Disclaimer: I do not own Ranma ½ or Harry Potter.
Author's Notes: Gomen nasai... I know this is taking forever and a day. I'm slowly getting there... hopefully SD will be finished eventually. I'm getting to the point where I could be focusing strictly on Ranma and Hikari, maybe. Anyways, on to Hogwarts and the first part of the first year, and whatever I choose to do with it.
"I'm trying my best, but my best is no longer good enough, I'm sorry."
Magical Destiny Chapter 6
Harry quickly got his robes out, Ron doing the same. Putting them on, they went outside the train to see Hagrid calling all the first years to follow him. Harry turned to see if he could find Ranma, Nabiki, and Kim. Ranma was right behind him. "Go on. We're supposed to go this way. We'll see you in the castle."
Harry nodded and waved, heading over to the boats, Ron following. They got into one of the boats, followed by Hermione and Neville, who still hadn't found his toad. Hermione sat next to Ron, who looked a bit annoyed, and Neville took the remaining spot next to Harry. Harry raised an eyebrow at Hermione who just shrugged, and sat back happily.
Harry decided to ignore it and looked ahead, seeing the castle starting to get bigger as the boats silently moved forward. It was a grand castle, with turrets and towers everywhere. It reached high into the sky, standing proud against the darkening sky as if saying, "Come all who wish to challenge my might."
"Sugoi," Harry breathed softly, eager to begin his learning.
Ranma watched the boats head off before shutting the door to his carriage. He then turned to Kim, "Something bothers me, if I had a lot of magic power before, why didn't they contact me when I was eleven like they are doing Harry? Why wait until now?"
Nabiki shrugged, "When Kasumi and I received letters at eleven, Kasumi was able to go off for two years before mother died and father fell apart. When we expressed our concerns, we ended up taking our courses in our home late at night beneath the dojo. We would go out and visit our teachers for our examinations. Kasumi was able to keep up however, where I was not. That is why I've been allowed to study my last year here. In your case, I would guess that Genma ripped up or burned whatever letters came your way. Eventually they would've just given up and tried to seal your powers, however since Genma and you moved all the time, it was hard to pinpoint you."
"So why not just seal him at the dojo?" Kim asked, curious.
"He never used his power at the dojo. It's also probable that his former curse managed to seal it. I'm not sure," Nabiki said, brow furrowing.
Ranma shrugged, "Whatever the cause, I think I'd rather learn to use it, instead of having it sealed away."
Nabiki raised an eyebrow, "I would have thought that you would think it wasn't honorable."
Ranma snorted. "Honor is just a way to use people and turn them against you. I'll have no part of that kind of honor," he said bitterly.
Kim placed a hand on Ranma's shoulder, trying to comfort him a small bit, "It's not a good idea to let your past rule you."
Ranma did not say anything and got out of the carriage as it stopped. He moved to the front and patted something that didn't appear to be there to Kim or Nabiki, and then headed a short ways to the castle.
Kim and Nabiki exchanged confused looks before shrugging and hurrying to catch up with him. Unknown to them, an old professor watched Ranma with great interest.
"So he can see the beasts. That means he's seen death. What secrets do you hold Ranma Inverse? For I only know small bits and pieces of your life from checking in with Harry."
Professor Dumbledore then turned around to face Professor Snape. "What can I do for you Severus?"
Professor Snape's lip curled slightly, "Is it true that Potter is attending?"
Professor Dumbledore smiled, "Indeed, he has shown up right on schedule. Please try not to let your old prejudices blind you."
Professor Snape nodded and left the office, Dumbledore not far behind.
Harry stood in the hallway before the great doors slightly nervous. Hermione was muttering spells under her breath while Ron said something about wrestling a troll. 'The troll I bet I could handle,' Harry thought, 'It's the spells I'll have a problem with.'
Eventually, one of the teachers came out and fixed the group with a stern glare. "I am Professor McGonagall. You will be sorted in a few moments and join your fellow classmates at the welcoming feast. Follow me."
Neville, the scared looking boy, shivered a moment and moved slightly closer to Harry. Harry sighed, "I'm sure it won't be that bad Neville."
Neville just nodded and gulped, moving to follow Harry as he moved through the large doors. Soon they came to a halt in front of the teacher's table at the end of the grand hall. Professor McGonagall disappeared, and then reappeared with a stool and aged hat in hand. She placed the stool in front of the first years and the hat on top of it.
"Oh you may not think I'm pretty, But don't judge on what you see, I'll eat myself if you can find A smarter hat than me. You can keep your bowlers black, Your top hats sleek and tall, For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat And I can cap them all. There's nothing hidden in your head The Sorting Hat can't see, So try me on and I will tell you Where you ought to be. You might belong in Gryffindor, Where dwell the brave at heart, Their daring, nerve, and chivalry Set Gryffindors apart; You might belong in Hufflepuff, Where they are just and loyal, Those patient Hufflepuffs are true And unafraid of toil; Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw, If you've a ready mind, Where those of wit and learning, Will always find their kind; Or perhaps in Slytherin You'll make your real friends, Those cunning folk use any means To achieve their ends. So put me on! Don't be afraid! And don't get in a flap! You're in safe hands (though I have none) For I'm a thinking cap!"
The room burst into applause as the first years stared at the aged hat awed. After a moment, Professor McGonagall got their attention again and started calling out names. The first years were sorted and Harry began to get nervous, though he didn't show it. He watched as Hermione got sorted into Gryffindor and soon Neville was up. It took a while for the hat to decide for Neville but he was placed in Gryffindor as well.
Harry gulped as Professor McGonagall called his name. He walked up to the stool, senses all on alert as he sat down and put the hat on his head. The hat began muttering in his ear and Harry nearly screamed as it whispered, "You would do well in Slytherin."
'NOT SLYTHERIN!!' Harry thought frantically. He didn't want to become a dark wizard, especially since Ranma wouldn't approve. 'Not Slytherin, please not Slytherin.'
"No?" the hat asked softly, "Then it had better be GRYFFINDOR!!!"
Harry grinned as he placed the hat back on the stool, giving a silent thank you to it as he took it off. He strode over to the Gryffindor table, which was cheering loudly while the Weasley twins shouted "We got Potter! We got Potter!"
Percy shook his hand and the ghost seated at the Gryffindor table beamed at him. "Welcome to Gryffindor young Potter."
Harry shifted uncomfortably, "It's Inverse, like my brother."
The ghost gave him a strange look and Harry sighed, "I was adopted when the Dursleys abandoned me in Japan. I changed my last name so that I could be as close to real family as I can get with my adoptive brother."
"So it's Inverse now? Sir Nicholas de Mimsy at your service, Harry Inverse."
Harry gave the ghost a grin, "Pleased to meet you."
Harry turned around in time to see Ron put on the hat and be sorted into Gryffindor. Harry grinned as Ron walked over and sat next to him. "Congratulations."
