emulate an
eccentric old wizard such as myself." Seeing the slight disappointment in Harry's
eyes he revised his answer, "but I own four different wands, each are slightly better
at some tasks than others. I don't think it would be worth the cost for you to try more
than two for now though, as it is usually much more advanced spells that would ever
require the finesse of a specific wand. Though I am surprised you manage to talk
Olivander into selling you a second."
"It was quite difficult actually."
Bright and curious eyes gazed back at his own. Reassuring Dumbledore of his
impressions of Harry. He resembled the classic Ravenclaw, thirsty for knowledge of
every kind, yet displayed his own individuality in being reserved with a unique
perspective on the world. The only question Dumbledore had now, was what could
have struck such a chord of unrestrained violence in the boy to smash Severus
against a wall.
"I imagine so. - While some experienced wizards like myself and Alastor prefer to be
cautious, others might see a second wand as a sign of... mistrust, or danger even.
As if that person feels threatened or has dangerous thoughts on the mind. I suppose
that is why many wizards and witches do not consider keeping a wand in reserve,
because others might think something is wrong. You would not have any, incidents,
in the past that made you feel the need for more than one wand, would you Harry?"
He handed the wands back with an encouraging smile.
Looking down at his wands after accepting them back, it was hard for Harry to
consider all the implications of what was just said, but it was more than obvious that
the headmaster was inquiring about any abusive situations or violent tendencies he
might have. I was right in the first place, there is no dissuading Dumbledore from
finding out what happened. He obviously knows a lot about wandless magic and
what might have happened, even if I don't. Maybe if I led the conversation into my
perspective the headmaster would be more understanding.
"Well I haven't had a storybook life if that's what you're asking, but I've managed to
make due. Nothing too serious or life threatening, except for the frying pan episode."
He groaned silently at having mentioned that, but it was too late, death by frying pan,
the obvious thing to inquire about.

Now Dumbledore felt he was getting somewhere, Harry was still equivocating but
that was something to work with. "Hmm, a frying pan episode, no one got hurt I
hope?"
Might as well explain some, since it doesn't give too much about myself away, and I
don't want to be one of those people... Harry mentally rolled his eyes, "It was a few
years ago during one summer holiday, I was supposed to be mowing the lawn, but
the lawn mower ran out of petrol. I didn't want to tell my uncle it was out so I sort of...
wished, for it to keep running. It didn't sound right though because it was much too
quiet, I hurried up and finished cutting the grass only to find my aunt watching me
with a weird look on her face. After finishing up and putting things away I started to
head inside. But as soon as the door closed behind me, I saw this frying pan coming
straight for the side of my face. I tried stepping back to get out of the way but
realized the door wouldn't move, not having anymore time to turn the doorknob or
duck, I simply... wished for it to stop.
"When I opened my eyes the pan was almost touching me, but it was frozen in
place. I looked around it and could see my aunt holding it, but she was just as
unmoving as the pan. Her eyes were glazed over and staring back at me. I was
frightened and don't know what was going on so I ducked underneath her
outstretched arms and ran to my room. About ten minutes later I heard something
like the pan dropping on the floor but I was tired so I just locked my door and fell
asleep. I realize now I must have stunned her or something but back then it just
seemed like she went into shock." Left out a few details like mowing the entire lawn
that way for a couple of weeks, chasing Dudley with it for a bit, and blocking my door
with every bit of furniture in my room that night, but there's no need to give too much
away at once.
Dumbledore restrained his eyes from widened in horror and jaw dropping at such a
story. But quickly glanced around at his instruments that were meant to detect
potential bodily harm to the boy. None had gone off since he broke his leg falling out
of a tree when he was five. Having looked into Petunia's mind at the time to make
sure, Dumbledore could barely believe the same dull woman could even think about
such actions, let alone carry them out. Thoughts of his sister rose to the surface
once again in worry about what they might have done to Harry. But the calm and
resigned attitude Harry wore after retelling the story eased his mind again. Yet it
seemed related to the subject at hand, if a difficult topic to broach.
"There would not be any problems like that here at school, would there? Because I
must be very firm and punish anyone swinging frying pans at you." Dumbledore
hoped a little levity wouldn't harm any progress so far.

It was hard for Harry to dislike such a strange and grandfatherly figure who had a
twinkle in his eye all the time, but he couldn't trust Dumbledore only because of an
affable personality. He would have to be tested, to make sure of the character of this
eminent old wizard. It might be all or nothing at this point, but I've got a feeling it's
worth the risk.
"Honestly sir, I know what you are getting at and what you want to hear, whether
something happened between Snape and I to cause me to, - wish him harm or
something similar." Dumbledore was rapt with attention, his eyebrows risen even
higher than before and slowly nodding his head. "I seem to know your intentions but
you don't seem to understand mine yet, so I will to make it clear. I don't mean to be
rude, but while you seem like a wise and kind old wizard, I don't really know you and
I haven't decided if I can trust you yet. I know how this may sound for a young
student to talk to you this way, but I can't find any easier way to put it."
For one of the very few times in his life, Dumbledore was speechless. Looking back,
he wondered if he really was worthy of this fascinating boy's trust. Yet there was no
one else that could help or guide Harry with what may come. Then and there,
Dumbledore decided to become worthy, no matter the past.
"While I realize you may not want to confide in me yet, what would you have me do
to earn your trust?"
Peering up at the puzzled headmaster in his colorful medley of clothes, it was hard
to decide what to ask for first. Harry almost wanted to laugh at the absurdity of the
situation but instead gave a reassuring smile. "I think I need to know something
about you that isn't in all the history books, something that might convince me that
you are who they say you are."
"If you are interested, my favorite flavor of jam is raspberry." He wore a lopsided grin,
"but I suppose I should first warn you about the ways I could be someone other than
I appear. There are potions that can change appearances, others that create
obsessions and upset the mind, spells that overcome a person's will, change their
memories, or bind their vows. There are also enchanted items that can take over
your body or read your mind, some can detect dark objects, lies, or deceit. On the
other hand there is a potion called verasiterum that can force someone to tell the
truth about whatever they say, or whatever is asked, yet it is hesitantly used. The
goblins have an enchantment that is called Thief's Downfall which removes most
curses and potion effects from anyone who enters the vaults. There are other ways
to verify who someone really is, but by the look forming on your face you are not
concerned with me being me, but who Albus Dumbledore really is? - There you may
have me at a loss because I am all of my past, not only individual stories taken here

or there to exemplify the best of who I would like to be. There are too many to be
sure, which you probably would not care to hear right now. Do you have anything
specific in mind?"
Harry thought it over for a moment and almost laughed again at how easy the
headmaster turned the tables and would learn what was important to him at the
same time Harry might learn about the headmaster. "It probably isn't one event or
easy to explain, but what made you choose the light side rather than the dark? And
why do you consider that good?"
Dumbledore's face became stricken for a second at the memory he endeavored to
avoid if at all possible, bringing with it the agonizing pain he still carried. It passed as
hurtful memories always do, but he recalled the distressing time that led up to it,
when he had to rethink who he was and what he wanted to stand for. He frowned
deeply, not wishing to tell the story, but began anyway.
"It was 1899, when I was but a young man. As you may not have heard I was close
friends with Gellert Grindelwald, long before the war he started, we had an idea to
raise witches and wizards above muggles, who had taken over control of almost the
entire world. I will admit I was immature and resentful then, having been affected
greatly by one such abhorrent muggle crime, which made it personal for me, as well
as dealing with my mother's recent death at the time. Gellert and I saw the muggles
as barbarians, always fighting with one another, abusing, or killing in unspeakable
ways. It seemed justified to rule over them if only to stop all the violent and insane
behavior that occurred. We knew it would be difficult and would require necessary
evils to accomplish, but convinced ourselves it was only for the greater good. Alas I
believe now we really wanted power and control more than anything such as justice,
Gellert especially.
"That was all before I saw what those ideas would lead to, or the consequences of
our actions. I had my doubts along the way but my inexperienced ideals and
emotions kept me loyal to him. I felt as if my life was a ruin then, and he was my only
escape. Soon I was confronted by my brother about these wayward thoughts and for
neglecting my family responsibilities. We argued but that day I saw the true face of
Gellert Grindelwald as he cast an unforgivable curse on my brother for trying to
dissuade my ambitions. We fought, all three of us in a violent duel..."
He paused, taking a deep breath and gazing out the window with moisture in his
eyes.
"Sufficed to say, it ended in tragedy beyond words. Gellert fled out of fear of the
consequences and I abandoned the cause along with all notion that wizards were

superior to muggles. It was my greed for power that led me to ignore my own
conscience and follow such a flawed ideal. I realized much later that our notion of
'for the greater good' was an excuse to commit crimes I knew were wrong. There
can never be a greater good that is forced on others. If there is such a thing, each
person must decide to accept that for themselves." Dumbledore held back his
trembling emotions, while hoping that painful story might teach Harry something as
well as demonstrate his candor to the young wizard.
It took a minute for Harry get his own thoughts in check and to weigh over the
revelations he heard. It felt like too much was left out, little details hidden and larger
problems glossed over, but he couldn't very well expect to hear every intimate detail
from a man who may not trust him as well. He saw the wisdom in Dumbledore's
conclusion, similar to his own ideals, yet he still needed more information to really
trust this mythical figure.
"What happened after that, the books say you defeated Grindelwald in the most
impressive battle anyone has ever seen?"
Sighing Dumbledore finished the tale, "After Gellert fled, I came to dedicate my life to
helping others and started teaching here at Hogwarts. I had many happy years
teaching here and made a great many friends, but as always our past can come
back to haunt us. Many decades later Gellert tried to accomplish our long forgotten
goals. He had started a war, and not just a magical one but involving and using
muggles as well. Playing off their fears and prejudices he manipulated the leaders at
the time. In 1940 things were getting worse all across Europe and I tried to find him
to stop the madness that was another world war. As I searched I met others like him,
and I started to see what the true evils wizards began to perform themselves,
becoming no better or sometimes far worse than the muggles they were trying to
rule. When I finally found where he was staying I was walking down some ancient
catacombs looking to confront him, only to hear a young girl screaming for her life. I
ran as fast as I could to find who was in danger, only to discover it was Grindelwald
himself, older and depraved, who had sacrificed a muggle girl in a terrible dark ritual.
I left unnoticed, too distraught and confused to do anything then, realizing he was far
past saving or convincing to change his ways. Yet I couldn't face him then, I was too
afraid and emotionally lost thinking of what he was, of what I could have become.
That is a regret that I will always remember, that I possibly could have ended the war
right then. I ran away from my thoughts and from my past, to hide from the pain and
memories."
He took another deep breath, and looked down at his hands.
"During the winter and end of 1941 I was finally shown what my inaction and fear

cost. I entered Diagon Alley to find it subdued and dismal on my way to the leaky
cauldron to meet a friend. It was during our meal together that a young muggle boy
stumbled through the front door, half frozen and not realizing where he was, he tried
to beg for food only to be rebuffed by less than sympathetic wizards. The small boy
fainted in my arms when I tried to help him, so I fed and warmed him up, if only to
return him to his parents who I assumed must be searching outside in the cold for
him. As I scoured all over war torn London for them, it became painfully obvious how
much I had failed, leaving Grindelwald to continue such a misguided cause had left
everyone else, especially the muggles exposed to the horrors he was causing. I
found out later when the boy awoke that he was an orphan, I did all I could for him
and left him with a caring family.
"Exploring what was happening outside our hidden world I became enraged beyond
anything I had ever felt before. I left on a journey determined to stop Grindelwald and
the horrific war. It took many years in between keeping an eye on students at school
and trying to track him down again. All the while I tried to defeat his subordinates
and end his support. It was near the end of May in 1945 that I followed him to Italy
and defeated his second in command. The next day I fought a calamitous duel with
him, supported by many misbegotten, enchanted objects and powerful artifacts I had
collected over the years. He had secretly obtained an object of immense power as
well, but we fought equally the entire day, only to have it end for both of us in
complete exhaustion of every kind. That was when a benevolent phoenix, Fawkes,
my rescuer, found me and saved me from the brink of death. I was able to imprison
Grindelwald with Fawkes' help and the war soon stopped." There was no great
morality tale to gleam from that part, Dumbledore knew, but it was what everyone
wanted to hear. How the mighty had fallen and the legend began. He glanced at the
empty perch beside his desk with longing.
Harry stopped himself from tearing up and thought rationally. The only thing of
consequence in that story was the notion of stopping evil before it fully started, and
that there were many powerful enchanted objects and a magical creature that could
help defeat dark wizards. But the headmaster didn't seem to acknowledge the very
lesson he was shown. By his vague and subtle warnings he didn't view magical tools
or methods to gain them particularly virtuous either. Fawkes on the other hand
seemed to be reputable by it's very nature, and there was something else about a
phoenix he felt he was forgetting as well. Oh well, I'm bound to remember it
sometime.
"Fawkes wouldn't happen to have any friendly siblings around here would he?"
That got a mirthful laugh out of Dumbledore, seeming to marvel at Harry's topic of
choice. "I wish it were so, but phoenix are one of the few powerful magical creatures

who rarely if ever, bond with a wizard. They are said to pick a wizard as a companion
rather than the other way around. Yet I fear we have strayed far from the original
topic at hand. Is there any other way you can begin to trust me?"
Harry thought for a moment then realized it was more prudent to deal with the main
issue, rather than ask for magical favors or knowledge of ancient artifacts and spells.
He made a mental note to research other magical creatures and artifacts owned by
famous wizards in the future and pushed on, "I suppose I would like to know what
you intend to do if it was me who... pushed Snape into a wall. Would it include any
permanent punishments?" That didn't come out right. I should really slow down and
consider my words better when dealing with the man who could decide to snap my
wands or not.
The hesitation was confirmation enough for Dumbledore, but he noticed Harry was
worried about his future at Hogwarts rather than a fear of detentions. He decided it
was best to ease Harry's mind quickly before he resolved to lie. "I'm afraid I would
have to give you a few detentions with your head of house, but there would not be
any permanent repercussions due to uncontrolled magic. Except you would have to
receive training to control that in the future, which I am sure Professor Flitwick would
be happy to supply. Does this mean you willing to tell me what happened now?"
At least he seems trustworthy enough, Harry considered, no reason for him to go
through all that for a simple confession. Maybe he could even explain what
happened a little better, if he heard my side of events. Which could also determine
how much I might tell him in the future.
"I honestly don't know exactly what happened, but it started out with Professor
Snape yelling at me for something he thought I did. He was glaring at me when I felt
a headache coming on, and something else, almost as if it was a grimy hand
reaching into my thoughts and digging at my memories. It was horrible and I tried
pulling away from it as far as I was able but it wouldn't stop. So instead I just pushed
at it as hard as I possibly could, that's when I heard a crash and looked up to see the
professor lying on the floor. I'm not sure, but I assume Snape just was in the way of
the unintentional magic I created." Of course it was Snape who felt like a greasy
hand in my mind, but what was he doing is the question. Now to see if the
headmaster can figure out what happened and admit it to me.
Dumbledore was unsure which was more surprising. That Severus would use
legilimency on a first year without approval or that Harry was strong enough to repel
him out of his mind and unintentionally throw him against a wall. He would have to
make sure before confronting anyone. "That seems very frightening Harry, but would
you mind if I attempted to make sure what you are telling me is true?"

A hesitant nod of understanding let him continue. "I will try to ascertain what
happened without being invasive, but remain calm, and try to push away like before."
With a flash of their eyes meeting, Dumbledore entered the boy's mind to see a
grand entrance to a house. Upon entering inside there were countless bizarre
decorations, some objects leaning against or sitting on top of others, paintings of
ordinary and strange styles with oddly dressed people in them. One main hallway
spread out into multiple rooms, with static people and irregular furniture covered in
books and even more random items. A small shelf to the side of the entrance held
miniature sculptures of many teachers at Hogwarts, each one was holding
something unique. His sculpture cupped a large white and red bumble bee,
Minerva's balanced a miniature Griffin wearing goggles on one finger, Filius grasped
a blue candle with a burning sun at the tip, a snake with a blade in its mouth was
coiled around Severus' hand, and professor Quirrell held two objects, a two
feathered quill and fabric wrapped around, darkness.
This was not the mind of an ordinary child, Dumbledore concluded. He saw a small
black puppy come bounding up to him and stop, wary of his outstretched hand. The
rooms started to fade away and plain grey walls surrounded him on all sides. Sitting
down in the middle of the room, he noticed the puppy was still staring at him, the
only thing left. Nothing similar to this had ever occurred before in his legilimency
experience, except for his duels with Moody, being trapped in a room with mirrors
not knowing where to go. Most people simply had thoughts and memories floating
around connecting to each other, not that mish-mash or organization he saw a
moment ago. Even Severus had only a black stone wall to keep people out, or an
imitation of the thoughts and memories he let others see. The puppy caught his
attention again and tilted it's head sideways staring at him, he reached out to pet it.
On closer inspection, it appeared to have green eyes, just like... it bit his hand and
he jumped back, but was in his body again staring at the young wizard with the same
bright green eyes.
"Harry, what was all that, and were you...?" He trailed off in thought as Harry started
to answer.
oOoOo
"It seems as if I was right in my assumption, that was taking place in my mind. This
time I thought of my memory palace but your image of me kind of threw me for a
loop so I took us somewhere else. Is that what Snape tried to do as well, reach into
my mind?" He was revealing too much, but knew the headmaster would have to
admit it now. He even got a better sense of who this wise old wizard really was after
he entered his mind. Harry felt he could trust him for the most part. He would try to
do the right thing, but would be overprotective at times and overconfident at others.

Dumbledore looked down at his hand behind the desk and saw small pink teeth
marks. That surprised him the most out of all that happened today, "Memory palace?
Is that how your memory works? Or is it something you made up in your mind? How
did you manage to affect things outside, like Professor Snape and myself, that
should not be possible!?"
For a first year to have a natural form of occlumency was something very rare, but
Dumbledore had never even heard of an ability to affect others while inside
someone's mind. Making an enemy go mad with legilimency was the worst outcome
ever recorded on the subject. Even masters of the mind magics had tried to reach
beyond, yet never achieved even something as small as the marks on his hand, let
alone throwing someone against a wall. The prophecy ran through his mind, but he
couldn't make sense of this latest revelation.
That wasn't the reaction Harry expected from the headmaster, especially after
getting used to his calm and understanding demeanor. This was something
extremely dangerous or new, neither was usually good with older people stuck in
their ways. He would have to be extremely careful trying to explain, if he could.
Feeling it would be safer to start with common knowledge, he tried, "A memory
palace is something muggles invented to sort their thoughts and remember things
better, it's how I organize important things I want to keep track of. I read about it in a
book at the library years ago. I was just remembering it all when you entered my
mind but I don't know exactly how I did that to Snape, what did I do to you?"
Dumbledore's lifted his hand from in his lap to display the small indentations. Harry's
mouth twitched, "Sorry, I really didn't mean to do that. I guess it was because I was
focusing on staying in that plain room and a little peeved about being a puppy to
you... at least I think that's why I was a puppy, that was weird."
Reaching into his drawer Dumbledore picked up a memory vial ready to save these
memories for later. Another thought struck him first, "Were you very angry at
Professor Snape when he yelled at you earlier? Do you think it is anger that enables
you to reach out through the mind?"
It was bound to come to this eventually, if Harry trusted the headmaster this far he
might as well explain more."No, I was scared more than anything, until after I
realized what might have happened, even then I wasn't sure until you tried as well.
Usually I just need to concentrate or focus hard enough on something to make it
happen."
That seemed hauntingly familiar to Dumbledore, "You are not only talking about
today are you? You were able to perform controlled wandless magic before ever
gaining a wand. How... how long ago were you able to control your magic like this?"

He knew of only few other people in all history were good with wandless magic at his
age, but almost all had to be angry or emotional while doing so. Except Tom. Which
did not bode well.
It was hard to decide what to hold back at this point. Harry thought he could trust the
headmaster but there was a chance that could be artificial. With people able to jump
in and out of someone's mind with magic, create memories, and remove them,
maybe even your own thoughts couldn't be trusted. "What if I told you I didn't want to
talk about this anymore?"
Dumbledore was taken aback, trying to see Harry for who he was, rather than the
image of Tom that kept coalescing in his mind. Things were going so well and so
badly, yet he touched on a sore subject it seemed. He considered how to patch
things up without making it worse, "I suppose that would be the end of our chat. With
this new information it seems you were only defending your mind from an unwanted
intrusion. I could not very well give you detentions for that." Just then a brilliant idea
struck him, "You would... or would you consent to lessons on how to control this
talent? So you would be able to protect your mind from future intrusion, and not risk
something like this happening again?" Sometimes Dumbledore even had to
congratulate himself on his cleverness, taking out a tin of sherbet lemon, he offered
one to Harry then took one himself and smiled.
Harry took one of the proffered sweets and stuck it in his mouth without even
thinking about it. When he realized what could be in the sweet it was too late, he was
getting a little too paranoid lately, but with teachers entering his mind, he felt justified
at times. The headmaster was rolling his own candy around his mouth while he
smiled with those ever indulgent twinkling eyes.
"Who would be giving these lessons?" Harry inquired skeptically.
As Dumbledore suspected, the Ravenclaw side of Harry was powerful and could not
pass up on learning something new. "There are only two registered occlumens
instructors able to teach it at this school. I can guess you would not be amenable to
learning from professor Snape so I would be the one to teach you, if you choose to
learn or not."
Sometimes it was simple phrasing that could lead to the desired outcome. These
lessons would be the perfect time for Dumbledore to get to know Harry better. Even
though some of his doubts about Harry were building, these meetings might let him
influence and guide the boy, which he failed to do with Tom. If all else failed he could
see who Harry really was while training him in occlumency.

It was hard to gauge the motivations of a man who played so many roles, even with
Harry's ability to sense intentions. Only one thing was obvious to him, so he would
have to focus on that, "I need one more honest and complete answer from you
before I trust you enough to let you back into my mind. Why do you want to get to
know me so badly?"
Dumbledore's eyebrows jumped once again, but slightly lower now that he was used
to the shocks. Being transparent was not something he was accustomed to, unless
he was with Minerva or Alastor. He might have to watch himself around Harry so that
he did not give too much away. As he was just about to bend the truth again to
appear in the best possible light, he noticed the hopeful if cautious look staring up at
him from that oversized chair. Having just promised himself to be worthy of this
astounding boy's trust, only to fall back into old habits once again was terrible. He
would do better.
"I admit, I was originally fearful of why Snape was convinced it was you who threw
him against a wall, and wanted to understand your character better. With your
explanations I feel reassured somewhat, and am interested in you and your talents.
After all I was quite close friends with your parents, I feel they would want me to
make sure you are doing well at Hogwarts. As for why I would be willing to teach you
personally, I cannot tell you everything yet but I know you have great potential and
might have a hard life ahead of you as the boy who lived. If I can help you along the
way, then I shall." There, if that wasn't more honest and open than he was with any
first year ever, he would give up sweets.
That was a lot more than Harry was expecting and posed great opportunities for the
future. To really have a mentor he could trust completely would be like a dream, for
that mentor to be possibly the greatest living wizard was beyond any hope he had.
Not to mention being taught new magic while able to tease information out of his
parents' old friend was making his heart race with excitement. Even though he might
not trust Dumbledore fully yet, the whole conversation was starting to make sense
now. He was ready to explain. "I would be happy to take lessons from you. And as
for your question earlier, I was seven when I started practicing magic but I thought it
was something else then. I just wanted to make sure I wasn't being forced to say
anything before telling you."
Suddenly a cuckoo clock struck the hour and a miniature dancing house elf came
spinning out holding a platter of food. It even gave off the smell of roast duck and
other enticing delicacies which made Harry's stomach growl. Dumbledore's face was
pure cheer as he gave a small chuckle, "It seems we have let the time run away
from us. We better head down to dinner before Minerva catches us spoiling our
appetites with sweets. But I would enjoy continuing this conversation in the future,

along with your first lesson in occlumency. Would you mind starting this Saturday,
perhaps after lunch?"
Harry remembered he had a history of magic study group around then but he really
didn't need to go, it just seemed the way to fit in around Ravenclaws. "That would be
fine by me. By the way, you wouldn't happen to have a faster way to the Great Hall
than taking all those stairs would you?"
Dumbledore's smile spread wider, while his eyes twinkled madly, "Come come, let
me show you a perk in being the Headmaster." He nodded to a lower portrait on the
wall of a genial and portly old man, which swung sideways to reveal a well lit stone
staircase descending gradually down to another floor.
Harry was finally storing his wands while he considered the possible ramifications
and outcomes of this conversation, but in the end shrugged his shoulders and
followed behind Dumbledore's bright flowing robes.

Chapter 6 - Overture
Author's Note: Thank you all for the valuable input in your reviews so far, I
appreciate even the criticisms. All I can say to most is wait and see, and your
questions and concerns will be answered in time. But this is a slightly slower paced
story than canon because I wanted to explore the world and let readers have more
fun, building up the story with small details that will be relevant later on, rather than
jumping from one obvious plot point to another. Now for the meeting you've all been
waiting for.
Chapter 6
Overture
Walking down the stairs kept Harry in a daze while trying to keep up with the long
legged Dumbledore. He barely noticed the intricate designs in the walls and the
smoothly curved handrail that kept him circling downwards. It took less than half a
minute to reach the bottom where the back of another portrait opened outward into a
large sitting room surrounded by even more portraits. The hidden door closed behind
Harry to reveal the twin of the person in the first portrait except with different clothes.
Dumbledore nodded towards the only obvious door in the room but stopped by a
desk hidden beneath papers before leaving, "I'll be along in a moment, headmasters
shouldn't arrive too early." His eyes twinkled with a shared secret.
The door opened directly into the Great Hall to the side of the staff table. Harry
realized the room was an antechamber that only teachers seemed to use. The
majority of students didn't notice his entrance, considering they were still finding their
seats. Yet he did catch a few stares from older students and teachers but quickly
took a seat.
Padma sat down next to him with a book in her hands and was about to continue
reading until she noticed who was sitting right beside her. "Harry, where'd you go
hiding after potions? Some people thought you got lost on the way to Charms but
when Flitwick didn't call your name there were rumors that you went to the
headmaster's office. You weren't planning on taking over his job already, were you?"
"Ah, no, I was just called up to explain what happened in potions, nothing too
important. Did I miss anything?" He hoped acting nonchalant would mitigate some of
the wild rumors that had already spread. Padma nodded, then shook her head, and
turned back to her book on memory spells.

That also seemed to mollify those listening in, but they weren't the problem. It was
hard for Harry to care about social status or bullies at any school he went to, but it
seemed to make life easier when other people thought well of him. It was extremely
hard for him early on at regular schools when he had no clue why some people
disliked him and others wanted to be his friend. But with a little insight and some
gentle manipulation things turned out alright most of the time. Here, rumors and
negativity about him was already spreading, which he guessed was because he
didn't like playing by their rules. Although he thought another reason might be the
quarter of students who were supposedly cunning manipulators with lots of ambition,
influenced by a rich brat who had it in for him. Although some like Crabbe and Goyle
seemed more fit for Hufflepuff if not for their cruel personalities.
The scrumptious food appeared along with Dumbledore and the rest of the staff.
Harry piled a variety onto his plate and continued contemplating. It seemed strange
to him why a school would want to separate students by their traits or values and
then generate animosity between the houses by keeping them apart and making
each create a team to play one sport only against the other teams. Then to even
compete for which house did best at the end of the year with a running tally. It felt
like some crazed social experiment gone wrong.
Harry looked up to students staring at him, then glancing toward the head table in
worry. Seeing Dumbledore with a large roll in his mouth gave nothing away, but his
vision was dragged to the side by Snape, giving his most menacing glare straight at
Harry. It was disconcerting to say the least but he thought for a second about the
best course of action. Instead of smiling at the professor over a battle won, like he
wanted to do, he decided to shrug his shoulders and continue eating. Pretending like
he didn't know what was going on, to possibly confuse even more people. Yet the
glaring seemed like a tactic aimed at the other students rather than him. Confronting
him on a mental level again seemed like a bad plan,as it might not go the same way,
but Harry knew that it was at least possible to defend himself if attacked. Still,
throwing Snape into a wall a second time in the same day didn't seem like such a
good idea. Yet noticing more whispers breaking out inspired another tactic, starting a
few rumors of his own.
Penny whispered across the table to him, "Harry, is there something going on?
Snape seems to be using his best glare tonight."
He smiled at her, the best prefect in the school, who actually cared about her
underclassmen and tried to help them out. She seemed to come to his rescue more
often than not, almost able to sense when she was needed. He spoke a little louder
than usual, "Oh, I noticed a bit ago, kind of weird isn't it? You think he might be
taking a few too many of his own potions?" If she didn't take it too seriously those

listening in might spread it around.

Always the personification of Ravenclaw she appeared to understand exactly what
Harry was doing and gave him a sly wink, "Oh every professor knows not to
overdose on certain potions, but I hear he does do quite a bit of research with new
and altered brewing. Surely he wouldn't be so desperate for willing volunteers that
he would try his own experimental potions..."
The way she left it almost a question for other curious Ravenclaws to interpret was
brilliant. It made Harry want to laugh, clap, and hug her all at the same time. The
next moment Morag spoke is a scandalized hush, "That explains it! No wonder he
was thrown from his chair today in class, it must have been a strange reaction from
one of his experiments! No one in the whole school trusts Snape enough to try one
of his potions, even the Slytherins."
If that wasn't more than everything Harry had hoped for in a rumor getting started, he
should have been placed in Slytherin himself. Penny was trying not to laugh as well
when it started getting discussed in depth down the table where the 7th years sat.
He wore an abashed grin out of amusement and remorse for using his classmates
like that.
Penny waved it off like she could read his mind, "Everyone has to be responsible for
their own thoughts and actions. Besides someone might learn from this." And even
that comment was integrated into the gossip of how Snape should know better than
to test his own potions on himself.
oOoOo
Dumbledore looked down at the busily chattering Ravenclaws and smiled happily.
Things had worked out quite well and Snape had even taken the news adequately
about Harry not receiving detention, as well as being warned off using legilimency on
the boy because he would now be receiving special training on the subject.
Dumbledore could feel his own eyes twinkle in delight at how everything worked out,
until he noticed too many students glancing up at the staff table in gossip. Focusing
on Severus, who was using his trademark glower at the Ravenclaw table which
meant only one thing, he was holding a grudge. Even as an adult Severus could still
hold a grudge better than anyone around. The smile slowly fell down Dumbledore's
face and dropped to the floor when he saw him almost snarl. It was unacceptable,
especially after barely earning the boy's trust.
He grunted loud enough for the staff to feel the reverberations through the table, but
that didn't dissuade Severus from his glare. Standing up slowly Dumbledore cleared

his throat once again and received complete quiet. "This might be unusual but it
seems like such a lovely night tonight I thought we all might like some entertainment
with our dinner."
Lifting his wand, the lights dimmed and a bevy of shooting stars lit up the cloudy sky,
bursting into fireworks here and there, raining down sparkling showers around the
tables, leaving the staff in dark relief. He rarely used so intricate of magic as a
distraction for students but the few times he had, the staff knew something was
wrong. Minerva was standing beside him in a moment, ready for anything. What he
wouldn't have done for a friend like that his whole life. He held up a hand calming
her with a weary smile. She nodded as if she completely understood and sat back
down calming the rest of the staff with her. Except for Severus who looked like his
trance was finally broken as he scanned the room warily.
Dumbledore nodded directly at him with a command when he caught the man's eye.
"Come", and they both walked back to the sitting room they had just finished their
discussion in. Right away the excuses started, "I don't see why that was necessary,
if no other professors need get up couldn't this have waited till after the students
left?"
A little anger was brimming behind Dumbledore's now resigned smile. "It was
necessary it seemed to get your attention. Your most powerful glare was locked onto
a young first year that I thought we had just resolved any difficulties with."
Confronting Severus seemed to be the only way to avoid all the evasions he usually
put on.
Severus studied the headmaster for a moment, "I was simply doing what I always
do, letting a student know I was onto his trouble-making and letting him stew about
how bad of punishment might be expected, since you refused to give him even
detention I figured that was the least I could do to dissuade any thoughts of further
rebelliousness in my classroom."
It all sounded so reasonable and straightforward. If Severus had learned anything
over the years it was how to do just that, being a triple agent while a war tore the
country apart had only perfected his act. Though Dumbledore prided himself on
knowing him better than that,"I could believe that if I hadn't seen your snarl at him
the exact same way you used to at James and Sirius across the tables after they
had played a prank on you. I know when I see you warning a student out of duty and
threatening out of anger, but this was beyond even that tonight. You didn't even
register my first attempt to get your attention and were even worse after you
probably saw Harry smile or something that reminded you of his father."

The smallest of twitches in Severus' lip signaled a correct guess, or close enough.
The point had to be hammered home. "My word Severus, I didn't believe the rumors
before but to treat him as if he was James incarnate? You can't possibly see much
resemblance between them can you? If anything he seems most like his mother,
with those intelligent and bright green eyes! He hasn't pranked a single person and if
anyone has been bullied it was him, by your beloved Slytherins that you seem to
encourage. Think back at which Gryffindor was insulted by Slytherins for no fault of
her own. Was she so different than Harry that you would let him get bullied, called
names, and even contribute?!" Dumbledore knew the emotional blackmail he was
using was wrong, just like in the past when he convinced him to turn sides, but it was
all that could get through to him sometimes.
Severus wore an expressionless mask but Dumbledore could see a turmoil of
emotions in it, from anger to remorse, fury to guilt, and a deep sadness behind it all.
He appeared to resist the tragic memories brought to the surface, but it was too
much, and he lashed out. "He's why she died. He's just as bad as his father!"
The room went dark in an instant, the little light left bent around the headmaster in a
radiant aura. Dumbledore's face was sterner than iron, anger almost seemed to
seep out of his eyes, and the air around him began to boil as it got close. There were
only outrageous tales spread about Dumbledore's battles with Voldemort which
Severus never witnessed, as he could not be seen to fight for either side. But this
monstrosity was obviously what Voldemort truly feared. Severus stepped back
instinctively and turned away with a shiver. Dumbledore's tone was even but his
words rang like a hammer strike, "Don't disgrace their memory with lies!"
It took a few deep breaths and seeing Severus quiver, to calm Dumbledore down.
He relaxed as much as possible and spoke in a kinder but stern way, "This is the end
of any hostility towards Harry. She sacrificed herself, they both sacrificed themselves
trying to protect Harry. His life and trust is too important for everyone to lose,
especially in the fight to come. Let us protect him as if she was still standing guard
over him. If nothing else, simply leave him alone."
With that Dumbledore exited the room, leaving the lights to flicker on again.
oOoOo
Harry was happily munching on desert and enjoying the show with everyone else,
until the back of his neck started to prickle. The hairs on his arms and neck rose with
goose bumps everywhere. He almost would have said a ghost passed through him,
but that had already happened and felt nothing like this. The air almost vibrated with
energy, but as he looked around hardly anyone seemed concerned, except the dim

shadows standing up and darting back and forth behind the staff table. A few
seemed to pace while most were ready with wands out. One could be made out
walking towards to sitting room he had entered from at the start. That was it,
whatever the feeling was, he could sense it coming from there, having never before
felt anything as clearly. Harry thought there was something familiar to it, but then it
suddenly disappeared.
Penny shivered in the corner of his eye and muttered something under her breath,
"Did someone create a breeze in here as well?"
Harry squinted back at the teachers who were starting to sit down again. He hadn't
imagined it then, other people, especially the teachers felt it as well, and that meant
his senses were coming back as well. It took a few moments but the last one to sit
down after all the others looked to be Dumbledore, then the regular lights came on
and the stars receded into the night sky.
The headmaster stood up again and addressed the elated students, "That was
enjoyable, a good end to a good evening." Despite the words Harry noticed the
twinkle in his eyes were gone, filled instead by misty tears. Everyone began shuffling
out of the great hall and back to their common rooms, so he only caught one last
glimpse of Dumbledore frowning down at his empty plate before being pushed out of
the hall.
oOoOo
The hard stone stairs passed by quickly as the Ravenclaw students flowed up to
their tower. Some stopped off at study rooms or a library when the gathering passed
by. After a few older students took a detour, Terry peeled away from their shadows
and came towards Harry, "Did you hear about Snape? They figured out why he went
mental in class today, he's been dipping into his own experimental potions. Can you
believe they let someone like that teach classes?" This was said with all the
seriousness that an incredulous first year Ravenclaw could muster.
It was hard for Harry to control his face after his eyebrows rose in surprise, but at
least he managed not to laugh out loud. He looked around to see if any others heard
then turned to address Terry, "That really is unbelievable, I bet the Hufflepuffs that
were in class with us would want to know what happened too."
Terry nodded along in agreement, "I think I saw Ernie heading down to the kitchens
instead of his common room, I bet he would want to know." He waved to Harry as he
raced back down the stairs.
Harry was sure of it now, a house didn't tell you who a person was but where they

slept. Maybe it said more about what someone's parents raised them to believe,
rather than the traits they demonstrated. That would explain a lot, why all the
Weasleys, especially Percy were in the same house. Just then Harry remembered
what he wanted to do tonight, backtracking a little he came to the Ravenclaw library.
He tried to remember what Dumbledore mentioned he would teach him.
Legilimency? No... Occlumency, that was it. Might as well find a book on any and all
mind magic if I still have to be taught by Snape.
Turning a corner he bumped into Robert, the second Ravenclaw prefect, who was
putting away books that others had left out. A perfect opportunity to ask a few
questions Harry thought, and cleared his throat, "Excuse me, is there a good spell
for finding the right book you're looking for, say, on a specific topic?"
Without pausing between shelving books Robert replied back, "There is the
summoning charm, accio 'title of book' if you know exactly what you want, but that's
a fifth year spell. Most people use the spell 'ask a perfect' but that works only if they
do it right."
"Ah, then could you please point me to the books on mind magics if you have the
time?" He considered learning accio as well if he didn't have to abase himself every
time he needed help.
Robert grinned around at him, "You learn even quicker than some of the fourth years
around here, seems like some people have forgotten even the word, manners. I
heard your mother was a star pupil back in the day, better than Snape himself in
potions is what they say. I bet you'll surprise everyone as well someday Harry,
especially if you're already interested in so advanced of subjects. - Most of the books
are two shelves to the left, near the bottom. Oh, and don't try out any of those spells
without supervision, you don't want to erase half of your memory before even
learning the important stuff." He returned to putting books away with the practiced
efficiency of a librarian.
That was a little unusual, but at least he wasn't as bad as he originally seemed.
Maybe his usual gruff and businesslike demeanor is a way of acting like a leader.
Turning into the right set of shelves he found another student sitting on the floor,
looking exactly at the same place he was told to look. Something seemed odd, yet
Harry couldn't quite place what it was. He stood there staring at the familiar mess of
frizzy brown hair and it finally clicked, she was wearing red trim, not blue.
She caught sight of him standing there and became flustered, "Oh, excuse me, I
didn't mean to take up the entire isle, professor Flitwick said I could come here if I
couldn't find what I was looking for in the regular library. I don't want to be a bother

though so I'll just get my things and leave."

Murmuring to herself while tying her hair back, she stood up, finally allowing Harry to
see her face properly. That's when it all hit him like the Hogwarts Express might; she
was the same girl he saw in Diagon Alley, spoke to in the bookstore, heard on the
train, and noticed in the front of every class they had together. Hermione Granger.
His brain rushed to think of something to say before she walked away, and fell back
on old reliable curiosity, "What were you looking for, maybe I could help?" He
congratulated it on a job well done as he saw the hopeful and inquisitive expression
on her face. She looked like a little otter that was waiting to be rewarded. Wait, why
an otter of all the animals that came to mind? Maybe because they seem so smart
and yet so cute? Okay, it was officially time to change the subject.
"Well, this irritating boy in my house was claiming someone was reading his mind,
not that anyone would have a reason to do that, let alone want to. So I was going to
inform him how implausible that was, except I'm not having much luck finding the
right book." She finished with an exasperated sigh to emphasize her point.
It almost seemed like she was trying to play some over the top know-it-all role, but
hadn't found any dim witted friends to tag along just yet. His brain didn't seem to
care though and continued the conversation, "I see, surprisingly I'm looking into the
same topic myself. Recently I heard about occlumency and legilimency and decided
to research them a little. Legilimency might be the topic you're looking for. By the
way, my name is Harry Potter, I don't think I caught yours? "
Holding out his hand she shook it on reflex.
"Hermione Granger," she responded automatically and only let go of his hand when
he gently slipped out of her grip. Harry sat down on the floor beside her and she was
too flabbergasted to do anything but the same, and wonder. Everyone knew who
Harry Potter was but he wasn't supposed to be... normal, not to mention know things
that she didn't, or maybe he was?
Her curiosity got the better of her as well and finally kicked into gear, "Where did you
hear about the name for that kind of magic? I asked a few older students but they
didn't know. A teacher even said I wasn't supposed to learn about that until much
later." She pulled a book off the shelf just to feel comfortable with one in her hands.
Harry considered how much to tell another intelligent student but settled on just
being vague, "I heard a teacher talking about some impossible magic and it was
related to these. I believe legilimency was the ability to read minds and occlumency
was the ability to block it. If there's the first one, it seems wise to learn the other." He

scanned the shelves and found one that looked promising, To Get the Mind Free.
Taking a second to process and store this new information, Hermione was talking
again before she realized what she was saying, "But who would want to read your..."
she caught herself, biting her lip before saying more, "Sorry, I didn't mean to lump
you in with any nutters. It just seems excessive to worry about your mind being read
at a safe place like Hogwarts." Gluing her eyes to the book, she tried not to blush
while leafing through the pages.
Pondering the rosiness in her cheeks, Harry wore a wry smile, "I wouldn't be so sure
of the safety of this school. While it might not be fatally dangerous around here, I've
already heard about some colourful hijinks being perpetrated by none other than
Gryffindor house. Even I was subject to the twin Weasleys' shenanigans on the train
ride here. And there are worse rumors of how bad the bullying gets as well. - As for
mind reading, I would rather be sure in the safety of my own mind, rather than ever
have to worry about it in the future."
It made Hermione blush even further when remembering the stories being boasted
about in her common room. She couldn't squeak out more than an, "Oh," as she
tried to bury her face further into her book. After a minute of mindless reading she
finally noticed the title of her book, How to Keep His Eyes on You, her fingers barely
made it out alive when she slammed the pages together so hard it blew her hair
back, and at the same time producing a strangled, "Eep!" Luckily one sound
overrode the other as her clumsy hands made it harder than usual to put the book
back. She quickly turning away from Harry, and leaned over to look at more books
near the corner of the stacks if only in an effort to calm down and compose herself.
Her constant embarrassment was even harder for Harry not to laugh at than starting
the rumor about Snape. He nearly cackled like a mad old lady as he read the title of
the book she was reading. But then it got serious. Harry's eyes widened and he even
started silently talking to himself. This is not good, not good at all. I can't tell her, not
now! This isn't right, she'll hate me for sure. But she'll hate me even more if I wait
until later won't she? I can't even believe this is happening the first time I meet her,
it's like some bad sitcom on TV!
Mulling over his options for a second he realized there weren't any good ones, and
continued his internal monologue. I have to tell her right now. But... I almost, don't
want to. No! Just say it! Say, 'your skirt is pulled up and I can see your knickers.'
uggghhh what kind of pervert even thinks about saying something like that!? She's
only eleven! Wait, what am I saying, I'm only eleven too. But I still shouldn't be...
staring! Even though the pink flowers are almost captivating... No. I've made up my
mind, I'm going to pretend like I didn't notice and turn the other way. And Harry did

just that.
Until three seconds later his conscience caught up with his drifting thoughts. He
cleared his throat and managed to mumble a few words, "Umm, your skirt..."
Hermione finally had herself under control, she could feel her cheeks cooling, her
mind settling down and working right. But what did he just mumble? Something
about my shirt?
She looked around at him but he was facing away, no wonder it was a mumble. It
wasn't until her present vision and memory of what he said clicked into place.
Hermione nearly jumped through the wall, screamed into the ultrasonic, and died all
at the exact same time. Yet all the sound she made was some muffled shuffling and
a near breathless, "Aaahheeep!"
She stood clutching against the far wall, panting from the freight. Nearly sweating
through her robes, feeling a bright neon red, and thinking a mile a minute in screams
directed at herself. Oh my God!? HOW? WHY? Did he? No, did I? How looong!? Oh
god, he saw! No wait he was turned... No of course he saw because he said
something! He could have been just ogling, but he turned away? At least? Oh my
god my life is ruined, and Harry Potter saw my undies... Hermione slumped down
against the wall, unconsciously making sure her skirt was pulled down right as she
did so. Her head in her hands and eyes closed tight, she started to sob.
oOoOo
Staying still was the hardest part after hearing the near silent scream, that was until
Harry heard her first sob. He turned around to see her face covered but
overwhelmingly flushed, almost shining from the intensity. The second sob kicked his
brain into overdrive and he came to a conclusion immediately, distraction, "Hey
Hermione, look what I found in this book? Apparently some people keep living brains
in a tank and call them encephala, they're some sort of magical creature. But they
say study of them is completely restricted because they are really aggressive and
form tentacles of thought that can strangle anyone close by."
Peeking out from behind her hands Hermione slowly looked up at Harry with the
most confused expression possible on a weeping crimson face. "What?"
Turning the book around to show her, Harry pressed on, "Yeah someone even tried
to draw what they look like, pretty horrible even if you like brains. I think they
intended to give it teeth but drew over that part." He scooted over beside her and
began reading as Hermione peeked out with one eye at the eery drawing of a
bloodthirsty brain.

"They were discovered or grown by Sturgis Scamander, grandfather of the great

Newt Scamander, in 1785. After having killed a pet Kneazle that was exploring
around their tank, all known specimens were secured in a the department of
mysteries from then on. Soon after, Sturgis passed away as well. There is much
speculation about the nature of these creatures and their origins since none have
been found since. Some say they were actually the magically empowered brains of
deceased ancestors of Scamander but reported accounts put the tally of around
twenty total. Much too many for one man to collect, thus instigating more speculation
about previous generations contributing willingly to the collection." He peeked up at
Hermione and noticed her eyes were only slightly watery and her face was a gentle
pink. It seemed to work better than expected so he continued on.
A few chapters later the book started to get really boring, listing transportation notes
on the height and weight of the tank they were found in. Hermione was glad for the
temporary distraction and realized what Harry had done, but even she was fed up
with the book now. She still wanted to run away and never show her face again, but
it just wasn't in Hermione to give up on finding the information she desired. Putting
her hand over the book and gently closing it, she finally spoke, "Okay Harry, now that
that's over with, let's get back to the real goal of finding out how mind reading
works."
They both sat against the wall and researched for a while, skimming through a
dozen books before coming upon something useful. A list and detailed descriptions
of many different spells that targeted specific parts of the body. Some were very
unpleasant to learn about but finally they came to the brain. Hermione read it out
loud while Harry tried to listen, instead of letting his mind wander to previous
thoughts. It started out talking about the confundus charm, then the obliviate spell,
stupify, the jelly-brained jinx, and passively mentioned the imperius curse.
Eventually they came across legilimens and the counter to it, occlumency. The
description wasn't too detailed but it explained that legilimency was dependent on
eye contact. And was not taught in schools, but rather by individual tutors if one
could be found, as there were very few books on the subject which made them
extremely rare and costly. Occlumency on the other hand was more commonly
taught in book form but was usually inadequate unless taught by a tutor as well. It
was stated that occlumency could also protect you from the imperious curse if well
trained enough. Some suspected that masters of the subject would be able to resist
other mind altering spells and potions as well, but with so few known masters none
have been willing to confirm these suspicions. At the end it noted one known
textbook on occlumency for further reading but they couldn't find it. While they were
putting away the books Harry made a mental note to learn some of the spells they

read about, like the trace and apparition, even if some weren't exactly legal yet.
Hermione closed the last book and Harry peeked at his watch. "We have about
twenty more minutes until curfew. Does it take long to get to your common room?"
She shook her head, "Professor Flitwick told me about a shortcut just in case I lost
track of time here, since there isn't an official librarian to tell you when to leave. It's
only a few minutes walk, even closer than the school library is."
"I guess I should expect you back more often then, since only Ravenclaws are
allowed to check books out here. Maybe we could research more topics together
sometime?" The look of stunned horror on Hermione's face definitely wasn't what he
expected to see, "umm, but you don't have to of course... Is there something
wrong?"
Closing her mouth Hermione tried to form the words, "Only, Ravenclaws, can, check
out books? That, that's just cruel! That's like waving ice cream in front of child's face
and then eating it all in front of her!"
She was about to keep going but Harry cut in, "Woah, I'm sure Professor Flitwick will
make an exception for that as well. Besides that rule is probably only so some
uncaring people don't damage or lose them. If you really care that much I can just
borrow them for you." Harry put on a smile and again tried not to laugh at how
excitable she could be.
Calming down, Hermione was still a little indignant about the possibility of being
denied books. "Okay, I guess I can wait to check something out until I talk with
Professor Flitwick again. What did you have in mind to research next?" She
reluctantly handed him the book she was carrying.
"Why don't we find some chairs before my legs go to sleep and then discuss the
subjects we're interested in?" Hermione agreed and they soon found a couple of
cushy blue chairs looking out a window towards the sun setting over the forests and
mountains.
Once they got settled Harry continued, "So, I was thinking we could look into useful
charms and enchantments that would be helpful for everyday tasks. Like a spell my
prefect just mentioned, accio, which let's you summon objects to you. Also looking
into some powerful creatures that could be kept as pets instead of just an owl, toad,
or something boring like that. What about you?"
Taking time to consider Hermione perked up when an idea came to her, "That
reminds me, reading through 'Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them' I came

upon the moke, their skin is used in handbags that are almost unstealable, and
some can be enchanted with an undetectable extension charm which makes them
perfect to carry books and stuff around in. There are so many useful magical objects
that we could learn about. Maybe we could practice occlumency if we find that book
too. But you're right, I think it would be best to search for the most useful spells to
learn first. I've just been trying to learn everything assigned in the books and
classes, but some of it seems impractical."
It surprised Harry how similar their ideas were, his next suggestion was going to be
about powerful artifacts and enchanted objects. But he remembered something else
as well, "Not to be rude but you're muggle born right? I assumed the smartest
student in our year would be from some famous wizarding family." Hermione's lips
twitched to the side as he continued, "I was wondering because I was raised by
muggles as well, so I don't have much experience with magic."
A pleasant grin blossomed over her face and she nodded, "My parents are dentists, I
managed to get my books right after my letter came so I've been reading ever since.
They always say that my study habits are unnatural, but that doesn't seem to come
from magic. What about... never mind. At least we can be learning about magic
together." She frowned, afraid to ask about his life since she knew his original
parents had died.
Harry didn't have too many double classes with her, but so far it seemed there was
more than study habits that made her brilliant, "Maybe because it's still so exciting
for some of us, it makes us want to learn as much as we can. Though it might be
nice to have an experienced point of view if we get stuck when researching some
topics. - By the way, I still like your smile better."
Hermione was inspecting her idle hands as her brow furrowed in confusion, then her
eyes flicked up at Harry with her mouth open, gaping once more. "That? That was
you?! - I knew you looked familiar! But you had glasses on, and your hood up. - Wait,
that rumor is true as well? You actually started that silly trend to blend in?"
"Why does everyone say it's silly, hoods are cool..." He eyed her with the hint of a
grin, daring her to disagree. But she snorted lightly, trying to hold back a laugh,
causing Harry to roll his eyes. "Actually, I only wore it to hide my scar at first, and it
worked, until the next time I went when the rumors caught up with me."
"You got to go twice? That's no fair. My parents wouldn't take me back after I finished
reading all my books, so I had to keep rereading them. Did you get anything neat
there? All I was able to buy extra were a few magical erasers and a dictation quill."
She bit her lip again, this time in envy, which Harry found rather humorous.

A smirk caught Harry's mouth as he rolled back his sleeve to show her his watch.
"Only a few different inks, and this." Hermione became entranced by the realistic
depth and detail, tilting her head this way and that to peer around inside. Her mouth
kept forming the word wow, but never quite managed to say it. While Harry was
reminded of the Hogwarts express again for some reason.
"Now that's cool."
"Thanks." The grandfather clock at one end of the room struck a gong and then
played a little tune. "That's the five minute warning, I guess we should get going.
Would you like to start our research tomorrow after supper?"
Hesitating for a moment Hermione found the courage to speak, "...don't we have a
paper due in defence class the next day? I would like to do more research but I don't
want to ignore our homework." She turned away and braced herself for the
inevitable, hoping he wouldn't call her names or throw insults at her desire to do
homework.
Smacking his forehead Harry gave a slight laugh, "Of course, getting distracted by
interesting magic makes me forgetful sometimes. If you want you could come back
tomorrow to do it together, I think a few of the other Ravenclaws are forming groups
to write theirs. We could join in I bet."
Hermione turned around with a beaming smile, "That sounds great, should I meet
you here after dinner then?"
He nodded and they waved goodbye, walking to opposite doors. Yet Harry turned
around and watched her skip away, already knowing it would be hard to dislike the
quirky Gryffindor girl.
Hurrying up the large stairway to his common room, he quickly answered the riddle
and stepped past more Ravenclaws discussing the rumor he started earlier. The grin
he had on never left his face that night. Later, before going to sleep he was thinking
over the days events and organizing what he would remember for the future, and
couldn't recall a better ending to a day in his entire life. Harry fell asleep dreaming of
all the wonderful adventures he would have with his new friend and wise old mentor.

Chapter 7 - Rumors
Chapter 7
Rumors
The next day was a pleasant summery Thursday, the nineteenth day of the month,
with few clouds in the sky and the halls brimming with gossip about Snape's
experimental potions. Rarely heard sensible people knew it probably wasn't true and
talked about other things. But the Slytherins appeared especially bright, as they
wouldn't dare repeat such a rumor about their head of house, at least within earshot
of another Slytherin. In potions, Snape avoided glaring at Harry as often and seemed
to stalk the aisles with less hostility. Everything was going smoothly for Harry,
allowing him to look forward to writing his essay later that night, that is until Draco
interrupted his lunch.
"Think you can get away with it, don't you Potter?" Draco sneered behind him, "We
all know it was you who cursed Professor Snape yesterday, you probably even
started those rumors as well." He was posing contemptuously with his usual lackeys
to either side.
Harry interrupted before he could go any further, always put the aggressor off
balance, "Why thanks for the compliment Draco. I didn't know you were a
clairvoyant, seeing into other classrooms you weren't in. But can you see why kids
love the taste of Cinnamon Toast Crunch?"
Draco's eye twitched, pretending not to hear the last part, he pressed on, "It wasn't a
compliment you half-blood, and everyone knows it was you because Snape was
cursing your name all yesterday. Even if you are the boy who lived it won't help you
now." He finished with a smug grin that made Harry want to punch him in the nose if
he didn't throw up first.
Instead of doing either, Harry restricted any reaction from his face, having learned
that most bullies hated it when people didn't respond the way they expected, "I can't
imagine you saying anything that isn't a compliment. You vogon poet. - See, you're
claiming I'm so good at magic that I could throw a teacher into a wall in front of a
class full of students that didn't even notice it was me. And since I haven't been
punished for anything, you're implying I can deceive the entire faculty as well. It also
seems you think I can manipulate a school of students into believing any rumor I
want. If that's not a compliment, you should pay more attention to where your towel
is."

Someone down the table laughed and Harry just reveled in the confused look on
Draco's face, but kept his in check, appearing to be completely serious. Picking up
three napkins and folding them into random shapes in front of their faces, he handed
one to Draco, then Crabbe and Goyle, and turned back around to start eating again.
Finding it extremely difficult not to laugh.
It took a second for Draco to gather his wits and contempt, crushing the napkin with
a snarl.
"No wonder father says not to talk to Ravenclaws, they're all insane!" It looked as if
his other hand was itching to curse Harry, but he glanced up at the head table to see
many eyes on him. Instead he stalked away as his goons stood still, confused and
trying to understand what happened while inspecting their napkins. They quickly
rushed after Draco upon hearing a loud grunt from the Hufflepuffs behind them.
"You're one hoopy frood Harry!" Called the senior boy who laughed earlier.
Penny overheard it all and saw the sly grin on Harry break into laughter at the
strange comment. She nodded, appearing to think he had it under control but helped
again anyway, "If I didn't know better, it almost seems like Draco has been assisting
Snape with his experiments." Half the table that heard broke into laughter with Harry.
oOoOo
The day continued on as usual and it finally came time to write his essay as
everyone excited out of the Great Hall. But while looking around for his classmates,
Harry realized he had forgotten to ask anyone if Hermione could join them. Trailing
swiftly after Anthony up the stairs he spoke up, "Anthony, mind if someone from
Gryffindor joins us to write our essay tonight?" By the immediate look of irritation he
received, it didn't look promising.
"Uh, we're going to work in our dorm so that probably wouldn't be a good idea." It
had become obvious that Anthony wasn't happy with Harry beating him in most
classes without seeming to try, and disliked the idea of studying with him, let alone
the prospect of dealing with a Gryffindor as well.
Harry shrugged and wandered off. He was debating whether to just pretend the
others decided to do something else when he walked into the library and saw Padma
and Sue Li sitting at a table together. Walking up to them, he made sure it was the
essay they were working on, then smiled as he made a request, "Would either of you
mind if me and a friend joined you to write our essays?"
Padma looked up first, "Only if it isn't Terry, all he seems to do is gossip. We want to

get this done before curfew, not next week." Sue looked up as well and rolled her
eyes at Padma.
Chuckling at the apt description Harry shook his head, "Actually she's a Gryffindor,
Hermione Granger. I'm sure she can keep up." The girls giggled and looked past
him. He turned around to a red cheeked Hermione standing a yard away, awkwardly
looking off towards some books.
"I suppose you can join us, just as long as there isn't any snogging going on."
Padma said while trying not to giggle too much.
Sue smiled and cuffed Padma with the back of her hand, "Don't worry Hermione, she
just loves to tease people. And thank you for the help in history the other day. You're
both welcome to join us." Harry ignored his own flushed face and smiled. They sat
down and started discussing the topic, in between bouts of giggling and small talk.
Lumos was the subject of the essay they had to write. It was relatively simple spell
for Harry, having already performed it during class from practicing inside his bag,
when no one was looking. He was sure Hermione had tried it as well from her
confident manner. They discussed what it was used for, the creatures it was used
against, the wand movement, and the limitations, then started writing. They talked
once in a while but Harry was surprised at how focused the group was compared to
his classmates in the past. After everyone stopped writing they all exchanged papers
and made comments on what could be improved or more often the case, what could
be left out. When they finished revising, it was easy to tell they all enjoyed the
productive time with each other.
Sue and Hermione got up to stretch while Padma got out her wand and asked,
"Since we're going to learn this in charms as well, anyone want to practice a little? I
think there's a room one floor down that we're allowed to try spells in." They agreed
and packed up their stuff following Padma down the stone steps. She stopped by an
old oak door and peeked in, "Looks like it's all ours."
They entered the homely wooden dueling room. Containing rusted suits of armor,
dull tapestries, and a few display cases against the walls, with three long blue carpet
runners denoting duel lanes. Worn wooden benches outlined the room with a few
brown leather arm chairs in the corners. A single large portrait hung across from the
door containing a dignified witch in all black dueling robes.
She spoke, "Good evening ladies and gentleman, you are allowed to duel and use
spells in here. Do not worry about damaging anything since it is all protected. If you
have any dueling questions I would be happy to answer them. One last note, all dark

arts and harmful spells are restricted here and will be reported to your head of house
if they occur."
It was Sue that responded first, "Thank you madam, we will obey the rules." Getting
their wands out they started to practice, except for Harry who stayed back to
observed for a moment. Padma swished and swirled a little emphatically, a faint light
came from her plain wand while Sue's controlled movement produced a brighter
aura but tended to fade now and then. Hermione started out with a graceful
swooping motion that gave a smaller light but after every try it got incrementally
brighter.
Padma noticed him only observing, "Just because you're the only boy here doesn't
mean you get to ogle all the girls, let's see what you can do already." Harry smiled at
her and cast. A vibrant but pleasant white light was emitted from the tip of his wand
and all three girls starred in consternation. "Oh come on, your first try even? How do
you get it to be so soft and not hurt your eyes?"
"Focus, just imagine exactly what you want to happen. The movement doesn't seem
to matter that much as long as it's close. And I was practicing in class when the
professor was writing the assignment on the board as well." Harry stopped the light
and tried again changing colors to blue then red. Then he shockingly realized he
wasn't saying 'Nox' like the girls after every time, but luckily they didn't seem to
notice. After seeing his example they kept trying, Hermione got hers to shine gold
after a few tries. By the end they all were pretty good at it and could change the color
to at least a strong yellow.
Harry was trying another spell he wanted to learn but it didn't seem to work yet. He
gave up after a while and watched the girls again, becoming curious, "So what kind
of wand does everyone have? Mine is holly with a phoenix feather core."
Padma started in, "Mine is walnut with unicorn hair, not as fancy as phoenix feather.
Did you want to show us your pet phoenix as well?" She waved her wand about and
produced some sparkles.
Sue nudged Padma and cleared her throat, "My wand was made in China from
bamboo and Qilin whisker, but many around here have never heard of it. It's a fire
beast, deer shaped, with the head of a dragon, carrying forked horns, scales over its
back, and has the tale of an ox. Legend says that it walks on water and carries flame
on it's back, but is rarely ever seen. Some compare it to your unicorn."
"That's extremely interesting Sue, it would be neat comparing the different woods
and cores that are used in other countries to see how their strengths and traits differ.

Along with the exotic magical creatures." Hermione stepped closer to show her
wand, "It's vine with dragon heartstring core, not too exciting but I like it. - I read
somewhere that phoenix feather is very hard to incorporate into holly, but it seems to
fit you well. Although I think I remember you waving a different wand around
yesterday Harry, were you borrowing someone else's?"
They all stared at him, waiting for an answer.
Seeing their expectant faces, he figured that the secret was already out once he told
Dumbledore, so there was no harm in showing them too. "Well, that's kind of
because I have... two wands." He pulled out the second from in his sleeve holster,
and showed them the intricately carved green and blue wand. "It's twelve inches,
made from Lignum Vitae and a Nundu whisker core."
"SHUT! UP!" Padma yelled, "There hasn't been a Nundu killed or captured for two
hundred years! I know because my great grandfather was part of the team that killed
the last one!" She took another breath, "And why would you need two wands in the
first place? Are you just putting us on Harry?"
He shook his head in denial and Padma began a story, "In my great grandfather's
diary he wrote that the strongest wizards from around the world were assembled to
stop just one going berserk near Egypt. It had already destroyed seven villages
before they tracked it down, and even wizards were fleeing in fear at the name. He
wrote it was silent as the stars and almost impossible to see in the savanna due to
its camouflage, despite how big it was. After sunset it's skin turned pitch black as a
moonless night, swallowing any Lumos or common fire spell. They couldn't let it
continue to rampage through the country, so they had to rely on sensory
enhancement charms and tracking spells. Even multiple fiendfyre only singed its fur,
and not one of the hundreds of killing curses they were allowed to use ever landed.
The only way they managed to defeat it was after someone portkeyed in an illegal
basilisk and that simply served as a distraction, until it was killed by the Nundu. He
never wrote down the exact way it was defeated, but that it was by 'darker magic
than he cared to remember.' "
The slightly confused expression on Harry's face prompted Hermione to list the facts
she knew about the creature as well, "Harry, no known Nundu has been defeated by
less than a hundred wizards working together. They look like giant leopards, their
breath is toxic enough to poison a well, and are said to eat entire elephants and
hippos by themselves. They are feared as the most dangerous beast alive, and are
cursed some books say, 'to see one is to know death.' The only reason why people
don't leave the entire continent is because they hibernate nine months out of the
year, and they're never seen unless they attack a whole village. To have part of one

as a magical core in your wand seems incredibly dangerous. It's hard to believe
someone would make that, let alone allow you to purchase it. Also, true Lignum
Vitae wood is very rare and expensive, I don't even know how rare a magical tree of
it would be."
It took a bit for Harry to absorb all this, as he somehow hadn't read about them yet,
but it finally sank in that none of the girls believed him. If he wanted to keep it a
secret, he shouldn't have shown anyone, even Dumbledore if possible, but he didn't
want them thinking he only made it up for fun. It was already too late to take anything
back and he figured that telling the story couldn't do much damage, as there were
already enough crazy rumors about him floating around.
"Mr Ollivander actually had it in a locked display case and didn't want to sell it to
anyone. The only reason why he told me the story of it was probably because it
started glowing while I looked around the shop. I'll try to repeat his whole tale if I can
remember it all. - He said it was only an experiment he had attempted many years
ago to test the boundaries of wand making. The core had been left to him by his
grandfather, who might have fought the same Nundu as your relative Padma.
Neither his father or grandfather had ever found the right wood to tame the wild
magic of it and Mr Ollivander doubted he ever would as well.
"But one day while he was gathering materials on his own, and trailing some
bowtruckles back to their magical tree, he saw something unusual. They didn't lead
him to a tree but a single smooth stick which they had tried to plant in soft dirt. He
tried to get closer only for them to attack violently, though he managed to fend them
off and stun them. Upon closer inspection he saw the stick was an old muggle
truncheon made from an unusual wood. He said he felt bad for the bowtruckles and
couldn't see them protecting dead wood, even if it was still magical somehow. Taking
the truncheon home he laid their stunned bodies next to a magical tree he already
knew about. But when he examined it later he noticed a powerful resonance with the
wood and his stock of wand cores. He supposed any core would have worked well
with it to craft a wand out of, but after determining it was true Lignum Vitae, he knew
it was the only chance that the Nundu whisker could safely be bound into a wand. It
took him many months to determine the precise shape and length of what the wand
should be, then it took him the rest of the year to actually craft it."
Glancing at the interested and incredulous faces, now sitting on a nearby bench,
Harry continued on.
"He said that no one had gotten a spark out of it since it was made, except to
collapse the roof once, so he rarely let anyone hold it. That it was too powerful and
the consequences of the combination were unknown. He told me he wouldn't sell it,

even if the minister of magic himself demanded it. He distracted me first with other
wands and even found me my phoenix and holy which glowed warmly and produced
bright flames through the shop when I waved it. But even after that I begged to see
the other wand. Finally relenting, he said I could hold but not wave it, citing the
unknown danger. Well I was so excited that when I touched it, bright blue flowers
blossomed all over it and I jumped back in fright. It took another whole round of
begging to try holding it again but he seemed to be too curious to put up much of a
fight. After I picked it up the flowers started to bloom and actually produce a light of
their own, there was even a breeze and pleasant floral scent that filled the room.
Padma wore an extremely skeptical expression, managing to raise one eyebrow to
emphasize her point.
"I was so unused to magic then that I assumed everyone got weird reactions like that
now and then. So I was upset but not too surprised when Mr Ollivander still refused
to sell it and insisted I put it back. He shook his head while saying something along
the lines of, 'I should never have made it, being so reckless and arrogant in my youth
I didn't consider the ramifications. More importantly it is incredibly dangerous to
tempt fate and allow one person to carry the destiny of two such powerful wands.' I
was a little annoyed at such an explanation and wasn't thinking when I threw my
arms up in the air in exasperation, but that seemed more than enough of a wave for
the wand and it made his countertop start growing into a tree. It nearly got to the roof
before we both got over the sudden shock and he cast a few spells to stop it. I think
he mumbled something like 'it's magical... ' before turning back to me with the wand
still in my hand. I was a little embarrassed at what I had done but just knew I had to
have the wand after that, like it called to me. He almost was about to tell me to put it
back one more time when the tree started growing again. This time it took him a
minute and many more spells to get it to stop. Every time he began to say no, the
tree seemed to inch a little higher and distract him. He finally turned to me and said,
'Fine! Fine, just don't say I didn't warn you. One destiny should be enough for
anyone, but we'll see what you do with two!' he laughed a little weirdly and tried to
figure out a price. It was outrageous but I barely stopped to think before I plunked
down the money and escaped before he could change his mind again."
The girls all seemed to have mixed reactions to the story. Sue Li once again
responded first, "I've heard of similar tales in the past, many times even. But those
were all bedtime stories about Merlin or other famous wizards designed to entertain.
I'm guessing this one is as well?"
Padma chimed in next, "Yeah, come on, you can't really expect us to believe you
grew a magical tree from your first wave of your wand! What do you take us for, little
kids?"

Harry was starting to become dismayed when Hermione finally spoke, "It does
sound incredible, but then again so does most magic. It's simple really, we just need
some evidence of what the wand can do. If that isn't convincing then we can always
owl Mr Ollivander to ask him personally. Growing another tree without a spell would
be sufficient evidence... is that possible?"
Harry wasn't too confident he could pull it off, but he appreciated Hermione's
attitude, willing to accept new evidence, and find confirmation. "Well I can try, but I
heard not many people can replicate their first wave of a wand." Padma and Sue
nodded in agreement. Harry pointed at a table with his wand and concentrated on
what he wanted to happen. He could almost feel the magic release and hit the table
with a wave of his wand. Nothing happened. He tried again, and nothing continued
to happen.
"Good one Harry, you almost had us going there. Anyone can carry around a backup
wand from a relative, but they usually don't work very well. " Padma chuckled, then
got up and dragged Sue along with her, "it's almost curfew so tell us how the owl to
Ollivander goes. We'll be waiting!" They pranced out the door and up the stairs.
It was another few moments after they left that someone cleared their throat, "Uhhm,
I did say that the furniture was protected." It was the portrait on the wall. She shuffled
her feet and looked away.
Hermione stood up with her books in hand, "Of course, I should have remembered
that. Is there something else we can try or should we just make sure with an owl?" A
hopeful expression crossed her face while waiting for the answer.
It seemed enough that she was willing to trust his word just to spend time on a owl,
but Harry wanted to reward that cute otter face she had on again. He thought back
and knew the perfect way, if it worked, "Okay, one more try."
He held his wand up and concentrated, imagining it happen before his eyes.
Remembering the smell, the size, and shape of how they formed. And there they
were, a bunch of beautifully bright blue, five petal flowers with golden stamen
sprouting from the tip of his wand. They even glowed with their own hazy blue light
and smelled enchanting, just like before. Seeing Hermione's face light up with delight
at the sight was even better though. He plucked the flowers off the tip and handed it
to her with a smile. "For you, it may not be a tree but we can get to that another
time."
Hermione couldn't stop from grinning madly at being handed flowers. "Thanks!" She
tried to say without blushing, but failed.

Turning away she whispered quietly to herself, "This is the best birthday!"
As they headed out the door Harry surprised her one last time, "I'll just have to try
harder next year then." She couldn't stop her embarrassed giggle as she ran to her
dorm, wearing a scarlet face all the way there.
oOoOo
Friday morning Harry noticed Hermione walking around with a single blue flower
proudly pinned below her collar, suiting her even with the red and gold trim. It still
looked like it was glowing faintly but was hard to tell in the bright light of the hall.
Other girls were asking her about it which she responded to in whispers. Uh oh, I
sure hope those kind of rumors don't spread. His wayward thoughts passed as he
headed to the Great Hall.
Harry was still new to the idea of having people cook for him, let alone new dishes,
so most meals he decided to sample a little of all the dishes to see what bits he
liked, but some turned out to be awfully weird. Like the liver flavored ice cream
prepared the night before, although some students seemed to like it. Though today,
breakfast was especially good with an amazing treacle tart that he probably could
never replicate. It had a thin and rich filling with a light crisp crust and a perfect
golden lattice over top. Of course he also ate a perfectly cooked omelet first with
fresh fruit on the side, but he savored every bite of dessert wondering how he could
give his compliments to the chef. Then it hit him, he had never seen anyone cook or
clean, let alone set the tables.
Obviously they did it all with magic, but who were these unsung heroes of the
students taste buds? No one was ever introduced as the head chef or cleaning crew
at the sorting ceremony and he had never bothered before to head to the kitchens.
There was never talk about who made it all happen either. Surely it wasn't just the
castle itself that produced such wide variety of food on demand and cleaned up after
everyone? Was there some magical device that you just fed raw ingredients into and
spelled it to make what you wanted? If so he definitely had to have one during
summers. He cleared his mind of wild thoughts and decided to simply ask.
"Can anyone tell me who makes all the food and how they do it?" The first years
beside him shook their heads in ignorance or indifference.
Penny, always nearby, came to the rescue one again. "It's all done by house elves
with their own unique wandless magic, like most regular household tasks in the
castle. They say there is a legion of them working around the clock to keep
Hogwarts running, but the reason why no one ever sees them is because staying

unseen is something they value. Some say they can't use wands, that they're
incompatible together. Though I bet people are just afraid of other beings that are
able to control wands."
"Hmm, thanks." It was amazing how much the magical world kept surprising Harry.
Along with a few other first years around him.
The thought of other sentient beings in all different shapes and sized almost boggled
the mind, with a whole team of them living, under our feet? It doesn't seem that they
all arose naturally, but much more likely that they were somehow humans magically
transformed into other forms who retained their minds. Maybe others were simply
creatures that were magically given intelligence as well? Almost anything seems
possible these days, except for understanding girls. That will always be impossible.
It took Harry a second to regain his train of thought, "How much does it cost to hire
one? And what are they like, tall with pointed ears or something like the north pole
kind?" His fantasy books didn't seem to help very often and even made it
embarrassing when he made the mistake of assuming too much. Which seems to be
happening now.
A older boy wearing a Queen button, took over in Penny's confusion, while a few
others laughed, "Wizards own house elves, and they don't actually like money,
freedom, or regular clothes; they wear pillowcases, rags, and I think the Hogwarts
ones wear tea towels. It sort of puts a spin on the whole slavery idea. An intelligent
creature that actually likes being owned and doing work without pay. As for their
looks, they're sort of more like north pole elves only not so cute. Really I always
imagined it was like someone crossed Gollum and a Rivendell elf but it turned out
badly and were only two feet tall. Most are kind and loyal though if you ever meet
any, just watch out for ones from certain families, they get really creepy when not
treated properly. And I don't even know how people get them in the first place, all the
ones I've heard of have been inherited or given away. Anyone know?" A seventh
year shouted down the table 'Auctions', "And there you go, confusing slavery even
more."
Harry pondered the idea of a willing slave and the comparison to his life at the
Dursleys. Then he thought of how useful a house elf might be. He never fantasized
before about owning someone or wanting minions like Malfoy but he figured it was
more like a pet who you treated well and could have as a companion. Maybe they
were like a really intelligent dog? Only this pet is sentient and has wandless magic.
He could easily imagine some sadistic wizard transforming actual humans into
house elves and altering their mind enough to be his willing slaves. It was disturbing
but sounded like there wasn't much that could be done, at least not until he was

older. He made another mental note about investigating house elves and decided to
talk it over with Hermione later.
oOoOo
The rest of the Friday progressed to be rather routine, listening to a long and boring
lecture in history of magic, trying to understand what was said in defense because of
all the stuttering, learning the basics for a new charm from professor Flitwick, and
planting some strange looking plant in Herbology. Harry had a desire to sit beside
Hermione in their classes together, but house lines appeared quite strict and he
didn't want to ruffle even more feathers. So he settled on discussing the new spells
he had looked up, with her later that night. But right before dinner she caught up with
him. Only to be told she couldn't make it, that another Gryffindor girl asked if she
would help on some homework and she had said yes without thinking. Harry was
fine with it after she smiled cheerfully and got out a pocket calendar to make new
plans together. They agreed to continue their research after dinner on Saturday, and
off she hoped to sit with the other Gryffindors.
Shaking his head at the happy school girl Harry turned around towards his table only
to find two tall red headed boy's blocking his way. The one on the left spoke, George
maybe, "Special research is it?"
The other replied, "What do they call that in the muggle world George?"
"'Playing dentist' isn't it?"
Fred chimed in to correct him, "Playing doctor I believe dear brother."
Both their eyebrows rose in unison with knowing smirks, "But Harry here wouldn't be
doing anything so improper."
"Not with our genius Hermione, would he?" Each put a hand on Harry's shoulder as
he tried to leave.
Hearing about their other antics Harry knew they weren't too evil, so he hoped they
would be better on his side if he could talk their language. "Oh, I didn't realize you
two wanted all her attention, maybe I should send her to you when she wants to do
as six hour study session tomorrow?" The stricken looks on their faces told all, they
had apparently heard the mad rumors about her study habits as well.
They looked at each other and then back at Harry and said in unison, "Quidditch
practice, can't avoid it."

Their hands retracted and patted Harry on the shoulder, "You'll take care", "of her",
"won't you", "Harry?" They alternated between pleading looks and nodding while
speaking.
Harry returned their smirk with one of his own, "I might be able to... that is if no
strange rumors get started, and maybe some more reasonable explanation won
out?" Again they looked to each other and back nodding at him. "That reminds me,
you two haven't heard about Draco being Snape's new potion tester, have you?"
"You started that one?" They exclaimed together.
"He's good." Both reached out and shook his hands, and Fred continued, "You didn't
start the one about carrying-", "a second wand with a Nundu core-", "and Lignum
Vitae wood, did you?"
"Cause that's just", "bonkers!" They laughed.
Harry had trouble responding without snorting. It was already out, might as well use
it to impress. "I wouldn't know about any rumor, but this one is real." Pulling his
second wand out of his sleeve he twirled it in front of them.
With amazement on their faces they clearly looked back and forth from the wand in
his pocket to the stunningly unique one in his hand. "Nooo..." said one, "Woah!" said
the other.
Harry let them look at it for a bit and then tucked it back in his sleeve as the food
appeared on the tables. "I'll see you guys around, and don't worry about Hermione
too much." They ran back to their table to spread the story. People shouldn't know
what to believe if they say it.
After dinner he practiced a few spells he knew would be useful and then started
reading another book in the Ravenclaw library. Before going to bed he added a few
more ideas to the list of spells to research, and soon drifted off to sleep, thinking
about the wonderful day of he would have tomorrow.
oOoOo
Waking up in the morning Harry knew something was wrong. He could feel it, could
sense something didn't feel right, like he wasn't whole. Looking around he soon
noticed his trunk latch was open, but upon inspection nothing was missing. He
shrugged it off as if it was his imagination. Putting on his clothes and grabbing his
wands from under his pillow was when it hit him like a bucket full of ice-water. His
Nundu wand was gone from his holster.

Frantically searching everywhere around his bed and on the floor he knew it wouldn't
be there. This is what I get for trying to show off, it couldn't have been the Weasleys
could it? It was a great prank for them if it was, but I imagine they would leave a
note, if only to show who the master pranksters were. Nothing would be fixed by
berating himself now or speculating who might have done it, he needed to tell a
teacher. He could almost sense it though, and it didn't feel too far away, wandering
around the dorm room it didn't seem any closer either. He slapped himself in the
face a few times to wake up and focus, to think and feel what his senses were telling
him. It wasn't too far below him, but it felt, safe. As if it was waiting for him to come
get it. That's exactly what he would do then. He took a single book with him to
pretend to be going somewhere and walked downstairs to the common room.
There was a lot of noise and movement for so early in the morning, and there were
quite a few people huddled around the center of the large circular room. As he got
closer the feel of his wand did as well. Random thoughts made him afraid his wand
was broken in half or splintered in pieces on display for everyone to see. Harry
rushed forward pushing past people. Really, he wasn't that fearful when he thought
about it, because there was still the assurance of safety he felt from it. When he
finally got close enough, he could see what everyone was starting at. It was a statue.
Looking to be of a young student, made of cold grey stone, facing the giant windows
overlooking the quidditch pitch. Just then, an older student stepped up and tried to
grab something out of the statue's outstretched hand, and instantly he was flung
back against a large chair with extra pillows someone had set up. His hair standing
on end and coughing out a puff of smoke, he shook himself off and grabbed a
proffered glass of water from similar looking students.
That wasn't normal.
Squeezing further around the outer ring of people Harry finally saw what was in the
statue's hand, his wand! He pushed harder at the churning mass of students until he
got out near where the other boy had been thrown. Now he could see who the
student was supposed to be, or who he was rather. Anthony Goldstein stood frozen,
halfway between waving Harry's wand and cringing in horror. More people were
milling around now and he heard someone say Professor Flitwick was coming. Harry
could see the situation was already a disaster, and waiting, or denying it was his
wand would only get him in further trouble. Too many people had seen it already.
Noticing Padma and Sue off to the side staring at him was all the push he needed.
He walked up with a determined pace towards the statue, and as he reached for his
wand that was now calling to him, there was a frantic yell, "Harry! No!"
The yell shocked him as his hand touched his wand but nothing else happened. He

pulled it out smoothly from between the stone fingers that were wrapped around it.
Turning around with it in his hand made the whole room fall silent. Penny came
running up to him and stopped a few steps away. She was the one who had yelled, a
strange look came over her face but then it turned back to concern. She spoke
again, "Are you okay Harry? Is, is that your wand? You didn't intentionally...?" The
main door opened to reveal short professor Flitwick standing there taking in the
scene with a concerned expression, and making a few subtle movements with his
wand.
Shaking his head Harry answered in a clear voice, "Somehow my wand disappeared
from my nightstand where I left it last night but I don't know how it ended up here
and I didn't even know something like this could happen." Penny acknowledged his
answer as if she agreed and turned to Professor Flitwick to explain the situation.
The professor held up his hand to halt her, his squeaky voice could be heard by the
whole common room, "It appears we have some improper use of a foreign wand,
and an unusual form of natural protection as well." Walking up to Harry and Penny
the other students crowded around their head of house.
"May I please see you wand Mr Potter?" Harry hesitated at first but slowly handed it
over. Flintwick examined it closely and used his own wand to verify it the same way
Dumbledore had, "It appears this is very much your wand, and powerful indeed,
would you mind if I attempt to cast with it?"
This surprised Harry after having witnessed what was done to the last one who tried
that, "If you're sure, I don't mind."
Penny almost tried to stop the professor but was halted again by his upraised hand,
"Fear not everyone, a wand would not do harm to those who have permission to use
it."
Harry realized what the professor was trying to do and nodded to him in silent
thanks. With that professor Flitwick swished the wand at Anthony's statue, but
nothing happened. He tried again, and again with no success. Feeling a little
flustered he proffered the wand back to Harry and used his own wand to cast at
Anthony, trying three times without success. Wiping away a single bead of sweat he
addressed Harry one more time with the squeak in his voice even more pronounced,
"It seems to be a very stubborn wand you have there, it is good no ill intention was
directed towards you or things might have gotten completely out of hand. If you
would be so kind as to cast Finite on the young man here? Maybe then I can explain
to him the risks of using an unknown wand without permission."

Harry obliged, glad to have practiced that spell the day before. Simply pointing and
imagining any magic being dispersed he cast, "Finite."
Within a second the stone melted away from Anthony and he was back into his own
flesh, falling limply into Penny's outstretched arms. That's when the chatter started
up again and Harry tucked away his wand. He followed behind the professor and
Penny heading out the door with Anthony floating in-between, where it closed behind
them without a single follower. "I'm really sorry sir, I never should have told anyone
about my second wand, I never even considered something like this happening."
Waving his concerns away Flintwick replied, "Accidents happen all the time, do not
worry too much over what has already past. Though I would suggest you find a
better place to hide your wand from now on. As for what occurred I was as surprised
as well, it has been a long time since seeing such a wand protect itself. We should
hope no lasting effects will be seen for anyone."
Harry said goodbye as they entered the medical wing. Returning to the great hall in a
daze he was one of the very few Ravenclaws to sit at their table. A minute before the
food appeared the giant mass of Ravenclaws flowed in like the tide, all still a gaggle
of noise and discussion. It quieted around Harry as only a few students sat very
close. It was kind of reassuring that Padma and Sue stuck by instead of going to the
other end of the table like some. Robert Hilliard sat across from him as well and
smiled at him, "See Harry, already amazing things happening around you, just wait
until you learn some really useful spells and no one will be able to stop talking."
With that, the conversation around Harry picked up and the questions began.

Chapter 8 - Memories
Chapter 8
Memories
Harry couldn't escape the whispered questions and spreading rumors throughout the
morning, especially by the Weasley twins who caught up with him after the new
breakfast tale was spread. They insisted on hearing the true story and seeing his
wand one more time. It didn't bother him much, as it would only be another legend
for the boy who lived, which he had come to accept as a part of life after the first few
weeks of spurious whispers, hand shaking, and awkward staring at his scar. He
hoped it would die down a little in the coming years though, since he wasn't much of
a people person, and cared nothing for fame. Although his early life had trained him
to stoically endure abnormal situations and how to deal with rude or mean people.
Not wanting more attention if possible, Harry went into hiding within the giant school
library; as the Ravenclaws knew to look for him around the common room or their
library. He saw Hermione already at one of the main study tables, determinedly
trying to explain something to a small group of Hufflepuffs. But one intense glance
his way from Ernie, deterred any thoughts Harry had of joining them and being
bombarded with more questions. Instead he meandered through the fringe aisles,
researching a few more spells and exotic creatures that came to mind, then lost
himself in an unusual book on alchemy by Argo Pyrite.
When the lunch bells rang he quickly put his books away and headed for the great
hall, only to slip and fall as he exited the library. He could hear the laugh of idiot
minions followed by the commanding shush of a familiar and annoying Slytherin.
Harry picked himself up and looked around but only heard distant footsteps running
away. An ice spell was in front of the doors and quickly melting to leave no evidence
behind. He wanted to follow them and repay the favor but knew better than to play
on the same level. Even though his wrist and back hurt he didn't let it spoil his lunch
or the anticipation for his first occlumency lesson.
The meal was agonizingly slow, even with the wonderful sampling of dishes he tried.
He decided to sit facing Slytherin and Hufflepuff, with his back to Gryffindor from
then on, since it was obvious they hated Slytherin the most and wouldn't let any
sneak up behind him. Sitting nearer to Hermione and hearing her talk was purely
coincidence.
Anthony arrived later at lunch, wearing a sullen expression and almost stumbling to
a seat, as far away as possible. That was fine by Harry, as insincere apologies or

ignoring the obvious wasn't something he liked. It looked like Anthony was already
suffering from what happened, as well as being ostracized by those around him, and
reaping any number of special punishments or detentions, if the rumors circling
around were to be believed. For now, Harry was content with keeping an eye on him,
but only time would tell how things might play out.
The questions for Harry were kept to a minimum with Penny sitting only a few seats
away again, but he had to wait for all of the students to leave as he pretended to be
waiting to ask the teachers something. Several students and teachers gave him
curious looks as he waited for Dumbledore. Seemingly oblivious to it all, the
headmaster kept sipping a spoonful of cold soup, one after the other. When the last
teacher left and the door closed behind them, Dumbledore looked up, straight into
Harry's eyes.
Feeling embarrassed and nervous over standing there waiting the entire time, Harry
stammered out a sentence, "Sorry sir, I didn't know where, or when, to meet after
lunch today, so I just figured to wait here."
Dumbledore smiled, "No bother at all, as I am quite fond of this soup. But we should
keep these lessons a secret, because technically, first years are not allowed to learn
occlumency. Since you seem to be a natural occlumens, an exception would be
made, but that would require paperwork, meetings, and official hearings which would
only inconvenience everyone involved, not to mention delaying any lessons." He
stood and his dishes disappeared right before he could grab one last slice of bread.
He shrugged in acceptance and walked towards the antechamber they both left from
last time, "Come, let us begin our journey."
Harry noticed that he didn't mention it might be difficult to explain how anyone found
out as well. Which led him to conclude it wasn't exactly legal for Snape to be
sneaking around in students' minds. Yet it was tolerated, instead of punished, giving
him second thoughts about the whole situation. Athough he still followed after the
long blue robes Dumbledore wore that day, through the sitting room, past the
portrait, and up the clever stairs. Once again marveling at the noisy trinkets and
shelves full of books cluttered around the office. All the portraits seemed to be
sleeping except for a few who peaked out at him from under the brim of a hat or
behind a book.
Dumbledore led him to a small alcove off to the side containing two relaxing leather
chairs in front of a fireplace, "I find it much easier to converse here without my desk
in the way. Besides it is getting slightly cool in here, would you mind starting a fire
Harry?" He started rummaging around in a cabinet off to the side and pulled out a
box of toffee and a plate of biscuits then set them down on the table set between the

chairs. "I find it nice to have a snack when important things are discussed."
Harry reached into his pocket for his wand, hoping he could start the fire after only
practicing the spell once.
"Ah, I didn't mean that way my boy."
It took a second to understand what Dumbledore wanted; to see his ability in
wandless magic. "I never actually tried that before, but I'll give it a go."
Feeling dubious in his abilities, Harry turned towards the dry logs in the fireplace and
stared. Letting his vision lose focus, he thought about ways fires could be started,
and choose one, concentrating on forcing a large amount of air into one small dot on
a log. As he was already familiar with using force to accomplish things. A few tries
later, resulted in not a single change, so he tried a different tactic, similar to the
incendio spell he read about. He imagined the surface of the log getting hotter and
hotter, thinking of the warmth from a fire he had felt in the past and wanting that
intense heat. He saw the flame in his mind, felt the heat on his skin, and heard the
flame crackle at the combustion. He willed a small stream of magic to shoot towards
the point he was looking at. Then a patch of the log ignited into popping yellow
flame, but soon died away again into wisps of grey smoke.
Clapping slowly Dumbledore exclaimed, "Astounding, that took me nearly half a year
to accomplish, even with a skilled teacher. Tell me Harry, what were you trying
differently the first few attempts?"
That kind of shocked Harry, that he could be read so well without even talking, "I was
trying to compress the air around a log into a single point hot enough to light the
bark. That didn't seem to work so I tried what I read in our book about incendio if you
were having trouble casting it."
"That is interesting indeed, it might be possible that both would have worked for you.
That is if you had tried compressing more air into a smaller space, since lighting
wood by itself takes a lot of heat. I'm also surprised you have never tried lighting
something on fire before now, was there simply always a flame handy in your
home?" Dumbledore lit the fire fully with the wave of his hand, then picked up a
biscuit and started nibbling on it.
Harry shook his head, he had already decided to trust Dumbledore to an extent,
since if he was to train him in occlumency he might be able to view the memories
anyway, and this way Harry got to frame how the story was told. "I guess I should
start from the beginning and explain it all." He sat back in the chair, staring deep into
the roaring fire.

"Everything seemed to start on my seventh birthday, it was then that I pleaded and
begged with my relatives to be allowed to watch a specific movie that was on TV. I
was looking forward to seeing it for weeks, but it was on late at night, so of course
they didn't let me. They seemed to be getting callous and resentful as I grew older.
Which I later came to understand, sitting in my cupboard under the stairs, seeing my
life in a new clarity. I wasn't wanted, I was someone they put up with and it was only
going to get worse, especially after Dudley began hitting me at school. I cried until
my eyes hurt that night, wishing harder than I ever had before, on just being able to
get out of my locked cupboard."
The biscuit fell out of Dumbledore's mouth and onto his lengthy beard, as his eyes
widened at Harry. But Harry continued on without noticing.
"After about a half an hour I wiped away my tears and with all the hope in the world,
tested the door. It swung open to a dark and quiet hallway, and I nearly cried again in
ecstatic relief. But then I became afraid, wondering if this was just a test to see what
I would do. They had done that before, left a few biscuits out where I could reach
them and then waited until I grabbed one to punish me."
Harry looked down at the ones on the table and back up to Dumbledore. There was
moisture in his stark blue eyes when he raised the dish towards Harry.
Giving a weak smile he took one and ate it, "I know now what they did to me was
wrong, and how I was mistreated. I think I've made my peace with that because they
don't, can't, do it anymore. But back then, I was extremely frightened that they would
jump out from around a corner and scream at me for leaving my cupboard. I hoped
that someone had left my door open because it was my birthday, and it was a small
kindness they could give me. I still don't know if it was magic or one of them that let
me out, but it doesn't really matter. I looked up at the clock and it was five minutes
until the movie aired. Quietly creeping to the TV I turned it on and hurriedly lowered
the volume so it wasn't heard. I hoped and wished that no one would wake up, all
the while I sat right in front of the TV to hear the quiet words being spoken. I even
turned it off once in a while when I thought I heard a noise now and then. I
remember, the entire time my heart was racing and I was so excited to finally be
watching this movie. It was really entertaining as well, imagining myself in the story
with them. I don't know if you've ever even heard of it, let alone watched it, but the
name of it was Star Wars."
Nodding and smiling at the memory Dumbledore answered, "It was quite popular for
muggleborn wizards as well back when it first came out, and we had our own dark
lord to fight then. Some called it wizards in space."

"Heh, well that was my teacher in magic, but I thought I was a Jedi using the force.
No wands were used and it all depended on how hard you could concentrate and
how strong your will was. That's why I never thought to create fire, because I didn't
think it was possible. - The next day I was punished for sleeping in too long but they
didn't know I was up the night before. After making breakfast I just sat and stared out
the window at the rain. Once in a while a single drop of water would splash on the
window, and I would try to move it with my mind. It took an entire week, stuck inside
while it rained, trying to get a single drop to move sideways. And then it finally did.
"I knew then that I could control the force. From that day on I would try to clear my
mind and focus moving objects every chance I got. It took another month with a lot of
headaches until I could open the latch to my cupboard any time I wanted. I managed
to watch the other movies and read the very few books I could find, wanting to
emulate Jedi as much as I could. But I was young and I got into a lot of trouble after
that, them calling me a freak while small things tended to break when I was
punished. Half a year later I was getting really good at moving small objects but still
had trouble moving larger ones, when it hit me. If I really was using the force, I could
do more than move objects, I could influence people's thoughts."
Harry was still staring at the fire while Dumbledore studied him, wondering if he
could use legilimency or memory charms without a wand.
Looking up Harry answered the unasked question, "I don't know what kind of spell it
really is, or if it's even a normal spell. I imagined it as the force influencing
someone's thoughts, making them do things if their mind was weak. After learning
that I had magic and that others could sense it... I haven't tried to use it since. So
you don't have to worry about me messing with people's brains anymore."
Dumbledore looked thoughtful, but didn't respond to this so Harry continued on.
"I practiced a lot on Dudley at first, since I assumed he had the most impressionable
mind. It was nothing at first, just the thought of Petunia calling his name. It took me
four days before he yelled at his mom for nagging him. That's when things became
fun. I would ask for something simple, to stay up a few minutes more, and try to
convince them to allow it. Every day it progressed to something a little bigger if it
worked. From biscuits to books, then new clothes, glasses, my own room, a TV, and
even a computer. They resisted lot at first but I just had to keep putting the thought in
their head. Sometimes it was much easier than others and I began to see why from
their moods and feelings at the time. I got better, learning what thoughts worked best
and when to try. It got to the point that I didn't even know what to ask them for after a
while. So I tried to make them compliment me, once as day, just as practice. Petunia
still does it every day now out of habit, I don't even think she realizes it anymore. But

I could never change their real attitude towards me, at least not that way."
Taking a piece of toffee this time, Dumbledore remarked on the topic, "The ability to
alter surface thoughts in others is a remarkable power. Do you think you used it
wisely?"
Harry considered his words, "I know it probably wasn't right of me to influence what
they did so much, but most of the time they truly deserved it. I tried to not use it on
my friends or school mates but there were bullies I made an exception for. I still
thought of things on the light side and the dark side back then, so I tried to be good
and not use my powers to harm. It's difficult, seeing the opportunity to change things,
to get revenge, to force things to go my way."
"We must all face the choice between what is right and what is easy." Dumbledore
intoned gravely.
Tilting his head, Harry's brow knitted together. "Kind of... at that point I felt like I had
mastered the simpler part of those techniques, so I wanted to learn more. I realized
then, my mind and others were more important to understand, so I started reading,
about science, philosophy, and psychology. Soon I was reading every day of the
week while not practicing or going to school. Trying to understand the implications of
my powers and how I should use them.
"After rewatching the movies over and over, I knew there was more I could do. I
would sit and meditate on my surroundings, trying to sense things around me. The
next few days I tried to track everywhere Dudley went in the house, and check on
him to make sure. He got very annoyed with me following him around but after a few
months I could avoid him easily, always knowing where he was. In a year I was able
to tell where everyone was in the house at any time. And the times when I went to
London in could feel others more strongly than anyone else, even a delivery man I
knew back home felt that way as well. I didn't know what it meant at the time, but I'd
guess now they were all wizards."
Choking lightly on some crumbs, Dumbledore conjured a few cups of water for them,
and waved Harry on with his story.
"Once I felt I had mastered those skills, I was afraid to try the last power I knew
about, because it was supposed to be evil. Giving much thought on it while still
practicing and reading everything, science fiction, fantasy, and more philosophy
books, I came to a conclusion. That the power itself couldn't be bad, but only the
way it was used.
"Being almost nine by then, I tried to learn how to make lightning. I practiced in the

garage against the cement floor so as to not light anything on fire. It turned out to be
harder than the rest and it took a whole year of practice to do much, yet it all became
easier with time. I thought of using it tonight to start the fire, but wanted to see if I
could do more. It turns out real magic is somewhat easier if it's explained in a book.
Or maybe after so much practice over the years it's easier for me to learn." Holding
out his hand, Harry let electricity crackle out of his fingertips and into the air, "It never
looked exactly like in Star Wars so I always thought I was doing something wrong. Of
course I realized it was all fake, but I thought somehow they had managed to
describe something real. I suppose like real magic, I thought there were hidden
powers that people really had, being put in a story by those who couldn't use it. But if
I could do it, so could others."
It was hard for Dumbledore to speak after all those revelations, some were very
disturbing and others fantastical. He would have to check in on Harry's home life
over the summer and make sure there were stronger wards and precautions in case
of any further abuse. Most of all though he marveled at how a fiction had helped
Harry to master his own abilities, to do things even he had never tried. Producing
lighting from your hand, and only influencing a single thought in another mind were
not ordinary spells. They didn't seem to be extremely useful but to invent and
practice all of it in imitation of a story, and without a wand was beyond explanation.
Harry had trusted him with his secrets and his past. The least he felt he could do is
return that honesty, even if it cost him dearly.
"Harry, I must tell you something that might be hard to hear but I feel you should
hear it from me personally. As your parents friend and confidant, it was I who placed
you with your aunt and uncle. I assure you though, if I knew of how they would treat
you I would never have done so. The reasons why I did not take care of you myself
or place you with a wizarding family are numerous but I shall explain the most
important."
Slowly turning his head toward Dumbledore, Harry had a wild look in his eyes.
"As Hagrid explained, when Voldemort disappeared that Halloween night, every
follower of his was out for revenge or information the next day. They captured and
tortured many innocents along with those who fought against them, trying to learn
what happened. Once they heard the story of his death by your hands, all they
seemed to think of was revenge. It took years to track down and capture as many as
we could. Even now there a few who have evaded capture. For you to be protected
and hidden from these criminals, there was only one definite way to keep you out of
danger. That was an ancient spell of blood protection, that could only work if you
were taken in by your relatives. It protected and hid you at home and wherever you
went, as long as you came back once a year.

"Of course I did not leave you alone, as I set up wards and other spells to alert me if
you were hurt or ran away. I also checked in on you regularly in disguise of a
cheerful delivery man who gave you sweets whenever you opened the door, to
which you seem to have caught on. With the cooperation of the ministry of magic we
placed Mrs Figg, who is a squib as your neighbor and made sure she was the only
convenient babysitter available. She was supposed to check in on you more
thoroughly and make sure you were always protected and taken care of, but
obviously she was not as thorough as needed. As to how they treated you, all I can
say is that she, like I, did not fully consider the emotional abuse they might put you
through. While they were known to be unpleasant people, I did not imagine they
would actually hurt a relative, especially a small boy. For that you have my deepest
apologies. - To preserve the protection spell, you must return to their home for at
least a week every year, but if you wish to be elsewhere for the rest of the time, I am
sure we can arrange some alternative."
This was almost too much for Harry, like his life was a lie, built around a world that
didn't really exist. Ever since he learned he could do things that others couldn't, he
wished to meet someone similar, and to escape his relatives. To talk about and play
with the extraordinary powers that he always had to keep a secret, while being called
a freak. And finally Hogwarts had answered that call. But all the while the nice portly
delivery man with twinkling eyes and his cat lady neighbor who babysat him already
knew, and were watching over his torture the entire time. He balled his fists in agony
at such an idea. Yet he had learned this lesson in the past, it didn't matter what could
have been, only to learn from it and find what is possible in the future.
"I really wish you would have told me that when I was five or six... It's confusing, I
hated them for so long, but if I left now it almost feels like I would be wasting all the
effort I put in to change how they treat me. After many years of changing things I
have kind of made it my home, even if they don't love me. But a lot of kids have to
deal with that and much worse, and I can stop them from ever abusing me again so I
don't have to worry much. It's like a sunk cost, I don't want to lose what I put in, yet I
know it's already gone. But the idea of someone else..."
It was not the cry of joy or anger Dumbledore was expecting but he had to warn him
off the consequences if he was hesitant, "I should also tell you that when a wizard
reaches the age of eleven and gains a wand, the ministry begins tracking your magic
and does not allow you to perform any in the muggle world or elsewhere until you
are of age, at seventeen. Even wandless magic is tracked and can be punished if
deemed severe enough, although usually it is deemed unintentional and allowed to
pass. But a strict punishment for repeated occurrence is the breaking of your wand.
So you must consider your choice carefully."

That nearly decided it, the risk and false investment wasn't worth anything unless the
alternatives were even worse.
Harry took another biscuit and thought more while he ate it, then replied, "I don't
have to leave but I would prefer to, especially if I can't use magic. Though it all
depends on where I would go instead, who else could take care of me and not be in
danger?" He sat quietly waiting for the choices that could influence the rest of his life.
"...It would appear even I get ahead of myself sometimes, as I did not have a plan in
case you accepted, only knowing it was right to offer. There are many families that
would be more than willing to accept you into theirs, but each are riddled with
complications. There is one friend of your parents who might be perfect, yet
circumstances could make it difficult for him to accept. The Weasley family I am sure
you've heard of, is a very caring and protective bunch. Although their home situation
might also be difficult to deal with and protect. I would offer to let you stay at school
with me, but that would cause all kinds of controversy with the board and the
ministry. I am afraid I shall have to delay this conversation after I have looked into
the best options and can give you more than hope. Do not worry though because we
have much time to figure this out before the end of the school year." Harry nodded in
acceptance.
Dumbledore cleared the empty plate and box from the table and waved his wand to
aim their chairs towards each other. "Now, I believe I was supposed to teach
something rather than simply talk. In occlumency it is usually taught to empty your
emotions from your mind and clear it of any stray thoughts. I believe you could try
what you used to practice when performing wandless magic, instead of that grey
room for now."
Sitting back and relaxing Harry cleared his mind and looked into those intense blue
eyes. Dumbledore accessed his mind once more, finding nothing but darkness. He
could barely sense anything, but knew he was in Harry's mind if only for the distinct
feeling of not being in his own. Looking around, there was nothing to distinguish top
from bottom, left to right or even himself. He could feel his own presence but not the
form or physical manifestation he usually presented.
Calling out with a disembodied voice he spoke, "Harry, come speak with me now."
Nothing changed, but as he turned around he saw a brilliant flame in the distance.
Incorporeal and alone he called out again, "ha..." but his voice was sucked towards
the flame, the same as other stray thoughts that seemed to form here and there
around him. Reaching out with his mind towards one he tried to catch and examine
it. The thought slipped away through his metaphorical fingers before he could tell

what it was. Trying harder this time Dumbledore put real effort into it and held on
long enough to be dragged towards the distant flame, while he saw the thought was
of his blue robes. Letting it slip away he reached for another and by force of will tried
to hold it still. Managing to see it was a memory of Dudley yelling, he tried to let go
again to grab another but this time it held onto him, pushing him off balance and then
dragging him towards the flame with it.
Finally feeling the heat, he turned his mind to stone and dragged it to a halt. A
different memory rammed into him making him see Vernon swinging a newspaper.
Then another and another slammed into him pushing him slowly closer towards the
now intense red flame. It actually felt hot where no memory of a flame ever could. He
inched towards it with every new memory of past torments that collided with him.
Finally understanding the anger, resentment, and danger he faced, Dumbledore
released the connection with Harry and felt at home in his own mind again. Clearing
his throat he shook Harry gently when he didn't respond.
"That was interesting once again, although next time we should try a little more
interactive practice. Would you mind explaining what that flame was for?"
Being shook, Harry woke slowly from his trance, "Oh... that's the flame in the void.
Something I read about in a book last year and try sometimes to get rid of persistent
thoughts. It helps me keep meditating with distractions." He thought over his
memories of the meditation, "Ah, was that actually you in my mind? I kind of wasn't
thinking and out of habit assumed you to be another stray thought trying to distract
me... sorry, I'll do better next time."
Dumbledore brushed away his concern, "That is what we are here for, to practice
and learn. Though I think that is enough for now, best to keep it short at first. In the
mean time, try practicing by focusing on and controlling one or two thoughts at a
time and let the others float away."
"I'll try that."
"Before you go, I do have one other topic to discuss, if you don't mind." Harry shook
his head, "Then I was wondering about the incident this morning involving your
wand, as I have heard tell it is made out of Lignum Vitae and contains an unusual
core which has surprising capabilities. When I first held it I noticed how remarkable it
felt but was distracted by other things before I could inquire further. I wonder if I
might study it for a moment to confirm a suspicion of mine?"
Removing it from his sleeve once again Harry handed it over but felt a little
reluctance to do so. Dumbledore accepted it and mumbled a few new sounding

spells with his own wand. The Nundu wand began to glow slightly in his hand, he
smiled at Harry, putting his own wand away. Standing up he gave it a slow wave,
"Ouch!"
It had sprouted thorns all along the handle which he dropped to the table with a dull
clatter. "That, was not meant to happen. I am afraid it might take some time to
remove those thorns before you can use it again."
Not thinking, Harry reached out to stop it from rolling off the table, but when he was
about to touch a thorn they all bloomed into the signature blue flowers again. Picking
it up to examine them, he gripped the handle filled with flowers, and they fluttered to
the ground.
"Have you ever seen anything like this before Professor? The same thing happened
when I grabbed it in Mr. Ollivander's shop. When I waved it a tree grew out of his
counter, the way others have reacted to that story I assume that might be unusual."
Dumbledore shook his head in wonder, "No, I have seen nothing quite like that. It
goes to show, even wise old wizards don't know everything. I could not confirm what
I wanted, but I can tell you that this is a very powerful wand and if it is what I
suspect, will only get more powerful with continued use."
"How's that work?" Harry asked.
"As a wizard grows, they gain a stronger connection to some wands, being able to
perform certain magics better or almost forming an understanding and acceptance of
what is desired from the user. Some very few legendary wands even grow in power
with their user. My suspicions are of little concern though as it is most unlikely in any
case."
This didn't satisfy Harry for being much of an explanation, but he guessed was
probably all that was known about such rare wands.
"I suppose that shall be all for today, next Saturday simply come back ten minutes
after lunch is over and I shall wait for you in the antechamber of the Great Hall."
Dumbledore waved his empty hand and the main doors opened up to the rotating
stairwell.
"Okay, I'll remember that," Getting up and stretching his legs Harry asked another
question, "One more thing, in your opinion what is the best spell to learn in order to
defend yourself?"
A small smile crossed Dumbledore's face, "Ah, but to answer that, one must

understand what you are defending from."

Dumbledore raised his eyebrows at Harry enquiringly, "I trust you know it is not
permitted to cast spells towards classmates, although if you join a dueling club or
similar sport, I would suggest expelliarmus or stupefy when you are old enough to
perform them. They can be interchanged regularly since both produce a red light and
stop the opponent casting. However, if you go exploring, incendio will scare most
regular creatures, or a bright lumos may blind them temporarily, that is if they have
eyes. But for your specific case Harry, you should know that there are very few
creatures or people who can sense nonverbal wandless spells cast upon them.
Please do not abuse that fact though, as it would take a mountain of paperwork and
time to punish you for harming someone in that way." He ended with wry grin.
Smiling back Harry was proud to get so much useful information by just being
himself. "I understand completely sir. And thank you." He walked out the main
entrance and wandered through the halls of the castle, reflecting on their
conversation.
oOoOo
Upon reaching the boy's toilet on the sixth floor Harry was suddenly accosted by a
excitable Peeves. "Oh, Harry warry come to take a potty wotty? This is a good
bathroom for it. No prank in sight and no one around to bother you."
Harry looked at the strange being in disbelief. Was it really that dense or did it think
the students were even worse? He tried to sidestep him slightly, "That's okay
Peeves, I heard there was a better one on another floor, and was planning on going
there already."
The frustration was obvious, with Peeves' whole body seeming to vibrate, but he
quickly moved to block Harry, with another idea. "If you tells me which one it is, I
could check on it for you to make sure its safe? Nothing is not known if I knows it
not!"
Sliding a little further away from the poltergeist Harry considered this last statement
for a second, but thought better off it, "It's on the second floor, so I'll be going now,
have to hurry and all." He tried to look casual walking down the hall hoping
something else caught Peeves' attention. But of course, luck was not with him.
"But Harry warry, what about your secret meeting with Granger wanger? Are you still
going to smooch in the library or did you change places for that too?" His malevolent
smirk grew wider, relishing the torment he caused.

Stopping mid stride, Harry really didn't want to turn around but if even Peeves knew
about their first planned meeting, it didn't bode well for future ones. Slowly looking
back he came up with an idea and asked, "That's good you heard about it Peeves, I
was just thinking of coming to tell you. Maybe you can thank the person that
informed you, who was it by the way?"
"No no no, I never reveals my secrets to ickle firsties, even if I have thousands of
them. Can't be telling secrets to just anybody." He crossed his small arms and stuck
out his tongue at Harry.
"Oh? I bet I know just as many secrets, maybe even some that you don't know."
Teased Harry.
A surprised and disgruntled look overcame Peeves, as his grim eyes narrowed,
"Prove it! No ickle firsty has more secrets than me!"
Harry thought quickly and was even ready to bluff if it might loosen the poltergeist's
tongue about something interesting, if he wasn't bluffing as well. "I could tell you
about the secret history of Dumbledore, the number of people who can read minds in
the castle, or maybe why the third floor corridor is off limits? But how am I to know
you're being honest as well, can you prove you know any secrets?"
Looking appraisingly at Harry, Peeves suddenly returned to his wickedly
mischievous manner and floated closer, "I know gobs, oodles more than you. Bet
you don't know about the clandestine cabinet that conveys commodities?" Harry
nodded in confirmation that he did, "Or that the mischief makers have a mysteriously
marked map? Maybe you don't know what forces fluffy to fall fast asleep? That
someone sleeping in the surrounding space is suspended from slinging spells?"
With every secret mentioned Harry pretended to know exactly what was being talked
about, or teased out more information if he could manage. Then confirmed the few
he actually knew to keep Peeves going, "Of course, Hagrid is having a hard time of
it, I've heard." He even played along with the alliterations.
Peeves kept going and soon was getting more insistent, "You haven't heard who is
hurling the harrowing humiliations at the horror heducator? Or what about the
secrecy surrounding the stone secured away in the subjacent suite in this safehold?
Don't think you deduced the devious disappearing door, designed to detect deepest
desires!?" Peeves was looking angry now and seemed to be stretching his ability,
and need to alliterate further.
"Yes, yes, Dumbledore has told me all about it. It seems we have amassed the same
amount of secrets, so I'll take my leave now. If you find any other good ones be sure

to drop by and we can compare notes again. Have fun roaming the castle now."
Harry left him floating in the hallway, still scratching his chin and mumbling to
himself. Feeling it was best to escape while he had the chance instead of finding out
how their secret got out. But dealing with Peeves seemed to go a lot better for Harry
than he imagined it might. Maybe I'll get the hang of living in Hogwarts after all.
And then a bowl of moldy fruit hit him in the back of the head.
oOoOo
Nothing too exciting happened after Harry cleaned up from his meeting with Peeves.
He read a little, watched some quidditch practice from a distance, and played
wizard's chess with Kevin in the common room to pass the time until dinner and his
research with Hermione. But after the second game of being thoroughly trounced,
Kevin began discussing football teams in depth and how terrible it was with no TV to
watch them. Harry tried changing the subject to books, video games, or something
he could relate to, but it soon became apparent that even though they were both
muggleborn Ravenclaws, they had very little in common. Even in magic, Kevin liked
potions, flying, and defense class the most. All things that Harry cared little for, yet
they still got on well enough.
Dinner came and passed, without Padma poking fun at his turning a student into
stone. It occurred to him that maybe she was afraid, or possibly nice enough not to
rub salt into his problems. But from the stern look Sue gave her, it seemed she might
be avoiding another elbow to the ribs instead.
Finishing his meal, Harry left the Great Hall early and headed to the Ravenclaw
library. Wanting to modify his list of spells and any desired spell effects he was
supposed to bring. They had planned to each make lists of what they wanted to
learn about most, and then discuss which they would research together. Including
known and unknown spells, and any magical items that sounded useful or
interesting. If there was time, Harry also wanted to talk about magical creatures that
might be worth studying.
When Hermione eventually arrived she found him in one of the two plush chairs from
last time, looking out the scenic west window, towards the dimming sun and
cloudless sky. She sat down and they immediately exchanged lists, having no need
for words. Harry was surprised by the amount and variety Hermione had written, she
even made a key for the symbols she used, " was for spells they would learn in
class, identified ones she was learning, and signified those that were probably
too advanced for them. Some he had never seen before in any book he owned, so it
was with interest that he scrutinized her extensive list. The more useful ones that his

list lacked, were making objects weigh less, creating an invisible barrier, showing
secret passages, and enhancing the senses. She also put an explanation point by a
permanent shrinking charm, which seemed odd to Harry.
He found the back of her list contained quite a few magical items with descriptions
that sounded more than useful. The mokeskin pouch was mentioned again, along
with communication mirrors, a sneakoscope, concentration capsules, universal
translator, enchanted quills, a magical book able to read any book in a library, probity
probe, flying carpet, and a map of Hogwarts. These she rated in difficulty of
obtaining, with the universal translator and library book at the highest. Harry didn't
know if those really existed but all he had thought of differently was darkness
powder, an invisibility cloak, emergency portkey, and a magical expanding trunk he
had seen mentioned in books. At the end of the page was a short list of potions they
might like to explore, the antidote to common poisons, pepper-up potion, invigoration
draught, wit-sharpening potion, and the blood replenishing potion which was marked
'just in case'. He hadn't even thought about potions because most seemed relatively
pointless, and the prices excessive. But the cost was probably the same for most
items on their lists. Maybe all that gold in my vault isn't going to last as long as I
thought...
With a wry grin on his face, Harry handed her list back, "It seems we've already been
thinking about the best parts of magic since learning it was real. Imagining what we
would learn about and get first, like we're setting out on our own RPG."
Hermione giggled quietly, "Except we don't start out with piles of gold or passing
caves to plunder."
"Well..."
Her eyes grew wide, "That rumor is true too?! You've already got your super wand
and mysterious backstory, now you're hogging all the starting gold as well?" Putting
on an exaggerated look of indignation, she turned away, "if you're going to take all
the ancient artifacts as well, then our adventure ends right here."
Harry just started laughing, "Hey, my backstory is a pain, and I've barely done
anything with my wand yet, for all we know it might be weak and boring!" The
extremely skeptical glance she threw his way only made him laugh more, "Okay,
okay, tell you what, next enchanted artifact is yours. And I'll even invest in any
supplies we need."
"Deal," she shook his outstretched hand and smiled, "now, how should we organize
our lists? By usefulness, difficulty, or when they're taught in classes?"

