Chapter 29
Something's Wrong
"The boy has a way with words..."
General (ret.) Jigme Dorji Wengshuk
Harriet laughed. It wasn't in character, but she couldn't help it.
"No fair!" Finn shouted from behind her.
They were in Mountain Home. Finn was chasing her up and down the halls. Harriet had the advantage; she knew the house like the back of her hand. Though she would let him catch her.
Eventually.
Harriet slid around a corner into the living room, skidding easily on the smooth hardwood. She was almost to the second entrance when a hulking form loomed in front of her.
"Ah-hah!" Finn laughed triumphantly.
Harriet shrieked with fright at the surprise. Finn towered over her, holding up a blanket behind him like a massive cape, making him look even larger. Harriet tried to stop but skidded right into his arms. He cackled playfully, pretend tackling her down to the floor.
"Rawwwwwwwwr!" Finn growled hungrily.
"FINN!" Harriet squealed wriggling in his grasp.
"No Finn! Me monster! Me keep bootiful pwincess!"
Harriet giggled louder as Finn kept her pulled tight in his arms. He was so strong, his body warm from the chase and the big blanket. She felt his breath on her neck. Her giggle quickly became a moan.
She heard Finn snigger into her ear. "Uh oh…"
"I think that's my line," Harriet replied.
Finn chuckled again. "Cheeky."
She twisted around to face him, nuzzling her forehead against his neck. He stroked her hair. Harriet wanted it. She wanted him. She wanted to feel his skin. She wanted his ropes.
Yet she couldn't. Because more than that, she wanted this, right here and now. She wanted to be in his arms. Safe here, forever. She looked into Finn's eyes. They were blue and deep. So deep, going on forever. Forever, and ever, a long hallway. Never ending.
No, the hallway had an end. A big, black door. She knew that door. She wanted to get through that door. She had to get through that door.
Harriet grunted. She opened her eyes looking up at the darkness that was the ceiling above her. It was a dream again. A stupid dream.
She'd been getting them more and more frequently. She couldn't remember the first part, just that it was happy. So very happy.
She just remembered the corridor. The corridor towards the Department of Mysteries that ended in the black door.
It was Voldemort, again. Harriet groaned, rubbing her forehead. Madam Irene was going to see that dream, no doubt. She was going to see it and know Harriet wasn't making progress on her Occlumency. Madam Irene was harsh enough. Harriet wasn't looking forward to the telling off she was likely to get.
It was Friday, the twenty-ninth of September. For the last few days, she'd had only one thing on her mind. The second weekend of October, the fourteenth, was going to be the first Hogsmeade weekend of the year.
Harriet buried her face in her hands. She was trying. She was trying so hard. Every night she would lie there, forcing her mind to clear, practising her breathing exercises, trying to relax. She worked hard to think of happy things; things that would be hard for Voldemort to understand.
It was no use. Night after night, she visited that corridor. It never failed. At least she hadn't gotten any other visions, lately. Not since she saw his propaganda mill.
Harriet put on her glasses and lit the oil lamp over her bed. She looked around her lonely little room. It felt smaller every day. What she would give to hear Ronnie snoring again.
DIDS hissed as the light woke him.
"Oh, relax," Harriet mumbled. "You sleep all day, anyway…"
She rose off the bed and went to her desk. She pulled out her ink, a quill, and some parchment.
Dear Finn,
It's early and just thinking of you. Worrying about you. I can't wait to see you.
The parchment crackled as Harriet wadded it up and threw it in the bin. She pondered it and took it back out. She couldn't leave anything relating to Finn lying about. What if Umbridge came snooping around in here while Harriet was in class? She stuffed it in her bag, making a note to give it to Marcus to destroy later.
She leaned on her desk, thinking hard. What did Lord Voldemort want in the Department of Mysteries? Why didn't he ever enter? Did Harriet just wake up too soon? Maybe he'd never been in there before. She supposed even Lord Voldemort couldn't visualise something that he'd never seen before.
Harriet realised she was sweating. She wiped her brow with the hem of her nightshirt. She got up and went to her window. It was getting colder outside. The window had condensation around the edges of the glass. Harriet leaned her forehead against the glass, and at once the cool soothed her head.
She opened her eyes, looking out the window into the grounds. It was still dark, but the moon was still out and nearly full. She felt a pang of sympathy for Remus. He would have to lock himself away.
Harriet looked down at the sill. There were fingerprints on the outer pane of glass in the morning dew.
Harriet nearly jumped out of her skin. How were there fingerprints there? Why? Was someone spying on her?
Harriet looked out into the grounds her eyes narrowed. She could see nothing except the castle, yet she felt something. There was something out there. Something was watching her. She knew it. She just knew it.
She yanked the curtains shut. She backed away from the window, breathing heavily.
What was going on?
Harriet sank onto the chair by the window. She had to have imagined it. It was still early in the morning. Maybe she was still dreaming? Or more likely having a nightmare. She pinched her arm, hard. "Ow!" She hissed. No, she was definitely awake.
Harriet stood and gently drew back the curtain. There was still no one out there that she could see. She picked up her wand, pointing it out at the grounds.
"Lumos," Harriet whispered, though she wasn't sure why she was keeping her voice down.
The light shone out into the moonlit grounds. She swept it back and forth, scanning everything she could. There was nothing out there.
"Nox," Harriet said, lowering her wand.
As she did, she looked back down at the fingerprints in the dew.
They were gone. The sill had been wiped clean.
Harriet's eyes snapped open. DIDS hissed in alarm as he was rolled off her pillow. Harriet sat up, flailing a bit in surprise under her covers.
She was back in bed. How was she back in bed? Her scar was tingling as it always did after a Voldemort vision or dream. Harriet leaned against her wall, panting heavily as she came back to her senses. She'd still been dreaming. That must have been it.
She flung back the covers and hurried to her window. The sill was dew-covered. There were no finger marks there. It had all been a dream. Harriet rubbed her forehead. Her scar was still tingling.
Fear began rising in Harriet. Had that been Lord Voldemort putting a vision in her head? Was he aware of the connection at last?
Harriet sank into her desk chair. There was a little scratching at her ankle that made her start. She looked down and saw DIDS looking up at her, pawing at her ankle with his little, clawed foot.
She bent down and scooped up the little toy dragon. She didn't think she remembered DIDS ever acting like this before. The plastic dragon hopped up onto her shoulder. He buried himself in her hair and wrapped himself as best he could around her neck, cuddling up under her hair.
Harriet smiled softly in appreciation. DIDS was warm like a hot water bottle, soothing her. She reached up, rubbing his little head.
"Thanks, DIDS," Harriet said softly.
DIDS gave a little shiver and snuggled up tighter. Harriet looked at the clock. It was four in the morning. She felt some relief that she had a couple of hours left until needing to wake.
"Something's weird around here, DIDS," she mumbled.
DIDS snored.
Harriet tried to fight past the stitch in her side and the burning in her legs. She was fighting harder than she should, but for once she wanted to beat Rachel.
Harriet had given up on thinking she could compete with the taller students. Their legs were just too long. She could beat them in sprints at least, but the mile runs were too much for her to keep up, particularly with Ronnie, Tori, or Dean Thomas.
Rachel was just a few paces ahead. Harriet tried to muster a last second kick.
"That's it, catch her!" Captain Kane called, almost taunting in tone.
Harriet found it in herself to kick.
"She's gaining!" Captain Kane laughed, now spurring Rachel on.
Rachel took a little glance over her shoulder at Harriet gaining. Harriet could tell Rachel was just as winded as she was. Rachel also kicked. Harriet was close, but just not close enough. Rachel crossed the line a fraction of a second before Harriet. The pair collapsed, just past it, both panting heavily.
"None of that now," Captain Kane called across the grounds. "Up and walking. Cool down. Keep the muscles loose."
Harriet and Rachel both groaned. They wearily sat up and got to their shaky legs.
"Not that time," Rachel said, panting, her eyes twinkling.
"Almost," Harriet wheezed a little.
They started walking, both clutching side stitches. They had to do one more lap walking to 'cool down' before they could fully rest.
"You still run with your mom?" Rachel asked.
Harriet shook her head. "Haven't had time this year."
"You should start, or you're going to kill yourself," Rachel replied.
"Says you," Harriet mumbled.
Rachel giggled. "At least I'll have cheer to keep me fit."
Harriet twisted her lips, the sting of having lost Quidditch returning. That wasn't the only reason she tried so hard in fitness days in DADA. She found she slept better after a fitness day and didn't have so many dreams.
Rachel looked at her feet. "Sorry…"
Harriet sighed. "It's not your fault… Besides, we don't work out this hard for Quidditch anyway."
"But you probably wouldn't feel like you have to kill yourself to prove something…"
Harriet didn't say anything. She wanted to be mad, but Rachel had a point. In the afterglow of Finn's return, Harriet had been perfectly content with not being on Quidditch anymore. But day by day, the reality had sunk back in for her. Every time she saw the team heading out to practice, or laughing together at meals in the Great Hall, her jealousy and sense of loss rose.
"Have you thought of joining any other teams?" Rachel offered. "Like… football, or…"
Harriet thought. She hadn't really.
"Maybe you should?" Rachel said. "It'd help you keep your mind off stuff?"
Harriet pursed her lips. That was exactly what she didn't want. She had Umbridge to deal with. She had Fern to free from her spell.
Harriet glanced towards the school. As always, Umbridge was standing in the entrance, watching them. Harriet shivered.
Umbridge hadn't given Harriet a break since she began hanging out with Fern. She was waiting in the Ursula House common room every night to greet Harriet when she returned. She always had tea ready, which Harriet always refused. She was sure there was something wrong with the tea. Likely Veritaserum, as Professor Snape had often warned about.
Harriet averted her eyes from Umbridge.
"How is cheer going?" Harriet asked, changing the conversation a bit.
"It's going alright," Rachel replied, reluctantly.
"That good, huh?"
Rachel snorted a laugh. "We just don't have enough people. I mean there's me, Erica, some younger kids like Katy Tyler… we need a good flyer, though."
"A flyer?"
"Sorry, they're the ones who go up in the air."
Harriet blinked.
Rachel smiled a little. "Sorry, forget it's not such a big thing over here. Flyers get held or thrown up in the air during stunts."
"So, it's more than just kinda jumping up and down waving poms in the air?" Harriet asked half teasing, remembering the little group that had cheered her during the Tri-Wizard Tournament.
Rachel scoffed. "No!"
"Sorry, just teasing."
Rachel sniffed. "I know. Erica's disappointed it's not going better. That's what everyone thinks it is."
"Sorry…"
"It's okay," Rachel replied.
They finished their lap. Harriet broke off to join her friends who were sitting with Kieran on the front step of the school. Harriet did her best to avoid looking at Umbridge as she neared. Umbridge did not seem to notice her. As always, her disapproving toady eyes were fixed on Captain Kane.
Harriet sat with her back to Umbridge. She took deep breaths, trying to calm herself. That was the woman who hurt Finn and so many others. That was the woman who was hurting Fern and Finn's brother. Harriet wasn't afraid of her. Harriet was doing her best to stop herself going for her wand and cursing Umbridge right there.
