A/N: This is the first series in the "Renee Chronicles". There are 4 series in the chronicles, and this one started it all. Chapters 1-4 are bellow for easier reading. Enjoy!
~OrcaPotter
DISCLAIMER: Renee Springs belongs to me, but everything Potter belongs to the genius known as J.K. Rowling!


Chapter One: Student From Across the Sea

Moving to another country is a brave thing for someone to do. A new culture, territory, and way of living should be frighting to a teenager. However, for an American, Renee Springs possessed more courage than she thought she had. The longing to get away from her old life was too great to let fear get to her.

"Please, come in." Said a gentle voice.

Renee Springs was led into a circular office, her older brother in front of her. As he walked up to an old wizard, with a long silver beard, Renee could'nt help but notice the portraits of other wizards. Some lifted their heads and looked at her kindly, while others simply snoozed on in their frames.

"Ah, Timothy! It's a pleasure to see you again." Said the wizard.

"Same here, Professor Dumbledore. It's been a while." Timothy said, and he took Renee by the shoulder. "This is Renee, my little sister. She's who I've been telling you about."

Renee smiled, dispite her nervousness, and offered her hand. Professor Dumbledore smiled as well and gave her his characteristic twinkle of his eyes. This made Renee feel better, and welcomed, as she shook hands with him.

"Pleasure to meet you, Renee. I've heard so much about you, as you wish to enroll here at Hogwarts." Dumbledore said, kindly.

"Yes, sir." Renee replied.

"From what your brother here has told me, you are an exceptonal student. Transfering from the Academy for Magic of Central Florida. I know some fine professors at that school. There's no doubt that you'll find Hogwarts challenging." Dumbledore said.

"Thank you for letting me come, Professor." Renee said. She was determined not to get jumpy. As much as she wanted to be somewhere other than the AMCF, there was no doubt that she felt uncertain that she would fit in.

"I know about the hard times we are facing, and this is most likely an unwise decision to let her attend Hogwarts, but I feel she'll get a better education in magic here. Dispite what my parents say. However, I feel that she's safer here than anywhere else." Timothy explained. Renee's brother, Timothy Springs, moved to England from Florida five years prior. He got a job working for the Ministry of Magic, in the Missuse of Muggle Artifacts office. Even though their parent's thought that a silly goal, especially to move out of the country for it, but Timothy insisted that he would make a bigger difference in England. Also, he just as much wanted to escape the torturous Florida heat. So, after pleading with her parents, and Timothy edging them on, Renee packed up and moved to England. She would stay with Timothy durring the summer holidays in London.

Professor Dumbledore nodded and smiled once more at Renee. Timothy and Dumbledore engaged in a quiet conversation, out of earshot of her. Not quite interested, Renee cautously scanned the office. Perched on a stand near Dumbledore's desk was a large, brightly red colored bird.

"Woa, a phoenix!" Renee whispered, silently.

As if replying to her excitment, the phoenix flew off it's perch and landed on her shoulder. Amazed, but not scared, she stroked it's feathers as the phoenix gazed, curiously, into her blue eyes.

Shifting his head to see behind Timothy, Dumbledore polietly interrupted him to look at Renee.

"How very interesting.." Professor Dumbledore whispered to himself. "I see you've met Fawkes, Renee." He said out loud to her.

"Fawkes. Nice to meet you." Renee said to the bird. Fawkes let out a beautiful note of song, nipped affectionately at her bangs, then flew to perch on Dumbledore's shoulder.

Timothy smiled, then turned back to Dumbledore.

"So, is everything squared away for her?" He asked.

Professor Dumbledore was still looking at Renee with wonder, but answered Timothy.

"Everything is set. Renee, your belongings will be moved to the dorm room of the house you'll be sorted in. I believe dinner will be served shortly, and I have prepared a welcoming ceremony where you'll be introduced to the student body and sorted into your house."

Renee blushed at the special attention she was getting. Not wanting to face an entire school, with her in the spotlight.

"You are invited as well, Timothy." Dumbledore said to Renee's brother.

"As much as I want to see my little sister sorted, I'm afraid there is urgent business I must attend to. Reguarding..uh..the event at hand. Mr. Weasly is depending on me to help him out." Timothy said, with a long sigh at the end. He knew how much Renee hates it when something special happens and no one is there to support her. Yet, he was already late as it was. He turned to Renee. "I'm sorry. I'll make it up to you somehow."

"No bother. I'm used to it. Don't worry about it." She said. It's a speech that she gives all the time. Her parents travel a lot, and hardly show up to her special events. Both her brothers are grown, so she does not see much of them either.

Timothy gave her a sad smile, then glanced at his watch. It did not give a time, it only flashed "You're late! Get to work now!"

