Chapter One
New Arrivals
Walking into the well-lit castle Kari wandered about, wondering what to do, before she was taken to class. This time passed quickly as Kari admired the well carved and somewhat animated statues. One, she watched in awe was, the gargoyle at the bottom of the Headmaster's staircase. Walking to her class with the Professor, Minerva McGonagall, her quaint but stern voice spoke. "You'll have your first lesson with me today. I believe you will receive your schedule day after next. For now you will be brought to your classes, a long with the other new students. You'll meet them later if you haven't already." Walking in, the class is seated and Professor McGonagall announces Kari to the class. "Kari will you please take the seat next to Ms. Granger?" ~Hermione Granger? She was, just about, a legend at my last school! ~ She slowly walked down a row of students to find one with long fizzy hair to her mid-back, sitting very properly, intent on what the teacher had to say. ~Just as much a legend as Harry Potter was everywhere and the Weasley family, I have heard of, here. ~ Kari thought sitting promptly. For her first day Kari knew she had to make a good impression on Hermione. At the nearing of the end of class Professor McGonagall said, "Alright now, there will be a quiz next class and I expect all of you to pass!" She then dismissed class, "But you do not need to take it, since this is your first day here." She said inspecting the notes Kari had handed her. "That'z all right Professor, I'd be 'appy to take the quiz, I'm sure I know all the material." responded Kari with a slight smile, trying very hard to hide the touch of French in her voice. Professor McGonagall smiled a bit and handed back the notes, as Kari stopped at the door, "Looks like I have another Hermione Granger in my class." McGonagall said proudly. Hermione had just passed the door way and hearing this she almost tripped over her own feet; thinking her favorite professor would say such a thing. She continued on and Kari followed up behind her. Realizing Kari had hurt Hermione's feelings she wanted to apologize, but couldn't, and the thoughts entered Hermione's mind. She smiled slightly hiding the pain that was left, "Would you like to eat with us. till you're sorted I mean?" Kari passed up from behind her, "Why not?" Kari waved off to her as Flitch led her down a different corridor, to her next class. Kari thought ~Maybe she wasn't so bad for someone who had her nose in a book all the time. ~ She laughed at the thought, but then walked into her potions class and saw Professor Snape. It was as though he was trying to read my mind but couldn't get in. "Uh. g- good day Professor Zeveruz, Snape." she sounded weary and seated herself. "Good day Ms. Carrilel, I presume?" Kari felt disappointed hoping these professors wouldn't be like the ones at her last school. "Kari, please Professor Snape." He eyed Kari looking as thought he tried to see through her. "I shall call you what I wish, is that-" "Pardon moi monsieur," He paused, "But then I shall call you what I wish, Zeverus, perhaps?" He seemed startled that a student would cut him off and insult him, like that. Snape glared but then took attendance for class. The lesson went on, but then half way through the class there was suddenly a happy, gleaming, yell. "Surprise quiz!" Professor Snape had alerted the class and many moans came rolling lightly across the room. "Oh, Ms. Kari, you may study for this quiz." Kari nodded not to argue with him any further. Snape placed five parchments on her desk. She looked them over and scribbled in answers wherever they were needed them. Kari raised her hand straight and tall as the professor reached his desk. "Ms. Carrilel?" "I'm done," she said glaring, with a slight hint that she was unpleased. "May I take the quiz now?" He walked back to her, and looked the parchment pages up and down. By the forth page there was a wildly surprised look on his face, "How- did you know that Netorial syrum takes exactly eight minutes longer to boil correctly, then the Netorial oil? How could you have? It says nothing of the sort on any of the notes." Kari frowned a bit, "I've known that since I was three, and had it blow up in my face, mind you! Mother taught me everything I know, top of her potions class, leading with you I believe, Professor." Kari now looked up at him half questioning and suddenly realizing the entire class had stopped and was watching them. Looking at the last sheet of parchment, Snape, ran his fingers through his greasy hair and stalked slowly up to his desk, deep in thought. ~Her mother is Ivy? Why wasn't I informed? She must be here, somewhere, she would allow her daughter here alone. ~ Looking up quickly and regaining his usually dreary composure he spoke quietly, "Very well done Ms.-" he suddenly noticed, the girl had gone back to glaring, "Kari, you may." Walking swiftly over, he placed a longer piece of parchment on her desk and once again, she raced through it, as before, and had to wait. He dismissed the class a minute before the end, but wanted her to wait after. "Kari, don't do that, I will not tolerate such, in my class." He glared but then a small smile fell through his black hair, which was now lying over his face. Kari nodded obeying and left without another word. Kari saw Harry so many times that day, and wanted to talk to him, but either she was wisped away by a professor or he was too busy talking to someone else. Now, after her third class, and the last before lunch, Kari finally saw him alone and there was no professor in sight. She sighed in relax and walked quietly in the same direction, coming up behind Harry. "Good day, 'Arry Potter," Kari seemed as cheerful as he was unhappy. "Good?" He looked out the window next to him, as he stopped, "I suppose it is." "What's wrong?" she asked noticing he looked quite pail and his glasses were gone. "Malfoy" he replied. "Oh I'm sorry, you're that new girl, what's your name again?" "I'm Kari, but what has Draco done?" Kari said curiously. "It's not what he's done," Said Harry queasy, "It's what he's going to do when he finds out." "May I ask what?" Kari asked noticing that someone was behind them. "Draco leave!" she spoke before she heard Harry's reply. "What's this Potter? You got a new girlfriend, the half-pint wasn't good enough for you?" Kari turned her head and glared at the boy with bright blond hair and the nasty smirk left his face. It soon turned into a face of amassment and astonishment. "Draco, I said leave!" she demanded, as Harry seemed to sway a little. Draco had stopped in mid sentence of muttering and was walking backwards, dazed and blushing. "Yes, miss." Harry was the shocked one now, standing and staring at the new young girl unblinking. "How-?" Harry started but got hit by a passing student. Kari looked back at Harry, who was now trying to battle the traffic, since another class had just let out near them. The lunch bell rang and everyone in the halls started to clear, but Harry supporting himself against the wall, just stood there. "I'm very sorry 'Arry" Kari apologized walking over to him. "Now, what is wrong? You don't look well." Just then Hermione came bounding up with Ron studying behind her. "Come on Harry we don't want to miss lunch do we? Kari are you coming with us?" Hermione said then pouncing on Harry pulling him in the direction of the lunchroom. "Uh, 'Ermione, wait a minute." Kari looked at Harry again. She mumbled so only her might hear, "What are you trying to 'ide?" she studied Harry's face for a minute as Ron looked up from his book, Potions (level 6). Ron's eyes were drawn from Harry's ill face to the angel-faced girl who was watching thoughtfully. Harry shook his head trying to see straight. Looking to Hermione, Harry seemed as though he was trying to talk. He could only stare, faintly, red faced, with a fever and no glasses. He shook his head again and fainted lightly as Hermione caught him. Kari had closed her eyes thinking, trying to think and not paying attention. While Ron's eyes were locked, unblinking, at the unmistakably beautiful lady with silver and black streaks in her long, light, brown hair. "We better get him to Madam Pomfrey, quickly!" said Hermione demanding Ron's attention, but still not receiving it. Kari looked up at Ron as he turned a bright shade of crimson. "You should go 'ave lunch, uh. Ron, Weasley right?" Ron gestured to himself and he nodded as though he knew no speech. Then pointing at the girl with his jaw still hanging slightly. "That's a good idea. Kari and I will take Harry to the nurse and you go get us all lunch." Said Hermione shooing him off. Ron had made it half way down the hall when Kari said, "Uh, Ron." He turned to look again. "Your jaw, it seems as though it will fall off if you leave it there." Kari smiled, and his face turned five shades brighter. He hurried to the lunchroom after that. Kari took Harry from Hermione suggesting, "You take 'is feet and I'll take 'is 'ead? Or magic it?" Hermione looked as though she had swallowed a frog, dropping the foot she had just picked up. "Oh no, now you need the nurse too!" Kari almost whistled for help but then stopped herself. She begged Hermione, "You wont tell anyone, will you?" Kari pleaded. Hermione went back to her serious face and asked quietly, "What do you mean? What are you talking about?" Kari explained as quickly as she could, "Well, as for a magical animal, I don't 'ave a rat or cat, or even an owl. Fenris is good, 'e would never 'urt anyone." "Who is Fenris?" Hermione said quickly. "Fenris, Fenris is- I'm not sure 'ow to explain 'im, somewhat. like a grim, I suppose. Just promise you wont scream!" Hermione nodded and Kari whistled a single and clear note. A sudden breeze swept down the hall they were standing in, and a spiral of silver dust came with it. Kari stood and waited as a large black, bear sized, wolf with huge silver wings appeared from the dust. "Oh my!" shouted Hermione