"I don't understand though!" Hermione hissed bemusedly, "Professor O'Fallen said that only an unlocking charm would be needed … How could it not work!?"
"You do it then, if your so clever!" Ron retorted heatedly, stepping back so as to give Hermione more room.
Harry chuckled at Ron's comment and shook his head; remembering the first time he'd challenged Hermione to do something he'd failed to … inadvertently causing the situation that started their friendship with her; only *this* time … Hermione failed to unlock the door as well.
"Maybe we should just call for Madame Pomfrey?" Ginny suggested tentatively, flinching at the look in Ron's eyes at the sight of Harry's arm over her shoulders. Harry had seen it too and looked away, feeling torn between his feelings for Ginny, and not wanting to have another argument with Ron.
"Do you actually think she'd hear us?" Hermione asked sceptically, her eyes lighting up slightly as she saw Harry and Ginny, almost immediately growing dark by the look she saw in Ron's eyes.
"Anyway," Harry said abruptly, "We don't know if anyone's on the other side? We can't just shout and bash on the door…"
Harry trailed off as he felt something brush against his leg. Looking down, he saw Mr Tinkle staring up at him, purring softly. Ginny smiled and bent down to pick him up, moving out of Harry's reach. When she straightened up again, scratching the cat behind the ears, Harry didn't assume his former position, and stepped away from her slightly, knowing that Ron would bring the topic up if he moved toward her again.
"Well we can't just stand here!" Hermione said pointedly. "We've got to find a way out of here."
"But we can't unlock it!" Ron snapped, turning back to the door angrily. "We've tried the unlocking charm and it doesn't work! The only option we have left is to try'n force it open…"
"How?" Ginny asked, baffled. "The door doesn't open out … it swings in, so you can't kick it out…"
"We could try and pull it open?" Ron suggested hopefully, pocketing his wand and grasping the handle. He turned it to it's fullest before bracing himself and pulling with all his might.
The door didn't budge.
Unperturbed, Ron repositioned himself and placed a foot against the wall near the door and repeated the process a number of times with no success.
"Ron this isn't working…" Hermione spoke up after a few minutes of Ron's fruitless efforts.
Breathing heavily, Ron fixed her with a determined expression before returning his attention to the door. Wiping his hands on his robes, Ron once again grasped the handle, only this time, after he placed one foot on the doorjamb; he bent his other leg and leaped up enough to place his other foot just below the first.
"Are you mad!" Hermione hissed at the now horizontal Ron. "You're just going to hurt yourself!"
Harry had to agree as Ron began to pull with all his might, now using both his legs to push against the wall. He looked toward Ginny nervously, seeing his concern mirrored on her face. He stepped toward her and placed a hand on her shoulder.
"C'mon … I think we should move back a little…" he muttered.
Ginny glanced up at him briefly before returning her worried gaze to her brother; mutely nodding her head and allowed Harry to steer her a little further down the hallway. Hermione was still trying to talk sense into Ron, but Harry saw that she too had placed some distance between them.
Harry heard a miaow and glanced down at Mr Tinkle, seeing him watching Ron's charade with apparent interest. The cat moved his position in Ginny's arms and Harry thought he saw his eyes glow dimly for an instant, but dismissed it almost immediately for the torchlight reflecting in his eyes.
"AAAARRRGGHH!!!!"
Harry jumped and swivelled as the cry cut through the air. Harry looked in the direction of the yell in time to see Ron crash heavily to the floor as the door suddenly swung open; the added momentum from his legs against the wall causing him to skid a few feet toward them.
Ginny squealed and practically tossed Mr Tinkle at Harry before dashing to Ron's side, joining Hermione as they both asked if he was alright.
Harry only just managed to not drop the cat as he was roughly shoved into him by Ginny. Without thinking, Harry immediately placed him on the floor and stepped over him, approaching Ron and the girls, fighting off the urge to laugh. After all, Ron could have been seriously hurt … but as he saw him sitting up and brushing the girls off a mite irritably, he began to see the funny side to it.
"I'm OK Hermione!" Ron said again as he got to his feet, brushing Hermione away and glancing up at Harry, who was fighting off a smile without much success. "What's so funny?" he asked, beginning to grin himself.
Harry didn't answer and shook his head, beginning to laugh out loud.
"Don't laugh!" Ginny admonished, a touch of hurt in her voice. "He could have been hurt!"
"I'm sorry Ginny…" Harry said in between his laughing, "But it really was funny!"
"What on earth is going on!?" a sharp voice rang out.
Everyone looked toward the open door and saw Poppy approaching them swiftly, a look of absolute surprise and mild disapproval upon her face.
"Mr Potter, do you realize you're visible for the world to see! And what on earth was that howl earlier on?" Poppy had reached them and pulled the door to, blocking them from sight, should anyone venture into the ward.
"We're sorry Madame Pomfrey," Hermione spoke up. "It's just that, we couldn't open the door, so we had to force it … and the shout was Ron when he fell over after it sprang open on him."
Poppy seemed confused. "Why wouldn't you be able to open it if – never mind." she interrupted herself, seemingly only just realizing something. She turned on the spot to inspect the latch, but straightened up again almost immediately; gazing at them in puzzlement. "You said you had to force the door open … yes?" she asked Hermione, who nodded in response. "And the door just popped open?" she pressed, clearly confused about something. Hermione nodded.
"Well it seems there is two problems with that story," Poppy stated bemusedly, glancing at the group.
"What?" Harry asked, his curiosity growing with each passing second.
"Well…" she began, "The first problem, is that it's impossible to make this door move at all, without the proper charm to counter the superior locking charm I placed on it earlier… However, what I find very baffling, is the fact you were able to, not only force it open, but do so without causing any damage to the catch…"
"What do you mean?" Ginny asked, frowning in bafflement.
"I mean that, there isn't so much as a scratch on the inner framework of the door…" she answered, pointing to the said location.
"Why would there be?" Ron asked. "I turned the handle before I pulled it open."
Poppy eyed Ron searchingly. "So … You turned the handle, and it wouldn't move … but you still forced it to open … and that's why there aren't any marks from the latch?"
Ron nodded. Poppy shook her head.
"Well than I find the whole situation impossible!"
"Why?" Hermione asked, feeling a little irritated by the matron going in circles.
"Because the fact that the door wouldn't open when the latch was released meant that the door still had my locking charm on it! That locking charm would have prevented this door from moving even a millimetre unless the counter was cast, or it was blown to pieces! You can't just pull it open!"
"But, how did it open then?" Harry questioned, feeling confused.
Poppy shook her head and glanced toward him, but Harry saw her eyes linger near the floor for a moment or two before her eyes reached his.
"I've no idea," she answered flatly, looking toward the sky for an instant before shaking her head almost imperceptibly and turning away.
Frowning, Harry glanced behind him toward the floor, where he'd seem Poppy's eyes linger, only to see Mr Tinkle sitting in the doorway, staring innocently back at him. Harry turned back to Poppy, seeing that she had now focused on Ron, determining if he'd hurt himself when he fell to the floor.
Harry sighed to himself, wishing that everything could be simpler than it was. Why did his life have to be so confusing and filled with puzzles all the time? Nothing was simple anymore, and he doubted that anything would be ever again.
Finally, Poppy allowed Ron, Hermione and Ginny to leave, and in a way Harry was grateful. He could give his mind a much needed rest from all the questions they had a tendency to bring up when they were with him. It also let him mull things over without them interrupting his train of thought. Not that he didn't enjoy their company … far from it. He wouldn't know what he would do if he was without them … but he needed time alone as well.
"Do you want us here tomorrow?" Hermione asked quietly just as they were leaving, "You know … during lunch?"
Harry immediately shook his head. "No, I don't want to put you through seeing it again. You don't have to come if you don't want to … I won't force you to come – any of you." he added, glancing at Ron and Ginny. "Anyway … it sounded as if Hank was going to be here anyway … so, don't feel you have to be here because you think you'll hurt my feelings if you don't show."
"Don't be ridiculous Harry," Hermione replied immediately. "Besides, I want to be there. I can't speak for Ron or Ginny, but as I've already seen it once … I'm hoping it won't feel so scary…"
Harry smiled in appreciation. "Thanks. I've got a theory though, and if I'm right, I won't have to suffer through the whole ceremony."
"I wish you didn't have to suffer through it at all…" Ginny spoke up quietly.
Harry smiled at her reassuringly. "Don't worry about it. It'll be better than fine if my theory is right."
