A/N: First of all, I want thank everyone who has followed/favorited my story and to apologize for the long delay between chapters. I never seem to have as much time to write as I'd like and I want everything to be just right when I do submit them. As always, anything you recognize belongs to the amazing JKR. I am merely playing in her playground.
As Al and I entered the common room, I was still feeling quite euphoric after the hug we shared before leaving the Room of Requirement. I didn't think he'd actually let me hug him, but I'm really glad he did. I think our friendship has possibly reached a new level...finally.
I see Rose and Lily sitting at a table by the windows. I know they're waiting to hear how everything went and, to be honest; I can't wait to tell them. I don't think I've been this happy in a long time. Now, I just hope it lasts.
I walk over to them and sit down. "Hey there!" I say, unable to hide my smile.
Rose gives Lily a slight smack and they both look at me with a knowing grin on their faces. Then Lily says, "So...is it safe to assume that my brother is no longer acting like a complete git to you?"
I notice that I really can't hear her all that well and realize that it is well past the time my spell usually runs out. She must realize this, though, because she is looking directly at me while talking. Now if she and Rose would just get those ridiculous smiles off of their faces...
"You could say that...yes."
"Well...are you going to tell us anything or what?"
"Let's go up to our room so we can talk in private." I say, tugging my ear a bit.
Rose and Lily nod, letting me know they get the message. We head upstairs to our dorm and sit on my bed. I draw the curtains and Rose casts Muffliato to ensure no one else can overhear our conversation.
Lily looks at me. "Okay Ary...spill!"
I roll my eyes. "It's not like you don't already know..."
Rose nudges me. "Come on, Ary! At least tell us if Al will be hanging around us from now on or not."
"Yes, I think he will. Right before we came back here he asked me if we could hang out tomorrow. We're meeting for breakfast and possibly go flying or something."
Rose grins at me. "Well, you and Al have a good time tomorrow. I will be busy in the library attempting to sort out my Arithmancy homework. What about you, Lily?"
"Me? Oh, I don't know. I might see if some of the girls want to do something. Have fun with my brother!"
I just smile and shake my head. "I appreciate you guys allowing us to spend some time alone so we can rebuild our friendship."
Rose and Lily look at each other as if sharing a private joke, then Rose pipes up. "Oh no, Ary...we appreciate you helping Al broaden his horizons in the friend department. You do realize that you are the first real friend he's had that is not related to him or a close friend of the family, right? This is a new experience for him and Lily and I are excited to see how things pan out between you two."
I look over to see Lily just giggling and nodding her head. I can't think of anything else to do, so I smack them with my pillow. Then, we all dissolve into fits of laughter.
After the girls tell me how their night went, I realize that I really need to get to bed. After all, I am meeting Al for breakfast and I don't want to oversleep. They leave my bed and Rose cancels the Muffliato spell. I bid them both good night, set my alarm, and settle in for a quite peaceful sleep.
Tonight was the best night ever! I finally have my friend back!
As I went up to my dorm, my head was racing. So many wonderful things had just happened in a short amount of time. I was going back and forth between chastising myself for not talking to Ary sooner and rejoicing in the fact that I had my friend back. I even dared to hope that maybe there was a slim chance we could be more than just friends someday, but that thought didn't last too long. I really don't want to ruin the good thing we have right now.
Fortunately for me, my roommates are still down in the common room. I don't really talk to them anyway, but it is nice to have a bit of peace and quiet while I'm getting ready for bed. I head into the bathroom to take a shower and the rest of my nighttime routine. It's not until I am returning to my bed that I notice something...everything is blurry.
Then I remember...when Ary and I looked at the clock on the wall in the Room of Requirement, it read 9:45. Since I cast my spell more than 12 hours ago, of course it would have worn off. But, I shouldn't have been able to read the clock in there either. Unless...
Maybe the room took care of my vision problem while I was in there! I was so afraid that we wouldn't get to finish our conversation that I begged the room for no distractions. Having my vision go blurry on me would certainly have been a distraction...and one I hadn't even thought about! Then when we left, the hallways were so dark I didn't notice, of course I wasn't really paying attention until just now. The Room of Requirement is even more amazing than I originally thought! I'm so glad Ary introduced me to it!
I climb into bed and set my alarm so I can meet Ary tomorrow for breakfast, then snuggle under the covers and fall into probably the best sleep I've had in a long time.
I woke up the next morning before my alarm went off. I was surprised that I even fell asleep after the awesome time I had with Al last night and because I am so excited about today! After taking a nice long shower and getting ready for the day I decide to go down to the common room to wait for Al. It doesn't take long for him to come down.
He must be as excited as I am because he's early too!
"Hi Al! Ready to go to breakfast?"
"I sure am. I'm starving! Let's go!"
As we pass the notice board, I see a new posting that I know Al will be interested in too. I grab Al's arm, pulling him back so we can read it. It's that time of year again! I think this time I will actually try out!
Gryffindor House Quidditch Team Tryouts
Open to Gryffindors who are at least in their SECOND year (NO Firsties!)