in a quivering and shocked tone. She quickly covered her mouth, as the sound echoed down the hall. "Well, you could 'ave yelled a little louder!" Kari said annoyed. She waited, as Hermione stood silently watching the great animal, "Not a sound from down the 'all. I suppose you didn't alarm them." Kari looked at Fenris telling him to let Harry ride him. The winged-wolf looked at the beautiful girl disagreeing but took Harry to his back anyway. "Can you run Ms. Granger? Or do you need a ride as well?" Hermione seemed stunned, "What? No, of course not; I can run." "Well, I'll see you in the 'ospital's office, then." Kari said trotting off with the giant wolf behind her. "What about the professors?" Hermione said running after her. "Don't worry now, no one will see 'im." Kari responded and the wolf vanished to Hermione's sight at least, but Harry was still seen. Professor Snape walked out of a near by classroom but they made it around a corner before he could stop them, for questioning. The two of them were about to take the last turn, when a person strolled by. "Ahhh." Kari stopped just before crashing into her. "What's this?" the person was wearing teacher's robes and questioned them puzzled. "Well, you see miz, 'Arry fainted and we 'ave to get 'im to the 'ospital wing!" Kari sounded quickly as she started her trot again, with what looked like Harry on his back, hovering just behind her, and behind him, Hermione. "Wait!" The professor yelled and the group halted. "That's not what I'm talking about, and you know it." The professor nudge down her purple lens glasses, eyeing Kari's innocent face. She looked stern pushing the glasses back up her nose; "You think I can't see him?" Kari closed her eyes hoping the professor wasn't talking about what she thought she might. The professor smiled widely, "He's magnificent! He's the most beautiful creature I have ever seen!" She wondered over to Fenris with expressions of wonders in her eyes. "I don't know how you can see 'im, but PLEASE don't tell anyone." Kari pleated, "Anyone! The school rules don't allow 'im. They might. they might kill 'im." The professor didn't look away, but waved her hand at Kari, "Rubbish!" she explained. Hermione was looking impatient. "At this rate Harry might die!" Hermione screeched, desperately. Kari paid no attention to the professor now, agreeing that Hermione might be right. Kari darted off and everyone, but the professor, followed. Fenris stopped just before the office and Kari took Harry from his back. ~ 'Ow were you seen? ~ She mumbled to Fenris and he shook his head then, vanished to dust. Hermione at Harry's feet and Kari at Harry's shoulders they lugged him to a bed in the office as two people came rushing to find out what happened. "He just fainted," Kari explained; Hermione couldn't say a word she sat on the bedside floor, waiting. Being concerned and impatient that Madam Pomfrey had not come yet, Hermione began to dig through her books. Kari now sat at Harry's feet feeling it was her fault. She was the reason Harry got hit with all those people, and now everyone would hate her for it. Hermione looked up at Kari's worried face, "What do you think? Claice, Serkum, or Flu?" Kari looked at Harry trying to think, she studied him as she did before. "'Ow about insomnia with 'airluc?" "Hairluc?" Hermione questioned slowly. Kari nodded with a slightly embarrassed look, "Zorry, I meant lack of eating. it's a family language, thing." "Really, what lan-" Hermione was interrupted by Madam Pomfrey who had just walked in with Ron scurrying behind her, holding four large gold dishes. Madam Pomfrey then placed her hand on Harry's forehead and looked worriedly at Hermione, then at Ron, then at Kari. "Are you new?" she asked staring at the girl, toward Harry's feet. Kari nodded her head but looked back at Harry. Now, the nurse turned to Hermione, relieving her hand from Harry's head. Hermione's face was stone cold, "I know it's nothing we've seen but. He'll be alright-. He's going to be alright, right?" her voice shrilled at the last word. "Please, be calm Ms. Granger, or I may have to ask you to leave. I haven't even figured out what is wrong, yet." Ron handed a plate to Hermione, who took it nervously, and then he placed two plates on a table. Ron now walking closer to hand Kari her plate but at each step he seemed to get slower and redder. Kari eventually got up and put her hands out for the plate, which he handed to her gladly. "I-. I didn't know what you liked, so I got you the sweetest foods, some like Hermione's favorites, I hope its uh- okay." Kari looked down at her plate and smiled thoughtfully, "This is good, thank you." Ron now stumbling backwards sitting in the only chair across the room and begins to eat from his own plate, which he had left on the table. Madam Pomfrey left for a moment and they sit silently, waiting, thinking, and eating very little. When the nurse returned she was carrying about a dozen clipboards with wildly sorted papers on them. "I don't know how muggles do this. It doesn't make sense." Hermione stood a moment and walked toward Madam Pomfrey. "Do you need help? The muggles normally top them all directly in a pile, while they're on the broad. It makes it easier to flip through the papers to find what you need." Her voice was very monotone and Ron only stared with a slightly horrified look on his face. "Hermione, Harry will be fine. He will be fine!" Ron demanded numbly. "He's been through a million times worse then this. He's only a little ill, just like you or me." "Ron's right, you know. We all know 'e's gotten in worse trouble." Said Kari now watching Hermione's expression change very little. Madam Pomfrey looked at Ron, and then to both Hermione and Kari. "Could I ask you to do me a favor? I have some boxes in the room down the hall I need. It may have something for Harry, too." At the first sound of it Kari was getting to her feet, and by the time the nurse got to Harry's name Hermione was with her, at the door. "Which room?" asked Kari, figuring Hermione would know her way around well enough, to find it. "In the transfiguration room. Thank you both." Replied Madam Pomfrey. They were both gone before she had said another word. Walking side by side, now it was more obvious then before. They looked like complete opposites. Kari was tall, lean, beautiful, soft completion and long straight hair. While Hermione was slightly shorter, with lose clothes and back's length frizzy hair to cover most of her. The room wasn't very far away, and it was empty just as Hermione had thought. Kari knocked on the door before opening it, just in case there was still a teacher or someone inside. They entered to find a stack of four small boxes next to the door. Each was labeled, HOSPITAL WING, in bold letters across the top. "I suppose these are boxes. You take two and I'll take two," suggested Hermione, still very bland in her voice. They hurried out the door, each with two small, but very heavy boxes in their arms. Kari closed the door, behind them, with her foot. It made a light slam and Hermione turned to see what was keeping her. They walked down the small hallway outside the Hospital Wing office, and Madam Pomfrey was there waiting. "Thank you both again," she said, walking inside and leaving the door open for them. Walking in, "Where should we put them madam?" Kari asked. "Over there, on the table," Madam Pomfrey said waving her hand toward a table. Hermione quickly put the heavy boxes on the table and walked behind Madam Pomfrey to look at the student she was inspecting. Kari placed hers' down and noticed that Ms. Pomfrey seemed very stressed and busy too. "Do you not normally 'ave this many students sick?" Kari asked looking at both Hermione and Madam Pomfrey. Madam Pomfrey shook her head and Hermione took up her place next to Harry a few beds away. The nurse then walked to Harry's bed and stood beside Hermione, looking at Harry. He was sweating so badly his untamed hair was drenched, flat against his pillow. "I don't know what he has, and I'm just as unsure about everyone else." Madam Pomfrey said looking around the room to other students. Kari stared down at a student who was asleep next to her. She picked up the chart attached to their bed, "Well, if it 'elps, I know what. " she read it over again to make sure she pronounced it correctly, "Mr. Longbottom has." Hermione looked up suddenly, "Neville is here too?" Hermione stood again, more tired this time, and walked over asking, "What do you think is wrong with him?" "As far as I can tell, 'e 'as, Claice, like you thought 'Arry might 'ave 'ad." Madam Pomfrey walked over and suspiciously asked, "How, why do you think that?" Kari handed Madam Pomfrey the chart and point to three things, "Light but steady fever, fading in and out of consciousness, and 'is blood sugar. Oh and it's caused by not eating enough, I believe. I might be wrong though." Madam Pomfrey shook her head, "How much do you know about medical situations?" she added curiously. "I don't know much at all. Unless I've 'ad it myself, I don't know anything," Kari announced. "That's too bad, I could have used you around here. I heard one of our new students was a healer," Madam smiled a little but then saw Hermione's face. Kari wondered back over to Harry not looking at Hermione, "I believe you were right about the, flu, I believed you called it.Influenza, the correct term 'Ermione?" Kari look over her shoulder at Hermione. "Influenza? Isn't that, that muggle virus?" Madam Pomfrey said trying to recall. Kari heard Hermione's voice in her head though she tried not to listen, ~the flu. it effects wizards differently than muggles. I think I know how to fix it! ~ Hermione's face seemed to light up and before she could say a word, Kari nodded and stepped aside. This just happened to intercept Ron's view of Harry. He was trapped in thoughts the whole time Kari and Hermione were away and while Kari talked about Neville. Now his face went red and