"And what theory would that be?" Ron asked seriously.
"Nice try!" Harry laughed. "I'm not going to tell it to you unless I'm proven right, so don't bother asking me again."
"Excuse me!" Madame Pomfrey spoke up from the doorway. "It is almost curfew you three, so you'd better get a move on."
"Goodnight guy's," Harry said as they walked away.
"Night Harry!" Ron called, giving a small wave. "And we'll all see you tomorrow!"
***
Harry woke up the next morning feeling very groggy. After the others had gone, he'd occupied himself for several more hours trying to finish his notes. He now knew not to do it again, for his neck was extremely stiff due to his falling asleep at the table. Harry raised his head from the Transfiguration notes he'd been doing and rubbed his neck. Looking around, he was slightly disappointed to see that Mr Tinkle had left as he slept.
Sighing heavily, Harry got to his feet and began to tidy everything up; sorting everything into piles and such, so it would be easier to carry when Hank came down to help shift it all back to his dorm. All of a sudden, there was a knock at his door.
"Madame Pomfrey doesn't usually knock…?" Harry muttered to himself as he approached the door. He opened the door and came face to face with Hank.
"Hi!" Harry grinned widely as he stepped aside.
"Your up early kiddo?" Hank replied with a smile, tousling his hair as he walked in. "It's just after daybreak." He bent over slightly and dropped his rucksack on the floor.
Vainly, Harry tried to flatten his hair again as he shut the door. "I shouldn't be, considering I fell asleep only a couple of hours ago."
"Really? And what where you doing up so late?"
Harry pointed to the pile of notes. "Trying not to fall behind."
"Aaahhh… I see," Hank grinned as he approached the pile. "Using Minerva's teachings as a pillow were we?" he asked sarcastically as he finished stacking the pile.
"Yep! It's not very comfortable though, so I don't recommend it."
Hank grinned at him before turning serious. "So … Are you ready for noon?"
Harry swallowed a touch nervously, knowing that he could never truly be ready for a dose of unknown agony; but he hoped that he wouldn't have to go through the whole process.
"As ready as I'll ever be…" he replied.
Hank patted him on the shoulder and gave him a reassuring smile. "Don't worry too much about it … Everything will be fine."
Harry nodded. "Thanks. So – why are you here so early anyway?" he asked, hoping the change of subject wasn't too obvious.
Hank gave a small chuckle and took the hint. "I thought we could enjoy an early breakfast, so that when most of the school is in the Great Hall listening to Dumbledore's announcement of your arrival last night, we could take a good portion of your gear back upstairs."
"But what if we run into anyone?" Harry asked as Hank picked up his bag and began to rummage through it. "I'm supposed to be recovering in the ward, remember?"
Hank grinned at him mischievously and withdrew his hand. Harry felt his eyes go wide in surprise.
"I came prepared for such a situation," he answered, holding up Harry's invisibility cloak.
"How'd you get it? How'd you even know about it?"
Hank placed it on the bed carefully, "Sirius told me that you keep it in your trunk, so last night I went and fetched it. I hope you don't mind?" he added worriedly.
Harry shook his head, "No I don't mind at all. Anyway … you mentioned breakfast?" he asked as his stomach rumbled at the mere thought.
"That I did!" Hank chimed, holding up his finger and grinning. "One second…"
Harry looked on curiously as Hank began to rummage through his rucksack again, pulling out some objects wrapped in leather and placing them on the table.
"Take a seat," Hank gestured toward the bed as he placed two plates alongside the leather-bound objects. Harry obliged and sat on the edge of the bed as two goblets and a flask were placed in front of him.
"How'd you fit all this in that?" Harry questioned, pointing to Hank's sack. It was true; the sack was rather small. Probably only as big as his old schoolbag.
Hank raised his eyebrows, "You'd be surprised just how much can be packed into something that size," he said, pulling out a bottle of what looked like tomato sauce and closing the bag.
He walked over to the large chair and lifted it easily with his free hand, placing it on the opposite side to Harry and handing him two of the leather items.
Not exactly sure of what he should be doing, Harry waited for Hank to make the first move.
Apparently, the leather held their breakfast. Hank unwrapped the portions in front of him to reveal a couple of pieces of juicy steak and some roast potatoes.
"I thought you were hungry?" Hank asked, eyeing Harry untouched portions and giving him a small grin.
"I am!" Harry exclaimed, now feeling a touch embarrassed but smiling just the same. He mimicked Hank and opened his portions, grinning as he saw good old fashioned fish and chips. "And such a nutritious breakfast it is!"
"Thought you might like that," Hank grinned through a mouthful of beef. "I knew you grew up with Muggles, so I thought you'd enjoy something they tend to have a lot."
"Thanks, it's great…"
They ate in relative silence for the rest of the early morning; conversation only occurring when Harry saw Hank empty half the tomato sauce onto his meal.
"Whoa! Would you like any food with you're sauce?" Harry joked, wide eyed and staring at the pool of red.
"There is nothing wrong with liking tomato sauce on your meal if it gives it extra flavour!" Hank defended himself playfully. "It's not very often I get to have sauce on a meal, so I relish it when I have the opportunity."
"That's painfully obvious," Harry retorted, grinning and shaking his head; taking a swig of pumpkin juice and continuing with his meal.
Hank gave him a mock glare. "Don't tell me you're one of those people that only put the smallest dollop of sauce on a meal?"
"Actually," Harry answered, a trifle sheepishly, "I've never had the privilege of tasting it. My meals were always kind of bland…"
"Absolutely scandalised! You've never tasted tomato sauce?" Hank looked rather surprised.
As soon as Harry shook his head no, Hank grabbed the bottle and promptly covered his potato chips until they were hardly visible. "There's no such thing as too much of a good thing!" Hank grinned at Harry's wide eyes as he placed the near empty bottle back on the table. "Go on … eat 'em up. You'll love 'em."
With much trepidation, Harry picked up one of the saturated chips and shoved it in his mouth. A huge grin lit up his face.
"Wow! That sure as hell makes them taste better!"
Hank grinned. "Told you so."
When they finished, Hank took his wand from his belt and gave it a wave, cleaning their dishes and placed them back into his rucksack.
"Right, what time is it?" Hank looked toward Harry for an answer.
"Err … it's seven thirty," he answered, only just realizing that Hank didn't wear a watch of his own. He only ever had those old straps of leather tied around his wrists.
Hank nodded. "OK … Most of the students should be up and either getting ready for, or on their way to breakfast. All right now, what to take up first?" he questioned absentmindedly, glancing at the different piles.
"Well…" Harry interjected, an idea coming to mind, "How about you carry all the books and parchment, and I'll carry my clothes and such … That way, if we run into anyone, it won't look so strange because you're a professor and they'll probably assume you're doing essays or something?"
"Very good Harry, you know I didn't even stop to think about that." Hank raised his eyebrows and grinned self-consciously. All of a sudden though, his grin became mischievous. He held up a finger, "Actually Harry, I've just had a different idea."
Harry eyed Hank curiously. "And what would that be?"
"It's rather simple actually … I'll simply levitate all the notes and such … we'll put the cloak over the top of your clothing so no one can see it and ask questions – "
"Hold on!" Harry interrupted, confused. "How'm I gonna hide if you've got the cloak over my gear?"
Hank grinned madly. "That's the fun part. You can walk right by my side, and no one will even realize it's you! I'll just pass you off as one of my animals that I decided to take for an early morning walk!"
Harry's confusion quickly turned into excitement. "You mean walk through the school in my Animagus?"
"Yep! Oh man, I can't wait to see some of the reactions this will inspire…"
"But…" Harry asked, now worried again. "What if we run into Snape? Or Malfoy? Though I don't think he knows I'm an Animagus … and what if Dumbledore finds out? Will you get in trouble?"
Hank held up his hands to halt Harry's questions. "Whoa Harry! Hold up! Don't worry about anything, OK? Don't worry about Snape, he won't say anything … at least not with me around … Malfoy? Well I don't think he knows about that either, but that's why memory charms were invented," he added with a wink. "And no, Dumbledore won't be mad at me … in fact he'd probably see the funny side to it as well. I mean c'mon … How often do you see a lion walking through the school?"
"OK, OK…" Harry surrendered, "Just so long as you're sure?"
"I'm sure … It'll be fine."
A few minutes later, Hank had all Harry's things in the air beside him and his sack flung over his shoulder. He carefully draped the cloak over Harry's clothing and bent over, checking to see that it was completely covered before straightening up and eyeing Harry expectantly.
