Chapter two: Dreams, Diagon Alley and Draco Malfoy
"They're reforming my lord." a cloaked figure bowed to a figure standing tall and proud. He too was cloaked and his face was shadows. Before him and behind the kneeling one, stood a crowd of people all wearing the same black cloaks.
"You expected them not to? They never really disbanded, instead they waited, knowing that I would rise again. Perhaps, they aren't as foolish as they seem. One should never underestimate their enemy."
"Yes, my lord, you are correct. I found it strange, however, that it has happened so soon. There has been no confirmed report yet. We have remained quiet. It's strange that, though we wait, they are aware of our presence."
"You doubt my orders? Yes, I can hear it in your thoughts. We have remained quiet for many reasons, and will continue to do so, until I command otherwise. Very few are aware of presence, but their leader is that fool, Dumbeldore. He had all the confirmation he needed just a few months ago. He probably went right into action, as soon as he knew."
"Of course my Lord. I trust your judgement. I always will. I apologize for my doubts."
The tall figure didn't respond. Instead he motioned with his hand and another figure stepped forward from the group of people and the one in front moved back. "Your report?"
"Wormtail was correct when he said they were reforming. They aren't being very discreet. Perhaps intentionally, I feel that there is also information beyond that. They may be planning something. Possibly they tired of only being defense. It is my belief that they will be growing also. They have extended a hand to a few more people, however I could not discover who, though I feel the traitor is one of them."
"Of course they are. Did you expect differently? We must be careful on the ways we receive information, they may be baiting us, however, your lack of information is not desired. Get more. All of you, keep your ears open."
"Yes my Lord." The leader repeated the motion with his hand and the figure before him was replaced with another.
"Lord Voldemort," the new figure bowed. "Hogwarts still cannot be penetrated. It seems there are more wards than ever. I understand your wish for secrecy in these early stages but once your former servant returns there, he may be out of our reach."
"You doubt me also?" the leader paused. "Yes, all of you have lingering feelings of doubt. You are all tired of waiting. I understand, however, I assure you all it is for the best. We are not prepared yet, and the denial of the Ministry of Magic works in our favor. It casts doubt upon Dumbledore. It also gives us time, I may search out some new followers. The giants are now useless, and the dementors will return as soon as I call. But still I wait."
"My Lord, if I may," The leader motioned for this new speaker to movie forward. He bowed and began, "A few of us feel that the traitor may not be useless. Though he is no longer loyal to you, he is loyal to the dark arts and Great Slytherin. Or so it-"
"Silence! The traitor will be punished. Perhaps my absence has had more of an effect than I had thought. Many of you doubt my commands. And perhaps my power. Nevertheless, there are a few things that need to be decided." The tall figure went on. "A proper punishment for those that betrayed me, for example. Many of you before me need punishment still, a reminder of sorts. Many of you are in different positions than you once were. Some may be used to our advantage, but others... need to be adjusted. You all must wait."
"I understand my Lord and I apologize for my impudence."
"Remember, Patience is a virtue. We will return greater than we ever were. I promise that to you all." And Lord Voldemort turned and disappeared. ***
Harry woke up with the sun in his eyes. He thought he had been in the middle of a dream, but couldn't remember anything. The lingering pain in his scar gave him a good idea what it was about though.
He had been at the Weasleys for a little over two weeks now. Ron and Hermione had explained to them that they hadn't said anything in about the wizarding world because there wasn't anything to say. His subscription to the Daily Prophet proved it too. Absolutely nothing out of the ordinary had happened. In fact, there was even less than usual going on. If Harry wasn't so relieved, he would be suspicious.
Even though everything in the wizarding world was fine, he kept on finding himself reassuring Ron, Hermione Mr. and Mrs. Weasley that he was okay. It was mostly the truth, he still refused to think about last term's events, so they didn't affect him.
It had been nice to see Ron and Hermione again, but it seemed like they were bickering about something every five minutes. Fred and George, oddly enough, hadn't been in trouble with Mrs. Weasley once all summer. They confided to Harry that it was because they were waiting until they got back to Hogwarts. They had were still developing things for Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, but did it outside of the house and their mothers hearing and sight. Ginny also seemed to be maturing more and no longer had a crush on Harry, or at least, she didn't act like it anymore. She could actually hold an intelligent conversation with him without blushing.
The noises he heard from downstairs told him that at least Mrs. and Mr. Weasley were up. He sighed, getting out of bed to get dressed and a little bit later he was walking into the kitchen.
"Good Morning Harry! Nice to see you up. Have some breakfast. After that we'll leave for Diagon Alley." Mrs. Weasley smiled warmly and motioned to some plates on the table. "Morning. Thanks. It smells good." Harry yawned and sat down. In the next few minutes, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Fred, and George all made their way to the table. Percy, who was still living there, was probably at the ministry already. As everyone finished eating, and Mr. Weasley left to go to work, Mrs. Weasley told them they all had 30 minutes before they had to be downstairs to leave. ***
Leigh woke up screaming. It wasn't the first time that had happened, and she knew it wouldn't be the last. She had almost begun to believe the last time would have been. She hadn't had one since she left the states and she wished it would have stayed that way. Leigh's dreams were never good, at least the ones she remembered.
Leigh's mother was a known diviner, and sometimes Leigh had to wonder if she inherited the skill. As much as she admired her mother, Leigh hoped this was one trait she didn't receive. It couldn't be controlled.
As Leigh's eyes adjusted to the dark, she tried to recall what had happened, but she couldn't. All she could remember was the fear she had felt. Trying to shake the lingering fear off, she looked at her watch and noticed that it was early, but she knew that if she fell back asleep she would stay asleep. She began to get dressed for a day long of shopping.
Leigh was staying in a room at the Leaky Cauldron until she had to go to school. Mrs. Figg, being a teacher for the first year, had to go to Hogwarts earlier than any of the students. Leigh's aunt was originally supposed to be done with her work by then, but some things had come up that were unexpected. She had told Leigh that she would be fine at the Leaky Cauldron, and she could pick up the books and school supplies for the year.