"How about a mix between the most practical, and the easiest to learn or cheapest
to buy?"
Hermione nodded in acceptance and began making notes while glancing up at
Harry, "I'm sorry, but I have to ask. Why do you have an apple stem in your hair?"
Cringing slightly, Harry ran his hands through his hair and plucked it out, "I suppose
it's because I only learned to defend against fresh fruit, and I don't think a tiger or
gun would have worked anyway." Her total confusion wasn't what he hoped for.
"What?" She looked at him as if he'd gone mad.
"Sorry, only a joke. I ran into Peeves."
"Ahh... did he hit you in the head a little too hard?"
Her look of concern only made him laugh again, "Maybe."
After much discussion and deliberation, they sorted the spells and spell effects they
wanted to learn, then guessed at the prices for the items that they wanted most.
Although they had no clue about the rarer objects or if some could even be
purchased, it was more fun than serious in the first place. Hermione wanted to ask
the teachers or prefects about everything while Harry thought it was best to be
discrete and check the libraries. They compromised on asking about the innocent
sounding spells or items and looking up anything else that might arouse suspicions.
It was also agreed upon to split up the top ten spells to practice individually, then
teach them to each other, hopefully speeding up the process.
"Which ones do you want?" Hermione prompted.
"You can pick first, don't want to be accused of getting the easier ones later on."
"Oh, so that's how you want to play, is it? Why don't we see who can learn the
fastest then?" She gave him a rueful smile.
"If you insist. But on one condition, we both have to choose a defensive spell as
well." That seemed to rouse her own suspicions but she agreed anyway, and they
began picking one by one.
In the end it was determined that Harry would try to learn stupefy, epoximise, accio,
aresto momentum, and episkey. For Hermione it would be expelliarmus, alohamora,
immobulus, scourgify, and glacius, since they already knew a few more important
ones like reparo and finite. Incendio, diffindo, and other spells they liked would be

taught in charms or other classes so they would wait on those. Both were in
agreement that communication mirrors and moke skin pouches would be their first
goal for special items, but sneakoscopes and concentration capsules were the
easiest and cheapest to obtain, other than enchanted quills which weren't too
important. It was easy for Harry to see how excited Hermione got about learning
outside of class, and at the prospect of researching interesting items and spells. So it
wasn't much trouble convincing her to meet every night when they didn't have
homework or other plans.
When everything seemed settled there was still time before curfew so Harry brought
up magical creatures. "I'm guessing you've already read Fantastic Beasts and
Where to Find Them, so I was wondering what you thought might be the best
creature to tame? Since most common pets are boring or, fragile, I thought we could
research several for the future. I heard Dumbledore has a phoenix which might be
perfect, except they're too rare, what's your opinion?"
Hermione considered for a moment, "Tebo and Demiguise can turn invisible but
neither sound like optimal pets. Crup are very loyal and will eat anything, and
Kneazle are highly intelligent but they aren't near the level of a phoenix. Graphorn
have immensely tough skins and are very strong but highly dangerous, even giants
can't tame them. Griffins, Hippogriff, Kelpie, and winged horses are all very similar
and would make excellent mounts, but are somewhat rare as well as difficult to
tame. Sphinx are supposedly even worse and not very friendly. Nifflers hunt treasure
but just make messes most of the time. A Jarvey might be cute but you would have
to put it under a permanent silencing spell for the language. Streelers are prized for
their shells and the poisonous slime they produce, but aren't much of a pet either.
Most other creatures I read about would be too useless, rare, or deadly for a pet. In
all I would say the second best to a Phoenix might be a Griffin, if you could tame
one, but personally I would rather a Kneazle for simplicity and companionship."
That was very close to Harry's own thoughts as well, although he couldn't shake an
idea he had, "You're right, but I saw potential in one other you listed, the Kelpie.
Imagine, a shape shifting water demon as a pet that can grow as large as the Loch
Ness monster and is almost impossible to hurt. If it can change size along with its
shape it would be even better than a griffin."
This puzzled Hermione, "But Harry, when the bridle placement charm is put on, it
loses it's ability to shape shift. All they are after they're tamed is a strong and fast
water horse."
"I know, I know, I read that to. But I was just thinking maybe there is some other way
to tame one, some modification of that spell we could find, or using a real bridle that

can conform to any shape. It just sounds like the perfect pet, to be any pet you
want... It's wishful thinking I know, but it seems there's always hope with magic
around." He stared out the window lost in thought.
Feeling sympathy for dashing his hopes Hermione tried to take his mind off it, "It
won't do to dwell on that now, especially when we have such interesting new spells
to learn, and items to gather. Besides that placement charm is probably a sixth year
spell that we couldn't even cast yet, maybe we can find a way to make it possible by
then." The clock chimed and played its tune again to signal curfew. "I better be
going, last time I was delayed and almost didn't make it back on time. Let's research
and practice tomorrow okay?"
Harry nodded and smiled, noticing the blue flower he gave her still glowed. "See you
tomorrow."

Chapter 9 - Adventure
Author's Note: As there have been many comments about Harry lately, I would like to
clarify something. Harry is smart, probably too smart for a regular eleven year old,
but nothing like some other popular fan fiction. The reason for his intelligence is
explained in the previous chapter, but you will come to see many more sides of him
in the future. Halloween arrives next.
Chapter 9
Adventure
Sunday morning presented Harry with a bright and eager Gryffindor running up to
him after breakfast, "I had a great idea last night!" Hermione exclaimed. "You seem
to know Hagrid right? Well I heard he's very good with rare magical creatures, and
knows a lot about about them. So he might know where we could find the moke we
need, and help you with choosing a magical pet!" She beamed with cleverness and
accepted some chocolate from Sue who was handing out stuff she got from an owl.
That is brilliant, except I turned him down last time, "You're right, I remember he was
talking about strange creatures in Diagon Alley, and even offered to buy me an owl.
It's almost like you were reading my thoughts." He gave her a suspicious look, but
couldn't keep his smile from breaking through.
Turning a light pink she shook her head, "Fred and George were bragging about
their exploits in the forbidden forest and finding out what Hagrid keeps in there. They
have all kinds of wild theories like giant spiders, manticore hybrids, and such
nonsense. But they were adamant that he loved rare and dangerous creatures."
"That sounds about right, he even told me he wanted a dragon. So when do you
want to go talk to him?"
Hermione smiled, holding a book on Magizoology in her arms, "No time like the
present."
Off they went, outside into the cool morning fog. Where colourful autumn leaves
decorated the ground, outlining a cleared path to Hagrid's hut. It was a very large
and old wooden cabin with a single giant door in front, sitting beside an even larger
pumpkin patch and garden. Old tools and a cart decorated the outside, with oddly
shaped leaves stuck to the walls. They walked up to the door and knocked, hearing
a booming bark in return. It appeared to shake the house as the mass of leaves on

the outside flew away, glowing bright orange and humming as they did so. Harry
starred in amazement. Even leaves are magical here.
"Those are flitterby moths, they're attracted to heat and hum when excited."
Hermione informed him. Just then the door jerked opened to the sight of a giant man
in makeshift plaid pyjamas, wearing a bushy black beard and unruly hair. Making
Hermione squeak at the intimidating sight.
Hagrid had to bend down slightly to look out his own door, "Oh, hullo there Harry,
nice of yeh ter visit, and who's this?"
"This is Hermione Granger, a Gryffindor in the same year as me, she wanted to
come visit as well. Sorry for not owling before, but you're so close by, I wasn't
thinking." Harry smiled awkwardly.
A large smile matched his and spread across Hagrid's face which could even be
seen under his massive beard, "No matter, yeh'll always be welcome here." He then
addressed Hermione with the same smile, "I heard of yeh, professors always like teh
brag abou' their best students. I used teh be in Gryffindor myself when I was yer age,
surprised me when Harry didn't make it though. Well, come on in an' warm yerselves
up, an' don't let Fang bother yeh, he may look intimidatin' but he's jus' a big softy."
The inside turned out to be a single large room, big enough for a Hagrid at least.
Pots and pans surrounded the roaring fireplace to one side with wild game hung
around the room, and earthy aromas throughout. An enormous bed with a
multicolored, hand stitched quilt on it took up the opposite corner, while a large
sturdy table and chairs belonged in the center. The massive dog named Fang
jumped up excitedly towards Harry, ready to lick him in the face. Reacting by instinct
Harry sent a commanding thought at the dog which had him sitting and wagging his
tail, waiting to be petted. He looked around to see if the magic was noticed but it
seemed to be safe.
Hagrid made himself busy setting out tea and a plate full of large grey pastries. "Sit
down, sit down, make yerselves at home. Have a rock cake and tea if yeh like. - Bin
worried yeh wouldn't want teh come visit, what with yeh studyin' all the time."
Hopping into a chair Hermione helped poured them tea and looked questioningly at
the rock cakes. She picked one up and felt it, then banged it against the table when
Hagrid was turned away. It came away looking better than the table, so she set it
back quickly with a dubious expression. Hagrid sat down and thanked Hermione for
pouring the tea, then took a cake for himself, smelling it with relish. "So how's
lessons bin treatin' you two so far? Like it in them towers do yeh?"

Busy scanning the room, Harry didn't respond immediately so Hermione answered,
"They're good, I'm learning a lot but I like charms the best. Gryffindor is cozy and
nice, though not many students there care about learning much it seems." She
lamented then sipped her tea.
Harry sat down while petting Fang, "Lessons are fine for me too, though I'm sure
Hermione loves them all. Ravenclaw tower is really nice, with lots of comfortable
furniture, tons of books, and a great view of the forest and mountains. It even has a
nice library below the common room that we've been using." He picked up one of the
rock cakes and sniffed it. He put his teeth on it to test how hard it really was but felt
like it might be easier to eat an actual rock, at least those broke down with time.
"Hagrid, I don't mean to be rude but do you actually like these?"
"Huh?... Er - well, they're kinda a tradition, them what me mum used to bake for me
Pa and he baked 'em fer me. But... now that yeh mention it, she didn't really know
how teh bake. Why, the pinecone bits gettin' stuck in yer teeth?" Hagrid chomped
down on one and it made a grinding sound reminiscent of gravel under the wheels of
a car. Hermione cringed and tried to look away.
Struggling not to laugh or shiver Harry replied, "I don't know, I'm used to food being a
little... softer. Would you like to try baking some cauldron cakes with me sometime? I
tried one on the train ride to Hogwarts and they were delicious."
Hagrid grunted a laugh in response, "Huh, imagine that, a Potter bakin' cakes. Yer
mum an' dad cooked worse 'an I did, an' that was sayin' somethin' back before I's
got some practice in. Great folk they 'ere, but poor cooks. - Yeh got a point though,
the ones made in the kitchens ain't half bad, but they feel like swallowin clouds, don't
know if yeh got em in yer mouth. Maybe we could make 'em a bit denser, get
somethin' ter chew."
It was a start. Was all Harry could think, "That sounds good, maybe I can get the
house elves' recipe and we can alter it a little. - Although we actually came to visit for
a different reason."
Hermione looked at Harry in curiosity before getting startled by another hearty laugh
from Hagrid.
He sighed, "No, don't suppose students ever come ter me talkin' about bakin'. What
did you two have on yer mind? I hope it ain't got nothin' ter do wit what's hidden in
the castle. Maybe yeh came to talk abou' some magical beasties? I ain't too bad at
dealin' with them, bein' the groundskeeper an' all."

The same curious look crossed Harry's face but Hermione felt it was time for her to
speak, "Actually, that's precisely why we came. We heard that you were good with
rare creatures, and we wanted to ask you about some. Recently I read that there
were mokes living in the area and we thought you might know how to find them.
Harry was also interested in researching exotic magical pets, such as phoenix."
"Yea? So that's why yeh refused an owl, should'a known yeh'd want somethin' fancy
ter go with that other wand o' yers Harry. And mokes yeh say, betcha I know what
yeh want them for. - I'm supossen I could help yeh with all that. Moke are might
tricky ter catch though, need special traps an lots o' patience."
They discussed how to track moke and where they usually lived, along with the best
bait and traps to use. After that, they talked about Harry's thoughts on pets and
which creatures might be most helpful to tame. It became obvious Hagrid had no
concept of the dangers of each one but only what it might take to train one. Griffin
were also his idea of a nice pet, second to dragons of course. He even mentioned
something about owning a much bigger dog than Fang and then began mooning
over the wonderful owl Harry missed out on for his birthday present. Though he fully
understood about wanting something more unusual.
"I keep hearing about this wonderful birthday but don't get details, when was it?"
Hermione inquired.
Hagrid motioned for Harry to tell it as he got up to make more tea.
"It was on July 31st, Hagrid took me shopping the week before but we had to leave
early, and only managed some time at Ollivander's, and Flourish and Blotts."
Hermione smiled at that, "So he offered to take me back out on my birthday for the
rest of it. I thought it would be great to have more time to explore magic stores as
well. We went around to get the rest of my school equipment and he offered to get
me a pet for my birthday since I didn't have one. But I had already read part of
Fantastic Beasts and I didn't necessarily want a regular pet... since I had a bad
experience with a puppy I brought home one time." Hagrid spilled a little water on the
stove at that. It popped and hissed as Harry continued.
"So he offered to get me something else. I was hoping that my vision might be cured
by magic, but settled for these new 'conspecs' instead, which are probably better.
When Hagrid mentioned my name and the owner saw my scar he offered to give
them to me for free if he could advertise that Harry Potter wore them, since he was
having trouble selling any. I was reluctant but agreed anyway."
Sitting back down and smiling Hagrid continued, "An' that's when he saw 'is watch

was actin' screwy, being muggle made an' around all the magic there. So off I take
'im to this fancy watch maker I knows. An' Harry picks out this bronze beaut' made
fer Ravenclaws, like he already knew what house he'd be in." He nodded at Harry's
wrist.
"Thanks again Hagrid, it's really nice. - Then, after going from bookstore to
bookstore for the rest of the day, he takes me to this fantastic ice cream shop and
has them make me an ice cream cake right there on the spot, which I had to explain
since they'd never heard of one before. It was great though, you'll have to come next
time Hermione."
"It does sound like fun."
"That reminds me Hagrid, when's your birthday? Hermione just had hers recently as
well." She blushed a little and touched the flower.
Hagrid laughed, "Oh don't yeh worry abou' that, s'not important." They both looked
up at him with pleading puppy dog eyes and he caved quickly. "Alrigh' jus' don't
make too much fuss abou' it or anythin'. December sixth is the day, but yeh probably
have lessons then anyways."
"There's always lunch and after dinner, besides we'll have to pay you back somehow
for all your help." Hermione replied.
The conversation meandered back to mokeskin and other useful parts of animals,
such as dragon parts, graphorn hides, phoenix feathers, unicorn hair, demiguise fur,
re'em blood, and murtlap backs. They learned a lot of practical knowledge from
Hagrid and had fun talking until lunch time. Nothing was decided but they wanted to
come back to get help setting some traps.
oOoOo
Walking leisurely back to the castle Harry and Hermione encountered another
horrible beast, Malfoy, and his two other heads. They tried to look intimidating while
Draco started in, "So you think you can get away with spreading rumors about me
too do you? You've got a lot to learn Potter, my father-"
Harry stopped listening, deciding enough was enough, and at that moment thought
of the perfect torture for Draco. He sent a thought at Goyle.
"He'll make your life a living-" Mid sentence Draco was rudely interrupted by Goyle
flicking his ear. He turned around in horrified indignation, "What in the name of youknow-who, do you think you're doing?"

Before he could really get going Goyle shook his hands in fright, "There was a bee
on you, was only getting it off! Honest, sorry!" Flustered and ashamed he backed off
onto the wet grass and slipped, landing on his rear end with pain covering his face.
Malfoy laughed uproariously at this, "Serves you right to touch someone as-" Just
then Crabbe flicked his other ear from behind, releasing a tormented scream from
Draco. "Arrrghhh! What is WRONG with you two!? I suppose you saw something on
my ear too?"
"It really was there, the bee, even I saw it this time. But I don't know-"
Draco interrupted him with a scowl, "You barely know your arse from your face!"
Crabbe looked down in shame at his feet. "There aren't even any bees out this time
of year you gormless flobberworm! Get out of my sight, right, now!" They rushed off
in fear at what might happen to them later.
Harry and Hermione were having a hard time containing their laughter, but after the
minions left Harry couldn't hold it in anymore and laughed right in Draco's beet red
face. That is until he started reaching for his wand, which stopped Harry's laughter
immediately and put him on guard. Luckily Madam Hooch walked by, heading
towards the quidditch pitch, forestalling any confrontation.
Draco seethed with venom as he lowered his voice at them, "You won't think that's
funny after I wipe the floor with you! I challenge you to a wizards duel, tonight at
midnight in the trophy room. You can even take your mudblood servant with you as
your second, if she isn't busy licking your boots that is."
The outraged expression on Hermione's face said all he needed to know about the
unfamiliar insult, but Harry intervened before she could verbally trash the pompous
wind-bag."I accept Malfoy, though it's curious why you want to clean floors so badly.
Do you have a desire to be a servant yourself? Perhaps you like dressing up like a
maid? It's nothing to be ashamed of, but listen, you shouldn't try to involve others in
your fantasies." The enraged and confused look was priceless but Harry didn't let
him catch up, "Anyway, I shall meet you at the appropriate time, that is if you bring
your own coconut halves to bang together."
Spitting on the ground at their feet wearing a look of disgust, Draco turned away with
his head held high and tried to keep his superior stride over the muddy earth. When
his foot must have caught a rock and he tripped, tumbling down the grassy bank and
sliding to a halt in a lake of mud.
Harry chuckled and couldn't help calling out to him, "Might want to keep your head
down and watch where you're going next time Malfoy." The responding screams of

fury weren't discernible as real words.

Having to drag Hermione up the steps wearing an bewildered frown, Harry
pretended like everything was normal. But as they entered the castle and headed
towards the great hall she finally found the words to speak and pulled Harry aside.
"Harry, what just happened? You aren't really going to duel that lunatic, are you?
...and, and did you just reference Monty Python at him?"
"Ha! I knew it, you did get that reference!" He grinned at her, "I swear, it's like living
in a zoo around here sometimes with no one getting my jokes, they just stare and
gawk. And you're right, no one should be stupid enough to duel the git, he probably
would bring all of Slytherin to ambush me or just tell a teacher and not show up
himself. Imagine if he does go there, he might wait around for hours losing sleep
over it. - Do you think we should tell a teacher ourselves, just in case he gets caught
and tries to drag me into it?" He was still chuckling to himself as the lunch bells rang
their merry tune.
Hermione wasn't nearly as amused, "I guess we should, but Harry, why didn't you
just refuse? And why were you acting so weird, pretending you didn't understand
him? I might have told him where he could shove his boots and blood purity if he
didn't run away from your nonsense so fast."
"Ah, Hermione that was the whole point, bullies like him expect retorts and insults
thrown back at them. They want to see anger and indignation to know they're
manipulating you. It's how they think they're in control and part of why they keep
doing it. But if they get confused or lose track of what they wanted, it makes them
dislike talking to you. I didn't give him anything he expected, except the duel, but he
would only come back with some other strategy if I refused. I know you didn't like
what he called you, but if you act like it doesn't bother you at all, he loses.
Sometimes they keep coming like Malfoy might, yet you have to ignore the taunts
and hopefully someday he grows up and stops. Unless you want to force him to back
down, which would take a lot more planning and cunning that simply insulting him
back." He gave her an encouraging smile.
"Uhh, that's okay, I think I understand your point now. By the way, how long have you
had to deal with bullies?"
Harry's lips twitched to the side in thought, "It seems like all my life some days...
Why don't we protect each others backs? Nothing like the smartest students teaming
up against evil, and the occasional bully."
She rolled her eyes at him, but grinned in agreement anyway. Then walked into the

great hall together and sat down on their separate benches, back to back. It was
much later during lunch that Draco finally entered and sat down with a red tinge to
his eyes and new robe on. That made Harry feel a momentary pang of regret, until
Draco put on his customary sneer and started insulting his two minions again.
Maybe it would be better for them all if I split their little group up. Having flunkies
sure doesn't help Draco's personality.
oOoOo
The meal once again was fantastic, with small vol au vent stuffed with chicken and
mushrooms, and cups of creme brulee for dessert. Harry felt it was time to meet the
chefs, then he would talk with a professor. After the last dishes disappeared he got
up with Hermione and asked if she wanted to accompany him. She thought it was a
great idea, as she meant to inquire about house elves when he mentioned them at
Hagrid's. So they headed off in search of the kitchens.
It was hard to find until an older Hufflepuff noticed them wandering around the
basement. She told them to tickle the pear on the large painting of a bowl of fruit, if
they wished to talk to the kitchen staff. Doing so surprised them, when it giggled
happily and sprouted a green door handle. The painting opened into an immense
room, just as big as the great hall, decorated with so many pots, pans, silverware,
and loads of raw food, strewn neatly about the place. All the noise and excitement
they heard when the door cracked open suddenly vanished, as the lingering scents
of luscious cooking reached them. And there they were, probably a hundred of the
funny little creatures, with pointy ears, knobby limbs, and wrinkly skin. All wearing
neat tea towels emblazoned with the Hogwarts crest, some a little more worn than
others. The whole lot of them were staring at Harry and Hermione, waiting for
something.
An older sharp nosed one with greying wisps of hair slowly walked up to them,
bowed, and spoke in a slightly squeaky voice, "Can we help you, young master and
mistress? Was there something wrong with the meal or have your nutritional needs
changed perhaps? Maybe you needed a snack made for a romantic picnic?" He
smiled indulgently at them.
Hermione was still taking it all in as her eyes grew wide at the words, and Harry
spoke, "Nothing like that, we only wanted to thank you for the excellent food you've
been serving us. It's some of the best food I've ever had, and I was hoping to watch
you prepare it sometime, if you don't mind."
Looks of joy and eagerness spread around the room as what he said was passed on
to the ones in the far back. Happy and proud smiles shown on many faces, while the

leader blushing slightly, speaking up again, "Oh you needn't flatter us so young
master, we are quite content to supply you with anything you need, even when yelled
at."
His words put a frown on Hermione's face but she didn't have the words to reply.
Another younger and much less wrinkly house elf seemed to appear from nowhere
and scurried up beside the older one, nudging him. This one clearly resembled a girl
as her voice did as well when she spoke, "Don't be rude Pokey, he's serious. You
can tell by his eyes, he's... interested." She addressed Harry with a pleasant smile
and a bow, "My name is Kolie, and this is Pokey, grandson of the great Hooky here
at Hogwarts. We are all most thankful of your generous compliments young master
and would be delighted to show you our skills now if you'd like. Would you care to
see us make anything specific?"
Harry returned the pretty elf's smile, "Now that you mention it, I was recently talking
to Hagrid about the rock cakes he makes."
Many of them tittered shyly but in good humor, Kolie spoke again, "Yes we know
Hagrid, the BIG eater. But surely you don't want us to make more of his rock cakes,
do you?"
"Actually, I was trying to convince him into making your cauldron cake recipe with
me, but he would like to make them chewier. It would be interesting to see how you
make a small batch first though, if that's alright." Harry suggested.
A good dozen of them nodded in unison, and started pulling out ingredients. Kolie
nudged Pokey again, "Cauldron cake are Pokey's specialty, he shall be happy to
direct the baking."
The older elf tried to hide an embarrassed grin while organizing the others into line,
and looking over their perpetrations. At an nod from Pokey they all started working at
once, and a wide bowl began moving from one end of a table to the other ready to
receive all the ingredients. In one smooth movement, egg after egg was cracked into
the bowl as it glided past each elf. A magical mixer was set into the bowl, stirring the
following ingredients, which were gently added by one elf at a time, liquid chocolate
here, sifted flour there, and a few other mysterious elements as well.
While that bowl continued its graceful journey down the table another started from
the beginning. This time cream and sugar were added along with other colourful
ingredients being slowly mixed together. At the end of the table the finished bowl
was magically held aloft, pouring the batter into a single tray of small cauldron
shaped molds by Pokey himself. When he reached the end of the table it glided out

of his hands comfortably into an awaiting oven, opening and closing at exactly the
right time. Soon after the second bowl received it's last ingredients, and was set on
top of a waiting cooker to simmer into a gelatinous green goo, filled with bits and
pieces of delicious things to resemble a bubbling potion. This wasn't just baking but
a skilled dance they performed flawlessly.
The unoccupied elves cleaned up silently behind as the preparation was completed,
then lined up to the side while smiling and congratulating each other with pats on the
back and handshakes. Only Pokey and Kolie remained to watch the baking cakes
and filling, as soon fragrant and mouth watering smells drifted across the room.
Harry's stomach growled slightly even after their recent lunch. At the same time
Pokey waved his hand at the stove, opening it as the tray floated down to the table
and the rich chocolaty aroma made Hermione's mouth water. Kolie had removed her
bowl from the heat only moments earlier and looked to be cooling it with frosty
waves of magic. She scooped out globs of the thick filling with a large spoon and set
each one to sit waiting in the air. As Pokey flipped over the tray and deposited the
cauldrons on a platter underneath, the filling plopped down into each cauldron
without spilling a drop. All the elves around the room clapped lightly with their small
hands. Harry and Hermione couldn't help but clap along, adding to the buzz of
excitement filling the room once again. Pokey let the finished cakes glide in front of
him and the other elves trailed along behind to finally line up in front of the students
and bow in unison, as if at the end of a show.
Harry estimated it took only one minute to prepare everything, but more impossibly
they only took two minutes to bake and cook it all. Magic, of course. Both Harry and
Hermione were encouraged to try them freshly baked, as they were the perfect
temperature, despite the rich filling still bubbling in imitation of heat.
Grabbing one each they bit into the soft velvety cake with creamy filling and gooey
bits of warm fruit inside. Hermione let out a delighted moan at the taste, "Mmmm,
that's sooo good!" Her cheeks turned slightly pink but then she smiled and kept
chewing slowly, enjoying every moment of it.
Too distracted with the celebration on his tongue to notice much, Harry managed to
exclaim in delight, "Wow! That's even better than Honeydukes. You lot are amazing!"
All the elves giggled and did little dances in response. Smiling, Kolie walked up to
Harry and handed him a crumpled and well used piece of paper, it contained the
recipe and a few notes at the end on how to make it extra chewy.
Swallowing another bite, Harry repressed the urge to keep stuffing his face for a
second, "Thank you, for everything. This should definitely save our teeth from rock

cakes. Is there anything we can do for you in return?"

The kitchen quieted around them, spreading quickly to the ones who didn't hear.
"That isn't necessary young master, your thanks are enough. We could never accept
anything in return for performing our duty." Pokey explained.
"What do you mean, you can't accept gifts? Do you really get paid that much?"
Hermione asked in concern. The quiet hush turned into deafening silence as startled
elf faces turned away or looked on in dismay. Seeing their disconcerting reactions
made her look to Harry for answers. "Harry, what are they talking about?"
"Ah, I'm sorry everyone, it's just a misunderstanding. She didn't mean to offend you
at all, it's just a very unusual concept in the muggle world, which I seem to not
understand perfectly either. We just liked what you did so much we wanted to show
our appreciation, and in the muggle world that's often done through other means.
But if you like we'll try to limit our gratitude to words instead. - So, I would like to
once again thank you for the wonderful food you prepare, and all your hard work
around the castle. We really appreciate it." Some started clapping while others cried,
tears of happiness he hoped.
He whispered to Hermione, "We better go before something else gets
misunderstood. I'll explain later." They waved goodbye and made a hasty retreat.
Only to be caught by Kolie at the door, "That was handled well young master. And
don't worry about the others, they're just not used to dealing with human interaction,
especially with such kind ones like yourselves. I'm the envoy to the teachers and
headmaster so I know what to expect. We do hope you come back again sometime,
since you are certainly welcome here. Besides, it's always nice feeling useful." She
gave them a wink and shoved two more cauldron cakes into their hands as they
stepped out the door.
oOoOo
"Harryyy!" Hermione groaned, "You always seem to make things so confusing...
What was that all about? You're not going to tell me they barter with dried squid or
cacao beans because they're allergic to metals are you? And what was with their
clothing? They looked like they had on old towels or something." She began
wrapping her extra cake in a napkin to save for later.
Harry chewed slowly on his to delay, "You're not going to like it, I can tell you that
right now. You're better off not knowing and pretending like you didn't hear anything."
She gave him a very intimidating glare, or tried to at least. If an otter could make an
annoyed squint, that would be similar. Harry caved, shrugged, and tried to put it into

words, "They're kinda like... yet, they enjoy it. They don't like possessions or regular
clothing, so you could call them - willing indentured servants?"
Hermione took a second to speak, building up all the indignation she could muster,
"They're SLAVES!? And they like it that way? What century is this? Trying to
convince people slaves are better off because they enjoy it, you should have seen
through that Harry! I know you're smarter than that." She ended in a huff, crossing
her arms.
"Okay, relax a little. I wasn't sure I believed it either, that is until the display we just
witnessed. We both saw the same thing, they were happy doing all that, they were
proud of their skills, and basically made it into entertainment more than work. From
what I was told they were somehow made or born enjoying working for wizards and
shunning property. They're magical beings and don't exactly think the same way as
humans, so you can't compare their situation to human slavery so easily."
Harry noticed her nod imperceptibly at that point, "I admit its screwed up to use them
basically as slaves, but it wouldn't be right to force them to change how they want to
live either. I asked one of the professors about them the other day and he said
they're free to leave, and some have left with wizards in the past, but that the
connection between wizards and house elves is too strong to break for them to live
on their own. That some have to be owned or they die." He finished and waited for
her rebuttal.
It took a minute for Hermione to sort out all the new information on the subject,
"You're right that magical creatures aren't exactly human, even though they are
considered beings. Especially when there are Hags, in which eating flesh and little
children is normal, yet are still classified the same. But what if they're simply trained
from birth to live that way and are brainwashed into thinking they're supposed to like
being slaves? What if you could convince them otherwise? Maybe all it takes is
some de-conversion classes and being separated from a society that keeps them
locked into this way of thought. Even if you're right and it's a magical condition of
their birth, freedom shouldn't be based on whether someone enjoys it more than
slavery. No one should have the right to own another sentient life form!"
"You're definitely right about the last part. But you saw their reaction to your question
about being paid, there's no way they could be convinced otherwise. My guess is
that some highly unethical wizards created them somehow to serve and be bound
magically to them, and we know barely anything about magic yet in order to fix that.
But you have my support if you can ever free them from that curse." They had
walked to the staff room while talking and now stood outside the door.

Hermione looked a little frustrated but shook it off and sighed, "I don't know what to
think, but, you're probably right... guess you're not as dumb or crazy as the
Slytherins claim." She gave him a teasing smile.
"Well I never! They underestimate me - I'm far more than just dumb and crazy!"
Harry laughed maniacally.
Rolling her eyes she pushed him out of the way and knocked on the door to the staff
room. Professor Vector answered and they asked if Professor Flitwick or
McGonagall were inside. Minerva in her emerald greens appeared at the door with
an annoyed look but quickly changed to mild surprise when she saw who was asking
for her. "Oh, what are my two brightest first years needing today? I hope you aren't
asking for more homework on a Sunday miss Granger. You should be out having fun
as well as learning."
Harry chuckled lightly at the comment and Hermione gave him another glare. "We
came to report a duel that is supposed to occur between students at midnight
tonight, in the trophy room." She said with a note of seriousness.
"My word!" McGonagall returned to her severe demeanor immediately, "Who are
these students and how did you hear about this?"
Harry glanced down, not being prepared for the questions, "Er - Its supposed to be
between Malfoy and... me." He looked up to see her face molding into full
disbelieving shock as he hurried to tell the rest, "He came up to us earlier,
threatening and insulting us, then challenged me to a duel. Of course I had no
intention of actually doing it, but thought it safer to agree than refuse to his face.
After, we agreed it would be best to tell a teacher instead of staying silent, in case
something went wrong."
McGonagall looked back and forth between them with a stern glare, but all she
appeared to see were honest, if somewhat intimidated children. "These are very
serious charges. Students out of bed after curfew, and participating in an illegal and
unsupervised duel. If it was anyone else I might assume they were fabrications
made up to get another student in trouble. But as your participation in my class and
others have shown, you both are upstanding students and too intelligent to lie
directly to a professor's face." Her last veiled threat and fierce look didn't reveal any
deception, so she nodded in acceptance. "Alright, you may go. And thank you for
reporting this, it was the right thing to do."
With palpable relief they left together, heading for the Ravenclaw dueling room.
Having decided to get started on spell practice, due to the recent threat of

aggression. When Harry mentioned his icy incident outside the library, Hermione
added detection spells to the list of needed research and admonished him for not
mentioning that to Professor McGonagall as well. They reached the room and found
no one in it, not even the portrait who spoke to them before. Hermione began to
practice with expelliarmus, while Harry tried his hand at stupefy. By dinner time Harry
had made almost no progress, barely emitting a spark upon casting the spell. Much
to his chagrin, Hermione was already producing a decent looking red shimmer
across the room, or sometimes at him.
Feeling his wand move slightly in his hand, Harry sent a sharp look her way. "You
might be careful where you point that..."
She wore a pleased grin while trying to pretend it didn't happen, and continued to
cast as usual.
Dinner turned out to include glazed honey hams, pots of grilled vegetables, a diverse
set of side dishes, and more cauldron cakes for dessert. Harry only took two though,
having had more than enough sweets that day. At the head table he could see
Hagrid picking up two or three at a time and stuffing them in his mouth. He smiled at
Harry when their eyes met and gave a thumbs up with more cakes in his other hand.
Hermione laughed cheerfully behind him, and he guessed she must have seen as
well.
Watching Hagrid made Harry think of what he said about his parents, that they were
even worse cooks than he was. And here I imagined I would be having amazing
home cooked meals once upon a time. Turns out I had to wait until Hogwarts
anyway. I wonder how they ate, surely there couldn't be many magical take-away
places with how few magical people there are. Though with that pile of gold at
Gringotts maybe they ate out all the time, or had a chef, or rather a house elf...
Everyone has praised my parents as kind and wonderful people, would they have
cared about enslaving a house elf? Would I feel bad to own one as well? Wait,
maybe I do own one, if my parents owned a house elf wouldn't I have inherited it?
But when they died and I was given to the Dursleys, it probably found another family.
Which is unlikely in the first place. I barely know anything about my parents...
He shook his head, took his last bite of cake and savored the new happy memories
he was making, looking forward to many more.
oOoOo
Back in the Ravenclaw library with Hermione again, it was discussed how they might
go about acquiring other items they wanted. Since first and second years weren't

allowed on Hogsmeade weekends, they would have to get someone else to buy
things for them, or wait until the holidays.
"I might not go home for the holidays," warned Harry, "since I've heard you can't
practice magic outside of school, and I'm starting to really like it here." Leaving out
the part about his disagreeable relatives, he shrugged at her concerned expression.
He continued, "I might be able to talk Hagrid into taking me shopping again though,
but I don't know how easy it would be to get some items if he's around. Plus that's a
long way away."
Hermione seemed to hesitate before saying her next idea, "There is another option,
but not a very good one... Fred and George offered to buy stuff at Hogsmeade for a
small fee, if any younger students needed anything. I wouldn't trust them with
anything important, or much at all, but they could be a last resort."
"Why? Did they already start pranking you as well?" Harry felt defensive for a
second but tried to ignore it.
Looking down and away, she shook her head, "They saw me explaining at length
how legilimency works to their brother Ron, and when he began rolling his eyes at
me and gagging, they threatened the other Gryffindors on pain of torture if I was
made fun of again. It was probably just to harass Ron, since all he does is follow
them around, but the others have been nicer lately."
Harry chuckled, glad that he was right about them, but couldn't resist the temptation
to tease her, "Could one of them already fancy you? Or maybe both?"
The deadly glare she cast his way only made him smile while trying to restrain his
laughter. Of course there was nothing deadly about her tight lipped stare, but Harry
figured that was her intent, and she did seem to be improving.
"Go boil your head in muffling draught."
He snorted and covered his mouth, "Sorry, sorry... back to the topic at hand. The
final option is owl post, but they can't deliver everything, and who knows how it's
monitored or restricted, or what it costs. We need to find some brochures, if they
exist."
They soon decided that Hermione would get anything suspicious at Diagon Alley on
holiday since her parents wouldn't know any better, Harry would try to go shopping
with Hagrid there as well, and they would ask the Weasleys for only harmless items
that might be useful earlier. If that didn't work they would use owls as a backup.

Making plans seemed to cheer them both up from any unpleasant thoughts.
Harry had another topic he wanted to discuss though, "We should probably start
researching enchanting as well, since it'll be cheaper in the long run to enchant our
own items. And we might be able to make improvements or even create customized
artifacts ourselves one day."
Hermione sighed, "You keep trying to go way beyond our skill level Harry. Like
wanting to learn stupefy, a first year shouldn't even be able to cast it. You have to be
a master at the spells you want to make a permanent enchantment of, and most
require a lot of magic. That might be easier than taming a Griffin but I think we
should concentrate on simpler topics for now."
"Okay, if you insist on limiting my genius... but I still think we should learn the basics
so we can keep in mind anything that might be useful along the way." Harry enjoyed
provoking her desire for knowledge, because they both knew she wanted to learn
everything, yet tried to be the sensible one as well.
"Fine! But just the basics!" She rolled up a piece of paper and threw it at Harry's
smile of victory. They both laughed when it sailed over his head.
The next few weeks turned out to be much the same. Harry began sitting near
Padma and Sue in classes or Hermione too when they had doubles. They often all
did homework together and sometimes practiced spells as well when Sue and
Padma felt interested. One day they went down to Hagrid's for tea and talk of
creatures. During the visit they uncovered that Padma happened to buy the beautiful
snowy owl Hagrid was going to purchase for Harry, and that Sue's giant fire-bellied
toad could croak real flames, which Hagrid thought was adorable. They tried making
Cauldron cakes together with Hagrid's batch turning out excessively hard and chewy,
but still edible for everyone else to try. He loved those the most, and welcomed
Padma and Sue to come back any time.
The week after, Harry and Hermione helped set moke traps on the edge of the forest
which Hagrid had borrowed from a friend. They visited the elves again to watch their
dinner preparation, which was even more spectacular than before. Hermione was
convinced that something needed to be done, but realized that the house elves
thoroughly enjoyed themselves all the same. Some nights during their research and
practice, there would appear plates of fruit or biscuits, along with a tea, or hot
chocolate. It only happened when both their heads were turned or they got distracted
by a book falling from a shelf, they both assumed it was the house elves since it
started with a couple of cauldron cakes and milk. Which was weird, but Harry knew it
was common in the states, and it tasted amazing together.

Soon, nightly practice and research with Hermione started showing results. Spell
practice progressed rapidly, with only a few proving to be overly difficult, yet they
already began teaching each other the easier ones. Hermione was quickly
overtaking Harry with her proficiency, but he guessed she practiced a lot more, or at
least hoped she did. They read about uncommon spells, the habits of rare beasts,
famous items of great power, and the basics of enchanting. Which included mentally
forcing your own magic into an object, or using special materials to enchant
something permanently with a spell. Seeing the potential, Hermione relented and
they planned to keep it on their list of research topics.
Nothing seemed to come from the supposed duel with Draco except some odd looks
from him afterward. McGonagall didn't mention it either. That bothered Harry
somewhat but he decided to be prepared next time. Every double lesson with
Slytherin he would concentrate on sensing Draco in the crowd, as the incident with
his wand demonstrated it was still possible. Though it was much harder than sensing
his wand or the difference between his three relatives in a single house, especially
because all the magic around made things and people indistinguishable from one
another. After a while his senses got used to the buzz of magic in the air and he
began noticing the differences between individuals. Practicing while walking to and
from classes, he got better at ignoring any strange sensations and it became easier
to tell students apart.
His years of practice were paying off and he was even able to distinguish between
students at meal times, which gave him more time to practice sensing where Draco
was as well. After a month of this daily exercise it was easy to tell the usual people
around him. It still took effort, but was manageable and became a habit whenever
anyone came close. First year Ravenclaws were a snap if he tried, with Padma, Sue,
and Hermione being the easiest to sense, even if they were far away. Penny, and
most of the other prefects were relatively distinct, since they were usually moving
around halls between classes or on patrol near curfew. Draco and his crew were the
hardest of the bunch but every day they became clearer and once or twice he was
able to avoid bumping into him.
Throughout his entire time practicing, Harry nudged Draco and his minions mentally,
to get them arguing or annoying each other, causing strife during their time together.
It was fun, making Crabbe and Goyle think Draco wore makeup or getting them to
ignore and misunderstand his orders. Everything was relatively harmless until one
time he managed to make them laugh directly at Draco as he was being insulted by
a Gryffindor. That's when Draco started truly bullying Hermione and the others in her
house.

Chapter 10 - Trolls
Author's Note: Warning for those who need it, there is adult language in this chapter
and the next.
Chapter 10
Trolls?
Harry waited patiently in the Ravenclaw library. She was twenty minutes late and
that had never happened before. Hermione was almost always on time, except once
she had to ask a teacher more questions, but even then she got there only a few
minutes late, breathless from running too hard. It didn't matter to him much if she
forgot or got distracted, but that was even more unlikely than being late. Something
didn't seem right. He felt a strong urge to make sure Hermione was safe, but didn't
want to act stupid running all around looking for her. So instead, he closed his eyes
and relaxed, letting his ever expanding senses roam the castle to find her. Reaching
further away than ever before, he felt a trace low in the castle, probably the
dungeons. That wasn't the strangeness he felt, since he knew she had double
potions today, what was weird was that she was surrounded by other students, and
a few felt like Draco and his gang. As Harry's senses adjusted to the distance, he
was able to feel something new as well, an intense emotion. Anger, deep and
resentful, aimed at those sound him, and getting worse. Though the sensation
wasn't Harry's, he could tell it was coming from an arrogant prat. The anger pouring
off Draco tasted bitter in his mouth, but the violent rage he felt next sent a shiver
down his spine. This is bad.
Leaving his bag under the table Harry rushed to the spiral stairwell and came to a
halt at the wooden banister, looking over the edge there was an opening all the way
down. Shit. He leaped over the railing and fell straight down.
Watching the ground come towards him was overwhelming but he resisted the
distraction, cleared his thoughts and snapped his wrist to produce the wand from his
holster. Quickly focusing on what he wanted, he twisted the wand and cast at his
feet, "Arresto Momentum!"
He hit the stone floor hard, but in a crouch like he practiced the days before. Bloody
hell, that was scary.
Shaking himself off from the brief pain in his legs, he stood up slowly, it was no
worse than when he fell off the garage roof at his relatives. Leaving thoughts of

splattering on the hard stone behind, he quickly took off towards the dungeons.
Opening his senses again revealed Hermione had left Draco but was being followed
by two others, flanking her closely, as if she was being escorted to some cruel fate.
Relaxing into a jog he felt for a prefect close by, since he might not be able to stop
two at once it they were older. None were close enough to discern, so he decided to
try an ambush. Picking up his pace and ignoring confused looks by the random
students he passed, Harry found the perfect spot in the dimly lit dungeons. He hid in
the shadow of a large statue at the corner of the hallway they would soon pass.
Then he prepared a plan.
Freezing the floor under their feet as they pass should shake their concentration or
make them slip, then I'll distract both with thoughts of sand in their eyes. Next, fling
their wands away and stick them to the floor. If anything fails stun them. I just hope
my stunner is powerful enough to actually knock one out. It had been the hardest of
any spell he could cast, when he even managed to do it. If all that worked they could
escape easily and find a teacher or prefect. If not, then he had another trick he was
meaning to try.
Sounds came from the hallway now, sobs of someone trying to resist crying. The
profanity engulfed his mind while his muscles tensed in anger. He wanted to hurt
them now. Listening closer for who these other villains might be, he heard something
else, "It'll be okay, you know it was all lies what they said."
Wait that was Hermione's voice, why is she comforting her bullies? The sobbing
continued and Padma spoke, "They're just a bunch of bullies, you can't let them tell
you how to feel!"
But that wasn't Padma, she was up in the Ravenclaw tower only minutes ago. Then
it hit him as he saw the three walk past his vision, they all wore Gryffindor colors. It
was Hermione, Parvati, and Lavender, they must have been arguing with Draco and
his minions, or being insulted by them. The relief flooded through Harry as he
realized he wouldn't have to fight and that Hermione wasn't hurt. The drop of
adrenalin made him feel weak, his knees and ankles started to hurt as well.
Harry ignored the pain and followed behind them out of sight, trying to listen to what
happened. Apparently Lavender and Hermione were insulted the most being called
mudblood and blood traitor, Lavender being picked on for being a nit-wit who
couldn't brew a potion and many other topics that were hard to understand between
the sobs. Finally realizing he shouldn't be snooping, Harry tried to get past them, but
there was no way around. He heard Hermione offer for them to come to the
Ravenclaw library to study. They refused at first, until she mentioned Harry's name.

Lavender looked up from between her moistened hands, "R-really? H-harry's going
to be there? O-o-okay..." When they stopped by a girls bathroom to freshen up,
Harry sighed and hurried back to the library. He arrived a few minutes later from the
long climb, being especially hard on his knees, while the paintings that saw him jump
were lecturing him as he passed by.
Sitting down to relax at a central table, Harry almost fell asleep, until the excited
giggle of young girls brought him wide awake. They entered the library with
Hermione still in the lead, and she gave him a weak smile. He built up some courage
and spoke first though, "Hello ladies, would you like to join me for some light
research on the topic of hexes? I hear there are some good ones to dissuade
bullies."
That seemed to irritate Hermione as her eyebrows pinched together, "And how long
have you known about Draco's pitiful attempts at bullying us? Just so you're aware,
we don't need your help either."
"W-we don't?" Lavender squeaked.
"Course not," Parvati replied, "but it would be rude to refuse the offer as well." A
smile played in the corners of her lips.
Harry nodded to her with a friendly smile, "I haven't known long enough apparently,
but we can still research a few spells that might be useful in case they get too
aggressive, can't we?" Hermione gave her own reluctant nod and they sat down.
Each of them went looking for a book or two on jinxes and hexes, bringing back a
smattering of useful ones. They began to read while Lavender and Parvati kept
talking and asking questions throughout, but they eventually came up with a good list
of potential spells. There was entomorphis which changed someone's head into a
bug's, collodent which stuck teeth together, lingucornu the horn tongue hex, and
melofors, which fit the season because it grew a pumpkin around someone's head. It
was soon agreed that melofors would be the spell to learn, since it would be fun with
Halloween so close, and at the same time stopping anyone casting or seeing. Harry
even suggested it could be used as a costume, but only received playful looks of
scorn and mocking laughter in return.
The rest of the night they practiced and played around in the dueling room below the
library. The Portrait on the wall even summoned a training dummy from the house
elves for them to practice on. It arrived in moments, and melofors being an easier
spell, they all managed to cover it's head with a pumpkin by the end of the night.
Although Lavender and Parvati seemed to have a lot of trouble, they eventually got it

after some instruction and tips from Hermione.

When it was time to go, Hermione stayed behind for a second pretending she forgot
something. "That was nice of you today Harry, it's sometimes difficult fitting in around
the other Gryffindors, but opposing bullies or Slytherins seems to be something they
enjoy. I don't know how they'll pass their exams though with how little they study...
Anyway, don't worry about us, we'll be fine standing up to Draco."
"If you do need anything, just ask. And maybe stick close to the other Griffins if you
can, it doesn't seem like Draco likes being around that youngest Weasley."
Hermione made a face of annoyed disgust, "Ugh, don't remind me. The only reason
why is because he's so annoying, always taking about quidditch or insulting
Slytherins, not to mention everyone else. You're right though, I should try to be
friends with Fay and Sally as well as the others. Maybe they'll talk about more than
boys and gossip."
"Well, as long as you don't let them catch you alone and unprepared, because I think
there might be something wrong with Draco."
oOoOo
They waved goodbye outside as Harry started back up the steps to his common
room, only to be accosted by Padma and Sue.
"Making more friends Harry? You better not be hitting on my sister as well. Hannah,
Lavender, and Hermione are more than enough for you. And don't try increasing
your harem with us either." Padma stared him down.
Utterly flabbergasted, Harry didn't know what to say, but looked to Sue for help. She
just shrugged her shoulders, not contributing anything. So he would have to muddle
through on his own, "I don't know what you've heard, but I'm not creating a harem or
anything similar. Besides this is the first time I've said more than two words to
Lavender or Parvati since the train, how are there already rumors about that?
Hannah is only my potions partner and Hermione and I are just friends."
"Pfft, right. - Those rumors started long ago, and I didn't believe them at first either,
but we just saw you taking and laughing it up with them in the library like you were all
extremely, intimate... If I find out you're sneaking into the Gryffindor girls dorm you're
going to pay, dearly." Her first was wrapped around her wand and she crossed her
arms with a look of intimidation. She must have had practice too, because it was
much better than Hermione's.

It worried Harry that vicious rumors were still being spread about him, and that even
his friends might believe them. He'd never even heard about this one before either,
which was strange, as the Weasley twins usually kept him in the loop, by wanting to
know more. Maybe it was only between the girls...
"I don't want to be insulting Padma, but those are only stupid rumors and lies. We've
been working in lessons and studying together for more than a month, have you
seen anything in all that time to make you think I was some dodgy lecher? Besides,
you know someone has to be intentionally spreading these rumors, although who
knows why."
Padma twisted her mouth in thought, then looked at Sue to get her opinion, "I
believe him, he rarely does anything but study with Hermione and practice spells. I
doubt he even knows how to woo a girl, much less multiple ones."
"Hey now!"
Laughing Padma shook her head, "Well then why does every girl in our year talk
about him constantly?! Does he produce some kind of magical pheromone or does
someone put love potion in our pumpkin juice in the morning?"
"Wait, they do? Why?" Harry asked.
They were basically ignoring him now, as Sue responded, "It's called fame and
fortune, the best known drug on the market for girls. He's the mysterious Prince
Charming of the year and hasn't done anything too stupid to mess it up yet. Don't
worry though, they'll get bored with him when they finally learn all he does is study."
"Okay, you heard her Harry, go do something stupid like staying out after curfew to
study and lose lots of house points. Then we won't have to deal with all this drama."
Padma made shoeing motions with her hands at him.
Harry just stared at her dumbfounded for a few seconds, then threw up his hands
and walked around them up the steps, "Girls!"
oOoOo
Over the next few days Harry and Hermione practiced spells with all the girls
together, any animosity long forgotten. They taught melofors to Padma and Sue,
while helping Lavender and Parvati with simpler ones. During this time he ignored
the rumors as they got even worse, professing that he was madly in love with,
Lavender, of all people. Harry could tell she had a crush on him but couldn't figure
out why he was supposed to like her back. Confusingly, his harem supposedly

increased as well, to almost all of the first year Ravenclaw and Gryffindor girls, along
with more Hufflepuffs. Ultimately the boys started hearing about it too and the
Weasley twins were forced to inquire, already knowing it wasn't true of course. No
one was that smooth. It seemed only pure luck to him that Hermione hadn't heard
anything about it though.
It got so bad that one day Ron Weasley came up to him after lunch and got in his
face trying to intimidate him.
"What do you think you're doing with all the girls you poncy git? Think no one will
stand up to you since you're the big, bad, boy who lived?" His arms and even his
eyes crossed in emphasis.
Harry simply stared at him as if he'd gone crazy. No wonder no one likes him, he
might be more annoying than Malfoy if he actually had a brain. Maybe I'll try a
different track with this one, since he doesn't exactly seem malicious.
"Ron, do you know about rumors?" Harry asked calmly. Looking surly and a little
confused, Ron nodded, "Well then you might know some rumors are made up. You
don't really believe all the things your twin brothers tell you, right?"
"Course I don't, but that's got nothin'... to do with... you?" He seemed to be starting
to understand, "...Are you trying to say my brothers made up those rumors about
you? Cause they can be a couple of berks but they wouldn't tell such rubbish. No
one would believe that." Ron failed miserably but looked confident again, and stuck
up his chin at Harry as if he'd won the argument.
"I didn't say it was them, but obviously someone made it up, probably a Slytherin,
being that Draco and his gang hate me." The last bit Harry was pleased he thought
of, having heard Ron making crazy accusations about Draco and his father as well.
One more should be easy to believe.
As he thought, Ron wore an expression of dazed realization at that news, "Oh!
Right, sorry mate, didn't realize it was them again. You never can tell with them
being so shady an underhanded an' all. We alright? - Brilliant." He was about to walk
off before Harry even replied.
"There's one more thing, I heard Draco's been trying to bully a few Gryffindors
recently, maybe you could keep an eye on him?" The moment Harry saw the
expression of crazed outrange on Ron's face, he knew things were going to go
wrong, in so many ways.
"Yeah, I'll keep an eye on the blighter, you can be sure." Nodding to himself Ron

walked out of the Great Hall.

oOoOo
Finally Halloween arrived, Harry's first holiday here would be in celebration of people
thinking he killed Voldemort, and the night his parents died, all rolled into one. It
never felt odd to him in the past, but suddenly he had to ignore the looks of pity the
older kids were giving him as well as the cheers the younger ones threw his way
when they passed him in the halls. It wasn't so bad for a Thursday though, candy
was being thrown out in lessons for right answers, the halls were decorated with
spiderwebs and bats, pumpkins replaced the heads on suits of armor, and each
meal was better than the last.
All except for flying lessons after lunch. Where Madam Hooch thought it would be a
good idea to switch lesson times with other teachers, to put all the first years
together for four hours and make them play rounds of quidditch in randomly selected
groups. Or somewhat random, as Harry discretely managed to influence her and get
on Hermione's team.
Everyone was assigned positions and made to practice while other teams were on
the pitch. Since the start of school Harry had improved drastically in flying lessons,
as the malfunctioning broom 'accidentally' broke before he had to use it again, and
he got accustomed to riding one with a functioning cushioning charm for a seat.
Although he tried not to show off in front of all the clumsy Hufflepuffs and
uncoordinated Ravenclaws. Especially since he heard from Hermione that a few
Gryffindors hurt themselves and were severely punished for risky behavior in their
first flying class.
Despite that, Harry was still appointed seeker, but given another lousy broom since
they had to borrow many from a secondhand shop to all practice at once. It didn't
bother him much, since he only had to pretend to be looking for the snitch, which
guaranteed a win when first years could barely make five goals per game. It seemed
pointless to Harry, to be the only player that made a difference, yet not be involved
with the rest of the team. The only fun part was watching Hermione try to stay in the
right place as keeper. Hardly anyone got close to throwing a goal in their first match,
so she wasn't too frustrated. It was easy to tell who had training before they ever got
to school, most were seekers or chasers, yet even that was pitiful compared to the
practice matches he could see from Ravenclaw tower at times.
Other than Hermione, the team included Lavender Brown, Hannah Abbott, Daphne
Greengrass, Susan Bones, and Dean Thomas. Harry was grateful that he didn't
accidentally choose to be the only boy on a team full of girls rumored to like him,

which was already too close for comfort. Luckily enough, Dean stood out as the best
chaser on the team to take even more attention away from him.
Their first game was with another bunch of dismal players, except Gregory Goyle as
a beater, who kept trying to hit the bludger at Harry. Most didn't get anywhere close
but it was disconcerting none the less, especially when one whizzed past of his face
while not paying attention. He tried to float higher after that, but his broom wasn't
having it. A respite only came as Dean scored a goal, pulling Goyle's attention away.
People cheered, "Go Dean!" And were scolded for watching in the stands instead of
practicing.
When Harry finally relaxed a bit and surveyed the pitch, he saw the snitch
immediately. It was buzzing near the Hufflepuff stands, not going very fast. Another
bludger flew his way and he decided watching the chasers drop the other ball on the
ground half the time wasn't worth the risk of a bludger to the head. He could watch
Hermione trying to fly during his afternoons off as well. Discretely, he glided down
near the snitch, only wanting the game over with. It was not the brightest of the
bunch and simply flew back and forth in an artless pattern around the same spot. He
didn't dive or reach for it, but simply stuck his hand in its way as it passed. No one
else even noticed it, especially not the other team seeker. He had to fly over to
Madam Hooch and present it to her before the game was called. Everyone was a
little stunned, especially the few spectators who booed because they wanted a
chase, and probably someone to hurt themselves.
It was an elimination game and there were only seven matches total with eight
teams, whoever won all three rounds got to skip a flying lesson as a prize. The other
matches didn't last too much longer than his though, as the snitch seemed to be
unusually easy to catch, probably to keep the games short.
On the next round, Harry saw the snitch the moment he looked for it and wondered
what was going on, but then he remembered the conspecs he got in Diagon Alley.
They were said to increase the distance and detail he could see, apparently they
worked well against snitches too. He flew slowly over to it once again, but when he
reached for it with a little speed it ran directly away from him to the other side of the
pitch. The little bugger is jinxed to sense your intentions. That's why I caught it so
easy the first time, I barely cared before.
The other Seeker was squinting suspiciously at him now. This Hufflepuff boy seemed
to be one of the only students with glasses in Hogwarts, and was named a seeker
when it appeared he could barely see. Sometimes it amazed Harry how magical
people could even feed themselves without a house elf. Deciding to delay his
approach, Harry roamed around for a little while, feeling the joy of flying when there

was no one to give orders. But soon another bludger whizzed by his feet, hitting his
shoe, and it was time to end the daydream. He ambled lazily towards where the
snitch was, not looking directly at it. Relaxing his mind and emotions he dropped
slowly over top of where it was buzzing around in the same basic pattern, he got in
front of it's next pass. Just then the other seeker saw it and started racing towards it,
but was much too far away. Yet that made all the spectators and everyone who was
already out of the running look where he was headed, right at Harry. The snitch flew
directly into his hand while sitting still.
"Woah!" Roared the small crowd.
His teammates cheered and the game was called, two in a row and faster than any
other games. Hannah and Susan clapped because they knew he was a good flyer,
but didn't see him catch it. The others didn't know how to respond after the initial
reaction, they'd never seen a snitch fly into someone's hand before. Although
Hermione just stared at him, as if she knew there was some trick to what he did. The
next match would decide it though, was it luck or had Harry just figured out quidditch.
A few other classes were getting out early before dinner and came down to laugh at
the first years playing quidditch. Fred and George arrived with more quidditch
players from other teams. They cheered when learning that Harry's team would
compete against whoever won the playoffs of the other game. But then they heard
about the impossible catch and Fred began teasing him about being the best seeker
in a century to catch a defective snitch, in a game against first years. Ron tried to
join in, as his team lost the first round and he had nothing to do but tag along behind
his brothers and comment about the matches to whoever was near. Harry ignored
him and laughed along when George explained that sometimes defective snitches
happened, especially when they were intentionally weakened for practice. Although
the final game should have a real snitch, so he'd actually have to chase it next time.
A cheer erupted through the small crowd that was actually watching the ongoing
game. The score was twenty to twenty with the seekers now chasing after the snitch.
It looked intense, one bumping into the other as they sped along the pitch, but of
course, it was just Harry's luck that Draco elbowed the other seeker and caught it in
the end. Hermione, Lavender, and all of Gryffindor booed at him, making Harry
wonder if the cause was house loyalty, or his winning personality.
Word spread that the last game would be him against Draco, flying for the snitch
while both their teams tried to keep the other balls in the air. Fred and George
offered to get their brooms for Harry and Dean to ride, but Madam Hooch wouldn't
allow it, as everyone had to have school brooms. So instead they poached the losing
teams for the best available, quickly bringing back seven for the whole team.

When everyone got into the air the end game began. Harry flew up high, getting out
of the way of any bludgers and looked around. Again he could see the snitch right
off, it was almost too easy. He guessed that his conspecs might be illegal but a real
game was a chase for the snitch, not a looking contest. Draco was racing around
frantically not noticing him or the snitch at all, so Harry delayed for a few minutes,
supposing he could play fair. Sitting in the sky peacefully he watched the game for a
minute, seeing Hermione finally able to stay in place and even try to block the
quaffle. Dean caught it before it hit the ground and flew all the way to the other end
to score a goal. It felt nice up in the sky with a breeze on his face and the warm sun
on his back. Another cheer sounded from the audience and there was Draco off
chasing the snitch.
Harry sighed deeply and figured he better actually do something this time, or get
ragged on by his team. He went into a dive and was already on Draco's tale, noticing
just how good of broom he had this time. Although when Draco caught sight of him,
he focused more on trying to knock Harry off than catch the snitch. It soon swerved
in a different direction and Draco lost sight of it as he tried to put his broom's bristles
in Harry's face. Instead of chasing after where it went, Harry just stopped dead and
let Draco search again.
There was a whole lot more action down below where they were now, but it mostly
involved dodging bludgers, and picking up the quaffle from the ground, even with a
slow falling charm on it. Harry could kind of see the allure of quidditch, if there were
talented people playing. The crowd picked up again as Draco sped away, except he
wasn't chasing anything. The snitch was on the other end of the field still. Was he
really smart enough to fake people out? The crowed turned to a boo as he got near
them. Apparently not.
Two bludgers shot out of nowhere to almost hit Harry's broom, but he noticed them
in the corner of his eye and pulled up before they managed to connect. Okay, time to
end this. No sense dragging it on if I can get out of class early.
Wandering over by the snitch he figured he would give the growing crowd something
to cheer about, since that's all they were here for. He sped up to a dash but still kept
his mind clear, the snitch only started to react at the last second, until Draco flew in
from above and it shot away. They rushed after it, close to the wall and around the
stadium. This time Draco wasn't playing around and was really after the snitch, he
reached out a few times but it turned just before he could grab it. Harry was trying to
keep his mind clear in order to catch it, but when he tried for a grab, Draco slammed
into him and pushed him hard into the stands. He bounced off, nearly falling off his
broom but no foul was called, and Draco was almost on the snitch.

Then a thought came to Harry. The snitch could sense the desire of being chased to
run away, and he could send thoughts or feelings towards people. Why not a snitch?
He tried sending the thought of grabbing it from above. The snitch changed direction
and dived down with Draco following. Harry laughed out loud and flew over in front of
the crowd in the stands. He wasn't going to be blamed for anything this far away, so
he sent the snitch flying straight towards a wall as soon as it reached the ground.
Malfoy swept down after it admirably, but when it flew into the corner he tried to turn
with it, except he tumbled into the ground and fell flat against the wall. The snitch
flew high up into the air, slowly coming towards the audience and Harry, who was
hovering right in front of them. Malfoy got back on his battered broom and chased
after it. Harry flew forward directly at the snitch and opposite Draco, the whole
stadium was watching now, even the other players. As they both got close, Harry
sent it rocketing skywards and caught it in one smooth motion of victory, Draco
stared up in disbelief and rammed right into Lavender Brown with a loud clatter. She
had drifted too close and wasn't paying attention to anything but Harry.
They fell disastrously toward the ground, people screamed, and right before they
were about to hit, there was Dumbledore, watching from the stands. He caught them
five yards from the ground with a wandless spell, causing a loud intake of breaths
from the crowd. Harry looked down surprised at the sight of their brooms tumbling
down and shattering against the ground, while they stayed in place and were gently
lowered onto conjured mattresses. He floated down after them as did the rest of both
teams. When he finally got to the ground Lavender picked herself up and threw
herself awkwardly at Harry. He caught her in a strained hug. She was obviously a
little bruised but apparently her spirit wasn't.
She screamed in excitement, "You won, oh Harry you won!" And kept bouncing up
and down on Draco's mattress to his growing dismay.
When Draco sat up enough to understand what happened he started cursing,
"Geroff you bloody troll! Only a daft minger like you would be brainless enough to
stop in the middle of the sky!"
Hannah interrupted him, "Stop it Draco, you ran into her as well!" While Ron
approached like a brewing storm, looking ready to punch Draco in the face, but
stopped immediately.
"Oh piss off you nosey slag! I would have caught that bleeding snitch if it wasn't for
this shit broom or that cheating toerag Potter." That was when all the teachers
arrived behind him.
Draco was frozen stiff and lifted into the air by Snape of all people. "It seems he has

damaged his brain as well in the collision, I will take him directly to the infirmary."
As everyone watched the display in stunned silence, Fred and George set off some
fireworks in the air and whooped for joy. The whole crowd around them cheered and
tried to pat Harry on the back. All his teammates congratulated him and Hermione
gave him a funny smile then hugged him. Lavender received glares from some
Slytherins but was being treated and lightly scolded by McGonagall, as she led her
away to the infirmary as well. It turned out that every head of house came out for the
last game, having let out classes early. For Snape that was a miracle, though he
probably came out to see Draco play, which may have disappointed him a bit. Even
Professor Flitwick squeezed in close, beaming at Harry with a proud and cheerful
face.
Madam Hooch handed Harry a small transfigured trophy with a broom on it and a
signed certificate that said, 'Free Day Off.' Then handed others out to the team.
Dean got an extra pat on the back, as it appeared he made fifty points while
everyone was distracted by the snitch chasing.
A hand clapped Harry on the shoulder and shouted over the crowd, "We should have
a talk about quidditch sometime. But now it's time to celebrate!" It was Robert
Hillard, the Ravenclaw prefect and quidditch captain, Harry recently learned.
Dumbledore cleared his throat to gain complete quiet and eyed Harry with a severe
glance, but then nodded when he had everyone's attention, "This calls for a feast,
but since we're already having one, it shall just have to be made longer, with many
more sweets!" The whole mass of people cheered again and headed towards the
looming castle walls.
It was still half an hour before dinner, but when they started entering the great hall
Dumbledore clapped his hands and the dinner bell rang, spouting forth all kinds of
sweets and treats on the tables that had people sitting down happily. The first years
mingled together at the sparsely filled tables and Harry's team sat together, next to
Padma and Sue at the Ravenclaw table, discussing the game.
"How'd you do that Harry? It looked like you knew where the snitch was heading!"
Hannah asked, but Harry simply shrugged.
"That was great Dean, you lot could have won it no matter who caught the snitch. I
bet there's going to be a lot of competition in quidditch tryouts next year." Shouted
Terry, who seemed to enjoy just being close to the winners.
Padma threw a glare and wrapped toffee at Harry, "I thought I told you to do
something stupid, not become a blooming quidditch champion!" She smiled as Harry

shook his head in exasperation.

Hermione squeezed in beside Harry and stole a sweet roll off his plate with a
mischievous grin. "Lavender is fine by the way, Parvati and I checked in on her at the
infirmary."
"That's good." Harry commented, but was curious about the half smile, half frown,
expression she wore, unable to place its meaning.
All the other students flowed into the hall, creating a racket, surprised at an early
party but more than willing to join in. Draco trailed in last, extremely upset, and
sneering at anyone who laughed near him.
Everyone else was having a ball when even more delicacies, sweets, main dishes,
and sides arrived to pile on top of others at the proper dinner time. The lights started
to dim and the true Halloween celebration began. Orange streamers rolled down the
walls as cobwebs formed everywhere. Ghosts rose up out of the floor and started
singing creepy songs as the candles overhead pranced along with giant Jack
O'Lanterns in the sky. Professor Flitwick cast a charm and all the platters sprouted
legs to start dancing, but bowed and offered their wares whenever a hand reached
out. Lively skeletons sat down at empty seats as bats flew around their heads. While
more snuck around to creep up behind students and frighten them.
When everyone was distracted by a band of ghouls playing instruments, Hermione
whispered to Harry, "So what did you figure out while thinking up there in the sky?"
Harry smiled back, "Nothing!" She waited, eyebrows raised, not believing him, "It
was after I got pushed into the stands that I found I could control the snitch." He
whispered, then pushed a cauldron cake into her open mouth and laughed. She
rolled her eyes and pushed him back, while trying not to laugh along with so much
cake in her mouth.
oOoOo
The doors crashed open with a thunderous roar. Everyone turned to look as
professor Quirrell stood to one side, leaning oddly, blood dripping down the side of
his face and along half of his robe, "Troll... in.. the-" And fell over face first into the
hard stone floor. Something sounded like it snapped when he hit. One boy laughed,
thinking it was a Halloween prank to scare everyone. No one else did after seeing
the professors faces.
A girl screamed, but the room quieted once again when Dumbledore stood up,
"Madam Pomfrey, if you would tend to the defense professor, the rest of the students

will stay here, as the teachers and ghosts come with me to investigate. Hagrid, I
shall leave you in charge here, but I trust that no one will leave this room for any
reason."
After all the teachers left, Poppy floated Quirrell onto a bench and started healing
him here and there. While Hagrid sat down in front of the main doors making sure no
one would leave. Hushed conversations broke out everywhere with a few older
students and prefects comforting the younger ones. Parvati came over to the
Ravenclaw table next to Padma and Harry's group, looking panicked, "Where's
Lavender? I thought she would be here by now but I can't find her!"
Padma stood up to comfort her sister, "What do you mean you can't find her, didn't
she go to the hospital wing with McGonagall and then come here with Madam
Pomfrey? Where did you last see her?"
Looking sick Parvati sat down, "In the first floor lavatory... she wanted to clean up
and said she'd be right behind me... but, that was almost half an hour ago."
Hermione stood up alongside Padma, "We have to go tell Madam Pomfrey and
Hagrid, they'll know what to do." They rushed away, pushing through the crowd to
get to them. Parvati tried to hold it together as others told her to breathe deeply.
Returning minutes later they both looked frustrated and angry.
"Neither of them can get a message out of here, and they say the teachers are
bound to find her so we shouldn't worry... Harry?" Hermione looked on the edge of
tears now too, hoping he could help somehow.
A coarse rope tugged at his emotions. He couldn't say no. He definitely wanted to,
but couldn't, not with that face pleading for his help. But running after a lost student
with a troll on the lose wasn't his idea of brilliant thinking. "Okay, just let me think for
a second, we're not getting out of here to chase after her anyway."
Harry racked his brain for ideas. He tried before, but was never able to send
thoughts far away. They couldn't reach a teacher or ghost without leaving, but there
was another way out. Shit, not again. There's the antechamber that leads to
Dumbledore's office but I just told them we can't go out. Besides this whole group
looks like they would want to go, now that they overheard. He had another idea then,
which he thought was worth a shot.
"Alright, if anyone wants to help, raise your hands low." Everyone but Daphne raised
their hand, "Don't worry this part won't be dangerous." Now it was everyone.
"Okay, when I say ready, everyone go to your house prefects and ask them if they

know how to get a message out to Dumbledore or a Professor. If they don't know
how, stay there and don't lead them directly back or they might become suspicious,
walk around a little. Ready."
He turned to the three left, Sue, Padma, and Hermione who had caught on to his
distraction and ignored his orders. "I won't be able to convince you three to stay
behind, will I? It's really dangerous you know." They all glared daggers at him, he
sighed, "Okay, follow me."
They snuck out to the side and quietly entered the antechamber. Harry led them to
the portrait of the portly twin, "Open please."
The man in the portrait shook his head, "I'm sorry, I only open for the headmaster."
"Why did I think that would work..." Then he remembered something else that
worked on inanimate objects. He sent a thought at the portrait, open.
The portrait looked down at him rudely, "I'm not going to open just because you
command it. I'm a headmasters portrait, not just any riff-raff!"
Hermione piped up, "Can you please send a message to any Professor or the
headmaster, there's a girl in the first floor bathroom that might be in danger." Harry
smacked his forehead in disgrace for not thinking of that, but was relieved as well.
"I can try, but they'll have to be by a portrait." He hefted himself up and walked
through the other portraits, disappearing at the edge of the room. They waited, not
knowing what else to do. Harry tried to think of other options but was lost.
The door opened behind them and then shut, "What are you four trying to do in
here?"
First shock, then relief set in again. It was Penny. Good thing we didn't succeed in
doing anything wrong. But maybe she might have another idea. "We were sending a
portrait on a mission to contact the professors. Lavender is still out there
somewhere, do you have an idea that might help?"
Penny mulled it over for a second, "We could get a house elf to tell someone, since
they can apparate inside the castle. But I've only ever seen professors call them
specifically by name, and... for some reason, I can't seem to remember any."
Hermione brightened at this information. "That's right! She told us to call if we
needed anything, but we didn't suspect she meant literally. - Kolie?"

A cheerful house elf popped into existence by her side. "Yes Miss? What can I do for
you?"
"Ah! Thats so amazing... - Okay, could you please contact Dumbledore and tell him
Lavender Brown is in the girls bathroom on the first floor, she doesn't know there's a
troll on the loose." Kolie nodded and popped away again.
A few moments later she popped beside Hermione again with a reply. "Headmaster
Dumbledore says he was already told by a portrait but that she is not there, and asks
if you have any other ideas where she might be?" They all looked at each other in
shock but no one had a clue.
Sudden realization hit Harry, that he might be able to sense her presence. Closing
his eyes and relaxing, he tried to expand his awareness to where Lavender was. But
after reaching as far as possible, he felt only his teachers and unfamiliar people. It
was only because he knew Hermione so well that he could pick her out of a crowd.
As his senses became used to the reach, he could feel another strong emotion, fear,
and life threatening terror rolled into one.
It wasn't close, but it had to be her, she was moving randomly, somewhere on the
sixth or seventh floor but it felt fuzzy, and hard to distinguish as her, as if he'd only
gained back his senses again. Another presence was close, following her, something
not quite human, the troll. "She's on the the upper floors, being chased by something
but I don't know where. Can you take me there Kolie?"
The elf grabbed his hand as Penny and Hermione screamed, "Harry, No!" But they
popped out of existence before anyone could reach them.
Reappearing on the sixth floor Harry almost fell over from the disorienting lurch,
nothing like being twisted through a thin straw which he read apparating felt like. He
shook off the thought and cleared his mind to feel for Lavender again, she was one
more floor up and off to the left.
He pointed at the location, "Up there Kolie." They popped away once again and he
fell to his knees when they landed, Kolie helped him up. Now it was easy to sense
Lavender, she was on the other side of the wall they faced. He ran to the closest
door and looked inside. It was an empty classroom not connected to anything, so he
ran to the door on the other side. It was a storage closet.
"Kolie, get the others while I try to find a way in." Damn! She had popped away again
before he could clarify he meant teachers. Shit.
Walking back to the other classroom he noticed a door that wasn't there before.

Opening it revealed a foul stench, like rotting meat marinated in a sewer for a month.
The room was gigantic though, and he could feel Lavender inside, along with
something massive but even harder to distinguish. Kolie soon popped back with all
the girls in tow, appearing extremely worn.
"Can you apparate in there and bring her back Kolie?"
She breathed heavily for such a small frame, "I'm sorry young master, no one can in
that room."
"Okay, one more thing, find Dumbledore or any professor and bring them here if you
can." Straining to stand upright Kolie nodded in determination and popped away
once more. Harry looked at the rest, "Stay here."
Hermione grabbed Harry's shoulder before he could go in the door. "How do you
know she's in there Harry? And you can't just go in there alone, not if there's a troll
as well. Besides we should wait for a professor in any case."
A hysterical scream came from far inside, which was distinctly Lavender sounding.
Penny pushed her way past them, "You four stay here and report to the professors
when they arrive, I'm going in."
Harry, Hermione, and Sue followed her, Padma waited at the door shaking in freight.
Harry called back to her, "Stay there Padma, we need someone to tell the teachers."
They hurried down the isles of cluttered junk, running past all manner of strange
objects and furniture.
Harry whispered just loud enough to be heard by the others, "This is a really bad
idea, we know that right?" They looked at him in consternation. "Alright, she's up
ahead but there's something in the way, probably the troll. We should probably
distract or trip it, maybe even lure it away until a professor arrives?"
They nodded as Penny whispered back, "Never mind how you know that, everyone
stay far behind me and don't try anything stupid, run back to the door if it gets close.
And I'll... take care of it."
With all their wands out they crept slowly closer, hearing noises nearby. No one
spoke or made a sound, probably because Penny cast a wordless silencing charm.
Harry even held a wand in each hand, not that he'd practiced that much but he
figured anything was worth a try. A loud grunt revealed the troll was close, near a
giant mound of random clutter a few degrees to the right. Flying pieces of furniture
sailed through their path to crash into a wall of junk. Harry could sense where
Lavender was now, hiding under stacks of chairs, scared senseless but keeping

quiet. He tried to whisper but the silencing charm was still active. Thinking quickly he
sent the idea to Penny, then Hermione and Sue. They all looked in the same
direction at once. No one seemed to realize how they knew, except Hermione, who
flashed a questioningly look at Harry.
The pile shook violently and Lavender squeaked out a small scream.
A strange dull laugh reverberated around the room. Loud bellowing grunts followed,
as if it was calling out it's victory. Harry tried sending a thought at the creature, stop.
Another weird noise could be heard "Ugnnhh?"
Sounding almost as if it didn't understand him. Then it came into view. A tiny bulbous
head on the most massive human shaped body, it had greenish grey skin with spikes
dotted around the legs and feet. It saw them and lifted one giant piece of wood onto
its shoulder, then grunted again as if confused.
Penny waved them back and gathered magic into the tip of her wand so much that it
glowed. She whipped her wand and cast loudly, "Confringo!" an amazingly large
blast hit it directly in the face and staggered it. But a moment later it stood up straight
with an angry snarl on it's blackened face. The little hair it had left was still on fire. It
opened it's large jaws to produce a venomous roar.
"Oh fuck!" whispered Penny. The others were frozen, but the fear in her voice and
that language from Penny shocked Harry into action. He tried expelliarmus and
stupefy but they did nothing. The troll started coming. Penny sent spell after spell at
it, "Defodio! Reducto! Duro! Ventus! Aqua Eructo!" They gouged and ripped out
small chunks of flesh at places but some barely did anything at all. Getting its legs
up to speed it raised it's club up high.
Casting quickly Harry concentrated hard, "Epoximise," and pointed at its foot. It was
starting to swing the club as it's leg was pulled taut beneath it and it crashed to the
floor shaking the whole room. Penny fell back and they all spread out further away
from it. Growling in frustration the troll propped itself up, then simply ripped the wood
from the floor where it's foot was stuck and stood up once again. Casting Lumos at
its most brightest, Harry only made the troll snarl and put a hand over its eyes while
swinging its club blindly at him. When that didn't work he tried diffindo, but imagined
it cutting underneath the skin, into its brains. A small cut appeared on its forehead
but the troll kept going.
Then Sue cast a hex, "Melofors," and a pumpkin grew around its head. Swinging
wildly again, it's club slammed into a rack of weapons sending shards everywhere. A
piece of rusty blade tore into Harry's leg, he cried out in pain and fell behind a pillar

supporting the roof. Penny blocked most of it from hitting the girls with a shield
charm. Then glanced toward Harry, seeming to note it was only a flesh wound. She
looked back and tried the reducio charm on it's club but it was unaffected. Another
confringo at the club barely chipped it. The troll produced a low growl.
It picked up a fallen sofa and threw it wildly at Penny so fast she didn't have time to
react and was sent flying. Colliding with a far rack of clothing as her wand rolled
under a heap of statutes. She seemed stuck in the tangled mass of cloth but cried
out, "Run!"
Finally Hermione unfroze at the sight of Harry and Penny being injured and cast,
"Glacius!" At its feet and then, "Wingardium Leviosa," at the club. It rose to a low
beam while the troll reached around blindly, then she dropped it back down on its
head. But it wasn't high enough and only broke open the pumpkin so it could see
again.
An Immobulus charm from Sue did nothing, as well as the switching spell she tried
on its head. Casting Locomotor on the club Hermione was able to move it out of
reach but was somehow too heavy to move far. She was about to run towards Harry
to check on him, but he waved her off.
Sue yelled out "Incendio," and startled it, sending it falling on it's butt with another
loud bang.
At the same time Hermione cast glacius over and over trying to stick it to the ground.
The troll ignored all this and broke the ice around its body easily with a large fist. It
stood up once again, thick ice clinging to its feet and simply walked through it to
reach its club. Harry was finally able to ignore the rending pain and watch, as it stood
upright with the club and grunt deeply. Realizing his mistake Harry sent not a word at
it, but a thought of it turning around and leaving. It shook its head fiercely and raised
its club one more time, while the girls tried more and more spells. Harry sent the
blinding image of the sun into its mind, it's only real weakness. Screaming in fear
and anger it covered its eyes with one hand and slammed down its club, crashing
through the wood floor to hit solid stone.
One more time Harry sat up straight and cast "Epoximise" at the tip of the club.
While Hermione repaired the wood floor around the club to keep it in place and cast
glacius again, building up more and more ice on top, securing it. Sue was weak with
casting every spell she knew and having little endurance practice, but she cast
melofors one more time. Again Harry sent the image of the sun at it and as bright,
hot, and intense as he could imagine it. The resulting scream of terror was
deafening. Savagely ripping off the remaining pumpkin from it's head the troll

grabbed onto the club with both massive hands, it's muscles strained under the effort
of pulling it up. Harry released the sticking spell and the club slammed into the troll's
face, knocking it down. It shook the ground with a thunderous boom.
Harry ignored the sound and concentrated hard, trying to cast one more nonverbal
spell at the club, which rested on the troll's chest. Immediately the wood grew into a
giant oak, filling the whole area with a great canopy, while large thick roots spread
everywhere over the troll and into to the wood floor, locking it in place. It grunted and
strained at it's bonds, but couldn't move an inch.
Sue fell to the floor in exhaustion and Hermione forced a weak smile at Harry.
Relaxing, they breathed sighs of relief, except him. Something was wrong, again,
Harry could feel it and it was coming closer, fast. There was no time to say anything
before another troll, larger than the first burst forth from behind a wall of junk. It flung
broken scrap everywhere and with one enormous hand slammed Hermione across
the room into the giant tree. She bounced off the bark and fell to the floor with a
sickening thud. Lavender who had finally crawled out from underneath her hiding
place let loose an ear-shattering scream and fainted.
Time slowed down as Harry gripped his wands hard and gritted his teeth. The rusty
piece of sword was still stuck in his leg as he pointed both wands at it. Adrenaline
pumped through him, and almost in slow motion he remembered every time he had
practiced compressing objects back home. He pulled the shard out of his leg with
one wand and willed it towards him, as he used the other to push a long column of
air behind it, building up pressure with all his focus and concentration possible. Then
he heated the air inside with his mind. Sue was already casting melofors one more
time when Harry released one wand, shooting the shard so hard and fast it ripped
through the resulting pumpkin and troll head with an intense explosion. Raining tiny
bits of orange flesh and skull all around, the limp body fell crashing to the floor, as
the teachers finally arrived.
Harry sent one last thought at Dumbledore and passed out.

Chapter 11 - Gambling
Chapter 11
Gambling
Dumbledore heard the demand forced into his mind, 'Save Hermione!' as he got
within view of the scene. Crossing the distance at a run he quickly cast a sensing
charm at Harry and continued on to the young girl crumpled in front of a tree. Harry
only had a minor wound and magical exhaustion, he would be fine. When he cast
the same charm again, it was much worse than he feared. The other professors
tended to the students while he called Fawkes over to the unconscious girl, dying at
his feet.
Landing, Fawkes knelt beside Hermione as she was rolled gently on her back. It
sang mournfully as a single tear rolled down its cheek and fell in her mouth. She
opened her eyes with a gasp and Dumbledore hugged her, "I do not know what
would have happened if Harry lost you now."
"Waah?" She asked disoriented and still feeling sore.
"I'm terribly sorry, go to sleep, you should wake feeling better tomorrow." He waved a
hand over her eyes and she was asleep. Dumbledore felt grateful that she was alive
and relieved that the only positive effect on Harry lately was not lost after such folly.
Snape had poured a potion down the surviving troll's mouth and was extricating it
from under the tree and mound of ice. McGonagall was trying to calm a now frantic
Lavender from hyperventilating, and glancing back and forth from Hermione to Harry.
Dumbledore nodded to her in acknowledgement of their safety. Pomona handed Sue
a restorative drought and was healing the many bruises and broken bones Penny
had while Flitwick stood fussing over Harry. The other teachers were told to see the
rest of the students back to their dorms.
Flintwick squeaked in frustration, as Dumbledore levitated Hermione over to them
and put a hand on his shoulder. "It's this infernal wand Albus! It won't come out of his
hand no matter what I try. It seems to have fused itself to his skin, no benign wand
would do something like this! I was afraid the moment it turned Anthony to stone, but
this is not right. I don't understand. He's fine otherwise, I healed his wound and he
isn't in danger any longer. Do you have any ideas?"
"It does not seem to be causing him harm, but everything about that wand is
abnormal. Perhaps it is only responding to his unconscious fears, I believe we might

simply wait until he wakes to worry overly much." Dumbledore didn't want to speak
his own fears about the feeling he got from the wand. Whatever was happening, it
was most unusual.
They set Hermione and Harry on a small cot and Flintwick floated them to the
infirmary. Pomona whisked the other students along as well to double-check them
with Madam Pomfrey. Dumbledore, Snape, and McGonagall soon came to stand in
front of the dead troll with its head missing. Sticky green blood was oozing out of the
neck as Snape asked the most obvious questions, "Did they find some ancient
weapon by chance? And what is this room, another moving storage area?"
"Albus, you don't think one of the children could have done this, do you?"
McGonagall eyed him skeptically, always trying to read him better than his own mind
did.
"Well, I certainly hope troll heads are not exploding on their own these days.
Although if their brains are made of pumpkin, that certainly might explain a few
things." He chuckled forcedly at his own poor joke.
"Really Albus, this is no time for humor. A child could have been killed today, and if
Fawkes was needed we came much too close." Minerva scolded him with a
disappointed scowl.
Snape interrupted, "I have a feeling this trend might continue with Potter able to
circumvent protective wards and disobey direct commands without a single thought
of punishment. Does anyone know how they escaped a room full of students in a
magically sealed area with no obvious exits?"
Minerva looked affronted at this and said so, "You don't really expect us to punish
them for trying to rescue a fellow student!? I have already heard they tried multiple
ways to contact us to find the girl, but while we were running around without a clue
they managed to find her and defeat two trolls with only the help of a fifth year. I'm
surprised they aren't all in my house with that kind of bravery, no matter how ill
conceived it was. Though, I would like to know how they managed it." She again
focused on Albus.
"About that, it seems they have already met a friendly house elf who was able to
bring them all here. She was sent to me right afterward it seems but passed out
upon arrival. It took me more than a moment to reawaken her and retrieve Fawkes,
along with calling you all here. I shall try to dissuade this elf from helping them in so
dangerous manner again, but I fear she already has a greater affinity to Harry than
to any of us. As to your next suggestion of kicking her out Severus, she is highly

respected and the house elf representative, a sacred duty to them, which might have
us eating gruel and doing our own chores for the next many years if we did so." This
stopped Snape mid-protest, yet he kept his sneer of contempt for the idea of house
elves having power over them.
Minerva looked around, "I suppose we should clean up these beasts before the
room disappears again, since even the house elves don't enter by the look of it. I
doubt it has been used in many years, and probably won't be again for a great many
more." Snape squinted in cynicism but went to work all the same.
Dumbledore glanced up at the glint of metal buried deeply into the stone ceiling and
whispered to himself, "That seems unlikely..."
oOoOo
Hermione woke up to the sounds of whispering and opened her eyes to white
surroundings. She didn't recognize anything which was strange, but the dream she
woke up from was even stranger. The terrifying nightmare last night was much too
real for a dream she knew, but afterward was even more bizarre. Did Dumbledore
really hug me? And Harry protecting me from all kinds of monsters, that had to be a
dream, didn't it?
She still felt secure in his arms, and looking down there was an actual arm around
her. Freaking out a bit and feeling violated she fearfully turned around to see who it
was. Relieved to see it was Harry, she laid her head back down. Wait why am I
relieved that Harry has his arm around me? And more importantly, why DOES he
have his arm around me? Not to mention I'm in a strange bed with him in some
unknown room while people are whispering behind white curtains. Don't let this be
some crazy magical bond of love meaning we're considered married or some mushy
romantic story like that...
She blushed scarlet at the thought but couldn't piece together what was really going
on.
The curtain was drawn back by Madam Pomfrey who smiled endearingly down at
them, much to Hermione's relief, even if her face was beet red at her continued
speculation. "Ah, it's good that you're awake already, you'll soon return to full health
in no time. - Can you not remove his arm either? It seems while you were being
moved here he latched on, and everyone who tried to move him was given a little
shock by that overprotective wand. I suppose we shall have to wait until he wakes up
as well, if you can hold out that long my dear?"
Not knowing what to say since she hadn't even tried to move his arm yet, Hermione

wondered what someone would think if she explained why. Instead she simply
nodded and laid her head back down after Poppy left. She tensed slightly and tried
touching his arm, nothing happened so she lifted it with no trouble either. Oh no, now
what? If I remove it now they might think I lied, or worse, and if I leave it, would Harry
interpret that wrong?
Giving up she set it back down safely around her stomach and decided to ignore the
nagging little thoughts in the back of her mind. She studied his hand and the wand in
it for a moment, thinking things she probably shouldn't. Soon she fell back asleep
still comfortably wrapped in Harry's arm, with much different dreams this time.
Harry woke to a pleasant scent and strange warmth that made him feel extremely
refreshed and happy. He decided to simply enjoy it while he slept longer and pulled
what he assumed was the blanket closer, only to feel more resistance than he
expected from cloth. Feeling around, he came upon something unexpectedly soft
and warm. He left his hand there, confused by the sensation but savoring it all the
same. In a half dream fantasy he moved his hand slowly upwards. Just at the
moment he felt a different kind of cloth on the tip of his finger a hand caught hold of
his wrist and slowly moved it down to where it was originally and held it there. That
woke him up completely and made him terribly afraid of being caught or accused of
something he really didn't have any thought of pursuing. He opened his eye barely a
crack and saw a fluffy mass of brown hair. His imagination had led him elsewhere
but this brought on new feelings, or reawakened old ones as he remembered their
original meetings.
Aw crap, she's going to kill me. I don't want our friendship screwed up like every
single story I've read or seen. The soft touch of her flesh made him curious but he
resisted.
She doesn't like me that way, and I don't want to lose the closest friend I've ever had
in my life. But wait... why is she holding my hand there and not throwing it off? She
must still be asleep or half asleep like I was and imagining I'm someone else. I
should just... wait why am I in a bed with her? In a white room of all places? Is this
some kind of magical honeymoon where the goddess of love gave us time to be
alone? Okay, can't go back to dreaming again. Need to get up so nothing gets ruined
and no one gets in trouble. We're probably in the infirmary or something and
someone is bound to come check on us, where I would receive a long embarrassing
lecture about appropriate behavior. How did I even get on the same bed though? Did
I actually sleepwalk to her and try to grope her in my sleep? That's really creepy if I
did, but what if she sleepwalked to me? It's kind of funny how some reversals aren't
nearly as bad, but that's probably because there's virtually no chance of that
happening. Never mind, need to think of a plan, simple and explainable, roll over and

pretend I didn't do it? How do I keep getting myself into these situations...
He slowly rolled to his side but Hermione wasn't letting go of his hand. What does
that mean? Either she really is enjoying her dream or she might... like -?
Her hand slipped and he tumbled off the bed, smashing into the cold hard floor. He
thought he heard a few quiet giggles, but assured himself she was still asleep.
Gently lifting himself off the floor and trying not to make too much noise he looked
around. His eyes locked onto Hermione's soft bare back where her shirt was lifted up
slightly. Quickly squashing that pang of guilt and interest he pulled the sheet up
gently over her to cover anything she might not want seen. Shaking himself a little he
pulled his eyes away from her and peeked out between the curtains outside. It
looked nearly noon and they had missed all their morning classes. He glanced back
at Hermione and she seemed perfectly healthy after the nightmare last night. He
shook off the terrible memory and calmed himself. If that's magical healing I have to
learn more.
Scanning the room once more he noticed his phoenix wand sitting on the table which
made him check for his other. It was gone, and he feared what they thought he did to
that troll. Though he had probably saved their lives, it was becoming obvious; people
didn't like power, unless they had it. To make sure, he looked over at the table on
Hermione's side and there was only her wand. Except then he saw it, laying on the
bed in front of her. Revealing the very evidence of touching her that he didn't want
found. It was almost obscured by the sheet he pulled up but he couldn't reach over
her from this side. He tip toed around the bed and looked at her face to see a hint of
a smile, but her eyes were closed. Ever so slowly he crept closer to his wand,
reaching out with one hand he almost had it.
"What do you think you're doing?" He jumped in shock and his eyes found hers.
They just stared at each other for a moment in embarrassed confirmation of what
happened. Trying to pretend he had no ill intentions or otherwise he pointed at his
wand on the bed, but then he noticed her shirt was pulled up more on this side
revealing her smooth stomach as well, which captivated his eyes even while she
was looking at him. When she looked down at where he was pointing and staring at,
she noticed it too and gave him a look he had no words for, while quickly yanking up
the sheet around her.
He managed to stammer the word "W-wand," before the curtains opened up behind
him and made him jump once again.
Swishing through the curtains Madam Pomfrey nodded to him in passing and
checked on Hermione who sat up quickly. She did a quick diagnostic spell on her

and said, "Well, you two both look in fine health now. There is half an hour until lunch
so if you hurry you can get cleaned up and attend if you feel up to it. - Oh and next
time, leave that wand behind, it's a terrible inconvenience to have you brought in
with your arm wrapped around someone so protectively that we can't pry it off
without being shocked in the process." She glanced at his hand for where it was,
when Hermione jumped off the bed and shoved the missing wand into his chest, a
little harder than needed. She jumped through the curtains and called a quick thanks
back at Poppy before tearing off down the hall.
Harry nodded politely back at Madam Pomfrey and said his thanks as well. Feeling
the need for a long cold shower he walked back to his dorm. At least he wasn't a
creepy sleepwalker, but instead just fond of hugging girls while he was asleep.
That's even endearing in a certain light... hopefully.
He gave up thinking about and remembering the incident, being only slightly
distracted by the intense hunger in his stomach. After a shower and new robes he
felt refreshed when he arrived at the Great Hall.
oOoOo
Sitting down a few minutes early at lunch gave him time to watch the reactions of
people seeing him. A couple whispered, some didn't seem to care, but the
Gryffindors he noticed were staring and pointing. So somehow Gryffindor learned
about it all before the others, or at least it was more widespread there. Only
Ravenclaws and Gryffindors knew what happened, and there was only one
Gryffindor who wasn't in the infirmary with him all last night.
I guess it was a traumatic event for Lavender that she wanted to tell other people
about. But wouldn't she realize it was a bad idea to talk about breaking rules and
fighting trolls? - Which she didn't hear about... Oh well, I guess it's just another rumor
that'll be circulated for a while. Besides, me killing Anthony and bringing him back to
life seems to have been forgotten about now, why shouldn't a new rumor take its
place? Might as well have some fun with this one, and here come the twin terrors to
tweeze it out of me.
Sitting down on top of the table facing him, Fred and George said at once, "Is it
true?"
"Nope, all lies. Except for the part about me walking on water, that bit was accurate."
Harry replied blandly.
Fred leaned in, "Come off it Harry, half the school knows about it by now. You can't
trick us with more muggle references, even we get that one."

George continued, "You blew a troll's head off! You can't pretend something else
happened instead."
"Oh, that. That was probably the melofors spell going wrong, let me warn you, don't
cast that one while sneezing. It's a doozy." He grinned at the look of incredulous
horror they showed him. But that gave it away and they grilled him more about what
really happened.
"Alright, so there I was about to be eaten when they both start arguing about the
best way to prepare me. I throw my voice and pretend to impersonate one to keep
them distracted until lunch."
Interrupting him the food finally appeared on the table. George hopped off and shook
his head, "That couldn't work, trolls can't speak English Harry and you wait until
dawn with trolls not lunch."
"Of course, but it certainly worked with you two trolls." Harry laughed and they
looked at each other, vowing vengeance on him for wasting their time.
Hermione sat down a little ways away from him and kept looking away when he
glanced at her. At least he wasn't the only one embarrassed he thought. The food
was excellent as always but he seemed to be crowded with larger platters of food
that were much closer than usual. Penny, Sue, and Padma sat down in front of him
on the other side of the table but didn't say much, only kept whispering to
themselves about something. Near the end, after dessert was served and things
were quieter, Padma decided to speak.
"So how did you know where she was Harry?" The table grew quieter around them
as students pretended not to be listening in.
"Well she does have a very distinctive perfume..."The looks on their faces told him
they were not amused, "Oh come on, I can't give all my secrets away, otherwise I
won't be mysterious anymore. - But if you must know... I put a muggle tracking
device on all the people I know, so I can tell where everyone is and who keeps
stealing my pudding!" He looked around suspiciously.
"No way, muggle stuff doesn't work around Hogwarts! Me mum told me that." A
Hufflepuff first year who managed not to be noticed until now revealed himself.
Harry smiled at him, "Ah, but you're thinking of electricity. These devices work
through... MAGNETS!" He restrained his laugh at the other students around who
nodded in acceptance. Penny glanced meaningfully at the Hufflepuff boy and he

scampered back to his own table.

He could tell Sue, Padma, and Penny still weren't convinced of course, but they
gave it up for the moment. That was when an older Gryffindor walked up behind him
to ask the obvious, "Hey Harry, how'd you kill that troll? Was it a crazy strong
Expulso from inside its mouth? That's currently the highest on the bidding pool."
Many of the Ravenclaws looked around in shock and broke into chatter.
Penny cleared her throat and cast a silencing spell around her. "Gambling is against
school rules, and what happened last night is not a topic for meal times. If you would
please return to your table now." He shrugged his shoulders and made his way back
to a group of gossiping Gryffindors.
Laughing when the silencing charm was released, Harry shook his head, "So that's
why Fred and George were so insistent." Maybe I can use this to my advantage...
oOoOo
When lunch was done Hermione avoided him before class as well. Padma and Sue
even refused to talk to him until he told them the truth. To top that off, his feather for
levitating practice burst into flame after he had already accomplished it in the last
class. Nothing was going his way as he entered the great hall for a snack during
break. He was greeted with a sharp pain in his scar that hadn't bothered him for a
long time. He could remember it hurting when he used to have nightmares, before
he started practicing his meditation to move objects. Sitting at the end of the table, it
steadily got worse as a large tray of food appeared in front of him.
Closing his eyes while opening a book and grabbing a sandwich, Harry tried to
meditate. He relaxed his muscles and let the thoughts in his mind dissipate. The built
up emotions from the last few days seemed to drift away along with them. Except
one strange feeling kept nagging at him, it was not pleasant at all. It almost felt like
Draco had when he was bullying Hermione, hate, but far beyond what he felt then.
Yet this wasn't coming from his senses, it was coming from inside him. Nothing
made him feel this strongly before and it seemed to be the cause of the pain in his
scar. He didn't hate anyone that much, he barely cared about anyone except
Hermione, and it was pretty obvious he didn't hate her. Ignoring the world around
him he examined the feeling completely, but it didn't seem to belong. It felt foreign,
but familiar, similar to his early nightmares yet real, like the emotions he felt from
Draco and Lavender. He grabbed hold of it as Dumbledore seemed to grab hold of
one of his memories. It struggled back.
It felt wrong, like the troll, the hate seemed to spread through him and he was afraid.

Afraid of what it meant, paralyzingly afraid of what he would do with this hate. NO!
Fear is the mind killer, I've already learned that lesson at the hands of uncle Vernon.
Emotions don't control me, they only show me what I feel.
He let the fear pass and held onto the hate that wasn't his. Nothing had made him
afraid like that since he learned to influence minds. In one sudden jerk the hate tried
to pull free and escape. It nearly got away but he held tightly, rending it between his
mental hands. Crushing and ripping at it made it a more potent hate but feeling
weaker. He ground it down, trying to break the hate apart when he was bumped out
of his meditation, releasing his grip on whatever foreign feeling that was. It seemed
to slip away through a path he couldn't follow.
Opening his eyes Harry saw the rest of the students getting up and leaving, he
looked at his watch and it was less than five minutes before class. Strange he
thought, and grabbed another sandwich to eat on the way and satisfy his growling
stomach.
He certainly didn't feel like facing Draco in Herbology but walked towards the
greenhouses anyway, trying to ignore the dull ache in his head. Only pure luck saved
him as there was a large notice on the door of greenhouse one. 'First year class
canceled due to poisonous mushroom spores.'
Sighing in relief, he made his way back towards the kitchens to get more to eat, but
decided to stop by a small study room first. He didn't know what to say to Kolie yet.
There were five older students already inside, and few were working together when
he entered. The room was decorated with benches under large tables in the center,
lit with lamps, and softer chairs in the corners and around a central fire. Old wooden
desks and sparse bookcases dotted the walls, where dull portraits hung in between.
Taking a cushy seat by the fireplace Harry fell asleep soon after, basking in the
radiant warmth on his toes and feeling worn from only one class he'd attended.
A couple frustrated curses woke him much later, along with muttered arguments, but
he felt better after the nap and didn't want to leave his comfortable spot just yet. He
glanced at his mesmerizing watch checking the time.
There was still half an hour before dinner when his stomach growled again, yet he
ignored it and opened his book bag, scanning through the beginners enchanting
book he had borrowed from the main library. Most of it was filled with standard ways
to enchant the usual objects, bewitched brooms, relighting lanterns, enchanted
razors, and always hot irons. The easier ones wouldn't stay enchanted for too long
and the better ones required special items that mentioned stores in Diagon Alley you

could purchase them from. Some required dragons blood or parts of strange magical
creatures which you could also buy. The only thing he could find that seemed
interesting was that placing doxy wings in shoes let you enchant them to make you
light on your feet. Making a mental note of winged shoes flying around his fireplace,
he flipped through the rest of the pages. It disappointed him that only the first
chapter gave any description of the enchanting process which was sorely lacking,
but it looked to be a book of recipes rather than training in the art of enchanting.
Engrossed in his book Harry almost didn't recognize the annoying chuckle and
disconcerting presence that came through the door. His scar was feeling better but
he didn't want to risk confronting Draco after just escaping him. He sent a thought at
Crabbe to put his foot in front of Draco, and heard a bad tumble into a table. Then
yelling, "You clumsy half-blood! Have you forgotten how feet work since yesterday?
You're no better than that grotty Longbottom-"
Harry knew this was his chance, he sent an angry thought at Goyle to push Draco
down, and sent another at Crabbe again. Another tumble and more screaming,
"That's it, you're both getting curs-"
"Shut up Malfoy!" A long pause as everyone in the room heard the unexpected, "You
think you're so much better than everyone 'cause your father owns people, but
you're not."
Goyle chimed in without any encouragement, "Yeah, we see yer poor spells and you
picking yer nose when you think no one's looking. We even saw da letter you wrote
yer mum 'bout people being mean to you. Quit picking on 'em an' maybe they would
like you!"
Peeking around the corner Harry could see the ashamed fury in Draco's eyes. He
was reaching for his wand with a savage snarl building on his face, when a senior
Slytherin growled at them from across the room, "Bugger off, ya maggots. This is a
study room, not your fuckin' bedroom to have a wank with your fellow poofters."
The rage spread across Draco's face, but when he saw who said it, it turned to fear
instead. Noticing it was the boys Slytherin prefect, a lot angrier than even Draco
looked. The dinner rang and they escaped before the older students started getting
up.
Harry had a hard time controlling his laughter as he put his books back in his bag
when the same Slytherin came over to him. "You better not say a word about this to
your tosser friends or any teachers, you hear?" Looking up at the surprisingly good
intimidation tactic of leaning over and glaring, Harry slowly nodded at him. The

Prefect's face changed when he saw the scar on Harry's head. "Yeah, well it'd be
better for everyone, just so's you know." Then he walked off to dinner.
Another student clapped him on the back after getting up, "Don't worry about Flinton,
all the older Ravenclaws have your back."
"Huh?"
"It's rare that a first year really belongs in Ravenclaw, so we don't want you bullied
into submission. Just don't do anything too stupid like fighting a troll on your own and
we should be able to keep you safe. You're lucky Penny was there to save you guys
or that might have ended badly." He was a much older Ravenclaw, Harry could tell
by the worn blue trim on his robes.
That confused Harry a little, "What do you mean 'belong in Ravenclaw'? And why
would I need to be kept safe?" They started walking to the great hall.
"Oh, it's just most of us have to grow into appreciating what Ravenclaw stands for,
not many arrive here with those values. So when there's a brain like you in first year
who doesn't go around showing off and just acts like himself, the older Ravenclaws
try to keep the bullies from tearing you down like they naturally want to. We're even
trying to help that Gryffindor friend of yours as well, but those types just tend to
attract trouble."
"Huh," repeated Harry, "I guess I've been dealing with bullies for so long that I just
assumed everyone had to deal with them, not that I or others like me were special in
any way to attract their attention. It's good that I'm in Ravenclaw so people actually
tell me these things instead of expecting me to know it all, like they usually do."
The older boy laughed, "Yeah, we even share a piece of wisdom for occasions like
this. It's a Japanese proverb that says, 'The nail that sticks out gets hammered
down.' We try to dress you up as a hook instead so people think they need you. My
name's Grant by the way."
"I guess I'll try to find something useful to hold up so it convinces them. And its nice
to meet you." They shook hands.
Arriving at the entrance, Harry said his thanks, and sat near Hermione at the other
end of the table. After another meal with a few too many trays of food centered
around him, he got up only to find she had left early, probably to avoid him again.
That was getting a little disconcerting after what happened between then, or
whatever he thought happened. Maybe she... no, I can't even begin to figure out
girls. I'll probably see her tomorrow since it's the weekend.

oOoOo
Noticing the twins heading out Harry walked up behind them, "Anyone win the bet, or
are you two still rigging the odds?"
They jumped a little and smiled back at him, Fred started, "It hasn't been won of
course, but that's because no one can believe Lavender when she says you beat
two single-handed while sitting on your arse. Some of the others were second
guessing whether you actually killed one until a Slytherin mentioned the headless
body down in the dungeons that Snape was picking apart for materials. We almost
got to see it too."
George continued, "Did you learn lots in charms today? We heard you had a small
problem with... flammable feathers?" Their mischievous smirks explained everything.
"So you thought to pull a prank on your benefactor eh? Looks like you two don't even
want to win that bet..." He walked past them when they stopped in surprise.
Rushing back beside him their smiles returned, "All in good fun Harry, if we didn't
involve you, how would anyone believe we weren't conspiring together."
"Yeah, couldn't have anyone catching onto us could we? We should probably take
this secret passage..." They directed Harry to a corner statue outside the entrance
hall, and as they passed by they flicked it's elbow and a side passage opened up
behind it.
Following them up one flight of stairs and onto a small landing they stopped to talk,
"Since you only did it to keep up appearances, I suppose it won't cost you too much.
But I will need a small favor or two in return for telling you how it was really done,
then admitting to it later on to someone else I suppose. What's the theory with the
greatest odds?"
Fred laughed, "You're going to like this one, it was you throwing one of Snape's
experimental potions in its mouth when it was about to bite your legs off. That's
twenty to one."
George joined in, "Or there was the idea you transfigured it's brains into a pumpkin
and it grew from the inside out, dunno how that one got started though, since you
can't penetrate troll flesh with spells. It was fifty to one but no one would ever bet on
it."
"What do you think the odds would be if I threw a muggle exploding device into its
mouth, say a grenade?" Harry already thought of a few ideas that might be able to

explain what he did by normal means, since he didn't know if he should even explain
it to Dumbledore.
"That's perfect!" Fred exclaimed, "We could probably get at least ten to one and
everyone would believe we thought it was possible cause our da is nutters about
muggle stuff."
"Was that really how you did it?" asked George.
"Maybe. So after you make your bid, send someone else around to ask me, maybe a
girl so they'll think I was tricked? It doesn't really matter though, just as long as
they're not too close to you."
Fred steepled his fingers in mock glee, "We know who would be perfect for the job..."
He laughed, and George got down to business, "What did you have in mind for a
favour? We could tell you some secret passageways, help you out with your seeker
training, brew a potion or two? We're good at that."
"Possibly prank someone in need, or do you want more than half the winnings?"
"None of that, but the passageways do sound tempting. I need some items procured
from Hogsmeade and I heard there was a trip this weekend." Harry listed a few items
he thought they could get.
They both looked shocked, "But Harry, we would have done that for free, just for
starting those rumors about Snape and Malfoy. There's got to be something else you
need that we can do?"
"Hmm, well you could throw in those secret passageways and a couple of potions if
you don't mind. Actually, do you two know where I could find a map of Hogwarts
instead, it's a pain trying to ask portraits for directions every time I get lost."
Glancing at each other they shook their heads in turn, "No way!", "He's too good!",
"How could he have known?", "It's impossible, he's just guessing." They looked back
at Harry in confirmation.
Confused by their rapid fire speech he took a second to mull it over. Thinking he
picked up on their meaning from a memory of peeves, he wasn't sure but he bluffed
anyway, "You mean the secret map you two keep hidden from everyone else? I'd just
like a copy if that's okay."
"He is good!"

"But not too good, he still doesn't know the details."

"Yeah, a copy can't be done, or at least..."
"Not one exactly like ours?" They took out a folded piece of parchment from
somewhere between them and cast an advanced Geminio charm on it. Another one
appeared on top and they slipped the original back where Harry couldn't see.
"Let's see what we've got," they mumbled as they opened it up to reveal a detailed
map of Hogwarts castle with labeled rooms and a few notes here and there.
Talking quietly to themselves they continued, "Must have made this before
enchanting the rest."
"It looks like it was drawn by hand and doesn't move."
"Here we thought it was all one spell."
"You know," said Harry, "That might be a great way to make money, selling copied
maps to first years who get lost too much."
Their eyes widened and wicked grins spread across their faces, "Let's give him a
little advance, shall we?"
They took out a special looking quill and told Harry to hold out his hand. Stabbing
him lightly they explained it was a secrecy quill, only those stabbed by it could read
its ink. Then they started writing down passwords for secret locations dotted around
the map with instructions and destinations for some. Talking back and forth,
reminding each other of this one or that one, they trading off using the quill. It
became quite amazing to Harry as he watched them work, he didn't imagine there
were this many secret passageways in Hogwarts, but was glad all the same. It would
be a life saver just for his feet alone. Finishing up they marked two more places, but
didn't write down how to get in.
"Those are the entrances to Hogsmeade, but McGonagall would kill us if we told you
how to get there this year."
"Better to have us buy your stuff, everyone would notice you too easily anyway."
They held out the map but pulled it back before he could grab it, "This comes with
one condition."
"No sharing secret passageways, especially with Ronald."

Harry laughed, "That's too easy," and pulled the paper out of their hands with his
wand. "But you have yourselves a deal, as long as you don't reveal my secrets."
Their surprised and astonished faces were better than expected. They nodded and
followed behind him up the stairs, whispering all the while.
Before opening the door he remembered something, "Oh yeah, how much do you
think the betting pool is up to now?" Guessing, they replied that it might be
somewhere around sixty galleons, so harry pulled out a small stack of coins from his
pocket and handed it to them. "Might as well win it all if gambling is illegal, don't want
people betting on me all the time, thinking I'm lucky."
oOoOo
Leaving their excited dancing behind, Harry strolled through the camouflaged door to
appear on the sixth floor corridor, just a little ways away from the Ravenclaw library.
With a secret map in his hands and some magical trinkets headed his way, things
were finally turning out okay after such a blunder he made of things. He strolled into
the library, sitting down at his customary window lookout. Seeing a sixth year noting
his arrival and going back to her studies was confirmation of what he was told earlier.
It felt odd, to have a group of people watching out for him personally. That didn't
really bother him so he figured it would be best to just ignore it.
Harry watched the group of people flying out on the cloudy quidditch pitch, getting
ready for the upcoming official matches. Wondering what it would be like to be one of
them, being cheered as the greatest seeker in a century. He shrugged and
rummaged through his bag.
Picking his enchanting book up again he tried to make sense of why some
ingredients were used rather than others and how any of them connected together.
After a long review the answer started to become evident. The magic used in animal
parts was similar to the spell you needed to enchant. It seemed to only make sense
on the surface, but he supposed magic creatures with a certain purpose, such as
flying, hiding, and defending tended to imbue that type of magic into their very cells
or atoms may be. Comparing it to regular body parts made sense somewhat,
muscles, skin, and organs all were made up of similar basic proteins and
compounds, but performed widely different functions, depending on how they were
organized.
Magical objects were different though, based more on intent and purpose. So it
would be hard to enchant a cutting spell with the hair of a Puffskein, but might be
easy to enchant a cushioning charm on it. Likewise, the claws of a dragon would be
a good part to enchant into a razor, but poor for a cushion. This didn't seem to be

universal because wood was used quite often in a variety of objects, not seeming to
have any specific magical characteristics except for in wands. He had a feeling that
every lasting enchanted object had to have some magical component, whether it
was magical wood, or a part of a magical creature. Only then could an enchantment
direct the innate magic toward a new purpose.
It all seemed too simple after considering it, since someone should obviously start a
book with that sort of information if it was true. Yet he couldn't find any examples of a
contradiction to his ideas. He would just have to set up an experiment sometime and
test them. Maybe he could tempt Hermione to join as well. But then he remembered
the warning McGonagall gave at the first of the year, and decided against it for now.
Since he was quite attached to his limbs.
A bone-chilling cold passed through him for a second and a serene voice whispered
in his ear, "Don't damage it again. This is your only warning."
Harry shivered and looked around at the back of a strange ghost, disappearing
through a bookcase. Now I have to deal with vague and threatening spirits too? Did I
curse the wrong deity yesterday?
Lightning flashed in the darkening clouds outside his window and the thunder
crashed against the castle a second later, shaking the glass. But Harry just laughed,
marveling at the nature of chance.
oOoOo
Dumbledore excused the last girl from his office as none of them knew any more
about what really happened, although they did reveal hints of how it was
accomplished. A mysterious door appearing in the girls bathroom to lure one in,
meaning another could have opened for the trolls somewhere else. Yet the motive
made no sense, as well as the outcome. The perpetrator seemed to gain nothing,
while both were defeated in unexpected ways. The staff were able to discover
nothing unusual while Harry was thrown into the light once again.
He massaged his temples as the portraits began their discussions. "Something
needs to be done about that blasted room before another student figures out its
purpose."
"What would you suggest Phineas? Destroy half the castle to remove it? You know
what it's capable of and who made it." An older portrait sneered in response.
"Surely he knows it is inviolable as do we all, but there must be a way to keep
students out, especially former students." Commented Dippet.