"Well? Your turn kiddo!" he stated, grinning widely.
Harry grinned back and made sure he had enough room before transforming, hearing Hank give a small whistle in approval.
"Wow Harry … You are most certainly a very fine specimen of a cat…"
Harry bowed his head, glad that he couldn't blush through his golden brown fur from embarrassment. It wasn't an uncomfortable embarrassment … but he had difficulty explaining to himself as to why he was. Perhaps it was due to how much Hanks approval meant to him? He didn't know.
Suddenly, Hank started to chuckle so Harry turned to face him questioningly. Seeing his expression, Hank began to explain.
"I just find it rather interesting that, in your human form you resemble your father in every aspect, except your eyes, which are green like Lily's … But in your Animagus – you bare your mothers likenesses. You've kept her green eyes … but you've also gained the colour of her hair. Auburn." He reached out and ran his hand through Harry's mane, to emphasize his statement.
Harry could have burst with happiness. Although he'd seen his mother's photograph, and his own reflection as a lion … he never actually noticed that little detail. He had two forms, and in each form he took on one of his parents looks.
"OK," Hank said suddenly as he patted Harry on the head. "Time to go."
Hank walked out first, followed by all Harry's things, then Harry. They walked into the main ward and got to the other end without anything happening. However, as soon as Hank reached for the handle, both Harry and Hank jumped as a shriek echoed through the ward.
"OH MY GOD!! HOW DID THAT GET IN HERE!!"
Hank and Harry swivelled and saw Poppy with her wand raised, pointing at Harry.
Harry backed away, finding the wall and therefore nowhere else to go; but all of a sudden, Hank jumped in front of him; shielding him from any possible attack.
"No Poppy!!" He shouted, "He won't hurt anyone!"
"But that's a wild animal!" she retorted, still training her wand in Harry's direction fearfully.
"He's one of mine Poppy! I only wanted to take him for a walk! He won't hurt anyone!"
Poppy still looked doubtful, but took Hank's word on the matter, lowering her wand but still eyeing Harry warily. "Well … If you're absolutely sure – But heaven help you if I get any patients in here because of that thing!" she threatened.
Hank relaxed, sighing with relief. "Never fear Poppy, he won't cause any trouble."
"He better not!" she shot back as she retreated to her office, shutting the door.
"What?" Hank asked airily as he caught Harry glaring at him and shaking his head. "At least nothing happened!"
Harry snorted and returned his face to the door, walking through as Hank opened it. Thankfully, Hank was right when he said that most of the students would already be in the Great Hall, for the hallways were blissfully deserted. Almost.
Upon turning a corner, Harry saw the last person on earth he wanted to see … flanked by his two cronies. Malfoy's face split into a sinister sneer at the sight of Hank, supposedly transporting schoolwork … but his sneer faltered as he saw Harry pad around the corner with him. Crabbe and Goyle stumbled to an abrupt halt and had looks of terror on their faces, however Malfoy – though fearful – was surveying Harry scrutinisingly.
"Good morning Mr Malfoy, I trust you're ready for class today…" Hank greeted him pleasantly. "No unforseen side effects from your fall yesterday I take it?"
Malfoy ignored the question and gestured toward Harry while slipping his hand into the folds of his robe, grasping his wand. "Why is that thing here?" he spat, his eyes barely leaving Harry for a split second as he glanced at Hank.
"He is simply one of the animals I care for, and it was time he was let out for a walk," Hank explained calmly, eyeing Malfoy's hidden hand darkly.
Malfoy smirked at the news Hank was caring for the lion. "It's one of yours is it?" he repeated snakily. "What would happen to it if it attacked a student? Would it be killed? Or more importantly, would you be fired for having a wild beast you couldn't control wandering the halls?"
"Are you threatening me?" Hank whispered, deathly quiet, his eyes flashing dangerously. "I must warn you, Mr Malfoy, that it would be most unwise to make an enemy out of me."
"You're a disgrace," Malfoy spat, unflinchingly. "Imagine dressing like a Muggle at school. Can you even use that wand? 'Cause I've never even seen you perform any magic. Maybe you're a squib? You're probably about as much of a threat as that Mudblood Granger…"
Malfoy trailed off as Harry began to snarl and growl at him. He took a half-step backwards as he crouched, preparing to pounce.
"You seemed to have upset him," Hank stated calmly, grinning in malice. "And, I wouldn't draw your wand either Mr Malfoy … he'll surely attack you if you do."
Harry kept growling menacingly, enjoying the look of terror slowly making it's way onto Malfoy's face. He knew that Hank was playing along with his actions … but Harry knew that he wouldn't be permitted to attack Malfoy. Hank would surely stop him, but it was nice to know he was letting him have some fun.
"You wait 'till Professor Snape hears about this!" Malfoy hissed at Hank. "You'll be kicked out of here and — "
"Professor Snape will ignore everything you tell him," Hank cut in heatedly. "And will then most probably punish you for your abhorrent actions. I assure you, if he hears of this, he will not be impressed."
Malfoy's eyes flicked toward Harry for an instant before he whipped his wand out of his robes, pointing it toward Hank.
Hank didn't even blink, but Harry made to pounce. As if he sensed his intended action, Hank simply held a hand to the side, blocking Harry's sight and said, "Heel…"
Blinking up at him, Harry obediently halted and held his ground, wondering why he'd stopped him.
"I'm going to warn you now, Mr Malfoy, to not try my patience. Surely you know that attacking a teacher could mean expulsion for you?"
Harry was watching Hank intently. Why hadn't he drawn his own wand? Didn't he know he was facing the most diabolical student at Hogwarts without a weapon? Harry shook the thought from his mind. No, he knew what he was doing. He won't draw his wand, for then he could be held for antagonising Malfoy. If he was weapon-less, he couldn't be held for whatever may happen.
"I won't get expelled," Malfoy sneered. "My father will see to that."
Hank gave a harsh laugh and crossed his arms. "Your father isn't worth the air he breathes. He is a coward with no honour … and it seems the family trait has been passed on."
Malfoy narrowed his eyes and set his jaw defiantly. "I'm no coward, and neither is my father," he spat. "And since attacking a teacher will get me into a spot of trouble … I guess I'll have to settle with your pet!"
Harry froze as Malfoy swiftly turned his wand to face him, not seeing Hanks movement as his focus was on his nemesis.
"INCENDIA!!" Malfoy roared, a bolt of flame blasting from the end of his wand. For Harry, time seemed to slow down. He was frozen in place as the incendiary flames rushed forward to take him. He could feel the heat resonating from it as it came even closer, when suddenly it was blocked from view.
Panic stricken, Harry saw Hank had stepped in front of him; his wand now drawn. The flame crept closer and Hank raised his wand, directly in front of him. All of a sudden, time returned to normal. Harry let out a yelp as the flames seemingly crashed into Hank – yelping again as they flew past him and extinguished upon contact with the stone wall behind them.
Harry was staring at Hank in awe. He saw it with his own eyes. He had merely brushed the curse aside with a wave of his wand.
Malfoy was looking thunderstruck. His wand had dropped a few inches as his mouth and eyes widened.
"Not too bad for a squib, is it Mr Malfoy…?" Hank spoke up into the silence, his voice even with a steely edge to it.
Crabbe and Goyle let out small yelps and about faced, sprinting back down the corridor … but they didn't get far. Hank didn't remove his eyes from Malfoy, but he simply flicked his wand and the next second, both boys had slammed into an invisible wall and slumped to the ground.
Hank smirked, causing Malfoy to pale noticeably. "It appears Mr Malfoy … that you have made the age old mistake, of underestimating your foe…"
***
"That was unbelievable!" Harry exclaimed for the umpteenth time, as he and Hank sorted out his gear in the fifth year dorms. "I can't believe the look on his face! Oh I wish I could have a picture of that! Too bad you had to alter their memories though…"
"Well … I couldn't really let them remember the incident now, could I?" Hank replied matter-of-factly. "As much as I enjoyed it, it really wasn't appropriate behaviour for a professor…"
"I suppose …" Harry said, approaching his trunk to repack his clothes. "At least I get to remember the look on his face when you deflected that curse! Man … I'm gonna relish that." Harry chuckled as he shut his trunk and straightened up, spying Hank finishing up with his books. It was then that Harry remembered Hermione's intended question during class, about Hank performing magic without a wand … yet he'd used it against Malfoy.
