Chapter 6: Train Ride Redux
"I can't wait to see a magical shopping district!" Anna said cheerfully. She was with Harry, Elsa and their two guards. Vitus was coming as the Royal Bodyguard. Bellick was coming because he was assigned to ensure Harry's safety for the remainder of summer.
They entered one of the palace's parlors the house elves transformed into a private access Floo Hall. Only those who had permission and the passphrase could use it. With Bellick in tow, they weren't going to be using Vitus' teleportation magic. That was considered an ADMS secret. While Bellick was trusted, he was still part of the British Ministry of Magic.
Bellick didn't really have a problem with his status. He saw it as a 'What I don't know. No one can force from me' kind of thing. He wasn't going to be too heavily questioned once his summer mission was over, but there were people who may try to get information from him in the future. This could even be Sirius Black himself, since he was targeting Harry Potter.
"Diagon Alley is an amazing place! I was blown away by it when Rose Diamond took me there," Elsa said.
"I was completely in awe of it when Hagrid took me to get my first year shopping done. I even liked The Leaky Cauldron in a way. I thought it had a very cool old timey feel to it," Harry said.
"I actually thought it was a little too much on the dingy side. I kind of preferred the Magister's Lane entrance instead," Elsa said.
"Magister's Lane?" Anna asked.
"Remember when I took that trip to France last year?" Elsa asked. Anna nodded. "Magister's Lane in their version of Diagon Alley," Elsa explained.
"Huh…" Harry said.
Elsa and Anna looked to him in an almost identical manner.
Harry had to blink for a moment. It was still a bit mind boggling for him how similar the two could be, especially with their mom. He knew of the Weasley twins, but that seemed different from the Evergreen Sisters.
"I just never really wrapped my head around how there are other magical schools and societies. I guess each of them has a place like Diagon Alley of their own," Harry said.
"This is your first time ever leaving Magical Britain. Actually. Britain period. When you don't travel, it is easy to forget there is a whole world out there," Elsa said.
"What places are we going to see?" Anna asked eagerly.
"Lots of them! You'll need a wand of course," Elsa said. Anna brightened at that. "We'll be getting it last," Elsa said. Anna frowned.
"Good idea… It seemed to take me forever to get my wand," Harry grumbled. He liked his wand, but it really took its sweet time finding him.
"It can take that long?" Anna asked in wonder.
"Yeah. Olivander talks about how the wand chooses the witch or wizard. Hagrid told me it can happen quickly or take a really long time," Harry said. He gave a chuckle. "He actually dozed off while I was trying wands. I was getting frustrated by it all. Olivander looked as if he was getting three Christmases and two Birthdays at once."
Elsa giggled to that as Anna laughed.
"I still can't wait to get mine!" Anna said cheerfully.
"You will have to for a little bit. We will be meeting the others. Before that, we will all be going to De Nell Divine's," Elsa said.
"Including me?" Harry asked.
"Including you. There is no reason a ward of the Royal Family should have to settle for Madam Malkin's. It isn't like you don't have money to get better robes. I'm sure you'll love the bonus enchantments they add," Elsa said.
Harry nodded to that. "Remember, I wanted to go to that broom place you did as well. I'd like my own pendant," he said.
"And I can pick out my own broom!" Anna said cheerfully. Elsa looked to her with a raised eyebrow. "Well… I won't get it until next year… But it would be good to think about it in advance," the excitable younger princess said.
"And you're that sure you'll want one? You could end up not liking flying on brooms," Elsa said in a teasing voice.
Anna playfully huffed.
"Let's get going," Vitus said as the kids nodded and they all took turns in the floo.
[-] [-] [-]
Bellick exited first and took point while looking around for any threats. Then Harry came followed by the princesses. Vitus was the last to arrive. With the time difference, the group arrived during opening hours for the Alley's shops.
Anna's eyes widened in awe as she watched the bricks form an archway. Elsa volunteered to tap the magical brick. Harry couldn't help but enjoy watching Anna's reaction. It kind of reminded him of his.
The alley looked a good bit different this early. There were a lot fewer customers out and about. There were a few early shoppers, but it was nothing compared to the usual amount of people. Harry took in the site of the alley like this. It was rather picturesque in this manner.
Elsa led the way. Bellick and Vitus were close enough to keep an eye on the group and their surroundings, while also giving the children a sense of freedom. Harry found it kind of cool how they managed that. It showed they really knew their stuff.
Harry and Anna were both busy looking all around as they went to the higher end of Diagon Alley. Harry was surprised how many shops were in this part. He didn't think there were so many outside of Diagon Alley proper and Knockturn Alley. It really was amazing that such a huge place was kept secret from the muggle world.
His jaw dropped once he saw De Nell Divine's. It was such a huge store! It also didn't have the over stuffed closet feel he got in Madam Malkin's. The layout was similar to the store he visited to buy his muggle clothes. He looked around and noticed their group was getting extra attention from the workers.
Elsa was in full on Queen mode as she entered. Anna seemed to have a… Proper Princess mode?... Harry wasn't sure what to call it. It was different from Anna's usual personality. Arendelle Royalty really was something else. Harry attempted to take on a more stoic, less nervous boy, persona. He wasn't sure if it was at all effective. He did wonder why they were acting this way though.