Ron shrugged, "Weasleys have been in Gryffindor for ages."
Harry laughed and looked around the room, hoping to find his brother and the rest of his makeshift family. Then he noticed the hall was silent as Dumbledore stood and looked around. "First, a few start of term announcements. Yes I know I usually have those after the meal but there is a special occasion this year. We have two students from other schools attending this year, as well as an older prodigy who has manage to avoid detection of his magic for years while studying from different sources on his own. I'd like you to welcome Nabiki Tendo from Japan's Maho University, Kimberly Jennis from the Draconia School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and Ranma Inverse."
There was tumultuous applause as the three walked in the great hall and were seated at a separate table. Many of the girls could be heard swooning at Ranma's good looks and many of the guys sounded like they were trying to discuss who was hotter. Someone shouted out above the din, "Where will they be staying?"
Many of the professors rolled their eyes but Dumbledore's twinkled with mischief. "They will be staying within our hall for interns. None of you have heard of it because we have not had any interns or transfer students for a long time."
There was almost a collective snap of disappointment from the crowd. Harry shrugged, 'looks like they won't be able to visit me in my dorm. Oh well. We'll have time together, I'm sure of it.'
Dumbledore quieted the hall down again and started giving the last of the notices. "First years are asked to observe that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. Many of our older students should recognize that as well," he said, giving a glance to Fred and George Weasley.
"Also I have been asked by Mr. Filch to remind you that no magic should be used between classes in the corrider. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone interested please contact Madam Hooch."
Dumbledore's visage suddenly became stern, "And finally I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to everyone who does not wish to die a very painful death."
A few people laughed at that, but not many. Percy himself was frowning, "He usually tells us why we're not allowed to go somewhere. Everyone knows the forest is full of werewolves and the like but why not the corridor? He could have at least told us prefects."
Harry shrugged and looked up to where his brother was sitting, not looking too terribly worried. "Maybe he's got a good reason to not tell anyone," he said off handedly, "Either way, we just shouldn't go there. This secret is obviously not for us to know."
Percy gave Harry an approving look before returning his attention back to Dumbledore, whose expression was pleasant once more. "Now before we begin the feast I would like to say a few more words. Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you."
The whole room burst out cheering and clapping. Harry didn't know whether to laugh out loud or shake his head in confusion. He eventually shrugged and then looked to the plates which were now filled with the most tantalizing foods he had ever seen. Everyone began to dig in so Harry did the same refilling his plate whenever he felt. After his seventh helping, everyone was staring, all conversation forgotten until Harry sat back, a smile on his face.
"Are you starved at home Harry?" asked another first year named Seamus. Harry just raised an eyebrow and shook his head. "I have a rather high metabolism."
Seamus looked confused and Harry rolled his eyes, "It's what keeps your body moving. The higher your metabolism, the more food you need to consume so you can keep doing everything that you're used to and more. Ranma has been training me in martial arts."
The whole table seemed to lean in closer to Harry, asking questions about his life in the muggle world. Harry knew that life in Nerima was anything but ordinary for a muggle world and worse for the wizarding world. He answered questions as best he could as the deserts suddenly appeared on the plates.
After a few moments, however, stress marks began appearing on his face. Ranma looked over from where he was entertaining some of the teachers with a few stories they asked for and raised an eyebrow at his brother. 'He usually enjoys telling stories, I wonder what's wrong?'
The potions master cleared his throat, "I find it hard to believe this particular story," he said with a sneer, "Anyone with any type of magical items would have been sensed and they would have been confiscated by the wizards in Japan."
Ranma put on a pleasant smile which was more than some of the other teachers listening in could do. "Nerima is a gathering place for super powered martial artists that could do more with ki than most magic could do, at least magic as watered down as it is now."
Nabiki chuckled, "Indeed, and Ranma would know as he seen a strong magic user in action not using a wand or anything. Many wizards were afraid of coming across the Amazons or even into Nerima before them or Ranma. Besides, the citizens there, muggle or not, are so used to seeing magic that they don't know magic from muggle reality anymore. It's not hard to keep a secret from them even if you lay it out in front of them. Most are pretty dense."
Ranma nearly choked on his pumpkin juice as he tried not to laugh. Nabiki raised an eyebrow and Professor McGonagall took an interest in his reaction. "What is so funny Mr. Inverse?"
Ranma took a moment to catch his breath and form his answer. "Dense is putting it mildly. Even when people changed forms or destroyed walls with a touch, they didn't bother to think about it. It didn't penetrate that they were in danger at all, though most knew not to get involved. Nerima is the definition of strange occurrences."
Nabiki nodded but then shrugged, "That's probably why they let us study at home rather than making us go to school."
Ranma just snorted and continued eating. Kim, knowing most of this already just stayed silent until she was addressed. "So tell us about the American school."
Kim grimaced a moment before answering. It was not long before the meal was over and everyone was sent off to bed. Nabiki winked at Harry as he was ushered off and stretched after stifling a yawn. "Definitely time for bed," she commented as she followed Professor McGonagall to their common area.
Professor McGonagall turned to the three and gave them a stern look, "Your password is Phoenix Tear. Please remember it and none of the other students are to know it."
The three nodded solemnly and Professor McGonagall turned to leave. She then paused a moment and handed Ranma a piece of paper. "These are the courses you will be taking tomorrow. I hope you studied over the summer because we'd like to test you on your control as soon as possible."
Ranma gave a solemn nod and followed Kim into the common room leaving Minerva with a soft "Thank you."
Minerva smiled slightly and then left the corridor, eager to check how her own house was doing.
The next morning, Ranma was greeted with a kiss on the forehead as he woke up. "Come on sleepy head," Kim said in a playful tone, "You were the one who wanted to get up early to practice."
Ranma grumbled slightly, "This bed is way to comfortable."
Nabiki snickered, "Maybe you should sleep on the floor so as not to lose your edge."
Ranma sat up and shot her a glare, "Outta my room Nabs."
Nabiki narrowed her eyes at Ranma but then sauntered out of the room, as if to say, 'This was my idea, not your order.'
Ranma rolled his eyes and Kim giggled again. "Alright, I'll leave you to get ready. Quite frankly I'm not sure why she got up this early with me."
"Ask her later," Ranma muttered as he got up and got ready for his early morning work out.
Meanwhile, in the common room of the Gryffindors, Harry was moving furniture so he could also get in his practice. 'This is going to be an every morning thing for me now,' Harry thought as he started a slow kata, 'Especially since Ranma isn't here to spar with me. Wish I could do this outside though. More room.'
He lost himself in his kata, as he had seen Ranma do and didn't realize how much time had passed till a small round of applause echoed throughout the common room as he finished. Harry turned with a sweat drop but then grinned and bowed to his audience coming up with a face that made everyone laugh.
