The young boy shook in panic. The couch was on fire… again. Why does this always happen when I start to think about her? He looked around quickly. Where is the fire extinguisher? He ran to the kitchen and grabbed the extinguisher. In a few minutes the fire was out.

"Why do fires always start when I think of her of all others? I wish mom and dad were here."

Kiro Pathor sat down on the floor and sighed. His parents were out for the day. Looking on at the smoldering couch he wondered if his mediocre life was going anywhere. He was nearly 11 and had recently moved not only from his home town, but from his home country. He now resided in a London flat. He had no friends, not that he liked any of the pompous pricks. His summer vacation was boring; instead of a trip he had moved to England.

"Why did mom have to take the transfer to the British company branch? Why couldn't we stay in our home in Montana? I loved the mountains… the city isn't the same."

Kiro's only hope was that his birthday was a few days away. He would at least get to have some fun. Not that this year would be much better. None of his old friends are here and he wasn't sure if they would even try to contact him.

"I hate this place! There isn't anything to do. I can't go hiking, I'm not aloud out, and none of my friends are here."

He turned his head as the front door opened.

"Kiro? Why does it smell like something is burning?"

"Um… well…"

"What happened?" His mother asked astonished as she walked into the living room. "How did the couch catch on fire?"

Kiro withered under his mother's stare. He looked at his feet and sighed. "I don't know. I was… just thinking about home and then I realized it was on fire. I put it out as fast as I could." He rushed out.

Marla shook her head and hugged her son. He shook a little. "Shhh now my dear. I know, strange things always happen when you remember home huh? I never liked it anyway. Your father picked it." She teased him playfully.

He smiled worriedly. "So I'm not in any trouble?"

"No dear, you didn't start the fire, you stopped it. Besides your birthday is only a couple of days away. What do you want?"

Kiro sat down and crossed his arms. "I'm not sure. Could we wait until I can think of something?"

She nodded. She then grabbed the few groceries and started dinner.

A day before Kiro's birthday arrived he was finally getting used to life in London. He was finally getting used to how the British talked and how they seemed to do things such a backwards way. Why should they have to dress up so nicely for a dinner?

Kiro was finishing breakfast when the mail arrived. He got up and picked it up. He started to flip through the mail. At the counter he started to sort it. Bill, bill, for mom, trash, for dad… something for Kiro.

Mr. K. Pathor

Middle Room

7 Shirehall GDNS

Brent

"What is this? There is no return address. Who sent this letter to me?"

"What's wrong son?"

"I got a letter, there is no return address."

"Well open it and find out."

Kiro flipped over the envelope to see a crest on the back. It was adorned with a lion, a badger, a snake and an eagle. He broke it slowly, pulling out the parchment. He scanned the letter quickly. He had to read it several times to try and figure out what it says.

Hogwarts School

of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore

(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,

Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Mr. Pathor,

We are pleased to inform you that your transfer from the Montana Division of Magical Learning to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry is complete. Professor Sinistra will come to discuss your attendance to Hogwarts this evening at 5:00. Please inform your guardians of the visit.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall,

Deputy Headmistress

"Ok… is someone playing a joke on me. This can't be real. I mean everyone knows magic is fantasy."

"Let me see the letter." Kiro's father looked over the letter with a troubled look. "This seems fairly official. Let's wait and see what happens at five. Till then let's not worry about it."

Kiro nodded and put his dishes away and started his chores. The day passed agonizingly slow. He constantly looked at the letter, trying to see if it would change every time he read it. Who sent it and why?

Five approached and Kiro was almost bouncing off the walls. He couldn't wait for the 'Professor' to arrive. His dad finally forced him to sit so he wouldn't look crazy when they arrived.

At the last stroke of five the doorbell rang. Kiro sprang up and rushed to the door and threw it open. Standing there was a woman dressed oddly enough in robes. He stood there with his mouth slightly open.

Kiro shook his head "Can I help you?"

"Good evening. Are you Kiro Pathor?

"I am and you are?"

"My apologies, I am Professor Sinistra. I teach at Hogwarts. It is a pleasure to meet you Mr. Pathor. Are your parents home?"

"Just my father, my mom is still at work. Please come in."

Kiro lead the professor into the living room to his father. "Dad this is Professor Sinistra. Professor this is my father Kyle Pathor. My mother Marla isn't here as I said earlier."

