Disclaimer: I do not own Sailor Moon or Harry Potter.

Awakening of the Blood Moon 7

House Hopping

Reenie stared out at the sea of faces, some were unreadable and blank and others were shocked to disbelief. Assiah looked crushed. Unable to continue looking at Assiah, Reenie looked down. Professor Dumbledore approached the other staff members at the table. A couple of seconds later, Dumbledore returned to Reenie and removed the hat. Reenie looked at him but remained on the stool. Professor Dumbledore was smilingthe only person in the Great Hall who was able to possess a smile at the time.

Since the Sorting Hat is unable to sort you, Professor Dumbledore said brightly, you are free to choose whichever house you want.

Reenie looked at the four tables. Let her decide? She didnt know where she wanted to go. She didnt think she belonged in any of them. She wasnt brave enough for Gryffindor, or honest enough for Hufflepuff. She was perhaps even too smart for Ravenclaw and she was ambitious, but she as ambitious as those roamed in Slytherin? If the Sorting Hat couldnt decide where she should go, how should Reenie do it?

Professor, Reenie said, Im not sure which house I want to be in.

I see, said Professor Dumbledore said, nodding. Then you can be a guest in each house for a week until you make up your mind.

There were whispers among the students. Never before in Hogwarts history has a student been in more than one house. A Slytherin has always been a Slytherin; a Gryffindor and Gryffindor and the same went to the other houses. Was it a good idea to let Professor Dumbledore give a student that privilege? What if Reenie gave the secrets of one house to another?

All right, said Reenie, looking at the tables from left to right. She could start with Gryffindor and work her way to Slytherin. As her eyes fell on the Slytherin table, she thought of their reputation. She knew how the students ere in that house and she knew she would eventually have to go spend her week there. She didnt want to think that was the place she belonged, but she really wont know unless she tried it.

Ill start this week with Slytherin and get it over with, she muttered, standing up and going to the Slytherin table. She made a first year on the end move so she could sit down.

Reenie will spend a week in each house until she decides which one she wants to stay with, Dumbledore told the Great Hall. I expect that you each treat her as one of your own as she stays with you. Now then

The bare tables now had dozens and dozens of plates and bowls and platters and cups of food and drink. Reenie scanned the table, trying to decide what she wanted to eat. The food she ate in Crystal Tokyo was different. Even after Neo Queen Serenity had used the crystal to unfreeze the Earth, it still hadnt returned exactly how it was before. Certain plants could not grow, causing new and foreign plants to spring up. The animals had adapted to the new Earth and some were no longer used as food. Reenie was back at a time to eat food she rememberedand loved.

Reenie put a slab of roast beef on her plate with roasted potatoes, boiled potatoes, carrots and other vegetables and gravy. She ate without speaking to those around her. She had nothing to say and there was nothing they could to say that would interest hershe already knew more about Hogwarts than they did. The Slytherins didnt speak a word to her. Not only were they too afraid of her, but they thought Slytherin was much too good for her. Something about her was scary and threatening. They had never seen a girl with bubblegum hair up with pigtails trialing from cone-shaped buns. Though she was dressed in black Hogwarts robes, she did not look like a Hogwarts student whatsoever. The image of the girl in ripped clothing covered in bruises and blood still stuck in their minds. They dared not ask where she was from. It was obvious she came right from a battle. They could tell by the way she avoided eye contact, that she didnt want to talk to anyone either.

Draco sat a few spaces away from Reenie and he was eyeing her from his spot. When she had come to Hogwarts for the first time, he joked about her appearance and she embarrassed him by telling him to shut up or Ill kill you. Draco was going to get her back for such tongue. No one spoke to him like that and got away with itespecially some girl in a bizarre costume. He was going to make her week in Slytherin hell.

Crabbe, Goyle, Draco said, motioning his two fat and stupid friends to move to him. Dumbledore wants us to make her feel welcome. So well make her feel welcome.

Should we make up her bed? said Crabbe.

Draco shook his head. Nowell make sure shell never want to be in Slytherin. She doesnt belong in this house. Well give her the royal treatment.

Even when desert plates appeared on the tables, no one dared to speak to her. The Hufflepuff first years Assiah sat with observed the Slytherins' behavior.

Your sisters scary, said Robert Brown, a first year with light brown hair and glasses. No ones talking to her.

Reenies not scary, Assiah told him. She can be really nice. People just think shes scary because the way she looked when we arrived here on Halloween. Hogwarts will love her as much people did back at home.