The girls all giggled as they passed him by and some of the older guys gave a gruff good morning as they passed on their way to breakfast. Ron stepped up, amazement on his face. "What was that? Some sort of dance?"
Harry shook his head, "I've been learning martial arts with my brother since I was six."
Ron just cocked his head, and Hermione stepped up with a smile, "It was really pretty though. Very graceful."
Harry just gave a small smirk, "Ranma's better though. I still can't beat him."
Ron's eyes grew wide, "Ranma's better than that?"
Harry nodded, and then took a towel and wiped his face off. He headed up the stairs calling back, "I'm going to clean up and change really quick. Would you two wait for me?"
Hermione just nodded, and moved one of the chairs to sit in. Ron shook himself out of his stupefied trance and looked at Hermione, "Do you think Ranma will teach me?!"
Hermione shrugged, "You'll have to ask him."
Ron grinned, "I will, at breakfast."
Harry literally jumped down the stairs as he finished pulling his robe on over his clothes. "Let's go! I'm starved."
Hermione and Ron joined him as he led the way, almost not noticing as Neville tagged along behind them. Harry looked back as they scurried through the halls, "Something wrong Neville?"
Neville shook his head, "I just umm..."
Harry smiled, "Do you want to eat with us?"
Neville nodded vigorously and Hermione flashed him a welcoming smile as Ron rolled his eyes but pulled Neville up to walk with them. "Come on then. We don't want breakfast to get cold."
They made their way to the dining hall, noticing that many people were already there, Ranma, Kim and Nabiki among them. Harry waved to them as he helped himself to a large portion of breakfast. Soon his schedule was handed to him and he grimaced slightly but shrugged. Suddenly all manner of owls swarmed in, delivering mail to random people. Hedwig also flew in, not with a package or letter, but more to say hello to her owner. Harry smiled and allowed her some of his food before she left with the rest.
Hermione gave a slight smile as she watched before returning to her conversation with Percy. She then noticed Ron making his way up to Ranma and snickered a bit. When Percy gave her a questioning glance she pointed to his brother, "Looks like Ron is getting a bit bold with his position as Harry's friend."
Harry looked up and frowned, "Ranma can't teach Ron anything though. He hasn't a license to teach."
Percy turned to Harry with a frown, "So why is he teaching you?"
Harry shrugged, "Family is different. He needs a degree to teach other people though, just like normal teachers."
Percy watched as Ron came back with a slightly sulky face and smiled, "He's following protocol then. That's good."
Harry nearly bit his tongue to keep from laughing as Ron sat down. Soon, it was time for their first class.
Classes passed without a hitch until double potions with the Slytherins. Harry walked in and took a seat with Ron at the back of the class as Draco and his two goons sat near the front. Ranma walked in a bit later, Professor Snape on his heals, conversing with him. Ranma spotted Harry a moment later, and gave a thumbs up with a smile, before turning back to Professor Snape, "So you think I'll be ready by next week?"
Professor Snape nodded, a slight sneer on his face, "Indeed, provided you study hard. You may use the lab I showed you to practice, just don't blow it up or I'll put you in the class with the rest of the first years."
Ranma gave a slight chuckle and Snape glared at him. Ranma just gave him a smile, though Harry could see a slight twitch in Ranma's eye, "Well thanks for your help Professor."
Professor Snape gave a rather sickly smile, as though he hadn't really smiled in a while. "Come ask help anytime."
With that Ranma left, some ingredients that Professor Snape had given him in hand. Harry turned to Ron, whose face was turning red. Harry was about to ask what the matter was when Draco's antics caught his eye and he frowned.
Draco was holding up something that Harry thought was supposed to be Hermione and making kissy faces at it. Hermione was also blushing madly, and looked quite disturbed herself. Harry narrowed his eyes and concentrated, feeling for his magic and grasping it with his mind. He slowly formed a spell and released it while Snape was rummaging through his cabinet.
Draco's figure exploded with his cauldron and everyone screamed as Professor Snape looked up wide eyed from his search. Snape gave the class a glare which shut everybody up, and stared at Draco with a look that made the boy look ready to pee in his pants. "What happened?" he hissed.
Draco looked too frightened to answer so Snape turned to Goyle who scratched his head dumbly and then said, "He was makin fun of the Weasley kid and the mudblood and suddenly his pot exploded."
Snape's eyebrow twitched, "Ten points from Slytherin."
Draco looked about to protest when Snape silenced him again, "I have not finished, be thankful that I don't take off more. I do not tolerate that kind of distraction in my classroom, no matter who it is to. Also ten points from Gryffindor to whomever lost control of their magic."
Ron was about to protest when Harry silenced him with a hand and a shake of the head. "He'll only take off more points," Harry whispered.
Ron put his head down with a red face. Hermione was also looking rather sulky, and Harry sent her a sympathetic look. Neville patted her on the shoulder and she smiled slightly at him. Draco suddenly burst out, "Look out Weasley, looks like Longbottom is going to take your girlfriend from you!"
Snape's eyebrow twitched, and Ron was about to retort when Harry sighed and snatched some magic again to silence his friend for a while as the class laughed, and Neville and Hermione got rather sulky. "Twenty points from Slytherin. I told you I will not tolerate that."
Something like a bell sounded and Snape silenced the class once more with a look. "It is time for class," he said, his voice deceptively quiet, for it seemed to ring throughout the classroom. "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion making. As there is little foolish wand- waving here, many of you will hardly believe this is magic. I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through the human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses.... I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory, even stopper death--- if you aren't as big a bunch of dunderheads as I usually have to teach."
Hermione was hanging on his every word and Ron gave Harry a look. Harry gave the pretense of paying attention while trying to figure out how his spell misfired inwardly.
"Potter!" Snape's voice rang out, startling Harry out of his thoughts. "What would I get if I added powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of wormwood?"
Harry's mind slowly processed the information, and he was about to answer when Snape sneered, "Tut tut - fame clearly isn't everything."
Hermione's hand was up in the air, and Harry idly wondered if she would be leaving her seat anytime soon in order to answer Snape's questions and prove herself.
"Let's try again," Snape said over Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle's snickers, "Where would you look if I told you to find me a bezoar?"
'Bezoar?' Harry thought, 'Isn't that in a...' "A goat's stomach Professor."
Snape looked slightly impressed, and started with another question, "What will it do for you Potter?"
Harry sighed, remembering Kasumi using it on Ranma several times, "It saves you from most poisons, we've had to use it on Ranma fifteen times."
The class snickered, thinking Harry was being funny, but Snape seemed to realize he was serious. "What poisons?"
Harry thought a moment, "I can't remember most of them, but one of the girls vying for his attention thought she could get him by poisoning food. Most of it was paralyzing experiments I think."
