A/N: So, I'm back…in a timely manner. I haven't actually touched writing since I wrote Chapter One so bear with me. I feel the need to warn you all that this is going to be a very long ride, and that some basic Harry Potter knowledge might be necessary to understand some references (in case you haven't already noticed)…my apologies. Without further ado, here's the very lengthy Chapter Two.

"Fuck this," Korra growled, kicking her sleeping bag open.

The evening's events had ensued in absolute pandemonium, accompanied by haphazard evacuation attempts lead by prefects–at least, those who were willing (the Slytherins had mysteriously disappeared)—that had lasted the better part of two hours. This was followed by several roll calls, security checks, reports to professors–

All in all, Korra's day, which had begun at an ungodly hour, left her with no respite until the impasse between midnight and daybreak.

And despite this, sleep had managed to evade her for the better part of the night.

Korra sat up and surveyed the room.

Once the dust had settled, the students–actually, all of Hogwarts' inhabitants–had ended up in the teachers' quarters, charmed with layers and layers of protective magic courtesy of Tenzin and Lin. The only distinction in their accommodations was that between the sexes; otherwise, all four Houses had been lumped together.

There was little light in the room Korra had been assigned–the sole source being the illuminated tip of Lin Beifong's wand. There was no doubt as to why the rooms had been enchanted windowless.

Other than Lin's silhouette, prowling vigilantly around the edges of the room, Korra could hardly distinguish anything else. She could make out the forms of sleeping students, but they could've been dumplings for all the perception Korra was offered.

She opened her mouth to call out to Lin–to offer her services and, when that was inevitably shot down, ask for a sleeping potion–

"Don't move," someone hissed, and Korra found the tip of a wand pressed against her jugular.

Her reflexes proved futile, for her limbs refused to cooperate with her attempts to disarm her assailant–

A Body-Bind Curse? But when–

Korra tried to cry for help–but her voice was strangled in her throat–

Trembling, she raised her eyes to meet her captor's.

Dazzling green eyes peered down at her, and Asami Sato's lips curved up into a cruel smile.

"I was so worried that I wouldn't be able to get close to you when I wasn't sorted into Gryffindor, but then these imbeciles went and locked us in a room together," the other girl snickered.

No—

"You're mine now, Chosen One."

But it was no longer Asami looming over Korra, but Amon–

"When I take away your magic, you will be nothing–"

A gloved hand descended towards her–Korra tried to shut her eyes but they remained forced open–unyielding to the coming atrocity and compliant in her suffering–between her lungs, something stirred–a plea for help immortalized on her lips in a silent scream–

Amon's thumb made contact with her forehead–a current passed through her, then the world was dark–

"You're going to wake everyone up," someone chided.

Korra thrashed in the stranger's grip, her screaming muffled by the other's hand. Finally, belatedly recognizing Lin's raspy voice, Korra stilled. Lin waited several moments before releasing her.

"Some nightmare, huh?"

Korra nodded, unable to verbalize anything coherent.

The Head of Gryffindor regarded her sympathetically over the tip of her wand. This perspective–dark shadows drawn out over Lin's sharp face, scars prominent against the harsh lighting–something like chiaroscuro–should've been frightening. But Korra had never been more relieved to see Lin Beifong.

"You'll be okay, kid. I'm here." The retired auror gave her a smile warmer than Korra thought possible of her. "Get some rest, you've had a long day."

"Thanks," was all Korra managed to mumble out hoarsely.

Lin squeezed Korra's shoulder before returning to her post.

Korra sighed, running her hands through her hair. It was only when they came away damp that she realized she was sweating.

The room was pleasantly warm–but Korra was shivering. Dream or not, she felt like she'd been sucked dry of her magic–and if this is how that felt, numb, hollow, as though a chill had seeped through her veins and permeated her core–then to be without magic couldn't have been different from being without one's soul.

The feeling was far too real, seared into Korra's memory indefinitely.

Korra exhaled deeply. Unable to support herself any longer (she was trembling too much), she succumbed to her makeshift bed once more.

When had she fallen asleep?

It couldn't have been later than dawn (this supposition was supported by periodic snores)—far too early. Korra's head gave a nasty throb, and she was seized with envy for those who had slept through the night.

Still, she was grateful for what precious little rest she got.

Deciding Amon could wait until the morning, Korra conceded to her body's demands.

She rolled over in her sleeping bag, muscles aching with fatigue, until she was comfortable.

Across the room, peacefully asleep, lay Asami Sato.

Korra watched her until the ache behind her eyes was too much.

"You look bloody awful," Bolin remarked as Korra passed by the Hufflepuff table.

The younger student looked relatively well-rested. His eyes were as bright as ever–as though last night's events had never transpired.

Actually, Korra realized his chipper mood probably had more to do with the plate of food before him (she suspected it was his second).

"You slept well? In spite of everything?"

Bolin shrugged, taking a bite of heavily buttered toast.

"I always nap whenever I'm stressed!"

That–was not at all a surprise to Korra.

The Gryffindor waved him off grumpily before continuing to her own table.

She was late to breakfast by all standards, and to her horror, Lin had informed her this morning (after a rude awakening) that classes hadn't been canceled. (Of course, by the time she'd woken up, Asami's sleeping bag had long since been evacuated and cleared away.) The professors seemed to share Korra's sentiment; they all looked exhausted by their nightly duties and in no condition to teach a full day of classes. Korra didn't know whether to be reassured or concerned by their lack of conversation.