he diverted his gaze to the floor between them. Hermione seemed to suddenly jump, looked at her watch and almost screamed. "No, we've missed History of Magic!" Hermione started to panic. Ron's face was half in a thrill at this and there was a quick and quiet whisper of a celebration. "I'll excuse you Hermione, Ron, and. I didn't catch your name." Said Madam Pomfrey. "I'm Kari, Carrilel." Kari mumbled the last word. "Thank you Madam Pomfrey," said Ron happily as Hermione groaned and thanked her as well. Kari looked at Harry as Hermione bent over him. Hermione pulled out her wand and laid out her other hand, palm up. "Repiarcus Talli-virear," Hermione said pointing her wand at her out stretched hand, where a bottle soon appeared. Hermione smiled, "It worked" she whispered. Opening the bottle and pouring a small pill, that looked of Ice, out onto her hand. "This should make him better. Now how to get him to take it?" Hermione wondered. "I think, if you do this," Kari pulled out her wand and waved it once pointing at the pill then swooshing it over to Harry. The pill flew out of Hermione's hand and down Harry's throat. "Great, now, all we can do is wait," Hermione said sitting again on the floor beside Harry. Madam Pomfrey stared unsure at the two who had done something to a student without her permission. "I'm sorry there aren't any chairs left," she said finally. Kari sat again at Harry's feet and looked up at the ceiling light. Ron was now watching her more stiffly than ever. Madam Pomfrey had left the room carrying the boxes on a magic cart she had conjured. A sudden twitch from Harry made Hermione and Ron jump. Kari sat and looked over at Harry. Ron picked up his chair and moved it very close to the bed, not noticing that he was in the way. Hermione stood up, next to Ron, looking down at Harry. Harry's eyes suddenly shot open and he slowly sat up. Harry mumbled something they couldn't understand. Kari smiling, "Should I get 'im a new pair of glasses?" Before she even got a response she was holding a pair that looked just like Harry's old, without the beats and scrapes of the years. "'Ere you are 'Arry," said Kari scooted herself down the bed next to Harry's waist, and putting the new glasses in his hands. Harry seemed suddenly dizzy and laid his head back down. Putting on the spectacles, he looked up at Kari who has now hovering over him in amusement. "You." Harry opened his mouth but only a slight hiss came out; he saw a sudden dim glow of black around her as he sat up. Then it turned to bright shining silver and then vanished as Harry focused his eyes on Kari. "You. you," Harry hissed again, Kari's face grew a little sad, "You look like an Angel," Harry finally spat out the entire sentence. "Am I in Heaven?" Harry looked slowly around, but where he was sure didn't seem like heaven, it didn't even seem like that nice of a place at all. Then he stopped at Hermione with her mouth dropped open. "You're not in 'eaven, 'Arry. You are in the 'ospital wing of 'Ogwarts." Kari hissed to Harry, not noticing that she too now spoke in parseltongue. "You fainted." Hermione said, now half-glaring and half-gawking at Kari. Ron only starred in amazement from Kari to Harry with his jaw dropped as far as it would go. "You," he started starring at Kari, and then looked quickly at Harry, "She. that was no English you spoke Harry," "What are you talking about?" Harry said straightening and looked over to Kari, who shrugged. "You spoke parseltongue, to. to Kari. I thought you could only say it when you spoke to sna-." Said Hermione who stopped dead in her tracks. Hermione was now angry and had a deadly stunned voice. "You didn't know that you couldn't touch medisheep, did you? You only guessed, so Snape wouldn't get suspicious." Hermione was almost fuming. "You are correct," Kari mumbled. Hermione had a sudden thought of terror, "So, you're a snake? .That can, sense thoughts?" Kari look slightly alarmed too, trying to think of something to get out of a mess she might cause. Her face showed this, too well. "No, she couldn't be Hermione. Someone like her," Ron said now slightly dreamy, "couldn't be a reptile." He sounded discussed with the thought. Kari just stood there, now turning a slight pink shade. "Well, you're both 'alf right. But you'll not know, now. Mother says it's not safe yet." Hermione was still lost somewhere in her mix of anger, amazement, fascination; and her confusion seemed to overwhelm them all. Kari paused dazing back into thought. Ron merely sat there, still unable to take his eyes off of her. Harry smiled with an excited thought. ~Someone else that I can talk to! Someone who can understand the difference between, leave him alone and kill him! ~ Harry had recalled the first time he had talked to a snake; it almost attacked Dudley, and the second time when no one believed that he was trying to save another student, Justin. He looked over at Kari and wanted to talk some more, but didn't know what to say. Lucky for Harry he didn't have to. "Who's Dudley?" Kari asked in parseltongue, smiling slightly curiously at Harry. Harry looked very surprised, ~How did she know what I was thinking? ~ Kari stared at him and then looked over at Madam Pomfrey who was in a great deal of shook. "Sorry Madam Pomfrey," The nurse almost seemed terrified to say so, "I don't believe we have ever had more than one parselmouth in the school at the same time." There was a bit of awkward silence and slight blush from Harry and Kari. "Oh well you three best be off to dinner." She then looked at Harry, "I want you to stay until I believe you can go, Harry." Hermione and Ron didn't argue, they knew, by now, it was part of her job, though it was hardly necessary. "We'll see you in the common room, Harry," Yelled Ron as he, and Hermione were shooed off by Madam Pomfrey. "Don't wait up!" Harry called after them. Kari was still there, gathering up her books. "Can't she stay Madam Pomfrey? Please." Harry pleaded. Kari saw Madam Pomfrey's distressed look and shook her head. "It's okay 'Arry, I'll see you tomorrow sometime, maybe even later, tonight." Kari hissed smiling as she ran out the door. "What did she say?" asked Madam Pomfrey still in shock. "She said we would talk again, maybe, tonight." Harry seemed a little dumbstruck but still very pleased, ~I'm not alone at all anymore, but how did she know I was thinking of Dudley? ~ He thought laying back down and Madam Pomfrey came over to inspect the pills Hermione had conjured, which were now scattered all over Harry's sheets. The three of them entered the, brightly candle lit, great hall. After Hermione and Ron squeezed in the Gryffindor table, Kari looked around and noticed that every table was stuffed, far too stuffed to even fit little Kari. It seemed there was no room for any more tables to be set, either. Ron was about to offer his seat when Professor McGonagall waved for Kari to come over. "I'm afraid we're a bit too, over crowded this year. If you don't mind, please sit with us at the staff table tonight. I'm sure we can have room for you tomorrow, at your house table." Professor McGonagall walked back around the staff table and pulled out a chair on the end, as she walked past it to her own. Kari followed, quickly and seated herself in the chair, next to three other students who where also newly transferred, like her. Dumbledore stood and the room silenced. "I have a few announcements to make before we begin our feast, tonight. First, we have five new transfer students, whom I hope you will all give a warm welcome. Maverlot Moonrild," A boy with pure black hair, stood and bowed to the crowd of students, then seated again. "Ambrosia Lupin," Dumbledore continued. A sweet-faced girl with golden blond curls stood now, curtsying slightly, so two curls fell in front of her. "And her twin sister, Lily Lupin," Beside the first girl, who was still standing; now stood what seemed to be an exact replica. She too curtsied and then they both seated. The only difference between the two seemed to be their eyes, Lily with deep purple and Ambrosia with deep red. There were many cries and applauds after these two sat, and the girls giggled in there seats. Hermione and Ron suddenly looked at each other, both remembering their third year, Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Lupin. "You don't think." Ron started. "Nah," Hermione and Ron shook their heads with smiles. ~Wait till Harry hears about this! ~ Thought Ron excitedly. "Kari Carrilel," called Dumbledore as the chatter silenced. Kari stood with her head held up and her face neutral. Now, she bowed her head, nodding to everyone and then seated again as the loudest howls erupted from every table. "I'm afraid Christopher Theodore, didn't make it to dinner tonight, if anyone sees him, be sure to send him to my office." Dumbledore spoke and once again the loud noises from the hall had stopped completely. "Second, I am happy to announce, our new Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor arrived today." There were a few cheers that settled quickly. "Professor Morgenröte," Dumbledore outstretched his hand to his right and a young teacher took it, and rose. She was the same teacher that Hermione and Kari had met in the hall, while hurrying Harry to the hospital wing. Now they had a better view of her, it seemed her color was purple. Everything about her was purple, except her snow-white skin. Her bangs came to her chin on either side of her long face, and her hair was layered down to her mid back where it ended, though a clip of lilacs held the front portion of her deep violet hair back. She wore robes that looked black until the light hit them, and they turned purple. With purple boots to match, she now bowed her head to the side, and sat again. The purple lenses on her golden framed glasses, were a full circle, and her eyes, though not seen, were also a deep violet. Behind her spectacles, she had a kind, but stern face, like a mix between Kari and