The class quieted down, staring, and then the whispers started. "He can't be serious!" "Who would do that to a person?" "If that were me I would have died already." "I wonder if he's really telling the truth, maybe he was bewitched in to thinking it."
Snape cast a glare around the room, silencing everyone. "Since everyone is so eager to talk, you may answer this question. What is the difference between monkshood and wolfsbane?"
Hermione shot her hand in the air once more, and Harry shrugged and raised his hand also. No one else did. Snape looked around the room, "Even Potter, or rather Inverse it is now, showed promise. Will no one else answer?"
Harry looked at Hermione, who looked like she was trying to touch the ceiling. She was nearly jumping up and down with excitement. Snape glared at her, "Sit down."
Harry put his hand down also as Snape glared across the room. On a thought, Harry pulled a bit of parchment out and a quill and waited for Snape to speak. Draco scowled and did the same so as not to be shown up.
"Asphodel and wormwood make a sleeping potion so powerful it is known as the Draught of the Living Dead. As for monkshood and wolfsbane, they are the same plant, and they also go by the name of aconite. Well? Why are Malfoy and Potter the only ones copying things down?"
Snape gritted his teeth and had to admit that Ranma was correct about the Potters' boy. 'The kid just needs a chance, but I wish I could hate him like I did his father. Pity Reesa likes him also. Can't be partial this year either or Dumbledore may assign a new head of Slytherin.'
Harry walked out of the classroom grimacing, as Snape had penalized him for a mistake Neville made. Seamus stopped them from around the corner. "Is class over?"
Ron nodded, a rather dejected look on his face, "Malfoy made up to Snape with a bit of flattery and he got praised the whole time."
Seamus snorted, "Yeah I was there for most of it."
They turned and started walking towards their wing. Hermione had departed without them as Harry and Ron had taken too much time getting their stuff together. Seamus continued with his thought after a while. "It's no wonder that Neville is afraid of the greasy git. He hates everyone except his own house."
Harry shook his head, "He deserves some respect though, for his knowledge and his semi willingness to teach it to us."
Seamus snorted, but said nothing. Ron gave Harry an odd look. "Why should you respect him? He seems to hate you worst of all."
Harry shrugged, "I doubt he'll really act on it besides in the classroom though. He's being nearly fair."
Ron snorted, "You're being far more fair to him than he is to you?"
Harry gave his friend an odd look, "Ranma says hating people really won't get you anywhere, though people hating you can make you so much stronger. Ranma's a living example of it."
"Never more true words," said a wizened voice from behind them. Harry, Ron, and Seamus all turned to see Professor Dumbledore standing behind them. The wizard smiled at the boys' astonished looks and Harry's open mouth. "Now if you'll excuse me boys."
Professor Dumbledore swept past them and Ron and Seamus just watched him go. Ron turned to Harry, "I know it's not everyday the headmaster catches you by surprise but you can shut your mouth now."
Harry slowly closed his jaw and shook himself. 'He's good. I didn't even sense that he was behind us.'
They headed back down to the Gryffindor common room, still grumbling about the potions class.
The next week, they looked on the bulletin board to find more trouble. "Ahhh man! Now we have flying lessons with the Slytherins!?"
Ron seemed the most outraged among the Gryffindors, though many were complaining about the set up.
Later, out on the field, Hermione was reciting everything she learned in a book about flying, while Malfoy was telling everyone about his many escapades on a broomstick. Many of the younger witches and wizards appeared to have spent their younger years on a broom stick. Harry felt sick to his stomach, 'I really hope I don't flub this up.'
Madame Hooch soon blew her whistle, "Well what are you waiting for. Stand next to a broom stick!"
As everyone got next to one of the old broomsticks she again barked a few orders, her golden eyes flashing. "Say 'Up!'"
Harry's broomstick flew right up into his hands, but his was one of the few that did. Harry suddenly felt right at home with it, and something flashed through his mind.
He was flying, soaring high above his friends, unable to see them. He looked behind him to see another dragon with nine heads, his best friend and mate clasped in one of the jaws. He roared and threw his power at the head, and she was free. She flew towards him, avoiding the other heads as they snapped at her. They turned and flew away, quickly making their way to the home of the Holy Dragon, who could banish this demon.
Harry shook himself and looked down to see the broom still in his hand. 'What are these memories from?' he asked himself. He began to listen again just in time to hear Madame Hooch tell Draco that he had been mounting his broom wrong for years.
Harry quickly copied everyone else and mounted his broom, and was quite surprised when Madame Hooch didn't correct him. Madame Hooch soon finished and stood in front of the small crew of people. "Now when I blow my whistle, everyone is to push off the ground hard, and lean forward slightly to bring yourselves down again. Now on my mark. 3! 2! 1!"
As Madame Hooch brought the whistle to her lips, Neville pushed off hard, not wanting to be left behind. Harry watched in a detached fascination as Neville flew higher and higher, and then suddenly fell. Everyone watched in some sort of morbid fascination as Neville fell with a sickening crunch on the ground.
Madame Hooch rushed up and quickly surveyed the damage. Neville winced as she helped him up. "Everyone stay on the ground while I take him to the infirmary. Should I catch anyone in the air, they will get a detention or worse."
Something rolled out of Neville's pocket as Madame Hooch led him in and Malfoy picked it up. "What d'ya know? It's Longbottom's remembrall."
Harry frowned, "Give it here Malfoy."
Malfoy gave Harry a sneer, "Come and get it then."
Malfoy mounted his broom and flew off, Harry not far behind. "Harry don't!" Hermione shouted, "You'll get expelled."
Harry didn't pay attention as he caught up to Malfoy, feeling right at home on the broom. "Well, looks like your two lackeys aren't here to save you now."
Malfoy seemed to realize this as well, and suddenly turned, "You want this so badly, go get it!"
He threw the ball towards the forbidden forest and Harry dove after it, not wanting it to break. He pulled out of his dive, the remembrall in hand. He flew towards the other students and quickly got off his broom, keeping the remembrall safely clutched in his hand.
"Inverse!" said a sharp voice from behind him. Harry turned, ignoring the snickers of Malfoy and his goons, to find Professor McGonagall standing behind him. "Inverse you're coming with me."
Harry gave a resigned sigh as he put the broom on the grass and followed the head of Gryffindor House. 'Of all the people to see me, why did she? Now I'll be expelled for sure.'
Surprisingly, she did not lead Harry to her office but to Professor Quirrell's classroom. "Professor Quirrell, if I may borrow Wood for a moment."
Harry allowed his confusion to show on his face as he waited for McGonagall to get to the point. Soon, a boy a few years older than him stepped out of the classroom and gave McGonagall a strange look. "Yes Professor?"
"Wood, I've found you a seeker!"
************************
"Is happiness too much to ask? Or am I still chasing a fantasy in a far to realistic world?"