"The las' time tha' was tried the entrance merely moved to another location. It wan's
to be used, tha's its purpose."
"Oh shut it Swott, you just wish the other headmasters told you about it before you
died. You're not going to convince Dumbledore to move your portrait in their either,
so stop trying." Growled Black.
"There is one option. Find the key."
"Basil, that is more of a legend than Slytherin's chamber. Not even the founder's
portraits will acknowledge its existence."
"Are we all going to forget about the monster who used it to bring in two mountain
trolls to almost kill a young girl under our watch? That should be our focus here, and
I still dislike the gamble you take in allowing this charade to continue Dumbledore."
"You shall support the present headmaster no matter your likes or dislikes
Scamander. That is our duty!" Shouted Fortescue.
"Enough!" Commanded Dumbledore, and they all quieted. "The room was an
oversight that none of us predicted. A temporary barrier shall be placed around the
area for now. If it does move in response, then we must control who has access. And
we have been over the plan before, this is the only way we might capture him so he
can not return in another form. Otherwise we risk countless more lives and the
destruction of the entire school, if not all the children in it."
Grumblings could be heard, but were few and far between.

Chapter 12 - Apologies
Author's Note: For those of you still up, here is my last post for the year. Thank you
for all the input and support you've given me so far, it helps more than you know.
Have a happy New Year.
Chapter 12
Apologies
Trudging up to bed that night, Harry wasn't excited for his occlumency lesson with
Dumbledore the next day. Not because it was difficult, he thought he'd been
progressing rather well; it was because he didn't want to try explaining what
happened with the trolls, or that whole day, or anything afterwards. It was
bothersome remembering it all, let alone explaining why he choose one alternative
over the other, and imagining what he could have done differently. It was obvious he
was trying to put off the inevitable, since that was how he learned best. By reviewing
his stupid mistakes and finding ways not to repeat them. Have to remember to be
more specific with house elves for one. And not groping friends while asleep is a
close second.
There was just so much for him to do as well, thank Kolie for her help, apologize to
Hagrid for escaping while he was in charge, try to patch up things with Hermione,
and the other girls as well. Dumbledore's interrogation seemed to push him over the
edge of wanting to escape.
The excitement of teaming up with the Weasley twins and joy at gaining new
artifacts had faded quickly with no one to share it with. He could only hope he felt
better after a good night's sleep.
But no, his dreams were filled with nightmares once more, painful imaginations of
what could have happened to Hermione or anyone else at the hands of a troll. The
hate was back somehow, and with it the fear. His scar hurt, burning like a potent acid
through his skull. It plagued him all night long, chasing him from one nightmare to
the next. When Hermione finally died in one, legs bitten off and bleeding out on the
floor in front of him, he realized it was a dream. A story made up to hurt, to show him
something. Now he understood though, and it was his turn to tell the story.
The hate seemed to recognize this fact and tried to escape once again. Too late
though, as Harry was already in control. It squirmed under his grasp and tried to
imitate what he did, biting at him, cutting and slashing in order to escape. His scar
hurt like crazy, but the hate was weak and had no power in his mind. His fear was

gone, replaced by determination, and a single thought of destroying this vile thing
that plagued him. Conjuring a flame that consumed all thought, he pulled the the
beast of emotion over top of it. It finally made sounds of desperation and fear,
screaming in agony as Harry held it crisping over the flame. Catching alight, it
howled maddeningly in wails of terror. It fought with every shred of strength it had,
hurting through his scar so much it felt like blood was running down his face.
Gripping firmly he ignored the pain and pushed it farther in. It shook violently,
vibrating his whole body with it. But no, that was someone actually shaking him.
Trying to ignore the distraction he focused on holding the hate into his mental
furnace, burning away layer after layer of blackened emotion. His real face was
slapped in stinging pain and he opened his eyes in shock, losing hold of the
nightmare creature.
It was Penny, yelling his name, and about to slap him again. She saw his eyes flutter
open and finally relaxed her hands, slouching down in relief she spoke, "Are you
okay Harry?"
Looking around the room, there were all his dorm mates standing watch, with a few
others observing as well. "I was close Penny, so close... why?"
Professor Flitwick burst into the room and his eyes locked on Harry's. "Right, now
everyone back to their beds, we shall take it from here." Madam Pomfrey entered in
behind him a few seconds later, appearing sleepy and disoriented but casting
diagnostic charms at Harry. Shuffling around, some students left while others slipped
back under their covers.
Harry was helped out of bed by Penny and Madam Pomfrey, while Professor Flitwick
cast a charm to make him lighter. They set him down on a couch in the common
room. He was still holding onto his wands tightly, doubtlessly he grabbed onto them
during the middle of the night. Penny cast a cleaning charm on his face to remove
something as Madam Pomfrey took out potion after potion from a large bag.
Proffering the first one into his hands she motioned for him to drink up. He threw
back the first disgusting potion and nearly retched. Tired and miserable, he was
starting to feel better just from being awake though. Then he actually began to think
about what was going on, "Do I really need all these potions for just a nightmare?"
There was a line of them out on the table for him to drink apparently.
They all looked at him oddly as he set the first empty bottle down. Penny stood up
shakily and went to the side of the room, bringing a smaller mirror back to him. He
barely recognized himself as a pale white ghost stared back, with singed skin and
cracked dry lips. His scar was inflamed and caked with dried blood. Then he looked

down at his hands, blistered and red all around the outside with cold white palms,
they started to shake as realization struck. The funny thing was, nothing hurt.
Another potion was shoved into his hands and he didn't hold back any longer,
ignoring the taste as he concentrated on what had happened.
Professor Flitwick asked the first questions, "Do you know what happened Harry?
Was it the wand again?"
Confusion filled his face as he looked at the wands still stuck in his one hand. He set
them down beside him as he was handed another potion. Between gulps he
answered, "No, something else... hate, just pure hate it felt like. I tried to burn it,
holding it under the flames." Then he remembered no one else was supposed to
know about that. After taking another swig he continued, "I must have cast the spell
while I was asleep, but I don't know why I'm so pale. Nothing hurts though."
Penny was starting to tear up as she looked at him. Noticing the blood on her night
gown he followed the trail of it from their steps up to the dorm entrances. Looking
down at his shirt it was soaked in more blood on one side, underneath the scar. Well
that explained a few things. I hope Penny doesn't have nightmares from this herself.
He reached for his wand to try cleaning himself up but Madam Pomfrey tutted him
and shoved another bottle in each hand. "Your magical core is nearly exhausted
once again. You're too weak and should barely be sitting up, let alone casting magic
now. Tell the professor if you need anything."
Pointing at his shirt Professor Flitwick got the message easily and with a few waves
of his wand, all the blood was gone from the room. Harry relaxed and closed his
eyes for a moment, finding his calm center and letting the rest float away, there was
no longer any trace of the hate. But he could almost sense the path it took to get to
him, hidden from his reach. Sipping the last bottle of medicine, it actually tasted the
best. I guess they've also learnt the last thing you tend to feel is usually what you
remember.
"I'm alright now, I'll go back to bed and hopefully we can all forget about this little
incident." His legs were instantly locked together and he fell back down to the
cushion. Penny's wand was still out pointing at him.
"Thank you Miss Clearwater, if you would cast a few cleaning charms in his dorm
and bed, then you should go back to yours. We shall take it from here." Professor
Flitwick lifted him off the ground with a silent charm and set him in motion to the
main door.
Harry tried to struggle for a moment, "But my wands!" He almost pulled them

towards him before he thought better of it.

Madam Pomfrey picked them up and followed behind him, "They shall be kept safe,
while you recuperate in the infirmary with a few monitoring charms for the rest of the
night." They all left the room and Harry was whisked off to another night's stay in the
hospital wing.
oOoOo
Waking up in the morning wasn't near as pleasant as the day before, but he certainly
felt a lot better than last night. The scent of fresh bacon, toast, and pumpkin juice
was in the air which made his stomach growl. With a near silent pop a house elf
appeared before him, carrying an enormous tray filled to the brim with many different
kinds of food. It was set down easily on a waiting stand but made a weighty creak of
strain after the house elf fingers left it.
Before the timid elf could pop away again Harry called her name, "Kolie?"
She stopped mid turn and looked up abashedly at him, her large round eyes
glistened with guilt, while remorse contorted the rest of her features. "Yes master
Harry Potter sir?"
"What's wrong?" Harry had a guess but didn't want to risk being wrong, not on such
a topic.
Her eyes started to water, but she quickly wiped them away with a small bony hand.
"You're hurt, again! Because of me!" The tears came quickly now. She began
bawling on the floor, attempting to smash her face against the stone but stopping just
short every time.
This concerned Harry more than he cared to admit, since he had only met the elf a
few times. "Kolie, stop. It wasn't your fault, last time, and especially not this time.
Besides I wanted to thank you for helping us out the other day, if you hadn't been
there a student might have died."
Not helping at all, she continued to bawl harder, "B-b-but H-Harry could h-have been
killed as well! A-a-and K-Kolie still wasn't strong enough to help, again!" She started
pulling at her face and hair now.
"Stop trying to hurt yourself, please." Gazing up at him from the floor, she couldn't
help but keep crying and sniffling every few moments. "It was never your fault I got
hurt, because you were only doing as I asked you to, and I thank you for helping me
protect another student. Anyway, I'm not in pain at all and feel completely recovered,

so you shouldn't worry. - And I can guess it was you trying to push more food toward
me yesterday, but you needn't coddle me so. If I need more food I can always reach
a little further for it, thank you for the thought though."
Wiping her nose and eyes she looked up, "Master Harry is so kind... just like them.
Kolie promises to do better next time!" With that she popped away, leaving the
steaming tray of food behind.
Harry relaxed again, one down, three to go. His stomach groaned at the sight of all
that food. Might as well stop resisting.
Pulling the tray towards him he dug in. Buttery pastries with rich jam, fluffy eggs,
fresh succulent fruit, and thick crisp bacon made him whole again, along with some
refreshing juice to wash it down. He couldn't begin to eat it all, but gave it a good try
all the same. There was even a cauldron cake for dessert which he enjoyed as he
began getting out of bed.
Madam Pomfrey came walking back into the hospital wing with a piece of toast in
one hand and newspaper under her arm. Seeing movement behind Harry's curtain
she went to check on him. "And how did you wake up without my charms going off?"
She looked down at the oversized tray of food and back at him. "That house elf sure
has taken a liking to you, but I wish she wouldn't try to do my job for me..."
"I'll try to remind her of that next time I'm here, hopefully it's not for a very long time."
He gave a weak smile.
"See that it isn't. Now, let me check you over one more time before you go." Casting
more diagnostic charms while Harry put on a clean set of robes someone left for
him, she harrumphed. "If I hadn't seen everything, I would imagine you had some
secret regenerative powers hidden up your sleeve whenever I wasn't looking."
As she was checking over one red hand, Harry picked up his Nundu wand from the
bed and attached it back to the holster, it clamped onto his wrist by itself like it was
supposed to. She grabbed his other hand to compare and huffed again. "Would you
look at that, one side redder than the other now. Is this the sleeve with the healing
powers is it?" She teased him, but when she flipped his hand over she saw his wand
there, "Hmm... well, no matter. Drink this potion later tonight, and put this salve on
your arms and face when they itch or feel dry." She handed him two small bottles
and he put them in his pockets. "Be sure not to mix them up, or you might be back
here with a stomach ache you wouldn't believe."
Harry saw the labels on them and didn't know how you could forget. Grabbing his
other wand he turned back, "Thanks again Madam Pomfrey, I'm sorry to trouble you

so much."
"No trouble at all, it's my job. And call me Poppy, everyone does." She gave him an
encouraging smile but seemed hesitant to let him out the doors.
oOoOo
Having until after lunch to be anywhere specific, Harry decided to explore the castle
with his new map. Quickly taking the same shortcut he was shown the day before,
he made his way to the Ravenclaw common room and then his dorm. Retrieving the
map, he scanned it for anything interesting that jumped out at him. The Hogsmead
entrances sounded great but he wasn't about to risk that just to buy a few trinkets he
would get soon enough. Looking around the Ravenclaw tower he saw the perfect
one to try out, it was just down from the common room, inside an old storage closet.
It let out right beside the greenhouses which would be perfect for his morning
herbology lessons. Labeled with a password and a note it said 'watch out for the first
step' which seemed ominous.
The map was tucked back in a pocket as he headed downstairs, where he bumped
into Sue and Padma upon exiting out the main door. They looked embarrassed,
sympathetic, yet expectant, almost hoping he would let them in. Harry's mouth
opened to say something, but couldn't find the words. Another student pushed by
them standing in the doorway, disturbing the quiet as Harry looked away in shame.
He knew exactly what they wanted, to have him confide in them, to be his friends,
instead of simply fellow students he studied with or sat next to in class. But there
was only one person he let get close, and now she wasn't speaking to him. He
wasn't ready for more.
Padma ground her teeth and was about to start in, until Sue pulled her away with a
sigh. Harry looked back in regret, but continued out the door.
Finding the designated closet soon after, he quickly stepped in while no one was
looking. Saying the magic password, 'Cado' and tapping on the door with his wand,
he heard a grating sound of stone on stone behind him, then saw the meaning of the
note. It was a steep drop to the next level that held a door only two steps away with
a brilliant light shining underneath. The drop was taller than he was, so he sat down
on the ledge and turned around while slowly lowering himself down. It felt strange
dropping down, like he fell through the entrance to platform nine and three-quarters
in mid air.
Putting his map away again he opened the door leading directly outside, next to a
potting bench on either side. He recognized the door as being between the third and

fourth greenhouse, one the first years tried to explore but was locked better than
they could open with alohomora, now he knew why.
Harry soaked up the late morning sun and enjoyed the fresh cool air. Wandering
around a bit he figured that this was as good of time as any to go talk to Hagrid,
especially since he was already outside. He strolled along the exterior of the castle
walls, following a well worn dirt path. Avoiding the whomping willow, he carefully
walked over the dewy grass, trying not to slip. An owl hooted in the distant forbidden
forest. Nothing seemed to move though when he stood still to watch, it only looked to
be a dark forest with a variety of large trees. It was almost tempting to go exploring
in it because of all the stories told about the strange creatures that lived there. Not
that he wanted to risk his life at all, but to see how honest or exaggerated those tales
really were. If he could see into it from above the canopy, then he thought it might be
worth a broom ride over it.
Shrugging his shoulders he continued on his slippery path to Hagrid's, not wanting to
put off the apology much longer. He managed not to fall once before finally arriving
at the pumpkin patch. Most of them were picked for the Halloween feast, but some
few still remained, namely a giant one that looked Hagrid sized. The roof of the cabin
still puffed out a steady stream of smoke so Harry assumed he was home. Walking
up the small steps and knocking created another cacophonous bark from Fang with
some quieter words inside.
"Now who could that be, wasn't expectin' one visitor, let alone two." Wanting to run
and hide, Harry didn't feel up to apologizing with anyone else around, and it would
be awkward leaving so fast, or waiting for them to leave. But he stood his ground
and waited for the inevitable.
Hagrid swung open the large door with ease and looked down, "Why speak o' the
devil, we was jus' talkin' about you. Come on in an' join us for a cup o' tea." Harry
was ushered inside to see the bushy haired seat filled once again. He hid his reddish
hands in his sleeves and moistened his dry lips. How did I miss sensing her so
close? Am I still that out of it?
She turned around towards him slowly, "Hi Harry, are you okay? I didn't see you at
breakfast and there were some strange rumors going around..." Looking a little
sheepish she turned back when he didn't respond. Fang ran up to him again ready
to lick his face but a quick thought sent him mopping back to his bed.
This is even more awkward than waiting for some random person to leave. Why
would she come here without me to have tea with Hagrid? Was she that concerned
about her moke traps, or did they really have that much in common to talk about, like

being in Gryffindor without me? And why would they be talking about me, after she
was avoiding me so much? Probably because of the rumors about last night...
His headache was coming back and neither of the potions he carried would help with
that. Hagrid was clanging away in his makeshift kitchen, brewing another pot of tea
and grabbing a miniature cup he was trying not to break. Harry tried to relax and
calm his racing thoughts. Not wanting to think up some excuse and leave, he walked
over and sat down, deciding to suffer through it with forced dignity.
Hermione's eyes flicked to him and away, not wanting to meet his gaze. "Do you
need some help with that Hagrid?" She inquired, probably to avoid Harry's scrutiny.
''Na, I'll be fine, be right with yeh. - It's funny how things work out, ain't it? Yer jus'
startin' ter worry about Harry here and up he pops, settin' yer mind at ease. Bet yeh
was lookin' for her as well, weren't ya Harry?" Hagrid chuckled at the thought and
finally brought more tea with a few softer looking biscuits he made over. Hermione's
cheeks started to blush with the divulged information, but she sipped her tea in quiet.
"I was, but it's been a little hard trying to track her down lately." He felt badly about
where his thoughts were leading earlier but still wasn't happy about being avoided.
Hoping he might get an answer if she was looking for him now.
Her cheeks turned a little redder and she hesitantly took a biscuit to nibble on, or to
keep her hands occupied.
Sitting down Hagrid looked at the two of them, "Got that all sorted then..." He took a
biscuit and waited, but no one spoke. After a minute he grunted strangely, "Are yeh
two try'n ter find a new way ter communicate instead o' talking now? I heard
merpeople use a sort'a sign language when huntin', sounds might useful at times."
Hermione appeared to build up her courage and started to speak, "That does sound
useful Hagrid, the muggle military also do that when quiet is needed." She looked
down at her tea again, "But as for us, I think there's a little trouble communicating at
times. Not knowing what one wants or when the other needs time to think... I should
probably be going now anyway. Thank you for the tea and biscuits Hagrid, it's good
to see you're okay Harry." Getting up from the table she walked towards the door.
"Hermione, wait..." It seemed Harry wasn't going to get an answer after all.
"Not today Harry, I'm sorry. I have other plans. Bye." She opened and closed the
door behind her in one swift movement. Or as swift as possible for a first year to
move Hagrid's enormous door.

The stunned look on Hagrid's face was still there when Harry gave up and took a
biscuit, tentatively trying a bite. "These are really good Hagrid, what are they called?"
Hagrid's jaw flapped up and down a few times trying to catch up with what was going
on, "Huh? Uh, oh, they're called purfle biscuits." Harry coughed suddenly but
managed not to spit anything up. "Say, what's goin' on with yeh two lately? Havin' a
fight about somethin'? Shouldn't yeh be going after her?"
"Not really... I guess she just needs time alone. Ever since the troll incident she's
been a little distant, or a lot distant to me anyway. - That reminds me, I was meaning
to say I'm sorry for leaving the Great Hall when you were put in charge. I wasn't
really thinking that much and didn't consider how running off would affect other
people. So I'm sorry and I hope you didn't get in too much trouble because of us."
Ruffling Harry's hair, he laughed, "Don' worry about it, Dumbledore wasn't expectin'
me ter hold down every house elf who wanted ter help out. They're a might handy ter
have around, but always want ter help too much. Same wit' these biscuits 'ere,
helped me bake 'em, but wanted ter use chocolate or some nonsense in 'em instead
o' some chizpurfle shells. Gotta stop 'em at some point." He took another bite of one
and shot a grin at Harry.
Trying not to laugh Harry nodded along, "That's some good advice." In some
circumstances... just like all sensible rules and wisdom can have reasons to be
ignored. But that's about as rare as Hagrid baking something delicious.
They talked some more about house elves and trolls, Harry mentioning how he stuck
the troll's club to the floor and let it smack itself in the face when he released it.
Hagrid regaled him with a story about scareing off a forest troll with fire from his
pumpkin patch a few years back, and how he never thought the smell would go
away. They laughed about Harry's odd quidditch victory that Hagrid caught sight of,
and reminisced about his father, how he used to love quidditch and could have gone
professional once. It was fun talking to Hagrid, if not always intellectually stimulating.
He could see why Hermione would look for him here, and even want to come here
on her own at times. They soon finished the tea and batch of biscuits while talking
about other fantastical creatures Hagrid heard about.
Harry weaseled in the idea of going shopping during Christmas break, to see if
Hagrid might take him, since his relatives definitely wouldn't want to. Having to check
with Dumbledore first to make sure it was okay, Hagrid was more than willing to take
him out again. With that, Harry said his thanks and left him to tend to gamekeeper
duties.

oOoOo
Walking back to the castle Harry worked on his magical perception, barely sensing
someone waiting near the main entrance. It wasn't Draco and his gang or anyone he
knew closely, but still somewhat familiar. Whoever it was might not even be waiting
for him, but he wasn't too worried even so, with his easy successes against Draco
lately. He came over the rise to see an older student reading a book and leaning
against the stone steps to the entrance hall. It was Robert Hillard, who had probably
heard from Hermione where he was. Harry remembered Robert wanted to talk about
quidditch, maybe to invite him to try outs next year. Something else he would have to
confront before lunch.
Making his way up the steep dirt pathway Harry wondered why no one seemed to
use magical escalators or something similar. It was always, walk here, teleport there,
or bend space through this door and that one, but never make it easier walking from
place to place. He never walked so much in his life since coming to a magical
school. At least now he had a map and shortcuts, but he also had to be careful
people didn't see him enter or leave any.
Maybe all the walking is intentional, since no which or wizard seems to care about
physical fitness unless it's to ride a broom. That has to be it, a teacher or
headmaster must have thought of it, in place of any gym class, they simply walked
all the time. It couldn't be they always did it that way just because no one thought to
change it. They weren't that dull and uninventive, - were they?
Robert noticed him as he entered the courtyard, waved, and put his book away.
"There you are Harry, was almost worried you were avoiding me. Attaching a troll
would have to be the most extreme method anyone has taken in order not to talk
with me. Getting hospitalized two days in a row has been done though, that's why
I'm persistent."
"Ha, that sounds like you have girl troubles worse than I do."
That made Robert smile, "Girl troubles already? I think you might be ahead of the
whole school if you can solve that problem. My troubles on the other hand usually
stem from trying to convince studious Ravenclaws to try out for the quidditch team,
and actually spend time practicing. You wouldn't believe the excuses some of them
give, it's like they take me for a Hufflepuff who trusts in their loyalty. Sometimes I
wonder if there'll even be a quidditch team when I leave... But I'm just being
dramatic, most are passionate enough. That's where you come in, think you have
what it takes this year?"

Harry hesitated, "Honestly? I don't think so. I know everyone loves it, but I'm not
really into public competitions. The main reason why I did much in that amature
tournament was so I wouldn't be hit by a bludger. But the time off wasn't a bad
incentive either. I realize that might not convince you, so you're welcome to give me
your pitch if you want."
"Huh... The only difficulty I expected was talking you into practicing more than once a
week with us. Maybe get you in as seeker next year at the very least. The way you
predicted where the snitch was going to go was as good as the professionals, but
you don't even want to play? - I'm a little surprised, almost every first year in school
would probably jump at the chance to be seeker - if they weren't going to embarrass
themselves. You're not worried about that are you?"
Shaking his head, Harry responded, "Nope, I never was that interested in sports, I
only played football when I was younger because I thought every boy had to. I'm
hoping not everyone has to know about me refusing though? Somehow I get the
impression that declining to join a quidditch team as a first year would be even worse
than being the only one asked."
"Of course... I guess that cuts out my usual ploy to get you to practice with us until
you feel comfortable. - Think you might be willing to explain to Professor Flitwick? If I
told him the news he might not believe I really asked you."
Harry shrugged his shoulders, "Sure, might as well make it official. And I doubt he
has any other method to convince me either."
"Haha, you are a lot brighter than most. But I wouldn't be so sure about that, how do
you think he got me to be captain of the quidditch team and prefect in the same
year? He's not head of Ravenclaw house for nothing. Besides, he would want to
convince you to join every year if you don't explain it to him yourself. He should still
be in his office today."
The trek all the way up to the seventh floor took a few minutes while Robert
explained the virtues of quidditch. Some of the history he mentioned was interesting,
and the rest extremely difficult to believe, yet Harry was dealing with wizards, so he
made allowances in his estimation of accuracy.
Moving on, Harry asked what a professional player got paid. It turned out that the
highest paid ones got around two hundred Galeons per game, which didn't seem
that much considering the popularity of the sport and each team only played an
average twenty games per year. But then again, he saw an ad for a job in Diagon
Alley that paid only forty two galleons a month. Something was definitely strange

about wizarding currency, or the jobs they had.

When they arrived at Professor Flitwick's door Robert knocked loudly as Harry
gazed down the corridors leading to the hall of hexes, and before that, the hallway to
the disappearing room that they fought the trolls in. It was disconcerting that a girl
could get lost in a room without a door on it all the time, and somehow be followed
by two random trolls. The room wasn't even on the map he got from the twins, but
that wasn't saying too much. He figured it might be a good idea to question Lavender
about the incident, to see how she got there and if the trolls were already inside.
He was startled as the door banged open in front of him to reveal a very disgruntled
Professor, Kettleburn was the name Harry remembered. Having only one of each
limb made him a little too unique to forget, his eyes barely glanced at them as he
rushed by in a huff.
Knocking again on the open door, Robert looked towards the distracted and frazzled
Flitwick. "Mind if we come in Professor? Harry wanted to tell you his decision
himself."
"Ah? Oh, yes do come in. Have a seat, and don't mind the burn marks." Said the ash
covered professor.
The chair Harry sat down in was oddly shaped and looked to be built out of old
books and folded papers, much like the rest of the room. Everything was decorated
with blackened soot marks but those seemed to be unintentional and new. Beneath
the layer of grime Harry noticed more books and old scrolls stacked away in open
cabinets or piled in many individual shelves. Despite all the clutter it was still cozy
with rich blue tapestries on the walls and warm reddish wood underlying the whole
room, instead of the usual drab stone. Harry looked back to see Robert still standing,
then backing out of the room, "I'll get out of your hair now, but I tried my best
professor!" He gave Harry a smirk as he closed the door on his way out.
Sifting through stacks of messy papers and disheveled books Flitwick barely
acknowledged his hasty retreat. After several more minutes of watching the
professor maddeningly search around the room, Harry spoke up, "Excuse me
professor, but what are you looking for?"
"My wand, can't do much about this mess without it I'm afraid. Professor Kettleburn
seemed to have forgotten he was carrying an ashwinder egg in his pocket which was
improperly frozen once again, and made a mess of things. If you have a moment to
spare, would you help look as well? It must be around here somewhere..." He was
peeking underneath a giant tome of spells, nearly his own size.

A little confounded, Harry realized there wasn't a new trend in holding your wand at
the ready. It was stuck in the cuff of the professor's small and pointy wizards cap,
matching the plain olive colored robes he usually wore as well. The stick kept
bouncing back and forth on top of Flitwick's head as he tilted this way and that,
searching all around the room. Harry was having difficulty not laughing, "Um,
professor, is that it on top on your hat?"
Straightening up Flitwick looked at Harry in confusion before slowly raising a tiny
hand to his head, feeling around for it. Finally clasping his fingers around the wand
he gave a small high pitched chuckle, "That simply goes to show, even an expert
wizard can learn from some outside perspective." With a wave or two of his wand
the room started organizing itself back into place, furniture straightened up, and the
soot around the room began to disappear. It looked much better and Harry was
impressed by the sight of it, especially when multiple windows were revealed behind
the books which let in more light.
"There, I've been meaning to clean up lately. Now, what can I do for you young man,
I believe Robert said you were here to tell me something?"
"About that, I know some people may want me on the quidditch team, but I don't
think it would be much fun. Somewhat because I already figured out the trick with the
snitch. Though I didn't want to tell anyone else that unless it made them pressure me
even more." Harry spoke as he glanced at the moving lines of text, drifting along the
arms of his chair made of books.
"No fun? I guess sitting through a week long game does tend to discourage people...
but even being seeker doesn't hold your interest? And which trick to catching the
snitch did you find?" Flitwick's bushy eyebrows were raised and he leaned over his
desk with interest.
Having second thoughts, Harry figured it was safest to only reveal one or two things.
"That it reacts to your desire to catch it, so when you clear your mind it simply flies in
the same pattern. Also I believe my enchanted conspecs might be giving me too
much of an advantage."
"Conspecs?" He studied Harry's eyes closely, "Oh, yes, correct you are. Modified
glasses are against the rules, but would be simple to disable the spell during games.
And I should tell you that in professional matches there are more advanced and
faster snitches, since after years of practice almost every seeker realizes what you
already have. Besides, the real challenge is against other competent players, it can
get very exciting trying to influence the snitch at the right times." Harry shook his
head. "No? - Well there always are other positions you might like to try, beaters tend

to have lots of fun if they enjoy hitting things, but with your natural ability on a broom
I'm sure you would feel right at home in the chaser position. If nothing else you could
simply practice this year with the others and learn which fits you the best?"
Harry considered for a moment, but knew he simply didn't care enough. Not when
there was a whole world of magic to explore, and he didn't want to be stuck with
broom riding as his only useful talent because he didn't have time for anything else.
"I'm sorry sir, I don't think it's for me. Maybe someday I might be interested enough,
but not right now. While I do like flying, spending so much time practicing doesn't
seem worth it, and I wouldn't want to get special treatment to skip practices either."
Flitwick gave a lopsided smile, "You remind me a lot of myself in school, always so
studious and eager to learn new spells. Though I did regret not spending more time
playing with friends and having fun in my youth... But I had quite a lot of
entertainment in dueling competitions later. I guess it all balances out in the end,
yes? - I'm sure you will find your own wondrous path with talent like yours, although
if you ever get curious, you will be most welcome at the practices." He winked and
took out a tin of cupcakes. One jumped out and started dancing over the table
towards Harry.
He picked it up and laughed, it was just like Penny showed them at the start of the
year. "Thanks for understanding Professor Flitwick. By the way... do you happen to
know any good books on enchanting theory?"
"Oh-ho, you do have your sights set quite high." With another flick of his wand a
small book came floating down towards Harry who caught it. "I believe that one
might help get you started, but it is a very tricky art to study. Some people take many
years before they are able to enchant a single thing. Most often they are
discouraged by destroying too many valuable materials in the process of learning to
enchant in the first place. Be very careful before you try to enchant anything yourself,
and make sure you have a teacher present at all times, if you do. Since some spells
have a tendency to backfire catastrophically when enchanted wrong."
oOoOo
Thanking him one more time, Harry got up from his seat and left smiling with a new
book in his hand. Closing the door, left one thought nagging at him. Looking down
the sparsely lit corridor Harry followed his map towards where he remembered the
room was, while munching on the cupcake struggling in his hand. Turning the final
corner he saw someone else near the wall where it appeared. Of course, it was
Hermione. He was surprised how she ascertained where it was, but that was also
predictably Hermione, surprising everyone with her amazing knowledge. He could

see her frustration at not being able to find the room and could guess why she might
want to. He stood there to watch, finishing his cupcake, and wondering if she might
discover anything.
She had already told him to stay away once today, but he was determined to at least
apologize to her, for whichever thing he did to make her mad. Although her absent
mindedness cried out to be disturbed.
Slowly sneaking up behind her, he thought a distraction might get her talking. He
knew it wasn't a bright idea, yet it was almost irresistible when she was in such deep
thought, not caring about a thing in the world but the problem in front of her. She
chewed lightly on a loch of hair while staring at the blank wall in concentration. Harry
wished he knew a silencing spell but kept going all the same. Creeping up to a few
steps behind her, he opened the book in his hands and sat down on the stone floor.
"This is interesting."
The silence was broken by a piercing screech. Hermione jumped back from him,
breathing heavily and pointing her wand directly at his head. When their eyes met
she gave him an evil glare. Walking straight at him she pushed him down to the floor,
"Criminy Harry! I'm going to kill you one of these days! Don't hold me responsible the
next time you do that and I throw a blasting curse right at your head. What in Merlin's
name are you doing here anyway? Just come to show off your tracking skills again
and frighten me all at once?"
He laughed lightly while laying on the floor, "Maybe... or I just got done refusing to be
seeker of the Ravenclaw quidditch team and I thought to check on the disappearing
doorway. Though you might want to stay more aware, since it wouldn't be good if
you killed the headmaster because he spooked you one day."
"You know I get distracted when I'm thinking about something, and you snuck up
behind me on purpose! I would say that deserves a little blasting. Now what did you
say about a disappearing doorway?" She tapped her foot in agitation and kept the
glare she was beginning to perfect.
Harry just smiled up at her, "You're kind of cute when you're angry." That halted the
conversation immediately. And there was that unreadable expression back on her
face. He sat up again, "I... I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. I know
what happened in the infirmary was overstepping the bounds of our friendship and I
don't want to jeopardize that. I didn't mean to do anything creepy and I'm really sorry
if I did. I hope we can still be friends?"
She just stared at him, not moving a muscle or even blinking. He lasted a whole

minute of suffering under her gaze, until he broke, "Come on Hermione, please just
say something. I don't know what else to do, or why you're so mad at me. You're my
best friend, and I've never had one of those before. Please don't push me away by
just ignoring me!"
That broke her expression. She turned her face away and finally spoke, "You really
need to make up your mind about who you like. First I hear it's Padma, then Hannah,
then Lavender, and half the first year girls."
"Wait, Padma? All she does is torment me!"
Rolling her eyes at him, she continued, "Sometimes you can be really dense. You
know that right?" Harry tilted his head and nodded half heatedly. "Now be quiet and
let me finish."
"There have always been crazy rumors about you, and I never know what to believe
for sure. You confirm some, but I can't ask you about them all, especially certain
ones. Yet I come to find out about one you wouldn't want me to hear, that you've had
a crush on Lavender Brown and were using me to get close to her... I mean
Lavender of all people?" She shook her head in confusion, "But I ignored that as
well, seeing how much you liked her. Taking advantage of every opportunity you got,
offering your help against bullies, suggesting I keep Gryffindors like her close, and
secretly practicing your flying. You knew she liked quidditch players and I don't know
how you managed to get on our team, but you certainly impressed her in the end."
Her lips tensed while trying to swallow past the lump in her throat. "I even tried to be
happy for you two..."
She sighed heavily, "But then you get all weird when she goes missing, acting like
you barely care, to knowing exactly where she is, and trying to go save her on your
own. - Next thing I know, you're feeling me up while asleep and ogling me when you
think no one can see. Making me feel horrible because she can't stop talking about
how you saved her, and all you're doing is following me around. That's some pretty
messed up friendship if you ask me." She sniffed and turned her back to him.
The crushing weight of hurt and relief was flooding through Harry. He finally figured
out what was wrong, but a turmoil of emotions kept his throat strangled in fear.
Standing up with near tears in his eyes he took a step towards her. He tried to reach
out a hand to her but she pulled away. Throwing away his fear, pain, and insecurities
he stepped up close and wrapped his arms around her, hugging her tightly. She
resisted lightly but gave up and sniffed again. The pleasant smell of her hair and the
comforting hold on her let him speak once more.

"I know this sounds crazy, but there isn't anyone I care about more than you
Hermione. Maybe that's sadder than it is sweet, but you're the only one I can relate
to. I barely know Lavender, let alone have a crush on her. I've never even thought
about her in that way, and would never use you like that. You may think I'm a creep
for touching or watching you improperly, but I promise it'll never happen again. I don't
want to risk our friendship or have you stop speaking to me ever again. You're my
best friend in the world, and we have the most fun together. No one could replace
you. I think you know that." He felt better getting everything out, but all his hopes
hung on what she would say next.
Hermione stood there for a moment, shaking slightly, then turned around and
hugged him back, mumbling quietly while sobbing into his shirt, "Don't say never...
you muppet."

Chapter 13 - Friends
Chapter 13
Friends
Lunch bells rang, signaling the time to compose themselves. They slowly untangled
their arms, while Hermione tried to tame her frazzled hair, Harry adjusted his
disheveled robes, and both discreetly wiped away watery eyes. Harry looked for a
distraction and found one already in his hands, "Look what Professor Flitwick loaned
me, it's a book on enchanting theory."
Hermione chuckled at him with a knowing half smile. "You were serious... you turned
down being seeker."
He grinned back, "Yep. Oh, and you won't believe what I managed to get ahold of - a
real Hogwarts map. Want to take a secret passage to the ground floor?" Slipping it
out of his inner pocket he unfolding it in front of her.
This replaced her look of doubt with interest as they slowly headed towards the main
staircase. "Where did you manage to find this? Did Hagrid have it lying around in his
sock drawer or something?" She looked it over for secret passages but there were
only the regular hallways and rooms in great detail. "I don't see any way to get down
there any faster, what did you figure out this time?"
Harry tried to restrain his continuous grin, "I promised not to tell, or even show
anyone the secret passageways, but I'm sure an exception would be made for you.
I'll try to get you access, and maybe another map if you want. The only thing it
doesn't show is the disappearing room you were searching for, we might... or
hopefully someone can talk with Lavender to find out how she got in. Because even I
don't know why the door appeared when it did for me, it could be only available at a
certain time of day or something."
"You mean it wasn't there when you arrived? That's how you know it disappears... By
the way, are you going to tell anyone how you found Lavender?" She glanced at him
skeptically.
"We'll have to talk about that later, I promise, it's just I have... I have a meeting with
Dumbledore after lunch. Where I'll probably have to tell him about the troll incident,
and some other things. But right now, follow me." Leading her onto the sixth floor he
took her to the statue that mirrored the one on the ground floor. Flicking its elbow
revealed the entrance and he pulled Hermione in quickly so no one would notice.

Two short flights down and they were already exiting outside the entrance hall. "Like
it?"
Hermione nodded absentmindedly and stared back at the statue, probably burning
the location into her memory. Harry stepped in front of her, "Can we meet up after
my talk with Dumbledore is over, or do you really have other plans today?"
With a playful grimace she punched him lightly, "Since you startled me from my other
plans and gave me some new information, I guess I can get back to it another time.
And if you get me a copy of that map, all is forgiven." They entered the Great hall
and walked down the aisle together.
"I'll meet you in our usual spot then at around two?" Hermione nodded at him and
they sat down back to back once again.
oOoOo
Harry returned to enter the antechamber in the Great Hall after everyone had left.
Finding the portrait already open and Dumbledore nowhere to be seen, he headed
up the stairway to the office. Checking his map quickly, he noticed this shortcut
wasn't noted on the map either. Probably because the Weasley twins couldn't sneak
into the headmaster's office even if they tried. Exiting out of the other portrait he
smelled the unique scent of toasting marshmallows. Seeing Dumbledore sitting in
their usual alcove holding a thin piece of wood towards the fire confirmed the notion.
Relaxing into the chair beside him, Harry felt whole once again. Hermione was
talking to him, he had apologized to almost everyone he needed to, and no trace of
last night's nightmare remained except the memory. He decided to tell Dumbledore
the details, since if anyone might be able to help or understand the mysterious
magic, it was this man. Roasting a marshmallow over the fire in some plain robes, he
looked almost like a regular person sitting there. Until he wordlessly conjured
another wooden skewer out of thin air and set it down beside Harry. They had
somehow become a lot more casual with each other over the passing month, and
felt at ease simply enjoying each other's company. Maybe that was inevitable when
training in occlumency and sharing personal memories with another person, yet
Harry couldn't help holding some things back.
Starting first, Harry spoke, "So what would you like to hear about first? The quidditch
game, the troll incident, or last night's indie horror film?" Dumbledore was pulling off
a roasted marshmallow onto a crumpet and put a piece of chocolate on as well. "Are
you trying to make s'mores? I've heard they're made with graham crackers though,
and similar to chocolate teacakes or wagon wheels."

Dumbledore jumped up in excitement, "Ah-ha, graham crackers! That was the name
I could not remember. Thank you dear boy, you have saved us from a most dreadful
fate. Coda." A hunched and aged house elf with greenish skin popped into existence
beside him. "Would we happen to have any graham crackers in the castle?"
"Not believing so sir, make them the kitchen could if you like. Requested they have
been, by foreign students in the past." He bowed while answering.
Taking a small bite out of the crumpet s'more Dumbledore's face twisted slightly,
"Hmm, I suppose we will need them after all. Only a small batch if they can Coda.
Thank you." The house elf disappeared again with another slow bow and flourish at
the words.
Harry chuckled quietly but became curious all the same, "What's your opinion on the
idea of owning house elves? Hermione kind of reacted badly to the idea, but I
suppose most muggleborn might, growing up with a history of freeing slaves as the
moral thing to do, after millennia of it being common. I guess even wizards owned
human slaves in the past, but I haven't seen much about it in the history books. That
probably ended in 1689 when wizards all started hiding from muggles, so they
missed the global trend of banning slavery I imagine."
"That is quite admirable of you to pay attention in Professor Binns' class Harry...
many cannot manage the same."
Harry shook his head, "Neither can I, I just read the books. Maybe you can tell me
why you keep a ghost on as Professor some other time though." And such a mind
numbingly boring one at that.
Sitting down again Dumbledore let a droll smile touch his face and considered the
original question, "While Hogwarts must own house elves legally, it has been since
Helga Hufflepuff first brought them to Hogwarts in the tenth century, that this place
was intended to be a sanctuary for them. Away from true ownership, allowing them
to live however they wish. I have tried to uphold that ideal as well. There are no real
rules or restrictions on them here, although they are asked to avoid students, since
some have been taken advantage of, or abused in the past. Very rarely do students
ever seek them out, so I was astonished to learn of your friendship with Kolie and
the rest, especially so soon after arriving here. I can only imagine the reaction of new
muggleborn students, since their presence has been part of Hogwarts to me, for so
many years now. But I have considered similar thoughts to yours as for why the
practice is still allowed, despite my attempts to change it."
"I see, I'm sure Hermione would like to know all that. I guess student abuses are also

why they aren't mentioned in the usual Hogwarts history textbook. We had to search
for a while even to find out anything written about them." Just then, Coda popped in
front of them holding a plate laden with crispy brown crackers, full of little dot like
perforations, topped with sugar and what smelled like a hint of cinnamon.
Dumbledore thanked Coda again and offered to roast a marshmallow for him.
Refusing of course he asked if there was anything else they needed and then
popped away with satisfied grin.
Dumbledore relaxed back in his chair with relish, and his eyes twinkled madly at
Harry when he offered a marshmallow on a stick to him. Harry accepted it with a
chuckle at how someone so old could get so excited about sweets. They roasted the
marshmallows over hot coals while continuing the conversation. "I have to admit
Harry, I was a little disappointed in your quidditch match against Draco. With your
skill it looked as if you could have beaten him more than fairly without resorting to
using your mental abilities."
"I don't know why everyone expects me to be so great, it isn't like I've had any
practice at quidditch, and not much in flying as well. I know I was given the
advantage when I realized the snitch responds to your desire for it. But I didn't want
to be ground into the stands while chasing after a ball, so I just influenced where it
would go instead."
Looking quizzically at him Dumbledore inquired further, "You mean you were
manipulating the snitch and not Draco? I.. It appeared that you were forcing Draco to
chase dangerously after the snitch and crash into both the ground and another
student, while you easily manage to avoid him and catch the snitch."
At Harry's dismayed expression he continued, "I admit I can vaguely sense your
mental spell sent at people but I did not consider you could use that on the snitch
instead, as most mental spells do not work on the nonliving. This revelation is
astonishing, and might account for some unusual occurrences in famous quidditch
games, if another Wizard could use a similar spell. It also explains how thoroughly
you were able to predict where the snitch was headed in that last moment. I am
sorry for thinking so badly of you. Although using your special glasses and being
able to control the snitch is not precisely fair... luring another student into a
dangerous situation is not only unkind, but malicious." Dumbledore's marshmallow
caught fire and he had to blow it off, revealing a charred outside that disappointed
him further.
"I know, I only meant for him to lose the snitch or get knocked off his broom at first,
like he almost did to me. Honestly, I didn't try to run him into Lavender, or even see
her there. As for cheating, I admit it has become habit to take advantage of my

powers at times..." Or when Draco is acting like an ass.

Refastening another marshmallow Dumbledore nodded, "I hope you keep that in
mind and play fairly in any official matches from now on. We definitely would not
want anyone finding out you can manipulate the snitch or the whole international
quidditch league would be up in arms."
"Actually... I turned down the offer. Playing quidditch and practicing riding a broom all
the time doesn't appeal to me, especially knowing I could win at any time but holding
back to play fair. As I was telling Robert and professor Flitwick, I like flying but
quidditch isn't my idea of fun. Finding useful spells and inventive magic is much
more appealing. In addition I think it would be better for me to stay out of the
spotlight with all the harmful rumors and talk still circulating." Harry took the perfectly
toasted marshmallow off his skewer and assembled the pieces together. Taking a
bite was messy but oh so delicious and gooey. I'll definitely have to share this idea
with Hermione and the rest. Packaged Wagon Wheels barely even compare.
Dumbledore concentrated on his marshmallow this time, even with the surprising
news. Although his eyebrows jumped in reaction for him, "I have to say, your father
would be disappointed, being a quidditch champion himself. On the other hand, your
mother would be delighted at your sensible choice to avoid playing a dangerous
game at such an age. I suppose you have six more years if you ever change your
mind."
It took another second or two before Harry could respond with the sticky treat in his
mouth. "So would you like to hear how I found Lavender or fought the trolls now?"
"That part seems mostly self explanatory due to your past descriptions of your
abilities. I should have guessed you might be able to find Miss Brown, yet seeing a
giant tree trapping one troll, and the force at which you threw that bit of metal does
astound me. - Would you like to talk about being responsible for the death of such a
creature? Or what motivated you to take such action?"
"I think you know that last part as well, and it didn't feel sentient to me despite its
human like form. I didn't revel in its death if that's what you're worried about, but I
also didn't feel compelled to show compassion after what it did. Did I do anything
you think was wrong there?"
"Not as such, although I do wish you could have contacted me or another teacher
before tiring Kolie to the point of fainting at my feet."
Shrugging, Harry countered, "It was miscommunication, but if you have some spare
communication mirrors or a way to send messages faster than an owl, I'd be more

than willing to use that next time you let some trolls in the castle."
Dumbledore glanced knowingly at Harry and began building his own s'more, but
managed to squeeze out fluff from one side to drop on his robe. He shrugged and
kept talking while trying to eat it all at once. "I was much more, interested in... what
happened in your nightmare, last night. Spontaneously bleeding scars, and burnt
hands, are something we must watch out for." His long beard was smudged with
more white fluff and crumbs as he devoured the warm sweet.
Hary laughed briefly at the sight, "With all the rumors of the troll I hope last night gets
lost in all the speculation. It's a good thing no one can find that room we fought in or
it might even be more crazy. By the way, do you know why that room disappeared, or
how Lavender and I even found it?" Harry attached another marshmallow to his
skewer and put it back over the dying fire.
"Sometimes the youth have so many advantages..." Dumbledore looked down at the
mess on himself, then cast a cleaning charm and it was gone, "But we wise old
wizards are not without out any strengths. To combine your talents and my
experience is what this school should strive towards. - I do not know exactly what it
is, but it felt similar to a lavatory I found years ago, when I was in a hurry to find one."
Harry looked at him dubiously.
"It also seemed akin to a storage room I found a unique object in last year, it was
exactly what I needed. But I can give no further clues or you would learn nothing on
your own. Please continue your tale about last night." He squished two more
marshmallows onto his skewer and rested it in mid air over the fire, slowly turning on
their own.
Harry began to tell him about the feeling of hate that entered his mind, how it started
earlier in the day, and he had fought it off. Later that night it was more insistent and
caused him nightmares, sensing it was somehow foreign, he realized it wasn't part of
his dream and caught it. Burning it in the fire of his mind, it struggled and fought him
but before he could destroy it Penny woke him up. Probably saving his life in the
process. Dumbledore asked a few questions during his story but was quiet at the
end.
After another s'more each he finally spoke up, "It might be wise to not try that again,
and only push it out of your mind. That is until your are much older and we have
found some better explanation for this event. Or protection for you against it."
"So I'm supposed to simply hope it doesn't come back again? - And are you going to
tell me how two fully grown mountain trolls made it to the seventh floor of the castle

without your knowledge?" He looked up to observe Dumbledore's reaction. Or will

you simply change the topic once again?
He winced minutely at the question, "That I'm afraid is my fault, having tasked
professor Quirrell with procuring a troll to guard a door, I did not suspect he would try
for two wild ones at the same time, let alone lose control of them in the hallways. As
for how they made it to the seventh floor, they must have been chasing Miss Brown
for some reason. I have ensured it will not happen again though."
"That's good at least." Harry resisted commenting on his poor choice of teachers.
Instead he picked up one more marshmallow and glided it to the center of the coals,
holding it in mid air with wandless magic. Slowly roasting it on all sides to a perfect
golden brown, he floated a piece of chocolate to it and melted it slightly as well. Then
brought it back to sit gently between two more graham crackers, making the most
perfect s'more.
Watching him control multiple objects effortlessly, Dumbledore spoke, "It might be
better to restrict your use of any advanced magic as well, until you are fully healthy
again. This dark magic might have been able to affect you recently because of your
weakened state, having passed out the day before from using too much magic
against the trolls. Conserving your energy and getting lots of sleep should help if that
is the case."
A nod of acknowledgment was enough between them. "Does that mean we don't
have to practice today? Trying to manipulate my thoughts and defend from mind
attacks doesn't sound fun right now."
"I would imagined so, given recent occurrences. Next week then. - Now, I can not
reveal my sources, but I hear tell that you might be planning a birthday party for
Hagrid next month. If so, may I be invited as well? He is a good friend and I would
enjoy helping in any way."
Harry might have been surprised if he hadn't gotten to know Dumbledore over the
last month. However much he acted the proper wise old wizard at times, he was just
a big kid at heart who cared a lot about his friends. "Alright, but we were planning on
bringing everything to his place after dinner on his birthday, so it won't fit too many
extras."
"Understood." He nodded gravely, "Please let me know when my help is needed."
Standing up and stretching Harry smiled and motioned to his last s'more, "Do you
happen to have anything to carry this in? I was planning on sharing one with
Hermione if it didn't get all over the place."

The twinkle in Dumbledore's eyes shined brightly once more, "Sharing treats with
friends, one of my favorite past times... Now let me see here, I should have just the
thing."
They walked over to his desk and he reached deep into one of his drawers, shifting a
few things around he finally pulled out, Tupperware? "Muggles do make some
wonderful and creative devices these days. Although it gets hard to keep up with any
of it, I sometimes find useful items like these. I even managed to squeeze in a
preserving, and warming charm on it, so it should be perfect. I would like it returned
later though, having lost a few on my own already."
Nearly laughing at the house-wife imitation, Harry thanked him and made a quick
exit.
oOoOo
On the second floor corridor Harry exited out beside the massive stone gargoyle,
which moved back into place to the din of grating stone on stone, ending with what
sounded like an exasperated huff. He looked back at the passive chiseled face and
squinted at it in contemplation. But soon was interrupted by whimpering sounds of a
young student. Harry followed the noise towards a hallway at the end of the corridor
with his wand at the ready, having recently learned that any cries warranted caution.
Peeking around the corner he saw where the noise was coming from.
It was a young Gryffindor boy trying to pull himself up with the help of a doorhandle
while his legs were locked together. He looked familiar but Harry hadn't tried to
remember everyone's names yet. He fell to the floor again with another whimper,
after the doorhandle slipped out of his weak grip. Wiping the snot from his nose with
what looked like an already moist sleeve, he tried again. Harry stepped around the
corner to help when he felt the presence of someone else farther down the hall. It
was Draco, but by himself this time.
He jumped back behind the wall and expanded his senses to search for the other
two who were probably lying in wait somewhere else, but came up empty. Did I
finally succeed? Did they abandon Draco or did he leave them? If this is a trap for
someone, then it doesn't seem to have helped curb the bullying much. But I can't
expect instant results either, maybe he'll start to mellow with time now that there's no
one to encourage him. I suppose I better help his victim out, but what would be the
best way...
Deciding on a little long distance spellwork, Harry peeked an eye around the corner
again to give the boy a boost. Gently helping him up to his feet received only a cry of

alarm.
"There's someone over there trying to help!" He pointed directly at Harry. What, an,
idiot.
Draco came bolting down the hallway after him, and Harry took off as well. Not
wanting to trip Draco while running, in case he fell face first into the unforgiving stone
floor and died. Quickly ducking into the side door of a darkened lecture hall, Harry
closed the door behind him and tried to calm his breathing while opening his senses.
He felt Draco run past, but also sensed other people in the room with him.
Turning around, he saw a large light shining against the wall he was next to. The
light originated in the middle of the room, from what looked like an exceedingly old
fashion slide projector. It had bronze metal work and a wooden frame that changed
slides at the wave of a wand from an older boy at the front of the class. Though
Harry couldn't see what the image was.
Reading off a cue card, the boy spoke, "What we are seeing here is a bunch of big
breasted, brown, boobies... bouncing on bananas... in the Bahamas." Harry's
eyebrows knitted in bewilderment as boisterous laughter filled the room. "Alright,
who's the jokester that added this one? This is a birding club, not your personal
pranking grounds." More laughter followed as two distinctly red haired individuals
could be seen rushing out the opposite door of the lecture hall, cracking up as they
left. "Weasleys!"
It was another few minutes before the room quieted again and order was restored.
That's when Harry heard the voices outside his door, "Where'd they go
Longbottom?" That's right, Harry thought, he's the one from the boat ride over,
Neville.
"I... I don't know..." He sniffled.
"Bleeding squib, even a piece of rotting troll flesh would be better bait than you.
Forget about me asking Snape to lay off, I'll tell him I saw you spitting in your
cauldron next time you cockup."
"B-but you promised, on your family honor!?"
"Ha! Like your family would know anything about honor, bunch of blood traitors. Have fun getting to the seventh floor with your legs stuck together."
Harry heard the Gryffindor being pushed down and whimper again as he hit the floor.
As he felt Draco walk away, Harry opened up the door a crack and tripped him when

he started to turn a corner. Causing more cursing down the hallway.

Not knowing the counter-jinx to free Neville, Harry opened the door all the way to let
the light in the room, getting the other's attention and angry responses from inside
the room. He stepped outside and looked at the pitiful sobbing Gryffindor. "Next time,
tell a prefect or teacher instead of trusting someone like him." Then he walked away,
leaving him there.
oOoOo
Making his way back to the Ravenclaw library, Harry took another shortcut on his
map to the seventh floor and quickly checked for the disappearing doorway, but it
still wasn't there. So he walked back down to the sixth floor, all the while wondering
how much he should tell Hermione about everything. Coming up behind her reading
intently in their window nook, he nearly gave into scaring her again, but resisted.
Instead he sat down beside her and peeked over at what she was reading,
Beginner's Occlumency, Harry almost laughed. Just when he was wanting to avoid
the topic with Dumbledore, she was getting interested.
"You might want to guard your back before you delve deeper into your mind, you
keep forgetting to stay aware of your surroundings."
"Or, you might be lucky to restrain yourself from trying to frighten me." She lifted her
poised wand from behind the book and smirked at his raised eyebrows.
"So now you're trying to lure me in, acting all bookish and innocent, only to take
revenge. Maybe you don't deserve a special treat after all..." She glanced over at the
small container he took out of his pocket but continued her book, ignoring him. She's
cute even when acting smug... And I'm supposed to be resisting those thoughts,
damn it.
"Never mind, you've got to try one of these, they're amazing." He opened the lid and
held out the s'more to her but she kept ignoring him, simply to needle him a little
more. "You better try it before it gets cold. Otherwise I might eat it up and you'd have
to ask the elves to make a special batch, just for you."
Hermione tried to hide her grin from him but was doing a terrible job, "Fine, if you
insist."
Picking it up she examined it a little and took a tentative bite. Her eyes widened
while trying to keep pieces from falling all over, "Wow, did Kolie decide to spoil you
today or what? This is amazing!" Taking small bites with a hand underneath, Harry
moved her book so she wouldn't spill any on it. She nodded in thanks, not wanting to

try talking again.

"Dumbledore got the ingredients, the house elves made the graham crackers, and
we roasted them while talking. They're called s'mores and are from the states. Oh,
and he wants to come to Hagrid's birthday party with us." Hermione coughed a little
and looked at him, trying to discern his truthfulness. "Don't know how he found out,
but he offered to help in any way. Plus he gave me a few hints on the disappearing
door when I asked, though they're a little weird. One was that the room seemed
similar to a lavatory he found once."
A wry look of disbelief played across her face as she licked at the bits of
marshmallow on her hands, "You know, I almost believe you sometimes, until you go
beyond rubbish with your jokes."
That made Harry chuckle even while trying not to, "Your 'not impressed' expression
is great, but I don't think I have ever lied to you. I may have been a little economical
with the truth... but never lied. Dumbledore also told me that he found a really useful
item in a storage room like that, just when he needed it. It almost sounds like it
appears when it's supposed to, like a lame plot device or something."
Her disbelief turned into a half smile, "Seriously? You expect me to believe your joke
about controlling the snitch as well?"
With a sheepish grin he nodded, "But you can't tell anyone, otherwise it might
destroy wizarding society as we know it, or maybe just quidditch. Who knows?"
"You are serious! What a cheat! How on earth did you figure that out? Was it
anything to do with what you did while fighting the troll? Because there were some
strange things going on then..." He didn't respond immediately so she prodded his
shoulder to get him to talk. He still didn't respond so she kept at it, beginning to
giggle as he sat motionless.
Clouds parted outside the window and light shined in, illuminating her laughing face
with the blue flower still pinned near her collar. She never seemed to go anywhere
without it, even when she was ignoring him. It should have been obvious to him
before, but in that moment he knew that he trusted her, and could tell her anything.
Maybe not all at once though, just in case he scared her away again. Harry decided
it was time to really let her in, so she knew who he was. Even with the short span of
time they knew each other, it felt right. She would always be his friend.
He looked around and let his senses search for anyone close but the library was
deserted. Pulling their chairs together with his wand, Harry began, "You're right. Ever since I was about seven, I was able to send thoughts to people, and apparently

to magical objects like the snitch too. That's how I told you where Lavender was and
why the troll kept screaming, I sent it a thought of the sun. I know it sounds mental,
but it's the truth... I was afraid to tell you before now because of what you might think
of me."
Concern with a reassuring smile greeted him as Harry looked back at her from
scanning the room. "Harry, that's amazing! I thought that felt like your magic when
the idea entered my mind. But you don't have to worry about what I might think of
you, we all had some strange things happen with magic when we were kids. Padma
told me she changed Parvati's mouth into a duckbill once because she was pulling
her hair, Sue admitted to making her toad grow so much as a child that they couldn't
shrink it back to normal. And the stories Fred and George tell about their underage
magic are much, much worse. Even I lit a boy's pants on fire once because he was
making up lies about me. Luckily it didn't burn him like bluebell flames, or I don't
know what would've happened. - Just because you're still doing it doesn't mean
anything's wrong, I heard Seamus Finnigan keeps regrowing his eyebrows without a
wand every time he burns them off."
"This isn't an accident or unintended magic Hermione, I learned to control it, just like
I've been practicing how to sense where people are. That's how I found out about
Draco bullying you three before Halloween, when you were late that day I tracked
you to the dungeons and overheard what happened. It's how I knew where Lavender
was as well. I've barely told anyone about what I can do yet, because it's supposedly
an ominous sign of being a potential dark lord or some nonsense. It's not that I
believe it's shameful, but what others might assume. The rumor mill around here is
completely barmy already, if it got around that I can perform wandless magic and
influence minds... it would be bad." Harry sent the words to her mind, 'believe me
now?'
Her eyes widened at the unsaid thought and her voice dropped to a whisper while
leaning even closer, "That's incredible Harry! How do you do it? Is it like a spell you
imagine casting, similar to the description of learning nonverbal spells? Does your
wand help with either? Do they have anything to do with legilimency, if so maybe you
could teach it?"
She continued speculating and asking questions eagerly, while Harry forgot about
his worries. The news was expected to make her wary, not spark her interest in
learning. He definitely should have known better.
After about a minute of her questions, writing down ideas, and forming plans to try
testing the limits of his abilities, he interjected before she got too far ahead. "Okay, I'll
try to teach you, but it might be really hard because they're not regular spells. It's not

like the description of nonverbal spells, but who knows in practice. It might be similar
to legilimency except I've never done that, and I don't need to enter your mind to
send a thought. I read about a spell called homenum revelio which sounds very
similar to how I sense people, so that might be easier to learn. As for the rest, we've
got lots of time to figure it all out. Just imagine though, if you learn how to send
thoughts too, we'll be able to cheat without anyone noticing, even at exams."
Hermione's stunned expression of horror overrode the interested grin she was
wearing, "WHAT?" She couldn't be more incredulous if someone said her real name
wasn't Granger.
Harry cracked up laughing, "Oh that was too good to pass up. You should have seen
your face, the flap you were in was priceless. But really, the possibilities are
immense."
The glare she gave him was her best yet. It only made Harry laugh more though,
because now he knew what a really angry otter looked like. She was still holding the
crumbs from her s'more, so she threw them at him. They bounced away a foot from
his head and fell to the floor as if splashing against an invisible window. Her jaw
hung open for a second, "Noooooo! That's no fair Harry! How did you do that one?
You're going to tell me all your secrets right this minute or.. or I'm going to - to never
share another spell or trick I learn, especially occlumency!" She clutched her book
close and looked at him with a stern pout.
Trying to suppress his continued laughter at the irony, he held the back of his hand
over his mouth. "I'm sorry," he struggled to continue. "I guess you know almost
everything now, might as well tell you the rest. - I can move objects by thinking about
it, that was the first thing I ever managed to do consciously. That was what made me
practice doing all the rest. The last thing I managed to try before coming to Hogwarts
was this." Checking for any spectators again he held his hand in the shadows of his
cloak so only she could see and let the electricity spark along his fingers.
Staring at the curious sight Hermione frowned and tried to make sense of things, it
took a moment or two to respond, "What, did you watch star wars too much as a
child or something?" His response was not what she expected.
Harry just looked back at her with a small smirk and eyebrows bunched together. "I
would ask how you found out, but it's more likely your powers of deduction are
beyond imagining. Or maybe it's really obvious when I demonstrate one after the
other. But yes, when I was seven I tried to imitate the movies, so when I succeeded
you can guess what I thought..."

"Oh my gosh! - You thought you were a Jedi instead of a wizard! That's why you can
do all of these wandless spells... Harry, that must have taken forever! And it wasn't
too big of a leap after all the star wars references you've made in the past. Plus
sending thoughts into my head reminded me of Obi Wan doing that to Luke. Yes, I
watched it many times as well. I bet every kid tried moving objects and using the
Jedi mind trick after watching those movies, but no one actually expected it to work!
Except you..."
She shook her head at him, thinking of how many years of practicing magic he had
over her. No wonder I can barely keep up sometimes. He may not know the books
but in practical experience he has us all beat hands down. He's almost like a fifth
year who forgot his spells. Maybe even higher because we don't learn nonverbal
spells until sixth year, and who knows when you're supposed to pick up wandless
magic. Her estimation of his powers increased, dramatically.
"And you're not going to like this last secret too much..."
Her mind raced to think of something she wouldn't like, and found it only too soon,
"Don't tell me you lifted up my skirt that first time!?" Which made her think of more,
"Or made me think about you like that in the hospital! You shifty little!" Her face was
neon red again from the memories.
"No, no no no no no No, NO! Nothing like that at all, I would never do anything like
that to you, I promise." Harry held his hands up in protest, "It's only something you
might find annoying, I'm... learning occlumency from Dumbledore, that's why I'm
busy every Saturday afternoon. The first day we met at Hogwarts was actually when
he told me about that kind of magic, and why I came here to look it up." He tried not
to think too much about what she said, saving that for later. But now that she brings
it up, I should have pulled her skirt right with wandless magic that day instead of
saying something. Although I was a little distracted at the time... No, can't keep
remembering that.
Finally Hermione's face was blank with a fading red glow, after so much emotion in
one setting she was finished. "Alright, I've had enough surprises today, if you have
any more just save them for another time. Let's go practice some spells before
dinner, since I might have some unintended magic of my own if this keeps going."
She shoved him back down in his chair as he got up, and then grinned. "See you
there!" Racing off ahead, Harry just watched her go.
oOoOo
When he finally arrived at the dueling room she was practicing alone on a dummy

that was left from the last time. He mentioned to Hermione that he wasn't supposed
to exert himself magically so he practiced his aim with the verdimillious charm, as it
required little magic. Most of the time he watched her out of the corner of his eye and
wondering what she meant about thoughts in the hospital. Her spectacular display of
magic kept distracting him though. She knew every regular spell he did now and was
performing one after the other. Some, she barely managed to get an effect from, like
accio and stupefy, but was getting better all the time. Their friendly rivalry and
common goals seemed to push them way ahead of every other student in first year,
at least in terms of spell casting. Even Padma and Sue who were near the top of
classes with Harry, and even practiced with them, didn't seem to be close. Of course
practicing almost every other day with each other made the most difference, yet they
seemed to care more as well. Especially now, with recent real life events to motivate
them further.
Hermione stopped for a moment to catch her breath, and glanced over at him as he
quickly looked away again. She stood there for a little while shooting him fleeting
looks while he lazily practiced his aim.
"Okay, what are you thinking about now?" Harry asked, unable to stand it any longer.
"You haven't sent anyone letters yet, have you?"
Confused by her random question, he slowly responded, "Uh, no. Why, was I
supposed to or something? There isn't a wizarding letter writing holiday I missed is
there?"
She shook her head while deep in thought. "No, I'm just wondering where she got
them."
"Who? And what are you talking about?"
"It's not important... I hope." Hermione bit her lip while turning away and thinking
more. If he didn't send Lavender those letters then who did? I'm not even supposed
to know about them, but it's hard not to overhear all the giggling discussions
Lavender and Parvati had on the subject. The only reason why I believed any of
those rumors is because I snuck in her drawers to have a peek, and they were all in
his handwriting. They didn't sound like him, but how could anyone imitate it that
well... Magic of course. There must be some spell to copy handwriting, but who
would do such a thing? Should I even tell Harry?
Hermione looked back at him, as he turned his head away from meeting her eyes
again. Harry was throwing his spells randomly now, barely even aiming, and she
knew that meant he was lost in thought as well. Of course I should tell him,

especially now that he revealed all that to me. But how would that make him feel,
and what would he do then? Confront Lavender and demand to see something no
one should know about? They'll obviously know it was me who told after he says he
didn't write them. That won't help catch who's doing this, it'll only start another rumor,
and get the other Gryffindors to hate me again. Oh no... That's probably the only
reason why they pay attention to me in the first place, because I'm friends with Harry.
Was it the other way around? Was Lavender being friendly just to get to Harry? No, I
shouldn't think so badly of people, that's how I almost screwed things up with Harry.
He's got too much on his mind lately for me to tell him, with all those horrible rumors
and hospital visits. I don't know what to do anymore...
She began casting spells with more force than before, working her frustrations out
on the dummy.
Harry hoped she was alright, and not any more absentminded after what happened
to her. Going back to his contemplations, he was curious how Hermione reacted to
the memory of being slammed into a tree, or if she even remembered. It still
disturbed him to think about, but he wasn't going to shy away from it, instead he
would use it to motivate himself. He wouldn't let that happen again. The only
question was, how.
Defense training is the first step, which can be used in any situation no matter how
advanced our magic becomes. There are bound to be innumerable books on the
subject so I have to find someone who is already considered a master to know what
to read even. Dumbledore might give advice but he probably doesn't have more time
to help train us. He mentioned someone else good in defense at their first meeting,
Alistor, or something like that, who might be another candidate. Supposedly
professor Flitwick was a dueling champion and might be able to help. Medals for
dueling teams at Hogwarts are in the trophy room, but a club for it doesn't seem to
exist now. Maybe I can convince professor Flitwick to start it up again?
That would serve as a beginning, but for our age magical artifacts might be the most
effective defense. Yet every powerful object we've read about seemed to be lost
relics, or extremely rare and already owned by ancient wizards in far off lands. No
one today is able to create novel artifacts or replicate old feats. All they do is
manufacture slightly better racing brooms and some common trinkets. Sure, some
might be useful like an expanding trunk and invisibility cloak, but where was the
impenetrable armor, or scabbard that never let you bleed? Why couldn't any wizard
create another sword like Fragarach? It almost seems like someone is actively
impeding progress, or wizards have gotten so lazy that no one cares enough to try.
Whatever the reason, Harry was determined to find any useful items available, and
simply create the rest in the future.

While pondering their options Harry realized he was openly starting at Hermione
now. She hadn't noticed yet, being too intent on trying to cast a new spell, Protego.
About to turn away, he saw something odd about her wand. There was a short dark
line down the side of it, almost resembling a crack. "Hermione, what's that on your
wand?"
It took her a second to register the words while practicing but when she did, her
wand shot down beside her, vainly trying to conceal it. "It's nothing, we should be
going now, almost time to eat."
Giving his finest cynical stare, Harry walked over to her and put his hand out. Very
reluctantly she glanced at his face, then slowly placed her wand in his hand. "It's
fine, you're just going to make a bigger deal out of it than it really is. That's why I
didn't want to tell you."
"When did this happen? Was it Draco?"
"No, it happened when... I got hit, or at least it was that way after waking up in the
hospital. There's nothing you can do though and it still works perfectly fine. So give it
back now." And I really don't want to give you even more to be bothered about.
Upon inspection it was only a hairline crack, about an inch or so in the middle of her
wand. Harry couldn't tell any difference in her spells, but he thought she might be
compensating by merely training more. "I'm sorry Hermione, - there's got to be some
way to fix it though. Wands can't be impossible to fix for no reason. We'll figure it out
together." He handed back her wand and she nodded, pocketing it.
Bells chimed for dinner, and Hermione picked up her book bag shaking off the
conversation. "Want to try finding that disappearing door after dinner Harry? Maybe if
you don't distract me this time, I might be able discover a way in."
"That's it! The disappearing door, Peeves said something about it a while back, when
he kept talking in alliterations. It detects your deepest desires. Just like the hints
Dumbledore mentioned, it knew what he needed and appeared each time. We'll
definitely have to go back, and maybe I'll show you how to get in!" He stuck out his
tongue at her and fled before she could reply with a spell.
oOoOo
He smirked at her as she arrived in the great hall a few minutes later, after storing
her books. She still sat right behind him, and halfway through dinner he found out
why, when a cherry pit hit the back of his head. Turning around with a suspicious
look in his eye, Harry saw her repressed grin and pink cheeks at having done

something so mischievous. Shaking his head, he turned back around. But during
dessert he saw bowls of ice cream, sitting in trays of ice to keep cool and thought of
the perfect way to get her back. Discretely, he floated a tiny piece of ice across the
aisle at foot height, only to raise it up behind Hermione and drop it down the back of
her shirt.
Cringing and arching her back in shock, she managed to resist the urge to scream
out and instead balled her hands into fists trying to bear the cold surprise sliding
down her back. She shivered as it reached her lower back and covertly reached
behind to grab it before it went any further. Luckily Harry turned his head back
around before she managed to give him a glare of death.
But he wasn't so lucky when she stepped on his foot after they got up from the table.
She was so light that it didn't hurt, but the real surprise was when she shoved a
handful of large ice cubes down his shirt as well. Thankfully he didn't tuck in his shirt
and they fell quickly through, feeling only a slight chill. With a triumphant smile Harry
said, "After you." and waved her forward.
She ground her heel a little more and with a similar smile mumbled, "Prat," then
walked away.
Catching up to her before the stairs, Harry tapped her on the shoulder and waved
her back to the secret passageway. He followed in behind her when no one was
looking. She ran up the stairs before him, but waited at the stone door peeking out.
When he caught up with her she whispered quietly, "Professor Snape is out there
already, how did he get here before us? Did you see him leave dinner early?"
"I don't know, your foot kind of distracted me. What's he doing?" Harry leaned close
to try looking out.
"Your little practical joke distracted me more, and I still owe you for that one."
Nodding to the opening, "He just seems to be walking around, like he's waiting for
someone. You don't think...?" She looked at him in worry.
Harry chuckled, "What, that he would care if we don't take the right stairs or
something? If he has that much time on his hands then I shiver to think about his
social life. And you really should be the mature one, not keep trying to get me back.
You are almost a year older after all."
The mischievous glare was back, "If you're not worried then go out there and ask
him what he's doing. By the way, I still might owe you for frightening me earlier,
depending on that map. You might barely get off the hook now if it has the hidden
passageways with it. Otherwise you should start looking over your shoulder more

often."
"Naa, I can feel you coming, remember?" He grinned back at her, "But I'll try to get
you the secret passageways as well. Shouldn't take much. - Okay, he's still just
walking back and forth, want me to try tipping something over down at the other end
of the hallway? Then we can make for the stairs to the seventh floor."
"Fine, but if you get us caught, I'm blaming it all on you." Hermione crossed her arms
in mock anger and stood back to let him work.
Seeing a suit of armor down at the other end of the hall, his smile widened, it was
simply waiting to fall over. He gave it a strong nudge on one heel. Ever so slowly it
slid further and further out from under the main body, and with a resounding crash, it
fell to the floor. Snape immediately had his wand out, looking around in every
direction, then he focused on the fallen armor. Walking steadily toward it he kept
looking around, but Harry just waited. When reaching the fallen armor he took out his
wand. That's when Harry grabbed Hermione's hand and as he saw Snape start to
cast he pulled her out with him and around the corner, rushing towards the stairs.
They made it there without any calls to stop, but kept on going past other students,
up and around another corridor onto the seventh floor. Panting slightly from the effort
they leaned against a wall to relax. Harry looked at Hermione who's face was red
and pointed away from him, yet wasn't breathing very hard. "Hermione, what's
wrong? We got away easily, there's nothing to worry about."
She simply looked at him, then down at their still tightly clasped hands.
"Oh, sorry." He let go gently and found his wand instead, if only for something else to
occupy his hand. "Didn't mean to hold on for so long. Let's go check out that door."
Strolling along the hallway they passed a few other Gryffindors who usually played
around on the seventh floor. The sixth floor was commonly occupied by Ravenclaws,
being the level their common room entrance was. Harry heard that the Slytherins
claimed the dungeons, and Hufflepuff mainly congregated on the ground floor and
basement. So they most likely would only be bothered by Gryffindors while trying to
enter the missing room. Finding the right corridor soon enough, they stood in front of
a tapestry depicting someone dancing with trolls. It didn't seem that humorous after
facing real ones.
"So, the clues were finding what you need, and it detects what you desire. We both
really want to get back into the original room so there shouldn't be any conflict there.
Why doesn't it open?" Harry tried to remember anything else he was told about it.

"You didn't say a magic phrase or tap your wand anywhere on the wall, did you
Harry?" He shook his head, so she carried on, "It could be that you have to actually
have a need for it, and not just a desire. Though maybe you were right and it only
appears at certain times when in need. But how could it be there for Lavender before
dinner, disappear, and then appear after right you got there? That seems awfully
coincidental to consider such short time frames. Could it only appear on Halloween
night, whenever there is someone around to need it? That would be disappointing. What we should do is retrace your exact steps to see if that might help. If not, I'll ask
Lavender how she got in later tonight." He nodded.
Walking to the spot he believed was where he appeared with Kolie the other night,
Harry tried to follow his memory of events. He stepped up towards the wall, then
turned to the left, heading for the empty classroom door. Opening it, he looked
around again then closed it and started walking back the other way, only to stop near
Hermione. Someone was close, he could sense it. Whoever it was, came closer than
should be possible without seeing them. It felt slightly familiar but impossible to
place, and should be standing a little way down the corridor.
"What's wrong Harry? Did you forget what-"
Interrupting her from saying more, he shook his head, "Let's go Hermione, you got
what you needed from your dorm, now we should head back to the library. If you
want me to explain that trick, you'll have to hurry up."
Looking at him with a bewildered expression she almost asked what crazy pill he just
took, but instead replied in a less than steady voice, "Okaay?"
He smiled at her and took her hand once again, leading her back to the Ravenclaw
library. He let go of her hand when another student passed by this time but they kept
walking together. The presence followed them for a little while but turned away as
they entered the library. The goosebumps on the back of his neck finally started to
reside.
Sitting down in their usual chairs Hermione turned to him with an expression of
consternation. "What was-"
Cutting her off again Harry put a finger to his lips and took out his wand, and cast the
veredemillis spell at the open doorway, but there was no reaction. He tried sensing
for the same presence again but couldn't find it, "Okay, that was really creepy, sorry
for not explaining better. You know how I said I could find people, well there was
someone, invisible I'm guessing, back near the tapestry just watching us. When we
left, it even followed us until we got in here. I thought they might be tipped off by

saying more, or just shivering too much, but apparently not. Think someone has an
invisibility cloak around here?"
"At least you're not crazy... I think. But why didn't you send me a thought instead of
hoping I understood?"
"Well, apparently it can be sensed by some people, and I... kind of forgot as well. I
haven't used it much to communicate to people, mostly to convince others to do
things. And before you ask, no, I never used it on you that way, and never will."
"It's okay, I trust you, otherwise I would have run away from your madness long ago."
She put on her teasing smile again. "Back to invisibility cloaks, they're expensive but
there's also the disillusionment charm. It's reputed to be really hard to perform
though, perhaps it was a seventh year going to play a trick on us? I guess the
disappearing room will have to wait until tomorrow then. I'm going to find something
to read, you write down what you remember so I can compare it with Lavender's
version later." She stood up and started searching the stacks for something
interesting.
Harry did as he was told and then they read for a while, parting ways when the clock
chimed for curfew. Planning their agenda for the next day only took a moment, it
would be back to the same old routine, along with disappearing rooms to research.

Chapter 14 - Celebrations
Author's Note: Instead of being annoying and asking, begging, or guilt tripping
people for reviews, I shall simply state that they help motivate me. Especially when
they are constructive and informative, which help me improve. Although the simple
supportive ones aren't too shabby either.
Chapter 14
Celebrations
Night passed swiftly for Harry after drinking the potion given to him by Madam
Pomfrey. The chalky taste of it reminded him of some others he was given the night
before, which seemed ages ago. Not a single dream disturbed him while sleeping,
although he couldn't remember having any upon waking either. Throwing off his
covers and sitting up in the morning, he checked himself over for any signs of
damage like the night before but found none, not even the light burn scars on his
hands, which seemed completely healed. Magical medicine is apparently the strong
point of potions. Maybe I will ask Fred and George for a few, like the ones Hermione
suggested.
While brushing his teeth to get ready, Harry began contemplating what
enchantments could be put on a toothbrush to make it better. Other students didn't
seem to have enchanted toothbrushes, although some owned magical toothpaste. A
simple vibrating or self cleaning charm would at least replicate what muggles could
do, yet none were used. He wondered if it was simply too expensive or impractical to
enchant such an everyday object, even if it saved someone weeks or months over a
lifetime. Though it was becoming increasingly obvious to him that wizards did without
most items that could make their lives better. As if they were already so comfortable
in the first place that anything more would spoil them.
Checking his captivating watch, he saw there was plenty of time before breakfast, so
he decided to go downstairs and observe the habits of his fellow Ravenclaws. Before
he got lost in speculation about what enchantments his watch, shoes, and anything
else could use as well.
Hearing a wail of anguish made Harry jump in alarm, his Nundu wand was in hand
before he knew what was going on. But finding Stephen Cornfoot had stubbed his
slippered toe against a chair left in the middle of their dorm relieved the tension.
Apparently wizards didn't have it quite that easy. He helped Stephen sit and cast a
weak episkey on an already swelling red toe, receiving a surprised and emphatic

thanks in return. Making Harry feel almost content, living in a world of magic and
crazy wizards, despite even crazier creatures and rumors.
After quickly grabbing a shower in the boy's bathroom Harry made his way
downstairs. He leaned on the banister above Rowena's statue, overlooking the
whole common room and taking it all in. Being a Sunday morning the common room
had a relaxed yet expectant quality. Some read or did homework, others played
games, but most chatted with friends. One was looking right at him, Penny. Probably
concerned over the night before he figured, so Harry decided to give her a
reassuring smile. She smiled in return and then grimaced, stalking off to scold a few
third years who were still too excited about the their first Hogsmeade weekend, and
forgot to hide their contraband from the day before.
Padma and Sue stepped up beside Harry, "Are you okay? We heard someone cry
out through the wall, and with that story we heard yesterday..." Sue observed him in
concern.
"Never better, thanks for asking. But don't believe those rumors either, the reports of
my death are greatly exaggerated."
"Pfff, maybe your ghost would at least explain a few things." Padma mumbled
snarkily only to receive another elbow to the ribs. She eyed Sue but put on a friendly
smile, "Ready to tell us what happened the other night or shall we have to torture it
out of you?" She held up a fluffy feather quill in a threatening manner and squinted at
him.
"I... I don't know yet." Harry chewed on his lip for a few seconds, "Someone keeps
spreading rumors about me, and while I really doubt it's you two, it's making me
slightly paranoid. I think you should know someday, but.. not right now. Can we still
try to be friends? Or do you need to keep ignoring me until I tell you?"
Padma poked his nose with the feather, "Not the answer I was looking for, - but fine."
She sighed, "I was getting tired of seeing your pitiful and dejected face when you
couldn't sit with us. Is that okay with you Sue? Might wait years for this oaf to spill
the beans."
A mirthless chuckle escaped Sue, "My grandmother would love to teach us all the
relevant proverbs at a time like this. Something like, 'Do not keep a secret from your
friend which your enemy already knows.' Or maybe, 'So long as you can keep a
secret it is your prisoner. If you let it slip then you're its prisoner.' But her favorite
would probably be, 'Never do anything that you want to remain a secret.' - It's
entirely up to you Harry, but every choice has its consequences. We'll still be your

friends though, even if Padma gets in another huff."

Feigned shock was all that could be seen on Padma at the betrayal from her best
friend, "Great, now I've got to deal with a reserved genius and a callous sage,
neither of which like rumors or share secrets. I'm surprised Parvati didn't go mad
after meeting you two. - Perhaps there's still a chance..."
"Oh, and we're sorry that we didn't believe the story about your wand in the past,
seeing that tree grow was quite convincing. Although Padma still wants to see it for
herself, I haven't been able to find the room again. Do you know where it's at?" Sue
took the quill from Padma and got out a scrap of parchment.
"Funny you should mention that, Hermione and I have been trying to find it ourselves
without any luck. Apparently it disappears when not needed. Would you two like to
help uncover that mystery instead?" Glancing between them Harry could see their
eyebrows raise and heads tilt in interest.
Looking silently at each other and then back, they nodded together, "Sure."
After explaining the problem and few hints the clock chimed for breakfast. Reaching
the great hall they found Hermione with mild bags under her eyes and her hair
slightly more frazzled than usual. She even smiled lethargically when greeted, but
explained it was only from Lavender keeping her up all night, talking about what
happened and considerably more. Harry ate ravenously while others joked about,
placing bets on how much he could consume. When it got around the table, an older
student mentioned that extreme hunger was the sign of overused magic, and that
while practicing for N.E.W.T. exams one year, the Head Girl ate a whole platter of
roast beef and mashed potatoes all by herself, along with three pies.
Harry's paltry six sausages, four eggs, a bowl of fruit, and five pieces of toast didn't
compare. So he managed to grab a few buttered scones and a rasher of bacon
without anyone commenting further. It seemed Kolie knew what she was doing
placing so much food in front of him, yet his stomach resisted by grumbling loudly at
times, not being used to the treatment.
As breakfast was winding down, Gemma Farley the Slytherin prefect, came walking
up behind Harry, leading a commotion of whispers as she passed. "Wanna explain
how the troll died yet? People are starting to get out of control and making it hard for
the prefects to keep order." She acted nonchalant with one hand on her hip and a
bemused expression on her face.
In his peripheral vision Harry could see the Weasley twins smirking covertly at the
confrontation. She was truly intimidating, being so tall and shapely with curly black

hair, that nearly all the Ravenclaw boys talked about her and probably the rest in
school as well. Her dark bewitching eyes and delicate pink lips distracted him while
trying to formulate a coherent sentence. Trying not to look down from her face to
even more engrossing sights at eye level, he replied quickly, "Er - It was from an old
grenade I found lying around and managed to throw in its mouth."
"A what? Don't start making things up now."
"It's a muggle explosive device, there were all kinds of odd things in that storage
room. I grew up around muggles so I recognized what it was. Any muggleborn can
confirm it, or even... t-the muggle studies teacher." Harry stammered a bit when his
eyes dropped for a second.
A small half grin was what he looked back up to. She laughed quietly, "Okay
handsome, I'll tell them." Even more excited whispers began as she sauntered off.
Not to mention the shameless leers and ogling eyes that followed her past both
Ravenclaw and Gryffindor tables again.
The expression he got from Hermione before she turned back around was puzzling,
but the looks on his fellow Ravenclaws, especially the girls was disconcerting to say
the least. Sue was wearing a curious but confused expression, much different than
the rest. Another thing he probably shouldn't explain, at least not yet. Breakfast
ended with Hermione going to take a nap, the Weasley twins barely able to contain
their excitement, and Sue and Padma going outside with the other girls from first
year.
Retrieving the new book on enchanting from his dorm, Harry sat down in his
common room, next to the warm blue fireplace and a bright arching window
overlooking Hogsmeade. Older students were walking down the long path to the
gates, intent on enjoying the day there, as two fiery redheads bounced up and down
in unrestrained glee the entire way.
oOoOo
A few of the senior boys teased him about the breakfast spectacle, mostly interested
in why Gemma was talking to him at all. His explanation about the bet appeased
most when they realized she was the only one who all the houses would believe,
after Penny refused. When lunch arrived later on, Fred and George came prancing
back into the Great Hall with sacks of candy and joke items. They threw Harry a
giant bag while shouting "Great minds think alike!" Thanking him right out in the
open like there was nothing wrong. They're entirely too cunning.
Sorting through some of the joke items Harry specifically handed Sue some belch

powder, and Padma a bar of frog spawn soap. They gave him a tired glare. "Just be
glad I didn't try to use them on you!" He laughed as their looks darkened. Seeing a
package of hiccuping sweets he threw those to Penny with a smirk, receiving a small
grin in return. Stashing a handful or two of assorted things in his pockets he spread
everything else around. Sharing the ill gotten gains with others assuaged the little
guilt he had.
Even after saving stuff for later, Harry noticed that everything else disappeared
slowly as it moved around the table. It seemed Ravenclaws weren't gluttons for
sugar or pranks like some houses. He looked back to see Gryffindors fighting over
this sweet or that prank item, which were thrown about by the twins. Hermione got
surprised by some ice mice landing in her dessert, forcing her to eat them first. But
when Dumbledore cleared his throat the room echoed with the noise, getting quiet
immediately.
That is until Fred boldly threw a package of fizzing whizbees up at Dumbledore,
which he caught gracefully and nodded his thanks. The entire room burst into
laughter at this and more goodies started flying to other tables. Minerva gave
Dumbledore a severe gaze but jumped at the fudge flies landing on her plate. She
turned the look on George who twisted away sheepishly. Flitwick just laughed as an
older Ravenclaw floated up a peppermint toad onto his hat, which he promptly
grabbed and ate. A few sweets even made it to the Slytherin table near Gemma, and
it almost looked like they aimed some at the back of Draco's head.
Quiet smacked the room again as Snape's chair screeched in outrage across the
floor. Muted chatter started up slowly when nothing further occurred, but the frenzy
of flying sweets was over. Harry was actually surprised at the level of intimidation
that Snape still held, mostly because he stopped trying to force it down others'
throats in class, at least from his perspective. Lunch ended in mild excitement when
those who needed more sweets ran up to Fred and George in supplication.
Hermione and Harry met up with Padma and Sue outside the great hall for their trek
up to the seventh floor. Slipping a trick wand into Hermione's pocket, he pretended
not to notice her questioning expression.
They took the long way up the stairs, avoiding any awkward situations like last time.
Harry offered the others some every flavored beans as they made their way higher,
but they had already been spoiled on them. He on the other hand hadn't found a bad
one yet. They inquired about his relationship with the twins but he only shrugged,
"They've pranked me a few times, but I don't know how they could have seen what
happened in that room to win the bet."
It wasn't only Sue that eyed him suspiciously at that comment, but Harry interrupted

them by offering more chocolate frogs around, and asking Hermione what Lavender
told her the night before.
"Nothing really, she said she saw an open door in the first floor bathroom which she
thought was the exit, but it only led her into the that room. When she noticed the troll,
she ran, telling me all about the places she hid, but nothing that sounded useful."
They continued on in confusion.
Upon reaching the right corridor on the seventh floor, there appeared something odd.
Red rope barriers, similarly used for queues, blocked the whole hall, starting just
before the tapestry of dancing trolls. Something seemed fishy to Harry.
Walking up to it there was a sign, 'Do not cross, For your safety.' Hermione was
about to touch it to get a closer look.
"Stop!" Harry commanded in worry, he held her hand in place with his wandless
magic before her fingers made contact. Their eyes met in acknowledgment and he
let her go. "There's probably a magic barrier too, and it might not be a nice one." He
could feel a strange buzz of magic it gave off, like the hum of electricity running
through live wires. Picking out a yellow bean from the box, he tossed it over the
ropes. It launched back at them as if from a catapult, flying across the other end of
the corridor, skidding across the stone to a stop against the far wall.
"Huh, a banishing barrier? That's a little severe for a school corridor, even when
dealing with Gryffindors." Padma nudged Hermione in play. "So this is where that
tapestry was, it was a little surreal looking at that while knowing you three were in
there with a real troll... or two." She started chewing her nails, staring at it intently.
Sue rubbed her back gently, "Don't worry Padma, there will surely be more times
that Harry gets us into worse trouble. You'll be able to help them. Besides, it's not
like we girls were able to grow a tree over one troll, or recognize a ...muggle
grenade, to throw in the other." Giving a pointed look at Harry, she hugged Padma
as her sobs began.
Harry's eyes widened at Hermione in helpless bewilderment.
"You were both so, rigid, when they carried you out... They said you were fine but I
couldn't help but imagine, - and every time I heard those horrible sounds..." The
sobs rose to trembling tears, falling down her cheeks.
Tearing up slightly herself, Hermione reached out to hold Padma as well, "We're all
fine now, no one's hurt anymore. We saved Lavender and made it back okay." Her
voice weakened as if from a stuffy nose.

"I'm so sorry... for not helping, for being rotten, for everything." Padma moaned while
looking at Harry through her tears.
"Get over here you secretive oaf, we're friends aren't we?" Sue called him over with
red eyes of her own.
Never dealing with multiple girls crying before, Harry frantically searched his
memories for what to do, but found nothing. Instead he let himself respond naturally
and embraced them. Holding on securely while they wept. He felt the urge to cry
also, but resisted.
"It's okay. That won't happen again. We can all protect each other and practice
together, preparing for anything we might face." They nodded in agreement, quelling
their tears a little. "And maybe I'll have to explain more as well, because someone is
coming now."
Questioning expressions developed on Sue and Padma but Hermione just nodded,
untangling her arms and wiping at her eyes. They all followed suit and separated
from each other, Harry took out his wand and held it behind his back. When around
the corner came Snape, sweeping toward them with a dangerous glint in his eye.
"Potter! What are you four doing up here? Come to soak in your glory over
accidentally defeating a troll?" An impassive and calculating look was all he received
from Harry. "Well, speak up."
Hermione cut in, "We were discussing how two trolls managed to get to the seventh
floor in a secure castle like Hogwarts. And why this corridor was blocked off so
recently. It seems... suspicious." Her incisive tone changed Snape's expression as
his calculating gaze fell on her.
"That is none of your concern, students should not be loitering around corridors
where they have no cause to be. Leave, now." His crisp response brooked no
arguments.
Stepping between the two, Harry glared into Snape's eyes, giving him an unsaid
warning. Harry guessed or possibly sensed the all too familiar magic of legilimency
between them a half second before. "Of course Professor, we will be more careful in
the future."
With that he turned around and ushered the confused girls back down the stairs.
Pulling Hermione aside for a second he whispered in her ear, "Never look directly
into Snape's eyes again, or any other adults that seem suspicious for that matter."
How could I forget about legilimency before telling Hermione about everything? We'll
have to fix that somehow.

Her intent features meant he was going to have to explain much further, but she
agreed none the less, "Alright."
oOoOo
With that area of exploration blocked off, they were forced to the main library,
searching for clues about rooms that could appear when needed. Although with
wizards being stuck in the past meant they were all very secretive and the search
turned up nothing useful. They discussed how it might be possible to talk a Professor
into letting them browse the restricted books for an extra project, but tales of first
years being granted access were simply that, tales.
Harry slammed a book shut in frustration, feeling like he was so close to the answer
yet denied it at the last second. "We really should research your idea about a
magical index book Hermione, or maybe some spell to sort or find specific topics in a
library at least. Even the simple encyclopedia software on my computer back home
is better than this." He laughed, "But just imagine trying to get an old wizard to use a
computer."
Hermione gave an amused chuckle while Sue and Padma tried to comprehend this
new inside joke of theirs. Padma seemed a little offended, "Well this is how it's been
done for centuries, and it's worked so far. And what is a coputer anyway? Some new
muggle device that people will forget about in another few years, like blimps or
electric cars? My great uncle was fascinated by stuff like that at the start of the
century and always complains about muggles getting distracted by useless new
gadgets."
"Muggles do tend to go from one thing to the next quite often. My father is almost
predictable in that way, which my mother likes to complain about as well." Added
Sue.
Trying not to be rude, Harry explained, "Modern electronic computers have been
used in one form or another since the forties, but mechanical ones were around
since the eighteen hundreds or possibly earlier. They started out as a way to do
math or solve problems quicker than in your head, but these days they're so
advanced you can do all kinds of things with them. From reading books, to playing
games, or listening to music, to talking to someone around the world. They'll only get
more advanced with time. I bet every muggle on the planet will have one eventually,
- and then maybe wizards will start using them, if their magic doesn't interfere."
"Wait, how do muggles talk to someone on the other side of the world? Even
wizarding radio doesn't go that far. And what kind of game can you play on a gadget

that does math? Guess the distance to a flying broom?"

That only made Harry want to show them his Nintendo, maybe during summer...
"Well, muggles use technology like radio to transmit stuff, but they also use wires,
satellites, and other computers to repeat the information transferred from one place
to the next, connecting almost anywhere if they want. As for games, they taught
computers how to understand a language of sorts which tell it how to do more than
math, and can create so many cool things. Most games now use simple art like you
might draw by hand, but they get better every year. My favorites are The Legend of
Zelda, and Final Fantasy. You can even pretend to be a wizard in them and cast
spells to battle evil monsters, it's not very realistic of course. But it's still loads of fun."
Looking slightly interested now with one eyebrow raised, Padma relented, "Okay,
maybe they're not all just tosh, but most muggle objects don't work around magic so
you might as well forget that. What we should do is ask some teachers or older
students, they're bound to know something good."
"That would be a suitable idea before our recent encounter, but now Snape or
someone seems to be actively trying to stop us. What if he learns we're researching
how to get back in the room he indirectly told us to leave alone? I don't want to lose
points from Gryffindor, he already takes enough away from us as it is." Hermione
leveled the book she was reading to respond.
Feeling disheartened at the trend of the conversation, Harry interjected, "I doubted
any research would get us very far in the first place, since this room appears to be
deliberately hard to find or enter. The only good hint was from Peeves, but trying to
get anything out of him again might be a lost cause. And even if we do figure it out,
there's the magical barrier. We might as well just table the topic for a little while and
try again when things settle down or the barrier gets removed." Needing to feel
productive, he changed the topic, "Now, I have a few ideas on defense training."
Discussing defense topics and practice schedules got them all enthusiastic again.
They were essentially all Ravenclaws in Harry's opinion, even if a hat didn't think so.
Meaning that squeezing the time in for actual practice was the only difficulty, but
Harry thought the dueling club idea would tap any competitive inclinations
Ravenclaws were said to have. They decided to all approach Professor Flitwick after
dinner with the idea and get him to sponsor the club. McGonagall was their second
choice since no one thought much of Quirrell or Snape who were supposed to be
good in dueling as well. They all choose another spell each to learn and help each
other practice in their spare time. By the end of the year they wanted to have
accomplished something, rather than simply passing classes.

After it was all settled Harry was putting away books, letting the girls talk when he
heard something, "Psst!"
Scanning around for the source he saw a mane of red hair peek around a corner.
Fred, or was that George? Probably here to deliver some items and thank me for
such a great caper.
Following around a darkened hall of books he found them in the corner, peering
down both ways. "There's our little Marauder, here, stand in the corner so no one will
even notice." They cast a few charms to silence and darken the area, along with a
trap spell to catch anyone snooping.
Being cornered by two older and larger students made Harry feel vulnerable, but
their cheerful and honest expressions told him he could trust them, especially after
today. "So, everything went according to plan? Thanks for the sweets by the way."
"It went barking mad!" Fred exclaimed.
"Yeah, after we got Lee to suggest Gemma ask you, there was a betting war. All the
older plonkers started betting on everything, like they would impress her if they lost
more. The pot got up to almost two hundred and forty galleons!" George was almost
bouncing again.
"And after all the other bets, our wager dropped to one in twenty. With your twelve
galleons spread between some friends, we managed to win every dime! It was
bloody brilliant!" Fred finished with an overly excited whisper. He shook Harry's
shoulders in happiness, not able to control himself any longer.
It was more entertaining watching them celebrate than it was to win that much
money, as Harry had a knack for mysteriously winning more than he should. They
handed him a bag of all the items he requested along with more treats of every sort.
Checking the aisles again they reached into hidden pockets and pulled out a very
large bag of coins, reverently handing it over and bowing. Harry chuckled, "Keep it,
I've still got some gold." Their eyes bulged in surprise, as their jaws nearly dropped
off trying to comprehend what they just heard. "But maybe I might get you to buy me
a few more trinkets once in a while?" The smiles returned, larger than ever.
"Of course! Anytime you want, we can even sneak out on weekdays if it's urgent."
"We got a cracking aging potion that makes us look like our brother Charlie, no one
would even think twice the way he comes and goes from Romania."
"I doubt you'll need to go to those lengths, but there is one more thing. Would you

make another copy of this map for Hermione? And perhaps use the quill to let her
see the secret passages? I didn't get her much for her birthday so..." Harry pulled
out his map and held it up with a hopeful expression.
Glancing back and forth between each other and Harry with meaningful looks, they
crossed their arms at last. "On one condition. Since she's sure to be a prefect and
probably head girl one day, she has to promise not to use the map and the passages
to get people in trouble."
"Except Slytherin, that's okay." Added George.
"Yes, and no sharing it with others, especially teachers."
"And keep our names out of it, she nearly complained to Percy about our side
business of sharing his old homework assignments we nicked last year."
"Alright, that sounds fair. How about I throw a sweet at her during dinner after she
agrees, so you know? Oh, and if you ever need to contact me again or deliver
anything, just hand it to her. She knows you're buying me a few things and it'll be
easier than sneaking around like this."
Shaking their heads at him they spoke in unison, "You're buggered Harry, completely, - no hope for your future." George waved his wand and duplicated the
map, then opened it, making sure the quill markings were still there.
"Thanks for the confidence boost, and she's not my girlfriend, by the way." They
sniggered at him as if he couldn't be further from the truth. Harry pushed past them
and waved his thanks, storing the bags and maps away.
After pulling Hermione into another secret passageway on their way to the Great
Hall, Harry explained the situation to her, leaving out the twin's involvement. She
agreed reluctantly to the terms, requiring much convincing, and then cuffed him
when he mentioned the part about throwing a sweet at her. Laughing he handed her
the new map, saying that she would see the passageways soon enough. Dinner
passed smoothly as he tossed a wrapped chocoball at Hermione, once catching the
twin's attention. She gave him a deadly glare to seem convincing, but it almost made
him crack up, seeing how bad an actor she was.
The rest of the evening went as planned, managing to lure Flitwick into starting the
dueling club back up, to a degree. It would be limited only to first years, once a
week, until others showed more interest and a larger room was found. In exchange,
they would be responsible for inviting others and Harry had to concede he would
reconsider quidditch next year, which surprised Padma and Sue.

Before they began practicing spells together in the Ravenclaw dueling room, Harry
decided to disclose some things. He kept it vague in front of Sue and Padma but
explained about turning down the seeker position, why the trolls were let into the
castle, and that growing up, he could sense where people were at times, but it
wasn't a specific spell he used. Eventually they were satisfied after many follow-up
questions and took to casting. Training on dummies with everyone being motivated
was fun, but it was even more entertaining trying to duel against each other with
harmless spells. The portrait coached them a little on the proper stance and
procedures but left spell critiquing to the professors.
Night came, along with their exhaustion. Though Harry seemed to be gaining back
his stamina after eating so much lately, he still got tired. Hermione attributed it more
to the years of training he had before they met rather than recent practice. They all
bemoaned the weekend being over but went to sleep none the less.
Monday, things were back to normal with classes and homework taking up much of
their time. The dueling club would begin in a few weeks starting every Thursday, and
if they got many attending, would grow from there. Many others were invited and
soon there was a large group of first years wanting to drop in.
oOoOo
Tuesday, November 5th on the other hand distracted everyone. Bonfire Night
excitement was in the air, with wizard fireworks said to astound any muggleborns.
The school day passed quicker than ever before in anticipation. Dumbledore had
arranged boxes of s'more materials to be created by the house elves and conjured
wooden skewers for all. Hagrid crafted an enormous bonfire structure, along with fifty
firewood bundles ready to be lit for smaller groups to sit and play around. It was all
set up with conjured chairs and rows of blankets laid out on the sloping grass, southwest of the school overlooking the lake. Not all attended the nights festivities of
fireworks, sitting around bonfires, roasting marshmallows, and telling stories, but
everyone watched.
Harry loved the yearly revelry back at his relatives, especially after reading the
graphic novel, V for Vendetta. Slipping away in the shadows at night and
reappearing behind friends or neighbors with a homemade Guy Fawkes mask was a
joy he didn't get tired of. While he wasn't keen on the methods used in the story, the
motive of toppling a fascist xenophobic government was something he could
sympathize with. It was similar to other works of fiction he'd read, and frighteningly,
how part of the magical world was turning out to be. Blood purists, with the terrors of
Voldemort and his followers still lingered in people's minds. The more Harry learned
about them, the more sickened he became. Even getting lost in thought on the walk

out to the celebration.

To think, there was actually a crazy dictator that nearly toppled the magical
government. I could have grown up like Evey Hammond in a war torn world of
magical fascists, who really could read thoughts and control my every move if
desired... I always thought about how wonderful it might have been if my parents
didn't die, but I never considered there might have been an outcome much worse.
Though now I can somewhat understand why people glorify me. It's like if Hitler was
accidentally killed by a child after his invasion of Poland. The boy would be
worshipped by some no matter how it happened or who he was. But would that have
actually stopped the war or the cause of it? Did it stop this one?
Forgetting his thoughts of the past and feeling the warmth beside him, Harry smiled
happily at Hermione. She started to blush and slowly push him away in
embarrassment. That's when the first towering structure of wood burst in flames and
an amazingly grand firework exploded into the night sky. Hermione jumped towards
him in shock, clinging to his robes while gazing up at the multicolored shower of
sparks that lit up half the visible sky. The glimmering lights didn't dim like regular
fireworks but flashed and danced back and forth in intricate patterns. A ballet of
brilliant colors fell whirling down, reflected all across the shimmering lake. They
fizzled and popped a mere hand's breadth above the taller people. Both their heads
followed the lights down, to meet each other's eyes in mutual awkwardness.
Finally grasping her present situation Hermione quickly extricated her hands from
Harry's robes and gave him another playful shove. A cheer of delighted shouts
echoed the last crackling bits to expire. With it came hundreds of individual fireworks
and light displays, echoing from the crowd of wands pointed skywards. Smaller
bonfires ignited as the students and teachers lit those close by.
Harry pointed his own wand and cast a jet of flame at one near the blanket they
stood on, revealing Padma, Sue, and a few other Ravenclaws walking up to claim
their own spots around the fire. Harry sat down as more fireworks lit up the night in a
rainbow of dazzling flashes. Pulling Hermione down as well, they all relaxed and
stared up in wonder. No acrid smoke blew over them and the crashing blasts didn't
hurt their ears. Near ten minutes of extraordinary fireworks kept a constant display of
feats never before thought of by muggle firework designers. Some turned into
shapes of creatures which fought for dominance, while more grew into trees or
flowers decorating the background of action. Stories were told and characters
blossomed, all within the sparkling flames that faded to darkness. A glittering red
dragon of immense proportions swooped low over their heads, only to swing up and
dive face first into the surface of the lake, colliding with it's reflection and burrowing

under the surface to swim gracefully in the deep water.

With a final burst of lights in the shape of a giant Hogwarts crest, the evening
quieted, only for the chatter of many happy students to begin. "I doubt Gandalf's
fireworks were anything compared to that." Whispered Harry.
Hermione sat up and snorted at his corny reference, "We're real wizards now Harry,
no more fantasy books can compare." He threw a marshmallow at her and received
a stare of open mouthed surprise. Which changed into a tight lipped grin, wanting
revenge.
As the next marshmallow was thrown at his head, he directed it into his mouth and
smiled back at her, chuckling around the fluff. She grabbed a handful of grass while
pretending to throw another marshmallow at him, catching him in the face with the
flutter of greenery, she beamed a smug smile of victory. Spitting off a blade of grass
from his lip, Harry sat up as well and tackled her to the blanket. Squeaking in fright
Hermione reached for her wand only to have her hands pinned to the fuzzy cloth.
Harry leaned down and whispered in her ear, "We'll have to teach you a few
wandless tricks of your own." Then tickled her neck with his own magic. Hermione
squirmed in laughter and pushed him off with little resistance.
This started a war of sweets around the fire, marshmallows being thrown and
chocolate stolen, but the fencing with skewers between Michael and Terry brought
too much attention as Professor Sprout arrived to scold them. The boys apologized
and everything calmed down from there, but didn't stop. After many more subdued
bouts of unexpected marshmallow throwing and roasting, s'more creation and
wandless tickles, Harry and Hermione decided to go for a walk with Padma and Sue,
listening to the stories happening around other fires.
The nearest one was an impossible tale about lethifolds and dementors cornering a
team of young wizards, looking to find hidden treasure. The second was a group of
purebloods apparently, that were telling of muggle death traps which were shot
through the sky with passengers aboard. Hermione interrupted and gave a full
minute lecture on the subject of planes and rockets. All three friends had to drag her
away before she started in on parachutes and the like. Coming up behind the next
group of storytellers, their tale was about the past evils of You-Know-Who. How he
had no nose, scaly skin, and ate babies in a dark ritual to keep himself alive and
powerful.
This time Harry interrupted, "You mean he wanted to literally eat me? That's a
disturbing thought..." The older Hufflepuff boys and girls twisted around in
embarrassment and apologized immediately, but Harry waved it off and laughed.

"Maybe he didn't get the sarcasm in A Modest Proposal?"

Hermione smacked his shoulder and dragged him off like they did to her. Harry
waved goodbye at the confused faces and chuckling muggleborns. Continuing their
trip through the maze of bonfires, they heard spooky tales of Baba Yaga, Herpo the
Foul, Morgan le Fey, Fenrir Greyback, and even Grindelwald. Then managed to find
the edge of the fires and walked the outer ring of them.
As they passed near a dying fire beside a large oak tree, they heard rustling behind
the trunk. Sue lit her wand as they got closer, only to find a couple snogging under
some blankets, a few pieces of loose clothing were sticking out from underneath and
pink skin could be seen here and there. Quickly dousing the light they all hurriedly
walked off, hoping they weren't noticed. Harry tried concentrating on seeing in the
dark again like his first night at Hogwarts, and the whole world brightened around
him. He peered around only to see the blushing faces of his friends, Sue was
especially red in her cheeks, while Padma had a slight grin, obviously not knowing
Harry could see her in the dark. It seemed Hermione was trying to pretend it never
happened as her arms were wrapped tightly around her cloak, but being so close he
could almost feel the warmth radiating off her glowing face. I have to get a magical
camera sometime soon...
Keeping to the edge of the bright fires for a time their embarrassment finally faded,
allowing them to reenter the crowds of students. Harry was just about to suggest
they go sit back down, when a serious story caught their ears. "The four of them
were friend for ten years, and they trained at Hogwarts together since their sorting
ceremony."
Stopping to listen, the girls wandering closer, "Two came from famous pure-blood
families and became best friends, but they all were Gryffindors, and trusted each
other completely. Although one hid a darker side... which showed itself only in the
very end, at his last betrayal. He was as black as they come, serving under the Dark
Lord the entire time... pretending to fight against evil with his friends, but spying on
them instead. That fateful Halloween night, he told the Dark Lord the location of his
best friend's house, where he stayed with his wife and baby son. Not content that
only they died, he set off to kill another of his three close friends. In the process, he
murdered twelve muggles and completely blew apart his friend Peter... so only a
finger remained. Laughing madly in satisfaction and probably planning to kill their
last friend, he was barely caught by aurors. But not before the Dark Lord murdered
his best friend and wife, then vanished when his attempt to kill their baby failed.
Sirius Black is in Azkaban now, completely mad after committing such horrors, but
that's not all."

Stopping for breath the storyteller built up the suspense, "My father works high up at
the ministry, and he told me the worst part they keep hidden..." The fire flickered in
the wind.
"He was Harry Potter's godfather, and would have raised him too, if not caught for
the monster he is. They say he screams Harry's name every-" Being kicked stopped
the storyteller short, as a nod made the whole circle of listeners turn towards Harry,
seeing his detached expression. Hermione, Padma, and Sue all looked at him in
concern, not knowing how to react when he didn't respond. The stricken expression
on the storyteller kept Harry's attention, he didn't know how to process the
information.
Yet his snarky attitude eventually won out, "You know what they say, always look on
the bright side of life. Not being raised by a psychopathic killer probably counts."
Hermione grabbed him in a tight hug before he could start whistling. She pulled him
away, back to their original fire that was slowly dying now. Padma and Sue followed
after, staying quiet and sitting down beside them. Pulling down his jaw, Hermione
stuck one last piece of chocolate in his mouth and closed it again for him.
Finally looking her in the eyes, Harry tried to talk around the chocolate, "I'm alright
Hermione, I don't even know who those people are, let alone feel invested in the
outcome. It all happened when I was a baby and like most scary stories tonight,
probably half was made up." Her disbelieving attitude said she wasn't convinced.
"I'm fine, promise." He grabbed her hand and squeezed lightly.
Another round of fireworks burst repeatedly high into the air, producing an enormous
and magnificent display of the solar system. It stretched over the entire night sky,
forming into sparkling spheres of planets, moons, and asteroid belts. All rotating
around a brilliant white sun, bigger than the entire castle of Hogwarts and hanging
high overhead. Comets whizzed around in unusual patterns as everything started to
speed up, pulling towards the sun. Planet after planet was absorbed into the center
ball of gas causing mass explosions, and the rest broke up into streaming particles,
racing around their heads, slowly becoming the milky way galaxy, swirling past their
eyes. It too twisted towards the core, revolving into the shape of a mammoth egg.
Cracking open with a fantastic eruption grew a golden phoenix that spread it's wings
above the entire grounds, changing night to day and illuminating everything. With
colossal wings flapping higher, they collided together, detonating into a vast flare of
radiant light. The sky eventually dimmed, reclaiming the night for darkness as all but
the distant stars faded away.
A row of floating lanterns appeared one by one, leading the way up to Hogwarts
castle, announcing it was time to head back.

oOoOo
The rest of November passed quickly, and the dueling club started with less fanfare
than originally predicted. After most first years realized how unskilled and inaccurate
their spells really were, they left before embarrassing themselves. Those who stayed
started improving fast, yet Harry and Hermione were already ahead of the rest.
Although Harry was starting to lag behind in classes, Hermione pulled ahead in all
subjects except flying, finally showing her true talents and dedication to learning.
Which her Ravenclaws friends helped to encourage, rather than hold her back like
some tried to.
Every few days she would check the rope barrier on the seventh floor but nothing
changed on that front. While Harry found an entertaining event to spend his time
watching on his Wednesday afternoons off. Beside their nightly study group and
practicing spells together, school became largely uneventful. Quidditch season
began but as spectators, turned out to be dreadfully boring. Especially for Harry as
he could see the snitch for most of the game. However it was the perfect time to
explore the main library with few others to bother them. If they could sneak away
beforehand.
Soon December arrived and the quartet prepared for Hagrid's birthday. Visiting often
in November, they tried to secretly discover what Hagrid might like. Since no one
could, or wanted to procure a dragon's egg, they had to settle for more modest fare.
Explaining the plan to Dumbledore, Harry suggested they decorate Hagrid's place
after dinner, while he was performing his duties inspecting the grounds and weeding
the vegetable patch, then surprise him when returning. Knowing Hagrid a little better,
Dumbledore proposed that he should invite Hagrid for tea right after dinner to keep
him fully occupied. He also offered to clean the place before they got there and
organize a cake and snacks with the house elves ahead of time, so it would arrive
after they finished decorating. Harry agreed readily, since he hadn't even considered
the time it might take to clean the hut.
Hagrid's birthday started off with freezing rain, pelting the Hogwart's towers
incessantly while students tried to sleep. By the end of breakfast it had turned into a
dense fog, surrounding the entire castle. Hagrid didn't arrive for breakfast or lunch
that day which concerned Harry but he could still sense the half giant in his cabin,
working hard at something by the way he moved about. The four friends organized
everything the night before, and piled all their decorations and wrapped gifts into an
extra trunk of Padma's to carry down. When dinner began relief showed on their
faces as Hagrid arrived, looking a little grumpy, but nodding to Dumbledore as they
talked. A subtle wink from the headmaster let them know everything was set, and to
save room for birthday cake. Excusing himself a little early Dumbledore spoke to

Hagrid before he left and exited through the staff entrance.

