Three young witches come to Hogwarts as apprentices, Aislinn to Pomfrey, Anndy to McGonagall, and Aahz to Snape. Grace is also at the school, a seer apprenticed to Trelawney, much to her displeasure. When Aahz' brother seeks sanctuary at Hogwarts, they find an old book containing a dangerous potions recipe that has the power to bring back the dead as omnipotent beings… with them as the main ingredients.
We are not, nor claim to be affiliated with the demi-goddess of the universe J.K. Rowling. All recognizable characters belong to her. Anything that seems completely insane is ours.
This story is NOT Cannon! It isn't meant to be. We quite on purpose manipulated J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter universe to suit us. Don't like, don't read! Like, PLEASE read! And Reviews, they are some of our favorite things…
A bit of background on this fic…. We had over six months of work put into it when a sick computer killed most of it… So now that we're past the mourning stage, we're redoing it. This thing is HUGE. The part that's left adds up to 463 pages… and that's just bits and pieces of it. Please be patient with updates. Aahz lives in NY while Jade Caminus and Anndy Malfoy live in WA, so writing is a bit chaotic. ENJOY!
The Hogwarts Express wheezed to a stop at Platform 9 ¾ in front of a group of peculiarly dressed people. There were ten in all, three young, not much older then twenty.
Two of the youngest were off to the side, chatting. Looking closer at the group, on of the young ladies was glancing repeatedly over her shoulder at a member of the opposite sex who was engaged in conversation, before turning back to the other young woman in front of her.
Andromeda Malfoy and Aahz H. S. Saftis were starting on an adventure of a lifetime, though they didn't know it.
Looking back at the other group, there was a short squat wizard, who was speaking to the tall young male that had captured Andromeda's attention. The two were surrounded by people, one tall, thin old man, another with greasy lank black hair, a rather –em—prominent nose, and an old woman, her graying black hair pulled into a severe bun.
Two aging women were chatting; one with a distinct hospital air, and the other reeked of dirt.
One more person stood farther apart from the crowd, now boarding the train. Remus Lupin stood tall, his auburn hair graying prematurely, and his amber eyes searing.
"Oy, are you getting on the train then?" A conductor called.
The hustle and bustle soon left the station empty and the train rolling away.
Aahz followed the greasy haired dude into the train, where the compartments were. She turned to Anndy. Clearing her throat, she said, "So… what now?"
"Well, I suppose we get introduced..." Anndy replied, thinking all was not lost as the tall thin man stood up in the front of the compartment.
Aahz snorted. "You mean you want to get to know the red head right? With the nice bum?" She adjusted her bag on her shoulder.
"Oh shut up! You're the one working with the 'Greasy Haired Git' of the month"
"Hey! Prof. Dilts set that up! And the first thing I'm doing is introducing him to the lovely invention called, 'shampoo.'"
"Bully for Professor Dilts. Sh! That's Professor Dumbledore!" Anndy stated in a loud stage whisper as the old guy in the front began his speech.
"Eek..." Aahz bit her lip and rolled her eyes.
"Well, this year I am pleased to see some new faces!" Dumbledore said happily.
"Pleased my ass," said the skinny sallow skinned snarky man with the greasy hair.
"Yes, pleased, Severus. I would like everyone to introduce themselves starting with the new members."
"Well, I guess that's me then." Anndy said to Aahz as she stood up.
"Yup. Go right ahead Anndy." She fished through her bag and pulled out some gum.
"Cow." Anndy whispered, before starting, "Hello, Andromeda Malfoy, pleased to meet you." she said quickly, and sat back down. Her name was met by whispers of
"Her? I've heard of her." "Disowned, wasn't she, I heard it was all about You-Know-Who" and "Oh great, another Malfoy" from some of the seated spectators.
Aahz stood up, tossing a stick of gum at her, at the same time popping a piece in her mouth. "Well, if you're done gossiping..."
"Honestly Aahz, shut up." Anndy whispered urgently.
Aahz raised an eyebrow and glared at those still talking. "Anywho... My name is Aahz Heart Siawl Saftis. Let me assure you... this meeting has been... shall we say... interesting?" She flopped back down in her seat, blowing a large bubble.
The rest introduced themselves as Bill Weasley (The hot one with red hair and a nice tush), Remus Lupin, whom we already know, Filius Flitwick (the short squat man), Albus Dumbledore obviously, Severus Snape (the greasy haired git of the month), Minerva McGonagall (the aging witch with the severe bun), Silvia Sprout (the one who reeked of dirt), and Poppy Pomfrey (the one with a distinct hospital smell).
All were greeted with polite hullo's except for Bill Weasley, who was greeted by a blush from our own Miss Malfoy.
Aahz smirked. "So... how long until we get there?"
"Umm...I'll go ask Bill!" Anndy said with a particularly crimson blush.
"Sure you will..." She dug through her bag again and pulled out a potions textbook, which she began taking notes from.
"Thanks for your support." Anndy whispered half snidely half amused.
"You need me to prop you up or something?"
Anndy replied with a grin, "No thanks. I think I can manage."
"Good for you... Make sure to tell me when the wedding is..." Aahz blew another bubble, smirking.