Even though Assiah spoke fondly of Reenie, her housemates still disagreed with her. They were worried how Reenie would be when it became Hufflepuffs week to house the scary girl with pink hair.

When dinner was over, Reenie followed her housemates to the dungeon in silence. So, what year are you supposed to be in? A first year? Pansy Parkinson asked Reenie nastily and a few girls whispered at Reenie, both egging her on and begging her to stop.

Wait, she looks angry, said one girl.

Reenie glared at Pansy. Im not a first year. Im a sixth year. And I bet I probably know more about magic than you ever willso be careful not to piss me off.

Why you--?

She walked away from Pansy and onto the Slytherin Common Room. Reenie was not going to the Slytherins or anyone get the best of her. If anyone was stupid enough to cross her, it was likely to be the last thing they ever would do. However, for a week, Reenie was going to stay with some seriously stupid people. They did not know that they were housing possibly the most powerful girl in the world.

Sleep didnt come quickly for Reenie. She had slept enough in the Hospital Wing the last couple of days. As her housemates slept, she laid in bed thinking about her past. She thought about the way things were when she still lived in Crystal Tokyo. When she felt her eyes tearing up, she shook her head and willed herself not to think of such things. Her friends and her lover was dead. Right now she had to think about Hogwarts and keeping herself out of trouble. She eventually drifted off to sleep, but it wasnt peaceful.

Reenie was standing in a dark, cold, and stony dungeon. At the far end of the dungeon was a giant cage. Curious, she walked toward it. From inside the cage were strange noises, grunts and growls. Was the creature inside the dungeon some poor beast someone caught and threw in the cage? Or was it a dangerous monster?

When Reenie got within five feet of the cage, there was a loud roar and the creature inside slammed against the bars. Reenie screamed and fell back. She gazed up at the cage, trying to see what was behind the bars but it was so dark she couldnt make the creature out. All she could tell was the creatures body had a humanoid shape with wings.

Whats in there? Reenie wondered aloud.

Its not time for you to find out yet, said a voice behind her. Reenie turned to see Wicked Lady coming out of the shadows. Reenie jumped to her feet.

What are you doing here? Reenie demanded.

I have no where else to go, Wicked Lady said simply. So I stay within your mind.

My mother used the crystal on you, said Reenie.

So? Wicked Lady said. That may have stopped me temporarily, Reenie, but when you got angry when you were fighting the Riders of Gotterdammerung, you woke me up again. And it feels good to be awake after so long!

What are you planning? Reenie asked.

Just some unfinished business, she said simply.

Killing my friends and family? Reenie demanded. Well, too late! Chaos killed everyone! Only my parents are left and who knows how long they will survive!

Yes, thats right, said Wicked Lady. They sent you here because you were too weak to save your friends! If you kept the power Wiseman gave you, you may have saved them!

Shut up! Im not weak! Reenie snarled, pointing at Wicked Lady. And if I have kept that power, I would have ended up killing my friends! You are a liar!

Foolish girl, said Wicked Lady. You have no friends. You do not need friends. Love is nothing but an illusion.

Enough, Reenie hissed. What do you know? Why are you here? Why cant you leave me alone?

Because Im part of you, Reenie, said Wicked Lady, walking calmly around her and Reenie stepped to keep her in her sights. Besides, with everyone you know and love dead, whos going to keep you company? she laughed. Dont worry, Reenie. You still have meIm not going anywhere. I will remain in your mind. When someone threatens you again, Ill come out and they will be sorry.

No, no, Reenie said. When I let you out the last time, you killed the Riders of Gotterdammerung and we hurt that anima-mate.

They had it coming, Wicked Lady said simply. They killed all your friends. It was your duty to avenge them.

Vengeance is not the sailor way! Reenie shouted. That was not what we were taught! We are to fight for love and justice. We fight for our friends and our loved ones. We fight with honorany other way would make usmurderers.

Everyone you loved is dead, Wicked Lady told Reenie, taking a step toward her. And everything you believed in is gone. What more is there to fight for besides vengeance? You really consider yourself a sailor scout, Reenie? You are not like the others. You have a dark side.

No, said Reenie, th-thats not true!

It is true, Wicked Lady said. Where do you think I came from? You think I was created by Wiseman? No, you stupid girl. You were the one who created me! Wicked Lady pointed at her other side. You created me long, long before you met Wiseman.

No, you lie! Reenie shouted.

You created me when you were still a child, because of your loneliness, your guilt, your pain and your jealousy. Remember how the other children teased you because you were so small? Remember how much you wanted to be a lady like your mother? Remember how you just wanted to show them, Reenie? Make them regret their words?