Author's Notes: Gomen nasai... I know this is taking forever and a day. I'm slowly getting there... hopefully SD will be finished eventually. I'm getting to the point where I could be focusing strictly on Ranma and Hikari, maybe. Anyways, on to Hogwarts and the first part of the first year, and whatever I choose to do with it.
"I'm trying my best, but my best is no longer good enough, I'm sorry."
Magical Destiny Chapter 6
Harry quickly got his robes out, Ron doing the same. Putting them on, they went outside the train to see Hagrid calling all the first years to follow him. Harry turned to see if he could find Ranma, Nabiki, and Kim. Ranma was right behind him. "Go on. We're supposed to go this way. We'll see you in the castle."
Harry nodded and waved, heading over to the boats, Ron following. They got into one of the boats, followed by Hermione and Neville, who still hadn't found his toad. Hermione sat next to Ron, who looked a bit annoyed, and Neville took the remaining spot next to Harry. Harry raised an eyebrow at Hermione who just shrugged, and sat back happily.
Harry decided to ignore it and looked ahead, seeing the castle starting to get bigger as the boats silently moved forward. It was a grand castle, with turrets and towers everywhere. It reached high into the sky, standing proud against the darkening sky as if saying, "Come all who wish to challenge my might."
"Sugoi," Harry breathed softly, eager to begin his learning.
Ranma watched the boats head off before shutting the door to his carriage. He then turned to Kim, "Something bothers me, if I had a lot of magic power before, why didn't they contact me when I was eleven like they are doing Harry? Why wait until now?"
Nabiki shrugged, "When Kasumi and I received letters at eleven, Kasumi was able to go off for two years before mother died and father fell apart. When we expressed our concerns, we ended up taking our courses in our home late at night beneath the dojo. We would go out and visit our teachers for our examinations. Kasumi was able to keep up however, where I was not. That is why I've been allowed to study my last year here. In your case, I would guess that Genma ripped up or burned whatever letters came your way. Eventually they would've just given up and tried to seal your powers, however since Genma and you moved all the time, it was hard to pinpoint you."
"So why not just seal him at the dojo?" Kim asked, curious.
"He never used his power at the dojo. It's also probable that his former curse managed to seal it. I'm not sure," Nabiki said, brow furrowing.
Ranma shrugged, "Whatever the cause, I think I'd rather learn to use it, instead of having it sealed away."
Nabiki raised an eyebrow, "I would have thought that you would think it wasn't honorable."
Ranma snorted. "Honor is just a way to use people and turn them against you. I'll have no part of that kind of honor," he said bitterly.
Kim placed a hand on Ranma's shoulder, trying to comfort him a small bit, "It's not a good idea to let your past rule you."
Ranma did not say anything and got out of the carriage as it stopped. He moved to the front and patted something that didn't appear to be there to Kim or Nabiki, and then headed a short ways to the castle.
Kim and Nabiki exchanged confused looks before shrugging and hurrying to catch up with him. Unknown to them, an old professor watched Ranma with great interest.
"So he can see the beasts. That means he's seen death. What secrets do you hold Ranma Inverse? For I only know small bits and pieces of your life from checking in with Harry."
Professor Dumbledore then turned around to face Professor Snape. "What can I do for you Severus?"
Professor Snape's lip curled slightly, "Is it true that Potter is attending?"
Professor Dumbledore smiled, "Indeed, he has shown up right on schedule. Please try not to let your old prejudices blind you."
Professor Snape nodded and left the office, Dumbledore not far behind.
Harry stood in the hallway before the great doors slightly nervous. Hermione was muttering spells under her breath while Ron said something about wrestling a troll. 'The troll I bet I could handle,' Harry thought, 'It's the spells I'll have a problem with.'
Eventually, one of the teachers came out and fixed the group with a stern glare. "I am Professor McGonagall. You will be sorted in a few moments and join your fellow classmates at the welcoming feast. Follow me."
Neville, the scared looking boy, shivered a moment and moved slightly closer to Harry. Harry sighed, "I'm sure it won't be that bad Neville."
Neville just nodded and gulped, moving to follow Harry as he moved through the large doors. Soon they came to a halt in front of the teacher's table at the end of the grand hall. Professor McGonagall disappeared, and then reappeared with a stool and aged hat in hand. She placed the stool in front of the first years and the hat on top of it.
"Oh you may not think I'm pretty, But don't judge on what you see, I'll eat myself if you can find A smarter hat than me. You can keep your bowlers black, Your top hats sleek and tall, For I'm the Hogwarts Sorting Hat And I can cap them all. There's nothing hidden in your head The Sorting Hat can't see, So try me on and I will tell you Where you ought to be. You might belong in Gryffindor, Where dwell the brave at heart, Their daring, nerve, and chivalry Set Gryffindors apart; You might belong in Hufflepuff, Where they are just and loyal, Those patient Hufflepuffs are true And unafraid of toil; Or yet in wise old Ravenclaw, If you've a ready mind, Where those of wit and learning, Will always find their kind; Or perhaps in Slytherin You'll make your real friends, Those cunning folk use any means To achieve their ends. So put me on! Don't be afraid! And don't get in a flap! You're in safe hands (though I have none) For I'm a thinking cap!"
The room burst into applause as the first years stared at the aged hat awed. After a moment, Professor McGonagall got their attention again and started calling out names. The first years were sorted and Harry began to get nervous, though he didn't show it. He watched as Hermione got sorted into Gryffindor and soon Neville was up. It took a while for the hat to decide for Neville but he was placed in Gryffindor as well.
Harry gulped as Professor McGonagall called his name. He walked up to the stool, senses all on alert as he sat down and put the hat on his head. The hat began muttering in his ear and Harry nearly screamed as it whispered, "You would do well in Slytherin."
'NOT SLYTHERIN!!' Harry thought frantically. He didn't want to become a dark wizard, especially since Ranma wouldn't approve. 'Not Slytherin, please not Slytherin.'
"No?" the hat asked softly, "Then it had better be GRYFFINDOR!!!"
Harry grinned as he placed the hat back on the stool, giving a silent thank you to it as he took it off. He strode over to the Gryffindor table, which was cheering loudly while the Weasley twins shouted "We got Potter! We got Potter!"
Percy shook his hand and the ghost seated at the Gryffindor table beamed at him. "Welcome to Gryffindor young Potter."
Harry shifted uncomfortably, "It's Inverse, like my brother."
The ghost gave him a strange look and Harry sighed, "I was adopted when the Dursleys abandoned me in Japan. I changed my last name so that I could be as close to real family as I can get with my adoptive brother."
"So it's Inverse now? Sir Nicholas de Mimsy at your service, Harry Inverse."
Harry gave the ghost a grin, "Pleased to meet you."
Harry turned around in time to see Ron put on the hat and be sorted into Gryffindor. Harry grinned as Ron walked over and sat next to him. "Congratulations."