Anndy marched off.
As she stood in front of Bill, she actually looked at him. His long red hair was pulled into a ponytail at the nape of his neck, a large fang pierced his ear, and as he looked up, his dark blue eyes held a surprised note to them.
"Hello." He said warily.
"Hello." Anndy replied, valiantly fighting off a blush.
Aahz watched from over the top of her book, wishing she had a camera.
"So, er, any idea when the train will stop?"
"Not a clue." Bill replied, looking Anndy over in what had to be an appraising glance.
"So..." Anndy said lamely.
"You're related to the Malfoy family?" Bill asked, hitting a highly sensitive spot, all unknowingly.
"I don't want to talk about it." Anndy said stiffly.
Aahz shook her head, popping up. She just had to bug her. It'd be evil... er... fun. She walked over and hit Anndy in the shoulder, then noticed how much taller she was. She turned to Bill. "Do you know where I can get some stilts?"
Bill laughed.
Anndy blushed.
Remus Lupin cursed as his book slipped and gave him a paper cut.
"Yeah, hold on a second." Bill replied, and leaning over the empty seat next to him he conversed to Remus in quiet voices, until both nodded, and conjured up stilts. They were pink and orange. Atrocious colors.
Aahz laughed. "Yup... cause my mom lied...." She took the stilts and put them on, managing not to fall over. "I never hit that last growth spurt... She said it would happen, but... Hey! Your eyes are Green!" She pointed at Anndy, a wicked glee filling her eyes.
"What about them?" Anndy asked, still on the defensive.
"I could never see them before. Craning my neck... Really...." She turned to Bill and
Remus, giving a mock bow. "I thank thee muchly."
Anndy tried to glare.
And failed miserably. Her countenance was broken by a reluctant grin pulling the sides of her mouth.
Aahz snickered. "Got'cha! Anywho... yeah... Ms. I'm all tall and model like with a midget for a best friend... yeah. You never said how long it would be until we got there."
"Quiet you." Anndy said, smiling fully for the first time on the train ride.
Score! Bill would see her smile, all Aahz wanted. "Well fine then... I'm just going to study then... cause I'm not loved. Nope. Not at all..." She stumbled towards her seat, singing, "I'm all alone... there's no one here beside me..."
"I hate it when she does that." Anndy whispered.
Bill grinned. "What?"
"She...well...Dunno really.... Quite hard to explain." Anndy stuttered through the not-quite-an-explanation.
Bill chuckled. "Why don't you sit down... so... You're assisting Prof. McGonagall?"
"Yeah...She told me that in all my seven years, I was great at Transfig. and a slump at the rest. She's teaching me to become an Animagus." Anndy said, *finally* forgetting who she was talking too.
Bill chuckled yet again. "I'm helping with Charms. I used to be a curse breaker for Gringotts."
Dawning recognition flew over her face "That's where I've seen you! Your that guy Da' " here she flinched, but ploughed on "was tormenting...it was years ago...I couldn't have been more than...twelve."
Bill frowned. "Ah... Yeah. I remember that." He frowned then looked at Aahz who was blowing bubbles. "So... how did you meet your friend?"
"We bumped into each other while I was on a tour in America. She's American." Anndy said, as if that explained everything, which, of course, it did.
"Ah... American huh?" He smiled. "So what were you doing in America?"
"I was searching for a good Transfiguration teacher. I found Aahz instead." She smiled at the small irony of it.
Bill grinned. "Well, McGonagall's the best. Mind you, she thinks I'm a scoundrel."
"Why do I think she's right?" Anndy said airily.
Bill shook his head. "Little old me? I'm sweet and innocent. Promise."
"I'm sure you are."
'I am! Ask my little sister Ginny... or Fred and George... Well... no... Don't ask them..." He trailed off. "Okay... I lied."
"Well, I'm not what you could call innocent either."
Bill raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"
"Well, Aahz and I met in a rather, wild, party. I was, I believe, stringing exploding snap cards over a door."
He smiled. "I don't suppose you've ever heard of Weasley's Wizard Wheezes?"
"Aah...I don't suppose you had anything to do with that?"
'Nah... My little brothers... Fred and George? It's their company. I just helped with some of their pranks on Percy... another sibling."
"Oh, I'm quite well equipped in your family history. My father thinks of it as a 'hobby'."
"Yup... Mind you, I think he fancies my Father. Would explain a lot of things right?"
"That it would. I think I have a sickle in my pocket."
Bill looked up as he felt the train slowing. "I think we're there. I'll let you tell...Ahz was it?"
"Aahz." Anndy corrected absent-mindedly.
"Oh. Well... I don't suppose you'd sit with me at dinner tonight? I rather like talking with you."
Despite her best efforts, Anndy blushed. "I'd love to." And she pecked him on the cheek, positively skipping away.
Bill's hand rose to his cheek and he grinned.
***
Aahz picked up her bag, rolling her eyes as she followed. Yup. Happies for every one...but her. Yup, she could laugh, joke around, and even walk on some really ugly stilts, but she still wanted some one for herself. Who didn't think her totally messed in the head like Bill did.
"Anndy, wait up!"
"Huh? Oh. Sorry Aahz!"