No, she had to keep a calm head. She took a deep breath and fell back on Wengshuk's writings. Wengshuk had once travelled amongst the other royal families he knew were plotting to overthrow his own family and wipe them out.
I found peace in strategic thinking.
Harriet could find it, too.
I walked amongst them. I got to know them. I could not be the aggressor.
Harriet could not give in, either. She had to learn control.
The effect was two-fold. I got to know them as people. I saw they were individuals who loved and laughed, bore children, made art, they were people just like me.
Was that what Harriet was afraid of? Getting to see Umbridge as a person? Rather than just the monster who attacked children?
I also saw the dark underside. I saw the contempt for my family and people. I saw people who smiled in my face while they prepared to kill me. And so, I treated them in kind.
Harriet had already seen the dark underside. She glanced sideways at Umbridge. Yes, she most certainly already knew the dark underside.
Harriet's prediction that Madam Irene would see the dream came true immediately.
"Sorry," Harriet said at once, lowering her head. "I am trying…"
Madam Irene did not look or act disappointed. She said nothing at first. Harriet could feel Madam Irene studying her.
Madam Irene sat in her chair. Harriet slowly looked over at her out of the corner of her eye. Madam Irene's expression was not harsh, instead contemplative as she studied Harriet.
"No, I am not going to scold you, Miss Potter-Dusk," Madam Irene said. "I see you are trying."
Damn sight better than Professor Snape, Harriet thought, bitterly.
Madam Irene held her chin, thinking. "Imperative as this is, it is clear you are still a special case… this connection between you and Voldemort is far stronger than I'd thought."
Madam Irene gestured for Harriet to sit, too. Harriet obliged.
"The trouble is that scar," Madam Irene mused. "That strange connection you two have. Its strength even I had not anticipated…"
Madam Irene was starting to look deeply troubled. Or perhaps Harriet could just sense it with her Legilimency. Madam Irene's eyes did not look as stony as normal.
"This is going to be even more difficult because Sunday we will begin your Potions lessons. And as I have picked a rather difficult potion for you to begin working on, this is going to take some work."
Harriet said nothing. Madam Irene continued to contemplate, rubbing her chin.
"What potion?" Harriet asked, trying to break the awkward silence.
"Wolfsbane."
Harriet was glad she was not drinking, as she would have sprayed Madam Irene spitting it back out.
"The Wolfsbane Potion?" Harriet asked, remembering the complicated, smoking potion that Professor Snape had made for Remus during her third year.
"The very same," Madam Irene replied.
"That's… that's like higher than N.E.W.T. isn't it?"
"It is," Madam Irene confirmed. "But I believe in you. Professor Snape has shown me your previous work. You have an aptitude for the subject, that is certain. However, I feel the awkward past that exists between you and Professor Snape has greatly hampered your efforts."
"Hard to put in much effort if he won't even acknowledge you," Harriet grumbled.
"Do not mumble, Miss Potter-Dusk," Madam Irene said.
"Sorry."
"I quite agree that Professor Snape is a bitter and childish man," Madam Irene continued. "He is an adult, and it is his responsibility to put his past behind him where children are concerned, especially as a teacher."
Harriet's respect for Madam Irene quadrupled at once.
"I believe under proper instruction you can be a great potioneer."
Harriet's cheeks were feeling very warm by that point. The pair fell silent. Harriet looked at the clock on the wall. They were only halfway through the lesson, and she was already exhausted. The lack of sleep was starting to get to her.
"We will not immediately begin brewing the potion," Madam Irene explained. "The first step shall be a field-trip of sorts."
Harriet tilted her head.
"The most important ingredient is fresh, moon-picked Wolfsbane," Madam Irene explained. "There should be ample amounts of it in the forest."
Harriet shivered, remembering all the unpleasant experiences she'd had there.
"Why… why the Wolfsbane Potion?" Harriet asked.
Madam Irene gave Harriet a slightly incredulous look.
"To help your friend Remus Lupin, of course," Madam Irene said.
Harriet blinked a couple times.
"It occurred to me quickly when overlooking the Order's ramshackle operation that no one has the time to care for him properly," Madam Irene explained. "And as I have to see to your proper education while also overseeing the rebuilding of my school and much of the Eastern Seaboard, by working it into our lessons, you can prove your own Potions skills to yourself, while also taking care of your friend."
Harriet nodded slowly.
"Now, we've had a little break, shall we get back to it?"
Harriet's eye twitched.
The door was so close. So close.
"Are you okay…?"
Harriet started. She recognised Nan's voice at once, but she hadn't heard her approach.
"Hey, yeah Nan," Harriet said, brushing her hair back from her face.
It was Wednesday afternoon. She was in the library. She must have fallen asleep while reading. Her Wengshuk book was open on the table before her.
She'd still been having trouble sleeping. Though it had only been three days since the last foray into Lord Voldemort's mind.
At least she thought so.
Harriet blinked the sleep from her eyes. She looked up at Nan and gave her best smile. Nan didn't really return it, still looking at Harriet with worry.
Harriet sighed. "I'm okay, Nan, really…"
"No, you're not," Nan said, sitting beside Harriet.
Harriet didn't say anything. Nan was right, but Harriet didn't want to admit it.
"You can talk to me, you know," Nan pressed. "We're sisters."
Harriet thunked her forehead down on the table-top. "I know… it's not you… I kind of have a problem talking about stuff with everybody."
"Is it Quidditch?"
Harriet sighed again. "That's part of it. It's kind of everything."
"Have you asked Umbridge or Professor Weasley if you can join a team again?"
Harriet grimaced, still resting her forehead on the table. "No…"
"Why not?"
"I don't particularly want to talk to either of them…"
"Fair, but… how will you ever get your stuff back if you don't? It's not like Umbridge is going to just hand things back over."
"Fair, too…"
The pair fell silent.
"Rosie thinks it was Umbridge who did it," Nan said quietly, leaning down close to Harriet.
"She's right," Harriet mumbled. "I saw it in one of Finn's dreams…"
Harriet could feel a wave of Nan's fear. She clenched her eyes, trying to block it out.
"What are we going to do?" Nan asked.
"I haven't a clue," Harriet admitted.
The fear was now being aided by worry. Harriet tried harder to clear her mind and block out Nan's emotions.
"Come on, you're…"
"I know, Nan!" Harriet said impatiently, lifting her head off the table. "I'm Harriet Potter, defeater of Lord Voldemort and blah-blah-blah!"
Harriet felt like she'd stabbed herself in the heart. Nan's face was pale, and her eyes quickly filled with tears. Harriet's vision began to cloud with them.
"I'm sorry," Harriet choked. "I just don't know what to do, and I don't know where to go for help. I've always had help, I've never done anything on my own…"
Harriet was fighting hard to keep back sobs. She was a failure. She knew who'd hurt Finn and so many others and she couldn't do anything. She wasn't even trying. She couldn't try. She couldn't get close to Umbridge without feeling sick.
Harriet expected Nan to leave. Yet, Harriet instead felt Nan's arms curling around her shoulders.
"I know you don't mean it…" Nan said.
"I don't, but I shouldn't lose it like that either, especially not to you," Harriet sniffled.
Nan squeezed tighter. Harriet was stricken with even more guilt. Guilt for all her failings, for snapping at Nan, and for now having snapped at Nan and being the one comforted.
She really was a screw-up.
"You just can't be so alone all the time," Nan said, moving back to her chair. "You've been alone all year so far."
Harriet wiped her eyes and nose. "I know… I try…"
"Your friends really miss you," Nan said. "Ronnie especially…"
"Yeah…?"
Nan nodded. "She just kinda mopes around the common room at night, like she doesn't want to go to bed."
Harriet wasn't sure at all how to feel about this. Why hadn't any of them told her? Maybe she should try out for football after all?
Harriet tried to change the subject. "So… how have you been holding up…?"
Nan shrugged. "Okay, I guess. Rosie keeps talking about football, and wanting to get rid of Umbridge…"
"Sounds like her," Harriet said. "She made the team?"
"Mmhmm," Nan nodded.
"Have you thought about starting an art club like Mum suggested?"
Nan twisted her lips. "Kind of… but… I don't know… no one seems that interested except Emma, and we already hang out all the time anyway so… it wouldn't exactly be a club."
"I guess not," Harriet agreed. "So, what do you think? Any other teams or anything?"
Nan shrugged. "Dunno. That Rachel girl in your year keeps asking people to join cheer, but…"
Harriet pondered that. Why hadn't Rachel asked her the last time they'd talked? She doubted she'd join, but she'd have appreciated the offer. She had thought about joining football since Rachel had mentioned it, but she was sure it wasn't for her. Everyone on the team was almost a head taller than her except for Mayu.
She'd also considered lacrosse, but that looked even rougher than football. Harriet missed being on a team and playing a sport, but she wasn't looking to get banged up that badly. Granted Quidditch had its Bludgers and rough-play between players, but Harriet was generally quick enough to avoid both on her Firebolt.
Harriet's head drooped. She was still so tired. Yet she didn't want to return to her dorm.
Nan studied Harriet closely.
"You really don't look so hot."
"Haven't really been sleeping great…"
Nan was thinking, then smiled. "Maybe you're 'sick'?"
"Sick?"
"Mmmhmmm, very sick. Like 'need a night in the hospital wing,' sick?"
Harriet cottoned on.
"That would be nice… but Miss Momori and Madame Pomfrey would see right through it…"
"Would they?" Nan asked, rummaging in her bag.
"Yes…?"
Nan was smirking slightly as she pulled out a box. Harriet recognised them at once as one of Fred and George's Skiving Snackboxes.
"Nan!" Harriet laughed. "What on earth are you doing with those?"
Nan shrugged. "Thought they might come in handy. Low and behold… I've just thought of a use for them."
Harriet shook her head. "I thought you were the good one."
Nan looked deeply flattered.
Harriet felt infinitely better the following day. She had not exactly enjoyed the effect of multiple Puking Pastels. She had to keep taking them after Madame Pomfrey gave her tonics to justify staying overnight.
The best part was her friends all waiting to greet her in the morning. It somehow felt normal. As normal as Harriet could hope for, anyway.
She was nervous about that Sunday night. While Harriet had survived terrible things in the forest before, she wasn't eager to go out there again. Not with the Acromantula and other awful things. Especially since she didn't know how good of memories Acromantula had.
"Hey, Harriet," Rachel said stepping up to Harriet as they made their way back to the castle after Care of Magical Creatures.
"Hey," Harriet smiled.
Rachel was acting awkward, yet optimistic.
"I just wanted to ask you something," Rachel said. "If that's okay?"
Harriet smiled sadly. She knew what Rachel was going to ask.
"Thanks, Rachel, I'm flattered, but… I don't think so."
Rachel's face fell, and Harriet felt the painfully familiar feeling of guilt return.
"Oh…"
"I just… I don't think it's my thing," Harriet said, quickly. "I mean, even if I was allowed to join."
"I see…" Rachel said, disappointed.
Harriet fought off a sigh. It wasn't for her. It wouldn't be as rough as football or lacrosse, but how could it be as exciting as Quidditch? She remembered the little squad that formed for her the previous year. All they did was jump in place and chant things. She'd appreciated them, certainly, but enough to become one?