"I'll write soon. Send Keto to me." He then walked quickly out of the office and smiled back at Renee as he shut the door behind him.

"Well, my young American, let's eat shall we?" Dumbledore said, kindly to her. Renee nodded and followed the wizard to the door.

"I sure hope I get through this.." Renee muttered.



Chapter Two: The Single Sorting

While Harry Potter was happy to be back at Hogwarts, the way things had been going was not something to be all that happy about. A month had gone by since his return, and students were still giving him sidelong looks. While most people tried to act like it was to be a normal school year, the tension among everyone was tight. No one wanted to believe what was proven to be true. Voldemort has returned.

It was durring the Triwizard Tournament last year that Harry Potter, one of the Champions, had been transported to a graveyard upon touching the Triwizard Cup at the end of the third task. Cedirc Diggaroy was with him, and was killed. With the help of Peter Pettigrew, Voldemort's servant, Harry was unwillingly used to bring Voldemort back to full strength. He only escaped when he was forced to duel with the dark wizard and an unusual reaction happened. Harry and Voldemort's wands connected, and out of Voldemort's wand stepped the spirits of his victims. Among them, Harry's parents. They told him what to do, and Harry escaped back to Hogwarts.

The whole thing was traumatizing for Harry, and he spent much of the summer feeling guilty for everything. A visit from Sirius Black, his Godfather, comforted him some, but the feelings would not go away anytime soon. Being back with his best friends, Ron Weasly and Hermione Granger, helped keep his mind off things while at school.

Rumors were seeping into Hogwarts from letters that parents kept sending their children. While the professors and the staff kept quiet about what was happening outside the castle walls, the students were all whispering amongst themselves about strange and sudden disappearances. Harry was all too aware of the battle going on. Professor Dumbledore had called upon his Godfather, Sirius, and a whole bunch of other people to assign jobs to. The magical world had to know about Voldemort's return, and help fight. So the strain on the professors showed, and they were more strict than usual.

It was after a long day of working on homework that the school was notified that the evening's dinner was to be a special feast. While it was not said what the occasion was, the school, for once since the start of the year, was chatting on something positive.

"What do you think it could be about?" Hermione asked Harry and Ron as they left the Gryffindor common room after finishing their homework.

"I dunno," Harry said.

"I hope it's not some sort of competition. We don't need another-" Ron started, but Hermione shot him a look and he stopped.

"It's alright," Harry said, annoyed. He wanted things as normal as possible and his friends acting careful around him was starting to become annoying. "I hope not either. It's probibly not too much of a big deal, they would of given us more notice if it was something like that."

Ron and Hermione nodded, not wanting to talk further, afraid of getting into a conversation over last year.

"It's time for dinner. Let's get going so it won't be too crowded before we can find seats." Harry led the way to the Great Hall.

The usual dinner babble from the tables was louder than usual, and students were visiting others and chatting about what the special dinner was about. Harry, Ron, and Hermione took their seats as the professors gradually took theirs. Professor Dumbledore was not present.

"Where's Professor Dumbledore?" Harry asked, looking around the hall.

"He's not usually late to dinner." Hermione said, begining to worry.

The three searched the doors and all the tables, but could not see Dumbledore anywhere.

"Wait, there he is!" Shouted Ron.

Professor Dumbledore seemed to appear out of nowhere to his spot at the professor's table. He remained standing and motioned everyone to settle down. With no objection, everyone found their seats and quieted.

"Good evening, everyone!" Professor Dumbledore said. "I'm sure all of you are wondering about the special announcement made earlier. So, I shall let you wait no further. We are all aware of the times that have come upon us, and it is more important now, than ever before, that all magical people stand together." He looked around the room, his grin fading a little at the thought of Voldemort's return. It did not last, he broke out into a wide smile and addressed the hall. "Hogwarts has the great pleasure, of welcoming a new student."

The hall broke out into interested whispers as Dumbledore motioned for a figure standing behind him to step forward.

Into the light came a girl about the same age as Harry. She had long, oak brown hair and wore midnight-blue robes. Looking obviously nervous, she however gave a small smile as Professor Dumbledore placed a hand on her shoulder.

"This is Renee Springs. She transfered here to Hogwarts from the School for Magic of Central Florida."

"Florida?" Ron whispered loudly. "She's from the United States!"

"There is no doubt in my mind that all of you will make her feel welcome," Dumbledore said. "She'll be a 5th year here and I hope you will show her the same respect as your other peers."

"Now, without further delay," Professor Dumbledore nodded to Professor McGonagall, who held the Sorting Hat. "We shall find out which house will have the pleasure of her company."

Professor McGonagall placed the three-footed stool in front of the table and placed the hat on top. She then smiled to Renee as she motioned her to put it on.