'That's okay... So got a date?" She waggled her eyebrows.
"Well, dinner in the Great Hall isn't exactly a date. But yes."
Aahz shook her head. "Counts to me."
"Thanks."
"What for?"
"Oh, Dunno...So, when are you getting yourself a guy?" Anndy asked, unusually chipper.
"What would I need a guy for? Most of 'em aren't even house trained. Besides, I want to get this apprenticeship over." She sighed. Okay... so she wanted one. But hello. 1: It seemed most British guys didn't like 'yanks' as they called it, 2: Most guys thought she was weird. That's guys all over the world.
"I'm sure you'll find one. Gods, I'm starved. And the trains just stopped."
Aahz laughed. "You know... you could have asked. I always carry food in my bag. I've got soda, and even some spray cheese stuff and crackers... I think."
"You know very well that I can't eat that stuff. Just thinking about cheese in a tube grosses me out."
"And you think I'm weird..." Aahz muttered. "Can we please just get off this flippin' train already?! My bum is so friggin' numb..."
"Nice rhyme."
***
"Whoa..." Aahz was whipping her head around, trying to see everything all at once.
"Don't try. You'll get a cramp."
'Huh?"
"Just don't look around to fast."
"Oh fine. I'll act normal..." Aahz turned slowly in a circle. "Hogwarts, A History doesn't even some close."
"I know.... Leaves out so much...Besides, its a typical History book...No pictures."
"Yeah... still. It didn't mention... dude! That picture is moving!"
"Oh yeah...Forgot to mention that..." Anndy paused, and then said, "C'mon. I'm starved. Let's go in the Great Hall."
"O...k... and yeah... so... moving pictures... what next?"
"You don't wanna know. There's Bill! Sorry Aahz, he invited me to sit with him. Can you manage without me?"
"Nope... not at all... I'll die." She rolled her eyes. "Get your bum over there."
"Thanks!" Anndy said, wrinkling up her nose. "Bye!"
Aahz switched her bag to the other shoulder and walked towards the head table, looking for empty seats. Yup fun. Uh huh...
Aislinn looked up from her book. "Hi! The seat next to me is empty."
Aahz grinned. "Thanks." She hobbled over on her funky stilts and plopped into the chair before taking them off. "I'm Aahz."
"I'm Aislinn. Nice stilts," she added, eyeing the orange and pink creations.
"Yeah... I'm giving them to the next clown I see. I was trying to get Anndy," She nodded at said person. "To calm down so she could talk with Bill. Making an idiot out of myself works rather well."
Aislinn giggled a bit. "I imagine it would. Who are you 'prenticed to?"
"Greasy git dude who is going to learn what Shampoo is even if I have to put him in a full body bind."
Anndy looked over her shoulder, saw Aahz was engaged in conversation, and turned back to Bill.
Aislinn covered her mouth to suppress the laughter. "Good luck, Aahz. Most of the staff has been trying for years without success."
'Well, maybe if I tell him I think his lack of hygiene is sexy... I think he'd jump into a pool of shampoo."
"Oh my god." she squinched her eyes closed. "You know, I think that might actually work."
Aahz smirked. "I think I will... cause yeah. I'm evil..."
"Well then. I'll just have to make sure to stay on your good side." Aislinn grinned broadly. "So, apprenticed to Snape. Given your obvious wit, I might not have to feel as sorry for you as I thought. I was originally planning to pity the poor soul who got stuck with him."
"Nah. I think I'll drive him nuts. My brother is sending him a sympathy card." Aahz shrugged and stuck her gum to the side of her plate.
"Let me guess, American, right?"
"Yup. How'd you guess?"
"Well, mostly by your distinct accent, and partly by your, erm...unique sense of humor."
"Oh... forgot the accent thing... give me a month. I pick up accents really quick."
"I believe it. Who is that pretty girl you came in with? I don't think I've met her before. Her name is Anndy, right?"
"Yup. She's great. I met her at a party... She was pranking some people... quite funny."
"Really now? What was this prank she pulled? My fiancé was something of a prankster himself, so I'm pretty familiar with most methods."
"I think it was exploding Snap over the top of a door..." she frowned. "Was a prankster?"
Aislinn laughed. "Exploding Snap? Goodness, he never thought of that one. Yes, he was a prankster...still is to some degree."
"Pranksters are okay... Mind you, I got some Ton Tongue Toffees out of the magazine thinger... I slipped them into my brother's coffee. Wow that was funny. I'll have to show you the pictures."
"Oh, I believe it. Remus got a hold of some of those once. Nasty experience, that."
"Hmm... He was that wolfish looking man who helped Bill with the stilts. I think..."
"Yes, that sounds like him. Makes me wonder sometimes why I said yes..."
"He's your fiancé? Cool."
"Thanks." Aislinn blushed. "He's definitely worth it. Not to pry or anything, but are you seeing anyone? A funny, talented girl like you, single? Somehow I can't believe that ever happening."
Aahz snorted. "Hardly. I'm studying now. I just want to finish my education. I can ogle guys later."
"Good for you. I'd intended to do that, but..." She shrugged. "Oh, good. The food's arrived."
