Career Advice

Malfoy paced Moaning Myrtle's bathroom. Myrtle hovered beside Siria and watched him. Neither knew what to do. Malfoy's father had used the Imperius Curse on someone. He would go to Azkaban, as soon as Bode was well enough to point the finger. Myrtle eyed Siria. She gave three small nods in Malfoy's direction, to say "go comfort him." Siria's jaw dropped for a moment before she mouthed "how?" But Myrtle eyed around the bathroom like one of the broken tiles had the answer.

"I can't wait until He takes over," Malfoy spat. Siria clasped her hands together, as she had the last three times he said something to this effect. "We're pureblood. We won't let my father go to prison— if anything, that Ministry wizard should for breaking the Curse."

"Have you heard a word you've said?" Siria asked. "The Dark Lord you were so worried about that you joined Dumbledore's Army, is going to save your father from prison?"

"Maybe He didn't know it was Warrington," said Malfoy. "Maybe Wormtail didn't either. You said Wormtail's gone a bit mad; maybe he didn't know." Siria sighed.

"What about the rest of us?" Siria asked. Malfoy stopped pacing to look at her.

"You're a halfblood, he might spare you— you could marry a pureblood and join us."

Siria chose to ignore Malfoy's use of "us" as though he already changed sides. She closed her eyes and prayed for patience, or that she could at least mind her temper. "He's just anxious," she tried to tell herself.

"What about Ron?" Siria asked. "What about the Weasleys?"

"They are," Malfoy sighed, "technically pureblood. If they'd renounce Muggle rubbish and join, they'd be fine. What's the point in killing purebloods when we're so few?"

"And Hermione?" Siria asked. His cool grey eyes flicked around the bathroom. They fell at Siria's feet. "Muggleborn Hermione Granger."

"There's a Potion Master named Granger," Malfoy said, "we could say she's from a Squib line and the magic just…" he grasped at the air, "it just popped back in?" Siria threw her head back in a bark of laughter. "Fine! She could marry a pureblood— I," Malfoy glanced to one of the stalls, "I'll marry her."

"You think I'd let anyone marry Hermione under such ridiculous pretenses?" Siria cried as she walked closer. "What's more, you think your father's buddy would just spare her? When has Voldemort ever spared a 'Mudblood'?" Siria framed the word in air quotes and her voice echoed her disdain.

"He might have," Malfoy said.

"Well," Siria said, "who's to say Voldemort won't want to punish your father for his failure? Did he get the job done? No. Not only did he fail, but to leave a witness."

"You don't know what you're talking about!" Malfoy shouted. His hand dove into his robe pocket. Siria's wand was out before his. She pointed it right at his nose. The blue flecks in his grey eyes were frozen.

"Don't," she said. "If you want to put your hopes on someone that failed to kill an infant and has thrown a decade long tantrum over it, knock yourself out— but I won't be there when this backfires in your face."

"You'll regret this," Malfoy said.

"Not as much as you will," Siria said. "You had the choice between what was easy and what was right, and took the easy path."

"Who's to say it's not the right one?" Malfoy asked. His eyes were fixed on hers, not on the wand a breath from his face.

"Time."

February continued with Firenze as the Divination teacher, on the ground floor in a classroom Transfigured and Charmed to look like the Forbidden Forest. Umbridge continued to attend all Care of Magical Creatures lessons, with Filch watching her classes. It made it difficult for Siria to pass on Firenze's vague warning of "Your attempt is not working and you would do better to abandon it," to Hagrid, which she ended up writing and asking Kreacher to deliver. [B5, 604-605]

Near the start of March, Cho Chang caught up with Siria, alone and on her way to Professor Chaudhary's classroom. Without turning back, Siria asked "what do you want Cho?"

"Siria, I never dreamed Marietta would tell—" Cho started. Siria scoffed. "She's a lovely person, really. She just made a mistake. Marietta's mother works for the Ministry, you know—" at this, Siria rounded on Cho. (B5, 637)

"Do you know how many other people's parents work for the Ministry? But they didn't tell. Only your Sneak friend," said Siria (B5, 637). Cho looked as though Siria slapped her, then became impassive.