Ron shrugged, "Weasleys have been in Gryffindor for ages."
Harry laughed and looked around the room, hoping to find his brother and the rest of his makeshift family. Then he noticed the hall was silent as Dumbledore stood and looked around. "First, a few start of term announcements. Yes I know I usually have those after the meal but there is a special occasion this year. We have two students from other schools attending this year, as well as an older prodigy who has manage to avoid detection of his magic for years while studying from different sources on his own. I'd like you to welcome Nabiki Tendo from Japan's Maho University, Kimberly Jennis from the Draconia School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and Ranma Inverse."
There was tumultuous applause as the three walked in the great hall and were seated at a separate table. Many of the girls could be heard swooning at Ranma's good looks and many of the guys sounded like they were trying to discuss who was hotter. Someone shouted out above the din, "Where will they be staying?"
Many of the professors rolled their eyes but Dumbledore's twinkled with mischief. "They will be staying within our hall for interns. None of you have heard of it because we have not had any interns or transfer students for a long time."
There was almost a collective snap of disappointment from the crowd. Harry shrugged, 'looks like they won't be able to visit me in my dorm. Oh well. We'll have time together, I'm sure of it.'
Dumbledore quieted the hall down again and started giving the last of the notices. "First years are asked to observe that the forest on the grounds is forbidden to all pupils. Many of our older students should recognize that as well," he said, giving a glance to Fred and George Weasley.
"Also I have been asked by Mr. Filch to remind you that no magic should be used between classes in the corrider. Quidditch trials will be held in the second week of the term. Anyone interested please contact Madam Hooch."
Dumbledore's visage suddenly became stern, "And finally I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to everyone who does not wish to die a very painful death."
A few people laughed at that, but not many. Percy himself was frowning, "He usually tells us why we're not allowed to go somewhere. Everyone knows the forest is full of werewolves and the like but why not the corridor? He could have at least told us prefects."
Harry shrugged and looked up to where his brother was sitting, not looking too terribly worried. "Maybe he's got a good reason to not tell anyone," he said off handedly, "Either way, we just shouldn't go there. This secret is obviously not for us to know."
Percy gave Harry an approving look before returning his attention back to Dumbledore, whose expression was pleasant once more. "Now before we begin the feast I would like to say a few more words. Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Thank you."
The whole room burst out cheering and clapping. Harry didn't know whether to laugh out loud or shake his head in confusion. He eventually shrugged and then looked to the plates which were now filled with the most tantalizing foods he had ever seen. Everyone began to dig in so Harry did the same refilling his plate whenever he felt. After his seventh helping, everyone was staring, all conversation forgotten until Harry sat back, a smile on his face.
"Are you starved at home Harry?" asked another first year named Seamus. Harry just raised an eyebrow and shook his head. "I have a rather high metabolism."
Seamus looked confused and Harry rolled his eyes, "It's what keeps your body moving. The higher your metabolism, the more food you need to consume so you can keep doing everything that you're used to and more. Ranma has been training me in martial arts."
The whole table seemed to lean in closer to Harry, asking questions about his life in the muggle world. Harry knew that life in Nerima was anything but ordinary for a muggle world and worse for the wizarding world. He answered questions as best he could as the deserts suddenly appeared on the plates.
After a few moments, however, stress marks began appearing on his face. Ranma looked over from where he was entertaining some of the teachers with a few stories they asked for and raised an eyebrow at his brother. 'He usually enjoys telling stories, I wonder what's wrong?'
The potions master cleared his throat, "I find it hard to believe this particular story," he said with a sneer, "Anyone with any type of magical items would have been sensed and they would have been confiscated by the wizards in Japan."
Ranma put on a pleasant smile which was more than some of the other teachers listening in could do. "Nerima is a gathering place for super powered martial artists that could do more with ki than most magic could do, at least magic as watered down as it is now."
Nabiki chuckled, "Indeed, and Ranma would know as he seen a strong magic user in action not using a wand or anything. Many wizards were afraid of coming across the Amazons or even into Nerima before them or Ranma. Besides, the citizens there, muggle or not, are so used to seeing magic that they don't know magic from muggle reality anymore. It's not hard to keep a secret from them even if you lay it out in front of them. Most are pretty dense."
Ranma nearly choked on his pumpkin juice as he tried not to laugh. Nabiki raised an eyebrow and Professor McGonagall took an interest in his reaction. "What is so funny Mr. Inverse?"
Ranma took a moment to catch his breath and form his answer. "Dense is putting it mildly. Even when people changed forms or destroyed walls with a touch, they didn't bother to think about it. It didn't penetrate that they were in danger at all, though most knew not to get involved. Nerima is the definition of strange occurrences."
Nabiki nodded but then shrugged, "That's probably why they let us study at home rather than making us go to school."
Ranma just snorted and continued eating. Kim, knowing most of this already just stayed silent until she was addressed. "So tell us about the American school."
Kim grimaced a moment before answering. It was not long before the meal was over and everyone was sent off to bed. Nabiki winked at Harry as he was ushered off and stretched after stifling a yawn. "Definitely time for bed," she commented as she followed Professor McGonagall to their common area.
Professor McGonagall turned to the three and gave them a stern look, "Your password is Phoenix Tear. Please remember it and none of the other students are to know it."
The three nodded solemnly and Professor McGonagall turned to leave. She then paused a moment and handed Ranma a piece of paper. "These are the courses you will be taking tomorrow. I hope you studied over the summer because we'd like to test you on your control as soon as possible."
Ranma gave a solemn nod and followed Kim into the common room leaving Minerva with a soft "Thank you."
Minerva smiled slightly and then left the corridor, eager to check how her own house was doing.
The next morning, Ranma was greeted with a kiss on the forehead as he woke up. "Come on sleepy head," Kim said in a playful tone, "You were the one who wanted to get up early to practice."
Ranma grumbled slightly, "This bed is way to comfortable."
Nabiki snickered, "Maybe you should sleep on the floor so as not to lose your edge."
Ranma sat up and shot her a glare, "Outta my room Nabs."
Nabiki narrowed her eyes at Ranma but then sauntered out of the room, as if to say, 'This was my idea, not your order.'
Ranma rolled his eyes and Kim giggled again. "Alright, I'll leave you to get ready. Quite frankly I'm not sure why she got up this early with me."
"Ask her later," Ranma muttered as he got up and got ready for his early morning work out.
Meanwhile, in the common room of the Gryffindors, Harry was moving furniture so he could also get in his practice. 'This is going to be an every morning thing for me now,' Harry thought as he started a slow kata, 'Especially since Ranma isn't here to spar with me. Wish I could do this outside though. More room.'
He lost himself in his kata, as he had seen Ranma do and didn't realize how much time had passed till a small round of applause echoed throughout the common room as he finished. Harry turned with a sweat drop but then grinned and bowed to his audience coming up with a face that made everyone laugh.