"Just… thought you'd like it… sorry," Rachel said quickly, hurrying ahead to catch up with Tori.
Harriet watched as Rachel said something to Tori. Tori's face fell, and she gave Harriet a disappointed look. Harriet's stomach was knotting. Was she going to be able to do anything but disappoint people this year?
"You… might have been a little more diplomatic about it," Hermione said as delicately as she could.
Harriet's shoulders drooped. "Nan mentioned something about them asking her yesterday… I knew what she was going to ask… I appreciated it, but…"
"Hey, Har's under a lot of pressure already," Ronnie butted in.
Harriet gave Ronnie an appreciative smile, but she knew Hermione was right. She hadn't needed to be quite so blunt about it. She sighed. She'd try hanging out with Rachel more as Captain Kane had requested. She did like Rachel. She was a sweetheart and a laugh.
Unfortunately, Rachel seemed determined to avoid Harriet for the rest of the day. Class after class, Harriet's mood sank lower and lower for it. It didn't matter, anyway. Umbridge and Percy had not yet given Harriet permission to join teams or return to Gryffindor tower. Surely Rachel understood that? What other answer could Harriet have given?
It was still weighing on Harriet's mind when she returned to Ursula House that evening after dinner.
"Good evening, Harriet," Umbridge greeted Harriet as she entered the front door.
"Oh, hello, Counsellor Umbridge," Harriet said, trying to fight down the queasiness in her stomach.
Umbridge was face to face with her. There was something smug about Umbridge's expression as she looked Harriet in the eyes. It was as if she knew how much her presence disgusted Harriet and loved every second of making her feel uncomfortable.
"Tut, tut," Umbridge wagged a fat little finger. "When you are in my house you are to call me Dolores, Harriet."
"Sorry, Dolores," Harriet said.
She cursed herself. She had to stop apologising for everything.
"I was just wondering if you would like to join me, at last, for some tea?" Umbridge offered.
Harriet tried to think of a reason to say no. She was starting to run out of them.
"Miss Mantovani will be joining us," Umbridge said.
Harriet did her best to smile. "Okay, then."
"Wonderful," Umbridge smiled wider, causing Harriet's stomach to churn even more.
Umbridge spread a stubby arm wide, gesturing towards her office. Harriet started towards it, glad that having her back to Umbridge would allow her to hide her grimace. She caught sight of Colm, Krystelle, Holly and the rest. She gave them a fleeting, pleading look. It was Portia who acted first. She rose gracefully and strode over.
"Hello, Harriet," Portia said. "Hello, Dolores."
Portia gave Umbridge a convincingly radiant smile.
"Good evening, Miss Figg," Umbridge replied.
Harriet paused. Umbridge had not called Portia by her first name. Indeed, there was a hint of coolness in Umbridge's voice. Harriet pondered if Umbridge was on to the fact that Finn's friends were not as under her control as she might have hoped.
"We were just wondering if Harriet would like to join us for some Wizard Chess?" Portia offered.
"Oh, no, Miss Figg," Umbridge said, slowly shaking her head and smiling poisonously. "Oh, no… I have a long overdue meeting with Harriet here, now that she is part of our little world."
Harriet was beginning to regret not taking another puking pastel.
"Oh, a-alright? After?" Portia pressed.
Umbridge didn't seem to have a reason to say no to this.
"Very well, Miss Figg… now Harriet, if you'd please join me."
Portia gave Harriet a pained look as Harriet resumed following Umbridge. Harriet felt as though she was being walked to the gallows. She vaguely wondered if she'd prefer that.
Harriet's Friday began the best way she could have hoped as Mum passed her Finn's latest letter.
Dear Harriet,
I can only imagine. I don't know what I'd do in your shoes. By the sound of it, I'd probably find some way to fuck her over, though. It's weird trying to come to terms with who I was.
I can't wait to see you again. I really have to introduce you to David. We were talking more about my past yesterday, and it turns out he's trained in boxing, too. That really put me off at first, but we kept talking about it. He put it a lot more into perspective for me. He doesn't box for money (he obviously doesn't need it) he got into it just out of wanting to understand it and try something new. So we're going to try practising it together, proper like.
He introduced me to his wife, Iman, too. She was born in Somalia, but she's lived all over. She went to school in Egypt, went to college in Nairobi. She speaks like five languages. I love whenever she stops by, David always looks at her like 'how did I get this lucky'? It's how I felt in the pub that day before you went back to Britain.
I've tried writing more poetry but haven't really felt much of an inspirational spark. David says not to force art. If you force it your work gets sloppy.
Sebastian says the next time you visit we're going to go through some memories. Like, go properly into the memories. He says I might not react well, not just because it's going to be 'trippy' but because my mind might freak out a little. Like when I 'remembered' that song but not really. It might not take it well. So we're going to have to take it baby steps. I think I'll be okay, though, as long as you're there, too.
Oh god, I'm suddenly realising how many probably crazy embarrassing memories that I might have that you'll see. What if I had a girlfriend before you? Do you know if I did? I don't know if I could make you watch that? I'd rather not remember, I think. I don't know. This is all so weird. I only know how to be this person I am now. I don't know how to be that person anymore. I don't even know who that person was. But it's who everyone seems to see when they see me.
I'm so nervous, now. Why am I so nervous about this? I'm getting everything back, but it's just so strange. And having to watch it from like outside. Am I being crazy?
Sorry, this letter wasn't happier. There's just so much to think about. I'm not selfish, am I? I want to help, but I just don't what to say. Sebastian says I'm alright, and I shouldn't worry. So do David and Iman. They tell me I'm pretty new at everything, but it doesn't feel like an excuse. You've been there for me, now I feel like you need me to be there and I'm mucking it up.
Again, sorry this letter wasn't happier. Just can't wait to see you in person.
Love,
Finn
Harriet shook her head, smiling as she put the letter away. She felt bad for Finn and his worries, but hearing from him lifted her spirits. Particularly after the awkward meeting with Umbridge.
The conversation had been so boring Harriet almost fell asleep at least once. Umbridge mostly asked Harriet overly personal questions about her family while trying to get her to drink tea. Harriet was eventually forced to pretend to drink and pour her tea into a nearby pot-plant when she thought Umbridge and Fern weren't looking.
To make matters worse, Fern acted short with Harriet afterwards. Harriet could tell Fern thought Harriet had been rude. She'd make it up to her soon somehow. Hopefully by exposing Umbridge once and for all.
Harriet pondered how to do it without having to get too close to Umbridge. She supposed she could use her invisibility cloak and try to sneak into Umbridge's office. But would she leave such incriminating information just lying about? That seemed doubtful.
The tea was starting to bother Harriet. Why was Umbridge so insistent that Harriet drink it? Fern drank it with no ill effects that Harriet could see. She ended the meeting as smiling and happy as it began.
Harriet had another chance to wander as her friends went to Potions. She kept stealing glances out at the Forbidden Forest as she walked along one of the upper floors. She had felt a sense of foreboding about the trip, but after her time with Umbridge last night, Harriet found herself starting to look forward to it. It would be another little act of rebellion.
"Harriet!"
Harriet smiled looking down the side corridor in the direction of the shout. Nan and Rosie were both hurrying towards her, hand in hand and beaming.
"Hey, you two," Harriet said, hugging them as they reached her.
"Guess what? Guess what?" Rosie grinned, bouncing and looking expectantly at Nan.
"What? What?" Harriet smiled.
"I…" Nan was blushing as red as the trim on her jumper.
Rosie rolled her eyes. "Nan tried out for cheer last night and got on the team."
Harriet at first was taken aback. That was the last thing she expected Nan to do.
"Really?" Harriet said, regaining her senses. "Congratulations!"
Nan scuffed a foot. "Didn't really try out… Just overheard Erica talking to her boyfriend about how not enough people had joined up, and she was worried about it being cancelled. Emma said I should, and I'd be good at it and so… I went over and asked."
"That's great," Harriet smiled giving Nan another hug.
"I have my first practice tonight if you want to come?" Nan asked, apprehensively. "I know you told Rachel you didn't want to join…"
"Of course I'll come," Harriet replied. "What time?"
Nan's grin returned. "It's at seven! Just after dinner!"
"I'll be there," Harriet said.
"Thanks, Sis," Nan hugged Harriet tightly again.
Harriet hugged her back just as tight. She was proud to see Nan growing and exploring new things. As the hug released, she turned to Rosie.
"And you, stranger, how've you been? How's football?"
Rosie rolled her eyes. "We're not great, but we have fun. Mostly the pure-blood kids keep suggesting rule changes…"
"Lemme guess: they basically want to turn it into Quidditch?"
"Yes," Rosie grumbled.
Rosie glanced up and down the corridors, then leaned in close to Harriet.
"I've been snooping and asking around about Umbridge, too. I don't have much, yet, but I've been trying to follow her."
Harriet fought off a grimace. She didn't want Rosie getting wrapped up with this woman. She'd overseen the memory-wiping of hundreds of other kids. Harriet shuddered thinking what Umbridge might to do her sister if she got caught.
At the same time, Harriet knew she'd faced her fair share of danger at even younger ages than Rosie. Would she be a hypocrite for warning Rosie against following around Umbridge? Rosie also had a friend who was under Umbridge's spell just as Harriet did. It put Harriet in mind of just how new to this 'being a sister' thing she was.
Harriet clenched her lips then put on a smile. "Just be careful, okay? Umbridge is bad news…"
"I know," Rosie said, determinedly. "But someone's got to do something. I know you're on it, but I'll help!"
Harriet smiled and hugged Rosie close. "Thanks, Rosie."
"We're sisters, we gotta stick together," Rosie said.
Harriet was sitting in the stands with Rosie, Dora, Hermione, Marcus, Ronnie, and Scott. Kieran was up in the air on his broomstick, practising with the rest of the team. Down below in the grounds, the Gryffindor cheer team was gathering.
Harriet waved at Nan. Nan beamed waving back. Harriet had to admit; their uniforms were her style. Despite the cool evening air, they wore gold tank tops and red pleated skirts, with gold inside the pleats, gold knee-high socks and white trainers. Once again, the more mischievous part of Harriet's mind wondered what Finn might make of such uniforms.
Harriet still wasn't sure what about cheer was going to require practice. Instead, Harriet's eyes kept being drawn up to the Quidditch players. They were just getting ready to start, doing their customary hand-eye training routine of passing the Quaffle between each other.
Little by little, Harriet felt her deeply buried sense of resentment starting to burrow its way back to the surface. Ginny had amazing eyes and hands for a chaser. She had the best catches in the group and could quick-pass to someone else without even looking. It should be Harriet up there wearing the Seeker's robes.
Harriet forced herself to look away from the Quidditch players. The cheerleaders were doing callisthenics. Harriet was impressed by how hard they were working but still didn't see why those were necessary. Surely, they should be practising chants and the like, shouldn't they?
Hermione held out a bag of popcorn to Harriet, which she took and began eating from, burying her dark thoughts in enjoying the salty, buttered flavour.
"Don't choke," Rosie said.
Harriet grumbled.
"Don't worry so much," Hermione soothed.