Anndy stood up, walked over to where Aahz and Aislinn were seated, and plopped in a chair next to Aahz. "Hey Aahz, who's that?"
"Aahz? You're drifting out in space there..."
"That's Aislinn. She's apprenticed to Pomfrey."
"Really? That's cool. Pomfrey's been here ages."
Aahz looked up. "Mars is bright tonight..." She laughed. "Spacey enough?"
"Right, what have you been smoking? Never mind, I don't want to know. So what did you talk about?"
Aahz shrugged, taking a bit of potatoes. "I don't know. So... Bill is nice... or he seemed like it."
"Yeah, he's great...got your eye on anyone?"
"I don't know.... Snape's hair is pretty sexy..." She spoke loudly, so he would here her. "I mean... the whole not showering bit makes it so shiny..."
Snape coughed, choking on a potato, and glared at Aahz.
Aahz winked at him. "Really... makes me want to run my fingers through it..."
"Ew." Anndy flinched. "You've got the weirdest taste Aahz. You really do."
Aahz raised an eyebrow. "I was being sarcastic. It's part of my evil plot to make him bathe while I'm apprenticed under him."
"Oh. Well, that would be an improvement." Anndy whispered, then loudly said
"Yeah! I have to agree with you. It just looks so soft, and silky. I wonder what tastes like."
Aislinn goggled at the two of them in shock.
Anndy laughed, trying to cover up her greenness at her own mental image...
"Aislinn, this is Anndy, Anndy, this is Aislinn." She winked at Severus. "Yup... that's the man I want. Maybe he can show me how to get my hair like that..."
Anndy gaped. "I know how," she whispered. "Don't take a shower for a month."
Aislinn made an "eeewwww" face. "Pleasure to meet you, Anndy."
Aahz grinned. "Yup... girls, I think I'm in love..."
"Oh god...I was afraid of that."
Aahz couldn't take it anymore and began laughing into her potatoes.
Anndy looked at Aislinn, "And a pleasure to meet you as well." She glanced around, her eyes landing on Aislinn's left hand. "Pray tell, who are you attached to?"
"Remus Lupin," Aislinn said softly. "It's not really public knowledge yet."
Aahz tried to stop laughing and was taking great gulps of air.
Anndy snorted at Aahz, sending her spinach flying down the table. A leaf had landed in Snape's plate. "Sorry," she said, reaching over to grab it.
Snape glared at Anndy as she grabbed the leaf, "You should be sorry," he sneered.
"Should I now?" Anndy asked, raising an eyebrow.
Snape merely glowered at her again and went back to his goulash.
Aahz stood, walking around behind him, carrying her stilts. "Yeah... she should. Who even eats spinach?" She plopped down next to him, and then smelled his hair. Her eyes watered but she hid it. "Oh... please. How can I get my hair to look like that?"
Anndy laughed so loudly that even the Headmaster dropped his fork to listen.
"Severus... is it okay for me to call you Severus?"
"I--" he glanced down the table at Dumbledore. "I'd prefer it," he said coldly, "if you called me sir, but Severus will do."
She shivered. "Your voice... I'm sorry. It's just so Alan Rickman-ish... so sexy."
"Alan who?" Snape asked.
"Rickman." Anndy piped up.
"He's a muggle actor. Quite handsome...but his hair isn't as nice."
Snape shuddered. He was being compared to a *Muggle* actor.
Anndy snorted again, this time retaining all of her dinner in her plate.
"Aw... come on Sir! Really!" Aahz ran a hand down his arm. "Your voice is amazing!"
"As I'm sure you'll find, Miss Saftis, you will come to fear this voice." Snape said avoiding eye contact with anyone seated at the table.
Aahz heaved a huge sigh as she propped an elbow on the table, the laid her head on it. She stared at him. "I don't care what you say as long as you keep talking..."
Snape pursed his lips, every feature dying to say that he would love nothing more than to murder the young woman in from of him. But he kept his silence to forbear any more pride crashing sentences,
Aahz looked at the huge man-type watch on her wrist. "As much as I'd love to hear more... I'm afraid I have some studying to do before tomorrow..." She stood. "Are there any specific potions ingredients I'll need?"
Snape glared, he new perfectly well he was stuck in a corner. "Kinsfold. I have none in my stores. If you can't find it, don't come." He snapped.
"How much? I'm sure I can find some."
"Enough to fill a jar." He hissed, and stood up, his robes sweeping over his chair.
"Can do!" Aahz stood, and rejoined Anndy and Aislinn. "You guys know where I can get some Kinsfold?"
"Shrieking Shack." Anndy said, through a mouthful of chicken, though it sounded
more like "eiking hat" than anything intelligent.
"Huh?" Aahz tilted her head. "Good chicken?"
"Definitely." Anndy said, swallowing, "I haven't had decent food in ages."
"And I can find the Kinsfold where?"
"The Shrieking Shack." Anndy said, loudly, clearly, and slowly as if she were
talking to a mentally deranged five-year-old.
"Ah. I thought you said the Eiking Hat."
Anndy blushed a light shade of rose.
"Any who... I'm gonna head out there as soon as I find a flash light..." She stood.
"I'll see you later."
