Sight and Sound Chapter 3, a harry potter fanfic

1 October 1992

Dear Diary;

It's been a whole month here at Hogwarts! It's amazing how fast things are progressing. My Chocolate Snorkack cards are coming along; I hope to have the first set published by at least December… I don't know, we'll see. I still need to find a publisher.

Neville is so cute. When he smiles at me… my tummy starts to flutter. That lop-sided smile of his… sigh.

Headmistress McGonagall has come up with a wonderful idea for the newly established Music Program; I get to setup and organize Hogwarts' first ever Music Room!

September finally gave way to October and McGonagall had conferred with Luna that instead of picking a day during the week right before lunch that it would probably be better to hold the musical assembly on a weekend like Sunday so no classes were missed. Another thing that was arranged was for an adjacent room to the library be built and outfitted with additional record players and headphones so the students could go there during their off hours and listen to whatever music they wanted irrespective to what was going to be played by the Headmistress. It turned out to be a giant hit with all of the students and staff. It was so popular that a waiting list chart had to be installed along with a time limit of one hour per person.

The first Sunday had the new line-up with the teacher's Song and then the four students.

Teacher:

Rubeus Hagrid – Fifth Harmony, "I'm in Love with a Monster."

Students:

Draco Malfoy – Led Zeppelin, 'The Immigrant Song'

Ron Weasley – Julius Fucik, 'Enter the Gladiators'

Susan Bones – Ok Go, 'Here We Go Again'

Cho Chang – Beethoven, 'Fur Elise (Piano version)'

Everyone was howling, dancing and grooving to Hagrid's theme, even Hagrid was laughing along. It was so fitting and appropriate! Ron's Song had everyone in stitches from laughing so much. True to form, Ron didn't get the reference and just sat there steaming with his ears tinged red. Draco on the other hand got the message and gave a small, sly smirk. Cho and a lot of other girls were moved to tears when they heard the sweet melody of her Song.

Luna was sitting in her Transfiguration class Listening to the teacher's Song. The teacher, Professor Henry Jones, spotted the dreamy look on her face and questioned her inattentiveness to the lesson.

"Miss Lovegood? Is there a reason why you're not paying attention? Have I become so boring?" he inquired.

"Hmm? I'm sorry sir. No, actually your Song is what was distracting me. It's very moving."

That got everyone's attention, "What's the name of my Song then?"

"John Williams' 'Indiana Jones theme song.'

"Oh? A song with my name in it? Do you have it in your collection?" she nodded, "Then I'll have to stop by the library this afternoon."

In addition to the upcoming Halloween celebration, the first match of the new Quidditch season was upon the school. After the experimental night game held last year that utilized Harry's glow in the dark pastes, it was decided to hold that set of games in the spring when it would be warmer. When Luna arrived at the game announcer's box carrying her record player and two records in her bag, everyone nearby could see that something special was planned.

She got her equipment set up and asked Lee Jordan for the megaphone. Setting the device down on the table, she began a rhythmic combination of 'Stomp, Stomp, Clap.' After the third sequence, it spread out from there as the muggleborn and raised quickly picked up on which Song Luna was about to play.

'Buddy, you're a boy, make a big noise

Playing in the street, gonna be a big man someday

You got mud on your face, you big disgrace

Kicking your can all over the place…

The muggleborn and raised then shouted:

WE WILL, WE WILL ROCK YOU!

'Buddy, you're a young man, hard man

Shouting in the street, gonna take on the world someday

You got blood on your face, you big disgrace

Waving your banner all over the place…

The muggleborn and raised then shouted:

WE WILL, WE WILL ROCK YOU!

'Buddy, you're an old man, poor man

Pleading with your eyes, gonna make you some peace someday

You got mud on your face, you big disgrace

Somebody better put you back into your place!

WE WILL, WE WILL ROCK YOU!

By the time the song ended, all the spectators regardless of which affiliation they were in were screaming and chanting the chorus. Then Lee got on the air and announced the players on the Gryffindor and Slytherin teams. The game was brutal as usual, each team revved up from the opening song.

When the halfway mark came around which required the Keepers to switch sides, Luna had set up the second Song which was a stirring, almost militaristic piece by John Williams titled 'The Imperial March.' While that Song was playing, more than one Slytherin vowed to get a copy of it and declared it to be the House theme song.

Luna had decided early on to use the time that she was in History of Magic to work on her Chocolate Snorkack Cards. She had taken the suggestion from Ginny to use that particular animal as the chocolate form since it was instantly attributed to her and her father. She had worked out the layout of the cards and taken Neville's suggestion of having the Common cards as the most prolific then tapering down from there. So far, the Owl, Kneazle, Dog, Snake and about eleven other 'normal' animals were featured. She had spoken with other students who collected the normal Chocolate Frog cards to gauge their reactions to the new series and to get their insights and desires about what they liked and didn't like about her cards. So far, the reaction was mostly positive. The serious collectors were intrigued by the novelty and it led to a greater in-depth discussion about the animals and their habitats.