"Something wrong Harry?" Hank said suddenly, spying Harry's thoughtful expression.
Harry faltered, not sure on how to ask him what he wanted to. "Well … I was wondering – Why did you use your wand against Malfoy when you can do magic without it?"
Hank looked mildly taken aback by the suddenness of the question. "Who told you that?" he asked pleasantly.
"Um … Hermione told me about your fight with a Nundu, down in the dungeons…"
Hank nodded. "Yes Harry, I can perform magic without a wand … but Malfoy was easy enough to use my wand against him. I only use the other magic if it's going to be tough."
This statement only seemed to confuse Harry even more. "Wait a minute … You'll use your wand if it's easy, but you won't if it's something difficult? Isn't it supposed to be the other way around?"
Hank chuckled. "No, not in this case. You see Harry … I can perform the same type of magic Felanade's use. It doesn't require the use of a wand."
"You can do that?" Harry asked, stunned. "How? Can anyone learn it?"
Hank grinned at him, "Yes, most people have the ability to use it to a certain extent. Not many humans can wield it to the same proficiency as a Feline can … but most can learn some things. Only those that recognise the Feline race for what they truly are, will approach them in friendship. Everyone else is too scared of them, so there are very few humans that wield their magic."
"It's a shame that everyone thinks they're evil monsters," Harry stated glumly. "I mean … I know that Kahn's the only one I've met, but I really like him. I don't know why Hermione just can't accept that. Oh! By the way … Hermione was going to ask you in class this morning about how you did that magic without a wand!"
Hank nodded knowingly. "I thought she might sometime … especially after witnessing what she did in the dungeons. Hey! I've just had another idea!" he exclaimed excitedly.
"What?" Harry asked warily, remembering Hanks last idea.
"You can come to class with me! I'll just do the same as when we came up here and claim you're one of my other animals!"
"I don't know Hank…" Harry answered cautiously. "You saw what happened before … who's to say Malfoy won't do the same thing again?"
"But he doesn't remember it, and we'll be in class," Hank replied simply. "It's a completely different environment, plus there's lots of other students around. He won't try that again."
Harry was hesitant. As much as he enjoyed Hanks treatment of Malfoy, he really didn't want a repeat of events.
"Anyway," Hank interrupted his thoughts, "If you come down, you won't miss an extra class. Technically, you're still there … and I don't think Mr Weasley and Miss Granger would mind having you there either," he grinned. "The only thing we'd have to make sure of, is that you're back in the hospital wing right after class."
Harry grinned at the idea. "Alright then. I'll come down with you. What are you gonna call me? You can't exactly call me by my name … neither can Ron or Hermione?"
Hank scratched his chin in thought. "I don't know … either I'll think of one on the way down … or I'll just ask the class to name you instead, sort of a side task."
"Sounds good enough," Harry laughed. "I can't wait to see Ron and Hermione's faces when I waltz up to them in class!"
"Yes, it should be interesting. Anyway — Is everything packed and ready? Nothing forgotten or missing?" Hank questioned as he perused the room searchingly.
"Nope," Harry answered, doing the same. "All's well as far as I can tell."
"OK then … we should probably get down to class then, before the students get there … though they're probably still in the Great Hall, but that's still no reason to be late."
"Just one thing before we go?" Harry asked hopefully.
"What?"
"Can you show me some Feline magic? Do something without your wand?"
Hank grinned evilly and crossed his arms over his broad chest. "Done."
Harry frowned. "What's done?"
Hank started to laugh. "The magic you requested? It's just been done…"
"What did you do? I didn't see you do anything?" Harry queried, confusion written all over his face.
Harry had no idea what Hank could possibly have done. He hadn't seen him do anything other than cross his arms and grin. Harry looked around the room but could see nothing out of place and even glanced at himself, yet he couldn't see what had been altered.
Hanks laughing intensified, and it wasn't until he pointed at the mirror did Harry start to feel nervous. Casting a bemused look at Hank, who was trying to stop laughing, Harry walked over to the mirror and gazed at his reflection, feeling his jaw drop.
His normally black hair, had been changed to hot pink and he noticed his ears were now pointed and twice their normal size. As he reached up to touch his ears, Harry jumped when his hair suddenly changed colour again … this time, it was fluro green.
"Green is definitely your colour," Hank joked, "And think of how much you can hear now! You'd be the worlds best eavesdropper!"
Harry smiled sardonically. "OK … OK, you've made your point. I asked for it and I most certainly got it."
Hank chuckled again and snapped his fingers. Harry looked back into the mirror as his afflictions vanished with a subtle glow, returning him to normal.
"That, was way cool," Harry exclaimed happily. "Fred and George have competition."
Hank grinned at him. "I wouldn't count on that. I usually only use that magic when it's needed … but I won't say no to a good prank either. Anyway — Time to transform kiddo…"
Harry obliged and the two of them began the rather long trek through the castle, headed for the Main Entrance. As they passed the Great Hall, Harry could hear Dumbledore still talking to the school about his recent arrival, over the top of the murmurs and whispering of the student body. Harry sighed heavily as he thought of the attentive reception he would receive at dinner that night. He was almost dreading it. He knew that as soon as he walked into the room, every eye would be on him … waiting for him to do something strange or out of character. He could almost guarantee that happening if that's how the school would treat him. Almost on cue, Hank rested a comforting hand on his head, almost as though he knew the thoughts permeating through his mind.
"Don't worry Harry," he muttered quietly as they stepped out into the cool morning air, "Everything will be fine…"
Harry glanced up at him as they walked, seeing Hank smile reassuringly down at him. Harry heaved a sigh but still nodded his head … but the thing that was bothering him the most wasn't really the reaction of the whole school tonight … but of the way Malfoy will undoubtedly instigate an attack from him. Harry knew that Malfoy would ignore the request by Dumbledore to not aggravate him, and in a way he was dreading what he might do.
"I wouldn't worry too much about Mr Malfoy either," Hanks deep voice interrupted his thoughts. Harry looked up at him sharply as his words settled in. How did he know he was think about that?
Hank looked down at Harry seriously. "If he has any sense in that very small brain of his … he will know not to push you this year. He values his own safety too much to invite injury."
Harry desperately hoped he was telling the truth.
He lazed about as Hank prepared that day's lesson for about half an hour, when the first students began to filter their way down to Hagrids Hut. Harry eyed them as they approached and practically leapt to his feet when he recognised them as Ron and Hermione. He let out a gleeful growl and stood waiting for them, spotting Ron elbow Hermione and point toward him, quickening their pace.
"Harry what are you doing here!?" Hermione hissed, staring at him as though he'd lost his mind. Harry rolled his eyes and shook his head at her in exasperation.
"Hermione…" Ron started, grinning at Harry's expression. "Why'd you ask him that? It's not like he can answer you."
Hermione turned crimson and scowled at him. "You know what I meant! He shouldn't be here!"
"I asked him to come!" Hank called out from the other side of the hut, just before he strode into view, smiling warmly. "He doesn't need to miss another lesson when he's perfectly capable of sitting in on it … pretending to be one of my many pets…"
"You do know that half the class won't be listening to you because they'll be too worried about Harry!" Hermione pointed out bossily.
"That's why one of you two will volunteer to ride him when I ask, to prove that he's tame." Hank replied, gesturing between them both as he spoke.
"You want us to do what!?" Hermione hissed, immediately shaking her head. "Not a chance!"
Harry let out an indignant growl at Hermione's comment. Didn't she trust him? Did she think he would let her get hurt? He hung his head and let out a quiet moan as he felt Hank place his hand on his head, hearing Ron speak to Hermione heatedly.
"What'd you say that for!?" he said snarkily.
"I didn't mean it like that!" Hermione retorted apologetically. She placed her bag on the ground and knelt in front of Harry, raising his head with her hands. "I'm sorry Harry … I didn't mean to sound so put out by the idea. I probably would have if no one was around … but I'm not about to ride on your back in front of the whole class."
Harry could tell she was sorry, and was cheered up a little by the knowledge that she would have let him take her for a small run, were it not for the presence of the rest of the class … but he couldn't figure out a way to show her it was all right? Yes, he could simply nod his head … but that wasn't enough to show her how much he appreciated her trust in him. Deciding to go all or nothing, Harry leant forward quickly and gave Hermione a swift lick on the cheek. Felling a little embarrassed, he took a step away from her, averting his eyes but still purring in thanks. Harry was very relieved he couldn't blush when he heard Ron's comment on what he'd just done.