"Right. Bye."
Aahz waved as she made her way out of the hall, her stilts under her arm.
Anndy and Aislinn laughed as she went, then turned back to their dinners, without a worry, but if there was enough chicken.
We are not, nor claim to be affiliated with the demi-goddess of the universe J.K. Rowling. All recognizable characters belong to her. Anything that seems completely insane is ours.
This story is NOT Cannon! It isn't meant to be. We quite on purpose manipulated J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter universe to suit us. Don't like, don't read! Like, PLEASE read! And Reviews, they are some of our favorite things…
A bit of background on this fic…. We had over six months of work put into it when a sick computer killed most of it… So now that we're past the mourning stage, we're redoing it. This thing is HUGE. The part that's left adds up to 463 pages… and that's just bits and pieces of it. Please be patient with updates. Aahz lives in NY while Jade Caminus and Anndy Malfoy live in WA, so writing is a bit chaotic. ENJOY!
The Hogwarts Express wheezed to a stop at Platform 9 ¾ in front of a group of peculiarly dressed people. There were ten in all, three young, not much older then twenty.
Two of the youngest were off to the side, chatting. Looking closer at the group, on of the young ladies was glancing repeatedly over her shoulder at a member of the opposite sex who was engaged in conversation, before turning back to the other young woman in front of her.
Andromeda Malfoy and Aahz H. S. Saftis were starting on an adventure of a lifetime, though they didn't know it.
Looking back at the other group, there was a short squat wizard, who was speaking to the tall young male that had captured Andromeda's attention. The two were surrounded by people, one tall, thin old man, another with greasy lank black hair, a rather –em—prominent nose, and an old woman, her graying black hair pulled into a severe bun.
Two aging women were chatting; one with a distinct hospital air, and the other reeked of dirt.
One more person stood farther apart from the crowd, now boarding the train. Remus Lupin stood tall, his auburn hair graying prematurely, and his amber eyes searing.
"Oy, are you getting on the train then?" A conductor called.
The hustle and bustle soon left the station empty and the train rolling away.
Aahz followed the greasy haired dude into the train, where the compartments were. She turned to Anndy. Clearing her throat, she said, "So… what now?"
"Well, I suppose we get introduced..." Anndy replied, thinking all was not lost as the tall thin man stood up in the front of the compartment.
Aahz snorted. "You mean you want to get to know the red head right? With the nice bum?" She adjusted her bag on her shoulder.
"Oh shut up! You're the one working with the 'Greasy Haired Git' of the month"
"Hey! Prof. Dilts set that up! And the first thing I'm doing is introducing him to the lovely invention called, 'shampoo.'"
"Bully for Professor Dilts. Sh! That's Professor Dumbledore!" Anndy stated in a loud stage whisper as the old guy in the front began his speech.
"Eek..." Aahz bit her lip and rolled her eyes.
"Well, this year I am pleased to see some new faces!" Dumbledore said happily.
"Pleased my ass," said the skinny sallow skinned snarky man with the greasy hair.
"Yes, pleased, Severus. I would like everyone to introduce themselves starting with the new members."
"Well, I guess that's me then." Anndy said to Aahz as she stood up.
"Yup. Go right ahead Anndy." She fished through her bag and pulled out some gum.
"Cow." Anndy whispered, before starting, "Hello, Andromeda Malfoy, pleased to meet you." she said quickly, and sat back down. Her name was met by whispers of
"Her? I've heard of her." "Disowned, wasn't she, I heard it was all about You-Know-Who" and "Oh great, another Malfoy" from some of the seated spectators.
Aahz stood up, tossing a stick of gum at her, at the same time popping a piece in her mouth. "Well, if you're done gossiping..."
"Honestly Aahz, shut up." Anndy whispered urgently.
Aahz raised an eyebrow and glared at those still talking. "Anywho... My name is Aahz Heart Siawl Saftis. Let me assure you... this meeting has been... shall we say... interesting?" She flopped back down in her seat, blowing a large bubble.
The rest introduced themselves as Bill Weasley (The hot one with red hair and a nice tush), Remus Lupin, whom we already know, Filius Flitwick (the short squat man), Albus Dumbledore obviously, Severus Snape (the greasy haired git of the month), Minerva McGonagall (the aging witch with the severe bun), Silvia Sprout (the one who reeked of dirt), and Poppy Pomfrey (the one with a distinct hospital smell).
All were greeted with polite hullo's except for Bill Weasley, who was greeted by a blush from our own Miss Malfoy.
Aahz smirked. "So... how long until we get there?"
"Umm...I'll go ask Bill!" Anndy said with a particularly crimson blush.
"Sure you will..." She dug through her bag again and pulled out a potions textbook, which she began taking notes from.
"Thanks for your support." Anndy whispered half snidely half amused.
"You need me to prop you up or something?"
Anndy replied with a grin, "No thanks. I think I can manage."
"Good for you... Make sure to tell me when the wedding is..." Aahz blew another bubble, smirking.
Anndy marched off.
As she stood in front of Bill, she actually looked at him. His long red hair was pulled into a ponytail at the nape of his neck, a large fang pierced his ear, and as he looked up, his dark blue eyes held a surprised note to them.