II never thought that, Reenie said. Never!

We all have a dark side, Reenie, Wicked Lady insisted. Only sometimes, people are too scared to show them. If you dont want me to wreak havoc again, Reenie, you had better be careful not to lose your temper. Theres no telling what Ior should I sayyou might do.

The creature in the cage roared and shook on the bars. It scared Reenie but it didnt scare Wicked Lady. On the contrary, Wicked Lady went over to the cage.

Patience, patienceyoull be let out soon enough.

What, what are you doing? Reenie questioned, stepping back. Are you crazy? That thing is dangerous!

Of course its dangerous, said Wicked Lady. Its been caged in here for so longwouldnt you be?

Whats in there anyway? What is that thing? Reenie demanded.

You cant know until you decide to let it out, Wicked Lady told Reenie. But youre too never let it out, will you?

Dont call me weak! Reenie exclaimed. Im a Sailor Scout and Im the princess of Crystal Tokyo. I have more power than you can imagine!

Hmm, maybe you do, said Wicked Lady. But youre far too scared to use it, so you never will. Do yourself a favor, and watch the Slytherins carefully as you spend this week with them.

Why should I? Reenie demanded.

Because you may find that you are more like them than you realize, said Wicked Lady. They are devious, ambitious and they are alone. They cannot count on the other houses, can they? Youre just the same, Reenie. You are alone.

Reenie took each day in Slytherin House as it came. She was glad she decided to get Slytherin out of the way first. It wasnt easy living with the Slytherins, eating with them and studying with them. They didnt lift a finger to help her and they didnt make an effort to speak kindly to her. They left cruel notes for her and if she had not put a securing spell on her belongings, they most likely would have ruined her books and replaced her ink with blood or cat urine. She knew they were untrustworthy so she was always on her guard.

However, the Slytherins couldnt compare to their head of House. Snape was worse. When Professor Snape looked at her, she could tell he was trying to invade her mind with legilimecy. Reenie taught herself Occulmency long ago to prevent her enemies from reading her thoughts and thus predicting her moves. It was difficult. It required much concentration. It was hard to clear her mind when she was trying to devise an attack plan at the same time.

He tried to put her on the spot by testing her skills at unspoken spells. Unknown to him and the rest of the class, she was perfect at performing spells without having to utter a word. He nearly awarded her points for her achievement, but he did not view her as a true Slytherin yet. She still seemed untrustworthy. He was convinced she was an evil creation in an innocent package from the Dark Lord, sent to kill Dumbledore or Harry Potter.

It was her last Defense Against the Dark Arts lesson as a Slytherin and he wanted to put her on the spot one more time. He asked her to perform something incredibly hard: a Patronus charm. When Reenie had arrived, she looked like the person who had not a day of happiness in her entire life. He was certain that she would only perform a pathetic Patronus of smoke, if any Patronus at all. She proved him wrong when she remembered her happiest moment. Her thought was so clear that the entire room of students disappeared and she went back to a grassy meadow in Crystal Tokyo. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply, savoring the memory. She could remember exactly what she was wearing, a pink dress and she could remember how warm the air was. She could smell everything in the air. In front of her was a smiling handsome silver-haired man holding a silver ring with a diamond the shape of a heart.

Reenie, youve always been the girl of my dreams. Will you marry me and make my dreams come true?

Oh Helios! Your dreams will be my dreams!

Reenie opened her eyes and though she could no longer see the meadow or smell the sweet flowery air, the feeling was still strong. She was ready to blow Professor Snape and the students away with her unbeatable Patronus.

EXPECTO PATRONUM!

The dark room became washed in silvery light as a huge winged horse came out of Reenies wand and flew about the room. Harry couldnt help but clap. It was better than the Patronus he had used to repel the dementors back in his third year. The Patronus was so bright it was as if she summoned the moon in the room. It took a moment until the light faded.

Is there anything else you would like me to demonstrate, Professor Snape? Reenie inquired looking at her temporary Head of House without one shred of fear.

No, Miss Shields, said Snape, that is all.

Reenie nodded and went to her seat. Harry grinned and leaned to Ron.

I cant wait until she comes to Gryffindor, he said.

Harry was the only person gutsy enough to stand up to Professor Snape until Reenie came along. It was amazing how she was so fearless. She ought to be able to teach Neville a few things.

Reenie was eating dinner quietly at the table and Draco took a moment to bother her. Well, your week with us is over. I cant say well miss you.

You wont be missed either, Malfoy, Reenie said, munching on her food.

Crabbe chuckled and Draco glared at him. Crabbe looked away.