Saturday, September 12th at 12:00
We are trying out all positions this year. Please write your name, your year, and the position you wish to try out for below by 12:00 on Sunday, September 6th. After we know how many are interested in trying out, more information about tryout day will be posted.
Please direct all questions to Roxanne Weasley, Gryffindor Team Captain.
Al and I add our names to the list before going to breakfast. Al will be trying out for Seeker again and I will be trying out for Keeper. Now I am looking forward to flying with Al even more!
While walking down to the great hall, Al and I talk about whatever comes to mind. It is so amazing that it's like we were never at odds with one another. I still feel as if I'm walking on air! Breakfast itself is uneventful since both of us are eager to get on our brooms, and before I know it we are outside heading toward the quidditch pitch.
"Come on, Ary! Race you to the hoops!" Al cries as he jumps on his broom.
"Ooh...so not fair Al!" I yell, hopping on my broom and chasing him.
We get to the hoops at about the same time while almost crashing into each other twice on the way there. I'm surprised we are still actually flying at this point. The next thing I know, Al is hovering right next to me. He has a silly grin on his face. I look at him questioningly.
"Come on! Let's do some circles around the pitch. Then we can brush up on your Keeping skills."
I look at him, confused. "Why Albus Potter...you really brought me out here to practice quidditch stuff? I thought you just wanted to spend time together."
"Of course I want to spend time with you! I just thought we could kill two birds with one stone and get some practice in as well. Tryouts are next week and I would like nothing more than to be on the team with you this year!"
Al's smile is contagious, and I can't help but feel giddy inside. "Alrighty then...let's go!" I take off, leaving him to follow me.
"Sneaky witch!" Al calls as he quickly catches up to me, not that I was really trying to stay away from him.
Ary and I spent hours up on our brooms. I have to admit...she really is a pretty solid Keeper. I really hope she makes the team this year. It will be nice to be able to spend as much time with her as possible. I feel like I need to make up for the last several months with her and am constantly kicking myself for letting it go so long before finally talking to her. Oh, how I missed spending time with her! I wonder if she'd consider being my girlfriend someday...
When we finally land our brooms, I walk over to Ary and give her a hug while telling her how well she did. We had no idea just how long we were up there flying until our stomachs growled and we realized that we actually missed lunch and it's time to head inside for dinner. I am so hungry! We begin walking toward the castle when suddenly Ary stops.
"What's wrong? Are you okay?" I ask.
"What? Oh, yes...I'm fine. I just need to tell you something before we go inside."
My heart skips a beat. "Okay...what's up?"
She looks nervous. "Well, I have had so much fun with you today and I don't want it to end yet, but I've made other plans for this evening. I have somewhere else I need to be after dinner."
My heart drops and my shoulders slump a bit. "I understand. I wouldn't want you to cancel your plans on my account. I'm just glad we got to spend the day together. Just know that I had a lot of fun as well and don't really want it to end either." Does she have a date? Why doesn't she just tell me?
We continue walking toward the castle and into the Great Hall. Ary immediately spots Lily and Rose and goes over to sit with them. Since I want to spend as much time with her as I can today, I go and sit with her. Shockingly enough, they don't ask me to leave.
"So, are we still on for 7:00 tonight?" asks Lily.
"That's the plan. Ary, do you have that stuff you told me about? I think it will help us." Rose added.
"Yes, I do. It's in my trunk. I will get it after dinner." Ary replies, and leans in to whisper to the other girls so I can't hear what they're saying.
Well, now I know who her plans are with, but I still wonder what they're going to do. Maybe someday they'll include me again like they used to...
A smack on my shoulder brings me out of my thoughts. I look over to see Ary with a smug grin on her face.
"Al? You were a million miles away. I've been trying to ask you if you'd like to join us this evening." Rose and Lily are just sitting there snickering.
"Um...sure! I'd love to join you! What exactly are we doing?"
Ary leans in to whisper to me. "I am teaching them Sign Language in the Room of Requirement. We meet as often as we can."
"Oh," I say with a big smile on my face. "Definitely count me in then!"
The girls just chuckle at my increased enthusiasm, but I don't think they really know just how much I want to spend time with Ary, no matter who is there or what we are doing. My night just got a whole lot better!
I couldn't believe Al and I had been flying for so long! It's a good thing we had our stomachs to remind us that we needed to eat or we probably would have been distracted enough to miss dinner too! I was having such a good time with Al and I didn't want the day to end!
As we were walking back to the castle, I remembered that Lily and Rose and I were meeting after dinner. I didn't want to hurt Al but I needed to tell him and hope he understands. I was so lost in my thoughts that I didn't realize I had stopped walking until Al asks me if I'm okay.
I can tell he's trying to be understanding when I tell him I have plans for the evening, but I can tell by his body language that he probably thinks I have a date or something. He looks really disappointed. Maybe it's time I invited him to join us...even if he says no he'll at least know I'm not on a date.