Renee slowly walked over to the stool, picked up the hat, and looked at it before sitting down. Everyone, including Harry, strained their necks to get a good look. After a few momments, the hat shouted "GRYFFINDOR!" and his whole table erupted into cheers. Harry found himself clapping and cheering just as loudly as he watched Renee take the hat off and set it back down on the stool. She looked at Professor Dumbledore, who said something, and Renee nodded as she walked towards the Gryffindor table. Other Gryffindors held out hands and shook hers as she blushed. Some students across and a little left to Harry parted and Renee sat down. Seamus Finnigan and Lee Jordan leaned over to her and asked question after question.

"Are you really from America?" Asked Seamus.

"Wow, that's a big move." Jordan said.

Renee just nodded and smiled softly as she made nervous glances at her surroundings. Harry could not help but to stare. There was something about her that made him feel calm. She had a pleasent vibe. Although she was not beautiful, she was pretty in a way. However, Harry did not feel an instant crush. He looked back at Cho Chang, his secret love, who was a Ravenclaw. She was talking amongst her Ravenclaw friends, no doubt about Renee.

"All right now everyone. The evening does not stop here. In honor of our American student, I have called for a special dish that Renee will no doubt recognize. Eat well!" Professor Dumbledore said, and the plates in front of them filled with food.

"What's this called?" Ron asked, as he pointed to a sandwhich filled with shredded meat and cheese.

Harry just looked at his plate as Hermione searched her mind.

"I recognize it, but I can't remember the name." She said.

They looked over to Renee, who was now sporting a bigger smile as she cut her sandwich in half. Apparently, others had asked her what the sandwich was called, for the answer was spreading down the table and throughout the hall.

"It's called a Philly Cheese Steak." George Weasly said.

"Good. Twy..it!" Fred Weasly said with his mouth full.

Harry took a bite and immediately loved it. Becoming thirsty, he took a drink only to realize that it was filled with pink lemonaide.

"This must be what Floridians drink all the time." Ron said, looking in his cup.

Harry laughed and the meal continued until everyone was full. The plates cleared and people began to file out of the hall.

Renee looked hesitant, not knowing quite what to do. However, she followed a group of sixth years and left the hall. Harry wondered how she felt, being in a strange school in a new country. He left with Ron and Hermione and got back to Gryffindor tower.

"See you all in the morning, I'm going to bed early." Hermione said, and she left Ron and Harry.

"I wonder why." Ron muttered.

Harry was'nt paying attention, for he was watching Renee follow the rest of the girls up to the dorms.

"There's something about her.." Harry whispered to himself. Yet, he just shrugged and went up to bed himself.


Chapter Three: Fang's Problem


The next day started out pretty normal. Breakfast was louder than usual as most of the Gryffindor table wanted to speak with Renee. Renee was rather shy, but answered questions between eating. It was her turn for questions, after discovering marmalade and other English dishes.

"What she like Seamus?" Ron asked him as Seamus was leaving.

"She's nice. Funny, American accents." He said, and left the hall.

Ron looked at her again and just shrugged.

"I don't see what the big deal is."

"How often does an American transfer to an English school?" Hermione asked him. "You should be more sensitive. She's really sweet, I had a chat with her before we went to bed. The best thing about her is that she likes to read!"

"Uh oh, are you going to give her the tour of the library?" Ron teased.

Hermione gave him an annoyed stare and continued to eat. Harry was busy looking at Cho. She did'nt seem herself lately, and he knew why. Cho was close to Cedric, and his death was a hard blow on her. Yet, he went on to daydream about flying with her over the Quidditch field.

His dream did not last, for he was interrupted by the mail. A swarm of owls flew into the Great Hall, each one looking for their owner. Harry searched the air for a sign of white. Sure enough, there was Hedwig, his snowy owl. She landed on his shoulder and nipped affectionately at his ear. Harry untied the letter on her leg.

"It's from Sirius!" He cried. Ron and Hermione leaned closer to read with Harry.

Dear Harry,
I hope the school year is going well for you. I know it must be hard, with what happened last year, but keep your chin up. Lupin and I have another errand to do for Professor Dumbledore. I would tell you what we're up to, but Dumbledore advised against it for now. Lupin sends his greetings, and hopes you are well.
There's good news! Professor Dumbledore has also been working hard to notify the Ministry of my innocence, and I might just get a trial before the end of the year. It's still sketchy, but there is a slim chance that we may be together next summer. No promises though.
Behave yourself and don't go anywhere where no one can see you, especially in Hogsmeade. We have entered dangerous times, and you know who you are. I hope to hear from you soon.
Sirius

"Wow! Hey Harry, you could be leaving the Dursleys for good!" Ron shouted.