The tension in the hall wasn't lost on her, but Korra could barely keep her eyes open–a combination of her sleep deprivation and not having been exposed to any light for several hours. She was startled to find that the Enchanted Ceiling was—was no longer enchanted. It was the first time Korra had ever seen the ceiling of the Great Hall, and it was off-putting that the room had an actual end; she almost wanted to reach up and test if the lack of illusion was a mirage in itself. The plafond reminded her of the Sistine Chapel, with historic paintings of the four Houses sprawling across the massive canvas. It was vivid, mesmerizing, dizzying–but the most disorienting change of all was the marked absence of the floating candles, leaving the hall sparse and hollow, something like a great tale with a lack of climax.

Korra's stomach sank.

What better testament to last night's events?

"There you are."

Korra had finally managed to locate Mako's quiff amongst the crowded Gryffindor table. However, there was no warmth in his greeting; as usual, his tone was full of admonishment (the special brand reserved exclusively for Korra).

The Beifong twins nodded in acknowledgment as she took a seat beside the Head Boy. Korra had no patience for his authoritarianism this morning, and didn't spare him a glance as she started piling whatever dishes were left onto her plate.

She'd only managed to grab a few komodo sausages and a slice of bread before breakfast vanished altogether.

"Blast it," she muttered, settling for dry toast.

Mako didn't take well to being ignored.

"Seriously, where were you?"

"Rough night," Korra snapped.

"We all had a rough night," Mako fired back just as swiftly. "That doesn't mean you can go missing–"

Korra sighed, slamming her fork down. "Look, I couldn't sleep. Nightmares. Lin had to drag me out of bed. Happy?"

Mako cleared his throat uncomfortably. He didn't press further.

The twins glanced between them warily.

"Had us worried, mate," Wing began carefully, as if testing the waters.

"Yeah. You missed the morning announcements," Wei added.

Korra immediately stopped eating.

"After I take away your magic you will be nothing."

"Oh, hell–" she dropped her fork "—fuck—what did I miss?"

The brothers looked at each other as though Korra was proposing a herculean task. Recalling everything that had occurred, she supposed she was.

"Well, Raiko got in touch with the Ministry–"

"—they couldn't figure out where Amon's broadcast was coming from but there's been no sign of him since–"

"—they're placing aurors around the school borders just to be safe—"

"—students can't bother them—" Wei, the mastermind behind their pranks, appeared particularly dismayed by this—

"—and we have to return to the Great Hall during free periods for roll call–"

"—straight to class and straight to bed—"

"—basically, if you stuff up, you're losing House points—"

"—any other free time is to be spent at the library or in the Great Hall—"

"—everyone has to travel with a partner at all times—"

Considering Korra and the twins were in the same year and had passed the same O.W.L.s (save for Charms, in Korra's case, and Herbology, in the twins' cases), she supposed this shouldn't pose as an issue.

"—all incoming mail will be verified by staff first–"

"—current living situation is to continue until further notice–"

"—no Hogsmeade trips until further notice–"

"—all prefects have to patrol every night and make double rounds—"

Korra groaned. N.E.W.T. classes had yet to begin and she already had more work than all of her previous years combined.

"—and all Quidditch activity has been suspended until further notice—"

"That's rubbish!" Korra interrupted.

The rest of the strictures, however bothersome, were reasonable. This, on the other hand–

"How are we supposed to break in those Satobrooms now?" Korra whined.

Wei and Wing exchanged a glance before bursting into laughter.

"Priorities straight, eh, Korra?"

Korra paused before grinning sheepishly.

"That's our girl," Wing chuckled. "We're with you, though."

Mako, who had been silent since Korra's outburst, piped up, "I agree. We still need to find our third Chaser."

Korra turned away promptly. She knew she was being unreasonable, and this was perhaps more about a certain transfer student than Mako's attitude towards her (which, she knew, despite herself, stemmed from concern), but she was too tired, too hungry, and something deep inside of her hurt more than it should. It wasn't as if their six-year history meant anything–if one could call it that; they were very close friends at best, one far too preoccupied with a very one-sided infatuation.

Mako was never hers to begin with.

Korra moved to fill her goblet (fortunately drinks were still available as the Heads of House began assigning sixth year schedules), but found it was already full.

She peered inside to find coffee. Two creams, one sugar–her regular morning brew.

There could only be one person who had prepared this for her.

Mako avoided Korra's gaze, coughing indiscreetly. There was a faint reddish tint on his cheeks.

Beaming for the first time this morning, Korra brought the goblet to her lips. Instant relief washed over her as the caffeine hit her bloodstream and life, no matter how artificial and how transient, returned to her.

"So," Korra began tentatively, turning to Mako (who was still evading eye contact), "what'd they say about the muggle-borns?"

Relieved that his rare expression of affection was not the topic of interest, Mako replied earnestly. "They're being given the option of withdrawing for the year. They don't have to go to classes today, so they have time to think it over, but they have to decide by the end of the day if they want to go home or stay at Hogwarts."

Korra was overcome by a rush of simultaneous gratitude and disappointment that none of her close friends were muggle-borns; grateful that they would remain by her–and distraught, that none of them were safe.

"Blimey–that's…that's…wow."

For once, Mako didn't address Korra's inarticulacy with a scathing look.

"I know…it's really happening," Mako murmured, more to himself than Korra, with a frown.

As Lin approached the twins to discuss their N.E.W.T. options, Korra suddenly remembered something.

"Hey, are you still taking Divination this year?"

To nobody's surprise, Mako had scored 'Outstanding' on all of his O.W.L.s–even subjects he despised.

Mako crinkled his nose. "No way."

"Still, d'you reckon you could…" Korra trailed off hesitantly.

Would telling Mako only dampen his opinion of her?

Still, it was an urgent matter. Given the extenuating circumstances, perhaps he would be more sympathetic?