"Um … Harry, you just kissed Hermione…" he said, dumbfounded.
"Oh he did not!" Hermione retorted, getting to her feet. "He was only saying thank-you, weren't you Harry?" she added, glancing at him.
Harry immediately nodded, growling quietly in agreement.
"There, you see?" she said as she turned back to Ron. "It's not like he could have told me, so he did the next best thing."
"Well, I guess that means you will be the volunteer, Mr Weasley," Hank grinned, winking at Harry as he subtly changed the subject.
"Me? Cool! You don't mind, do you Harry?" Ron asked excitedly.
If Harry could have smiled he would have, so he just gave a small grunt and shook his head.
"Excellent!" Ron replied ecstatically, practically jumping up and down on the spot.
"Now remember Mr Weasley," Hank reminded brusquely, "That you are to volunteer when I ask… all right? And try not to look so excited by the idea … remember, you think he's an animal, not your buddy."
Ron stopped his exuberant behaviour almost immediately. "Oh, right. Sorry."
"That's quite all right."
"Um … Professor?" Hermione interjected, "What are we looking at today? We've done Diricawl's, and last week we did Fwooper's … sooo…" she trailed off hopefully and waited for Hank to give her an answer.
"Well …" Hank paused for effect, apparently enjoying Hermione's eagerness to know before the rest of the class. "It's a surprise." Hermione's face fell and Hank chuckled.
"Hermione, what would knowing before the rest of the class actually do?" Ron pointed out, a touch bemusedly. "You probably know everything about it anyways, so what's the point?"
"I was only curious!" she shot back heatedly, scowling at Ron and crossing her arms.
"Well you don't have to know everything!" Ron retorted waspishly.
"Guys!! Guys! Don't blow a vessel!" Hank stepped between them, holding out his hands. "Must you argue over something so trivial? You've been friends for years, so you both should know, what the other is like. It's obvious you're both as stubborn as each other."
As Hank was glancing between the fuming pair, Harry let off a warning growl, causing all three to turn and look at him. Harry inclined his head behind them and they all turned to see the rest of the class well on their way towards them.
Hastily, Hank drew his wand and waved it at Harry, who next moment found himself wearing a leash and collar that was pegged into the ground.
"I trust this discussion is over?" Hank stated sternly, eyeing both Ron and Hermione scrutinisingly. They both sighed and nodded. "Very good …" he replied before striding away behind the hut again.
They both shot each other furtive glances, and Harry could tell that they'd start another argument if he didn't intervene. Hesitantly, he got to his feet and made to approach them, but found that his leash wouldn't extend far enough to reach them. He let out a growl as he tugged a little on the leash, trying to get a touch further, but it wouldn't move. Harry growled in frustration and looked back toward his friends, finding himself stunned as he saw them give each other a hug; apologising for yelling at the other.
"Well isn't this a pretty picture!" Malfoy's voice sang out scathingly. Ron and Hermione sprang apart and turned to face him, while Harry stepped out as far as his leash would let him. Malfoy sneered at them both gleefully. "The Mudblood and her rodent boyfriend. What's the matter? Upset that Potter is coming back?"
"You shut it Malfoy!" Ron growled, as he balled his hands into fists. "You don't know what you're talking about!"
"Don't I?" Malfoy retorted scathingly. He stepped right up to Ron and glared at him coldly. "I think you're mistaken," he snarled quietly. "I know that Potter has been in the school for at least the past four days, Weasley … and I know that you two knew it. That little speech our noble headmaster concocted was only a farce. There's nothing wrong with Potter; Dumbledore's just making excuses for his favourite student."
The two boys stared at each other, the spite between them almost palpable. Hermione was glancing anxiously between them, but Harry could see she was worried about what Malfoy had told them. Harry however, was plain old pissed off. He crouched as though about to strike and started to snarl and growl; feeling the same relish he experienced that morning when he saw Malfoy cower and tremble.
"Jesus! Is that a lion?" Dean Thomas exclaimed as he and the rest of the class arrived. Malfoy grinned and skulked back into the crowd; most of which were regarding Harry with doubt and fear as he continued to pull at his bindings menacingly.
"That he is!" a strong voice called out. The class became quiet as Hank emerged from behind the hut, grinning widely. "I assure you, he's quite harmless … unless of course you willingly aggravate him…" he added pointedly, eyeing Harry off.
Harry calmed down significantly, but he was still ticked at Malfoy and showed it. He kept his eyes trained on him and bared his fangs menacingly if he got too close to either himself, Ron or Hermione. The other students were still extremely wary of him, but Harry didn't really care. What he did like, was the uncertainty that was beginning to show on Malfoy's face. Harry stopped his game when Hank approached him and unfastened the leash from his collar; much to the horror of the majority of the class.
"Whoa, whoa!" Seamus yelled, holding his hands in front of him and backing away. "What the hell are you letting him loose for!?"
Hank looked taken aback, but Harry knew he was only putting on a show for them.
"So he can accompany us to class," he answered bluntly, straightening up though still grasping Harry's collar tightly.
"Are you crazy!?" Parvati Patil screeched, backing away even further. "It'll rip us apart!"
Hank sighed heavily and placed his free hand in his pocket. "He'll do no such thing. Here, I'll prove it … Is anyone brave enough to ride him?" Hank called out, fighting off a grin as everyone balked. Harry eyed Ron, knowing he was meant to volunteer, and saw him begin to raise his arm … but for some reason Hermione held it down. Ron shot her a quizzical glance, but she held up a finger, telling him to wait.
"Anyone? C'mon, he's as tame as a housecat!"
"I'll ride him!" Ron called out, doing as he was told and trying to keep his laughter and excitement to a minimum.
"There we go!" Hank said jovially. "Mr Weasley proves why he was placed into Gryffindor in the first place! Come on over!"
Ron walked briskly over to them, ignoring the hisses to not go, and the jeers to get himself killed.
Harry could have grinned at the way Ron was holding himself. He was almost rigid with suppressed excitement, but to show it would mean something was up. After all, who would so eagerly mount a predatory cat.
"Just get up onto his shoulders," Hank explained as Harry crouched lower, making it look as though Hank had pushed him down. "That's it … now you keep hold of his collar, and go with the flow." Hank winked at Harry and whirled a finger in the air subtly. "Don't worry … you won't fall off."
Harry got the idea immediately and straightened up. He waited for Ron to get comfortable and firmly grasp his collar before he bent his legs and took off. He heard Ron give a yelp of surprise and felt him dig his knees into him for a better grip. Harry sprinted as fast as he could go, without warning he turned sharply, feeling the pressure of his collar upon his neck as Ron gripped it even tighter. Harry looked toward the class and saw them all gazing at him with rapt attention. Grinning to himself, he neared a tree and leapt into it, using it to turn around and still maintain his momentum. He saw the looks on their faces change swiftly from awe and surprise, to terror and alarm as they bolted sideways, allowing him passage through them. Harry was having a blast, and to his great surprise, he actually heard Ron laughing gleefully as they shot through the small crowd. He ran across the grounds swiftly and came to a stop at the base of the stairs leading into the Main Entrance. He turned around and ambled back toward the class, feeling his heart lift higher than it had in weeks at the sound of Ron laughing and whooping from his back.
"Oh Wow!! That was a blast!" he laughed, as he let go of the collar to lean on Harry's neck. Harry purred contently and quickened his pace as he saw Hank signal to him, to make haste. As they got closer, Harry was surprised to see that no one was backing away from him, and that most of them, (Mainly Gryffindors) had broad grins on their faces and were yelling out their congratulations to Ron. Harry glanced at Hermione and Hank, feeling his spirits lift even higher as he saw them both grinning widely at him.
"I told you he was harmless!" Hank called over the noise and waving his hand in Harry's direction as he came to a halt. He felt Ron slide off his back and give him a pat on the head as he walked back over to Hermione, grinning madly. "Now, if everyone would follow me!?" Hank announced loudly, trying to regain order as a number of students had gathered around Harry enthusiastically, "We'll begin today's lesson!"
The students disembarked and headed after the rest of the class, as Harry trotted alongside them, looking for Ron and Hermione. He spotted them near the front, Hermione talking interrogatively to Hank while Ron shook his head in disbelief. He assumed that Hermione was confronting Hank about his wand-less magic. Harry trotted up to them and nudged against Ron to get his attention, only to have him glance at him and shake his head, rolling his eyes as he gestured in Hermione's direction.