Draco leaned toward her, his hands on the table. Reenie kept her eyes at her plate. He was beginning to get under her skin. He was always sniggering at her and making snide remarks. She did her best to ignore it but it was difficult that they shared the same common room. I trust that you wont be coming back to Slytherin. You dont belong here.

Its not up to you where I belong, is it? Reenie demanded. Now if you excuse me, Id like to finish my dinner and youre making it difficult.

Only Draco would not stop. You never told us where youre from, Shields. How come you came to Hogwarts looking like your house blew up? I would think that youd at least take a moment to clean up before coming to is that just how your mother dressed you?

Notanotherword! Reenie hissed, turning her face to him, her eyes beginning to glow.

Get him, Reenie, said a voice in her mind. Make him pay. He has no right to talk to you that way. Get rid of him.

No, thought Reenie. Hes just being a bully. I will not waste my energy on him.

Draco laughed. Aw, so you were brought up in a dump, werent you? Your family couldnt take care of you and thats why youre in Hogwarts? Well, Hogwarts is not a place for orphans, little girl and you should

Dont let him humiliate you, Reenie! Make him pay!

Reenies hand twitched and her mouth bore down a sneer. Then suddenly, Draco Malfoy was lifted in the air and thrown hard against the wall. His body smacked hard against it and he slid down. There was an imprint in the wall shaped like Dracos body. The Slytherins were on their feet, staring at Draco Malfoy. Pansy Parkinson screamed and the other students looked at Draco Malfoy in surprise.

Reenie stood up, breathing hard and clenching her hands into fists. The voice in her mind was laughing.

That was wonderful! We showed him not to mess with us, Reenie! Look at how scared everyone is of you!

Huh? said Reenie.

Once Reenie realized what she had done, she was out of the Great Hall in a flash. She had just performed wandless magic on another student. She knew that when witches and wizards could perform magic when they were angered or frightened, but Reenies abilities succeeded that of a witch. Reenie could do much more things and if anyone figured out what she could do, it was possible that she would be expelled from Hogwarts. Reenie went to the Slytherin girl dormitories, changed out of her Slytherin House robes and placed on Ravenclaw robes. She decided not to sleep with the Slytherins tonight after what she had done. Reenie left her Slytherin robes on her bed and then hurried out of the common room before anyone got back. She wasnt afraid of what they would do to her. She was more frightened of what she might do to them. After the dreams she had been having about Wicked Lady and the mysterious beast inside the cage, Reenie didnt trust herself anymore. Ever since the war, Reenie felt something change inside of her. She never felt quite the same and she wondered if she ever would.

Reenie went to the hallway where the Ravenclaw tower was. Because she not know the entrance to the Ravenclaw dormitories, she could not go in or she would already be lying in a new bed. Eventually a group of Ravenclaws came up for the night. They gasped and backed away in shock when they spotted Reenie.

Im starting my week in Ravenclaw now, Reenie told them.

Oh, all right, then, said a nervous looking third year. He eyed Reenies blue robes and his eyes rested on the bronze eagle on the front of her robes. Right, right of course. Its this way

Reenie followed the third years to the end of the hall, where there was a tapestry of a scholarly boy seated at a table.

Ceneso, said the third year and the tapestry parted, allowing them through the wall. Reenie stepped into the Ravenclaw common room. It was much cozier than the Slytherin common room. There was no low hanging ceiling and the floor had a blue and bronze-checkered carpet. There were comfortable chairs and a large table for studying.

Nice, said Reenie, walking to the chair near by the fire and patting it. She sat in the chair and pulled out a book from her bag. The other students went up to bed and left her alone. A while later, a group of Ravenclaw girls came into the common room. They were speaking about Reenie.

What kind of spell did that girl use?

I dont know. I didnt even see her pull out her wand.

Shes really scary.

When the girls spotted Reenie seated in their common room, they gasped and stopped short. Reenie looked at them over her book and without meaning to, her eyes became threatening. The girls stood frozen.

What? Reenie demanded. What are you staring at?

S-sorry, we didnt know you were here, mumbled a girl in the back.

Well, dont worry, said Reenie looking back to her book. Ill only be in Ravenclaw for a week.

The girls quietly walked up the stairs to the dormitory and as more people came into the common room and became deathly quiet when they spotted Reenie, Reenie decided to go to bed herself. She was sick of all the stares and the whispers. She had enough of them in Slytherin. She just hope that the Ravenclaws wouldnt be stupid enough to play practical jokes or she would do to them what she did to Draco Malfoy.