To his credit, Mako was gazing at her with unprecedented patience.

"Do I reckon I could?" he pressed.

Korra finished the last of her minute meal before mustering the courage to complete her question.

"…interpret a dream for me?"

It was Korra's turn to blush. She was no longer looking at Mako, suddenly very fixated by her House tie.

Her request was met with silence.

Maybe this was a bad idea.

The quiet stretched into what felt like an eternity, and just as Korra was about to retract the request or play it off as a joke–

"What did you see?"

Mako's voice was quiet.

His somber approach to the subject made Korra wonder if he had dreamt anything unusual as well. But she decided to save that inquiry for another time.

Korra looked at Mako in shock before lowering her eyes.

There was no way she could recount the dream without Mako detecting the very palpable fear that still plagued her.

"Well…I saw…" Korra hesitated again. Given Mako's current sentiments towards Hogwarts' newest student, full disclosure would more likely harm than help Korra's case. Deciding to omit the part with Asami, she continued, "I saw Amon try to take my–" Korra shoved her hands underneath the table so Mako wouldn't notice them trembling "–my magic away. But the weird part was he called me 'Chosen One.' And when I woke up, it actually–" the admission seemed childish out loud, but Korra had already said too much to stop there "–it actually…felt like my magic was gone."

Silence enveloped the pair once more.

Korra kept her eyes down.

Reciting (reliving) the dream drained Korra of whatever faux energy the coffee had granted, and the intense dread she'd worked so hard to suppress all morning had returned full force. She felt very un-Gryffindorish.

When Korra eventually garnered the courage to look at Mako, she found that his eyes were on her lap, underneath the table.

Of course he would notice.

Finally, Mako took a deep breath.

"I'm going to be perfectly honest with you–"

Korra braced for the worst.

"—I'm not entirely sure. I can't tell if that's an omen or just a nightmare. But…I'll see if I can find something in the library during a free period."

Korra gawked.

Mako seemed very serious about this. In fact, there wasn't an ounce of ridicule in his eyes. Before she could say anything, Lin tapped him on the shoulder, and she was alone with her thoughts once again.

Despite having to revisit her fears, Korra felt lighter. There was something very reassuring in Mako's confidence–if she could call it that–in her judgment. Perhaps she wasn't a disappointment to her House after all.

Korra's eyes wandered around the hall as she waited for her turn. It was mostly vacant now, as both younger students and N.E.W.T. students had already received their schedules. The High Table was virtually abandoned, with professors having rushed off to begin classes, save for–

Korra's eyes narrowed.

She had spent far too much time studying Asami Sato to not be able to recognize her slender figure by now, even from a distance. The Ravenclaw was discussing something conspiratorially with her father at the end of the table; Hiroshi looked rather unsettled by whatever his daughter was saying. Korra couldn't see Asami's face from this angle, and there was only so much she could interpret from her hand gestures–

Or maybe, you git, she's just talking to her dad.

Korra deflated.

Both Satos were muggle-borns–famously so–and there was inevitably a conversation they needed to have.

Still, Korra caught herself wishing that Asami would go home.

"At least you're awake this time," Lin grouched as she sat down beside Korra.

The latter responded with a bashful grin.

"Now then…" Lin glanced at Korra's application before flipping to her O.W.L. results. "You're fine for Herbology, Potions, Care of Magical Creatures, Transfiguration…" The professor paused before the edges of her lips twitched. "Good job on Defense Against the Dark Arts, kid."

Korra's heart swelled.

Of her O.W.L.s, most of which had been 'Exceeds Expectations' (and a singular 'Acceptable' in Divination, though she had no intention of continuing in it despite her amicable relationship with Professor Kya), Defense Against the Dark Arts marked her only 'Outstanding.'

The glint of pride in Lin's eyes was short-lived–her face immediately darkened as she caught sight of the next subject on Korra's O.W.L. report.

Korra grimaced.

She knew what was coming.

"In all my years as an instructor, I've never seen anyone else get a 'Troll' in Charms."

"Well, in my defense, you've only been an instructor for a few years," Korra shot back playfully.

She was uncertain as to whether she was trying to deter Lin or the knot in her stomach.

Lin did not look amused. "Cute. You're going to have to take Remedial Charms again with Tenzin…that's the third time, Korra. If you can't pass it this year at a fifth-year level, you're not going to be able to graduate."

Korra gaped.

"What? Why? Plenty of other people fail their O.W.L.s and graduate!" she protested.

Lin tutted. "This isn't just about not passing your O.W.L., kid. You've repeatedly failed a core area of magic–and if you want to be an auror, you're going to need it."

Korra scowled and crossed her arms. "Why? What does making stuff float have to do with fighting?"

Lin looked as if Korra had suggested playing hide-and-seek in the Whomping Willow.

The former auror groaned, as though Korra had personally offended her, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Being an auror isn't just about fighting, Korra. Aurors are hailed as the most skilled witches and wizards in the wizarding world–beyond casting defensive spells. Your job is to serve the people, and service doesn't always entail combat. You've always excelled at combative magic but you've completely neglected the utilitarian aspect of it."

"I haven't ignored it–it just doesn't come as easy to me," Korra answered defensively.

Recognizing that her lecture had absolutely no impact on the young Gryffindor, the elder witch sighed and shoved Korra's schedule at her.

"You know," Lin began as she stood to leave, "I don't understand how that sweet-tempered man chose you as–"

Lin immediately stopped talking, but the damage had been done.

"You're mine now, Chosen One."

"As what?" Korra demanded, leaping to her feet. "Who chose me?"

Lin's mouth opened and closed mutely as though someone had cast a Silencing Charm on her.

