Alesco
Chapter Six--Secrets of the Siren
*
The day after Hermione tried to give the sugar quill back to Ron, Hedwig came into the Great Hall at breakfast and gracefully dropped a letter on Harry's empty plate. Hermione had finished eating earlier, and was sitting at the Hufflepuff table, enlisted in some early morning tutoring.
"It's from Professor Lupin." Harry muttered, and ripped open the envelope.
Ron grinned. "You know, Harry, we don't need to call him Professor anymore."
Harry gave him a look and said, "What else should we call him? Remus?" He unfolded the letter.
Ron shrugged, and leaned to read the letter over Harry's shoulder.
*
Dear Harry;
I'm glad to hear that you reached Hogwarts safely and that school is going fine so far. I have to admit to you that I don't recognize the name you gave me in your letter, but I have been in contact with Dumbledore recently. He has assured me under any circumstances that he has complete faith in the new teacher. He was very confident, and I respect his wisdom in this realm.
I understand your concerns regarding prior teachers Dumbledore hired; those who happened to have schemes to destroy you. I must make it clear that in this case, Dumbledore has taken all the proper measures to ensure that Professor Forester has no such intentions. In fact, I get the distinct impression he hired her to protect you.
Remember that if you ever need anything, let me know. I didn't tell you this last year, with all that was happening, but Sirius once told me that if anything ever happened to him, he wanted me to take care of you. I promised him that I would.
I hope you have a great year, and congrats on making Quidditch Captain. Your father would have been proud, and so would Sirius.
Yours,
Remus
*
Ron moved back, wishing he hadn't read the part about Remus taking over Sirius's place as godfather. "Harry...."
"Shut it." Harry said steadily, quietly. He folded the letter and put it back in its envelope.
Ron shrugged, feeling depressed, and looked up as Hermione came back to their table. "It's about time for us to go to History of Magic, are you both ready?"
Ron groaned. "As ready as I'll ever be." He wasn't looking forward to the glares Hermione would give him after he fell asleep today.
"I hope you don't lose your...I mean, my quill, this time. And I'm looking forward to Defense Against the Dark Arts....Professor Forester said we were finished with last year's review, and wanted to start on our first major lesson of the year. She mentioned something about a club....I wonder if she'll start "Dumbledore's Army" for good? You know, a legitimate study group." Hermione busily packed a stack of books into her already overflowing book bag.
Harry shot her a look. "So, what if she does? Do you think I'll still be able to do the meetings?"
Hermione was done and was putting her bag across her shoulders. "I dunno, Harry. I suppose if you would want to, she'd let you do it. She might even want to become involved herself....."
Ron had to secretly admit that he was afraid to continue going to Defense Against the Dark Arts, much less a study group the professor would teach. Professor Forester had stared at him many times during the previous classes, and the same floaty, underwater feeling crept into his mind each time. She'd either come up behind him and make a quick motion with her hand near his face, or snapped her fingers near him, and the feeling would be gone. Each time the act appeared innocent, and none of the other students realized what had happened.
Every time the class ended, Ron had to think back to Professor McGonagall's words, to ensure himself that there was nothing wrong with Professor Forester...that she wasn't trying to bewitch him somehow. Each time, Ron became more concerned. However...when he came to think of it, he didn't feel in pain or sick any of the times it had happened. In fact, he felt more clear-headed then he had in days.
~*~
Once they had arrived at the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom that day, Hermione seemed eager to learn something new. She took out her self-inking quill and parchment, and squirmed about her chair. Ron was still trying to wake up from History of Magic, and he rubbed his eyes. Finally, the Professor skipped down her spiral stairs, a teacher's text under her arm, and her wand in her hand.
"Good morning, class." She said anxiously, shooting Ron a quick look before placing her text on her desk.
"Good morning, Professor Forester." Some of the students mumbled.