The girls all giggled as they passed him by and some of the older guys gave a gruff good morning as they passed on their way to breakfast. Ron stepped up, amazement on his face. "What was that? Some sort of dance?"
Harry shook his head, "I've been learning martial arts with my brother since I was six."
Ron just cocked his head, and Hermione stepped up with a smile, "It was really pretty though. Very graceful."
Harry just gave a small smirk, "Ranma's better though. I still can't beat him."
Ron's eyes grew wide, "Ranma's better than that?"
Harry nodded, and then took a towel and wiped his face off. He headed up the stairs calling back, "I'm going to clean up and change really quick. Would you two wait for me?"
Hermione just nodded, and moved one of the chairs to sit in. Ron shook himself out of his stupefied trance and looked at Hermione, "Do you think Ranma will teach me?!"
Hermione shrugged, "You'll have to ask him."
Ron grinned, "I will, at breakfast."
Harry literally jumped down the stairs as he finished pulling his robe on over his clothes. "Let's go! I'm starved."
Hermione and Ron joined him as he led the way, almost not noticing as Neville tagged along behind them. Harry looked back as they scurried through the halls, "Something wrong Neville?"
Neville shook his head, "I just umm..."
Harry smiled, "Do you want to eat with us?"
Neville nodded vigorously and Hermione flashed him a welcoming smile as Ron rolled his eyes but pulled Neville up to walk with them. "Come on then. We don't want breakfast to get cold."
They made their way to the dining hall, noticing that many people were already there, Ranma, Kim and Nabiki among them. Harry waved to them as he helped himself to a large portion of breakfast. Soon his schedule was handed to him and he grimaced slightly but shrugged. Suddenly all manner of owls swarmed in, delivering mail to random people. Hedwig also flew in, not with a package or letter, but more to say hello to her owner. Harry smiled and allowed her some of his food before she left with the rest.
Hermione gave a slight smile as she watched before returning to her conversation with Percy. She then noticed Ron making his way up to Ranma and snickered a bit. When Percy gave her a questioning glance she pointed to his brother, "Looks like Ron is getting a bit bold with his position as Harry's friend."
Harry looked up and frowned, "Ranma can't teach Ron anything though. He hasn't a license to teach."
Percy turned to Harry with a frown, "So why is he teaching you?"
Harry shrugged, "Family is different. He needs a degree to teach other people though, just like normal teachers."
Percy watched as Ron came back with a slightly sulky face and smiled, "He's following protocol then. That's good."
Harry nearly bit his tongue to keep from laughing as Ron sat down. Soon, it was time for their first class.
Classes passed without a hitch until double potions with the Slytherins. Harry walked in and took a seat with Ron at the back of the class as Draco and his two goons sat near the front. Ranma walked in a bit later, Professor Snape on his heals, conversing with him. Ranma spotted Harry a moment later, and gave a thumbs up with a smile, before turning back to Professor Snape, "So you think I'll be ready by next week?"
Professor Snape nodded, a slight sneer on his face, "Indeed, provided you study hard. You may use the lab I showed you to practice, just don't blow it up or I'll put you in the class with the rest of the first years."
Ranma gave a slight chuckle and Snape glared at him. Ranma just gave him a smile, though Harry could see a slight twitch in Ranma's eye, "Well thanks for your help Professor."
Professor Snape gave a rather sickly smile, as though he hadn't really smiled in a while. "Come ask help anytime."
With that Ranma left, some ingredients that Professor Snape had given him in hand. Harry turned to Ron, whose face was turning red. Harry was about to ask what the matter was when Draco's antics caught his eye and he frowned.
Draco was holding up something that Harry thought was supposed to be Hermione and making kissy faces at it. Hermione was also blushing madly, and looked quite disturbed herself. Harry narrowed his eyes and concentrated, feeling for his magic and grasping it with his mind. He slowly formed a spell and released it while Snape was rummaging through his cabinet.
Draco's figure exploded with his cauldron and everyone screamed as Professor Snape looked up wide eyed from his search. Snape gave the class a glare which shut everybody up, and stared at Draco with a look that made the boy look ready to pee in his pants. "What happened?" he hissed.
Draco looked too frightened to answer so Snape turned to Goyle who scratched his head dumbly and then said, "He was makin fun of the Weasley kid and the mudblood and suddenly his pot exploded."
Snape's eyebrow twitched, "Ten points from Slytherin."
Draco looked about to protest when Snape silenced him again, "I have not finished, be thankful that I don't take off more. I do not tolerate that kind of distraction in my classroom, no matter who it is to. Also ten points from Gryffindor to whomever lost control of their magic."
Ron was about to protest when Harry silenced him with a hand and a shake of the head. "He'll only take off more points," Harry whispered.
Ron put his head down with a red face. Hermione was also looking rather sulky, and Harry sent her a sympathetic look. Neville patted her on the shoulder and she smiled slightly at him. Draco suddenly burst out, "Look out Weasley, looks like Longbottom is going to take your girlfriend from you!"
Snape's eyebrow twitched, and Ron was about to retort when Harry sighed and snatched some magic again to silence his friend for a while as the class laughed, and Neville and Hermione got rather sulky. "Twenty points from Slytherin. I told you I will not tolerate that."
Something like a bell sounded and Snape silenced the class once more with a look. "It is time for class," he said, his voice deceptively quiet, for it seemed to ring throughout the classroom. "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potion making. As there is little foolish wand- waving here, many of you will hardly believe this is magic. I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through the human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses.... I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory, even stopper death--- if you aren't as big a bunch of dunderheads as I usually have to teach."
Hermione was hanging on his every word and Ron gave Harry a look. Harry gave the pretense of paying attention while trying to figure out how his spell misfired inwardly.
"Potter!" Snape's voice rang out, startling Harry out of his thoughts. "What would I get if I added powdered root of asphodel to an infusion of wormwood?"
Harry's mind slowly processed the information, and he was about to answer when Snape sneered, "Tut tut - fame clearly isn't everything."
Hermione's hand was up in the air, and Harry idly wondered if she would be leaving her seat anytime soon in order to answer Snape's questions and prove herself.
"Let's try again," Snape said over Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle's snickers, "Where would you look if I told you to find me a bezoar?"
'Bezoar?' Harry thought, 'Isn't that in a...' "A goat's stomach Professor."
Snape looked slightly impressed, and started with another question, "What will it do for you Potter?"
Harry sighed, remembering Kasumi using it on Ranma several times, "It saves you from most poisons, we've had to use it on Ranma fifteen times."
The class snickered, thinking Harry was being funny, but Snape seemed to realize he was serious. "What poisons?"
Harry thought a moment, "I can't remember most of them, but one of the girls vying for his attention thought she could get him by poisoning food. Most of it was paralyzing experiments I think."