"A pleasure professor." Kyle stood and held a hand out to her. After shaking hands he offered a seat. "Would you like something to drink?"

"No, thank you. My time is slightly limited. I take it you are curious about what was contained in the letter. I assure you it isn't a joke. Would you like a demonstration?"

Kiro's eyes opened excitedly. "Yes please! What can you do with magic? How powerful are you? Do you use a wand? Or maybe a staff?"

Kyle laughed. "Calm down Kiro and let her answer."

Professor Sinistra smiled. "Wizards and witches use wands. It is possible to use staves and other implements for magic, but wands are best. Now the demonstration." She stood and waved her wand while saying something under her breath. Suddenly there was an orb of silver flame floating in the air. She waved her wand again, removing it. Then she tapped the coffee table and it changed into a dog. After a moment of fawning over the dog it is transformed back into the table. "Now there are restrictions on when you can perform magic. Students cannot cast any spells outside of school until they are of age, though there are exceptions, such as extreme danger. You may try a few spells before the term begins, but that is all until you are of age. You cannot cast spells in front of muggles, non magical people. Those are the most basic of them; you will learn most of them in school."

Both Kiro and Kyle were sitting there awestruck. After a moment Sinistra smiled and looked at the couch. She shook her head. "When did the couch become burned?"

Kiro looked embarrassed. "It happened a few days ago. I was home alone when it suddenly caught fire."

"Were you feeling any intense emotions at the time?"

"Y…yes…" Came the quiet reply.

"That must have been an incident of accidental magic. It typically occurs when a young witch or wizard feels great emotion or is in danger. They seem to perform amazing things." She then tapped the couch and muttered "Repairo" all the burns faded away and left the couch looking like new.

"So that explains what has happened all those times."

"Now, would you like to have more time to think or have you decided to attend?"

"What supplies would I need and where would we get them?"

"There are instructions on supplies, where to buy them, and how to get to the train in the letter."

"Could we have a few minutes to talk?"

"Of course. If you would like more time I could leave a way to contact the school."

"No, no. It should only take a few minutes."

Kyle motioned for Kiro to follow him. He led them into the den. They each sat down in a leather chair. Kiro received a questioning look from his father.

"Well Kiro, what do you think? Would you like to give it a chance?"

"I don't know. It's just so much to take in. I would love to, but I'm nervous. What if I don't fit in?"

Kyle laughed. "You are a fun loving US boy going into a new school. I know you will fit in just fine. Don't worry about the tuition or supplies, we can afford it."

"Are you sure? What do think mom will say?"

"She would support any decision we would make."

"Alright, I think I should accept. It seems like this is a once in a lifetime opportunity."

Kiro stood up and walked back to find the professor taking a look at the television. She turned to him as he walked back in.

"We've decided. I will attend Hogwarts."

"Very good. Now, I will inform the school of your attendance. The term starts September 1. Be at King's Cross station to catch the train."

She smiled. "I'm glad you decide to attend. I teach astronomy at the school. I will be glad to see you there. Good evening gentlemen."

Kiro lead her out and bid her fair well. He returned to the living room to join his father.

"So how do we break this to mom? We don't have the benefit of the Professor to convince her."

"I'm not sure. For now let's take a look at the supply list and where to buy it."

"Alright." Kiro pulled out the letter and was amazed there were several more sheets then before. He pulled out the list of supplies.

He was astounded by some of the items on the list. They included items ranging from gloves made from dragon hide (dragons really exist!) gloves to a cauldron. It even said that he could bring a pet; a cat, an owl, or a toad. He didn't want a cat, his mom was allergic anyway and toads didn't appeal to him. An owl sounded cool. Kyle waited a moment and then took the list, looking it over.

"Well, it seems to be a fairly logical list. It seems to lead to a general education. For a witch." Kyle laughed. "Well it seems like it will still be a trial to explain this to your mother."

"If… no when we convince mom can we go to Diagon Alley? It's listed at the bottom of the list and how to get in. I have decided what I want for my birthday. I want an owl. I'm not sure what kind, but I know I want an owl."

"Alright, we'll see. Your mother should be home soon. We will talk to her after dinner."

An hour later dinner was finished and Kiro sat there nervously. After a minute of awkward silence his mother, Marlene, spoke up.

"Alright, what's up? You are nervous about something Kiro. Might as well spill it before you go crazy."