Hermione. Dumbledore continued, "Third, three new, official courses are added this year, and you will be hearing about them in the next few days. Tomorrow, Wednesday, weapons presentation; Thursday, Bellovoce presentation; and Friday, Weather course presents." Dumbledore smiled at the happy and excited faces around the Great Hall. "Our new students will be sorted, after dinner since I see how anxious you all are to start. Let us eat." The golden dishes suddenly filled with food once again, and everyone dug in. Kari only took the sweetest of things, until desert, and she tried everything. Near the middle of the deserts, a door flew open opposite staff table. There was Professor Trelawney, looking more old and distraught then the last time Ron or Hermione had seen her. There was someone with her; a short and roundish boy, who seemed to be cowering, at her side. Professor Trelawney marched up to Professor Dumbledore, "I saw him lost and finding my room, I figured you would like him back." Professor Dumbledore was grinning and he nodded, "Please sit with us, both of you. We're having desert." "No, thank you, I must get back." Said Trelawney, handing over the boy. "Thank you." Dumbledore now looked at the boy, "Christopher, you have a seat over there," he pointed and a chair appeared on the other side of Kari. "Please help yourself." Soon after everyone was finished with the deserts, students started clattering up the stairs. Hermione went straight to the hospital wing, to see if Harry could come yet. Ron wanted to stay and watch Kari sorted. Professor McGonagall had left and now came back with a stool and the wrecked old sorting hat. Ron was one of the only, "old" students left in the room. "Is something wrong Weasley?" asked Professor McGonagall. Ron shook his head, "I told Hermione I'd wait for them here, so we could see a- about Kari." McGonagall sighed, sounding a lot like Hermione. Just then, "Very well, I'll call them backwards, for you, Weasley. Ms. Carrilel would be first, you know. Theodore, Christopher," The late and shy boy, walked up stumbling, and sat on the stool. There was an awkward silence after the hat was placed on his head. A sudden loud shout broke the silence, "Gryffindor!" the hat called, from its ripped brim. "Moonrild, Maverlot" The black haired boy from before now strutted over while Christopher scurried over to the seat he sat in at dinner. Maverlot sat and grinned. The hat hadn't even touched him, merely inches above his head, and it screeched, "SLYTHERIN!" Ron seemed slightly shocked, ~Much like what happened to Malfoy, ~ Maverlot got up saying something about a waste of time, and he proceeded to his seat still grinning. "Lily Lupin," The twin with purple eyes stood and walked to the stool, where she sat. There was a quiet noise at the doors, and Hermione with Harry walked in. They sat next to Ron, "Was she sorted yet?" whispered Harry. Ron shook his head and pointed at Christopher, "He's a new Gryffindor," then her pointed at the boy with jet-black hair, "Slytherin, I've got a small story to tell you on him." Harry asked quietly before the hat decided, "Who is that?" "A Lupin, Lily I believe," answered Hermione. "Ravenclaw" the hat shouted as Harry's eyes grew and he looked at both Hermione and Ron. "Lily. Lupin? Is that what she said?" Harry questioned anxiously. Ron nodded and Hermione smiled as Lily walked over. "You talking about me?" asked Lily innocently. "Yes, no. do you someone by the name Remus?" Harry said wondrously. "Lupin, Ambrosia" "Ravenclaw" shouted the sorting hat again. Ambrosia joined her sister suspiciously. Lily whispered to Ambrosia. She looked at Harry then at Ron and Hermione. "We know you are Hermione Granger, so is it possible," Ambrosia and Lily's eyes lit. Now, Lily continued, "Are you, Harry Potter? And Ron Weasley!" Both girls were far too over excited. "Uncle talks about James all the time!" Harry looked suddenly taken back. Two sudden words silenced Harry, Ron and Hermione's questions. "Carrilel, Kari" The twins moved out of the way. Stepping to either side, almost as to present Kari, because they were so synchronized. The hat was placed on Kari's head and she had the straightest face, not scared at all, her heart didn't care which house she went to. The hat was mumbling furiously, "A lot in here there is, best for any house, nothing you can improved, by any house in particular." Now, the hat seemed to be fighting itself, "Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Gryffindor. too sly and ambitious for Gryffindor, too kind and hard working for Slytherin, too clever and quick for Hufflepuff, and too braved and determined for Ravenclaw. Your heart has no desire of one over the others. All their bloods run in you, in you is the first full connection." It was muttering more viciously at every word. ~Oh, no, it's true. I'm not suited for 'Ogwarts at all! ~ "That may be so young Carrilel, because you are of every house." Now he was getting angry again, "To good for every house and every house far from what you need. You and your mother should have a house of your own. Her heart had only the desire, not to be in Slytherin, first she was in Ravenclaw, then moved away and when she returned, she changed, and so belonged to Gryffindor." The hat continued to talk ever more so as Kari pulled it down over her eyes, so she could not see the faces of her new found friends. The hat was now shouting, "NOT GRYFFINDOR! NOT SLYTHERIN! NOT HUFFLEPUFF! NOR RAVENCLAW! THERE IS ONLY EVERY HOUSE FOR ONE LIKE YOU!!!" Her ears hurt as she sat with the hat on her head. The hat started to shake and it felt very hot, and at every word it shook more vigorously, while Dumbledore watched confused. "The house you shall go to is. GRYTHLEPLAW!" Then she pulled the hat up a little so she could see everyone. Dumbledore was watching the hat, trying to figure out what to do, himself. Professor McGonagall looked sympathetically at Kari. Harry was watching the hat like Dumbledore, and Hermione seemed terrified by it. Ron watched Kari till suddenly he frowned looking at the hat too. Kari could hear it still puttering and muttering; now, she looked up at it. Kari could only see the rim of the front, but it was clear that the normally black weathered hat was, red, bright glowing red. Kari went to take it off. With her hands on either side of the rims, she felt the heat of it as she started to pull up. Then: BANG. The hat was gone, it had blown up and Kari was terrified now still sitting on the stool. Her hair stuck out in every direction, with scorch marks all over. Kari had a piece of her scorched hair drop onto her face and she starred at it. Kari was in her great state of shock, " Really, I'm- I'm okay." she said as Professor McGonagall helped her off the stool. "Can someone please take her to the hospital wing?" Kari couldn't see any one's face as she tumbled confused around the floor. Her eyes were locked open but the last thing she saw was still stuck in them, like someone took a photo just as the hat exploded. "I will, Professor," said a voice and a formilure touch now held her up. It was Hermione's, and she was now leading Kari out in to the hall. After they reached the hall and Hermione shut the door behind them, she decided it would be hard to drag her the whole way. Leaning Kari against a wall, Hermione pulled out her wand. "Fluito," she said pointing to Kari's back. Kari fell; stiff as a board, and as though a board had been placed beneath her. Lifted a foot off the ground Kari laid very stiffly on her back. "Are you okay like that? I think it will be better for your dizziness." Kari didn't move, nor did she attempt to disagree. Hermione point for wand in the direction of the Hospital Wing and said, "forward." She took off at a run again, this time to keep up with the invisible stretcher. Luckily for both of them the Hospital Winged wasn't very far away. Hermione had almost run Kari into a statue because she forgot to tell the stretcher to turn, a few times along the way. They had reached the entrance and Hermione undid the spell while pulling Kari up, so she wouldn't hit the floor. "Madam Pomfrey! I'm back!" Hermione called into the room now steering Kari carefully through the doorway. "Goodness, is Harry alrig-" Madam Pomfrey stopped as she starred confused at Kari and Hermione. "Harry's fine. He's wonderful, in fact. But, um." "I need to speak with you about this one, Poppy." Dumbledore interrupted as he too walked through the doorway. "Looks like you're doing better. There must be only a dozen students in here." He said looking at the closed curtains and empty beds around the room. "Indeed. Thanks to Ms. Granger, here Professor. It was her magic pills that got, over half, the people here this morning out by dinner." Madam Pomfrey then took Kari's hands and looked at both her eyes. "Shocked," "Indeed she would be. Now, Ms. Granger, please go to your common room, and sleep well. I would like to see you in my office before breakfast tomorrow. Alright?" Dumbledore said in his usual, cheerful tone. He smiled at Hermione and she left and hurried back the way she came. Hermione arrived at the common room and being very tired, walked right by Ron and Harry up the girl's staircase saying, "Tomorrow, tomorrow." Hermione was asleep just soon as she had lain down again. Kari was spending the night in the Hospital wing while the headmaster and deputy decided what to do with her. Harry and Ron also went to bed; with so many questions neither of them could answer. Kari was awake till there was no longer anyone to talk to, all the students in the room had finally fallen asleep. Kari now thought about her mother and how she was supposed to meet her right after dinner, but she had to be sorted, and then, and then she had destroyed the sorting hat. There was much to think about. She whispered sadly, "I'm sorry mom. I failed. I don't belong at 'Ogwarts at all." With a small tear down the side of her face, as she also fell asleep.