Puzzled, Harry stole a glance at her, just in time to see her gasp as Hank materialised a blue rose from the air, with a flick of his wrist. Smiling, he handed it to her.
"How did you do that?" Hermione asked shyly, as she accepted the rose and inhaled it's perfume. "What type of magic is it?"
Hank glanced at her briefly before answering, "Felanade."
"Really?" Ron's face lit up from the small frown he was wearing a couple of moments ago, as Hermione stopped in her tracks and stared. "Is it hard to do?"
Hank didn't answer, for he'd slowed his step considerably and turned to face Hermione. Ron and Harry did the same, and soon, most of the class had slowed to see where their Professor had vanished too. Almost absentmindedly, Hank glanced at the confused students and called out, "Just keep going that way kids! You'll see the enclosure just beyond the tree line … mull around for a bit!"
Shooting Hank and each other furtive glances, the class obliged, murmuring quietly as they strode away slowly.
Hank, Ron and Harry all turned back to face Hermione, who was now eyeing the rose as though it would explode at any given moment.
"You used forbidden magic!" she whispered, horrified by the idea. "You've learned forbidden magic!"
"Miss Granger…" Hank began, sighing heavily and running a hand through his raven hair. "Just because the MoM has forbidden it's use or knowledge, doesn't mean it's automatically evil. Have you seen it used for anything so heinous?"
She glanced at the rose for a moment, before slowly raising her eyes and shaking her head sheepishly. "No. But that's not saying that it can't be," she added, looking down again.
"That is true," Hank replied, nodding his head. "It can be used to inflict harm … but it usually isn't. You see — Felanade's usually only use their magic to inflict harm or injury, when a member of the Tribe or Clan is threatened … or in self defence."
"But, what about the poachers that shot Harry?" Hermione asked, looking up again. "Kahn said that there was only pieces of them left! He had too of used magic for that?"
Hank, Harry saw, sighed noticeably before shaking his head. "Actually Miss Granger … If I know Kahn – and I do, very well … He would have quite literally, torn them to pieces. It's part of his nature. What was done, was made personal by the fact that he is sworn to protect Harry, and he couldn't. Although he is superior to any human in sheer physical strength … it would have tarnished his honour further, to use magic against them. It makes it an unfair fight, you see."
"But … Feline's don't care about — "
"Miss Granger!" Hank cut her off heatedly, "As intelligent as you are, you can't believe everything that you find in a book. Not everything is fact … especially where the Ministry is concerned." he finished gently.
Harry studied Hermione's features, trying to determine what she was thinking. He could tell that she still didn't think highly of Felanade's, but he also saw, that she was no longer completely ignorant of the possibility they weren't as evil as she thought.
"Err … We should probably get to class," Ron stammered nervously, trying to cover the awkward silence that had settled upon them. "The others'll probably be wondering what's taking so long…"
Hank glanced back at Hermione for a moment before nodding in agreement. "You're absolutely right Mr Weasley. C'mon…"
The four of them made their way across the grounds in relative silence. Every now and then, Harry would see Hank glance behind him to check that the trio was still following him, before returning forward.
"Can I have a look a that?" Ron asked Hermione, gesturing to the rose she was twirling in her fingers. Hermione glanced at him curiously, but handed it over without question.
"So, he just made it out of thin air?" he asked quietly, looking at Hermione briefly before returning his studies to the flower.
"Yes," she answered softly. "He just, sort of, twirled his hand and it appeared there…"
"Well … he's got good taste," Ron smiled as he held the rose out to her.
Harry was watching curiously, as Hermione turned a pink hue and reached out to take the rose; but before she could lay a finger on it, Ron brought his hand up to the side of her face and gently wedged the flower behind her ear, causing her to turn beetroot red.
Harry was speechless (not that he could speak anyway). He turned his eyes to Ron, and saw he had a goofy grin on his face; obviously pleased with himself. Before he was able to give a reaction to what he'd just witnessed between his two friends, they entered the forest and came to the enclosure Hank had instructed the rest of the class to wait by … only, Harry couldn't see one.
The scene Harry and his companions walked into, was something akin to a clearing, and in the middle of this clearing, was the creature of the week. However, Harry's focus was not on the creature, but the class. The students were all in hiding, poking their heads out from behind the trees with expressions of angst and terror etched on their features.
"Oh my God!" Hermione exclaimed in barely more than a whisper. Harry glanced at her, seeing fear as her eyes faced the clearing; Ron's expression being almost identical to that of Hermione's. Curiously, Harry directed his full attention to the beast in the clearing, feeling his own chest tighten in fear at the sight.
As he noted before, there was no cage or means of containment; but as his eyes found the creature, he fervently wished that there was anything but thin air between them.
Pacing, back and forth, in the centre of the clearing was a Dragon.
It turned it's bright eyes on the new group and surveyed them scrutinisingly, but soon returned to pacing back and forth through the clearing. As Harry stood there, stunned; his eyes travelled the dragon, taking in it's deep green scales and long talons. It's wings were folded in rest, but would every now and then stretch outward … but it's most stunning features by far, were its two long golden horns, protruding at an angle from just above the brow.
"Why are you all hiding back there!?" Hank boomed, his voice containing a mix of confusion and archness. "It's only a Romanian Longhorn! He's not even full grown, it makes him easier to handle!"
Harry saw Dean Thomas poke his head around his tree. "Are you trying to kill us!" he shouted, his eyes popping. "First a lion, and then an UNRESTRAINED DRAGON!!!"
Hank didn't even bat an eye. "Nonsense!" he shouted in reply, still smiling. "Young Diego here, is as harmless as a Red Kangaroo! And he's not unrestrained either … he is in a confined area."
The students had begun to step from their hiding places, and all wore confused frowns. Harry could see where they were coming from, for he couldn't see an enclosure surrounding Diego either.
"What confined area?" Hermione asked tremulously, looking doubtfully at the dragon.
"He's in a cage," Hank stated pointedly, approaching Diego without fear and halting about fifty feet from him. Diego eyed Hank as he approached, but made no move toward him. Hank reached out his hand and turned his head to face the class. "See…" he called, reaching a touch further and enclosing his fingers around something invisible.
As soon as Hanks hand made contact, it looked as though the air was lightning entwined with fire. It criss-crossed all around Diego, like a net … though strangely, Harry noted, the dragon had no reaction to the light show surrounding him.
"I told you," Hank waved a finger playfully. "The net is only a precaution though. Normally, I wouldn't bother him with a fence … but as you're all unfamiliar to him, I thought it might be safer."
"Are you saying that you would walk around him freely?" Hermione asked, astonished. "But he'd attack you, wouldn't he?"
Hank shook his head. "Of course he wouldn't. We've known each other for years and he's yet to do anything aggressive toward me … why would he start now?"
"Because he's a dragon!" Parvati Patil gasped. "They're not pets!"
Hank held up a hand and gazed at Parvati sternly. "Miss Patil … Did you hear me tell you that Diego was my pet?" He waited for her response, but she only looked at the ground. "No. I didn't. What I said, was that we'd known each other for years. Just because he's a dragon, does not mean he's automatically a brute. In fact, most of what you know about dragon behaviour is not true."
Everyone was listening to Hank with rapt attention as he began the class, rather unofficially.
"You see," he began, pacing back and forth along the cage line, "Most wizards only know dragons to be vicious, because of the way they were raised and treated; especially those that were raised in captivity, or a preserve. Wizards use cruelty and punishment to keep "beasts" in line. As such, they tend to have a bad temper and lash out at anything that goes near them. Diego, however, was raised by me. I've never had a problem with him. It was my time with Diego, that made me realize that dragons like to play."
Malfoy snorted; clearly audible over the silence that enveloped the rest of the class … most of whom, now turned and faced Malfoy looking irritated. He ignored his newfound attention and stayed focused on Hank.
"Play?" he scoffed, laughing at the very idea. "Dragons … play?" He shook his head and began to laugh even harder. "Who on earth would believe such a ridiculous story? "Here boy … catch!" what would you throw? A tree?"
Hank ignored Malfoy's sarcasm and focused on the question. "You misunderstand me, Mr Malfoy," Hank replied politely. "There is no possible way, for anyone to play with Diego at his age. He's too big and powerful. The impression you make on a dragon, is significant while it's growing up. Due to the way we related when he was a hatchling, we now have a mutual respect for one another. He does still like to interact though … just because he's older doesn't mean he's to be deserted."
"What do you mean by … interact?" Hermione called out, eyeing Diego cautiously.