Though her bed was comfortable and warm, Reenie found sleep difficult. She thought moving to Ravenclaw would make a difference, but the dreams would not stop. She dreamed about the war and about Wicked Lady. She saw it great detail what Wicked Ladyknowwhat she did to her friends. She helped the enemy and she fought against her friends. No matter what Sailor Moon or the others said or did, it made no difference. Reenie still tried to destroy them. How could she let Wiseman do this to her? She felt like she was sinking into darkness and there was no one there to save her. She called out to her parents, to Helios and to the sailor scouts but no one came.

You cant defeat the darkness, Reenie, said Wicked Lady. So you might as well embrace it.

Stop, said Reenie, stop.

Reenie put her hands to her ears. Im not dark. Im not. Im a sailor scout. I have a pure heart.

Pure heart? said Wicked Lady, laughing as she flew to Reenies face. Would someone with a pure heart do this?

And before Reenies eyes, she saw what she had done to the Riders of Gotterdammerung all over again. It was nothing a Sailor Scout would do. She saw herself torturing Sailor Bismuth Hare and not letting up until Sailor Cobalt Wanako begged her to. Then she saw what she had done just hours ago. She saw the damage she had done to Draco Malfoy.

Wicked Lady howled with laughter. Ah, look how far he flewlook at his face. He mustve flipped three times in a see it again, shall we?

And as if Reenie were watching a movie, Wicked Lady continued to show Draco Malfoy flying. Reenie begged her to stop. She closed her eyes but she kept seeing her toss Malfoy into the air without even moving her a finger.

I lost my temper. I didnt mean to do that. I didnt even think it. I just wanted him to leave me alone.

He just need a little nudge, said Wicked Lady dismissively. If the fool is smart, hell think twice before annoying you again.

Youyou have to get out of my head, Reenie said. I dont want to hurt anymore people. I just want to live in peace. Pluto sent me here so I could be safe but if lose my temper and throw all the students around, the ministry of magic may find out and theyll know Im not a normal witch! Chaos is still out there and she may find me!

Let her find you, said Wicked Lady. Im not going anywhere, Reenie. Im staying right here in your pretty pink head. Wicked Lady tapped Reenies head and Reenie growled, slapping her hand away and backing up.

Ill find a way to get rid of you, said Reenie.

Youre welcome to try, said Wicked Lady. But youll give into me, Reenie. Im the only one who understands you.

The next morning Dumbledore sent for her during a Transfiguration lesson. Great, Reenie muttered to herself as she walked to Dumbledores office. Im busted.

She muttered the password (Acid Pops) to the gargoyle and once it moved, she stepped onto the front step of the spiraling staircase. It brought her up outside the door of Dumbledores office. She knocked on it gently.

Its me, Professor, said Reenie. Serena Shields.

Ah, do come in, Serena, the Headmaster voiced.

Reenie turned the knob and walked into the circular room. She approached his desk.

You sent for me, Professor? Reenie inquired.

Yes, I wanted to talk to you about your behavior regarding Draco Malfoy, said Dumbledore.

He provoked, me, Professor, Reenie said at once. I got angry and he justflew across the room. I swear I didnt pull my wand on him. I understand that wizards and witches perform magic involuntary when pushed to the limitthats all that happened, really.

I know, said Dumbledore, but the magic you performed was a bit more than what happens when one is angry. It was quite severe.

Yes, well, I have told you, Professor, Reenie said, I am not an ordinary witch. I can perform wandless magic, just as many people from my world can. Only, Ive never used it quite like this before.

Reenie gulped. She didnt use her wandless magic often when out of her sailor form. She never had a reason too. When she was in battles, she always fought as a sailor scout because her power was stronger now. She had used up much of her sailor power in the war, she wondered if she would be able to transform again. She hoped she wouldnt have to because she was sick of fighting.

Perhaps it would be best if I train you to control your wandless magic abilities, said Dumbledore said.

No offense sir, said Reenie, but the witches and wizards from my time are much moreprogressed and there really isnt anything you can teach me.

Oh, you may be surprised, said Dumbledore. A few accomplished wizards can do a little wandless magicand I happen to be one of them.

Thanks, but I just need to work on controlling my temper, said Reenie. And Im sure you have much more things to worry about than teaching me manners.

Very well, said Dumbledore, if there is another incident where you perform wandless magic then I must train you.

Wellall right, Reenie said hesitantly.

Before I let you go, there is one more thing I would like you to do for me, said Dumbledore.

Yes?

You must apologize to Draco Malfoy.