Upon entering the Great Hall, I immediately spot Lily and Rose at our usual spot and go sit down. I am pleased when Al sits next to me, earning me a knowing look from both of them.
After confirming with Lily and Rose that we are still meeting tonight, I decide to ask them if they would be okay with Al joining us. To say their reaction was positive would be an understatement, but I'm glad they kept it quiet so as not to scare Al. With that decided, I turn to Al, who has a faraway look on his face.
"Al?"
"Hey...Al!"
I glance at Rose and Lily. They are both snickering. I shake my head and smack Al hard on the shoulder. It works. I can't hide my grin as he looks at me, utterly bewildered.
"Al? You were a million miles away. I've been trying to ask you if you'd like to join us this evening."
He looks at Rose and Lily who, though snickering at him, are definitely giving him looks of approval.
To my delight, Al agrees without even knowing what we're doing and looks even more excited when I tell him we're practicing Sign Language. I'm very glad he's anxious to learn!
I head up to my dorm after dinner so I can get the books, charts, and flashcards from my trunk. After I come back to meet my friends in the Common Room, we head to the Room of Requirement.
I think Al is impressed with my idea for the room. It is full of mirrors, comfy chairs, a table with a pitcher of water and 4 glasses on it, and a bookshelf full of books.
"Okay, Ary...what are we going to be working on today?" asks Lily.
"I thought we'd review the signs that we worked on last time and go from there. I don't really have a plan in mind. I just figured we'd work on whatever you want to learn. We'll also spend a bunch of time just conversing in sign."
"Sounds good to me," said Rose. Al just looked confused.
"Um...Ary...what did you work on last time?"
"Oh, sorry Al. Last time we were working on numbers and giving people name signs."
"Yeah...it's easier than spelling out their name all the time," Lily chimed in, smirking.
Al still looks confused. "Name signs?"
I nod. "Yep. Here...let me show you." I show him my name sign, which is an A hand shape, the thumb dragged down the jaw line and moved back and forth in front of my body. "The A is for Aryela and it combines the signs for girl and actress. My Mum gave it to me. I am her girl and she is an actress."
"This one is mine...and this is Rosie's." Lily says as she shows hers to Al, beaming with happiness.
"Wow! That's so neat! Can I get a name sign too?" Al asks.
"Well, only a deaf person can give you a name sign..." I see Al's shoulders droop in disappointment. "...but I'm sure my Mum will be happy to do so when you meet her."
Al looks up at me, relief on his face. "Okay! That sounds great! Thanks!"
And the rest of the evening was spent with lots of signing, laughter, and friendship. Al took to it very well and I was happy to see him as part of our group again.
Sunday seemed to pass in a blur for me, and it had nothing to do with how I see. I spent the whole day doing homework with Ary, Lily, and Rose, although my thoughts were stuck in the day before. I had what seemed like the best day of my life yesterday and it only got better as the day went on. I can't believe how stupid I was last year! From this day forward I am making a promise to myself that I will never make that mistake again when it comes to the friendship (and hopefully future relationship) I have with Ary.
With Quidditch tryouts coming up this Saturday, I suggested to Ary, Lily, and Rose that we spend at least one evening flying and practicing a bit. The girls all agreed and so we decided that Wednesday would be the day we would do it. I really hope that Ary and I both make the team this year! That would be more time we can spend together.
When Saturday morning arrives, I cannot believe how nervous I am. I don't remember being this nervous last year but, then again, I was the only one trying out and I had never tried out before and didn't really have anything to lose. Now, I know just what I'll be missing if I don't make it this year.
I look over at Ary and she seems more nervous than I do.
"Hey Ary...you okay?"
"Huh? Oh yeah, Al. I'm just a little nervous, that's all. I'll be okay once I'm in the air, I think."
"I'm sure you'll do great! Make sure you eat something or you'll regret it after you've been out there for a while. I don't want to have to come and save you because you fell off your broom."
Ary turns and smacks me. "Oh...hush Al! I would never think of making you sacrifice yourself in that way just for little old me. Besides, eating is not an issue for me despite my nerves."
I smile and turn my attention back to my food.
As soon as we saw people start to get up from the table, we rose as well and began our walk down to the pitch. I think I'm feeling pretty good until we arrive at the pitch. I notice that there are two other people sitting in the area designated for Seekers and my nerves finally catch up to me. I recognize them as Second Years but that doesn't make me feel any better. I know Roxanne well enough to know that she will only take the best on the team, family or not.
I didn't know that I had stopped walking until Ary taps me on the shoulder.
"Al? Are you okay? You stopped walking...what's wrong?"
I look into her face and she seems really concerned. "I just noticed that I'm not the only Seeker trying out this year and I let my nerves get the best of me for a bit, that's all. I think I'm okay now."
"Al, it's okay to be nervous," Ary says, smiling at me. "Just don't let it take over your ability to focus and you'll be great! Besides, Roxanne knows how well you played last year so that should mean something, at least."
I can't help but smile back. "I know you're right. I definitely feel better now. Thank you."