Luna spoke with Harry and found out how to get into the kitchens to speak with the elves. When asked why, she simply stated that she'd like to include them in her Chocolate Snorkack cards and needed some information beyond what was 'common knowledge.' Harry showed her the painting of the bowl of fruit and instructed her that in order to open it, she just needed to 'tickle the pear.'

Once inside, they were immediately spotted and several elves rushed over to see if there was anything that the two of them needed. Harry calmly asked for a small bottle of orange juice then left while Luna asked to speak to the Head Elf.

An obviously older elf approached and asked, "What can Flory be doing for young Miss?"

"Flory, I'm working on a project to create a creature version of the famous chocolate frog cards and was wondering if there was an elf who would be willing to be a representative of your species and give some basic information beyond what is referred to as 'common knowledge," Luna explained.

"Perhaps if young miss would elaborate on this project, Flory would be happy to be this representative."

So Luna displayed the beginnings of her project along with representative cards of the ones she made for kneazles, dogs and owls. She explained that she would also like to take a picture of either Flory or a random elf for the card. Flory became excited at the prospect of finally getting to share their history and knowledge to the wider world. It would definitely be of a benefit to those elves with not-so-nice masters.

"Flory would be honored to help out with this project Miss. When would you like to go over the history and habits of the elves?"

"If you have time, I'd like to do it now since I'm here," asked Luna.

So for the next couple of hours, Flory the Head Elf taught Luna about the history and habits of the house-elf. There was a lot of information that even she didn't know. As they were wrapping up the discussion portion of the lesson, Luna sent for Colin to bring his camera to take a few pictures of the elves.

During the entire month for the ramp up to Halloween, season appropriate songs were played over the school's public announcement system to put people in the 'mood.' There were plenty of people from both sides of the magical divide that were putting in requests for specific songs. It impressed and amazed Harry and his friends just how popular all this music was making Luna and yet she just serenely glided through the halls seemingly oblivious to it all.

The Music Room that Minerva had created with input from Luna was officially opened the first Saturday of October. It was laid out with sound deadening wards so students wouldn't interfere with another group's playing. The sections were grouped based on the general genre of 'Rock,' 'Pop,' 'Country,' et cetera. Within those sections were the sub-genre records that the students could take their time to explore. Draco Malfoy had taken to practically living in the 'Rock' section listening to as many Led Zeppelin songs as he could find. When asked why, he would shrug and say that he didn't know; the music just worked for him. There was even conversations from other students about creating a Dance Hall that would utilize the records from the Music Room.

31 October 1992

Dear Diary;

Halloween is here and it's sad to see Harry Potter moping around the castle. I understand why he does but at least he has his friends and Hermione Granger to help him get through the feelings.

On Halloween day there were live bats swarming in the rafters, floating pumpkins, spiders and the castle ghosts put on an aerial display for the amusement of the assembled crowds. Normally Harry wouldn't have participated in the celebrations but Hermione had suggested that he hold his memorial earlier in the evening then quietly join in afterwards. What surprised and moved Harry greatly was that he was not the only one participating in the memorial. Everyone who had lost someone during the previous war was present in the makeshift chapel that had been erected by the house-elves. Candles were lit and prayers murmured.

Harry had received permission from his Head of House as well as the Headmistress to hold a Samhain Blessing that year and so before dinner that evening, everyone gathered in the Courtyard. In the center of the planned activities was a platform that held a number of black, white and red candles. Harry got everyone's attention then spoke in a loud and clear voice:

"Ladies and gentlemen! Tonight we're here to celebrate the event known traditionally as Samhain, or for the more modern of you Halloween. What I've been given special permission to do is to hold this small blessing to remember the ones we've lost in the past. I ask that all of you gathered to take a quiet moment and think of your loved ones who have left this world and join with me in this simple prayer. I have provided red ribbons so if anyone wishes to partake can do so."

He then turned and tied a red ribbon to one of the candles then said aloud:

"As the past drifts away going into a fade, I hold with me the fond memories that I've made. I enjoy the present, for where I've stayed; it is nothing I would ever trade. I embrace the future for which I've prayed and welcome abundance for yet another decade."

When the Feast commenced in the Great Hall, Halloween music like Oingo Boingo's, 'It's A Dead Man's Party,' Bobby Pickett's 'Monster Mash' and other songs in similar style were played in the background to the joy of the assembled students and staff. Pomona leaned over to where Minerva was sitting.

"I must say Minerva, that I'm pleased with how lively and energetic this castle has become since Miss Lovegood brought that record player and her songs this past September."

"It truly is spectacular and amazing that it's only been two months. When you think about it, it seems like the time has just flown by. It makes me wonder what other sort of creative outlets we should be encouraging," Minerva replied back.

"Definitely something to discuss at the next staff meeting as well as the next Board of Governors meeting," Pomona agreed. Minerva just nodded thoughtfully.

At the Ministry for Magic…

"Dolores? Are you in?"

Dolores Umbridge, Senior Undersecretary for the Minister, was sitting at her desk working on some last minute parchment work to get some new restrictions against what she called 'dangerous half-breeds' done before the next sitting of the Wizengamot looked up and around for the speaker.

"Dolores, it's I, Phineas Black," Dolores turned to face the portrait.