New Arrivals
Walking into the well-lit castle Kari wandered about, wondering what to do, before she was taken to class. This time passed quickly as Kari admired the well carved and somewhat animated statues. One, she watched in awe was, the gargoyle at the bottom of the Headmaster's staircase. Walking to her class with the Professor, Minerva McGonagall, her quaint but stern voice spoke. "You'll have your first lesson with me today. I believe you will receive your schedule day after next. For now you will be brought to your classes, a long with the other new students. You'll meet them later if you haven't already." Walking in, the class is seated and Professor McGonagall announces Kari to the class. "Kari will you please take the seat next to Ms. Granger?" ~Hermione Granger? She was, just about, a legend at my last school! ~ She slowly walked down a row of students to find one with long fizzy hair to her mid-back, sitting very properly, intent on what the teacher had to say. ~Just as much a legend as Harry Potter was everywhere and the Weasley family, I have heard of, here. ~ Kari thought sitting promptly. For her first day Kari knew she had to make a good impression on Hermione. At the nearing of the end of class Professor McGonagall said, "Alright now, there will be a quiz next class and I expect all of you to pass!" She then dismissed class, "But you do not need to take it, since this is your first day here." She said inspecting the notes Kari had handed her. "That'z all right Professor, I'd be 'appy to take the quiz, I'm sure I know all the material." responded Kari with a slight smile, trying very hard to hide the touch of French in her voice. Professor McGonagall smiled a bit and handed back the notes, as Kari stopped at the door, "Looks like I have another Hermione Granger in my class." McGonagall said proudly. Hermione had just passed the door way and hearing this she almost tripped over her own feet; thinking her favorite professor would say such a thing. She continued on and Kari followed up behind her. Realizing Kari had hurt Hermione's feelings she wanted to apologize, but couldn't, and the thoughts entered Hermione's mind. She smiled slightly hiding the pain that was left, "Would you like to eat with us. till you're sorted I mean?" Kari passed up from behind her, "Why not?" Kari waved off to her as Flitch led her down a different corridor, to her next class. Kari thought ~Maybe she wasn't so bad for someone who had her nose in a book all the time. ~ She laughed at the thought, but then walked into her potions class and saw Professor Snape. It was as though he was trying to read my mind but couldn't get in. "Uh. g- good day Professor Zeveruz, Snape." she sounded weary and seated herself. "Good day Ms. Carrilel, I presume?" Kari felt disappointed hoping these professors wouldn't be like the ones at her last school. "Kari, please Professor Snape." He eyed Kari looking as thought he tried to see through her. "I shall call you what I wish, is that-" "Pardon moi monsieur," He paused, "But then I shall call you what I wish, Zeverus, perhaps?" He seemed startled that a student would cut him off and insult him, like that. Snape glared but then took attendance for class. The lesson went on, but then half way through the class there was suddenly a happy, gleaming, yell. "Surprise quiz!" Professor Snape had alerted the class and many moans came rolling lightly across the room. "Oh, Ms. Kari, you may study for this quiz." Kari nodded not to argue with him any further. Snape placed five parchments on her desk. She looked them over and scribbled in answers wherever they were needed them. Kari raised her hand straight and tall as the professor reached his desk. "Ms. Carrilel?" "I'm done," she said glaring, with a slight hint that she was unpleased. "May I take the quiz now?" He walked back to her, and looked the parchment pages up and down. By the forth page there was a wildly surprised look on his face, "How- did you know that Netorial syrum takes exactly eight minutes longer to boil correctly, then the Netorial oil? How could you have? It says nothing of the sort on any of the notes." Kari frowned a bit, "I've known that since I was three, and had it blow up in my face, mind you! Mother taught me everything I know, top of her potions class, leading with you I believe, Professor." Kari now looked up at him half questioning and suddenly realizing the entire class had stopped and was watching them. Looking at the last sheet of parchment, Snape, ran his fingers through his greasy hair and stalked slowly up to his desk, deep in thought. ~Her mother is Ivy? Why wasn't I informed? She must be here, somewhere, she would allow her daughter here alone. ~ Looking up quickly and regaining his usually dreary composure he spoke quietly, "Very well done Ms.-" he suddenly noticed, the girl had gone back to glaring, "Kari, you may." Walking swiftly over, he placed a longer piece of parchment on her desk and once again, she raced through it, as before, and had to wait. He dismissed the class a minute before the end, but wanted her to wait after. "Kari, don't do that, I will not tolerate such, in my class." He glared but then a small smile fell through his black hair, which was now lying over his face. Kari nodded obeying and left without another word. Kari saw Harry so many times that day, and wanted to talk to him, but either she was wisped away by a professor or he was too busy talking to someone else. Now, after her third class, and the last before lunch, Kari finally saw him alone and there was no professor in sight. She sighed in relax and walked quietly in the same direction, coming up behind Harry. "Good day, 'Arry Potter," Kari seemed as cheerful as he was unhappy. "Good?" He looked out the window next to him, as he stopped, "I suppose it is." "What's wrong?" she asked noticing he looked quite pail and his glasses were gone. "Malfoy" he replied. "Oh I'm sorry, you're that new girl, what's your name again?" "I'm Kari, but what has Draco done?" Kari said curiously. "It's not what he's done," Said Harry queasy, "It's what he's going to do when he finds out." "May I ask what?" Kari asked noticing that someone was behind them. "Draco leave!" she spoke before she heard Harry's reply. "What's this Potter? You got a new girlfriend, the half-pint wasn't good enough for you?" Kari turned her head and glared at the boy with bright blond hair and the nasty smirk left his face. It soon turned into a face of amassment and astonishment. "Draco, I said leave!" she demanded, as Harry seemed to sway a little. Draco had stopped in mid sentence of muttering and was walking backwards, dazed and blushing. "Yes, miss." Harry was the shocked one now, standing and staring at the new young girl unblinking. "How-?" Harry started but got hit by a passing student. Kari looked back at Harry, who was now trying to battle the traffic, since another class had just let out near them. The lunch bell rang and everyone in the halls started to clear, but Harry supporting himself against the wall, just stood there. "I'm very sorry 'Arry" Kari apologized walking over to him. "Now, what is wrong? You don't look well." Just then Hermione came bounding up with Ron studying behind her. "Come on Harry we don't want to miss lunch do we? Kari are you coming with us?" Hermione said then pouncing on Harry pulling him in the direction of the lunchroom. "Uh, 'Ermione, wait a minute." Kari looked at Harry again. She mumbled so only her might hear, "What are you trying to 'ide?" she studied Harry's face for a minute as Ron looked up from his book, Potions (level 6). Ron's eyes were drawn from Harry's ill face to the angel-faced girl who was watching thoughtfully. Harry shook his head trying to see straight. Looking to Hermione, Harry seemed as though he was trying to talk. He could only stare, faintly, red faced, with a fever and no glasses. He shook his head again and fainted lightly as Hermione caught him. Kari had closed her eyes thinking, trying to think and not paying attention. While Ron's eyes were locked, unblinking, at the unmistakably beautiful lady with silver and black streaks in her long, light, brown hair. "We better get him to Madam Pomfrey, quickly!" said Hermione demanding Ron's attention, but still not receiving it. Kari looked up at Ron as he turned a bright shade of crimson. "You should go 'ave lunch, uh. Ron, Weasley right?" Ron gestured to himself and he nodded as though he knew no speech. Then pointing at the girl with his jaw still hanging slightly. "That's a good idea. Kari and I will take Harry to the nurse and you go get us all lunch." Said Hermione shooing him off. Ron had made it half way down the hall when Kari said, "Uh, Ron." He turned to look again. "Your jaw, it seems as though it will fall off if you leave it there." Kari smiled, and his face turned five shades brighter. He hurried to the lunchroom after that. Kari took Harry from Hermione suggesting, "You take 'is feet and I'll take 'is 'ead? Or magic it?" Hermione looked as though she had swallowed a frog, dropping the foot she had just picked up. "Oh no, now you need the nurse too!" Kari almost whistled for help but then stopped herself. She begged Hermione, "You wont tell anyone, will you?" Kari pleaded. Hermione went back to her serious face and asked quietly, "What do you mean? What are you talking about?" Kari explained as quickly as she could, "Well, as for a magical animal, I don't 'ave a rat or cat, or even an owl. Fenris is good, 'e would never 'urt anyone." "Who is Fenris?" Hermione said quickly. "Fenris, Fenris is- I'm not sure 'ow to explain 'im, somewhat. like a grim, I suppose. Just promise you wont scream!" Hermione nodded and Kari whistled a single and clear note. A sudden breeze swept down the hall they were standing in, and a spiral of silver dust came with it. Kari stood and waited as a large black, bear sized, wolf with huge silver wings appeared from the dust. "Oh my!" shouted Hermione in a