After dinner Harry volunteered to retrieve the suitcase left in their common room and
meet the girls outside Hagrid's. With one shortcut he was soon outside in the icy
darkness. Concentrating on his vision once again illuminated the grounds and
revealed a peaceful night. The fog had receded and the stars were out to greet him.
Carefully reaching the path overlooking the cabin, he saw three lit wands out,
assembling in front of the massive door. He followed down the dry dirt path with the
suitcase levitating behind him. Sneaking up behind Hermione, he was about to tap
her shoulder when she turned around and caught him. They exchanged roguish
smiles and Harry bowed to her victory.
Entering the cabin together revealed a hard at work headmaster trying to repair
furniture, clean the floor, and conjure part of a roof all at the same time.
"Ah, I suppose I am a little late on my end, I shall be right with you." Dumbledore
gave a few more flicks of his wand and it was near complete.
Hermione, Padma, and Sue were all a little bewildered by the sight of their
prestigious headmaster casting up a storm with his sleeves rolled up, hat nearly
falling off, and the bottom of his robes soaking wet. Harry ignored it and asked the
obvious, "What happened here? Did Hagrid try giving fang a bath or something?"
A few final spells set everything right, but much cleaner and tidier than usual. Harry's
question received a small chuckle, "By my estimation, the storm last night caused
considerable damage to the roof, and hurried repairs might have done the rest. But
now I am certainly late for tea, would your four cast a few cleaning charms on fang
before the party? He is tied up out back. Oh, and simply call the house elves when
you are ready." With that he pulled out a shrunken broom from his pocket and waved
goodbye as he enlarged it and flew off towards his tower.
"That was different... I wonder if he'll wear the same outfit to the party?" Padma
raised an eyebrow at Harry. He had unwittingly revealed to them that he was getting
private lessons once a week from Dumbledore, during a furious study session one
Saturday that was interrupted by lunch. After which they delighted in teasing him
about his special treatment.
"Your guess is as good as mine. Okay, let's get cracking girls, don't want to keep the
chosen one waiting." The withering stares he got back made him laugh. He learned
to enjoyed teasing them just as much.
Hanging ribbons and streamers were easy with a few levitation and sticking charms
which they all pitched in to do. Hermione was then set to blowing balloons with a hot

air charm they recently learned, and Harry arranged bowls of sweets along with the
presents on a portable shrinking table. A giant red and gold party hat was assembled
for Hagrid and the color changing happy birthday banner they made was hung along
the back wall. Sue called on the house elves who arrived with a mountainous cake in
the perfect imitation of a pumpkin, along with small trays of pastries, flagons of
pumpkin juice, hard cider for the adults, and other confectionery. They set it all on
the main table amid decorative plates and silverware. Hermione invited them to stay
but only achieved polite refusals. Finishing up, Harry asked a house elf to discretely
tell Dumbledore they were done. At last they gave Fang a quick cleaning outside,
then brought him in and dimmed all the lights. Harry was made lookout as they sat in
the near dark, chatting while they waited.
They soon heard a series of unexpected musical knocks that reminded Harry of
Roger Rabbit. He realized who it was and answered the door for a resplendent and
colorful looking Dumbledore who must have flown back down, escaping notice while
Harry was distracted by conversation.
"He is coming, and should be here any minute." Dumbledore hurried inside to cast a
couple of charms on the walls and spoke again, "We can wait in the light now, no
one outside should see a thing. When he gets to the door the lights will go out for a
moment, alerting us." Finally he cast at the fireplace and lanterns, bringing
illumination and the warmth of a crackling fire back to the cabin. "My, it does look
festive in here, you all did a splendid job. And I see the house elves decided to show
their thanks for the wonderful pumpkins Hagrid grows."
When the girls saw Dumbledore's flamboyant birthday outfit in the light, they nearly
giggled in surprise, yet managed to restrain themselves. Placing a golden wrapped
present next to the others, he conjured a few extra chairs and sat down smiling. Sue
and Padma tried asking him a few polite questions, to focus on something else. "Do
you live in the castle year round Headmaster, or only during school?" Sue inquired.
"All year long, my dear. But I do get out more often during the summer." He wore a
friendly expression, already guessing their intentions by Harry's estimation.
But after a couple more dull questions Padma's curiosity got the better off her. "Do
you shop at Madam Malkin's or perhaps spell your own robes? You wear so many
fascinating styles and colors that some older girls have even tried cataloging them
all."
Dumbledore chuckled in amusement, "I have considered telling Becky and Loretta
the exact details of my wardrobe, but that would ruin all their fun in speculation,
would it not?" Padma nodded and slowly turned pink at the thought of his intimate

knowledge of Ravenclaw gossip.

Giving up his window perch Harry sat down next to Hermione, nudging her. She
stopped gawking at the legendary Dumbledore to nudge him back playfully and
smile, then saw Hagrid outside, "He's here! Should we hide?" Harry looked around at
the one room with sparse furniture and then back at her with a dubious question on
his face. "Alright already, let's at least jump up and yell surprise when the lights
come back on?" The others agreed quietly.
Quiet came over them as the lights went out and a silencing charm was cast on the
boarhound. The large door opened and in shuffled Hagrid, "I'm home Fang, wake up
yeh lazy beast." He dropped his umbrella in a stand and hung up his coat.
"Surprise!" Yelled the group as the flames around the room blazed back to life.
Hagrid staggered back into the door with a hand over his chest and his eyes wider
than ever.
"Merlin's beard... You remembered! - A-an' my house!" A bashful smile could be
seen beneath his unruly beard, and his eyes started to water. They pulled him
towards the table and sat him down in front of the cake. He chuckled at the size of it
and looked at them all, then to Harry.
Shaking his head, Harry responded, "The house elves did that for you, we probably
couldn't even find that much flour, not to mention design something so elaborate. We
got you other things." He pointed at the smaller table.
"Yeh shouldn't 'ave, - an' even Professor Dumbledore sir, you were in on it too?"
A cheerful nod and a wave of Dumbledore's wand produced a large candle on top of
the cake that lit with prismatic sparks flying everywhere. "I haven't helped with a
surprise party in ages. Now I believe it is tradition to sing a song?"
The party finally got under way with an odd melody of happy birthday as Hagrid put
on his party hat and clapped along. Cake and all kinds of goodies were served and
presents unwrapped. Dumbledore's was first, turning out to be a large pair of self
warming and self cleaning socks. Padma knitted him an immense scarf in Gryffindor
colors, with the help of a few spells she learned from her mother. Sue got her
parents to send another fire toad as a gift, related to her own, but a lot smaller. Harry
ordered a giant sized cookbook, Hearty Meals Even a Giant Would Love, and
suggested they cook together with it sometime. Hermione's gift was last, and when
Hagrid opened it he laughed.
"I'm sorry, I saw you making one when it broke, so I thought you might like another. I

asked the music professor and he recommended this kind from an owl catalog, it's a
Native American flute and a little bigger so it might fit you better." Hagrid kept
chuckling and thanked her with another tear in his eye.
Getting up, Hagrid showed them all a few more presents that were owled to him
earlier in the day, being so happy and proud at how many people remembered him
this year. While he was revealing a new set of crossbow bolts to Dumbledore, Harry
was munching on a piece of chocolate pumpkin cake when a strange thought hit
him. "Didn't we recently learn that it was impossible to conjure food in transfiguration
class?"
"Gamp's Law of Elemental Transfiguration, yes. What crazy thing did you figure out
this time Harry?" Hermione kicked his shoe with a coy smile.
"Well, don't spells like melofors and avis conjure food? I mean birds and pumpkins
aren't exactly good raw, but they are edible and could be cooked. Does the law only
apply to prepared food, because that doesn't make much sense."
Sue responded, "You're right, and there are many stories in my family of
mischievous witches tricking unwary travelers with conjured food. But in the tales,
the food never satisfies and all who eat it fall prey to the tricksters."
"Wait, there can't really be something so obviously false about the law without other
people noticing... can there?" Padma looked to Dumbledore, who now grinned at the
at the four inquisitive students with twinkling eyes.
"Right you all are. Food can be conjured, although it is technically not food as it does
not nourish. I am sure you all know that conjured items do not last, which can be
harmful, even dangerous if eaten. Much like this conjured roof might collapse if not
repaired properly tomorrow. That is why those spells are not taught and are even
outlawed by many magical governments today. I would ask you not to spread this
knowledge though, as it has been known to result in unsafe experimentation in the
past."
The students agreed readily enough, already having learned to keep secrets in the
rumor filled castle. And the party got back under way.
More cake and sweets were passed around, but not even Hagrid could eat it all. He
tried on the scarf and socks while playing the new flute to great amusement.
Dumbledore conjured more instruments for everyone to join in, creating a raucous of
discordant sounds. The celebrations soon tapered away as it neared curfew.
Everyone was amply stuffed and ready to retire, commenting on the wonderful time
they had. The house elves were called once again and Hagrid thanked them for the

cake as they saved the rest of it for later, while tidying up the place.
Waving good night, they received another round of thanks and Dumbledore was
embraced in a large bear hug, lifting him off the ground. Reaching the castle with the
headmaster still clutching his sides, he bid them farewell and flew up to his tower
once more. While levitating the suitcase back up the stairs the group discussed
whose gift was the best. And most conceded it was Dumbledore's after a lengthy
discussion.
Separating at the sixth floor, Hermione left her Ravenclaw friends to continue
upwards. Taking a detour around to the hall of hexes, she checked up on the rope
barrier with never any luck. Returning down a shadowy corridor a hand reached out
from behind a statue, seizing her around the waist, while another clapped over her
mouth.
"Got ya!"

Chapter 15 - Revelations
Chapter 15
Revelations
During the slow days of November and December Hermione was easily able to
persuade Harry into teaching her the wandless magic he knew. Starting with the
occlumency techniques he was learning from Dumbledore, and meditation practice,
which he thought helped. Yet they had no way of knowing if she was improving or
not, as Harry couldn't use legilimency and looking into Snape's eyes again wasn't an
option. Harry also tried teaching her how to move objects without a wand, by placing
a small glass bead on a table and telling her to move it with her mind. She worked
on everything in her spare time, but thought his teaching techniques were in more
desperate need of the practice.
Progress was slow on all fronts.
Learning the Homenum Revelio spell seemed easier by comparison, but they found
it could only sense people close by and required too much magic to perform, so they
postponed that for later. It was next that Harry had an idea, to constantly send
Hermione thoughts during shared classes, in order to familiarize her with the feeling
of that specific magic, and possibly allow her to replicate it easier. He seemed to
delight in their one sided conversations, trying to make her laugh at inappropriate
times, while she was limited to making faces in return. Either Hermione was
developing an amazing skill at expressing herself with only a look, or Harry was
becoming equally adept at reading her every mood and feature, as their silent
conversations became exceedingly complex.
Exploring the castle and all the secret passages was something Hermione had to be
talked into, yet she started to enjoy the diversions from their regular routine, which
provided some amusing stories. Such as overhearing embarrassing conversations
while waiting to exit a secret door, or finding teachers goofing off in between classes
when they thought no one was around.
Once, while scouting through a disused route with moss and spiderwebs scattered
everywhere, they ran across an abandoned looking classroom. Nearly interrupting a
group of dazed students, sitting in a circle and passing around some sort of pipe.
Being quite confused at the blue bubbles that came out of it, neither knew what to
do. Hermione's first impulse was to tell a teacher, but Harry quickly reminded her of
the promise she made. In the end, they decided to research whether it was harmful
before they choose to reveal it to anyone else. Harry guessed the twins might know,

but not wanting to stereotype them, he didn't mention it.

Hermione had a poor impression of them none the less. Mostly because of the
grades they got and the pranks they pulled, but especially after how much they
tormented her. She complained that they once played keep-away with a book of
her's, only to 'accidentally' stab her with a quill at the end. She didn't care to be the
go between for Harry either, having to endure their constant jokes and teasing. Yet
Harry could tell she didn't mind them too much, as she often smiled when comparing
them to mischievous monkeys, always getting into trouble.
Following the troll incident, Harry started noticing small changes in Hermione's
behavior as they became even closer friends. Although she stopped talking down to
people and acting the bossy teachers' pet soon after they got to know each other.
Recently she was able to resist correcting people as often, and was becoming more
skeptical of certain ideas concerning teacher's. He wasn't sure if she was being
influenced by their daily meetings or other events, but her new changes seemed to
stem from personal growth, rather than dropping the exaggerated persona she came
to school with.
Harry enjoyed her blunt honesty and passion for knowledge, but she was his friend
no matter how much she changed. Yet it became easier for her to get along with
others when she didn't act so abrasive. Which made Harry happy for her, and a little
jealous that someone else might monopolize her time. For the present though, that
couldn't be farther from the truth as they spent practically all their free time together.
Sue and Padma became closer friends as well, studying and practicing with them
most nights. Staying resolute in their mutual ambition to become capable wizards,
able to protect each other. They all got to mingle with other first years in the dueling
club and even invited some along to their study and practice sessions, bringing a
little variety to the cooling winter days. Hannah Abbot and Susan Bones were
included frequently after Harry remembered to apologize for tricking them on
Halloween night. Lavender and Parvati loved tagging along when there wasn't so
much studying, and Lisa Turpin asked to join in as well, turning out to be a bundle of
questions hidden behind thick glasses. Padma called them Potter groupies, but the
girls all seemed to have fun together. Harry even caught them giggling after he left to
put books away or whispering together while he concentrated on difficult spells.
Hermione seemed to linger a little closer on those days as well.
When the rumors of Harry having a harem resurfaced, they felt it was time to invite
some boys.
Justin Finch-Fletchley and Ernie Macmillan joined in a few times, but seemed a little

too intimidated by all the girls, whereas Harry was simply used to it by then. It
surprised everyone when Ron Weasley invited himself, unannounced and acting
amiable, yet was completely rebuffed by Hermione of all people, pointing out that
they planned to actually study instead of just talk, like he usually did. As she
explained later, she knew he wanted to copy their homework and didn't fancy him
getting into the habit of leeching off all their hard work, even if he started being nice
about it.
She tried inviting Neville Longbottom once, but he simply shook his head and ran
away from her, probably thinking it was a trap. They studied with other Ravenclaws
after that, then more Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs, but never a Slytherin, even after
inviting Daphne and some others. Most first years weren't compatible with their
group; some had difficulty keeping up with anything they were doing, while others
were annoyed when the topic ever changed from school work, and then there were
the few who stayed far away.
While Draco encountered further problems with his rebellious minions, Pansy
Parkinson and her new gang took over where he left off, insulting and bullying
anyone they thought would allow it. Which turned out to be almost everyone, but
Gryffindors and muggleborns got the worst of it. Resulting in Hermione being
targeted once again. She didn't let it bother her at all though, and instead of
pretending to be crazy like Harry, she ignored it entirely. Harry was proud of her, but
if it continued much longer he was planning on sabotaging Pansy and any thoughts
of friendship she might have.
oOoOo
The night of Hagrid's birthday was a complete success for everyone... except
Hermione. Being clutched firmly in a stranger's grasp nearly made her scream, faint,
and wet herself simultaneously. For everyone's sake it was lucky none of that
happened. Mostly because she would have to kill whoever it was, and wizards jail
didn't sound terribly appealing. Every muscle she could control was tensed. Shock
was the only thing keeping her from lashing out with her wand and every self
defense move she had ever heard of or read about. She held her breath, waiting for
the next move, determined to spring into action.
Whoever it was leaned close to her ear and whispered, "Got ya!"
All of Hermione's tension slid away, and a burning hatred replaced it. The hand
pulled away from her mouth and she screamed in a low voice, "Harry! I'm going to
kill you! And I don't even care if they send me to azkaban, because at least I'll be
away from YOU!" She turned around looking directly in his eyes, not able to escape

his grasp on her yet. A few inches away, she gave him a glare that she hoped could
break glass and melt stone. Then the unthinkable happened.
Harry kissed her.
Pulling away he smiled, that wonderful, heart-melting smile he gave her at times.
Which wouldn't let her heart stop fluttering in her chest, or the blush in her cheeks
from residing. He dashed away, leaving an utterly stunned and dumbfounded look on
her face. From the corner of the hallway he sent a thought, 'Good night' and kept on
going.
She stood frozen in place, trying to wrap her mind around what just happened.
He kissed me! WHY?! He really kissed me... it was more of a peck really, but on the
lips! He said he'd never do anything creepy again, but he loves to torment me too,
maybe he thinks that's okay? What a cheeky git. If only... No! He can't kiss me
whenever he feels like it simply to mess with my head! I won't let him. He knows I
fancy him by now, how could he not? But he's never shown the slightest interest
since the promise he made. Ever since the hospital incident he's acted kind of odd
around me, and even that was probably a mistake, thinking I was someone else. I've
seen the way he looks at other girls sometimes, much more than just friendly
stares... ughh, why did I have to crush on Harry Potter of all people. What a daft twit
I've been, thinking he might like me that way. He's probably just messing with me to
get a reaction, or he's really chuffed, thinking he distracted me from revenge...
Her watch alarm went off, giving two minutes before curfew. Shaking the strained
numbness from her limbs, she headed off towards the Gryffindor common room.
Trying to distract herself from more uncomfortable thoughts, she repeated the
answers from last weeks practice exams in transfiguration. Difficulty multiplied by the
mass, is divided by the amount of magic used, multiplied by your concentration. The
product is then multiplied by your intent, to get your likely... He had to have some
unknown reason to kiss me. No one does that when someone is angry at them, even
if they genuinely like the person - do they?
Retiring early that night was incredibly hard as new and strange thoughts kept her
wide awake, but the long and exciting day eventually caught up with her. Sleep
brought erratic dreams, yet ones she'd had before.
Laying in bed, Harry couldn't help run back through the night's events. Hermione had
been nice to him all day, smiling at him, leaning and sitting closer than usual. At the
party she playfully nudged him now and then, and even rested her head on his
shoulder at the end. When he mischievously wiped frosting on the tip of her nose

she just laughed and licked it off her finger. It was simply too much for him.
I can't believe I kissed her, after all the times I resisted doing something stupid... it
just felt... right.
How else was I supposed to react to all that, pretend forever that I don't like her?
She seemed so shocked when I kissed her goodnight though... maybe I went too far
in scaring her this time. Except she jokingly threatened my death just before that,
she must not have been too afraid. Maybe she really doesn't like me that way...
could I just be interpreting all her smiles and teasing wrong? Am I just the best friend
that'll never have a chance as anything more? I know I promised I'd never be too
forward again, but... I couldn't... I don't know what I was thinking... She was so close
last night, she smelled so good, and looked so cute I couldn't resist! Ugghhh, I really
hope she doesn't stop talking to me again.
oOoOo
Waking up early in the morning, Hermione threw off her sweaty covers and got ready
in a rush. She had a question to ask and it wasn't going to wait until after breakfast.
There were probably many more questions than one, but at least he would answer
that one.
Entering the common room she saw Angela Johnson alone by the fire, getting ready
for the day's quidditch match and doing a few stretches in the warmth rather than out
in the chill air. Seizing an idea, Hermione built up her courage and approached her,
"Excuse me, Angela? Could I talk to you for a second?"
"Sure swot, what is it?" Angela glanced back with a humorous grin.
Blushing slightly Hermione lowered her voice and stepped closer, "How do you know
- when a boy likes you?" Her blush deepened.
"Ooh, so you finally noticed eh?" Her face changed to an expression of wise
understanding, "Well, he does."
"Bu-but, how can you know?"
"Trust me on this one, he does."
"It's so confusing... he's always teasing me and trying to scare me. If it was anyone
else I would think he was an insulting prat. How can you be so sure?"
Lifting an eyebrow at her, Angela replied, "I don't think it could be any more ruddy

obvious, from your description no less. Besides, have you seen the way he looks at
you?"
"...How do you know who I'm talking about?" Hermione asked hesitantly.
Rolling her eyes now, Angela chuckled, "Blimey, you two are glued to the hip. If it
was anyone other than him, I bet he would be cursing them in the halls. But if you
can't trust my word on it, simply wait it out. Stay his friend until you're convinced, it
shouldn't take that long until he shows you. Though you shouldn't go too fast either,
still a little young for that sorta thing."
"Thanks, I was planning on asking him directly, but that might be... easier."
"I guess talking to him is more your speed, but you could simply take a shortcut and
kiss him, that would be quickest." She grinned teasingly, "But I have to be going now,
catch ya later. Hope it all gets sorted." She gave one last encouraging smile and
jogged out the door, broomstick in hand.
There was plenty of time before breakfast, so Hermione made her way towards the
Ravenclaw dorms. She still needed answers, even if she asked different questions
than originally planned. Upon reaching the library she saw Harry entering from the
other side. Their eyes met and it all clicked. But neither could help saying things that
had built up in their minds.
Hermione started, "What was that?" She tried to keep her face even and not give
anything away.
"I'm sorry!" Harry pleaded, "I know I said I wouldn't do anything strange like before,
and I really don't want you to stop talking to me again. So can we forget about it and
stay friends at least?"
"That's it? You're sorry?" Her eyes grew more intent. "You scare me half to death
and then do the most unexpected thing imaginable, and you're only sorry? Nothing
else going on in your mind that you want to tell me maybe? Like what you were
expecting to happen now?" She crossed her arms and waited.
Knowing exactly what he wanted to say, he didn't say it. But she didn't seem
unreasonably angry so Harry tried to hint at it sideways, "If... if we can still be friends,
I thought maybe we can simply see where things go... No pressure or expectations,
just, being ourselves." He looked up with a hopeful expression, and remembered to
breathe.
That sounded almost like what Hermione dreamed about, but she didn't want to

sound overly keen about the idea, in case he meant something else. "That sounds
acceptable, but you better not do anything like that again!"
His hopeful expression dropped into guilt and sadness.
Thinking quickly she clarified her words with a wry grin, "I mean if you ever scare me
like that again I'll curse your nose off! And don't think I'm going to forget about
getting you back, I owe you for that." His smile that melted her heart was back, and
everything was going to be alright now. Those bright green eyes ensnared her
completely.
"We'll see..." Happier than even last night, Harry forgot about the world and his fears,
and stepped close to kiss her again. The bell rang for breakfast and he turned his
step into a slide, moving beside her and holding his arm out for her, "Shall I escort
you to breakfast m'lady?"
She snorted cheerfully and pushed him, then grabbed his arm anyway, pulling him
along to the statue. An older student noticed, but said nothing, simply expecting it by
now. They separated before exiting out the secret passageway, not wanting the
whole school to gossip. Their elbows still touched gently, now and then as they
walked to their seats.
oOoOo
With the meal ending the owl post arrived, dropping feathers and packages all over
the place. Harry couldn't help but remember his first night at Hogwarts, learning what
else they dropped in the past. A single letter fell into Hermione's lap, quite dissimilar
to all the rest. It was printed text on a white envelope, and could only be from her
parents. Harry glanced around at her opening it and reading carefully. After finishing
it, she looked back at him with the barest hint of a grin. He caught her meaning, it
must be good news.
Walking back together Harry asked her who the letter was from. With a bubbly tone
she responded, "My parents, they're especially busy this time of year and were
wondering if I wanted to put our skiing trip off till next year. Maybe I'll write them
back, saying it's okay?"
"That's... good?" He was confused at how she could be happy, being left at school
with a loving family to go home to, but then it dawned on him, and decided to wind
her up a little, "That's too bad I won't be able to stay here and keep you company
over the holidays."
"Wh-What?" Disappointment touched her lips as she hid the letter, "I thought you

said you wanted to stay here over the break..."

Glancing at her miniscule pout, he relented, "Oh, well I guess I could. If you really
want me to that is. Can't have you staying here all by yourself."
Pushing it too far, Hermione caught onto him as well, "No, that's okay, I'll just go
home and have a wonderful holiday with my family and people I actually like."
Elbowing him in the side, he couldn't help but laugh.
"Okay, okay, would you please spend the winter holidays here with me so I'm not so
poor and alone? Is that what you want to hear?" He poked her lightly in the ribs with
wandless magic, bypassing her arms that were blocking his.
"Hey!" She tried to poke him back but settled for smacking his shoulder, "I'm not
sure, it sounds awfully dull hanging around here with you all through Christmas." Her
sarcastic expression was in full force.
"Really now, dull is it? I suppose I won't have to talk Hagrid into letting you come
along with us Christmas shopping in a few weeks, and going to Florean's ice cream
parlor. Or any of the hundred other shops you might want to explore with a rich and
handsome companion by your side..."
"Who, Hagrid? I didn't know he was rich." She smiled coyly at him and ran on ahead.
Arriving at the library Harry plopped down in the chair beside her. She was intent on
reading a book in a surprisingly awkward position, while pretending to ignore him.
"You know what? Dumbledore told me a strange story about his brother a few weeks
back, implied he was a hobknocker even. Something about sheep or goats I
believe."
This received another snort but Hermione shook her head and kept reading.
Somehow he had desensitized her to outrageous topics so much, she had learned to
tolerate even the most absurd stories he told. Looking at the book she was reading
made him question her sanity though. Gadding with Ghouls, a book written as if the
author was begging for attention. Having read a chapter or two when Hermione left
for the bathroom the other day, Harry didn't know how she could stand the pandering
drivel.
At least she doesn't have much time to read those books with the end of term
coming up. But what could she see in an author like that when she obviously has
read much better in the past? I guess it goes to show, that even geniuses have bad
habits, and Ravenclaw can contain obnoxious braggarts like Lockhart.

"Do you really like that book, or are you secretly planning to drive me crazy with how
strange you can act?"
She peeked over the cover at him, "For your information, there are rumors that the
author wants the dark arts position here at Hogwarts. I'm simply trying to discern his
credentials. No need to get your smalls in a bunch."
Getting an evil idea about her comment, Harry imagined what her reaction might be,
and decided not to risk it. "Well I'm glad Hogwarts can rely on you to vet their
teachers. Shame you weren't here last year to sack Quirrell and Snape for being
lousy educators. But if a pompous windbags like him gets in, I'm not sure it'll be
much better." He pointed towards her book.
"Why don't you go watch a Slytherin quidditch practice, it matches your attitude, rude
and pointless." Pulling her book up she sat back and ignored him again.
When things were going so well, he had to ruin it by opening his mouth. "I'm sorry... I
just don't get why you would like that kind of book. But I'll shut up now - can, we still
study together later though?"
Laying down her book once again, she studied his long but pleading face, and rolled
her eyes. "Fine, but we're revising potions. That'll probably be the hardest exam,
judging by all the homework we were given."
He agreed readily, as potions was the only class that gave him any difficulties.
Snape wasn't that horrible lately but he didn't make the subject any easier. Harry's
way of memorizing potion ingredients and their steps let him breeze through most of
the class, but the problems came when trying to figure out what would happen if
anything was changed. It was supposed to be an exact science, but none of it made
any sense to him. Putting in more of one root or another could do anything from
bubble a different color, to explode, with no explanation of why. Not making
mistakes, was apparently hindering him from learning. It probably didn't help that
potions interested him least as well.
Later when Padma and Sue arrived, they moved to a central table and laid out their
books and parchment. Harry had taken to using a pencil for anything but homework
and tests. He found it much easier to scribble notes and erase things rather than
using a quill with dripping ink, even if they could correct his spelling or take dictation.
Their study of potions focused on where he had difficulties, since everyone in their
group memorized the potion steps by now. It soon became apparent that he was
behind them all and even Hermione's tips didn't help him understand. The head start
on magic he had, along with so much practice was still keeping him ahead in most

classes, although others were catching up fast. Somehow they were gaining on him
and learning faster than he did, yet it didn't make sense, and he was determined to
understand why.
Fred and George came bouncing into the Ravenclaw library, carrying their brooms
and making too much noise, heedless of the dirty looks they gathered along the way.
Stopping at their table, the twins leaned down and put their arms over Harry and
Hermione's shoulders.
"Almost time for quidditch, are you lot going to cheer us on this time? The game is
between Gryffindor and Hufflepuff after all."
"Yeah, we know all about Ravenclaws rivalry with the puffs, though we still can't
figure out why." George scratched his chin at the mystery.
"Wait, we're not supposed to like Hufflepuff? How come no one told me this?" Harry
directed the question at Padma and Sue.
Sue shrugged, "It's common knowledge, but we don't know why either."
"The Hufflepuffs claim it's because we're jealous of all their famous alumni, and wish
they were are own. But that's silly, why would anyone care?" Padma remarked.
Hermione pushed Fred's arm off her shoulder and chimed in, "I read that Rowena
Ravenclaw became extremely secretive before she died, hiding many things from
her best friend Helga Hufflepuff. Some say they got into a fight over castle secrets
and founder legacies, and that's when the feud first started, although a thousand
years seems like a long time to hold a grudge."
Harry looked back and forth between them all, "Are you sure it's not just a joke
played on the rest of the school so we aren't included in a house war like Gryffindor
and Slytherin?"
Fred and George glanced at each other, "Naaa, couldn't be. The puffs barely know
what deception is, let alone how to do it. Besides, we've seen how intense your
houses get during quidditch."
"So are you coming or not, we have to go suit up. And we better see you there
Hermione, no one gets out of supporting their own house!"
Finally being persuaded to go, the girls packed up their bags. Harry on the other
hand had another idea.

"I have a meeting with Professor Flitwick, but I'll come down afterwards." Hermione
threw him a suspicious look, but gave up trying to figure him out. They filed out the
library as a few other students followed after.
Meanwhile Harry climbed to the seventh floor, after checking on the rope barrier, he
knocked on Flitwick's office door. "Come in!" Responded a high pitched voice, and
Harry entered.
oOoOo
"What can I do for you today Harry? Change your mind about attending quidditch
practice? Or are you looking for another enchanting book?" Professor Flitwick
hopped up on a pile of papers behind his desk.
"No to both actually. I came to talk about my performance in charms. I was
wondering if I've been doing something wrong lately, because, it feels like something
is holding me back."
Flitwick gazed into his eyes, "Hmm, well you shouldn't worry too much, since you are
still second in your year. But I have noticed you progress is declining a little, have
you been practicing enough? Maybe something outside of class has been bothering
you?"
Thinking for a second, Harry came up with nothing, "Not that I can think of, and I've
been practicing almost as much as Hermione. But I can't help imagining something
is wrong. It's almost as if I'm getting worse at performing spells I've already
mastered."
"Hmm, let's see a few then, start with Lumos."
Doing as he was told, Harry picked up his wand and cast the spell, with a clear
"Lumos," which produced a bright light, yet it stung the his eyes more than normal.
Ending it after a second he was about to cast another charm when he was
interrupted.
"Er... what happened to your 'nox' countercharm?" Flitwick looked confused, "Are
you practicing nonverbal spells already Harry?"
"Oh, well, - It just seems easier without it. I haven't been specifically practicing any
since I heard you learn that in later years, but some spells I use without the
incantation, it just comes naturally... Is there something wrong with that? Could I be
damaging my magical core by doing nonverbal charms without guidance?" Harry
was on the edge of his seat, worried he might have been hurting himself all these

years with wandless and nonverbal magic. Though he knew there was something
wrong with that line of thought.
Looking a little uncomfortable, Flitwick coughed, "Ah, um, no, not quite. Why don't
you try Lumos again, but without the incantation if you can."
He hesitated, looking back and forth from his wand to the professor, but shrugged
his shoulders and began. Doing so, Harry imagined the tip of his wand illuminating
the room, feeling the slight warmth of sunlight, and seeing the clear image of the soft
light shining in his mind. With barely any movement from his wand, he cast,
producing a brilliantly pure glow that lit the entire office. Neither stinging the eyes nor
making either of them squint from glare. His eyebrows rose at the unexpected result.
Professor Flitwick squirmed a little in his seat, "I was afraid of this... You see, the
problem with teaching magic sometimes, is that everyone is different. While one
method may work with most, some few learn better another way. This isn't to say
one method is wrong, or another right, but teachers can't tell which students will
learn better if taught differently. Usually it isn't until the 5th and 6th year that it is
apparent, and that's when all students are expected to try it. Do you see what I
mean?"
Sudden realization hit Harry, "You mean saying incantations aren't needed, but that
most students learn better that way, so that's how it's taught? All this time, I thought
spell incantations were somehow part of the magic, required to do specific spells,
though I should have known better. I was even given a hint early on... Wait, wand
movements aren't needed either, are they?"
I should have seen all this ages ago. I never even needed a wand before school,
why should words and motions matter when it was always focus that limited me
before. That's what was making me so frustrated lately. I was getting caught up in
perfecting meaningless pronunciation and the exact way to wave my wand, thinking
that would improve my spells, when it only distracted me and weakened them.
"Ahhmm, well that depends on the student, but technically, - no. Though many are
helped by it, and some spells seem to function better with a wand movement similar
to their intended action, they can still be performed without. The reason appears to
be that most students need to focus on a specific structure of a spell, using a name,
wand movement, and imagining the concept of a spell with it's effect all at once.
Wingardium Leviosa for instance, sounds like a spell that would let something float,
since most local languages and spells are based on Latin, they resemble those
words and concepts already held by many students. Being that most spells were
developed or changed when Latin was flourishing, they usually stem from it. I

suspect it was easier to teach when everyone spoke Latin and spells were simply
variations from an actual word. The swish and flick I teach is reproduced easily and
tends to give the idea of picking things up, although past professors have taught
differently."
"Of course." Harry nodded along, "Defining the concept of what you want to happen
in your mind is what matters. That should be so much easier though, focusing on
only the desired results. The usual method probably let's the mind make more
connections related to similar thoughts and memories, associating everything with
how you think the spell works. Though there are so many other languages out there,
some people might even have a hard time pronouncing the words right. Do they use
something else in Asia and other countries that never spoke or was influenced by
Latin?" Harry leaned back again thinking of all the possibilities. Jubilant at the
knowledge that he wasn't doing something wrong, and could discard the unneeded
details.
"Some still do, yes, but their languages have changed quite drastically as well since
ancient spells were created, and many have transitioned over to the Latin
pronunciations and this style of teaching recently. That is why many foreign students
come here, to learn what works so well and bring it back to their countries of origin.
Because it is highly useful for the majority of students. Most are given scholarships
to come here from their own magical governments, and expected to teach when they
get back.
"The problem we face now Harry, is a difficult one. You will obviously want to practice
and use spells without focusing on the words or wand movements, but this can
cause problems for others."
This peaked Harry's curiosity, as he sat up a little straighter.
"While you may benefit from nonverbal spells, most students would be severely
harmed by trying to imitate you. Both physically while casting spells they cannot
perform correctly, and developmentally they might lose all confidence in the old way
things are taught. That is the main reason why magic is taught by the current
method, because while some students may be held back like yourself, most would
barely be able to perform the simplest magic if they tried to learn nonverbal spells
from the beginning. Only after years of practice are their concepts of spells so
ingrained that they are capable of learning nonverbal magic without harm. It is
believed that your frame of mind, or how you think is slightly different than regular
people. Allowing those like you to do what others normally cannot.
"So I must ask you to pretend to cast the usual way in classes, and practice your

own way in private. Like those in the distant past, you will most likely refine your
spells better on your own, but simply be guided by the spells taught in classes. Pretending to whisper or repeat the words by rote will help keep up appearances. I'm
sorry, but you might need to continue this deception for many years. It shouldn't be
too hard because others will most likely be focusing on your outstanding magic
rather than your pronunciation or wand movements. Since those like you were
usually the most powerful wizards of their age. Even Headmaster Dumbledore didn't
realize he was better with nonverbal magic until his fifth year, as it is told."
Harry's eyebrows rose again in surprise, this was giving him new hope. He was
getting worse and worse at learning spells as time went on, causing his dreams of
creating new magic or incredible devices to slowly fade away. He almost started
thinking about a future in the department of mysteries, simply studying past
achievements, instead of continuing his research in enchanting. But now it seemed
his potential wasn't lost after all.
"Wow, that's interesting... of course I can keep pretending if you want. Is it the same
for transfiguration and potions as well?" Hope was plastered all over his face.
"For transfiguration it is, although the incantations and calculation of what you want
to change can be very important and helpful, it is not precisely required. I have heard
Dumbledore compare magic and particularly transfiguration to music. Saying that
while most people need it to be broken down into notes, keys, and many other parts
to recreate it, there are some who it comes to naturally. Savants, I believe they are
called."
Reeling at the implication, Harry wondered if he was somehow mentally
handicapped like most savants he heard about. I'm certainly not normal for an
eleven year old, but I don't think I have some kind of disability... And magic didn't
exactly come naturally either. I had to work on wandless magic for years to get very
good at it. Maybe it's just a talent I've learned to harness? He continued to speculate
while Flitwick carried on.
"I'm afraid potions are still controlled by the ingredients and methods used though.
And I would advise you to be especially careful with free transfiguration. Normally
you learn that in sixth or seventh year, because you should have all the basics down
by then. You should inform Professor McGonagall about your aptitude so she will
know what to expect, and be able to advise you further." Sliding down from the pile
of papers he walked over to Harry, "I hope this won't strain your friendship with fellow
students, especially with Miss Granger. Having to keep secrets from friends can be
very burdensome."

"Are you sure Hermione isn't like me? Although she still learns well normally, maybe
she could do better non-verbally too?"
"Possibly... possibly, but it is dangerous to risk it. Do not tell her yet, but if you see
her casting nonverbal spells also, bring her to me and we can make sure. Is there
anything else you had on your mind?" Harry shook his head, "Good good, now I
hope the quidditch game hasn't ended yet, let's go watch?"
His eyes twinkled like Dumbledore's as he climbed up to a back window, opened the
latch, and fell out. Calling back up he squeaked, "Jump down, it's perfectly safe."
Harry looked over the edge at the titchy little man far below, then shook his head and
dived after.
oOoOo
Arriving at the match Harry parted ways with Flitwick and made his way to the
Gryffindor stands. Finding Hermione in the back row, he sat beside her. Ron,
Seamus, and Dean were all up front, shouting at the Gryffindor team in the air,
yelling advice and encouragement, none of which was heard. Neville sat to one side,
cuddling the new hedgehog Lee finally got him. From the talk going around, it was
said to be magical and already bit one of Neville's tormentors. The other Gryffindor
girls were clustered around him, giggling and cooing about how cute it looked.
"Anything exciting happen so far?" Harry asked.
Hermione looked up at him, "Ron nearly fell off the stands earlier, but no, not on the
pitch at least. - Come to point out the snitch again?"
"Well, there's no need to point when it's right over there," He nodded his head
towards the Slytherin stands. It was hovering right above them and no one seemed
to notice. He dropped to a whisper, " - But if you're bored I could push it towards one
of the seekers and let them chase it." He smirked at her scandalized expression.
"But only if you're bored."
"You will do no such thing!" She scolded him, "They're trying their hardest out there,
they don't need you interfering for fun. Even if we find it a little... dull."
He nudged her playfully and brought out a package of chocolate grasshoppers,
offering her some. She took a few and stuffed her hands back under the blanket she
had brought, where she was slyly reading a book. Harry chuckled and she nudged
him back.

"What are you doing here?" Ron asked Harry with an imitation of a posh accent.
Attracting the attention of the other boys.
Catch more flies with honey, Harry thought, "Just cheering on Gryffindor, Fred and
George are doing great. - Care for some chocolate?" He poured some into the three
boy's outstretched hands and they were extremely mollified.
Hermione huffed and shook her head at his confusing actions, "You might be
reinforcing bad behavior you know, better to offer when they're nice."
"Should I ring a bell as well? Heh, if I'm too obvious even they might catch on.
Although I admit, it is unlikely."
"At least you're not tripping them into mud puddles or through the halls like Draco.
I've seen his so called clumsiness first hand, and can guess the cause now. You
know it's cruel to use your magic like that, even on bullies."
Shrugging, Harry chewed slowly on a grasshopper, "I suppose I'm cruel then."
She glanced at the distant look on his face and leaned her shoulder against him,
sighing. Pulling the blanket over him as well, they watched the game together.
Eventually the Gryffindor seeker, some fourth year Harry didn't know, saw the snitch
and the chase began. Taking twenty minutes of on and off bursts of speed, when the
snitch was finally caught by a lucky grab from Gryffindor. It relieved Harry that there
wasn't going to be any superstitious nonsense of him being bad luck if they lost.
Lunch arrived soon after and there was a celebration at the Gryffindor table.
Fireworks were set off and more candy was thrown, but they held the noise to a dull
roar.
'Still enjoying quidditch now?' He sent the silent question to Hermione and she
looked back with her 'you know better than to ask that,' expression.
Meeting with Dumbledore later, Harry revealed his new knowledge and mentioned
that asking him to light the fireplace once, wasn't much of a hint to nonverbal magic.
Especially when he didn't even know that he was supposed to learn from vague and
obscure hints at the time. Not conceding the point, Dumbledore reminded him of
their discussion on defense spells to learn. As well as few casual mentions in the
past month. Harry smacked his forehead and agreed.
"Got any more obvious hints about other topics I haven't been getting? Because as
you can see, I'm not the best at this game."

"That is half the fun, learning how to play. - You have a great advantage already, now
that you realize I give so many hints. I suppose I could spare a few more, yet make
them obscure and mysterious, which is how they are supposed to be passed on."
Dumbledore cleared his throat and sat up in seriousness.
"What has been broken can be fixed, what is hidden will be found, and when pacing
needed things arrive. There, now does that cheer you up?" The wise old wizard
impression with a twinkle in his eye was slightly marred by crumbs on his beard, and
a bit of jam on his sleeve from lunch.
Harry was a little tired of just thinking through hints over again and again, so he
finally said something, "Maybe if there was a clue to HOW I'm supposed to figure the
rest of it out. I only have so much time on my hands to research this stuff, I can't
spend all of it looking for everything about hidden secrets, and special repair spells.
By the way, it's really hard trying to find that disappearing door when there's a spell
blocking the way to it."
A little befuddled Dumbledore sighed, "I told Severus to take that down ages ago. It
was a precaution that appears not to have worked. As for the rest, they should not
be that hard. If I make them too easy, I will not have any secrets left to give hints
about."
Wanting to throw up his hands and grow another tree from the desk, Harry calmed
down and practiced his breathing. "Okay, can I at least try to use legilimency today?
I'm bound to need it sometime in the future, being the boy who lived. Why not start
practicing now?" The severe expression the headmaster rarely used was back,
ready to explain yet again why it was not a good idea. Relenting Harry slumped back
in his seat, "Fine, have it your way. Occlumency training yet again. I hope you grow
bored of this someday and decide to train me in something a bit more fun. The Dark
Arts perhaps?"
Dumbledore knew Harry was being sarcastic, yet looked at him with an even sterner
gaze. Which only made the boy chuckle. His intimidating and mysterious
Headmaster persona wasn't meant for one on one occlumency training over the
span of months. Especially when he interspersed it with levity and genuine honesty.
Harry was getting too friendly and good at occlumency that it became difficult to tell
what he was hiding. Although Dumbledore assured himself early on that Harry was
no Tom Riddle, there were still dangerous aspects to his character. His lack of
compassion for those he does not consider friends, his willingness to take an easy
way out, and disregard for authority or established tradition. Not to mention the
possible dark roads Harry was likely to travel, searching for knowledge and lost

magic, or the endless people who may try to corrupt him for the power he already
possessed. Dumbledore decided to demonstrate to Harry the proper way to act in
the future, and not merely rely only on tales of wisdom and temporary conversations.
He nodded to Harry and looked him in the eyes, then entered his mind.
oOoOo
Arriving at the Ravenclaw library Harry sat down quietly next to Hermione, still
reading her book from earlier. She had one leg up on the armrest pointing towards
him, an arm stretched behind her head as she slouched sideways, and the book
propped on her stomach, one hand turning the pages. Almost through with it, she
probably didn't notice him, or how awkward she was sitting. He sat and watched her,
entertained by how she crossed her legs once in a while or made a little noise or
sigh now and then. Her shoes had been kicked off ages ago revealing cushy pink
socks, embroidered with hearts and soft tufts of cotton around the ankle. They made
Harry want to tickle her tiny feet so much that he almost reached out by hand to do
it, in front of who knows how many people that might see. Restraining himself took
effort but he managed it.
While waiting Harry hid behind a large book in his lap in case anyone came close, or
she looked up. Only a few pages were left as he kept studying her. Noting her foot
dancing to unheard music, she put both legs up over the armrest to slouch down
even further in the chair, reading the last page in rapt interest. With a sigh she turned
the last page, closed the book, and looked up.
Their eyes met and she blushed slightly, "When did you get here?" She slowly
righted herself and put her shoes back on, while glancing furtively at Harry who
pretended to be reading.
"Just a minute ago, didn't want to interrupt you so close to the end." He closed his
book and looked back at her rosy cheeks. "Want to go check the moke traps today? I
read that they search farther for food during the winter."
She nodded at the correct information and acceptance of his plan. "Sure, I'll go get
my cloak and meet you..?"
"There's a passage underneath Ravenclaw tower that leads out by the greenhouses,
so here is fine?"
Another nod and they were soon on their way. He helped her down the sharp drop in
the broom closet and they exited out into the crisp December air. Warm breath
became fog as their shoes crunched the icy grass underneath. The cold bit at their

noses and they bundled up tighter. Hermione cast a few hot air charms up her
sleeves and in her shoes to keep the chill away. Walking down by the lake, they
made their way slowly along the edge of the forbidden forest. Looking for the traps
here and there, trying to discern their whereabouts in the altered weather.
Coming upon a broken and twisted trap they looked closer, it was empty. They found
a charm in the library to at least detect a moke if close, but whatever had been in
there was long gone. Examining the bent metal and missing bait, it had obviously
caught something, but wasn't strong enough to hold it. There was even a piece of
dried skin clinging to a sharp point on the trap, that looked exactly like the greenish
silver a book said it should. They had caught one.
"Looks like it was a big one too... We'll have to practice the unbreakable charm, and
find some kind of spell to alert us when the traps are triggered." Hermione surmised.
"At least we know they're in the area, and if there's one that can grow that big,
there's bound to be more. Let's check the rest real quick." The freezing temperature
was getting to them, but with a generous amount of hot air charms and sticking close
together, they fought it off.
The last trap was empty, same as all the rest. With another round of warming
charms they started back, but that's when Harry got an idea. "We should be far
enough away that no one can find us. Want to try something?"
Hermione's face went scarlet in the blink of an eye, "I'm... not sure, - what did you
have in mind?" She was looking down at the ground.
Eyes widening in surprise, Harry could guess by her manner what she thought he
meant, the idea flooded through him, and his face also went red, "Well... um... we,
could... do that again... - but I was thinking, of something more magic related.
Occlumency and legilimency training?"
"Out here? In the freezing cold? Doesn't that take tons of concentration and
discipline? And I thought you told me Dumbledore wasn't letting you learn
legilimency yet." She was breathing deeply, trying to dissuade her cheeks from
staying red.
"I guess you're right, it's just the only place no one would think to look for us. But if
you want to warm your lips up... then that's fine as well."
Hermione shot warm air in his face and then pushed him away, "In your dreams
Potter." Sticking out her tongue at him she danced away once again. Chasing after
her this time he pulled her back towards him with wandless magic. "No fair Harry!"

She aimed her wand at him but it angled to the side as she cast a leg locker jinx,
missing him completely, "No!" was all she got out before he tackled her into a clump
of thick grass.
Her wand rolled away and Harry laughed evilly, "Haven't been practicing your
wandless magic much have you?" Holding her arms down with one hand he pulled
her wand to his own hand with magic and stuffed it inside his pocket.
"Now... how much will you suffer this time for your insolent behavior?" She was
glaring up daggers at him, but was flushed an even brighter red now. Then the
tickling began. Her giggling laughter could be heard bouncing along the hills and far
into the woods. Finally gathering her strength, she pushed him off and tackled him in
turn.
"Now what are you going to do? No wand, no magic, what powers do you think you
have over me?" He smiled up at her.
She kissed him. And then slapped him. Giggling at his shocked face she jumped up
and ran towards the castle as fast as she could. She shouted back, "That was for the
last night!"
Climbing to his feet slowly, he rubbed his stinging cheek and contemplated the quick
kiss. Hermione stopped at the doorway, looking back at him, but he just smiled and
took out her wand, waving it back at her. Crossing her arms she stepped into the
entrance hall to wait for him. There was no hiding or sneaking up upon him, not for
her at least. Harry could sense everywhere she went, all day long, but pretended it
was only when he tried. For the last few days she was on his mind. Others he could
sense whenever he concentrated or tried sensing where they were, but now, he
could always feel her presence. He just hoped it wasn't too creepy if she ever
learned about it. Luckily he only sensed her state of mind when she was extremely
emotional, which wasn't very often.
Arriving at the door he entered quietly, seeing Hermione at the foot of the steps
opposite him. The entrance room was empty as she smirked at him, and with a loud
pop, Kolie appeared in front of his face grabbing onto his robe. "Hello master Harry!"
Her tiny hand slipped into his inner pocket before he even realized what was going
on. With another pop she was standing next to Hermione handing her wand back.
"Thank you Kolie." She grasped it tightly in victory.
"I thought you were supposed to be on my side!" Complained Harry.
Waving goodbye Kolie gave a playful smile and popped away again. Hermione

displayed a triumphant grin, but lost it just as fast. Her eyes widened and mouth
dropped open as her wand slipped from her grasp again and whizzed right back into
Harry's waiting hand. He broke into a mirthful laugh seeing her reaction. Walking up
to her he twirled it in his fingers. Grimacing at another small crack in it, he stopped
and put on his smile again. "I believe you dropped this?" He reverently handed it
over with a bow.

Chapter 16 - Surprises
Chapter 16
Surprises
Rain fell lazily outside the Ravenclaw library windows, splattering against the frost
covered grounds. It was after dinner on a mundane Thursday evening, half an hour
before dueling club. Hermione had found a book on dueling tips which she was
skimming through before they left. While Harry twirled the Nundu wand between his
fingers, running different scenarios through his head. How he would react if his
opponent used this spell or that, if dodging or shielding might work better to counter
certain spells.
All week long Harry had been secretly practicing magic with wand movements or
incantations as only afterthoughts, feeling immensely relieved but lonely at the same
time. Making excuses to Hermione and keeping another secret grated against the
new pleasure of casting pure and simple magic.
Distracted by charming trivialities and bogged down by a deluge of new spells
recently, Harry had lost focus on his intent. But now he was free. No longer
preoccupied by insignificant details, his magic felt almost natural. Like it used to be,
before any wands, words, or wobbly wand movements. Now he could almost feel his
wand concentrating his magic, sharpening it to perform complex magic with less
effort. Previous spells he was having difficulty learning, came with relative ease.
Older spells that were weak or troublesome became clear and more potent, but
drained him much quicker. Clearing his mind and only thinking of the desired result
allowed his untapped potential to finally flow. This, felt like real magic to him. And he
was good at it.
Having no outlet to accurately test his magic, Harry was excited to stretch his new
found talent at the dueling club. While hoping his improvement wasn't too noticeable.
Glancing up from her book Hermione turned it towards him, "Look here, instead of
casting a full Protego around yourself, most professional duelists predict where a
spell is aimed and only use a small focused shield to deflect it away, or try repelling it
back at the caster. It takes much less magic, but is difficult to accomplish unless you
practice a lot. Maybe we could try that, since our shield spells aren't powerful
enough to protect us much."
"Sounds promising, although we should start after term ends, after all, the homework
being dumped on us lately isn't leaving much time for spell practice. And we only

have one more dueling club after this before everyone else goes home for the
holidays."
"I suppose you're right, - does that mean you finished this week's homework in
potions already, or are you putting it off again?" She eyed him skeptically, already
guessing his answer.
Sighing, Harry rubbed his temples, "Everything but the theoretical portion, I bet
Snape is going to make that the biggest part of the exam, just to torture me.
Sometimes it really seems like he loathes me, although it was a lot worse at the
beginning of the year."
"He loathes everyone, especially the Gryffindors. I think the only reason why he
favors Slytherin is just to show how much he hates the rest of us. You'd think he'd
pick a different job than teaching, if he dislikes students to such an extent. He
actually called me a 'silly know-it-all' in class when I kept trying to answer his
questions." She wore a grumpy expression while flipping through her book.
Harry laughed but quickly restrained himself, "Actually, it might be the perfect job if
he hated students, since he gets to participate in their torture. - It let's him glare at
them evilly any time he wants, punish them for the most insignificant things, mentally
abuse those he really hates, and dictate their every action during class. But maybe
there's a reason why he's lightened up? Kind of makes you wonder how many
complaints have been filed about him, or if he has tenure and couldn't be fired
unless he committed a crime, if even then." The clock chimed once at five till the
hour, reminding them to get moving.
Hermione started packing her bag up, while Harry put the book he was reading back.
"You are the one with Dumbledore's ear, why not ask him?"
"Not on that I don't. For some reason he seems to have a soft spot for horrible
teachers, like he's running a volunteer soup kitchen instead of a school. He often
ignores my questions relating to professors and their qualifications. - No, I was
thinking about complaints to the board of governors. But I doubt his removal would
even change things, as the replacement might be worse. I imagine Dumbledore
hiring a reformed death eater next, simply to show how important forgiveness is."
Hermione shrugged as they fell into step with each other.
oOoOo
The first year dueling club took place in their usual practice hall, located under the
Ravenclaw library. The journey was very short, but they liked to get there early and

set up practice dummies for anyone without a partner or wanting to test out a new
spell.
"I suppose we'll have to pair up once again Harry, no one else can put up with you
embarrassing them all the time."
"Hey, I try to go easy... but it's hard to always hold back. Besides, they don't care to
lose and then have their spells picked apart by you either. Even Sue looked a little
defeated after last time. She and Padma are the only ones that can keep up with us,
and both would rather not be target practice. We might as well make the best of
being stuck together. - So tell me, how you want to be defeated today?"
"Funny, I was just going to ask you that." Giving him a tight lipped smile she turned
away, her hair swaying behind her. Other students arrived then and began pairing
up.
Soon people were casting back and forth, receiving weak jinxes and temporary
hexes that Professor Flitwick had taught them. Green sparks were a favorite for
most, being easy to cast and hard to dodge. Harry and Hermione began with a
simple exercise to practice their accuracy and agility, using the color changing
charm. As most first year's magic was weak, the spell only affected a small area,
lasted mere minutes, and required great precision which was perfect for dueling, that
is until Harry finally achieved a hit. The spell only grazed a corner of Hermione's
bushy hair, but instantly turned every wave and curl dayglow blue. Strikingly similar
to freshly spun candy floss.
This distracted them both, as Hermione swatted it away in shock at the sudden
changes in her peripheral vision, and Harry covered his intense laughter with both
hands trying to contain himself. Neither succeeded, except in drawing attention to
themselves. Hermione eventually realized her predicament while taking a second to
examining a single curl, then gave Harry a withering look at his continued laughter. It
wasn't until they noticed the growing noise that alerted them to the horde of people
arriving.
Starting out, the club had almost every first year in it except the Slytherins. But
quickly dwindled to somewhere around fifteen, depending on the week. Michael
Corner and Terry Boot were regulars, along with Padma, Sue, and Lisa from
Ravenclaw. Ron, Seamus, and Dean came at times, mostly to play around, along
with Parvati and Lavender from the Gryffindors. But once in a while they saw Fay
Dunbar, and her red headed friend who's name Harry never remembered. Hannah
and Susan always attended, yet even being timid, they made ample progress.
Sometimes a few other Hufflepuffs came to check things out, but not many stayed

long.
Today though, it was a replay the first, except worse, becoming crowded with a mass
of students milling about. Some second, third, and fourth years even stepped in to
observe from the side benches. Harry and Hermione drew close and stood together
for a moment to watch, as even more people arrived, Slytherins.
"That seems ominous. They probably heard about Flitwick being busy today, and
decided to attend on the only day they could make mischief. I bet the older years
heard as well." Harry whispered.
"There's Draco, but no Crabbe and Goyle, what could that mean?"
Harry smiled, "It means all my hard work paid off, and look at that, Pansy seems to
be leading the bunch. Maybe it's time to start the next project." Hermione looked at
him with eyes that warned, 'you better not be causing problems.'
Ignoring the glare from her eyes and colorful hair, Harry shook off his nervous
reservations, and walked up to Pansy. He looked over the Slytherins with a
welcoming grin, "Smashing to see so many new faces today, care for a dance?"
Holding out his hand with a partial bow, he chuckled at the confused expressions.
"Dear me, now that you mention it, this is the dueling club. Fancy one of those
instead?" He looked Pansy straight in the eye and the crowd grew quiet.
"Only like playing with girls, don't you Nancy? Gonna invite them to see your dollies
later too?" Draco taunted as he pushed his way forward. "Bet you don't have the
guts to face me."
"As I seem to recall, the last time you challenged me to a duel Draco, you didn't
show up. But if you can't even remember my name, I suppose I shouldn't expect
much." Harry bluffed, still curious as to what happened that night.
A miniscule snarl flashed across Draco's face, reddening in confirmation. "I'll duel
you right now, you cheating half-blood."
"Now, now, Draco, ladies first, hasn't anyone taught you manners?" Harry focused
back on Pansy, "Wouldn't you like to see what all the gossip is about?" He finished
with a mental push to get her to accept.
Pansy looked extremely suspicious, and cast her eyes around the room to see
others giggling at the spectacle. "If it's ladies first, then I should duel her." She
pointed at Hermione with a sneer on her face.

There were hushed whispers as they all looked to Hermione changing her hair back
to normal, but Harry quickly interrupted again, talking louder, "I'm afraid that might
not be possible... You see, rumors say that your social skills are lacking. That you
are quite unkind and insult people to get others to like you." Pansy's eyes were
bulging at his words, but he kept going. "There's no reason why someone would
want to play with you, if subjected to that kind of treatment." He stepped next to
Millicent Bulstrode, "You wouldn't stick around if Pansy insulted you, right Millicent?"
Her silent blush said much. "Even Draco has learned what happens to friends when
you forget to be nice."
"Shut it, you bloody nutter!"
Harry smiled at him, "Thank you for demonstrating my point. - So you see Pansy, I'm
willing to overlook all that and give you, and Draco a friendly duel if you wish.
Whereas others might wish to avoid you."
The sneer on Pansy's face was fighting against her grimace. She bit off her words in
a growl, "Fine, we'll see, who's lacking."
With another satisfied grin, Harry walked back to the other side of the room as
Padma started in, "Harry you better be careful, her father was a famous duelist as
well, she might actually know something."
"That should at least make things interesting then." Padma rolled her eyes at him
and walked away.
Hermione stepped close and whispered, "I can take care of myself you know, and
you better not hurt her simply to show off."
"I'm sure you'll get the chance later, but you're absolutely right, this is more for her
benefit." Harry winked as she grimaced.
All the other students lined up against the side walls to watch, leaving only Harry and
Pansy in the middle. They bowed and took positions, a fourth year stood by to
referee. Harry took an unusual sideways stance he'd modeled from fencing, while
Pansy seemed natural in a common dueling position Flitwick had shown them.
A fourth year Slytherin took over the referee position to announced the guidelines,
"Traditional dueling rules apply, whoever wins five out of seven matches is declared
the winner, anything less and it's a tie. Each match ends when one opponent can no
longer cast. I will count down and you will begin only when I say duel. Clear
enough?"

They both nodded, and soon it began. "3, 2, 1, Duel!" was shouted and Harry cast
expelliarmus so fast it almost seemed as if it hit Pansy before he finished saying the
incantation. Her wand flew up high but clattered to the floor as no one reached to
catch it. The whole audience was stunned as Pansy had barely started her wand
movement. After a few moments of silence the referee finally responded in a neutral
tone, "A win for Potter."
Harry cast, "Locomotor" and levitated the wand back over to his glaring opponent.
Picking it up off the ground she took her position again, looking determined. The
referee shouted duel again as Harry took his stance. He made sure to take a little
longer with this one, saying quietly, "Petrificus Totalus," and aimed at her foot. Only
half a second after Pansy finished an inadequate shield charm, her limbs jumped
together like a sprung trap, tipping backwards onto the dueling carpet. Hearing a soft
thud someone gasped in the silence. Millicent ran up to her rigid friend and quickly
tried casting finite, but it took her a few tries before getting it right.
Pushing her away, Pansy sprang up and yelled, "How are you cheating?!"
"I believe it's called - practice. I hear there's a great club dedicated to it. But if you
think it's unfair, you can have the first shot from now on." Quiet whispers followed
this, and a few snorts as well from some of the regulars.
"Your loss if you're that mental." She quipped.
The referee found his voice again, "Two for Potter, ready? 3, 2, 1, duel!" Harry
waited calmly with his wand pointed up, watching her every movement and hearing
her cast immobulus at him. Tilting to the side only slightly it whizzed past his
shoulder, as he began his next spell, glacius. It froze her wand hand to her chest in a
large circle of ice before she could react. Taking almost a minute of her frantic
struggles before the referee called it.
"Three for Potter." And a second year cast a warming charm to melt the ice, leaving
Pansy's robes drenched and her face flushed.
Every student realized that Pansy couldn't win now, but at the most tie. Only a few
seemed to think she even had that chance. Getting angry she started casting before
the referee said duel, but it didn't matter to Harry. Yelling "Stupefy," she swung wildly
and he just stood still when it passed overhead. Taking his time he cast expelliarmus
once again. A Hufflepuff picked up Pansy's fallen wand as it rolled to his feet, and
handed it back to her, receiving a shove in return.
Before the score could be called she started casting again, a violent stinging hex,
meant to be hard to dodge. It hit the floor in front of Harry's feet, surprising even

pansy at how bad her aim was. In return he sent a color changing charm, turning her
whole face green. Wet and confused she realized her wand was still in her hand,
then cast incendio, only looking to do harm.
Harry quickly parried with ventus which blew it back at her, much weaker than
before, to only singe her hair and eyebrows. She screamed in frustration, beginning
to cast diffindo as other emotions played across her face. Immediately Harry cast a
weak stupefy hitting her in the chest, where she dropped to her knees in a daze. The
room grew quiet once again, Slytherins not knowing how to react, only looking to
each other and the referee.
A third year Hufflepuff spoke up, "I believe that's at least five for Harry."
Just then Pansy started crying, rolling onto the floor and covering her face with her
hands. She tried to speak in between the sobs, "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry, I didn't mean
to be so nasty... I don't want anyone to hate me! Don't leave me, please! I promise I
won't do it anymore." Everyone stood in place, utterly shocked at the turn of events.
Most were looking away from the crying girl on the floor, feeling too awkward to say
anything or even leave. Hermione stepped out from the crowd, giving a pointed glare
at Harry and then walking over to Pansy and kneeling beside her.
"It's okay, no one's going to hurt you anymore, or leave you." She cried louder after
peeking out from between her hands to see Hermione's sympathetic expression.
Walking up to Hermione, Harry sat down beside them both, "That was a good duel
Pansy, we should practice again sometime. Would you like to come to the next club
meeting with us?"
Her sobs abated for a second to see who was talking to her, and she squeaked out a
mournful, "Okay..."
Helping her up together Hermione looked questioningly at Harry, as Millicent ran
over to them and took Pansy's arm, leading her out the door. Students parted before
them, as Hermione and Millicent carried a weary Pansy outside.
Staying behind, Harry looked around the room and pulled out the last bit of
confidence he had left, "I'm sure no one will want to make the same mistakes and
start bullying her or anyone else. I think we've had enough of that. - Now, were you
still wanting to duel Draco?" A shiver ran through Malfoy as he sneered and headed
out the door.
Carrying Hermione's book bag after everyone left the dueling club, Harry went to go
find her. He managed to catch her coming up the secret passageway to the sixth

floor, after having helped Pansy down to the dungeons.

She looked up at him on the stairs with a disappointed frown, "You manipulated her
mind, didn't you?"
Sitting down with her bag in front of him, Harry attempted to explain, "I tried, but she
was highly resistant. So I kept sending her thoughts of doubt, that her friends would
leave her if she continued bullying, and that everyone would grow to dislike her for
insulting them. - I didn't expect much, so I simply told her to apologize at the end,
and then, that happened..."
"Honestly Harry, you shouldn't have done that. Especially when she was partially
stunned, it's similar to the confundus charm, she might have done any crazy thing
she was asked. It's like I don't know you at all sometimes Harry... No. I take that
back, I expected that from you, I even warned you not to do something hurtful, but
you didn't listen. You don't listen to anyone, even me." She walked up to him, picked
up her bag and kept walking.
"I do listen Hermione. But I have to make my own choices and sometimes take risks.
I knew you would think what I did was wrong, before I even tried, yet it might be
worth it. Not only to help you and the others being bullied, but to stop Pansy turning
into another Draco, or worse. Maybe it'll work, or maybe not, it was still worth a try.
For what it's worth, I'm sorry things turned out so badly."
She paused, glancing down over her shoulder at him. "Sorry isn't enough
sometimes. You have to deal with the consequences of the choices you make. All of
them."
oOoOo
Christmas was fast approaching, snow fell outside in heaps and the recently icy lake
seemed to freeze overnight. Everyone was stressed as they prepared for exams and
bundled up in the chilly halls. Luckily for Harry, Hermione didn't stop talking to him
completely. They still practiced spells, worked on homework, and studied together.
Most of all, they revised for exams with Padma and Sue in the Ravenclaw library.
Although Harry took notice when she sat farther away, tried not to laugh at his jokes
as much, or even ignored the thoughts he sent her. He tried not to let it get to him,
but it still hurt.
The last week of term was filled with exams, demonstrating to most how little they
actually knew, and simply making the rest work overly hard to relearn all that they
forgot. As Harry suspected, the theoretical part of potions was half of their exam.
While he rose above the rest in Charms and Transfiguration due to his new-found

aptitude, Potions humbled him to guesswork and simple process of elimination at

times. Even though his brewing of a practical potion was excellent, he doubted
Snape would care.
History of Magic, and Astronomy were relatively easy, since he stored most of the
information in new rooms within his mind palace, and walked through each to
retrieve the answers. Although he didn't put much effort in either. The Herbology
exam was actually fun, as all they had to do was identify a range of mundane plants
to receive clippings for potions class in return for correct answers. As Harry had a
fondness for collecting useful things, this encouraged him more than any other class,
memorizing them all and even gaining extra credit to rival Hermione.
Informing McGonagall about his nonverbal ability before exams was near priceless
as she seriously pretended to be ignorant of the idea, until he explained that
Professor Flitwick had already confirmed it. Finally relenting, she asked him to
demonstrate his aptitude in transfiguration on a spare quill. Changing it to a pin, a
mouse, snuffbox, and a number of other simple forms they had learned during the
term, all while not saying a word left her speechless. The hint of a smile played
across her face as she eventually thanked him, and mentioned that she might have
extra work for him next term.
Harry didn't feel the need to explain to Quirrell since his exam was completely
written. Apparently assuming other classes would test the spells they learned about.
Defense turned out one of the easier exams, since labeling some spells and
monsters dark reminded Harry of Star Wars, which only drove his curiosity to
research more. Quirrell himself added nothing, if anything his stuttering and unusual
personality detracted from it. Causing Harry to read more in class, rather like history
of magic.
Hermione, Padma, and Sue all seemed to feel good about their exams as well, often
finishing before others in class, then revising for the next one while they waited. But
no one doubted Hermione would ace them all, as she had taken to correcting
everyone's answers without a single book for reference. Flying was the only difficult
class for her, but was graded with a pass or fail, and no one failed it, not even
Neville. As each exam was finished, the mood around the school improved
incrementally, culminating in outright rejoicing through the halls as the last papers
were handed in.
The last dueling club of the term arrived with Flitwick back in charge, entertaining
them all while demonstrating how to cast small shields to deflect spells. Which
suggested an involvement from Hermione. Both her and Harry managed the feat to
an extent, yet no others did. The room was packed once again, this time with four

Slytherin girls in attendance, giggling along with the rest. Pansy was subdued when
dealing with others, but could still be seen having fun. Many more Hufflepuffs and a
few more Ravenclaws attended as well, somehow risking the embarrassment that
limited them before. Newer first years were crowded together as some took turns
with the dummies and relaxed in chairs to talk about their holiday plans.
The room was remarkably festive as well, adorned with colourful lights and wreaths
hung on the walls. A tall fir tree was decorated in one corner and the suits of armor
were topped with red and green stocking caps. Although Professor Flitwick
announced he was going to find a larger place to host future events, along with
inviting older students interested in joining.
At the end of the day Hermione finally softened towards Harry and nudged his
shoulder with a modest smile, "I suppose your manipulations might not have been all
bad. That doesn't make it right, but I don't know if it's wrong either. I just wish you
would discuss things before ignoring any advice and doing whatever you want.
Particularly when it affects so many people."
Being the last ones there to put things away, Harry embraced her in a tight hug, "I
can do that. - So, am I forgiven?" They pulled apart and she nodded with a rosy
smile. "Good, cause tomorrow I have a surprise for you. Meet me on the sixth floor
after diner?"
"Okay, but this better not be some blundering attempt to scare or kiss me again..."
She giggled at the sight of him blushing, turning even redder than herself. "Now I
know you're planning something!"
"Just wait, it's the perfect idea to occupy our Christmas break."
oOoOo
Sitting down to their final end of term dinner, the holiday decorations looked
magnificent. Twelve enormous trees lined the walls of the great hall, sprinkled with
polished silver and gold ornaments, draped in sparkling tinsel, and topped with live
fairies that danced in the enchanted snow falling around their heads. Icicles clung to
the windowsills as mistletoe and holly were hung from the rafters high above. The
hall was bursting with talk and excitement about what everyone would be doing or
where they were going. Great platters of food stuffed the tables to the brim, goblets
of warm cider and pumpkin juice were spread everywhere, and rich yeasty smelling
rolls announced the night as an unofficial feast.
Older boys were talking about the years they spent at Hogwarts over Christmas and
how tonight barely compared, which would be a pleasant treat, Harry thought.

Padma and Sue were going home the next day but wanted to know about this
rumored surprise he had planned for Hermione before they left, and what they were
going to do together for the whole holiday. "Read" was Harry's casual answer, which
only made Padma throw a grape at him.
"You've been practically inseparable for the past few months, except for your little
spat this week. The least you could do is have some juicy stories or exciting news for
when we come back. Or are you just planning to snog the entire time?" She seemed
to enjoy teasing them both about how close they were getting, yet almost regretted it
a little at the same time.
Harry shook his head, "Girls... Don't worry, after I show her what the surprise is, we'll
come get you two as well. Then you can come see what we'll be doing and get
jealous." He gave them a smug grin and went back to eating.
Finishing her pudding, Hermione started to get up, wanting to get there ahead of
Harry. Only to have her skirt pulled down an inch as she tried to stand, finding it
attached to the bench. Looking around at Harry in wide eyed consternation she saw
a small smirk on his face. She was about to start cursing him in front of everyone
when he sent a thought.
'Sorry, need a head start, have a little more pudding so you don't ruin the surprise.
Come on up when dinner is over.' Giving him her best 'this better be worth it'
expression, she sat down and pulled on her cloak, just in case.
A few minutes later the dishes disappeared and everyone began getting up.
Hesitantly she stood with a hand on her skirt and then made her way up the stairs,
curious about the surprise. Arriving at the sixth floor, he was nowhere to be found.
Starting towards the library another thought intruded, 'You might as well come up to
the seventh floor, your surprise might take longer than expecting.'
She was somewhat astonished that Harry could send thoughts that far away, but
was more concerned with why he was on the seventh floor. Was he in Gryffindor
tower somehow? What could he be doing there... Then it came to her, he found a
way into the disappearing door. She had forgotten about it weeks ago, not wanting to
go down those dark halls again after how he scared her.
Taking the steps two at a time she hastily made her way to the hallway with the
dancing troll tapestry. Skirting around the corner she saw him walking back and forth
from wall to wall. No door was there and he looked frustrated.
"Having problems?"

"Hm, yes. I finally managed to get Dumbledore to move the barrier himself but every
single hint hasn't helped a bit. I'm trying to think about what I need as I pace in front
of the door, but nothing happens. I'm sure this is the spot... unless the tapestry was
moved by someone, but it looks about the right distance from the corners. Sorry
about the delay, but I'm going to cheat now. I've already kept you waiting long
enough."
"What do you mean by cheat? You're not going to try blasting down the wall are
you?"
"No, no, something much more devious, like what you did. Kolie!"
With a pop the elf appeared between them, looking keen to be of help. "Yes, Master
Harry?"
He smirked at Hermione and began, "I know you probably aren't supposed to help
me too much with this, but can you at least tell me what I'm doing wrong here to get
into this room?" He tapped on the wall where it was supposed to be. Explaining what
he had already tried, Kolie shrugged her tiny shoulders in response.
"That sounds right master Harry. It should open for you."
Getting an idea, Hermione spoke up, "Why don't you show her instead Harry." He
agreed and demonstrated to the house elf, receiving a laugh for his efforts.
"Hehe, That's the wrong direction Master Harry."
It took a second for the words and implication to sink in. With a loud slap, his hand
met his forehead and pulled it down his face. "I really should have remembered that
from the first time, we almost had it when I felt the presence here. But I pulled us
away before. Okay, no sneaky presences here now, Kolie would you keep a look out
though?"
With a bow she popped away down to the end of the corridor, and Harry began
pacing back and forth, parallel to the hallway. On the third pass a door appeared and
he jumped at the handle, not letting go again. Hermione smiled at him as he opened
the door and bowed to her with a sweep of his hand. "After you, m'lady." She entered
the vast and expansive room filled of heaps and piles of random objects.
He called out, "Kolie, we got it from here, thank you so much!" Then followed
Hermione in and closed the door.
Making sure it didn't disappear on this side, he memorized the location relative to

some signature piles of junk, to be safe. He grabbed hold of Hermione once again
and hugged her, "We finally made it! Thanks for the suggestion by the way. - Do you
like the surprise now?"
"Well, it is a little creepy, remembering what happened here... but I do see lots of old
books." They both laughed.
"I can sense a few things in here, but they feel about like the chickens near Hagrid's
hut, nothing like a troll or anything big. Although something feels a little sinister in
here, we'll just be careful we don't pick up anything that looks dangerous. Oh, and I
got a probity probe from the twins, so that should help. - Lets look around for a little
bit, and then go get Padma and Sue, I told them we'd reveal the surprise to make
them jealous over the holidays."
She laughed and gave him a playful shove. "We should go get them right now unless
you want them complaining about how much time we wasted merely getting in."
"You have got a point... hey look, a two seated broom. Want to go flying around the
halls looking for them?"
"Now I know why you wanted in here so badly, it's all the gadgets and magical items!
A surprise for me alright, helping you dig through piles of junk during the Christmas
Holidays."
Harry poked her in the ribs, "Who was it that started drooling over dusty old books a
moment ago? More like I'll be helping you sort and organize them the entire time."
They walked back to the door, but as Harry put his hand on the knob he stopped.
"Someone's out there again, but I can't tell who. I hope they can't get in... - Do you
think there might be another way out?" Just then another door appeared a few feet
away from the first, having bright blue trim around it, similar to Ravenclaw decor.
Stepping back from it, Hermione's voice wavered, "Did you just make another door
appear by asking for it? Is this some other magic you've been keeping secret from
me, or does this room take requests?"
"Well I've never had a door appear on me before, except for these two. It's probably
not a coincidence that more than one door appears when you have need of it. - Let's
check it out."
Slowly opening the blue trimmed door revealed bookcases all around, and the smell
of new parchment infused with fresh mountain air. It was the Ravenclaw library,
hidden behind an aisle of books, far off in a rarely used corner. They looked at each

other in wonderment, trying not to burst into elated laughter. Hermione whispered to
him, "I think you're right, that room is going to keep us occupied over the holidays.
Do you know where Padma and Sue are?"
He grinned, "Right around the corner at a table, probably discussing what the
surprise might be. Go bring them here, I get the feeling this door might disappear like
the other one if we close it, so I'll hold it open."
Prancing down the aisle Hermione couldn't hold in her bubbly mood. New books and
old, all with a magical door connecting them. Now we only needed a private study
room to research it all. She heard Harry laugh as she skipped the last few steps.
Restraining herself upon reaching the open tables, she casually walked over to her
friends.
Sue noticed her first, "Aren't you supposed to be meeting Harry somewhere secret
right now?"
"Already did, we thought you two might like to see as well."
Looking up with a misty expression on her face Padma fantasized, "So what'd he
give you this time? A rose, or maybe a necklace, or a ring? Oh I know, a kiss! Or
maybe more, much more... you cheeky tart!"
Turning red at the mention of a kiss Hermione went crimson imagining what else
Padma meant. Fighting the urge to be calm she spoke evenly, "If you're done
making wild guesses, then you should follow me. Unless you'd rather not know." She
started walking off.
Following after, they got confused quickly and Sue spoke up, "Uhh, Hermione, this is
the muggle history section, we can't get through here."
"Don't worry, it's a surprise..." She looked back with an excited grin.
As they reached the new door in the bookcases, Harry opened it further, standing in
the doorway. "Care to join us on an adventure? This room is bigger on the inside."
His smirk made them wary but Hermione pushed him out of the way, chuckling at his
silly reference.
Upon entering the spacious room, Sue shivered as she recognized where they were.
Padma gawked, unable to say anything, not having entered fully the first time. "How
did you manage to find a door to this place in the library?" Sue asked.
Closing the door behind them it disappeared after Harry let go of the handle, which

startled Padma into a squeak. Harry laughed, "It's okay, it seems to make doors
appear when needed, and there's nothing in here now but some old junk and maybe
a few small creatures or cursed objects. We'll use this probity probe on anything
suspicious. But we finally have free run of the place, there's all sorts of stuff to sift
through. Maybe we'll even find some ancient artifacts of immense power, or like
Hermione hopes, more old books."
Her head was already bent sideways, inspecting a tower of books, all sitting on top
of each other waiting to topple over. Glancing back Hermione stuck out her tongue at
him and kept browsing. "We should probably stick close for now, just in case..."
Padma was wandering around the closest pile of junk, marveling at the near endless
number of objects. Sue examined the wall where the previous door was and then
looked over the original one as well. "Is this?" A nod from Harry confirmed her
suspicions. "Are you sure it's safe in here?"
"Probably, but we'll be careful." He explained his only fears were of things falling
over on them and possible dangerous artifacts, "Maybe there's a good spell for
detecting stuff like that too." Concentrating, Harry took out his wand and cast accio,
thinking about a book on detection spells. Far in the distance they heard a tumbling
pile of books and one came flying toward him. He caught it in his other hand, right
when Hermione cuffed him upside the head.
"What do you think you're doing? Those are valuable books that could have been
damaged because of your careless behavior. We can't just go making a mess in
here either, otherwise we'll be Dumbledore's age by the time we get it all organized
again."
Harry chuckled to himself silently, gaining looks of sympathy from the Padma and
Sue. Running the probity probe over it he said, "This should be a book on detecting
spells. If you ask me, I think we need to sort out our priorities before we start hitting
each other. Do you want to leave everything where it's at, and just catalogue it all to
get it when we want? Maybe sort some stuff into sections, books against one wall,
magical items against another, or actually take things out, like bringing the books
back to a library? If we do that, we might not be able to get them back, such as ones
put in the restricted section."
This gave Hermione something to consider. She bit her lip in thought, running ideas
through her head while Harry flipped through the book. Padma started digging
through a small pile of furniture, trying to pick up a large and richly colored rug. Sue
came over to help, moving an old chest that was sitting on its corner. Yanking hard,
Padma lost her grip and the rug fell, up. Rising into the air.

"Hah, I knew that looked like a flying carpet! We have one at home, even though
we're not supposed to. It's a family heirloom." The carpet floated even higher, now
out of reach from even Hagrid. "Anyone have an idea of how to get it down?"
Looking up, Hermione noticed what was being talked about. With a wave of her
wand she cast a descending charm on it, bringing it back down. "There's one item on
our list down." She paused and thought a bit more, "I vote we should organize the
books in here first and give any duplicates back to the library. If only we had some
bookcases... maybe there's some under all this furniture?"
"If this room can create chamber pots on demand, I doubt some bookcases would
be that hard. Maybe there's an empty..." Another door appeared next to the original,
"...library." Harry laughed at the girl's shocked expressions, and walked up to the
new door. Opening it he called back, "I think this might do, come look, there's even a
table and chairs in the middle like the Ravenclaw library."
Padma and Sue secured the flying carpet and followed after an excited Hermione.
She peeked in, a delighted grin forming on her face at the sight of so many empty
bookshelves, waiting to be filled. "I know what I'm doing over the holidays."
Pulling her back into the main room, Harry chided her playfully, "We have seven
years to organize all those books, let's go exploring while everyone's here."
"Harry Potter, the sensible one. I never thought I'd see the day." Padma grinned at
him.
"Hey, I'm sensible, it's only my priorities are slightly different. Now, let's have some
fun and ride that carpet around to check things out."
They all agreed and rolling it out fully, revealed an old rope lashed to the sides, used
to control it. Large enough for six, they were able to spread out and relax while
Padma took charge and steered, being familiar with a rope guide. Flying low they
paused here and there to examine piles of interesting clutter. There were stacks of
old cauldrons in every material and size, piles of astronomy globes for all the
planets, cabinets full of bottled potions ingredients, racks of dusty old brooms, and a
whole corridor of worn and used wizarding robes, in every color and design.
Hermione had them descend once so she could retrieve an extravagant and
oversized book, adorned with gold filigree, jewels, and a large diamond embedded in
the center. The title read Magus Grimoire but was locked shut, which disappointed
her greatly. Running the probe over it revealed nothing so they took it with them and
carried on. Slowly passing the immense tree Harry grew, they eventually found one
edge of the room.

Turning a sharp corner, there emerged an enormously ugly troll holding a viciously
spiked club. Yanking the carpet to a sudden halt, Padma let out a frightful shriek.
Sue was almost thrown off while leaning over the side, but Hermione dived towards
her, catching the end of her robes. Harry reached out, nearly striking it with lightning
from his hand, before he noticed the stuffing, falling out of a rip in it's leg.
He tried to calm Padma and balance the carpet while Sue was pulled back up.
Eventually regaining their composure the group decided to turn back for now and sift
through things by the door. Before they left though, Hermione cut the head off the
troll with a severing charm, to be safe. It fell to the ground, bouncing a few times and
revealing jewels hidden down it's neck. This intrigued them, but they still decided to
leave it until later.
"Well that was an adventure." Sue sighed as they landed.
Harry snickered drolly, "Better than the last one at least. - Although this one might be
better to tell stories about, if the room isn't mentioned that is. We should probably
keep this place a secret unless we want the whole school running around in here.
Especially from family members." He looked pointedly at Padma.
"You don't have to tell me that, I had to live with the jabber-mouth for eleven years.
And you two just be careful in here while everyone's gone. Don't want you getting
lost together, all alone, with no chance of being found." She leered at Hermione who
reddened again.
The rest of the night was spent picking through a few stacks of books and playing
with nearby objects. They found a hand lamp that lit and extinguished by touch, and
a pink glass rose that imparted a lovely scent in the air. There were ripped paintings
that displayed unknown formulas and tiny boxes that transferred anything put in one,
directly to the other. Picking out some of the more useful and nicer pieces, they
decorated the new library.
While trying to levitate a extremely comfortable, multicolored reading chair into the
library, Harry realized it wouldn't fit through the door. Which immediately prompted
the room to expand the single door to a double, giving them more space while
moving books and larger objects in. They attached coat hooks by the doors that
cleaned and pressed any robes hung upon them, and Hermione discovered some
coasters that evaporated any water which touched them. Most objects didn't seem to
do anything, or they couldn't understand their purpose, but the more interesting
looking ones were set aside to check another time.
Wrapping up as time grew short, they installed an elegant grandfather clock in the

library that only had a few cracks in the glass. It even chimed once to notify of the
coming curfew, just like the Ravenclaw one. Most welcome of all though was a large
worn rug that heated the entire room. Making it difficult for them to leave, thinking of
the frigid stone hallways they had to travel through. They managed anyway and said
goodnight before the short walk to their dorms.
oOoOo
On Saturday morning, almost all the students ate one last hearty breakfast and said
their goodbyes before setting off on the train ride home. Harry was the only first year
boy left in Ravenclaw, and Lisa Turpin was the only first year girl. Hermione was
joined by Fay in her dorm and the Weasleys in Gryffindor, along with a small group
of older students. The Ravenclaw common room seemed nearly deserted, with only
a few others around, not making any noise. None of it bothered Harry or Hermione
as they had too much on their minds, planning how to organize things while
exploring the disappearing room, and preparing to go shopping with Hagrid on
Sunday.
Meals from lunch on consisted of only two tables in the great hall, as someone had
removed the others. The teachers sat at the ends, and at one table the Hufflepuffs
huddled close by with the Slytherins sitting on the opposite end. At the other table,
Ravenclaw and Gryffindor sat intermixed with Harry and Hermione facing each other.
Pleased with the situation, Harry got to watch and comment on how daintily she ate,
while Hermione was able to kick him whenever needed. Christmas was several days
away, yet the meals grew even more extravagant than the night before. Harry
guessed the house elves had little to do, with so few people to care for, so they got
creative.
All day long the pair had fun playing and sorting through the varied mess of items in
the room. They even squeezed in some practice time for a few detection spells and
built another small list of new ones to learn, in order to help organize, clean, and
move things faster.
After a long day's work, they both sat down to read in their new library. Hermione
arranged herself at the table, browsing through a few books on sorting charms while
Harry got comfortable in the multicolored chair. It turned out to be made of many
patches of puffskein fur, which hugged the occupant with a enveloping charm, and
stretched out an ottoman when leaning backwards. Nestled warmly in the seat, he
soon fell asleep with a tattered old book of healing spells on his lap.
Harry woke to a chime of the clock, finding Hermione snuggled up beside him with a
large red blanket pulled over top of them. Too content with the situation Harry laid

there for a long while, wrapped in the warmth and softness of the girl pressed up
against him. The chair had even expanded to tuck her in as well, but with so little
space to move Harry couldn't see the clock or lift his pinned arm to check his watch.
He was a little thirsty yet gave up for a little while longer since the clock hadn't
chimed since. Soon he got an idea to pull the cover back and look at Hermione's
watch. That can't be right, it says it's six thirty, but it was seven when we stopped to
read...
That's when he realized why he felt so rested and needing a drink. They had slept
through the whole night together.

Chapter 17 - Preparations
Author's Note: I'd like to address a few concerns being repeated in reviews. Yes,
there is a lot of what some might call 'fluff' (I like to think of it as fun build up), and
Harry is definitely overpowered compared to his fellow classmates. But all this is only
the calm before the storm. Everything will be coming together soon enough, and this
time the darkness will not wait for Harry to grow up.
Christmas finally arrives next chapter.
Chapter 17
Preparations
The clock kept ticking, dragging time and Harry with it. Although his brain was
resisting. It took a whole minute before something resembling a coherent thought
was produced. Hwy?
It wasn't much.
Then the rest came flooding in, all his worries and concerns broke down the mental
dam. Rigid with tension, Harry began to process them one at a time, faster than
lightning. Will we get expelled? Unlikely since we've seen older students doing much
worse. - Is she going to be angry? Probably, but she was the one who fell asleep
last, she shouldn't be angry at me. - What would the other students think if they
found out? If they're anything like TV, cheer me on while shaming Hermione. I should
learn obliviate soon... - What is the punishment going to be? Most likely detentions
and a very stern lecture or two. - How can we keep it secret? Pretend everything is
normal, convince Fay that Hermione stayed up late and woke up early. If any teacher
mentions it, ask to see Dumbledore, he should trust me enough by now. Hope they
don't have tracking spells in place for the dorms. Or...
Hermione shivered and with an abrupt movement reached out, pulling the blanket
back over them. She yawned and snuggled in closer to him, laying an arm across his
chest. With a deep amused breath Harry finally started to relax. It'll be okay, as long
as she isn't hurt. Maybe, just maybe, there's a way to fix things.
With a careful slide of his hand Harry extricated the one she wasn't laying on and
pulled it out from under the blanket. Thankfully the wand in his holster was still there,
and with a gentle flick of his wrist it sprang into his hand. Concentrating on a new
spell he had learned only recently, he cast it on Hermione. The pressure let up on his

chest and his other arm started to tingle. The featherlight charm finally worked.
Ever so slowly he moved his hands around her and tenderly picked her up. She was
only the weight of a few books, letting him wrap the blanket around her fully. Resting
her head against his shoulder he sat up, then gradually stood. She let out a soft
noise but stayed asleep in his arms. Carrying her to the doors, he was immensely
grateful they weren't shut completely. With a toe he nudged one open all the way
and slipped through. Only to hear a quiet voice beside his ear as the cold rushed in,
"Where do you think you're taking me?"
He stopped and sighed, "Well I was going to make it another surprise, but I'm taking
you to bed." Her hand reached out and gripped his tightly. "That, didn't come out
right... - not my bed, your bed." Her nails dug in and she looked at him wide eyed,
with a piercing stare. "Okay, calm down. You know what I mean. You're the only one
thinking perverted thoughts here." He smirked at her and she turned her head away
with reddening cheeks.
Releasing her hold on his arm she poked him in the chest, "You're the one carrying
me in your arms in the middle of the night, and I'm the perverted one? - What time is
it anyway?" She gripped hold of him again when he didn't answer.
"Harry... what time is it?" A wry look of avoidance was all she received.
"Did we stay up past curfew? How much past? Why didn't our alarms go off? What
were you going to do, try to sneak me past the Gryffindor portrait without a
password? - And put me down already you numpty."
Setting her down gently, he held onto her shoulders, keeping the blanket wrapped
around her arms and looked in the eyes. "I was hoping that the room can open a
door directly into your dorm, so no one would ever know. But we should just stay
calm if it doesn't work out, it's not the end of the world."
"You better not be thinking of sneaking into the girl's dorm while everyone's asleep!
And how late are we, if it's only a little bit we should be f-" She pulled away with
dawning alarm and unwound the blanket, bringing her watch out. Looking at it
closely she wiped the sleep out of her eyes and tried again. Shaking her head she
grabbed Harry's wrist and looked at his watch. Dropping his hand she ran back into
the library, staring at the old broken clock. He followed after and reassuringly set his
hand on her shoulder.
"This isn't some kind of terrible practical joke, is it Harry?" She looked at him in
hopeful desperation.

"It'll be okay, if we just pretend like everything is fine, no one well even notice. We'll
act like we usually do during breakfast and then we'll be in Diagon Alley with Hagrid
for the rest of the day. If we can sneak you into your dorm before Fay wakes up no
one will suspect a thing." He hugged her as she began to shake.
She sniffed while trying to repress her tears, "Fay gets up before everyone, she likes
to shower early. There's no way. We'll be caught for sure, and all the girls will know.
Then... the rumors, and the dirty looks. It's not fair! All I wanted to do was-"
Harry shushed her, "Trust me, I'll fix things. We'll make the room create a door to
your dorm and Fay will never notice. If nothing else we can go to breakfast and
pretend you just came down from Gryffindor tower." Her tears slowly faded with his
embrace and encouraging tone.
"...but my clothes, and hair, it'll never work Harry. You don't know how evil some girls
can be!"
"The hooks will clean your clothes and I'm sure we can find a brush in here
somewhere. Besides, if everything else fails we'll go right to Dumbledore and explain
everything. Otherwise I'll simply learn how to obliviate wandlessly and take away
everyone's memory."
A small smile reached her lips as she shook her head in dismay. Then her
expression changed to concern, "The hooks? But that means I have to..."
"I'll step outside to try to get a door, and find you a brush. Call me back when you're
decent." He smirked and began walking backwards.
Hermione glared intently at him, "If you so much as take one peak in that door!"
Harry picked up the blanket and threw it to her while laughing, and exited out of the
library.
oOoOo
With the smirk still on his face Harry stood outside, willing a door to open into her
dorm room. But this time nothing happened. He tried a few more times without
success. Next he tried inside the Gryffindor tower, and then Ravenclaw to make sure
it wasn't limited by this imagination, but got nothing again. I guess this room can't
access any house areas, maybe the founders designed it that way? Time for plan B
then.
Opening the door to the seventh floor Harry called out quietly. "Kolie!"

With a small pop there stood a drowsy looking house elf with a fresh dish towel
covering her sparse hair. "Yes, master Harry?"
"Er - hypothetically speaking, is it possible for a house elf to apparate students into
their dorm room?"
She shook her head while rubbing her pointy nose. "I'm sorry master Harry, the
dorms don't allow that. No one can be carried in or out, to protect the students."
"Right, on to plan C. Thanks Kolie, that's all, and sorry for waking you." With a weary
nod, she popped away. Not even mentioning the time or the odd questions anymore.
Harry shut the door and walked to an intersection between two long aisles and tried
summoning a hair brush. A small clatter to his right was heard, and a golden brush
flew into his hand. He waved the probe over it, which felt a slight magical trace but
nothing dangerous. He summoned another, catching a plain wooden brush as an
alternative. Then he felt his own needs surfacing. A bathroom would be nice about
now.
Looking back at the doors was a third entrance to somewhere new. He could guess
where it led. Stopping by the library door, the temptation to peek was strong. But
being the gentleman he pretended to be, he called out, "I'm sorry but no door to your
dorms is appearing, we'll just have to go to breakfast. I'll leave the brushes I found
outside the door, there's a bathroom out here now, so you can use it after me."
She called back in annoyance, "So glad you thought of that earlier... If you're wishing
for some kind of magical room to spy on me next, you're dead!"
"You just had to give me that idea didn't you? Now there's another door out here
that's opening on it's own."
"WHAT!?" She shrieked.
Laughing uproariously, Harry tried to talk, "I'm kidding, I'm kidding! Jeez, you know
you just slept on me for how many hours and now you're getting all worried about
proper behavior?"
The door open a crack and a coaster flew out at him, bouncing off his shoulder.
"Ow!" He chuckled in surprise, "That wasn't called for..."
"You bet it was, now get going. We don't have too much time before breakfast." He
heard a soft laugh from her before the door closed again.

Walking into the bathroom he considered her idea, but discarded it like the last. He
relieved himself and washed up a little, then splashed water on his face to wake up
completely. Finding a comb and toothbrush by the mirror, he made himself more
presentable. Hermione knocked on the door, talking through it. "Where did you find
this golden brush?"
"That? I just summoned it like the other, why?" Thinking about the slight magic on it,
he got concerned and opened the door.
Standing right in front of him was Hermione looking downcast, with her clothes
wrinkle free and her hair smooth and flowing rather than the usual bushy frizz. "I look
weird don't I? You should have told me that brush had some kind of enchantment on
it. Now I'm going to stand out even more."
"Don't be silly, if anything you'll look smaller." He tried to resist another laugh but
couldn't help one escaping at the sight of her disgruntled scowl. "Honestly, you look
fine. Can't you just mess it up a little if you want?"
She rolled her eyes at him and pushed him out of the bathroom, locking the door
behind. Having the door closed in his face, he got the hint he said the wrong thing.
Shrugging at the mysteries of girls he went to the library and hung up his shirt for a
few seconds, then put it back on and sat down at the table to wait for Hermione. At
ten till seven she walked in, looking composed with slightly fuzzier hair and a
resolute expression.
Harry smiled encouragingly, "You look perfect. Everything is going to go smoothly.
Now, you should probably head down early like you usually do, and I'll arrive a little
later. Let's see if we can open a door inside a secret passage."
Picking up their cloaks and things left from the night before, Harry stepped out of the
library and concentrated on their usual shortcut to the ground floor behind the suit of
armor. Opening his eyes there was one more door, with a quick peek inside, he
grabbed her hand and nodded to her. "Okay, everything is fine, if anyone starts
asking questions, just pretend you don't know what they're talking about."
With a nod of her own she squeezed his hand and entered through the door, slowly
pulling it shut behind her.
I hope no one else notices how horrible a liar she is...
oOoOo
A minute later Harry followed after, not able to wait any longer. Reaching the Great

Hall he saw Hermione talking intently with an older girl, yet she looked happy. Sitting
down beside her, Harry heard what they were talking about, hair products. By the
sound of things, Hermione was getting complimented on how nice her hair looked
today, and advised on what worked and what didn't from magical to mundane
methods. Breakfast passed quickly with no suspicious questions or any mention of
their disappearance from the dorms. They smiled happily through dessert, realizing
they were home free.
Heavy pounding reverberated from behind and a great shadow fell over them. "You
two ready ter go?"
They twisted their heads up at Hagrid in his large moleskin coat and nodded with joy.
Rising from the table they trailed after, slipping their cloaks on and followed him into
the staff room. Harry donned the school cap he left in the pocket of his robes and
pulled it down over his scar, to hopefully attract less attention. Standing by an
enormous fireplace Hagrid explained the use of floo powder. Although Harry and
Hermione had already read a book on magical transportation, it was exciting to
actually put that knowledge to use. Stepping into the green flames was a little
unnerving, as well as the spinning sensation of travel, but they both knew what to
expect and closed their eyes to avoid the ash. Harry assumed the magic was similar
to spells, and concentrating on the destination mattered more than exact
pronunciation.
On this he was wrong, terribly, catastrophically wrong.
Except the Leaky Cauldron was not hard to say, and they all arrived safely. Quickly
brushing off the soot to make their way out behind the pub. Hermione tapped the
correct brick without a second thought, gradually revealing the wonderful noises and
smells of a busy shopping district. Every single shop was adorned with Christmas
decorations, some with magical fairy lights, wreaths, streamers, and ribbons. Others
with mistletoe, candles, and Christmas trees in their window. The larger stores had
everything, along with food carts and magical displays outside. Scents of roasted
chestnuts, pasties, and grilled meat wafted towards them. With enthusiastic smiles
all around, they set off down the alley.
Even with snow on the ground and icicles hanging from the eaves, the air was warm
with magic. Harry and Hermione marveled at how different all the shops were during
winter, yet still saw permanent things they had never noticed before. They talked
excitedly about some of the passing displays while staying behind Hagrid who
cleared the path to Gringotts.
A few weeks before, it was determined that there was no cheap way to get muggle

money from Hermione's parents and convert it to galleons. Harry laboriously tried to
convinced her to borrow his gold for Diagon Alley, and during the school year, then
pay him back through shopping in muggle london, when summer began. That way
Gringotts wouldn't get to charge both of them transaction fees when they needed to
convert money. Hermione liked the idea if only for its efficiency, but wasn't keen on
borrowing from him. So she owled her parents to send a specific amount and
convinced Hagrid to take them on a short shopping trip to London as well. This gave
Harry the excuse to get even more money out of his vault, for emergencies.
As they entered the bank Harry explained to Hermione about the carts and things in
his vault. Reluctantly she agreed to join him, to experience it at least once and see
things for herself. Hagrid begged off, trusting Harry with retrieving his money, and not
wanting to risk another ride after the last time. Together they rode down the twisting
and turning rails, enjoying it for what it was, a themed rollercoaster that got smiles
out of both before they reached his vault. Harry filled up a few bags while Hermione
gawked at the piles of coins. Then they inspected the few scrolls and items hanging
on the walls. It seemed to be mostly family heirlooms and old legal paperwork, but
nothing looked important or obviously magical. He handed Hermione a leather bag
with the amount they had agreed on, which she exchanged for cash and emptied it
into a small beaded handbag her mother had sent.
"Do all wizards naturally keep valuable things in disorderly piles, or is it taught
somewhere? - Or maybe it's simply to impress?" Hermione wondered aloud.
Harry chuckled, "I wanted to organize it at first too, but we don't have a lot of time
now either. We better save that for later, after we learn all those sorting spells to
make things easier."
Exiting out of Gringotts with jingling bags of gold made them eager to explore.
Wishing they had all week to hunt through Diagon Alley, they made due with the
daylight hours until dinner. Plans were tentatively discussed with Hagrid beforehand,
allowing them to shop locally until noon on their own, and then meet up at Gringotts
steps to decide on lunch. Hagrid planned to meet a friend at the Leaky Cauldron
after doing a bit of shopping himself. Later they wanted to discover some of the
lesser known shops together and make a few quick stops outside in muggle London.
With a stern warning from Hagrid to not stray down Knockturn Alley they separated.
Harry and Hermione reveled in the sights as they tried to decide where to go first.
Lists were already made, containing the items they wanted and the stores they
thought might have them, but the view from Gringotts was breathtaking. Causing
them to dither about like children in a candy shop. After a few minutes discussion on
the subject Harry started walking towards a shop, Hermione following after, still

listing the possible routes they could take.

Upon reaching the door Hermione awoke from her reverie, "Where are you going?
We haven't decided yet."
"We haven't? Then why are we entering this shop?" Harry grabbed her hand and
pulled her inside. "There's only so much planning you can do before losing interest in
acting." She swatted his shoulder when he finally let go.
"Fine, waste our time..." Unable to finish, Hermione's gaze was locked onto the
aisles of books. He had pulled her into Flourish and Blotts, an obvious favorite. They
stayed for a little while, lost in the scent of hot chocolate and new books. The owner
was nowhere to be found, yet the manager was rushing all around, hanging up lights
and altering the color of bookshelves. Harry browsed through different sections,
checking on detection and sorting spells, but ended up settling on enchanting. After
perusing the stacks for a while herself, Hermione bought a couple of books she
planned on getting, then somehow resisted the urge to read the rest, dragging Harry
outside and leading him next door.
Madam Malkin's was bright and cheery with a festive Christmas tree in the window.
They entered the extra warm shop to be greeted by the enchanted door bell ringing
a lively Christmas tune. Harry looked around not finding anything he wanted to buy,
yet they were both entertained, watching some older witches try on ridiculously
strange holiday outfits.
Next was J. Pippin's Potions, where they found a few harder to make droughts, and
got to sample wit-sharpening potion, along with a laugh-inducing potion that had
them giggling uncontrollably all the way to the next shop. In Gladrags they had fun
rummaging about, digging through heaps of strange clothing and finding a few
choice items. After paying, they exited out into the jubilant alley once more.
While Hermione entered Scribbulus', Harry stopped by a few food vendors to check
out their wares. There were pumpkin and diricawl pasties, mince pies, steaming
dragon meat kabobs, grilled plimpy fillets that kept wiggling, exotic candied fruit on
skewers, and roasted nuts of every kind. There was even a small flower stand run by
a kind old witch. Buying one of everything he met back up with Hermione as she
exited the shop. They sat down at an out of the way bench, snacking on the unusual
treats.
"What's in this one?" Hermione held up a pasty.
"Diricawl or pumpkin, I think the pumpkin has sugar on top though."

A look of reflection passed over her, suddenly changing to alarm, "This is made from
dodo? Why didn't you say that before?"
Harry grinned, "It's not like it can talk back and complain, and you don't get to eat a
supposedly extinct species every day."
Hermione set it aside none the less and stuck to the fruit and nuts from then on.
Loving the dragon meat, Harry ate the diricawl pasty along with a bit of everything
else. They finished up by casting a few scourgify charms and found a vanishing bin
for the rest.
Throwing the rubbish in, Harry mused, "Have you ever thought about what a
vanishing spell does? If it actually destroys matter or just disperses it somehow...
That would be a scary thought, if we've been losing matter over millennia from
wizards not even considering where it goes. But then there's conjuring and water
producing spells that might create matter from nothing. Kind makes you wonder if
there are any laws of physics concerning magic."
"I wonder how you can go from teasing me about extinct species to discussing the
conservation of energy in the next moment. Besides, there has been much study on
the subject, we even read about some in our transfiguration book. Vanished objects
go into a state of nonexistence, like most souls, and magic can conjure simple
matter from there, yet it trends to degrade quickly."
Raising an eyebrow at her, Harry stopped, "Does that make any sense to you? It
sounds like some duelist philosophy copied from Plato centuries ago that sticks
around because of political backing. Worst of all, it isn't even a testable prediction."
Hermione flicked her hair at him, "Well I'm sorry magic theory doesn't work with
science. It is magic after all."
"Everything works with science, if it's consistent and testable. Wizards only hid
themselves and magic before science got the chance to examine it. They avoided
the renaissance and inquisitive minds, preferring traditions like slavery of house
elves and superstitious nonsense like blood purity, instead of examining their
preconceived notions. Sometimes it's the same as the middle ages around here, no
one wants to question things."
"So why don't you do it and set the record straight?"
He smiled favorably at her, "Oh, I plan to someday. Wanna help?" Pulling out a
multicolored rose bud from under his hat, he held it out to her.

A playful shake of her head and half smile was all Hermione could manage as she
plucked the flower from his hand. "You're going to try dragging me into something
mental again aren't you? Let's just finish our shopping before you get any more
weird ideas."
Walking away she stopped after a moment, then looked back expectantly at him with
the new flower in her hair.
Adjusting his hat and picking up his bag of decent purchases, Harry followed after
wearing a small grin. They meandered from one place to the next, taking a gander in
quidditch shops, art galleries, furniture stores, and even a fancy toy emporium. It
was amusing to see all the wizard toys in the shop, containing bouncing cauldrons,
play wands, magical board games, self shuffling exploding snap cards, a few ornate
sets of wizard's chess, and so many other fun activities. But it was soon filled with
more children and noise than they were capable of withstanding, forcing them to
leave.
It took work dragging Harry into a magical beauty boutique, which carried the usual
and unusual selection of perfumes, makeup, hair products, and all kinds of
undergarments he wasn't comfortable looking at, especially next to Hermione. She
enjoyed teasing him throughout, even linking arms with him when another girl
walked by. Noticing the severe blush on his face as time went on, she relented, and
they left in favor of a Herbology shop nearby. It smelled very earthy yet floral, better
but similar to most greenhouses at Hogwarts. There were many live plants and
exotic flowers, dried herbs, decorative pots, and loads of gardening equipment. It
was entertaining to look around but they didn't find anything on their list.
Finally they entered Wiseacre's Wizarding Equipment, which Harry had been looking
forward to all morning, as he had missed it on his last journey through. It was
magnificent, snaring them longer than any other shop. Carrying most of the items on
their wish list, it was too good to be true; except for the outrageous prices. There
were more reasonably priced common items and novelty gifts, such as foe glasses,
remembralls, sneakoscopes and the like, but most was daunting to even think about.
Hermione began studying a magical trunk with three expanded compartments and a
hidden slot on the bottom. With a gasp she nearly fell over after seeing the cost. A
few large communication mirrors were displayed in the windows with mind boggling
numbers next to them, making Harry's eyes widen at the expense and wondering
how anyone could even carry that much gold. Hanging up behind the counter was an
old invisibility cloak, 'faded but serviceable' was on the tag, not even listing a price.
They inspected the entire shop, if only to see what else it contained.
Crystal balls and lunascopes dotted the shelves, along with moon globes and

Omnioculars. Dazzling models of the solar system rotated above their heads, as
oddly shaped music devices played cheerful songs. There were rolled up star charts
against one wall, unbreakable crystal phials on display, old canes stuffed in a large
vase, and a tray of unique compasses. Hermione picked up a miniature golden
dragon to read the tag on it, while Harry examined some ornamental scales and
diamond shaped preservation devices. The proprietress walked up being them, "Is
there anything I can help you with dears? Need advice on gift ideas?"
Hermione set the dragon down quickly, "Sorry, no thank you. It's all a little out of our
price range. Come on Harry, it's almost lunchtime, we need to go."
"Time is an illusion, lunchtime doubly so." He received a humorous snort from
Hermione while the proprietress raised her eyebrows, then noticed his Ravenclaw
robes and nodded.
"I just have a couple of questions. I'll catch up in a few minutes?"
Sighing, Hermione left the shop without him, examining the nearby vendors and
shop fronts. Harry took off his hat as he began asking questions. A few minutes later
he departed with some other items in his bag. Stepping outside with his hat back on,
he nearly bumped into a tall man carrying a cane. "Excuse me." He mumbled while
sliding past.
Not seeming to hear him, the man caught Harry's shoulder with the handle of his
cane, digging in with something sharp. "You should learn your manners boy."
Incensed by the nerve of some stranger to physical restrain him, Harry only looked
at the tip of the cane and used a bit of wandless magic.
"And look at your betters when they're talking to you!"
Turning around and looking the man directly in the eyes Harry was reminded of
another pale faced bully with blonde hair. He replied in a caustic tone, "You should
know, that only those insecure in their worth insist on others acknowledging it."
The boiling rage in the man's face appeared ready to burst from being insulted by a
child like that. Yet at the moment he rose his cane into the air, the tip fell off,
clattering against the cobblestones and distracting his attention. Before the pale,
pointed face man could do a thing, Harry slipped away in the sea of people, heading
for where he sensed Hermione.
They found each other easily then dashed back to Gringotts, already seeing Hagrid
standing there in the distance. Getting closer, they noticed a small spinning silver

device hidden in his hands, making little noises and puffs of smoke now and then.
Hagrid was trying to stow it in one of his pockets but couldn't find an empty one.
"Hello Hagrid, what's that?" Asked Harry as they got close.
"Er, nothin' ... Yeh'll keep it a secret won't ya?" They both nodded, "It's a very
delicate piece of wizardin' equipmen' for professor Dumbledore is all. He likes these
things."
"I thought it looked familiar, what does this one do?"
"Do? Ah... well, er-"
Interrupting his stammering, Hermione saved him from answering, "I'm sure it's
fascinating Hagrid, but we should probably find somewhere to eat now. Do you know
of any good places?"
He ended up finding an empty pocket inside his coat and stored the device, then
replied, "Well, there's always the Leaky Cauldron... Then there's the local chippie,
some cafes, an' er... all the muggle ones outside?"
Scanning the areas they hadn't visited, Harry was reading signs, "What about the
Jade Dragon? Isn't that where Sue said she likes to go?" They both looked in the
direction he was pointing.
Hagrid raised a hand to shade his eyes, "Blimey, yeh can see that far away Harry?
No wonder those specs of yours were so expensive. - I hear people like the place,
but never been meself. They do somethin' called dim, sung, small food, but lots of it."
"Dim sum? I haven't had any in ages, let's go, please!" Hermione was nearly
bouncing with excitement, close to how she got around books.
Rarely did Harry get to eat out with the Dursleys, certainly not Asian food, and if
Hermione was this excited it was bound to be worth trying. "It sounds good. Even
though the Leaky Caldron and our school food is wonderful, it would be nice to try
something different. What do you say Hagrid?"
"Good enough fer me!"
oOoOo
Snow crunched under their feet while walking down a lesser traveled part of Diagon
alley. The air was cooler, but the warm sunlight was starting to break through the

clouds. As they approached, the carved jade dragon sitting over the sign came alive
and roared fire into the air, melting all the icicles close by. They could feel the heat
beneath it and basked in the toasty spectacle. It seemed they were in for a treat.
Intruding upon the quiet little restaurant revealed a palatial interior, able to seat
dozens of people with double high ceilings encasing a circular koi pond above their
heads. The grand entrance led into the gold and ivory interior, which was decorated
with paper lanterns sheathed in golden filigree, intricate floral patterned carpets,
lavishly plush chairs, perfectly white table cloths, and jade accents all around. It felt
like they had stepped into another world compared to the worn wooden buildings
that comprised the rest of Diagon Alley.
There were a few other groups of diners closer to the back, but it was almost too
extravagant for such a small crowd. A young Asian witch greeted them, bowing in a
traditional Chinese dress with her hair braided in a bun and pierced through with her
wand. She led them to a round booth, big enough for even Hagrid to sit comfortably.
Then left them with woven paper menus and a smile. Sitting down made plates
appear, holding jade green napkins folded in the shape of dragons. The dishes on
the menu rotated around on the page, as the three guests chatted quietly and
discussed what looked good. A little while later a refined middle aged man came to
their table, introducing himself as Biming Jin the owner, and asking what they would
like.
He offered a few recommendations, but was obviously impressed and distracted by
the enormous half giant. "If you don't mind my asking, would you happen to be
Hagrid, the gamekeeper at Hogwarts?"
A surprised nod was given, "My niece has spoken of you often, telling me how good
natured and humorous you are."
Even more astonished by this Hagrid was at a loss for real words, "Buh, wha?"
Hermione's curiosity and intellect leapt to the conclusion before Harry could ask as
well, "Your niece wouldn't happen to be Sue Li, would she?"
A second surprised nod and raised eyebrows was returned to her. "She mentioned
your restaurant a few weeks ago, but she didn't say her uncle owned it, or that it
served dim sum. I'm Hermione Granger, and this is Harry Potter by the way, we're
her classmates."
"My, my, I have heard a lot about you two as well, and a Padma? But I suppose she
is visiting family like Sue. So nearly all of her close friends are here while she is back
home. I must tell you some stories while she can not protest."