After glancing in the mirror, she went downstairs to grab some breakfast and then shop for hours. If she hadn't been trying so hard to forget the dream, she may have remembered that parts of it were familiar. ***
In what may have been a first for the Weasleys, everyone actually was downstairs a half hour later. They would be going to Diagon Alley by way of Floo Powder. George went first, he stepped into the fireplace, threw the powder up and said clearly, "Diagon Alley."
Then Fred, did the same followed by Ron. Harry was next, and thinking of his first experience with it, placed his glasses into his pockets. He had once ended up in Knockturn Alley after he inhaled some ash and didn't want the same to happen again. However, this time it worked flawlessy and he stepped out into Diagon Alley a few seconds after leaving the Weasleys'.
"Hey Harry, you make it okay? Right place? No broken glasses?" Ron said. "Haha. Where's Fred and George?" Harry said noticing the twins were gone.
"They were walking away when I got here. Probably already on their way to the Joke Shop. I figure we'll meet up in front of Gringotts, we're all old enough now to go by ourselves. At least, I hope we are."
Mrs. Weasley came last. After Ron told her that Fred and George had already gone she told them all, "We'll meet up in front of Gringotts in an hour. That way you can do all the looking you want and not be tempted to spend any money. Be careful though, and stay out of trouble."
Harry and Ron looked at each other, "Quality Quidditch Supplies?" Harry asked.
Ron grinned and nodded. "Hermione?"
"Ugh, might as well. We have to go to Flourish and Blott's later anyway to get schoolbooks. I suppose I can wait until then." Hermione reluctanly followed them, as did Ginny. ***
Leigh hadn't gone to Gringotts yet, she wanted a good look around first. She was leaving a joke shop when quite out of nowhere, a Fillibuster's firework went off. Looking at the red and blue stars zooming around the shop she saw the tall, young redhead behind the counter looking at two blonde mousy boys sternly.
"That was awesome! It was just sooo exciting, I never knew joke shops could be so cool! I'm glad I got a picture of that. I wonder if I'll see it do that" The shorter boy was exclaiming to the taller one. Leigh noticed the taller one looked frightened and wondered if the small one was oblivious to him or just slow. She would have placed bets on the second option.
"Excuse me," The redhead said sternly. "I believe one of you owe me 2 sickles. You're both lucky it didn't damage anything else. Otherwise you would have had to pay for that too. Very dangerous, it is, messing around with things."
"What...? I didn't mean to...I don't even know how it happened. I...I..." The taller one could only stutter. The shorter one had stopped talking.
"I should ban you from the store. All of Diagon Alley even." Leigh studied the person behind the counter, and realized that he wasn't the shopkeeper, he walked in the store right before her as a costumer. She figured that the boy hadn't really touched it all, it was probably a set-up, they were, after all, in a joke shop.
She smirked. The redhead glanced at her and winked.
"But... I just walked by. I didn't touch anything. I swear! Ask her!" The blonde boy looked frantically at Leigh.
"Sorry, I was just leaving when it went off, didn't see a thing." Leigh shrugged and the blonde boy's face grew even more terrified.
A second later, the real shopkeeper and an identical match to the redhead behind the counter entered through a door in the back of the store.
"Oh dear, I seem to have missed the fireworks." The real shopkeeper said laughing. He looked at the panicked boy. "Its nice to know you are a convincing actor George, though you may have over done it, the poor boy is terrified." He laughed some more. "Don't worry, the fireworks are rigged to go off once a day. It always frightens people, and then I yell at them for a bit. This is a joke shop. George there, one of my two best customers was kind enough, to do the dirty work for me while his brother, my other best customer, and I discussed business in the back." He smiled warmly and the taller boy seemed to calm down. A second later his eyes grew wide.
"You're the Weasley Twins! Fred and George! You go to Hogwarts! All the teachers know you! You're famous. You've broken almost every rule, at least once! And you know Harry Potter!" He was suddenly speechless. "Wow... Can I have a picture, with both of you!?"
Still keeping a straight face the boy behind the counter looked at his twin. "I'd rather not right now. A line could form. It would bring a lot of attention. There will be plenty on opportunity at Hogwarts."
Both mousey boys' faces fell. The other redhead said quickly, "Besides Harry Potter is somewhere in Diagon Alley right now. I bet he'll be happy to have his picture taken." He grinned.
The two blondes looked at each other and ran out of the store. Leigh noted that Harry was wandering around somewhere. Summer had gotten really bad after he left, very dull and even worse, Dudley had been introduced to her and he kept on walking by Mrs. Figg's house after that. She figured it was the most exercise he had ever gotten before in his life, walking two blocks. It led to her never leaving the house, in case she would run into him.
"Awww... that was a little harsh Fred, setting them on Harry like that. Of course, Ron's probably with Harry, so I guess its okay then." The twin she assumed was George moved from behind the counter.
"My thoughts exactly. So are you done here then? I am." Fred grinned.
"Yep, if you are, then I am."
"Wait, it's your last year at Hogwarts. What are you two planning?" The shopkeeper said to them as they turned to leave the store.
Straight-faced Fred answered, "If we told you, we'd have to kill you." "That and you probably don't want to be involved, it could get messy. Though we may need you as an alibi later." George added.
Smiling to herself, Leigh turned once again to leave.
"Hey, wait." One of the twins, she couldn't tell which now, called after her outside the store.
She stopped once again.
"Where are you from? You don't go to Hogwarts."
"I don't? Darn. I'd better find the right book list then. Mine says Hogwarts on the top in fancy green ink. Must be wrong. Do you know where I can get another one?" Leigh raised her eyebrows and grinned.
"So you're new then. We make it our business to know people." The one she thought was George said.
"Especially sarcastic ones that go to joke shops." Fred added.
"Right... I am new, you figured me out. I used to go to Glendale, its in the states. I'm Leigh Duchane." She smiled and started towards Gringotts. The twins followed.
