Part I

Chapter 1: Through Angel's Eyes

It was a beautiful night, a night unlike any other night. The night was clear, not a cloud in sight. The moon was full out in the sky, shining ever so bright. The stars twinkled in a smiling gaze, hanging in the sky, ever ablaze.

My master, Harry, had finally arrived at Hogwarts. I was flying through the sky, enjoying the breeze flutter across my feathers. It was good to finally be in my element again, instead of perched in a cage. Though my metal home is pleasant enough, there is something about soaring the four winds- a freedom that is only found in the skies. To those who have never felt it, the freedom of the sky…. It is something that cannot be described, but only experienced.

As I flew ever so gracefully through the heavens, I noticed below me a body of water. It was larger than I had ever seen. It was dark and inviting, with its invitation of thirst quenching water, and the coolness that said liquid provides. Having not skimmed the waters in many a moon, I flew down to enjoy the cool joy.

As I had thought, it was a most rewarding experience. The cool water felt refreshing on my talons, and I enjoyed the feeling immensely. I had not felt this refreshed in ages. I simply soaked it all in (literally and metaphorically), when suddenly there was the sound of a giant splash.

Instantly my instincts kicked in, and I flew upwards to avoid danger. I was curious, however, as to what the source of the disturbance was and so I looked around for it. And, lo and behold, did I find it. I saw giant tentacles protruding from the surface of the deep and, slowly rising from the waters, was a giant monster! A giant squid!

I stared in awe, and not a little trepidation, at it. Never in my life had I seen or encountered such a beast. It was utterly terrifying and beautiful in its majesty. "Beautiful", I thought to myself. "Why ever would I use beautiful to describe such a thing! Why, it does not even have wings!"

And yet there could be no denying it- the creature of the deep had a beauty about it. No matter how much I tried to turn away, I could not help but stare at it, the water slowly dripping from its tentacles….

"Stop this foolishness at once, Hedwig", I berated myself. "You do not even know anything about this water dweller, and yet you are staring at it like a chick. Fly away from such fancies!"

I knew that my inner voice was right on this one. Letting out a small hoot, I turned and flew away towards a tall tower I was sure housed others of my kind. I was hungry, and hoped there were some delicious vermin there to devour. And yet as I flew towards the heights, I could not help but give the squid one more glance. As I did, I saw something that shocked me, something I could not believe. "No, it cannot be. That squid… it is not staring at me…. Is it?"