"Hello." He said warily.
"Hello." Anndy replied, valiantly fighting off a blush.
Aahz watched from over the top of her book, wishing she had a camera.
"So, er, any idea when the train will stop?"
"Not a clue." Bill replied, looking Anndy over in what had to be an appraising glance.
"So..." Anndy said lamely.
"You're related to the Malfoy family?" Bill asked, hitting a highly sensitive spot, all unknowingly.
"I don't want to talk about it." Anndy said stiffly.
Aahz shook her head, popping up. She just had to bug her. It'd be evil... er... fun. She walked over and hit Anndy in the shoulder, then noticed how much taller she was. She turned to Bill. "Do you know where I can get some stilts?"
Bill laughed.
Anndy blushed.
Remus Lupin cursed as his book slipped and gave him a paper cut.
"Yeah, hold on a second." Bill replied, and leaning over the empty seat next to him he conversed to Remus in quiet voices, until both nodded, and conjured up stilts. They were pink and orange. Atrocious colors.
Aahz laughed. "Yup... cause my mom lied...." She took the stilts and put them on, managing not to fall over. "I never hit that last growth spurt... She said it would happen, but... Hey! Your eyes are Green!" She pointed at Anndy, a wicked glee filling her eyes.
"What about them?" Anndy asked, still on the defensive.
"I could never see them before. Craning my neck... Really...." She turned to Bill and
Remus, giving a mock bow. "I thank thee muchly."
Anndy tried to glare.
And failed miserably. Her countenance was broken by a reluctant grin pulling the sides of her mouth.
Aahz snickered. "Got'cha! Anywho... yeah... Ms. I'm all tall and model like with a midget for a best friend... yeah. You never said how long it would be until we got there."
"Quiet you." Anndy said, smiling fully for the first time on the train ride.
Score! Bill would see her smile, all Aahz wanted. "Well fine then... I'm just going to study then... cause I'm not loved. Nope. Not at all..." She stumbled towards her seat, singing, "I'm all alone... there's no one here beside me..."
"I hate it when she does that." Anndy whispered.
Bill grinned. "What?"
"She...well...Dunno really.... Quite hard to explain." Anndy stuttered through the not-quite-an-explanation.
Bill chuckled. "Why don't you sit down... so... You're assisting Prof. McGonagall?"
"Yeah...She told me that in all my seven years, I was great at Transfig. and a slump at the rest. She's teaching me to become an Animagus." Anndy said, *finally* forgetting who she was talking too.
Bill chuckled yet again. "I'm helping with Charms. I used to be a curse breaker for Gringotts."
Dawning recognition flew over her face "That's where I've seen you! Your that guy Da' " here she flinched, but ploughed on "was tormenting...it was years ago...I couldn't have been more than...twelve."
Bill frowned. "Ah... Yeah. I remember that." He frowned then looked at Aahz who was blowing bubbles. "So... how did you meet your friend?"
"We bumped into each other while I was on a tour in America. She's American." Anndy said, as if that explained everything, which, of course, it did.
"Ah... American huh?" He smiled. "So what were you doing in America?"
"I was searching for a good Transfiguration teacher. I found Aahz instead." She smiled at the small irony of it.
Bill grinned. "Well, McGonagall's the best. Mind you, she thinks I'm a scoundrel."
"Why do I think she's right?" Anndy said airily.
Bill shook his head. "Little old me? I'm sweet and innocent. Promise."
"I'm sure you are."
'I am! Ask my little sister Ginny... or Fred and George... Well... no... Don't ask them..." He trailed off. "Okay... I lied."
"Well, I'm not what you could call innocent either."
Bill raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"
"Well, Aahz and I met in a rather, wild, party. I was, I believe, stringing exploding snap cards over a door."
He smiled. "I don't suppose you've ever heard of Weasley's Wizard Wheezes?"
"Aah...I don't suppose you had anything to do with that?"
'Nah... My little brothers... Fred and George? It's their company. I just helped with some of their pranks on Percy... another sibling."
"Oh, I'm quite well equipped in your family history. My father thinks of it as a 'hobby'."
"Yup... Mind you, I think he fancies my Father. Would explain a lot of things right?"
"That it would. I think I have a sickle in my pocket."
Bill looked up as he felt the train slowing. "I think we're there. I'll let you tell...Ahz was it?"
"Aahz." Anndy corrected absent-mindedly.
"Oh. Well... I don't suppose you'd sit with me at dinner tonight? I rather like talking with you."
Despite her best efforts, Anndy blushed. "I'd love to." And she pecked him on the cheek, positively skipping away.
Bill's hand rose to his cheek and he grinned.
***
Aahz picked up her bag, rolling her eyes as she followed. Yup. Happies for every one...but her. Yup, she could laugh, joke around, and even walk on some really ugly stilts, but she still wanted some one for herself. Who didn't think her totally messed in the head like Bill did.
"Anndy, wait up!"
"Huh? Oh. Sorry Aahz!"
'That's okay... So got a date?" She waggled her eyebrows.
"Well, dinner in the Great Hall isn't exactly a date. But yes."
Aahz shook her head. "Counts to me."