"Never mind," the House Head grumbled, recovering swiftly, but her gruffness fell short of its usual caliber. "I was talking about Tenzin. I'll never understand that man."

Korra wasn't convinced, but she didn't have the chance to argue for Lin had all but fled the scene with a "I need to get ready for class."

She frowned at the professor's retreating backside.

If Lin wanted Korra to forget, then she had just lit a flame where the embers were fading.

For now, she decided to shelve that discourse away for her daily rendezvous with the brothers and inspect her schedule instead.

Herbology with Slytherin, Remedial Charms–alone, of course–Care of Magical Creatures and Transfiguration with Hufflepuff, and–

Korra read and re-read the panel several times before groaning loudly.

Not only did she have Potions with Ravenclaw, but Defense Against the Dark Arts as well–

This meant both sharing her favorite class with her least favorite person and, with how the block scheduling had worked out, having to see said person every day.

"Fuck me," Korra griped, throwing her schedule down in dismay.

But Korra had little time to lament (fume) over this matter, for the Great Hall was completely devoid of human activity at this point. She gathered her things in a hurry to head off to Transfiguration–

Her urgency was subdued when she caught sight of Mako waiting by the entrance. For whatever reason, he looked out of place–somehow small despite his commanding stature.

"What are you still doing here?" Korra asked when she got closer.

Mako cleared his throat. "We have to travel in pairs, remember?"

The nonchalance seemed forced, and his answer sounded more like a question.

Korra blinked. "Tu left like twenty minutes ago."

The elder Gryffindor rubbed the back of his neck. "He had people to walk with. You don't."

Korra raised an eyebrow. "I can just catch up with the twins–we have almost all the same classes."

"I'll walk you," Mako replied simply.

"Is your class near the courtyard, too?"

"No–Potions."

Korra stared.

The dungeons were not near the courtyard.

"That's on the other side of the school."

Mako sighed, as though Korra was the most obtuse person he had the misfortune of dealing with.

Korra didn't understand why he was insisting.

"Look, I'd feel better if–" Mako gestured lamely before looking away without finishing his sentence. "Just. C'mon. I'm not going to ask again."

So Korra followed Mako to class.

"You look bloody awful," Wing commented as Korra took her seat.

Having had virtually no sleep, a small breakfast, and no lunch thanks to the last-minute prefect meeting, by the afternoon, Korra's temper was downright foul (the dungeons, as cold and dark as she remembered, did nothing to bolster her mood).

Fortunately, Potions was the last class of the day.

Unfortunately, it was Potions.

"Thanks, I've been told," Korra grumbled beside Wei.

A chalk whizzed by her ear abruptly before she could elaborate.

If Korra didn't know better, she'd have suspected it was intentional.

"Welcome to N.E.W.T. Potions!" Hiroshi Sato boomed as the enchanted chalk scribbled away on the blackboard behind him. Whispers flooded the room at the sight of the renowned broomstick (and wand–and most magical supplies) manufacturer. "As you all know, normally you'd need at least an 'Exceeds Expectations' to qualify for this class," the professor continued as though he hadn't been interrupted, "but I've lowered the bar to allow some of our late-bloomers to shine."

Korra swore his gaze lingered on her a moment longer than others as he said this.

Great, he doesn't even know me yet and he thinks I'm an idiot.

"This has made our class size larger than usual–but the more the merrier! After all, not nearly enough wizards are well-versed in this crucial area of magic, and I intend on using my time here to change that. Now, enough about this old geezer's ambitions–get your supplies out so I can go over today's assignment."

There was a lull in conversation as everyone bustled to retrieve their potion kits and textbooks.

"Now then–" Hiroshi's eyes twinkled behind his glasses "–can anyone tell me what this is?"

He reached into his robes–gold-trim, obviously custom made–and withdrew a small bottle. Inside the vial danced a vivid, golden substance–quite literally danced, as it bubbled with no external stimulus; it was radiant, the liquid essence of sun, and just gazing at the potion filled Korra with unnatural giddiness.

A Ravenclaw Korra didn't recognize raised his hand.

"Yes, Mr. McNamara?"

"Felix Felicis," the student–McNamara–answered importantly. "Liquid luck–toxic in large quantities but unusual good luck in small doses."

Korra sat up straighter. She wasn't the only one. The entire class was paying rapt attention now; even the academically disinclined twins shifted beside her. Murmurs of awe rippled through the class.

"Excellent. Ten points to Ravenclaw," Hiroshi beamed. "Now, I figured we should start the year off with a bang–make the most boring class at Hogwarts a little exciting, no?"

The class was practically eating out of his hands at this point (Korra included).

"That is why today's assignment shall be a competition of sorts, and whoever wins," the professor paused to produce another vial from his pocket, "shall receive a bottle of Felix Felicis as a prize."

The dungeon erupted into excited chatter.

Korra had never particularly excelled at Potions, but she fully intended on exceeding expectations today.

"D'you hear that? Our team could use a bit of luck," Wei whispered to the other two.

"Wei, that's illegal," Wing hissed back, but there was no weight to his rebuke, and neither he nor Korra could hide the hint of a grin.

"So is blowing up school property but that never stopped us," the older twin countered with a wink.

"Now, now, class, settle down–yes, a question, Miss Albright?"

"Sir, how come you have two potions?"

Hiroshi's eyes twinkled again, like he'd been waiting for someone to ask. "Why, what an excellent question. If you'll look behind me here," Hiroshi rapped the blackboard with his knuckles, "you'll see that today we'll be making Amortentia. Now, without looking at your books, can anyone–"

McNamara's hand shot into the air again before Hiroshi could complete his question.

"Err, yes, Mr. McNamara?"