Reenie gasped. But hes the one who should apologize to me! He was telling me awful things about me and my familyand he doesnt know a damn thing about me!

Yes, but you were the one who threw him across the Great Hall in the middle of dinner last night, said Dumbledore.

Reenie groaned and looked down. When he put it that way, it was hard to argue with him. Oh, all right.

Dumbledore walked with Reenie to the hospital wing. When the bandaged Draco saw her coming, he gasped and pretended to be asleep.

Not to worry, Draco, said Dumbledore. Theres no need for you to pretend to be sleeping. Serena has not come here to manhandle you again.

Draco opened his eyes and looked at Reenie. Reenie slowly raised her face to Dracos. Im sorry, she whispered.

What? Draco asked.

Im sorry for throwing you ten feet into the air and making you hit a wall, said Reenie, the words tasting like vomit in her mouth. I didnt mean to hurt you. I just lostcontrol.

Draco grinned smugly and Reenie almost wanted to fling him again.

Is there something you would like to tell her, Draco? the Headmaster asked.

Oh, apology accepted, Serena, said Draco Malfoy.

Reenie and Dumbledore remained standing. Dumbledore cleared his throat and Reenie folded her arms, looking down at Draco expectantly. Draco sighed.

Yes, er, sorry for the things I said about you, said Draco. It was hard for him to apologize. He didnt do it often.

Well then, said Dumbledore, that settles things. Get better Draco. Serena, you may return to class.

For the week Reenie spent Ravenclaw, she mentally corrected the mistakes her classmates made in class. She didnt voice their mistakes often, only when they seemed obvious that they were wrong. Professor Flitwick was impressed with her knowledge and her ability to perform the hardest spells in Charms.

Well done, dear, said Flitwick, after Reenie did a perfect Protean charm on a ball. Ten points.

Thank you, sir, smiled Reenie. She was happy that one of the professors didnt give her a hard time in class. Reenie felt as if she would get used to being a Ravenclaw and he treated her kindly. However, Reenie felt as if she did not belong in Ravenclaw. She was smart, but not in the same way as the Ravenclaws were. The reason why she knew so much and she was so talented was because she was hundreds of years older than them and she was from the future. Another reason why she didnt feel so comfortable in Ravenclaw was because it reminded her so much of Ami, Sienna, Helios and the wise people she knew at Crystal Tokyo. She didnt want to be reminded of anyone.

When her Ravenclaw week was over, she moved onto live with the Hufflepuffs. Assiah was excited to have Reenie in her house. It reminded her of the times in Crystal Tokyo. Though Assiah was in good spirits about it, Reenie wasnt. Reenie could hardly stand her and it just made it harder when Reenie tried to have a lie in and Assiah would jump on her bed and ask her to play. Assiah tried to get Reenie to talk to her friends and tell them stories. Reenie had to keep reminding her that they were not to tell them anything about Crystal Tokyo.

Quit telling everyone Im your sister, Reenie muttered to Assiah in the common room while everyone else was sleep.

Its too late, Reenie, said Assiah. Everyone knows. We cant lie about it.

You lied in the first place! Reenie said.

I had to tell them something, Assiah insisted.

Reenie groaned. Finewhateverjust dont tell them anything about Crystal Tokyo or where were from. You havent, had you?

Assiah shook her head. No, I just told everyone we came from a very nice place.

Well, that works, said Reenie with a shrug. Remember, they are not to know about Crystal Tokyo. Let me do the talking, understand?

Assiah nodded and Reenie went up to bed. Reenie couldnt wait until the week was over.

Like Professor Flitwick, Professor Sprout was kind and patient with Reenie. Because Reenies sister Assiah was already in Hufflepuff and was such a delight in her House, Professor Sprout decided to give Reenie a chance. She was impressed with Reenies knowledge of magical plants and how to take care of them.

Youre just like your sister, Miss Shields, said Professor Sprout.

Excuse me? Reenie demanded, feeling sick in her stomach.

You and Assiah are excellent with plants, Professor Sprout added.

Oh, yes, Reenie said, we had a garden. Our mother loved plants. She forced a smile that seemed to hurt. She couldnt believe Professor Sprout compared her to Assiah. Just like your sister. The woman didnt know what she was talking about. Assiah and Reenie were nothing alike.