"You're welcome. Come on...let's go get in our places!"
We wish each other good luck and go to sit in our respective areas of the stands to wait our turn.
I still can't believe I'm actually trying out for the team this year! Last year I was sitting further up in the stands trying to figure everything out and cheering for Al and Rose. This year I actually need to focus.
After wishing Al good luck I find my way over to the area on the pitch where potential Keepers were to go. There were a couple people already there waiting who I recognized as a Second year and a Sixth year.
Great...how am I supposed to compete against a Sixth year? They've probably been waiting for Trevor to graduate so they'd have their chance. Wait...what am I saying? Get your head together, Ary! Nerves won't help you get the spot!
I shake my head to get out of my thoughts. It's a good thing, too, because Roxanne has called us all over to explain how the tryouts were going to go.
"Okay everyone. Welcome to the Gryffindor Quidditch Team tryouts! For those who may not know, I am Roxanne Weasley, your humble Captain." She gives us a slight-but-dramatic bow, causing a few of us to chuckle.
"First of all, just because you may have been on the team in years past does not mean that you will automatically make the team this year. I will select the best for each position no matter what. Does everyone understand?"
We all nod our heads and wait for her to continue.
"Okay. Beaters...you're up first. Please meet me in the center of the pitch. Everyone else can go to their respective areas until your section is called. After the Beaters are finished, the Chasers will go next, followed by the Keepers and finally the Seekers. Good luck everyone!"
As I'm heading back to my seat in the stands, I glance over at Al quickly. He's looking at me as well so I give him a smile and sign 'good luck' to him. He smiles and responds with 'same' which I know means 'you too'. I hope that today goes well for both of us and I can't wait to spend time with him later!
I watch the Beaters go through their tryout, although it's no surprise to me that Freddie and Dominic made it again this year. Those two are amazing and work so well with each other.
Now it's time for the Chaser tryouts. Roxanne didn't change much from last year, although the course did seem slightly different based on the moves everyone was making. After all was said and done, though, the Chasers from last year's team managed to keep their spots, and Rosie made the Reserve Team once again. She smiles at me as she heads back to the stands and I smile back and wave.
Last year I didn't really pay any attention to the Keeper tryouts, but this time I find I have completely forgotten my own tryout and am totally focused on Ary. I'm really hoping that she makes the team!
It appears that James, Kimberly, Rosie, and the other Reserve Chaser will be the ones throwing the quaffle at the Keepers trying out. At first I wondered why Roxanne wasn't one of them but then I realized that she couldn't accurately judge how well each person did if she wasn't focused strictly on that.
The first two called up are both boys, so Ary is merely hovering on her broom by the stands waiting her turn. I so want to call out to her and wish her luck again, but I don't want to distract her. I think I'll just send good thoughts her way instead.
The Chasers made two attempts on goal each, for a total of 8 shots per Keeper. One of the guys managed to save six of them and the other only 5. The next pair was two other boys (I think they are both 7th years) who look rather burly and more muscle than coordination. It'll be interesting to see how this goes...
Both guys were quicker than they looked and saved 7 out of the 8 shots. Ary was definitely going to have her work cut out for her with that score. I chance a glance at her and see that she is still hovering on her broom waiting her turn. She looks very focused and contemplative on what she is about to do. Then, she picks up speed and heads over to one of the sets of goals while another burly boy heads to the other set. Right now I feel like I am more nervous for her than I am for myself.
"GO ARY!" I yell standing and pumping my fist in the air. I'm not sure if she heard me or not, but at least I know I'm cheering for her as do those around me.
I watch the Beaters and Chasers have their tryout, cheering for Rose even though she knew she'd probably be on the Reserve Team at best because all of last year's Chasers are still here and are really good. She doesn't seem to mind though, knowing that she'll get her chance in a few years for sure.
Finally they're done and I hear Roxanne call for the Keepers. Once we are gathered around her, she explains that four Chasers, but not her, will be taking 2 shots at each Keeper, for a total of 8 shots that must be blocked. Basically, the person who blocks the most shots will be the team's Keeper, and the next one will be the Reserve Keeper. In the case of a tie, a tie-breaker will take place and we'll learn what that is only if it is needed. We all tell her we understand and she sends the first two people to the posts. They look kind of small; I know one is a Second year, so I'm figuring the other one must be too. I'm not really sure though.
The first two did a pretty good job, especially for how young they are. The next two to go up are two Seventh years that look like they have more brawn than brains. It's quite an interesting tryout to watch, as they are actually much more agile on their brooms than I gave them credit for. They both only missed one! Well...I can only do my best and hope that I'm good enough.
My turn finally comes and it's me and the Sixth year. As I'm flying over to the hoops, all I can think about is being out here with Al for the past week and him telling me to just trust my instincts because they are good ones. I smile at the memory and find that my nerves are gone and my focus is absolute. It's just me and the goals I protect...I'm in the zone.