"Yeah, next year Angelina and Alicia will be gone, so Ginny can move to Chaser, and you can move back to Seeker," Ronnie said, cheerfully. "Ginny said she prefers Chasing."
"Not if I can't practice, I won't," Harriet sniffed.
"No one said you couldn't practice on your own," Scott said. "Did they?"
"Not exactly…"
"Just ignore it and support Nan," Rosie said, with surprising shortness.
Harriet lowered the popcorn, shame creeping over her mind. "You're right…"
They watched as the girls down on the pitch stretched. Nan, as the most recent member of the team, hadn't quite gotten the flexibility of the other girls yet. Harriet was impressed to see how far even Katy Tyler, who Harriet would have thought a bit too hefty for such stretches, could go.
Almost all the team were Americans. Erica was leading it all, Rachel and Tori seemed to be her lieutenants. She was at least glad to see that Parvati and Lavender had not made the team.
Other faces she recognised were Americans: Annie Gilberts, Sarah Hollins, and Alexis Richardson. There were some non-Americans that she noted as well: Damelza Robins, Romilda Vane, and Minako Minagawa. That put the team at eleven overall.
Harriet raised her eyes to the Quidditch players once more. Something struck her at that moment. Quidditch was the only true sport that Hogwarts had for centuries. Each team only had seven players, while each house had around two hundred students. Harriet wondered if that was why so many students had taken to Marcus' Muggle-sports initiative. It was their way to represent their house in some way.
It was then that Harriet thought of something else. The years after Harriet's year seemed to have far more students than hers and the previous years. Indeed, most of the cheer team down on the pitch at that moment were fourth and third years.
This led her to another realisation. The Ministry had passed a decree that all magical students born in/or living in Britain had to attend Hogwarts. Yet except for the former Rathlin students in Ursula House, the school didn't feel like it had gained that many more students.
"Hey, Hermione," Harriet said. "I was just wondering…"
Harriet asked Hermione her questions. As she did, the faces of all her friends, except Marcus and Nan, fell dramatically.
"It was You-Know-Who," Scott chimed in, sadly.
"Oh?"
"Not many people saw the point of having kids with him on the rise," Dora said, bitterly.
"Until you defeated him, it looked to most witches and wizards as though You-Know-Who was going to win," Hermione explained. "No one wanted to bring a child into that world."
"People got a bit frisky after that," Ronnie chuckled darkly.
"Not that it stopped your family," Dora teased, nudging Ronnie with her shoulder.
Ronnie rolled her eyes.
"Wonder if that's what's happening back in America right now…" Rosie pondered aloud. "I don't think I'd want to bring a kid into the world with everything happening there right now…"
"Look who it is."
Harriet and her friends turned to the new voice that piped up from the nearby entrance to their section of stands. It was Colm with his and Finn's friends.
"Hey you," Scott grinned, waving to Colm.
Finn's gawky little brother flushed but smiled hurrying over to sit with Scott, Scott putting a welcoming arm around Colm's shoulder.
"Finally, somewhere quiet to talk," Holly said, glancing around the stands suspiciously. "I hope."
Harriet grimaced. She really just wanted to be here to support Nan. However, they did need to talk.
"That your sister down there?" Gaius asked Rosie.
"Mmhmm," Rosie said, proudly.
Harriet watched the pitch. The girls were now running laps of the pitch. Harriet sighed and turned her attention to Holly and Krystelle.
"I think I know how Umbridge is bewitching everyone," she said.
Holly twisted her lips. "Let me guess: the tea?"
"Bingo," Harriet sniffed.
"Wish I knew what she was putting in it," Holly growled. "It's obvious but ingenious. Tea's such a comfort drink. Offer it to upset people, and you calm them and drug them at the same time."
Harriet kept her eyes on the pitch. As the team ran, Erica was levitating out a series of beams, laying them out on the ground. Harriet tilted her head.
"She's stopped offering it to all of us," Krystelle said. "She's on to us."
"I got that impression the other night," Harriet replied. "She offered me more tea, but I didn't drink. I pretended to, but I'm not sure she was fooled."
"If it's a potion, I wonder who's making it for her," Holly pondered. "My mom's looked into her student records. She wasn't actually that good in most subjects… she's only gotten by on being good at manipulating people and stabbing others in the back…"
"That sounds right," Hermione agreed.
"The other mysteries is the memories, right?" Krystelle asked. "She's obviously modifying memories, but she's not talented enough to do that, either."
"No…" Holly agreed. "At least not this well."
"You're all investigating Umbridge too?" Rosie asked, looking up at Holly and Krystelle excitedly.
"Of course," Holly smiled. "You're Rosie, right?"
"Uh-huh," Rosie grinned.
Harriet felt a little impressed that Holly knew that much.
"I've been following Umbridge around, trying to pattern her movements. See if she has anyone suspicious she talks to. I've started making up a list of students in the school she seems 'friendly' with."
Harriet blinked. "Wow, good thinking."
"Thanks," Rosie beamed.
Harriet glanced over her shoulder as Rosie launched into conversation with Holly about the evidence she'd been collecting. Portia was sitting one row behind and kept giving Harriet furtive glances. Harriet could feel her anxious mind, and excused herself from Holly and Krystelle, moving up to sit beside Portia instead.
"Hey," Harriet said.
"Hey…" Portia replied.
"You wanna talk?"
Portia tightened her lips.
"Is he okay?" the older girl asked. "Truly okay…"
"He is," Harriet smiled as best she could. "He's in one of the safest places in the world, and hardly anyone knows it."
Portia exhaled in relief. "I miss him so much…"
"We'll get to see him next weekend," Don reassured her, leaning down from his seat and putting a comforting hand on Portia's shoulder.
Portia rested a hand on Don's giving him a thankful look, as Krystelle leaned back into Portia's lap, holding Portia's other hand. Harriet noted that Don was holding hands with Gaius. It was then that something struck her. She glanced at Holly. Holly, she knew, was romantically involved with one of the Americans, Ashley Roth, who was a Ravenclaw. Colm was with Scott. Krystelle and Portia were a pair. And apparently, Gaius and Don were an item. Were all of them homosexual except for Finn?
Harriet looked at her friends. They were all outsiders in their ways. At least when they first became friends. Kieran, with his bum leg and walking stick. Ronnie with her boy name. Hermione the bookworm. Marcus with his hot and righteous head. Scott and his interest in boys and girls that had tormented him for so long. Dora and her constant sense of rebellion. Had their sexualities been what drew Finn's friends together?
Harriet put it from her mind as she came to another question. "So, Holly, has anyone said how we'll be getting you all to see him?"
"We're going to use your dad's shop," Holly said, smiling. "Krys and I are supposed to be working there anyway. We'll all sneak out the back and into a carriage that'll take us to the back entrance of the Hog's Head. From there we'll take the Floo Network to one of the houses in the grounds there."
"Cool," Harriet smiled.
"I can't wait to see the town again," Hermione said wistfully. "So many amazing inventors and great magical minds…"
"I can't wait to meet Daaviiiiiiiiiid," Colm moaned longingly.
"Me either…" Scott agreed.
"You know who he is?" Harriet asked.
Colm and Scott stared at her.
"What…?"
"It's Bowie…" Colm said. "You know… David Bowie…?"
"Ziggy Stardust…? Space Oddity…?"
Harriet kept staring back at them. Finn had mentioned both of those songs, but they didn't mean anything to Harriet.
"He was Jareth…" Gaius piped up from the back of the group.
Scott and Colm both moaned in unison. "Jareth…"
"Jareth was totally my sexual awakening," Colm said.
"Mine, too…" Scott agreed. "Though… so was Jennifer Connolly… my childhood was a little confusing."
Colm rolled his eyes bumping Scott's shoulder.
Portia rolled hers too. "David Bowie's a really famous singer and actor in the Muggle world. He's a wizard, but he got bored with the magical world and decided to entertain muggles instead."
"Apparently all the effects in Labyrinth were actual magic, and Jim Henson had to edit the film to make it all look fake," Colm said.
Colm shook his head, smiling. "It's so funny… Bowie was one of Finn's heroes, before…" he cleared his throat "I mean… if old Finn knew that he was someday going to be hanging out with Bowie and learning music and stuff again from him… he'd probably lose his mind all over again."
The group fell quiet again. Harriet noticed Portia was now watching the cheerleaders eagerly as they finished their run. Harriet recalled that Portia had been a dancer at Rathlin, which she supposed was a little similar.
"Missing dance?" Harriet asked.
"Like a mermaid would miss water…" Portia sighed. "Brave of your sister to jump right into cheer, though."
Harriet furrowed her brow. "It's not that involved, is it?"
Portia scoffed. "Are you kidding? Have you ever seen competitive cheerleading?"
Harriet shook her head.
"Well I doubt your team here is going to be much like it yet, but I generally liken it to human fireworks," Portia said.
Harriet turned her attention back to the pitch. The team were now lining up either side of the beams. Harriet watched as two started towards each other from opposite ends, their arms spread wide, balancing while trying to cross the beams as quickly as they could. The girls waiting their turns cheered the others on.
Harriet wondered what they were going to do when they reached each other in the middle. She was answered as Tori and Damelza reached each other first. They took hold of the other's forearms and working together, carefully swapped places. They then did their best to keep their balance while moving backwards the rest of the way across the beam.
Over and over the team worked on their balance and teamwork while crossing the beams. Harriet found she couldn't help watching. She glanced up at the Quidditch players. She watched Ginny, flying around alone looking for the Snitch.
That was something she'd never had in Quidditch. Real team support. She wasn't even particularly good friends with any of her old teammates, now that she thought about it.
After twenty minutes of practice on the beams, they were moved aside. The girls then broke into little groups of three to four. They then began working on practising back-flips. One girl would practice flipping, while one stood on either side of her. The supporting girls would put a hand on the small of the flipping girls' backs, and another on the backs of their thighs. The girl would jump, and the supporters would help flip her over.
"The two on the sides are called spotters in a move like that," Portia explained to the group. "Best to use them when just starting out in gymnastics."
"So this is more than just shouting and waving puff-balls in the air?" Gaius asked.
His question was one Harriet had mulled over the past week, but he was clearly joking as his lips twitched. Portia threw her scarf at him, knocking him back a bit as it hit him square in the face.
Harriet had a difficult time getting cheer practice out of her head that weekend. She'd asked Portia more about it, particularly the kinds of stunts involved. Harriet still felt it didn't seem like her thing, but there was an appeal all the same. She liked seeing the way they all supported each other. They felt like a real team, a group of friends.
She also thought of Portia's description of them being like human fireworks. She couldn't help but imagine adding things like broomsticks to routines, and actual fireworks like the ones Fred and George had used once to disrupt a Slytherin Quidditch practice. Something to really give people a show.
However, Sunday afternoon came and immediately drove those thoughts out of her head. She would be going into the forest with Madam Irene. She spent the whole afternoon preparing herself mentally for what they might face. Mostly, she just worried about running into more acromantula. Harriet had never been that afraid of spiders, but after that horrible night in her second year when she 'followed the spiders' with Kieran, she was as close to being as arachnophobic as Ronnie.