"Oh! Professor Black. How might I be of help?" she simpered.

"I bring bad and disturbing news from Hogwarts. It seems that there has been a student who has been bringing new and revolutionary ideas into its hallowed halls. This student, a Miss Luna Lovegood of Gryffindor House, has been bringing in music of a muggle nature and sharing it with the staff and student population." Phineas warned darkly.

"Oh, dear. Well, we can't let that happen. I'll get on it right away…"

1 November 1992

Dear Diary;

I have a busy month ahead of me. I have it planned to go with Hagrid to visit the webs of the Acromantula colony here in the Forbidden Forest. I haven't asked him yet, but I doubt he'll say no.

I have a History test coming up… so not looking forward to that. Binns is BORING!

I wonder what other creatures I can work with in the Forest? If need be, I'll get Hermione Granger to go with me since she understands the languages.

Luna was in the Library studying for an upcoming History of Magic test. Well, outwardly she was 'studying.' She had all the necessary books but in reality what she was doing was enveloping herself in a Trance and Watching how the real events of the time period took place. She could see and hear everything that took place though any spoken or written words appeared to be or sound like modern English to her.

Ostensibly, she was supposed to be learning about the Goblin Wars of 1222. In truth what she was witnessing was the Wizengamot passing a series of unfair laws that the Goblins had no intention of following anyways. As always, the Goblins did their own thing and the magicals of the time were annoyed that the Goblins weren't 'following the script.'

Luna dipped her quill into the ink and wrote down her notes on what she Witnessed. Hermione came up from behind and read what was being written down, a frown forming on her face as it was nothing like what she had read. When Luna finally came out of her Trance, Hermione got her attention and began asking questions.

"Luna? Where did you find that information? It's not in any of the books I know of," she began.

"Hmm? Oh, hello Hermione. No, I imagine that it wouldn't be. You know that I have the Gift of Sight?" Hermione nodded, "One side benefits of that is I can See and Hear everything that takes place in time. Past, present or future, it doesn't matter. All it takes is for me to concentrate when and where I want to go. What I wrote down is what truly happened that day when the 'Goblin Wars of 1222' took place but before the Ministry put the information spin on the events for the history books."

"Wow… that's…. just wow!" Hermione paused as her mind tried to assimilate the possibilities of what Luna explained.

"I know. Sometimes it can be a right pain in the arse because I have to sit through the utterly boring lecture being given by a ghost who won't talk about anything else and texts that don't cover the truth."

"Have you considered publishing a rebuttal argument on these topics?" asked Hermione.

"It wouldn't do any good. Unless the papers were willing to speak with the aggrieved parties like the Goblins, Centaurs and the like to verify their side of the story, it would just get laughed at by the publishers. I guess I could have my father publish an article in our local newsletter, The Quibbler, but it's viewed by some as a 'conspiracy theory rag not worth the parchment it was printed on.'" Luna explained sadly.

Hermione sat there pensively, taking Luna's words at heart. She leaned over and gave the younger girl a warm hug and a smile in commiseration. Hermione could see the problem and was at a loss as how to help solve it. Luna in turn, could see the warring emotions playing across the older girl's face.

"Don't worry Hermione. If there's one thing I know to be true, is that eventually all knowledge will become available and in truth at one point in our lives. We just merely have to prepare to have an open mind in the meantime."

Hermione just nodded in agreement; there was nothing else she could do at that moment. She decided to change the subject to something more lively.

"So do you know what musical choices the Headmistress has made for this month?"

"Mm-hmm… but I'm sworn to secrecy so I can't tell you."

"Darn. Could you at least tell me who are the ones chosen for the spotlight?" Luna just grinned slyly and shook her head no.

Hermione pouted but gave in anyways.

November's Magical Musical Mystery Medley Spotlight took place that Sunday and the Great Hall was filled to capacity. Everyone was eager to hear some great Songs and to find out who was chosen. The Headmistress rose from her seat and got everyone's attention.

"Welcome everyone to this month's Musical Spotlight. So let's get to it, shall we? This month's Spotlight shall be:

Teacher:

Filius Flitwick – Lou Bega 'Mambo No. 5'

Students:

Seamus Finnegan – Lindsey Stirling, "Roundtable Rival."

Vincent Crabbe/Gregory Goyle – "Henri Mancini, "Baby Elephant Walk."

Anthony Goldstein – Christina Aguilera, "Genie in a bottle."

Ernie Macmillan – Fat Boys, "Baby, I'm a Rich Man."

A bunch of people got up and started dancing to Flitwick's Song. It had people jumping and jiving all over the Hall.

Seamus was in heaven when "Roundtable Rival" got started, as it was a combination of Irish fast fiddles and rock and roll. He was already planning on introducing this to his friends and family back home. He got up and started dancing an Irish jig in time to the beat to the amusement of the others. A couple of other Irish students joined in as well.

The girls of Slytherin House were cooing over the Song attributed to Crabbe and Goyle or as they were quietly referred to as 'The Dense Duo,' much to their embarrassment. Pansy Parkinson in particular was giving out little kissy noises until Draco leaned over and reminded her of her own Song. She shut up at that point.