I first see Rose coming at me. I recognize most of her moves so I have no trouble anticipating where she's going to aim. I easily block her shot and prepare for the next. I look up to see James coming at me. While I'm not as familiar with the way he shoots, I have watched him play a few times and have no trouble blocking his shot either. I block Kimberly's next and finally the other Reserve Chaser...can't remember his name. Four down, four to go...
For the next set, two Chasers come at me, passing the quaffle back and forth. I take a deep breath and let my instincts take over. It's James and Rose, with James eventually taking the shot. Although it's a bit more tedious to read, I block it easily and wait for the next pair.
This time it's Rose and Reserve guy (I really need to learn his name). They really don't seem to have any kind of rhythm in their passing, but in the end I block the shot attempted by him. The next pair is Kimberly and James. Even though I know it will be Kimberly taking the shot, it doesn't make it any easier to follow as they're using moves I remember seeing snippets of during matches last year. I actually guess wrong, but am able to recover enough to just get enough of a hand on it to knock the quaffle just to the side of the hoop. I can't believe I actually saved it! My heart is beating so fast right now...just one more!
The last person to take a shot at me is Rose. This definitely makes me feel a bit better but still focused. This is a good thing because Rose is flanked by both James and Kimberly for this one. They are passing, bobbing and weaving all over the place so much it's starting to make my head spin. Then I remember to focus on Rose and everything else clears in my head. I'm in my zone again. It's just like playing quidditch at the Burrow. Finally, I see her aim and throw. I follow her arm movements and head that direction, taking the quaffle square in the chest before it drops into my hand. I look down at it in awe and don't even register Rose squealing in delight that I caught it. I look up to see Roxanne smiling and motions for me to give her the quaffle. I smile in return and toss it back to her and return to the stands.
As the Seeker tryout starts, I am still in shock. It turns out that there was a tie-breaker held...for the Reserve team! The Sixth year I was up against caught 7 out of 8...same as the other two guys. Apparently he missed the last shot that came from Kimberly so there were three of them trying for the Reserve spot.
I can't believe I actually made the team! I can't wait to write Mum and tell her! I smile and slowly come back to reality which is Al's Seeker tryout. I watch as he and the two Second years are flying around looking for the snitch...at least I think that's what they're doing.
As soon as my euphoria began as I watched Ary make the team, the realization that it was now my turn immediately kicked my nerves into high gear. I grab my broom and head toward Roxanne to begin my tryout, along with the two second years I am up against.
Roxanne tells us to mount our brooms and meet her above the center of the pitch.
"Okay, here's how the Seeker tryout works. I released the snitch during an earlier group's tryout, so it is already out there somewhere. When I give the signal, you will complete two laps around the pitch as quickly as you can and then begin looking for the snitch. If you do not complete the laps before hunting the snitch, you will be disqualified from the tryout. The person who catches the snitch after completing the two laps will be the Seeker. Are there any questions before we begin?"
No one had any questions, so Roxanne gave the signal and the tryout began. I took off quickly and pushed my Firebolt to its limit, easily finishing my two laps well ahead of my competitors.
As soon as I finish my laps, I immediately go into my competition mindset and begin looking for the snitch. I follow my usual pattern until I see my opponents finish their laps and begin looking as well. I don't see anything near the field itself so I go a bit higher to see if it's up there. I notice that the others seem to be hesitant to come up where I'm gliding around searching and I'm beginning to wonder if they've seen something. I feel myself beginning to panic a bit.
Breathe Al...just focus! You can do this!
I slowly begin my descent so as to not attract the attention of the others. Then I see a glint of something near the faculty boxes. I go back up toward them and...there! Right by the roof! I see it! Now all I have to do is catch it!
I sense something in my peripheral vision heading in the same direction I'm heading, but I am only focused on the gold glint ahead of me. Right at the last second, the snitch moves to avoid my grasp, but I reflexively grab the broom with my right hand and reach out with my left instead and grab it before it can get away. I've done it!
Securing my prize, I land my broom on the center of the pitch.
As Roxanne heads toward me, I hold out the snitch for her to take.
"Congrats Al, you are the Gryffindor Seeker this year!" she says, smiling at me.
I am so excited! Now all I can think about is finding Ary, congratulating her, and celebrating with her later!
As soon as I come out of the locker room after changing, I find myself nearly knocked off my feet and smothered by a witch.
"Al! Congratulations! I'm so excited! Aren't you?"
I can't help but chuckle, "Yes Ary, I am! Congratulations to you as well! You did a great job up there!"
She lets me go and looks at me with a cute blush on her face. "Thanks! You were pretty great yourself."
Now she's made me blush. "Thanks. You ready for dinner?"
"Yep, I'm starving. Let's go!"
I couldn't wait to see Al after his tryout! I am still in shock that we will actually be on the team together this year. While I don't really have any idea what being on the team entails, I'm still really excited and know I can handle anything as long as Al is with me.
Al and I sat with Rose and Lily at dinner and, after they offered their congratulations to us, the conversation moved away from Quidditch and on to other things, such as when we were going to be able to get together in our "special place" to do more signing and just hang out. We all agree to meet at the Room the following day after lunch since we know that there will be a huge party in Gryffindor Tower tonight and nobody will be going to bed early.