He leaned down across from them and whispered conspiratorially, "You might have
noticed by now that she is always embarrassed by the treats I send her. She even
used to pretend they are specialty food for her toad in the past. That's because back
in China, she was such a chubby little girl when I ran a restaurant there. The boys
loved to tease her. Of course that was my fault, always bribing her with sweets and
dumplings so she would try performing magic for me. Her father is a muggle? As you
call them, who did not like the idea, but her mother is my sister, and we are from an
ancient line of famous wu, or witches. There were many debates about where she
would go to school, or if she was magical, but you do not need to hear all that just
now. - I can see that you are starving. Let me get you a round of everything to try,
before I tell you more."
He walked off to the kitchens, leaving Harry and Hermione to giggle about the
knowledge. Hagrid looked around wearing a proud smile whenever he wasn't staring
at the menu still in his hand. The young witch came back with drinks a moment later,
picking up the menus and explaining how their food would move around the table on
its own, slowing down whenever needed. Not five minutes later, a hundred little
bamboo baskets started dancing out of the kitchen, making patterns in the air and
flying towards their table. Biming followed after, asking if they minded if he joined
them, and insisting that it would all be on the house.
"If I can not spoil my niece right now, I shall have to spoil her friends to make her
jealous. Then maybe she will become appreciative of my attention when she gets
back."
A chair and another place setting was conjured as he sat back down opposite them.
More than half of the baskets filled the table to the brim, floating gently above the
surface, twisting and turning in a dazzling arrangement of shapes. The rest soared
high overhead, frolicking to their own configurations, from figure eights and spirals,
to helixes and flower patterns. Not able to wait any longer they dug in to the feast.
Lids rose above their hands as they reached in, picking out delicious looking buns,
dumplings, and rolls. As baskets were emptied, they flew off and were replaced by
more from above.
They were soon noting different kinds they liked more than others. Harry was
delighted by them all, but truly relished the baked pork buns, and sesame balls. The
shrimp spring rolls kept Hermione's attention, but she savored the egg custards buns
the most. While Hagrid seemed to enjoy everything equally.
Some were exceedingly strange and became almost a dare for them to try.

"Would you like a preserved duck egg Hermione?" Harry waved a basket full of them
in front of her.
She meekly turned her head away and tightened her lips in refusal. As Harry offered
them to Hagrid, the half giant grabbed a few and tossed them in his mouth, smiling
pleasantly in response. "Good!" But as he reached for another it fell apart in his
hand, revealing an unhatched duck inside. Harry coughed in surprise as Hermione
covered her eyes, having already learnt from past experience.
A little while later though she pushed a plate of braised chicken feet in front of Harry
while wearing a smirk, "Why don't you try something adventurous for a change?"
"Okay, but you have to feed it to me." He laughed as Hermione's smile turned into a
frown.
Shaking off the disappointment she grew determined, first trying to pick one up with
chopsticks, but gave that up when she almost flipped it at herself. Trying to
overcome her squeamishness, she managed to pick one up with two fingers and put
it in his mouth on the third attempt.
It surprised Harry at how good it tasted, after getting past the texture. "Not bad, now
your turn."
Picking another up, Harry wiggled the foot in front of her face to tease her. But to his
surprise she scrunched her eyes up and opened her mouth, if somewhat reluctantly.
After chewing a few times she opened her eyes with a smile, "You're right, they are
good!"
Later on Hagrid somehow ate a calf bone, not realizing you were supposed to
remove the marrow from it. And Hermione unknowingly tried some fried tripe before
finding out what it was, yet refused another. Binning laughed pleasantly at it all,
enjoying the show and taking throughout.
The rest of lunch was delightful, hearing all kinds of funny but innocent stories about
Sue and her family. Harry and Hermione told a few tales of their own, and even
Hagrid reminisced about lively times at the school. Laughter and merry conversation
continued through the entire meal, unusual at most places, but felt appropriate there.
Before long the procession of bamboo baskets dwindled to desserts, which escaped
their containers.
Delicate sugar swans glided around next to colorful pastry lotus flowers, with
marshmallow bunnies hopping in and out of baskets. Harry even convinced one to
jump into his mouth. More fruit shaped custards and petite cakes skated by, as the

group devoured every variety of ice cream filled mochi in sight. A flying chocolate
hummingbird even tried to drink from Hermione's rose, provoking a laugh from the
whole table.
At the end Harry labeled it the most fun experience and delicious food he'd ever had
at a restaurant. While he didn't have much to compare it to, Hermione and Hagrid
agreed with him. Harry secretly left a generous tip with the hostess after they all
emphatically thanked Biming for the wonderful food. He urged them to come back
again with his niece while waving goodbye. They left the magnificent restaurant
feeling pleasantly stuffed, and ready to stroll through the rest of Diagon Alley.
oOoOo
Passing by more apothecaries, bookstores, and clothing shops, the trio entered a
peaceful import shop to let their stomachs settle. Displays of strange monster parts
lined the walls, bowls of unknown herbs were hung from the ceiling, and
untranslated books crowded a few small shelves. Many trays of uncommon magical
devices were laid out on counters: chunks of Peruvian instant darkness powder,
dreamcatchers, totem poles, and headdresses from the Americas; shrunken heads,
gris-gris bags, and juju charms from Africa; magical wind chimes, stone I Ching
tablets, Reiki manuals, wooden amulets, and paper talismans from across Asia.
Then there were bottles containing magical paints, oils, and powders from around
the world as well. It all fascinated them, but none of it had explanations for what they
did beyond the obvious. Hermione mentioned that the books were probably there for
a reason.
Sneaking the probity probe out Harry waved it over some things, finding that while
some items contained a lot of magic, others had none. Buying a small selection of
interesting things seemed to brighten the lonely shop assistant's day. When leaving,
they noticed a sign saying 'No voodoo dolls or flying carpets for sale.'
Gambol and Japes Wizarding Joke Shop was next, bringing back excitement to the
trip. The Christmas theme was strong as green and red fireworks buzzed around
their heads, biting stockings were secured to hooks, and stink pellets smelled heavily
of cinnamon. Exploding baubles burst off a giant tree in the center of the room,
leaving sour sweets behind. Evil mistletoe dripped fast acting glue on it's victims as
they kissed, and present boxes shrunk to miniscule proportions. Harry was almost
caught by some stinging snow falling on him, but jumped away in the nick of time. A
beautiful floral wreath coughed dust in Hagrid's face as he bent down to smell it, but
lost the war as he sneezed back. Shelves full of regular items were off to one side
where Harry picked up a few things, along with two small hiccuping Christmas cakes
in the goodies section. Paying for this, he looked around at all the other students and

young at heart adults having a ball.

Losing sight of Hermione for a minute, Harry decided to track her down, sensing her
by a large bundle of presents. Confused by what his senses revealed, he opened the
largest one to find her gagged and bound by self-tying ribbons and a bow on her
head. She glanced up at him with relief, followed by a few muffled pleas while he just
stared.
"I... I didn't know you were into this kind of thing Hermione." He chuckled at the
deadly look she gave him. Bending down he pulled the ribbons off and untied her
wrists behind her back, then had to cut the strong twine on her legs.
Finally free she looked Harry in the eyes, with a growl she whispered, "You will tell
no one of this!"
"Really? That's funny, I was already planning on putting it in my letters to Padma and
Sue." He broke into a mirthful grin at her tensed expression, "Oh don't worry, it can
be our little secret. For now..." She punched him, followed by a push out the door.
Hagrid saw them leaving and trailed after.
Not far away, they found The Junk Shop. Laughing at the name Harry entered first,
seeing that it was an apt description. There was dust on nearly everything, random
and broken items were thrown about, and even the holiday decorations were dim or
secondhand. It felt very similar to parts of the disappearing room. He found a box of
broken wands he wanted to experiment with, in addition to a bundle of old quills
Hermione discovered, and a large bucket full of leather scraps Hagrid picked up. It
was all a steal at only three sickles. Thanking the proprietor they left, heading
towards Sugarplum's Sweet Shop.
Being still full from lunch they only tried a handful of treats while Harry bought
various gift boxes. Touring through the shop was still enjoyable, examining all the
curious sweets they hadn't seen before, along with seasonal favorites such as
eggnog bonbons, and floating peppermint brooms. In the center of the shop was a
life size licorice Christmas tree colored bright green, with hundreds of different
sweets hanging off the branches. They were all free samples, making young kids run
up and grab stuff off the tree where the bottom was quickly picked clean. A prismatic
purple fairy twirled on top of the tree, and of course, throughout the whole shop were
sugarplums dancing above their heads, or into Hagrid's mouth if they were unlucky.
They stopped by Tempi's Clock Shop to say hi and show Hermione around, while
Clagan tried to sell her a new watch in the short time they visited. Much to his
dismay, she didn't want to part with the simple mechanical one her parents bought

her for school. Hagrid traded him more mysterious boxes of different shapes, but this
time got a bag of coins in return.
On their way outside of Diagon Alley, Hermione convinced them to have a peek into
a magical jewelry shop before they left. While they were dazzled by all the
extravagant and sparkling finery, the snobbish manager was eyeing them warily,
Hagrid in particular. Feeling unwanted Hagrid and Harry waited outside with the
excuse of getting some fresh air. Hermione left the shop all in smiles, and as they
passed through the Leaky Cauldron cheers went up for Hagrid once more waving to
all the regulars.
Exiting out into muggle London, they stiffened in shock. The weather was freezing,
fog lingered in the streets, and even the lit and decorated buildings were dull and
nearly indistinguishable from the rest. Cold air made their breath visible as they all
bundled up tighter, trying to keep the chill away without magic. Harry slipped his
school hat off and gave it to Hermione.
"It looks more natural on a girl. Besides, I don't need to hide myself here." Was his
excuse as they headed down a side street.
"Little parky out, ain't it?" added Hagrid as a noticeable amount of frost was forming
on his beard.
By the time they entered a large shopping center even he was shivering in his heavy
moleskin coat. Hermione's nose was red, yet Harry looked suspiciously comfortable.
Swiveling around in fascinated wonderment, Hagrid resembled the kids in Diagon
Alley. He followed after Harry on his way to the games section to see what muggles
played. There was a brand new Super Nintendo on display with Super Mario World
in, ready to go. Taking a couple minutes, Harry had fun demonstrating how it worked
while Hagrid sat on the floor in awe.
"Tha's brilliant Harry! An' here I thought muggle childr'n still played kick the can, or
Hopscotch like when I was young. Yer sure it ain't magic somehow?"
Chuckling, Harry shook his head, "I'm sure, otherwise I would bring one to Hogwarts
if I could. Video games are one of the few things I miss from the muggle world."
Hagrid marveled while Harry showed him other games and picked out a handheld
one for sending to Padma, just to give her a taste of what muggle video games were
like. Hermione eventually met up with them, lugging around an old fashioned
typewriter. After paying for everything, Hagrid offered to carry the mysterious device
for her in another of his empty pockets. Trudging back through the cold, they
stopped at a regular bookstore to buy a few fiction novels they had been anticipating,

and to warm up again.

After quickly making it back to the Leaky Cauldron and standing near the fire, Hagrid
asked if they were ready to go. Only for Harry and Hermione to look at each other
and remember, "Ice cream!" They said simultaneously.
So off they went for one last jaunt through Diagon Alley, arriving at Florean
Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour to ruin their appetite for dinner. Harry insisted it was
on him, and bought them all extra scoops. Hagrid had eggnog flavored ice cream
stuffed with brownie chunks; being choosy Hermione got half chocolate chip mint,
half strawberry with lots of cheesecake pieces mixed in; and trying a new
combination, Harry received a grape, watermelon, and kiwi swirl, with pineapple bits
on top. Every single one was unbelievably amazing. They sat down at a bench
nearby and each tried some of the other's flavors with small spoons. Harry kept
sneaking more and more from Hermione's bowl until she got fed up and floated a
scoop off his cone into her dish to compensate. Which only made him snicker and
continue.
Conversation and laughter persisted until sunset, when Diagon Alley lit up
completely and began to glow with a jubilant atmosphere. Carols were being sung as
children pranced about in fanciful costumes. The night stars and Milky Way shone
brighter than ever before, causing the trio to sit quietly and gaze around at the
splendor of it all. Ice cream melting, they finally got up to saunter down the magical
alley one more time, simply taking in the vista.
Hermione took hold of Harry's hand and walking closely together, they found the day
certainly had turned out well.

Chapter 18 - Christmas
Author's Note: It took a month longer than originally planned, but here is Christmas,
or at least most of it. I'll be taking a small break from posting now, but it's all for the
good of the story. I'll be writing more and polishing up old chapters, but any help with
that is appreciated. As an added bonus, I decided to create a place for people to
discuss this story, ask questions, or learn some unsaid details. Head over to reddit
/r/hpj if you're interested.
Chapter 18
Christmas
Arriving back through the twisting, tumbling floo network was not easy on their
stomachs full of ice cream. Namely one half giant for who transportation and food
produced a dangerous combination, yet they all had difficulties. Harry calmed
himself and made a quick mental note, of a wizard honking inside a fireplace while
wearing an ice cream cone for a hat. Then he led the way outside the staff room,
greeted by students milling into the Great Hall, for yet another wonderful feast. He
looked back at Hermione with her 'do we really have to?' expression, but it was
nothing compared to Hagrid's three shades of green while holding a hand over his
mouth. The green giant waved them off and hurried to the main doors, leading
outside. Harry sensed him taking the path to his hut, and sent the thought to
Hermione, so she didn't worry too much.
They entered the Great Hall near the last, sitting slightly apart from the rest.
Muddling through dinner wasn't hard, as everyone was enthralled by the spread
rather than the portions on each other's plates. Feeling like Dudley by the time
dessert came around, Harry began playing with his food, tasting it only now and
then. While Hermione pretended to eat like normal, except for the miniscule amounts
she put in her mouth. Stuffed and still coming down from the wonderful shopping
experience, they were too distracted to notice when the Weasley twins crept up
beside them and sat down.
Right away they went for the jugular, "Where were you two last night?"
"And all day today?" They asked in hushed tones.
Hermione turned crimson, scrunching her eyebrows together at Harry, silently asking
him how they knew. Playing it cool Harry looked back calmly, he was too tired to do
otherwise. "We went to Diagon Alley today with Hagrid, and I don't know about her,

but I was sleeping pleasantly in my room last night."

"No you weren't." They said in unison. "Neither of you were in your dorms last night"
"In fact, you weren't even in the castle."
Building up her nerve Hermione interposed, "How would either of you know? You
definitely can't get into the girls dorms, and I doubt you would risk standing outside
Ravenclaw tower to decipher the riddle."
"We have our ways..."
"It's the map, isn't it? The original does much more than the copies, otherwise you
wouldn't keep it so secret." It all seemed to connect in Harry's mind.
Everyone was whispering intently now, Hermione most of all, "It was your map!?
Who did you steal it from, because I know you two can't draw. And what else can
this map do?"
"Hey!" Hissed Fred.
"She wasn't to know Harry, you promised." George complained.
Harry shrugged, "That's what you get for trying to spy on people. Besides, she would
have figured it out in another minute after you bungled it up, saying you knew we
weren't in or dorms. - So can you see when people leave the castle, or at any time?"
Glancing at each other and then up at the teachers they whispered back, "We can't
discuss it here."
"Meet us behind the statue passageway in a few minutes." Both red headed
menaces got up and left.
The blush was finally leaving Hermione's face as she scrutinized the retreating twins,
and then Harry. He sent her a few thoughts, 'Don't worry, they won't tell on us.
Especially since we know about the map. Now I can guess why they're so good at
playing pranks.'
Waiting for the minutes to pass was excruciating for Hermione. She fidgeted in her
seat, started playing with her food as well, and kept looking at her watch. As Harry
stood up, she jumped up right after, meeting him at the doors. Quickly making it to
the secret passageway, they looked around then entered, seeing the twins expectant
faces with their map in hand.

"You can't tell anyone about this." Fred started.

"It's the secret to our greatness," Continued George, "or at least to not getting
caught."
"It's taught us-"
Hermione cut them off, "Oh get on with it, we already guessed what it can do. Does
everything have to be a production with you two?" Her impatience with them made
Harry laugh.
The twins eyed them warily, "It seems these two don't appreciate our showmanship
brother."
"Maybe we should wait until they explain themselves first?"
"After all, doing a bunk from Hogwarts overnight is quite a severe punishment
compared to simply owning a map, wouldn't you say?"
"Particularly if they were up to something... more than snogging." Their eyebrows
rose suggestively.
Harry took over as Hermione changed colors once more, "Except there's no
evidence for what you claim, other than a teachers trust in your word, and you two
would lose the map if you explained how you knew. So quit being nosey parkers and
show it to us. Then we might consider telling you how we were inside the castle last
night."
"You think he's bluffing brother of mine?" Fred asked.
"He sure called our bluff easily enough. And I wouldn't bet against him, not when he
likes to rig the game." Said George. That made Hermione give Harry a skeptical look
as well.
"True, he's box clever, you really think he could hide from the map?"
"Only one sure way to find out." They unfolded the large stained parchment, already
displaying the names of people around the school. Little footsteps faded away as
dark dots were labeled with names.
"This, is the Marauder's Map."
"It shows where everyone is as long as you think about them." Dumbledore's name
showed up in his office, pacing back and fourth.

"Harry, does that mean it's like...?" Hermione seemed to be alluding to his own
ability.
"Hmm, possibly. So if you think about someone that isn't here, the name doesn't
show up? And that's why you thought we were gone from Hogwarts? Can it show
everyone at once?" Inquired Harry, while trying to read the honesty on their faces.
They shook their heads and took turns explaining, "Gotta be more specific than that,
we think it would be too hard to use if the whole school was running around on the
map at once."
"That's a lot of people. But you can think of groups, like students in a club, your
friends, or all the people in a classroom."
"We use it to see people in the hallways, helps out a lot when sneaking around."
"So when we tried finding you last night Harry, to help with a prank we thought up."
"Your name never appeared, and when we looked for this know-all to ask if she
knew where you went, well you already know that part."
"Now where were you really?" They finished together.
"Harry! You actually join them in pranking people? All this time I thought you were
smart..." She lamented with a hint of sarcasm.
"It was only the once with betting, not much of a prank even then. Anyway, we need
to discuss what you two are worthy of knowing." Harry gave them a cocky grin and
walked away, pulling Hermione with him. He pretended to be whispering, while
sending her thoughts instead. The twins looked on in disbelief, being mocked by first
years, and they were putting up with it.
Hermione crossed her arms in command, and gave a 'We certainly aren't telling
them what happened last night,' expression. It was hard to describe how Harry knew
those would be the exact words she would say, but they were.
'Of course not, I meant about the room.' He sent.
She whispered next, "Do you really think we can trust them Harry? What if they go
bragging about it to one of their friends and then the barrier gets put back up?" She
wore a look of concern, not wanting to lose her precious new books.
'I trust them enough. They know how to keep secrets. No one but me and you seem

to know about their map, and that's because of educated guesses. They like to brag,
but they definitely won't ruin a good thing, and the room is great enough to keep
them quiet. We can always open the door for them elsewhere and not tell them how
to get in until you're convinced. But they can eventually track our movements down
with their map no matter what we do. And I would rather have them on our side
instead of working against us. Besides, it'll take forever to sort through that room if
it's just us, so maybe you can enlist them to help gather books.'
Fred and George could tell who was convincing who by the facial expressions,
having long seen the same on their parents. They whispered to each other about
different ways they could get Hermione on their good side.
"Okay, but let's needle them just a bit more, let them have a taste of their own
mischievous medicine." Hermione was smirking now.
Harry couldn't help but laugh at what he thought was due to his wayward influence,
'Sounds fun, what did you have in mind?'
"How about they can't play a single prank on anyone until school starts again? Then
we let them in if they can keep their word."
Cringing at the thought, Harry didn't think they could survive without going mad. He
suggested an alternate plan, 'How about nothing until Christmas, and we allow them
access from then on, as long as none of our friends get pranked?'
She mulled it over for a moment and then nodded.
They walked back to the twins and explained the conditions to them. The Weasleys
looked on in horror, incredulous that anything could be worth that kind of sacrifice.
Hermione teased them, saying that no one was forcing them to do it. Skepticism
became their motto and tried every question they could to extract more information,
finally asking Harry if it was really worth it.
"It's better than your map, honestly." Their jaws dropped in disbelief, but quickly
agreed after realizing he wasn't joking.
oOoOo
Later that night Harry and Hermione snuck back to the disappearing room,
wondering if Fred and George were still watching them on the map. They took
another tour on the flying carpet, soaring above the clutter so Harry could see far
away and nothing would surprise them again. Taking turns steering, one would
search for useful items and gather books while the other practiced new spells they

were learning. Harry was slowly catching up to the number of spells Hermione had
learnt, but that only motivated her to practice more. Other interesting books were
found on their journey, one in particular prompting Hermione to dive into it, ignoring
her spell practice and anything Harry had to say for the rest of the ride.
Meandering back to the start, Harry brought them past an enormous chandelier that
lit the room while passing by. He spotted a reflected glimmer from a jumble of rusted
weapons and armor, then lowered the carpet for a closer inspection. Hermione
barely noticed the change as she stayed immersed in her book, sprawled out on
some pillows they found.
Hopping off to inspect the shiny object, he moved things out of the way with
wandless magic, getting his own form of practice in. After a little digging he came
upon a dagger with an enticing gleam and many curves in the blade, remembering
the style's name as a kris. The shining blade held moving black lines that rippled and
swayed across the surface.
Pulling the weapon toward him with magic did nothing, his wand didn't produce any
results as well. Squinting in suspicion, he approached it cautiously, but felt no
malicious aura or signs of danger from a few detection charms. The handle was
dusty and slightly curved, with indentations for finger grips. He handled it tentatively,
picking it up without resistance then scrutinizing every aspect with more detection
spells. It was definitely magical in a way, which he felt before getting close, but it
didn't want to respond to any other magic. From descriptions in books, he guessed
the blade was goblin silver, repelling even the dust from his fingertips. Whipping off
the hilt exposed what looked like a small dragon tooth, and a worn engraving that he
couldn't read. His eyes cast around for the sheath, finding nothing he tried to
summon it, again receiving nothing. Seeing a rusted dagger of roughly the same size
he pulled it out of it's leather sheath, cast a cleaning charm inside and replaced it
with his new kris. He smiled and crept back onto the carpet.
"What did you find now?" Hermione asked without even looking up.
"Oh, perhaps a cursed dagger that might eventually devour my soul unless I
sacrifice a hundred virgins to it." He grinned evilly at her.
"That's nice, tell me how it turns out."
A tiny bit sore that his fictitious intrigue was so easily blown off, he began to tickle
her. Trying to resist as long as possible, she cringed away from his invisible magic,
beginning to tremble, and finally yelling at him as she flailed about from laughter,
"Harrrry! Stooop!"

Chuckling in triumph, he turned back to the carpet controls and brought them
around, heading home. Whereupon he felt magic hit his head, causing a weird
sensation in his hair and making it harder to balance. He pretended not to notice,
and carried on. Glancing sideways at Hermione brought on uncontrollable giggling
from beneath her book. Shaking his head was slightly difficult and resulted in more
restrained cackling, as his passenger tried to keep it together. He almost wondered if
his tickling magic was still active, but then they passed by some mirrors, revealing
large hairy antlers atop his head.
Slowing them down, Harry leaned his head sideways until the antlers were tapping
against her book, "Would you be a dear, and stop me from being one as well?"
She burst out in howling laughter, rolling back and forth on the carpet, avoiding his
horns and holding some pillows up to block any attack. Shaking them at her
threateningly only made her clutch her sides in further giggles, while she vainly tried
to bat them away. He laid back against the carpet trapping her underneath his hair
antlers. In response she grabbed hold and shook, snorting in amusement. Finally
giving up and focusing straight ahead, Harry concentrated on canceling the spell
wandlessly, figuring it was worth a try.
"Noooo!" She wailed, "How did you even do that? It's supposed to only be canceled
by the right counter-jinx."
It must have worked since his head felt less awkward to move and Hermione's face
shouted 'I'm perplexed' at him. "Ah, the secrets of a master shall only be revealed to
his pupil, which you seem to be lacking the qualities of."
"Okay master Yoda, teach me the ways of the force." She said with a snarky giggle.
"You must gain balance in your body and attitude, so stand on your head. When you
can do that I shall teach you."
"Only if you can show me how first, oh wise muppet. - Did you know, Yoda was
played by the same guy who does miss piggy and the cookie monster?" Hermione
sat up straighter and closed her book as they were getting closer.
Harry snorted in confused laughter, "What? ... Are you just bursting at the seams
with so much trivia that you have to let it out at odd times?"
"Maybe... but you don't give me much chance otherwise, having read most
everything I have. It makes sharing knowledge, difficult." She gathered her books
with a demure expression as Harry brought them in for a landing.

"So that means you don't want to practice legilimency with me so I can read your
thoughts? We do have the perfect place for it now."
"Not tonight Mr. Jedi. It's almost curfew and I'm not going to go through another
morning like earlier. I almost ran away when Angela started asking me questions
about my hair. Apparently Fay slept in late today, so we were simply lucky we didn't
get caught."
"Or... we could just slip her a forgetfulness potion in her pumpkin juice every
morning, and spend all week in here. - No one else would ever kno-" A pillow
smacked him upside the head, knocking him over. He laid there sideways watching
as Hermione ambled into the library carrying a pile of books.
Getting up, Harry left his dagger by the pile of unknown artifacts and helped
Hermione carry the remaining books into the library. All the while planning his
unexpected revenge.
oOoOo
Dumbledore collapsed into his chair, weary from a stressful day's work. But his office
was not the ideal place to relax, as the portraits began another argument.
"It's madness I say, allowing students, let alone willful first years into such a room!
Has Hogwarts fallen so low to permit such folly?"
"They're only children Phineas, you act as if they're dark wizards intent on world
domination. They might get into trouble, but as many of us know, that is the perfect
time for a learning experience. Otherwise the room should be safe enough now.
Dumbledore has seen to that." Commented Dippet.
"He may have solved the problem of unwanted pests, but there are still dangers
hidden inside." Said Spore.
"I could keep an eye on them if someone finds my other portrai'..."
"Not again Swott!" Black yelled in frustration.
"Calm yourself Phineas. We know the risks, and if the room helps the children like it
is meant to do, it shall be better for everyone. Although an observer wouldn't hurt."
"You're not much more subtle Quintin. I for one am concerned with why we let the
suspect out of our sight at a time like this. I shudder to think about the havoc he
might cause outside the school.

Dumbledore spoke up, "We cannot reveal our hand before he is caught, Everard.
We do not even know how he has managed to return, but he is weaker and more
desperate than ever. As for the room, I am afraid there is a risk Harry might
recognize one of you, and losing his trust now is not something we can afford." He
sat up quickly and looked towards the main doors.
They burst open and in walked Snape, dragging two redheaded students by the
scruff of their robes. "I seem to have found twin ingredient thieves in my secondary
potion storage once again."
"We were leaving money!" They protested simultaneously.
Snape sneered in disdain, "Stolen from someone else I'm sure. I want them expelled
this time Dumbledore!"
"A most troubling situation indeed..." Mumbled the Headmaster.
oOoOo
The next few days were filled with entertainment. Adventures were had rummaging
through the disappearing room, the Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs managed to lure
Harry and Hermione out into the cold for a snowball fight, while Fred and George
were serving detention, but going spare not knowing what to do with themselves the
rest of the time. Meals were filled with amazing food and good natured company.
Even Ron was turning out to not be such a prat, as they got to know him and Lisa
during meals.
Without bullies or any problems in sight, the winter holidays were turning into some
of their best days spent at Hogwarts.
Having no boring classes to distract them, dim students to slow them down, or
annoying teachers to ignore, the two star pupils were learning faster than ever, about
things that actually interested them. Hermione found a book on library charms after
Madam Pince refused to even discuss the subject, thinking she was trying to take
her job. While Harry practiced more detection charms, and experimented with the
limits of the disappearing room.
Together they were soon organizing the new library faster than they could carry or
float the books back. That's when Harry discovered an automated moving charm,
which he tweaked to ship whole piles and stacks of disorganized books without
damaging them, right beside the library doors for Hermione to practice her sorting
charms on.

While roaming around on a broom sending books back by himself, Harry had time to
practice his nonverbal spells and sift through the mess of unique and varied items.
He sent back a few objects like an antique globe that showed the weather on its
surface for the whole world, multiple cut crystal candy dishes with infinitesimally
detailed designs on them, somehow containing tasty looking chocolates and even
fresh fruit in some. Other things he hid for later, like an elegant jewelry box that
opened only for the owner, and seemed to keep things polished. Along with a finely
crafted bronze doorknob that felt strangely comfortable in his hand. He found it
laying in the middle of the floor, at a central intersection of aisles, almost as if it was
put there just for him. It was solid yet light, and emblazoned on the surface was a
raven protecting a door. This, he pocketed.
Before long it was Christmas eve, filling the whole castle with gaiety and cheer. Fires
seemed to blaze brighter, songs were sung louder, and games were played with
more gusto. Someone had even slipped the Slytherin table some laughing inducing
potion during lunch, though Fred and George pleaded their innocence. All the low
hanging mistletoe was mysteriously removed in the previous nights but much more
was put up to compensate. Sparkling fairies got into the mood and followed students
around, raining fairy dust everywhere and making people glitter in the flame lit halls.
Carols were sung by ghosts and students alike, with a few teachers thrown in as
well. Peeves also got into the holiday spirit, handing out mince pies to students all
over the castle. Except he put them on their chairs, right before sitting down.
Harry and Hermione were invited by the house elves to watch the whole dinner
preparation in the kitchen, and even sample a few dishes beforehand. It turned out
the house elves loved to have comments and criticism of their food so they could
improve it, but were always too shy to ask, having to make due with secretly
observing students reactions over the years. Hermione mentioned that they
managed quite well without it, but Harry was happy to oblige as he enjoyed helping
to tweak and improve things. Whispering to Kolie before they left, he arranged for a
small ruse the next day, heightening the fun a little more.
At dinner they ate the phenomenal meal of glazed ham, buttery mashed potatoes,
nutty sweet potato casserole, thick creamy gravy, and many different salads on the
side, all of which they got to see made. It ended with scrumptious pumpkin, apple,
and cherry pies for pudding. Harry and Hermione were probably the only other ones
who knew it was suggested by an older American transfer student, who wanted a
taste of home. The elves were only too happy to test out their skill for such a
request.
After dinner a group of students snuck down to the lake while a seventh year
conjured skates for them. Playing on the thicker ice, with loads of cushioning charms

all around, they skated for an hour, most able to stay upright by the end. Harry and
Hermione decided to simply watch, as he noticed McGonagall in her cat form,
observing from the shade of a tree not far off. Most likely planning to give a stern
lecture after they had their fun. Again, Hermione was suspicious of how Harry
seemed all too comfortable while sitting out in the cold, not casting any warming
charms at all. He even felt warm when she leaned close to see where he was
pointing at times.
Before going in, they caught sight of Hagrid, leading a sizeable animal down the
road from Hogsmeade. Catching up to him, they found out it was a reindeer he had
thought might be fun for the students to pet and ride. He asked them to keep it quiet
since it was a surprise for tomorrow, giving them a wink and leading it down behind
his cabin.
Spending the end of the night alone in the Ravenclaw library, they watched snow fall
outside the frosted windows. Harry wore a contented grin with a book open on his
lap. But instead of reading he was playing with the bronze doorknob he found, which
strangely wasn't built with any way to connect it through a door, or to another end.
Instead there was only a perfectly flat surface on the back. It seemed more a
decorative piece, but every detection spell revealed it to be magical, yet mysteriously
without purpose. Hermione looked up at him fiddling with it, tossing it up into the air,
and rolling around it in his hands, so she asked the obvious.
"You're not going to stop until I ask about the new trinket you found, are you?" Harry
pretended to not hear her and continued, "Fine, what is it already?"
Harry sat up straighter and faced her, "That's just it, I don't know. But it feels special
somehow, like waving your wand for the first time. I tried using it against a wall,
thinking it might be a portal or something like that, but nothing happened. No
detection spells reveal what it can do, and I'm out of ideas. It has Ravenclaw colors,
except it has an actual raven instead of an eagle as the emblem. It's strange why
someone would create a magical door knob that doesn't do anything."
"Who knows, maybe it's a key to somewhere. It doesn't look too impressive though.
But if you're that curious, ask professor Flitwick or Dumbledore." She stuck her head
back into her book.
"Maybe... so anyway, what did you get me for Christmas?"
"Wouldn't you like to know. But I'm afraid that information is classified, and I, just
don't want to tell." Giving him a smug smile, she looked back down.
A chuckle escaped Harry, "I could always tell you what you were getting..."

The book twitched in her hand, "Don't want to know."

"Really? Okay, but it is fascinating. I'm sure you'll be surprised in the morning. I
doubt you'd ever expect it."
"If you insist on badgering me about it... you might as well tell me already. But if I find
out you're lying, I'm taking back my gift for you and giving it to Ron." She raised her
eyebrows in seriousness.
"I promise, it's true. You're getting..." He paused while watching her expectant
expression, "Coal." Which turned into a humorless frown.
Hermione stood up and walked over to him. Looking directly in his eyes, she started
hitting him softly with her book, over and over with each word, "I, told, you, not, to,
lie!"
Harry blocked with his arms while laughing through the entire assault. "Okay, okay."
He slipped away from her, putting the chair in between them, "You're not going to get
a piece of coal. - You're going to get a whole stocking full of it." He jumped away as
the book went flying. He gave a scandalized expression at her willingness to throw a
book and then bolted as she picked up another. Running away he called back, "See
you tomorrow morning then. Have a good night!"
oOoOo
Waking up Christmas morning to tantalizing smells of breakfast cooking, half asleep,
Harry pulled off the covers and quickly got dressed. He'd asked Kolie to wake him as
soon as Hermione got up, and apparently the wakeup call was magically getting
kitchen smells all the way to the dorm. It certainly worked for him, as his stomach
started rumbling. Rushing to the bathroom, he got ready while constantly looking at
his watch.
Hermione stretched her arms wide as she yawned, still laying under her warm
covers. After a moment of simply enjoying thoughts of the day to come, she sat up
and looked around. Fay had already left, probably sitting in the common room with
the other Gryffindors opening presents or reading one of those quidditch magazines
she loved so much. As Hermione threw off the covers, she began her morning
routine. Starting with her favorite new golden brush Harry had found for her. While
combing the frizz out of her hair, she saw the large stocking hanging on the end of
her bed, with a note attached to it. She picked up the heavy load and laid it on her
bed, not seeing any regular sized presents.

Maybe they were all shrunk to fit? She looked at the decorative red and gold note
pinned to the top, 'Read Me' was written on the front.
Sitting down on the edge of the bed, she pulled off the note and read. 'Dear
Hermione Granger, due to your recent naughty behavior, you were moved from the
nice list to the naughty. I hope next year I will see improvement, - Santa Claus.'
Her eyebrows were pinched in displeased confusion. Not even her parents had
continued the Santa Claus charade since she was 5 and caught their handwriting on
supposed Santa gifts. This however was perfect handwriting in golden ink with a
convincing signature, much better than she would expect anyone to go through for a
prank. Pulling the top of the stocking toward her, she opened it and reached her
hand in, not feeling anything like paper wrapping. Her hand came out with black
smudge marks and a large piece of coal sitting on her palm.
Her facial features deepened with further confusion, and then with dawning horror.
She looked in the stocking to make sure and closed it, throwing it off her bed where
it clattered to the floor, more coal spilling out. Closing her eyes, she switched from
one emotion to the next, rage, humor, frustration, annoyance, and finally
consternation. Casting the quietus charm on herself she yelled at the top of her
lungs. "HARRY!"
"You called?" Came a disembodied voice from nowhere.
Twisting around in fright, Hermione pointed her wand and peered everywhere, even
under her bed, trying to discern the location of the all too familiar voice. Finally she
gave up her hunt and spoke again, "I better not find you in my room, or you'll be
begging for Snape to take over after I'm through with you."
A cheerful laugh could be heard, which she realized was emanating from
somewhere close, "Is that... never mind. - Don't worry Hermione, I'm in the
Ravenclaw library, waiting to open presents with you, real ones this time. Pick up
your watch and come on, there's even biscuits left by Santa's elves."
"You! You got Kolie and the other elves to set this up didn't you? But how are we
talking? Even you can't send thoughts out loud."
"Just one of your new Christmas gifts, hurry up, you have quite a few more waiting to
be unwrapped. Unless you want me to narrate unwrapping them for you..."
"Don't you dare. You've already played enough pranks this morning to give the
Weasley twins a run for their money." Hermione dropped her brush on the bed and
grabbed her watch as she rushed down the stairs through the common room,

heading for the door.

George saw her and called out, "What did you get for Christmas Hermione? ... Are
you leaving already, breakfast isn't for another hour?"
Fred piped up, "She's in a hurry to see someone I bet, even in her pajamas no less."
They guffawed as the few others looked towards Hermione rushing out the door.
She raced out of the room, forgetting she hadn't changed clothes, and too
embarrassed to go back. Taking the shortcut to the library in a dash, she saw Harry
had pulled up their two comfy armchairs next to the decorated fireplace, with a large
Christmas tree beside them and presents stuffed underneath.
Harry turned around and smiled at her, and talked into his watch, "Happy Christmas
Hermione." The voice was coming from her own watch, she finally noticed.
Inspecting the underside revealed a tiny communication mirror attached without her
knowledge. She must have activated it when saying his name. Walking up to him
and sitting down in the chair opposite, she gave him a droll glare.
"The naughty list huh? Telling me I had coal in my stocking, tricking me into calling
out your name, just so you could scare me and bring me down here to open
presents with you? Did you ever think of simply asking? That's some way to wish me
a happy Christmas... even if you did get us communication mirrors." She put on a
disappointed pout, but couldn't keep it steady as a wry grin worked it's way to the
surface at the sight of Harry smiling.
"Your pajamas are nice, care for a biscuit?" He proffered a plate full of assorted
goodies. She took one with a slight blush, and he set it back down on a table, next to
mugs of hot chocolate. "Well I had to get you back for the other day, and I thought it
might be fun, rather than making it into some arranged meeting at a specific time.
But now you're here, and it's time to open presents. Which one first?"
Rolling her eyes she pointed at a large box with toothbrushes on the wrapping. Harry
could tell who it was from. He picked it up and set it in her lap, watching as she
carefully opened it. When she wasn't looking he observed her pink pajamas with
different coloured strawberries all over, and her excessively fluffy slippers that
matched.
Out of the box came a warm looking white jumper, which she seemed to be
expecting and put on right away. Next were a number of books, some girly
shampoos, a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and some matching white
earmuffs. She smiled happily at it all and looked up at Harry, "Well, go on, open one
of yours."

Feeling like he should get it out of the way, he picked up the Dursley's poorly
wrapped present and discovered it to be a paperback book, with a note attached.
'Clerk says it's a good British book on history. Read it.' Outlanders was the title. He
shrugged, read the back, and laughed.
"What is it?" Hermione asked. He handed it over, along with the note. "Oh, I've heard
of this one, it's supposed to be good, but definitely not a history book. Do your
relatives do that often?"
"They definitely don't buy me books very often, but not reading the description of
something is pretty common. Okay, what's next?"
They opened presents from all their school friends. Harry got a translated book on
Chinese enchanting owled in from Sue, a griffin claw from Padma used to detect
poisons, and a wide variety of potions from Fred and George in unbreakable crystal
phials. Hermione received a book on the history of Indian magic from Padma, an
ornate Chinese fan that freshened the air from Sue, while Fred and George gave her
the secrecy quill used on the maps, and also a box, covered in the same type of self
wrapping ribbons that attacked her the other day, with a note inside saying, 'No
prank goes unnoticed.'
Her glare immediately turned to Harry, "Did you, tell them!?" She bristled.
Waving his hands in supplication, Harry denied it, "Not a chance, they must know
someone from the shop who told them. I swear I didn't."
Once her anger resided, Harry stuffed another present in her hands. It was a small
newspaper wrapped bag from Hagrid, and there was another for Harry that looked
just like it. Tearing the wrapping off with leftover annoyance Hermione found a scaled
drawstring pouch, greyish with a hint of green. There was a small card stuffed in the
top with awkward handwriting, which she read aloud, "Just got back from the tanner.
Only got a small extension charm, but hope you two like them."
"Is that... it is! Hagrid must have found that one in the trap before us." Harry quickly
unwrapped his, revealing a twin to Hermione's. Both were threaded with old dragon
hide draw strings, and seemed to hold more than any book bags. "Two moke-skin
pouches from one lizard, it must have been enormous."
They played with the pouches for a few minutes, marveling at how large objects
slipped inside and then were able to summon them out. Eating more sweets and
drinking their hot chocolate gave them time to inspect their gifts and discuss what
they gave other people. Before long Hermione remembered the time, and handed

Harry another present.

"I was tempted to give this to Ron, but I suppose you didn't actually lie, not that
giving me a bag of coal is much better..." They laughed and he opened the package.
Pulling out a book he was wanting and polished black raven quill, with a muggle pen
slipped inside.
"I asked Professor Flitwick to enchant it so the feather can erase things too. There's
one more thing in the the box, but it comes with a condition."
Reaching back in Harry picked up a small silver pin, in the shape of a compass star.
"As long as you promise not to scare me, it can cast a silencing charm around you
and anything you touch."
"Is this your idea of a magical bribe? Because it's a pretty good one... Okay, I
promise not to intentionally scare you. That's the best I can do." The pin glowed a
little at his words and Hermione smiled.
"Good enough I suppose, you have to tap it twice to cast the charm and twice again
to cancel it. Maybe you can use it while exploring secret passages or sneaking into
the disappearing room." He nodded at the idea and thanked her profusely.
With a reserved smile, Harry pulled out a medium sized box hidden behind the tree,
wrapped in red, blue, yellow, and green with actual flying Griffins, soaring eagles,
slithering snakes, and digging badgers all across the paper. He set it in her lap and
sat down on the floor in front of her, watching. Gently unwrapping the paper so as
not to tear it, she lifted it off all in one piece, exposing a stylish rosewood jewelry box
adorned with tiny golden flowers and multiple latches. Her face lit up.
"It's a little flashy, but that's the nicest one I found in the room. Your real present is
inside the middle latch."
A little speechless Hermione opened it up to see a beautiful golden necklace with
four small charms on it, each one a detailed emblem of a Hogwarts house. "They all
do different things when you squeeze them. The Gryffindor keeps you warm, the
Ravenclaw cools you down, the Slytherin produces water, and somewhat useless,
the Hufflepuff gives dirt. Probably want to be careful with the last two while wearing
it. The neat thing about it is you can take off any you want or add more with different
enchantments." What he didn't tell her was the necklace itself also contained a few
strong protection charms, as he didn't want to remind her off anything dangerous
today.
She gathered it up in her hand, marveling at the authentic crests, made from real

gold, silver, bronze, and a black metal for Hufflepuff, all with her initials on back. With
scarlet cheeks and a broad smile Hermione jumped onto Harry giving him a tight
bear hug, crushing the breath out of him. He hugged her back in a snug embrace.
After a final squeeze she disengaged, still sitting in his lap she gave him a quick kiss,
then changed the subject, "So, this is how you've been so warm lately. Had to test it
out I'm guessing?"
Blushing now himself, Harry pretended to act nonchalant, "Of course, wouldn't want
it to accidentally spray water down your shirt, unless you're into that sorta thing..."
She gave him a light headbutt, "Alright, try it on already. Before I get beaten to death
in thanks."
Hermione nudged him again and turned around, holding her hair to the side for him
to clasp it around her neck. With all his self control he resisted using the Slytherin
crest, instead securing it slowly while tickling her. With that finally done, she pressed
the Gryffindor charm and shivered as warm air encircled her.
"Well, I guess that's all, and it's almost time for breakfast." Concluded Harry.
Still sitting on his lap, she was blocking his view of the tree, "There's still two
presents left, do you forget how to count after being kissed or something?" Tickling
her again she laughed happily and pulled away to get the last two gifts. Handing
Harry a soft light package, she looked at a long thin box with no name but her own
on it.
"Who are they from I wonder?" She sat back in Harry's lap and opened the box. It
was a dazzling deep red feather, containing a small amount of liquid inside the
hollow tip. A small note was underneath, 'Keep this on you always, and use it only in
great need.'
With one arm around Hermione they both read it together, then looked at each other
questioningly.
"Neither of those gifts were here when I arrived. And if that's what we're both thinking
it might be, then that leaves only one person." Harry unwrapped his gift with
Hermione's help, unfolding a flowing silvery cloth that felt smoother than any satin,
silk, or puffskein fur. Almost as if someone made a fabric out of clouds. Another note
fell out as Hermione ran a hand through it.
Harry caught it and read, 'Your father left this in my possession before he died. Try
not to get lost in it. - And have a Happy Christmas.'

He showed the note to Hermione but she just shrugged. "So what is this cloth? A
portal to another dimension?" She flipped it over and gave a small shriek while
throwing it to the opposite chair. It landed on top of the arm wrest, only now there
was half a chair showing.
"Ummm... that's kind of creepy." She looked at her hand for a second, touching it
with her other, making sure it was still there. "So it doesn't vanish objects... it must
be-"
"An invisibility cloak!" Harry said with hunger in his eyes. Trying to get up through
Hermione sitting on his lap didn't work. He quickly cast the featherlight charm on her
again when she didn't move. Lifting her up quickly produced a squeak, which made
him grin.
Clinging to him she said resignedly, "I wish you would ask before doing that..."
He picked up the cloak with wandless magic, finding the shoulders and then looked
around, at the same time trying to sense anyone close. With a smile at Hermione,
her eyes opened in realization, "What do you think you're do-"
The cloak flew over both of them and cascaded down to the floor around them. Harry
pulled it right, now holding Hermione and peering out from under the translucent
material. She sighed, looking up at him with her 'really?' face, waiting for him to look
back and see it. Instead, he walked towards a mirror in between some wall
hangings. Nothing was seen as he held her in front of it. Then he pulled off the hood,
revealing his floating smile covered face. Pulling a corner aside revealed Hermione's
planned expression, which made his falter.
With a shrug, he set her down as she wobbled slightly from the weightless feeling.
Casting finite on herself distracted Hermione for the second it took for him to
disappear again. She looked around for him. What had they done now? Unleashing
a crazed and curious first year with an invisibility cloak and silencing charm on the
entire school.
"It's almost time for breakfast Harry, let's go down and eat some proper food before
you start turning into Golum." She heard a cackling laughter by the Christmas tree,
as a flying biscuit danced above the chairs.
"My precious, biscuit!" It disappeared in mid air, presumably under the cloak. He
pulled off the hood and laughed normally this time. "This is going to be so much fun!"
oOoOo

Quickly storing all their loot in new moke skin pouches, Hermione hurried back to her
dorms to get changed, then they headed down together. Breakfast passed by with
another array of sweets and all the traditional food, if in smaller portions. Thanking
Fred and George for the gifts, Harry explained they were off the hook, and could
come visit a secret room with them after Christmas dinner. Right after that Percy's
prefect badge grew a few sizes too many, forcing him to carry it around like a shield.
As he chased the twins out the great hall, Harry and Hermione decided to go check
on Hagrid in the west courtyard, who was showing off the reindeer to some
Hufflepuffs. This time Harry was the one bundling up as he stayed close to the
beaming Gryffindor beside him. They thanked Hagrid again and again for the
pouches, and explained how they found the cage left open, thinking it got away.
Hagrid shuffled his feet, "Sorry 'bout that. After gettin' him out, I forgot 'bout the trap."
When he began to thank them as well for his gifts, a scream cut through the morning
air.
They all looked around to see the reindeer was chewing on a frightened girl's hair. A
few students and teachers rushed out to check what was going on, only to see
Hagrid trying to distract it with straw while everyone else was laughing their heads
off. After an exciting morning of reindeer rides, sledding down snow covered hills,
and playing with presents, it was finally time for Christmas dinner.
Harry and Hermione entered the great hall hand in hand, awed by festivities and the
lavish looking feast. The sights and smells were enchanting, with every traditional
dish and more. Giant golden turkeys sat in the middle of platters full of roasted
potatoes, and caramelized Brussels sprouts with bacon were heaped in large bowls
next to dishes of chestnut stuffing. Tables were dotted with boats of creamy gravy,
along with tart cranberry sauce. Baskets of fragrant sweet rolls brushed with honey
butter tantalized their noises as candied carrots and braised parsnips were
decorated into fanciful patterns circling around mounds of spicy chipolatas.
The house elves had really outdone themselves, and seemed to be still working as
plates of Yorkshire pudding and vibrant red cabbage appeared on the table. Fitting in
between it all were pitchers of Christmas punch, pumpkin juice, and eggnog, with
wine and cider for the adults. With so few people there were not as many tables, yet
they were fuller with food than ever before. Even Dumbledore seemed surprised at
how extravagant the feast had become, giving Harry a small wink as their eyes
caught.
To Harry the most surprising of all was how good everything could taste when made
right. The turkey was actually juicy and moist, the Brussels sprouts weren't bitter for

a change, and everything else was cooked perfectly, not half done. Since he wasn't
allowed to help with Christmas dinners back home, it was mostly disappointing. But
he knew now where he wanted to spend every Christmas until graduation, right here,
next to the pretty girl beside him. A cracker fell into his plate as he was taking it all in.
Wizard crackers were piled higher than the turkeys, some even falling off the tables.
While the experienced students plugged their ears and hoped for some good ones,
others nearly choked, being startled by such loud bangs, namely Harry and
Hermione. Showing some backbone they tried one, it left them waving away green
smoke, holding a reddish winter cap with fox ears and a homework planner. With
quick thinking Harry distracted Hermione with the planner and dropped the hat over
her head, already grabbing another cracker for her to pull.
She stared at him with a new expression, one he instantly knew what it meant, 'I'm
putting up with you because it's Christmas.' Giving her his best smile, he sent a
thought back, 'I know.'
Jokes were read aloud round the table, with hardly any achieving humor, being very
traditional. "Why is it hard for a ghost to tell a lie? Because you can see right through
him.", "What do you call a wizard from outer space? A flying sorcerer.", "Who did the
lonely wizard marry? His ghoul-friend." And finally, "Why did the old wizard go to the
hospital? He had a staff infection."
Pulling a couple more crackers as they ate, Harry was sly enough to use his new
silencing pin, making it easier on their ears. The next one produced a stereotypical
blue wizard's hat with gold stars, and a teal self cleaning and drying towel, which
Hermione was happy to pass on.
Laughter at the front of the tables alerted their attention to Dumbledore in a towering
fruit hat, which he began to eat from. Wearing an Egyptian pharaoh headpiece,
McGonagall was fitting a large red Santa cap on a boisterous Hagrid, giving great
big, "Ho, Ho, Hos." While Snape glared menacingly at a pointed white clown's hat
with colored bows that inched it's way toward him across the table.
Out of nowhere came a flying pair of matching reddish slippers in the shape of fox
paws, which dropped into Hermione's lap. Tracking it back to the smiling faces of the
Weasley twins who wore two flamboyant top hats, one was the spitting image of the
red and white striped hat from the Cat In The Hat, and the other had a curled black
brim, and a red puggaree that tapered up to an overly large crown, giving Harry the
impression of the Mad Hatter. Both seemed fitting enough.
More crackers were opened as dessert finally appeared in place of other dishes.

Flaming Christmas pudding lit up the tables, highlighting the other wonderful
delicacies next to them. Silver tiered stands held miniature pies of every flavor, from
sugar dusted mince to glazed pear, while more carried decorated cupcakes, rich
fudges, and assortments of biscuits. Enormous crystal bowls of trifle bore sliced
panettone on top, while exotic looking cheesecakes, realistic yule logs, and
decadent tiramisu were clustered around any open spaces left. Every single diner
was impressed by the variety and effusive display in front of them, but before anyone
could tuck in, more dishes appeared hovering above it all, varied puddings,
chocolate torts, and lastly, festive Christmas cakes. Even Dumbledore had never
seen such extravagance in Hogwarts before, as he started a round of applause for
the house elves' hard work. Some students didn't even know who they were
applauding but clapped loudly all the same, so loud that it could be heard clearly in
the kitchens below.
People began telling their own jokes they'd heard over the years, only slightly funnier
than the last. "What happened to the first year who brushed his teeth with a wand?
He kept shooting his mouth off!", "Why don't witches like to ride their brooms when
they're angry? They're afraid of flying off the handle!"
And finally an older muggleborn told one, "Why was the wizard of Oz the ultimate girl
movie? It was about two women trying to kill each other over shoes." Most didn't get
it but Hermione had to cuff Harry for laughing.
Moments later she found a tall, pink princess hat, and was planning on giving it to
Padma when she returned, just as matching red fox mittens fell into her lap, this time
from from a Hufflepuff boy who waved in good cheer. Almost having a whole fox
outfit she wasn't sure she wanted, Ron tapped her on the shoulder, then handed her
another bundle of red cloth while he mumbled a thanks for the Chudley Cannons
pennant she gave him. Harry helped her unroll it into a large cloak with a fox tail out
the back, leading to head hanging embarrassment as he helped her reluctantly into
it.
Sending another thought, 'You look foxy,' caused Hermione to jab him in the ribs with
a sharp elbow.
Holding onto his side, Harry shoved one last cracker in her hand to stop any more
retaliation. The silent explosion left red smoke behind, a miniature wireless, and a
finely woven grey cap, with a small point on it. Replacing the blue wizard's hat he
wore, Harry adjusted it so the curved tip fell backwards, and discovering a light
heating charm on it he showed Hermione.
"That's a Phrygian cap," she said, "but you have it on backwards." Shrugging his

shoulders and smiling, he stuffed himself with one last piece of sticky toffee pudding.
The meal ended with teachers casting stomach settling charms on the students, and
each other. As they all gathered up their prizes, Harry left the tables right behind
Hermione. Watching her walk, he couldn't help but chuckle with suppressed mirth at
the sight of her wagging tail.

Chapter 19 - Afters
Author's Note: Finally back with new chapters, which will be posted about once per
week from now on.
If anyone is confused about the timeline of this chapter, you might be surprised to
know that in the UK the main meal on Christmas is usually served near noon or soon
after, with leftovers (Christmas tea) served later, which was the same every day
before artificial lighting became popular. Some say the timing stayed the same due
to the tradition of watching the Queen's speech after eating. Why this tradition would
carry over into the wizarding world when they always had artificial lighting, and no
one watches muggle TV or radio is anyone's guess, but it is canon.
Chapter 19
Afters
Leaving the Great Hall pleasantly stuffed, the two friends climbed their way to
Ravenclaw library once again. Taking time to digest and play with their new
presents, it was also agreed upon as a good place to wait for the Weasley twins to
find them. But low and behold, they saw the whole redheaded gang playing outside
in the snow, along with a few other boys.
"Family must be really important to them, to ignore something they gave up pranking
for." Harry noted as he watched them throwing snowballs at each other.
While skimming through her new books, Hermione looked out at the playing boys, "If
they're anything like Ron, they probably just forgot."
"Maybe, - want to go join them?" Her single dubious glance said everything. "It was
only a joke... I'm amazed they would actually go out in that weather right after eating
so much. And that was some meal too, we should thank the elves later."
She nodded along while flipping through pages, "I hope the Christmas letters we
wrote didn't encourage them to work even harder." Looking up she wore a
concerned expression, "Who are we kidding, our thanking them was exactly what did
it. We're exhausting them by being nice!"
Harry laughed, "I'm sure they're loving every minute of it. The last time we saw them
they looked happier than ever, and not a one looked worn out. If I had to guess, they
might get more energy from it all." The concern on Hermione's face wasn't leaving.

"But if you're worried, we can ask Kolie when we check in."

That brought out a nod of satisfaction and she went back to reading. Harry spread
out the gifts they received from crackers onto the table between them. Unbreakable
phials, potions notebooks, a tiny dancing wooden fairy, multiple revealers, self tying
shoe laces, the miniature wireless, his towel, Hermione's homework planner, and
numerous hats. He liked the outfit Hermione was wearing the best, but was afraid
she wasn't going to keep it on much longer. Which reminded him of something.
Taking out a secret present bought for himself, he activated his pin and took a photo
of Hermione curled up in the chair reading her book. She looked up curiously at the
flash as he took another. Her eyes narrowed and began to reach for her wand as he
took one more and hid it behind his back. He shrugged his shoulders with an arch
smile, and tried to distract her with conversation.
"Do you wonder now if Santa was based on an actual wizard? Maybe he had
hundreds of elves that made toys for him and delivered them all on a magical flying
sleigh? So the classic story we heard all our lives could have somehow been real,
and maybe he's still out there, giving gifts to all the good little girls and boys who
don't get any of their own?"
"You already know what I wonder, how long you think that camera will last before the
film mysteriously disappears. But I doubt your theory since there should be at least
one wizard that wrote about it by now, if it was true." She sat up and gave him a
critical look.
Harry put on a pleading face with big puppy dog eyes, "Please? It's only a few
photos, I'll be good. I promise."
Wearing a wry look of disbelief, she crooked her finger at him. Coming closer, Harry
knelt beside her chair, playing up the act. She observed his pouting for a moment,
then spoke, "You already got me into this costume somehow, so I get to decide
which pictures you can keep, and you have to stop whenever I say. Also, you will
lose all privileges if you do anything bad. Understand?" He nodded his head
vigorously, giving a winning smile.
She roller her eyes, "You're only humoring me so I don't get angry again, aren't
you?"
"That might be a consideration... but your conditions are reasonable so I would
agree to them anyway."
"Okay, I promise not to reject too many pictures. And maybe, I could use it

sometimes as well?"
Harry smiled at her hopeful expression, "Agreed."
Stretching closer he gave her a quick peck on the cheek and thanked her. Then sat
down with a relieved sigh, and stored the magical camera away in his pouch.
Noticing the invisibility cloak underneath gave him another idea, but he decided to
put it off for later. Sorting through the loot, they choose to save a few things for Sue
and Padma, and share the rest, leaving most of it in the room. Harry tried browsing
through his new books as well but ended up gazing into the fire, watching the flames
as he mused over the day.
"Have you noticed that there isn't any kind of wizard church or wizard religions, yet
Christmas is a huge deal here? It's curious, but I suppose it's more traditional, like
Saturnalia or Yule rather than celebrating a religious figure."
Hermione glanced up again and considered his words, "The whole wizarding world
is a little strange. But the religious part is odd too. Right after I got here I saw there
were religious books that were more than two thousand years old, I thought I could
read them and find out what really happened. But it turns out none of them are the
same. They all have different ideas of what really went on. When I asked my parents
if they wanted to see any of them, they refused."
"It's the story they want, not history. I found that out early on when I first started
asking questions my aunt and uncle couldn't answer. They threw the bible at me and
called me devil spawn for asking so many questions. And when I was old enough to
read the whole bible, which kinda freaked me out at the time, and ask them
questions about that, they hit me with it until I stopped."
"That's... disturbing."
"Later I realized that they hadn't even read it themselves. That they didn't care what
was in it, but preferred the stories told to them and in their heads better. I never even
mentioned the many other versions of the bible that I read about."
"You'd think with all the accurate record keeping by wizards back then that there
wouldn't be so much confusion, and differing accounts, but there seems to be much
more than non magical accounts. And no one seems to care."
"I suppose that's why no one is especially religious here, when you have easy
access to hundreds of different books explaining what happened in the past, some
saying it didn't happen, and many more versions of every religious book out there,
you can't beat someone over the head with just one."

Hermione stifled a chuckle, realizing it might be a sensitive topic.

Harry noticed her concern and waved it off, "I gave up caring about my relatives
doing that long ago, after I learned how to stop them. Religion has turned into one of
those theoretical thought experiments for me. None of it makes any difference, and
there doesn't seem to be any evidence for the supernatural, even with magic."
"You don't wonder who created it all, what ghosts really are, who made magic to fit
words, and made us fit so well in nature?"
"To me, that last one is like a puddle of water asking why he fits so well in a pothole.
Life, people, are nature, and grow with it. Saying there's something more than the
laws of nature is... wishful thinking, unneeded. I find it strange that only magical
people can become ghosts, hinting that it's magical, not supernatural. As for spells
working with words, well do you think English based spells like Scourgify and Pack,
were created alongside Latin spells like Lumos or Nox?"
"I suppose not. But it all seems too complex to imagine everything works so well on
it's own. Although you'll probably say that's my limitation, not nature's."
Harry's eyebrows rose, "You've had a conversation like this before haven't you? Only
I have a feeling you were the skeptical one."
She nodded with a resigned smile. "Only I didn't have your witty responses. My
parents both say they believe in it all, but they don't ever talk about it or go to church.
Then my uncle is a priest. He likes to lecture me when I ask questions and say, 'See,
you don't know everything after all!' Which gets really annoying after the first twenty
times." She wagged her finger while imitating him, then sighed and sat back in her
chair.
"I never had anyone to discuss those things with, except books. None of my friends
even knew what philosophy was, let alone read a book on the subject. But when you
have some kind of mental power no one else does, supernatural or otherwise, you
tend to question those things a bit more. At least I did." He sat back as well, "- Let's
talk about something else, I think we're getting a bit too depressing."
oOoOo
Just then a commotion could be heard outside the library, feet stomping and multiple
voices arguing. Turning around revealed a mass of flaming red hair coming toward
them, definitely more than the twins. Harry looked to Hermione but received only a
shrug in response, as they got closer, he heard a hiccup, then another, and soon
even more. Arriving beside their chairs, the Weasley brothers stood in front of them,

all hiccuping together. Harry burst out in laughter after seeing a few crumbs on their
robes.
None of them looked please but Fred gave in, "Good one, H-hic- Harry, the cakes
were smart, new from Gambol and Japes'?"
George continued, "Can you -hic- give us the antidote already?"
Percy butted in, "Yeah, -hic- it's common manners to include the antidote -hicnearby."
Still laughing, Harry tried to think about what they were saying, "Antidote?"
Stricken faces formed all around, "He's got to -hic- be joking!? Who doesn't buy the hic- antidote with the prank?" complained Ron.
George slapped his forehead, "Muggle-hic-borns..."
Catching onto the situation, Hermione interrupted before things got out of hand, "I'm
sure Madam Pomfrey has something that can fix it. Let's go before... oh no. I just
remembered, she's supposed to be visiting relatives after dinner, and won't be back
for a couple of days." Her 'take charge' attitude melted into a frown.
"Maybe if we all try casting Finite all at once, it might work?" Harry offered.
Percy shook his head, "I already tri -hic-" But before he could correct himself, Harry
pulled out his wand with Hermione rushing to as well, pointing at the siblings and
casting.
"Finite!" And just like that, it was quiet.
Until the celebratory cheers broke the silence, the twins shook their hands, as Ron
sat down to catch his breath. Looking a little embarrassed, Percy mumbled, "I guess
it wore off enough for that to work. - Next time, don't forget the antidote. Come on
everyone, let's get back to our house."
Harry nodded sheepishly from his blunder, while the twins stayed behind. "Go on
without us. We'll give our heroes a few lessons on proper pranking and be back
around tea." Ron hurried after Percy, not wanting to get involved with any more
jokes.
Fred rubbed his hands together fiendishly, "Now, I think you owe us a tour of a
mysterious room?"

"Did you purposely fall for Harry's prank just for an excuse to come here?" Hermione
asked in a suspicious tone.
"We're not telling." They chorused.
Shaking his head, Harry stood up. "Wait here, I'll go open the door and signal
Hermione to bring you in." With scrutinizing looks, the twins sat down to wait.
A minute later Hermione heard the thought 'Ready,' and stood up. She turned to the
twins, "Follow me, and don't dawdle."
They trailed after, confused but not uttering a word, even after she steered them
down a long aisle of bookcases that led nowhere. At the end Hermione pulled open
a door in the wall, and waved them in with a smirk. Craning their necks all around,
they looked for some mechanism or way to open it from the outside but got pushed
along from behind, into the vast room.
Harry stood not far away with a brown top hat on and twirling a cane. "Come with
me, and you'll be, in a world of pure imagination." Hermione chuckled at him, as the
twins gawked. "Well, we call it the disappearing room, but you get the idea. This is
the storage room we fought the trolls in, and where we've been frequenting recently.
Want to help explore it with us?" He wore an inviting grin.
Their jaws were moving but no words were coming out. One pulled out the original
map and taped it with a wand while whispering something. It darkened and they both
looked down, trying to find where they were while unfolding every flap and page that
moved. After an extensive search they looked up at Harry taking his hat off and
setting it on a stand.
"Yes!" They both sputtered.
"But... how did you?"
"Where are we?!"
"There's enough time for that later." Hermione observed, "We should show you
around a little before Harry gets a house elf to dress up as an oompa loompa."
"A what?" Asked a bewildered Fred.
Harry chuckled, "They're small little orange men that used to live in Loompaland. It's
filled with vicious hornswogglers, snozzwangers and terrible whangdoodles."

"They're having us on again, aren't they?"

"Who cares, look at this place Fred!" And they looked, walking in between the aisles
and gazing into the distance. Harry rolled out the flying carpet and Hermione got on,
floating up behind the distracted pranksters he bumped into the back of their legs.
Jumping in shock they spun around, "You've got a flying carpet too?"
"There's all kinds of things in here, flying vacuums, mops, and of course lots of
brooms. I'm starting to wonder if wizards have some kind of obsession with
household cleaning devices, or just enchant anything that's handy. - Now get on, and
let's give you that tour."
Spending the next few hours playing in the room, the twins found some quality
brooms they felt more comfortable on and everyone flew around the safer areas that
had already been surveyed. Finding some old potion equipment and cupboards full
of dried ingredients, the twins began collecting a sample of everything, yet ended up
playing with antique wooden dueling swords and shields. While Hermione scanned
through more unusual books for interesting spells out topics, Harry inspected racks
of wizard clothes, checking for magical pieces. To his dismay there were none to be
found, making him question the intelligence of wizards again.
"You'd think that with all the expensive fabrics and gems sewn into these robes,
someone would have enough money to enchant them with a few useful spells as
well. But no, people make worthless trinkets like remembralls and biting doorknobs
instead."
"They don't allow much enchanted stuff at Hogwarts. Didn't anyone tell you that
Harry?" Shouted Fred and George as their swords clacked against each other again
and again. "Quills, bags, and toys are pretty much it. But they overlook the little stuff
like warming gloves and fancy watches."
Harry shared an amused look with Hermione, as most of their presents were
enchanted. Yet they already decided not to show them around. "Madam Malkin did
mention something about that, but I thought it was only for specific things. So it's just
at school that people waste their time on frilly robes and boring trinkets instead of
useful things?"
"Naw, the ones who can afford all that enchanted stuff actually like the frills and
trinkets." Fred parried as he joked.
"Plus that kind of stuff doesn't get misplaced, what with special enchantments and
house elves keeping track." Said George as he dodged behind a large marble bust.

"Are all enchanted items and clothing that expensive?" Inquired Hermione.
"Magical wood is simple to get, but have you ever tried to shave a Kneazle or wax a
Werewolf for their fur? It's not as easy as it sounds, trust us."
"Our brother Charlie used to skin dragons when they died, and he needed a dozen
professional dragon herders to keep the other ones from eating him while working."
The twins pretended to fight off the dragons themselves, attacking a stack of wooden
chairs aggressively.
They got tired quickly, collapsing onto a pile of old pillows and breathing hard, "Plus
it's not easy to enchant some stuff."
"We thought up a good trick to get around all that though. Just need to sew some
magical paper into plain fabric, should make it loads cheaper and easier to enchant
some spells." George bragged as a possessed stool wiggled out from under the
other chairs to get its revenge.
"Not that we're trying anything dangerous..." Fred hedged as he looked warily at
Hermione, not yet noticing the new attacker.
Harry laughed, as the twins were suddenly set upon by the angered seat, stepping
on their toes and smacking their shins. They stumbled into the marble bust in their
attempt to run away, sending it crashing to the floor and breaking the nose off.
Hermione gasped, while Harry thought he heard a disgruntled snort from somewhere
in the distance, sounding oddly like his uncle Vernon when displeased.
Quickly freezing the aggressive stool to the floor, Harry shushed the others and tried
to listen for it again but nothing else made a noise. He shrugged in response to the
odd looks he was getting, "Thought I heard something."
Finally getting peckish again, they all headed back to the entrance. Upon their
arrival, George commented on the number of doors.
"Three doors? Where do the other two lead?"
"Ah, but there isn't only three, there's four." Harry corrected him, as another door
materialized next to the others, this one was white with painted fruit all over it.
Wooden swords clattered to the ground.
"Wait a tick. - Did you just imagine a door into existence without a spell?" Ventured
Fred.

The smirk crept back to Harry's face, "Told you it was better than your map. - This
one leads directly to the kitchens, so we can ask our friends the house elves to
prepare a little something."
"Doesn't that take the biscuit. Your first year here and you two already found the best
room in the castle, with house elves for catering." George said with bemused
laughter, while Fred set their brooms and dueling equipment aside.
"We should probably get back though, or Percy might get in a huff. He goes a bit
mental when Ron beats him at chess."
"Can we come again tomorrow?" Pleaded George.
Harry and Hermione exchanged a glance, "Sure, but Hermione might put you to
work gathering books. I usually skiv off halfway through, so it's not too bad. - Where
do you want out?"
"There's fine." Fred pointed to the kitchen door with a smirk.
Taking an extra large meal up to the Gryffindor dorms, Fred and George bid them
goodnight, leaving the house elves to pamper Harry and Hermione with scrumptious
leftovers at a small table in the kitchens. Hermione didn't ask if any elves were worn
out or tired from the day's work, since every one of them were bursting with
excitement to serve them and singing strange songs as they cleaned the kitchen to a
spotless sheen, yet Harry still talked with Kolie before leaving to ease any lingering
fears.
Propping open the door to the disappearing room worked while they ate, but they
caught it trying to close on its own multiple times. They affectionately thanked the
elves and left stuffed once more, wondering if they were going to get fat over the
winter holidays.
Curfew arrived soon after Harry opened another door to a private dueling and
training room. They practiced together until Hermione's watch buzzed in alarm,
twice, as she had changed it to try preventing another morning like before. When
saying goodnight at a new door that led outside the Gryffindor dorms, she became
suspicious at the excited expression Harry was trying to hide.
"What are you up to this time?" Harry looked away, not responding, which only
confirmed it for her, and she remembered his manic laughter that morning, "You
better not be following me back in that cloak Harry. You promised not to scare me, or
do anything bad remember?"

"Don't worry, I wasn't planning on bothering you at all tonight." He tried a reassuring
smile but that only made her more wary.
Hermione grabbed his hands and looked him in the eyes, "I know I can't stop you,
but try not to get in trouble, okay? I don't want to go visiting you in detentions for the
rest of the year. Or worse, at your relative's house."
That made him chuckle, "They need me. I don't know why, but I can tell from from
my sessions with Dumbledore. They'll never kick me out. Besides, with today's gifts
and my abilities, no one can catch me. Now go to bed, I'm only going to explore a
bit, nothing dangerous."
She walked away, still wearing her fox outfit and not very reassured.
oOoOo
Checking in at Ravenclaw tower, Harry walked around the expansive common room,
making sure people saw him. Heading to his room some time before the older
student's curfew, he donned his cloak and activated the silencing pin. He tested his
camera to see if it worked under the invisibility cloak, and smiled to himself when
looking at the negatives in darkness. Making his move when he sensed no one was
near the stairs, he waited by the entrance to the dorm and left when a single older
student rushed past.
He was free. The whole castle was open to him, and it was time to explore.
Rushing towards the Gryffindor tower Harry was filled with adrenaline as he followed
an older girl to the portrait, coming close enough to hear the password. Only it was
muffled, a charm to stop eavesdropping, just like he was trying to do. Desperate
thinking made him hold the portrait open with wandless magic before it closed,
sneaking inside a room that boasted never being breached.
Staying close to one wall, he edged into the expansive stone room with a real
roaring fire. The place smelled faintly of roasted nuts, and cinnamon, over top of a
musky burnt flavor that permeated the furniture. He guessed it was probably from
using real wood rather than a magical fire, along with the discarded socks and shirt
he noticed on the floor. A hint of something else reminded him of playing in autumn
leaves, yet he couldn't tell where it came from.
He saw a bulletin board close by with next week's password on it, 'Leviculus Anser',
which made getting in again easier.
There were only a few people still awake, yet it felt homey and relaxed, with loads of

Christmas decorations plastered around the room, most of which were centered
around a giant tree to the side of the massive fireplace. Scarlet and gold tapestries
decorated the walls, with a broad window overlooking the grounds. Old leather
couches were covered with warm throws, as varied red and brown chairs filled the
rest of the room. It was easy to imagine Hermione sitting in one of the squishy
armchairs, reading a book in some awkward position, oblivious to the rest of the
room. He took a few pictures and moved on.
Creeping towards the stairs he tested a foot on the boy's staircase, which was solid.
Setting a foot on the girl's staircase felt weird, like it wanted to move underneath him.
So this was what Hermione was talking about. Apparently an invisibility cloak doesn't
protect me from some detection spells. Not that I was going to watch Hermione
sleep or anything. Although with a short broom... No, that way leads to madness.
Harry slipped around a student coming toward him, and followed the boy up the
stairs, just to see what a Gryffindor dorm looked like. Opening the very top one, he
sensed only Ron inside and guessed he was asleep. The room looked simple, like
his own yet with much more clutter and a giant heater in the center, draped with a
pair of wet socks. It was also slightly smaller, containing run down furniture with tons
of quidditch souvenirs on the walls. This is where I would have stayed if put in
Gryffindor... I wouldn't have fit in.
He left a chocolate frog hanging from a wreath still above the door, simply spreading
good cheer, and maybe confusion. Before leaving he saw a mangy looking rat
sleeping on a bed. It felt unusually strange, giving him the desire to step on it before
he was bit. The only thing that held him back was a memory of Ron carrying it
around once.
Making his way down to Fred and George's room, he peeked in, but saw they were
already asleep as well. He left some hiccuping sweets on their cabinets to make
them wonder and took another picture.
Exiting outside the dorm was easy, as he simply pushed the door open a crack and
walked out. Not even the portrait seemed suspicious this early. Running to the
disappearing room, he hoped it might lead him closer to Hufflepuff house rather than
searching by the kitchens. He felt for anyone close by as he entered, then thought of
needing a door outside the Hufflepuff common room, seeing a striped yellow and
black one appear gave him high hopes.
It was still ten minutes till last curfew when he tried opening the door, but fell through
instead, the wall solidifying behind him. Alone in the near dark, Harry got a shiver up
his spine as he concentrated on seeing in the dark. That was unusual. Now where is

this, a storage hallway? Large barrels and... one looks like light is coming out of it.
Footsteps echoed down the hallway as an older chubby boy came into view, walking
toward him. Backing against a corner, Harry watched the boy with food in his arms
shift it all slightly to remove his wand, tap twice on a barrel, then three more times.
As the boy backed up he dropped the food into an book bag and began to crawl
through the somewhat large opening. Harry quickly followed after, only needing to
crouch.
This seems like an uncomfortable way to enter a common room. With wizards
though it's probably some pointless idea to keep students humble. The little ones
don't have to bow as much and getting older they have to grovel themselves just to
come in. Except someone like professor Flitwick could strut through easily.
Finally exiting the barrel Harry relaxed his vision and stood straighter, regarding
another circular room with a very earthy and cozy atmosphere. The lights were
dimmed but the low yellow ceiling glowed with the warmth of a clear sunset, while a
hint of moonlight could be seen outside, illuminating the snow gathered against a
line of small circular windows. Plants were spread everywhere, some swaying in
baskets above student's heads, while others hummed merry tunes in large pots.
Plush looking furniture was decorated with their house colors and copper
adornments were spread throughout. Overlaying practically everything though, were
Christmas decorations. Ornaments hung from plants and a stocky Christmas tree to
one side, wreaths covered the walls and round doors, and tinsel was draped from
the squat rafters with holly and mistletoe everywhere else. Facing him was a large
portrait of Helga Hufflepuff, smiling brightly and raising a cup towards him in
welcome.
There was scent of fresh bread in the air with sweet apricot jam, and more than a
hint of forest soil beneath it all. It was hard for Harry to tell if some of that was from
the previous boy's snack or whether it was always there.
Quite a few people were still up talking, all bundled around the large round hearth on
the far side of the room as late night treats were handed out. Harry explored near the
sides, taking pictures as he went, careful not to bump into plants or Christmas
trappings. Looking into an open dorm room he felt no one inside and stepped
through. There were plants and more ornaments, with copper bed warmers lining the
walls, yet it was very similar to the Gryffindor rooms. He left a fizzing whizbee on
each bed, and returned to the common room, noticing everyone getting up.
Following after a lone third year girl, he was curious if there were any protections on
female dorms here.

Seeing her open the door without a password or wand he crept closer, glancing in.
The small bit he saw before it closed in his face was much pinker, with brighter
colors and more trinkets but nearly as messy as the boys. With a careful hand he
reached out to the doorknob, but sensing danger he felt a buzz in the air, as if his
fingers were an inch away from high powered electrical wires. Stepping farther back
he saw tiny blue, glass pebbles in the vase of a bulbous looking plant. He picked one
up with magic and tossed it at the door. Nothing happened. Sending another at the
doorknob exploded in a loud pop of shattering glass, alerting the whole common
room of something wrong. Harry backed away quickly to a spot near the exit, ready
to bolt.
A seventh year or very near came rushing over towards the noise, wand out and
casting spells over the room. Five more older students fell in behind him, ready for
anything. The girl called out, "Anthony? What happened? Did someone try to come
in my room? Who would do that?" Her voice sounded shaky, a little frightened.
The one in charge called back, "No one out here is hurt, smells like something got
fried though. You can come out if you want Heidi, it's safe." Opening the door a crack
she peeked through, then opened it all the way and stepped out.
"Owww!" She yelled, hopping up and down on one foot. Lifting up one leg she picked
up the the first pebble Harry threw, and looked at it in annoyance. "For crying out
loud, it was that bouncing bulb again! Knocking stuff everywhere... why do we even
keep them in the dorm?" The other students shook their heads and put their wands
away, heading back to their rooms.
Leading the girl to a soft chair the oldest boy cast episkey on her foot and patted her
back, "We put up with them like everything else, because it helps us be better
people. And because Professor Sprout is obsessed with plants, but you didn't hear
me say that." He gave her a wink and sent her back to her room. Standing up he
cast a few more spells around the dorm after everyone left and spoke.
"Show yourself you little sneak! I don't know how you got in but you're not leaving
here in one piece. - Coward, face me!" He growled the last bit.
Harry's eyes widened in fright and his heart thundered in his ears. Surely he's only
bluffing, how could he know I was here? He couldn't want violence, especially a
Hufflepuff, could he?
Ducking down behind a large pot, Harry pulled out his wands, ready to defend
himself, if that was even possible. The next few seconds were unbearable as Harry's
hands were shaking with tension and he tried to hold onto any semblance of reason.

With all the adrenalin pumping through him, and his fight or flight responses trying to
take over, he almost gave himself up. The stress was immensely worse than any
duel or school test, he could actually get hurt. Why am I so scared though? I was
hurt during the troll incident, and this isn't as bad. But it felt so unreal at the time... I
didn't even think of being scared, or the consequences. Like getting in trouble.
Then laughter was heard, and a deep voice mumbled, "I'm getting too paranoid for
my own good sometimes..." Footsteps faded away and a door closed with a small
click.
Falling back in flooding relief, Harry edged around the pot, seeing no one around.
Sitting there for a few moments he calmed himself with meditation and consoling
thoughts. I was right in the first place, he was only bluffing, pretending to be brave
and daring only to intimidate. His blood and adrenaline was most likely racing the
same as mine. I'll remember that.
After another minute Harry got up and turned towards the door, when another voice
spoke into the empty room.
"Young Ravenclaw," Harry froze mid stride, heart thundering in his chest again, "You
may have found the key to enter this dorm, but do not abuse your privileges while
here." Turning around while feeling if the cloak was still in place, he saw no one.
Except, the large portrait... looking him directly in the eyes. A founder's portrait was
speaking to him.
As he tried to respond, nothing came out of his mouth. Not wanting to risk canceling
his silence charm, he sent a thought instead, 'I didn't mean to cause harm, I was
only interested in what the spell did.'
"Be that as it may, unrestrained curiosity can cause harm as well. Sometimes all you
need do, is ask. Do try to remember that next time." She nodded at him and walked
out of the frame.
Somewhat befuddled, Harry tried to ask much more but got no response back.
Shaking his head, he exited out of the barrel, hopping down to the solid floor. Feeling
like he was back to dry land after months out at sea. He shook himself and calmed
down again while walking back through the dim corridors. The Hufflepuff basement
turned out to be very close to the kitchens, and Harry found his way up the stairs,
wandering through the empty yet haunted school. Passing by a ghost now and then,
and Filch's cat as well, nothing bothered him while musing on the night's events.
Reaching the third floor, Harry was struck by another thought he always meant
following up on.

Why was the third floor corridor off limits? He could feel something down there, but it
was extremely muffled, like in the disappearing room, or when the invisible person
followed him.
His fear and curiosity were battling each other while his feet took him towards where
he was not supposed to be, yet again. Fear always lost with him, except when
rational thought agreed with it, but this time it was putting up a pretty good fight all on
its own. Although now there was anger, at feeling helpless, for almost giving in, for
losing control, and not feeling free. The fear was stamped down in an instant, but it
lingered in the background of his mind.
The door arrived in front of him, with the sensation of something massive behind it,
waiting for him. Casting a few detection charms revealed only a single lock on the
door and a hiding charm, nothing an alohomora couldn't solve. So it did, and the lock
clicked open. Slowly, ever so slowly, Harry opened the door, concentrated on his
vision, and looked in.
It was only a dog.
A giant three headed dog from the gates of Hades, but it still felt like an ordinary dog.
It shifted in it's sleep, moving a head to a different position. Harry opened the door
further, peeking in the room of barren walls with a single flickering torch, noticing
nothing else unusual. Why are they keeping a giant three headed dog in an unused
room, in a school full of students? Behind a simple lock no less... is this some kind of
test of courage or a way to scare students into obeying rules? Is it one of
Dumbledore's hints, or simply another oddity of a magical school located in a
thousand year old castle?
Another head began scratching its chin against the rough stone floor, and then
started sniffing. Quickly opening it's eyes and looking around, the other heads woke
up as well, sniffing out the same scent, his scent. Pulling his head back he nearly
closed the door, leaving only a crack to observe, ready to close it shut at any time.
But the dog only kept sniffing, getting up and moving about, searching the room for
him. Then Harry saw it, a trap door in the middle of the room, being guarded.
Shrugging his shoulders, Harry absentmindedly sent a command for the dog to sit,
and it did. Giving him a better view of the door, the dog lolled its tongues, waiting for
something. It's trained of course, just like, Fang? No... Hagrid likes unusual
creatures, but this? What am I saying, he wants a giant fire breathing dragon, this is
probably just his speed. Who else but Hagrid or the crazy care of medical creatures
professor would even think of training it? Not to mention Hagrid accidentally let slip
that there was something secret hidden in the castle, perhaps something a three

headed dog might guard?

Giving up for the night, Harry decided to ask Hagrid about it later, maybe slip it into a
conversation. He closed the door and secured the lock, walking back towards the
main stairs. That was when he felt someone close by.
Filch, and his cat were walking up the stairs. Of course, if the dog can smell me then
the cat probably can as well.
Harry hurried up the staircase only to hear someone else coming down from above.
Peeling off at the fourth floor he made his way towards the Ravenclaw wing. And
then there arrived another presence in front of him, muffled this time, he wasn't able
to see it down the long hallway, even with his improved vision. He backtracked a little
and went around, wands in hand now. Taking the twisting hallways at a run now, he
saw flat stone up ahead. That wasn't right at all, he knew there should be a pathway
through, but there wasn't one now. Who are all these people? None of them feel
familiar except Filch, what could they be doing up this late? Cornering me... that's
what.
Backtracking again he hid beside a suit of armor, sensing Filch following after his
cat, coming down the same narrow corridor. The other presence wasn't close but still
blocked his path to the Ravenclaw stairs. He sent a thought at the cat, of a mouse
scurrying behind it. It paused for a moment and looked back, but kept stalking
forward. Harry moved then, seeing an open door and slipping his way inside. No,
this feels like a trap, like they were directing me here all along.
He looked around the room for some escape, but there was nothing, just an old
classroom, no windows or doors; used for storage it looked like. With his breath
ragged and blood pounding in his ears for the third time tonight, he began to focus,
pulling the door closed ever so slowly and quietly. He cast a few sticking charms
around it, making sure it couldn't be opened by normal means. Feeling the flow of
adrenaline, he used it to think quickly while gripping both wands tight. He stood
against the wall by the door, listening to the sounds of footsteps in between the
plodding thumps of his heart. It took forever for Filch to pass by, step by slow step,
while Harry kept trying to distract the cat with other thoughts.
One last thought was sent of another student out of bed, far away in the castle,
which got the cat to bolt back the way they came. Harry caught his breath, and
relaxed once again. The danger was getting easier to deal with already, feeling more
like a rush of excitement, rather than trying to hold up the world as everything came
crashing down. It was hard to decide whether that was a good thing or bad, whether
he might start liking the rush enough to seek it out, or get desensitized to the fear.

Experience isn't bad, it's how I respond to it that makes the difference. Being in
control of my thoughts and actions is a good thing, much better than letting the
situation control me.
Reaching out with his senses he could feel the same faint and muffled presence that
now blocked his passage out of the narrow hallway. It wasn't close, but also wasn't
going away either, he decided to wait it out. Meanwhile he looked around the room
and placed a few desks in front of the door, to alert him if anyone tried to open it.
Next he sat down to wait, finally taking in the whole room and the floor to ceiling
mirror in the middle of it all.
oOoOo
It was an opulent gold piece, larger than any standing mirror he'd ever seen, with
unusual writing at the top. "Erised stra ehru oyt ube cafru oyt on wohsi" Extravagant
and expensive was all he could think of, two words that he had a habit of staying
away from, specifically ingrained in him by his relatives early on. That thought made
him want to challenge the feeling and go inspect it, yet his current situation overrode
any whims of fancy like that. He tried to make sense of the writing while feeling for
other people close by, or if the strange presence moved.
Was the text a riddle or a different language?
It used the Latin alphabet, but not much resembled the Latin roots he'd learnt, which
most languages with the Latin alphabet was based on, so it seemed more like a
riddle to him. Riddles were becoming a breeze living in Ravenclaw tower, especially
since first years got easy ones and progressed over time. All he had to do was start
with the easy bits.
'Erised', desire spelled backwards, came easily, but only 'on' spelled anything else
when flipped, yet that didn't help at all. Except the last, wohsi, could possibly be 'I
show'. It soon became too simple. It's only the mirror image of the text, separated by
random spaces and without punctuation for some reason.
He began working it out, and spoke the words aloud, "I show not your face but your
heart's desire." Not very inventive for a secret code, but it's about the standard for a
first year Ravenclaw riddle. Now that begs the question, how can a mirror show your
heart's desire, or is that simply another riddle?
Harry had been sitting for around five minutes and the presence still hadn't moved,
so he got up and looked in the course he saw nothing covered in his cloak, but he
hesitated to remove it. Is this the trap, or am I only being paranoid again?

He lifted his left hand out from under the cloak, to see two hands in the mirror. He
searched around but there was nothing causing the other reflection. Pulling out his
other hand reflected two extra hands in the mirror, and the first one holding his own.
He yanked his hands back in, a little weirder out.
Those other hand aren't mine, and why would someone else's hands be my heart's
desire? Unless there's a person attached to those hands...
Checking his senses revealed nothing different, so he pulled back his hood. As a
shape was forming he knew who it was before even seeing it. He guessed who it
was by the familiar looking hands even. Hermione's face and his own stared back at
him from the mirror, with something quite different about them. She smiled, that cute
friendly smile that was just for him. Pulling off the cloak out of curiosity revealed
them both taller, older, and wearing the same Ravenclaw trim. His eyebrows twisted
in mild surprise, but it made a weird sense to him. It changed slightly, to them
embracing and celebrating some new device they created, throwing it up in the air it
floated away on its own. He could see a small book in her pocket and multiple wands
up his sleeves. They smiled and kissed. He blushed and turned away, looking
straight at Dumbledore sitting on a nearby desk.
His senses told him the mysterious presence was gone, and confirmed that he'd
been set up by the Headmaster.
"So that was you outside maneuvering me around, using Filch's cat too I bet. No
wonder she didn't respond to the thoughts I sent. You could have just asked me to
come here with you." Harry crossed his arms, realizing he was showing how
defensive he was.
A twinkle came from those stark blue eyes, "I suppose I too wanted to have a little
fun with a Christmas gift, like the game you played with Miss Granger this morning."
Harry rolled his own bright green eyes, "Are you going to contrive some way to teach
me a lesson every time you find out I do something mischievous?"
"Perhaps," A hint of a smile could be seen beneath his beard. "But I see you have
found what I wanted to show you. Do you realize what it does already?"
"Considering it's written on the top, it wasn't hard. - Why would you want to show me
this? Trying another way to see my character?"
Dumbledore coughed lightly, "While it does show your heart's desire, it is not shown
to anyone else. Although you could share?" Harry tried raising one eyebrow in
cynicism and failed.

"Only curious, but that was not my purpose in bringing you here. I wanted to show
you the dangers and the marvels of magical devices you seem to relish." He walked
over beside the mirror and put a hand on it. "While some may realize this mirror's
capabilities and limits, learning from what it reveals. Others may be pulled in,
trapped in what they hope might be true, only to waste away their lives wishing for
what cannot be."
"Is that a hint to get me to put warning labels and proper descriptions on any future
creations?" This time Dumbledore returned the look Harry attempted. "Alright, I know
what you're getting at. Most thing's can be used for bad or good, and that not
everything is as innocuous as it may seem, even a mirror. But that can be said of
anything, not just magical objects. Even old sage advice can be misconstrued to
mean something harmful. - Why do you seem resistant to me finding and exploring
magical devices?"
"I am trying to help you see the dangers of the path you might choose. That it is not
only the physical dangers of the objects you may seek, or the perils you may
encounter to get them, but the true threat is what your desire for them might cost
you. That you could lose more than what you see in this mirror."
Harry chewed on his lip for a second, gently shaking his head, "And what if the only
way to achieve what the mirror shows is to take this path? Or one just like it."
That confused Dumbledore, which he showed with a tilt of his head, "You do not see
your family?"
"Why would I see them?" Harry asked in distaste, "You even offered to let me live
with someone else."
Shock, and then realization set in, "Ah, I was thinking of the family you lost, your
parents and other relatives never known to you."
"Huh, that's interesting it's possible, but like you said, I never knew them. I have no
idea what they look like, let alone who they were. They would just be a pure fantasy I
created in my mind. And I've already learned any expectations I had of my parents
aren't based on reality. - Besides, I would rather focus on those in my life now, rather
than pine for relatives I never knew."
This struck Dumbledore in a most unusual way, he turned away from Harry and
began mumbling to himself. Harry thought back to earlier conversations together, to
their very first. After a few minutes of this the headmaster turned around, with only
the slightest hint of moisture in his eyes, "You see her, do you not? Miss Granger."

Pausing, Harry considered what he would say. "Yes... we're creating our own
inventions together. - What, do you see in the mirror?"
"I? I see a warm pair of gloves on my hand."
Harry snorted, "I'd believe that less than if you had said socks, even after I gave you
a color changing pair for Christmas." Hesitantly he asked the real question, "The
reason you thought I saw my family, is because... you see yours? The ones you've
lost?"
Dumbledore looked away again, "I could never expect you to forget that story, could
I? Not with a memory like yours."
"Not likely. Professor, why don't you help me learn about magical objects, and how to
stay safe doing it, instead of warning me away from them, only for me to do it
anyway? Then, maybe one day, I could help you in return somehow?"
Laughing mirthfully, Dumbledore wiped his eyes, no longer hiding it. "Sometimes,
even I forget how much a student can teach the teacher. - Come, let us get some
sleep after your night's adventures and think on the day's events."
Pulling on the cloak Harry asked his last questions, "Alright, but have you followed
me around before tonight while being... disillusioned? And will you tell me why you
have a three headed dog in the castle or what it's guarding? Oh, and do you know
what the key is? I heard something about it while exploring tonight."
Laughing even harder, Dumbledore shook his head, "I have not, I will not, and not
even with your wily manipulations could you get that old tale out of me."
"Oh. Well, thanks for returning the cloak at least, it's quite useful."

Chapter 20 - Secrets
Chapter 20
Secrets
Waking up on boxing day alone in his room, Harry threw off his deep blue covers
and sat staring out a window overlooking the castle, thinking on all that had
happened so far and what the future might hold. Of world changing magic, eccentric
wizards, horrifying monsters, and of course, Hermione, which led him to the near
future. Not much was planned for the rest of the winter holidays, except a small party
on New Years, leaving plenty of time to play and explore, or to possibly dig deeper
into new mysteries. He lazily pulled on fresh pants and a shirt, getting ready for a
relaxing day of not being chased or threatened, he hoped. After last night, he didn't
care to see the Slytherin common room or anywhere else, at least not yet.
When he felt Hermione head out of her tower, he rushed to get ready and meet her
on the stairs down, falling in step with her as they met on the sixth floor. Wanting to
walk more to burn a few calories, they decided to skip sneaking through shortcuts
unless needed. Or at least Hermione suggested it and Harry followed along, not
minding the longer walks beside her. Passing through the entrance hall they saw
Hagrid with twigs and leaves in his disheveled hair, entering through the main doors
and waving them a merry hello. They waved back, receiving mild snickers behind
them from some passing Slytherins. Hermione frowned in disapproval, almost
resolving to go lecture them on polite behavior, but Harry saw the idea forming on
her face and grabbed her hand, pulling her towards their table.
Despite the glower Hermione was sending them through the meal, no one was
surprised more when one of the boys got up to apologize to Hagrid after dessert and
inform him of the wilderness in his hair. Hagrid of course laughed it off and gave a
heavy pat on the boy's shoulder for his honesty, not even noticing what house he
was from. While everyone else gawked at the event in confusion.
Hermione gradually turned her head away from the boy walking back to the Slytherin
table and focused her consternation on Harry. "What was that?" She asked, as her
expression said more, 'I know it was you, now explain.'
Harry shrugged, "Seems like his conscience was whispering some good advice in
his ear, nothing more."
Rolling her eyes, she replied with bemused sarcasm, "Alright Jiminy, but I hope
Figaro doesn't eat you." She nodded up at the head table as Dumbledore flashed

him a stern look. Harry merely shrugged again.

Breakfast ended with content smiles all around and meaningful looks from the twins,
obviously wanting to explore the room once again. Harry and Hermione obliged,
meeting them in the secret passageway behind the statue, where Harry left them to
open a door remotely.
Being forthright while waiting, George confessed to Hermione, "We already know
where you get in from the seventh floor, so there's no need to keep up the charade
any longer."
"Yeah, all the cloak and dagger stuff is simply balmy." Agreed Fred. But both looked
worried as she scrutinized them evenly.
"But we swear not to tell anyone else!" They promised together.
Hermione pursed her lips, "Harry and I guessed as much, having that map, but you
still don't know how to get in. It's only a probationary period for now, until we feel
comfortable." They huffed in exaggerated offense but choose to endure rather than
push the issue.
A grey stone door opened out of the solid wall beside them, welcoming another day
of discovery and adventure. Harry warned Fred and George again about possible
dangerous artifacts, and they all practiced a few detection spells designed
specifically to avoid said objects. Next he taught them his modified book charming
spell, which they picked up easily, yet could only manage to send back a handful at a
time. For a little while Harry flew around with the twins, handing them back the probe
as an extra precaution and explaining about their goals so far, then listening to ideas
they had come up with already, all the while sending a slew of books back to
Hermione. Which he then came back to help sort, spending more time chatting about
all the new things she was learning lately.
He also relayed Fred and George's idea of setting up a potion brewing room, safe
and secure from any prying eyes or suspicious teachers. Although he didn't describe
it that way to Hermione. Instead he explained it in the tamest and most innocent way
he knew how, yet she still guessed it's true purpose, pranking research. Surprisingly,
she wanted to allow it, if only she could see what they were doing and warn anyone
if needed. As she had already realized, the only hope of stopping their pranks, even
temporarily, was the lure of wondrous treasure or getting them expelled. It was
unlikely there was enough treasure in the world to keep them permanently occupied
and she wouldn't wish expulsion on her worst enemy. So the only logical thing to do
was keep an eye on them. Harry agreed.

Stopping for lunch, the twins revealed they had plans until dinner, backlogged
pranking plans of course. While Harry and Hermione returned to finish organizing
their library, and read a little more. The room was expanding all the time as more
books poured in and shelves were filled with new sections to browse. Despite the
growing size there was still only one small study table in the very center of the room,
which Harry sat down at, opposite Hermione. He paged through a large book on rare
magical beasts, while she read up on charm creation from a book normally located in
the restricted section, one only sixth years and above were allowed access.
Feeling a little worried Hermione might find out what Flitwick mentioned could harm
her, Harry began to distract her. First with innocent coughs, nudging feet, and a
scooting chair, then with random noises, awkward stretching, and finally lifting her
hair with wandless magic when nothing else worked.
Laying the book down, Hermione squinted menacingly at him, "Do you need
something? Or is this going to keep going until you force me to throw another book?"
Coming up with a quick idea, he blurted it out, "Let's try Occlumency training, we've
been putting it off for too long and it's dangerous when all our secrets could be
revealed." She looked a little skeptical at his explanation.
"Well, go on then, let's see you try."
Harry hesitated, it seemed way too easy. "Are you sure? I won't go poking around in
your mind, but I can't promise I won't see things."
"I've heard it takes years to learn, especially Legilimency, and you've never had
practice. So you might as well try if I'm ever going to get a chance to defend myself."
She seemed a little nervous, but wore a confident countenance.
"Okay then, just relax like I showed you and clear your mind." He tried to hide a
satisfied grin, from finally getting the opportunity and successfully distracting her all
at once.
Watching her close her eyes, lay her palms flat, and breath deeply, he began. With
wandless magic he tried to reach out to her mind, to make a connection with the girl
he could sense at all times. He failed. Again and again he failed, minutes passed
and nothing happened. Cursing his luck with never finding a book on the subject, he
remembered the hint of a all the effort possible, he tried one last time, imagining
what Dumbledore described it as in passing, forcing his mind out of his body and
toward her's.
When Hermione began to speak, "See, I knew it wasn't going to-" she opened her

eyes, meeting his across the table. That's when he entered her mind.
With blundering realization, Harry arrived in the orderly mind of Hermione Granger.
Thoughts seemed to be aligned like shelves in a library, rows upon rows of
organized images, memories, and ideas. And they were all starting to fall apart.
Forming a picture of himself in her mind, he called her name, 'Hermione,' only to
have a mass of thoughts start flowing towards him. 'Calm down, and think of a plain
room. Imagine yourself and me in it.' He tried to ignore the memories bumping into
him, of their kissing, holding hands, and the annoyance she held for him at times,
which seemed to be stronger than the rest at the moment.
Slowly, and with great concentration Hermione was able to form a large white room
that he stood in, yet things still kept creeping in through the cracks. Harry tried to
help push them out, but it didn't work. She appeared, dressed in the cute colourful
pajamas she wore on Christmas, and glared at him in disbelief after looking down at
the clothes. He hoped her appearance wasn't due to his influence, but had a feeling
it might be. Conjuring the idea of comfortable chairs and a table by habit in his
practices with Dumbledore, he was surprised when they appeared in her mind.
Grinning at his second accomplishment, he waved her over. 'So, as you can see,
we're in your mind, and now we practice keeping your thoughts away.' More and
more topical images managed to slide into the room, letting him see things he
probably shouldn't.
Her mouth kept making the motion for, 'How,' but nothing came out. Until finally, she
managed two words together with a determined grimace, 'Get out!'
'Oh, okay, sorry... I guess you really weren't expecting me to succeed. Are you sure
you don't want to practice a little?' Her indignant expression said it all. 'Okay, I'm
leaving.' Pulling his mind back, he saw out of his own eyes again, noticing Hermione
blink and shake her head.
"That - that wasn't right Harry! You surprised me, and you can't - can't just look into
my private thoughts like that, pulling them towards you, teasing me with how easy it
was." She crossed her arms, giving him a strange look. He hoped she wasn't feeling
violated, but that didn't seem far off.
"I'm sorry Hermione, I thought you knew... You control your thoughts, I can go
looking for the ones I want, maybe hold one if I try hard enough, but I can't move
them. - It's your subconscious, wanting to bring the relevant thoughts on the subject
into view so you can access them. Or at least that's what Dumbledore told me..." He
looked down, trying to forget some things he saw, which wasn't even close to

happening.
Her mouth opened and closed again in discouragement, "I read the books too, but..."
She stood up shakily, walking over to a shelf a little ways away, reading the titles as
she gathered up a handful. Bringing them back to drop on the table. She sunk down
in her chair, opening book after book, skipping to specific chapters she thought was
relevant. "See, right here, you're not supposed to be able to conjure thoughts in my
head, like those chairs and table, or make me wear pajamas either. That was
obviously you, I hardly ever wear those."
"Well, maybe the books aren't always right... the first time Dumbledore entered my
mind I was a puppy. I think maybe some people influence how you appear to them,
and I don't know how I did the rest, but I really wasn't trying to pull any thoughts
toward me. I was even trying to push them away, but I couldn't. - And, I'm sorry I
entered your mind when you were distracted talking, but I kind of forgot you need
eye contact in my rush to try."
She looked confused again, "But you shouldn't need eye contact, except... without...
a wand..." She was looking down at his empty hands. "Harry! You can't do that on
your first try! It takes years to be able to enter someone's mind with the spell, and
only masters can do it without a wand..." Her face was downcast and a mistrustful
expression was forming, "Ha - have you been lying to me? Saying that you and
Dumbledore don't practice legilimency only to fool me-"
"Of course not Hermione! You know me better than that, I tried to get you to practice
Occlumency and help prepare you with meditation practice and reading all those
books. If I was going to take advantage of you, I definitely wouldn't have done all
that, or left your mind so quickly when you asked. You can even ask Dumbledore if
you want, he always gives me a displeased glare when I ask about it. - Please don't
be mad with me for this, I - I think maybe it was so easy because, I'm always close
to you. I can sense where you are anytime now, and it feels like, we have a
connection..."
She avoided looking him in the eyes, staring at the table, "I don't know what to
believe right now, it's all so confusing. I, I need some time alone."
Putting a hand beside hers Harry tried to stop from tearing up when she pulled away.
"I'm sorry. We don't have to do that again, I'll never enter you mind without
permission, I promise. - I'll, go now... When you want to talk again, use the mirror."
Getting up seemed to hurt physically but he did it anyway. He slowly trudged out the
door, hoping she would call him back before closing it with a gentle click. Clenching
his fists and straining his muscles Harry tried to resist kicking a pile of junk on the

floor beside him, knowing it would be pointless and only cause more harm. He left
the room, not wanting to explore. Wandering the castle halls with no place in mind,
he soon arrived at a familiar door and walked in.
oOoOo
Hermione sat staring at her hands, and at the place Harry's had been, trying to make
sense of everything, or anything. She was looking through the books again,
absentmindedly turning the pages while replaying the memory in her mind. I can't
believe he saw all that, some of those thoughts were really personal! And he puts
me in those silly clothes he knew I was embarrassed about. At least I'm lucky he
wasn't thinking about me naked, I would have killed him for that! But he simply
barges into my mind with completely advanced magic for his age and experience,
yet sounding so innocent about it... I know, I invited him to try, and Harry is most
likely telling the truth about it all, but something doesn't feel right. It was really, really
embarrassing, who knows what he saw... but that's not what's really wrong.
Something seems off, but I can't understand why. He said something or did
something to make me suspicious, ...that he can sense where I am all the time now?
No, that's obvious how he arrives exactly at the right time to meet me everywhere.
How we have a connection? That's a little romantic silliness, but not disturbing...
What was it?
She thought for a few more minutes, weighing the possibilities in her mind while
taping her fingers on a book. Then she figured it out. He was distracting me! I was
feeling suspicious the whole time before he even tried Legilimency, because it was
all a distraction from something else.
Looking down at the book on charm creation, she leafed through it, but couldn't
guess the reason. All the while she was rubbing the Gryffindor emblem on her
necklace, lost in thought, wondering what she would do. I could ask Percy or a
teacher why younger students aren't allowed to read these books, but I couldn't
explain why I'm asking, or anything else that's bothering me. I'll just have to...
"Oh fiddlesticks Harry! Why do keep doing this to me?"
"I don't know, but I really don't mean to." The voice came from the mirror in her
watch.
Her head thumped against the book on the table, having called his name before she
was even ready. She lifted her head and let it drop again, for good measure. She
definitely wasn't used to communication mirrors yet, and really hoped that she never
talked in her sleep with it around.

"Are you alright Hermione? I'm sorry if I saw anything I wasn't supposed to... If you
ever get really, really good at memory chams I'll let you erase it." His voice sounded
reluctant to make that promise.
"What did you see? - Never mind, I probably don't want to know. We need to discuss
some things Harry, in person."
He seemed to hesitate, "Can we discuss it here? There's something I want to show
you, it might make things easier."
She looked around the library and outside the door, "Where's here?"
Directing her where to go, she followed twists and turns down empty hallways and
corridors she'd never been before. Finally arriving at an old oak doorway, with him
telling her to come in. She squinted into the darkness, seeing some odd shapes and
trying to resist turning around and running back to her dorm. Not wanting to be
scared once more.
"Harry...?"
"Oh, sorry. - Lumos." He whispered the spell that lit up the room, giving it a pleasant
glow, even with all the dust and old desks littered about the room. Her eyes were
immediately drawn the grand mirror that he was standing in front of as Harry spoke
again, "Before you look in the mirror, you should be sufficiently informed. I didn't do
anything to it, and what it shows is only in your mind. No one else can see it, so you
shouldn't worry about what I might think. You don't have to look into it if you don't
want either, it's just a tool, to help understand yourself."
"What's it do?" Hermione stood in the doorway, edging closer to get a better look.
"That might be best to explain after you look."
"This better not be some crazy Bene Gesserit pain test Harry. That's really not
something I'm in to." She looked him in the eyes this time, telling him she was willing
to trust him.
He shook his head, "Nothing even remotely like that, honestly, you'll probably like
what you see." He stepped towards her and held out his hand.
With an unsure twist of her lips, she put her hand in his and was led toward the
mirror. Harry left her there and stood off to the side, watching her reaction as an
image formed in front of her, one she definitely wasn't expecting. With a sharp intake
of breath she covered her mouth and turned red. Her eyes danced back and forth

from Harry to the mirror and was on the edge of bolting from the room before Harry
reached out to grab her hand again to pull her away.
"What? - Why did you show me that? Is this a joke?" She stammered out as her face
was glowing brightly and her palm was sweaty at his touch.
"It wasn't me. The mirror shows your heart's desire, nothing more. Was it particularly
funny?"
She looked at him in disbelief while trying to hide a laugh and smile at the same
time. "You really couldn't see? And you say that's what my heart desires most? Are
you mad?"
Harry couldn't begin to guess what she saw, except that he was in it, which was a
good sign. "It's right there on the top, the mirror inscription of its purpose. I really
didn't see though, but you could always tell me..." He gave an encouraging smile
while pulling her hand closer.
"In your dreams Harry Potter!" She said playfully. Slipping out of his grip she skipped
back in front of the mirror, turning even brighter red as she stared, and then ran out
of the room, forgetting about their talk or any worries she had.
That was a little confusing, but at least she's happy it seemed. Maybe she'll tell me
eventually... Harry looked into the mirror one more time to see the imaginary
Hermione's jubilant expression, giving him another quick kiss on the cheek.
oOoOo
Whilst the real Hermione rushed off to her dorm for some reason, Harry meandered
back to the disappearing room in higher spirits. He put their books away and brought
out the bundle of broken wands he got at Diagon Alley, experimenting with spells
and methods to repair them. Setting one down on the table, he tried a simple repair
charm, yet it only bounced up into the air and fell back down, the same as his very
first attempt at the spell.
He struggled with them for a while, hoping he could pull another impossible feat out
of his hat. But nothing seemed to work, no matter how he imagined them fitting back
together or the slew of alternative spells he tried. The closest he managed to get
was to grow one back together, yet it kept growing, turning into a large branch that
produced no magic at all. It had to be cut back apart too remove it from the library,
and hidden in a nearby pile of broken furniture.
Dinner came and Hermione sat opposite him, avoiding his eyes, but it looked to be

from embarrassment now rather than mistrust.

The rest of the night was filled with Hermione avoiding him, as Fred and George
were a distraction in the library, asking him questions about how he found the place,
what his wand could do, how he managed to summon doors when no one else
could, and if he knew anything about some hiccupping sweets left in their dorm. That
had Harry trying to resist a sly smile, which they caught.
"How'd you do it Harry?" Implored George, "Can you open a door directly into dorm
rooms?"
"That's... probably against school rules." Fred warned.
"Show us how!" They pleaded in unison.
Hearing this conversation from another aisle, Hermione peeked around a corner.
Harry sensed this, and wondered how he should explain while she listened. "Sadly,
no doors open into common rooms or dorms. But I have my ways, secret ways of
course." He looked back at Hermione as she ducked behind a shelf.
"What, did you pay someone off to put them in our room?"
"Oi, Granger, did you have a hand in this?" Fred held up the sweet as she walked
calmly towards them.
"You think I would get involved in such childish pranks? Besides, Harry could have
asked a house elf to do it, like how he gave me a stocking full of coal for Christmas."
They broke into knee slapping laughter and Fred congratulated him, "Good one
Harry! No wonder she rushed out so fast, had a bone to pick with St. Nick here."
Harry chuckled along, "Well, she did throw a book at me the night before."
The twins looked stunned, then got up and shook Hermione's hand, "Nice going
Granger, you'll learn to be a Gryffindor yet!"
"That's just what you do when a Ravenclaw starts getting cheeky, throw a book at
them. They hate that."
"Next you'll need to focus more on quidditch instead of your grades."
"And join us in our next prank with charming snowballs."
She took the teasing and tormenting well enough, until Harry tossed her the old

quaffle Fred and George were playing with earlier. "That's enough, I'm not going to
turn into some quidditch nut or prankster only so you three can have a laugh. Now
go back to collecting books, before... before I start pulling twigs out of your
broomsticks!" The twins hurried out of the library in mock horror at how she could be
so cruel. Since they had only recently found a pair of quality Nimbus 1800's earlier in
the day.
Hermione turned to Harry, "Did you really ask a house elf to give them sweets, or did
you sneak into Gryffindor tower last night, like I warned you not to?"
"...I only wanted to see what it looks like, and the sweets were only a joke. But you
never said I couldn't enter the tower. I didn't scare you, follow you in, or even try to
go up to the girl's dorms, so I didn't think you would be mad..."
Her critical expression had him looking dejected once again, until she spoke, "So
when are you going to give me a tour of Ravenclaw tower then?"
Harry grinned delightedly, "Anytime you like! We can also sneak into Hufflepuff if you
want, I did last night as well, it was a bit different, but... quaint." Harry regaled her
with his adventure, leaving out the scarier bits, and explaining how he got in, found a
three headed dog, and was manuvered toward the mirror.
Blushing slightly at that thought, Hermione shook it off and sat down in front of him,
summoning her courage. She cast a closing charm at the door and began, "That
reminds me, I wanted to discuss what happened earlier. - I realize you weren't trying
to read my private thoughts on purpose, but that was still unpleasant. Although that
wasn't why I was upset, and I'm sorry I overreacted. But you were trying to hide
something from me Harry, and I want to know why. What could possibly be in the
charm creation book that you don't want me to see?"
The relief that was spreading across his face suddenly stopped at the end. "...I
guess I'm not very good at hiding my intentions sometimes." He said with a tight
lipped expression, "I'm not sure I should tell you... But the thing is, there's a reason
younger people aren't supposed to read some books, and why so many are in the
restricted section of the library. Some of the knowledge may... stunt your growth in
magic. I know it sounds weird, but professor Flitwick was the one who told me not to
reveal it to others. As to why I know about this, - well you can say I stumbled upon it
because I don't learn like most people."
"So you think that if I read too much of a book, it could hurt my studies? That seems
like the most backward idea ever. And why are you so different?"
A weak smile appeared on his face, "I can't say much, because you're so smart you

might figure it out. But think of the risk as if you were trying to learn tight rope
walking. You don't want to start off high in the air, and without a net. As for me, let's
chalk that up to how early I started practicing."
"Are you talking about wandless magic? Because I've been wondering how that's
possible in the first place. Some books say it's simply random magic finding an outlet
when you're young and emotional, but how could you do it consistently without
knowing any wand movements or incantations? I suppose that's similar to nonverbal
spells, and magic like apparating or a metamorphmagus' ability. Wait, aren't you
supposed to learn nonverbal spells in sixth year, does it have something to do with
that?"
Harry covered his face in exasperation, "You're going to keep pushing it aren't you? I
really hope you are like me, because I don't know how you'll ever manage to not
figure it out. Maybe we should go to professor Flitwick, get your memory altered or
something before it's too late."
"Don't even joke about that! Just explain it to me, if something goes wrong, then we
can think about solutions."
"This might be really dangerous Hermione." When that didn't work either he shook
his head with his hands over his eyes. "It almost seems like you're a different person
from the beginning of the year... You were so insistent about rules and precautions
before, now-"
She nodded toward him, "I've had a good teacher, so spill the beans already."
"Hmm," Harry chewed on his lip for a second, trying to decide what to say. "I'm not
saying this is what it's about, but you should try casting a spell nonverbally. Maybe
something easy, like Lumos."
Another skeptical look crossed her face but she shrugged and decided to try it
anyway. Taking out her wand she imagined incanting the spell in her mind while
performing the correct wand movement. Nothing happened, so she tried again, and
again, and again. "Okay, I can't do it, is that what you wanted to know?"
"I can see what you're thinking, but try it without imagining the incantation or the
wand movement. Clear your mind like we practiced, then hold your wand still and
imagine the tip lighting up, make it fully real in your mind. Remember other light
sources and how they appear, what they feel like, what it makes you feel, and finally
push the magic into your wand to create your own." Harry was staring intently at the
middle of the table, trying to explain what he meant.