"I'm Fred and this is George." Leigh mentally celebrated that she had guessed right. "We're seventh years. In Gryffindor house. What year are you in?"
"Going into Fifth. What do you mean by house?"
"You're in our brother's year, Ron. He's not nearly as cool as us though. He gets into trouble, of course, so do we, but at least with us its intentional."
"And usually not life-threatening. Usually."
"Houses are complicated, I suppose Mcgonagall will explain them to you. She's a professor and usually handles sorting, but since you're not a first year, I'm not sure. I think she will though."
Leigh wrinkled her nose. "Yeah, I'm sure she will... So is there anything I should know about Hogwarts? Any tips?"
"Well, avoid the caretaker, Filch and his cat. Doesn't like the students much. Actually, people in general."
"They say not to go into the forbidden forest, and every time we try to, we get caught, but somehow our brother and his friends have ended up serving detention there."
"Avoid Slytherins, another house, unless you're looking to embarrass, hurt, or maim some one. Nasty lot."
"Don't take food from anyone, they may have gotten it from us."
"Snape is a horrible, vile man, he teaches potions, thus Potions is a horrible, vile class."
"Okay... That all?" Leigh asked smiling.
"Yeah, it is. All the important stuff anyway. There is more, but..."
"Its all very complicated. And a bit strange." Both looked serious for a second.
Leigh looked quizzically at the two, and was about to ask them to explain anyway when, "Fred , George." A plump redheaded woman called and approached them. "You could have waited until everyone got there before leaving. I told everyone that we would meet here. They should all be here any minute."
"Okay, mum." George rolled his eyes.
"Good. Oh, hello." Mrs. Wealsey said noticing Leigh, "Molly Weasley, she said holding out her hand.
"Leigh Duchane. Hi." Mrs. Weasley looked surprise briefly, but then recovered and they shook hands.
"Nice to meet you." Mrs. Weasley smiled warmly.
"Same to you." Leigh said this quietly because she was suddenly overwhelmed by a feeling of trust. A second later it was gone. Leigh sighed. "I should be going, I have lots of stuff, I need to get. Bye, Mrs. Weasley." Mrs. Weasly nodded. "Uh, see you at school?" Leigh said looking at the twins.
"Yeah,"
"See you."
As she turned to walk into Gringotts, Leigh suddenly remembered something. "Oh and when you see Harry, tell him..." Leigh though for a moment on what exactly she wanted him to be told. "Tell him I say Hi."
"What? How do you know Harry?" George looked perplexed.
"Long story. Ask him." Leigh replied grinning. "See you." And with that she was gone. ***
Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny were on their way to Gringotts after a long stop at Quality Quidditch Supplies and pulling Hermione past Flourish and Blott's.
"So who do you think the new Dark Arts teacher is? What's the book on the list?" Ron asked just as Gringotts came into view.
"Haven't you even looked at your list Ron? Honestly. Its called, An Examination of The Dark Arts, by Evan Gelion. Its actually a pretty common reference in other books. Its first version predated Voldemort by 14 years." Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Sorry I didn't memorize the list. We can't all be Prefects you know..." Ron glared.
"I just hope its someone intelligent. One that's not evil would be nice to. Or a fraud or a werewolf. Lupin was the coolest though." Ginny said quickly, Harry guessed she was tired of the constant bickering too.
"Right. Wait a sec." Harry stopped as something Leigh said came back to him. He wondered if it still meant something, since she said it before he knew she was a witch. "I think its my neighbor."
"Your neighbor? You're surrounded by muggles." Ron looked at Harry.
"Well, yeah but, remember that girl I mentioned in the letter? My neighbor?"
"Yeah, but what does that have to do with anything?"
"Everything. She was staying with Mrs. Figg, a neighbor of mine. Its how we met, but later I found out she was a witch, long story. I found out right before I left for your house, there wasn't much time to ask questions. But anyway, before that she said she was staying with Mrs. Figg, cause she was going to teach at the school Leigh's, that's her name, aunt teaches at, but her aunt couldn't watch her right then. Then later, when I found out she was a witch, she said she was going to Hogwarts. So maybe, Mrs. Figg will be the next DADA teacher."
"Okay... that made very little sense." Ron made a face.
"Wait..." Hermione said slowly. "Did you say Figg? Last year... after everything... Dumbledore told Sirius to go alert the 'old crowd.'" She had a certain look in her eye that she only got when she knew something.
"So...?" Ron prodded.
"So, one of the names he mentioned was Arabella Figg. What if that's the same person? And what exactly is the 'old crowd' anyway?"
"Right... So... Why can't we ever have a normal teacher? Living as a muggle, and being part of some mysterious crowd, doesn't sound normal." Ginny groaned, "gee look who's waiting for us."
Fred, George, and Mrs Weasley stood outside waiting. Mrs. Weasley looked impaitient.
As they got closer, the twins waved.
"Hey Harry, I got a message for you." George grinned.
"Okay.. What?" Harry was almost afraid to ask.
"Some girl says Hi."
"What...?"Harry looked at George.
"Can't tell you who though. Sorry." George shrugged. He figured he'd have some fun.
"Okay..." Harry was beginning to get a headache.
"Oh, honestly George, her name was Leigh Duchane. Anyway, I already went to Gringotts," Mrs. Weasley said handing Hermione and Harry bags of coins. "Flourish and Blotts first, then somewhere for robes and then the apothecary, you all should be low on potions supplies. Then you all can go off on your own again. At 9:00 we'll head back home. Okay?" Harry might have noticed that Mrs. Weasley seemed tense, if Ron hadn't nudged him to ask him a question.
"Leigh Duchane? That her?"
"Yeah. It is."
"Then she's here. If we find her we can ask her if Mrs. Figg's the Defense against the Dark Arts teacher. Maybe she'll even know something about this old crowd." Hermione said, who had been listening into the conversation said just as they entered Flourish and Blotts.