"That was an awful trick of Hermione's," said Cho. "She should have told us." (B5, 637)

"Why?" Siria asked. "Just be thankful she didn't use the Jinx I wanted because 'snitches get stitches', so tell your sneak of a 'lovely person' friend to watch her back and leave Cedric alone."

"Are you—" Cho started. She stepped onto the same step as Siria. "Marietta isn't interested in Cedric." Siria barked out a laugh.

"She might not fancy Cedric, but there's a reason he hasn't gone out with anyone else: your sneak friend jinxes or hexes them out of the way," Siria said. She barked another short laugh. "Don't give me that look. You think Marietta told 'for her mum' right after the Hogsmeade visit I hung out with Cedric? Please!" Siria rolled her eyes. "So tell her you're over him and to let him be, and that you're out of the D.A."

"I wouldn't want to stay in a place where people get stitches anyway," said Cho. "We're not quilts."

"She'll look like one if she ticks me off again," Siria said and marched away.

"Maybe you'll look like one if you tick me off!" Cho shouted after Siria. Siria raised a rude hand gesture, and did not look back.

The rest of March blurred into April and their Easter Holiday. Homework increased by the week as Professors reminded students of their approaching O.W.L.s. Dumbledore Army's lessons dropped to once a week, as Cassius prepared for his N.E.W.T.s. Occlumency was hit or miss, but Siria woke with anxiety over Sirius or else with the feeling she had ran into the Department of Mysteries and seen the prophecy Voldemort wanted so badly.

Kreacher's visits for a cuppa and Siria's mail were a highlight of her weeks. Chloe sent small pieces she worked on or copies of her Hogwarts inspired designs. Remus and Sirius still had no cure for a living Horcrux that didn't involve Voldemort willingly taking back the piece of his soul. They had been unable to time their calls, so Kreacher brought bits of news when he came.

At the end of the Easter Holiday, a notice for career advice with dates and times for fifth year students was posted on the common room notice board (B5, 656). Siria was scheduled to miss Divination next week, and was more than happy to do so.

She headed to Professor McGonagall's office. A few minutes early, Siria knocked. "Enter," Professor McGonagall instructed. Siria poked her head in and beamed. "Sit down, Potter-Black," she said (B5, 661).

As Siria closed the door, she noticed, tucked in the corner, Umbridge. With a little clipboard on her knee, a heidous pie-frill around her neck, and smug grin on her face (B5, 661). Siria rose to her full height and strutted to the chair Professor McGonagall offered.

"As you know, Potter-Black, this meeting is to discuss any career ideas you might have, and to help you decide which subjects you should continue into sixth and seventh years," said Professor McGonagall (B5, 662). "Have you had any thoughts about what you would like to do after you leave Hogwarts?" (B5, 662).

A smirk crept over Siria's face, as she thought about the toad in the corner. She eyed Professor McGonagall, who arched an eyebrow in silent reply. "I've got quite a few ideas, but three that I'd like to talk with you about," Siria said. Professor McGonagall nodded for her to continue.

"The first is probably the most obvious, which is working with Sirius, Remus, and Chloe," said Siria.

"For most students, entering in fashion or business requires a lot of independent study," Professor McGonagall explained. "With it being family owned, Mr. Black and Mr. Remus will most likely want to train you on site, as they did over summer. Discuss with your father about any classes he may want you to take. He and Mr. Remus took Transfiguration, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Charms, and Potions— yes, Potions," there was a small smile in the corner of Professor McGonagall's mouth. "What are the other careers you're interested in?"

"Well," said Siria. She inhaled and tried to ignore the scratching of the quill behind her. "I've put some thought into being an Auror."