"It's the world's most powerful love potion."

"Yes–precisely."

McNamara's face fell when he realized Hiroshi would not be granting Ravenclaw more points–and that was when Korra recognized him–the Ravenclaw Quidditch Team Captain.

"Now, you're probably wondering what that has to do with me having two prize vials," Hiroshi continued. "Well, that is because I believe the best love potions are brewed in companionship, so for today you will be working in pairs to complete your assignment."

Fucking brilliant.

Korra glanced around the dungeon. The entire room was brimming with Ravenclaws–save for her and the twins–essentially, with strangers. It was no mystery that Gryffindors and Potions didn't mix, but she had been hoping more would've opted for the class.

Wing and Wei would naturally partner with each other, and that left her alone–

"Hey," Wing whispered. "Do you want one of us to partner with you, Korra? We know some of the blokes here."

Thank Merlin for Wing.

Korra flashed a relieved smile at the younger twin, but before she could reply–or even rejoice–

"To ensure maximum productivity, I have paired those of you with a lower O.W.L. score with those who have scored an 'Outstanding.'"

Korra immediately deflated. Neither of the twins had scored an 'Outstanding,' and that only left the Ravenclaws.

As Hiroshi began reading names off a scroll, Korra scrutinized her classmates. Surely, most of them being Ravenclaws, she'd have a good chance at the prize? Still, there was one Ravenclaw in particular she'd been trying to avoid looking at all period–

"Mr. Beifong–" both twins looked up "—err, Wing Beifong—you will be working with Miss Chang."

Wing waved at his partner who responded in kind.

"Wei Beifong, you'll be with…Mr. McNamara."

Wei groaned. "Not that bloke."

Korra recalled Wing's earlier comment and wondered what motivated Wei's desire to not work with McNamara specifically.

"That just leaves…" Hiroshi's gaze lingered on the scroll floating before him, and an unreadable expression crossed his face before he locked eyes with Korra. "Miss Korra…no surname, is it?"

"Err, no sir. We identify by tribe since our community is rather small and one of the only two in the world." Korra felt uncharacteristically bookish–and a little pretentious–with her response, but the derision in Hiroshi's voice (evidently directed at her heritage) had struck a chord.

If anything, Hiroshi looked more amused by this information. "So, what shall I call you then, Miss Korra?"

"Just Korra is fine," Korra replied coldly.

"Korra it is," the professor acquiesced coolly. His eyes were glittering with sinister glee.

The classroom had gone quiet. Students' eyes flittered cautiously between the two, but nobody dared to break the silence; the tension in the room was discernible even to a child.

Korra was impressed with herself–it had taken her less than a day to make an enemy out of a teacher.

"Korra," Korra was beginning to get sick of hearing her name come out of Hiroshi's mouth–and he seemed to know it, "you will be working with Asami Sato."

Of course I am.

Korra wondered at the back of her mind if Hiroshi had done this intentionally–it felt a little too convenient, a little too calculated–but surely, she was being paranoid.

The classroom burst into whispers again–the scandal of a Hogwarts professor schooling his own child–

But Korra was scandalized for other reasons.

Asami, who had been sitting near the front of the class, turned to look back at Korra. She appeared to have had no problem making new friends–already surrounded by a gaggle of girls and a few ogling boys. Unlike Korra, she had clearly taken the time to make herself look presentable this morning, and like her father, she also donned custom-made robes.

Asami smiled.

Korra didn't.

"An hour should be plenty of time to finish a basic Amortentia. You'll find the brewing instructions on page two-hundred of Advanced Potion-Making. I don't expect a perfect potion–this is a bit beyond the scope of what's expected from sixth years–I just want to see where everyone is at so I can assess my lesson plans. Good luck! May the best team win."

There was immediate commotion as students rushed off in all directions.

"Lucky, you get to work with Asami," Wei griped as he left, apparently still aggrieved by his partner assignment. "I heard she's brilliant."

Except the sight of brilliant Asami, beautiful hair and sparkling eyes, gliding towards Korra aroused more insecurity and resentment than gratitude.

Prissy, beautiful, elegant rich girl–and apparently now she's a genius to boot.

Asami set her things down beside Korra's, but if she was waiting for a greeting, she would wait in vain.

Korra flipped through her textbook, scanning the list of ingredients quickly.

Rose thorns, kava kava, moonstone, pearl powder, Fire Whiskey, unicorn hair…

Eventually recognizing Korra's reticence, Asami sat down.

Korra remained silent. Was she supposed to grind the pearl first and then measure it or–

"Hey," the Ravenclaw began timidly. Korra's eyes flitted to her. "Sorry about my dad. He's a bit of a conservative, and he can be a little…well…douchey."

Korra stopped working. She was startled by Asami's choice of words in regards to her father, but more so by–

"You're American?" Korra inquired incredulously.

She realized she had never actually heard Asami speak–and now found the voice in her dream, which had been rather scratchy and low like a goblin, far from the mark. Asami's voice was like velvet, rich and smooth without fault. Hiroshi's accent was undeniably British–Received Pronunciation–but Asami, much like she looked, sounded as though she had walked right out of Hollywood.

Asami chuckled, and it was surprisingly warm.

"I guess you could say that. I was born here, though, actually–in London. Lived here until I was six–" Asami's face darkened for a moment, then it was gone "—and then Dad shipped me off to boarding school in America. I went to Ilvermorny for five years before I transferred here. I guess my accent adjusted."

Korra nodded absentmindedly.

What had motivated her move in the first place? And then the sudden transfer–

"What about you?" Asami asked cordially before her eyes widened. "Whoa, wait, don't put that in yet–"

Korra, in her distraction, had thrown the pearls into the potion without grinding them first.