On the way back up to the common room, Al suddenly slows down and pulls me back with him. He has a look on his face that I've never seen before and I hope he's okay.
"Al? Are you okay? Is anything wrong?" I ask, completely perplexed.
"What? Oh...I'm fine. I just wanted to talk to you one-on-one before we hit the onslaught that is the post-tryout party in the tower, that's all. I wasn't sure if I'd have a chance to actually talk to you once we get in there."
"Oh, okay...but why don't you think we'll be able to talk? It's not like I'm the most popular girl in the house."
"Now that you've made the team you never know what could happen. You could have instant popularity overnight and..."
"Are you seriously saying what I think you're saying to me right now? I thought by now you knew me better than that, Albus Potter! What on earth would make you think...after everything I've told you about me...that I would ever enjoy that type of 'popularity'? Hmmm?"
I find myself quite irate at the moment. This is supposed to be a happy night for the both of us. Why does he have to go and ruin it with unnecessary paranoia and lack of trust in me? Does he not remember anything I told him in the RoR?
"I thought I could finally trust that you could see the real me. I'm not sure what I've done this time to make you doubt my loyalty and friendship toward you, or if it's just your own insecurities eating at you. I do know this...you either need to learn to trust that I mean every word I say wholeheartedly and quit second-guessing me; or just leave our relationship at an acquaintance level so you don't have to worry yourself over any unnecessary emotions."
After my rant, I head up to Gryffindor Tower, leaving a stunned Albus Potter standing in the alcove.
Once I enter the tower, Rose and Lily rush toward me, having seen that I'm a bit upset.
"Oh no...what has my brother done now?" Lily asks.
"I really don't want to talk about it. Suffice it to say that he didn't seem to fully listen to everything I told him about myself when we had our talk last week. I need to go upstairs to have a hot shower and change clothes. See you later."
"Okay...see you at the party later!"
I'm really looking forward to having a nice hot shower. I really need to relax if I'm going to enjoy this party tonight.
I watched Ary leave and did not want to follow her into the common room, so I decide to take a walk instead. It's a very peaceful night and I hope it will help ease my mind. I manage to make it out of the castle with no interruptions and inhale the evening air deeply, then head to the only place on the grounds I can think of that might help me mentally prepare myself to see Ary again.
It doesn't take me long to get to the memorial garden that was created to honor those who perished in the wars against Voldemort. I found it during my second year whenever I felt overwhelmed and needed to just sit somewhere silent and it has been my place of contemplation ever since.
I stare at the monument and focus on all of the names etched there, especially my grandparents, Dad's godfather, and the two great Wizards I was named after. I really wish they were here so I could actually talk to them. I really could use some impartial advice. I close my eyes and relish the quiet.
After probably an hour or so, I leave the garden with an idea that just might work...as long as the Headmistress says it's okay, that is.
Knowing that I can't just enter the Headmistress's office on my own, I go to Professor Longbottom's office to see if he can help me. I breathe a sigh of relief when he answers the door.
"Al! This is a pleasant surprise. Is everything okay?"
"Not really, Professor. I was wondering if you could help me. You see...I would like to ask some advice from Professors Dumbledore and Snape, and the only place I can think of to talk with them is Professor McGonagall's office."
"You actually want to talk to Professor Snape? That's something I never thought I'd hear." Neville said, shaking his head. "Come on...let's see if Professor McGonagall is in her office."
Although I wasn't quite sure what he was talking about, I happily followed Professor Longbottom to the Headmistress's office in the hopes that I might talk to the portraits of Professors Snape and Dumbledore. I remember my Dad saying that he'd talked to them in the past, but I'd never tried it before and the thought of actually doing it made me excited and nervous at the same time.
Before I knew it, the gargoyle guarding the office leapt aside and we were on the stairs heading up to the office.
Once the door to the office opens, Professor Longbottom leads me inside and Professor McGonagall looks up at us as we walk toward her desk. "What can I do for you, Professor?"
"Hello, Headmistress. Mr. Potter was wondering if he could have a few moments to converse with Professors Dumbledore and Snape. It appears he needs some advice that he feels can only come from those he was named after."
She looks down at me with a smile on her face. "Of course you may, Albus. Are you quite certain you wish to speak with both of them?"
"Yes Ma'am, I am." I say with a bit of a flush on my cheeks.
"Now, now...there's no need to be embarrassed, young man. You are not the first to come to this office seeking advice from our leaders of the past. Please follow me."
I follow her through a door I did not notice the last time I was in her office. In the room there is a comfortable-looking chair and a few empty picture frames on the wall. I look at her, a bit confused.
"Oh laddie...don't ya be looking at me that way. This is a special room that allows a more private conversation with whom you wish to speak. Some of the former Heads of Hogwarts do tend to be a gossipy bunch, after all."
This makes me relax even more because, from what I know of Snape and Dumbledore, neither of them were the gossipy type.