One of the ladies in the shop seemed to give a sigh as Elsa approached her. "I suppose you will want to speak with Cindy again…" the lady said with a roll of her eyes.
Elsa gave her a look and Vitus seemed to straighten up. The lady gave a slightly nervous look and cleared her throat. "Sorry… I just haven't had the best of mornings," she said through gritted teeth. She kind of hated how this girl knew how to hold herself. She was also envious as well.
Once a younger witch came over after being called, Elsa seemed to take on a more friendly manner. "It is good to see you again, Elsa. It seems you have different guests with you this time," Cindy said with a smile.
"I do. My younger sister will be attending her first year at Hogwarts," Elsa said with a smile.
Anna seemed to take her big sister's behavior as a cue to adopt a friendly manner herself. She gave a big beaming smile as she said, "Hello. My name is Anna Evergreen."
"It is nice to meet you, Anna," Cindy said with a smile.
Elsa then nudged Harry. Harry gave a slight nod as he said, "My name is Harry Potter. I'm a friend of Elsa and Anna. We decided to do our shopping together."
Cindy was taken aback a little as her eyes unwittingly darted to his scar. She regained her friendly and professional manner once more and gave him a smile. "It is nice to meet you as well, Mr. Potter," she said.
"Since you are on such good terms with Elsa, you may just call me Harry for the mean time," he said. He tried to put on that young and personable lord demeanor he was learning a little about over the summer.
"Then I will, Harry," she said.
The other sale's associates, non too subtly eavesdropping, gave gasps at the interaction. Cindy was pretty sure she would be even more of the envy. She wasn't sure yet how she felt about that, even if she did enjoy Elsa's company.
"As I'm sure you realized, all three of us are in need of school robes. Harry was curious to see the place after I told him about it last year," Elsa said.
"I'm interested in getting the special enchantments as well. I do enjoy Hogwarts, but it can get a little drafty at times," Harry said with a smile.
"I remember that plenty well," Cindy said with a laugh.
[-] [-] [-]
It didn't take too long for them to get their robes sorted. "Is it wrong I took a little too much enjoyment from their reactions?" Elsa asked with a giggle.
"Maybe a little bit. You did say they were acting all high and mighty your first time though," Anna said with her own giggle.
"I just can't believe that is what passes as casual 'muggle' clothing…" Harry said with a shake of his head. Both sisters laughed to that.
"They really are atrocious," Elsa said in agreement.
"The dress robes were so lovely though… I wish I could have gotten more than just two…" Anna said with a slight frown.
"You have plenty of dresses already and will probably spend most of the time in your Hogwarts uniform. That's the reason I made sure I only got two my first visit," Elsa said.
Anna gave a big smile. "I do love them… I've never gotten to shop like this before!" she said cheerfully.
Harry guessed Anna loved shopping for the same reasons Elsa did. It was still a bit to take in realizing the two of them rarely shopped for their own clothes. Royals really did live a different life. He himself would be living that way a bit himself. He was a ward of the Royal family and Heir to House Potter.
"Buswick's next, right?" Harry asked after a moment.
"Yep," Elsa said with a smile. She just knew they would love it. Harry would like it even if he was only getting a pendant of his own. Anna would love seeing so many brooms. "Do you have an design idea in mind for your pendant?" Elsa asked Harry.
"I do," he said with a nod as they made their way to the shop.
Buswick's was more amazing than Harry thought it would be. He liked Quality Quidditch Supplies, but the broom selection here was so incredible! Whenever he needed a new broom, he would be getting it here.
"Wow…" Anna said as she looked at all of the many brooms. She didn't even realize how many there were. It was incredible seeing so many different kinds of brooms.
"Welcome to Buswick's Broom Emporium. Brooms are our specialty," the attendant started.
"Ah, Miss Evergreen. Didn't expect to see you again. How are your broom and pendant holding up?" he asked.
Elsa gave him a smile. "They are holding up very well. In fact, my friend here wanted to get a pendant of his own after seeing mine," she said indicating Harry.
"I'm Harry Potter. She showed me her pendant and I thought it was pretty impressive," Harry said.
"Harry Potter?!" the attendant asked in awe as he, like so many others, couldn't help but look at the scar. Harry was thankful he was plenty used to this by now.
"You wished to see about our pendants?" the attendant asked getting back on topic.
"Yes. I had a couple of questions," Harry started.
"Follow me and feel free to ask any questions you have," the attendant said with a friendly smile.
"I'm hoping this won't be the case, but what will happen if my broom was to break? I play Seeker for my House team. It is unlikely, but possible something could happen," Harry asked.
"Good question. If your current broom were to break, you will simply have to store the new broom in its place," the attendant said.
"That's a relief. I was worried I would have to get a new pendant all together. That could be very inconvenient while at Hogwarts," Harry said.
"That it would be. Now then, let's get you sorted," the man said as he walked Harry through the process.
When they left the shop, Harry was grinning at his new pendant. His had the Gryffindor Lion on it with the letters HP on a tiny banner above it. His broom icon looked as if it was shooting right past the lion at top speed. His alternate activation was a bit embarrassing. He would quickly touch his pointer and index fingers to his lips before placing them on the pendant. He couldn't really think of anything better at the time.
"Ohhhh! I can't wait until I can get my own broom! I saw at least three models I liked. That's not even taking into account the Firebolt or any other new brooms that will come out next year," Anna said excitedly.