Madam Irene was waiting in the entrance hall just after dinner that Sunday night. Harriet was taken aback. Madam Irene did not look the slightest bit ready for a walk in the Forbidden Forest. She wore a black cloak, and a white blouse with lace collar and sleeve cuffs, with black trousers and tall, high-heeled boots.
"Good evening, Miss Potter-Dusk," Madam Irene said. "Are we ready to begin?"
"We are," Harriet replied, somehow feeling underdressed for a trip into the forest wearing in a simple tee-shirt, jeans, and trainers.
"Then we are off," Madam Irene turned on her heel and at once set off out the main doors.
Harriet had to hurry to keep up. Madam Irene was clearly in no mood to delay. Harriet was sure she wanted as little chance of being noticed by Dolores Umbridge as possible.
They headed towards Hagrid's hut. Madam Irene said nothing as they walked. Harriet was surprised she could walk so well on the soft ground in her heels but then reminded herself that Madam Irene had likely enchanted them.
"You think we'll run into any trouble?" Harriet asked, unable to stand the silence much longer.
"It is certainly possible," Madam Irene answered, pausing at the edge of the forest.
She drew her wand and tapped her hip with it, thinking. Harriet was about to draw her wand when Madam Irene held out a hand.
"No, not you," Madam Irene said. "And not yet."
"Not yet?"
"The dangerous part of tonight, as I see it, will not be the beasts of the forest, but the beings who will not take our intrusion lightly."
Harriet tilted her head. "You mean the Centaurs?"
"Precisely whom I mean."
Harriet had met the centaurs only once before, back in her first year. Most of them had seemed put off by the idea of even Hagrid being in the forest, except for Firenze, who saved Harriet from Lord Voldemort, who was using Quirrell to drink dead unicorn blood. Harriet's blood chilled at once with that memory.
Madam Irene tilted back her head. She shook out her flowing hair and cleared her throat before tapping it with her wand. She gently gave out a soft, low, sort of call. There were no lyrics or even a melody, just a soft, smooth wail. She must have placed the same charm on her throat as Ludo Bagman had done while announcing the Quidditch World Cup, as the sound seemed to carry and boom into the woods.
She stopped. Harriet stared at her, then looked around scanning the forest. She couldn't see more than a few yards into its darkness. Harriet raised an eyebrow but knew better than to question Madam Irene. Madam Irene was older and much more experienced than her. She likely knew what she was doing.
Madam Irene repeated the ominous call. Harriet kept watching the trees. She was starting to get the feeling she was being watched.
"Is that how you call centaurs?"
Madam Irene tapped her throat once more with her wand before returning it to her pocket. "Not exactly. It is how you intrigue them."
Madam Irene fell silent again, surveying the forest.
"There they are," Madam Irene smiled at last.
Harriet heard it, too. The sound of hooves. Many hooves.
The hooves began to thunder but then slowed. She could feel suspicion and curiosity in equal measure come over her mind. She would have thought it was her own if the weight of it was not so oppressive. The centaurs were all on edge.
Finally, a centaur broke the cover of the trees. His bow was at the ready with an arrow in it, but not drawn. Harriet recognised him. His name was Ronan.
"It is a human," Ronan said, "Curious."
Another centaur appeared that Harriet did not recognise. This one she recognised at once as a woman, being much slenderer in appearance, as well as being bare-chested. She was striking in her beauty, despite being half a horse. She had red hair, as Ronan did, with a matching chestnut fur coat. She looked far less austere than Ronan did.
"My, my," the female centaur smiled. "What a lovely voice."
"I thank you," Madam Irene replied, bowing deeply.
"What is it you want, human?" enquired another centaur as it came into the clearing.
Harriet did not recognise this one, either. His hair and coat were black, with prominent cheekbones.
"We come to pick aconite," Madam Irene explained. "And we seek your permission to do so."
Madam Irene bowed deeply. Harriet didn't hesitate to copy the move. The centaurs she could see were all armed with bows and arrows.
The centaurs did not respond right away. They moved close, muttering amongst themselves. Madam Irene kept bowing, her head low, her arms spread. Her gesture was one of pure supplication. Harriet remained bowed as well but was much more reluctant to lower her head.
"Very well," Magorian said. "You may enter. No farther than one hundred yards. We shall be watching."
"Old nags," the female centaur rolled her eyes, swishing her tail in agitation. "What harm will they do? They have paid us proper respect have they not?"
Magorian sniffed and stamped a hoof in agitation, but Ronan stepped up.
"Celia is right. Precious few humans pay us proper respect these days. Are we any better if we repay respect with discourtesy?"
Harriet bit her lip. Madam Irene remained bowed.
"Arise, humans," Celia said cheerfully. "You and your foal may enter. Stick to the paths for your safety."
"We thank you for your courtesy," Madam Irene said. "We will not intrude upon your lands any longer than is necessary to collect the aconite. A friend of this foal is stricken with lycanthropy. Wolfsbane plucked at moonlight is the key ingredient to the potion that will help him."
Harriet raised her eyebrow again at Madam Irene referring to her as a foal.
"Then you are both courteous and noble in your intentions," Celia smiled.
"Agreed," Magorian said at last.
Harriet was watching the other centaurs. She wondered where Firenze was.
"We shall be on our way then," Madam Irene said. "Come."
Madam Irene rose at last. Harriet's back was a little sore from holding the awkward position for so long. At the sight of Harriet's face, however, the centaurs all froze. Harriet figured they must recognise her now. She'd only been eleven the last time she'd met centaurs.
The male centaurs began whispering again, while Celia looked intrigued, pawing a few steps closer.
"She is the one…" Celia said. Harriet wasn't sure if it was a question or a statement.
"That foal cannot enter the forest," Ronan declared, trotting forward. "It is not the time!"
"But she must," Celia said, turning to face Ronan.
Harriet wondered if the pair were siblings. They had similar faces as well as coats.
"Her friend needs help, Ronan. And she has asked politely with her mare."
Madam Irene gave Harriet an amused glance over her shoulder.
"If it should please the herd, I shall accompany them," Celia offered.
She offered it so quickly, Harriet was suspicious that she just wanted an excuse to join them.
Ronan and Magorian exchanged looks.
"Very well," Ronan said. "But they are only to find aconite and go no further. Once enough has been collected they are to leave forthwith."
"Fair enough," Celia grinned, turning back to the pair.
Harriet took Celia in properly. She noted that unlike the men, Celia did not carry a bow. Instead, she had two longswords hanging in scabbards from a belt on her human waist.
"Follow me, humans," Celia grinned.
She turned and set off at a trot into the forest. Madam Irene kept her eyes downcast as she started after the centaur mare. Harriet followed Madam Irene, keeping her eyes down too. She had no idea why, but she figured it was best to follow Madam Irene's lead at all times around the centaurs.
She was studying Celia closely. She seemed so different to the other centaurs. She wondered if the females were all this free-spirited compared to the males. Even Firenze, who was markedly different from the other centaurs, seemed downright stoic compared to Celia.
"We thank you," Madam Irene said. "Your graciousness in allowing us to enter your forest is—"
"You certainly have experience with our kind," Celia said, cutting Madam Irene off.
"I am a headmistress," Madam Irene replied. "I make it a point to instruct all my students in how to respect other magical beings and engage on their terms."
"Beings, you say?" Celia said, her voice finally taking on an air of coolness. "Not creatures, as your Ministry calls us?"
"It is not my Ministry," Madam Irene replied. "I come from across the sea, in America."
"You do sound different than the rest," Celia observed.
Celia turned her eyes on Harriet. "And you, Harriet Potter…"
Harriet swallowed.
"You are a fascination…"
"I'm sorry?" Harriet blinked, certainly having never been called that before.
"The signs speak of you as a warrior… a leader… one of a dark future, who will still bring light…."
Harriet's face blanched. What did that mean? She wasn't a warrior or a leader. A dark future? Did that mean Voldemort would win? He'd turn her to the dark arts? Yet if she was still going to bring light…
"Yet that future is unknown," Celia admitted. "But the foolish stallions all think they have worked it out."
Celia sniffed. "And yet… the forest speaks of you in kindness. You helped the Aigikampoi of the lake… the merfolk spoke of your bravery… as did Aello."
Harriet remembered the funny little goat-fish. They'd saved Harriet twice from Grindylow in repayment for her helping one of their young that was caught on a tree-limb. She wondered how they were. She should try and bring them more apples.
"You knew Aello?"
"She faced and bested Bane," Celia smirked down at Harriet. "He has been a bit more reserved since then. Although as an Amazon, few of us had any doubt who would emerge victorious."
Harriet couldn't help but smile a little at that thought. She'd liked Aello. She was strong but hadn't treated Harriet like a kid like Fleur had. She also had a strong sense of honour that Harriet respected. Harriet wondered where she was now. Maybe somewhere nice with Viktor?
"Are all lady centaurs like you?" Harriet asked.
Madam Irene gave Harriet a scathing look, but Celia threw her head back and laughed.
"I am one of a kind, Harriet Potter," Celia replied, smiling down at Harriet. "Though not as unique as you."
Harriet flushed slightly.
"And we prefer Centauride."
"Sorry…"
"We centauride are more… spirited than the centaurs, they would say. They see the world only through the stars and signs. We prefer to keep both our eyes open. We see the world for what it could be, and what it is. It is what makes Firenze so special… for a centaur."
Harriet gave the centauride a sideways glance at the way she talked about Firenze, but Celia paid her no further mind.
"Here," Celia declared as they reached a clearing. "You may gather."
Madam Irene drew her wand, conjuring two pairs of gloves and a pair of baskets. She handed Harriet a basket and a pair of gloves.
"Aconite is poisonous," Madam Irene explained. "Lethally so. It isn't necessarily dangerous by skin contact alone, but it can cause tingling and numbness in the fingers, nausea, and headaches, if not handled properly."
"Got it," Harriet said, putting on the gloves right away.
She remembered something. Bartemius Crouch, Sr had been poisoned with wolfsbane by Solomon Kinney that past spring. Harriet eyed the plants around their feet with much more apprehension.
They set to work picking. Celia kept watching, pondering the pair.
"Madam Irene?"
"Yes, Miss Potter-Dusk?"
"Why does the full moon affect werewolves? And why does it matter when the aconite is picked?"
"There are numerous plants that grow best out of direct sunlight," Madam Irene said. "It is not so much the fact that it is light reflected from the moon in a literal sense, it is the shade of light that triggers the curse directly in werewolves and brings out the counter-transformative effect in aconite."
"So it is a curse? I thought it was a disease…"
"You say that as if they are mutually exclusive."
Fair…
Celia started shifting, watching the forest.
"Is something there?" Madam Irene asked, her hand moving for her wand at once.
"I am not sure," Celia replied, her feet clopping a little.
Harriet put her hand on her wand, too. Her eyes scanned the dark. The forest was silent. Unnaturally so.
"Quiet…" Celia whispered, her hands holding the handles of her swords.
Madam Irene nodded. There wasn't even the sound of a breeze.
"Do you mind if I perform a spell?" Madam Irene asked Celia.
"What spell is it?"
"It will reveal lifeforms in the vicinity," Madam Irene explained.