"I don't know." Harry sighed and began to look for Standard Book Of Spells Grade 5, An Examination of the Dark Arts, and Novice Transfiguration. They had only found The Standard Book of Spells when Hermione pulled him and Ron behind a bookshelf.
"Look who's just walked in." She pointed towards the shop entrance where Lucius and Draco Malfoy had just entered. "I'd rather avoid any confrontations. I'm serious you two. His dad is there anyway. Leave Draco alone."
"Not even a nice slap in the-" Ron stopped talking abruptly when he saw Hermione's glare.
Harry could not care less about Draco. He noticed that both Ron and Hermione kept glancing around, Ron to see if Draco was nearby to see if he could start something and Hermione to make sure Ron didn't make any sudden movements. Harry had the feeling that Ron wasn't planning on doing anything but annoying Hermione.
"Look. Lucius isn't anywhere near Draco, now would be a good time to strike." Harry grinned watching Hermione glare at Ron as he pointed this out.
Harry glanced over at Draco, Draco wasn't the figure who had caught his eye, however. "That's Leigh!"
"Why is Draco talking to her?" Ron asked looking at the two.
"It doesn't exactly look like they're getting along." Hermione pointed out. "Look, Malfoy's leaving."
"He doesn't look happy. Neither does she. Wonder what that was about?" Ron looked at Harry who shrugged.
"Come on, I want to introduce you guys anyway." Harry told them and walked over there. *** After Gringotts Leigh walked to Flourish and Blotts and began the task of finding the books she would need for the year. She had just walked in when she heard an appallingly familiar drawl from her left.
"So... its true then. Aurora Leigh Duchane will be attending Hogwarts, just like her mother."
Turning quickly around, she came face to face with none other that Draco Malfoy. Leigh's mother, Rowan had known and loathed Narcissa Malfoy from when they had attended Hogwarts. Yet, for some odd reason, whenever Narcissa made it known that she would be visiting the States, Rowan would make sure that her and her family had a chance to visit. They weren't the only one either, Leigh had the feeling that she missed her home and often wondered why they didn't return.
Leigh and Draco had never liked each other and often went out of their way to prove it. More than once, one of them ended in tears, or in pain. They definitely had a history. It had been seven years since they had last seen each other.
"Oh look, its you." She said in a sarcastically cheery voice.
Draco looked at her. He sneered. "Long time. I was hoping I wouldn't see you again."
"Trust me the feelings mutual." She started to walk around him.
"I'm not finished." Draco challenged.
"I don't care. I am." Glancing beyond Draco, seeing his father approaching, she told him quietly, "Apparently your father is too."
Draco turned. His eyes narrowed. "This isn't over." He turned and walked away.
"'Course its not. See you at Hogwarts." Once Draco and his father had left Leigh took a deep breath and closed her eyes.
She had a second to calm down before she heard a familiar voice. "Hello Leigh." Turning around once more, she saw Harry.
"Hey Harry. What's up?" Leigh grinned.
"Nothing really. How do you know Draco? Seems like you two don't get along." He grinned.
"Well, that's the understatement of the year. Our moms knew each other from school. Whenever they visited the states, the Malfoys would have dinner or something with us. We never really got along. At all. Anyway, that's not important." Leigh made it clear she wanted to change the subject. She looked expectantly at Ron and Hermione, who were behind Harry.
"Oh. Right-" Harry was cut off.
"I'm Hermione Granger, this is Ron Weasley. We go to Hogwarts too. Its nice meeting you."
"Nice meeting you too." Leigh paused thinking of something witty to say. It never came.
"So, Mrs. Figg, is she the next Defense Against the Dark Arts Teacher?" Hermione asked breaking a brief silence.
"I guess." Leigh shrugged. "She never mentioned what she would be teaching, and I didn't really care. I suppose Defense Against the Dark Arts is as simple as it sounds? Just learning counter curses and protections and stuff?"
"At Hogwarts, its never simple, but I thought all schools have Defense Against the Dark Arts. Except for Durmstrang. Wouldn't it be the same as yours?" Ron asked and was answered by Hermione's exasperated sigh.
"Honestly, you think that all schools have the same courses? Hogwarts is the only school to call it Defense Against the Dark Arts. The rest have different curriculums and names." Once Hermione was done glaring at Ron, she turned to Leigh. "We learn other things to, it isn't just protection. We also learn theories and history on it. Among other things. I read that most American schools have Defense and Attack. I suppose its similiar to that."
"Right, both Glendale and Salem have Defense and Attack. It was simple though. Why would Hogwarts be any different?" Leigh suddenly had the feeling that Hermione was one of the smartest, of her year, if not the smartest. She wondered how Hermione would react if she suddenly lost the position. Leigh tried not to smile at the thought.
"Ron was making a joke. Hogwarts has a history of... bad things happening." Hermione explained.
"That's probably the understatement of the year. Especially recently... since the year we entered really. Its complicated though." Harry added grimly.
Leigh sighed. "Should I be worried? 'Cause, Fred and George said something very similar, and they used that same complicated excuse."
"I read once that different schools in the states play each other at Quidditch and stuff. We don't do that here." Hermione said changing the subject.
Leigh briefly wondered why everyone was dodging that subject but figured it must be for a good reason. "Yeah we do. I was on Quidditch and the Dueling team. The dueling team was good, and our Quodpod team won a bunch of tournaments, but at Quidditch we lost every single game. It wasn't because I was a bad keeper either, our chasers couldn't score. They were the ones who were to bad at Quodpod to make the team and were already on the team when I came. It sucks too because I wanted to be Chaser. Needless to say, I'm a little bitter."
"Obviously..."Harry grinned and Leigh made a face at him.
"So, are you all in Gryffindor?" Leigh was the one to change the subject now.
"Yes." Hermione went on to give Leigh a history of Hogwarts and the details of the houses. Leigh nodded every once in awhile to show that she was paying attention.
They finally found the books they needed, and Leigh stayed with them and the Weasleys as they all finished their shopping.