"Yeah… That Firebolt looked amazing!" Harry said in awe.
It was the newest broom ever! He was sure it made the Nimbus 2001 look like a winged snail in comparison. It was incredible… The Irish Quidditch League team already ordered them for all of their players. It was so incredible and new that price wasn't even listed! Harry doubted Draco's dad would bother with getting those for the whole Slytherin team.
Though… Harry did kind of prefer his own broom. Perhaps it was nostalgia. He was still tempted to buy himself a Firebolt. He was sure he could work something out if it was over 10,000 galleons. Maybe he could have paid in incremental and consecutive installments. He would still keep an eye out on the Firebolt. If, Merlin forbid, something happened to his own broom, it could be a potential replacement.
"It's about time we meet the others," Vitus said getting them back on track as he led the way.
[-] [-] [-]
"Harry! Good to see you again, mate!" Ron said cheerfully in greeting as Harry and the others entered the Leaky Cauldron.
"Great to see you too," Harry replied with a big smile.
"So… What's it like staying with Elsa for the summer? What's her house like?" Ron asked.
"It's a lot of fun. Their home is huge! They even have their own pool," Harry said with a smile.
"Cool," Ron said.
"What was Egypt like?" Harry quickly asked.
"Wicked! Since we were visiting Bill, we got a in-depth behind the scenes look at the place. He got us into a couple of the restricted areas even!" Ron said grinning.
"Whoa…" Harry replied.
Ron gave a laugh. "Fred and George tried to trap Percy in one of the tombs. He's been more insufferable than ever this year. He's the new Head Boy of Hogwarts. And he isn't in the slightest bit humble about it," Ron said.
"Wow," Harry said as the two talked a little more.
"So good to see you again, Elsa!" Hermione said cheerfully as she and Elsa hugged each other.
"Great to see you too!" Elsa replied. She then gave a friendly giggle as she added, "Looks like someone got a lot of tanning in this summer."
Hermione blushed a little. "I may have gotten a little carried away…" she admitted. The girl was looking browner than ever. She always had a slight tan, but it was much darker now.
Elsa gave a small sigh. "I tried tanning once… I just got a bad sunburn… Anna had way too much fun poking me the next couple of days," she said as Hermione giggled.
"So… What's the sorting like?" Anna asked Neville while giving him her Cute Anna Eyes.
Neville gulped nervously. "Ummmmm… Interesting… You'll find out once the school year starts," he said with a slight smile. He looked stronger than he used to this year. It was probably because he talked about spending time with his Great Uncle working the greenhouses when he wasn't busy with other lessons.
Anna sighed and gave a pout. "I swear… Everyone loves torturing me by answering in the same vague fashion," she complained with a cute huff.
Neville gave a slight laugh. "It was like that for all of us. It's worth the wait. It would spoil just how amazing it is if everyone said what it was," he told her.
"I guess I have no choice but to wait," Anna said.
"Anna… You shouldn't have teased Neville like that," Elsa said with a slight frown. Elsa was actually impressed Neville remained strong against the notorious Anna Eyes.
Anna gave a slight blush. "Sorry, Neville. I couldn't resist," she said. She didn't really know him well yet. That was not the right way to say hello to him.
Neville felt more at ease now and gave a grin. "No problem. Like I said, we pretty much all do the same our first year," he said.
Mr. Weasley was looking over the Auror escort they had. He then nodded. "Bellick. Right? I've seen you around the ministry a number of times," he said in a friendly manner.
"As I have you, Mr. Weasley," Bellick replied.
"Just call me Arthur. Never been big on the formality thing. I'm just in the Muggle Artifact Department after all," Mr. Weasley said with a big smile and a chuckle.
"If you are okay with that, Arthur," Bellick said.
"I am a bit surprised to see you here," Mr. Weasley admitted.
"With the Black situation and young Mr. Potter being a likely target, the Minister decided a guard to keep an eye out would be the best idea," Bellick said.
"Ah. Yeah. Some of his other measures have been met with a mixed reception. Anyways, Harry couldn't ask for a better guard," Mr. Weasley said with a nod.
"I appreciate your words. I'll be again escorting him to Platform 9 and ¾," Bellick said.
He did actually appreciate Mr. Weasley's words. He may be a "Low Ranking" Ministry worker, but he was very well respected. He actually had quite the list of favors owed to him. It was surprising how helpful he was in addition to his own duties.
Mr. Weasley could have even gotten the whole mess with his family car swept under the rug if he wanted. However, above all else, Mr. Weasley was a man of principle and despised abusing power. The truth is, if Mr. Weasley wasn't so obsessed with muggle artifacts, he could easily be a high ranking member of the Ministry if he wanted.
"How have you been, Ginny?" Elsa asked the youngest Weasley.
"Good…" Ginny said a little shyly. Being around Elsa was still a bit difficult for her.
"Have you and Luna made up?" Elsa asked.
Ginny smiled here. "We have actually. I partly wish her dad hadn't dragged her off on another expedition. I'm also happy for her because she loves them so much," Ginny said happily.
"Its good to hear you two made up. She was really worried by everything. How was the trip?" Elsa asked.
Ginny brightened to that and started talking about the family trip from her own perspective. Anna soon joined in and asked a lot of questions about Magical Egypt. Ginny was happy to answer them.