"That sounds wise, in that case," Celia muttered.
Madam Irene drew her wand and flourished it at the surrounding forest. Harriet started. It felt as though something whooshed low over her head.
"That's just the spell," Madam Irene reassured her.
"Okay…" Harriet whispered.
"Anything?" Celia asked.
"Nothing…"
"It is still there," Celia replied. "I feel it… something… familiar…"
Harriet closed her eyes. Maybe she could use her Legilimency? She took a slow breath and tried to work the fear and unease from her mind.
She couldn't sense Madam Irene. She must still be using her Occlumency. She could sense Celia, however. The anxiety coming from her was palpable. Harriet felt as though if she opened her eyes, she could have seen it.
That was all she could sense, however. Maybe she couldn't sense animals?
"Might it be the direwolves?" Madam Irene asked.
"Direwolves?"
"The forest's wolfpack," Celia answered. "The offspring of two werewolves during a full moon. Large and intelligent… enough to rival your kind."
Harriet shivered. That was not good news.
"If it were, I would not feel so anxious," Celia continued. "We have good relations with the wolves. Moreover, we are not in their territory…"
"And the spell would have revealed them," Madam Irene added, grimly.
The trio fell silent again. Celia's head turned side to side, her long ears scanning for any sound.
"It must be nothing," Celia said at last.
"I trust your judgement," Madam Irene said.
Harriet chewed her lip in worry but resumed her work. Every little sound from then on made her think of the clicking of Acromantula fangs and the skittering of their legs. She also kept thinking she could hear the patter of feet and the sniffing of dogs.
"That should do," Madam Irene said at last.
"You collected quite the batch," Celia observed.
"It will save us from having to make future intrusions," Madam Irene said politely.
"The centaurs will appreciate that, I have no doubt," Celia chuckled.
She was smiling, but Harriet could still feel her anxiety.
"Follow me," Celia said.
Madam Irene and Harriet followed in silence. Harriet could feel it now, too. There was something out there, watching her. It didn't feel as though something was watching them but watching her. Like she was the target.
She was about to suggest to Madam Irene that she cast the spell again when they mercifully broke through the trees and into the grounds. Harriet felt ten-times lighter as they stepped into the full moonlight. The sight of the castle made her feel even more relieved until she remembered she wasn't going back to the castle. She had to go back to Ursula House, which was sitting in the castle's shadow, dark and ominous.
Madam Irene took Harriet's basket.
"Excellent," she said. "I will get these properly stored, and tomorrow night we will begin the preparations for the brewing of the potion."
Madam Irene turned back to Celia, bowing deeply again.
Celia sniffed in amusement. "You can end the act."
"You assisted us, protected us, and kept us company," Madam Irene replied, rising. "There is no act, and we are in your debt."
Celia's lips twitched. She waved to them and disappeared into the forest without another word.
"That is over," Madam Irene said. "We should get you back to your dormitory before Dolores becomes too suspicious."
"Great…" Harriet grumbled.
Madam Irene ignored the comment and swept past Harriet towards Ursula House. Harriet followed, dragging her feet as much as she dared. She kept stealing glances towards the forest. Now she was out; she was regretting having not asked Celia more questions. She'd seemed so much more interesting than the other centaurs she'd met.
Harriet stopped. Her heart froze, and her breathing stopped. Someone was there. There was a figure standing at the edge of the forest watching them.
It wasn't alone. She could see the blinking of many eyes about waist high to the figure. Two stood either side of the figure. Wolves.
Harriet's eyes returned to the figure. While the wolves' eyes glinted in the moonlight, the figure's eyes were the opposite. They were black. Even at this distance, Harriet felt they were like deep, bottomless pits that sucked all light into them.
Harriet jumped. What had happened? She was in bed. How was she already in bed? She'd just been out in the grounds with Madam Irene.
Hadn't she?
Harriet sat up. There were the gloves she'd used, draped on the back of her desk chair. It had happened. It hadn't been a dream.
Harriet flopped back on the bed. What was going on? This was the second time in a week she'd thought she'd been awake and found herself sleeping.
Harriet ran a hand through her hair. At least they'd made it out of the forest safely. What had happened after they got out? Sleep was starting to shut Harriet's eyes. Why was she thinking of Hyland?
Harriet thought no more as sleep took her.
Harriet still did not remember what had happened when she woke the next morning. She remembered Celia, and the scary moment when they all thought they were being watched, but that was about it. Why didn't she remember between leaving the forest and waking up in her bed?
As usual, she had little time to think on that as she prepared for class. Luckily their first lesson was History of Magic, which would be more relaxing. Then she would have a double free period when she would usually have double Potions. The downside would be Divination with Professor Trelawney.
Harriet had gotten better at ignoring Professor Trelawney this year. Mostly because she was already so distracted with everything else going on. Compared to Lord Voldemort's return, Solomon Kinney and Bart, Jr being on the loose, and Umbridge slowly taking over Hogwarts, annoyance at Trelawney's usual buffoonery had largely taken a back seat in Harriet's mind. She was too used to Trelawney predicting her death to care, anymore.
Harriet was having a harder time ignoring the class, however, as they were working on dream diaries. Harriet had to think hard about these, as unlike most students who could just record their actual dreams, Harriet had to make hers up. She couldn't very well report: I constantly find myself inside Lord Voldemort's mind as he thinks about the Department of Mysteries.
Harriet snorted with amusement. There was a dark irony in the fact that Trelawney would believe any dream as long as it was bad but would probably think Harriet was making up her actual dreams. Did they even count as dreams, though? They were more like visions while sleeping.
She thought hard on what to write down. Professor Trelawney wasn't acting as attentive as she usually was, giving Harriet more time to think. Usually, she was moving about the room, inspecting everyone's work. Today, however, she was merely sitting at her desk, muttering angrily.
No one was in any doubt as to why. Umbridge had come down harshly on Professor Trelawney during her inspection. Why though, Harriet wondered. It's not as though Divination was all that important a class. Sure, Professor Trelawney was an old fraud, but she seemed like such small fish for Umbridge to concern herself with.
Finally, Professor Trelawney rose wearily from her chair. Harriet forced her mind to work. Any idea should do. Even if it was just images. It wasn't as though Professor Trelawney was going to interpret them as anything other than impending doom, anyway.
She was struck by a strange image: a lone figure walking amongst wolves. Where it came from, she wasn't sure, but she liked it. It was a lonely yet powerful image.
I see a man. He's in a forest, walking with wolves.
Short, but should at least count for a dream, Harriet thought.
Professor Trelawney reached her. Harriet wondered if she was a seer, as her prediction came true at once. Professor Trelawney lost her gloom as her bespectacled, magnified eyes opened their widest.
Predictably, she screamed. Harriet just closed her eyes wearily.
"It is the Moon Man!" Professor Trelawney gasped. "The Shadow Man!"
Harriet groaned.
"The surest of omens of death's approach!"
"More than the other five hundred times," Ronnie mumbled.
Most of the nearby students heard and broke into giggles and sniggers. Even Rachel laughed, and AJ's lips were twitching.
"This is no laughing matter!" Professor Trelawney declared. "The shadow man comes… he seeks that which is lost! He seeks those who lived past their time!"
"He doesn't sound like a shadow though," Ronnie observed, leaning over to read Harriet's note.
"No… I mean… I can't be sure…" Harriet said.
She suddenly felt as if it had been a real dream, not something she'd made up. Why was it now so vivid?
Harriet's head was starting to swim. Her stomach swam slightly, and she felt like she was floating.
"Harriet?" Ronnie asked. "You look like you're about to chunder…"
"M'mokay," Harriet said as the feeling passed. "Still not sleeping great…"
"Professor Trelawney," Rachel suddenly said. "would you like to see my dream? I think it's real interesting!"
Professor Trelawney kept staring at Harriet as though she had not heard Rachel.
"Or mine, Professor," Tori chimed in while leafing through the Dream Oracle. "I… think I had a black cat in mine?"
Professor Trelawney started to come to her senses. She began backing away as if entranced, turning to the two Americans. Harriet gave Rachel an appreciative smile. Rachel returned it reluctantly before beginning to explain her dream to Professor Trelawney.
Mercifully, the bell rang five minutes later. Harriet had already begun packing and was the first one down the ladder. She felt a wave of warm relief as she stepped down onto the landing. It was much cooler down here, and less oppressive feeling.
"You sure you're alright," Ronnie said as she reached the landing behind Harriet. "You went white as a sheet."
"I'm fine," Harriet said, now feeling like she was. "Just need more rest…"
"If you say so," Ronnie said, clearly unconvinced.
"Let's just get downstairs," Harriet said. "Almost time for Defence Against the Dark Arts."
"Maybe you'll want to skip it this time," Ronnie suggested. "You're still awfully pale."
Harriet grunted. Ronnie did not press the matter the rest of the afternoon. Harriet did feel progressively better as the day went on. Getting out into the grounds for Defence Against the Dark Arts helped dramatically. It was chilly, but the sun was shining.
Harriet was distracted by the forest, however. It was strange to think she'd just been out there the night before. Then she'd met more centaurs and picked ingredients for a potion that would help Remus. She wondered what it was that Celia had sensed in the forest. Harriet snorted. Perhaps it was the 'shadow man.'
Harriet rubbed her head. There was something odd about this, even for Professor Trelawney. Harriet had just thought up that idea off the top of her head, yet Trelawney had connected it with a death omen instantly. She hadn't reacted that badly since seeing the 'Grim' in Harriet's tea leaves back in her third year.
Harriet tried to put it out of her mind. She had Defence Against the Dark Arts coming up. A nice run would be the perfect thing to distract her.
An hour later, Harriet panted to a stop at the end of the run. She'd fallen even further behind Rachel than she had the week before. She felt no better at all.
"Cheer's not so wimpy now, is it?" Rachel said, her voice dripping in cheek.
Harriet didn't respond. The run had taken more out of her than she'd thought. Maybe she wasn't feeling so well after all?
"Are you alright?" Rachel asked, her tone completely changed now.
"Dunno," Harriet admitted, standing upright and beginning her cooldown walk. "Been a weird couple of weeks…"
They walked together in silence as they cooled down, keeping their legs stretched. Harriet could feel Rachel's mind whirling. Harriet was sure she wanted to ask Harriet to join once more but was clearly respecting Harriet's choice. She appreciated it deeply.
"Maybe you need to eat?" Rachel finally offered at the end of class. "You didn't eat much at lunch…"
"Spying on me now, are you?" Harriet asked, trying to sound like she was joking, but probably coming off sounding more annoyed.
"No…" Rachel admitted. "Just worried about you. We all are."
"And we miss you," Basheera added as she approached them.
Basheera, like Kieran, did not participate in the callisthenics.
"Even if we're not your close friends," Rachel said. "We miss you in our dorm… we've lost you, Parvati, Lavender, and AJ this year… it's empty even if those three are being jerks."
Harriet sighed. "I miss you all, too…"
"Have you asked if you can come back, yet?" Rachel asked.
Harriet shook her head. "No… I don't want her to know she's getting to me…"
Rachel and Basheera blinked.
Harriet shook her head. "Nevermind… it's my deal."