"They're reforming my lord." a cloaked figure bowed to a figure standing tall and proud. He too was cloaked and his face was shadows. Before him and behind the kneeling one, stood a crowd of people all wearing the same black cloaks.
"You expected them not to? They never really disbanded, instead they waited, knowing that I would rise again. Perhaps, they aren't as foolish as they seem. One should never underestimate their enemy."
"Yes, my lord, you are correct. I found it strange, however, that it has happened so soon. There has been no confirmed report yet. We have remained quiet. It's strange that, though we wait, they are aware of our presence."
"You doubt my orders? Yes, I can hear it in your thoughts. We have remained quiet for many reasons, and will continue to do so, until I command otherwise. Very few are aware of presence, but their leader is that fool, Dumbeldore. He had all the confirmation he needed just a few months ago. He probably went right into action, as soon as he knew."
"Of course my Lord. I trust your judgement. I always will. I apologize for my doubts."
The tall figure didn't respond. Instead he motioned with his hand and another figure stepped forward from the group of people and the one in front moved back. "Your report?"
"Wormtail was correct when he said they were reforming. They aren't being very discreet. Perhaps intentionally, I feel that there is also information beyond that. They may be planning something. Possibly they tired of only being defense. It is my belief that they will be growing also. They have extended a hand to a few more people, however I could not discover who, though I feel the traitor is one of them."
"Of course they are. Did you expect differently? We must be careful on the ways we receive information, they may be baiting us, however, your lack of information is not desired. Get more. All of you, keep your ears open."
"Yes my Lord." The leader repeated the motion with his hand and the figure before him was replaced with another.
"Lord Voldemort," the new figure bowed. "Hogwarts still cannot be penetrated. It seems there are more wards than ever. I understand your wish for secrecy in these early stages but once your former servant returns there, he may be out of our reach."
"You doubt me also?" the leader paused. "Yes, all of you have lingering feelings of doubt. You are all tired of waiting. I understand, however, I assure you all it is for the best. We are not prepared yet, and the denial of the Ministry of Magic works in our favor. It casts doubt upon Dumbledore. It also gives us time, I may search out some new followers. The giants are now useless, and the dementors will return as soon as I call. But still I wait."
"My Lord, if I may," The leader motioned for this new speaker to movie forward. He bowed and began, "A few of us feel that the traitor may not be useless. Though he is no longer loyal to you, he is loyal to the dark arts and Great Slytherin. Or so it-"
"Silence! The traitor will be punished. Perhaps my absence has had more of an effect than I had thought. Many of you doubt my commands. And perhaps my power. Nevertheless, there are a few things that need to be decided." The tall figure went on. "A proper punishment for those that betrayed me, for example. Many of you before me need punishment still, a reminder of sorts. Many of you are in different positions than you once were. Some may be used to our advantage, but others... need to be adjusted. You all must wait."
"I understand my Lord and I apologize for my impudence."
"Remember, Patience is a virtue. We will return greater than we ever were. I promise that to you all." And Lord Voldemort turned and disappeared. ***
Harry woke up with the sun in his eyes. He thought he had been in the middle of a dream, but couldn't remember anything. The lingering pain in his scar gave him a good idea what it was about though.
He had been at the Weasleys for a little over two weeks now. Ron and Hermione had explained to them that they hadn't said anything in about the wizarding world because there wasn't anything to say. His subscription to the Daily Prophet proved it too. Absolutely nothing out of the ordinary had happened. In fact, there was even less than usual going on. If Harry wasn't so relieved, he would be suspicious.
Even though everything in the wizarding world was fine, he kept on finding himself reassuring Ron, Hermione Mr. and Mrs. Weasley that he was okay. It was mostly the truth, he still refused to think about last term's events, so they didn't affect him.
It had been nice to see Ron and Hermione again, but it seemed like they were bickering about something every five minutes. Fred and George, oddly enough, hadn't been in trouble with Mrs. Weasley once all summer. They confided to Harry that it was because they were waiting until they got back to Hogwarts. They had were still developing things for Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, but did it outside of the house and their mothers hearing and sight. Ginny also seemed to be maturing more and no longer had a crush on Harry, or at least, she didn't act like it anymore. She could actually hold an intelligent conversation with him without blushing.
The noises he heard from downstairs told him that at least Mrs. and Mr. Weasley were up. He sighed, getting out of bed to get dressed and a little bit later he was walking into the kitchen.
"Good Morning Harry! Nice to see you up. Have some breakfast. After that we'll leave for Diagon Alley." Mrs. Weasley smiled warmly and motioned to some plates on the table. "Morning. Thanks. It smells good." Harry yawned and sat down. In the next few minutes, Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Fred, and George all made their way to the table. Percy, who was still living there, was probably at the ministry already. As everyone finished eating, and Mr. Weasley left to go to work, Mrs. Weasley told them they all had 30 minutes before they had to be downstairs to leave. ***
Leigh woke up screaming. It wasn't the first time that had happened, and she knew it wouldn't be the last. She had almost begun to believe the last time would have been. She hadn't had one since she left the states and she wished it would have stayed that way. Leigh's dreams were never good, at least the ones she remembered.
Leigh's mother was a known diviner, and sometimes Leigh had to wonder if she inherited the skill. As much as she admired her mother, Leigh hoped this was one trait she didn't receive. It couldn't be controlled.
As Leigh's eyes adjusted to the dark, she tried to recall what had happened, but she couldn't. All she could remember was the fear she had felt. Trying to shake the lingering fear off, she looked at her watch and noticed that it was early, but she knew that if she fell back asleep she would stay asleep. She began to get dressed for a day long of shopping.
Leigh was staying in a room at the Leaky Cauldron until she had to go to school. Mrs. Figg, being a teacher for the first year, had to go to Hogwarts earlier than any of the students. Leigh's aunt was originally supposed to be done with her work by then, but some things had come up that were unexpected. She had told Leigh that she would be fine at the Leaky Cauldron, and she could pick up the books and school supplies for the year.