Before long, Mrs. Weasley decided to bring everyone to order and start their shopping.
[-] [-] [-]
It was a tired but good spirited group sitting in a private room at the Leaky Cauldron after their day of shopping. They were sharing an early dinner. Vitus and Bellick traded a couple of tales much to the excitement of the boys, even Percy. Mr. Weasley surprised his sons with his own insight and tidbits regarding some of the things Vitus and Bellick talked about together.
The girls were having their own conversation, which mostly revolved around Hermione's new pet cat, Crookshanks. He was a bandy-legged and large orange cat with a squashed face. Most would say he was ugly, but Hermione and the other girls thought he was kind of cute in a unique way. Hermione was really excited to have her own pet finally. She wished she could have gotten a pet sooner, but her parents told her to wait until her third year.
"I wish I could have a pet cat," Ginny said with a smile on her face as Crookshanks sat in her lap for a moment. He was taking turns with all of the girls. Hermione was easily his favorite, with Elsa coming in second just a little above Ginny and Anna.
"That… That monster cat better not try to eat Scabbers," Ron warned yet again. He had done so a few times already. Harry could understand his worry. Scabbers was in a bad way lately. He still felt the boy was coming off a little mean.
"He's a good kitty! He isn't a monster," Hermione frowned and defended her pet as Crookshanks moved to her lap.
"I get a feeling things are going to be a bit out of hand this year. I kind of feel sorry for you two," Elsa said to Harry and Neville, both nodded in agreement. She wouldn't have to be caught between the two the whole year. She would get a break when in Ravenclaw.
Neville and Harry were Gryffindors, so they would have to put up what was looking to be a rather bothersome year when it came to Hermione and Ron. The two could get bad as it was. Adding in a cat and a rat… things could easily get messier.
The two boys were under no illusion Ron and Hermione were mostly friends because they were friends with both Harry and Neville. Ron and Hermione could get along well enough, but the two were just too opposite of each other. They were less opposites attract and more opposites stuck with each other it seemed at times.
[-] [-] [-]
Harry and Bellick were squaring off against each other. Bellick started circling Harry as the boy did the same in reply. They had been doing this a number of times lately. Harry's training had progressed to this level and Harry was pleased about this.
Bellick sent a marking spell his way. Harry dodged and sent his own in reply. Bellick easily countered it, but Harry closed the distance. He had a special enchanted stick he was using in conjunction with his wand. He swung at Bellick, but the Auror evaded and hit Harry with the spell.
Harry let out a little hiss as he got back up. He charged again and swung a number of times. Bellick dodged and countered his attacks. Harry was ready though and he responded in kind. He wasn't getting hit right now.
Harry then tried a double attack with the stick, but missed Bellick both times. The Auror sent the spell at Harry again. This time Harry managed to erect a shield charm to absorb the spell as he once more struck.
Bellick was surprised for a moment, but he easily stepped back and cast a spell at Harry. He then quickly moved and hit Harry on his weak side.
Harry hissed again as he stood up.
"Stop," Vitus said. The two did as he commanded and stood facing him.
Vitus nodded in approval. "You are making good progress Harry, but you are still a little slow. Once the shield charm blocked the spell, there was no reason to keep it up. Some opponents might try to wear it down with their own consecutive spells, but are unlikely to do so when that close. Dispel and be ready for the next attack," he said.
"He's right, Harry. Most are likely to try and make some distance. Wizards don't like fighting in close quarters. It gives them less time to react to their opponent," Bellick said.
Harry nodded to them both.
"You do have a good grasp overall when it comes to using the practice stick with your wand. For a beginner at least. While you are at Hogwarts, go through the exercises we have been here. I also want you to take time to train your spell speed and quick castings," Vitus said.
"Given there are a surprisingly large number of empty unused classrooms at Hogwarts, you should be able to do so without prying eyes. It goes without saying, but do try to keep your new talents secret. You will almost always be watched, but that doesn't mean you have to give anything away," Bellick added.
"Understood," Harry said with a slight bow to them both.
"Now then… Do the usual routine one more time and that will be it. You will all be going to Hogwarts tomorrow," Vitus said.
"I wanted to say again. Thank you. Thank you both," Harry said with a smile.
The two men couldn't help but grin at him.
"I've actually benefited from our little spars myself. It has been a pleasure to help," Bellick said.
"I'm glad you want to be an even better friend for Princess Elsa and want to be there for her in any way you can be. I do hope you will help Anna as well this year. She is very outgoing and friendly, but even she has her moments," Vitus said.
"It's the least I can do for them," Harry said with a smile.
"Get going then," Vitus said with a grin.
Harry took in a deep breath and let it out as he started his laps.
[-] [-] [-]
Harry was really excited to be heading to the train this year. He was going to get to see the VIP Smoking Lounge that Elsa always used. It wasn't really anything too spectacular, but it was different.
"This whole summer's been filled with different," he thought to himself as he waited in Troll's Glade with Elsa and a very excited Anna. He also had to admit he was excited about this trip because he was with great company.
"Remember. I'll keep the country together while you two are gone," Kristoff said with a chuckle to the princesses.
"Then I fear for its future…" Elsa replied with a giggle. Kristoff gave an exaggerated frown. Anna decided to giggle and stick her tongue out at Kristoff. The boy gave a mock hurt expression in reply to her.