They reached the other students who'd already finished. They waited in mostly silence for the other students to finish and gathered around Captain Kane.
"End of October will be the end of callisthenics," Captain Kane said. "At least as a class subject. You all know enough, but I will be giving you all work-out journals to keep yourselves in shape. With the proper exemptions, of course," he nodded to Basheera and Kieran.
"What will we do after that, Captain?" Dean Thomas asked eagerly.
"We'll begin proper duelling lessons."
The class all immediately broke into excited murmuring at this.
"You've honed your accuracy, now you've gotten your bodies on a good path, it's time to start putting it all together."
"Cool," Seamus Finnigan grinned.
"Hit the showers," Captain Kane told them. "Good work everyone. You're all improving."
Except for me, Harriet thought, bitterly. She expected Captain Kane to hold her back and point out she had done worse today, but he didn't. Maybe he was taking pity on her?
Harriet tried to force the dark thoughts out of her head. She was being silly. She couldn't improve every single time, could she? Everyone had off days.
Harriet was one of the last ones out of the shower. She felt good and clean again, having turned the water up as hot as she could stand. Her skin felt scrubbed clean, as though brand new as she headed up to the school with her friends.
Harriet narrowed her eyes. Umbridge was standing in the school entranceway again. Harriet thought that was odd. Usually, she was gone by now. Moreover, she wasn't watching Captain Kane.
"Good afternoon, Harriet," Umbridge said, her voice tinkling, yet still leaving Harriet feeling nauseous.
"Hello, Dolores," Harriet said, remembering this time.
Umbridge's smile widened making her look more toad-like than ever. "I would like for you to join me again," she asked. "In my office. I have something very important to discuss with you, that I think you will very much find to your liking."
Fat chance, Harriet thought.
"That would be lovely," she said.
"Wonderful," Umbridge said and at once set off for the Ursula House building.
Harriet gave her friends a forlorn look before heading off after the squat, pink ball that was Dolores Umbridge.
Umbridge said no more to Harriet as they crossed the grounds. Harriet glanced over at Captain Kane who was preparing the grounds for a higher-level class by the looks of it. She wished she could reach out with him to her mind, to call his attention over to her. Maybe he could come up with an excuse to get Harriet out of this situation.
Yet she could not, and he did not look over. Soon he was out of sight behind the corner of the building as Umbridge led Harriet into the front door past the ever-present Auror guards. The common room was empty at that moment; all the students must have been off taking their classes. More opportunities for rescue were gone.
They walked up to Umbridge's office. Umbridge unlocked the door and stepped aside, gesturing for Harriet to enter. Harriet stepped past Umbridge into her office. She was taken aback at once. She didn't think she would ever get used to the sight of the horrid lace doilies on every surface, nor the china plate kittens over all the walls, nor the lurid pinkness of the scene.
There was also a single desk in the middle of the room with some sheets of parchment on top of it. Was Harriet being given detention? What for?
"Please have a seat beside my desk, Harriet," Umbridge said, waddling past Harriet.
Harriet simply stood in place, watching as Umbridge took her seat behind her desk.
"I asked you to sit," Umbridge insisted, looking up at Harriet. As ever, she was scarcely taller sitting than standing.
Harriet reluctantly made her way to the overstuffed armchair beside Umbridge's desk. Her eyes kept drifting to the desk in the middle of the room.
"Dolores, what's going on?" Harriet asked at last.
"I have a little surprise for you," Umbridge winked. "I believe we have gotten this year off on a bad start, Harriet. Consider this my olive branch."
Harriet furrowed her brow. There was an excitement radiating from Umbridge that was even starting to give Harriet butterflies. Umbridge was positively overjoyed about something. Harriet jumped when a knock came at the door.
"Come in," Umbridge called pleasantly.
The door opened. Harriet's eyebrows felt like they leapt off her head in surprise as Blaise Zabini entered. He looked just as surprised to see Harriet sitting there.
Harriet glanced sideways at Umbridge, but Umbridge only had eyes for Zabini. She looked like a frog that had put its full focus on the juiciest fly at the pond.
"Have a seat, Mr Zabini," Umbridge said.
Zabini kept his eyes on Harriet as he sat. Harriet was looking from him to Umbridge. What was going on? Was Umbridge going to make Zabini write lines for her? That wasn't very much of a gift. Sure, Zabini deserved someone for what a creep he'd been, but this just seemed silly.
"Now, Mr Zabini, I've heard reports from all over the school that you have been excessively forward with both Miss Potter here and my poor, favourite student, sweet Fern Mantovani…"
Zabini said nothing. He simply looked down at the parchment, suddenly seeming bored.
"So, I'm doing lines, I suppose," Zabini finally said. "If talking to girls is now worthy of detention around here."
"Yes, you will be doing lines, Mr Zabini," Umbridge replied. "But harassment is quite against the rules, even before I arrived to help guide this school onto back a respectable path."
Harriet could tell Zabini was fighting his hardest to fight off an eye-roll.
"You can give detentions?" Harriet asked, suddenly surprised.
"But of course, Harriet dear," Umbridge replied sweetly. "I am the high inquisitor. I oversee everything at Hogwarts, now. Every teacher and student is under my authority."
Harriet's body chilled at that.
"It's a fact that I think you have not quite come to grasp this year, Harriet," Umbridge said. "This is our first demonstration of that. Now, Mr Zabini, you are going to be writing lines for me tonight."
"How long?" Zabini asked.
"Ah-ah," Umbridge tutted. "How long, Counsellor Umbridge."
"How long, Counsellor Umbridge," Zabini corrected himself reluctantly.
"Until the message sinks in," Umbridge smiled slowly.
Zabini looked around his desk.
"I don't have any quill or ink?"
"Oh, you won't need either," Umbridge said.
She opened a drawer on her desk and drew a long, black quill. Harriet studied it. The tip was metal and looked as pointed and sharp as a scalpel, rather than a normal quill. She thought it was more likely to cut through the parchment than write on it.
Umbridge rose and walked slowly back around her desk towards Zabini. While Umbridge's squat figure meant she did not walk quickly in the first place, there was something different about this. It felt more like a stalk; the pace was deliberate.
She held out the quill for Zabini, which he reluctantly took.
"And the ink?"
Umbridge raised an eyebrow.
"Counsellor Umbridge," Zabini added quickly.
"You won't need ink, dear," Umbridge said, her voice silky.
Harriet didn't feel Umbridge looked like a frog or toad anymore. She was acting more like a cat that had cornered a particularly fat and juicy mouse.
Harriet wondered why Zabini wouldn't need ink. Was it a pen? Umbridge returned to her desk.
"Now, Mr Zabini, you are going to write 'Lecher,' for me, until I feel we are done."
Zabini scoffed, but Umbridge's expression did not falter. She was not joking. Zabini stole a dark look at Harriet before shaking his head and putting the quill to the parchment. Harriet stole a glance at Umbridge but Umbridge now only had eyes for Zabini.
The quill scratched across the surface of the parchment. Zabini had just finished the first 'Lecher' when he winced and grabbed his writing hand. He stared at it with horror, then at Umbridge.
Umbridge was oozing a sick sense of glee. "Is there a problem Mr Zabini?"
Zabini jumped up from his chair. "What just happened?!"
"Sit, Mr Zabini," Umbridge ordered silkily. "I did not tell you to stand."
"It was carved into my bloody hand!"
"What?" Harriet gasped standing.
"You remain seated too, Harriet," Umbridge said. "This is Mr Zabini's punishment for being a lecherous little boy. Sit and continue your lines, Mr Zabini. I will tell you when your punishment is over."
"This is torture!" Zabini declared. "It's illegal!"
"Is it, Mr Zabini?" Umbridge said. "As high inquisitor, I am given authority by the ministry to dole out punishments as I see fit… and where are you to go? Besides… who would ever believe you… the snivelling son of a suspicious widow of a dubious reputation…?"
Zabini was frozen.
"Sit, Mr Zabini, and finish your lines…"
Zabini was sweating. He slowly lowered himself back into the chair. Harriet was too horrified to move, or even to think. What was happening?
"Would you like to watch, Harriet dear?" Umbridge offered. "I want you to be my friend. This is what happens to those who cross my friends. They get their just desserts."
Zabini's hand was shaking. His eyes were wide open. Slowly, he wrote 'Lecher' once more.
Yet again, he winced and grabbed his hand. Harriet saw two little drops fall from his hand to the parchment.
"Show Harriet, Mr Zabini."
Zabini was still shaking. He raised his hand. The word 'Lecher' had been carved into it.
"Dolores, you can't!" Harriet gasped. "You can't do this!"
"Now, now," Umbridge patted Harriet's hand gently.
Harriet yanked it away.
"Mr Zabini here has harassed far more than just you and my sweet Fern. My little ears throughout the school tell me his wandering eyes have been all over the school. Haven't they, Mr Zabini?"
Zabini said nothing. He just put the quill to the parchment and wrote again. Harriet's jaw hung open. Over and over, he wrote the word 'Lecher,' and time and again it was carved into his own hand in his own writing. He finally wrote enough that Harriet could see the writing from her chair. It was red. Harriet found herself struck with another horrible realisation. Zabini was writing with his own blood.
"Dolores, I can't…"
"Can't you, Harriet dear?" Umbridge said, her eyes full of dark glee. "He'll most certainly live… and I believe we can be sure after a session or two; he will never bother sweet little girls like you again… will you, Mr Zabini?"
"No, Counsellor Umbridge," Zabini said at once.
His voice cracked. His hand did not stop bleeding this time. He was nearly to the bottom of the parchment.
Umbridge slowly rose from her chair. Again, she moved deliberately, as if ready to pounce. Zabini looked up at her with horror on his face. Umbridge took his bleeding hand. Zabini recoiled, but Umbridge held onto it.
"I think that will do for the night, Mr Zabini," Umbridge said. "I will ask you to return tomorrow night. Just to make sure the message 'sets in'…"
"C-can I go now," Zabini choked.
There were tears in his eyes.
"Yes, Mr Zabini. Tell the next person to wait until I call for her."
Zabini did not hesitate. He spun out of the chair and practically ran from the room, slamming the door shut behind him.
Umbridge tutted. "I do believe he failed to follow my last instruction…"
"You… you tortured him…"
Umbridge smiled down upon Harriet. Despite her short stature, Umbridge somehow seemed taller in the wake of what she'd inflicted on Zabini.
"Yes… with a most heavy heart," Umbridge sighed. "But I expect better from my old house… particularly where my favourite students are concerned…"
Harriet was sweating. Her hands were shaking too.
"The thing is, Harriet, you've been very reluctant to join me for tea," Umbridge continued. "It's been most disappointing. Now… you've seen what I'm willing to do to those who cross you… but now I think it would be wisest to show you what will happen if you cross me…"
Umbridge turned to the door. "Come in," she called sweetly.
The door opened. Harriet knocked the chair over in her haste.
"No! Dolores, no!"
Rosie had stepped into the room. Her face was pale and uncertain.
"Harriet…?"
"No, what, Harriet?" Umbridge asked, her lips curled.
"What's going on…?" Rosie asked, nervously, looking from Harriet to Umbridge.