"Well…" Hank began, "I usually climb on him. He'd bend down and I'd climb up onto his back and such. He's even let me sit atop his head…" he finished, smiling warmly at the memory as he gazed at the dragon fondly. Still smiling, he turned back to the class and said, "Now, before you all meet him, he'll need to — "
"Meet him!?" Malfoy interrupted, thunderstruck. "There's no way you're getting me near that thing!"
"Mr Malfoy…" Hank started patiently, "The cage will still be in place. All I was asking, is that you all line up around the edge here, so that he can look at each of you in turn … judge your character, if you will. Also that, everyone who does so shall earn five points for their house…"
The words had barely left his mouth when everyone got to their feet and stood shoulder-to-shoulder along the edge of the cage. Harry got to his feet along with Ron and Hermione, but stopped when he remembered he wasn't human. Ron and Hermione took a couple of steps then turned to face him, as though they'd just remembered that fact also.
"What's taking you three so long!" Hank called out, staring at the group bemusedly.
"What do you mean 'three'?" Dean asked, following Hank's line of sight. "There's only two … Ron and Hermione."
"No," Hank shook his head. "There is a lion with them as well. Unless I failed grade one mathematics, that makes three."
Ron and Hermione looked confused, but still gestured for Harry to go with them, which he willingly obliged. As they took their places along the cage line, Hank came over to him and knelt down on the pretence of removing his collar.
"I asked you to come over as well," he whispered in his ear, "because everyone needs to be introduced to him. He can tell that you're not an animal by the way you behave and move … so I thought it best to have you over here as well." Hank removed his collar and Harry shook his head, feeling relieved it was gone. Hank chuckled and stood, patting him on the head as he left.
Hank walked to a free space and drew his wand, waving it before he stepped forward, through the cage. Apprehensively, Harry watched as Hank approached Diego without fear or hesitation. Hank stopped at his feet and began to speak to him, leaning back so he could look him in the eye as Diego looked down at him. Hank patted Diego on his leg and turned around; Diego striding behind him as he approached the class.
"Alright everyone!" Hank called jovially. "All you have to do, is stay still. You don't have to say or do anything. Now, Diego will simply walk along the cage line here, and look at each of you in turn. Don't be alarmed if he lingers on you or want's to get a closer look, because he probably finds something about you curious or interesting. OK?"
Everyone nodded, albeit nervously but nodded just the same. Hank grinned then stepped back, sweeping his arm as he looked up at Diego, signalling he could begin.
The first half of the class, he barely gave a second glance to; most of whom where Slytherins. He halted for a moment at the Gryffindors though, before practically skipping the Slytherins in line. The only exception to this however, was Draco. When Diego reached him, he stopped. He stood there, scrutinizing him for several minutes, gradually leaning closer until his nose was merely feet from him. Harry leant around Ron to get a look of Malfoy's face, grinning as he saw he was just short of hysterical with fear. Malfoy let out a small whimper as Diego snorted at him, ruffling his sleek hair in the wind, when he suddenly withdrew and continued his introductions.
He passed over most of the Gryffindors almost as quickly, though he didn't seem so callous toward them as he did the Slytherins. He slowed considerably when he got to Ron, Hermione and Harry; the last three in line. He bent down again at Hermione, but didn't seem as intimidating for she barely flinched as he inhaled her scent. He made a small noise at the back of his throat as he moved his gaze to Ron, who was a little frightened, though still maintained his composure. Diego eyed him almost as closely as he did Hermione before straightening up again and turning his focus onto Harry.
Harry stood as tall as he could, keeping his eyes locked with Diego's. He stared at him for a time before lowering his head, as he did with Ron and Hermione. He inched as close to the barrier as he could, staring at him; inhaling deeply every few seconds, as though trying to determine something about him through scent alone. Harry watched curiously as Diego turned to face Hank and sniffed at him before returning to him and inhaling again.
Suddenly, to Harry's great surprise, Diego settled in front of him; sitting down and resting his head on the ground in front of him, his snout feet from his own.
"It seems he's taken a liking to our new companion," Hank announced, striding around Diego's body and halting at his head, casually leaning against him. Harry stole a glance at Hank, who raised his eyebrows in response, obviously as curious about the new development as he was.
"You sure he's not thinking about how tasty he'd be?" Malfoy sneered as he stared at the dragon in resentment. "I'm sure a lion would be a nice snack for a dumb dragon."
"Mr Malfoy!" Hank snapped harshly as Diego emitted a low growl, his gaze flitting to Draco. "It would be wise to not antagonise him. He can understand English to a degree."
"But I thought you said he wasn't dangerous?" Draco grinned, feigning innocence, knowing full well what he was implying. Now it was Harry's turn to growl. He broke eye contact with Diego and spun around, baring his teeth at Malfoy threateningly.
"I think you're pushing your luck Draco…" Pansy Parkinson whispered fervently, eyeing Harry and Diego warily. Draco snorted.
"Luck has nothing to do with it," he spat. "If either of these beasts attack anyone, they'll be killed as mad and dangerous, and our dear professor here, will be left without a job. Might as well see if he's capable of controlling the beasts he brings in? 'Cause if he can't, it'll prove what an idiot Dumbledore is for hiring him."
Both Hermione and Ron had thrown their arms around Harry's neck in an attempt to stop him throwing himself at Malfoy. Harry shook them off easily and glared at Malfoy in rage. How dare he say such things? Especially about Dumbledore. The other students had backed away considerably, not wanting to draw the attention of a fuming lion. Harry ignored them. He crouched down and leapt, but his feet had barely left the ground when he found himself suddenly stationary; something around his neck, cutting off his air with the pressure of his pulling against it. He turned and saw Hank with his wand out, looking very disappointed. Still irate, Harry looked down and saw that a leash and collar had been attached to him once more, preventing him from moving.
"I hope you understand I didn't wish to do that…" Hank said despairingly, gazing at Harry sadly.
"What!? You wanted him to kill me!?" Malfoy shouted, trying to regain his composure after he fell to the ground in fear.
"Give it a rest Draco!" Pansy hissed, shooting daggers at him.
"That is debateable," Hank replied to Malfoy bluntly. "He doesn't like to be tied down, but his reaction to your insults forced me to restrain him."
"This is ridiculous!" Malfoy snarled, glaring at Harry. "You expect us to believe you can control a dragon, when you can barely keep your lion in line!"
Harry turned back to Hank, almost afraid of his reaction to such a challenge. Hanks expression became hard, his eyes piercing. "You want a demonstration do you?" he stated harshly. "As … you … wish!"
Harry's eyes flicked between Hank and Malfoy anxiously. As he glanced at Hank again, he caught his eye. Harry saw a glint pass through them that he recognised as Hank jerked his head to the side…
The next instant, the cage surrounding Diego and Hank shone briefly before fizzling into nothing. Hank had released him.
"If you don't antagonise him," Hank began, as the students began to disperse, "He will not harm you. There is no reason to fear him. To prove it, I'll ask a volunteer to come up to him and mount him."
No one moved. Harry glanced at Ron and Hermione and saw that they were both almost beyond terror at this point. Harry nudged Ron to get his attention.
"What?" he hissed, glancing at Harry briefly. Harry sighed and shook his head. He couldn't get his message across if he wasn't facing him! Grunting softly, Harry nudged Ron again, causing him to stumble.
"What'd you do that for?" he asked indignantly, frowning in frustration. Harry inclined his head toward Hank and Diego, trying to tell him to volunteer; but he only succeeded in confusing him further.
"He want's you to go up to him," Hermione translated exasperatedly, rolling her eyes and pointing toward Hank and Diego.
"No way! You're not getting me anywhere near that thing!" Ron shot at him, shaking his head and setting his jaw defiantly. Harry sighed then turned his gaze to Hermione, silently begging her to go up to them. She eyed him apprehensively for a moment before nodding reluctantly and approaching them, ignoring Ron's pleas to stay.
"I'll mount him," Hermione stated evenly, stopping a few yards from them.
Hank smiled appreciatively. "Thank you, Miss Granger. Now … it's basically the same as what I told Mr Weasley when he mounted our furry friend over there…"
Hank continued to instruct Hermione in the same way as he did for Ron. He signalled Diego, and he bent down; allowing Hermione to climb up onto his back, resting near his shoulders. Hermione grasped him firmly around his neck as he straightened up again, and proceeded to parade around the clearing.
"You see!" Hank called, eyeing Malfoy particularly with momentary malice. "It all depends on how you treat them!"