"I got a letter today. It was from a school. A special school. I was invited to join and I planned on accepting. Actually I have accepted. But I don't want you to freak out. It's a school for witches and wizards."

Marlene sat there with her mouth open before laughing a bit. "OK, very funny. What is it really?"

"Actually dear, he's speaking the truth. A professor stopped by not long before you got home. She showed us how real it is. Take a look at the couch and tell me what you see."

Marlene shook her head, walked into the living room and let out a surprised gasp. "When did you get a new couch?" was the demand that came back from the room.

"We didn't. Take a look at the leg. It still has the weird knot in the wood. Impossible to recreate."

She walks back into the room and sits. "So this isn't some sort of joke or am I just going crazy?"

"Neither mom. Here is the letter and supply list. It might help."

She read over the letter and list several times, her face unreadable. Before long she set both down and shook her head.

"Well, I guess I can't argue. It seems real enough. So when do we want to try and get the supplies?"

"Well, I was hoping for tomorrow. We could get it all and get my gift at the same time. I want an owl. It seems like the best pet I could get."

"Alright dear, we will see what we can do. We'll stop at the bank when it opens tomorrow and then go to get your supplies. I guess that's what you really want for your birthday."

"Yep."

The next morning, after a quick stop to the bank the Pathors were off to Diagon Ally. Kiro had to literally drag his parents into the Leaky Cauldron. Once inside they were greeted by the owner Tom.

"Welcome to the Leaky Cauldron. Can I get you something?"

"I'm a new student. I was told to tell you that I needed help to enter the Ally."

"Ahh. A muggle-born. Right this way."

Tom led the family into the pathway behind the pub. He pulled out a short stick from his pocket and tapped a brick.

"Alright, I've let you in. Make sure you go to Gringotts to transfer some of your muggle money into what wizards use. Then get a wand. Ollivanders is best. You will need it to get back into the Ally."

"Thank you sir."

"Tom is fine. Always a pleasure to help."

Kyle led the way into Diagon Ally. They all were astounded by the sheer number of shops in the area. They held any kind of item they wanted. Kiro soon pointed out Gringotts. They entered quietly, nervous about the short, fierce looking creatures guarding the doors. As they entered they approached the nearest teller.

"May I help you?"

Kyle held up some pound notes. "We would like to transfer some money for wizard currency."

"Very well. Is this your first time here?"

"Yes. We only just learned our son was a wizard."

"Yes, yes. We could also open an account so your son can start saving money with us. Our rates are better then local muggle banks. It will only take a few moments."

"Very well. We do have some time and it would probably benefit our son."

For the next half hour they filled out some paperwork and received a key for a vault. They also transferred most of his savings into Gringotts.

"May I see your wand to register it? Incase you misplace your key."

"I… I don't have one yet."

"No worry. Please come by sometime soon so we can register it."

"Thank you. May I ask one question before I leave?"

"Very well."

"What are you exactly? I have an idea, but I'm not sure."

"Kiro!"

"It is quite alright. I am a goblin. We run the banks in this world."

"Thank you."

The Pathors turned to leave as the goblin stopped them. "As a favor, do not turn your backs to a goblin, we view it as an insult. After reaching the ropes you can turn without insult."

"Again thank you for enlighten us."

The family backed away and left the building. They proceeded to the various stores along Diagon Ally. Before long they reached the store Eeylops Owl Emporium and went inside. Kiro looked around blissfully at all of the hooting owls.

"Welcome to my store. May I help you with anything?"

"Yes, it is my son's birthday and we would like to get him an owl. He will also be attending Hogwarts this following year."

"Very good. Owls are excellent companions for wizards. They are very loyal and they are able to deliver messages and letter to anyone. Now do you have any particular type of owl you want?"

"Umm I was thinking about one from my home area. Do you have anything that lived in or around Montana in the US?"

"Just your luck. I have received, from an associate in that area, some great horned owls. They are a little larger then some of the local owls that are used, but much stronger."

They paid for the owl and were soon walking out into Diagon Ally. Kyle looked at the list.

"Alright, only two things left. Your robes and a wand," He looked around and pointed, "Looks like we can get the robes there."

After being fitted Kiro was looking around the shop for a minute. He spotted a deep royal blue, cloak and pulled it off the hook to look at it.

"Wow this is amazing! It feels so light, yet it has the feeling of warmth."

"Yes, that cloak is a very good one." Kiro jumped and looked back at the owner. "It is completely waterproof, stops wind, and is fire resistant. It is also enchanted so it is always the right length for the wearer."