"Thanks."
"What for?"
"Oh, Dunno...So, when are you getting yourself a guy?" Anndy asked, unusually chipper.
"What would I need a guy for? Most of 'em aren't even house trained. Besides, I want to get this apprenticeship over." She sighed. Okay... so she wanted one. But hello. 1: It seemed most British guys didn't like 'yanks' as they called it, 2: Most guys thought she was weird. That's guys all over the world.
"I'm sure you'll find one. Gods, I'm starved. And the trains just stopped."
Aahz laughed. "You know... you could have asked. I always carry food in my bag. I've got soda, and even some spray cheese stuff and crackers... I think."
"You know very well that I can't eat that stuff. Just thinking about cheese in a tube grosses me out."
"And you think I'm weird..." Aahz muttered. "Can we please just get off this flippin' train already?! My bum is so friggin' numb..."
"Nice rhyme."
***
"Whoa..." Aahz was whipping her head around, trying to see everything all at once.
"Don't try. You'll get a cramp."
'Huh?"
"Just don't look around to fast."
"Oh fine. I'll act normal..." Aahz turned slowly in a circle. "Hogwarts, A History doesn't even some close."
"I know.... Leaves out so much...Besides, its a typical History book...No pictures."
"Yeah... still. It didn't mention... dude! That picture is moving!"
"Oh yeah...Forgot to mention that..." Anndy paused, and then said, "C'mon. I'm starved. Let's go in the Great Hall."
"O...k... and yeah... so... moving pictures... what next?"
"You don't wanna know. There's Bill! Sorry Aahz, he invited me to sit with him. Can you manage without me?"
"Nope... not at all... I'll die." She rolled her eyes. "Get your bum over there."
"Thanks!" Anndy said, wrinkling up her nose. "Bye!"
Aahz switched her bag to the other shoulder and walked towards the head table, looking for empty seats. Yup fun. Uh huh...
Aislinn looked up from her book. "Hi! The seat next to me is empty."
Aahz grinned. "Thanks." She hobbled over on her funky stilts and plopped into the chair before taking them off. "I'm Aahz."
"I'm Aislinn. Nice stilts," she added, eyeing the orange and pink creations.
"Yeah... I'm giving them to the next clown I see. I was trying to get Anndy," She nodded at said person. "To calm down so she could talk with Bill. Making an idiot out of myself works rather well."
Aislinn giggled a bit. "I imagine it would. Who are you 'prenticed to?"
"Greasy git dude who is going to learn what Shampoo is even if I have to put him in a full body bind."
Anndy looked over her shoulder, saw Aahz was engaged in conversation, and turned back to Bill.
Aislinn covered her mouth to suppress the laughter. "Good luck, Aahz. Most of the staff has been trying for years without success."
'Well, maybe if I tell him I think his lack of hygiene is sexy... I think he'd jump into a pool of shampoo."
"Oh my god." she squinched her eyes closed. "You know, I think that might actually work."
Aahz smirked. "I think I will... cause yeah. I'm evil..."
"Well then. I'll just have to make sure to stay on your good side." Aislinn grinned broadly. "So, apprenticed to Snape. Given your obvious wit, I might not have to feel as sorry for you as I thought. I was originally planning to pity the poor soul who got stuck with him."
"Nah. I think I'll drive him nuts. My brother is sending him a sympathy card." Aahz shrugged and stuck her gum to the side of her plate.
"Let me guess, American, right?"
"Yup. How'd you guess?"
"Well, mostly by your distinct accent, and partly by your, erm...unique sense of humor."
"Oh... forgot the accent thing... give me a month. I pick up accents really quick."
"I believe it. Who is that pretty girl you came in with? I don't think I've met her before. Her name is Anndy, right?"
"Yup. She's great. I met her at a party... She was pranking some people... quite funny."
"Really now? What was this prank she pulled? My fiancé was something of a prankster himself, so I'm pretty familiar with most methods."
"I think it was exploding Snap over the top of a door..." she frowned. "Was a prankster?"
Aislinn laughed. "Exploding Snap? Goodness, he never thought of that one. Yes, he was a prankster...still is to some degree."
"Pranksters are okay... Mind you, I got some Ton Tongue Toffees out of the magazine thinger... I slipped them into my brother's coffee. Wow that was funny. I'll have to show you the pictures."
"Oh, I believe it. Remus got a hold of some of those once. Nasty experience, that."
"Hmm... He was that wolfish looking man who helped Bill with the stilts. I think..."
"Yes, that sounds like him. Makes me wonder sometimes why I said yes..."
"He's your fiancé? Cool."
"Thanks." Aislinn blushed. "He's definitely worth it. Not to pry or anything, but are you seeing anyone? A funny, talented girl like you, single? Somehow I can't believe that ever happening."
Aahz snorted. "Hardly. I'm studying now. I just want to finish my education. I can ogle guys later."
"Good for you. I'd intended to do that, but..." She shrugged. "Oh, good. The food's arrived."
Anndy stood up, walked over to where Aahz and Aislinn were seated, and plopped in a chair next to Aahz. "Hey Aahz, who's that?"
"Aahz? You're drifting out in space there..."