quivering and shocked tone. She quickly covered her mouth, as the sound echoed down the hall. "Well, you could 'ave yelled a little louder!" Kari said annoyed. She waited, as Hermione stood silently watching the great animal, "Not a sound from down the 'all. I suppose you didn't alarm them." Kari looked at Fenris telling him to let Harry ride him. The winged-wolf looked at the beautiful girl disagreeing but took Harry to his back anyway. "Can you run Ms. Granger? Or do you need a ride as well?" Hermione seemed stunned, "What? No, of course not; I can run." "Well, I'll see you in the 'ospital's office, then." Kari said trotting off with the giant wolf behind her. "What about the professors?" Hermione said running after her. "Don't worry now, no one will see 'im." Kari responded and the wolf vanished to Hermione's sight at least, but Harry was still seen. Professor Snape walked out of a near by classroom but they made it around a corner before he could stop them, for questioning. The two of them were about to take the last turn, when a person strolled by. "Ahhh." Kari stopped just before crashing into her. "What's this?" the person was wearing teacher's robes and questioned them puzzled. "Well, you see miz, 'Arry fainted and we 'ave to get 'im to the 'ospital wing!" Kari sounded quickly as she started her trot again, with what looked like Harry on his back, hovering just behind her, and behind him, Hermione. "Wait!" The professor yelled and the group halted. "That's not what I'm talking about, and you know it." The professor nudge down her purple lens glasses, eyeing Kari's innocent face. She looked stern pushing the glasses back up her nose; "You think I can't see him?" Kari closed her eyes hoping the professor wasn't talking about what she thought she might. The professor smiled widely, "He's magnificent! He's the most beautiful creature I have ever seen!" She wondered over to Fenris with expressions of wonders in her eyes. "I don't know how you can see 'im, but PLEASE don't tell anyone." Kari pleated, "Anyone! The school rules don't allow 'im. They might. they might kill 'im." The professor didn't look away, but waved her hand at Kari, "Rubbish!" she explained. Hermione was looking impatient. "At this rate Harry might die!" Hermione screeched, desperately. Kari paid no attention to the professor now, agreeing that Hermione might be right. Kari darted off and everyone, but the professor, followed. Fenris stopped just before the office and Kari took Harry from his back. ~ 'Ow were you seen? ~ She mumbled to Fenris and he shook his head then, vanished to dust. Hermione at Harry's feet and Kari at Harry's shoulders they lugged him to a bed in the office as two people came rushing to find out what happened. "He just fainted," Kari explained; Hermione couldn't say a word she sat on the bedside floor, waiting. Being concerned and impatient that Madam Pomfrey had not come yet, Hermione began to dig through her books. Kari now sat at Harry's feet feeling it was her fault. She was the reason Harry got hit with all those people, and now everyone would hate her for it. Hermione looked up at Kari's worried face, "What do you think? Claice, Serkum, or Flu?" Kari looked at Harry trying to think, she studied him as she did before. "'Ow about insomnia with 'airluc?" "Hairluc?" Hermione questioned slowly. Kari nodded with a slightly embarrassed look, "Zorry, I meant lack of eating. it's a family language, thing." "Really, what lan-" Hermione was interrupted by Madam Pomfrey who had just walked in with Ron scurrying behind her, holding four large gold dishes. Madam Pomfrey then placed her hand on Harry's forehead and looked worriedly at Hermione, then at Ron, then at Kari. "Are you new?" she asked staring at the girl, toward Harry's feet. Kari nodded her head but looked back at Harry. Now, the nurse turned to Hermione, relieving her hand from Harry's head. Hermione's face was stone cold, "I know it's nothing we've seen but. He'll be alright-. He's going to be alright, right?" her voice shrilled at the last word. "Please, be calm Ms. Granger, or I may have to ask you to leave. I haven't even figured out what is wrong, yet." Ron handed a plate to Hermione, who took it nervously, and then he placed two plates on a table. Ron now walking closer to hand Kari her plate but at each step he seemed to get slower and redder. Kari eventually got up and put her hands out for the plate, which he handed to her gladly. "I-. I didn't know what you liked, so I got you the sweetest foods, some like Hermione's favorites, I hope its uh- okay." Kari looked down at her plate and smiled thoughtfully, "This is good, thank you." Ron now stumbling backwards sitting in the only chair across the room and begins to eat from his own plate, which he had left on the table. Madam Pomfrey left for a moment and they sit silently, waiting, thinking, and eating very little. When the nurse returned she was carrying about a dozen clipboards with wildly sorted papers on them. "I don't know how muggles do this. It doesn't make sense." Hermione stood a moment and walked toward Madam Pomfrey. "Do you need help? The muggles normally top them all directly in a pile, while they're on the broad. It makes it easier to flip through the papers to find what you need." Her voice was very monotone and Ron only stared with a slightly horrified look on his face. "Hermione, Harry will be fine. He will be fine!" Ron demanded numbly. "He's been through a million times worse then this. He's only a little ill, just like you or me." "Ron's right, you know. We all know 'e's gotten in worse trouble." Said Kari now watching Hermione's expression change very little. Madam Pomfrey looked at Ron, and then to both Hermione and Kari. "Could I ask you to do me a favor? I have some boxes in the room down the hall I need. It may have something for Harry, too." At the first sound of it Kari was getting to her feet, and by the time the nurse got to Harry's name Hermione was with her, at the door. "Which room?" asked Kari, figuring Hermione would know her way around well enough, to find it. "In the transfiguration room. Thank you both." Replied Madam Pomfrey. They were both gone before she had said another word. Walking side by side, now it was more obvious then before. They looked like complete opposites. Kari was tall, lean, beautiful, soft completion and long straight hair. While Hermione was slightly shorter, with lose clothes and back's length frizzy hair to cover most of her. The room wasn't very far away, and it was empty just as Hermione had thought. Kari knocked on the door before opening it, just in case there was still a teacher or someone inside. They entered to find a stack of four small boxes next to the door. Each was labeled, HOSPITAL WING, in bold letters across the top. "I suppose these are boxes. You take two and I'll take two," suggested Hermione, still very bland in her voice. They hurried out the door, each with two small, but very heavy boxes in their arms. Kari closed the door, behind them, with her foot. It made a light slam and Hermione turned to see what was keeping her. They walked down the small hallway outside the Hospital Wing office, and Madam Pomfrey was there waiting. "Thank you both again," she said, walking inside and leaving the door open for them. Walking in, "Where should we put them madam?" Kari asked. "Over there, on the table," Madam Pomfrey said waving her hand toward a table. Hermione quickly put the heavy boxes on the table and walked behind Madam Pomfrey to look at the student she was inspecting. Kari placed hers' down and noticed that Ms. Pomfrey seemed very stressed and busy too. "Do you not normally 'ave this many students sick?" Kari asked looking at both Hermione and Madam Pomfrey. Madam Pomfrey shook her head and Hermione took up her place next to Harry a few beds away. The nurse then walked to Harry's bed and stood beside Hermione, looking at Harry. He was sweating so badly his untamed hair was drenched, flat against his pillow. "I don't know what he has, and I'm just as unsure about everyone else." Madam Pomfrey said looking around the room to other students. Kari stared down at a student who was asleep next to her. She picked up the chart attached to their bed, "Well, if it 'elps, I know what. " she read it over again to make sure she pronounced it correctly, "Mr. Longbottom has." Hermione looked up suddenly, "Neville is here too?" Hermione stood again, more tired this time, and walked over asking, "What do you think is wrong with him?" "As far as I can tell, 'e 'as, Claice, like you thought 'Arry might 'ave 'ad." Madam Pomfrey walked over and suspiciously asked, "How, why do you think that?" Kari handed Madam Pomfrey the chart and point to three things, "Light but steady fever, fading in and out of consciousness, and 'is blood sugar. Oh and it's caused by not eating enough, I believe. I might be wrong though." Madam Pomfrey shook her head, "How much do you know about medical situations?" she added curiously. "I don't know much at all. Unless I've 'ad it myself, I don't know anything," Kari announced. "That's too bad, I could have used you around here. I heard one of our new students was a healer," Madam smiled a little but then saw Hermione's face. Kari wondered back over to Harry not looking at Hermione, "I believe you were right about the, flu, I believed you called it.Influenza, the correct term 'Ermione?" Kari look over her shoulder at Hermione. "Influenza? Isn't that, that muggle virus?" Madam Pomfrey said trying to recall. Kari heard Hermione's voice in her head though she tried not to listen, ~the flu. it effects wizards differently than muggles. I think I know how to fix it! ~ Hermione's face seemed to light up and before she could say a word, Kari nodded and stepped aside. This just happened to intercept Ron's view of Harry. He was trapped in thoughts the whole time Kari and Hermione were away and while Kari talked about Neville. Now his face went red and he diverted