After glancing in the mirror, she went downstairs to grab some breakfast and then shop for hours. If she hadn't been trying so hard to forget the dream, she may have remembered that parts of it were familiar. ***
In what may have been a first for the Weasleys, everyone actually was downstairs a half hour later. They would be going to Diagon Alley by way of Floo Powder. George went first, he stepped into the fireplace, threw the powder up and said clearly, "Diagon Alley."
Then Fred, did the same followed by Ron. Harry was next, and thinking of his first experience with it, placed his glasses into his pockets. He had once ended up in Knockturn Alley after he inhaled some ash and didn't want the same to happen again. However, this time it worked flawlessy and he stepped out into Diagon Alley a few seconds after leaving the Weasleys'.
"Hey Harry, you make it okay? Right place? No broken glasses?" Ron said. "Haha. Where's Fred and George?" Harry said noticing the twins were gone.
"They were walking away when I got here. Probably already on their way to the Joke Shop. I figure we'll meet up in front of Gringotts, we're all old enough now to go by ourselves. At least, I hope we are."
Mrs. Weasley came last. After Ron told her that Fred and George had already gone she told them all, "We'll meet up in front of Gringotts in an hour. That way you can do all the looking you want and not be tempted to spend any money. Be careful though, and stay out of trouble."
Harry and Ron looked at each other, "Quality Quidditch Supplies?" Harry asked.
Ron grinned and nodded. "Hermione?"
"Ugh, might as well. We have to go to Flourish and Blott's later anyway to get schoolbooks. I suppose I can wait until then." Hermione reluctanly followed them, as did Ginny. ***
Leigh hadn't gone to Gringotts yet, she wanted a good look around first. She was leaving a joke shop when quite out of nowhere, a Fillibuster's firework went off. Looking at the red and blue stars zooming around the shop she saw the tall, young redhead behind the counter looking at two blonde mousy boys sternly.
"That was awesome! It was just sooo exciting, I never knew joke shops could be so cool! I'm glad I got a picture of that. I wonder if I'll see it do that" The shorter boy was exclaiming to the taller one. Leigh noticed the taller one looked frightened and wondered if the small one was oblivious to him or just slow. She would have placed bets on the second option.
"Excuse me," The redhead said sternly. "I believe one of you owe me 2 sickles. You're both lucky it didn't damage anything else. Otherwise you would have had to pay for that too. Very dangerous, it is, messing around with things."
"What...? I didn't mean to...I don't even know how it happened. I...I..." The taller one could only stutter. The shorter one had stopped talking.
"I should ban you from the store. All of Diagon Alley even." Leigh studied the person behind the counter, and realized that he wasn't the shopkeeper, he walked in the store right before her as a costumer. She figured that the boy hadn't really touched it all, it was probably a set-up, they were, after all, in a joke shop.
She smirked. The redhead glanced at her and winked.
"But... I just walked by. I didn't touch anything. I swear! Ask her!" The blonde boy looked frantically at Leigh.
"Sorry, I was just leaving when it went off, didn't see a thing." Leigh shrugged and the blonde boy's face grew even more terrified.
A second later, the real shopkeeper and an identical match to the redhead behind the counter entered through a door in the back of the store.
"Oh dear, I seem to have missed the fireworks." The real shopkeeper said laughing. He looked at the panicked boy. "Its nice to know you are a convincing actor George, though you may have over done it, the poor boy is terrified." He laughed some more. "Don't worry, the fireworks are rigged to go off once a day. It always frightens people, and then I yell at them for a bit. This is a joke shop. George there, one of my two best customers was kind enough, to do the dirty work for me while his brother, my other best customer, and I discussed business in the back." He smiled warmly and the taller boy seemed to calm down. A second later his eyes grew wide.
"You're the Weasley Twins! Fred and George! You go to Hogwarts! All the teachers know you! You're famous. You've broken almost every rule, at least once! And you know Harry Potter!" He was suddenly speechless. "Wow... Can I have a picture, with both of you!?"
Still keeping a straight face the boy behind the counter looked at his twin. "I'd rather not right now. A line could form. It would bring a lot of attention. There will be plenty on opportunity at Hogwarts."
Both mousey boys' faces fell. The other redhead said quickly, "Besides Harry Potter is somewhere in Diagon Alley right now. I bet he'll be happy to have his picture taken." He grinned.
The two blondes looked at each other and ran out of the store. Leigh noted that Harry was wandering around somewhere. Summer had gotten really bad after he left, very dull and even worse, Dudley had been introduced to her and he kept on walking by Mrs. Figg's house after that. She figured it was the most exercise he had ever gotten before in his life, walking two blocks. It led to her never leaving the house, in case she would run into him.
"Awww... that was a little harsh Fred, setting them on Harry like that. Of course, Ron's probably with Harry, so I guess its okay then." The twin she assumed was George moved from behind the counter.
"My thoughts exactly. So are you done here then? I am." Fred grinned.
"Yep, if you are, then I am."
"Wait, it's your last year at Hogwarts. What are you two planning?" The shopkeeper said to them as they turned to leave the store.
Straight-faced Fred answered, "If we told you, we'd have to kill you." "That and you probably don't want to be involved, it could get messy. Though we may need you as an alibi later." George added.
Smiling to herself, Leigh turned once again to leave.
"Hey, wait." One of the twins, she couldn't tell which now, called after her outside the store.
She stopped once again.
"Where are you from? You don't go to Hogwarts."
"I don't? Darn. I'd better find the right book list then. Mine says Hogwarts on the top in fancy green ink. Must be wrong. Do you know where I can get another one?" Leigh raised her eyebrows and grinned.
"So you're new then. We make it our business to know people." The one she thought was George said.
"Especially sarcastic ones that go to joke shops." Fred added.
"Right... I am new, you figured me out. I used to go to Glendale, its in the states. I'm Leigh Duchane." She smiled and started towards Gringotts. The twins followed.