"Quiet down Ron!" Hermione scolded him, while looking around. "This is wonderful news, but everyone still does not know about Sirius. We still need to be careful."

"Oh quit your fussing, Hermione." Ron muttered.

"There's still a big chance that it won't happen. He's only getting a trial, and without Pettigrew it's going to be a hard fight." Harry said, sadly.

"Well, just think positive. It just might happen." Hermione said, trying to cheer him up.

Harry nodded and remembered that Hedwig usually eats some of his bacon. He reached for a piece and turned to Hedwig, only to see that she was not paying any attention. She was looking off towards where Renee was sitting. With a closer look, Harry saw what she was looking at. Perched on Renee's shoulder was another snowy owl. It was bigger, and very handsome.

The owl looked at Hedwig, and Hedwig let out a loud hoot. They then seemed to carry on a conversation in owl.

"Look at that, Hedwig's made a friend!" Hermione said. Then, quite suddenly, Hedwig took off, leaving the bacon Harry had for her behind. Harry stared in shock as Renee's owl followed suit.

Ron noticed how surprised Harry was.

"What's an American doing with a snowy owl? She's from Florida. I'm surprised she does'nt have a flamingo."

"Ron! You are so thoughtless." Hermione shouted. "Come on, we're going to be late for potions."

"Can't wait." Harry and Ron said sarcastically.
****

Renee's morning started out without any problems. Her fellow Gryffindors were friendly enough, but after getting their fill on what it's like in America, they leave her alone. Renee began to become discouraged, thinking that no matter where she goes, she won't find a best friend.

Finding the way to her first class was not an easy task. She had to stop two ghosts for directions, before finnally finding herself in the dungeons for potions. Other Gryffindors were reluctantly filing into the classroom, while other students she had only seen at dinner the night before walked by her and smirked.

"What's their malfunction?" Renee muttered to herself.

Walking up to the classroom door, the professor, who she did not recieve good vibes from, gave her a look of displeasure. Renee's mood did not improve.

Taking a seat near the back, she was not too far away from some Gryffindors she recognized. She saw the girl she chatted with before bed the night before, Hermione. Renee also noticed two boys with her. A tall boy with red hair and freckles, and a smaller boy with jet-black, messy hair and glasses.

"Harry Potter. That must be him." Renee whispered to herself.

"Settle down class. We will be continuing our lessons on the uses of dragon's blood today." Said the Professor as he strided to the front of the room. Renee took out her supplies and began taking notes. When he was through with writing on the board, he turned to the class.

"Now, who can tell me what substance you must never mix with dragon's blood?" He asked.

Everyone, except Hermione, kept their hands down. Hermione was waving her arm in the air, but the Professor ignored her and directed his gaze at Renee.

"Ah, I see we have our new American student with us today," He said, with a cocky tone. The other students, who she learned were Slytherins, turned to look at her with evil grins on their faces. The Gryffindors looked nervously at Renee, which did not make her feel better. "Miss Renee Springs, I believe?"

"Yes sir." Renee replied weakly.

"Let's see how much that American school has taught you. Tell me what you must'nt mix with dragon's blood." He said.

Renee thought for a momment, then replied.

"Unicorn's blood. It's like acids and bases. You must not mix them or a violent reaction will accur."

The professor's cocky grin faded to a grimace.

"Emm. Well, that was an easy answer. Tell me this, what happens when you mix dragon scales with wild mushrooms?"

"You get a confusion potion. The intensity of the potion depends on what kind of wild mushroom you use." Renee answered.

The Professor became annoyed by her quick, and correct responses. He searched his mind for something that would stump her. Suddenly, a sly grin appeared on his face as he questioned her again.

"Alright. One last question, what mixture do you get when you combine the blood of a Hungarian Horntail with the toenails of a Common Green?"

Renee did not know the answer. She began to blush and panic slightly, obviously the professor was challenging her.

"I'm sorry sir. I don't know the answer to that question." She said.

"Well it's only the most known fact! You should know! Why did'nt you study?" The professor snapped.

Renee nervously stared at her desk.

"I'm sorry. I guess I should have, but we don't have those breeds of dragons in the U.S."

"We export those products to America, it's only the basic materials of the potions curriculum! Five points from Gryffindor, for your ignorance of your studies!" The professor said, as he turned towards the board again.

Renee was shocked and felt as if she was just slapped in the face. The Slytherins giggled and faced the board. However, the silence was broken from the back of the room.

"Professor Snape, that is entirely unfair! How is she soposed to know about English dragon breeds?"

Renee turned to look who spoke for her. Standing up with an angry face was the boy that she identified as Harry Potter.

"Sit down Potter. The matter has ended." Professor Snape said.

Harry did not obey, but continued to shout.