Bollocks!

The mixture in her cauldron was already scalding–the pearls would melt–

"Oh no, I'm sorry I–"

Asami waved her wand wordlessly, and the pearls–along with a few other premature ingredients–floated back out.

"–wasn't paying attention…" Korra stared as Asami dried the pearls and began grinding them in a mortar. "Wait, did you just–?"

Students weren't supposed to know nonverbal spells yet–let alone sixth years.

"Oh, it's a bad habit–I never enunciate when I use spells," Asami replied dismissively.

But Korra hadn't seen Asami's lips move at all.

"So, where are you from? I was really interested when you were talking about your community," Asami continued, as though there had been no interruption. "Here, can you measure out the rose thorns while I stir?"

Korra didn't enjoy being ordered around—especially by Asami Sato–but she managed to hold her tongue and comply. "I'm from the Southern Wizarding Tribe."

As Korra had described, there were exactly two wizarding tribes in the entire world–the Southern and the Northern. Each represented a distinct set of values, the Northern Tribe being more conservative and the Southern Tribe, once helmed by the legendary wizard Sokka himself, being more progressive.

Korra had essentially grown up in pure magic, as the foundation of the wizarding tribes rested on a magical culture removed from the muggle world; the South and North Poles, existing in conditions too harsh for the average human, acted as perfect refuges for Inuit pureblood families. Historically, the tribes had been composed exclusively of pureblood families, but as the South Pole advanced, it saw a burgeoning number of mixed marriages and increased immigration. Now, there were even purely muggle and squib families (who relied on the enchantments provided by the rest of the community). Korra was grateful for this development, as there would hardly be a Southern Tribe without Sokka and Katara, both hailing from a muggle family.

"I knew you weren't from here!" Asami exclaimed as she waved her wand over the cauldron.

The pallid liquid transformed into a dazzling array of colors–silvers, pinks, blues blending together. It reminded Korra of the inside of a shell–just like the textbook said it should.

Of course. Textbook perfect, Korra thought bitterly, seized with envy once again. She tried to focus on the fact that Asami winning would also entail her winning.

Then, she frowned. "Wait, what's that supposed to mean?"

Asami raised her hands apologetically.

"Sorry, I didn't mean it like that. It's just…" Asami wrung her hands together coyly. She lowered her eyes, and Korra could see how long her eyelashes were. "You don't sound completely British–you have a really pretty accent," Asami murmured demurely, looking up at Korra from under her eyelashes.

Asami's eyes weren't celadon, Korra realized–they were darker, a vibrant emerald.

She was dazed for a moment before she regained her senses.

A real crowd pleaser, isn't she?

"T-thanks," Korra stammered (more affected than she would like to admit). "I grew up in the South Pole and English isn't my first language, so–"

"Careful," Asami chided gently, grabbing Korra's wrist.

Again, distracted, Korra had nearly ruined the potion altogether by trying to add the moonstone too early.

Korra glanced at Asami, really looking at her for the first time since they had met. Despite the Ravenclaw's lively attitude, she looked tired–dark circles sat below her eyes, and Korra realized that Asami may not have slept as well as she'd originally believed. Asami held Korra's wrist a beat longer than necessary, and Korra was close enough that she could smell Asami's perfume—or perhaps that was her natural scent (just Korra's luck)–it reminded her of a waterfall, of jasmine–subtle, refreshing, and sweet all at once.

Korra wondered if Asami could smell her too, and balked at the thought, knowing she hadn't showered since yesterday.

I can never measure up to her, can I?

"Sorry," she apologized again.

"We have to leave it alone for thirty minutes first," Asami reminded Korra as she released her hand.

The instructions had initially sent a wave of panic through Korra–that meant they had to rely completely on making the right brew the first time–but now the prospect of spending thirty minutes uninterrupted with Asami seemed like the more daunting task.

Korra could only hope that the number of times Asami had corrected her and the Ravenclaw's alleged "brilliance" would produce the necessary results.

"You'll know you've hit the mark when your potion gets a mother-of-pearl sheen to it. I can't say exactly what it'll smell like–it should be different for each of you–but it should remind you of things you love–whatever—or whomever–attracts you!" Hiroshi called over his shoulder from across the dungeon.

Meanwhile, his attention was elsewhere (apparently McNamara and Wei had gotten into a bit of a dispute–which had ended in complete disaster).

The silence between Korra and Asami was interrupted far too early for Korra's liking.

"I'm glad I finally get to spend some time with you," Asami piped up. Korra was eerily reminded of her dream. "Mako told me so much about you!"

Korra's eyes narrowed.

"Really? Because he hasn't mentioned you at all."

It wasn't untrue–Mako really hadn't talked about Asami.

Of course, this didn't have the intended effect.

Asami laughed. "Well, I'm not surprised–we've only known each other for a day. He did say we should all hang out sometime, though."

"Err, don't think I'll have the time," Korra deflected. "There's a lot going on now–y'know, with what happened last night and all–I have prefect duty almost all the time and I still have to study."

Not all of us are natural geniuses, she added mentally.

Asami looked crestfallen.

"Oh, y-yeah…that's true…"

Korra almost felt bad. Then she remembered–

"Err, did you talk to your dad this morning?"

Clearly, that wasn't the question Asami had been expecting.

"What?"

Korra noted her reaction with a raised eyebrow. "I mean, you don't have to go to classes today, right? So…did you decide to stay?"

Please say no.

Realization dawned on Asami and, to Korra's dismay, she nodded. "Oh, that. Yeah, I did. I mean, it would be kind of weird to go home without Dad–and he just got this job, so he can't exactly leave, either."