Harry then gave a chuckle as he added, "Sven will keep him in line." The reindeer gave a grunt in confirmation.
Elsa blinked a couple of times before laughing and saying, "Arendelle may yet have a future after all."
The three of them laughed while Kristoff kept pretending to be hurt. He eventually gave up as he laughed loudly and said, "Well, he is the responsible one." The four of them let loose a new round of laughter.
After a few seconds, Kristoff spoke again, "You lot have fun and study hard. Be sure to write. I know I will." He gave Elsa and Anna a hug each. He turned to Harry and the two smiled at each other before clapping the other on the shoulder. "I'm leaving them to you, Harry."
Harry nodded. "I'll do what I can," Harry said in determination as Kristoff gave him a nod of approval.
Elsa and Anna both rolled their eyes in an identical motion as they said, "Boys…" at the same time.
With their last round of good byes said, the three waited their turn to go through the floo. Bellick went through first followed by Elsa, Harry and then Anna with Vitus bringing up the rear. Once on the other side, it wasn't long until they were on Platform 9 ¾ as Vitus and Bellick watched the three students board the train.
Anna stared at the engine in awe. "I get to actually ride it this time," she said reverently causing Elsa to giggle. Anna smiled as she took in a deep breath. She was going to be learning all about magic and she was going to be with Elsa the whole year as well. "This is going to be so awesome!" she said loud enough a couple of people nearby heard her. They gave amused looks as they realized she was an excited first year.
"Let's get going," Harry said. The two sisters followed him on to the train. "I'm pretty sure we're the first ones here."
"That means we get to pick the compartment," Elsa told her sister. Anna heard but she was too busy looking all around as they walked through the train. Elsa couldn't help but smile. It was so nice to get to be with Anna at Hogwarts this year.
Elsa was going to show her sister the special study as soon as she could. It was probably going to be the first weekend most likely. Elsa knew Anna would be busy getting to know her housemates the first week of school along with classes. Elsa would show the study to Harry as well, but she felt it was only right to show Anna first.
They did search the train just to make sure they were the first ones. In the end, they chose a compartment with a sleeping adult wearing faded robes. He had a trunk above him with a brass label reading "R. J. Lupin". The man had pale skin and light brown hair with flecks of grey. He also seemed to be prematurely aging.
"Harry, do you want to wait for the others out on the platform or should we just wait here for them?" Elsa asked.
"I'll wait for them," Harry said with a smile as he left. He would direct the others to their compartment. The adult seemed to be in a deep sleep. It might also give Malfoy pause when he undoubtedly made his usual visit.
"What house do you really think I will end up in?" Anna asked yet again. It was pretty much her favorite question to ask the whole summer.
Elsa gave a sigh as she shook her head. "I'm not changing my mind about you ending up in either Hufflepuff or Gryffindor. As much as I know you want to be in Ravenclaw with me, I don't think it would be a good fit for you, Anna."
Anna frowned to this as she grabbed Elsa in a hug. Elsa was pretty sure her sister would probably never stop hugging her all the time. She didn't really mind it though. "You're not saying I'm too dumb for Ravenclaw, are you?"
Elsa tightened the hug a little as she said, "You are exceptionally bright, Anna. However, you are also much more of an open and friendlier person than me. Besides, most Ravenclaws are very quiet and spend the majority of their time studying, even when they aren't in class or have any assignments."
The two broke off their hug and sat down opposite the man, who they figured was the new DADA Professor. "You're sure I won't end up in Slytherin? I really don't like the sound of that house," Anna said with a frown.
Elsa gave a chuckle as she said, "You'd be in Ravenclaw before you were in Slytherin. You may be a bit of mischief maker, but you aren't the type to be so ambitious you would happily stab others in the back."
The compartment door opened and Luna stood there with a bright smile. She came in and couldn't help but give Elsa a big hug. "Its good to see you again, Elsa!" Luna said. She then gave Anna a smile in greeting. "Nice to meet you as well. Looking forward to your first year?" she asked.
"You bet I am! You wouldn't mind giving me the secret to the sorting, would you?" Anna asked.
Luna shrugged her shoulders. "It isn't really a secret," she started. Anna seemed to grin. "All of the first years get sorted before we start the feast," she said.
Anna sighed again in defeat. She then grinned after a moment. "At least I only have to wait a couple more hours now. I swear… Everyone is having way too much fun teasing me about this sorting business," she said.
Luna giggled as she said, "If we were, we'd try tell you all about the Gryffindor test of taking on a mountain troll."
"You forgot the part about doing so in your underwear. I've heard Harry, Ron and Neville aced it," Elsa said giggling.
Anna looked to them in confusion. "Fred and George told Ron that was part of the sorting. He almost believed them," Elsa said as Anna joined in giggling with them.
"How was your expedition this year?" Elsa asked Luna who sat down on the other side of her once the three took their seats.
"About the usual. The leads didn't really pan out. It was a lot of fun though. I do kind of wish I could have shopped with everyone, but Daddy and I got really into it," Luna said.
"Elsa told me a bit about your expeditions. They do sound exciting, even if you don't find anything new," Anna said.
"They are. In fact, I'll be writing a couple of articles about it for Daddy's paper. I'm going to try something a little different this time though," Luna said.