"Now, you just sit right here in this chair and I will go let Albus and Severus know that you would like to speak to them in here. Have you ever spoken to either of them before?"
"I did speak to Headmaster Dumbledore once when I was here with my Dad, but that was when I was little. I've never seen Headmaster Snape before."
"Well, I'm sure Albus will be thrilled to see you again. As for Severus...well, just try not to let him hurt your feelings, okay? He tends to be quite abrasive most of the time."
"Thanks for the warning, Professor. I will remember your advice."
"Very well. They should be appearing in the frames momentarily," she stated, leaving the room.
Just as I was starting to get nervous, Albus Dumbledore appeared in one of the frames.
"Why hello there, young Albus! Minerva said you have something on your mind that you need to discuss with Severus and myself. Tell me...what seems to be the problem?"
"Hello, Sir. I hope I am not disturbing you."
"Not at all, not at all. It's not as if we portraits have a busy social calendar, you know."
"Well...it's just...Merlin...the more I think about it the more ridiculous it sounds, but I just can't make it go away."
"Just spit it out son. There isn't anything you can say that would make me think any less of you. I can't speak for Severus, of course, but he isn't here yet so it doesn't matter at the moment."
I sigh, "True. Will he be coming, Sir?"
"I'm afraid I cannot answer that question. I'm afraid Severus never did favor social gatherings and avoided them whenever possible. When I left, Minerva was trying to convince him of the necessity that he show. We will have to see if she convinces him to or not."
"Well, Sir...the problem that I seem to keep having is my fear of being liked, or even loved by anyone just because of who my Dad is. You see, there's this girl..."
"Ah...would you be referring to Ms. Porter, by chance?"
"Yes...but...how did you know?"
"One sees and hears many things among the portraits at Hogwarts, and you two seem to have an interesting relationship. So, what is it about Ms. Porter that has you afraid? She seems like a lovely girl to me."
"She is, and I like her very much. I just never seem to be completely comfortable with the aspect of our relationship. As soon as things are going great between us, I get this irrational fear that she will change her mind about me and stick my foot in my mouth. There are also things I want to tell her that I am afraid to trust her with."
Dumbledore just stares at me, stroking his beard. Now I'm beginning to feel even more stupid. Suddenly my great idea to get advice is no longer sounding so great to me.
"Hmmm...I see. Do you think this irrational fear has anything to do with the events of your first year at Hogwarts?"
I just stare at him, dumbfounded. "I...um...wasn't aware that you knew about that, Sir. It was quite humiliating and pretty much destroyed my faith in people outside my family though."
"Yes, I can imagine it was extremely painful for you. Tell me something...did you ever talk to your parents about what happened?"
"No...I...I couldn't bring myself to tell them, especially Dad. I know he never liked all of the fame he's had his whole life and I didn't want to make him feel guilty. I'm sure you know how he is with guilt."
"Yes, my boy, I am aware. However, I don't think you give Harry enough credit. His family means everything to him and he would want to know if you were hurting, no matter the reason. Perhaps if you talked to him..."
"I don't see how talking to my Dad will help the problems I have with Ary."
"I was going to say it might ease your mind in general. You seem to be carrying a lot of secrets inside you and that is not a healthy thing to do. Believe me...this I know."
I shake my head. "There are some secrets that I cannot tell anyone...at least not yet."
"Well, perhaps if you share some of them with a person you do trust, your fears will be lessened."
"I've thought about doing just that, but then I get scared and change my mind at the last minute."
"Well, that is something only you can decide for yourself, I'm afraid. I don't see how I can be of any help to you."
"Actually Sir, I was wondering something else as well. Why is it that some medical spells are only useful to a certain severity of an ailment? Isn't it possible to strengthen a spell to surpass its limits?"
"There are limits to all spells for a reason. Usually, a limit is placed on a spell because to strengthen it any further would do damage to the part of the body that the spell was supposed to heal. Why do you ask?"
"I've spent a lot of time reading the many books in our library at home and have noticed the spell limits in several of Mum's healing books. It's the first time I've ever heard of that is all and I was curious."
Dumbledore is now giving me a knowing look that is making me feel a bit uncomfortable. It's like he's trying to read my mind from the canvas. "I see. Was there anything else in which you need my advice?"
"No Sir. The only other question I have is for Professor Snape, but it appears that he doesn't want to talk to me." I say to my feet, quite defeated. I was really hoping I'd finally get to meet the other man I was named for.
"Now, now don't despair just yet. I will go and give Severus a piece of my mind. You should be seeing him shortly. I always could convince him to do things better than Minerva. Keep your chin up, Al. I see bright things in your future. You just need to learn how to get out of your own way."
"I'll remember that, Sir. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me."
"You are quite welcome! And, please come back and speak with me again, will you?"
"I will. I promise."
"Now, you just sit tight. You will meet Severus today. I'll make sure of it."
"Thank you, Sir."
And with a wave, he disappears from the frame and my nerves begin to reassert themselves.