The class quieted down, staring, and then the whispers started. "He can't be serious!" "Who would do that to a person?" "If that were me I would have died already." "I wonder if he's really telling the truth, maybe he was bewitched in to thinking it."
Snape cast a glare around the room, silencing everyone. "Since everyone is so eager to talk, you may answer this question. What is the difference between monkshood and wolfsbane?"
Hermione shot her hand in the air once more, and Harry shrugged and raised his hand also. No one else did. Snape looked around the room, "Even Potter, or rather Inverse it is now, showed promise. Will no one else answer?"
Harry looked at Hermione, who looked like she was trying to touch the ceiling. She was nearly jumping up and down with excitement. Snape glared at her, "Sit down."
Harry put his hand down also as Snape glared across the room. On a thought, Harry pulled a bit of parchment out and a quill and waited for Snape to speak. Draco scowled and did the same so as not to be shown up.
"Asphodel and wormwood make a sleeping potion so powerful it is known as the Draught of the Living Dead. As for monkshood and wolfsbane, they are the same plant, and they also go by the name of aconite. Well? Why are Malfoy and Potter the only ones copying things down?"
Snape gritted his teeth and had to admit that Ranma was correct about the Potters' boy. 'The kid just needs a chance, but I wish I could hate him like I did his father. Pity Reesa likes him also. Can't be partial this year either or Dumbledore may assign a new head of Slytherin.'
Harry walked out of the classroom grimacing, as Snape had penalized him for a mistake Neville made. Seamus stopped them from around the corner. "Is class over?"
Ron nodded, a rather dejected look on his face, "Malfoy made up to Snape with a bit of flattery and he got praised the whole time."
Seamus snorted, "Yeah I was there for most of it."
They turned and started walking towards their wing. Hermione had departed without them as Harry and Ron had taken too much time getting their stuff together. Seamus continued with his thought after a while. "It's no wonder that Neville is afraid of the greasy git. He hates everyone except his own house."
Harry shook his head, "He deserves some respect though, for his knowledge and his semi willingness to teach it to us."
Seamus snorted, but said nothing. Ron gave Harry an odd look. "Why should you respect him? He seems to hate you worst of all."
Harry shrugged, "I doubt he'll really act on it besides in the classroom though. He's being nearly fair."
Ron snorted, "You're being far more fair to him than he is to you?"
Harry gave his friend an odd look, "Ranma says hating people really won't get you anywhere, though people hating you can make you so much stronger. Ranma's a living example of it."
"Never more true words," said a wizened voice from behind them. Harry, Ron, and Seamus all turned to see Professor Dumbledore standing behind them. The wizard smiled at the boys' astonished looks and Harry's open mouth. "Now if you'll excuse me boys."
Professor Dumbledore swept past them and Ron and Seamus just watched him go. Ron turned to Harry, "I know it's not everyday the headmaster catches you by surprise but you can shut your mouth now."
Harry slowly closed his jaw and shook himself. 'He's good. I didn't even sense that he was behind us.'
They headed back down to the Gryffindor common room, still grumbling about the potions class.
The next week, they looked on the bulletin board to find more trouble. "Ahhh man! Now we have flying lessons with the Slytherins!?"
Ron seemed the most outraged among the Gryffindors, though many were complaining about the set up.
Later, out on the field, Hermione was reciting everything she learned in a book about flying, while Malfoy was telling everyone about his many escapades on a broomstick. Many of the younger witches and wizards appeared to have spent their younger years on a broom stick. Harry felt sick to his stomach, 'I really hope I don't flub this up.'
Madame Hooch soon blew her whistle, "Well what are you waiting for. Stand next to a broom stick!"
As everyone got next to one of the old broomsticks she again barked a few orders, her golden eyes flashing. "Say 'Up!'"
Harry's broomstick flew right up into his hands, but his was one of the few that did. Harry suddenly felt right at home with it, and something flashed through his mind.
He was flying, soaring high above his friends, unable to see them. He looked behind him to see another dragon with nine heads, his best friend and mate clasped in one of the jaws. He roared and threw his power at the head, and she was free. She flew towards him, avoiding the other heads as they snapped at her. They turned and flew away, quickly making their way to the home of the Holy Dragon, who could banish this demon.
Harry shook himself and looked down to see the broom still in his hand. 'What are these memories from?' he asked himself. He began to listen again just in time to hear Madame Hooch tell Draco that he had been mounting his broom wrong for years.
Harry quickly copied everyone else and mounted his broom, and was quite surprised when Madame Hooch didn't correct him. Madame Hooch soon finished and stood in front of the small crew of people. "Now when I blow my whistle, everyone is to push off the ground hard, and lean forward slightly to bring yourselves down again. Now on my mark. 3! 2! 1!"
As Madame Hooch brought the whistle to her lips, Neville pushed off hard, not wanting to be left behind. Harry watched in a detached fascination as Neville flew higher and higher, and then suddenly fell. Everyone watched in some sort of morbid fascination as Neville fell with a sickening crunch on the ground.
Madame Hooch rushed up and quickly surveyed the damage. Neville winced as she helped him up. "Everyone stay on the ground while I take him to the infirmary. Should I catch anyone in the air, they will get a detention or worse."
Something rolled out of Neville's pocket as Madame Hooch led him in and Malfoy picked it up. "What d'ya know? It's Longbottom's remembrall."
Harry frowned, "Give it here Malfoy."
Malfoy gave Harry a sneer, "Come and get it then."
Malfoy mounted his broom and flew off, Harry not far behind. "Harry don't!" Hermione shouted, "You'll get expelled."
Harry didn't pay attention as he caught up to Malfoy, feeling right at home on the broom. "Well, looks like your two lackeys aren't here to save you now."
Malfoy seemed to realize this as well, and suddenly turned, "You want this so badly, go get it!"
He threw the ball towards the forbidden forest and Harry dove after it, not wanting it to break. He pulled out of his dive, the remembrall in hand. He flew towards the other students and quickly got off his broom, keeping the remembrall safely clutched in his hand.
"Inverse!" said a sharp voice from behind him. Harry turned, ignoring the snickers of Malfoy and his goons, to find Professor McGonagall standing behind him. "Inverse you're coming with me."
Harry gave a resigned sigh as he put the broom on the grass and followed the head of Gryffindor House. 'Of all the people to see me, why did she? Now I'll be expelled for sure.'
Surprisingly, she did not lead Harry to her office but to Professor Quirrell's classroom. "Professor Quirrell, if I may borrow Wood for a moment."
Harry allowed his confusion to show on his face as he waited for McGonagall to get to the point. Soon, a boy a few years older than him stepped out of the classroom and gave McGonagall a strange look. "Yes Professor?"
"Wood, I've found you a seeker!"
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"Is happiness too much to ask? Or am I still chasing a fantasy in a far to realistic world?"