"Like what?" Elsa asked.
Luna blushed a little. "Kind of like you told me to do when talking to others. I tried it a little last year and it was well received. I'm going to really focus more on that this time. We may not have found the ever-elusive Crumpled Horn Snorlack, but the places we saw… They were magical, even by wizard standards… I can't think of any other way to describe them," Luna said.
"I think I'd like to subscribe to your paper," Elsa said.
Luna shook her head. "I know it isn't very businesslike of me, but I'll let you read it whenever you want. I-" Luna faltered a little. She blushed again. "I feel I owe you a lot," she said.
"Luna…" Elsa said feeling touched by her friend's words. She gave the blonde girl a hug causing Luna to grin. She really missed Elsa's hugs during the summer.
"Can I see it too? When Elsa finishes with it," Anna asked. She wanted to read about Luna's adventures.
"Of course, you can, Anna. It would be poor sport of me not to let you read it too," Luna said with a nod.
[-] [-] [-]
Neville arrived next to the compartment. Ron and Ginny were the last ones to arrive. The Weasleys barely made it on time like usual. They mostly did this time because the ministry let them borrow company cars and drivers. The ministry was concerned they too might be targeted. The family was close to Harry and it was their picture on the profit found in Sirius Black's cell after he escaped.
The group was careful not to wake the snoozing professor, but they were talking excitedly. The new third years were going on about Hogsmeade. Anna was busy asking both Luna and Ginny questions about Hogwarts. She knew which questions people were willing to answer by this point. There was so much the second year girls told her about that she was looking forward to see for herself.
They all discussed theories on why the third years taking Care of Magical Creatures had the Monster Book of Monsters. The things were dangerous. They tried to bite you. They even saw the books attack each other in Flourish and Blotts. The third years also compared methods of containing the strange books.
"It is obvious the professor for Care of Magical Creatures required these books, but who is it? I heard Professor Kettleburn retired last year," Elsa said.
"Well Hagrid knows who they are. He gave me mine for my birthday," Harry said.
"You don't think…" Hermione started.
"Hagrid?" Elsa asked in shock. Hermione nodded. "I kind of hope not…" Elsa said a little warily.
"Why not? Hagrid knows a lot about magical creatures," Harry asked. He was surprised by her words.
"Don't get me wrong. I love Hagrid… I just don't know if he is Professor material. If he is the professor… I wish him the best. The problem is he has such a very different view on magical creatures. He did have a pet Acromantula," Elsa said. Ron couldn't help nod to her reasoning.
Harry looked as if he wanted to argue. Neville cut off any further arguments though. "Whoever it is. We will find out at the opening feast," he said. The friends soon changed topics.
The train ride had so far been mostly uneventful. Draco did make his usual stop, but it was short lived. He was caught off guard by both the Professor sleeping in the compartment and Elsa having her little sister with her. He seemed to decide he needed to make a good impression by actually being mostly behaved. He and Ron did still get into a bit of tussle.
"I'd be careful, Draco…" Harry warned. He nodded towards Professor Lupin. "We wouldn't want to cause a ruckus and wake up the new Defense Professor," he said.
With that warning, Draco seemed to realize a couple of things. First of all, there was a professor right there. It would not do well to wake him. Draco wasn't about to get caught by a professor. He also realized, even with Crabbe and Goyle by his side, he was rather outnumbered here. He was surprised the compartment wasn't over flowing. Then there was how both Harry and Neville didn't really seem so much on small and weak side this year. Weasley was still lanky and annoying though.
"Come on Crabbe, Goyle. We've wasted enough time on Weasleys," he said as the three Slytherins left.
Ron was still annoyed, but he kind of liked seeing how Draco got all pale once he realized the situation. "Seriously… How did you two get to start looking all strong?" He asked Harry and Neville.
"I made great use of my time at Elsa's. After all that's been happening, I've decided to actually start working out. I did some while at the Dursleys too, but not much. They are Dursleys after all, but…" Harry said grinning.
He looked to Elsa for permission. She was in thought for a moment before she nodded. She trusted him not to say too much.
Harry couldn't help but beam. "I'll probably never see them again," he said.
"Really?!" Hermione asked in surprise.
Harry nodded. "Elsa's parents' sort of set things up so I won't have to return to the Dursleys," he said.
"Cool!" Ron said. He was happy for his friend. He hated what those Dursleys were doing to Harry.
"Does that mean you don't have to return to the Dursleys, even for a little bit?" Hermione asked in awe.
"Nope! Never again. Instead. I'll be going home with Anna and Elsa every year, until I'm of age," he said.
"That's good to hear!" Hermione said as she gave him a hug in happiness.
"You'll still be able to visit us, right?" Ron asked. He wanted to make sure whatever was going on wouldn't be a problem with that.
"I'll have to get permission from Elsa's parents, but it shouldn't be a problem," Harry said.
"I've visited you before, Ron. Harry won't have to worry about all of the things I do, but he will have to worry about some. He will still be able to make visits without too much hassle," Elsa started.
"You looked into it, didn't you?" Neville asked Harry knowingly.
"I did," Harry said. He wasn't wanting to mention that, but he did see the advantage of doing so now. "I am officially the Heir to the Potter Family, but we are being careful with that information for now," Harry said.
"Whoa…" Ron said. He gave a grin. "Please tell me you'll be able to put Malfoy in his place," he said hopefully.