With a tired sigh, she tried his way. Letting her thoughts flow away and her mind
relax, Hermione held up her wand. She remembered the early morning sunrise, the
warmth of it on her face, the glow and brightness as it stung her eyes to look. The
light filled her with happiness, joy at greeting a new day, and washing away the fears
of the night. Then she put it all in her wand. Nothing continued happening, but she
quickly decided to try it together, combining it all in her mind at once.
A light filled the room. Harry thought it was coming from an outside window at first,
but quickly looked up to see the radiant light emanating from Hermione's wand,
slightly dimmer than normal but warmer than ever before. He smiled at her surprised
expression, "Now, imagine it going out."
With another quick thought, just like before, she imagined the light extinguishing with
the correct incantation and it was gone. "Wow... How? But - that's nonverbal magic! only... How did you become a good teacher so fast Harry? Never mind, what does
this have to do with the secret?"
Wearing a relieved grin, Harry let go of the breath he was holding. "That is the
secret! Wands, words, movements, none of them are needed. But each can make it
easier to cast a spell, unless they get in the way. Sometimes the words and
movements define what you're trying to do in your mind, but with me, I was getting
bogged down by them, trying to reproduce them perfectly and losing what's really
important. The intent."
Hermione simply gazed past him for a long while, processing what he was saying.
"Does that mean we've been learning wrong this entire time!?" She nearly yelled.
"Not so much wrong... but more, unneeded steps. Like in a math problem where you
can simplify things by doing it a different way. Both ways can get you to the answer,
but one makes things a whole lot easier. It seems we can take the easy route, where
most people, get lost. It confuses them and makes it difficult to learn the old way
even. At least that's what I got from professor Flitwick's explanation."
"So that's why nonverbal spells aren't taught until sixth year? By then people already
have one method of learning ingrained in them. That way, they don't get confused
with how you just explained it to me?"
"That's my guess as well, maybe they're old enough to realize spells and wand
movements don't make sense on their own, especially when they can be done away
with. They're only tools to help learn and make it easier. Oh, and we should still
pretend to cast normally, so as not to confuse others. That's why I've been
whispering spells a whole lot more, so I don't have to say them too accurately." He

chuckled, "I thought you were going to catch on immediately in dueling club when I
was able to cast better and faster without doing it perfect. But it appears we see
what we expect to see, even the geniuses like you."
Her jaw dropped, "I knew something was different! I could never put my finger on it
though, so I was guessing you started practicing a whole lot more. But maybe now,
the tables will turn..." She grinned evilly.
Laughing at her good mood, Harry confessed everything else he could remember
about Flitwick's explanation, the small trouble he'd had, and the amazing success it
brought. After quickly sorting through the new books that the twins had piled up
outside, they hurried to the training room, eager to practice and then duel.
Yet before they could escape, Fred and George arrived back with the flying carpet
loaded down with potion ingredients and equipment, ready to set up in the library if
needed. Hermione shooed them away from her precious books as Harry effortlessly
summoned a new door for them, leading to a spacious potions lab already filled with
polished cauldrons, sturdy worktables, towering cabinets, and shelf after shelf of
empty bottles and flasks. The ecstatic expressions Fred and George wore said they
were extremely content with it all and would be quite busy for a while. Which left
Harry and Hermione able to get back to their own plans.
For the next few days they ignored doing much with the library or the rest of the
room, and simply practiced spells together. Harry was teaching Hermione ways to
get nonverbal spells to work better, and how to cast them even faster than a wand
movement would allow. While she didn't progress in leaps and bounds like he did
after learning the truth, he figured that she wasn't nearly as hindered by the
excessive steps they learned in classes. Catching on quickly none the less, she was
improving older spells and using them nonverbally, but it became rapidly apparent
that she could no longer cast new spells.
On the second day of practice together, that fact finally sunk in. Hermione was
attempting the third new spell she had chosen that day, the other two long forgotten.
Flipendo was doing absolutely nothing for her, and it was supposed to be easy.
Harry watched her try to cast over and over at an old cushion they had brought in the
day before. After attempting to help her for the past three hours, he stood to the side
in horrified silence, seeing the look of distress and fear battling against her
determination and refusal to quit. Mentally kicking himself for being so stupid and not
listening to Professor Flitwick, he ground his teeth while trying to think of some way
to fix things. But there seemed to be no way out.
He resolved then to bring Hermione to Dumbledore and have him call Professor

Flitwick, to admit how he completely ruined everything and simply hope that together
they could somehow fix what he'd done to her. To at least get her back to learning
the way she used to... Oh shit, that could be it!
Running up to Hermione as she seemed ready to collapse on the floor in despair,
Harry caught her and helped her walk back to a soft bench. She looked on the edge
of shattering, physically tired and mentally stressed beyond anything he'd seen
before. Gazing up at him, he could see the anguish in her eyes, of all her fears
coming true, she was a failure, a nobody, with no hope of accomplishing anything.
He shushed her quivering lip before she could say a word.
"Everything's going to be fine. Just, take a break for a minute and breath deeply. Just
breath." Harry threw the door open with wandless magic and summoned a book
from the depths of the disappearing room. It smacked into his hand as he turned
back around to face Hermione. "We know this way doesn't work for learning new
spells now, so we'll simply go back to the way you learned before." He handed her
The Standard Book of Spells: Grade 2 and turned to the Flipendo jinx, while giving
her a convincing smile.
A familiar book in her lap helped to calm Hermione down but her hands still shook.
Harry sat down beside her and they both read quietly together for a little while.
Somehow she plunged back into her old routine of rereading every step in the
process of casting a spell four times over, then slowly and carefully practicing the
wand movements as she silently pronounced the incantation. Which took much more
time than usual, as Harry practiced along with her while she corrected his
movements and speech, but sometimes that was part of her learning process as
well.
She finally fell still, having acknowledged Harry's proficiency in the details he didn't
need, and knowing it was finally time for her to test it out. They stood up and walked
back to the center of the room. Harry could tell she was scared, but was ready all the
same. He grabbed her off hand in support and she squeezed it back in thanks.
Taking two more long, deep breaths she held out her wand with another new crack in
it, and cast.
Creating a check mark with a small squiggle at the end with the tip of her wand, she
said the incantation clearly, "Fli-PEN-doh," and knocked back the cushion a few feet.
Falling against Harry with a heavy sigh, Hermione hugged him tightly as he let out
another breath he was holding. She needed practice, but the crisis was over.
Realizing her mistake right then, she told Harry how she got the nonverbal spells to
work, by putting together everything she learned from the books as well as his

advice and coaching. They weren't exactly alike, that much was obvious, but they
weren't that different either. She only needed a little more help to move things along.
In no time they were back to practicing up a storm, finding out that Hermione could
still produce most spells better the old way, but even those were improving with
learning how to cast nonverbally. New ones took plenty of practice at first, but she
was able to silently knock over the same cushion with Flipendo by the end of the
next day. Her confidence was eventually returning as even Harry was having a hard
time keeping up. After everything, he was somehow a little disappointed he might not
have much of an advantage in nonverbal magic anymore, but was really much
happier that he could compete with Hermione equally.
Even though everything worked out in the end, Harry was getting tired of all the
close calls and crazy situations he was causing and getting tangled up in. Especially
when they endangered Hermione. Yet seeing her smiling and energetic face seemed
to make his fears fade away, as if all the troubles in the world couldn't stand up
against them working together.
Over the following days dueling turned into a serious competition with spells flying by
faster than ever, sometimes more powerful and potent than they could ever
demonstrate to their peers. Only the fights ended quickly due to magical exhaustion,
casting spells much beyond normal first year ability. The Legilimency and
Occlumency training was put off for a while, letting Hermione practice and get
comfortable about the idea of someone inside her head. But that left room for other
things.
With Fred and George's help, they designed a system to map the disappearing
room. Colour-coding main aisles, with letter and number combinations for the rest of
it. The Weasleys somehow secured magical paint brushes that painted the ceiling of
each aisle all the way to the end. Next Hermione found a giant piece of parchment,
creating map with a coordinate system that could pinpoint where things were
located. They stumbled upon some magical ink that could grow and shrink, using it
to label where groups of items were, such as potions storage in one area, clothing in
another, and everything else that seemed relevant. Even the tree Harry grew was
marked on the map, giving them noticeable landmarks while looking for a specific
place. This was hung up beside the door, inside the library, letting them study it and
plan exploration journeys at their table together.
oOoOo
New Year's Eve arrived before they noticed, bringing with it the one day a year the
students were allowed to stay up til midnight. Non Alcoholic Butterbeer and sparkling

punch were specially brought in for all the students, while wizard champaign was
chilled for those of age and firewisky snuck in by a few Professors. Fred mentioned
that Butterbeer was excellent, warming you up and tasting delicious but the
champagne was truly amazing. It changed colour and flavour while you were
drinking it, fizzing up your nose and giving a pleasant bubbly feeling for the whole
night. Knowing this because they had snuck a bottle during a going away party for
their brother Bill.
Evening snacks were made by the elves to celebrate the new year, while a fireworks
display was set for inside the great hall, since no one wanted to go outside in the
bone chilling weather. Many people brought their hats found in crackers, while Harry
had to beg Hermione to wear her's. During the party Harry used his camera
discreetly, taking pictures of everyone celebrating before midnight, of the Great Hall
illuminated with dazzling lights, and sneaking more of Hermione when she wasn't
looking. Some of the older students were spreading rumors of past generations that
would run down into the frozen lake, wearing funny costumes when midnight struck,
and surviving only with warming charms and magical fire. None of which was
believed though.
As midnight neared, the fires dimmed and four brilliant coloured balls of light
emerged from the corners of the room, traveling slowly towards the center. Each was
the colour of a house, red, green, blue, and yellow, burning like miniature suns on a
collision course with the rest. Everyone watched in eager anticipation, bottles of
Butterbeer were handed out and wizard champagne was waiting to be uncorked.
People whispered excitedly back and forth as Professor Flitwick spelled some
flaming numbers in the air, a countdown from ten, and nearly everyone started
singing 'Auld Lang Syne' as the numbers crept closer. Harry held Hermione's hand
as they looked up in awe. The circles of blinding light were nearly touching, 3, 2, 1,
and they melted together forming a magnificent white light. Which immediately burst
into a million fragments with a reverberating explosion, startling most and raining
down as fireworks above their heads. With a quick movement Harry kissed
Hermione on the lips and sat back down smiling, it surprised her as a radiant blush
suffused her cheeks and nose. She wore an embarrassed smirk, but looked around
the room warily and elbowed him as they opened their butterbeer together. Harry
laughed and they celebrated along with the rest of the students in good cheer.
More and more fireworks lit the night sky, appearing to be high above them, just as
splendid and more extravagant than November the fifth. Sweets and snacks
appeared on the tables while people danced and cheered the night away, some
enjoying the new delights of butterbeer or wizard's champaign. They were allowed to
stay up for half an hour more, reveling in the fireworks and treats, and bringing in the
new year together. When the celebrations started to taper off and it neared the time

to go to bed, Harry pulled Hermione outside the great hall for a moment, whispering
into her ear, "I have one last gift for you," and dragged her into the nearby broom
cupboard.
"Um, Harry... I don't know if I'm ready for more. Especially not here."
"What?" He looked around at the small dusty room only illuminated by his wand, and
saw her turning scarlet again. "Oh, heh, sorry. I keep doing that, don't I? Saying the
wrong thing and making you think I'm up to no good. - But I wanted to give you
something you wouldn't want other people knowing about, something I accidentally
saw in your mind."
Somehow she got even redder, going all the way to her ears and down her neck, she
looked away, "Not that either..."
"But, I've been practicing a whole lot, and I'm really good at it. I'm sure you'll like it,
even Madam Pomfrey told me I did great."
Hermione looked around in horror, "Madam Pomfrey?!"
"Well, yeah, she taught me the spell. But she doesn't know why I wanted to learn it."
Harry wore an anxious expression, hoping she wasn't that angry about him seeing
the thought.
Sputtering her confusion, Hermione relaxed for a second and breathed, "S-s-spell? What spell are you talking about, and what exactly did you see in my mind?"
"I'm sorry I saw it, and I knew you didn't want me knowing or bringing it up, but I
figured I could help. It's that you're embarrassed by your front teeth, and even
though I think you look good now, I wanted to make you feel confident. So I asked
Madam Pomfrey to teach me a partial shrinking spell, which I've been practicing on a
skeleton she had."
Starting at him in exasperation Hermione slumped against the back wall in relief.
Breathing heavily and wiping the bit of sweat from her forehead, her blush finally
receded, leaving her with rosy cheeks. Harry looked on in concern, trying to figure
out what she thought he meant. With another sigh, she stood up and put her hands
on his shoulders, "You really need to explain yourself better next time. - And we can't
do it in here, I need a mirror at least."
Harry reached into his mokeskin pouch and brought out a hand sized mirror which
he handed to her. "Just sit down and it won't take but a moment." He pulled out his
other wand while he left the first for light.

Shaking her head and giggling at the craziness, she sat down on a stool, "Okay... but
not too much, otherwise it'll look weird."
"We could make it a gradual change, only shrink them a tiny bit every few weeks?
Then it won't be as noticeable."
"That sounds good, just don't mess up." She forced a smile, showing her teeth.
Harry leaned close, pointing the wand at her two front teeth and cast with ease, "All
done, how do they feel?"
Licking over the front of her teeth and peering into the mirror she smiled again, "They
feel different already, and look slightly better as well." She jumped up and gave him
another bear hug, "Thank you Harry!" She pulled back and kissed him, lingering a bit
longer this time. Then she ran out of the room, back to the end of the party.
Standing there with a dumb grin on his face he finally guessed what she was
confused about. He mumbled to himself, "She couldn't have thought I would want to
do that in a broom cupboard... could she?"
oOoOo
Breakfast the next day was skipped by most, waking up several hours before lunch
instead. Almost the whole school was out first footing different classrooms and
dorms. Anyone really superstitious tried to get Harry to join in, since he was
considered extremely lucky, surviving a killing curse at the hand of the worst dark
Lord in memory, but he waved them off, preferring to study quietly with Hermione.
Fred and George even pushed him to go outside and come back as a lark. When he
refused and suggested they get Snape instead, their expressions changed.
"We want good luck for the rest of the year Harry, not greasy bats with anger issues
flying around our heads."
To avoid the constant nagging Harry slipped out of the castle with Hermione, wearing
his grey warming cap and Hermione with her necklace, they managed to make it to
Hagrid's cabin before being frozen solid. Knocking in quick succession, the door
squeaked open a crack to not let the warmth out. When Hagrid saw who it was, he
threw it open, ushering them in quickly and covertly casting a sealing spell on the
door with his umbrella.
Setting it down he grinned, or at least it looked like a grin under all his wild hair. "So
yeh came first footin' ter my house, eh? Thank' yeh, but it could 'ave waited till the
sun came out." He glanced out the window to a cloudy sky.

Hermione answered first, standing near the fire beside Harry, "Actually, we came to
get away from all that, Harry's getting badgered to enter every class and study room
in the castle. I never knew some people got so serious about the tradition."
"Ah, we are in Scotlan' af'er all. Traditions go a long way 'ere, 'specially around
wizards." He shuffled some tea cups and the extra large, self heating kettle they got
him, while trying to hide the fruitcake he was going to present Harry.
Noticing, Harry gave a friendly snicker, "It's okay Hagrid, I wouldn't mind trying some
fruitcake. Is that a new recipe?" It looked surprisingly normal.
Hagrid cleared his throat, "Aye, from tha' book yeh gave me, bit different but 'as a
good taste, even withou' the acorns." He set down the plate as Harry helped with the
tea.
Sitting around the sizeable table they nibbled on flavourful fruitcake while sipping hot
tea, and began talking about the party last night. Harry maneuvered the conversation
toward magical beasts, and then other unusual creatures that weren't commonly
known. Hagrid didn't mind at all.
"Uh, let's see, yeh migh' a read all o' Scamander's book, but there's loads more." He
held up his hand counting on his fingers as he listed them, "Theres bugbears,
nymphs, vampyr mosp, wyvern, zombies, sprites, and ogres, but they're more like
people. An' loads more all over the worl'."
"What about mythological ones, like faun, harpy, and minotaur?" Harry led him
towards his desired topic.
"Them too, mos' live far away, many 'round Italy and Greece. Like gorgons, an'
cockatrice. Yeh migh' not believe it, but las' year I raised a three headed dog from a
lil' pup. Bought him from a Greek chappie down at the pub... that's a secret' though,
don' go tellin' no one." He gave a conspiratorial wink.
Harry sent Hermione a meaningful glance and a thought, 'See? I guessed right.'
Then he addressed Hagrid again, "Sure, but what would you use a three headed
dog for?"
"Why guardin' stuff o' course. Dead useful protectin' valuables an' all."
Taking over, Hermione asked innocently, "What's he guarding now?"
"Ah, tha's another secre'. Only me, Dumbledore an' Nicolas Flam- ...er, only we
know what it is." He tapped the side of his nose as he finished. "Though I can tell

yeh one more thing, 'is name. It's Fluffy."

"Fluffy?" They said together in surprise. Harry continued, "A giant three headed dog,
named Fluffy... If you ever get a dragon are you going to name it Mittens?"
Hagrid laughed at that, but said he would have to think on it. They tried to worm
more information out of him but he wouldn't budge. They settled for more tea and
stayed until lunch, talking about other things.
oOoOo
Sneaking off to the disappearing room later when no one was looking, Harry and
Hermione continued their dueling practice, quickly tiring once again. When Harry
settled down to relax in the multicoloured puffskein chair, Hermione brought a
regular chair over and sat in front of him. "I know I said I didn't want to do more of
this, but I do trust you Harry, so I'm willing to try."
Harry turned red this time, almost misunderstanding what she was talking about, but
realized soon enough. "Are you sure? Have you been practicing?"
"Yes, and I'm sure. You're the only one I want to do that with." She breathed deeply.
His eyebrows rose as his whole face flushed, "Oh come on! You're doing that on
purpose!"
Unable to keep a straight face any longer Hermione cackled in unrestrained laughter,
"Now you see how it feels, maybe you'll be more careful with how you say things
next time."
"I'm not that bad, you're the one with the dirty mind."
"Well, maybe I don't want you in it if you're going to insult it like that." She turned her
nose up at him and crossed her arms.
"Oh, you were serious. It's okay, we can do some early spring cleaning, that way you
won't misunderstand so much." He chucked at her glare, "Come on, you know you
want to. Let's see how fast the smartest girl in school can learn."
Rolling her eyes at him, she pointed out the obvious, "Your blatant flattery doesn't
work on me. I'm only doing this to make sure our secrets are protected. So don't get
any funny ideas."
"If you don't think about them first, then we should be fine. - Okay, switch chairs with

me, you should be in the comfy one." She got up, only to have Harry pull her down
next to him in the chair, still grinning. "On second thought, we both should be
comfortable. Now, relax with your eyes open this time."
Hermione cuffed him up side the head but didn't get up. She relaxed, clearing her
mind, then looked him in the eyes from mere inches away. The next moment they
were both back in a dull grey room, with a set of tables and chairs ready for them.
Harry pulled out the chair for her and then sat down on the other side. Thoughts
began slipping into the room already but he ignored them, focusing on her.
'Let your mind lose focus and stop trying to control every thought for now. Brush the
insistent ones away as you would stray leaves, allowing your mind to be, rather than
think. Breathe deeply, feeling the air move in and out of your lungs. Relax further,
letting your muscles and tension ease away. Note the thoughts that rise to the
surface and let them pass, flowing away again. Focus on your breathing,
experiencing every moment as your lungs fill with air, then exhale letting it dissipate
along with your thoughts." Harry looked around at the receding memories, "Now,
your mind seems settled enough to communicate. Tell me what you want to learn
first.'
Looking at him inside her mind, she spoke, 'How can I push someone out when I
want?' A thought flitted by, and another, while more crept in while she tried to keep
relaxed.
'Keep practicing your breathing and allowing thoughts to pass, brushing them away
when needed. While you only listen to me, dismissing everything else. - Good, now
to push someone out is a lot like my nonverbal magic, you have to imagine them
leaving, want them expelled from your mind, and then decide to do it. Push away
while those thoughts and desires form a single force to banish them from your mind.
Try it now if you like.'
She tried, building up the idea and desire to force him out, trying to cast it at him like
a spell. His hair seemed to flutter in the wind, but that was all. She tried once again,
keeping calm while attempting to push at him. Only to receive a smirk in return.
'It helps to actually want the person out of your mind. Maybe we should come back
to this after you make a mistake and show me something really embarrassing. It
might work then.'
A memory flew at him and hit the side of his head. Noticing it was when she was five
years old, she had peed her pants on a trip home. Hermione cringed and the room
started turning red, matching her blush. Another memory smacked him in the

shoulder, one from last year when she spilled a drink down a new dress, going
everywhere. The room reddened even further but before either of them could react,
he got hit with one more in the chest, of her first ski trip three years ago. When she
accidentally hooked her ski pole on her trousers and pulled them down, causing her
to face plant into a snowdrift and get stuck halfway inside with her knickers showing
for two whole minutes.
She hung her head and squeaked out a moan, 'Noooo...' as the room felt hotter and
darkened into a deep maroon.
Trying to hide his amusement, Harry consoled her, 'That's a good job, but I didn't
mean for you to do that intentionally. Although that should be enough, try pushing
me out now.'
Working through the toe curling embarrassment, Hermione tried to shove him out.
But not even his hair got ruffled this time. She looked up in hopeless misery as more
memories poured in the room, not knowing what else to do except curl up and die,
she pleaded in a soft whimper, 'Harry...'
He couldn't help but want to comfort her, hold her in his arms and tell her it would all
be alright. But he knew that wouldn't help her learn, so he decided to do something
to push her a little further. 'Since you sent those thoughts on your own, I might as
well go find ones you don't want me to see.' He stood up, avoiding some stray
thoughts, 'Let's go find what you wanted me to do to you in the cupboard last night.'
She glared at him in anger, and he was out.
Confusion set in as she realized they were back in the chair together, scrunched up
close with her whole body radiating heat, still blushing madly. She squirmed in the
chair, trying to avoid touching him but was held fast by the soft material, unable to
leave.
Smiling proudly, Harry touched her red nose, "That's the ticket. Sorry I did that, but
now we know what gets you motivated. So think of that feeling the next time you
want me out, and you'll learn how to drive anyone away." He hugged her, enjoying
the burning warmth from her red skin. Hermione groaned but hugged him back while
pressing her Ravenclaw charm to cool down.
Authors Note: I thought I should leave a small note to inform anyone worried, that
you're probably wrong, what they were thinking about is not as bad as what you're
imagining. Or at least Hermione was only thinking about something innocent, who
knows what Harry was imagining though.

Chapter 21 - Danger
Chapter 21
Danger
Later that night, Harry pulled on his father's cloak and activated the silencing pin
once again, too energized to sleep. Slipping out of Ravenclaw tower the same as
before, he headed for Gryffindor house, following another student through the
portrait door rather than risk saying the password from beneath his invisibility cloak.
He found Hermione still up as well, reading another book in the far corner, just like
he imagined she would. One leg curled up beneath her while she leaned over an
arm of the chair, the book dangling from her fingertips. Harry yearned to go surprise
her, to tickle her or whisper in her ear, yet he struggled to hold back, keeping the
promise he made to not to scare her. Instead he stood against a wall and watched
her for a minute or two, unafraid of being caught staring for once. Eventually he
summoned out some parchment and the new raven quill from his mokeskin pouch,
writing her a note underneath the cloak.
'Not trying to scare you, but would you like to come visit the Slytherin dungeon with
me - H?' Letting it drop onto the pages of her book, he enjoyed her reaction none the
less.
She sat up quickly, attempting to hide any awkwardness as her eyes darted around
the room hunting for him, but of course couldn't find him. Seeing no one else close
by she whispered forcefully. "You really are mad! I thought you were going to sneak
me into Ravenclaw tower during the day, not break into the Slytherin dungeons at
night!"
Harry was about to write another response but decided sending a thought would be
much quicker now that she wouldn't be surprised. 'I will, but we can do that anytime.
We should probably visit other houses late at night, so we're less likely to bump into
many people. And I want to see every house anyway.'
"I suppose it's worth a look... but I'm not sure Harry. It's really late and what if we get
caught? How do you plan on making me disappear in the middle of the common
room anyway? Because you can't come to my room." She pretended to read her
book while talking softly.
'Hide behind the chair and no one will even notice. Only Fay will know your not in
your room, and we'll come back before second curfew ends. If not, you know the
password so you can always say you were sleepwalking. If you really don't want to,

that's fine too, but I'm still going.'

"You've thought about this a little too much you know..." Hermione chewed at the
inside of her lip, weighing the risks but not wanting to be left out. "Fine, but let's not
make a habit of it." She glanced around the room wearily, then quietly slid off the
chair and sat down behind it, waiting.
Harry knelt down beside her and threw the cloak around her, hugging her close. He
sent another thought, 'We have to move together and hold hands for the silencing
pin to work. If you need to tell me something shake my hand and I'll let go of yours if
it's safe, don't do it yourself. Or I can read your thoughts if needed.' She shook her
head at the last bit, but stood up with him, taking his hand. Walking out the door
together he felt Hermione shiver. Real rule breaking, she must be scared, or maybe
excited.
Falling into step beside each other felt natural, hand in hand they enjoyed the walk,
even as Harry led them down the haunted corridors at night, towards the
disappearing room. Hermione looked to him with a question on her face, asking,
'Why aren't we going downstairs?'
'The room can create a door for us right outside their common room, makes it much
easier to get there, but we have to walk back. Be ready though, last time I fell
through the door rather than opening it.' She nodded in acknowledgement.
They entered the disappearing room and Harry conjured a new green door with a
thought. Testing it out, they somehow floated through it to appear outside plain brick
walls, somewhere in the dungeons. It was cold and dimly lit, but holding close to
Hermione let them share her warming charm. Harry sensed people beyond the brick
wall, a little ways away, so he told Hermione, 'The entrance is probably right in front
of us, now we simply have to wait a minute for someone to enter. Didn't take but a
second or two for the other houses.'
Harry hugged his arms around her to keep warm as they stood there letting the
minutes pass. Hermione took out a book and lit her wand in between the pages,
reading under the cloak. She could feel him laughing silently behind her but ignored
it, being bored by this new adventure, but not adverse to waiting with him. After
fifteen minutes of wasted time, there wasn't a much left before curfew, so Harry tried
to think of a way to speed things up instead of simply enjoying the warmth. It was too
obvious and he thumped his head against the wall for not thinking of it sooner.
Although he forgave himself readily due to the substantial distraction that was still
between his arms.

Shaking that thought off, he endeavored to reach out through the wall and send a
kind of intuition to someone inside. It was much harder than his first attempt with
Hermione on another floor, but after the fourth try he could feel it reach someone.
'Someone's stuck outside, waiting to get in,' he sent, and then again to another
person, just in case the first wasn't feeling helpful. As he sensed someone coming
towards the door Hermione grabbed his hand and shook it. He sent her another
thought, 'Someone's coming from inside, we might have to sneak in fast.'
Grabbing her other hand and disentangling himself from around her, they crept up
next to the entrance. The stone slid back like a regular door, only five times as thick.
An older girl stepped out and looked back and forth down the hallway as Harry and
Hermione glided past her before the door closed again. They walked down a plain
passageway which was slightly better lit but had the same look as the rest of the
dungeons. At the end it opened up into a grandiose sitting room, lit with a green
tinge to everything and filled with dark colours. The far green windows drew the eye
as a large, ugly fish swam past, revealing it as a view from underneath the lake.
Harry was instantly reminded of the smell of an aquarium, or that certain part of a pet
store that housed fish and reptiles, yet not nearly as strong. The whole place gave
off a chilly impersonal feeling, like no one lived there but simply passed through.
Together they walked down the steps and stood off to the side as the concerned girl
came back in a huff, shivering and plopping down in front of the fireplace, wrapping a
nearby blanket around herself. Above the fire held many odd animal skulls on the
mantelpiece with a large emblem of Slytherin's snake hanging over it all. Another
scent came through after he got used to the first, a mixture of leather and metal,
which was partially obvious from all the low black leather furniture around the room,
but he couldn't discern where the flavor of metal came from. That was until he
looked back at the soft sound of a breeze and saw large iron grates letting air in from
outside.
There were less people here than any other house, or seemed to be as they were
nearly all spread out from each other around the room. It was awkward trying to take
pictures with one hand attached to Hermione but she tried to help when possible.
Other than her clenched jaw, she seemed to be having fun as well, considering how
many rules they were breaking.
A younger girl walked up beside them and tapped her wand against one of the green
lamps on the wall to turn it on. With it came the sound of a trickling fountain beside it,
which she used to splash water on her face before heading to one of the dorm room
doors. She touched her wand to a strange looking lock on one and it opened, then
quickly closed behind her to keep anyone else out.

Hermione pulled him far away from the still running fountain and towards some dark
wooden bookshelves near similarly styled writing tables. Harry looked around more
while she knelt down to study the titles. He noticed the walls were lined with more
dark and finely crafted cupboards filled with stylish odds and ends, similar to a few
cabinets in Dumbledore's office. Ivory pillars held up the intricate vaulted ceiling and
the cold stone floor was only covered with a few carpets, spaced far apart. Large
black and white chess boards sat between green armchairs where a couple boys
played, while every tapestry held only people on adventures, all Slytherins by the
look of them. Off to one side of the room was a shadowy Christmas tree, looking
neglected and extraneous, a token memento to the holidays.
His hand shook again, insistently this time as Hermione looked directly at him trying
to mouth out the word to him. Sensing someone behind them, he looked around to
see a slender boy coming to put a book away. He pulled Hermione out of the way
and in front of the bulletin board, where they posted their password as well, 'Merlin'.
He pointed towards it with a humorous smile, but received only a painted expression
in return. He pulled her over to a large chair and sat together with her, which she
tried to resist. She kept trying to mouth the words to him, but he held up a finger, 'I'll
let go for one second so whisper it to me then.'
When he let her hand go, she said it in a pained whisper next to his ear, "Bathroom!"
He grabbed her hand again while looking her in the eyes.
'Right now?' He asked, to which she nodded while biting her lower lip. 'Okay, just
hold on.'
She cringed while getting up, squeezing his hand tightly without meaning to. They
rather to the entryway when Harry stopped, pulling her to a halt. 'Damn, all the older
Slytherins are coming in right now. Can you wait?'
Scrunching up her face, she nodded again as they hid beside the exit and student
after student passed through. Five of them all together, and worst of all, the last two
stood talking to each other right in front of the doorway, not letting them past.
Hermione kept her knees locked together and her eyes closed while Harry tried to
push the boy's thoughts in another direction. Eventually they walked away. He
squeezed Hermione's hand in readiness, and they left, pushing out the stone
doorway, passing Snape in the hallway. As swiftly as she was able to walk, they
made it to a nearby bathroom. Not even thinking, Harry followed her in and directed
her to a stall. She let go of his crushed hand and entered on her own, quickly closing
the door and sighing heavily as Harry finally realized where he was.
He froze in embarrassment, not sure what to do or how to respond. Thankfully, the

stalls were charmed with their own silencing spells when locked so no sound could
torment him further. As his face grew beat red from that idea, he reminded himself
that he should have exited out the bathroom and waited for her to knock or
something, like any proper gentleman, which he kept forgetting to pretend at. In
almost no time the stall door opened again and he cringed, hoping she wouldn't take
it too badly. Only she didn't scream or yell, but called out gently, "Harry?"
I'm still not thinking clearly, she can't see or hear me. I'll just pretend like I was
outside the whole time, and send her a thought asking if she's done. He backed
slowly away, towards the door where he sent her the thought, 'Done yet? It's cold.'
"Almost!" She called out in a relieved murmur. "Just wait outside for a minute, and
keep a lookout."
Rolling his eyes Harry watched her wash her hands, look around again, then
readjust her skirt, shirt, and everything else she had on. He inspected his empty
hands while trying to look away but didn't succeed for long, fascinated at how she
could keep tucking her shirt in and pulling it out again too much one way or another.
After nearly another minute of this she finally was satisfied and came towards the
door.
Pulling it open before she got there, he pretended to come in, deactivated the pin
and pulled back his hood, "So, do you want to visit anywhere else tonight? Because
we're already past last curfew, it shouldn't matter much when you get back."
"That's so creepy with your head just floating there, - and I think I'm done for the
night, unless... is Fluffy's room very close?"
Harry threw the cloak back over her with his own mischievous smile, "On our way
up, third floor corridor, the one Dumbledore warned everyone about."
Checking in on Fluffy was a little too exciting, as Hermione let go of Harry's hand and
gasped at the sight of the enormous beast. To which he responded with three
deafening barks all at once. Slamming the door closed and securing the lock, shut
out any more noise, but they ran for the seventh floor to avoid anyone coming to
check. When they arrived Hermione stepped out from the invisibility cloak to speak
the password and had no trouble with the portrait like they were expecting. The Fat
Lady just nodded sleepily and opened up. Harry whispered goodnight to Hermione
and left back to his own dorm, finally feeling a little tired. Like before, the eagle
knocker gave a slightly harder riddle this late at night, but Harry quickly answered it
to be greeted by a irritated professor Flitwick.
A high pitched voice squeaked out in annoyance, "I know it's you Harry. You weren't

in your room when I had to come check, and you're the only one out of bed. I don't
know how you could manage a disillusionment charm by yourself, but remove it this
instant!"
Harry's heart fell in disappointment, of no longer being able to go exploring at night,
and possibly even losing his cloak. But quick thinking saved him, he jumped back
out of sight and removed the cloak, putting it in his pouch, along with his pin, and
walked back into view.
"I'm disappointed in you Harry Potter. Whatever you were doing is no reason to be
out of bed at night. Even if you are learning extremely advanced magic, way ahead
of your time." The last bit carried an edge of pride behind the seriousness.
Nodding in acknowledgement Harry hung his head, "I'm sorry, I was exploring the
castle since I couldn't get to sleep after such a late morning. I didn't mean to cause
any harm."
Flitwick almost looked sympathetic but shook his head, "That's still not an excuse,
twenty points from Ravenclaw, and you shall serve a detention tomorrow. Now go to
bed, and think on why your actions were wrong."
Hiding his amusement with anxiety, Harry hurried up to his room. That was easier
than I thought it would be. I hope Hermione didn't get caught too.
After closing the door, he called her name and whispered into the communication
mirror, "Just got confronted by Flitwick as I entered the tower. Only got twenty points
off and a detention, but it's okay. If McGonagall asks, don't mention the cloak, they
think it was disillusionment somehow. Sorry..."
She only groaned in response, probably not wanting to make more noise.
Harry went to sleep that night not giving one thought to the points, but wondering
what kind of detention there could be during the holidays, and if Hermione would
have to spend it with him.
oOoOo
Arriving at breakfast in the morning, Harry was greeted with a downcast expression
from Hermione. Even her hair looked in a similar state of tormented disappointment.
She was sitting slightly apart from the others, with Ron giving her dirty looks, so he
sat down between them. "You too, huh? I don't know how they knew we were gone,
especially so close to curfew. Was McGonagall there when you entered your
common room?"

"No... she confronted me in the morning. Saying she got a note telling her that I was
out of bed last night. She didn't believe it so she asked me personally. I - I didn't
know what to say to her, so I just, - told her the truth."
"I see... well, at least it's only one detention, maybe we'll get to spend it together." He
nudged her playfully, trying to cheer her up.
"But I lost fifty points from Gryffindor! Everyone but Fred and George are furious with
me, saying I ruined our chances at the house cup. The rest will be too, when they
get back."
"You know house points are just a tool to manipulate students into following the
rules. The house cup is only for bragging rights, and it's not surprising that
McGonagall is strict about it either. But if the rules were that important, they wouldn't
make a game out of it. So don't sweat the small stuff, especially if peer pressure is
why it matters."
Hermione looked at him with a half smile, trying to show she understood, but got
distracted by something at the other end of the table and turned away in shame.
Wondering what caused it, Harry turned to see a scowling first year who avoided his
eyes. It was Ron again. The urge to smash his face into a plate of food was great,
but Harry closed his eyes for a few seconds to calm himself and came up with one of
his more traditional responses.
"Hey Ron, are you feeling okay? That funny look on your face resembles Malfoy, I
hope whatever causes it isn't catching. Wouldn't want to see you end up like him."
Ron's scowl turned to anger, then quickly changed to confusion and finally unease.
He looked down at his food, eating nervously.
Harry got an elbow in the ribs for that, but saw a hint of a smirk on his tormentor's
face as well. He stabbed a scone off her plate that already had jam and cream on it,
to receive wide eyed indignation and a jaw drop. He cracked up laughing, enjoying
the day already.
oOoOo
Their detention came after lunch in the form of a journey outside in the winter
weather, following Filch down to Hagrid's cabin for some reason. Luckily Harry was
wearing his warming cap, and it wasn't snowing, yet. Hermione seemed optimistic
for her first ever detention since the weather didn't bother her at all, while Filch
cursed the cold and rapped on the large knotted door. Hagrid came around from the
back of his house bundled up in his thick moleskin coat, carrying his enormous

crossbow and followed close behind by fang. He nodded to them all and spoke
seriously, "Got a tough job today. Goin' in ter the forest. Yeh two are followin' me in,
gonna help search."
Before Harry could wonder at the staff's sanity, sending children into a forest even
seventh years weren't allowed in, Hagrid gave him a small wink. That held his
tongue while he nudged Hermione before she could say the same. 'Looks like
Hagrid is getting us out of detention. Probably have us help him check the traps or
something.' Sending the thought made her look back at him in puzzlement,
wondering if he was right and if that might get them in further trouble.
"Now you're in for i-it." Filch sneered at them, but was shivering too much to say
more.
As he left cursing the snow on his thin boots, Harry turned back to Hagrid, "Thanks
for that, so what are we really going to do?"
"Huh? Goin' in ter the forest o' course, somethin's bin spookin' the unicorns. Even
found a bit o' blood the other day."
Tilting his head up in consternation, Harry began the questions, "What was the wink
for then, I thought you were going to go easy on us? And isn't the forest too
dangerous for first years?"
"Yeh'll be safe enough with me an' Fang around. Buh, - I thought yeh two migh' like
ter see some creatures... since yeh've bin askin' about them so much."
Hermione cut in, "We would Hagrid, but from a safe distance with barricades, not in
the middle of them all as bait. Are you sure this is alright? You don't even have a
proper wand to protect us from everything, what if we stumble upon manticores,
acromantula, o-or trolls?" A shiver went down her spine at the last.
Shifting uneasily Hagrid scratched his beard, "No manticores 'round here, bin
checkin'. We ain't goin' near the colony, an' Vera here could take out'a troll or two."
He shook the crossbow in reassurance as Harry sensed a bit of magic in it.
"Colony?!" Hermione almost shrieked, "The twins were right?"
Harry held up his hands, "Wait-wait, was this your idea, or Dumbledore's?"
"Er... can' tell yeh that."
Feeling the vague sensation of a person hiding to the south, Harry guessed

Dumbledore had set up some new test, following along to protect them or show them
something new. He sent the thought to Hermione, asking if she was okay with being
protected by Dumbledore. She gave him another weak smile, trying to be brave, but
obviously not enthusiastic about going into the forest.
"Okay, we'll help you look Hagrid, but what do you even think we'll find?" Harry cast
some warming charms on himself while waiting for an answer.
"Tracks I'm hopin'. Migh' catch sight o' somethin', or find the injured unicorn an' help
it if we're lucky."
Hermione looked concerned at that, "What could even hurt a unicorn? I read they
ran in herds and were extremely fast."
"Aye, that'd be why we need ter know what's scarin' them before gettin' a huntin'
party together. So be on yer guard."
They both exchanged worried glances while following Hagrid into the forest, yet were
glad he didn't want to do this at night.
The air was cooler under the thick canopy, blocking out the little sunlight that only
then was starting to shine, yet they didn't have to trudge through as deep of snow
either. Harry focused on his vision, letting him see further into the dark shadows
under limbs and fallen trees. Not much moved as they trekked through the eerily
white and grey winter scene, but wands were held at the ready. Branches creaked
now and then under the strain of heavy snow, as they listened for anything unusual
and inspected the ground cover for tracks. Suddenly a mound of snow fell to the
ground in a thud, causing them all to jump, while Fang took off running back the way
they came. It took a moment or two to calm themselves again while Hagrid
grumbled.
"Ruddy useless dog..."
As Harry let himself relax, he came to realize the forest wasn't especially frightening,
but was more a creepy image of The Forbidden Forest that was conjured in his mind
which concerned him. He tried to dismiss it, and see it for what it really was, nature.
Possibly dangerous nature, but holding no malicious intent or supernatural
mysteries, something that could be understood and predicted.
Casting out his senses, he felt for anything magical nearby. Instead he felt individual
animals, strewn about the undergrowth, most no more than the size or rats, which
he'd never been able to sense before. Practicing often in the dense magic of
Hogwarts seemed to be improving what he was able to feel when he was far enough

away. Hagrid halted in front of them, bringing Harry out of his tranquil reflection.
There was a fork in the barely distinguishable path, "Don' suppose yeh'd wan' ter
split up, would yeh?" Hagrid looked back at their extremely skeptical faces and
shrugged, "Didn't think so... now, which way ter go?"
Closing his eyes Harry reached further away, out beyond even his vision, feeling a
magical presence off to the left path. "It looked like something moved off in that
direction Hagrid." He pointed.
"How-? Ah, yer specs, glad ter have yeh along Harry." He scratched a small mark
into a tree as they headed down the trail.
The sun peeked through the canopy now and then, as they soon came across a
pleasant looking clearing, heading for the warm light. Just as Harry felt for the
presence of magic again a large bush shook in front of them, altering everyone to
some odd shaped creature moving out from behind it.
A real live Centaur with red hair was gazing at them with a demure expression.
Hagrid cleared his throat and lowered his crossbow as Harry and Hermione
hesitated to lower their wands, "Oh, Ronan, yeh startled us. How are yeh?"
"Fair, friend Hagrid. Are you teaching the young ones to hunt?" He asked in a
resigned tone.
"No, no, they're jus' helpin' me search fer what's bin causin' the unicorns ter get
skittish lately. This is Hermione Granger and Harry Potter. Couple o' the best
students at school. An' as yeh heard, this is Ronan." Hagrid seemed to want to say
more but restrained himself.
"Nice to meet you." Hermione bowed respectfully, Harry nodded along.
Ronan came closer, inspecting them with interest, "Bright students, ready to fight,
feeling of ...rare magic. Does the school teach you enough?"
"Our classes are okay, but we learn a bit more from the books there and on our
own." Hermione answered a little bluntly.
"As it always is with those who tread a new path." He bent his head back to look at
the cloudy sky. "The moon, it is too dark today."
Harry was confused by this last statement, "Too dark for what? It's midday and isn't it

supposed to be a new moon?"

The centaur shook his head sadly, not responding. Giving Hagrid a moment to ask a
question, "Yeh didn't happen ter see anythin' unusual lately, have yeh Ronan?
Summat seems wrong in here?"
Ronan looked down at Harry and Hermione, then back up at the sky, "The moon is
much too dark..."
"Err right, we'll be on our way then. If yeh do see anythin', let us know." Hagrid
ushered them away, mumbling something about ruddy centaurs with their heads in
the clouds.
oOoOo
The trio continued on their journey, taking a side path which crisscrossed a small
trickling stream, only partially frozen despite the weather. They followed along the
snow covered banks, watching as small animals scurried away from Hagrid's
booming footsteps, and arrived at a small pond. Hagrid stretched out his arms in
warning, halting their progress before they noticed how unusual it was. The water
was unusually warm looking, with no ice on the surface and green plants still
growing around the edges.
"Don' get too near now, somethin's in there makin' it that way. Got ter go around,
stick close." He waved one hand towards the left, staying between them and the
water. When suddenly Harry's attention was drawn to something very odd hanging
from a bush in the distance.
It sparkled with an almost glowing aura, like radiant white tinsel hanging from a
Christmas tree, "What's that?" He pointed towards it as they heard a gurgle from the
pond, almost sounding as if someone was whispering to them from underwater.
They edged away, getting clear of the spooky noises. Feeling they were far enough,
Harry led them towards his latest discovery. Creeping closer, neither Hermione nor
Hagrid could see what he was talking about, not until he reached out carefully and
plucked it from on top a clump of snow left on the branches.
The glow was dimmer yet it still twinkled in his hand, as if he held thread made of
light itself. "Well done Harry! Don' know how yeh saw it, but yeh found some unicorn
tail hair. Them's good for all sort o' things."
Harry looked from a delighted Hagrid to a curious Hermione, "I didn't realize unicorns
sparkled so much, it must make them easy to spot." They both gave him confused
expressions. "It... doesn't sparkle to you?" With two heads shaking at him in concern,

he realized the mistake and relaxed his vision. The glow disappeared along with any
sparkles, leaving pure white strands of hair. "Ah, just another symptom of good
eyesight it seems."
"Heh, yer makin' me want specs. Don' suppose yeh could find more hair? Migh' lead
ter a whole unicorn next."
"Sure, it's too bad I didn't have a chance to bring a broom. Might have made this
much easier." Harry lamented as he glanced around at all the brush and tall trees,
seeing another piece in the distance.
They carried on, gathering small tufts of hair now and then, building up quite a
collection, but not seeing unusual tracks or hearing anything new. It started getting
late and nothing was found for quite a while. They had lost the trail and wandered
deep into the woods with dark clouds forming in the distance.
Getting bored and cold, Harry kept thinking of how they could find some unicorns
faster, "Hmm, I might have an idea. What if I climb a tree to look around?"
"But all the branches are too high to reach Harry, and what if you slip on some ice
while climbing? Even if I can cast a spell fast enough or Hagrid catches you before
smacking the ground, there are a lot of limbs to hit in between..." Always at the ready
with a good dose of caution, Hermione crossed her arms upon seeing his smile.
Harry could see real concern on her face, but it only made him happy to know who it
was for. "I'm sure Hagrid could throw me up easy enough, but if I use a featherlight
charm and a few cushioning charms on my clothes, it should be relatively safe.
Wouldn't hit anything with much force when there's so little mass."
"That's just a guess! You don't know if the featherlight charm somehow reduces your
mass or simply changes your gravitational attraction."
Picking up a small rock, Harry threw it at the side of a wide tree, noting the solid
thwack. Then he picked up a similar rock, cast the debated charm on it, and threw
again, awkwardly. It made a much softer thump, nothing like the first.
"There we go, first experiment complete. Barring any soft wood, or trick rocks, that
should be enough to move onto human trials." She glared at him as he cast the
charm on himself. Performing a small hop propelled him three feet into the air,
landing with a soft crunch of snow under his feet. He immediately jumped with all his
strength but didn't get high enough to reach the limbs above them, twenty feet in the
air. He fell down clumsily to land on his bum. Chuckling at the embarrassment and
soft landing, he then pushed himself off the ground to stumble into Hermione.

Catching him, she lifted him up and straightened him out, "Just because you were
right doesn't make it that much safer. You could still be impaled by some random
limb or who knows what lives in the treetops. Jumping let's you see high enough,
let's leave it at that." Harry gave her his best puppy dog eyes, pleading mercilessly.
"No." Was her final word, while wearing a serious but concerned expression.
Through that he could easily see what she wasn't saying, 'Please don't Harry, you'll
get hurt.'
Feeling obligated to listen to the voice of reason and not worry her more on this
possibly dangerous journey, he hung his head, "Fine... I'll just take a peak around on
a lower limb." Taking a walk around he made a standing leap under the lowest
branch he could find, catching it with both hands. He shivered at the cold snow
underneath his fingers and climbed up easily, scanning the undergrowth beneath the
heavy white canopy.
All the while they were talking, Hagrid watched their small argument in good humor,
reminded fondly of another contentious couple he used to know. Although they rarely
listened to each other, except near the end. He shook himself out of his thoughts and
called up to Harry, "See anythin' up there?"
Harry concentrated on his vision even further, peering into shadows for the telltale
twinkle of unicorn hair. When he finally thought he saw a similar sparkle off in the
distance, he heard a strange crack. It swiftly cascaded into a series of alarming pops
and snaps, which made him look down. The tree was breaking apart underneath him
with a long disturbing creak, falling, toward Hermione.
Fear and worry caught in his throat as adrenaline rushed through his veins. He
gripped both of his wands tightly, somehow already in his hands as time seemed to
slow down again and his heart thundered in his chest. First instincts told him to push
the tree out of the way, but a quick appraisal of the towering tree made him ignore
that thought. A hundred ideas were conjured and discarded in an instant, attempting
to find a solution yet none were plausible. Hagrid seemed to be rushing toward
Hermione in slow motion, annoyingly slow as Harry plummeted towards them.
Hermione looked overcome with bewilderment at the situation unfolding around her,
and as if stuck in molasses she sluggishly pointed her wand up at Harry, casting a
cushioning charm on him.
In confusion about her priorities, Harry was hit with the spell. He pushed down and to
the side of the tree, aiming for a clearing of snow far enough away. Mid fall he
watched as Hagrid started to reach toward her with his gigantic hands, but Harry
could see the tree would hit them both. He knew Hagrid had tough skin, but couldn't

watch Hermione get hurt again.

Desperately trying anything, Harry knew he couldn't pull her physically so he
summoned her clothes, but instead was drawn towards them. The featherlight charm
was working against him. With sudden realization he pointed one wand at Hermione
and the other at an already fallen tree in the opposite direction. He strained in
concentration and forced every bit of magic he could into his wands, giving him
leverage to pluck her off the ground with such force that she sailed right into him as
time sped up and they tumbled over and over in the soft snow together. At the last
moment they both looked up to see the enormous pine tree crashing through
countless limbs and smaller trees, falling on top of Hagrid. With an earth shaking
boom they felt the ground tremble beneath them, as snow and limbs were thrown
everywhere.
Picking themselves up in a rush, they ran towards the fallen tree where they last saw
Hagrid. Many branches were crumpled up around the area blocking their view. They
made quick work of the mess, one cutting the branches and the other moving them
away. Within moments they uncovered Hagrid's moleskin coat, with him in it, luckily
not crushed under the tree. He was unconscious, head face down in the snow with
his hands protecting everything but a small gash on his scalp. Harry quickly healed it
with Episkey and tried to wake him up with Rennervate, while Hermione continued
excavating the rest of him.
A loud muffled moan escaped Hagrid's prone body, followed by him turning his head
sideways, "Wat happened?"
"Erm... a tree fell on you. Are you okay?"
"Ugghhh, feels a keg of fire whisky hit me las' nigh'. An' me foot's asleep too." He
padded his hands around feeling the large tree nearby. "Can yeh get this offa' me?
Can't move."
"We'll try, just stay still for now." Harry glanced up at Hermione's overly distraught
face, she was staring down at Hagrid's legs. Hurrying over to her, he saw it
immediately. His calf was pierced through with a thick branch almost under the tree,
blood was pooling up and coloring the snow red. Harry turned her away from it
quickly, and looked directly into her eyes, "He'll be fine, work on clearing the rest
away, I'll fix this."
She nodded, reassured a little and now determined to keep going. Harry ran through
more ideas but settled on the simplest again, casting the freezing charm around the
wound, slowing the blood loss and numbing the flesh, then he cut through the

branch holding his leg to the ground. It twisted sideways making Hagrid cry out. He
cast Glacius again on both sides, trying to numb the pain, not knowing a spell to do
that specifically. Next Harry cut the wood close to his leg, making it easier to move.
Hermione finished with the rest of the limbs as Hagrid was finally coming to his
senses and pushing himself up slightly to look around.
"Don' seem too bad, can yeh help me up?"
"You probably shouldn't be moved, but maybe with another charm or two..." Casting
the cushioning charm on Hagrid's leg, then the featherlight charm once more on the
rest of him, Harry dropped to his knees in exhaustion. The increased mass seemed
to require much more magic.
Harry picked himself up sluggishly and walked up beside Hagrid, reaching into his
pouch for the potions Fred and George gave him. Handing him two, one for general
healing and one to stop the pain. He didn't know if they worked as well on someone
Hagrid's size but it was something. "There, that should help. Try not to jostle your
leg." Hermione cast a splint spell around his leg as well when she finished with the
branches.
They all helped pull Hagrid to a standing position on one leg. While a frightening
rumble of noise could be heard getting louder, approaching from the other side of the
tree. Arriving around the still upright trunk came a group of five centaurs, a black
haired one in the lead.
"Hullo Bane, all right?" Croaked Hagrid.
Bane seemed angered but grew concerned when he saw Hagrid's state, "Well... and
you?"
"Bin better, I can tell yeh that." He repositioned himself against the large tree, "Would
yeh mind givin' us a hand back ter the castle?"
A second white haired centaur, with startling blue eyes stepped forward, "Of course
Hagrid, we would never abandon an injured friend. - I shall hasten on ahead, to bring
word of your injury." His eyes lingered on Harry and the scar on his forehead, giving
him a nod. Glancing away Harry recognized it as an offer to join him, but old stories
came to mind and he didn't want to leave Hermione alone with a group of unknown
centaurs.
"Thank yeh Firenze, would appreciate it. Could yeh maybe take these two along?
Should'a bin back ages ago." A few of the other centaurs came over to give Hagrid a
hand and apply a healing salve to his wound.

"Of course." The blonde centaur bowed as a bolt of lightning was seen in the
distance and the thunder rolled across the valley.
oOoOo
Night was approaching fast as they jogged after the sleek palomino centaur. Harry
was able to keep up only because of the featherlight charm still cast upon him, but
when that ran out he tripped over his own feet, toppling to the earth. Hermione
rushed over and kneeled beside him, checking if he was hurt and to cast the charm
again, along with more warming charms. Firenze stood over top of them, observing.
"Might you tell me why Hagrid brought you into the forest today?"
Lying there for a moment to catch his breath, Harry looked up in a daze, "We were
looking for signs of what was chasing the unicorns, apparently Hagrid noticed one
was slightly injured. Do you know what would attack them?"
Firenze's expression darkened, not answering right away. He regarded Harry and
Hermione with an intent frown, pawing the ground with his front hoof. A slithering
noise distracted him as he swiftly strung his bow and notched an arrow, surveying
the forest. Hermione pulled Harry up with little resistance, and brushed off the snow
stuck to him, while Firenze circled them in alarm. His jumpiness was infectious as
another strange noise made them all scrutinize the forest in worry.
"What was that?" Hermione whispered.
With great mental effort Harry tried to sense the surrounding area. Feeling bile rise
up in the back of his throat from the vague feeling of hatred nearby, he hissed the
words out, "We need to run, now!" He cast the featherlight charm on Hermione,
ignoring his complete exhaustion and pulling her along with renewed adrenaline.
Trotting alongside them Firenze kept on alert, quietly he urged, "You should both
ride, you cannot outrun anything in your condition Harry Potter." They glanced up at
him and nodded, then got lifted up on his back. He began to sprint, causing
Hermione to hold onto Firenze as Harry wrapped his arms around her waist, trying to
stay upright while watching for anything suspicious.
After a while of running with no new sounds the centaur slowed to a canter, speaking
over his shoulder, "Do either of you know what unicorn blood is used for?"
Hermione answered in a hushed tone, "I've never heard of it being used in any
books, does something actually hunt unicorns for it?"

"Only the most desperate of creatures with nothing to lose. For to slay a unicorn is
an abhorrent crime. To drink the blood of such a pure and innocent creature will
sustain you even at the brink of death, and curse you as well."
Confused and still in a daze, Harry paused his mental searching because he couldn't
help but ask a few blatantly obvious questions, "How are unicorns so much more
pure and innocent than any other creature? What if you killed a unicorn without
drinking it's blood, or gave it to someone else in their food? And don't people kill
unicorns for their horns anyway? I wouldn't think they would give them up willingly,
but if they do, why would taking a little of their blood be any different?"
Firenze continued his trot, mumbling something about unanswerable questions
before he responded, "Unicorn horns and hair are harvested by young witches. A
repugnant practice, but they cause no permanent harm. Their horns grow back, like
their hair, but their blood does not. It absorbs magic, allowing a unicorn to never
need food, even the grass under its feet. That is why it is viewed as such a pure
creature, never harming even the plants they tread upon. When one consumes this
blood, it allows you to absorb magic to stay alive, yet it destroys your ability to stay
alive by any other means, except one."
"Makes sense I guess," Harry began to recognize how drained and dizzy he felt, and
pulled another potion out of his pouch to drink. The last drops of the yellow
restorative draught tasted like ginger on his tongue. He looked up at the dimming
sunset through the trees and the storm that loomed over it, wondering where
Dumbledore was as his fatigue slowly started to lift, "So what's this special way to
stay alive?" He asked to break the unusual silence.
"A special elixir, that can restore even the most damaged being, and let them live
forever. Harry Potter, do you know-" Just then a black blur flew across their path,
causing Firenze to rear up on his hind legs and shoot an arrow as it passed by. They
nearly fell off his back, though Hermione caught onto his quiver strap at the last
moment. As Firenze's front hooves pawed the air, he took out another arrow and
shot again when they hit the ground. The next second they were dashing away
again, Harry and Hermione being jostled uncomfortably on his back while holding
tight in fear.
Harry had little time to enjoy how close he was clinging to Hermione, when his gaze
flicked to the side, into the burning red eyes of a cloaked figure, causing an
explosion of pain to ignite in his scar. He threw himself away in unconscious reflex
and fell, into the boiling agony that was now his mind. Into darkness he fell, further
and deeper than ever before, while something stabbed at his mind again and again.
It pierced through the pitiful barriers he thought he controlled. Rending into dust any

hope of release and replacing it with fear and all consuming hate. Then he hit the
ground.
The freezing snow against his neck awoke a realization in him, he knew how to fight
back. Mentally straining against the overwhelming agony, he pushed the pain away
and felt for its source. Finding the same hatred and vile feelings as the times before,
yet this time it felt solid, stronger, and more determined. Taking a cue from his
occlumency training and recent memories he conjured the image of a burning red
kris to match the demon's eyes. He stabbed at it but it dodged, laughing at him with
an eerie familiarity. Conjuring a dozen copies of himself around the creature, it
hesitated. He stabbed again with the others coping him, plunging the kris deep into
the hate filled shadow haunting his mind and wrenched it sideways to break the
blade off inside.
Blood curdling screams ricocheted in his ears, both mental and physical as the hate
fled from his mind.
Opening his eyes revealed an extremely skittish Firenze scanning the woods with
anger and fear written across his face, while a terrified Hermione with tears in her
eyes reached down a hand urging him to get up. Harry felt better than ever though.
He wiped the blood off the side of his face and grabbed her outstretched hand to hop
up behind her. He held on tight, sharing her warmth as they raced away once more.
oOoOo
Reaching the edge of the forest, relief flooded through them, and even Firenze
seemed to relax some. Finally slowing on the hill up to the castle, he spoke once
more. "I shall leave you to notify the teachers, but remember what I have told you,
and think on who would risk everything to stay alive at such a cost." Harry and
Hermione hopped down outside the main doors, thanking him for everything, and
quickly entering to find a teacher.
They raced toward the staff room, hand in hand, not wanting to leave each others
side for a second. Professor McGonagall was just exiting as they screeched to a halt
in front of her. She gawked in astonishment at their disheveled appearance with bits
of forest everywhere, and a thin line of blood trailing down Harry's scar, "What in
Merlin's name happened to you two?"
They told her. Explaining the entire story in alternating voices, adding details when
needed and support for when disbelief crossed McGonagall's face. Near the end she
seemed to be choking back her own fear and alarm, not wanting to show it to
children. "Well, you certainly had an ordeal. Go to the hospital and explain a

simplified version to Madam Pomfrey, while I gather the rest of the teachers."
Waiting in the nearly empty hospital for the teachers to bring Hagrid back, Harry and
Hermione sat next to each other on a bed, talking about the bizarre day. "Next time I
get detention, I want to spend it cleaning like Fred and George usually do."
"Next time I listen to your reassurances I'm going to have my head checked. - 'We
won't get caught sneaking out at night' - 'Hagrid is going to get us out of detention' 'Dumbledore is following behind to protect us' - You must be the most overly
optimistic and unlucky person I know."
"I think I had good reasons for those suspicions, and I don't know about luck but it
can't be too bad, take the unicorn hair." He replied feeling a little defensive, but
wasn't even convincing himself.
She gave him a dubious look, "Harry, a tree fell over right after you touched it. If you
have any luck at all it's bipolar."
He sighed, "Sadly, the rest of my life might back you up on that point. I wonder what
the moon has to say about it..." They chuckled together for a moment.
"I'm afraid we have to take that seriously now Harry. Magic and divination class... but
how could the continually changing orbits of planets actually affect us? Or predict
future events? - Can the random alignment of stars billions of miles away really have
anything to do with our personalities or how things happen by magic?"
Harry shook his head, "I doubt it. Even McGonagall seemed to think divination is
rubbish, and superstitions run rampant around here. How it became a subject is
anyone's guess. - But I'm still wondering why Hogwarts teaches astronomy. Not that
I mind, it's fun learning about all the planets and moons I've read about in science
fiction books, but why teach it here? Just to prepare us for divination that we don't
need to take? We don't have specific classes in English, Maths, Geography, or any
number of useful subjects, yet somehow astronomy is still taught when wizards don't
even go to space. I even asked Professor Sinistra why, but she stared at me like the
idea had never even crossed her mind. Imagine, living your entire life learning about
and teaching a subject that is wasted on people who will never make use of it. But
maybe we can..."
"Have you got your head in the clouds again like Ronan?" Nudging him with a smile,
she slowly grew downcast, "Harry... what was that thing? It almost looked like
drawings of a Lethifold but nothing else about it matched the description. Could it
have been what was scaring the unicorns?"

He reached a comforting arm around her shoulder, "Something... or someone with a

great deal of hate for me. It's tried to enter my mind before, but I've never actually
seen it until now. At first I thought it was a part of me, or some curse from my past.
Now I know it's alive... "
"Your mind? But, why would it be after you? What could it want?"
"Revenge."
"You're not suggesting that... it's him, are you?" She shivered again. "I thought he
died?"
Shrugging, he held her closer, "Hagrid says that's a load of codswallop. He might be
wrong, except, there's only one thing I'm known for, only one reason why anyone
could hate me that much. And whatever happened that night, stopped him and his
reign of terror. If it is him, he might need unicorn blood to stay alive, or maybe it's
one of his crazy monsters or followers that likes hunting innocent things. Whatever it
is, it needs to be stopped."
"Don't say you're going to go looking for it, please, that's a really, really, really stupid
idea. And you better not lie to me either, because I'll never be able to trust you again
if you do." Looking directly in his eyes, she tried to make sure he couldn't avoid the
issue.
A small grin crept over his face, "Who do you take me for? Some idiotic hero that
wants to face his foes head on in the heat of battle?" He shook his head and
grabbed her hand in his, "No, I plan to stay hidden away studying with you to learn
so much powerful magic that we won't even need to be afraid anymore. The adults
can keep us protected until then."
Hermione gave a cute snort at that, shaking her head in exasperation. "I guess that
will do."
The teachers eventually came back with Hagrid in tow, he waved to them in woozy
cheer with a large potion bottle in his hand, as McGonagall transfigured four beds
into one for him to fit. They were ushered out to dinner, thankful none of the students
had heard about the events yet, even though some asked what their punishment
was.
Deciding to relax in their own library for the rest of the night and hopefully the rest of
the week until school started again, they read and practiced a few more practical
healing charms. Determined not to find any more danger, but to be ready for it
anyway.

Chapter 22 - Plans
Author's Note: This week's delay has been brought to you by extended rewriting and
The Stormlight Archive, featuring: The Words of Radiance by Brandon Sanderson.
And now back to your regularly scheduled broadcast.
Chapter 22
Plans
Knocking could be heard outside the library. Not the usual woody echo from regular
doors but a solid tap, tap, tap against hard stone. Harry could easily guess who
might want in. With a wand in hand as a precaution, he entered the main room to
feel two familiar presences behind the seventh floor entrance. No wonder I can tell
them apart lately, they feel quite distinct from each other. And Fred is uniquely...
bolder? Hmm, that seems right, I've never noticed what someone's personality feels
like before. But maybe that's only in my mind - hard to tell.
He opened the door to reveal twin red haired boys doing a marvelous job at acting
nonchalant, as if they happened to be passing by and stopped for a second to
discuss the eccentric tapestries.
Sliding past Harry, they nodded as if he was their butler, ready to take their coats.
"Evening," they chorused.
"We just heard the most unusual rumor about you two venturing through the forest
for detention..." Harry only raised his eyebrows in puzzlement at how it spread so
quickly, not giving anything else away.
The twins soon caught on. He wasn't going to be baited into boasting about exploits,
so they dived into the meat of things with a keen hunger. "Did you really meet some
centaurs?"
"Did you see the giant spiders too?"
"Hear any thestrals?"
"What about the three headed dog?"
"How do you know about Fluffy?" Asked a curious Hermione, standing in the library
doorway.

The twins eyed each other knowingly, "Not even her first time in the forest and she's
already naming the beasts like they were pet Puffskein." Fred teased.
"Hopefully she doesn't find a werewolf pup next and name him snuggles." George
managed to get a smile out of her.
Harry played along, "I was guessing it might be Mittens the dragon, but it wasn't
Hermione that named Fluffy. And he's in the castle now, did you hear the bark last
night? - That might be what got us caught."
Stunned silence was the only response as the Weasleys looked back and forth from
the two earnest first years and then at each other, wondering if it was a joke.
"You can't be serious!" Fred almost shouted.
"You let that three headed demon into the castle and all you got was fifty points and
a single detention?" George was staring at them like solid gold bars were flowing out
of their noses.
"That's almost worse than what we've done! And McGonagall threatened a whole
month worth of detention if she caught who let that loose in the dorms."
Harry chucked and held up his hands, "No, no, the teachers probably let him in at
the beginning of the year to guard something. We don't know what, but recent talk
has given me an idea. Last night we only checked in on Fluffy, probably should have
waited until daylight for that."
"Now you say that..." Hermione grumbled, "The first time you get me to break a rule
and we get caught."
"You little imps, should have brought us along!" Fred chastised them, "Wouldn't have
gotten caught with us along."
"We even know a good silencing spell that could have helped." Offered George as
he twirled his wand.
"See George, I told you they both should have been in Gryffindor. I bet we could
have got McGonagall to let Harry on the quidditch team his first year too!"
"You've got to tell us everything, how did Flitwick react? He's always so calm in
charms."
"And what really happened in the forest today?"

Harry and Hermione exchanged an amused look, then led them into the library to
explain most of the story, yet again. Feeling resigned at having already been caught,
Harry let on about adventuring into various house common rooms but left out how it
was done to keep them guessing. To prove it, he allowed the twins to help develop
the photos with a simple potion they had on hand. While they became entranced
with the various scenes from other houses, Harry quickly removed the numerous
photos of Hermione for safe keeping. Although he was sorely tempted to hide some
even from her, the wry look she gave him upon noticing the piles he pocketed made
him reconsider.
After much talk and further speculation on how Harry accomplished it all, they came
upon a revelation. It turned out that the Slytherin Dungeon was how they got caught.
George remembered once overhearing a smug Slytherin bragging about the
protections for their house. "He claimed there was a spell on the door that could
detect anyone who entered the dorms, unless they were polyjuiced. And since
Snape is the potions professor, he would know about anyone trying to brew that."
"Silly duffer told us exactly how to get in." Laughed Fred.
"Except once we found the recipe and landed those ingredients, someone forgot to
stir in the lacewings often enough." George gave a pointed glance at Fred.
"I couldn't be expected to wake up at five in the morning every other day for a month!
It's inhuman. And that's why we need a house elf next time." Hermione rolled her
eyes at that, but refrained from commenting.
While Harry smacked himself in realization, "So that's why Snape was rushing
through the hallway so late at night!"
The rest of the evening was spent telling stories and bargaining for Harry's secret in
exchange for borrowing the map or learning other secrets in return. Hermione didn't
like the idea of the two worst pranksters ever using an invisibility cloak and the
marauder's map at the same time, but they tried to coax the secret out of her none
the less, knowing she might be the key to convince Harry. On the other hand, Harry
secretly encouraged Hermione's skepticism as they conspired together to negotiate
the best deal possible, whenever they did decide to reveal it all.
oOoOo
Hagrid was up and about the next day, on the largest crutches Harry had ever seen,
yet those would only last a couple of days. When Harry and Hermione visited him in
the hospital wing he thanked them for their help and pulled Harry aside as he started
to apologize for only saving Hermione.

"Yeh did good out there, don' let no one tell yeh different. Can't protect everyone, an'
she needed it more. Much more. - Yeh both were right too. Forest ain't no place fer
kids, an' I'm not much good without a wand. Useless really..." He brushed off Harry's
protests and continued, "Next time yeh get in trouble, I can take yeh fishin' by the
lake or somethin'. Oh, an' I talked ter yer teachers about them points, considerin' yer
help yesterday, they decided ter let it go."
"Thanks, I'm sure Hermione will like to hear that." Harry looked to her, talking eagerly
with madam Pomfrey about specific healing spells, then turned back. "But you're not
useless Hagrid, everyone has a different set of skills. Ours just aren't great at
keeping trees upright, though how often could that be useful?" They both smiled and
Harry got his hair ruffled in thanks.
"Supposin' yeh'll be wantin' another project then, what with not needin' moke skin
pouches anymore. What would yeh say ter helpin' me collect Mooncalf dung?
Professor Sprout can't get enough o' the stuff."
Chuckling under his breath, Harry considered the offer, "Hmm, I have a feeling Sue
and Padma might want pouches of their own when they get back. So we could still
keep checking the traps, but a new project might be fun too. Only, I don't think
Flitwick will let me out of the dorms in the middle of the night again to help track
Mooncalves... What do you know about Graphorn?"
"Ha!" Hagrid clapped him on the back in amusement. "An' here I thought yeh wanted
ter stay away from dangerous beasties. Tell yeh what, why don't we stick with an
easy one fer now. Professor Snape's bin needin' a bunch o' flitterby moths fer
potions, an' so has Clagan fer who knows what. If yeh catch enough, maybe he'll
improve that watch o' yours."
Harry shrugged, "Not as interesting, but tempting enough. I guess we can discuss it
next weekend after classes start?"
"O' course." Hagrid ruffled his hair once again as Hermione returned to be filled in on
their latest plans.
Later in the day, Harry and Hermione were alone again, revising their lists of spells
and desired items after the windfall of amazing gifts and recent events. Harry sat
thinking, watching Hermione scribble out the pros and cons of each new spell she
wanted to learn with an intent expression on her face.
What do you do after finding out someone, or something wants to kill you? Run and
hide? Confront them? Ignore it? Complain? - No... If you're smart, you research and

prepare. You don't make rash decisions or allow the fear to consume you. You learn
from other's mistakes. - The stupid ones push people away to protect them and are
left defenseless. The gullible ones trust in those they don't know and get betrayed.
The pessimistic trust nothing and lose everything. The overconfident face things
head on and get duped. While I sit here pretending to know something about fighting
for my life after reading a bunch of fiction...
Ughhhh... what am I supposed to do? Sit around reading The Art of War while some
loon tries to have me killed in the middle of school? No, I can't start moaning about
how horrible my life is, not when things are finally starting to look up.
Hermione held up a whole page of notes and grinned in satisfaction at him, then
went back to writing more on the reverse side. Glancing at his empty page now and
then.
She'll be in danger too, as long as she's around me. But I'm not going to push her
away, even if it is completely selfish. She wouldn't want that either... would she? Forget it, I never worried this much when I was scared of getting slapped around by
uncle Vernon. I'll do what I did then. Practice like crazy and find a way to stop the
bad things from happening. I'll make plans but stay flexible. Learn what my limits are
and use the skills I have. I won't give in. I'll fight.
But this time I might have help.
Harry smiled back at Hermione as she looked up at him again. She roller her eyes
and tapped his paper, "Are you going to help or leave me to do all the work like that
history project last term?"
"Hey, I did research! Just because you read everything I did doesn't mean I didn't try.
I even offered to write it but you complained about my bad handwriting. Besides, I'm
thinking things through in my head before writing it down."
"Excuses, excuses, get to work mister." She waved him away. Harry smirked slightly
and began tickling her with wandless magic. "Don't. You. Start!" Hermione tensed,
pulling out her wand as he cracked up laughing at her indignant expression. He held
up his hands in surrender as she leveled her wand at him.
"Okay. Okay, I'll work now. No need for jinxes."
She gave him a watchful glare and huffed when he finally started writing.
They spent the next hour comparing notes and narrowing down their lists, each
picking new spells to learn and selecting the most needed items. Harry neglected to

mention some spells he intended to research privately, so as to not worry her, as she
did the same. Finally completing their discussion left them with nothing to do but
read silently for a while. Although that didn't last long.
Glancing up at each other from the other side of the table, both could guess what the
other was thinking but neither willing to say it. Harry began tossing the doorknob up
in the air and catching it, pretending not to care.
"Alright already!" Hermione gave up first, slamming her book shut, "We can practice
Occlumency again, but no more talk of embarrassing moments or anything like
before, okay?"
Harry tried to resist smiling but failed miserably by the look of chagrin on her face.
"As you wish."
They began with simple exercises Dumbledore taught him, moving a memory out of
reach, disguising it as something else, and placing a solid wall in front of everything
to block him out. But soon the imaginary room they practiced in was filled with more
thoughts and memories inching toward Harry. When one memory of them kissing on
Christmas hit him on the lips, Hermione shoved him out of her mind, surprised at
how easy it was this time.
After resting for a while, sorting books, they tried again, and then had a dueling
match when Harry saw her desire to defeat him. He won as was usual lately, but
Hermione was getting progressively better. Pushing him to improve and refine the
way he moved and cast, even struggling to keep up with the variety of new spells
she was learning. They ended by experimenting with the new spells they'd chosen,
and then returned to the library to rest.
Drained from a long day, Harry transfigured the puffskein chair into a small couch
and they read together, Hermione with one foot over the back, the other on the arm,
sprawled out taking up the lion's share. Harry didn't mind, except when she slapped
his hand away from playing with her hair.
The last days of winter holiday were much the same, reading, playing, dueling, and
practicing every form of magic they could manage. Intermixed with exploration
journeys into deeper parts of the room, while Fred and George continued goofing
around like usual and playing in their new potions lab. During their rides Harry kept
trying to summon something, but wasn't successful, avoiding any questions about
what it was. The twins were stockpiling rare and unusual potion ingredients along
with a variety of equipment and other supplies, not giving away any secrets either.
While Hermione openly asked them all to keep a look out for magical ink and clean

parchment.
oOoOo
Saturday the fourth was another ordinary day with Harry meeting Dumbledore in his
office after lunch. Earlier however, misfortune greeted Hermione as she was trying to
stuff an extra book into her already packed mokeskin pouch. It burst apart inside the
Ravenclaw library, dumping everything onto the floor for the whole world to see, or
rather the three Ravenclaws who weren't paying attention. Harry bent down to help
pick things up, but before he could touch anything she dived for her brush and other
items, knocking him over in the process. Quickly picking things up and stuffing all
she could in her pockets, she turned around sheepishly toward Harry with rosy
cheeks.
"Sorry..."
Harry just laughed, "Well that was unexpected. Need some help with the books?"
She nodded, and they stacked them on the table.
Picking up the flattened remains of her mokeskin pouch, Hermione frowned in
extreme disappointment, "It's completely broken, not even a inkwell could fit in it
now."
"At least it's not ripped, it looks like only the leather strap came apart." Harry
checked his own, it was stretched and worn as well. "It almost looks like Hagrid used
that old dragon leather he got at the junk shop..."
"You think it can be repaired? We don't have any dragon leather, and some of those
enchanting books you have say not to try re-enchanting anything and only buy new."
He shrugged, "There's bound to be some way to fix it, and I'm sure the room has
dragon leather somewhere." While inspecting his pouch and thinking, a smile slowly
formed as he reached into it, "But we don't need dragon leather when we have
these." He pulled out the bundle of unicorn hair, "And I'm meeting with Dumbledore
today, I'm sure he can repair it."
A similar smile grew to match his, as Hermione hugged him tightly, "Thanks Harry,
you're definitely worth putting up with."
Harry snorted, "Thanks for that ringing endorsement, you're quite the comfortable
heater yourself." She punched his shoulder lightly and grabbed an armful of books,
heading towards the Gryffindor tower then the disappearing room. They stored all
their possessions and went to lunch soon after.

oOoOo
Parting ways with Hermione following their meal, he circled back around to the Great
Hall, only to be greeted by some older boys still sitting at a table, discussing the
latest professional quidditch match or something equally unimportant nonsense. One
of them noticed him at the door and gave him a funny look, so Harry wandered away
heading up to the third floor. Catching sight of the large stone gargoyle, Harry
wondered how he would get in without the password, but upon his arrival it stepped
aside obediently, even bowing to him this time. That's strange, I guess he's
expecting me to come this way.
Muffled talk could be heard before Harry opened the doors outside the spiral stairs,
but it quieted instantly as soon as he touched the handle. Dumbledore swung around
to face him as he entered, looking as though he had been pacing in front of his desk.
He wore deep red robes with gold filigree, making him appear much more serious
than usual. And there was Fawkes, finally sitting on his golden perch. Resplendent
red feathers almost glowing in the dim light, outshining the headmaster in all his
finery by a mile. Fawkes seemed to bow ever so slightly, acknowledging Harry's
presence, and then disappeared in a flash of flames at a simple wave of
Dumbledore's hand. What's that about? Does he worry I'm going to become too
interested in his Phoenix as well?
A knowing grin appeared on the Headmaster's face, "Decided to make your own way
up this time? I cannot say I am surprised. Not after what happened in the forest will I
underestimate your inventiveness. Using two wands at once to compensate for your
lack of leverage was inspired, although I question why you did not use the same
technique in reverse to push the tree off course."
"I only thought of it halfway through falling... and how did you find all that out? Were
you really following us? Because I don't think Hagrid even saw what I did."
He shook his head regretfully, "I was not, unfortunately. Professor McGonagall
mentioned you assumed that, and how I suggested Hagrid take you there as well.
Yet neither is accurate. While I did persuade Hagrid to supervise your detention
while I was away, I seem to have once again underestimated his unique
interpretation of danger."
As I thought, that presence I felt outside the forest must have been someone else.
"Then how did you know what happened?" Some kind of magic tracking device?
"Ah, yes. Hagrid did help me with that." The twinkle in his eyes reappeared,
"Memories can be tricky things, but magic can be as well. - I am glad you all are well

though. I talked to Madam Pomfrey and she informed me Hagrid will be back on both
his feet by the start of school." His expression grew solemn once more, "Would you
mind explaining what happened while you were being chased?"
Harry narrowed his eyes at Dumbledore, "You know what it is, don't you? You knew
what it was the first time I described it entering my mind. Is it him? Voldemort?"
"...I cannot be certain. Many of his followers took on similar traits as him, were taught
the same skills, and twisted into unrecognizable travesties of their former selves. But
I have taken measures to protect you and the school from further harm." He returned
to the severe attitude from the moment before he saw Harry, seemingly wanting to
pace again, and speak his thoughts aloud.
"Were these the same protections at Halloween? Did you suspect one of his
followers to be here then, creating chaos?"
The headmaster winced ever so slightly, "I can see it will be difficult to keep you from
discovering some things, yet I must try. For your own safety and everyone else's.
Although I can tell you this, there was a test then to see if my suspicions were true,
and later the attack on your mind confined it. We prepared for Halloween, but never
suspected an attempt like that. Preparations have improved greatly since then."
Raising his eyebrows, Harry blinked a few times, "Like having the groundskeeper
escort kids into a dangerous forest and making sure trees don't suddenly fall on
people? Or like leaving a precious artifact to be guarded here in the castle like bait? What the bloody hell is going on around here?"
"How...? Never mind, you undoubtedly will learn much more about the Philosopher's
Stone and why someone might want it, but you must not seek out this person." He
eyed Harry with a forbidding expression. "I have been lenient, forgiving your
disrespectful attitude and impudent behavior in the past, but not on this issue. It is
imperative to capturing the culprit alive and discovering who is behind it all. As for
the perpetrations, nothing is foolproof, yet this is close."
Harry felt slightly ashamed under that piercing gaze as he had never spoken to an
adult so bluntly, unless to intentionally insult them. Their growing familiarity over the
past months was distracting him from staying calm and collected. Yet those thoughts
and emotions fled as he brooded over the danger to Hermione. "So you want me to
sit on my hands here, while a crazed cult follower somehow stalks the grounds
attempting to murder me and my friends? I can only guess what the Halloween
incident was supposed to accomplish, but it's obvious that I'm being targeted now. I
thought Hogwarts was supposed to be safe! How are you even allowing this to

happen in a school of all places?"

With a resigned sigh, Dumbledore sat down in his chair. "It was a difficult decision,
but there are only two things that desperately need protecting from this cult as you
call it. The Philosopher's Stone, which we have guarded with many different
methods, and you, which we guard with many more. Bringing both together in the
only secure place where we have the advantage, was the best option and the only
option now that it has started. - The one other safe place for you is your home with
the Dursleys, and if we send you back, there is no telling what their next attempt
might be."
"You mean you want to keep me here or at my relatives until I grow old and die?
Don't-"
"No. The protection at the Dursleys only lasts until you are seventeen, when you
come of age. That is why this plan was formed, to lure them out of hiding, to prepare
you, and hopefully stop this once and for all. That is why it must succeed, otherwise
you might be hunted for the rest of your life, or worse."
Harry noticed the portraits glancing down at them in his peripheral vision, greatly
interested in the conversation. Trying to calm himself, he continued, "How much is
actually planned and prepared for, rather than made up as time goes on?"
"I shall admit, learning more about you and your abilities has greatly altered our
original plan, yet for the better. Precautions have only increased due to these
dangerous incidents, and we are expecting the trap to be sprung soon. Only my
most trusted professors know the details, as any inexperienced actions might risk
exposure. So I strongly urge you not to pursue this matter further, else it could all be
for naught."
So am I part of the bait, or just an unpredictable variable?
Thinking it all over, Harry's stomach began twisting in knots at the idea of being left
in the dark, helpless to do anything. He yearned to find out more and try to gain
some measure of control to confront the problem or destroy it, yet he also knew that
was exactly what he told Hermione he wouldn't do. - Harry breathed deeply, deciding
instead to risk his trust one more time and let Dumbledore handle things. Which
might also allow him to use the situation to his advantage.
"I want a favor in return for going along with this." Harry said evenly. Dumbledore
scrutinized him, but didn't refuse outright. "You have to help me prepare a defense
personally."

"Legilimency is not a defense, and I have told you before I will not teach it to you, nor
other aggressive tactics." He hesitated, "But I will try to help any other way, if time
allows. Is that acceptable?"
Taking a moment and pretending to think it over, Harry was secretly overjoyed. As he
didn't even need Legilimency training any longer and this would allow him to prepare
in other ways. "I suppose. - I've been thinking about getting a few emergency
portkeys and enchanted clothing, but how about we start off with something small,
like re-enchanting these mokeskin pouches?" He plopped them on the table,
resisting any hint of a smile.
With another shake of his head, Dumbledore began to chuckle, "I should have
known..." He picked them up and inspected the quality, noticing the threaded unicorn
hair and rather large size compared to most. "These must be the ones from Hagrid,
but what happened to disenchant them?"
"The dragon leather straps broke apart, so I figured unicorn hair might work better."
"Indeed they might, indeed they might... possibly too well for so much. Let us see if I
can add a preservation and impervius charm to make them last longer as well. That
might offset the magic needed for the undetectable extension charm. Now, I trust
you will not try something like this on your own, since it can be very dangerous if
performed incorrectly." Harry nodded, eager to watch someone permanently enchant
something for the first time.
Sitting up straight and subtly slipping on a few rings, Dumbledore rolled back his
sleeves, pulled out an unfamiliar wand from a hidden pocket and made a
complicated design in the air, then cast. Brilliant white light illuminated the room,
glowing from one bag, then extending to the other. Dumbledore's face took on a
strained countenance, as the rings on his fingers seemed to burn a deep red, giving
a pink cast to the surrounding room. A loud crack and hiss ended the show as he
slumped back into the chair, looking weary and slightly puzzled.
"Ehm, sir, your ring is smoking." With a languid energy, Dumbledore examined the
cracked gem on top, tapped it a few times with his wand and slipped it back in a
drawer with the rest. "I'm, guessing that didn't go as planned?" Inquired Harry.
"That is an accurate assessment. I expected it to possibly test the limits of my magic,
not exceed them in such an alarming fashion. The pouches should be fine, although
I do not suppose you knew that all the parts were assembled from the same two
creatures?"
"I guessed the mokeskin was, but I never suspected it of all that unicorn hair. But

why should it matter?"

Standing up with renewed vigor, Dumbledore was incredulous, "Why should it
matter? Dear boy, do you not read those enchanting books professor Flitwick has
been stocking in the library for you? Enchanting twin items made of the same
material is extremely difficult, and requires double, or often triple the amount of
magic used, depending on the spells performed. That is one of the many reasons
enchanting is so dangerous."
"Oh... a book mentioned something like that in context with purposefully connecting
wood vanishing boxes, but nothing else. I'm sorry, it simply never occurred to me
that it could happen accidentally with hair and skin." Harry frowned in frustration, "I
really wish enchanting was a subject at school, so I could learn it properly. Some of
those books are awfully lacking in details. - I hope you're alright?"
Dumbledore stretched a little, nodding, "Of course, though mainly because of
precautionary measures, which should always be adhered to. I do not suppose that
ring will ever be the same though."
"I'd be happy to replace it, I saw one like it in my vault. Except I don't know if it's that
similar."
Dumbledore waved it off, "It was a mere imitation I created in my earlier years, and
as you might guess, enchanting is not my strongest area of expertise. Your idea of
an enchanting class does have merit. Usually it is left for an apprenticeship, such as
wand making, but many students have failed wretchedly trying to enchant things on
their own. A course including safety precautions and basic theory might help, but
finding a teacher would be exceedingly difficult. I shall have to think on it." He
adjusted his glasses while opening a jar of pink coconut ice on his desk and offered
some to Harry, "I expect neither of us are in a fit state to practice occlumency today.
What do you say to a game of wizard's chess?"
Picking the pristine looking pouches off the table Harry let a smile form as he took a
sweet, "Sounds like fun."
oOoOo
On his way back from being beaten twice in a row, and tying once, Harry began
inspecting his pouch. The mouth seemed to stretch a little easier, and it felt different
reaching his hand inside, but he couldn't touch the bottom. It was apparently much
deeper than before, since his whole shoulder and arm still didn't reach the limit. A
passing Hufflepuff girl nearly screamed in panic at the sight. He quickly reassured
her he was okay, and moved on, making a mental note to save that for April fools

day.
Presenting a repaired and improved pouch back to Hermione yielded another
generous hug, as she hopped up and down against him in excitement. They quickly
escaped to the disappearing room after grabbing their stuff again to test them out
completely. Searching for something that might be long enough to determine the
depth, they tried all kinds of things as they couldn't see to the bottom. Hermione
picked up a yard stick but started laughing when it still couldn't reach. A few minutes
later Harry found a magical pointing stick that extended twice their size or more,
appearing to be something that Flitwick might use in class. They both watched,
amazed as nearly the entire device disappeared inside his pouch, leaving only a
hand width outside when it finally hit the bottom. Accidentally letting it go was a
surprise, they discovered it didn't move but was held in place somehow where Harry
left it. Pulling it up gave the same effect, like it was stuck in a thick pudding.
Hermione dropped a few old teacups in hers, testing if they would drop down and
break but instead stayed near the surface, able to be retrieve by hand.
Quite pleased with the new enhancements, they took another tour on the flying
carpet, looking for useful larger items they could now easily carry around with them.
Both picked up relatively good brooms, some seasonal clothing, blankets, a few
pillows, and a couple unbreakable containers. Harry found another comfy leather
chair, collapsible table, and a ton suitcase he wanted, along with the strange kris and
some kind of magical shield. Hermione had to crawl inside hers to arrange
everything after finding a long enough rope. She managed to get a small bookcase,
a desk, chairs, lamp, rug, and cabinet to store some extra clothes and other trinkets
inside. It was slightly odd for Harry to watch her climb down a thick rope into a small
bit of leather but he figured it must be worse to actually do it. When he tried joining
her to see what it was like, he got stuck as his own bag wouldn't follow him in.
The old conundrum about having bags of holding within bags of holding seemed to
be answered. So he left his outside in order to get in Hermione's way and bug her
while she worked, or at least that was how she put it. The lip of the pouch pulled tight
around the rope, obscuring any light from outside. It was a small tent sized room, lit
well from a flameless lamp on her new desk, and already had a cozy feel like it had
been lived in for ages, while today was only a spring cleaning. After being scolded
for hovering, Harry sat in a chair and watched Hermione put her books away, sort
the clothes, arrange some stationary at the desk, and hide a few other things in the
cabinet. When she was finally done she sighed, as Harry clapped.
"Now you have to hope nothing falls over while carrying it around. Want me to go
test it?"

"With me inside? Are you asking to get hexed?" She put her hands on her hips and
started him down.
Harry only smiled, "We already saw how it keeps things in place from the outside,
but what if it's different from inside? Wouldn't you like to make sure nothing is going
to fall down and break before you leave? Besides, it'll be an interesting test to see
how it works."
"I've got a better idea, you stay here and see first hand while I go out and shake it."
Smirking at him, she made for the rope in bluff.
"Okay, but do it gently, just in case."
"You're serious aren't you? - Fine, I guess if you really want to. Yell if anything starts
moving." She cast the featherlight charm on herself and made her way up the rope.
Looking over her shoulder with a wary eye at Harry, as she made sure he didn't look
up her skirt.
As soon as she exited, Harry began poking around in her stuff, worried about what
made her react so strangely earlier in the day. Everything seemed to be normal, then
he felt gravity shift on him, yet it didn't pull him or anything else physically. It became
harder to move in the opposite direction, making him feel weird, like he was strapped
in a chair that was glued sideways to a wall. He kept going, making sure Hermione
didn't pick up anything dangerous in the room, casting spells and letting his senses
roam as he did so. Nothing seemed wrong until he opened one last drawer,
containing some pink knickers. He closed it quick, realizing what he was doing;
invading her privacy like some creepy stalker. Walking back to the ladder he called
up, "It all seems fine, I can feel gravity change as you move it, but nothing is falling
over."
"Do you like how I folded my clothes too? Or were you just testing how they would
be affected?" She called down to him.
He could hear the thick sarcasm on her voice. Definitely busted, and completely at
her mercy. "I... I was worried, I'm sorry."
"Worried about what Harry? Me having some privacy?"
Best to be honest, as it sounds better than any other reason I could have. "I was
afraid something might be influencing you from the room. I read all those books on
protecting yourself from evil spells or artifacts and acting weird and secretive all of a
sudden is a sign, like earlier today when your pouch broke. That's why I wanted to
know what you keep in here."

Sounding calmer, she talked while sliding down the rope, "I believe you, and I
allowed you to look around while I watched, but there are some things that need to
be kept private. With you in my head lately, that's even more important. I can see
why you might be suspicious but girls being secretive around boys is normal. I
expect you to ask first if you ever get worried again, not go snooping around. Okay?"
Harry nodded in disgrace, worried about what might be coming next. If she would
stop talking to him again, or something even worse. But instead, he got another hug.
This one he savored because he didn't deserve it.
"I'm really sorry. I wasn't thinking, and I promise to always ask you first."
She squeezed him tighter in response, a little too tight.
oOoOo
Fawkes alighted back on his perch in a fiery squawk, startling a few nearby portraits
and gaining a kindly smile from Dumbledore. The conversion picked up again after
the interruption.
"Was it wise to trust the boy with such information Dumbledore? He does not seem
the type to obey authority or trust in others easily." Cautioned a long nosed witch
with glasses.
"Obey authority Eupraxia? He downright sneers at it after spitting in its eye!"
Growled Black, "To trust such a child... the way he treats authority is an affront to the
entire headmaster position. Let alone the bold face manipulation that's allowed. He
must imagine himself head boy and the long lost heir of every house in Hogwarts
combined!"
A balding man with a trimmed white beard barked a laugh, "He certainly does think
highly of himself, and acts nothing like a timid first year student. But if I remember
correctly, you were not much different Phineas."
"I was nothing like him." Black clipped, while glancing away.
"Does his brash attitude and abnormal maturity make you uncomfortable, as if
looking in a mirror? Or is it that he doesn't belong to Slytherin that upsets you the
most?" A curt snort was all that replied back.
One of the oldest portraits there, a grey haired man in simple brown robes spoke up,
"It is known, that excessive use of magic can alter developing minds. That is
precisely the reason wands are restricted until a fit age, and only then taught

progressively more advanced spells. Even unconventional ancient houses who

ignore that rule, know not to bestow wands to their children too early, or allow them
free reign thereafter. If the tale of his childhood is true, it might explain his oddities."
"Yes, yes, we all know that the boy is unusual, even for a Ravenclaw. But that is
beside the point. It is obvious he will attempt to learn what is kept from him. However
I agree with Dumbledore, he would have undoubtedly searched for the perpetrator
on his own if not informed of the plan. No doubt piecing events together enough to
unwittingly sabotage the trap in the end. Now at least he knows the point of what we
do, and to be careful, even if he does not obey."
Dumbledore nodded, "Thank you Armando. But it is also imperative that we keep
and earn his trust further. I could not bear to see him withdraw due to fear or
betrayal, shunning companionship and his humanity, as a similarly exceptional
student did. If that means suffering through rudeness while earning his respect, it is
a small price to pay." The previous portrait grunted in acknowledgement.
"Can you earn his respect while allowing such familiarity and insolence? Surely you
shouldn't have consented to his attempt at exploiting your openness." Asked an
elderly woman in white robes.
"As none of you are able to enter the boy's mind, I shall assure you again. He is
exceedingly astute, beyond even what he shows on the surface. I believe he knows
exactly what I asked of him and he requested my help in return for his trust." Fawkes
began a hopeful song while Dumbledore continued, "Even if I am incorrect, we have
many years to curtail his behavior, so long as we can keep him close."
oOoOo
Sunday was the last day off and the day everyone else would be arriving back on the
Hogwarts express. The air around the castle seemed alive with energy once again,
as twelfth night came to usher in the end of the holidays. Decorations were taken
down, trees carried out, and fairies freed, just as they were starting to get grumpy.
Hagrid was feeling better, ready to be off his crutches but no one was letting him do
any work, and madam Pomfrey kept checking in on him to make sure that was the
case. Not all of the teachers were back yet, but those who were seemed happier
than ever, glad to be back and chip in after a pleasant holiday. Dumbledore had even
gone down to the train station to greet the students and organize their return in the
carriages.
It was nearly dinner as the first of the students started pouring in, bringing with them
their restless and lively spirit from being stuck on a train most of the day. The chatter

increased to near deafening proportions in the entrance hall, especially when

compared to the quiet over the holidays. Most streamed into the Great Hall, waiting
for dinner and eager to talk more. Harry and Hermione came down to greet people
as well, sitting back at their assigned tables, enduring all the questions that
inevitable popped up about their detention in the forest. They saw Padma and
Parvati walking in together, seemingly fed up with being close to each other for so
long. Splitting off, they came to sit at their respective tables just as the meal
appeared in front of them and there was quiet for a moment.
Except something was wrong, and Harry could definitely feel it this time.
The girl beside him was not Padma.
She walked, smiled, ate, and even wore her hair similarly, yet there was a distinct
presence, some indefinable nuance that made him feel uneasy. Sue wasn't there yet
and no one else around seemed to notice. Is it an illusion? Someone polyjuiced to
look like her? Or is someone else controlling her mind somehow? He looked around
frantically at Parvati, wondering if that was why they seemed upset with each other,
but as he did, it struck him. He felt relieved. His magical sense was already telling
him who was beside him, and who was really at the Gryffindor table.
They had switched, playing a trick on their friends for some reason. Maybe to see
who would notice, or who was the better actor. But that only meant he could have a
little fun as well.
"So, how did you like the gift I sent you Padma, I hope it was a little entertaining for
you."
Parvati smiled, "It was fun actually, I didn't know muggles could make things like
that. But my father seemed to enjoy it more than I did after showing it to him. Have
you used the gift I sent you?"
"Not yet, but there's not much need to test for poisons around here. Though I was
talking about the other gift I gave you, the secret one." He gave conspiratorial wink,
playing it up as much as possible.
Pretending to cough from something she ate, Parvati looked grim as she took a sip
of water and cleared her throat for extra time to think. "Oh, that. It was nice too,
thanks."
Harry leaned in close and whispered, "I hope you like it, because if we're caught
using it, we would be expelled for sure. Not to mention Azkaban."

Carrot bits flew from her lips at his words, she gapped at him with a hand over her
mouth and urgently looked around the table for help.
That's when he started laughing.
Restraining himself as much as possible so he didn't seem like some cracked nutter,
he whispered to her again, "Thanks for the laugh Parvati. Sorry I didn't get you
anything."
A disgruntled and sour expression came over her as she began to shout, "How-" But
caught herself and whispered back, "How did you know? I barely even said
anything!" Wiping her face with a napkin, she tried to keep it together.
"Magic." That earned only a withering glare. "I don't know, it's just something
distinctive about you two, your presence is different."
She raised an eyebrow at that, "What, does she smell weird or something? We've
been practicing for a week to imitate each other, and she barely does anything to be
noticeable, let alone stand out. I figured I'd only be caught after Hermione asked me
a question on homework or something."
"Well here comes Sue, she might be able to explain it better."
"Oh, don't tell her! Padma says she's the real test, she didn't even expect you to
notice." They both quieted down as Sue sat between them.
Harry started the conversion off again, "Why were you so late?"
"Putting something in my room, why do you care?" Replied Sue.
"Only curious, but I was starting to tell Padma about this wonderful dim sum
restaurant me and Hermione visited in Diagon Alley. We should all go sometime."
Sue's lips tightened and her brow furrowed instantly, yet she managed to get out a
few words, "You're a git, you know that?" Harry looked taken aback in mock pain,
covering his heart at the insult.
"I wholeheartedly agree. Now what's this about a restaurant?" Interjected Parvati.
Turning to face her, Sue stopped right before responding, scrutinizing her intently.
Uneasy again, the secret agent looked to Harry and back, confused, "What?"
"Not enough sarcasm Parvati." Sue turned back and began to take food on her plate

as if nothing was wrong. Harry laughed more.

"No way you could notice that easily!" She hissed, "Harry, did you tell her
somehow?"
"How? It's only been thirty seconds since she sat down. She's right though, Padma
would have said something snarky, though I bet there's more to it than that. I can't
wait to see her attempt to imitate your giggling fits with Lavender and not groan."
"We don't have giggling fits... and, wait, is Padma still teasing people? She told me
she gave that up ages ago, the little cheat."
"Still?" Harry asked, "You mean she hasn't always done that?"
She spoke in a conspiratorial hush, "Of course not, she used to be shy and quieter
than a mouse. Until our aunt Aja started babysitting us when we moved here several
years ago. Aunt Aja was always a bit daffy, but nice enough. Except every other
sentence that came out of her mouth was indecent, sarcastic, or teasing. And
sometimes all at once. Even about the most common things. You could ask her to
pass the milk, and she'd offer to let you suck on her... I mean-"
Sue and Harry both started cracking up this time, barely able to keep the food in
their mouths as Parvati blushed and shook her head. "That bad huh?" Harry
mumbled.
"You have noo idea. - And then Padma started copying her. Our parents almost had
a fit the first time she asked if we could have hamburgers for dinner. And I almost
thought their heads might explode one time she asked if they had fun jumping on
their bed the night before."
"Now that sounds like the Padma we know." Chuckled Harry.
Sue huffed, "She's not that bad. Besides, parents deserve it sometimes."
"Well you don't even want to know what she said the last time she talked that way to
them. They were stunned. Completely speechless. But the next thing she does is put
her bare feet up on the dining table and start whistling a lewd song aunt Aja taught
her. They freaked! Threatened to send her back to live with our grandmother in India,
have her homeschooled until she came of age, and then marry her off to some
noble's son to teach her how to behave properly."
"That's barbaric!" Sue gasped.

"They weren't serious. Everyone was just angry that Aja was moving away, but that
was the last time she ever said anything like that around them. She still talked that
way with me for a while. But when we fought once I told our parents to get her in
trouble... After that I thought she quit completely." Parvati stirred the food around her
plate.
"That's kind of cruel." Harry remarked, "I thought twins supported each other against
their parents."
"Were not all the same! And Lavender doesn't like you anymore." She bristled.
"Okaaay?" He was baffled by the abrupt change in topic.
Suddenly a row of firecrackers exploded in front of them. Splattering food all over the
Ravenclaw table, eliciting screams and scaring most of the first years, while quieting
the whole hall to a whisper as the salvo died away. Penny was already up and
casting cleaning charms with help from her friends and other Ravenclaws. Harry
turned around to look at Fred and George, but they shook their heads as everyone
else looked towards them as well.
After being hit with a cleaning charm himself, Harry's eyes locked on the twisted
smile of the obvious culprit. His lips curled into a typical sneer as he saw Harry
glaring.
Draco, once again back to torment the unamused. No one else seemed to catch the
prideful and superior way he was acting the moment before, except maybe his
returning flunkies. But by the resentful frowns they wore, it was easy to tell that
Crabbe and Goyle had somehow been inducted back into service without much
choice of their own. Harry wanted to return the favor of thrown food but wasn't going
to risk wandless magic in the Great Hall after Dumbledore noticed last time.
Instead he ignored Malfoy completely, pretending to enjoy the excitement and
helping others with the mess. Then went back to eating the new mixture of flavors
sprinkled across his plate while fresh food appeared to replace the rest.
Conversation picked up again just as he heard uneasy and forced giggling from the
Gryffindor table. He turned around to see, as Padma's ruse didn't last long after that.
I'm learning all kinds of things these days...

Chapter 23 - Alumni
Author's Note: I have been considering a name change for this story for a while and
I'm looking for suggestions. All I've been able to think of so far is, Harry Potter and
the Daydreams of Jedi, Harry Potter and the Force of Inspiration, Inspirations of
Jedi, or Forced Inspirations. All very similar but I'm not good at naming stuff. So send
me ideas if you like and I may set up some kind of vote, keep it the same, or just pick
one that sounds perfect, who knows.
Chapter 23
Alumni
The start of term arrived with little fanfare the next day. Nearly everyone was too
interested in talking about their holidays to pay much attention in classes. Even
McGonagall had a hard time corralling her students toward transfiguring a book into
a lampshade. Harry on the other hand had to restrict himself from accomplishing the
task straight away, so as to not draw too much attention. Although intentionally
generating half-book-half-lampshade blobs of strangeness was surprisingly more
difficult than he first imagined, until he saw what others were doing and copied them.
For fun he deviated from the lampshade idea and crafted a melted clock hanging
over a limb. But quickly cast Finite on it after he caught some odd looks directed his
way. Eventually Kevin managed a semi-respectable opaque cone shape beside him,
so Harry took two genuine tries, imagining his memory coming to life and forming the
last lampshade he'd seen, one in the Ravenclaw common room. It wasn't fancy or
completely accurate, but he figured it would be enough.
Moments later McGonagall placed a note face down beside him, detailing the extra
work she mentioned. 'Decorate the inside as intricately as possible, but do not allow
others to see.'
With a sigh Harry began again, somewhat disappointed that he couldn't relax and
daydream like in the past. Although the task presented a challenge that held his
interest, it felt strange being expected to do loads more than anyone else. He liked
the idea of being great, of possibly creating something amazing, but disliked being
forced into it and of being the odd one out, once again.
Yet to his surprise nearly every other class was disappointingly the same as before,
with potions making his eyes water from all the noxious fumes in the air and history
nearly boring him to sleep with a review of last term. Professor Flitwick talked to him

after charms about paying attention in class without overachieving, expecting Harry
to discover his own limits outside of class but to ask for help whenever needed.
While cheerful Professor Sprout was unchanging as ever, except with Draco.
Unexplainably she started keeping him busier than usual and away from others
when not lecturing or working, somehow understanding his unproductive tendencies
were back without mentioning it once. But it didn't seem to help his mood any when
she had him sifting dragon dung into barrels of mulch several days a week.
It wasn't until walking into defense class that Harry noticed something incredibly odd.
The whole room had changed. The decaying stuffed creatures, musty old furniture,
and dark black curtains were completely gone. In their place was a multitude of
similarly moving portraits and framed photographs, all of the same smiling fool.
Lockhart was the name Harry remembered, and someone had commandeered the
entire defense classroom to build a shrine around his inflated ego. It seemed like
some elaborate prank the twins concocted to embarrass a girl. But more incredibly, it
was somehow an improvement from before.
Instead of the dark brooding atmosphere of the creepy monsters and skeletons in
the past, light was finally shining in through the tall windows and the pungent odor of
moldy garlic was thankfully dismissed. Replaced by a pleasant hint of roses and
polished floors. Harry breathed in a refreshing breath and grinned, imagining all the
bewildered expressions bound to come through the door shortly.
There were a few others already seated, looking deeply confused and mumbling in
strained whispers, but it was still early. He took a seat near the usual divide between
Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, then watched the door in amusement. I can't even guess
how Quirrell first responded to this. Did he actually show an emotion for once or just
stutter constantly?
Hermione entered soon after with her head down, sorting through notes she was
extracting from her pouch and pulling out her defense book. As she rounded the
corner of a row of desks, she looked up, and stopped dead in her tracks. Her eyes
went wide in shock and flew about the room from one queer portrait to the next. Like
she had been transported through time and space to stand aghast at the
incomprehensible nature of insanity. A shiver passed through her and she began
backing out of the room one careful step at a time.
Harry was laughing under his breath while holding a hand over his mouth, trying to
stop from bursting. But before she could get more than a few steps he called out to
her. "Hermione!" He waved and patted the seat beside him, inviting her back to
reality.

Shaking off her unease she stalked down the aisle and sat beside him, releasing the
notes that had been crumpled in her hand. "I'm assuming this was Fred and George
- or did someone invent a new spell designed to unhinge people's minds?" She took
out her increasingly cracked wand and smoothed out her papers with a new spell.
I thought she liked the windbag's books for a while. I wonder what changed. "Your
guess is as good as mine, but at least we have good seats to watch the show."
"Ahhhhh!" Screamed Lisa, as she fell over a desk upon noticing the garish decor.
She was helped up by more students filing in, before getting distracted themselves
and creating a clump of befuddlement near the door.
Similar reactions continued through the next few minutes as startled cries and
stunned looks became commonplace. Sue and Padma entered together in smiles
but quickly changed to muddled frowns looking to Harry and Hermione for answers
but none came. Neville even fainted when one portrait dressed as a vampire hunter
jumped out from behind it's frame. He fell into Ron behind him, causing them to both
tumble to the floor.
At that moment a caped figure swept through the opposite door of the room, dressed
in glittering purple robes lined with golden filigree, a matching pointed cap covering
golden hair, and the same preposterous smile as the rest of the portraits. His teeth
somehow gleamed in the light as he threw his arms up in the air and presented
himself in front of the class like a triumphant hero.
"Here I am! Here, I, am." He waved to all the smiling portraits who waved back at
him, "Gilderoy Lockhart, at your service. Order of Merlin, Third Class, Honorary
Member of the Dark Force Defence League and five times winner of Witch Weekly's
Most-Charming-Smile Award, and I, my young pupils am your new substitute
Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher." He bowed with a grand flourish to squeals
of delight from Lavender and Parvati.
"You have got to be kidding!" Harry said in a harsh breath as Lisa gagged at the
back of the class. Lavender craned her neck around slowly, simply to give him a
disgruntled glare and then was back to smiling and giggling with Parvati.
Ron edged out from under Neville, leaving him unconscious on the floor and began
grumbling while he and the last few students to enter found seats. Lockhart peeked
down at the Gryffindor still lying on the floor and apparently decided to ignore him
and push forward.
"Now, I'm sure you have all heard of my many famous exploits and adventures
detailed in my many highly rated books. - Which I would be happy to sign for you

after class, but I must insist you hold any and all questions until later. - While I can
imagine nothing more splendid than sharing my life story with you, that shall have to
wait until next year. When my new autobiography Magical Me, comes out!" He gave
a roguish wink at the girls closest to the front, and didn't even bat an eye at the loud
snickers heard from the Gryffindor boys.
Hermione raised her hand at once, and incredibly, spoke without being called on.
"Excuse me, what happened to Professor Quirrell, and do you know when he'll be
back?"
Lockhart was completely nonplussed, "Who?"
"The teacher, you're substituting for..." She trailed off with a weak grimace.
He picked some lint off his shoulder and flicked it away in distaste, "Oh, yes. Him.
I'm afraid your previous Professor is indisposed - due to an illness in the family, so
I've heard. But not to worry! It is now my job to keep you up to speed on the
deadliest creatures known to wizardkind! Sadly, I was instructed to follow your
present book's inadequate agenda. However! Despite my recent arrival and server
limitations, I have miraculously secured a special treat for you all today!"
Heaving a massive covered cage from under his polished and organized desk, he
flopped it on top, making a solid thunk and wiped a single small bead of sweat from
his forehead. "While you may be frightened, terrified even by the horrors that will
appear in this class - never fear, I shall let no harm come to you. But beware! The
dangers, are real..." With a sweeping flourish of purple and gold robes, the black
cover was flicked into the air and floated down over Neville.
Gasps filled the room... with further confusion. Inside the golden cage slept a rather
large and unkempt brown circle of fur. It didn't move. As the room quieted for an
expected explanation, they could hear the creature's muffled snoring. Lockhart
watched them with an eager expression, but slowly, ever so slowly it sank in that no
one looked impressed in the slightest.
"Is that a Jarvey?" Piped up Terry Boot with his book open at the front.
"Indeed it is-"
"Is it dying?" Interrupted another student.
"N-not in the slightest. It was biting and scratching so ferociously before that I had to
spell it asleep so as not to frighten you out the doors! Only I must have
underestimated my own strength and put it out for much too long. Easily remedied

though." With a flourish of his wand he commanded, "Ariziey!"

The creature rolled over. It looked like a giant stocky ferret from Harry's perspective.
Lockhart grimaced and leaned close, then rapped on the cage in annoyance. The
Jarvey lifted its head at that and looked at him with unmistakable contempt. It was
obvious now that it wore some kind of leather muzzle but it seemed not to care. With
a lazy stretch it grudgingly got to its feet, turned around a few times and sat back
down to scratch it's ear. Then, with absolutely no warning or explanation, the cage
burst apart and the jarvey went flying into the air.
Landing in Lavender's lap, no longer wearing it's muzzle, it hissed as she screeched
and cringed away. It leapt down to the floor shouting a stream of pure profanities at
the class and nipping at any exposed ankles. It softened it's language a bit, barking
in cockney next, "Bloody munter! Clean your grotty feet ya lazy twat! Bugger off to
'ell ya gormless slag!" Padma laughed while Hermione covered her mouth, feeling
scandalized. Lockhart began bumbling after it, casting spell after spell to no effect.
Next its accent changed to one of outrageous silliness, "Shut it, you empty headed
animal food trough wiper!" People were yelling and jumping on their desks as it
bolted around the room, continuing its angry tirade while searching for an exit. "I fart
in your general direction! Your mother was a hamster and your father smelled of
elderberries!"
Mandy Brocklehurst appeared extremely offended and kicked at it as it sped by, only
to receive a retaliatory bite on her heel. Howling in pain, she fell to the floor as other
wands finally came out. Hermione and Sue began casting spells at it but it was
amazingly agile for its size, dodging around people and under desks, too fast to be
hit. As Padma and Parvati rushed toward Mandy to help her, Lockhart barreled past,
slipped on something and crashed into Kevin and Stephen at the rear of the
classroom, causing a bookcase to fall on top of them all.
It's voice changed again for another round of insults, "I'll use small words so that
you'll be sure to understand, you warthog-faced buffoon!"
Harry was sitting back with his feet on his desk, not able to stop from chuckling at
the utter chaos and all too familiar words, while giving a curious thought to who or
what caused it. Hermione must have heard his latest guffaw as she threw a serious
glance back at him that said, 'Stop laughing and do something!'
And again it's voice changed, "Your breath comes straight from Satan's bottom!"
'OK... but be ready to stun it.' He sent back at Hermione, and then commanded the
jarvey to stop. It didn't respond. But kept running around shouting more strange

curses at people. Of course, it's not trained like Fluffy, or could be resisting like the
troll. He tried calming it, making it sleepy, and distracting it with thoughts of danger
but nothing worked. That's strange... could jarvey be resistant to mind magic?
Then it started talking to itself, "You changed your name to Latrine? - Yeah! It used to
be Shithouse."
Hermione snorted in repressed laughter but managed to control herself and gave
Harry another expectant look as he shrugged his shoulders. 'Didn't work, I'll try
something else.' He attempted to grab it with wandless magic but was too slow as
well, and couldn't predict where it would move. Harry was about to simply go find
another teacher when Sue missed again and hit Ron in the foot with a freezing
charm, causing him to kick his frozen shoe off and sparking an idea in Harry.
Which was interrupted by the jarvey's attempt at wit, "You are so mercifully free of
the ravages of intelligence. - Is that your nose or did a bus park on your face?"
Ignoring that, he took out his wand, aimed it at Ron's shoe and transfigured it into a
rabbit. The large ferret like creature immediately noticed this and pounced, tearing
into the still rabbit's tender neck as more girls screamed. That's when Hermione hit it
with a sleeping spell. It stumbled, but got up again and started dragging the bloody
rabbit towards the front. Sue connected with another sleeping spell which made it
trip again, dropping the rabbit, yet still it crept forward onto the black cover for its
cage and curled up into a ball to finally fall asleep, right on Neville's face.
It mumbled one last insult before it returned to snoring, "You're the filth of the planet.
A bunch of pompous, badly dressed, poverty stricken, sexually repressed quidditch
hooligans."
Slowly the commotion died away after Harry cast finite on the rabbit to revert it back
into a torn up shoe and Lockhart stumbled towards the front of the class in a
disheveled mess. Yet he stood up with a hand on his desk for support and put on his
winning smile once more.
"Congratulations, you passed my intended challenge! I see it surprised many of you,
but now you see the real danger a wild creature can present. I hope you take this
class seriously, so long as I am teaching it." A few students groaned while Padma
and Parvati helped Mandy to the hospital wing.
That's when Neville woke up, and shrieked like he was being eaten alive.
oOoOo

Students steamed out of the Great Hall after dinner that Thursday night, although
some stayed behind. They were dotted across every table in the hall, with fewer at
Slytherin than the rest but most were very young. Each choose to stay for reasons of
their own. Not because there was extra dessert but on account of Professor Flitwick
informing all his classes that the dueling club had officially been reformed, and
anyone who wished to join was welcome. With such interest from only first years
before, he had to requisition time in the Great Hall and separate the beginners from
the advanced students wanting to join. He informed them all that the first through
third years would be instructed early with help from a few prefects, while the rest
would come back later to practice.
Harry saw that Fred and George had stayed along with their friend Lee, yet there
were not nearly as many second or third years as there were first years. Almost all of
Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, and Hufflepuff first years were in attendance, even Anthony,
who looked slightly morose, Neville who appeared to have been dragged there, was
ready to throw up, and Draco, wearing an expression of contempt flanked by his duty
bound flunkies.
Professor Flitwick conjured a stool to climb up behind the podium and rap it with his
wand, gathering everyone's attention after the rest of the students left. "Welcome to
the Dueling Club!" He squeaked proudly, "I'm glad so many could make it tonight, as
I have been convinced to put forth my best effort in teaching you all. But since I am
only one humble wizard, I asked a few generous prefects for help, along with the
special assistance of one recent graduate who is quite the duelist, and is now
training to become an Auror."
A young woman strolled in from the teachers entrance, steel toed boots clanking
against the floor and distracting the entire hall with her short spiky mess of hair, dyed
multiple colours, from a stark neon blue, through multiple shades of cyan, to a
vibrant sea green. She smiled as she tugged at her long dragon leather coat
covering a simple purple tee and worn jeans. Although her cool rebellious persona
was nearly ruined as she stumbled over the single step up to the teachers platform.
Nearly falling on her face, she caught herself just in time while a few people giggled.
Flitwick beamed anyway, "Allow me to introduce, Miss Nymphadora Tonks!" A
grimace flashed across her pale heart shaped face as if she was chewing sand. He
stuttered for a second in response, "B-But please, simple refer to her by her family
name, Tonks."
She arrived to stand beside the professor with a cheerful smile back in place, then
waved to the curious students below.