"That was totally uncalled for to take points on her account! It's not her fault--"

"I said SIT DOWN! That will be ten more points from Gryffindor! Any further outbursts will result in ten more!" Professor Snape roared.

Harry closed his mouth and slowly sat down, anger radiating off of him like smoke. Renee continued to stare at him, a faint smile across her face. She quickly turned away as Harry looked in her direction.

The class continued without further intteruption, and upon it's end Renee made a quick exit. Making sure no one could see her.
****

Harry wanted to speak with Renee and explain the nature of Snape, but she had took off in such a hurry that he did'nt see where she went. Hermione and Ron joined him and they went about the rest of the morning without incident. It was'nt until lunch that they got an unexpected letter.

Hedwig had flown in alone and dropped a letter on Harry's lap. She did not stop, but flew out just as quick as she came.

"This is odd," Harry said to his friends. "Not only do I get a late letter, but Hedwig did not stop to say hi like she usually does."

"Probibly to be off with Renee's owl." Ron sudgested.

Harry gave him a look as he opened the letter.

Harry,
Fang's sick. I'm not sure what's wrong and Madam Pomfry can't figure it out either. It would help cheer him up if you and Ron and Hermione came for a visit. How about before your afternoon classes begin? I'm planning on taking him into Hogsmeade for the animal specialist to have a look at 'em. Hope to see you.
Hagrid

Harry, Ron, and Hermione looked at each other in shock.

"Well, let's eat something quick and get down there." Hermione said, putting food on her plate.

Harry and Ron quickly ate their lunch and the three of them left the Great Hall in a hurry.

They were soon at the door of Hagrid's hut.

"Great 'ter see ya. He's not look'n too good, though. No sudden movements, now. It annoys him." Hagrid said, leading them inside.

They found Fang in front of the fire, spread out on a blanket. He did'nt seem to realize they were there. Harry noticed that his nose was greenish in color, and he had lost a lot of weight.

"Oh poor Fang," Hermione sighed. "How did this happen Hagrid?"

"He kept moan'n las night. I thought he wus 'ungry and I gave 'em some lef over chips that I got in 'Ogsmeade." Hagrid explained sadly. "Woke up ter find 'em like this."

"You need to get him looked at as soon as possible, Hagrid." Ron said.

"E's got an appointment this afternoon." Hargid said. He glanced at the clock on the wall. "Er..you bet'er get go'in now. You'll be late fer class."

Harry, Ron, and Hermione reluctantly left the hut.

"There must be something we can do." Harry said.

"We're not vets, Harry. There is nothing we can do but support them." Hermione told him.

They nodded and walked into the castle. Hermione left for Arithmancy while Ron and Harry left for Divination. As they walked up to the ladder which led to class, Ron stopped.

"Man. I gotta use the bathroom. I'll meet you inside."

Harry sighed and turned around, only to slam into someone.

"Oops, I'm sorry!" Moaned a girl. Harry looked up to face Renee. Up close, he could see that her eyes were a light blue and her bangs were just a little bit messy.

"Oh no problem, it's my fault." Harry began, and he bent down to pick up the books which Renee had been carrying only to collide heads with her as she bent down at the same time.

"Oww!" They both said. They looked at each other briefly, faint smiles on their faces, and started to bend down again at the same time.

"Oops."

"Umm."

"Let me," Harry said, putting his hand up. He quickly squatted down and gathered her books as she blushed a deep red.

"Thank you," Renee said, shyly as she took her books from him. "My name's Renee Springs. What's your's?"

Harry was surprised to be asked his name, he was so used to everyone already knowing him. It took him a minute to gather himself before he replied.

"Er, Harry Potter. Pleased to meet you."

"Pleased to meet you as well, Harry." She stood there a momment, looking directly into his eyes, and then suddenly gasped.

"I'm sorry to bolt, but I'm going to be late for Arithmancy. See you later!" She took off in a hurry, passing Ron as he walked up from the bathroom.

"What was that all about?" He asked Harry as they climed the ladder.

"I'm not quite sure." Harry said, almost in a whisper.


Chapter Four: The Close Call


Divination is one of Harry's least favorite classes. Professor Trelawney loved to remind him that he will die. So far, he was soposed to die two years in a row, but that never happened. Although, he got close to it.

Professor Trelawney entered the room in her mystical way, appearing suddenly from the shadows. Parvati and Lavender let out the usual gasp of amazement, as Ron and Harry mocked them.

"Today, my dears, we will study our star charts. Each of our destinies is written in them. Trade yours with a partner, and it is your partner's duty to inform you of your destiny according to the stars." Professor Trelawney said, in a whispy sort of voice.

Harry and Ron exchanged charts with "I-could-care-less" expressions. Ron pretended to look serious at the chart and nodded.