Harry couldn't help but chuckle to that. Elsa giggled. "I am getting some instruction on that front. If what I've been told is true… Eventually, I'll be able to out lord Malfoy. But I am keeping it on the down low for now," Harry said.
"That's still awesome! Ha! Can't wait until you start giving Malfoy a taste of his own medicine," Ron said.
"I'm not going to do so yet. Way I see it… If I go about it carefully, Draco will be in for the shock of his life when it comes out," Harry said.
"Wish you could just come right out with it," Ron said with a sigh. Then he gave a grin. "Then again… When playing chess and politics, the long game is more important," Ron said.
"I didn't know you knew much about politics," Hermione said in disbelief.
"I don't. I've just heard people say that. I do know Wizards' Chess though," Ron said with a grin.
"No one will deny that," Neville said with a chuckle.
[-] [-] [-]
After the group got dressed, they were sitting around when suddenly the train started to slow down. "That's odd… We still have miles to go before we're there," Ron said.
He looked out the window but it was too dark to see.
"What do you think it is?" Hermione asked in concern.
"Don't know. I wish we were on the other side. Nothing but trees here," Ron said.
Neville left and checked across the way before coming back. He looked worried. "Someone said they saw hooded figures getting on the train."
"What?!" Luna asked. "Were they tall…" she added.
"That's what they said. I didn't see it myself," Neville answered.
Luna's eyes widened. She instinctively grabbed on to someone nearby. It was surprisingly Ron. "What gives?" he asked in worry. Luna was never one to be freaked out.
"Daddy heard about it…" Luna started.
Just then the compartment seemed to get extremely cold which cut off what Luna was going to say.
Luna shivered and closed her eyes. She knew what awaited her… She really hated those monsters.
The compartment started to ice up. The others were feeling really cold as well. They could see their breath. Ginny and Hermione grabbed on to each other. Anna latched on to Elsa tightly. Harry, Ron and Neville tried to stay strong. They would have pulled out their wands, but it was too cold, too unexpected and too sudden.
The lights went out. "Eeep!" Hermione yelled in surprise.
"Hermione… A little too tight…" Ginny said in a shivering voice.
"S-S-Sorry…" Hermione replied.
Harry couldn't hear anything else the others were saying. He heard a terrible scream seemingly in the distance. He didn't know what it was. He didn't know who it was. He wanted to call out to them and help, but something seemed off about the screams. It was hard to describe.
He quickly pulled out the Arendelle Blindfold he brought in his pocket and put it on. Harry felt more alert. He could suddenly tell what he was hearing was coming from his own mind, but what was it and why? He felt a little calmer and ready for whatever was coming. And coming, some thing was.
"I see them. Their checking the compartments," Ron whispered in worry.
The figures moved closer to them and the effects were getting much stronger. Harry couldn't at all concentrate. He was feeling too cold. Too overwhelmingly hopeless. It was like he would never be happy again. The screams were getting more pronounced.
One of the figures slowly reached out and opened their compartment. Harry saw a ghastly looking grey skeletal hand. Ice seemed to be creeping from it. He then heard it take a rattling breath as it seemed to look at him.
Harry couldn't help it. He doubled over and the screams were growing overwhelmingly loud. He felt as if darkness was over coming him. Crushing him as he shivered.
Elsa didn't feel the cold her friends seemed to be feeling. She could tell how deep it was by their reaction. She did however feel as if she was reliving when she almost killed Anna anew. She felt as if everything she had done was for naught. She felt as if something was mocking her and the miserable and futile attempts, she made to control her powers.
She was remembering Gran Pabbie's words. "There is much beauty in your powers, Elsa. But there is much fear as well…" The words seemed to be echoing in her mind, in her body. In her very soul.
She then heard a crying sound. She felt someone grabbing on tight to her. She blinked and looked to her side slowly. Anna was crying and grabbing her arm tightly. "No…" the younger princess mumbled.
Elsa then forgot her fears. Her worries. Her sense of hopelessness. She felt nothing but determination and anger. She glared at the creature standing in the doorway. Her eyes were glowing a cold furious blue.
The creature actually paused and seemed shocked. It seemed worried. Elsa started to form a black ice shard in her hands. "Leave Anna alone!" she said in anger to it.
The creature looked as if it was unsure what to do. It seemed to feel as if it wanted to flee in terror… It had never felt like this before. There was one defense against the being, but this was different from that. It seemed to feel as if the effect it was famous for was rebounding on it.
The creature's unseen empty eye sockets widened. It sensed something powerful. Something far more ancient than it. This something was coming from the girl forming that ice. The creature felt as if it was trespassing on powers it never should.
Before Elsa could attack, and to her later relief, there was a shout of "None of us are hiding Sirius Black under our cloaks! Begone foul creature!" It was an awake Professor Lupin. Just then a bright light burst forward from his wand. The creature shrieked as it seemed to glide away.
Elsa blinked and noticed the ice she had formed. Luckily, the creature's ice seemed to hide her own. She dismissed it and quickly grabbed Anna in a tight hug. The younger princess seemed to be recovering now and she gave Elsa a teary smile. "Elsa! I'll never be foolish like that time again," Anna said as she hugged her sister tight and cried a few tears of relief.