Today she was wearing scarlet robes and a matching scarlet beret. "Ah, I see you all might need cheering charms this morning. Too bad most of my class today will be a lecture and discussion." She clucked her tongue and the class groaned.
Then she swiftly turned, and surprisingly her eyes were on Ron's in an instant.
She laughed. It was a chilling laugh...at least, it chilled Ron to the bone.
"I highly doubt you'll find this class boring. Now...please open your text to Chapter Five, page 83. Who can tell me what a Siren is?"
She tapped her wand against the blackboard, just as Hermione's hand shot in the air. "What is a Siren?" appeared in bold, in blue, on the chalkboard.
"Yes...Miss Granger." The Professor smiled and nodded toward Hermione.
"A Siren is a rare creature, with the power to lure its victim to certain death, or any activity which it is unwilling to perform. Some experts say the Siren has the ability to foretell certain events, and may also have the ability to prevent mind-reading or mind-control."
Professor Forester looked stunned, but impressed. "Thank you, Miss Granger, that was quite more than I expected. It sounds as though you've been reading different texts on the subject. I'll give 10 points to Gryffindor for that thorough answer. Would anyone else like to contribute to class knowledge?"
There was silence for a brief moment, before Seamus Finnegan said, "I though Sirens were related to Mermaids. At least, that's what my grand-pappy said. And anyway, wasn't that what we learned in third year? From that lizard bloke's book?"
The class began to murmur in agreement, and Hermione muttered angrily, "Newt Scamander!", but Professor Forester held up her hand, and the class became quiet. "Ah, Mr Finnegan, those tales are myths. Newt Scamander wrote about some of those "fantastic beasts" and related them to myths, because the real truth about the Siren is ghastly. Sirens are actually humans, with a powerful gene handed down through countless generations. Sirens can make anyone see their form whichever way the Siren sees fit. They can be beautiful, then can be exotic...but only to get their way. They are...or were, if you will, one of the most evil, vain, self-absorbed, and murderous beings to ever walk the planet." She finished sharply, eyeing everyone in the room in turn, and focusing the most on Ron. Ron expected to feel the floaty feeling, but it never came.
Instead, she said softly, "They were also one of the most powerful. That is why they were sought after, and that is why there are none left." She flicked her wand toward the blackboard, and a handy summary of everything that had been said appeared there. Several students bent over their parchments to jot down the information. Even Ron copied every word there.
Hermione's hand shot up again. Professor nodded toward her, and Hermione said hesitantly, "But Professor....everything I have read seems to imply that there are still Sirens left...even human-Siren hybrids."
Professor Forester smiled through pursed lips. "Everyone in the magical creature professional field, including me, were of the opinion that all true Sirens were dead. Even though technically we are still of that opinion, we've been given hope by recent events that it might not be true. But I must agree with you, Hermione, in thinking there are hybrids out there. I, in fact, am one quarter Siren...."
She said it so matter-of-factly, any student with a wandering mind might not have noticed. But Ron had heard, so that meant most of the class had, too.
Hermione gasped next to Ron. She turned toward him, the expression on her face reflecting absolute horror. That's when he began to piece together what Professor Forester might have been doing to him.....trying to control him.
But for what? And why?
"...but I assure you, class, I'm not here to harm any of you..." She gave Ron an intent look "...or to frighten you. I'm here to help. Though I can't tell you the full extent of why I have been brought here, I can tell you that it is for the good." She cleared her throat, and said, "Now, I would like you to read silently the chapter on Sirens from the Hector Wilkins text in front of you--which I assure is one of the more realistic experts on Dark Arts and dark creatures--in which I have had the pleasure to work with. Once we are all done, I would like each of you to give me one fact from what you read that differs from what we've already spoken about. I assure you, there is enough content in the chapter to provide two answers each. Then, once you leave here today, I'd like a 24 inch essay on Sirens, to be turned in a week from today. Please write a comparison/contrast from Siren myth to Siren fact. You may begin reading."