"Now if everyone would come up here while I prepare the dueling area. Thank you."
The students made their way towards the front while whispering excitedly. Harry and
Hermione shared a look of curiosity about what each thought of the new assistant,
but was too complicated to fit into words. When they all were far enough away from
the tables, Flitwick waved his wand at the benches so they slid up against the walls,
then made four delicate chopping motions, and one by one the tables flattened to the
floor. To end the show he performed a complicated flourish and conjured an
enormous carpet that covered the entire hall, embellished with dueling lanes and
coloured sections to organize students by proficiency.
He nodded in approval at his work, "For those new here, practice duels last three
sets each unless agreed otherwise, harmful spells are restricted, and you will show
respect to everyone, even your opponents. If all the beginners would follow me near
the far doors please, those who consider themselves of intermediate level join the
prefects in the middle, and any advanced students stay on this side with Tonks. And
don't be too shy to change if you estimate incorrectly. Now off we go!"
Most of the Hufflepuffs and several others followed behind him, some seeming to
have humbleness already ingrained in their brains. Harry considered it could also be
a group mentality as well, but ignored it as Hermione began to walk toward the
center. He quickly caught up with her and grabbed her hand, pulling her back.
She appeared confused for a second but understood his meaning soon enough,
"You really think we can match third years Harry?" He nodded in response, "Aren't
you getting a little ahead of yourself? We can't use that here so I doubt we have
much of an advantage when we tire so quickly."
"We need new challenges, and I doubt they're that good since there wasn't even a
dueling club around when we arrived. But we can see what the middle is like first if
you want."
Which is exactly what they did, along with the majority of students in the hall.
Although some were attracted there for other reasons, namely one specific and eye
catching prefect, Gemma Farley. Gemma, Penny, and Percy were all there to help
out, but only one got mobbed by boys. It was easy to see her lip starting to twitch
from all the attention along with a small blush, but she hastily shook it off and began
ordering them about, putting on a scowl almost in imitation of Snape's. Penny,
Padma, Sue, and Hermione all stood together giggling at the spectacle, until they
heard Harry creeping up beside them to listen in. Which turned them around to stare
at him.

"What? Can't I laugh too?" He saw a few of their expressions, wondering why he
wasn't over there with them. "Hey! Don't group me in with all of them just because
she surprised me once. I'm a Ravenclaw after all." Except there's Kevin, Terry, and
Michael beside her, so I guess that doesn't mean much.
The girls looked surprised for an instant as if caught, but quickly went back to
whispers and giggles as they wandered over to help Gemma.
Leaving Harry alone and unprepared for the multiple stinging hexes that slammed
into his back. He fell to the ground in a strangled cry as the biting pain shot through
his skin, alerting attention back his way. Hermione and the rest ran back to him in
concern while Penny stalked over to a smirking Draco and gang as they tried to
retreat. Harry wandlessly cast Finite on himself to stop the stinging and turned back
to see her lay into the terrible trio.
"What in Merlin's bloody name do you think you're doing!?" She loomed over them in
a strictly controlled rage. The boys were cowed instantly in fear as if McGonagall
herself were there, yet Draco struggled to look up and respond.
"J-just practic..." He couldn't finish his thought under the weight of here piercing glare
and dropped his head again.
"Practicing how to attack someone from behind is it!? Where are your partners? Did
anyone give you permission to use that spell? Did anyone tell you to begin casting?"
She paused for the briefest moment to breath while they shriveled in humiliation, "I
thought not. Ten points and a detention from each of you. Now go to the beginner
section until you learn how to control your immature actions." She pointed in
command and they hurried away with the stares of the whole hall on them.
Claps resounded through the room as most of the first years wore expressions of
utter surprise at Penny's response. Everyone knew her as the calm and reasonable
perfect you could take your problems to, but now they were impressed. If slightly
intimidated as well. Gemma nodded to her in respect and tried to regain order,
putting the students back to finding partners as Percy stood staring with his mouth
hanging open. Penny walked over to Harry and the girls while they still looked
stunned.
"Are you alright Harry?" He nodded and sat up. "It was three spells that hit you
wasn't it?"
He nodded again and smiled up at her. "That sure was brilliant, thanks."
A hint of rosiness touched her cheeks but she ignored it, "We better get you to the

hospital, you're bound to be laid up for a few hours with three spells at once, even
with one of Poppy's potions."
Harry shook his head and stood up on his own, as every one of them tried to keep
him from moving too much, especially Hermione. "I'm fine, really. Barely even tingles
now, they must not have practiced much." Really it feels like a bees nest exploded
under my shirt a minute ago, but it only throbs now... Guess I'm lucky Madam Malkin
enchanted my clothes to help block harmful spells, and she seemed to know exactly
who from.
Penny shook her head in bemusement at boyish pride, "Lift up your robes then if you
can, let's see how little it hurts." Hermione and Padma giggled slightly while Harry
flushed in response.
"Is that really necessary?" A stern look said yes. So he suffered through the
embarrassment and pulled the back of his robe up.
"Huh. It appears you weren't bluffing after all." The other girls crowded around to
look as well, "You've got red marks all over your back, but they seem to be going
away..." She shook her head as Harry straightened his clothes back out. "Well, I still
say you should take a break as dueling will be difficult. But I won't mother you any
more. It's up to you."
"Let's get on with it then." And so they did.
After only three short duels with the most experienced second years in their area
were Harry and Hermione physically pushed into the advanced section by their
friends and fellow students. Harry gave a smug look at Hermione as they walked
over to get assigned partners. She roller her eyes at him, "OK, OK, you were right
already. Don't rub it in too much Mr. 'I'm a Ravenclaw.'
"Sure, I'll save it for later when you get bossy again." He chuckled as she elbowed
him lightly.
Tonks turned around with an affable grin to inspect them as they arrived, "Wotcher
firsties. Already moving up, what d'you know. Alrighty, try Cho and Katie after they're
done, you pick." Oddly, she didn't ask for Harry and Hermione's names but seemed
to be writing them down anyway.
The second year girls were evenly matched, but both were inexperienced, shielding
at every spell that managed to get cast and getting clumsy as they tried to speed up.
Harry guessed it was something that was probably taught in last year's defense
class, but wasn't practiced much. As it only took one lucky reflection a moment later

to bounce a sneezing jinx back at Katie and end the duel. Hermione nodded at Harry
and left to cast the counter-jinx on Katie and partner up.
That left Harry facing an anxious Ravenclaw, eyeing him with a coy smile, or
perhaps she was simply curious about his dueling skill. He'd seen her many times
before in their common room mingling with groups of friends, but never talked to her.
Watching her pull a stray lock of hair behind her ear while acting shy made him
notice why other boys talked about her so much. She was pretty, exceedingly so with
her dark silky hair and intense eyes, although as Harry walked up to her she frowned
for a split second while glancing away. Then replaced it by a less than sincere smile
aimed at him.
Harry shook hands with her anyway and asked to duel. After agreeing, he turned
around to see the likely cause for her frown. Hermione was beaming happily as she
showed Katie the necklace he gave her. Shrugging, Harry finished his set of duels
against Cho swiftly, by constantly distracting her with plain green sparks that
unconsciously drew her shield further up with each hit, then catching her exposed
feet with the jelly legged jinx. Surprisingly it worked twice in a row, until she became
frustrated with only holding up a shield and got hit by sparks while trying to perform a
full body bind at the last.
She ran off not seeming happy at all, and Harry was left to watch Hermione
gradually tease Katie out from behind her own shield. That is until Tonks appeared
beside him with a small laugh. "Not very good with girls are you?"
"Horrible usually..." He looked up at her wild hair with a bemused expression, "Got
any tips?"
"Oh don't ask me, I am one and I barely understand them. Isn't that the strangest
though, they seem drawn to you anyway. Like how puppies can pick the one person
in a room that will step on their tail by accident." She taped her boots against the
floor, "But... hmm, I suppose if Professor Sprout were here, she'd say something like,
'Consider their feelings before you act.' Does that help?"
Harry laughed faintly, "I guess. But that's a lot harder than it sounds."
"Oh? Like accurate wand movements? I swear, yours were so sloppy I'm surprised
you didn't curse your own legs." She peered down at him with an playful expression.
"Ah, well, I've never been very good at them. Lots of practice seems to make up for it
though."
"Mmm, I bet. Better work on that if you want to duel anyone with experience. Have a

go at the Weasleys after your friend is done."

"Right." Replied Harry uneasily as Tonks was called away to fix a jinx gone wrong.
Hermione walked up beside him a few minutes later, "What did you do to Cho? She's
almost crying on the bench over there."
He shrugged again, "I'm not sure, but it I think I might have a bigger problem.
Flitwick's new assistant was just commenting on how bad my wand movements
were."
"You think she suspects, or maybe he told her? Though, what does it matter? I
thought only younger students shouldn't know."
"It seems suspicious is all. Be careful please?"
She looked at him in concern but didn't argue, "Alright."
Harry and Hermione then walked over to Fred and George a little apprehensive, as
they recently caught sight of the twins humiliating some second years and now
seemed eager for more. They were currently watching Lee struggle to hold his own
against a confident Hufflepuff of all people. But after one sluggish wand wave, Lee
collapsed backwards from a perfectly timed impedimenta. The twins jeered in good
humor and then noticed the two first years beside them.
"Decided to take a break after all Harry? Back feeling like you landed on a porcupine
yet?" George appraised him humorously.
Fred grinned, "At least those slimy Slytherin got a quality lashing, and you get to
watch some real talent now! We'll show you how it's done when Tonks sends over a
couple more muggins."
"That would be us." Harry said with a sardonic grin.
"Nice try, but your delivery is a little dry. Try it again with more feeling."
The twin's brows began to furrow as neither Harry or Hermione blinked. "Quit that
now. Your serious faces can't convince us of everything."
"What do you think we do in the dueling room all the time? Paint?" Asked an
impatient Hermione.
"Is that what muggles are calling it now? Here we're fairly traditional and simply say
snogging, or is it a bit dodgier than that?" Teased Fred.

The threatening glare she gave him was the best she'd ever shown, making both
Fred and George flinch. "Get over there and prepare to duel already." She
commanded them with a grim look.
Harry couldn't help smiling at the expression of severe displeasure she wore, glad it
wasn't aimed at him. They paired off with Fred avoiding Hermione, seemingly afraid
of what unpleasant curses she might throw. While George smiled sheepishly at her,
looking ready to defend. When they started Fred came out aggressively, throwing
strong tongue-tying curses and disarming charms, yet Harry was able to dodge them
all, seeing where his wand movements started and avoiding where they would end.
He'd been practicing that with Hermione the last few weeks to help train her how to
aim where she wanted when casting normally. Fred was extremely surprised when a
pumpkin formed over his head in the middle of casting.
Blocking the first few angry curses from Hermione, George attempted to lure her into
being reckless by stepping out from behind his shield, but on the second attempt he
got hit in the face with Glacius. For while Harry practiced dodging in their practices,
she was learning to predict where he would move by the position of his feet.
It took much longer to finish the duels after the twins got serious, yet the result was
inevitable with their lack of actual experience. Although it still came as a shock to the
twins, especially when Hermione grew confident enough to intentionally reflect a
slowly cast stunning spell, not back at George but at Fred, hitting him right after
getting his legs locked together from Harry and losing his final set. It wasn't powerful
enough to render him unconscious but still knocked him to the floor in a daze, which
confused George for the split second needed for Hermione to punch the wind out of
him with a Flipendo.
School bells quietly chimed the hour soon after, signaling it was time to let the older
students have a turn. Some had already arrived to watch the end of the younger
students duels, looking amazed at how many attended. Harry and Hermione helped
Fred and George up but got teased further at how they could train and snog at the
same time. This time Hermione only rolled her eyes and laughed silently.
While exiting through to the entrance hall together, Harry and Hermione were
abruptly caught by the back of their collars. Fred and George were ignored and
already heading down to the kitchens for a snack.
"Where d'you think you're going?" They looked around to see Tonks, wearing a
mischievous grin.
"Ehm... to our dorms? Hermione asked, slightly worried.

"Oh no you don't... you're sticking with me, and watching some real duels."
She turned them back around, directed them towards the far end of the hall, and sat
them down on the side bench between the intermediate and advanced sections.
Then flopped down beside Harry, to watch as Flitwick gave another, longer speech
to the senior students.
While he was talking Hermione risked a few words, "Miss Tonks? If you don't mind
us asking, why are you here?"
"I was asked to help teach, what else am I going to do? Join the quidditch team?"
Maybe spy on us, and see why we haven't died after all the attempts on our lives?
"What about your Auror training? Doesn't that take up a lot of time?" Inquired Harry,
trying to sound curious.
"Ah, well, I only started this year. If I refused this request I might be cleaning out
stained and crusted cauldrons for months, or guarding the door to an empty room,
simply to see how long I could stay awake. Trust me, this is better." Tonks glanced
back and forth from Harry to Hermione, "But why don't you ask me what's really on
your minds?"
Harry dispensed with propriety as Tonks looked willing to explain, "What do you want
with us?"
She chuckled, "I have to admit, you two are a peculiar pair but it's not about what I
want." She scanned the room for watching eyes, cast a quick nonverbal spell and
lowered her voice, "I was asked to come teach, only it wasn't for the dueling club
specifically. It was you two rapscallions. - My guess is someone thinks I can help you
learn what no one else can... So, which one of you is the secret Metamorphmagus?"
"The what?"
Hermione answered instead, "It's a rare wizard or witch who can change their
appearance without a wand Harry. I thought you read that book on unusual magic
conditions." She addressed Tonks then, "But what does that have to do with
anything?"
"Well... I would be the best one to teach you about it, since I am one." Tonks
squeezed her eyes shut and wrinkled her nose in apparent concentration. Then
blinked a few times and looked at them. Her normally dark twinkling eyes were gone,
changed to a bright luminous green, matching Harry's. "Born this way, and I was

guessing one of you was too, but not anymore from your looks of surprise. Now
then, what's so special about you two, other than the obvious?" She nodded to
Harry's scar.
"Er - that's neat and all, but how do we know you aren't simply making everything
else up? Does Professor Flitwick know about all this?" Harry studied her expressions
carefully, attempting to determine her honesty.
"Most of it, but not all. Apparently he's under the impression that only one of you
might need my help. I even had to promise him I wouldn't teach you things you didn't
already know, but I don't think that'll be a problem, do you?"
"How - how can you know that?" Hermione was trying to puzzle out her full meaning
when Flitwick ended his speech and dispersed the students.
"Dumbledore." Harry stated flatly, "He knows somehow and has connections in the
Auror department it seems. I asked for help and this is probably all his idea. So what
have you been told exactly?" He watched the older students choose their sections
and start pairing up, as he tried to guess when he might have let their secret slip.
"Let's just say my mentor owes him a couple favors and sent over his most trusted
pupil. Though to be on the safe side I should hear what you know first. In case I
actually do reveal too much. I was told to say, 'star wars' to convince you I'm on your
side." Tonks winked reassuringly at Harry's wide eyes.
Exchanging a short conversation by simply looking at each other, Harry and
Hermione decided to trust her with the basics until Harry could talk to Dumbledore
again. Hermione started, "Is it safe to say it here?" Tonks nodded, but cast another
spell around them to ease their fears. "Then we have learnt to cast nonverbal magic
and know incantations and wand movements aren't necessary."
Tonks eyebrows rose in expectation, "That's it? That's all you want to tell me? My
mother's pet Kneazle knows that much." She said with a teasing grin.
"For now." Confirmed Harry.
"Oh, well, fine." Tonks harrumphed, "I guess I can work with that, for now. Why don't
you two watch for the best duelers while I go keep up appearances." She ran off with
her energetic attitude back in place.
Some of the sixth and seventh years were giving Harry and Hermione scrutinizing
looks, but decided to ignore them after Tonks called their attention back to dueling.
She began commenting and criticizing their spells and movements as if she was a

veteran Auror in charge of recruitment, instead of the trainee that was only one or
two years older. Harry and Hermione whispered to each other in discussion, first
about Tonks, if she was trustworthy and what she might teach them, then about the
people dueling, their different styles and abilities, and finally how Dumbledore could
have found out about Hermione learning nonverbal spells and who he might have
shared it with.
It wasn't long before Tonks was back, sitting beside them under the pretense of
taking a break. "You can have one guess each and an explanation of why your
choice is the best duelist. Go."
The duo shared a look and Hermione began again. "I think his name is Darren, the
seventh year Gryffindor on the end. He looks the most confident and uses really
powerful spells that overpowers his competitors."
"Wrong, next."
Hermione twisted her lips in annoyance as Harry tried his hand. "Presuming you're
not including yourself or Professor Flitwick, then it's probably that Slytherin a few
rows down. He seems the most vicious, willing to bend the rules, use any advantage
at his disposal, and not worry about decorum or pride."
"Of course none of us would even stand a chance against Professor Flitwick. And
you're wrong as well. - As I'm sure you're dying to know now, it is none other than
that plain, short, sixth year from Ravenclaw, Alana." She nodded to the girl right
across them. "Can either of you guess why?"
"She's underestimated and provides a small target?" Ventured Hermione.
Tonks shook her head, "That might help a little and make her hard for you to notice,
but no."
Harry studied the girl for a second, how she stood, held her wand, prepared, and
then he saw her cast, the same instant her opponent said go. Then she sent two
more simple but different spells right after the first. That's when it hit him. "She's fast.
Faster to respond, faster to change tactics, and faster at spellcasting than anyone
else."
Tonks appraised him, "Blimey, wasn't expecting you to get that until the end of the
day. But I guess you might have seen the benefits of speed firsthand in your own
dueling practice together. D'you know what the secret to her speed is?"
"...Simplicity?" Hermione seemed unsure after her unusual stretch of wrong

answers.
"Right you are. No unneeded movements, no flashy spells, and no delays. She
doesn't stand out, she simply wins. Might lack some experience or power only being
a sixth year, yet makes up for it with speed. She's the only one at Hogwarts that
competes in the international dueling competitions, and the only one with a proper
coach around here."
They both looked confused, "But we've heard other people bragging about their
dueling coaches before."
"Oh, loads of rich parents pay for rubbish dueling instructors who think they know
everything, but none like hers." Tonks waved her wand again, casting another
nonverbal spell. "You'll both grow your own styles and tactics over time but the one
thing everyone should practice, is speed. That's where your early knowledge of
nonverbal spells comes in most handy. Because while powerful and flashy spells
look important, even the simplest magic can defeat an opponent. Since that is all you
have right now, you'll be learning to use it."
She stood up and stretched, "Well, that's all I had planned tonight for nonverbal
magic. You two can stay and watch until curfew or go play if you like. But next time I
won't underestimate you cheeky swots." Giving a chipper wave she returned to
coach the others.
"She's... interesting." Observed Harry.
Hermione nodded along, "Quite."
oOoOo
Ravenclaw library was usually a busy place, filled with industrious youths
researching, revising, and running around with books in hand attempting to learn as
much as they possibly could, or pretending to at least. The exception being early
weekend mornings, where even Professor Flitwick encouraged them to rest and
enjoy themselves with a long breakfast, entertaining games, or Merlin forbid, actual
exercise.
Despite it all, sat three intrepid Ravenclaws around a modest table, striving to remain
patient. They were waiting for a fourth. Foolishly having agreed to not go exploring
on their own, and wait outside the most amazing room in existence. It was an
onerous task, and they did not fare well. Sue leaned over the table, idly scratching
out notes from an exotic Herbology text she brought from home; Padma was
repetitively practicing her summoning charm on one of Harry's broken wands without

much success; and Harry entertained himself by tossing the mysterious doorknob
into the air while planning what he would ask of Dumbledore next.
Sue paused for a moment in thought, "Didn't you mention you had a meeting with
Hagrid this weekend Harry? What was it you were planning to collect?"
"Flitterby moths, and he owled yesterday, changing it to next week. But I doubt it'll be
warm enough to find any for a few more months anyway." He resumed throwing the
doorknob and catching it.
"Would you quit that Harry, it's very distracting." Pleaded Padma as she tried to
concentrate.
"That's the whole point though." He kept at it.
"You mean to say, you've been intentionally annoying me the past ten minutes? Are
you merely hoping I won't go spare and start cursing your ears off, or is that your
plan as well?" She squinted at him in mock loathing. Then stopped for some reason.
Harry grinned at her curious expression, "Actually it was a distraction for me, but-"
Padma held up her hand to him, interrupting, "Why... is the Grey Lady trying to
murder you with her eyes?"
Both Harry and Sue looked up in confusion at her words. Padma pointed across the
room by the fireplace, to the ghostly apparition that seemed on the edge of violence,
if that was possible. Her normally serene beauty was contorted with fury, her delicate
hands twisted in anguish and even her flowing dress was taught as if in outage.
Although upon noticing their attention, she turned away sharply, floating through a
bookcase.
"What was that about? Are we really not supposed to be here on the weekend or
something?" Harry shivered.
Rolling her eyes, Padma replied, "She wasn't looking at us Harry, only you. - At what
you were... doing?"
He held up the doorknob in question. "This? You think she knows something about it,
or does she hate being annoyed even more than you?"
"Try doing it again, see if she comes back." Suggested Sue.
Throwing it up gave no reaction, until it clapped into his hand did the Grey Lady

appear again with a deadly glare for Harry. He held the artifact away from him,
moving it up and down as her sharp gaze followed its course. That confirmed it
enough for him, so he gently set it down on the table and looked at her expectantly.
The Ravenclaw ghost let it go and studied him intently, staining her nonexistent
muscles in frustration, she then set her mouth in a determined frown and flowed
towards them.
Sue and Padma sat up straight in apprehension, quietly scooting close together and
whispering to each other while keeping their eyes on the spectacle. She arrived a
few feet away from the table and glanced at the doorknob in longing, then returned
her glare to Harry, allowing him to speak first.
Memories connected in his mind as he felt her faint presence, "Are you the ghost
that threatened me before?"
"Yes." Was her only answer, as the girls eyes twitched back and forth from her to
Harry.
"Why?"
"You should already know." Her gaze flickered to the doorknob again.
"Are you concerned about the room? And this?" Harry indicated to his discovery as
she nodded imperceptibly. "Why? Why is this so special?"
Her eyebrows frowned in distress, "Do you mock me? No..." She shook her head at
the realization, "Do they teach you nothing of history? Are you all so lost that you
cannot see the key to Hogwarts as it stares you in the face?" A single tear ran down
her cheek and disappeared into mist.

Chapter 24 - Forgotten
Author's Note: Sorry for the long delay, you know how it goes.
Chapter 24
Forgotten
Harry could barely comprehend the words as they left the ghost's mouth. Too many
stray thoughts and assumptions were fighting for attention when the jumble of words
hit him. His mind seemed to grind to a halt while a string of empathy jerked at his
emotions upon seeing her silver tears. Slowly but surely his subconscious was
catching him up as words began clicking into place. Lost, History, Hogwarts, Key?
He stuttered while trying to form a response, "I-I'm s-sorry?" That isn't going to help
much if I'm going to get to the bottom of this. Taking a deep breath he began again,
"I'm not sure I understand, but you're really saying this is a key to Hogwarts
somehow? ... Why would a castle need a single key, or doorknob for a key? What is
it used for and is this The Key we're talking about?"
"You know so little, yet you carry so much..." The Grey Lady shook her head while
wiping away her tears, "No. I shall not accept this affront as the rest seem to. I shall
give you one warning. Do not abuse the privileges and secrets you have found, or
you will not be welcomed back next year." She swept away in a beautiful glow of
silvery mist.
Harry stammered, "What? - Wait, why? Isn't, this a school? Shouldn't you help teach
students instead of threatening them?"
His words froze the Grey Lady's drifting movement while her dress seemed to sway
with indecision. She turned around to stare at Harry, searching for something in his
eyes he could only guess at. Finally coming to a decision, she nodded, "Wishing to
learn is one trait you show that even I can sympathize with. So be it. I shall answer
your questions, if your answers to mine are worthy."
"Okay?"
The noncommittal response prompted her to begin, "What is more important, the
story you are told, or the story you create?"
"A riddle? Hmm." It didn't sound like a regular riddle to Harry. He hesitated before

beginning, wondering what a Ravenclaw ghost could want to hear. Some witty reply?
A technically correct response? Or a meaningful thought revealing his character?
Her intent expression made him guess the last but he choose a mix of the three. "If
you forced me to choose one or the other, I would say it's the story I create. But the
truth is more important than either."
"Yes... sometimes you must reject all known answers and seek another. - Second,
what is the nature of all existence?"
"Forty two? Er - I mean, that's a little harder than a normal riddle..."
She aimed a severe glower at him, demanding the correct answer. Taking more time
than the last question, he tried to guess her motivation. Ghosts must be more than
stored knowledge and complex responses like portraits. They emulate emotions or
possibly even have them, meaning they hold values. If they're magical impressions
of real people then they might value what people of their time valued. For a
Ravenclaw that should still be wit, wisdom, and of course, learning.
"I could make any number of guesses, but frankly, I don't know. Yet I would like to
find out."
Hesitating a moment, she nodded in acceptance, "Yes, you must admit your lack of
knowledge before seeking answers. - Finally, Who are you?"
Harry looked at her with a wry grin, mumbling at the absurdity of it all, "These keep
getting better. I am me."
She cocked an eyebrow at him, expecting more. "Tautologies are not an answer."
"I'm guessing you don't want my name then either..." Realizing he might screw up
any chance of an explanation, he took another deep breath, and thought it over, then
shrugged. "I am my past, I am the chemicals that make up my body, I am part of
nature, I am who I decide to be."
A hint of a smile curled up her lips at last, "That is sufficient." She began to float
away yet again.
"Wait!" Harry protested, "Please. You said you would answer my questions..."
Her progress halted once more and she returned to face him, "So I did. Pursuing the
truth in the face of defeat is the answer to the question you will never be asked. You
have passed." She crossed her arms in reluctant acceptance, "The Key, you so
casually toss about was created by the designer of Hogwarts. Crafted to lock and

unlock the secrets of this castle for one able to understand its purpose. Hogwarts
itself chooses the owner, as the owner chooses its shape. In the past it was coveted
by those wishing to see the castle harmed, by those seeking power, and others
chasing mysteries. None have found it by design, and few have been granted the
privilege at all. Ages have past since the last owner, and fact seems to have faded to
legend. However I shall reiterate my last warning, as I did for her. Do not abuse this
gift, or you will lose it."
Another tear began to form in her misty eyes as she set her jaw to emphasize the
gravity of her statement.
"How, how do you know all of this?" Asked Sue, trying to appear calm.
"I was there." With one last glance at Harry, the Grey Lady fled through the nearest
wall.
Harry sat gazing at the spot she vanished, trying to blink away his confusion.
"What the hell Harry? Where did you even get that?" Padma poked him, trying to get
his attention when he didn't respond. That's when Hermione finally entered the
library and took a seat beside them.
"Sorry about that, Professor McGonagall was grilling me about my transfiguration
progress recently, and for some reason asking about how much time I spend with
you, Harry. Did you tell her something...?" She looked around at her friend's peculiar
expressions, becoming curious. "What happened, it looks like you saw a gho- I
mean, a grim?"
Harry finally nodded in response and picked up the doorknob to examine it,
"Something like that, yeah."
oOoOo
January passed by quicker than ever, between weekly dueling practice, excessive
homework, catching Sue and Padma up with work in the disappearing room, and
researching the key to Hogwarts. They made progress on all but the last. Because
curiously, not a single book, scroll, or tome in either official library or their private one
in the disappearing room contained so much as a passing reference to the key of
Hogwarts. Neither did they catch sight of the Grey Lady again or talk to another
ghost who seemed to know anything. Harry was hesitant to bring up the topic again
with Dumbledore, being afraid of how he might react. It all made Hermione wonder if
the story was some kind of inside joke or strange Ravenclaw prank taken way too
seriously.

Yet the other projects were easy by comparison.

With Tonks advising them during dueling club and assigning special practice with a
series of spells she wanted them to practice, most of which they already knew, she
began planning how to tutor them privately. Homework only delayed them long
enough to make the appropriate appearances in the Ravenclaw library, before they
escaped to the disappearing room. Often meeting the Weasley twins on the way
there or finding them waiting in a nearby hallway, planning something. Padma and
Sue were both impressed by the amount of books that were organized, the items
collected, and the potions lab the twins set up, yet were more interested in Harry and
Hermione's moke skin pouches than anything in the room. They were promised,
along with Fred and George that they could help check the traps to find more.
One problem arose early on though, which grated on Harry's nerves more than
anything else. Lockhart. After his bumbling introduction to the class, he seemed
slightly humbled enough to attempt teaching out of their original book. But that didn't
last a single day, not after finding out that the famous Harry Potter was attending this
year. Every class from then on was filled with questions, invitations, and offers of
advice for Harry. All the while Lockhart told stories of his travels, how he dealt with
this monster and that one from multiple books he brought in, blatantly trying to
impress whoever could stomach paying attention to him.
It took three whole weeks of direct refusals and one day with eight denied requests
for Harry to join him at the front of the class, before Lockhart finally seemed to get
the hint. None of which endeared Harry to other students and only seemed to fuel a
dislike from others. Personified by Lavender's increasingly petulant glares aimed his
way, and some feeble attempts to trip or bump into him whenever he walked by.
What bothered him to a lesser degree was that others seemed to ignore it all, as if
there was nothing to be done. Like he should accept what happened when he
spurned advances from admirers and simply suffer through. While he did get many
sympathetic looks from his friends and even Parvati at times, Hermione took it even
worse than he did. Looking guilty and distressed, as if Lockhart and the others were
her fault.
Trying to confront the problem only made Hermione avoid the subject, Lavender
ignore him, and Lockhart appear confused, then offer him more advice. So Harry
relented and put up with it after that, assuming no one else had an answer either and
it would go away with time.
It appeared to work, for a while.

That is until February came around and the topic of discussion turned to Valentines
Day. Harry was sitting in Potions class, expertly mashing up mistletoe berries for
their forgetfulness potion when Hannah, his usual partner mentioned it.
"What are you and Hermione going to do for Valentines day Harry? I hear Professor
Lockhart has something big planned." She seemed so cheerful and innocent despite
bringing up such a serious topic in such a dismal classroom.
The buzz of conversation around them dwindled as attention was drawn their way,
yet somehow Snape appeared not to notice the change in atmosphere, which he
was usually quite adept at interrupting. For all the protests Harry might give, or
excuses he might offer in the face of such a blunt and presumptuous question, he
knew it would be utterly useless. Even though there were no accurate rumors or
eyewitnesses to any incriminating actions they'd taken, it was still commonly known
that Harry and Hermione were 'together,' basically being confirmed by sitting beside
each other in the Great Hall throughout the winter holidays. He resigned himself to
the torments that would ensue at being the only first year couple, but tried to
downplay the idea without resisting and making it worse.
"I don't know, haven't decided."
"Oh, come on! You've got to have something in mind. What is it?" Hanna tugged on
her single long braid in enthusiasm.
"Yeah Harry, what have you got planned? Share." Padma echoed beside him,
wearing a impish grin. With his real problems starting to fade away, she seemed to
take that as a sign she could return to teasing him.
Harry shook his head in mild amusement, as Lisa and Susan turned around in front
of him. "We can help if you don't have any ideas?" Offered Susan, trying to be
helpful.
"That's okay... I can manage."
"I'm sure you're just dying to tell us all, aren't you Potter? Going to have a wedding in
the Ravenclaw library I bet." Zachariah Smith oozed with sarcasm. Although this was
apparently the wrong thing to make fun of, because every single girl within earshot
suddenly impaled him an icy glare. He flinched as if physical hit, and turned away
quickly.
"Don't worry Harry, I'm sure you'll think of something nice." Continued Hannah as if
her housemate hadn't spoken.

A screeching chair interrupted any further conversation and Snape swept out from
behind his desk to the front of the classroom. He pulled a greasy stand of hair out of
his face and eye'd Harry. "If there is this much talk going on, I assume you are all
done with your potions and ready to hand them in. You have one minute to get a
sample on my desk."
Quiet groans could be heard around the classroom as Snape beat the chalkboard
with a thick piece of chalk, detailing their homework for the day. Harry and Hannah
hurried to put in their last ingredient even without the proper stirring, like much of the
class. Hoping it was at least passable, they all filled up vials and deposited them on
the rack. Harry brought his up near the end of the line, not wanting to be shoved in
the process if anyone was blaming him. But upon getting close, he noticed an
unpleasant but familiar smell. Troll.
The entire line of vials exploded in his face. Throwing him and another person back
into the rows of desks, tipping over cauldron after cauldron and spraying leftover
forgetfulness potion everywhere. Screams erupted through the classroom and died
again just as fast when more forgetfulness potion spilled over to erase the memory
of what was happening. It soon started up again as the less affected students began
registering the scene before them.
Harry lay slumped under some fallen desks with shards of glass and crystal
embedded everywhere, intermixed with a dozen splotches of differently colored
potion. The Potions Master was off to the side, sprawled face first in a puddle of
milky white liquid, more unfinished forgetfulness potion. While Ernie and a few others
who were at the back of the class began frantically trying to clean off everyone and
everything in sight.
Padma was helped up by Sue as they dazedly read the words on the chalkboard,
'Forgetfulness Potion essay,' and then saw Harry. With one look between them, Sue
ran out the door to find a teacher while Padma cleared a path towards Harry, starting
to cry on the way there. Just then a house elf popped into the room, followed by
twenty more.
oOoOo
Most of the students only lost a day or two of their time at school, some lost a week,
while the unlucky ones lost more. Professor Snape only forgot a few hours, due to
his size and a tolerance against potions people guessed. Harry on the other hand,
lost everything.
He lay in a hospital bed gazing up at the ceiling, trying to place where he was. The

old white stone didn't ring any bells and he couldn't see past the white curtains
surrounding his bed either. By the light filtering through the windows, it looked to be
near evening. Guessing that he must have been hurt because his face stung slightly,
he tried to remember the last thing that happened. It was all too clear, the moment
he waved his new wand and a tree grew out of a table. Did it collapse the roof down
on top of us like Olivander warned? Or was that all a dream? It seems so
unbelievable now... Maybe I finally cracked from all the secrets, and this is some
psychiatric hospital my relatives threw me in?
No. That's only my fear talking. It all made sense when he explained the story. The...
giant? Something that starts with, an H? Ha? Hur? Whatever. I'm probably in some
wizarding hospital since the wooden furniture and architecture looks old and worn
like that shopping district, kind of. OK, what are you supposed to do when you wake
up from an injury? Check everything over.
Harry sat up slightly and lifted his hands to his face, feeling for injuries but came up
with nothing substantial. He itched a little at a sore spot on his cheek, and somehow
poked his finger. Trying again, he used two fingernails and pulled out a tiny sliver of
glass. Did the ceiling in Ollivander's have a sunlight? No, must have been the
windows or something. Patting himself down and testing out all his limbs, he found
nothing else that hurt. Even his glasses were gone, yet he could see perfectly, better
than he could ever remember. This has to be a wizard hospital if they could fix my
eyes.
Alright, time to test the skills.
With the slightest of effort he levitated the sliver of glass in the air, made it dance
around, and set it back down. That seems almost too easy... Did claiming two wands
enhance my power somehow? Who knows, but I don't have them now. None of my
possessions are even in sight, but I'll worry about that later. Don't want to risk
sending thoughts to anyone after the indecent in the vault, so I'll skip that for now.
Forcing lightning to crackle out from the tips of his fingers was easier as well. That
left only the one more.
With a deep breath Harry pushed open his sixth sense, and was flooded with a buzz
of static and the feeling of unusual people everywhere, at a distance he'd never
reached before. He pulled back quickly, with the oddest combination of emotions
he'd ever felt. Annoyance, respect, amusement, admiration, disappointment,
longing? And... lo-liking someone?
What the bloody hell happened?

Ever so slowly, he tried to reach out again, easily ignoring the buzz to find one
person that he felt something more than a simple attachment to. He found her, close
by, next to a few others that felt familiar as well. How do I know it's a her? It's
definitely not my aunt, and none of the others feel like anyone I know. Except... I do.
They all feel strange, like the mailman, and... everyone in that shopping alley! Of
course, they must be all witches and wizards, but, why do I feel so close to them?
Especially the one. Some kind of spell? Crap, here they come. Pretend to be
asleep? No, they're wizards, they could probably tell. Pretend to... nothing. I'm lost
and alone in a different world here. Have to be on guard but not act like a nutter.
That's all I can hope for.
The curtain swung open to the charitable face of an older woman in an archaic
nurse's uniform. Not the girl he felt, but right behind... She swung the curtain back
further after seeing he was awake. Revealing three other people, two young girls
and one exceedingly old man with a long white beard in strange blue robes. All of
them seemed familiar through his power, but not his memory. Then the nurse
stepped out of the way of the fourth person, a cute bushy haired girl putting on a
brave half-smile. Their eyes locked together.
She looked on the edge of tears, appearing to have already cried through more than
her fair share already. He couldn't help but feel sorry for her, and much more. Half of
his brain was telling him they knew each other, but the other half was trying to
question every assumption the first half made because he couldn't remember why.
He made himself smile slightly, hoping that would help somehow. But it didn't. She
broke into tears and ran to him, wrapping him in a tight hug and crying onto his
shoulder. Mumbling something about pictures and memories in his ear. Although he
knew nothing about her, he couldn't help hugging her back. The pleasant scent of
her hair felt like it reminded him of something, but he couldn't tell what.
The old man smiled reassuringly and ushered the other girls to the opposite side of
the bed. Taking a position at the foot, he spoke evenly. "How do you feel Harry?"
He knows my name, how? Did the giant tell him? Can wizards simply find your
name? Is this all a trick? Maybe, but unlikely. This is all pointing towards something I
don't like the thought of. He's expecting an answer, going to get worried if I don't
reply soon. "I... I don't know." That brought on more crying from the girl hugging him,
but she lifted her head to look at him through watery eyes. Then buried her face in
his shoulder again, hugging him tighter.
"What's the last thing you remember Harry?" Asked the Asian girl beside him.
Damn. Fuck! I knew that's what this was. How could I have lost my memories of all

these people!? His mind reeled but somehow kept an even tone when he spoke, "I'm
not sure... what's the date?"
"It is February, Saturday the eighth. You are in the Hogwarts hospital and have been
asleep for two whole days." The bearded man seemed nice to Harry, not pressuring
him too much, but clearly concerned.
"...The year?" He managed to croak out.
"Oh god!" The crying girl shivered beside him.
"Nineteen ninety two, you have been attending Hogwarts for five months now. You
have lost your memory in an accident during potions class. Normally the effects are
treatable, to an extent, but with the amount and variety of different unfinished
forgetfulness potions that you were exposed to, might make things more
complicated. Could you perhaps help us discover how bad your memory loss is?"
Harry used his free hand to cover his eyes and sighed. He felt slightly better now
that he knew, but a sinking sensation in his gut began to steal the breath out of his
lungs. The girl hugging him was somehow keeping him grounded enough to not lash
out and destroy something, but his feelings for her began to make him feel
uncomfortable. She pulled away when he didn't answer. He could feel her eyes on
him, and hear the other girl that hadn't spoken yet walk around to her and try
comforting her.
The crying girl tried to speak between her sobs, "Why aren't you saying anything,
Harry? - Do, - do you not remember us?"
It was obvious by the crack in her voice that this was one of her worst fears turned
real. He wanted to lie to her, to pretend it was all OK, but something held him back.
He tried to wipe the sleep or tears out of his eyes, buying time to think of something
to say or do. But it was useless. He was lost now more than ever.
"No." He answered, condemning the last shred of hope to die.
Walking forward, the nurse put a hand on his shoulder and handed him a glass full of
something to drink. "He just needs some time to process it, is all. To rest and
recuperate. Don't worry, they were only forgetfulness potions, we should have him
back in no time."
Harry opened his eyes to see the scared look on the crying girl, supported by the two
other girls as they tried to slowly lead her away. "I'm sorry." He breathed as they left
his line of sight.

With a delicate wave of his hand, the white haired man steadied the glass in Harry's
grasp through magic, keeping it from tipping. "If you need anything, simply ask Harry.
Before I go, I would like you to know that I am someone you trusted, with the force of
your past." He gave Harry a small wink, and a nod at shared secrets. Then left when
Harry didn't respond.
The nurse turned back to him. "Drink that up when you can, and try taking another
nap. If you're no longer tired I have some entertaining books on hand that you can
read. But you'll have to do without eating for a bit while the drought does its work.
Alright?" Harry nodded and she left to another part of the room.
Ughhhhh... I lost more than five months of my life! Knowledge, memories, friends...
He made a first and smacked his forehead with it a few times in frustration.
This couldn't be some elaborate plot to manipulate me, could it? But who would care
enough and what could they gain? Nothing, that's likely common paranoia. Even if
I'm supposed to be famous, the chance that someone would know my secret about
imitating the force and could train girls my age to pose as extremely convincing,
forgotten friends is absurd.
I guess I didn't really lose them though, or my feelings. But could it possibly be the
same? Can anything be the same? Will I still like them, or will they still like me?
Maybe I can get the memories back... through magic? Or, are they still there...?
Closing his eyes, Harry banished his worries and doubts that threatened to
overwhelm him. They didn't leave completely, but it was enough. He entered his
memory palace and his whole world was gone. His life destroyed. Most of the
shelves and floor space in the entryway was empty. Devoid of any thought of life or
memories he had placed there. Yet it almost felt as if he could reach out and touch
the lost knowledge, pulling it back into existence through sheer force of will. He tried,
grabbing for empty space on a table, willing a memory to appear, to bring it back to
life, but no. It was like reaching through a cloud. He could tell something was
supposed to be there, could almost see the shape it might have taken, but it slipped
through his fingers.
Thoughts and memories of the distant past tried to replace the emptiness, filling up
the room again like it used to be back at the Dursleys. He shook his head in refusal,
discarding them once more. He would find it all again and replace what he lost, he
already decided that before even thinking about it.
Peering around the living room showed old furniture moved slightly, different shaped
cabinets, his favorite desk chair changed to an strange multicolored recliner, and a

bookshelf gone from beside it, replaced by hazy and empty frames. It was a corner
of the room he pretended to sit in and think, surrounded by his favorite books and
things with his thoughts on them. That's when one frame caught his eye. It wasn't
empty. Looking closer revealed someone, in a grey knitted cap, smiling happily in the
wizarding shopping alley. Diagon Alley. It was the same girl. The one he felt
connected to. The crying girl who hugged him. Hermione.
Wait! How did I know that? Did I catch her name then? Did her parents say it in
passing? Did I just do something to remember? How do I do it again?
Cold liquid dripped onto his shirt, catching him off guard and he was back in the
hospital. He gently wiped at it and began sipping at the grass flavored concoction
still in his other hand. A lump in the bed that wasn't there before caught his attention.
He tapped it with a fingertip, revealing a hard object, rounded under the sheet yet it
didn't roll away. Pulling the white cloth back revealed, a brass doorknob of all things.
But stranger still, engraved in the front was the same image of Hermione, smiling up
at him.
What the...?
oOoOo
It wasn't until the next morning that Harry was allowed visitors again, but this time it
was only one at a time. Hermione arrived first of course. She appeared composed
this time with her hair combed and eyes dried, carrying a few books and a pouch on
each hip. He sat up with an encouraging smile for her.
She returned it bravely, "I'm glad you're okay, but you don't have to pretend for me.
It's okay if you don't remember me right now. It was only, a shock yesterday.
Everyone else only lost a few days or so, a month at the most. I just wasn't
expecting... No matter, I wanted to help answer any questions you might have and
bring you some of your things." She set down the books and unstrapped one of the
pouches, laying it beside him.
"I'm sorry about yesterday too, but I do remember you, Hermione, in a way."
Her eyes flew open in surprise, but she tried to keep herself restrained. "How...
much?"
"The first day we met, in Diagon Alley." A frown touched her lips but was gone in a
flash, "I remember more somehow, but don't understand why. Madam Pomfrey told
me forgetfulness potion is supposed to erase everything for a small amount of time,
depending on the amount consumed or exposed to. But it didn't remove, my

feelings. - It's kind of weird being a little annoyed and amused when thinking of,
Padma? Or feeling respect and appreciation for Sue." Hermione looked eager again,
but was containing her joy, "I asked Madam Pomfrey for their names... haven't
remembered that much. But with you it's even more... I mean, I'm not sure, ah, how
close of friends we were?"
"Oh. Oh, of course! That's, great Harry! I suppose it might be a little, confusing, to
feel something for people without remembering why. You're probably wondering why
I hugged you and was crying so much... We were good friends, and, ahm," She was
blushing profusely now, turning a bright scarlet while looking around the room for
prying eyes, "We - kissed... once, or twice. - But of course I wouldn't expect you to
still feel that way about me with your memory gone. I don't want to make you
uncomfortable at all, so I can leave if you-"
Harry grabbed her hand before she could turn away, which interrupted her words,
"Maybe we can just talk, for now?" She nodded, "Then, could you tell me how close
we were? - How much I've shared with you?" He tried to ask calmly, as a million
thoughts rushed through his brain. WHAT? How is that possible? Is this a joke? Did
someone use magic on me to make that happen? I've never even thought about a
girl like... Okay, I've thought about them, but I... never thought... I got to kiss her?
And I FORGOT about it? Bloody hell. She's cute when she blushes... but how could
she even like me? I'm not normal.
"Well... we do tend to spend most evenings studying together after school, with Sue
and Padma mostly. We never decided on a, label, but some people assume we're...
except it shouldn't matter what other people think... - You, ah, told me about how
Star Wars helped develop your ability with," She leaned closer to whisper,
"Wandless magic, and your occlumency training."
Blinking a few times, Harry tried to process it all. Wondering how he could ever feel
so trusting with her and some old man, having bottled up his secrets for so many
years. It was almost more mysterious than having kissed her. Almost. His feelings
explained a lot though. "Occlumency?"
"Oh, it's defending yourself from mind reading." She breathed conspiratorially,
"Headmaster Dumbledore, the one who visited yesterday, was teaching you. You
began teaching me during the holidays, but no one is supposed to know."
"I see... I'm glad I had someone to share things with."
Hermione grinned, "Luckily I didn't make you get rid of any of these. They aren't
much, and they're a bit embarrassing, but you seemed to like them." She pulled out

a cracked wand and waved it over the pouch beside him, then reached in, pulling out
a large stack of photos and handed them to him. They moved. Most were of her,
reading, blushing, organizing books, casting spells, flying on a broom, wearing a fox
costume, and a few others. Some of her eating at a giant table, sleeping in his
multicolored recliner, along with one of her pulling off a sweater, accidentally lifting
her shirt part-way up as well.
This time it was his turn to blush, as he hurried to hide that one behind the rest. Was
I really so... mesmerized by her? He flipped through more that included other people,
many were of their study group she mentioned, a group of students that seemed to
be dueling, Christmas themed ones, what looked like a New Year's party, and a few
in a classroom setting, almost all of which included Hermione as well, if not centered
on her. Yep, it appears I was. Does she realize how obsessive this makes me look?
Probably...
"Padma took this one a few weeks ago, but I asked if I could keep it." She picked a
single one out of her own pouch, and handed it over. In it, he was laying down on a
long multicolored couch, resting his head on Hermione's lap as they read a book
together. They both looked up in embarrassment at the camera but tried to hide it.
"She's taken more since, but we haven't developed them yet. I'm sorry they aren't of
more important things to help you remember."
It's true then. "It's okay. I think... wait, where do these colourful pieces of furniture
come from? Are they sold in Diagon Alley or something?" Harry sat up at attention.
"Mm, I don't think so. They're all one piece we alter, and we found that in the
disappearing room near the end of December. Why?"
"I remember it! How much have I told you about my memory?"
Hermione's eyes lit up, "You mean your memory palace? You tried to describe and
show me how it works but we got distracted practicing other stuff in my mind. Do you
really remember this exact chair?"
"I think so. Wait, what? We, practiced... in your mind? ... what did we, practice?"
Another blush touched her face with an embarrassed smile, "Nothing like that. I
guess it's reassuring that you still think the same way, but no." She leaned closer
towards Harry to whisper again, "That's when we were practicing occlumency,
different ways to protect my thoughts. You can use legilimency, mind reading, to
enter my mind and you somehow showed me a room in your memory palace once or
twice. - I was thinking maybe when you feel up to it, you could try again. That way I
might be able to show you my own memories of this year. But never mind that for

now, what were you saying about remembering the puffskein chair?"
I was able to read minds... sure, why not. She trusted me to enter hers to teach her
something, and still trusts me when I forgot everything? That's... promising. I only
hope I didn't have some creepy shrine of her in my mind. No, of course I did... the
wall of photos. In a second he was back there, beside the multicolored chair and
seeing almost half of the frames filled with the photos he was just looking at. All of
her. The chair appeared more detailed now too, with the fuzzy patches of fur
covering it.
"It's working. Somehow the chair was already in my memory palace before I saw
these pictures, and so was a single picture of you. That's how I remembered your
name, I think, but now I kind of remember seeing the others, or at least I know where
they fit in my mind. Do you know what that means?"
She shook her head but was still smiling brightly, "Not exactly, although it does mean
you didn't lose it all, and if it's coming back-" Jumping up, she wrapped him in
another hug, then slowly pulled back again. "Sorry... I'm a bit excited."
"I ah, don't really mind." Harry couldn't help but grin back after the warm embrace.
No wonder I like her so much, "I was scared at first, and confused at how I felt, but it
feels almost natural, being around you. I really, really hope I get everything back, but
the idea of experiencing some things for the first time again, isn't bad either..."
Her face was still flushed from the past, yet he could tell it was increasing again.
"But that can wait. There's something else I found yesterday that doesn't make much
sense." He picked up the doorknob to show her, "Do you know what this is? It just
appeared next to me after I remembered your name and that picture of you."
Frowning in confusion, Hermione looked it over, "It... It looks exactly like the key to
Hogwarts you discovered, except, there was a symbol of a raven on the front. Hmm,
but I think you did say the owner picked it's shape, maybe that's why?"
"Weird, but OK. I guess that's not important now either. Oh yeah, Madam Pomfrey
said I could go back to classes in a day or two if I'm feeling better, but I don't want to
be completely lost if I do. Could you help me get up speed somewhat? At least so I
can understand the general terms and ideas involved?"
She perked up again, "Definitely! I was actually working on that last night. I had Fred
and George, other friends of ours, make a few copies of some pictures and enlarge
them. Then I labelled everyone in our year and a few others with notes. Next I
created a small reference notebook for describing common knowledge you might

have forgotten and also wrote up a summary for what we've learned in each class so
far, along with the books you've read and spells you've practiced or mastered. I'm
hoping they won't be too hard for you to relearn since you managed to already." She
paused to take a short breath while pulling the papers out of her pouch and
continued, "There's a lot of... secret stuff that I didn't feel comfortable writing down,
so we'll have discuss that later in private, but I've got all the basic topics to cover
planned out. Just be careful not to reveal anything to other students or teachers.
Some of it could be, problematic."
I think this is going to happen a lot, realizing how amazing she is. "Wow. That's
impressive. You're not going to turn out to be my long lost sister are you?"
Rolling her eyes, Hermione gave a soft snort, "You better not even mention, let alone
suggest that I should wear a metal bikini this time. Because even if you were just
injured, that doesn't mean I won't hit you."
Harry laughed in surprise, "I'm guessing I made that joke before, ... but I didn't think I
would be so, forward."
"Oh I'm pretty sure you've picked up Padma's bad habit of teasing people for fun.
Except you seem to save it just for me."
"Ah, sorry. Maybe you should hit me when that happens? I've never been the best
people person."
"Already tried that, didn't work." A friendly smirk curled her lips, "But I've learned to
deal with it all the same. Since you are worth the effort."
They spent many hours together, going over the basic concepts of magic, a few
important secrets that couldn't wait for later, and some personal details that Harry
wanted to know. Interspersed with all kinds of questions that he was curious about
and other points of interest Hermione kept remembering to write down or tell him
about. Madam Pomfrey stopped them at lunchtime for Hermione to go eat and Harry
to take another dose of grass flavored memory restorative.
Sue took over for a few hours after that, apologizing that Hermione couldn't visit as
well, but they had agreed to take turns so as not to pressure him to remember
anything specific. She had her own list of topics to discuss, but they were much like
Hermione's. They talked more about the history of magic, different creatures he used
to be interested in, and Hogwarts, how it worked, where things were, and what
they'd already discovered. Then she answered more questions he had, and new
ones thought up along the way.

Padma arrived after dinner to simply talk. They discussed students and teachers,
subjects he was interested in and ones that interested her. The events that
happened through the year so far and things that might happen soon. She caught
him up on his relationship with most people, how some girls liked him, but not as
much after Hermione and him became serious. How they all spent time with Hagrid
and his lessons with Dumbledore. How Snape picked on him at the beginning of the
year but not anymore, and how he refused to have anything to do with their
temporary teacher Lockhart. Then she warned him about the bullies like Malfoy, how
Harry so oddly diffused the situations or sometimes made them worse. Finally
wrapping it up by explaining how inseparable and 'lovey-dovey' he had become with
Hermione, appearing to enjoy how much she could make him blush.
Near the end of the day Hagrid popped in to visit, bringing with him the presents
Harry gave him, and telling him stories they had together. Hoping to help him
remember things and see how he was faring. Yet he excused himself early, to let
Harry get more rest. Or at least that's the reason he claimed, as he seemed
occupied with other thoughts.
During the down time between visits Harry explored the books and notes Hermione
brought, but especially the magically expanded mokeskin pouch Hermione had to
explain. She warned him about the incredibly rare and expensive invisibility cloak he
owned, that might get confiscated if revealed, mostly because of past trouble he
talked her into. The pouch also included his broken watch that Hagrid gave him,
which was damaged in the explosion, but not the communication mirror underneath;
the cleaned set of robes that held a silencing pin on them, brought from his room by
Sue; various gifts, potions, trinkets, and furniture he'd amassed from friends, past
purchases, and a magically disappearing storage room they found; along with as
many books, scrolls, and notes that Hermione could think of to include. Almost
everything was included, except his wands. Which were being held by Madam
Pomfrey, due to past incidents with memory altered patients and his own wand
causing trouble. Although he was assured they would be returned when he was
discharged, he had difficulty convincing her that it should be the next morning.
She relented only after seeing an illustration of how miserable he would be if left
alone all of Monday, by way of the most pitiful frown, cringe inducing puppy dog
eyes, and sympathetic sniffle he could possibly pull off. It looked like she'd seen
better, but she shook her head and agreed all the same. He thanked her profusely
and promised he wouldn't be a bother again, to which she simply sighed.
Harry communicated this news to Hermione over the novel communication across
mirrors, and promptly drank a sleeping potion, welcoming and dreading the next day
equally.

oOoOo
Snape stalked past the closing doors, twirling gadgets, and hanging portraits leading
to Dumbledore's desk, arriving to stand in front of it with an indifferent expression.
"You asked to see me Headmaster?"
"Please, if you would sit Severus. I was curious how your investigation into the
accident is proceeding."
"You mean, if I could scrape up any residual evidence after the bumbling house
elves attempted to clean it all in an instant?" Dumbledore nodded sagely in reply,
"Nothing seems out of the ordinary, except for how any student could possibly brew
an exploding forgetfulness potion. Although over my years of experience teaching, I
wouldn't put it past a first year Hufflepuff. - More to the point, I haven't found any
trace substances that may have caused such a reaction, even from the student's
cauldrons it might have been brewed in."
Raising an eyebrow the Headmaster cleared his throat, "Could something have been
added to a vial by accident, or without a student's knowledge?"
"They are strictly instructed to cork their samples before walking around or even
getting up, to avoid similar scenarios, but anything is possible. Increasingly so with-"
"Yes. That will be quite enough criticism on the quality of our students. Can you think
of anyone in that class or the previous one who might have caused this incident,
willingly?"
His eye twitched in irritation, "Not that I can conceive. There are the usual classroom
taunts and insults thrown about, but none so drastic that might indicate a violent
propensity lurking beneath. Will you finally explain your reasoning for suspecting foul
play now?"
"The coincidence that Harry and you were the only ones affected by the blast is
suspicious-"
Snape sneered in disdain while interrupting, "The boy attracts problems more than
dragon dung attracts flies. Every other week I seem to hear about some new incident
he's involved in."
"As I was saying, that is merely the tip of the giant's nose. Combining the
improbability of such an accident occurring exactly when Harry stood in front of it,
with everyone's untimely memory loss rendering a pensive useless, is added to the
resulting outcome. Making the event highly suspicious. The outcome, as you may or

may not have heard, was the complete loss of Harry's memories during his time
attending Hogwarts. Shocking that merely being exposed to a variety of first year
potions could achieve that, but what is more, his recovery has not been improved by
the multiple memory restoratives he has taken."
That seemed to actually surprise the dour Potions Professor, by a twitch of his
eyebrows. "I assume your aren't complaining about the strength of healing potions I
stock, but rather suggesting that a first year student planned this all out and was able
to brew a permanent, little known, and illegal nullifindium potion? I might believe that
less than I do the tales Lockhart spews. Considering that the only other likely
perpetrator is absent from the castle."
"A strange coincidence indeed." Dumbledore stroked his beard in contemplation,
"Yet I would appreciate any further time you could dedicate to the subject, and
possibly any research you might find on cures for such an unlikely occurrence."
Snape nodded in grudging compliance, coiling out of the chair and left the same way
he came.
A few moments passed before another voice spoke up over the din of whirring
instruments, "We all know how much you trust that man Dumbledore. We agreed
with you in the past when he was obvious in his sincerity. Yet even the most
stubborn and persistent individuals can change their mind with time. Do you suppose
he lost all desire for power, forgot every wish for revenge, or any passion of darker
knowledge?"
"No, I do not Armando. But I have always believed there are stronger motivations
that are not so easily given up, even when lost."
oOoOo
"Harry..."
"Harry, wake up..."
"Hmm? Later..." Harry rolled over and pulled the covers past his head.
"You'll miss breakfast if you're too late Harry. Then you'll be hungry all morning
during class." The voice was soft, gently persuading him wake. "Professor
McGonagall and Flitwick are here to see you too."
Something about that voice made him smile, partially waking him up. Harry pulled
back the covers and turned to face it, reaching out an inviting hand. Then opened his

eyes. Hermione stood several feet away looking slightly embarrassed in properly
dressed robes, glancing between him and someone else at the foot of his bed.
With a sudden rush of adrenaline, Harry sat up quickly, running a hand through his
hair and reaching for his... non-existent glasses. With things finally coming into focus
he shyly looked around at the two unusual adults in front of him. One excessively
short man, sporting a shock of white hair around his genial smile and tiny cap, while
the other looked nearly his opposite, a towering older woman wearing a prim
expression with dark black hair, pulled tight under a large pointy hat. Both wore
different shades of green in unusual patterns, somehow making them look like the
oddest married couple he could imagine. Harry wiped the sleep out of his eyes,
trying to match names to the faces in the pictures he was shown yesterday.
"Is there something wrong?" He asked with a hint of caution.
The dark haired woman spoke first, McGonagall was her name, "No, Mr Potter, but
we wished to discuss something with you before you decided to attend classes
today."
"Okay..." He looked to Hermione in question, receiving a barely perceptible shrug.
"You may go now Miss Granger. This is a personal subject, but thank you for giving
Harry a familiar person to wake up to." The tiny man, Flitwick, nodded to her politely.
She locked eyes with Harry in a meaningful look, and turned to go.
"Wait right there Miss Granger," Ordered McGonagall, glancing between the two
students suspiciously, "I asked you to accompany us for another reason as well. I
would like an honest answer before you leave. Did Harry teach you nonverbal
magic?"
This appeared to surprise Flitwick, but Hermione's shocked expression of being
caught red handed almost made Harry laugh. She had told him that they discussed
revealing exactly that to their teachers, but that he was against the idea for some
reason. She wanted to tell McGonagall at least, to get extra work like he got in
transfiguration, but was willing to wait until he remembered more before discussing
the topic again. Now the issue has been forced, and she seemed to crumple in on
herself, not knowing what to say.
"It's okay Hermione, you wanted to tell them anyway." Harry looked to the teachers,
"She explained it to me yesterday. Apparently I let on with too many hints and some
suspicious behavior. So I taught her what I knew, and she was able to do it too. I
didn't want to tell anyone, probably so we didn't get in trouble, and convinced her it

wouldn't help anything. I'm sorry." It was easy for Harry to apologize about
something he didn't remember and take the blame, as he doubted they would punish
him. Although Hermione didn't seem to like him taking all the responsibility.
She looked up to face the consequences too, "That's not completely accurate. I
worked it out of Harry as he tried to keep the information from me, but he didn't want
to risk me learning on my own, so he had to explain. We had a small problem, but
found the solution and decided not to tell anyone for multiple reasons. Harry cared
more about it causing a problem for me than avoiding trouble."
Both professors studied Harry and Hermione, then exchanged serious expressions
with each other. McGonagall began again, "I hope you both realize that is extremely
dangerous behavior, and should never be repeated in any manner." Hermione
looked crestfallen, biting her lip at the other hidden secrets. "But now that we know,
we should have this talk with both of you present. Come, sit, I will have breakfast
delivered so we can discuss this in private." She waved her wand, conjuring multiple
chairs and table around Harry, then transfigured his bed into a chair while he was in
it. She called out a single muffled name, and an oddly skinny creature in a tea towel
appeared beside her to receive more orders.
It took almost all of a substantial breakfast for them to explain the dangers of
wandless magic, the common limitations, and how it should be dealt with around
other students and teachers. It wasn't much different than how Hermione explained,
but with more detailed questions and much stricter warnings.
They left with Hermione in tow, letting Harry get changed to begin his first day, once
again.
Receiving his wands from Madam Pomfrey made him nearly feel whole, even with
his memory gone. In departing his known world of the hospital ward, Harry was
greeted by Sue and Padma outside the doors, ready to escort him to classes so he
didn't get lost. From then on, the rest of the day was filled with strange looks his way
or concerned questions from unknown students. His friends and fellow Ravenclaws
helped him here and there, some treating him like an injured kitten, others scoffing at
what a fuss was made over him.
To Harry it felt completely surreal, from the moving staircases to talking portraits, and
real ghosts to magic spells. At multiple points in the day he almost expected some
stage crew to pop out from behind some tapestries and yell 'Cut!' But that never
happened, neither did his daydream of a spaceship landing outside the classroom
windows to take him away to somewhere that made sense again.

Luckily, he wasn't expected to perform any spells or answer any questions by

concerned teachers, all of whom seemed to fit the feelings he had about them.
Some nice and friendly, others, not so much. That was the one reassuring feature
through the day, his sense of those around him and the knowledge of his original
magic. Hermione and his friends couldn't always be close, but they helped him feel
connected to a strange world that he had to discover all over again. No matter what
though, he assured himself that the awkwardness would pass and his ability to learn
quickly would let him keep up. It also didn't hurt that he could practically feel his
memory returning as he made the same connections over again, putting things back
into place one piece at a time.
Even so, the day seemed to last forever. One class blending into the next with so
many words and meanings he barely understood. His only reprieve were the breaks
between classes with friends and classmates, helping to pass the day. Meals
surprised him pleasantly at every turn, with dinner marking the end of school and his
suffering. After which the famous red headed twins came by to say hello, and whip
up some mischief.
They entered from the opposite side of the Ravenclaw library as Harry was led to sit
down beside Hermione, Sue, and Padma.
"Would you look at that, Harry's been surrounded by girls all day long and they still
aren't leaving him alone."
"Almost makes a wizard wonder if the rumor of multiple girlfriends is true after all.
Didn't tell you about that one yet did they Harry?" One of the twins rose his eyebrows
suggestively.
"As you probably guessed Harry, this is Fred and George." Hermione turned to the
twins with a stern expression, "You two better not be here to make trouble, now's not
the time."
"Now's the only time! We couldn't live with ourselves if we let you three convince him
the wizarding world was all unicorns and rainbows." They both pulled up chairs
beside Harry.
"Yeah, it's filled with ravenous werewolves, deadly dragons, and crazed girls trying to
spike your pumpkin juice with love potions."
"Especially this time of year. Better watch out Harry."
"...if they haven't already got you!" One cackled with laughter as Padma swatted his
shoulder.

"Don't listen to them Harry. Most love potions barely influence emotions, often only
directing your attention towards someone, and you can usually tell if you're being
affected. You just can't help feeling that way, like a drug or spell." Sue explained,
"Not to mention that the stronger ones are often illegal and extremely hard to make."
Harry glanced at Hermione's agreeing nod.
"Besides, we wouldn't be so nice if we were simply using you." Stated Padma, giving
a hint of a smile.
"But that's the whole point! You're pampering him with so much kindness and
attention that you'll turn him soft." The other twin complained.
"Exactly. Harry needs to be alone in order to perfect his dark and brooding charisma.
If he doesn't have that, what else is left?"
"The rich and famous playboy with a genius level talent in magic? That's a Knut a
dozen around here."
Hermione merely rolled her eyes, "Would you two stop, we're not letting you abduct
him to help with some new prank you brewed up. You can go play in the
disappearing room, since I know you figured out how to get in by yourselves last
month."
Both the Weasleys were taken aback, partly in mock insult and partly in real
surprise. "You wound us, fellow housemate. We were only going to share some
secrets that he might like to know, but if you insist on hearing as well... Maybe we
should begin with when he snuck into a broom cupboard with a girl during new
years... or how he spent the whole night with the same girl before that... or what
about-"
"Enough!" Demanded Hermione, as her face glowed a bright red. "That's not how it
sounds." She tried to look at Harry, but couldn't, and even Sue and Padma were
giving her appraising looks. "We didn't-"
She stopped mid sentence as Harry grabbed her sweltering hand. He smiled in
happy reassurance, "It's fine. You don't have to explain to anyone." Taking a few
deep breaths, Hermione's blush started to recede and she returned his smile.
"Except for me. You definitely have to tell me everything." She dropped her head in
defeat with her hair cascading around her. Harry shook her hand playfully, "I'm
kidding, only kidding. How about we move onto another subject now?"
"How about Valentines Day?" Offered Padma with another wry smile.

Despite the torments inflicted upon each of them in turn, the rest of the night was
filled with talk, teaching, and tales of adventure. Making Harry thankful for his
decision to leave the hospital that morning, and looking forward to the future.

Chapter 25 - Valentines
Author's Note: Yes, I know how horrible it is to delay so long after the last chapter,
but I won't be giving excuses, just working on the next.
Chapter 25
Valentines
Days passed without incident, allowing Harry to get comfortable in a routine.
Attending classes, eating meals, talking with friends, and reading late into the night
in an attempt to catch up with his newly forgotten life. Slowly he was building up
enough background knowledge to understand what was being said and going on
around him. He was nearly filled in on all the adventures and unusual events that
had happened over the course of the year, from multiple points of view. Giving him a
singular, and often confusing perspective. Yet there wasn't enough time to hear
everything, especially the secrets which Hermione promised to reveal. They hadn't
even gotten the chance to visit the mysterious disappearing room he'd heard so
much about, not with the dozens of students and concerned teachers coming to visit
and ask how he was. It made him feel like some exotic attraction, on display for the
curious tourists of Hogwarts.
Yet with the drawbacks of losing his memory came some advantages. Casting spells
again was one.
The Professors' strict warnings and possible ramifications of failed spells frightened
him in the beginning, having so recently been the victim of magic gone wrong.
Though after the third day of attending classes, Harry's trio of friends dragged him to
the Ravenclaw dueling room to get reacquainted with the spells they'd learned for
school. However, before attempting a single spell, Hermione took him aside and
clarified a few things. Advising him to forget everything he'd been told or read so far,
and repeating his original description to her on how to cast nonverbal magic, by
simply adding on the words and movements for the sake of appearances. Like he
would if explaining math to others, labeling his actions and detailing unneeded steps
he would normally do in his head. It was a strained metaphor, Hermione admitted,
but she blamed him for coming up with it.
Amazingly enough, it worked.
On his very first try Harry choose the easiest of spells, Lumos, thinking intently about
the sun, and how it created light. With a semi-confident wave of his wand he felt the

magic rush out of his hand, producing a literal blinding flare, right in front of his face.
It left spots in everyone's eyes for several minutes and an extremely familiar feeling
in the back of his mind.
When they could see again, Sue was looking on in confusion, Hermione appeared
exasperated, and Padma eyed him with pure indignation. He thought he'd really hurt
her, until she spoke.
"You've been holding back on us this entire bleeding time!? I knew you were
talented, barely putting in half the effort the rest of us needed to, but this? Your first
try after forgetting everything and it's brighter than even Hermione can do! Did you
really forget-"
She paused, seeing his downcast expression, "Sorry... it isn't your fault. - I - I'm just
frustrated! We can barely keep up even though we made a promise to stick together
and protect each other. We've been working so hard and learning so much, but then
you get hurt again, and we're still so helpless!" Sue put an arm around Padma upon
noticing the moisture in her eyes.
Hit with an unexpected pang of sympathy, Harry remembered that same feeling from
years ago. It was one memory forever burned into his brain, one he might have
actually wanted to lose. Of his neighbor's new puppy, which he walked past every
day coming home from school, encouraging it to squeeze through their fence and
cross the road to him. He'd recently learnt how to influence thoughts, and day after
day used it to escape his relative's control to simply try to play and pet a puppy he
could never own. And inevitably, even that was taken away. It was his fault of course.
He should have realized why the puppy was always kept fenced in. The one day he
got careless and called it to him without looking, thinking he was powerful and in
control, was the same day he heard a car come speeding down the lane.
Watching that scene as he futilely attempted to push and persuade the puppy back
onto the curb was horrifying.
The year of training he'd practiced day and night was meaningless. He couldn't
control a five pound puppy, let alone move it out of the way with magic then. That
feeling of helplessness motivated him to change, to learn, and find control. But the
question now was, could he help Padma too?
Hermione spoke softly, seeing a familiar look in Harry's eyes like he wanted to
explain everything, "Harry, you can't. Professor McGonagall and Flitwick specifically
told us that yesterday. It's too dangerous."
"Can't what?" Sue asked in concern.

"Nothing urgent. Hermione was simply reading my mind, but she's right. We might as
well practice while we have the time."
Padma huffed while wiping away her tears, "You better not be learning legilimency
without us too. My aunt always says it's worth every spell in the book combined."
They all gave a laugh at that, with Harry and Hermione's being slightly forced.
Even amidst the turbulent emotions, uncomfortable secrets, and interrupting
schoolmates, Harry had fun relearning the spells he'd forgotten. Not many were as
easy as his first, and some seemed nearly impossible, but the simple concepts such
as fire and ice worked best. Casting magic seemed akin to doing tricks on a bike to
him, not that he had much experience in that, but it sounded right. With each spell
performed he sensed old connections reforming as he executed them in turn, like
muscle memory, feeling ingrained in him like the lines on his palms. He could feel a
hint of understanding forming while exploring a new room in his mind, filled with
painting upon painting of ideas, images, and purpose held in each frame, a specific
one for every spell. With many came other faint memories as well, tied to his first use
or a distinct occasion he cast a spell, which led to other places in his memory
palace, bringing more to life.
It was thrilling, summoning a cheer of excitement to the room when he told the
others. Although night came quickly as well, ushering them to their rooms and off to
sleep with hopeful thoughts of the future and dreams of the past.
Dueling club the next day was interesting enough for Harry to simply watch from the
sidelines, as no one expected him to join in. Hermione frowned before suggesting
they could skip it and do something else, but he refused. Wanting to see what his
friends could do, especially Hermione, since they were all in the advanced section
now. He also hoped that more memories might be triggered while observing.
When Harry sat down at a bench to do so, he was joined by a much older girl with
bubblegum pink hair shaped into wavy spikes and wearing a string of jagged shark
teeth around her neck. She cast a couple of spells around them, then looked at him
with a crooked smile.
"Wotcher Harry, got an early V-day gift for you!" Handing him a small box with little
pink hearts all over it, she gave him a wink. "Don't worry, I'm not expecting anything
back. Though I am partial to chocolate frogs, if you're curious."
"Tonks...?"

"What d'you know, I'm so memorable even a classroom full of forgetfulness potion
can't get rid of me!"
Harry smiled despite himself. He was trying to immerse himself in his new life,
accepting how strangers treated him oddly and to stoically bear all the awkward
conversions, yet some people made him feel at ease so he didn't have to. "Sorry,
only saw pictures. I wasn't expecting... the colour."
"One of my favorites, but it fits the season too." She shook her hair until shapes of
hearts began to appear in it, then nudged him while he stared, "Go on, open your gift
already."
He did so hesitantly, wondering why an older girl would give him anything for
Valentines. Pulling off the thin red ribbons and lifting the lid he found, a rock. It wasn't
even an unusual looking rock or engraved with words. It was small, grey, and slightly
smooth, but not remarkable in any way. Harry looked up at her with his eyebrows
raised, struggling to keep hold of a smile. "Thanks?"
"Great isn't it? Custom made too! You'll get loads of use out of it I bet." Tonks looked
completely honest, and then wasn't. Bursting with restrained laughter, she took out
the rock and it started to vibrate lightly. Harry's eyebrows sank in bewilderment and
his lips quirked to the side.
"Ooh, the faces you make are priceless! But it's not a gag gift. That's just a bonus.
It's really a secret sneakoscope that vibrates only when close to the owner. Really
good at sensing intended harm and changes intensity for mischief. Moody had some
made, and I'm, giving this one, to you." She closed her hand around his, with the
rock in between as she said the words, and Harry felt it stick to his hand. Her dark
eyes twinkled in delight with a grin to match.
"Best to keep it in a pocket or on you somewhere you can feel it, that's why it's
attracted to you. Got one for Hermione too, but I thought you might like to give it to
her tomorrow." She winked again and slipped him another box, the same as the first,
"Now, on to official business! Has anyone brought you up to speed on our training
here?"
"Er - Somewhat. And thanks again."
"Sure. Able to cast spells yet?"
"Most..." Harry mumbled.
"Brilliant! I'm sure you'll be back to your old self in no time, embarrassing third years

and learning spells too advanced for your age. But before then, you shouldn't go
wandering off on any more adventures."
"What do you mean?"
"Ah, well, I overheard a conversation about your previous... escapades, and how
awful some went." She paused, glancing at him, "Don't want to scare you, but with
your name and reputation, it might be possible these things aren't just a coincidence.
- 'Course there's always bizarre rubbish happening at Hogwarts, and it could be
rotten luck for all we know. Though if there's one thing I've learned so far from Auror
training with Moody, it's to always be suspicious. Hell, I'm still wondering if I was
supposed to overhear their conversation and then talk to you, but the point is, be
careful. And keep that sneakoscope on you. Can't lose my first apprentices to an
accident."
Nodding in acknowledgement, Harry's eyes widened in realization, "I get it now. Why
Hermione, Padma, and Sue rarely leave me alone or let me out of their sight.
They're afraid of what might happen next, and are trying not to say much so I won't
worry."
"Heh, sounds nice, having clever friends who care. - And here I was stuck with the
likes of Stan Shunpike, and Donaghan Tremlett following me around the Hufflepuff
common room for years. Don't get me wrong, they were fun at times, but not the
brightest gems on a fire crab shell. Still can't believe Donaghan joined a band, even
sent me a few tickets last week." She pulled out some glossy black cards to inspect,
"Ever heard of the Weird Sisters?" Harry shook his head, "Silly me, of course not. I
haven't either, but they have to be better than the last band I saw. Called themselves
Troll Bogies, and it fit!"
Harry chuckled, imagining what a witch like Tonks thought of muggle music, or if she
ever heard any. "I don't remember any wizard music, but Hermione mentioned we
found a wireless inside a cracker over Christmas and I wasn't thrilled with the, ah,
variety."
"You're allowed music in that Ravenclaw library you always hide in? I walked in there
once while chewing gum and a prefect banned me for life ... or were you spending
more time in that special room I've heard mentioned?" Harry looked away before he
could stop himself, betraying any knowledge of such a room. "Oh don't worry!" Tonks
chided him, "I won't tell, but we do need a better place than an old storage room to
train you and Hermione in. Besides I had quite a few secrets here myself, even
started a bubble ring. Never was caught for that."

"A what?"
"Not as bad as it sounds, but-" A high pitched scream rang out from the other end of
the Great Hall, startling Harry as Tonks jumped up with wand at the ready.
A young boy was laying curled up on the floor, clutching his... fingerless hands to his
chest. That disturbed Harry more than he cared to admit, especially when said
fingers were rolling around the floor with no blood in sight. Neville screamed again,
and fainted.
"Finger-removing jinx, what a pain." Tonks shrugged, "I'll go check it out. You alright
here Harry?" With another nod, she left.
The whole room seemed entranced with the spectacle, forming groups and
whispering new rumors between each other. Harry sat back and inspected his wands
for wear like Ollivander had recommended, not caring to see other students' looks of
alarm, interest, or disgust. But upon holding his two dissimilar wands together, he
noticed something, odd. One was longer than the other. Not simply the inch
difference he noted when first holding them, this seemed new, or at least new to him.
He reached a hand in his mokeskin pouch and was able to summon a ruler, laying it
beneath the two wands. It became obvious immediately, his Nundu wand had grown,
nearly half an inch in length and possibly a little in width as well. Stranger still, the
swirling shapes on the tip seemed to be forming into... flowers.
Hermione sat down beside him, observing his intent expression, "Coming to
understand the meaning of the universe yet? Or just figuring out how to make your
own wand instead?"
"You can do that?" He glanced her way, "Hmm, crafting my own wand doesn't sound
like a bad idea."
She gave him an amused smile, "You already have two Harry, what are you going to
do, carry the third in your teeth? Plus they're not lightsabers, and it's not part of your
training to become a wizard. - Although... Sue did say it was tradition that she picked
out the ingredients for her's."
"Interesting, and I'm guessing I already suggested making a light saber with magic?"
Harry put his phoenix wand away.
"Not specifically, but I got that impression while you were reading several books on
light magic and conjured weapons. I don't think you found anything since you never
mentioned it."

"Too bad, I'll have to keep researching. Though I guess a wand is a good
replacement and a bit more versatile. Did I forget to mention how my wand is
growing too?"
Hermione arched an eyebrow at him, or attempted to, "It's doing what now?"
"Growing. I'm guessing that's not normal?"
"Ahh, no. I don't believe it is. We should probably get that looked at..." Tonks
returned then to shoo Hermione away and corral the rest of the students back into
proper dueling groups, ignoring any complaints or distractions. She walked around
while giving advice, lecturing a few on bad habits they were forming, encouraging
others to take more risks in attacking, and then patted several on the head for
improving in different ways. With that done, she collapsed back onto the bench
beside Harry.
"Done, now where were we?" She began pulling on her heart shaped curls,
straightening them out, "Ah, yes, official business. How about a recap of your
training so far?" Which is exactly what they did, while watching others duel.
oOoOo
Valentines day breakfast was something to behold. The Great Hall was flooded with
lurid pink flowers, loose heart shaped petals lined the tables, walls, and completely
smothered the floor. While every drink, sauce, and syrup was a deep red, making it
seem as if the hall itself was blushing in surprise.
Students milled into the room, many nearly slipping on the petal covered floor while
making their way to the tables. Groups of boys sneered and acted disgusted by the
cloyingly pink vision, while gaggles of girls giggled, gossiped, and gushed about their
crushes. Then there were those who tried to ignore it all.
Harry arrived at the doors to see the flamboyant room and Lockhart shaking his
wand frantically at the floor, trying to act subtle in his ghastly pink robes, a shade
different from the flowers, somehow making him clash with the background. The
bumbling blond Professor looked around discreetly for assistance from his fellow
teachers, many of which pointedly ignored him. Nevertheless, he put on a charming
smile and bent over to whisper in Flitwick's small ear, gaining a slight grimace and a
reluctant nod in return. With a single but complex wave of the tiny man's wand, all
the petals on the floor disappeared, only to start raining down from the pale blue
ceiling.
Walking down the aisle towards his friends, Harry noticed them turned around in

their seats, conspiring together. Parvati and Lisa were included as well, but like a
wave breaking against the sand, they dispersed at the sight of him. He sat down at
the only open space left, right in the middle of the lioness' den, as his new
sneakoscope started to quiver softly in his pocket. With a deep breath he shoved
away his apprehension and spoke over the table's whispers.
"Whatever it is, please don't make it too embarrassing."
Giggles were the only reply he got, even from the normally demure Sue Li. He tried
to ignore it while selecting from an appetizing array of dishes, all heart shaped as
well. Blueberry drop scones, stuffed chocolate french toast, and a glazed chelsea
bun slipped onto his plate as he decided to indulge himself on the sweet and
probably embarrassing holiday.
Lockhart stood up again and cleared his throat pompously, interrupting Harry's first
bite, then waving for silence and raising his voice un-magically. "Happy Valentine's
Day! And may I thank my obliging colleagues for allowing such a fabulous event,
which I, took the liberty to arrange. It is my pleasure to assure you, it doesn't end
here! While my original proposal for delivering Valentines was rejected, I persevered,
and devised an even better method with the help of Professor McGonagall!" She
pursed her lips in response.
With a clap of his hands, thousands of large pink, purple, and red paper hearts flew
in through the teachers entrance at the back of the room. Gliding over the student's
heads like paper airplanes to land in tall stacks along the tables. They had
excessively cute and twee designs on them, of bubbling pink cauldrons, flying
cherubs shooting arrows, and many more customary scenes with a heavy wizarding
influence.
Lockhart's grin brightened, "Valentines that will deliver themselves and any
chocolate attached after a gentle throw. And there's even more! Gramophones
loaned from the music club will be playing in the halls during breaks, along with a
litter each of Crump puppies and half-Kneazle kittens penned up in the courtyard to
play with." Excited cries were heard scattered throughout the room, "Courtesy of
some generous and devoted admirers of mine, who have already sent me many
Valentines themselves. And I'm sure other professors would enjoy contributing to the
fun as well! Perhaps Professor Trelawney can read the love line on your palms, or
Professor Snape might let you get a whiff of Amortentia potion?" He finished with a
conspiratorial wink and bow.
The Divination Professor's bug-like eyes widened behind thick glasses, appearing
confused at why she was even there, let alone that her name was mentioned, while

Snape looked ready to bite through a fork, or a student, if one dared come close.
When Lockhart finally sat down a few girls sprang up and ran outside, presumably to
see the furry little animals before anyone else, as others grabbed cards and hid them
in pockets for later. Harry noticed the amused and enchanted expressions around
him, but decided not to comment and reached for some ruby-red juice instead.
His sneakoscope buzzed silently in alarm.
Hesitating for a moment, Harry poured some in a goblet anyway to not give the
game away. Bringing it to his lips, he pretended to take a sip while smelling it, yet
couldn't detect anything dodgy. Setting it back down revealed no triumphant smirks
or sly smiles from the girls around him, which made him curious and more
importantly, suspicious. He reached into his pouch and summoned the small Griffin
claw which Padma mentioned she gave him, and how it could detect poisons or
other nefarious substances. Palming it in his hand, he subtly touched it to the liquid,
turning it a vomit flavored green. Wrinkling his nose, he touched a cherry coloured
syrup with it next and it changed as well.
Glancing around, he saw Sue a seat away, reaching for her own goblet full of red
disaster. Harry flicked his wrist to seize his wand as he stopped her goblet from
reaching her mouth, without a spell. Padma was in between them, but was stuffing
her face with a Chelsea bun and noticed nothing. Sue on the other hand looked
directly at Harry and his wand now pointing at her with a puzzled frown. He shook
his head and eyed the goblet in her hand, hoping she understood. With a nod from
her, Harry's eyes widened and turned around toward Hermione to see her spreading
some bright red jam over toast.
'Do NOT eat or drink anything yet! Something's wrong.' Harry sent the thought to her
instantly, then elbowed Padma out of her last delicious bites of pastry. He touched
the food on his plate with the claw to see if anything else was affected, then
whispered to her when nothing else was, "Don't drink or eat anything more. It might
be poisoned. Tell Sue."
With his mind reeling at the implications, he observed everyone down the Ravenclaw
table and the next already stuffing their faces with food and drink. His eyes shot
towards Dumbledore, the seemingly nice old man he was supposed to have trusted
with all his secrets. There wasn't time to doubt that now. Harry sent another thought
Dumbledore's way, 'The Griffin claw I have turned the juice and syrup a green color.
What does that mean?'
The Headmaster's intense blue eyes abruptly locked on his, and Harry could sense
his mind being entered somehow. An old memory connected at the same time, of

Snape's greasy hand invading his thoughts near the beginning of school. He jerked
his eyes down as Dumbledore stood up forcefully with wand at the ready. In the next
moment, ears of a greenish house elf peaked above the table next to Dumbledore,
nodding to whispered commands. Followed by a small pop, and they were gone.
McGonagall suddenly had her own wand clutched tightly in hand while asking
questions Harry couldn't hear.
Complete silence greeted Dumbledore at the sight of him standing. He whispered a
response to McGonagall and put on a genial smile, "In light of Professor Lockhart's
encouraging words this morning, I have elected to furnish today's meals with a
special surprise as well. It has taken some time to prepare, but should be ready
now..." He clapped his hands and wand together in a startling wave of magic.
"Butterbeer and Moon-Berry tea for all!"
Where pitchers of red juices once stood, now held flagons of creamy Butterbeer and
large pots of purple tea. The other crimson liquids were replaced as well, with no
explanation as to why. Dumbledore gave a subtle nod to Harry, that everything was
safe, and waved the students back to their meal. He sat down calmly to inspect a
single cup of liquid, doubtlessly procured from the student's tables, with McGonagall
beside him. The chatter and excitement picked back up with cheers of delight at the
welcome bonus.
Harry eyed the elderly Headmaster, wondering how often he'd allowed the man or
others to enter his mind. Padma and Sue were both glaring at him though,
demanding answers, but Harry spoke first. "What's Moonberry tea?"
"A flavourful and expensive mental stimulant, similar to wit sharpening potion,"
Padma replied quietly, "And are you going to tell us what you know or leave us in the
dark once again?"
"Er - do I do that a lot?" Emphatic nods were their response, "Sorry... I'll try not to. This is how I figured it out." He revealed the Griffin claw cupped in his hand.
Sue frowned again, "But how did you know to test anything?" She seemed ready to
ask if he was growing paranoid, how Dumbledore found out, and more, but held
back.
"Ah, Tonks helped with that. That reminds me, could I borrow your owl before class
starts Padma? Need to repay her." He started pouring himself some tea.
"Okay... but we're coming with you."
Harry agreed, and then was hit in the back of the head by a paper heart. It fluttered

around him to land in his lap, with only one word scrawled across it. 'EXPLAIN' He
looked back at Hermione to give her a half shrug, and sent a few more thoughts her
way.
They all ate quickly after Harry assured them it was safe from more testing, then
pocketed a few treats for nibbling along the way, and some bacon for Padma's owl.
Harry covertly grabbed a few hearts as he saw others doing the same, and left early
with his three friends whispering together behind him.
Arriving at the straw filled Owlery a few minutes later, Padma called out into the near
hollow tower. "Sharada! Come Sharada!"
"That's an unusual name." Commented Harry, as he pulled out a bright red paper
heart and began writing on the only clean table.
A snowy white owl swooped down to land on a perch in front of Padma and receive a
piece of bacon, "It's another name for Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of wisdom and
knowledge. She wears all white, so I thought it fit. - Although, she doesn't seem to
like it much." Sharada nipped at Padma's fingers lightly to emphasize her
agreement.
"Magical owls are amazing, being able to track anyone and eat nearly anything. Do
witches and wizards use them in India too?" Inquired Hermione while she inched
closer to Harry.
"Not often, some people think they're bad omens. My grandmother wanted us to
have a magical swan or peacock originally, but even Parvati thought that was too
much. It thrilled my parents when I found Sharada though, since white owls are
considered lucky." Parvati's tiny elf owl flitted onto Padma's hand to pick up any
crumbs. "But who knows what they think of crazy eyes here." It pecked her finger,
making her yipe and fling the little bird away.
The owl tumbled end over end in the air, landing sprawled out on a table. It laid there
with its beak open and neck at an odd angle. Obviously pretending to be dead as it
revealed itself by opening one eye to look around.
"What do they use to send messages in Penglai Sue?" Continued Hermione as she
ignored the strange bird and tried to peek over Harry's shoulder.
"Nearly everything." Sue walked over to the elf owl carefully, "From eagles, to
squirrels, to anything in between that doesn't try to eat your mail. Cranes are the
most popular as pets though." She held out a bit of pastry for it, and it gleefully woke
and hopped into her hand. "What about you two? Thought about getting an owl or

something, and what you'd name it?"

Harry looked around and grinned, catching Hermione right beside him. She spun
away briskly, acting as if nothing happened. "I bet if Harry got owl he'd think it fun to
name it Archimedes."
"Huh, did I tell you that before or are you just guessing?"
She smirked at him, "Only guessing, but you do make it easy sometimes."
"Well, as I've probably mentioned, I'd like a useful familiar, rather than just a pet."
Sharada flapped her wings and barked at Harry in protest. "Not that owls aren't
useful... I think Hermione might have something else in mind though."
"What? Why do you say that Harry?" Hermione tilted her head, with curiosity dancing
in her eyes.
"I'm not the only one that's predictable," He folded up his note and pulled out a
chocolate frog sized box with red wrapping on it from his pouch. Then returned her
smile, "But I did see your face light up when Lockhart was talking about those kittens
in the courtyard."
Padma was sucking on her sore finger when she perked up upon hearing that, "That
does sound like fun. We should visit during break and drag Harry along to smother
him in all the cuteness. Maybe that'll get him to tell us what's going on."
That got a chuckle out of him, "Alright, alright, it's nothing big. Tonks gave me a silent
sneakoscope yesterday, and I signaled Dumbledore that something was wrong with
my drink. I have no idea what was slipped into our meal or who did it though. I
thought it was one of you at first, but maybe it was only a prank or something
harmless, as no one got sent to the hospital wing."
"Yet." Hermione added, "But I suppose Dumbledore didn't seem that worried either.
Will you ask him about it tomorrow?"
"Sure." Harry was attaching the package to Sharada's outstretched leg, when
Padma snatched the Valentine out of his grasp and began reading.
"'Thank you for the special gift and wonderful time last night Nymphadora. I'm sure
we will see each other again soon.'" He grabbed it back before she could read
anymore. Only to meet the wide eyes of his bewildered friends. "What the hell again
Harry?"

"It's a joke! Blimey, don't act like I stabbed someone. She was teasing me last night,
so I thought I would return the favor. Don't tell me I never joke around."
All Hermione could do was stare at him with her jaw open, while Sue and Padma
exchanged dubious looks. "Even I know not to go that far... maybe there was
something in the food?" Mumbled Padma.
Harry rolled his eyes, tied his Valentine onto the package and sent Sharada away,
"We should be heading to history now, before I go crazy and grow an evil goatee."
"WHAT?"
When he heard a derisive snort from Hermione, he began laughing, "We need to get
you watching more television is what I meant to say Padma."
"Oh, right, already back to making daft references only Hermione gets. I guess
nothing's changed."
"Indeed."
oOoOo
No one was sitting in the right section during history, let alone paying attention to
what the ghostly professor was saying. Boys of multiple houses crowded together in
groups to quietly complain about the girly day, or praise Dumbledore for how great
the Butterbeer was. Still, many Slytherins stuck together, the same as some
Hufflepuffs, but most remarkably, Harry was surrounded by girls of every house.
All the usuals from Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, and Hufflepuff were near, with Tracey
Davis and Daphne Greengrass sitting behind Harry, listening in.
He didn't mind that much, but was simply grateful that the topic of conversation
wasn't him. Instead it was about every other boy in their year, and quite a few more
in second and even third year as well. A few girls had their own paper hearts out,
discussing what to write or who to write them to. Harry diligently pretended to be
taking notes despite it all, yet was unable to ignore some of the more interesting
topics.
It wasn't until ten minutes into class that a violet paper heart squeezed through the
classroom doors to soar gently past Harry and the group of girls. Quiet squeals and
giggling laughs were heard as it passed in front of each, then looped back around to
strike Hermione square in the chest.

Someone gasped.
Half the class who were watching it as well grew speechless, to stare at Harry and
Hermione sitting next to each other and the Valentine resting in her lap.
Harry just chucked. "And here I thought I would be embarrassed first today. At least I
won't be alone." He nudged her playfully.
"Who's it from!?" Hissed Parvati.
Hermione strained to not move her head or meet anyone's eyes, trying to wish the
Valentine out of existence. When that didn't work, she used the tips of her fingers to
carefully unfold it like it might explode, then read the text. "Professor Snape?!" She
blurted out in utter confusion, sparking a flurry of wild rumors throughout the room.
Just then, another paper heart slipped into the room and landed in Harry's hands.
His sneakoscope shivered imperceptibly at the touch and he opened it without
thinking, to see a name unknown to him. It only added to the confusion, "Who's Irma
Pince?"
"The LIBRARIAN!?" Shouted Hannah.
Professor Binns finally stopped his constant droning and looked up at the outburst,
which drew everyone else's attention.
"Sorry..." Hannah mumbled as she buried her flushed face in a book.
The lecture resumed, as one more heart wiggled through the doors to dive bomb
Ron's head. He caught it after the second attempt, and read it with a look of utter
revulsion on his face. Seamus Finnigan snuck a peek over his shoulder, gaining the
same expression, "Filch? Eughh!"
That was when Padma figured it out. "Hmpf! Those two troublemakers give twins a
bad name. Making light of such an nice day. We should see if they can take as good
as they give."
It took a few seconds for the others to understand her meaning, and then quickly
agree. Tracy had some advice though, "Why not reverse it for them? Send sappy
poems to all the girls they like in their name."
"Oh, that's just evil. - I like it!" Parvati snickered with relish. Hermione frowned at
them both, but then looked down at the false Valentine in her hands and shrugged.

A couple more hearts flew in for other students during class, and one more for Harry.
Which he had to show the others, seeing as it was only a friendly one from Penny,
wishing him luck in his recovery. It wasn't until break that he got a reprieve from the
constant attention. By then the plan to visit the courtyard full of animals had spread,
and a flock of girls rushed off to find them, with Harry trailing after. Wanting a glimpse
of what Kneazles and Crup were like, yet he didn't mind seeing the girl's reactions
either.
Refreshing sunlight glistened against dewy grass, and there was an unnatural
warmth in the courtyard air. Snow and ice still covered the eaves yet none was seen
below, possibly due to the smiling grey haired witch watching over her flock. The
puppies and kittens frolicked and pranced among the girls already kneeling down to
play with them as Harry came across the picturesque scene. He noticed Hermione
standing off to the side as well, keeping an eye out for him.
She seemed eager to join the others, but didn't move until he was standing beside
her. Only to turn towards him and grin. "We can go somewhere else if you want
Harry."
"That's okay, it's actually nicer here than most of the castle. And you don't have to
coddle me so much either, not like I'm defenseless." He twirled his wand around his
fingers in demonstration.
Sighing, Hermione looked down at her own cracked wand in a grimace. "Sorry... I'm
just, worried is all. You don't remember how fast things can change around here, and
with what happened this morning..."
"I think I'm getting the picture, but you're right, I don't remember it all. Though I'm not
going to go running off on my own either. So let's enjoy the unusual weather and
pleasant times until there's something productive we can do."
"About that, I think I might have -" An emphatic MEOW interrupted her mid-sentence,
drawing their eyes down to a large ball of fluffy ginger fur. Harry's first thought was
that someone wrapped a lion mane around a football, until it looked up and met his
eyes. Its squashed and slightly grumpy face appeared to be judging him, but gave
up as Hermione knelt down towards it. The ball of fur pawed at Hermione's shoe and
meowed again more insistently, wanting to be picked up, which it quickly was.
"He's adorable!" She cooed.
Harry's eyebrows knitted together, "How can you tell?"
Hermione's beaming smile fell for a second, but Harry quickly corrected himself, "No,

no, I meant, how can you tell it's a boy? All I see is fur."
"Oh, well, I guess you're right. But he looks like a boy, doesn't he? He's so cuddly
too!" She squeezed the bundle of fur close as it started to purr in her arms. Her smile
came back brighter than ever as she saw Harry couldn't resist smiling either. He
reached out to pet it as well, only to receive a suspicious look in return, yet it
accepted the attention readily after hearing Hermione's delighted giggle.
"Hmm, I wonder..." Harry threw his cloak on the ground for Hermione to sit on, and
glanced around the courtyard as she did so, "I'll be right back."
Padma and Sue arrived soon after, bringing with them a small black and white Crup
puppy to revel in the cuteness with Hermione. They let the puppy dance around the
ginger ball of fur, which ignored it completely, preferring instead to climb back into
Hermione's lap and purr itself to sleep.
Returning several minutes later with a faint look of disappointment, Harry sat down
beside them to stare at the small dog, which was still trying to play with the snoozing
cat. Yet at his arrival, the puppy decided to change targets, bounding toward him
with its tongue out and attacking his socks in an excited pounce. It appeared slightly
unbalanced as it did so. Having only recently lost its second tail, if the bald patch
next to the first was any indication. Harry put on a smile and played along as he
watched his friends enjoying themselves.
Light jazz started to play from the hallways, turning heads and perking up ears at the
romantic tune. Eyes drifted Harry and Hermione's way, making the warm air feel
hotter by the second.
Until it was all interrupted by an irritating shriek of laughter, sounding like silverware
scraping against glass in Harry's ears. It was emanating from none other than Draco
Malfoy. Along with Crabbe and Goyle performing an uncanny impression of cackling
hyenas. They were doubled up in laughter and one was pointing at some commotion
on the opposite side of the courtyard. Where Lisa had fallen to the ground, from a
horde of Crup puppies attacking her school bag and pulling at her clothes. Other
girls were giggling as well, as it was more endearing than distressing.
"Ha! Looks like they found a real muggle!" Shouted Draco, and as Hermione stood
up with the kitten he sneered, "Watch out Granger, you'll be next."
Harry had the sudden urge to throw Malfoy into a wall, or at least tie his shoelaces
together, but decided not to as Hermione warned him against using wandless magic
in front of others. Instead he joined Padma and Sue in following after Hermione, who
was already imitating Tonks and shooing away the rascally animals from Lisa. The

grey haired witch came over too, gently tapping the heads of puppies with her wand,
making them let go instantly and start chasing their tails. Harry and Hermione pulled
Lisa up while Sue and Padma extracted her bag from beneath a pack of twirling
Crup.
"Terribly sorry my dear," the elderly lady patted Lisa on the shoulder, "but you
shouldn't bring any muggle bits and bobs around Crup. Might have chewed through
your bag to get 'em."
Lisa thanked her as the group moved to a secluded corridor, and Padma handed her
bag back, "What do you have in there, muggle toenails?"
"Eww!" Hermione and Lisa protested as one.
Padma held up her hands, "No one eats them! You enchant them in the soles of your
shoes. They're an old folk remedy for foot sores, or at least that's what my
grandmother always claimed..."
"Definitely not." Lisa began digging through her bag, pulling out a wide red ribbon,
several colourful and thin books, one long blue coat with strange pockets, and a grey
stuffed animal, that was some strange cross between a raccoon, owl, and cat. Her
cheeks went pink at that, and quickly shoved it all back in. "Christmas gifts..." She
mumbled, and then pulled out a round locket, with a glass window in front. It held a
curl of hair inside. "Almost forgot about this, it's my mother's."
"Ah!" Harry exclaimed. They all looked at him in question, "Sorry, thought I
remembered something, but just lost it." He changed the subject quickly, "By the way
Lisa, what are those books you seem to read so often? Or have I asked that
before?"
Her head drooped while mumbling again, but no one caught what she said. So Sue
answered for her, "They're manga, Japanese comic books." Lisa jerked her eyes up
wide as Sue continued, "My cousin loves them, and even sends me some once in a
while."
"But - but, I thought Penglai witches are all Chinese!?" Contested Lisa.
"I am, but my father is Japanese and I learned both languages. Penglai is a bubbling
cauldron of many Asian wizarding cultures, so it wasn't that unusual." Sue gave Lisa
a faint and knowing smirk, making her jaw drop.
The bell rang then, turning them towards their next class. Hermione reluctantly set
the fluffy orange kitten back down with the others before they headed off together.

While Lisa started begging Sue to translate some new series she was dying to read.
The rest of the day was a repeat of similar events for Harry, receiving embarrassing
valentines, visiting the cute furry animals, and being surrounded by a flock of
excitable girls. Hermione on the other hand was quite surprised during her afternoon
off.
oOoOo
"Miss Granger, may I speak with you?" Hermione reluctantly glanced up from her
book in a corner of the main library, catching sight of Headmaster Dumbledore with
his long white beard and opulent golden robes, standing a few paces away.
She froze in place. Caught red handed with a book on Occlumency sitting open on
the table. Next to it lay three books on memory charms and how they were reversed.
Her jaw worked its way to saying something before she decided what, "Yes?" She
squeaked out.
"If you would be kind enough to follow me, I would like to show you something that
may help in Harry's recovery." He beckoned with an understanding smile and inviting
wave of his hand.
Swallowing back the lump in her throat, Hermione nodded in return, hurriedly closed
the books and stuffed them into her mokeskin pouch. She stood up stiffly to trail
behind the most famous wizard of the age, silently freaking out about what she just
revealed or how much trouble she might be in.
A few minutes later Hermione found herself on the third floor corridor, standing
beside a monstrously ugly gargoyle.
"Flying saucers." Dumbledore announced into the open air and the gargoyle leapt
aside, revealing a wide spiral stairwell leading high into the castle. The steps began
to twist upwards.
"Wasn't that the same sweet..." She trailed off at seeing Dumbledore's approving
grin, turning her eyes away at the attention.
"Quite perceptive, do you happen to have a guess as to how you can help Harry?"
Stepping onto the screw like stairs together, Hermione shook her head in answer, "I
hope to teach you how to share your memories with him."
This time Hermione's throat closed shut in panic. He knows! Did the occlumency
book give it away? But he doesn't seem that mad, was he expecting Harry to learn

legilimency and then teach me? He must have been fine with it if he's only now
saying something. She breathed in a gasp of air, trying to calm herself down. It
doesn't matter now anyway, if I can help Harry then the punishment doesn't matter. Oh, I hope it's not detention in the forest again!
They arrived at a polished oak door adorned with a griffin shaped knocker. It opened
inward to display a fantastic circular office, full of tightly packed bookshelves, curious
silver instruments, and many antique portraits. Hermione couldn't help but read the
titles of books as she was led past them to a cushy red armchair in front of a grand
clawfoot desk. Next to which sat a majestic phoenix, gazing down at her in interest
from its lofty perch. Light rain pattered against stained glass windows, signaling a
coming storm.
She sat down nervelessly, watching the elderly headmaster as he reached into a
nearby cabinet and pulled out what appeared to be, a shallow stone birdbath. It even
had decorative markings along the rim to accent the dull grey material. Dumbledore
set it on the desk in front of her, then reached into a pocket to pull out a crystal flask
of silvery-white swirls, looking much like a bottled ghost might. He placed this beside
the stone birdbath, as Hermione glanced at Fawkes in question.
What does a phoenix birdbath have to do with sharing memories?
"This my dear, is a Pensieve." Dumbledore spoke in a dignified and educational
tone, "An extremely rare and valuable magically device, used to view bottled
memories from a different perspective. I would like to use it to show Harry some of
the substantial time he has lost. While I personally can share with him some few
important discussions we have had this way, I believe he may benefit more from the
innumerable memories you two experienced together. That it why I have brought you
here, I wish to teach you how to share your memories in this form." He motioned
toward the misty flask in front of her.
Whew! He doesn't know. - Wait, WHAT? Why didn't he mention this days ago? It
could have saved us so much time and effort... Maybe he only recently acquired it?
"That sounds wonderful sir. I would be happy to learn," She fidgeted some, "is there
any - danger?"
"No more than remembering something unpleasant, however I doubt we shall risk
even that." He gave her a reassuring wink, "Although a demonstration should put
your mind at ease, and I have just the memory. Would you like to see the wizarding
library of Alexandria?"
Hermione's eyes lit up like electric torches and she nodded enthusiastically,

promoting Dumbledore to pick up the flask in front of her and pour the strange
swirling substance into the waiting Pensieve. "Now if you'll stand, take a breath, and
simply immerse your face into the liquid, I will join you there shortly."
That sounds, weird... though what else can I do but trust the most famous and
respected wizard of the age? Harry did.
Following his directions precisely left Hermione falling, tumbling, plummeting down
into utter darkness. She shivered, yet it wasn't precisely scary, as she couldn't see if
she might hit anything. In the next moment her feet landed in the middle of a
magnificently oversized atrium, filled to the brim with red oak bookcases, row upon
row lining seven stories full of beautiful books. A picturesque fresco of scholarly
wizards and witches covered the ceiling and few open walls. While radiant light
streamed in through grand circular windows to illuminate the entire room evenly.
Hermione gasped in awe and had to sit down on the white marble floor before her
legs gave out beneath her. The next second someone appeared beside her.
"Lovely, isn't it?" Dumbledore said encouragingly, "But I am afraid we must hurry on
as the lesson should begin shortly."
Scrambling to get up, Hermione followed once again toward a new destination. Past
towering shelves and down a long hallway to arrive at a elegant sitting room with
more books and unique art. Upon entering she noticed a second person already
there, another, younger Dumbledore. Sitting in bright peach colored robes, at an
ornate table with one old and dusty book in front of him and an empty crystal bottle
beside it. The elderly headmaster seemed unconcerned while he took a seat
opposite himself, waving Hermione over beside him.
"We cannot interact with memories, despite how real they may seem. However, we
may still explore and learn from them." He gestured toward his younger self, "This is
when I learned to extract a memory of my own."
Together they watched and listened to the younger, auburn haired Dumbledore read
the complicated directions out loud, making comments and notes while doing so. It
lasted for a short while, entrancing Hermione in the process of finally observing a
professional wizard at work. At the end he cast the spell with little more effort than
opening a door, setting his wand to his temple and extracting a long silvery thread of
memory, which floated in the air like a single wisp of smoke. Having difficulty with
depositing it in the empty bottle, he swirled the gossamer string into a tight coil of
shimmering silver and wound it down into the bottom of the bottle. He swiftly quarked
the substance inside as it spread to the very edges of the crystal.

"Wow." Hermione breathed.

Then they watched him reverse the steps, withdrawing the swirling memory from the
bottle with the tip of his wand and applying it to his temple where it seeped back into
his head on its own. He did this multiple times, making more notes in between while
seeming to perfect the technique with each attempt. Forming a longer, almost solid
string of shining memories that dropped and swung from the tip of his wand near the
end. Finally he closed the book and stood up.
Appearing to be satisfied with events, the elderly Dumbledore held out his hand to
Hermione, which she took and was suddenly being flung upwards into inky
blackness once more, eventually landing lightly on her toes beside the stone basin.
She took several awkward steps back toward her chair and collapsed into it, slightly
breathless at what she'd just seen. "That was incredible sir! And - and you want me
to learn to do that as well?"
"Quite right," Dumbledore took his seat across from her, "I was hoping you might
provide a few memories, for Harry's lesson here tomorrow. Perhaps we might start
with your first meeting?" He retrieved three more bottles from inside his robes and
placed them on the desk.
"Ehhhh... really? Well, I'm not sure I-" Dumbledore interrupted her from frowning
down at her hands.
"Do not doubt yourself so quickly Miss Granger, I have heard tell of your remarkable
talents already. It is unlikely such a spell will present you much difficulty, even at your
age."
Hermione shook her head, "That's not... what I mean is... I, would rather not."
A stunned look of incomprehension overcame the Headmaster while leaning forward
in concern, "What-whatever for? Did something happen?"
"No, no! I'm sorry, it's not that I don't want to help Harry get better or that I don't trust
you Professor, but... I would rather not anyone else see my memories." She began
to chew on her lip for a second, "Maybe, instead, Harry and I, could borrow the, ah,
pensieve?"
The silence stretched for a moment, straining Hermione's nerves which felt like they
were stretching as well.
"Hmm, I see. It appears I have forgotten much about the troubles of youth, but I do

understand your concerns." Dumbledore nodded once absentmindedly as he

relaxed back into his chair, appearing to be deep in thought for another long
moment. After gathering his thoughts he began again in a serious tone, "As I have
said, the pensive is an extremely rare and valuable device, although, I believe that
loaning it to you is not out of the question. Precautions could be taken and if you
would promise to take proper care of it, keep it secret, and have Harry bring it with
him for my lessons... then I believe it might be more useful in your hands than mine
for the moment."
"Of course! I promise to take exceptional care of it! And no one will know about it
except Harry, and I'll also make sure he takes excellent care of it while bringing it to
lessons!" A tight smile was spreading across her face which Hermione tried to keep
in check to appear serious and responsible.
Nodding once more with a hint of a smile himself, Dumbledore replied, "Very well, let
us familiarize you in its use."
oOoOo
Harry pushed himself away from another satisfying meal in the still florid pink hall.
Having taken a little of everything within reach to test his griffin claw on, he felt ready
to lounge about in the Ravenclaw library with his newish-old friends. But that thought
disappeared the moment Hermione took his hand outside the Great Hall, leading him
away from the stairs and other students, around the corner next to a plain marble
statue of a robbed wizard. Pulling him through a hidden passageway and up one
more flight of stairs, they approached an empty hallway when suddenly Hermione
stopped, let go of his hand and looked around.
"Can you sense anyone around?" She whispered next to his ear.
The thundering of his heart felt loud enough to echo off the walls, yet Harry pushed it
away, along with every thought and crazy fantasy about why Hermione would be
dragging him to a deserted corridor on Valentines day. It took all his focus to open
his senses and search for anyone around, only to be bombarded with more feelings
for Hermione as she was standing so close. He suppressed them to eke out a single
word response, "No."
"Okay, good." Her coy smile left him dizzy as she walked away from him, then
straight back, and finally away again.
Just as Harry found the courage to ask what was going on, a lone wooden door
beside Hermione caught his eye. Which was odd since he was sure it hadn't been
there the second before. Spinning on her heel, Hermione caught the door handle

with nimble fingers as if it was an escaping balloon, rising into the sky.
"Wha...?" Harry faltered as the door opened a crack and light came streaming
through.
"Heh, it is kind of fun teaching you things this time around." Hermione pushed the
door open fully, "This, is the disappearing room."
Mountainous rows of clutter stretched into the distance while Harry stood
dumbfounded, taking it all in. Walking around behind him, Hermione put her hands
on his shoulders and gently pushed him through the door. Harry felt a wave of
nostalgia roll over him as he entered, along with a desire for something in his
mokeskin pouch. He started to reach for it when Hermione grabbed his hand and
turned him around.
"Since everyone was expecting us to disappear somewhere, I figured we might as
well. Padma and Sue are keeping an eye on Fred and George for us, and I have a
couple of things that might help your memory. So we should have until curfew." She
turned around as well and stopped abruptly, then looked back and forth along the
wall, searching for something. "Now where'd all the other doors go?"
"There's more?"
Hermione nodded absentmindedly, "Lots, but they're all gone for some reason." She
closed her eyes, appearing to be concentrating with great effort. But upon opening
them, she frowned in disappointment. "Of course not, it never listens to me."
"Is that the flying carpet Padma was talking about? Maybe we can search for them
with that?" Harry pointed at a large rug on the floor, trying to distract her from getting
frustrated.
"I doubt it. Usually they just appear when you... ah! That's probably why Fred and
George wanted you yesterday, you're the one who always thought up the rooms. OK, try picturing the other library in the photos I showed you, that's all we really
need."
"Er - I'm just supposed to imagine a room I don't remember and it'll suddenly appear
in front of us?"
"Yep."
"Is magic always this easy?"