"You'd need top grades for that," said Professor McGonagall as she shuffled through the career pamphlets for a dark leaflet (B5, 662). "They ask for a minimum of five N.E.W.T.s, all 'Exceeds Expectations' or higher, I see. You would also be required to undergo a stringent series of character and aptitude tests at the Auror office. It's a difficult career path, Potter-Black. They only take the very best. In fact, I don't know anybody has been taken on in the last three years." (B5, 662)

Umbridge gave a small cough, which Siria spoke over. "I'm rather used to the difficult path," Siria said. She mirrored Professor McGonagall's small smile, which twitched as Umbridge gave another, slightly louder, small cough.

"Naturally, I'll need Defense Against the Dark Arts and probably Transfiguration," said Siria. Professor McGonagall nodded.

"Now, I ought to tell you know that I do not accept less than 'Exceeds Expectations' at O.W.L. for my N.E.W.T. classes. If you continue your current level of work, you should manage fine," she said. "You'll want to take Potions, as well," a another small smile tugged at the corner of her mouth.

"How does N.E.W.T. level independent study work?" Siria asked. "I imagine it's the same deal: fill out the form, parent/guardian permission, and professor signature?"

"There are some specific requirements you'll need to keep in mind. Professor Snape will only accept those that receive 'Outstanding' at O.W.L. level," said Professor McGonagall (B5, 663). "Independent study or otherwise. You seem to manage an 'Exceeds Expectations'—" Professor McGonagall closed her eyes as Umbridge gave another, slightly louder cough. "You'll need to bring that up."

"Do the other two NE.W.T.s matter or could I take Charms and Care of Magical Creatures?" Siria asked.

"Charms is always useful," said Professor McGonagall (B5, 663). "Care of Magical Creatures," there was another smile, "could certainly be useful, but Herbology is more common in the work of an Auror. You're welcome to take both, as the periods do not overlap. Just don't overwork yourself."

Umbridge coughed again.

"May I offer you a cough drop, Dolores?" Professor McGonagall asked with her eyes fixed on Siria (B5, 663).

"Oh no, thank you very much," Umbridge said with that simpering giggle that turned Siria's stomach (B5, 663)

"So that's being an Auror," Siria said over Umbridge. "The final career I've considered is, well," Siria tilted her head slightly in Umbridge's corner. "As you know even better than I do, there's been a new position at Hogwarts each year and, if things line up, I'dliketoapply."

"Hm," Professor McGonagall eyed Siria, who gripped the sides of her chair. "Hogwarts does not accept students fresh off their N.E.W.T.s. We like the students to see a bit of the world," she said. "Has your father discussed your eighth year trip?"

"Eighth year?" Siria asked. "I thought that was more a 'if you can' kind of thing."

Umbridge coughed again. Professor McGonagall plowed forward.

"Potter-Black, unless I am very mistaken, your family is more than well enough off to allow you the resources for the trip and, with your various contacts—" Professor McGonagall closed her eyes as though she were praying for patience when Umbridge coughed again, "—there really isn't a reason for you not to go, unless you're worried about Ms. Granger or Mr. Weasley."

"Not at all," Siria shook her head, as she leaned forward in her chair. "If I went, I'd obviously bring them. 'It's not the journey, but the company', or something like that. Would I be able to teach after a year away?"

"Potter-Black, it will depend on the Headmaster and if the position is available," Professor McGonagall looked like she bit a pepper when Umbridge coughed again.

"Are you quite sure you wouldn't like a cough drop, Dolores?" Professor McGonagall asked through tightly clenched teeth (B5, 663).

"Oh, no need, thank you Minerva," Umbridge simpered. Siria mimed vomiting. "I was just concerned that you might be giving Ms. Potter false—" (B5, 663-664)

"Potter-Black" Siria and Professor McGonagall corrected.

"False hope." (B5, 664)

"False hope?" repeated Professor McGonagall. "She has achieved high marks in all her Defense Against the Dark Arts tests—" at Umbridge's start, she pushed onward "by a competent teacher." [B5, 664]

Professor McGonagall sifted through a folder on her desk, which contained one piece of pink parchment with a handful of other common colored sheets. "If the Defense Against the Dark Arts position is available when you return, and you chose that path over being an Auror or taking over the family business, write to the Headmaster. They'll have your records."