"That's Aislinn. She's apprenticed to Pomfrey."
"Really? That's cool. Pomfrey's been here ages."
Aahz looked up. "Mars is bright tonight..." She laughed. "Spacey enough?"
"Right, what have you been smoking? Never mind, I don't want to know. So what did you talk about?"
Aahz shrugged, taking a bit of potatoes. "I don't know. So... Bill is nice... or he seemed like it."
"Yeah, he's great...got your eye on anyone?"
"I don't know.... Snape's hair is pretty sexy..." She spoke loudly, so he would here her. "I mean... the whole not showering bit makes it so shiny..."
Snape coughed, choking on a potato, and glared at Aahz.
Aahz winked at him. "Really... makes me want to run my fingers through it..."
"Ew." Anndy flinched. "You've got the weirdest taste Aahz. You really do."
Aahz raised an eyebrow. "I was being sarcastic. It's part of my evil plot to make him bathe while I'm apprenticed under him."
"Oh. Well, that would be an improvement." Anndy whispered, then loudly said
"Yeah! I have to agree with you. It just looks so soft, and silky. I wonder what tastes like."
Aislinn goggled at the two of them in shock.
Anndy laughed, trying to cover up her greenness at her own mental image...
"Aislinn, this is Anndy, Anndy, this is Aislinn." She winked at Severus. "Yup... that's the man I want. Maybe he can show me how to get my hair like that..."
Anndy gaped. "I know how," she whispered. "Don't take a shower for a month."
Aislinn made an "eeewwww" face. "Pleasure to meet you, Anndy."
Aahz grinned. "Yup... girls, I think I'm in love..."
"Oh god...I was afraid of that."
Aahz couldn't take it anymore and began laughing into her potatoes.
Anndy looked at Aislinn, "And a pleasure to meet you as well." She glanced around, her eyes landing on Aislinn's left hand. "Pray tell, who are you attached to?"
"Remus Lupin," Aislinn said softly. "It's not really public knowledge yet."
Aahz tried to stop laughing and was taking great gulps of air.
Anndy snorted at Aahz, sending her spinach flying down the table. A leaf had landed in Snape's plate. "Sorry," she said, reaching over to grab it.
Snape glared at Anndy as she grabbed the leaf, "You should be sorry," he sneered.
"Should I now?" Anndy asked, raising an eyebrow.
Snape merely glowered at her again and went back to his goulash.
Aahz stood, walking around behind him, carrying her stilts. "Yeah... she should. Who even eats spinach?" She plopped down next to him, and then smelled his hair. Her eyes watered but she hid it. "Oh... please. How can I get my hair to look like that?"
Anndy laughed so loudly that even the Headmaster dropped his fork to listen.
"Severus... is it okay for me to call you Severus?"
"I--" he glanced down the table at Dumbledore. "I'd prefer it," he said coldly, "if you called me sir, but Severus will do."
She shivered. "Your voice... I'm sorry. It's just so Alan Rickman-ish... so sexy."
"Alan who?" Snape asked.
"Rickman." Anndy piped up.
"He's a muggle actor. Quite handsome...but his hair isn't as nice."
Snape shuddered. He was being compared to a *Muggle* actor.
Anndy snorted again, this time retaining all of her dinner in her plate.
"Aw... come on Sir! Really!" Aahz ran a hand down his arm. "Your voice is amazing!"
"As I'm sure you'll find, Miss Saftis, you will come to fear this voice." Snape said avoiding eye contact with anyone seated at the table.
Aahz heaved a huge sigh as she propped an elbow on the table, the laid her head on it. She stared at him. "I don't care what you say as long as you keep talking..."
Snape pursed his lips, every feature dying to say that he would love nothing more than to murder the young woman in from of him. But he kept his silence to forbear any more pride crashing sentences,
Aahz looked at the huge man-type watch on her wrist. "As much as I'd love to hear more... I'm afraid I have some studying to do before tomorrow..." She stood. "Are there any specific potions ingredients I'll need?"
Snape glared, he new perfectly well he was stuck in a corner. "Kinsfold. I have none in my stores. If you can't find it, don't come." He snapped.
"How much? I'm sure I can find some."
"Enough to fill a jar." He hissed, and stood up, his robes sweeping over his chair.
"Can do!" Aahz stood, and rejoined Anndy and Aislinn. "You guys know where I can get some Kinsfold?"
"Shrieking Shack." Anndy said, through a mouthful of chicken, though it sounded
more like "eiking hat" than anything intelligent.
"Huh?" Aahz tilted her head. "Good chicken?"
"Definitely." Anndy said, swallowing, "I haven't had decent food in ages."
"And I can find the Kinsfold where?"
"The Shrieking Shack." Anndy said, loudly, clearly, and slowly as if she were
talking to a mentally deranged five-year-old.
"Ah. I thought you said the Eiking Hat."
Anndy blushed a light shade of rose.
"Any who... I'm gonna head out there as soon as I find a flash light..." She stood.
"I'll see you later."
"Right. Bye."
Aahz waved as she made her way out of the hall, her stilts under her arm.
Anndy and Aislinn laughed as she went, then turned back to their dinners, without a worry, but if there was enough chicken.