his gaze to the floor between them. Hermione seemed to suddenly jump, looked at her watch and almost screamed. "No, we've missed History of Magic!" Hermione started to panic. Ron's face was half in a thrill at this and there was a quick and quiet whisper of a celebration. "I'll excuse you Hermione, Ron, and. I didn't catch your name." Said Madam Pomfrey. "I'm Kari, Carrilel." Kari mumbled the last word. "Thank you Madam Pomfrey," said Ron happily as Hermione groaned and thanked her as well. Kari looked at Harry as Hermione bent over him. Hermione pulled out her wand and laid out her other hand, palm up. "Repiarcus Talli-virear," Hermione said pointing her wand at her out stretched hand, where a bottle soon appeared. Hermione smiled, "It worked" she whispered. Opening the bottle and pouring a small pill, that looked of Ice, out onto her hand. "This should make him better. Now how to get him to take it?" Hermione wondered. "I think, if you do this," Kari pulled out her wand and waved it once pointing at the pill then swooshing it over to Harry. The pill flew out of Hermione's hand and down Harry's throat. "Great, now, all we can do is wait," Hermione said sitting again on the floor beside Harry. Madam Pomfrey stared unsure at the two who had done something to a student without her permission. "I'm sorry there aren't any chairs left," she said finally. Kari sat again at Harry's feet and looked up at the ceiling light. Ron was now watching her more stiffly than ever. Madam Pomfrey had left the room carrying the boxes on a magic cart she had conjured. A sudden twitch from Harry made Hermione and Ron jump. Kari sat and looked over at Harry. Ron picked up his chair and moved it very close to the bed, not noticing that he was in the way. Hermione stood up, next to Ron, looking down at Harry. Harry's eyes suddenly shot open and he slowly sat up. Harry mumbled something they couldn't understand. Kari smiling, "Should I get 'im a new pair of glasses?" Before she even got a response she was holding a pair that looked just like Harry's old, without the beats and scrapes of the years. "'Ere you are 'Arry," said Kari scooted herself down the bed next to Harry's waist, and putting the new glasses in his hands. Harry seemed suddenly dizzy and laid his head back down. Putting on the spectacles, he looked up at Kari who has now hovering over him in amusement. "You." Harry opened his mouth but only a slight hiss came out; he saw a sudden dim glow of black around her as he sat up. Then it turned to bright shining silver and then vanished as Harry focused his eyes on Kari. "You. you," Harry hissed again, Kari's face grew a little sad, "You look like an Angel," Harry finally spat out the entire sentence. "Am I in Heaven?" Harry looked slowly around, but where he was sure didn't seem like heaven, it didn't even seem like that nice of a place at all. Then he stopped at Hermione with her mouth dropped open. "You're not in 'eaven, 'Arry. You are in the 'ospital wing of 'Ogwarts." Kari hissed to Harry, not noticing that she too now spoke in parseltongue. "You fainted." Hermione said, now half-glaring and half-gawking at Kari. Ron only starred in amazement from Kari to Harry with his jaw dropped as far as it would go. "You," he started starring at Kari, and then looked quickly at Harry, "She. that was no English you spoke Harry," "What are you talking about?" Harry said straightening and looked over to Kari, who shrugged. "You spoke parseltongue, to. to Kari. I thought you could only say it when you spoke to sna-." Said Hermione who stopped dead in her tracks. Hermione was now angry and had a deadly stunned voice. "You didn't know that you couldn't touch medisheep, did you? You only guessed, so Snape wouldn't get suspicious." Hermione was almost fuming. "You are correct," Kari mumbled. Hermione had a sudden thought of terror, "So, you're a snake? .That can, sense thoughts?" Kari look slightly alarmed too, trying to think of something to get out of a mess she might cause. Her face showed this, too well. "No, she couldn't be Hermione. Someone like her," Ron said now slightly dreamy, "couldn't be a reptile." He sounded discussed with the thought. Kari just stood there, now turning a slight pink shade. "Well, you're both 'alf right. But you'll not know, now. Mother says it's not safe yet." Hermione was still lost somewhere in her mix of anger, amazement, fascination; and her confusion seemed to overwhelm them all. Kari paused dazing back into thought. Ron merely sat there, still unable to take his eyes off of her. Harry smiled with an excited thought. ~Someone else that I can talk to! Someone who can understand the difference between, leave him alone and kill him! ~ Harry had recalled the first time he had talked to a snake; it almost attacked Dudley, and the second time when no one believed that he was trying to save another student, Justin. He looked over at Kari and wanted to talk some more, but didn't know what to say. Lucky for Harry he didn't have to. "Who's Dudley?" Kari asked in parseltongue, smiling slightly curiously at Harry. Harry looked very surprised, ~How did she know what I was thinking? ~ Kari stared at him and then looked over at Madam Pomfrey who was in a great deal of shook. "Sorry Madam Pomfrey," The nurse almost seemed terrified to say so, "I don't believe we have ever had more than one parselmouth in the school at the same time." There was a bit of awkward silence and slight blush from Harry and Kari. "Oh well you three best be off to dinner." She then looked at Harry, "I want you to stay until I believe you can go, Harry." Hermione and Ron didn't argue, they knew, by now, it was part of her job, though it was hardly necessary. "We'll see you in the common room, Harry," Yelled Ron as he, and Hermione were shooed off by Madam Pomfrey. "Don't wait up!" Harry called after them. Kari was still there, gathering up her books. "Can't she stay Madam Pomfrey? Please." Harry pleaded. Kari saw Madam Pomfrey's distressed look and shook her head. "It's okay 'Arry, I'll see you tomorrow sometime, maybe even later, tonight." Kari hissed smiling as she ran out the door. "What did she say?" asked Madam Pomfrey still in shock. "She said we would talk again, maybe, tonight." Harry seemed a little dumbstruck but still very pleased, ~I'm not alone at all anymore, but how did she know I was thinking of Dudley? ~ He thought laying back down and Madam Pomfrey came over to inspect the pills Hermione had conjured, which were now scattered all over Harry's sheets. The three of them entered the, brightly candle lit, great hall. After Hermione and Ron squeezed in the Gryffindor table, Kari looked around and noticed that every table was stuffed, far too stuffed to even fit little Kari. It seemed there was no room for any more tables to be set, either. Ron was about to offer his seat when Professor McGonagall waved for Kari to come over. "I'm afraid we're a bit too, over crowded this year. If you don't mind, please sit with us at the staff table tonight. I'm sure we can have room for you tomorrow, at your house table." Professor McGonagall walked back around the staff table and pulled out a chair on the end, as she walked past it to her own. Kari followed, quickly and seated herself in the chair, next to three other students who where also newly transferred, like her. Dumbledore stood and the room silenced. "I have a few announcements to make before we begin our feast, tonight. First, we have five new transfer students, whom I hope you will all give a warm welcome. Maverlot Moonrild," A boy with pure black hair, stood and bowed to the crowd of students, then seated again. "Ambrosia Lupin," Dumbledore continued. A sweet-faced girl with golden blond curls stood now, curtsying slightly, so two curls fell in front of her. "And her twin sister, Lily Lupin," Beside the first girl, who was still standing; now stood what seemed to be an exact replica. She too curtsied and then they both seated. The only difference between the two seemed to be their eyes, Lily with deep purple and Ambrosia with deep red. There were many cries and applauds after these two sat, and the girls giggled in there seats. Hermione and Ron suddenly looked at each other, both remembering their third year, Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Lupin. "You don't think." Ron started. "Nah," Hermione and Ron shook their heads with smiles. ~Wait till Harry hears about this! ~ Thought Ron excitedly. "Kari Carrilel," called Dumbledore as the chatter silenced. Kari stood with her head held up and her face neutral. Now, she bowed her head, nodding to everyone and then seated again as the loudest howls erupted from every table. "I'm afraid Christopher Theodore, didn't make it to dinner tonight, if anyone sees him, be sure to send him to my office." Dumbledore spoke and once again the loud noises from the hall had stopped completely. "Second, I am happy to announce, our new Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor arrived today." There were a few cheers that settled quickly. "Professor Morgenröte," Dumbledore outstretched his hand to his right and a young teacher took it, and rose. She was the same teacher that Hermione and Kari had met in the hall, while hurrying Harry to the hospital wing. Now they had a better view of her, it seemed her color was purple. Everything about her was purple, except her snow-white skin. Her bangs came to her chin on either side of her long face, and her hair was layered down to her mid back where it ended, though a clip of lilacs held the front portion of her deep violet hair back. She wore robes that looked black until the light hit them, and they turned purple. With purple boots to match, she now bowed her head to the side, and sat again. The purple lenses on her golden framed glasses, were a full circle, and her eyes, though not seen, were also a deep violet. Behind her spectacles, she had a kind, but stern face, like a mix between Kari and Hermione. Dumbledore