"Right," Korra agreed dismally. "That would be weird."

Not that weird.

"Twenty minutes left," Hiroshi bellowed from the back of the class.

Those who hadn't finished their mixture yet began working with renewed haste. Panic emanated off the students in tidal waves; for once, Korra was grateful that Asami was her partner as they waited peacefully.

"Things are definitely getting pretty messy with the Equalists, though," Asami added conversationally.

I guess talking about that is better than talking about Mako–or worse, hanging out.

"There's always some sort of war in the wizarding world, isn't there? First that mess with the Hundred Year War, and then Yakone–makes me kind of embarrassed to be a pureblood, y'know?" Korra replied sincerely.

Again, it seemed that was not what Asami had been expecting to hear.

"What?"

Korra shrugged. "It's stupid. All this conflict over magical blood—who cares? We're all wizards, aren't we?"

Asami looked speechless. After a few moments, she blinked rapidly. "Are you…being honest?"

Korra blinked in response. "Uh, yeah? Why wouldn't I be?"

Asami didn't budge. "You know, you don't have to say that just to protect my feelings."

"I'm not."

Asami studied Korra intently before lowering her eyes. "I, uh–I guess I didn't expect you to have such views."

Korra winced. "How come? Because I'm a pureblood?"

Korra didn't think it was possible for Asami to look ashamed–or have anything worth being ashamed about–but there was no doubting the sheepish edge to her smile.

"I guess," Asami admitted, looking at Korra remorsefully. "I'm sorry."

It was an odd picture–pretty, elegant Asami looking small. It reminded Korra of Mako this morning, and she found it difficult to remain antagonistic towards someone readily making herself vulnerable.

Korra waved dismissively.

"Things have been pretty rough for muggle-borns, and our lot hasn't exactly made it easy on you. But Aang stopped the Dark Lord and Yakone–and he was a pure-blood. We're not all bad." Korra smiled at Asami gently. "You don't deserve everything that's happened to you. I…I can't say I blame the Equalists for being upset, but…" Korra shivered as she recalled the sensation from her nightmare. Gripping the edge of her stool for support, she pressed on shakily, "Taking away someone's magic…that's like taking away a part of them. That…that can't be right."

Asami gazed at Korra sadly. "I don't think it's right, either." She looked away. "But…equality for muggle-borns seems really far."

"It's stupid," Korra repeated, frowning. "Muggle-borns have provided some of the biggest contributions to wizardry. Chief Sokka was the best manufacturer before your dad's time–he invented sporting broomsticks for Merlin's sake! And my mentor, Katara–she's the best healer in the world. Hell–she's the best witch I know, and she's a muggle-born!"

This seemed to reassure Asami, who offered Korra a genuine smile.

"I wish more people thought like you," she said softly.

"Me too. I still have to tell some Slytherins off for using slurs–it's ridiculous." Korra rolled her eyes. "Like I said, makes me embarrassed. Honestly, I wish I had more muggle-born friends."

Asami said nothing.

She was looking at Korra like she was seeing her for the first time.

Smoke began to waft up from their potion, spiraling around Korra and Asami. It was as the textbook had described–characteristic spirals, slow and lazy, intertwining like helixes around the pair. Amortentian vapor filled Korra's lungs, and she felt oddly content; Asami looked so pretty in the dim lighting.

The fumes were intoxicating, and her entire body was flooded with calm that was almost alien after everything that had happened. Korra grinned at Asami idly.

Asami chuckled, looking somewhat timid. "G-guess I'd better add the last ingredient."

Their potion was starting to give off a rather seductive aroma.

Asami stole a glance at Korra as she prepared the moonstone.

"Maybe…we could be friends?"

Korra almost said yes.

"And…your time is up!" Hiroshi declared just as Asami slipped the moonstone into Korra's cauldron.

Several bangs reverberated throughout the dungeon as others did the same, simultaneous with cries of woe from those who hadn't finished their potion in time. The commotion jogged Korra from her inebriated state, and she returned her attention to her own cauldron.

After an earsplitting crack, a thin film materialized over the potion before it evaporated, leaving a distinct mother-of-pearl sheen in its wake.

Korra couldn't believe her eyes.

Maybe we have a shot at this, after all.

As Hiroshi made his rounds, Korra debated what to say to Asami.

Would a 'thank you' suffice? (Hiroshi made a noise of disgust at Wei and McNamara's potion.) 'Sorry you had to clean up after me'? (Wing and Chang had received a nod–which, no doubt, was owing to Chang.) No, that was giving her too much power. (A few more headshakes, a single nod.) Still, regardless of whether they actually won, it was owing to Asami–

"My, my, what have we here?"

Hiroshi was practically oozing with pride. And honestly, Korra couldn't blame him. Nepotism aside, one glance around the classroom confirmed that their potion was the only one that came close to what the textbook described.

"Well…it appears we have a clear winner." Though nobody could exactly object–what with all the unsettling colors and nauseating aromas coming from the other cauldrons–there was a distinct sense of discontentment pervading the room. "However," Hiroshi's eyes gleamed knowingly as he gazed at his daughter, who could only smile self-consciously, "since it would be unprofessional of me to favor my daughter, I suppose I'll have to–" oh Merlin, please don't give it to someone else "–reward a sole winner."

Hiroshi's business savvy was showing–the room immediately brightened. The professor beamed down at Korra, who didn't know whether to feel pleased or uneasy; she leaned towards the latter as, as always, Hiroshi's smile didn't reach his eyes.

"It appears you've earned this, Miss Korra."

Korra couldn't help but notice the taunting edge to Hiroshi's voice.

"Thank you, sir."