Anthony was a little embarrassed that a female artist was chosen for his but he got the message behind the Song. He had his own brilliance and was hoping for a chance to let it shine.

Ernie was just sitting there grinning like a fool as the Fat Boys began rapping out the lyrics. His snobbish ways were, in his mind, being vindicated. He certainly felt like a rich man. Justin Finch-Fletchley leaned over and whispered in his ear.

"Kind of ironic that you got this song as I'm the one from a rich and influential family," Ernie gave him a wolfish smile in return.

Meanwhile at the Ministry for Magic…

Senior Undersecretary Delores Umbridge waddled into the Minister's office as if she owned the place. Given how temperamental her mood could be and how vicious she could turn if she perceived a slight made against her or the Minister, no one was willing to say or do anything.

Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge looked up from the novel he was reading instead of the parchment work that he was supposed to be working on as Delores entered the room.

"Delores? What brings you by today? Some creature didn't lay down and die?" He smirked at his own humor.

"No, Minister. Nothing like that…yet. No, what I'm here for today is because of some rather unsettling news coming from Hogwarts. According to my sources, muggle influences have been creeping in and corrupting the young minds of the students."

"Mu-muggle? How? As I understand it, there are wards to prevent outside influences of that nature."

"Apparently, there is a young First year who has been bringing in muggle "music" and giving it out to the other children. Such practices have been known to start insurrections and other illegal behaviors. I suspect it's one of those Merlin-damned Mudbloods," she simpered.

Cornelius thought for a moment, Merlin, did he hate doing stuff like this! While on one hand, introducing music to the halls of Hogwarts didn't sound like such a bad idea; on the other hand, all that new-fangled music that he had occasionally heard during the last war when he had to go into that world to deal with a witch or wizard who got stuck for whatever reason; set his teeth on edge. He glanced up to see Delores waiting impatiently for a decision.

"I think… that more information is necessary before we can make a decision one way or another." That should do it. Put it off and let someone else deal with the problem.

Delores' eyes narrowed dangerously, "Minister, I don't think you understand the threat that this muggle mess would bring. It needs to be stomped on and stopped immediately before such behavior tears down our great and glorious community that we've worked so hard to maintain."

Fudge sighed internally, what did he care about what children listened to as long as he didn't have to get involved? "I'll tell you what Delores, why don't you go up to the school and investigate this music business yourself? Hmm? Take a couple of days and if things are really as bad as you believe them to be, then I'll leave it up to you to deal with it as you see fit."

Delores' eyes lit up in barely suppressed evil glee! "Thank you Minister, I shan't let you down."

It was just after classes had let out for the day about two weeks later that found Luna speaking with Hagrid near the Forbidden Forest.

"Uh, I don't think you should be going in there alone," Hagrid hesitated.

"Oh, but I won't be alone if you go with me. I'll need a guide to lead me to their webs anyway," she replied.

"Um… have you gotten permission from Professor Lupin? He's the new Gryffindor Head of House right?"

"He is and I have. Now let's stop stalling, Hagrid. I know that you're just as curious as I am and I want to get the information for their card ready before I graduate!" She nudged him gently and he finally relented.

So Hagrid picked up his crossbow and signaled for his dog, Fang, to follow them. They began trudging through the forest looking for the markers that let everyone know the boundaries of the Acromantula colony. They were passing by a small stream when there was a noise in one of the many bushes.

A Centaur sentry stepped out and greeted Hagrid, "Greetings Hagrid. What brings you by this afternoon?"

Hagrid indicated Luna, "This young lass wanted to meet and interview the Acromantula colony for her project." The sentry glanced over at Luna, recognized her and smiled.

"Ah, yes. I'm familiar with this young witch from the school. She has been most pleasant about her quest for knowledge." Luna just curtsied in response.

"You should be warned though Hagrid, there have been several more incursions by the twin red-haired boys into our territory and the elders are not amused. If it keeps up, I'm afraid of what might happen."

Hagrid nodded and said he would pass the word along to the Headmistress before taking up the lead again in search of the spiders.

It took them the better part of another quarter hour before finally coming up to the borderline. A noise from the canopy signaled that they were being watched.

"Tall one, why do you disturb our nests?" clacked a spider the size of Fang.

"I bring a young one who wishes to learn about your colony and its leader, Aragog."

The spider seemed to ponder this for a moment before turning and lead Hagrid and Luna deeper into their territory. When they reached the center, Luna was introduced to Aragog, the king of the Acromantula colony. Luna was polite in her request and sat down when motioned to. She pulled out her quill and ink along with a notepad and took notes about the stories of their creation, the habitats in which they normally live in, the food they normally ate, et cetera. When they were done, Luna bowed before Aragog and thanked him for the wonderful amount of information.

It was a slightly drizzly Saturday morning when Luna and Hermione left the castle and headed towards the Forbidden Forest. Their destination was the territory of the Cornish Pixie clan that Hermione had been in talks with and had gotten a paper published on last year. Luna brought Hermione along to help with the translations and any insights that would be beneficial for her new cards.

Luna spoke with the Chief of the Clan to understand what life was like, "What do you find to be the most difficult aspect of life here in the forest this close to the castle?"