"I'm Fred and this is George." Leigh mentally celebrated that she had guessed right. "We're seventh years. In Gryffindor house. What year are you in?"
"Going into Fifth. What do you mean by house?"
"You're in our brother's year, Ron. He's not nearly as cool as us though. He gets into trouble, of course, so do we, but at least with us its intentional."
"And usually not life-threatening. Usually."
"Houses are complicated, I suppose Mcgonagall will explain them to you. She's a professor and usually handles sorting, but since you're not a first year, I'm not sure. I think she will though."
Leigh wrinkled her nose. "Yeah, I'm sure she will... So is there anything I should know about Hogwarts? Any tips?"
"Well, avoid the caretaker, Filch and his cat. Doesn't like the students much. Actually, people in general."
"They say not to go into the forbidden forest, and every time we try to, we get caught, but somehow our brother and his friends have ended up serving detention there."
"Avoid Slytherins, another house, unless you're looking to embarrass, hurt, or maim some one. Nasty lot."
"Don't take food from anyone, they may have gotten it from us."
"Snape is a horrible, vile man, he teaches potions, thus Potions is a horrible, vile class."
"Okay... That all?" Leigh asked smiling.
"Yeah, it is. All the important stuff anyway. There is more, but..."
"Its all very complicated. And a bit strange." Both looked serious for a second.
Leigh looked quizzically at the two, and was about to ask them to explain anyway when, "Fred , George." A plump redheaded woman called and approached them. "You could have waited until everyone got there before leaving. I told everyone that we would meet here. They should all be here any minute."
"Okay, mum." George rolled his eyes.
"Good. Oh, hello." Mrs. Wealsey said noticing Leigh, "Molly Weasley, she said holding out her hand.
"Leigh Duchane. Hi." Mrs. Weasley looked surprise briefly, but then recovered and they shook hands.
"Nice to meet you." Mrs. Weasley smiled warmly.
"Same to you." Leigh said this quietly because she was suddenly overwhelmed by a feeling of trust. A second later it was gone. Leigh sighed. "I should be going, I have lots of stuff, I need to get. Bye, Mrs. Weasley." Mrs. Weasly nodded. "Uh, see you at school?" Leigh said looking at the twins.
"Yeah,"
"See you."
As she turned to walk into Gringotts, Leigh suddenly remembered something. "Oh and when you see Harry, tell him..." Leigh though for a moment on what exactly she wanted him to be told. "Tell him I say Hi."
"What? How do you know Harry?" George looked perplexed.
"Long story. Ask him." Leigh replied grinning. "See you." And with that she was gone. ***
Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny were on their way to Gringotts after a long stop at Quality Quidditch Supplies and pulling Hermione past Flourish and Blott's.
"So who do you think the new Dark Arts teacher is? What's the book on the list?" Ron asked just as Gringotts came into view.
"Haven't you even looked at your list Ron? Honestly. Its called, An Examination of The Dark Arts, by Evan Gelion. Its actually a pretty common reference in other books. Its first version predated Voldemort by 14 years." Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Sorry I didn't memorize the list. We can't all be Prefects you know..." Ron glared.
"I just hope its someone intelligent. One that's not evil would be nice to. Or a fraud or a werewolf. Lupin was the coolest though." Ginny said quickly, Harry guessed she was tired of the constant bickering too.
"Right. Wait a sec." Harry stopped as something Leigh said came back to him. He wondered if it still meant something, since she said it before he knew she was a witch. "I think its my neighbor."
"Your neighbor? You're surrounded by muggles." Ron looked at Harry.
"Well, yeah but, remember that girl I mentioned in the letter? My neighbor?"
"Yeah, but what does that have to do with anything?"
"Everything. She was staying with Mrs. Figg, a neighbor of mine. Its how we met, but later I found out she was a witch, long story. I found out right before I left for your house, there wasn't much time to ask questions. But anyway, before that she said she was staying with Mrs. Figg, cause she was going to teach at the school Leigh's, that's her name, aunt teaches at, but her aunt couldn't watch her right then. Then later, when I found out she was a witch, she said she was going to Hogwarts. So maybe, Mrs. Figg will be the next DADA teacher."
"Okay... that made very little sense." Ron made a face.
"Wait..." Hermione said slowly. "Did you say Figg? Last year... after everything... Dumbledore told Sirius to go alert the 'old crowd.'" She had a certain look in her eye that she only got when she knew something.
"So...?" Ron prodded.
"So, one of the names he mentioned was Arabella Figg. What if that's the same person? And what exactly is the 'old crowd' anyway?"
"Right... So... Why can't we ever have a normal teacher? Living as a muggle, and being part of some mysterious crowd, doesn't sound normal." Ginny groaned, "gee look who's waiting for us."
Fred, George, and Mrs Weasley stood outside waiting. Mrs. Weasley looked impaitient.
As they got closer, the twins waved.
"Hey Harry, I got a message for you." George grinned.
"Okay.. What?" Harry was almost afraid to ask.
"Some girl says Hi."
"What...?"Harry looked at George.
"Can't tell you who though. Sorry." George shrugged. He figured he'd have some fun.
"Okay..." Harry was beginning to get a headache.
"Oh, honestly George, her name was Leigh Duchane. Anyway, I already went to Gringotts," Mrs. Weasley said handing Hermione and Harry bags of coins. "Flourish and Blotts first, then somewhere for robes and then the apothecary, you all should be low on potions supplies. Then you all can go off on your own again. At 9:00 we'll head back home. Okay?" Harry might have noticed that Mrs. Weasley seemed tense, if Ron hadn't nudged him to ask him a question.
"Leigh Duchane? That her?"
"Yeah. It is."
"Then she's here. If we find her we can ask her if Mrs. Figg's the Defense against the Dark Arts teacher. Maybe she'll even know something about this old crowd." Hermione said, who had been listening into the conversation said just as they entered Flourish and Blotts.