A slight chill passed over Korra as she accepted the vial from Hiroshi, and it was not, oddly enough, unfamiliar.

"Now, we have a few minutes left, but I'll let you head out early–I know you've all had a long day." A collective cheer went up around the class. "No homework this week," the delight in the room intensified, "so just make sure you clean up before you leave. Feel free to come by my office if you have any questions. Also–I encourage you all to study Miss Korra and Miss Sato's potion before you leave. Take notes, that's how it's done," Hiroshi added before departing with one last smile for his daughter.

Korra admired the bottle of Felix Felicis as the students gradually approached their work station. The potion was effervescent, glittering, golden–just holding it made Korra feel lucky.

"Great job, mate! Didn't know you had it in you!" Wing commended her with a clap on the shoulder.

"I'm jealous," was all Wei spouted, too busy cleaning pearl powder off himself.

"Thanks, guys," Korra grinned, but the smile was half-hearted.

It was the first time she'd ever been the recipient of any sort of acknowledgment in Potions–let alone praise. She shot a guilty look at Asami, who was answering questions; it certainly hadn't been of her own merit.

"Hey, uh, can I borrow her?" Korra interrupted McNamara, who glowered at her before storming off.

Asami glanced at Korra curiously.

"Asami." It was the first time Korra had actually said her name, and Asami, well aware of this, looked shocked. Korra held the bottle out to her. "Do you want this? You earned it."

Asami eyed the vial.

"You're just giving it away?" Wei gaped. "Can I have it?"

"Oh, shut up–get lost, you two," Korra reproved, smacking Wei's rear with her textbook. "I'll catch up with you later."

"She hit me!" Wei protested as Wing dragged his brother away.

Korra glared at them until she heard a giggle.

Asami was clearly entertained. She tucked a lock of hair behind her ear and shook her head. "It's fine, Korra. You helped too."

Korra's eyebrows knitted together. "Not really–you pretty much had to stop me from sabotaging the whole thing on multiple occasions."

The dungeon was nearly empty at this point–a few unlucky Ravenclaws were still cleaning their stations.

Asami grinned. "Well, I won't deny that. But I'm good, I promise–Dad gives me a bottle like every Christmas. Enjoy yours."

Korra hesitated, thumbing the bottle. "Are you sure?"

Asami beamed. "Positive."

Her answer echoed throughout the dungeon–which was now completely vacated. Korra was developing a nasty (and probably dangerous) habit of being the last one to leave.

"Shoot–we'd better get going. We're going to be late for evening roll call," Korra commented, leaping off her stool. "Oh, and thanks."

Korra hadn't realized what she'd implied until–

"'We'?"

Asami was looking at her in bewilderment.

Civil conversation or not, Korra hadn't exactly given the impression of being fond of Asami, and it didn't take a genius to notice.

Whether it was the high of the Amortentia or the unexpected delight of Asami's company, Korra found herself unable to revoke the statement.

She nodded.

It was just a dream.

"Yeah. Walk with me?"

The smile Korra got in response was incandescent.

As they packed away their things, Korra noticed her cauldron was still full.

"Wait, your dad just left our Amortentia here–what are we supposed to do with it? I need my cauldron."

Asami glanced at the concoction, which was still steaming. "I think he went upstairs to get something to store it in. Just leave it here for now. I'll make sure it gets back to you by tonight."

Korra hesitated, but her stomach was growling, and she still had to make her rounds tonight. "Okay," she agreed uncertainly. "Well, then, ready to go?"

But Asami was still gazing at the Amortentia.

"You know, my dad isn't actually the Potions Master of our family…it was my mom," the Ravenclaw murmured. Korra noted the "was," and her heart sank. "She was the one who got me into Potions. I…She always made jokes about Amortentia–like that was how she won over boys in school and stuff–but she also warned me that it was really dangerous–like 'one of the world's most deadly weapons' dangerous. It was her favorite potion."

Asami seemed to be talking more to herself than Korra at this point.

The Gryffindor didn't know what to say.

"Your mom sounds like a really cool witch," Korra said lamely, after some thought.

"She was," Asami agreed. Her eyes never left the potion. "Do you…do you think it really smells different for everyone?"

Korra cocked her head. "I don't know. I mean, there's only one way to find out, right?"

Before Asami could prompt her, Korra leaned towards the cauldron and inhaled deeply. Again, intense contentment washed over her, and Korra felt more tranquil than she'd ever known. The Amortentia, despite its obvious drawbacks, was starting to become addictive.

"It smells like…"

It smelled like London–like bustling metropolitan life–like the open Antarctic tundra–like adventure, if that could be quantified as such–and a sharp, distinct scent Korra knew too well. She had only experienced it a handful of times, but each was memorable–falling down while playing tag in Tenzin's backyard, bumping into each other on broomsticks during Quidditch practice, embracing when England had won the Quidditch World Cup, being drawn close last night–

Mako.

"…London–or, like any big city, I suppose–the tundra back home, and–and–uh…err…like a…crush?" Korra finished awkwardly.

Asami only gave her a knowing smile.

"It really does smell different to everyone, then," the taller girl mused, glancing back at the potion.

"Really? What does it smell like for you?" Korra probed curiously.

Asami leaned towards the cauldron and mimicked Korra.

She closed her eyes in concentration.

"It smells like fresh parchment…kind of earthy, like the brewery at home–and something else…" Asami frowned, trying to place the scent. Her eyes were still closed. "It's something sweet and smooth–like…." Asami's eyes fluttered open. "Like–" she caught Korra's eye, and something dawned on her, before she looked away hastily "–like c-cologne," Asami stuttered, suddenly very pink in the face.

Korra couldn't help but feel that Asami hadn't been entirely truthful.