I'm not sure how long I waited...it seemed like forever...until the dark professor that my Dad told me about finally slithered into the frame in front of me. I think I got even more nervous when he actually appeared. I open my mouth to speak but nothing seems to come out.
"Well...I'm here. You can stop gaping like a fish now," Snape drawled from the frame.
I shake my head to clear it. "My apologies, Sir. Thank you for coming to speak with me. It's a pleasure to finally meet the other professor I was named after."
"Hmpf...Potter actually named one of his children after me? Well, he always was the 'Boy Who Lived to Be a Pain in My Arse'. It's not surprising he would continue to torture me so. So tell me...what is so important that you felt the need to disturb my peace?"
"Well, Sir...I heard you were a Master Spy and kept a lot of secrets until your death. I have some secrets of my own that I cannot share with anyone, especially my parents. I was just wondering if I'm better off keeping them or telling someone. I seem to have this irrational fear that prevents me from saying anything even when I know I should. How did you do it for all those years, Sir?"
Snape doesn't say anything. He just glares at me as though I'm some specimen to be studied. If he's trying to make me feel uneasy, it's working. How can my Dad actually look up to this man? He's frightening! I find that I can't look at him either and suddenly find my shoes rather interesting.
"It took years of Occlumency practice and basically living a life of solitude, which is not something I would recommend to someone as young as you. It was not an enjoyable existence." I look up at him and see him staring at me with a sneer on his face. I am about to say something when he continues...
"Hmmm...very interesting...seems like the Potter clone is not happy and quite insecure. Tell me...how can one who comes from such a loving family and wants for nothing be so miserable and wanting to talk to me of all people?"
"Sir...with all due respect...I hate the fact that I look almost exactly like my father. I hate being used by people and not being able to trust anyone because of it. I cherish the small physical differences between us, believe me." I scowl and stare at the floor once more.
"Ah...and there it is. Please ask your question. I have a feeling I know what it might be. I assume it has something to do with potions perhaps?"
I raise my head up quickly and just gape at him in awe. How does he do that?
He crosses his arms and rolls his eyes. "Really? I thought you were more intelligent than that. I was a Potions Master, remember? Most people seek my counsel pertaining to potions even though I am deceased. Plus, since you are obsessed with maintaining physical differences from your esteemed father, I can safely assume that you wish to gain knowledge of a potion or potions that will aid you in this quest. Am I correct?"
"Yes, Sir...that is what I wanted to ask you about."
"Well...what is it you wish to change by using a potion?"
"Well Sir...you see...I don't really want to change anything. It's something that is happening to me that I'm trying to stop. I've been using a spell that has helped, but will not help me for much longer. I'm hoping that there is a potion that could maybe help me."
Snape just studies me for what seems like forever. Then...
"Let me guess...your vision is no longer adequate and you have been using the Lensus Correctum spell?"
I just stare at him in shock. Words are failing me so I just nod. I hope I don't appear too desperate or nervous as to his reply.
"I'm afraid there is no potion that corrects vision. The spell you have been using is the best alternative to wearing eyeglasses. I am sorry that I cannot give you better news. You have your grandfather Potter to thank for that affliction, I'm afraid."
I slump my shoulders in defeat. My worst fear is going to come true and there is nothing I can to do to stop it. Not forgetting my manners, I face the portrait while holding my tears of frustration at bay.
"Thank you for your time Sir. I appreciate you taking the time to speak with me. It was nice to meet you."
"You are quite welcome, Mr. Potter. I am sorry I could not give you the answer you hoped for."
"Please call me Al, Professor. Mr. Potter is what people call my Dad."
A small smirk appears on Snape's face. "Alright...Al it is, and you may call me Severus, seeing as I am not your Professor."
"Thank you Severus! May I come and talk to you again? You seem to understand me in a way that no one else does."
"I do believe that can be arranged. I have another portrait in a secret room located close to the Potions classroom. Look for a tapestry that contains a picture of a snake and a doe. The room is located behind the tapestry and the password to enter is Always Lily. You may speak to me there if you wish."
I find it hard to contain my excitement. "Thank you so much! I promise I will come and visit you soon! And don't worry...I won't tell anyone about it. It'll be yet another secret I'll keep."
Snape nods. "Until then, Mr. ... Al."
"Goodbye!" I wave and leave the room.
"Are you finished, Mr. Potter?" Professor McGonagall asks as I re-enter her office.
"Yes, Professor. Thank you again for allowing me to speak to my namesakes."
"I do hope Severus didn't give you too much trouble."
"No Ma'am. Everything was fine. See you later, Headmistress. Thank you again!"
"You are quite welcome Albus. Have a good day."
As I walk down the stairs, the levity I feel with the knowledge of talking with Severus again suddenly disappears as I realize that there is nothing I can do to stop my vision from worsening. I have a lot of thinking to do now. First, however, I have to somehow get through the party tonight. I have a feeling it will be an early night for me.
A/N: Well...there it is! I hope you have enjoyed this chapter! Please let me know what you think!