Disclaimer: All characters, places and things to do with the Harry Potter universe are owned by JK Rowling, meaning all you recognise does not belong to me.


3. Meeting Professor Weasley

"Daddy, will I come here for school?" Alanna asked excitably, almost jumping up and down.

"Yes. We've had you on the list since you were born," her father answered, swinging her arm as they walked up the staircase.

"It will be so much fun, I can't wait!" Alanna declared, watching the moving paintings. She waved at them, and they smiled and waved back. "Only three more years! Did you come here?"

"Yes, so did your mother," her father answered. "You've been here before, when you were three. You went missing, and we found you in the dungeons, talking to Nearly Headless Nick."

"I don't remember."

"You never stopped talking about it." Her father stopped in front of a doorway. "Now, if you wait here while I talk to Professor Weasley, afterwards I'll take you to the kitchens to meet the house elves."

"Really?" Alanna said, now hopping from foot to foot.

"Yes, I promise."

"Promise promise?"

"Yes."

"Shake hands?"

Alanna shook hands with her father, then contently sat down beside the door. "I'll wait right here!"

Her father smiled and went through the door. Alanna watched the paintings, and, fortunately, when she got bored of them, a ghost floated past her. He was covered with bloodstains, and didn't even glance at Alanna as he passed her.

After a few minutes, the door opened and her father stepped out, followed by a young witch with long, red hair and bright brown eyes. She was about the same height as Alanna's father, and her smile was bright and pretty.

"So you are Alanna," the witch said, holding out her hand. Alanna jumped to her feet. "I am Ginny."

Alanna shook the witch's hand as her father added, "But you will call her Professor Weasley when you come to Hogwarts."

"I'll teach you Charms," Ginny said.

"I can't wait to come to Hogwarts!" Alanna said.

"Neither could I!" Ginny replied. "I'll be very happy to have you in my class." She turned to Alanna's father. "Well, I'd best get back to work."

"We're going down to the kitchens," Alanna's father said. "Be sure to drop in sometime soon. Dora wants to see you."

"I will," Ginny said, smiling. "Have fun in the kitchens, Alanna. And don't eat too much!"