Hufflepuff reminded Reenie too much of Mina, Michelle, Ceres and the mage of Spring, Mei. Most of all, it reminded Reenie of Serena. Serena was always trusting and loyal and she gave everyone a chance. Reenie did not want to go down memory lane. She just wanted to be in a place where she could focus on getting stronger, so that when Pluto came to get her, Reenie would be ready to jump back into war. Even though Reenie was sick of fighting, she wanted to make up for her poor efforts in the war. She wanted to avenge the deaths of her friends and loved ones. She felt like she couldnt get stronger in Hufflepuff. She wasnt even able to concentrate on her homework in the Common Rom with Assiah there. Reenie wondered how she didnt get on the nerves of the other Hufflepuffs. However, the Hufflepuffs found it easier to talk to Reenie when Assiah was around. Unfortunately, Reenie did not feel like talking to them. She didnt want to make any friends. In her mind, she knew she wasnt going to be in Hogwarts very long so she didnt see the point in trying to make friends. They wouldnt remember her anyway. No one really wanted to be Reenies friends. They were only trying to make an effort because Dumbledore told them to and they wanted to look good in front of Assiah.

As Reenie sat in a corner of the common room, reading Advanced Potion Making, Justin Finch-Fletchy approached her.

Hi, Serena, he mumbled. You seemed to know a lot about the moon in astronomy today. Could youprobably help me with my homework?

Reenie raised an eyebrow. He as asking her help on something so simple as the moon? Wouldnt the Moon be something the astronomy teacher spoke about in the first lesson? Did Professor Sinstra know how to teach? Did she start talking about black holes before talking about the moon?

Sure, Justin, said Reenie, Im surprised thoughthe moon is a very simple topic. Its easier to learn about it than the other planetary bodies.

Yes, I know that it orbits the Earth and I know about the phases, said Justin, but you seem to know more about the Moon than Professor Sinstra.

Reenie grinned. Justin was right, but Reenie couldnt exactly tell him why. Yes, well, the moon is very, fascinating.

What do you know about the different moon names for each month? Justin Finch-Fletchy pointed to a section in his book. Why do you think November is called the month of the Beaver Moon? I havent seen any beavers this month, have you?

Beavers? Reenie asked, laughing. Some of the Hufflepuffs stopped their conversation and looked at Reenie. They have never seen Reenie laugh before. The atmosphere in the common room changed slightly and they began to warm up to the mysterious pink haired girl. Perhaps Assiah was right about Reenie being a good person.

IIm not sure, Reenie said. I think maybe because beavers hibernate and November is the month they eat a lot of bark and make dams.

Oh, I guess that makes sense, said Justin, rubbing his curly haired head.

But Beaver Moon is what the Native American Indians call November. Another term used is Hunter Moon because people start hunting for the winter.

Justin nodded and smiled. Yeah, that makes better sense. Justin looked back down at his chart of moon months.

Hey, last month was the month of the Blood Moon, Justin said, that seems appropriate, since October thirty-first is Halloween.

Er, yes, thats true, Reenie said softly. It was also the day I arrived to Hogwarts. And I was covered in blood too.

Yeah, thats right, said Justin.

Well, does that help at all, Justin? Reenie inquired. I feel a bit tired.

Huh? said Justin. Oh yeah, sure. I dont think there will be anything on our NEWTs about the different months of the moon.

Reenie climbed the stairs to her bed, took off her black and yellow Hufflepuff robes and put on her pajamas. The moon months she and Justin spoke about were heavy on her mind. She never really paid attention to the phenomenon much. They didnt use it in Crystal Tokyo. However, something about the words Blood Moon stuck in her mind. Why was October called the month of the blood moon? Was Halloween part of it? And why did Reenie arrive at Hogwarts on the night of Halloween?

She pondered these until she fell asleep. She kept hearing the same phrase, spoken by a woman. The voice was dark and high and slightly familiar but she couldnt recall who it was. All she could tell was that it wasnt Wicked Lady. Reenie was dreaming about her lately that she memorized the sound of her voice. The womans voice that was speaking now was not like Wicked Lady at all.

Someone from the Moon Kingdom would fall. It will be the Awaking of the Blood Moon. The other side of the moon would reveal itself and the moon shall no longer reflect light, but cast shadows.

The woman repeated the message until Reenie woke up. What did it all mean?

Following the Hufflepuff week, Reenie went into Gryffindor. Gryffindor reminded her so much of Lita and Raye and Sailor Juno that she thought she saw them every time she walked into the Gryffindor Common Room.

Professor McGonagall was a lot like Snape. Though Reenie did well in her class, McGonagall watched her closely and didnt award her points when she did something right. Clearly Professor McGonagall did not trust her anymore than Snape did. During one Transfiguration lesson, Professor McGonagall was teaching the class Conjuring Spells. It was very advanced and so far, no one could do it. It was simple for Reenie. Conjuring items was something she did all the time when she was younger. She had to rely on her kitty magic ball to create objects. The students began with conjuring small items, such as water glasses and quills.