"Chitter, chirp, chirp, creak." ['Mostly predations from the larger animals like the Acromantula and occasionally we have to watch out for a pair of twin red-haired devils.']

"Hermione, I do believe that we really need to speak with the Headmistress regarding the Weasley Twins. They're a right menace!" Hermione agreed with a knowing look of disgust.

Luna then turned to their lead toolmaker to inquire about techniques and types of tools made. Their conversation lasted for hours.

When Luna returned to the castle, the Gryffindor ghost, Sir Nicolas, informed her that the Headmistress urgently requested her presence in her office. She turned towards the stairs and headed up to the second floor. She gave the password to the stone gargoyle and rode the spiraling staircase to the main door. After knocking, Luna heard McGonagall call out and bid her to enter.

"Ah, Miss Lovegood, I'm glad you're here. I just received word that a Ministry official and the school's Board of Governors will be arriving at any moment and would like to know if you have any instrumental classical music we could play during dinner?"

Luna thought for a moment and shuddered slightly before nodding, "Yes, I know of several that would be just fitting for the arrival of Madam Umbridge."

Minerva raised an eyebrow in surprise then nodded in understanding, "Your insight serves you well. That's good; I'll need you to get the proper records as well as the player from the library. Madam Umbridge should be arriving in about an hour; it would not do to have her noticing the more… adventurous music selections."

Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic Delores Umbridge strode, well in her case…waddled with a determined air, into the Great Hall just in time for the evening meal. Joining her were the members of the school's Board of Governors. The first thing any of them noticed was the students and staff were busy making up their plates and there was a low undercurrent of conversation. The next thing that Delores noticed was the gentle background music playing. She noted that it sounded like Mozart's 'Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.' It was a relaxing and calming piece that even she recognized.

She approached the Head Table and addressed Headmistress McGonagall in an imperious tone of voice, "Headmistress, I am here to oversee a serious investigation into the allegations that you have a subversive first year student who has been distributing illegal muggle music to the student population. If this is true then it is in violation of the Statute of Secrecy and is a blatant attempt to undermine our great society…."

Minerva tried her best to listen to the blathering idiot; she really tried but in the end, she tuned her out until she could see the 'Pink Toad,' as many had quietly called her, finally ran out of steam and stopped speaking.

"Y-yes, yes Delores, fine. Would you like to stay for dinner? It would give you a chance to see and hear what sort of music the students' listen to during mealtimes? Afterwards, I can show you to their Common Rooms and you can hear what they listen to before bedtime."

Delores hesitated briefly before acquiescing, "That'll be fine, Headmistress."

The meal continued without any problems; the Governors questioned random students as they roamed the Great Hall; asking them what they thought about the new idea of having music played during dinner and in their Common Rooms. All reviews came back as positive though there were some dissenters as to which songs were being played. Some students had requests for specific pieces that were placed on a waiting list and had gotten annoyed that it was taking so long to go through said list.

"Well, it does look like a rather long list, doesn't it Lord Malfoy?" asked Jacob McAllister, a prominent businessman and second-most senior board member as he held up the play list for examination.

Malfoy Senior sneered at it before nodding, "Yes, I'm wondering though if the selections were randomly arranged or if there were certain considerations made first?"

Minerva barely restrained herself from rolling her eyes in frustration, "Really, Lucius? Are you so concerned that the muggle born or raised could possibly have better selection of music choices than that of a pureblooded child? Or are you just being your usual annoying self?" McAllister just snorted quietly in amusement, as did two other board members.

"I merely see several prominent children of upstanding families who are being ignored in favor of those… less so."

Minerva's temper nearly lit off. Even so, her response was short and abrupt, "I'd like to remind you that the song selections have NOTHING to do with a person's blood status. The selections have been made based on the alphabetical listing of each student. If there is nothing else, then let's move onto the first House. I believe that would be Hufflepuff?"

Delores then decided to stick her fat face into it, "Hem, hem. That's the House that Harry Potter belongs to? I would be most interested to see what sort of trouble he's been getting into. The-Boy-Who-Lived and all…"

Minerva whirled around to face Delores, "I'll remind you that Harry Potter is a model student and a talented author, inventor and also the one who ultimately defeated You-Know-Who."

"Yes, yes," Delores waved her pudgy hand dismissively, "Let's get on with this shall we? I want to see and hear what that little brat has been doing with his fame. He's probably the one who has been distributing that subversive music, wouldn't you agree Lord Malfoy?" Lucius nodded in agreement and with an oily smirk on his face.

The group entered the Hufflepuff Common Room and were faced by a multitude of students either studying at the tables or on couches. Some of them were seated around a few record players wearing headphones so they wouldn't disturb the others. A couple of the board members approached the ones listening to music and asked them which music was being played.

"Beethoven's 'Fur Elise.' Good song choice," one board member commented.

Delores, in the meantime, had spotted Harry sitting on one of the couches reading a textbook and taking notes. Grabbing the book out of his hands and ignoring his squawks of protest, she waved her wand over the book trying to dispel any enchantments that she thought he may have put on it to hide his potentially subversive notes and plans. Unfortunately for her, there was nothing hidden or enchanted. She dropped the book back onto the couch and glared at Harry.