"I don't know." Harry sighed and began to look for Standard Book Of Spells Grade 5, An Examination of the Dark Arts, and Novice Transfiguration. They had only found The Standard Book of Spells when Hermione pulled him and Ron behind a bookshelf.
"Look who's just walked in." She pointed towards the shop entrance where Lucius and Draco Malfoy had just entered. "I'd rather avoid any confrontations. I'm serious you two. His dad is there anyway. Leave Draco alone."
"Not even a nice slap in the-" Ron stopped talking abruptly when he saw Hermione's glare.
Harry could not care less about Draco. He noticed that both Ron and Hermione kept glancing around, Ron to see if Draco was nearby to see if he could start something and Hermione to make sure Ron didn't make any sudden movements. Harry had the feeling that Ron wasn't planning on doing anything but annoying Hermione.
"Look. Lucius isn't anywhere near Draco, now would be a good time to strike." Harry grinned watching Hermione glare at Ron as he pointed this out.
Harry glanced over at Draco, Draco wasn't the figure who had caught his eye, however. "That's Leigh!"
"Why is Draco talking to her?" Ron asked looking at the two.
"It doesn't exactly look like they're getting along." Hermione pointed out. "Look, Malfoy's leaving."
"He doesn't look happy. Neither does she. Wonder what that was about?" Ron looked at Harry who shrugged.
"Come on, I want to introduce you guys anyway." Harry told them and walked over there. *** After Gringotts Leigh walked to Flourish and Blotts and began the task of finding the books she would need for the year. She had just walked in when she heard an appallingly familiar drawl from her left.
"So... its true then. Aurora Leigh Duchane will be attending Hogwarts, just like her mother."
Turning quickly around, she came face to face with none other that Draco Malfoy. Leigh's mother, Rowan had known and loathed Narcissa Malfoy from when they had attended Hogwarts. Yet, for some odd reason, whenever Narcissa made it known that she would be visiting the States, Rowan would make sure that her and her family had a chance to visit. They weren't the only one either, Leigh had the feeling that she missed her home and often wondered why they didn't return.
Leigh and Draco had never liked each other and often went out of their way to prove it. More than once, one of them ended in tears, or in pain. They definitely had a history. It had been seven years since they had last seen each other.
"Oh look, its you." She said in a sarcastically cheery voice.
Draco looked at her. He sneered. "Long time. I was hoping I wouldn't see you again."
"Trust me the feelings mutual." She started to walk around him.
"I'm not finished." Draco challenged.
"I don't care. I am." Glancing beyond Draco, seeing his father approaching, she told him quietly, "Apparently your father is too."
Draco turned. His eyes narrowed. "This isn't over." He turned and walked away.
"'Course its not. See you at Hogwarts." Once Draco and his father had left Leigh took a deep breath and closed her eyes.
She had a second to calm down before she heard a familiar voice. "Hello Leigh." Turning around once more, she saw Harry.
"Hey Harry. What's up?" Leigh grinned.
"Nothing really. How do you know Draco? Seems like you two don't get along." He grinned.
"Well, that's the understatement of the year. Our moms knew each other from school. Whenever they visited the states, the Malfoys would have dinner or something with us. We never really got along. At all. Anyway, that's not important." Leigh made it clear she wanted to change the subject. She looked expectantly at Ron and Hermione, who were behind Harry.
"Oh. Right-" Harry was cut off.
"I'm Hermione Granger, this is Ron Weasley. We go to Hogwarts too. Its nice meeting you."
"Nice meeting you too." Leigh paused thinking of something witty to say. It never came.
"So, Mrs. Figg, is she the next Defense Against the Dark Arts Teacher?" Hermione asked breaking a brief silence.
"I guess." Leigh shrugged. "She never mentioned what she would be teaching, and I didn't really care. I suppose Defense Against the Dark Arts is as simple as it sounds? Just learning counter curses and protections and stuff?"
"At Hogwarts, its never simple, but I thought all schools have Defense Against the Dark Arts. Except for Durmstrang. Wouldn't it be the same as yours?" Ron asked and was answered by Hermione's exasperated sigh.
"Honestly, you think that all schools have the same courses? Hogwarts is the only school to call it Defense Against the Dark Arts. The rest have different curriculums and names." Once Hermione was done glaring at Ron, she turned to Leigh. "We learn other things to, it isn't just protection. We also learn theories and history on it. Among other things. I read that most American schools have Defense and Attack. I suppose its similiar to that."
"Right, both Glendale and Salem have Defense and Attack. It was simple though. Why would Hogwarts be any different?" Leigh suddenly had the feeling that Hermione was one of the smartest, of her year, if not the smartest. She wondered how Hermione would react if she suddenly lost the position. Leigh tried not to smile at the thought.
"Ron was making a joke. Hogwarts has a history of... bad things happening." Hermione explained.
"That's probably the understatement of the year. Especially recently... since the year we entered really. Its complicated though." Harry added grimly.
Leigh sighed. "Should I be worried? 'Cause, Fred and George said something very similar, and they used that same complicated excuse."
"I read once that different schools in the states play each other at Quidditch and stuff. We don't do that here." Hermione said changing the subject.
Leigh briefly wondered why everyone was dodging that subject but figured it must be for a good reason. "Yeah we do. I was on Quidditch and the Dueling team. The dueling team was good, and our Quodpod team won a bunch of tournaments, but at Quidditch we lost every single game. It wasn't because I was a bad keeper either, our chasers couldn't score. They were the ones who were to bad at Quodpod to make the team and were already on the team when I came. It sucks too because I wanted to be Chaser. Needless to say, I'm a little bitter."
"Obviously..."Harry grinned and Leigh made a face at him.
"So, are you all in Gryffindor?" Leigh was the one to change the subject now.
"Yes." Hermione went on to give Leigh a history of Hogwarts and the details of the houses. Leigh nodded every once in awhile to show that she was paying attention.
They finally found the books they needed, and Leigh stayed with them and the Weasleys as they all finished their shopping.