The rest of the class settled down minutely, though most of them still felt nervous about having a dragon so close, without restraint.
Harry was eyeing Malfoy, watching for him to try anything. He heard the class gasp at something, and impulsively looked toward Hermione to see the cause. Diego had gotten more comfortable with her, and had spread his wings to assist him in his leap. He glided across the clearing and landed on the other side gracefully, folding his wings again and turning around to head back toward them, when suddenly a jet of red light appeared from nowhere and hit Diego square in the eye.
Harry felt panic course through him like never before as Diego let out a deafening screech of agony; flailing his head and jerking his body in pain. Harry chanced a glance at Malfoy and felt his anger boil at the sight of him with his wand out; a cold and triumphant sneer on his pale face. The rest of the class was in pandemonium. They were all screaming or cowering in terror in the presence of the now crazed dragon. Hank whirled around the instant the spell connected with Diego; his blue-green eyes resting on Malfoy. Harry had never seen such fury in one's eyes as he did in Hank's at that moment. Harry could see bloody murder in every move Hank made, but he quickly turned back to face Diego … and Hermione.
"Hermione!!" Ron and Hank called, trying to be heard over the shouts and screams of the class, and Diego's howls. Harry finally got a clear view of Hermione through the running bodies, and saw that she was holding onto Diego's neck like a vice; terror etched on her features. All three of them made to approach the danger zone; but Harry remembered that he was still anchored to the ground. No sooner had Hank and Ron ran a few steps, Diego turned his injured face toward them and charged.
"NO DIEGO!!" Hank shouted desperately, but it was no use. He was mad with pain and would only continue his rampage until he was stopped. Hank and Ron threw themselves to the side as Diego charged past them, heading for the rest of the class. Hank was back on his feet in an instant and yelled, "Hermione! Jump!!"
His words fell on deaf ears and Hermione didn't even register that she'd heard him. Hank took off and sprinted toward Diego, leaping as he reached him and landing on his back. He immediately made his way to Hermione and prised her arms from around Diego's neck; gathering her in his arms and leaping from his back, landing heavily and racing to the edge of the clearing where he placed her on the ground. Ron instantly ran over to her and knelt by her side, while Hank returned his efforts to trying to calm Diego down.
Diego was at the edge of the clearing, ramming the trees with his head as he tried to reach something. He roared in rage and began to viciously slash through the undergrowth with his claws in his desperate attempt to rip the focus of his agony to shreds.
Harry was desperately trying to free himself from his bindings as Diego inched closer to his location. Although he could tell his focus was something in the woods, he really didn't want to be only twenty feet from an enraged dragon. Hank suddenly came into Harry's line of sight, but it didn't comfort him in the slightest, for Harry saw that he'd just come a halt right in front of Diego, yelling up at him to stop. Diego barely gave Hank a second glance as he whipped his long tail around and struck Hank forcefully in the side, sending him flying. Harry didn't even have time to register what had happened when Hank slammed into him; the force of the blow sending both of them to the ground.
Dazed, Harry heard Hank yell, "Diego!! Stop or I'll be forced to hurt you!!"
For a moment, Harry thought he'd imagined Hank's words. After all, he shouldn't even be conscious after a blow like that had befallen him, let alone threatening a dragon that he'd hurt him. However, as Harry regained his footing, he saw that Hank was indeed uninjured and was looking resolutely at Diego; who had apparently understood what Hank had said, for he'd now turned his attention to him and Harry.
Harry flicked his gaze in between Hank and Diego fearfully, seeing the determinedness in Hanks posture and the unbridled fury still seething through Diego; his injured eye spilling blood down his face. Diego growled menacingly and Harry saw Hank stiffen.
"Don't make me!!" Hank called forcefully, the sadness he was feeling over the situation showing through in his voice.
Diego just grew more ferocious and turned to face them fully, rearing his head back as he opened his mouth. Harry felt a thrill of foreboding pass through him, for he knew what would happen in mere moments. Hank however had only taken a firm stance and held his hands out in front of him, his wrists connecting and fingers outstretched. Suddenly, Harry felt as though the air was electrically charged and was being focused in one area. He looked up and saw small tendrils of luminescent energy forming at Hank's feet. Harry's attention was drawn from Hank's feet at that moment, for Diego had performed the inevitable and sent an inferno billowing toward Hank and himself.
Harry heard the shrieks of the hidden class and the cries of Ron and Hermione as the flames hurled toward them, eager to strip the flesh from their bones in the searing heat. Harry stared at the approaching flames in terror, but Hank hadn't moved an inch. The flames collided with Hanks outstretched palms and instantly engulfed them; however Harry was shocked when he realized that the flames hadn't touched them. It was as though he and Hank were inside an invisible dome that had been thrown into a firestorm; the flames passing over and around them harmlessly.
Harry stared up at Hank in amazement, but it quickly changed to anguish at the expression on his face. Harry joined him in his sadness, for he knew what now had to be done. Hank grit his teeth and focused himself again; Harry once again feeling the air charge with focused energy. Hank let out a deafening cry as he unleashed the power he summoned; the very air rippling with it's force. Harry heard it tear through the air, extinguishing Diego's flames as it travelled up them, entering his jaws and connecting with the back of his throat.
Harry averted his eyes as Diego's cries were suddenly silenced; cringing as he heard the sickening crunch of his scull exploding and his heavy body crashing to the ground.
Bracing himself, Harry turned his eyes to the fallen dragon, feeling a wave of sadness and anguish rise up inside him as he did so. Diego lay sprawled on the ground; his bright red blood staining the green grass as it issued from the gaping hole in his mangled head. Harry swept the clearing with a glance as he saw the rest of the class emerge from their hiding places, gazing at the fallen dragon forlornly. Harry's gaze flicked to Hank, who hadn't move an inch since his unavoidable attack. Harry's heart went out to him as he slowly lowered his arms and stared at Diego; his breathing was extremely uneven and ragged, though Harry could tell it was not caused from exhaustion, but from his held back despair.
Harry bowed his head, feeling his eyes burn as he felt Hank's pain. He had just killed something he considered a friend, and Harry knew how bad the pain was that accompanied such an act. As Harry stared at the ground, he saw the result of Diego's attack toward them. There was a circle surrounding himself and Hank that was untouched, however everything around them to a distance of about thirty feet had been scorched black and was still burning. He looked around and saw, that without instruction, most of the class had set about extinguishing the fires that were burning from the inferno; water spurting from their wands.
Harry looked up again as he heard Ron and Hermione dash over to them, breathing heavily and looking in between elated and devastated.
"Are you two all right!?" Hermione gasped, her eyes darting between them before settling on the condition of the ground around them, her eyes widening.
Hank only nodded his head to her question, his eyes still glued to his former friend. The class had mingled around them as they stood there, gazing at Hank uncertainly, not sure what they should do. Hank's eyes left Diego for an instant as he perused them before stating in a hollow voice, "Class … is dismissed…"
Hanging their heads, the class obediently gathered their belongings and slowly departed, whispering amongst themselves as they left Hank with Ron, Hermione and Harry. Almost absentmindedly, Hank waved his hand and Harry's bindings vanished with a faint glow. Harry immediately went to Hanks side and rested his head against his waist, wanting to spur any reaction from him other than the hopeless expression he currently had fixed on his olive features.
Hank ignored him and slowly made his way over to Diego's lifeless form. Harry, Hermione and Ron looked on as he raised his hand and ran it along his golden horns tenderly before he finally rested his forehead against it and wept silently; his broad shoulders shaking violently with each wave of sorrow that passed over him. Harry felt moisture running down his muzzle as Hank sank to the ground between Diego's neck and shoulder. He leant against the cold scales and buried his face in his hands, resting his elbows on his knees.
Harry looked up as he heard sniffling, and saw that Hermione was also crying. Ron draped his arm over her shoulder comfortingly as she rested her head against his shoulder, slipping her arm around his waist as he whispered softly to her.
Harry was considering transforming for a few minutes when he heard a rustle in the trees off to the side. They all turned to look, including Hank who lifted his head from his palms, and gazed into the brush searchingly. There was another rustle and this time some branches further in could be seen moving, for it was the area Diego had been so furiously attacking earlier.
Suddenly, Hank leapt to his feet in fury and extended his arm toward the noise. Harry, Ron and Hermione started when a cry of fear was heard as something they all recognised was drawn from the shrubbery; flying through the air towards Hanks outstretched hand.