"Where are those disgusting muggle songs you've been giving out to the other students?" she screeched, "I know that you've been doing something illegal to undermine the Ministry!"

Harry glanced at Minerva and the rest of the gathered students in confusion, "Huh? I'm not the one who chooses the music. My talents lie in Potions."

"LIAR! Who is the miscreant that has been trying to pervert our precious children's minds with that horrid muggle noise? I know that you had something to do with it!"

Harry turned to the others again, "Was there something wrong with the music we listened to at dinner? I thought it was rather nice."

Delores grabbed his face, "You know full well what I'm referring to, you half-blood brat!"

Just then she jumped back as a stinging hex hit her hand. Delores whirled towards the source of the hex and glared at Minerva who was lowering her wand.

"I'll thank you for not mishandling and abusing my students, Delores. Mr. Potter has already answered you despite not needing to. If you cannot comport yourself in a civilized manner, you will be forcibly escorted off the grounds." Minerva growled menacingly.

All but two of the board members and Umbridge finally left the castle after touring through all four of the Houses trying to find some sign that illicit types of muggle music were being played. The remaining two turned back and found Minerva in her office taking solace with a dram of whiskey.

"Quite the performance, if I do say so myself," commented Lady Marie Colombe, "Now that the more…conservative members have left, could we speak with the true 'ring leader' about the songs that were brought in? I promise you that it won't get past the two of us."

Minerva thought about it for a moment before sending for Luna. When she arrived, Luna merely glanced at Lady Colombe and Lord Ian Edgewater before nodding and calling for a castle-elf to bring a record player and the records titled, 'Uptown Funk' by Bruno Mars and 'Switch' by Will Smith.

It turned out that Lady Colombe was the one picked for 'Switch' and Lord Edgewater got 'Uptown Funk.'

"So this is what all the fuss is about?" asked Lord Edgewater who merely shook his head in exasperation and chuckled at the memory of Lady Colombe dancing to her Song, "The students and staff are paired up with the Songs Heard by Miss Lovegood here? I have no problems with this and I think it would be beneficial to continue this practice. Especially the instrumental classical songs at mealtimes."

Lady Colombe grinned and nodded in agreement, "Yes, it's so nice to see everyone relaxed and calm. I frankly don't know who it could've been to inform Madam Umbridge that there was something…subversive. Though in her deluded mind, birds chirping in the trees could be considered subversive. Well, Headmistress you have our permission to continue doing what it is you're doing here; and Miss Lovegood? If you have any suggestions for this year's Ministry Yule Ball, I'd greatly appreciate it. Send me an owl when you have your play list recommendations."

Lord Edgewater had a curious look on his face, "Miss Lovegood? Just out of curiosity, what is Madam Umbridge's Song?"

Luna made a disgusted face, "It's not a nice Song. It's quite fitting and I'm not sure that it should be heard."

"Please? I suspect it would be something creepy and vicious but I would like to know."

Luna sighed before requesting the record be brought by one of the elves. After it arrived, Luna set it up and handed Lord Edgewater a set of earphones, "I have no desire to listen to the Song. It's quite disturbing and I don't want nightmares tonight."

With a now worried look, Lord Edgewater put on the earphones to listen to Delores Umbridge's Song titled 'Kill4Me' by Marilyn Manson. After just a few minutes, he yanked off the headphones and stopped the player; his hands were shaking and his face pale.

"Y-yes, now I understand what you meant, Miss Lovegood. It truly is disturbing and quite fitting to Madam Umbridge," he turned to Lady Colombe, "I think we should go now. I've seen and heard enough to know that whatever delusions Delores has come up with is of no concern."

Meanwhile in Delores' office…

Delores sat in her chair after leaving Hogwarts, pondering what had transpired that evening. 'I know that the subversive muggle propaganda and noise was there. Phineas wouldn't lie to me. I'm just going to have to get…creative in my search for the culprit.'

Luna got back into the Gryffindor Common Room just in time to see Lavender Brown dancing in a quick style reminiscent of the 'Mashed Potato,' past her singing the lines to Iggy Azalea's 'Fancy.' She giggled as the Second year sashayed up to Dean Thomas who was 'rocking' out to Will Smith's 'Getting Jiggy With It' over at the Common Room's Music Center while Parvati Patil was howling with laughter at the sight of her best friend getting all frisky and making Dean blush.

Luna approached Neville who was shaking his head at the antics of the others. It wasn't surprising that they were acting like this; after all, they had just survived a mini-Inquisition by the Ministry's most notorious and in some opinions, most vicious member. Even the school's Board of Governor's didn't inspire the kind of psychological terror that Umbridge seemed to embody.

"Have they been at this long?" She asked motioning towards the two dancers and Parvati.

"Not long, they just started about five minutes ago. I think it was one of the older years that suggested that we look up and start playing our own personal theme songs to blow off some steam and relax. I think the results speak for themselves."