"Lumo Oblesa!" Ron called once the creature left and some sense returned to him. The compartment lit up as his orb floated above them. Professor Lupin looked impressed.
Harry was barely aware enough to take off the blindfold. He then collapsed and caught his breath. He didn't want anyone seeing the Arendelle artifact. He would have to find a way to disguise it if he wore it more often.
"All of you should wait here," Professor Lupin said. "I need to check and make sure those creatures leave." He left the compartment quickly. He would be handing out chocolate once the threat was gone. He knew Dumbledore will be furious about this and really tear into the Minister.
"Luna!" Ginny cried as she quickly hugged her friend tightly. She knew what Luna experienced just then.
"Ginny…" Luna replied with a sniff as she grabbed her best friend tightly. She understood what Ginny just experienced.
"What was that… terrible… thing…" Hermione asked as she trembled a little.
"Dementors," Luna said.
"Is everyone alright?" Ron asked.
Neville was checking over Harry at the moment. "Harry seems a little out of it…" he said in worry.
"What do Dementors do?" Elsa asked in an icy voice. It caused the others to tremble a little. They could tell she was pissed, even if she was keeping outwardly calm. She was stroking Anna's hair, in particular the blonde streak. Anna seemed to really like that and was relaxing.
"They feed on happiness… They're terrible…" Luna said.
"What are they doing here? They usually stay at Azkaban," Ron said.
"It's Sirius Black," Neville said with a nod.
Harry gave a groan.
"That seemed much worse than just feeding on happiness…" Hermione said.
"They make you feel hopeless… They make you relive your worse moments… I hate them," Luna said as she trembled a little in anger this time. She hated what they made her see. What they made her relive.
"Its worse if your memories are particularly bad…" Ginny said.
Ron looked to her in worry. He realized what she must have relived. His sister held her best friend tighter.
"What… What happened?" Harry asked as he sat us just as the lights seemed to turn back on in the train.
Ron cancelled his spell. "Dementors," he said.
Elsa looked to the hall. "Having them search the train. What is Fudge thinking?" she said.
"What do they do?" Harry asked. "Did anyone else collapse?" he asked.
"No mate… You had it really bad," Ron said. He looked to Luna and Ginny as he said, "They had it really bad too, but not in the same way."
Elsa's eyes then widened and she looked to Harry. "What did you experience?" she asked.
"I heard shouting… Crying… Then someone shouting a spell. Then a flash of green. What was it?" Harry asked.
"That would explain why it was bad on you," Elsa started. "You were experiencing what happened that night…"
The other gasped to that and looked to Harry in shock. "I'm fine now… Well… as much as anyone else," he said. He hated that he was the only one to collapse like that.
Elsa reached her free hand out and held Luna's shoulder, since she was closest. The small blonde girl sniffed but seemed to feel better at the comfort. Elsa wanted to help Harry too, but then the door opened.
"It seems you are all back with us," Professor Lupin said. He gave them each some chocolate. "Eat. It will help," he said.
Anna and Elsa both immediately brightened and happily munched away. "Mmmm! Chocolate," the girls said in perfect sync as they smiled dreamily at the wonderful treat.
Lupin couldn't help but smile at their reaction.
"It seems whatever house Anna ends up in, they too will learn of the Evergreen Chocolate Tax," Neville said with a chuckle. The sisters blushed momentarily but shrugged it off. They had chocolate. That was all that mattered at the moment.
"You should all eat up. I'm going to check the rest of the train. We should be at Hogwarts soon enough," Professor Lupin said before leaving.
Hermione took a bite of her chocolate and seemed to light up as she ate more. She wasn't as big of a fan as the Evergreen Sisters, but she did like sweets and she was feeling warmth inside now. Neville ate his dutifully. Ron marveled for a second at actually being told by a Professor to eat chocolate. It was almost something out of a dream.
"It does seem to be helping," Anna said with a smile.
"I think we finally got a DADA Professor who knows his stuff," Elsa said as she nodded in agreement.
"Are you sure that isn't just the chocolate talking?" Ron asked with a raised eyebrow. This time Luna and Ginny giggled. They too were munching away at their own chocolate.
Harry bit his. It was pretty good. He also felt warm inside. He was wondering why he would see the death of his parents around the Dementors, if Elsa was right. He was thinking she was though. He had flashes of all of that in nightmares when he was younger. Harry curiously wondered what Elsa felt in all of that. Did even she feel cold? Or was it just the rest of it?
He took another bite. That was a question for another time. "I think Elsa and Anna are right," he said with a nod. He was kind of happy his friends weren't mentioning what happened anymore for now. Whatever all happened, even if only he was affected that bad, he knew one thing. Well... Two things.
He hated dementors. They were terrifying. A creature being able to just cripple someone like that? And looking like it stepped out of a painting depicting the Grim Reaper? The others were shaking as well, even if they didn't collapse like he did. The second thing he knew was he had to find a way to beat them. He did not want something to cripple him in such a way. He would be of no use to anybody if he was paralyzed because of dementors.
Harry hated dementors, but he oddly felt more determined after realizing those two things. The group was quiet and just ate their chocolate for the short amount remaining of their ride. There wasn't the usual level of joy and excitement as the train pulled into Hogsmeade Station. There was instead an immense sense of relief. Hogwarts just had to be safe from those terrifying things. It had to be.