"Nope." She grinned again.

"Well that clears things up." Remembering back, Harry felt something click in his
mind, and in the blink of an eye another polished oak door stood in front of them.
Hermione clapped her hands, "Great, that's the one! Now we can get to work."
Thirty minutes later Harry had been informed of all their secret work together and
was sitting completely still in the multicolored puffskein chair, feeling extremely silly
and embarrassed at the same time. Having Hermione watch his every move with
intense scrutiny wasn't helping matters.
"This has got to be a joke. - Did I do something before I lost my memory to deserve
this? Because if so, it's not very nice to be taking it out on me now."
"Don't be silly, it's entirely possible this could work." She made a few notes on a
sheet of parchment, "Professor Flitwick was kind enough to lend us his memory
slippers, the shining remembralls will tell us if it's working, and you even dispelled a
tripping jinx from a chair with the knife."
"I get all that, really I do - but why do I have to hold the remembralls in my shirt, wear
the slippers on my ears, and balance a sharp wavy blade on my head? Are you
torturing me because of that Valentine from Gemma Farley? Because I don't even
know who she is, and it was mostly another get well soon card like Penny's."
Hermione pursed her lips, "That has nothing to do with this. I already told you that
the book on memory charms said if we remove as much distance between your
brain and the enchanted objects that there is a chance it could help the effect. We've
already tried them all individually and holding them normally, so this is the last test to
try. Just bear with it for one more minute."
Sighing, Harry closed his eyes and asked the question that had been nagging at him
for a while, "By the way, how did I dispel the jinx from that chair?"
"You... ah - stabbed it. But obviously we're not going to try that here, so this is the
next best option. Besides, your memory seems to be improved by exposure to
magic, so removing any active curse probably isn't the solution. Although it was
worth trying it all together like this just to make sure."
Her quill scratching down more notes while waiting, was almost comforting for Harry,
reminding him of snippets of this old life he could scarcely remember.
"Hermione, what if I never regain my memory fully? Is it really that much of a

problem? Will things... change?" Harry opened his eyes again to see her look up
from writing and look back down, sucking in her bottom lip.
"No. - It's not a problem. I'm sure you'll do fine in classes, and Padma, Sue, and I
can all help whenever needed. I suppose six months isn't that long when witches
and wizards grow much older on average. And I've learned that there are other ways
to share memories that we can try - if you want. But let's take a break for now."
Packing up her notes and removing the magical artifacts from around Harry left
Hermione sifting through her mokeskin pouch, attempting to reorganize surface
items she could reach with one arm. Heavy rain on the roof distracted Harry as he
stood up to stretch his legs, ambling about the expansive private library. He
inspected a fancy crystal rose whose scent hinted at more memories just out of
reach, soaked in the warmth rising from the old threadbare rug, and marveled at the
most detailed globe of the earth he'd ever seen, with a view of the actual clouds
above their heads. But putting his hands in his pockets reminded him of what day it
was.
Harry turned away, and pulled out the small box with hearts all over it, along with the
pink lace Valentine he wrote earlier in the day. Someone else's present and a simple
card seemed so inadequate for a gift, even if things were strange at the moment. He
had literally dived into his mokeskin pouch the night before, hunting for a gift he
might have hidden away before his memory was erased, but there was nothing
except some red wrapping paper that didn't look used. His inner feelings insisted
that Hermione deserved better, while his memory and current situation wasn't sure
what think, let alone do. Visiting his memory palace, he checked one last time if
anything had been revealed on the subject, yet he ended up in his chair, looking up
at all the photos of Hermione he'd been silly enough to collect.
Then he noticed something.
"Ah!" He shouted.
"What!? What's wrong? Did you remember something?" Hermione had her wand out
in concern.
"Kind of... more like realized something. But I, don't know what it means..." She was
looking at him expectantly, so he continued, "You - you're not wearing the flower you
usually do in the photos... I assume it was one I gave to you?"
Her hand reached for the empty lapel before realizing what she was doing. "I - I'm
sorry, the last one wilted recently when you were sent to the hospital. I tried to save
it, but, I couldn't." Looking up again, she saw the items in Harry's hands, "What are

those?"
Harry grinned faintly, "Oh, these? Nothing much, I only thought I should give back to
someone who sent me a valentine today." He attached the box to the card and
looked towards the open door, then at the indescribable expression Hermione had
on her face. He threw the card at the door to hear a barely audible squeak, and a
loud gasp as it came soaring back towards Hermione.
After catching it in a claw like grasp she turned a menacing glare his way, "Harry...
You said it was going to someone who sent you a valentine today. That's not nice to
lie."
"But I didn't. You did send me a valentine. I have to say, it wasn't much of one
though, a one word demand during breakfast doesn't really inspire affection and
fondness towards someone."
"You...!"
Harry started laughing as he sat down across from her, "Go on and open it already,
I'm sure you'll be quite surprised."
Shaking her head with the touch of a rueful smile on her lips, Hermione opened the
letter and read, letting the smile grow. She carefully unwrapped the box next,
preserving the nice wrapping paper. While pulling off the lid, her expression turned to
slight confusion as she lifted a single purple button out of the box. "What's it do?"
"Aww, I guess that would be the obvious conclusion wouldn't it? I was hoping for
more of a reaction, but oh well. - It's a silent sneakoscope. Sadly not from me
actually, Tonks wanted to give you one too. Yours looks nicer than my rock though."
Harry flicked his wrist to expose his Nundu wand, "I, apparently am not a very
thoughtful... friend, and didn't get you anything nice before having my memory
erased. But hopefully I can at least replace the flower you used to wear, if you want
that is?"
She nodded with a sympathetic and encouraging smile, "Please."
Chuckling again, Harry closed his eyes and attempted to remember exactly what
happened to his wand as he first touched it in Diagon Alley. He could see the flowers
blooming, smell the floral aroma, and hear the wind rustle throughout the shop, and
then it hit. A surge of magic and memories flooded through him in an instant,
bringing back every instance of seeing Hermione wear that single blue flower. There
were hundreds of them, they were short, a few seconds to a minute at the most, but
they were back, and it was breathtaking.

Clapping woke him from his thoughts to see Hermione grinning at the tip of his
wand, which was covered by a bundle of glowing blue flowers. Plucking them off he
handed them over, wishing there was more. That's when another revelation hit him,
an important one.
"Ah!"
"What, again?" Hermione laughed while smelling the flowers.
"Yes, but this time is a little better. I remembered where I kept your actual present,
and, a few other things. Although... It's a little embarrassing, you'll probably like it
anyway. Come on." He led her outside the library into the main room, and pointed
towards a new red door, covered with pink hearts and trim. He groaned softly as she
opened it.
Hermione giggled delightedly in return, looking dazzled by the thoroughly decorated
Valentine's day room. A single white table sat in the center of the small dining area,
surrounded by pink walls and deep red carpet. Matching red velvet chairs sat
opposite each other, tinted lamps hung from the ceiling, and everlasting candles
were lit on the table. Red napkins were laid next to white plates with a single rose on
each, while in the center sat a bright red box and instead of the trademark blue, was
a bouquet of glowing purple flowers on top.
"It's amazing Harry! Thank you! When did you have time - I mean, did you remember
this just now?"
He shuffled his feet while closing the door, "Yeah, I remembered creating those
flowers here while making the blue ones. I think I was going to tell you to eat a light
dinner and have the house elves bring us something here, but it's a little late for that.
- At least you can open your present, and we can both be surprised by what it is."
Skipping to the table Hermione took a seat and waved Harry over, giggling even
more. "I made something for you too." She pulled a blue lace bag out of nowhere
and set it on the table, "Wasn't sure you'd want them, but we should eat something
here after all the trouble you went through. Kolie helped me make them, there's even
potions infused in the chocolate."
"Er - what kind of potions?" He asked while sitting down and trying not to blush at the
atmosphere his former self put together.
"Not that kind, honestly Harry you always seem to think I'm up to something. Which
might concern me if you weren't simply projecting. And yes, I learned that from a
psychology book you lent me." Hermione stuck out her tongue, then picked a

chocolate out of the bag and took a bite.

She passed them to Harry while explaining. "The square and round ones are
concentration and memory enhancing potions to help while you study, but the heart
shaped ones are just different kinds of chocolate. We kind of got carried away and
made too many of those, so I gave some to friends and there's more to replace the
ones we eat now."
Laughing silently, Harry pulled one out with caramel drizzled on top, "thanks," he
mumbled and pushed the bright red box toward her.
The wrapping came off just like before, making Hermione grin from ear to ear as she
opened the lid. Inside rested a heart shaped pendant, formed from intricately woven
designs of polished silver thread. She picked it up while trying to control her gleeful
expression.
"I suppose this fits on the necklace you gave me for Christmas, but just so you know,
you don't have to give me jeweler all the time because I'm a girl. Thank you though,
it is quite beautiful."
He took another chocolate while blushing and looked away, "You're welcome... and
I'll try to remember that, this time."
Attaching the heart pendant to her necklace, Hermione sighed, "Well, I guess I can't
delay any longer can I? You deserve to see as many memories as possible tonight.
And I'll let you choose any two you want to watch, even if they are embarrassing."
She began pulling something out of her mokeskin pouch.
"Watch... your memories? But I thought you said it might be dangerous for me to try
legilimency with my condition?"
"It is, but apparently there are easier ways." A wide and shallow stone basin
squeezed out of her pouch, seemingly lighter than air the way Hermione held it. She
set it down between them gently, and took out a few bottles full of silver mist next.
"This is the Pensieve Dumbledore let me borrow today after he showed me how to
use it. I'm not that good at it yet, but it lets you view any memories put into it. So,
what do you want to see first?"
"...You're really letting me choose any memory I want to watch?"
Hermione nodded slowly, appearing slightly hesitant at his tone.

"What about at... ten after seven this morning?"

"What happened at seven ten...?" Confusion knitted her brow, until understanding
kicked in and her eyes grew wide. "HARRY! You are NOT watching me sho-"
"It's a joke! Only a joke..." He held up his hands in surrender while striving to hold
back his laughter. "I'm sorry, I wasn't serious, I promise!"
"How do you even know what time I - no, never mind, I don't even want to know. I
thought you might be less childish after losing your memories, but obviously I was
mistaken. Now if you don't mind, pick a shared memory, and I might allow it."
Harry couldn't stop from laughing while apologizing, "Sorry - I overheard you
complaining - to Sue about how long you had to wait this morning - and I couldn't
help paying you back - for putting slippers on my ears."
Hermione rolled her eyes.
He finally got control again, "Alright, what about our meeting in the Ravenclaw library
at the start of school? You seemed to skip over a lot when I asked about it before."
Squeezing her eyes shut in mortification, Hermione dropped her head, sighed, and
reluctantly agreed, "Fine... we might as well get it over with." Then pulled out another
prepared bottle.
The entire night before curfew was spent diving into fuzzy memories of the past.
Most of which were embarrassing for all involved, even their former selves. Harry
remembered much, but not more than he saw. It left him extremely happy walking
back to his dorm, still wanting more, and having an idea of how to get it.

Chapter 26 - Eggs
Chapter 26
Eggs
Breakfast ended as an army of owls came swooping through the rafters, dropping
post into waiting hands. Harry rarely looked up. Recently he'd taken to observing
people's expressions, noting the others like him who turned their attention to
alternative things. The smiles given to friends, the dreamy interest in books, or the
usual look of concentration on a piece of homework for Ravenclaws. There weren't
as many as he expected, considering all the muggleborns said to attend. Most
students wore a cautious hope, glancing up occasionally when an owl flew close
enough to catch their eye. While a select few seemed to watch for a specific owl or
package they knew should be arriving. Although with owl orders, Harry supposed
nearly everyone had at least one day like that. Even he had received mail in the
past, though none he could remember.
That's why Harry almost snapped at Padma, when yet another foreign object fell in
his plate. Having thrown the last five raspberries, Padma was just as surprised as he
was when a letter landed in the spot she was aiming. At a look from Harry, she
popped the last berry in her mouth and grinned.
"Well, open it already."
Giving her an exaggerated sigh, Harry complied, revealing an untidy scrawl across
the note.
Dear Harry and friends,
Bit busy with the garden lately. Maybe you lot could visit the week after next to catch
up. Or we could have a cuppa in the castle sometime.
Wishing your well, Hagrid
After deciphering the text he handed it over to Padma, and tried to remember what
he'd talked about with Hagrid in the hospital ward last.
"That's the third time in a row he's written to say it isn't a good time to visit, and he's
rarely at meals these days. Do you think something might be wrong?" Sue asked in
concern.
"If there is something wrong, he's not very good at hiding it... which does sound like

Hagrid." Observed Padma.

Looking between the two of them for advice, Harry felt out of his depth, "You think I
should reply back and ask him?"
"I doubt that would work," said Sue, "who knows what he does in the garden this
time of year, but why don't we simply go and ask if we can help? He might
appreciate the offer and company, even if there's nothing we can do."
"Ooh, but how am I going to ferret details out of Harry and Hermione about last night
while working in Hagrid's garden?"
Harry clenched his jaw, "That's why you've been throwing stuff at me all morning?"
"Of course, why else would I do it? I'm not related to Uric the oddball, unlike you."
Seeing her cheeky and teasing smile only made him sigh again and shake his head,
this time in amusement. "Let's go to Hagrid's, maybe he'll give you some of that
treacle toffee Hermione was telling me about."
"Aww, you're going to Hagrid's right now?" Harry turned around to see a
disappointed Hermione and several other Gryffindors girls giggling beside her.
Lavender however was pointedly ignoring him.
"Thinking about it, yeah. Got other plans?"
"Hermione promised to cheer on Gryffindor early today, and so should you. We're
facing Slytherin after all." Parvati explained, placing an arm around Hermione's
shoulder, then began pulling her away as she cast a look of regret back at Harry.
Padma stood up, "See, even they're going to get enough juicy tidbits out of
Hermione to spread around the school. Your friends shouldn't have to get them
second hand."
"You know... I'm beginning to wonder what would have happened if someone else
sat next to me on the train."
"Really? Would you rather be friends with boys like them?" She huffed and nodded
over her shoulder at Ron Weasley with jam around his mouth and Neville
Longbottom hunched meekly over the table, both creepily caressing their pets while
discussing quidditch and trading chocolate frog cards.
Harry felt a shiver of revulsion run down his spine, making him stand up as well,

"OK, you've made your point... but there's not much I can tell. We mostly talked and
shared old memories, nothing like you're hoping."
"You mean, like you were hoping. At least tell us-"
Sue bumped Padma while joining them, "You don't have to tell us anything Harry.
Your friends respect your privacy enough not to pry."
Crossing her arms Padma gave her own sigh as they made their way towards the
doors, "Fine, but we can at least be interested. It's not fun when my sister is the one
explaining what's going on between you two."
The sneakoscope buzzed in Harry's pocket while walking towards the entrance hall,
distracting his thoughts for a moment. He spoke up again as they met another wet
and dreary day outside, leaving the castle doors behind.
"Even I don't know what's going on, especially with all the stories I've been told and
scattered memories I've been piecing together. I'm finally started to feel comfortable
with all this craziness, but I don't think I understand it yet, if I ever did. And while it
seems you've already noticed I'm not a big sharer, or very relatable, I am glad you're
my friends despite all that."
Padma and Sue shared a mysterious look.
"Why does he get all mature and nice after I start complaining these days? Doesn't
he know he's not supposed to do that?"
"I always said it was strange, sometimes he actually listens to what you have to say,
understands your point, and then responds with honesty. It's almost like he's not an
eleven year old boy." Agreed Sue.
"That's it! He must be a polyjuiced, fifth year... girl. It explains everything!"
"Ha, ha, you two are hilarious." Harry intoned sarcastically, then paused mid-step,
"Wait, can polyjuice really do that?"
Padma snorted, "Oh no! Now he's going to act his age and imagine every perverted
thing he could do with polyjuice." She nearly tripped on the muddy path from giggling
too much.
A sharp BANG interrupted their early morning trek. Drawing their attention to the
open front door on Hagrid's cabin, to see Lockhart flying out of it. His crisp maroon
robes flapped through the air with an elegant grace, right before smacking into a

fresh puddle of mud. Echoing through the valley with a resounding SPLAT. Harry
ducked behind a nearby bush without a word, tailed closely by Sue and Padma.
Demonstrating how practically everyone wished to avoid Lockhart's notice.
"An' don't come back!" Hagrid growled, slamming the door shut behind him.
The temporary defense professor clamored out of the muck and stood up woodenly.
Looking barely conscious of his surroundings he pulled out his wand with a shaky
hand and attempted a cleaning spell, once, twice, before turning his robes a vivid
chartreuse and giving up. With the same dazed expression, he staggered off
towards an unusual destination, the lake. Dripping mud along the way.
"Think he's alright?" Sue asked.
"Do we care?" Quipped Harry, having already experienced more than enough of
Lockhart's artificial concern for his well-being.
"He used to be in Ravenclaw..."
Padma shook her head in disappointment, "That only makes it worse."
A couple of minutes later they knocked on Hagrid's door, hoping his anger had
abated and wondering why all the curtains were drawn shut.
"I SAID-" Hagrid gruffly bit off his words through the door. Yanking it open a crack, he
halted in apparent surprise upon seeing who it was. "Mornin' Harry, did that ruddy
bird not deliver me letter?"
"It did, but that's why we came. Thought you might like some help." Harry offered.
"Help? What with?" Hagrid scratched his massive head. "Don't need no help here."
Pausing a moment for a quick look at his two friends, Harry was reassured by their
similar reactions, "What about all the gardening you said you were busy with it?"
"Oh! Right, right... that - er - fixed itself, it did."
Padma clapped, "Wonderful, then you can invite us in and tell us what's really going
on."
She got yet another elbow to the ribs for that remark, while Sue tried to patch things
over, "We were simply worried why you haven't been coming to meals or leaving
your house much lately. Would you mind terribly if we came in to talk?"

Hagrid glanced over his shoulder and then back at the waiting students, "A-alright...
come in before yeh let all o' the heat out."
They crossed the threshold of Hagrid's house, suddenly plunging into a makeshift
sauna. Their skin tingled at the abrupt change in temperature, relieving them of any
need for excess garments. Hagrid shuffled around his kitchen in a thin robe, filling up
a pot of water to put over the roaring fire and clinking a handful of tea cups together.
"Are you trying to attract fire salamanders Hagrid? Because it's nearly boiling in
here." Padma asked while tearing off her cloak, jumper, and hat to throw over the
back of a chair. Harry and Sue followed her lead.
"Er - no. It was... was, flitterby moths!" He seemed to jump on the answer, "Bin trying
to lure 'em around early fer Harry here. Wanted ter try catchin' somethin' other than
moke he did."
Sue cut in before he could explain more, "Where's Fang?" They all noticed Hagrid's
eyes nervously flick toward a mound of blankets by the side of the fireplace.
As Padma was the closest, she pulled off the blankets gently to reveal the large
boarhound, literally frozen stiff in red ice. "What did that Khota do to Fang?" Padma
barked.
"I'm guessing that's why Lockhart came flying out of your house earlier?" Harry
ventured, while reaching out with his senses to detect the boarhound's mind, which
was feeling quite agitated.
"Ah, yeh saw that did yeh? Shouldn'ta lost me temper," Hagrid shook his head in
dismay, "but there he was, suddenly bargin' in, handin' me a signed photo, an' givin'
me advice on distractin' porlock, when out o' the blue he starts on about somethin'
ter do with his hair in this heat. Then he goes an' freezes Fang fer no good reason,
an' has the nerve, ter blame it on me!"
"Throwing him out the door sounds like an appropriate response to me." Mumbled
Sue, to everyone's surprise.
Sue and Padma both began inspecting the frozen dog then, casting diagnostic spells
and attempting to reverse the unknown charm. Hagrid looked on in worry, while
Harry watched the fire, feeling something else alive inside it.
Do fire demons actually exist? Could someone really trade their heart for power? No, no... fantasy stories have only gotten bits and pieces right so far. And I doubt
there's a spell to keep pumping blood without a heart. - But, what's in the fire then? A

salamander like Padma suggested? It does feel lizard-like... if that's a thing. Maybe if
I move that log out of the way...
"Harry!" Shouted Padma, catching his attention after multiple attempts, "Wake up
and drag your brilliant arse over here. We need your help."
With a skeptical eye, he walked over next to Padma and took out his wand, "Did I do
something wrong again and you're just not telling me? Because you're both acting
stranger than usual today."
"Yes, you're asking too many questions. Now fix Fang so we don't have to wait until
after lunch for Hermione to get here."
"Okay..." Harry shrugged and attempted to remember the correct wand movements
for the spells he thought to try, when the logs in the fire shook apart, exposing a
darkly coloured shell. Hagrid jumped to attention, grabbing another log and laying it
in front of the now obvious egg. He turned around to see three extremely
unimpressed Ravenclaws, silently waiting for an explanation.
"Er - cookin' some breakfast?"
Padma rolled her eyes in exaggeration, "Haagrid... You don't honestly expect us to
ignore a dragon egg incubating in your fireplace, do you? That's like pretending your
umbrella doesn't have a wand inside, it only makes us more curious."
He grunted in response, having already had that discussion during a previous visit.
"You know we won't tell anyone Hagrid, you're our friend." Sue consoled him.
"Oh-alright!" Hagrid blushed behind his mane of hair and began fixing the tea again,
"I was down in the village las' weekend when this strange little fella' scampers past
carrying a huge sack, bein' chased by a couple o' brutes. Looked like Ogres ter me.
So they're chasing after this dopey bloke when he runs down a dead end an' let's out
a horrible wail. Knows he's stuck he does. I goes ter help, but before I get there,
they're all gone. Probably caught hold'a him while disapparatin' I'd wager. Nothin' left
behind but a sack with that there dragon egg inside, come to find out." He set down
the pot of tea and cups on the table, next to a bowl of whole walnuts.
"Er... aren't you worried someone will come looking for it, demanding it back
maybe?" Harry asked skeptically.
"Well, I waited around awhile ter see, but no one came. Couldn't jus' leave 'em there
in the cold, so I hid it in me coat an' brought it back here." Hagrid crushed a walnut

with only his thumb and threw the whole thing in his mouth, crunching away, "Next
day, I visit the library an' find this old book on how to raise dragons ter help out. Even
teaches yeh how ter recognize diff'rent eggs an' such. That there's a Norwegian
Ridgeback, good fire breathers they are."
The trio of friends shared concerned looks, but Harry was the only one to speak up,
"I think Hermione would want me to point out that you live in a wooden house
Hagrid."
Then he cast Finite on Fang, releasing him from his icy prison.
oOoOo
Harry climbed up the weathered stands toward the back of the Gryffindor section to
sit down behind Hermione and the rest of the first year girls watching quidditch.
Several peeked back at him and giggled again, causing more to follow. Hermione
spun around with her heart pendant exposed, giving him a smile and then a curious
look as she searched for Padma and Sue.
"They're off researching something. I'm supposed to bring you back to help after the
game." A mild drizzle interrupted him, "Or we could just go now..." Arms latched onto
Hermione at that comment, causing her to shrug.
A goal was scored and shouts rang through the air. Nearly drowning out a running
commentary on the quidditch players swarming wildly around on brooms. The
Gryffindors seemed to be winning by the expressions of excitement Harry saw
around the nearby stands. Though a brilliant crack of lightning suddenly changed the
mood and the weather, as thunder rolled over the pitch.
Hoods, shawls, and multiple makeshift covers were thrown overhead when the
drizzle grew into a downpour. Harry pulled down his hood as well, but it was little
comfort in the frigid rain. It made him want to dive into his mokeskin pouch to get
away, and possibly drag Hermione with him. Memories of the night before invaded
his mind as he stared at the bushy hair in front of him, slowly getting drenched.
Shaking off the distracting thoughts, Harry remembered seeing something useful in
his pouch and reached in to find it. He grabbed onto the wooden handle and pulled it
up, revealing an old fashioned umbrella. Quickly opening it up and tapping Hermione
on the shoulder rewarded him with a bright and appreciative smile. She hopped out
of her seat while her captors were busy fending off the rain and snuggled in beside
Harry beneath the umbrella. Her housemates turned indignant glares their way, yet
before they could say a thing Hermione whipped out her wand and cast an
impressive engorgement charm on the umbrella. Enlarging it many times its original

size, while making it so heavy they had to prop it up on the seat below.
This produced a mass exodus from the lower seats, crowding in and around Harry
and Hermione, squeezing them together even tighter than before. The game
continued despite it all, angering the Gryffindors when one of their players nearly fell
off their broom from an unexpected collision with a Slytherin. Harry was barely
paying attention to anything, except the many girls crushed up against him, that was
until he saw and felt, a suspicious hooded figure, peering into the stands with malice
in its heart.
His Nundu wand was in his hand before he knew what he was doing, ready and
wanting to cast something harmful.
Hermione caught his arm in a second, pulled it down and whispered in his ear, "It's
just Malfoy. He was sneaking around before the match as well, but he's not doing
anything wrong ...I don't think."
Noticing the two bulky forms a bit behind the first and the relative size of each
confirmed her words for Harry, enough to put his wand away at least. "Sorry,
something feels off about him."
She gave him a small chuckle, "Well, with Malfoy that's probably expected. - Ooh,
the rain is already clearing up!"
And it was, just enough for the two seekers to notice the golden ball that went
whizzing past their brooms. The crowd hummed with excitement when the seekers
turned into a dive, straight for the ground. They were darting this way and that,
bumping elbows and knees while plummeting after the enchanted lure. Nearly the
entire stands jumped up to watch the battle of brooms reach a crescendo. Until
startled gasps and a horrible choking noise ended the match.
"It went in his mouth!" Someone shouted.
"He caught the snitch in his mouth? Is that legal?" Asked a younger boy who could
barely see.
"Not the snitch, a tiny bird! Looks like he almost swallowed it whole!" A bark of
laughter was heard in the background.
"Bollocks!" Claimed a third, "There's repelling charms to stop animals."
"Slytherins must have conjured it then!"

The Gryffindor seeker was barely hanging onto his broom, coughing up feathers
while slowly sinking to the ground. Meanwhile Slytherin was cheering their heads off,
seeing Gryffindor humiliated and their seeker with the golden prize in hand.
Madam Hooch blew her whistle shrilly, quieting the cheers along with everyone else.
She flew over to clap the incapacitated seeker on the back and pick up a feather for
inspection.
"Professor McGonagall, if you'd be so kind?" She held up the miniscule, iridescent
feather toward the stands. Which was summoned to the commentary booth, while
everyone seemed to be holding their breath.
"It is real." McGonagall stated unenthusiastically.
Prompting Slytherin to break into a roar of celebration and triumph once more.
Everyone else was looking on in bewilderment at the pitiful seeker, only now
receiving actual help from Robert, the Ravenclaw prefect.
Harry sat shaking in place, fighting to keep from laughing out loud while surrounded
by dozens of displeased Gryffindors. The girls around him were beginning to take
notice, sending odd looks his way. Hermione poked him in the ribs, forcing him to
cover his mouth before bursting. Luckily the school bells rang then, calling them all
back for lunch.
"That was... interesting." Harry remarked as they were hiking back to the castle in a
light sprinkle of rain. Earning him a glare and hair flip from Lavender.
"Hush, there's no need to rub it in." Hermione whispered playfully, "The Slytherins
are doing that enough already."
A flock of Slytherin girls were laughing derisively at the passing Gryffindors.
"I still don't get why Gryffindor and Slytherin hate each other so much."
"They're evil. We're good. That's all." Parvati declared, as if it was the most obvious
thing in the world.
Harry looked at her skeptically, "All of them? What about yesterday with Tracy and
Daphne?"
"Oh they're evil too, but they're a fun kind of evil. Not nearly as bad as the rest." This
produced another round of giggles, before abruptly ending as a giant Gryffindor
grunted at them to speed up.

It wasn't until the middle of lunch that another incident occurred, even stranger than
the last. It began unsurprisingly with Draco, slipping into the Great Hall late, alone,
and in a hurry. Though instead of sitting down pompously like usual, he crept
towards the staff table, aiming for his head of house to reveal some hushed bit of
news.
Snape bolted from of his chair and swept out the side door faster than Draco could
chase after. Leaving a cloud of flyaway rumors in his wake, some trying to guess
what it was about, who was going to get in trouble, and how Malfoy found out. Which
only rekindled old rumors of Draco being Snape's guinea pig for experimental
potions.
Five minutes later a shape appeared in the doorway, drawing all eyes to it. It halted,
looking more intimidated than a chicken stumbling upon a den of wolves. Adjusting
his robes, Percy kept walking, making his way to the Gryffindor table with barely
concealed unease. Not realizing he was sitting down between the jaws of the most
terrifying beast there. Twin fangs pierced into him at once.
"Who was it?", "What happened, was it terrible?" Fred and George harried him, loud
enough for nearby tables to hear.
Percy appeared ready for it though and shook his head, "I'm not allowed to say what
they did."
"Aha! There was more than one, we're already getting somewhere." Fred seized on
the crumb, forcing a twitch out of Percy.
"Did you check under their skirts for contraband?" Queried George.
"Huh?"
"Right, would have denied that if they were girls. Did they try threatening you?"
Percy ignored them while dishing himself some food.
"Would have scoffed if they were younger, and we saw Snape run off earlier. So, that
must mean some older Slytherin blighters were up to no good... doesn't narrow it
down much does it?" Fred chuckled.
"Did you hex the slimy buggers for cheating?"
"WHAT!? How could..." Percy paused for a moment and then groaned, "ughhh." He
put his head in his hands in shame.

"Cracking guess George, we've nearly got it. Now, did you catch how they snuck that
bird on the pitch?" Silence was the only response, so they kept at it.
"No? Were they damaging school property? Bullying someone? Having a go at each
other?"
Percy froze, and George caught it, "Ah, closer are we? What, were they whacking
wands together or something?"
Suddenly grabbing his goblet and spilling pumpkin juice while pouring himself some,
Percy began gulping it down.
"Oh shove off Perce, you're having us on! You're trying not to tell us, that you caught
a couple of Slytherin blokes poofing it up in a closet somewhere?"
A coughing fit took hold of Percy, sputtering juice over his plate and the napkin he
quickly raised to his mouth. He shook his head in denial, but it was too late. Fred and
George were exchanging wicked grins, while everyone around them was spreading
the news.
"By Slytherin's moldy ghost!" Fred exclaimed, "Wait, who's missing?" They both
stood up, along with a few others, scanning the table on the other side of the hall for
any open seats. Lee Jordan spotted it first, nodding toward the still celebrating crowd
around their quidditch players.
"You're not going to believe it, but their team is down by two!"
"Nooo, Bole and... and Flint!? It - it all makes sense!" The twins began cracking up
with laughter. "Remember when they used to hex your trousers off in third year
Perce?" He was staring at his food now, trying not to look up or respond.
"And how they used to curse the door locks in the boys bathrooms, so they would
open once you sat down?" Added Lee.
"No wonder Flint doesn't allow girls on the team!" George snickered.
"Stop it." Sue insisted behind them, "There's nothing wrong with them liking each
other. You shouldn't make fun of them for being different than you."
Fred and George turned around at the unexpected defense of Slytherins, and saw
her completely serious expression. They glanced at Harry beside her, who looked on
in concern. The pair bowed their red heads in a muffled conversation before
responding in mock seriousness.

"You misunderstand young Ravenclaw," George began, and Fred took over, "We
don't care if they're batting for the other team, camping it up on the weekends, or
experimenting in cross species relations." Lee snorted loudly beside them, "It's
amusing because they've been such gigantic, bullying, pricks to everyone for years,
and now we know why."
"So if you don't mind, we have more mocking laughter to resume." Which they did
with many people down the Gryffindor table.
Penny arrived then to sit across from the ending discussion. Sue turned to her for
support, "Would you please convince those prats that making fun of someone's
inability to cope with their identity is not something to laugh at?"
"I see that news has already been divulged..." She sent a pointed frown toward
Percy, already blushing a bright pink, "I'll talk with them. Though, making fun of
bullying isn't the worst way to discourage that kind of behavior."
The Slytherin table suddenly erupted into a shouting match, signaling the rumor's
reach and disrupting the rest of lunch."
oOoOo
Harry took a seat opposite the headmaster in an oversized velvety armchair, feeling
uncommonly familiar with the fantastical surroundings he didn't recognize. Only one
thing seemed out of place, and that was the crimson bird decorated in golden
plumage and sparkling tail feathers, surveying him with something akin to
skepticism. Hermione mentioned seeing it the day before, marveling about getting to
see a phoenix in person. Harry didn't feel as lucky.
He shivered imperceptibly and stretched his arms while yawning to cover his
discomfort. Dumbledore's kind smile and penetrating light blue gaze wasn't helping
matters either.
"A late night I presume, did you manage much sleep?" Dumbledore inquired, while
silently offering him a cup of tea and some odd chocolates in the shape of,
cockroaches, of all things.
Harry hesitated, thinking through his possible responses and what they would say
about him. He shook his head at the offer and opened his mouth, speaking words he
had no intention of revealing.
"None at all." His eyes widened slightly and flashed toward the bird, still calmly
perched beside the clawfoot desk. He could sense it now, why it made him

uncomfortable and how its magic was influencing his thoughts. It felt like a musical
humming through his mind, barely perceptible, until it twisted the words coming out
of his mouth. He pushed back.
The Phoenix's squawk echoed around the room before it erupted in an overpowering
torrent of flames. Startling Harry and Dumbledore alike. Harry was the only one that
had retreated into the far corner of his chair though.
"Hmm, I was afraid something like that might happen. I am sorry Harry, but I hoped
you could tolerate Fawkes' presence after forgetting your occlumency training."
"What was that?"
"The Phoenix song, one of many. They are magnificent creatures, phoenixes,
displaying a variety of talents which I hoped to acclimate you to through Fawkes. As
it is commonly known, phoenix tears can heal, their tail feathers carry great weights,
and a single song may soothe, while bringing courage to those pure of heart. One
lesser known trait is rarely advertised. That is each song has varying magical effects,
even while remaining silent to the human ear. That particular melody I have Fawkes
sing for me often, as it encourages one to do what they know to be right." His eyes
twinkled knowingly at Harry, "The one disadvantage to the magic in their song is
being similar to legilimency, often making skilled, or defensive occlumens feel ill at
ease and occasionally, resist the intrusion upon their mind. I should have guessed
that your training remained, yet you merely forgot you could use it. Am I correct in
assuming that your other magic is of a similar nature?"
Is he implying I'm more defensive than skilled? Probably true I guess. He's evidently
noticed how careful I can be around adults, not that I'm hiding it well now...
"You mean how I can cast some spells on my first try?"
"Precisely! I believe you have lost less than I first feared, which will require much
less time to reacquaint you with the important details. - As you have most likely
guessed, that is what I wished to achieve this lesson. If you would be so kind as to
take out the pensive, which I am sure Miss Granger compelled you bring, then we
may begin."
Sliding from his chair, Harry extracted the expansive stone basin out of his
undersized pouch and set it on the table, still amazed by how it was all possible. He
spoke up before getting too distracted though, "If you don't mind, could I ask you
some questions first?"
"Of course Harry, I wouldn't expect otherwise."

Hesitating again, Harry decided to forget decorum and be straightforward. If I trusted

him in the past to enter my mind, and Hermione trusts him now, I might as well risk it
a little longer.
"Am I in danger here?" Or am I endangering friends?
Dumbledore looked thoughtful as he answered, "It is possible, however much I
would like that not to be the case. There is no evidence that your recent memory
loss was intentional, if that is what concerns you. - While I do not wish to alarm you
further or appear to coerce your decision to stay, you are in more danger outside of
Hogwarts, than in. We have also had a similar conversation not long ago, in which
you agreed to stay and cooperate in return for my help. That is one of the memories
I wished to explore with you soon."
At least that matches up with what Hermione told me. Might as well get on with the
rest.
"I assume Tonks' special training is part of that help, since dueling is the only thing
crossed off on a list of topics I planned to ask about?"
"Indeed it was," Dumbledore confirmed with a restrained smile, "yet I may not have
heard about, or agreed to everything on this list. - I must say, it appears not much
has changed between us, considering recent events."
"Ah, well I'm learning to trust my feelings about people, rather than trying to start
over. It seems to speed things along. Unless... you'd like to begin again?"
"No, but thank you for the offer. I believe that would only delay the inevitable. Please
continue." He took a bite out of a chocolate cockroach.
Harry pulled the list out of his pocket to read and avoid Dumbledore's inscrutable
gaze, "Apparently a pair of portkeys were the most important, with four being the
optimal number. Next were some kind of emergency beacons, enchanted clothing,
some potions called felix felicis and polyjuice, information on some key, and advice
on magical pets. Would any of those pose a problem?"
"Nearly all, remarkably enough." He wove his fingers together while leaning forward
on his desk, "Harry, I would gladly impart any advice I may have for choosing a
suitable pet, and can easily equip you and your friends with an emergency device
that can alert myself and a select few in case of serious trouble. I should inform you
however, that there have been detection charms cast on you since you were a baby,
making your emergency signal redundant. - Your other requests by contrast, are all
against school rules and even some ministry ones as well, of which I believe you are

already well aware. - While I have managed to persuade teachers to look the other
way on your already enchanted clothing, and I can apply for an exception to the
ministry law on personal portkeys for you, I will not endanger you further by
supplying you with recklessly advanced potions or helping you chase the mythical
key you are still after."
Harry shrugged, "I wasn't expecting anything on the potions or key since they're
marked 'unlikely', but thought I'd ask anyway. So no new enchanted clothing and
only one possible portkey?" Good thing I didn't mention the type of pet I wrote down
or any of the really unlikely requests, like apparition training. Or maybe I should have
poured it all on at once to see what stuck? Too late now though.
"Correct, as often only dangerous jobs or prominent officials are allowed personal
portkeys due to safety and security regulations. Although I believe your unique
history and recent... incidents will convince them to make an exception, yet only for
you. Sadly, this may take some time, due to bureaucratic procedures and excessive
paperwork. I would however advise against attempting to acquire portkeys
elsewhere, which are bound to be either fake or harmful, as only the headmaster
and trusted teachers of Hogwarts, are able to create one which allows travel past the
surrounding enchantments. - Now if you have no further questions?"
"Just a couple more. What was with all the red liquids yesterday?"
"A slow-acting amorous potion, cleverly used to replace some red dye the house
elves were given for the occasion. Doubtless it was someone's puckish attempt to
improve the romantic holiday or at least prolong its effects. Thankfully it influences
couples primarily and only a few students seem to have been affected, even though
we recently witnessed evidence of its power during lunch. - I do appreciate your
fortuitous help in catching the mistake, and I am sure so would many other students
if they knew."
Nodding in acceptance, Harry ended with his last and most difficult to phrase
question. "...What would you say to someone who unintentionally received a
dangerous, possibly illegal item and asked you to keep it a secret? - Before you ask,
no, it's really not about me and portkeys or anything else." He added while
Dumbledore was eyeing him critically.
"If so, then I would recommend to this theoretical person, that they be very careful
and find someone capable they trust to confide in. Seeing as that person might
already know, and wishes to help if asked."
"Alright..."

"Shall we finally begin?" Dumbledore inquired once more while pouring a liquid silver
memory into the waiting basin.
"Why not?"
Harry stood up, and dived into another journey of memories, learning about his
conversations and training with the wise old mentor.
oOoOo
"Hagrid has a what!?" Hermione asked, her eyebrows and tone rising together.
"A dragon egg, and yes, we're sure it's real. It shook the fireplace multiple times."
Answered Padma, while flipping through pages of dragons in their private library.
Harry nodded in confirmation at a glance from Hermione, "Didn't get the best look at
it since Hagrid kept piling firewood on top, but there was definitely something inside.
I don't suppose there's anything else that can lay an egg the size of a watermelon
and survive that heat."
"Where'd he get it?"
"Dropped by a shady character being chased through Hogsmeade." Sue stated
evenly, with her own book propped open.
Hermione's eyebrows jumped again, "Did no one find that odd, mention that it was
illegal to own, or simply ask Hagrid what he intends to do once it hatches?"
The three Ravenclaws shared a look and Harry replied, "We were going to, but once
I unfroze Fang, Hagrid wasn't really listening anymore. He kept petting Fang while
thanking us and rambling on and on about this old book on how to take care of
dragons, feeding it a bucket of brandy and chicken blood every half hour."
"Fang was frozen? How did that... wait, brandy? How can baby dragons get brandy
in the wild? What kind of book is Hagrid reading? And doesn't he realize he lives in a
wooden house?!"
"Harry did mention that last bit, and we were wondering the same thing, which is why
it's part of our research, along with egg hatching times and where to free one or
relinquish it to the proper authorities. As for Fang, Professor Lockhart froze him,
probably by accident, but Hagrid literally threw him out of his house and into a
puddle of mud for it." Sue explained, "By the way Harry, how did you unfreeze Fang
when we couldn't with the same spell?"

"Err..." He looked to Hermione for help but she appeared distracted and slightly
amused by the idea of Hagrid throwing Lockhart. "Practice?"
"Probably something to due with his super wand." Padma suggested, "Remember
Anthony as the statue? Even Professor Flitwick couldn't do anything."
"But he didn't use his Nundu wand on Fang, I was watching. Professor Flitwick
mentioned that a more potent Finite can override the need for some counterspells,
but Harry wasn't raised around magic and shouldn't have much of an advantage
over us. - Is it another of your mysterious powers you don't want to talk about?" Sue
and Padma watched him with interest.
Feeling like he was back in Hagrid's house for a moment, Harry began to sweat, not
knowing what he should say, until Hermione came to his rescue.
"Maybe it still was the wand, even if he didn't cast with it. He does wear it against his
skin with that holster of his, and some enchantments can be activated by touch
alone. He did the same thing another time without the right counter-jinx too. Though I
doubt even he knows how he does some things." She snickered playfully at his
indignant expression.
Harry gave an exaggerated humph, "Maybe you don't want to know what
Dumbledore revealed to me about those red liquids, or the many secrets of portkeys
and phoenixes then."
"Is that so?" Hermione didn't seem worried in the least, "Are old memories are off
limits as well?" She flashed him a wry smile.
Halting his ready retort, Harry gave in quickly, "Fine, fine. I'll talk."
And so he did, explaining almost everything he learnt from his chat with the unusual
headmaster. Including his likely suspicion that Dumbledore knew about the dragon,
but wanted Hagrid to come to him for help. Hermione complained about the detail on
portkeys not being included in Hogwarts, a History, and they were glad the replaced
dye wasn't dangerous, yet they were all surprised by the bit on Phoenix.
"Hold on." Padma interrupted near the end, "Why did Dumbledore tell you about this
unheard of difference between Phoenix songs out of nowhere?"
Harry stammered, having skipped over that part, "I - I... I'm going to go look for more
books on dragons in the main room, you go ahead and research here." He ran off
before they could protest, much.

Aimlessly walking around the aisles of eclectic objects left Harry time to think.
They're really keeping me off balance, now that they aren't tiptoeing around my
memory loss so much. I have no idea how I kept everything a secret from them
when they catch my every evasion... Maybe I was better prepared in the past? Or is
it because I actually want to tell them now? I suppose the secrecy is for their safety
like Hermione and the teachers said, and possibly for mine as well. That's why I was
teaching Hermione occlumency, so no one could see our secrets so easily. But
couldn't Sue and Padma learn as well?
He kicked a broken remembrall down the long passageway, watching it roll off into
the distance. Which led to a perfect view of the real reason for his wandering, the
towering oak tree, stretching between the walls of clutter. Walking up to it Harry
could feel a touch of magic inside, his magic. He flicked his wrist to catch the Nundu
wand and examine it's detailed design.
If growing flowers can return a sprinkling of memories... then what can a whole tree
do?
Searching around for an appropriate foundation, Harry came across an aged and
battered professor's desk. A solid piece of furniture that would have looked right at
home in McGonagall's classroom, some few hundred years ago. The jumble of items
on top and around it were quickly removed, allowing Harry to levitate the desk
across from the original tree, ready to make another.
With a deep breath Harry sat down facing it, taking stock of all the memories he'd
recovered and those he could tell were still missing. Letting his mind relax with all his
worries floating away, he thought only of the tree. Sprouting out of the desk with
roots snaking to the floor, the trunk rising high into the air and blooming leaves
everywhere, just like in Ollivander's. He opened his eyes and cast.
And it grew.
Memories came flooding back to him, surging through his conscious thoughts while
infusing his barren memory palace with new life. Rooms were refilled with previous
curiosities, and events became crystal clear again. Harry broke into relieved laughter
as tears moistened his eyes, he felt pure joy in remembering everything he could. It
wasn't all back, bits and pieces were missing all over, but it was enough. He didn't
feel lost anymore.
Clapping echoed around the chamber, startling Harry from his mirthful reflection. He
turned to see Fred and George floating toward him on polished broomsticks, carrying
sacks of oddly shaped goods with them. Wiping his eyes discreetly, he stood up.

"That was brilliant Harry!" Called George.

Fred appraised him, "Yeah, we weren't convinced you did the other one like that, but
now... looks like those rumors about Ollivander's were true too."
"What spell was that even? We couldn't hear the incantation from back there."
Harry grinned at their never ending enthusiasm, "A secret one. Didn't notice you two
were in here though, what have you been up to?"
"Ah, a bit of this," Fred shook his bag to the sound of tinkling glass, "a bit of that,"
George hefted his with a scratching of metal, "been collecting stuff." They said
together.
"Still can't get into your potions lab then?" Twin eyebrows twitched at Harry's
question, "Guess Hermione was right about that as well." Harry closed his eyes for a
second, "The door should be there now, hope everything's the same."
They stared at him, eyes wide in grateful amazement. "Cheeky scamps, already
back to your old tricks, eh Harry?" Fred guffawed while George pulled something out
of his pocket and tossed it to Harry. "Cheers Harry! Found that today, but you could
probably use that more than we could."
Catching the flat disc in one hand, Harry saw only sparkles inside, "What is it?"
"A foe glass, decent one at that." Nodded Fred, "Shows your enemies reflections
when they get close." Added George.
Harry was impressed, "Thanks, I'm sure this was somewhere on a list of things to
get. Better be heading back though, they're bound to think I'm slacking off
otherwise."
Matching looks of pity and heavy shaking heads made him chuckle, "He was a brave
soul of adventure once, but could never escape the siren's call." They took off their
school caps in mourning, "He was lost at sea, but we will always remember his
contribution to the cause."
"Yeah, yeah, we'll see who's lost at sea." Harry waved as he made his way back to
the doors, summoning a few books on dragons before arriving and seeing the girls
rummaging through the backlog of older books outside the library doors.
Fred and George came rocketing past Harry on their brooms, landing beside their

door, now with multiple sacks over their shoulders. They saluted him, ignoring the
surprised girls and slipped inside, to the sound of a wave crashing against the floor.
The door swung open once again for two drenched third years, and a pool of water
to flow out. Unexpected laughter erupted out of everyone else, while the twins
grudgingly put on smiles.
"Lost at sea... Funny, Harry. Funny." Fred said dryly.
"Had to thank you both for the Valentines yesterday, Professor and Madam Pince."
George shook himself like a dog, "That was a giant-load of water! How long did it
take to set up?"
"Oh, about five seconds." Harry mused.
Shocked expressions of disbelief were returned in unison, "That's not fair!"
oOoOo
Weeks passed, ending one month and beginning the next, gradually growing warmer
by one or two degrees. Harry spent most of his time catching up on missed
homework while Hermione, Padma, and Sue helped, or more often researched
dragons. Using Hermione's notes made most of it so easy he rarely needed to
bother them, except to distract himself from the drudgery of it all.
It took a while to decide that he would tell no one but Hermione about his recovered
memories, in case the so called accident, was intentional after all. Actually telling
Hermione was another matter entirely.
Catching her alone in the library one day Harry finally did, and in that moment she
leapt at him in excitement, arms wrapping around him, squeezing tightly. Harry
caught a face full of floral scented hair, feeling the warmth from her and her charmed
necklace. He hugged her back just as tightly, enjoying the sensation, for possibly
longer than was appropriate.
Hermione pulled away in the end, quickly wiping her eyes with her sleeve and
smiling happily. "How did you do it? When did you do it? Is it all back?"
"Well, you remember the flowers that helped me remember the other day?"
Her eyes lit up with understand at such a simple hint, "That second tree, you...? I
should have guessed! Was - was it your wand? - And why didn't you tell me sooner?!
Making me show you all those embarrassing memories!" She protested with a swatt

to his shoulder.
Harry laughed, "Spot on with the wand I think, but they aren't all back. I don't know
what else to try though, if they're not lost forever. More flowers didn't help, and I don't
want to start a forest in here." He handed over another tiny bunch of glowing blue
flowers.
"We'll think of something, I'm sure." Hermione accepted the flowers with a smirk,
"But that's interesting... if your wand can somehow store or retrieve memories, then
what happens when... hmm..." She wandered off through the aisles of books, pulling
an amused Harry with her.
They didn't learn anything then, especially not after he asked her to keep it all a
secret. Instead it became another side project, along with the dragon, dueling,
occlumency, enchanting, and myriad of spells they still wanted to learn.
Unfortunately for most, Harry and Hermione rarely had much time alone for private
practice or research, Tonks was called away for her own training, and Hagrid was
actively ignoring their comments and concerns about raising a dragon, often by
banging pots and pans together while cooking a new dish with them. Essentially the
quartet spent their time working on their spells, revising old ones with Harry
pretending to do poorly at the start, and learning new ones, most of which Hermione
already tried. Which was invariably interspersed with more homework, frolicsome
adventures through the room, and the mischievous antics of Fred and George
Weasley.
It wasn't until a Tuesday in March that a tawny school owl found the group on break,
attempting a challenging sixth year spell out some windows overlooking the lake.
The unsuspecting owl glided toward the open window, only to be sprayed in the face
with a fine mist of water. Landing anyway, it dropped the letter at their feet and ruffled
its feathers indignantly.
"Oh! Sorry..." Hermione apologized, before it hooted and took flight once more.
Harry flicked the drop of water off his own wand and picked up the letter at their feet.
Opening it to reveal two hastily scratched words, It's hatching.
Hermione, Padma, and Sue peeked over his shoulders to read as well, "But we only
have ten minutes before our next lesson!" Sue lamented, having become the most
interested in dragon rearing, next to Hagrid that is.
"Meet up at Hagrid's during lunch then?" Harry asked.
"Alright." Hermione nodded, "Good thing we're starting on Aguamenti now if Hagrid

is going through with this. We should be able to put out small fires by the time it's
able to produce them. Though we really should try harder to convince him to release
it or get Dumbledore involved before then."
Helpless shrugs were the only response as they parted ways, the three Ravenclaws
heading outside to Herbology in the brisk morning weather. Their hushed
conversation continued on the way there.
"I hope Hagrid isn't still thinking about giving it brandy and chicken blood. That old
book was awful, suggesting alcohol without knowing it stunts their growth, just to
keep them drugged and easier to handle. What kind of horrible person does that?"
Grumbled Sue.
"They probably wanted to make them smaller to try and train them like it described
near the end. But I'm pretty sure you convinced Hagrid last time, while reading him
that entire book we found on modern dragon rearing," Padma teased her.
"It was only a few chapters..."
"What's interesting is that after thousands of years of dealing with and researching
dragons, no wizard has managed to breed a domestic variety. Yet Hagrid thinks he
can-"
Harry broke off mid-sentence when they turned a corner to find nearly the entire
class waiting right in front of them, standing outside the greenhouses. Several
people nearby glanced at him curiously, along with a venomous leer from Malfoy.
More Slytherins and Ravenclaws arrived behind them as a patchwork hat near the
front piped up. It was Professor Sprout.
"That everyone then?" She cast a warming charm on them all at once, "Good, we're
heading toward the forest today chaps." Multiple students gasped, Malfoy included,
"Don't worry, we're staying on the edge where it's safe enough, so long as no one
wanders in too far. Going to learn about elf cup mushrooms and if were lucky, I'll
show you where local dittany starts growing in the wild."
Someone delicately cleared their throat in the back. Heads turned to see Lockhart
beaming back at them in sweeping robes of clover green and a slightly mismatched
hat.
"Fear not! I would be more than happy to accompany you all on my morning off.
Helping to keep an eye on any dangers in the forest and I could be persuaded to
share a tip or two, from my many exciting adventures." He winked at the class, but
eyed one student in particular.

Harry groaned under his breath and turned away. Planning on sticking close to
Professor Sprout for as long as possible, even if she appeared to have just sat in a
cauldron full of stinging nettle. He remembered being tracked down before by the
incompetent joke of a defense professor, but being followed by him into other
classes was getting ridiculous. For some reason ignoring Lockhart's attention in
defense class only made him more desperate to speak to Harry outside of it. About
what, Harry never stuck around long enough to find out.
Through the entire lesson Lockhart rarely stopped talking. Often interrupting Sprout
about the best time to pick certain mushrooms or the special properties each had,
seeming to pluck his unending opinions out of thin air, which had to be corrected
time and again by an increasingly short tempered Hufflepuff professor. By the ending
third of the class she had had enough, if the audible grinding of her teeth was any
indication.
"Professor Lockhart!" She fumed, "I'm entrusting the students to you while I go find a
sample of wild dittany to show the class. Everyone please remain here." She turned
toward the forest with a grim expression on. Yet catching the desperate expression
on Harry's nearby face, she softened slightly. "Though if any students are brave
enough, they may accompany me."
Suddenly there was a small crowd around her, consisting of Harry, Padma, Sue, and
Lisa from Ravenclaw, along with Daphne, Tracy, Millicent, and even Pansy
Parkinson. Many others looked anxious to get away from Lockhart too, especially the
boys wanting to appear unafraid, but not if the only option was to venture into the
dark, looming forest in front of them. Professor Sprout led them in straight away, not
even glancing back, or down at the ground.
Barely out of earshot of the others, Lisa whispered a timid question, "Professor, how
far are we going?"
Sprout kept walking for a moment while the Slytherin girls giggled quietly together.
With a sharp glance back at the befuddled defense professor, Sprout's grim
expression curled into a golden smile, "Not much further dears, just behind this tree
here should do." Yet as they reached the prodigious fir tree she pointed out, they
turned, heading straight up the hillside toward the entrance gates, conveniently out
of sight from the others. "Reckon I should congratulate you lot with reading ahead on
dittany and how it grows only on hillsides in the sun. If that unpleasant louse - sorry man, had a single ounce of wilderness experience in his life, I would eat my hat!"
They all laughed, surprised by this unexpected side from one of the kindest and
most tolerant teachers they had. Even the Slytherin girls seemed impressed by her

attitude and clever ruse. Harry and Lisa on the other hand shared a sheepish look
with each other, guessing that they both were simply lucky to dislike Lockhart more
than fear for their safety. But they felt better after discovering that it was only Daphne
who told all her friends about what she read.
It wasn't long before they were out in the open again and finding where the starts of
dittany might grow. Professor Sprout pulled one up with a spell to show the rest and
replant later, though kept lecturing their small group on its healing properties instead
of heading back right away. Mentioning how the local ones were quite powerful due
to the ambient magic of the castle, but would lack potency if charmed to grow faster
or bigger, like most plants.
Arriving back along the forest line with less than a minute to spare, the plant was
quickly shown around before the lunch bells rang and an actual cheer was let out by
the waiting students. The Ravenclaw trio hung back, taking a detour to Hagrid's
cabin and hoping he had something edible they could fix, instead of the rock cakes
he was trying to improve upon lately.
At Hagrid's door Harry reached out with his senses to feel an annoying defense
professor nearby, and Hermione leaving the castle, breaking into a run while passing
by the entering students.
"Hermione, wait!" He heard someone shout after her.
"Sorry Anthony, in a hurry," she called back while rushing down the slippery lawn.
Harry, Padma, and Sue watched in amazement as somehow she kept her footing at
a breakneck pace, reaching them in record time. Hermione huffed and gasped for
breath while holding her sides with a grin plastered on her face. "Partial - sticking charm..." She said between breaths, "works great!"
They chucked and Padma knocked on the door. It flew open immediately and Hagrid
ushered them inside wearing a glow of excitement, while Fang barked from out back.
"It's nearly out!" He swung the door shut behind them, almost dancing back to the
table where the egg lay nestled on some old towels, keeping the energetic pecking
from rolling it off the edge. They gathered around to watch.
Tiny cracks lined the shell as more clicking could be heard from inside, but they
could all tell something was off. Though it took Hermione to point it out.
"Hagrid... this isn't a Norwegian Ridgeback. It has flecks of dark purple all over." With
a wave of her wand over her pouch, out came a sizeable book she propped open on

the table and flipped to the correct pages, "See, the Norwegian Ridgeback is a pure
black egg, and this is... a Hebridean Black."
Hagrid frowned slightly, "Huh! Must o' tossed it in the fire before I got a good enough
look."
A sharp CRACK returned their attention to the egg, which was barely holding
together now. Hermione shivered at the noise and put away her wand. Indistinct
movement could be seen through the gaps as they leaned closer to see.
"Are Hebridean Blacks... safer, or more dangerous?" Harry wondered aloud after
seeing a large claw poke through a crack.
"I think they're slightly smaller, and it takes longer for them to breath fire," began
Sue, "but they're also more aggressive and said to be really clever."
Hermione kept glancing down between her book and up at the egg, not wanting to
miss anything, yet wanting to know everything too. "It says they start out more fully
developed from their long incubation period, but take longer to grow..." Her eyes
grew wide at the black snout that just poked out of the shell.
The next second it split apart and a baby dragon flopped onto the table. Black
leathery wings and a sharp, arrow pointed tail slapped the wood, startling everyone
as it scrambled to hide under the bit of leftover shell. It got its head under and
stopped, leaving its wide wings and skinny body exposed, showing off the spiked
ridges all the way down its back.
"Isn't he beautiful?" Hagrid murmured. He reached out a hand to remove the shell,
only to make it scurry away from him around the table, but everywhere it looked
were people. The baby dragon's tail started to whip back and forth dangerously, as it
crouched back from them and displayed its razor sharp teeth. They all held still,
waiting.
Harry sent a calming thought at it, ready to grab it with magic if it bolted at someone.
Its angular head snapped toward him suddenly, glaring at him with brilliant purple
eyes. It sent a thought back.
HUNGER
It wasn't in words of course, but Harry felt the wave of hunger roll over him, different
than his own. Not taking his eyes off the dangerous and astounding creature in front
of him, he spoke softly, "Hagrid, do you have those dead mice that newer book
recommended? Maybe some might calm it down."

"Right." Hagrid stood up carefully, thankfully reading the tension in the air. "Be right
with yeh." It only took him only a moment but the baby's eyes never left Harry's,
while its tail flicked lightly. Hagrid came back with a bucketful, and dangled one by
the tail near the baby dragon's head, yet it didn't move.
Not knowing what to do, Harry imagined the mouse as tasty meat and sent that idea.
Instantly powerful jaws snapped up the mouse whole, nearly taking a piece out of
Hagrid's finger. At the same time it exposed its glittering underbelly, also a deep,
dark purple.
"Finally found his mummy, he has!" Hagrid was beaming, while dropping more mice
on the table for it to gobble up.
Harry stood up and stepped away with his friends as the baby dragon ripped a
mouse in half, flinging guts and bits of blood all over. Padma and Hermione
appeared pale and turned away from the sight, Hermione grabbed Harry's arm while
Sue watched with rapt attention and a hint of discomfort.
"Er - Hagrid, maybe... the floor would be better?" Offered Harry.
Peering up at the girls and then back at the messy table, he got the gist, sort of, "O'
course, almos' lunchtime ain't it? Anyone care fer some stoat sandwiches? Jus'
made 'em, with cheese, an' no more bones!"
Padma nearly choked as she saw Hagrid sweep the leftover pieces of mice onto the
floor in front of the now dying fire and toss down another handful as well. The baby
dragon crawled over to the edge, scratching up the table with its claws, shot Harry
another glance, then scrambled down with an awkward hop to the floor to tear into
the rest of his meal.
"No thanks," croaked Padma.
"Do you plan to name him Hagrid?" Sue asked while cleaning the table with multiple
spells.
Hagrid was shuffling around his icebox, grabbing all kinds of food and putting it on a
large platter, all the while peeking back at the dragon with the smile of a proud
parent, "Was thinkin' o' Norbert, for bein' a Norwegian Ridgeback an' all. But now..."
"Why not Herbert then?" Hermione suggested, looking anywhere but at the dragon.
"Hmm, Herbert... yea' I like that. Herbert it is!"

Harry whispered to Hermione, "And here I thought for sure it would be Mittens." He
chucked, "Herbert isn't bad, though he's not really a sandworm."
"He's from the Hebridean islands not Dune you muppet." She giggled at him.
A funny clattering noise sounded from the chimney then, dropping five bright red
orbs into the coals. One rolled out in front of Herbert the dragon and was swallowed
whole.
"OH NO! OH NO! OH NO!" Hermione shouted between casting Glacius on the fire
again and again, scaring Herbert into a corner under Hagrid's bed.
Without question, Harry and Padma copied what she was doing and together they
froze the glowing coals with whatever dropped into them.
"Er - Mind explainin' what's goin' on?" Hagrid asked, having noticed nothing but the
first years putting out his fire.
"Were those ashwinder eggs?" Gasped Padma.
"Yes!" Hermione exclaimed in a panic, "And dragons are allergic!"

Chapter 27 - Caught
Chapter 27
Caught
"Where's Herbert?!" Hermione snapped, frantically scanning the room for him. Harry
noticed she was gripping the sneakoscope button she'd sewn into her robes, and
while feeling for his stone, it was inexplicably missing.
"Here!" Sue was already kneeling by the bed, trying to coax the dragon out with a
single mouse. But it was too late.
A strangled hissing erupted from under the bed as angry red flames leapt out at Sue.
She screamed as her robes caught fire, burning her hand as well as Hagrid's bed.
Everyone burst into movement then. Padma immediately wrapped Sue's hand in her
own robes, dousing the fire on her arm and pulling her away from the burning bed.
Hagrid seized a bucket of water he kept in the house and threw it at the building
flames, accomplishing little. Harry and Hermione began casting freezing spells at the
wood and blankets catching alight. Which slowed the spreading flames, but not the
panicked dragon now sprinting through the house, setting everything else on fire
from an unrelenting torrent of flames. Seeing this, Harry grabbed for Herbert with
wandless magic, feeling him slip through like it wasn't there. Ignoring the difficulty
and his racing heart, Harry pulled out his other wand to lift the fire tongs, attempting
to grab Herbert with them.
"Aguamenti!" Padma shouted, sprayed a tiny stream of water at one fire,
demonstrating how inadequate their initial practice was, then switched to Glacius as
well. "We should have started with that fifth year extinguishing spell!"
"That's right!" Hermione started fiddling with the top of her robes, only to pull out her
charmed necklace, detaching the Slytherin and Hufflepuff crests she gave one to
Padma. "Point it at the fire and squeeze." She instructed as she did the same,
spraying the nearby flames with a jet of water.
Padma was surprised when a handful dirt splattered against her chest, but quickly
reversed it and aimed toward the base of the inferno on Hagrid's bed. It helped only
so much, though they were still able to cast while using them. Sue tried to help too,
pulling out her wand with her uninjured hand to cast a flame freezing charm, which
didn't seem to work, and then aimed a few stunning spells at Herbert to slow him
down. Meanwhile Hagrid was smothering some flames with his huge moleskin coat,
looking around for a better option until deciding on the barrel of rainwater outside. He

made for the door in two colossal steps and slammed against it, shaking the entire
cabin yet the door refused to budge.
Catching Herbert in the tongs at last, Harry pointed the uncontrollable fiery breath
toward the hearth, aiming it up the chimney. Although the whole place was already
filled with smoke and magical flames, growing wildly out of control. The four first
years backed into the last safe corner as Hagrid pummeled the door with his
massive fists, not even making a dent. With all his strength he growled, swinging at
the window next. They heard a thunderous SNAP, but the glass remained untouched
while Hagrid now held his limp and bleeding arm.
Harry finally began to panic then, feeling the rush of adrenaline once more and his
changing perception of time. It wasn't a coincidence. He knew this was an attempt
on their lives. Which reminded him of his preparations. Reaching into a hidden
pocket with wandless magic he snapped the single sherbet lemon in half, hoping the
trial beacon Dumbledore gave him would work. Quickly flicking Hagrid's battered
pink umbrella into his beard, Harry reached into his mokeskin pouch next and
yanked out several things. He scattered four broken wands on the floor, then
dropped down a thick, old cauldron by the wall with a heavy lid. Unstrapping his
pouch last, he turned to the girls to tell them to get in, only to hesitate.
Hermione and Padma had pushed all the nearby furniture away from them, and tried
to smother the flames around the fireplace with as many freezing charms as possible
so the other ashwinder eggs wouldn't ignite. While Sue was attempting a number of
unfamiliar spells on the window behind them. Reminding him of additional friends.
"Kolie!" He yelled, hoping she could hear him.
A frantic house elf popped into view, on the other side of the window, clawing at the
frame and banging against the glass in desperation.
"Get Dumbledore!" Harry called, only to hear a frightening BOOM, and the front door
exploded outwards. Kolie popped in front of his face then, along with one house elf
for each student and three for Hagrid, all grabbing onto their charges. Harry tried to
tell her to wait, but instantly they were transported outside and falling to their knees
from the nausea of apparition.
Standing in front of them was an imposing, silver haired wizard with a phoenix on his
shoulder and a broom laying at his feet.
With a slow and deliberate wave of the Headmaster's wand, a violent river of water
burst out of the tip, flooding into Hagrid's cabin. The water poured through the door
and out the steaming chimney, cascading down the back of the roof and off into the

woods, carrying a baby dragon with it. The next moment it ceased, evaporating away
with another wave of his wand. The house elves retreated behind them all in a
protective ring.
Hagrid glanced at Harry and the girls, then at Dumbledore. He nodded with his
umbrella still stuck in his beard and arm held to his chest, then took off into the forest
after Herbert. Fang jumped the fence he was clawing at and followed after.
"I shall send someone along to help him." Dumbledore responded to their worried
expressions.
"There's still ashwinder eggs inside the fireplace, Professor," Hermione informed him
as she dropped to the grass in relief. Sue and Padma joined her.
Dumbledore peered back at them in mild surprise, then waved his wand a few more
times, summoning the eggs, which arrived individually frozen into his hands. He
stored them in one of his robe's pockets and turned around to appraise them, noting
Sue holding her injured hand.
"We should head to Madam Pomfrey straight away."
"No." Harry refused, his wands shaking in tight fists. "We stick together until he's
caught. You can cast a numbing charm for Sue right?"
"Caught who Harry?" Padma asked in alarm.
"Lockhart."
"Lockhart?! How could he possibly help?" A perplexed expression washed over her
and the rest.
"He was out here watching us enter Hagrid's cabin."
Dumbledore frowned, "Now Harry..."
"I know he was out here." He emphasized the word for Dumbledore, "Even if he had
nothing to do with it, he should have seen who locked us in."
They all looked at each other and then Harry.
"If it will set your mind at ease. We can ask Professor Lockhart about it on our way to
the hospital ward. But I must insist you refrain from accusations until there is
evidence," Dumbledore countered. He cast a charm on Sue's injured hand, wrapping
it in medicinal bandages, then waved his wand one last time, sending three blurs of

silvery light toward the castle.

Together they silently trudged back over the grass, through the main doors, and up
the grand staircase, the house elves popping away at a wave from Dumbledore.
Harry was on edge, and could already feel multiple people around where he judged
Lockhart's office to be, but they were indistinct, likely behind a spell or two that had
interfered with his senses in the past. Hermione held his wrist, as his hand was still
occupied, attempting to reassure him. He managed half a smile for her, but it didn't
last long.
Arriving in front of a small oak door with a shiny silver plaque in the center,
identifying Lockhart's office, Dumbledore knocked. The head girl answered it, a
demure, black haired Ravenclaw named Felicity, if Harry remembered right. He'd
seen her watching him in the Ravenclaw library and common room lately, yet she let
them in with an animated smile, looking positively bubbly.
"Caught him trying to escape professor. Was in the middle of packing his things
even." She gave Harry a conspiratorial wink, reminding him of someone and
confusing his senses at the same time.
They followed her into the room.
Laying on the floor, completely tied up and gagged in ropes with his hair a mess of
nervous sweat, was Lockhart. Standing next to him wearing an intense scowl was
Snape, flicking open cabinets, drawers, and suitcases with his wand, obviously
searching for something. Hermione, Padma, and Sue watched in confusion as an
energetic Felicity stood Lockhart upright, then pulled a chair under him and knocked
over a lamp she was grabbing for. Dragging it back to shine in his face, she looked
ready for an interrogation.
"What have we here..." Snape mused, pulling out two bottles, a large red one and a
miniature blue from an invisible pouch inside a suitcase. "This looks to be the
leftovers of a love potion, possibly from last month... and if I'm not mistaken, a
powerful memory loss concoction?" His lip curled in pleasure at the sight of all the
blood draining from Lockhart's face. But with a look back at Dumbledore, Snape's
dark eyes narrowed in resentment as they settled on Harry.
Harry spared a single glance for Snape then ignored him, instead focusing on
Lockhart, hoping to dive into his mind to confirm his suspicions. Before he could
though, Dumbledore stepped in front of him and conjured a cushy chintz armchair
out of thin air, ready to probe Lockhart himself it seemed.
Snape cleared his throat softly, "If I may interrupt, Headmaster, the children should

be excused."
Dumbledore turned to Snape, then to Harry, "As you can see, Gilderoy will not be
leaving. I will personally question him about this incident, and all past ones. If you
would please accompany your friends to the hospital ward, we can discuss this
later." He nodded toward Felicity in a silent request.
Appearing slightly put out, she complied anyway, "Alright munchkins, let's get that
hand looked at." She waved them out the doors. Harry clenched his jaw but followed
along.
"Felicity? How did you know what was going on?" Padma asked in the hallway after
the door closed, having had little interaction with the head girl before.
"Ah, almost forgot I was still wearing this getup. No need for it now." She nearly
tripped while pulling off her robes, revealing a sky blue shirt with two golden T's on it
and a white rabbit embroidered on worn jeans. She shook her hair out next,
changing it to a curly lime green. Which jolted the girls from their bewildering
impression of the head girl, while Harry gave a small chuckle.
"Better?" Tonks asked with her typically playful grin, "And how I knew is top secret
Auror stuff, but you four'll probably learn it by next summer the way you've been
practicing. Never seen first years so advanced... Except you might want to be more
careful as well. Found this in one of his pockets." She handed Harry back his
missing sneakoscope rock.
"Thanks. So... how long have you been watching us exactly?" He inquired, finally
putting his wands away as Tonks' changing presence began to feel familiar again.
"Only a month now, but I still haven't figured out where you run off to some nights.
Must be a secret room on the seventh floor right?" She laughed, nudging Hermione
out of her stricken expression, "Don't fret, I won't go telling on my favorite
apprentices. Trailing you was just for security purposes anyway. But now that I'm
back, we should finally start on those private lessons. Is this secret room big
enough?"
"Private lessons?" Sue wore a hopeful expression.
"Still haven't told them yet? Thought you lot shared everything, being together all the
time."
Hermione stared down at her feet, avoiding Sue and Padma's eyes, "We were told
not to..." She murmured.

A frown creased Padma's face, looking hurt.

"Are the professors still on about that rubbish?" Tonks chuckled, "I told nearly half my
year and it only set them back a couple of months or so. Though, a bunch of parents
got really shirty about it and this one boy was held back a year... but he was always
a few flobberworms short of a potion. I think it actually helped some out later on."
"And what is this secret we're not supposed to know?" Padma grumbled.
When Tonks hesitated, Sue answered instead. "That you can learn nonverbal magic
before you're supposed to. The school books say you shouldn't be able to until sixth
year, but that's because it's difficult and the implications confuse some people."
"How did you figure that out?" Harry watched as Sue's serious expression turn into a
half smile.
"Your rushed mumbling during the fire was quite obvious... but you've been
mispronouncing some spells for a while now. Not to mention the troll incident."
Padma's frown deepened to a scowl, "So you told me to let it go because you
already knew? I'm not smart enough to figure it out on my own so I don't deserve to
know, is that it?"
"That's not true, and you know it!" Sue hooked her arm into Padma's to keep her
from turning away, "Harry's secrets aren't mine to tell, and nonverbal magic was
explained to me when I was nine. I can't talk about it much, but magic is taught
differently in Penglai. I was forbidden from mentioning or practicing it here, so
instead, I've been giving you and Hermione tiny hints once in a while in case Harry
let it slip before you were ready. Now that it's out in the open, I'm going to request
permission to practice it, because I think you can manage it too."
"You what?" Hermione's jaw dropped.
Tonks snickered, "Aren't you swots full of surprises. But we should this later." She
opened the hospital doors, checked inside, and ushered them in.
Hermione grabbed Harry's hand, holding him back as the doors closed behind them.
Then lowered her voice to a whisper, "I don't want to upset you Harry, but, do you
really think Lockhart was behind everything that's happened this year?"
Looking into her concerned eyes, he wished he could say yes. To pretend everything
was fine, that it was all over, yet he couldn't manage the lie, let alone a single word.
He sent a thought instead, 'Of course not, he's probably just a scapegoat. But that's

what we're supposed to believe, so we better go along with it for now. Maybe we can
figure out more with the Pensieve while we keep preparing.'
oOoOo
Time passed as each day grew longer and the morning sunrise was finally waking
students up before breakfast. That is until they remembered to start closing their
curtains the night before. Unfortunately for Hermione, she had somehow forgotten to
do this for the past week. Causing her to wake once again with the sun in her eyes,
only to quickly cover them with her hands, rubbing away bits of sleep with a groan.
She grudgingly sat up, though her pillow still called, inviting her to pull the curtains
closed and snuggle back under the warm blankets. Yet she resisted, unable to avoid
the multitude of distracting thoughts and inexpressible feelings rattling around inside
her head. Thoughts of Harry, of Sue, of Padma, and everyone else involved in their
latest bit of intrigue. How Harry was being quieter lately, while Sue seemed to talk
more, and Padma looked stressed. How Lockhart wasn't seen in school since the
incident, instead a sickly, but supposedly recovering Professor Quirrell returned in
his place. How Hagrid was healed and his house mended, yet he became depressed
after losing Herbert to the forest, while Tonks was enthusiastically planning their
special lessons, and Dumbledore spoke only to Harry, after requesting them all to
stay silent on the issue. Harry had informed their group that Lockhart couldn't
remember a single crime he committed, which was deemed self inflicted, and was
being prosecuted discretely all the same. She could tell Harry wanted to say much
more than that, about many things, but seemed to be waiting for the right time to
begin.
Hermione shook the thoughts from her head as she threw off the covers and began
her morning routine, hoping to discuss, or perhaps drag more information out of
Harry if needed. She took her time in the girl's bathroom which was empty so early in
the morning, only finishing up once the other girls came pouring in, making the usual
racket. Laying out fresh robes on the bed, Hermione opened her extraordinary
jewellery box to retrieve her necklace, watch, a small bronze ring, and magical
brush, to begin taming her frizzy mane of hair with a smile.
That is until she was interrupted by a sharp voice.
"What did you talk him into giving you this time?"
Turning around with a confused expression, Hermione was surprised to see
Lavender, speaking to her of all people, "I'm sorry?"
"How long are you planning to take advantage of him?" Lavender asked while

crossing her arms.

Hermione sputtered, "I - I, who? What are you even talking about?" Is this a joke?
She couldn't mean who I thinks she means, could she?
"I don't see why he puts up with it, always being bossed around, being taken for
granted, and dealing with the constant complaining and arguments. Harry doesn't
deserve being treated like that you know." She sounded as if her words were
memorized from a script, but they still struck a nerve.
"I don't -" The words stuck in Hermione's throat, "it isn't - " her eyebrows knitted
together so hard it hurt, "I may -"
She was cut off by Lavender before getting another word out. "Can't you see how
selfish and controlling you are with him? You just take and take, never giving
anything back but one measly little quill. Telling him what to do, how to act, getting
him to buy you things all the time, and never letting others get close."
Fighting back the sting of oncoming tears, Hermione looked down at the brush in her
hands, "That's not true... We're friends! He knows he doesn't need to give me things.
And just because I try to encourage him to be more responsible and less reckless
doesn't mean I'm trying to control him!" She took a calming breath to meet the other
girls eyes, when a memory surfaced in response, "Why are you saying these things
Lavender? Did... did someone send you another letter?"
Lavender twitched, taking a step back, "That's none of your business."
"Lavender, those aren't from Harry. I don't know who's trying to trick you, but you
shouldn't believe them."
"Have you been going through my things?!" She nearly shrieked, looking
scandalized.
The door banged open, startling them as Fay rushed into the room half dressed with
a towel around her electric blue hair, in an obvious attempt to hide it. Grabbing
another bottle of shampoo from her cabinet she ran back without even a glance in
their direction.
Hermione stood up then, quickly putting on her robes and pocketing her things, "I
didn't touch anything of yours, but it was hard not to overhear you and Parvati
giggling about them late at night. If you don't believe me then just ask Harry yourself.
I'd rather not have to defend myself from any more malicious accusations." She
walked out the door, leaving Lavender's gawking behind and determined to not let it

bother her.
April Fool's Day was in full swing at breakfast, people were sitting down on invisible
whoopee cushions, slipping on camouflage bananas, and finding slugs,
flobberworms, or other disgusting creatures in their goblets. Not to mention whatever
the twins seemed to have planned, as they remained unusually peaceful, merely
basking in the turmoil erupting around them. Which only caused more caution and
unease in those nearby.
Hesitantly nibbling on a plain piece of toast, Hermione was surveying the extent of
pranks being played around her, and spells being cast on the different foods, making
note of which ones appeared unaffected while wondering if she should simply visit
the kitchens to play it safe. She turned around to ask Harry if he wanted to join her,
only to find an empty seat. Sue and Padma had saved it for him like always, yet
when they noticed her looking they shrugged.
"Haven't seen him all morning." Sue replied to her silent question.
"He's probably setting up some silly practical joke. Better not be for us though."
Added Padma.
Hermione nodded in agreement and went back to eating her now orangish toast.
After a few distracted bites she noticed a change in flavor along with the color, as it
gained the pleasant taste of orange marmalade. Grabbing several more and a
seemingly innocent piece of fruit, she waved at Sue and Padma while heading out
the doors to find Harry.
Stepping into an unused study room, she took off her watch to use the small
communication mirror on its back.
"Harry, where are you? You're missing breakfast."
One worrisome minute later he finally responded, "Er, somewhere secret. Bit busy at
the moment though, I'll talk to you later?"
"What are you up to now? - And it better not be a prank on your friends."
"Not a prank, I promise. Though it might be surprising. See you at lunch."
"Okay..." Well, that certainly doesn't make me feel better. He couldn't possibly be
with Lavender right now, could he? No, no, no, of course not. I know him better than
that. But then, why has he been so secretive lately? Probably violating some new
magical impossibilities, or researching who was behind the Lockhart business by...

looking through Pensieve memories! That's why he took so long to respond! - Right?
But he did sound more cheerful than usual, maybe he is planning to trick someone
after all? He does love to twist the truth without outright lying. Aes Sedai trickery...
the stuff he gets from books!
Bells rang, signaling the start of classes as Hermione took her last bite of orange
toast. When she met up with Sue and Padma for history, she finally realized her
mistake. Lunch?! He can't really be skipping class! Can he?
It turned out that yes, he could, and indeed did skip class. Forcing Hermione to
explain to everyone, including Professor Binns that Harry was indisposed, even
though no one asked, nor seemed to care. From the concerned looks Sue and
Padma gave her, it was quite obvious she had regressed into her bad habit of being
an insufferable know-it-all, which only compounded the difficulty of ignoring
Lavender's earlier remarks. Turning the few hours until lunch into a trying time for
her, struggling to keep accurate notes in history and to not snap at anyone making
mistakes in Herbology with the Hufflepuffs.
She kept telling herself that it was the stress and worries of recent events that
brought on old habits, not that it was her regular personality. At least not anymore.
Being extremely thankful to Professor Sprout for ending class early, Hermione ran to
the fifth floor shortcut instead of scolding Seamus and Ron for constantly fooling
around. In almost no time at all she reached the seventh floor corridor and began
walking back and forth in front of the disappearing room, knowing Harry was most
likely to be there. On the third pass along the wall, she reached eagerly for the
handle, but grabbed only air. Shaking off her confusion, Hermione glanced at the
tapestry of dancing trolls across the way and down at the nearest window, making
sure she was in the right spot.
She tried again. Nothing continued happening, infuriating her a little. Or maybe a lot.
"HARRY! Let me IN!" She pounded and kicked against the stone wall, hurting her
fists and toes until she sank to the floor in frustration. In an attempt to wait patiently,
or impatiently, she took out her pitifully cracked wand and started practicing her
repelling charm against the ugly troll tapestry, while repeatedly hitting the wall with
the back of her head.
Two seconds later she suddenly toppled backwards, cringing against her inevitable
collision with the hard floor. But to her surprise she landed on something soft, looking
up into bright sunlight once more. A shadow fell over her, causing her to squint at the
face smiling down at her. It knelt down beside her, leaned over, and kissed her.

Melting away all her worries and doubts, or at least most of them. She turned away
to hide her own giggling and blushing smile.
"Feeling better?" Inquired Harry.
"Yes..." The sweet smell and spiky touch of grass on her cheek distracted further
thoughts in that direction, "what's this Harry?" She plucked a few blades to examine
them.
"A secret garden, but I can't show you now." Lunch bells rang at his words, "I'm
starving. Let's go eat." He stood up and reached an arm down for her.
Grinning at his silliness, she let him pull her up and inside the doorway. "That's what
you get when you skip breakfast. And why bring grass into the ...room?" Though the
room she saw when turning around wasn't a room at all, but a beautiful pathway
lined with lush green grass and ivy covered walls, leading to a literal sunlit garden in
the distance.
"How...?" Hermione tried to ask before Harry closed the door and instantly reopened
it on what appeared to be the ground floor. He pulled her out with some resistance,
as the door closed behind them on it's own. Threading his fingers between hers, she
gave in and slowly walked shoulder to shoulder with him down the hallway. Trying to
accept and enjoy the moment, as nagging thoughts popped back into her head.
"Harry? Do I boss you around too much?"
He seemed to notice the concern in her voice, "No, why? You know I'm just kidding
when I complain about that right?"
Hermione shrugged, "Yeah, I guess... I'm not too controlling then?"
"Of course not, I know you don't expect me to do everything you say, but you hope I
do when it's serious. And when I do what you say, it's because I want to and agree
with you. Not because you scare me." He bumped her playfully.
She gave him a rueful smile, "Good. Because I - I don't want to be an overbearing
know-it-all."
"Well... I mean, you can get a little too excited about learning, magic, and proper
behavior," he grinned back, "but that energy is what I like about you too, you really
care about people, doing your best, and learning absolutely everything, even if you
come across as forceful at times."

An awkward moment passed in silence as Hermione blushed again, "Right, so I

haven't had time to practice listing your good qualities like someone, but despite
your incessant teasing, I quite like you too." She quickly kissed his reddening cheek
while the heat in her's threatened to start a fire.
Yet their carefree happiness didn't last for long, not when a snake crossed their path.
"What have we here? The mental toerag and his -"
"Drapo Malfub, was it?" Harry interrupted, "I remember seeing you smash ladybugs
in Herbology the other day. Do you enjoy torturing small animals in your free time as
well? Because I bet you have a natural talent for it."
"It's Draco Malfoy," he growled, "and I would if they looked anything like your
mudblood chipmunk here."
Hermione rolled her eyes and saw Harry pause, staring at the pale-faced bully as if
he was seeing him for the very first time.
"Huh, I guess it's time to change tactics." He whispered, then changed his tone to a
command, "Leave us alone Malfoy."
Yet Draco only sneered, "Why? So you can sneak off to a closet with your filthy slag
of a -" A blur slammed into his stomach, dropping him to the floor where he howled in
pain. Hermione's eyes grew wide, slowly turning to inspect the perfectly calm
Ravenclaw beside her.
Filch came skidding around the corner of a nearby hallway carrying Mrs Norris in his
arms. "What - what happened here!?" He demanded.
"He hit me!" Draco moaned while rolling on the ground, playing it up, or at least
Hermione hoped he was. "My father will hear ... of this!" He mumbled in a feeble
outrage.
Leaning over to whisper in her ear, Harry apologized, "Sorry about that. Go on
ahead, I'll catch up to you in a few minutes, alright?"
She nodded mutely but only started moving from a gentle push toward the Great
Hall. Her feet kept going in halting steps down the corridor, while her head was
swiveling around to see what would happen next.
Madam Hooch reached the scene then, seeming to take control of the situation,
inspecting Harry's wand and hands while Hermione was forced to turn down another

hallway, if only to avoid colliding with the wall. An indescribable shiver ran down her
spine at the thought of what just happened. She honestly didn't know how she felt
about it, or what it all meant, except that Harry was in trouble, once again. Her pace
slowed even further, not feeling up to eating right then. She didn't know what to do, if
there was anything to do. Yet after eventually turning another corner into the
Entrance Hall, she gasped.
Stepping out of the broom closet opposite her, was Harry. Her head whipped around
to look behind her but she couldn't figure out how he managed it. Then a thought
occurred to her, "Tonks?"
"Nope, just a shortcut." Replied a smirking Harry.
"But - there aren't - what about?" Hermione pointed behind her, and dropped her
hand in resignation, "...nevermind." She hung her head, abandoning all hope to
make sense of the day's events and fearing it would only get worse.
Harry was there again, hugging her and making it better. "I'll explain tonight."
After a tamer than expected lunch, Harry accompanied Hermione to their usual
defense class together, once again decorated with dark curtains over the windows,
varied monster skeletons on the walls, and the familiar odor of moldy garlic
permeating the room. Where the only trick played was on a pale Professor Quirrell,
in the form of a large golden egg resting in the center of his turban. Which he never
noticed. During class Harry appeared normal enough to her, taking notes and smiling
when he caught her looking. Not giving any hints as to why he skipped classes,
made the room into a garden, hit Malfoy, or anything else for that matter. For some
odd reason his actions didn't bother her much, but the not knowing was starting to
itch. It all seemed connected somehow, but she couldn't put the pieces together.
Break was a complete loss as Harry received a letter from Professor Flitwick to meet
in his office, while Sue and Padma got caught in a trap by Peeves, who dumped a
cauldron full of spell resistant ink over their heads. Forcing them to spend break
washing off, allowing Hermione time to stew, alone. In an attempt to distract herself,
she considered many curious topics, such as why her only friends were Ravenclaws.
Ending up in transfiguration with the assignment already finished, Hermione became
determined to expand her social circle. Starting with her fellow Gryffindors.
Scanning the room for potential friends, she settled on the girl with some blue still left
in her hair. Fay's nice, even if she's obsessed with quidditch like the boys. Although
she doesn't like spending time in the library reading, practicing spells, or doing
homework... Fay's plate broke in half as she hit it with her wand.

Parvati is fun and smart too, even if she doesn't work very hard sometimes. She
does invite me to help with group projects and asks a lot about Harry, though it's
usually awkward between Padma and her for some reason... Lavender started
whispering in Parvati's ear as they broke into quiet giggles together and were
subsequently scolded by McGonagall. That's probably why.
There's Kellah... she's, quiet, and... I don't really know much about her actually. That
would be a good place to start then, wouldn't it? Hermione began thinking of ways to
get to know the girl she shared a room with as she watched Kellah turn sideways,
put a finger up her nose and flick the resulting bogey at Seamus Finnigan.... Ehhh...?
Hermione blinked.
There - there's always the boys... Seamus waited until McGonagall's back was
turned and returned the favor toward Kellah, grinning as he did so. It hit Neville
instead, who only whimpered.
Well maybe Dean might be... At that thought, Dean wadded up a piece of
parchment, put it in his mouth, chewed a little and finally shot the spitwad at Ron,
only for the cycle to continue.
No... Ron was the only one caught in the end, poorly casting a bat-bogey hex on
Seamus, while McGonagall was staring right at him.
"Again Mr Weasley?! Detention! Tonight!"
Hermione shook her head in disappointment, returning to her transfigured clock,
adding more gears, springs, and dials inside. Fred and George are Gryffindors...
they're rather intelligent and we do practice dueling together. If I got to know them
better... Wait, what am I saying?! Get to know the biggest practical jokers in the
entire school? Become friends? With them? ... Oh who am I kidding? They're
basically part of our group by now, we even exchanged Christmas gifts, for, Merlin's
sake? Not to mention tonight...
But they just love goofing off too much! Uggh!
Class ended before anyone else had time to transfigure a whole clock, let alone a
working one. Leaving Hermione to be praised by McGonagall and walk to dinner
alone, defeated once again by her un-Gryffindor ways. Upon entering the Great Hall
she gave Harry a brief grin and sat down behind him, only to be surprised by Fred
and George taking the seats on either side of her, looking uncomfortably
mischievous.

"What happened to the room this time?" George inquired in a murmur as he reached
across her to grab a slice of roast.
"Huh? - Oh, I think Harry was testing something earlier today." She hesitated, "You
two aren't planning on using it to play a joke on someone, are you?"
"Us? Play a joke? Why I've never -" Fred began indignantly while loading up on
some buttery mashed potatoes.
"- been so pleased." George smirked and nicked a warm roll, "But no need for that,
we have a difficult potion brewing in there and have to check up on it tonight."
"Oh, alright." Hermione turned around to see that Harry had overheard. He mouthed
out a few bits of gibberish to her while sending a thought at same time. 'Have them
meet us outside the door after dinner and I'll open it.' She relayed the information
while dishing her own plate, taking the same foods as the twins to avoid more
surprises.
But inevitably, as the decadent desserts disappeared from the tables, they made
their move. Jumping up on their seats with a thunderous laugh.
"HA HA! Got you all!" Fred and George shouted together, nearly frightening
Hermione off the bench.
"Not a single one of you caught on -" guffawed Fred.
"- and not a thing can prevent it now!" George exclaimed.
"There's no telling what could happen next!" They cheered triumphantly. And
suddenly a younger Hufflepuff began choking, holding his throat and already turning
purple.
"Except that," George pointed, "that wasn't us."
They leapt down from the bench, causing a roar of pandemonium across the hall
while prefects and teachers rushed to help the choking boy or calm down other
hysterical students. Somehow the twins managed to slip through the crowd and out
the doors, leaving behind a shocked Hermione to watch the ensuing turmoil. Spells
were fired off, antidotes were taken, and a few students were nearly trampled in an
attempt to escape with their sanity intact. The strangest part Hermione noticed was
the reaction of some more notable figures in the room. Lee, the twins usual
accomplice was laughing his head off, Percy appeared to have swallowed a rather
distasteful potion, and Ron was still eating, completely unconcerned by it all.

McGonagall stalked down the Gryffindor tables with a calm grimace, calling out
orders and fixing problems as they cropped up as if this was simply expected. While
Dumbledore and Snape remained sitting at the staff table, wearing their usual
expressions of amused benevolence and sneering disdain. All of which pointed to
something... unusual going on.
Hermione turned around to see Harry's knowing grin as he whispered something to
Sue and Padma. She hopped out of her seat when they stood up to leave, waiting
until they reached an empty corridor to ask the obvious questions.
"Okay, since you already seem to know, what did they do now and how are we going
to avoid it?"
"Can't," Harry replied with a chuckle, "but imagine what the most unexpected thing
they could possibly do, and it'll all make sense."
Racking her brains on the climb to the seventh floor, Hermione finally gave up due to
the innumerable possibilities. "There's no way to narrow down Fred and George's
madness for pranks! It could be anything! Or - or nothing... Oh. That does make
sense."
Sue smiled at her, "Everyone is expecting them to do something outrageous and
more unpredictable than ever before, so they don't have to do a single thing but brag
in the end. It sounds like one of the fables my grandmother likes to tell."
"That's a scary thought," Padma laughed, "the Weasleys becoming a Hogwarts
legend."
"Wouldn't surprise me really, especially if it was for breaking the rules." Hermione
halted mid-step as they rounded a corner. They'd reached the connecting corridor to
the disappearing room, finding Fred and George sitting on the floor stacking
exploding snap cards. Except their idea of stacking cards wasn't building a house or
a simple pyramid, no, they had already constructed a fully fledged Griffin, taking up
the entire hallway in its mind-boggling complexity. "How...?" She breathed again.
"That has to be a spell." Padma insisted, altering the twins to their presence.
Seemingly just to prove her wrong, they began assembling a snake out of green
coloured cards, hanging impossibly in the Griffin's beak. George turned around
acting surprised to see them, "It's about time you showed up, we've been waiting
ages!"
"Nice, trick cards?" Harry asked, getting closer to inspect their handiwork.

"Try it, see for yourself." Fred offered him a stack, innocently enough.
Looking up from the cards to half of the personification of trickery, Harry smiled, "Not
going to fall for that again, thanks anyway. Do they explode when anyone else tries
or something?"
"Aww, Ravenclaws are no fun, learning from mistakes or whatever it is they do. Here
Hermione, you try." They pulled her forward and clapped a deck of cards in her hand
before she could open her mouth to refuse.
Looking from one Weasley to the other, then back at her friends in hope of being
saved, returned merely amused and encouraging expressions. Hermione shot a
glare at Harry for abandoning her to this fate, but after considering the day and her
earlier declaration, she gave in. Taking a single red card and carefully reaching out
with it in the tips of her fingers, she squinted in apprehension, then dropped the card
inside the snake's hissing mouth.
A hawkish ROAR exploded out of the Griffin as it reared up on it's hind legs and
attacked. Hermione jumped back as it dived and fell to pieces around them all,
hundreds of cards fluttering to the ground accompanied by the Weasley's expected
laughter.
"Got the whole set from our older brother Bill." George admitted while tapping the
side of a large box with his wand. The cards rushed through the air to neatly sort
themselves inside.
"They can practically stack themselves if you start with the right ones," Fred grinned
at them, "Already got Ron this morning with an Erkling. He nearly wet himself."
Finding herself in Harry's arms once again, Hermione pulled away and straightened
her robes, "Well if that's over with, I suggest we stop playing in the halls before Filch
comes to investigate again." She strode off down the corridor, not looking back.
Thankfully she heard accompanying footsteps and muffled conversation behind her
as she went.
"Found us confronting Draco earlier. He was calling us names and threatening
revenge of some sort."
"Odd," Fred frowned, "did you notice that little git sneaking around on the sixth floor
today?"
"He's been slithering around the higher floors a lot lately." Added George.

"Anyone know what he's up to?"

Hermione turned around to see everyone else shaking their heads, except Harry, "I
wasn't exactly talking with him, though..." Harry's eyebrows jumped in alarm, then
narrowed in confusion, and finally a smirk flashed over his face that only Hermione
seemed to catch. She figured he must be sensing something nearby.
"Hmm, I have an idea on how to find out." He chuckled as they reached the
disappearing door. "Alright everyone, time for a few surprises, but hold all comments
and questions until the end of the ride. This should be hilarious." Harry reached into
a pocket and pulled out the smooth brass doorknob he'd been carrying around for
months, simply to place it against the wall and turn.
A plain brown door appeared right were the disappearing door usually would,
opening into a short hallway, barely lit from a large window looking into another
room.
"Everyone in, we need to hurry." They slipped inside, looking to each other and
Harry for an explanation, which he didn't give, "Questions later. Just watch, they
won't be able to see us." He pointed through the glass at a small, disused classroom
with two doors and curtained windows.
A moment later one tall, nervous looking redhead stepped inside but left the door
open a crack. Fred and George turned toward Harry again wearing dubious
expressions, obviously wondering why they were spying on Percy. Harry held up a
finger to stall any comments as someone else entered the room soon after. This time
Hermione, Padma, and Sue flicked him incredulous looks when Penny of all people
slowly shut the door behind her, wearing a timid smile.
"Harry!" Hermione hissed, but he just grinned at her and knocked against the glass.
In a startled rush, the two prefects grabbed for the door behind them, only to find it
locked. Penny already had her wand out, about to cast a charm or two before Percy
pulled her toward the second door and they bolted through it.
"What was that?" Asked George in a daze.
"Yes Harry, what was that about?" Hermione inquired sharply.
He shrugged, "That, was only the lure. The main course comes next. But we should
stay quiet this time."
Half a minute later the first door burst open, revealing the distinctive silhouettes of

Filch and Mrs Norris. The caretaker sprang inside wearing a snarl and smile rolled
into one, scanning the room while his cat prowled for rule-breakers. He threw open
the other door but saw only a darkened closet. Then Draco stepped in behind them,
radiating smugness.
Filch's quivering jowls twisted with an indignant fury as he rounded on Draco, "Well?
Where are they!? - Or will this be the third time you've led me on some harebrained
hinkypunk hunt?"
"But - but I saw them enter!" Draco's smug attitude crumbled while his eyes bulged
in disbelief.
"If you waste my time again, it'll be you in detention! No matter what your father
donates!" Filch lurched out the room with his cat trailing behind, slamming the door
in Draco's face and catching his robes in the frame.
Funnily enough, the door was locked again when Draco tried it. He shook the
handle, pounded his fists against it, and yelled, then screamed for help, only giving
up after he pulled out his wand and stopped, obviously not knowing what to cast.
Reluctantly, he struggled out of his robes instead of ripping or cutting them, leaving
him in silver, snake covered shorts and a shirt. He awkwardly crept toward the
second door managing a dim Lumos, except after taking one step inside, that door
whipped shut behind him as well.
"Ha! He'll have to run all the way back to the dungeons like that. Not bad, Harry."
Congratulated George.
"Could still use practice though, he didn't get in much trouble." Fred noted, "But there
was some profitable material at the beginning..."
"Oh it's not over," Harry opened another door behind him, "this should be the best
part."
Curiously following him into another small hallway with a different window, Hermione
and the others caught sight of Draco's lit wand as he began wandering around in
what appeared to be an elegant, personal, and most importantly of all, woman's
bathroom, by the appearance of red carnations and varied hand soaps on the sink.
He seemed to realize this fact at the exact moment they did and made a dash for the
only remaining door. However, magic, luck, fate, or any kind of mystical force was
not on his side, as the handle started to turn on it's own. Draco froze in sheer dread
when the door swung inwards, illuminating the room and revealing, most surprisingly
of all, Ron Weasley.

The two first years stared at each other in complete confusion.

Their stating contest lasted a solid twenty seconds, and was only broken by Ron,
barely croaking out two words, "Errr - Professor?"
"What is it now Mr Weasley? - If you are delaying..." A thin lipped Professor
McGonagall stepped into view then, catching sight of Draco in nothing but his
skivvies. "What on EARTH are you doing in here, Malfoy? Have you been - in those
clothes?!" Her eyes widened in dawning horror, "How dare you! Just like your father!"
A wand appeared in her hand as Draco was suddenly and magically lifted by the
scruff of his neck, up and out of the room. Ron followed after, wearing a funny sort of
smile while listening to Draco's pitiful excuses about strange doors and Mr Filch.
Fred and George collapsed to the floor in raucous laughter, unable to hold back any
longer. Sue held a hand over her mouth, appearing scandalized while Padma buried
her face in Sue's shoulder, giggling madly. Hermione was torn between amusement
and unease, watching Harry for a sign of what was going to happen next.
"Seems like he was trying to catch someone in a compromising situation. Probably
Penny for embarrassing him in dueling club." Harry chuckled and grabbed the
handle of another new door, coloured greenish-blue this time, waiting for everyone to
get a hold of themselves.
"He certainly got someone caught alright!" Fred snickered.
"Just like his father!" George howled while climbing to his feet, "We have to ask dad
about that!"
"What's next Harry, a view of Snape's office to see his reaction?"
He shook his head with a smile, "Nah, thought I'd finally show you all what I've been
working on."
The door opened on its own and Harry led them into a cozy sitting room. One side
was filled with a mixture of cushy recliners and soft couches sitting next to a warm
looking fireplace, while the other held an ornate study table and comfortable chairs
with quills of all sort on top. Lined around the room were red oak bookcases, sky
blue walls, and assorted doors of various familiar designs. They all walked in on a
lush green carpet to see Harry's puffskein chair as one of the recliners and other nick
nacks they'd collected over the year scattered around the room. The natural colors
of the room made it feel like entering a peaceful glade for Hermione.
"Where are we now?" Padma asked appreciatively.

"The Room of Requirement, where we've always been coming. I've simply learned
more about it."
Hermione gazed up at the curved sunlit ceiling, glowing gently like Harry's photos of
the Hufflepuff dorm, "The Room of Requirement?"
"It's original name. And as you can all guess, these doors lead to the usual rooms.
Although I've been able to sort through most of the stuff in the main area, so nearly
all the books are in the library, the potion equipment and ingredients are in Fred and
George's lab, with the weapons, brooms, clothes, furniture, and whatever else in
their own rooms down that hallway." Harry nodded at the double doors directly
across from them. "The things that couldn't be sorted are all magically protected and
possibly the most dangerous items, meaning no one should go in alone anymore."
"That sounds like it should be a joke Harry, but it's hard to tell with you anymore."
George flopped onto one of the couches, while Fred sat on the armrest, eyeing the
door to the potions lab.
Padma imitated George by flopping onto a chair in exasperation, "You mean we did
all that work gathering books and stuff when you could have just waved your hands
instead?!" She grinned and rolled her eyes at Harry's helpless shrug.
"What about other students?" Sue asked in concern, "Can't anyone get into the main
room like Lavender did?"
Harry shook his head, "Not anymore. No one can get in now but us, although we
should discuss allowing in another one or two."
Eyeing the doorknob he was still rolling around in his hands, Hermione finally
understood what it meant, "The key to Hogwarts... what else can you do Harry?"
"Oh a bit off this, a bit of that, not too much more than the room could already do, but
let's save that for later. What does everyone think of Tonks?"
"Tonks? Flitwick's assistant in the dueling club?" Fred appeared puzzled, "What
about her?" George asked for him.
"She offered to give us private lessons, and I thought we could keep it a secret by
having it in here so no one else bothers us about it." Answered Harry.
"You lot want more dueling practice?" Fred gawked at them.
Hermione nodded, "Yes, but you don't have to attend. We only wanted to know how

everyone felt about trusting her with this place. Personally I think she's smart, nice,
and honest enough that she won't tell anyone about it."
"We only saw her in passing during our first couple of years," George admitted, "but
we heard she was great fun and got into all sorts of trouble, even dated our brother
Charlie for a month after he made seeker."
"Oh yeah!" Fred exclaimed with a laugh, "She was the one who hid his new broom
on top of the owlery after they broke up. Took him weeks to find it, Bill said."
"Alright... " Hermione considered that was endorsement enough from the twins, so
she moved on, "and you two?"
"She's good at teaching and I like her well enough, but I think Harry likes her more."
Padma teased.
"I think we can trust her," agreed Sue while suppressing a grin, "and she would be a
good addition to Harry's harem."
"Funny," Harry grunted over the laughter, "are you two a comedy act now? A bit of
Sue and Padma?"
Hermione giggled at their confused expressions, "Wow, there really is so much TV
we need to watch together..."
"Guess if that's settled," Harry paused to look around at them all, "then I think it's
about time for cake and presents."
Another laugh escaped Fred, "Ha! Told you Hermione was acting suspiciously
tolerant today, she knew! Who ratted us out, Ron or Percy?"
"I... overheard Ron a couple days ago while he was browsing through an owl order
magazine." She admitted.
George sorted, "Lazy git, got us self inking quills, again. - And what was that about
cake?"
With a clap from Harry, balloons, streamers, and the eccentric hats from Christmas
popped up around the room as the door to the kitchens opened, revealing a set of
Hogwarts elves carrying in two trays of cake with a life sized bludger and bat on
each. Starting the party at last. Harry turned on the wizarding radio, trying to find a
tolerable station while Padma and Sue put hats on everyone, set out presents, then
cut the rich chocolate cake after the candles were immediately blown out. Hermione

thanked the elves and invited them to stay, but once more they refused happily,
quickly bringing back drinks and asking hopefully if there was anything more they
could do. Presents were opened next with a bag of exotic fireworks from Sue, a box
of assorted Indian sweets made by Padma's mother, and cards from Harry and
Hermione.
Fred grinned devilishly at Harry's open card and stuffed it in his pocket without
another word as George scratched his head, trying to read Hermione's. "What's all
this mean?"
"Well," Hermione straightened up, "I didn't have enough time to get the proper gift I
was thinking of, so I figured you two might like some help with your potion work.
Tending long brews, gathering and preparing ingredients, and possibly organizing
the... clutter you call a lab. The card merely lists a few restrictions and stipulations
like not brewing any dangerous or illegal potions."
The twins exchanged a meaningful look to try and hide their smirks, "Thanks
Hermione, very generous of you." Fred nodded as he lit off a firework to test them
out. Continuing the small party for a little longer, eating more cake and trying out the
sweets while stories and jokes were told of past birthday parties. All the while
ignoring questions about Harry's gift.
"Sorry to eat and run," George stood and stretched, "but we better check up on our
potion before it boils over and kills us all. Thanks for everything."
"Yeah, might as well inspect how well Harry organized everything too," added Fred,
barely hiding his eagerness, "which might take a while. No need to find us before
curfew."
They retreated to the lab, leaving Hermione to hurriedly turn off the wireless and cast
a spell to stack all the dishes by the kitchen door before Harry could make excuses
or run away. She sat down in front of him on the coffee table, trapping him in the
middle of the couch between Sue and Padma, simply to wait.
"Alright, alright, I'll talk." He laughed while glancing between all the expectant looks
aimed his way, "Yes, the bronze rings I gave you all yesterday are emergency
beacons from Dumbledore, you just twist them three times to activate them. - No, I
didn't forget to explain, because it was fun seeing your reactions. - Yes, I skipped
classes today to work in here and have been for nearly a week after figuring out how
the key works. - No, I'm not going to apologize about my treatment of Draco today,
he deserved it and ignoring his behavior simply won't work anymore. - Yes, I've
gotten some of my memories back. - No, Dumbledore told me Lockhart's case isn't

going public. - And finally, yes, I was going tell you all this even if you didn't corner
me. Any more questions?"
"Why are you still keeping so many secrets from us? We're your friends, aren't we?"
Padma asked while looking him directly in the eye.
He sighed, "Of course you are, and it's not because I don't trust you. I... I originally
wanted to hide things so I wouldn't be treated like an outsider, freak, or now a
famous hero, but that's irrelevant since learning people want me dead. I can't hide
who I am, yet I can try to hide what I can do. I know you wouldn't reveal any secrets
intentionally, but with some magic..."
A gasp escaped Padma as she put a hand over her mouth, "You are concerned
about legilimency! My aunt always told me that's why wizards keep so many secrets.
But can't people read your mind... too?" Another realization set in, "No! That's what
you're learning from Dumbledore, occlumency?!"
"See, like I keep saying, you're all too smart! Anytime I say one thing, you figure out
the rest. So the only way I can share much more is if we all learn occlumency."
Hermione nodded with a satisfied smile, "And that's exactly what we should do. Then
we can work together, without any secrets. It might take a while with exams coming
up, but I think we can manage the basics if we practice over summer."
"But - but would Dumbledore agree to teach us all, let alone have the time? Or can
Tonks teach us too?" Padma began chewing her nails.
"There is another way..." Sue remarked mysteriously, "I can't explain right now, but I
might be able to acquire something to protect Padma."
"What about you and Hermione... of for crying out loud! Am I the only one who
doesn't know occlumency as well?!"
They all turned to Sue with interest, yet she shook head and addressed Padma, "I'm
guessing Hermione is learning somehow, but no. I'm probably not any better than
you at occlumency or nonverbal magic. I was taught the concepts but never allowed
to practice either. I did recently receive permission to try nonverbal magic with
everyone, but protection against legilimency is... extremely restricted. I could be sent
back home simply for telling anyone about it."
"That's enough doom and gloom secrets for me then," Padma replied wearily and
got up, "I'll be in the dueling room, failing to cast any spells." Sue frowned but
followed after.

The door closed behind them, abandoning Harry and Hermione to another awkward
moment alone. Unable to break the silence of uncomfortable truths and fearful
thoughts, until Harry eventually mumbled a question, "Should I go try to help her?"
"No," Hermione shook her head, "at least not right now. Padma's probably upset
because she didn't want to tell us she was having problems with nonverbal magic in
order to figure it out on her own, though it seems she gave up on that. Maybe we
can offer a little later." She hesitated, but shook off her doubts, "Harry, there's
something I need to tell you, but I haven't been sure it was important until today.
Lavender has been getting ... letters from someone claiming to be you. That's what
made me think you liked her months ago. I know they're not from you now, but I
think whoever is behind it is attempting to cause problems and using Lavender to do
it. I told her the truth today so she might confront you about it. Sorry..."
"Er... that's good to know, I guess -" Harry looked completely baffled by this
information, but soon recovered, "I'm sure there's loads of stuff I should tell you too, I
simply don't know where to start."
That made her smile as she took the seat beside him, "Well, I imagine many
questions are answered by that key in your pocket, though I'm curious how you
finally figured it out and why you were in that garden."
"Ahh," he cringed slightly, "it turns out I merely had to ask the room for what the key
unlocks, which just so happened to be that garden. As to what it's for, I can't say yet
because I have to get permission to tell..."
"Really? Was Sue right then? Is it the Ravenclaw ghost that protects the room? Or is
Hogwarts somehow alive like Padma guessed?" Harry's suppressed laugh made her
continue, "Then did it belong to the Hogwarts architect like I suggested?"
He covered his eyes and gave a lighthearted groan, "You're doing it again you know,
trying to tease information out of me I shouldn't be revealing."
"Oh... sorry, but it's just so interesting! All these mysterious events are really piling
up lately, and it's hard not being able to open up a book and get the answers. - So
what can you tell me?"
Chucking at her boundless enthusiasm, Harry appeared to consider, "Alright, I think I
told you Dumbledore is still working on getting that permanent portkey license,
though it seems he might be catching on that I got my memories back. They
somehow found Lockhart's wand was used to cast the levitation charm on those
ashwinder eggs, and get this, Dumbledore actually suspected Lockhart was a 'nearly
harmless' fraud and never did any of the things he claimed in his books, but hired

him anyway to possibly expose him, since no one else would take the job on such
short notice. No wonder everyone thinks he's mad... but the people he tried to hire
aren't much different. They all think the defense position is cursed or some
nonsense, because for a while no one has been able to stay longer than a year. I
mean really, how do you curse a job position? Can you curse a day of the week, or
some other artificial concept like democracy as well? But nevermind that. I politely
suggested to Dumbledore it might be more to do with the quality of teachers he
hires, or the classroom and office they work in, but he insisted that he's tried nearly
everything, including different rooms, proven teachers, protective charms, and even
changing the name of the position and curriculum, but nothing's worked. Lockhart
being arrested and Quirrell getting sicker by the day does help his argument, yet he
wouldn't tell me how, when, or who supposedly cursed the position, though I suspect
all my prodding questions and critical comments are what's tipped him off that my
memory is back. I probably shouldn't have suggested he give Snape the job next
and use polyjuice to turn him into Quirrell, so at least it would appear like the curse is
broken, even if they're both sacked in the end. Oh, and Dumbledore confirmed that
some dragons can communicate through thoughts like I can."
Hermione was grinning throughout all the rambling thoughts he'd been saving up to
tell her, I'm glad he feels comfortable enough to share now - "Wait, WHAT?!" She
interrupted him before he could go on.
"Yeah, didn't I explain that before? Herbert told me he was hungry after I tried to
calm him down, not in words of course but a feeling. I mentioned it to Dumbledore in
our last meeting and he got kind of cagey, saying that it wasn't widely known and
that only a few species were thought to be capable of communicating that way.
Mostly because no one wants to get close enough to try legilimency on a dragon,
and the few who have, were usually attacked. He told me not to try it again with any
dangerous or intelligent creatures in case it provoked them. I don't know why he
seemed so surprised though, he's the one who suggested I use it to defend myself in
one of our early lessons. Maybe he didn't expect it to be similar to their magic?"
"I... don't even know where to begin with all that Harry. But, why have you been
waiting so long to tell me?"
He shrugged, "I've been kind of distracted by everything and ... I don't know, it's
difficult to get much time by ourselves lately. Not to mention the deathtrap we barely
escaped last week..." Harry paused, looking at her with his bright green eyes, "I'm
not trying to keep my distance from you, but it's hard, knowing I'm putting you and
everyone else in danger whenever I'm close. I know it's not my fault, and you all
want help somehow, yet I keep wanting to protect you. I might have the leverage to
do it now, but there's still so much risk involved and too many things could go

wrong..."
"You can't explain about this either?" He shook his head in regret, as she
considered, "Well, then I'll trust you to stay safe... and hope you can tell me sooner,
rather than later. Since you're right, I would like to help in any way I can. Even if that
means waiting for when you need it." Hermione reached out and hugged him this
time, pulling him close.
"Thanks." Harry whispered, and squeezed back.
Authors Note: Merry Christmas! Too many delays lately, but the next chapter should
be coming soon.
Oh, and if you think there are important questions that should have been asked or
addressed by any character in this chapter, please let me know and I might include
them in an update.