Miss Shields, said Professor McGonagall. Kindly demonstrate a conjuring spell for us.

Ronald Weasley yawned loudly from the back. Ironically, Rons loud yawn gave Reenie an idea of what to conjure.

AgvravoCogo! a large mattress with a red bedspread appeared in the middle of the room. Everyone, including Professor McGonagall was impressed. Reenie turned to Ron, putting her wand into her into her robes.

Youre welcome to use the bed Ron, she said, if youre still tired.

Ron was surprised with her skill that it woke him right up. Following transfiguration, Reenie went to potions. It was a long time since Reenie made a potion so she did not do well. When Reenie first arrived to the twentieth century, she brought some potions to use on Serenas family and friends and they worked just as she expected them to. However, when Reenie became a sailor scout, she did not need the use of potion making anymore. She followed the instructions in her book but she had to guess what ingredient was what. She was too proud to ask anyone for help. She used to be brilliant at this. She just needed to take the time to remember what everything was. Then Professor Slughorn did something Reenie was not expecting.

Harry, mboy, youre such a natural at Potions, he said, would you mind giving Reenie a hand with her potion?

Sure, Professor, said Harry with a shrug as he grabbed his book and potion making equipment, all the while as Reenie tried to protest.

Oh, no sir, thanks but I can do quite well on my on, Reenie said.

Its just until you get the hang of it, my dear, Slughorn insisted, waving his hand. Potion making can be quite difficult and frustrating.

But said Reenie but it was too late. Harry was already at her side and setting up the items they were going to use for their potion. She looked at Harry.

Really, you dont have to help, she said.

Actually, Im not the one going whos going to help you, whispered Harry with a grin. He opened his book that once belonged to the Half-Blood Prince. Im just going to introduce you to a friend of mineThe Half-Blood Prince. I didnt even know how to boil water until I got this book.

Wow, said Reenie, flipping through the pages. Incredible!

Just dont tell anyone, all right? Harry asked. I dont want anyone to think Im cheating or anything. He glanced at Hermione, who was determinedly trying to make a potion the right way.

Reenie grinned back at him. My lips are sealed.

Thanks.

And besides, I wouldnt call it cheating, Harry, said Reenie, Id say youve got your own private potion tutor.

Draco Malfoy glowered at Reenie as she got chummy with Harry Potter. He knew it was a matter of time until Harry tried to make friends with the new girl. It was just as well. He hoped she stayed in Gryffindor because Slytherin was no place for her.

Reenie walked with the Gryffindors to the Gryffindor table for dinner. She had two more days left in Gryffindor. She wasnt quite sure if this was the house for her. Did she really consider herself a Gryffindor? While Reenie was eating her dinner and conversing with the Gryffindors, she was interrupted by Pansy Parkinson.

Well, Shields, you look like youre enjoying yourself, Pansy hissed.

Reenie rolled her eyes and twisted in her seat. What do you want?

A midnight duel.

Reenie laughed derisively. A midnight duel? What the devil for?

What do you think? You hurt my Draco!

Reenie glanced over to the Slytherin table. Draco was eating and he looked to be well for someone who most likely had every bone broken.

Hes fine, said Reenie, and I already apologized.

You embarrassed him in front of the whole school! exclaimed Pansy.

Reenie laughed. Oooh, are you suggesting that I should have dueled Draco instead of just slamming him against the wall like I did? In a Slytherins mouth, wouldnt that be a Gryffindor-like thing to say?

The Gryffindors laughed and Pansy gasped. She attempted to hold her ground. Just meet me at the third floor corridor at midnight and dont be late.

Why wait for midnight? Reenie questioned, rising from her seat. No time like the present. Lets do it now. Besides, midnight duels are so overrated.

Now? Pansy asked. Here?

Here? Oh, no, said Reenie, shaking her head. Some people are still eating you seelets go take this outside.

Oh, er, I well, mumbled Pansy.

Pansy, no, whispered one of Pansys friends.

Whats the matter, Pansy? Reenie grinned. Not chicken, are you? I thought the duel was your idea.

Of course it was! Pansy said. Im not afraid of you. Youre going to regret hurting my Draco!

All right then, after you, said Reenie, motioning Pansy to go ahead before her. Reenie followed Reenie and some of the Gryffindors scrambled out of their seats to go watch Reenie duel Pansy. Judging what Reenie did to Draco, the duel was going to be quite exciting.

TO BE CONTINUED