"Mom? Can I get it? Please?"

"Your list says you need a black cloak, not a blue one."

"I know, but it doesn't say I can't have one for non school stuff. Besides I think I could wear this year round."

"Alright, this will be your second gift."

"Thanks mom!" Kiro gave his mother a hug and threw the cloak around his shoulders.

"Alright, one stop left. Who did Tom say to go to get a wand?"

The store owner looked up. "I bet it was Ollivanders. He is one of the best. He is near the entrance of Diagon Ally."

"Thank you. Have a nice day."

Upon leaving the shop Marla pointed out place to get some food and they sat down. A server came over quickly and smiled.

"What can I get for you dears?"

"I'll have a small strawberry ice cream. Kiro?"

"Hot fudge Sunday!"

"I'll just have a plain vanilla."

"Those will be right out."

After starting to eat Kyle looked at his son and wife, wondering how they were taking all the changes and new things they were seeing. He knew he was having a hard time figuring out what was going on. Only a few days ago they were a normal family that had just moved into a new place and were adjusting. Now they were getting supplies so their son could learn magic. He sighed and shook his head.

"Something wrong dad?" Kiro was looking at his father, his hand fiddling with the new cloak he wore.

"Just thinking about how quickly things are changing. Nothing major."

"Alright. Are you sure you are ok with this?"

"Yes my boy, I am. This path may open many new opportunities to you. I want you to have the best and be happy."

"Are you two done? We still have Kiro's wand to pick up. I'm interested in how it is selected."

After they paid the looked around and found Ollivanders. It was a small and cramped shop. There was a single wand in display in the window and was very dark inside. They stepped in, announced by the bell on the door. Marla sat down on a stool while the men stood. Suddenly there was a voice behind them.

"Good afternoon."

"Greetings."

"Come looking for a wand? You are muggle born for I have never seen your parents before. All witches and wizards come for their wands and I remember every wand I have sold. Very well. Which is your wand hand?"

"Um I'm right handed so I guess my right."

"Hold it up please."

He held up his hand and was immediately being measured from various locations to another. He moved as he was told and waited for the outcome.

"Every Ollivander wand has a core of a powerful magical substance. We use unicorn hair, phoenix tail feathers, and the heartstrings of dragons. No two Ollivander wands are quite the same, just as no two unicorns, dragons, or phoenixes are quite the same. And of course, you will never get such good results with another wizard's wand."

He waved his hand and the tape measure fell to the floor. Only then did Kiro realize it was moving of its own accord. By the time he looked up Mr. Ollivander was pulling down several of the boxes and opened them. He handed Kiro one of the wands within. "Oak and unicorn. Seven inches. Rigid. Give it a try."

Kiro looked a little helpless and swung the wand once before it was snatched away. Another was thrust into his hand. "Birch and Phoenix. Twelve inches. Unusually bendy."

Kiro swung again and got the same result. This continued for a minute before.

"Aspen and dragon heartstring. Ten inches. Slightly flexible."

As Kiro grasped the wand he felt something rise up in him, flowing into the wand. He swept it down slowly, forcing out a flow of silver sparks, lighting the dim shop for a moment. "Wow… that is amazing!"

"Very good. This is the wand for you."

"Mr. Ollivander?"

"Yes?"

"How do I store my wand?"

"Set it on your nightstand when sleeping. Otherwise I would suggest a holder for it. It will remain by your side and it will be protected."

"We'll take one of those as well, if you carry them."

"Very good."

After the purchase they went back to the Leaky Cauldron to get a light meal for the trip home.

"Well this was an exciting day. How do you like how it turned out Kiro, dear?"

"This was amazing! I can't believe all this has been around and we never noticed it! I can't wait for school to start!"

"Now that is something I never thought I would hear you say."

"Dad! You know this stuff is really cool! I can't wait to try out a few spells when we get home!"

"I suggest you try and read about them before you cast them, no telling what could go wrong," Marla smiled at her son, "Besides, you still have to figure out a name for your owl here."

Kiro sat and tapped his chin. "Dad? What is a name in German that means guardian or something similar?"

"The word garan means guard. How do you like that?"

"Great! Thanks dad! How do you like that name? Garan." The owl looked at Kiro thoughtfully and clicked its beak twice. "I'll take that as a yes. Welcome to the family Garan."