Luna nodded in understanding, "That…woman. The things I Saw were frightening to say the least. How no one has ever thought of running a background check on her, I'll never understand. I wonder if there is anyone in the DMLE that I could speak to about running a quiet investigation in some of her dealings?"

Neville looked at her in askance, "Are you sure that's wise? I mean, she was here to try and ferret out who it was that brought in all of… what did they call it? Oh, yeah. 'Illegal and subversive muggle propaganda lies.' You're lucky that everyone, or at least nearly everyone is enthusiastic about your Gift and what you've brought to this school. I suggest that you leave it well enough alone or barring that, contact Professor Lupin who can then alert the Headmistress."

Luna thought about it and slipped into a Trance to trace the Strings along the possibilities. She Saw many outcomes, none of which were really appealing at that moment in time. She did See one String that if she laid low until the end of this school year, it would allow for Umbridge to be caught in her own web of lies and evil manipulations. When she came back to the present, she blinked at the realization that Ginny, Neville and a few others were staring at her worriedly.

"Luna? Are you okay?" asked Ginny in a concerned tone, "You seemed to have blanked out there for a moment and wouldn't respond to anything."

Luna took and released a slow deep breath, "I'm fine Ginny. I was merely tracing the Strings to See what possible outcomes there could be to alerting the authorities to the problem that is Madam Umbridge."

"So… you just staring off into space with your eyes all glazed over is normal?" bubbled Lavender. Luna nodded yes, "Wow. That's impressive. I've heard of Seers, this school even has one as the Divination Professor but to see it in action is incredible! You can actively trigger the Trance?" Luna pulled back a bit from the onslaught of questions from the curious older girl.

"Yes, I've been able to do it since I was nine years old. I suspect it was because of the Sundown Skippers that were hovering around when my mother died. They're known to enhance latent abilities." Luna replied in a strained voice.

"Sundown Skippers? I've never heard of them?" inquired Parvati gently, "Are they listed on those cards you've been creating?"

Luna hesitated briefly and took a deep breath before pursing her lips in thought, "No, and that's a good idea. I should have at least a listing of potential creatures to be made into the cards. Thank you Parvati, I shall get on that right away." She then hurriedly got up and skipped out of the room.

Neville in the meantime had watched the interactions between Luna and the others and noticed a slight tension when Lavender loaded all those questions onto the younger girl. He held his thoughts and opinions to himself. Later, he figured when everyone had calmed down, he'd question her about it.

22 November 1992

Dear Diary;

We had a visit from the Senior Undersecretary to the Minister for Magic, Delores Umbridge. Wow, what an evil woman… though by the looks of her, I'd swear there must have been an unholy…something…between one of her parents and a toad. Shudder! I don't want to think about what could've happened if she had found out that I was the one responsible for bringing the music to the school.

She scares me…

It was nearing the end of November when Neville finally approached Luna and asked her to accompany him on their first date.

"Luna? Would you like to go on a date with me this Saturday? I know a great place in Greenhouse One where we could be alone and get to know one another."

Luna smiled shyly at him before agreeing to the date and location, "I would like that Neville. Would you like me to bring my record player and something nice to listen to?"

"I think that would be lovely, good idea. So…" he rocked back and forth on his feet uncertainly, "got all your homework done? Need any help with your subjects?"

"Um…no. I think I have all my topics and homework covered. I'm…um, going to… going to check on my Flittering Fusby traps. I'll… uh, see you later," she stammered before blushing and scurrying away, her hair flowing like a golden curtain in the escape.

Neville let out a sigh before hearing Harry's voice come from behind him, "Not easy is it, Neville? Trying to be cool enough to get the girl without going overboard trying to be helpful and coming off as creepy?"

Neville shook his head sadly, "No…no, it's not. But," he perked up a bit; "I did get a date with Luna for this Saturday in Greenhouse One. I think I'll nip down to the kitchens and get a picnic basket for lunch. She's bringing her record player and some music."

"Congratulations, Neville! I'm happy for you. So what sort of things are you going to talk about? Got to keep it simple and safe, especially for a first date," Harry reminded him.

"Well, I was thinking we could talk about our lives before coming to Hogwarts, our passions and dreams for the future. I was going to ask her what living with a phoenix is like… that sort of thing."

"All good. If you get stuck for topics or have questions on how the female mind works, go see Hermione. She may offer some insights that could make your date that much more memorable. In a good way I mean," Harry said.

29 November 1992

Dear Diary;

I have… well, a date with Neville Longbottom today. I can't wait. My god, he's SOOO cute! Especially when he stammers and blushes in my presence. He's very knowledgeable about plant life. That should help with my Chocolate Snorkack cards.

The awaited Saturday arrived and when Luna awoke that morning she opened her eyes and gave a sleepy smile to the flaming red plumage of Fawkes gazing down at her from her bed's headboard.

'Good morning Luna. Did you sleep well?'

"I did, Fawkes. Thank you for asking. How have you been? I've not seen you in quite a while. Is your colony still giving you fits?" she asked politely while covering a yawn.

Fawkes trilled in an amused manner, 'Nothing so bad that I couldn't handle it. Generally, it's just the usual guff from the teenagers and chicks just old enough to start roaming around. What's this I hear of a possible courtship between yourself and Neville Longbottom?'