"Yup. It says here, that you are destined to win the Hogwarts award for 'the most predictions of death and never actually dieing'." Ron said, mocking Trelawney's voice.

"Emm, yes. And your's says that you are destined to always have red hair." Harry laughed.

Ron gave him a look and laughed himself.

"What is so humerous about your destinies?" Professor Trelawney seemed to pop out of nowhere beside Ron. The two just looked at each other and shrugged, containing an outbreak of giggles. Professor Trelawney took Harry's star chart and studied it.

"How odd," She muttered out loud.

"How am I going to die this time? I want to be prepared." Harry sighed.

The professor gave him a look of annoyance but her expression turned to puzzlement again.

"While death seems to favor you, your chart reveals something more significant that I have never noticed before."

"What's that?" Harry asked.

"The pattern of stars on your chart intertwine with another pattern." She almost said in a whisper.

"What does that mean?" Ron asked, growing interested.

Professor Trelawney just looked at Harry and seemed to study his face, making him feel awkward. After a minute or so, she just sighed and handed the chart back to Ron.

"It can mean any number of things." She turned to leave, but there was doubt in her voice.

"I don't think that's true. She knows what it means, but for once she's not going to tell you, Harry." Ron said to him.

"Well, as long as I don't die." He replied.


The class soon ended and Harry and Ron left to catch up with Hermione. They then continued on to Transfiguration.

Harry noticed that Renee was there before they got to class. She was stitting in the very back, obviously not wanting to be anywhere where she could be picked out easily. He felt bad for her, Snape gave English hospitality a bad reputation.

"Let's go sit close to Renee," Hermione sudgested, seeming to read Harry's mind. "I expect she knows me better than anyone else so far, we got along well in Arithmancy."

Harry and Ron had no objection, and took seats at the table next to Renee's. Hermione and Harry smiled at her, and she gave a small smile back, then quickly faced the front of the room.

Fortunately, Professor McGonagall is a lot more reasonable than Professor Snape. The lesson went off without a hitch, and McGonagall praised Renee on her skills, which were better than Harry and Ron's. Even Hermione was impressed.

When the class ended, and everyone filed out of the room, Renee started to slip away. Hermione noticed, and thought it would be polite to invite her to sit with them at dinner. However, Renee politely refused, saying she had things to do in the library first. That she would be late for dinner and did not want to hold them up.

Harry thought it was odd, for her to skip dinner. Yet, he's done it before and the three of them followed the rest of the Gryffindors to the Great Hall.
****

Renee found a secluded spot in the library, and sat down. Carefully looking around her, she pulled out a book from her school bag. Still searching the area for a sign of anyone comming near, she pulled out a small box.

"Why did I turn her down? I've never been invited to eat with anyone before. Me and my stupid talent, I'm a slave to my own creativity." She whispered to herself.

Renee opened her book. It was filled with white paper, each page almost completely covered in pencil drawings. She could'nt help but smile as she looked at her creations, and she opened the small box to reveal several drawing pencils. Most of the drawings were of trees and animals, turning the pages, the pictures turned from tropical suburban muggle houses to London flats. On the first page with room left to draw, she had started a sketch of a person. Renee felt quite embarrassed by it, since she didn't find herself good at drawing people. However, she was compelled to draw it for some unknown reason. Renee did not draw the figure from life, for she was'nt sure who it was that she drew. It was a boy, with messy sort-of hair and no more facial features other than big eyes and a nose. She sighed and took a pencil from the box and began to sketch again.

Thinking as she drew, Renee shuddered at the thought of any of the students there finding out that she drew muggle-style. In fact, witches and wizards, to her knowlage, have never done art in this fashion. If anyone found out, she would be laughed at and picked on, just like back in Florida.

After a while, Renee lifted her pencil and studied her finished work. It was a good profile of the back of a boy, again, she added messy black hair. It was only black, because her pencils were graphite.

"Not bad," She whispered to herself.

"I think it's wonderful." Said a voice.

Renee jumped in her seat and twirled around to see Professor Dumbledore standing behind her. He was smiling, looking down at her book, but not in a mean way.

"Oh! Professor... I... umm.. uhh.." Renee studdered and frantically shuffled her book closed and tossed it and her pencils in her bag. Professor Dumbledore placed a hand on her shoulder and she stopped. He then reached into her bag and pulled her sketchbook back out.

"You have an extrodinary talent that I've never seen in a witch." Dumbeldore said, kindly. He opened her book and flipped through the pages, smiling and nodding. "Wonderful. How amazing,"

Renee blushed a deep red and her heart was beating fast. Surely the headmaster would not make fun of her. The professor finished flipping the pages and stopped on the one page she was working on. He studied the figures, nodding, and seeming to go into deep thought. After a while, he shut the book and looked at Renee.