continued, "Third, three new, official courses are added this year, and you will be hearing about them in the next few days. Tomorrow, Wednesday, weapons presentation; Thursday, Bellovoce presentation; and Friday, Weather course presents." Dumbledore smiled at the happy and excited faces around the Great Hall. "Our new students will be sorted, after dinner since I see how anxious you all are to start. Let us eat." The golden dishes suddenly filled with food once again, and everyone dug in. Kari only took the sweetest of things, until desert, and she tried everything. Near the middle of the deserts, a door flew open opposite staff table. There was Professor Trelawney, looking more old and distraught then the last time Ron or Hermione had seen her. There was someone with her; a short and roundish boy, who seemed to be cowering, at her side. Professor Trelawney marched up to Professor Dumbledore, "I saw him lost and finding my room, I figured you would like him back." Professor Dumbledore was grinning and he nodded, "Please sit with us, both of you. We're having desert." "No, thank you, I must get back." Said Trelawney, handing over the boy. "Thank you." Dumbledore now looked at the boy, "Christopher, you have a seat over there," he pointed and a chair appeared on the other side of Kari. "Please help yourself." Soon after everyone was finished with the deserts, students started clattering up the stairs. Hermione went straight to the hospital wing, to see if Harry could come yet. Ron wanted to stay and watch Kari sorted. Professor McGonagall had left and now came back with a stool and the wrecked old sorting hat. Ron was one of the only, "old" students left in the room. "Is something wrong Weasley?" asked Professor McGonagall. Ron shook his head, "I told Hermione I'd wait for them here, so we could see a- about Kari." McGonagall sighed, sounding a lot like Hermione. Just then, "Very well, I'll call them backwards, for you, Weasley. Ms. Carrilel would be first, you know. Theodore, Christopher," The late and shy boy, walked up stumbling, and sat on the stool. There was an awkward silence after the hat was placed on his head. A sudden loud shout broke the silence, "Gryffindor!" the hat called, from its ripped brim. "Moonrild, Maverlot" The black haired boy from before now strutted over while Christopher scurried over to the seat he sat in at dinner. Maverlot sat and grinned. The hat hadn't even touched him, merely inches above his head, and it screeched, "SLYTHERIN!" Ron seemed slightly shocked, ~Much like what happened to Malfoy, ~ Maverlot got up saying something about a waste of time, and he proceeded to his seat still grinning. "Lily Lupin," The twin with purple eyes stood and walked to the stool, where she sat. There was a quiet noise at the doors, and Hermione with Harry walked in. They sat next to Ron, "Was she sorted yet?" whispered Harry. Ron shook his head and pointed at Christopher, "He's a new Gryffindor," then her pointed at the boy with jet-black hair, "Slytherin, I've got a small story to tell you on him." Harry asked quietly before the hat decided, "Who is that?" "A Lupin, Lily I believe," answered Hermione. "Ravenclaw" the hat shouted as Harry's eyes grew and he looked at both Hermione and Ron. "Lily. Lupin? Is that what she said?" Harry questioned anxiously. Ron nodded and Hermione smiled as Lily walked over. "You talking about me?" asked Lily innocently. "Yes, no. do you someone by the name Remus?" Harry said wondrously. "Lupin, Ambrosia" "Ravenclaw" shouted the sorting hat again. Ambrosia joined her sister suspiciously. Lily whispered to Ambrosia. She looked at Harry then at Ron and Hermione. "We know you are Hermione Granger, so is it possible," Ambrosia and Lily's eyes lit. Now, Lily continued, "Are you, Harry Potter? And Ron Weasley!" Both girls were far too over excited. "Uncle talks about James all the time!" Harry looked suddenly taken back. Two sudden words silenced Harry, Ron and Hermione's questions. "Carrilel, Kari" The twins moved out of the way. Stepping to either side, almost as to present Kari, because they were so synchronized. The hat was placed on Kari's head and she had the straightest face, not scared at all, her heart didn't care which house she went to. The hat was mumbling furiously, "A lot in here there is, best for any house, nothing you can improved, by any house in particular." Now, the hat seemed to be fighting itself, "Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Slytherin, Gryffindor. too sly and ambitious for Gryffindor, too kind and hard working for Slytherin, too clever and quick for Hufflepuff, and too braved and determined for Ravenclaw. Your heart has no desire of one over the others. All their bloods run in you, in you is the first full connection." It was muttering more viciously at every word. ~Oh, no, it's true. I'm not suited for 'Ogwarts at all! ~ "That may be so young Carrilel, because you are of every house." Now he was getting angry again, "To good for every house and every house far from what you need. You and your mother should have a house of your own. Her heart had only the desire, not to be in Slytherin, first she was in Ravenclaw, then moved away and when she returned, she changed, and so belonged to Gryffindor." The hat continued to talk ever more so as Kari pulled it down over her eyes, so she could not see the faces of her new found friends. The hat was now shouting, "NOT GRYFFINDOR! NOT SLYTHERIN! NOT HUFFLEPUFF! NOR RAVENCLAW! THERE IS ONLY EVERY HOUSE FOR ONE LIKE YOU!!!" Her ears hurt as she sat with the hat on her head. The hat started to shake and it felt very hot, and at every word it shook more vigorously, while Dumbledore watched confused. "The house you shall go to is. GRYTHLEPLAW!" Then she pulled the hat up a little so she could see everyone. Dumbledore was watching the hat, trying to figure out what to do, himself. Professor McGonagall looked sympathetically at Kari. Harry was watching the hat like Dumbledore, and Hermione seemed terrified by it. Ron watched Kari till suddenly he frowned looking at the hat too. Kari could hear it still puttering and muttering; now, she looked up at it. Kari could only see the rim of the front, but it was clear that the normally black weathered hat was, red, bright glowing red. Kari went to take it off. With her hands on either side of the rims, she felt the heat of it as she started to pull up. Then: BANG. The hat was gone, it had blown up and Kari was terrified now still sitting on the stool. Her hair stuck out in every direction, with scorch marks all over. Kari had a piece of her scorched hair drop onto her face and she starred at it. Kari was in her great state of shock, " Really, I'm- I'm okay." she said as Professor McGonagall helped her off the stool. "Can someone please take her to the hospital wing?" Kari couldn't see any one's face as she tumbled confused around the floor. Her eyes were locked open but the last thing she saw was still stuck in them, like someone took a photo just as the hat exploded. "I will, Professor," said a voice and a formilure touch now held her up. It was Hermione's, and she was now leading Kari out in to the hall. After they reached the hall and Hermione shut the door behind them, she decided it would be hard to drag her the whole way. Leaning Kari against a wall, Hermione pulled out her wand. "Fluito," she said pointing to Kari's back. Kari fell; stiff as a board, and as though a board had been placed beneath her. Lifted a foot off the ground Kari laid very stiffly on her back. "Are you okay like that? I think it will be better for your dizziness." Kari didn't move, nor did she attempt to disagree. Hermione point for wand in the direction of the Hospital Wing and said, "forward." She took off at a run again, this time to keep up with the invisible stretcher. Luckily for both of them the Hospital Winged wasn't very far away. Hermione had almost run Kari into a statue because she forgot to tell the stretcher to turn, a few times along the way. They had reached the entrance and Hermione undid the spell while pulling Kari up, so she wouldn't hit the floor. "Madam Pomfrey! I'm back!" Hermione called into the room now steering Kari carefully through the doorway. "Goodness, is Harry alrig-" Madam Pomfrey stopped as she starred confused at Kari and Hermione. "Harry's fine. He's wonderful, in fact. But, um." "I need to speak with you about this one, Poppy." Dumbledore interrupted as he too walked through the doorway. "Looks like you're doing better. There must be only a dozen students in here." He said looking at the closed curtains and empty beds around the room. "Indeed. Thanks to Ms. Granger, here Professor. It was her magic pills that got, over half, the people here this morning out by dinner." Madam Pomfrey then took Kari's hands and looked at both her eyes. "Shocked," "Indeed she would be. Now, Ms. Granger, please go to your common room, and sleep well. I would like to see you in my office before breakfast tomorrow. Alright?" Dumbledore said in his usual, cheerful tone. He smiled at Hermione and she left and hurried back the way she came. Hermione arrived at the common room and being very tired, walked right by Ron and Harry up the girl's staircase saying, "Tomorrow, tomorrow." Hermione was asleep just soon as she had lain down again. Kari was spending the night in the Hospital wing while the headmaster and deputy decided what to do with her. Harry and Ron also went to bed; with so many questions neither of them could answer. Kari was awake till there was no longer anyone to talk to, all the students in the room had finally fallen asleep. Kari now thought about her mother and how she was supposed to meet her right after dinner, but she had to be sorted, and then, and then she had destroyed the sorting hat. There was much to think about. She whispered sadly, "I'm sorry mom. I failed. I don't belong at 'Ogwarts at all." With a small tear down the side of her face, as she also fell asleep.