Luna gave a pout and a bit of a huff, "It's not a courtship, it's just a small get together in Greenhouse One. I know that we'll be on our best behavior. He's bringing lunch, I'm bringing music."

'Of course. Not a courtship then…I also heard that you had a visit from a certain unpleasant Ministry official and the school board. What happened there?'

"Oh, she's such a horrid woman! She's upset that 'someone' is spreading what she terms 'illegal and subversive muggle propaganda lies' to the students and staff here at the school. Apparently, someone tipped her off but didn't know who specifically it was that brought the music. Headmistress McGonagall believes that Umbridge is convinced that if this music were to become widespread it could lead to all sorts of 'unpleasantness that could upset the delicate nature of our great society.' Or some sort of baloney like that… I Saw things about her and Heard her Song. It's horrifying and truly monstrous, I don't know what I'm going to do about her."

'What do you think ought to be done with her, keeping in mind that I can't condone any sort of illegal acts.'

"Oh, I wouldn't do anything illegal. I was thinking of contacting the Director of the DMLE. She's the aunt of Susan Bones from Hufflepuff. Actually, I'm surprised that she hasn't contacted her aunt about this whole nonsense to begin with," replied Luna.

'Who else could you contact?'

Luna pondered this for a moment, "Well, I could ask Harry Potter if he still has any pull with the Department of Mysteries. Maybe they could ambush her and dig into her mind to find out what makes her tick and why. Hey! Wait a minute, I could ask you! Would you help me get rid of her?"

Fawkes gave her a phoenix version of a smirk, 'I'm sorry Luna but you know that I can't just get rid of someone in the manner you're thinking of. It would go against my nature.'

"Oh, pooh. Well…how about…Oooh! I know, how about I hold a press conference. Let everyone know up front what my goal is regarding the introduction of the music and I could have you present while you make it known that a phoenix, a creature of Light, is wholeheartedly approving of what I'm trying to accomplish?" Luna mused excitedly.

'What would that accomplish? Don't get me wrong, I'd love to help but I fail to see how my presence would be of any help.'

"Don't you see? If we play your Song while you sing or dance alongside of it. The mere fact that a phoenix cannot be corrupted by any means would signify that my endeavor is pure in nature. I could show that stress levels have fallen tremendously, people are studying and learning better, the works!"

'Hmmm… It might work. I think you would have to get together with the Headmistress and the other teachers along with a random selection of students to figure out the details of this idea. In the meantime, I think you should get up and ready for your 'not courtship' activity.'

Luna wrinkled her nose cutely and grinned at him, "Of course."

Luna and Neville spent the afternoon relaxing in a charming spot in Greenhouse One. It was partially shaded by large leafed plants and was carpeted by soft grass. There was a small stream and waterfall nearby. A couple of chirping birds completed the tranquil scene.

Luna had set up her record player and had the Song ' Claire de Lune' by Debussy playing quietly as they ate their lunch and talked about inconsequential things.

"So Luna, how are those Chocolate Snorkack Cards coming along?" Neville asked.

"So far, pretty good. I've completed the first batch of the Common set. They will consist of Pixies, Cats, Dogs, Rats, Owls, Flobberworms and other single X creatures. I have a couple of Rare and Very Rare cards ready for inclusion as well."

"How many of each in a pack?" he asked curiously.

"I'm thinking that each Chocolate Snorkack pack ought to have the two cards plus the chocolate creature. Each pack will have a random selection of the Common set and the occasional Rare or Very Rare card."

"Mm-hmm. I think that's a good idea. How are you going to mass produce or advertise them?"

"I was planning on word of mouth for the first couple of months as well as advertisements in my daddy's paper The Quibbler. I will be talking to the serious collectors here in the castle to get their inputs as well as any insights they may have for improvements. Initial testing was favorable so I want to get into production soon. I don't know whom I want to make them for me. I obviously can't go to the people who make the Chocolate Frog cards," Luna explained.

"Try talking to Harry Potter about manufacturing capabilities. His former primary school teacher is now the manufacturing head at the company that makes his Potioneer's Assistant. He might be able to help." Luna nodded thoughtfully.

There was a short silence as they continued to eat and collect their thoughts.

"There was something else I wanted to ask you but I'm afraid as to how you might take it," Neville began nervously and dropped his eyes.

Luna tilted her head and gazed at him with her protuberant silvery eyes, "You want to know why I use imaginary creatures in a conversation?"

Neville's eyes snapped up and locked on hers, "Y-you're not upset are you?"

She smiled at him shyly before reaching out and taking his hand in hers, "No Neville. I'm not upset. I'm actually touched that you care about me enough to worry about it. Well… the reason why I use them is merely for defensive purposes. If I throw one of them into a conversation, it gets people to stop long enough for me to either change the subject or to get away from the situation that causes me to be uncomfortable."

Neville looked at his hand in hers before returning his gaze to her eyes, "I'm glad that it's nothing serious."

"So! Anything new in the world of Neville Longbottom?" she asked brightly as she changed the subject.

The two of them slid into topics of Herbology where it was clear that Neville had his first true love.