"There's no reason to hide this. You have a rare talent that only the greatest witches and wizards possess. Why be so ashamed?" He asked her.

Renee looked at her feet and sighed. "At my old school, I was made fun of. People thought that I cared more for art than for magic, and that I would turn into a muggle and sell art on the street corners. I love magic, and I consider myself good at it, but I feel the need to express myself. I found that outlet in art."

"You are very smart and wise, yet you do not realize the reason for the ridicule you got at your old school. They were jealous of you. As I said, only the most talented witches and wizards were artists. Is this the reason you moved?" He asked her.

Renee blushed again, and nodded.

"Come with me, I want to show you something." Professor Dumbledore got up and Renee gathered her things. He then led her out of the library and up to his office. They ran into Mr. Filch, the janitor, and he nodded to the headmaster as they walked behind the statue in front of his door. She followed him inside and she heard a soft cry from Fawkes.

"Hello Fawkes." She said to the bird.

Dumbledore walked over to a bookshelf, which must of contained thousands of books. Yet, it did not take him long to find what he was looking for. He pulled out a thin book, and brought it to his desk.

"Sit down, if you please." He said cheerfully.

Renee sat down, and the professor handed her the book which was turned to a page.

Listed there was some of the most famous wizards, and beside them were the words "ARTIST". Renee gasped, and then read on.

A witch or a wizard who expresses a talent in the arts, most commonly in the muggle fashion, usually become the most powerful and wise of all the magical world. To be an artist proves the witch or wizard to be in touch with their emotions and their environment, and their ability to express them.

Renee looked up from the book and saw Professor Dumbledore beaming at her.

"Now. There is no need to hide your talent, although it's entirely up to you. Just remember what you read, it's not a weakness, but a great strength. Oh my, look at the time! You better get off to bed."

"Thank you very much Professor. Good night." Renee said as she left.

"Good night." He replied.
****

Harry could'nt sleep. His mind kept going back to Fang, and how devistated Hagrid would be if something dreadful happened to him. He had gotten through the day by focusing on school work. Yet, Ron brought the subject up again before bed and it was now keeping him awake.

"Harry?" Called Ron in a whisper.

"Yeah, I'm awake too." He replied.

"We need to go check on him. I won't sleep until I find out what happend at the animal doctor." Ron said.

"Let's go. We'll take my invisibility cloak."

The two of them got under Harry's invisibility cloak and crept down the stairs and through the common room, only to bump into a figure in the darkness.

"Ahh!" The person yelled.

"Hermione?" Harry and Ron yelped.

"Harry? Ron?" Hermione asked.

"Come on, get in. Going to Hagrid's too?" Harry opened up the cloak and Hermione slipped in.

"I was going to try to get there without being seen. But this is better." She said as they left the common room through the portrait of the Fat Lady.

Creeping down the stairs and down the halls, they heard no one.

"I forgot the Marauder's Map. It would of told us if Filch was around." Harry moaned. Then, suddenly as if he responded, they heard Filch comming up the hall from behind them.

"Someone's walking around after hours my sweet, I can hear 'em! We'll get them this time!"

He was so close, that all three of them paniced and ran in different directions, forgetting about the cloak. Hermione ran to one corner, Ron to another, and Harry had the cloak half-way around his body as he ran behind a statue. Just as he ducked out of view, someone else was comming down the hall from the other direction.

Harry squinted in the dark to see Renee, still fully clothed and slinging her book bag over her shoulder, walk closer. She began to slow and searched the walls, seeming to know someone was there. Harry's eyes met hers and her mouth hung open. He quickly put his finger to his mouth to shush her, and she was about to walk over when Filch came into view.

"You! Why are'nt you-" He ran up to her but stopped. "Oh yeah, you were with the headmaster. You're free to go now, but don't dawdle! Have you seen anyone sneeking around here at all? Be honest now!"

"Uhh..." She glanced at Harry, who ducked into the shadows. "No. However I think...yeah..I think I saw some Slytherin boys sneaking around the Great Hall. Might want to check that out. Maybe they're what you're after."

"Ahh! I got them now!" He ran off past her, without a backwards glance. Once out of view, Harry came out behind the statue.

"Thanks. We would've been dead."

"We?" Renee asked.

Ron and Hermione stepped out of their hiding places.

"Great touch, with the Slytherins. Even though he won't find any, he'll still report it to Snape. They might get points taken!" Ron praised her.

Renee blushed.

"Ron, I believe you have yet to formally introduce yourself." Hermione said.

"Ah, yes. My name's Ron Weasly. Nice to meet you." He shook her hand.