"Now, if you pursue being an Auror, there will be three years of training, not to mention very high skilled testing in practical defense. It will mean a lot more study, even after you've left school, so it isn't a career to take lightly," said Professor McGonagall (B5, 665).

Umbridge hopped down from her chair. She was so short, it hardly made a difference. She glowered at Professor McGonagall.

"Potter has no chance whatsoever of becoming an Auror!" (B5, 665)

Professor McGonagall stood up, which caused her to tower over Umbridge. "Potter-Black, if you wish to become an Auror, I will assist you if it is the last thing I do!" Professor Mcgonagall stated. Siria blushed. "If I have to coach you night I will make sure you achieve the required results!" (B5, 665)

"The Minister of Magic will never employ Siria Potter!" said Umbridge, her voice cracking under the strain to keep her sweet tone beneath her anger.

"There may well be a new Minister of Magic by the time Potter-Black is ready to join!" shouted Professor Mcgonagall (B5, 665).

"Aha!" Umbridge shrieked. She pointed a stubby finger at Professor McGonagall, but Siria replied first (B5, 665).

"Well, Hermione's actually planning on doing something useful so—"

"Granger?" Umbridge gasped. "You think that Muggleborn could become Minister—"

"Maybe there's something useful she could do as Minister—"

"Potter-Black, out!" Professor McGonagall bellowed as she turned on the reddening Umbridge.

"Granger will never be Minister of Magic and neither will your pal Dumbledore!" Umbridge shouted at Professor McGonagall. Siria could still hear their voices, though she couldn't make them out, when she started up the stairs. [B5, 666]

For lack of better punishment, Umbridge gave Siria detention for both the remaining Quidditch matches. Siria wasn't sorry to miss Gryffindor's loss to Hufflepuff. Cedric reached the Snitch "less than a second" before Ginny, but that fraction of a second was all it took. From the choruses of Weasley is Our King, she was almost a little relieved when she caught up with Hermione after the match against Ravenclaw.

Hermione was covered in small cuts and her hair was snagged. Siria chuckled as she applied some of the balm to the cuts on Hermione's face. "You look like you've been in the Forest," Siria said. "What kind of jinx does this?"

"It wasn't a jinx," Hermione whispered. She combed her hair through her fingers. "I finally know why Hagrid keeps getting beat up— his 'little' brother."

"Oh, no."

"Oh, yes— and he wants us to give 'Grawp' English lessons," Hermione shook her head. "Let's head up and I'll tell you and Ron together." [B5, 684-701]

Ron was a hero in the Gryffindor common room. The choruses of Weasley is Our King were Gryffindor lyrics that sang of Ron's success. Only one goal made it by him. It wasn't until the next afternoon, when they convinced him to step outside, they had a chance to speak with him. He recounted his four saves against Ravenclaw Captain Roger Davies and three against the other Chasers for yet another time. "But, of course Hermione saw," he said. Siria leaned back, so the tips of her fingers fell into the sunlight, and eyed Hermione. [B5, 701-705]

"Actually, Ron… I didn't," said Hermione. She recounted her journey, with Hagrid, into the Forbidden Forest. Hermione made frequent glances to Siria at points where she felt Siria should have been there. "And then the centaurs showed up and only let us go because I'm a 'child'," Hermione finished.

"I can't believe Hagrid took you so far in like that," Siria said.

"I can't believe he wants us to teach his brother English," said Ron. "Maybe he won't get sacked. He's made it this far."

"Maybe," Siria said.

"I wouldn't count on it," said Hermione. "Apparently two nifflers got into Umbridge's office and she thinks it's Hagrid.[B5, 705-706]

"Did he?" Ron asked. "Just asking," he added at Siria's look. "It doesn't matter. What're you planning for the next D.A.?"