"Have a seat, Miss Sinistra…"
"Rosie, no!" Harriet said, moving between Umbridge and her sister.
Umbridge's grin was hideous in its hungry glee.
"Miss Sinistra has made a habit of following me about the school, Harriet… now I cannot allow that…"
Harriet was shaking. She'd faced Dementors, acromantula, and dragons before. Yet at that moment, Harriet was more afraid than she had ever been in her entire life.
"Miss Sinistra must learn not to be nosey, Harriet," Umbridge said, pleasantly. "She must respect others' privacy, mustn't she?"
Harriet felt her senses returning. She looked back at Rosie. Rosie was worried and confused, but she had no idea what was coming. She had no idea what Umbridge intended to do.
"You see, Harriet… I need you to be my friend. If you aren't going to drink my tea, then I need another way to convince you. Last spring, we learned that Rita Skeeter had found out the perfect way to control you."
Harriet knew what to do. Harriet knew what to do at once.
"Me!" Harriet said, pushing Rosie aside and sitting at the desk. "It was me. I asked her to do it! I'll write the lines instead!"
Harriet and Umbridge were staring at one another, neither blinking. Harriet could feel Rosie's fear and shame.
"Friends don't spy, do they, Harriet?" Umbridge asked. "Miss Sinistra here is certainly not my friend… but you are, aren't you, Harriet? I'm deeply hurt to hear this…"
Harriet said nothing.
"Because you're my friend, I will allow this… it is how you will repay me…" Umbridge continued "and I will sweeten the deal… you've missed your friends, haven't you, Harriet…?"
Harriet still said nothing.
"I asked you a question, Harriet…"
"Yes, Dolores," Harriet said at last.
"And you miss being on teams, don't you? Having friends?"
"Yes, Dolores."
"Harriet…?" Rosie whispered. "What's going on…?"
"All you have to do is be my friend, Harriet, just like sweet Fern is…" Umbridge continued as though Rosie was no longer in the room.
"Yes, Dolores," Harriet said, breathing heavily.
"Take the quill, Harriet…"
Harriet picked up the quill.
"I want you to write 'I will not meddle'," Umbridge told her. "Miss Sinistra will take a seat beside you and see what happens to those who disobey me."
Harriet gave Rosie a little nod. She didn't want Rosie to see this, but even less did she want Rosie to experience it. This was worth it.
Umbridge drew a sheet of parchment from her desk. She took out a quill of her own and started writing.
"This note is to inform Professor Weasley that I have deemed you fit to return to Gryffindor Tower and to re-join teams, Harriet," Umbridge smiled. "You may take it with you when you are finished with your lines."
"Yes, Dolores," Harriet said.
Umbridge smiled wider. "Proceed, Harriet."
Harriet began writing. The moment she finished the sentence her hand seared with pain. She winced again as Rosie shrieked in her ear.
Saturday the fourteenth of October had arrived. Harriet, her friends, Colm, and all of Finn's old friends were sitting and standing around the sitting room of the Gatsby's house in Avalon. Most of Finn's friends had tears in their eyes. Most were happy, but Portia was sobbing.
Harriet's knees were bouncing. Rosie and Nan stood either side of her. Rosie's eyes were downcast. She'd barely spoken since that horrible night. Harriet didn't blame her.
Harriet couldn't feel much more than shame. She'd taken the punishment for Rosie, yet she still felt like she'd surrendered. Her hand still hurt. It'd given her trouble at practice that week.
How? How could she have fallen for the same trap twice? How was she letting herself be blackmailed a second time?
Harriet took another glance at Rosie. She'd do it again. She'd do it again in a second.
Hermione put a bolstering hand on Harriet's shoulder from behind. Harriet smiled back at her. She had not told any of them what happened in Umbridge's office that night. She couldn't risk any of them being put to the same fate. She couldn't risk Umbridge trying to harm any of the rest of her family or anyone else she cared about.
That was the one thing Harriet was certain of. She was now at war with Dolores Umbridge. She did not care about Solomon Kinney. She did not care about Crouch, Jr. She did not care about Lord Voldemort. Her enemy was Dolores Umbridge.
Harriet looked to the nearby door to the Gatsby house study. Finn and Colm were through there. Harriet vaguely wondered what they were talking about. They'd been in there for an hour already. Harriet didn't mind. She could be patient. This was worth it.
Everyone was adamant that Colm be the first to see Finn. They would all meet with him individually. After Colm would be Portia, then Krystelle. After that would be Holly, Gaius, and Don. All in the order of who had known him the longest.
The fireplace roared green, and Daddy came swirling out of it. He skidded to a halt and dusted himself off.
He smiled around the room pleasantly.
"Doesn't seem like anyone's noticed," he informed them. "Umbridge is still up at the school as far as anyone can tell."
There were relieved murmurs. Daddy walked over smiling down at Harriet.
"Hey Harricane, you alright?"
"Yes, Daddy," Harriet replied.
Daddy chuckled gently. "Daddy again, is it?"
"Yes," Harriet said simply.
He smiled more. "Good. I missed that."
"Me too," Harriet said hugging him tightly.
Daddy hugged her back. They held the embrace for a while. Harriet refused to let go. She couldn't let anything happen to him or anyone else in the family. They meant far too much to her.
Finally, they broke the hug. As Daddy leaned back, he looked her over once with a quizzical expression.
"You're sure?" he asked.
"Yes, Daddy," Harriet replied, resolutely.
She was very sure, indeed.
Daddy smiled gently and leaned down, giving her an affectionate kiss on the forehead. He gave matching ones to the twins and walked toward the kitchen where the adults were gathered.
Finally, the door to the study opened, and Colm emerged. His eyes were thoroughly bloodshot, and there were tear-marks down his cheek.
"Y-you're up, Porsh," Colm sniffled.
Both Holly and Scott rose. Portia passed Colm going into the room while Scott hugged Colm tightly, rocking his boyfriend gently. Colm hugged him back just as tight, breaking down again. Harriet closed her eyes, and just let the relief and happiness wash over her. She'd waited so long for this. The lead-up had not been at all like she'd hoped, but it was here. It was happening.
The little group sat in silence while the re-introductions went on. Everyone who came back out of the room had been crying. Harriet had tears in her own eyes. She couldn't help it, and she did not mind. They were all happy tears of relief and reunification.
They all took time to hug and thank Harriet after their sessions. After, they headed into the kitchen, where Harriet knew they were going to thank Daddy for finding him at last. It was almost Don's turn. He was shifting awkwardly in his seat. Harriet knew he'd only known Finn for about a year.
"It's going to be alright," Harriet said, smiling at him.
"Thanks," he mumbled.
"He'll remember you, too," Holly encouraged him. "He has good memories of you, I know it."
Don forced a little smile. "Guess so…"
Krystelle put an arm around Don's shoulder, giving him an encouraging squeeze. "He helped you and Gaius get together, didn't he?"
"Yeah," Don smiled softly but sincerely now. "He did…"
"How?" Harriet asked, wanting to keep the positive feelings going.
Don smiled wider. "I was pretty messed up after… after what happened… after…" Don cleared his throat. "Anyway… Gaius… I knew… could tell he liked me… and… I did like him… but I was afraid… I was broken and damaged… but finally, Finn sat me down. He told me I'd had enough pain and suffering… it was time for something happy in my life. It was time for some love… and that Gaius would give me all of it…"
Marcus walked up behind Hermione, putting his hands on her shoulders. She leaned back against him, wiping her eyes. They still had never told anyone that they were a pair, but no one needed to be told. That they were happy was what was important.
The door opened, and Gaius appeared. He rushed over and hugged Don tightly. The pair held the embrace before Don moved to the room, and Gaius followed the pattern to hug Harriet before heading into the kitchen. The little room fell silent as they waited.
Harriet was starting to get antsy. She wanted to see his face. She wanted to see his smile. She wanted to kiss him. She wanted to really kiss him. She'd had so much darkness lately, she wanted her love, just like Don and Gaius.
Rosie rested her head on Harriet's shoulder. Harriet put an arm around her shoulder.
"You deserve someone like that…" Rosie whispered.
"Thanks, Ro…" Harriet replied softly.
"Ro… I like that…"
Harriet smiled and softly kissed the top of Rosie's head.
"Does he know about… you know?"
Harriet nodded. "And he likes it, too."
"Good," Rosie said. "I'd straighten him out if he didn't."
Harriet smiled and rested her cheek against the top of Rosie's head.
More silence filled the room. Finally, the door opened for the last time. Don was also wiping away more tears as he left. Harriet got to her feet. It was her turn. She met Don halfway across the room, giving him his hug. Don whispered a series of thank yous to her before turning to Gaius, who put his arm around his boyfriend's shoulder and guided him into the kitchen.
Harriet looked to the partly open door. She felt her lips smiling involuntarily as she crossed to it.
"Knock, knock," Harriet said, rapping gently on the door.
She pushed it open and stepped into the doorway. Finn was sitting at the desk chair, leaning forward, his elbows on his knees, looking at the floor. Harriet could feel the weight of his mind. It had been so much for him to take in. He was tired and emotionally ragged.
Harriet slowly pushed the door shut behind her and leaned back against it.
"Sorry," Finn said. "Just… overwhelmed…"
"I know…" Harriet said softly. "But I have a little surprise for you…"
Finn looked up. His face went slack at once, and he stared. Harriet flushed but was quite flattered all the same.
"Well, I guess I'm the surprise."
Harriet watched Finn's eyes move over her. Down over her chest and torso, wearing the golden tank-top with the big red Gryffindor lion. They moved over the flippy, red pleated skirt with the golden inner pleats. They lingered longest on her legs in the gold kneesocks, and her little feet in the white trainers.
"I…yuuuhhhhh…" Finn started to speak, but it just slurred into a moan.
Harriet smiled more, moving towards him. She couldn't help but strut a little to make the little skirt flip.
"Mmhmm, guess what…?"
"Wh-whu…"
"I'm a cheerleader now," Harriet said softly. "One of the first ever in Hogwarts history."
"Yer'a… I…"
Harriet giggled. "You like it?"
Finn's face was burning red as he forced his eyes back up to her face.
"Yahuh…"
Harriet giggled again. It was a much more relaxed reaction than Nan's had been, but much more welcome. Finn's dumbstruck expression was just what she'd hoped for. Unlike Nan, who had shrieked with delight and tackled Harriet to the floor in her excitement.
Harriet gently cupped a hand to Finn's cheek. Her mind began to whirl with Finn's thoughts. She saw him imagining running his hands over her sides and legs. She saw him winding ropes around her in his mind. She loved every second of it.
"Y-yer… doin' that mind thing again… aren' yeh…?" he whispered.
Harriet bit her lip. "Mmmhmmm."
"Can't help it…" Finn whispered.
"Don't want you to," Harriet replied.
He was still sitting, Harriet standing over him. His mind seemed to go completely blank. It was just filled with her face, moving closer and closer to his. Her eyes closing.
"I want to…" Finn trailed off.
"Me to…" Harriet whispered softly.
"Christ you're so beautiful…" Finn gasped.
"You, too…"
Harriet leaned down. Finn's eyes closed. Their lips touched, and Harriet melted into his arms.