"Weasly. Is your father Arthur Weasly?" She asked him.

"Yes. You know him?" He asked with interest.

"My brother works with him. Timothy Springs."

Ron thought a momment. "Oh yeah! I heard dad talk about him. He likes your brother a lot."

"Timothy speeks fondly of your father as well." Renee told him.

Harry smiled at her, and she smiled back. There was an awkward silence, which Renee braved to break.

"What is that 'yall are doing at this time of night?" She asked them.

"Hagrid, the groundskeeper; his dog is real sick and we're worried. We were off to check on him." Hermione told her.

"Sick is he? Do you know what's wrong?" Renee asked with concern.

"No." Harry said, flatly.

Renee thought a momment.

"I might be able to help him."

"How?" Ron asked with surprise.

"I read a lot. One of my favorite subjects is care of magical creatures. I know some ailments that effect boarhounds and other common animals. Along with the remedies." She added.

"Ok, come with us. We need to get out of here before Filch comes back." Harry said, and he motioned the three of them to get under his invisibility cloak.

"Cool!" Renee said.

"Just remember not to dash out if we're seen again. Not that we would of been seen under the cloak, and we won't in the future." Harry reminded them.

They tip-toed out of the castle and walked briskly over the grounds and came to Hagrid's cabin. As expected, he was awake and stirring inside. Harry pulled the cloak off of them and knocked on the door. With a momment's hesitance, Hagrid opened it up and looked shocked to see the four of them there.

"What are yeh doin' out here? Do yeh know what time it is?" He shouted.

"We were worried about Fang. How did he do at the specialist?" Harry asked.

Hagrid's look of shock faded to become full of sorrow.

"He did'n know either."

Hermione stepped forward, grabbing Renee by the hand.

"This is Renee Springs, Hagrid. The new student from America? She says she might be able to help." The four of them stepped inside.

Hagrid looked doubtfull, but led them over to Fang, who was still lying in front of the fire.

"It's nice ter meet yeh, Renee." Hagrid said, bowing his head. "But I'm not sure yeh can help poor 'ol Fang here if a specialist can't."

Renee looked closely at Fang, noticing his green-tinged nose.

"It looks like some sort of allergy," She muttered. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Hagrid watched her as she circled Fang. "Not responding to stimuli. What ever it is, it's effected his nervous system." She bent down closer to him. "Breathing is shallow, and his pupils are dialated. Hagrid? Do you know what he ate last?"

"Chips. Er.. I believe that's what yeh 'Yanks call French fries." Hagrid replied.

"Emm.." Renee politely gave Hagrid a look. "How old were they, did they have anything on them? And, I'm a Floridian, so I'm not a 'Yank'. My parents are the 'Yanks'."

Hagrid looked embarrassed, but thought a momment.

"I believe it t'was 'bout a week old," He said.

Renee studied Fang, and sighed. "Well, that does'nt help much. I don't think fries made him sick, no matter how old they were. These are symptoms of something ingested, however." She suddenly stood straight up and ran over to Hagrid. "Hagrid, have you been growing anything out of the ordinary in your garden outside?"

Hagrid hesitated a momment, then answered her.

"Well, if yeh promise not to tell. Yes. Just planted it last week. New kind 'o mushroom. Tropical though, the batch don' look too good now."

Renee's eyes lit up, and she ran outside.

"Show me, I think I know our problem!"

Hagrid and the others followed her out to his garden and he led them over to a freshly planted spot out of the sight of the castle. Nestled there were the remains of huge, pink mushrooms.

Renee got down on the ground and stared. Hagrid and the others stared at her in surprise and interest.

"Ahah!" She got up and looked at Hagrid with satisfaction. "You said these are tropical mushrooms? Well, they are called 'Mingo Mushrooms' in Florida. They are common in all tropical lands. It's not unusual for pets to go eating them, but they are quite toxic to dogs. My dog back home got ahold of one once. I just so happen to know the solution!"

"So, Fang ate one of those mushrooms, and that's why he's so sick?" Ron asked her.

"Yep. The remedy is simple. Give Fang a large onion, and a bowl of water. Wait a few days, and he'll be as good as new." She said to Hagrid.

Hagrid looked at her in disbelief, but relief washed over him and he grabbed her in a huge hug which made Renee turn blue, having the air squeezed out of her.

"OH! I can' thank yeh enough! I don' know what ter say, you've saved Fang!"

"Air!" Renee gasped. "Must have air. Air is good." Harry and Ron pried her loose of Hagrid, who was in tears.

"But," He said, wiping his eyes. "How'd yeh know all that, when a specialist was left dumbfounded?"

"Just observant, that's all." Was all Renee could say.

A/N: Chapters 5-8 are next! Hope you are enjoying!
~OrcaPotter