Everyone became silent, and Ron leaned over his book, trying to focus on what he was reading. It was hard when he heard Hermione's deep, unsteady breathing beside him. He turned just enough to see that she was trying to be calm, even though she appeared afraid.
Surprisingly, after a while her breathing slowed and Ron was able to concentrate on his reading. Over time, he began to realize that what the Professor was doing to him couldn't be mind control. There were detailed explanations in the book of how the intended victim felt when they were being controlled by a Siren. Initially, it was not a peaceful experience. In fact, it was so painful the victims screamed in misery and fear. One intended victim claimed that it felt like his brain was being ripped out of his skull. After a few minutes these effects subsided, and they were under the full control of the creature.
Ron's mind was so overwhelmed by the end of the class, he never realized the professor didn't call on him for the requested information. It could have been because Hermione went on and on with what she'd found, and some students began to glare at her because she was taking their answers. He knew she had noticed what he had...that people being controlled by Sirens felt intense pain and anguish the first time they were being, in a sense, possessed. Her answers to the class related to most of that particular information.
So that's why she's so calm. She knows that's not what's happening to me. The question is...what is?
~*~
After the day's classes, Ron spent the rest of the afternoon practicing Quidditch by himself, with an enchanted practice quaffle. His mind began to wander from his worries to the coming Quidditch try-outs, and he began to feel excited. They might have some new talent this year, and it would be tough to be top-notch with new players. They'd need a lot of practice before their first game, scheduled near the very end of September. It was against Ravenclaw.
Just when Ron felt that his mind was totally void of all troubles, he saw a brilliant red bird flying toward him. Ron suddenly recognized it as Fawkes, Professor Dumbledore's phoenix.
Fawkes landed on the front end of Ron's broom, trying to balance as Ron floated gently up and down. He tried to coax his wayward broom to float motionlessly, but it was no use. He grabbed the letter held in Fawkes beak, before Fawkes lost his balance and managed to gracefully fly away.
Ron tore open the letter. It said simply:
~~~
Mr Weasley;
I hope you are enjoying your practice. Professor Forester and I would like to meet with you, tonight in my office. Please dine with your classmates first, and we will see you in my study at 7 PM. The new password is "treacle fudge."
Respectfully,
Professor Dumbledore
~~~
Ron felt himself blush at the word, "respectfully." That said a lot to him, coming from a great wizard like Dumbledore. Ron began to regret each time he tossed away the Headmaster's wizard collecting card in disgust.
Ron landed and went inside and up to the common room. Only a few people were lingering there, and Ron figured they'd all be up their dormitories or at the library. Sure enough, Dean, Seamus, and Neville were in the dormitory, going about their normal nightly activities. Harry was missing, however. Ron took off his sweaty robes and went to take a shower.
~*~
Hermione and Harry had been rather startled at dinner when Ron told them he was meeting the Dumbledore that evening. Ron put on his annoyed face as they began to discuss with each other what it could mean. Finally, 6:45 arrived and Ron excused himself. Most of the professors at the head table were gone, including Dumbledore and Forester.
Ron found his way to the phoenix statue and mumbled, "treacle fudge." A stairway was revealed and he walked up it, and knocked at the headmaster's heavy wooden door. The door opened by itself, and when Ron walked into the study, he couldn't help but awe at all the previous headmaster's pictures hung on the walls. He'd been here before, but he had to admit it was a bloody brilliant room.
Fawkes stood calmly on his pedestal across from the Headmaster's desk, and Professor Forester was sitting in a red plush chair facing Professor Dumbledore. Presently, she was turned around and watching Ron as he entered the doorway.
"Good evening, Mr Weasley." Dumbledore said. The door closed automatically behind Ron.
"Good evening." Ron muttered awkwardly. It was so strange to be asked here....as if they were about to tell him something serious. What if something had happened to his family, Ron began to think suddenly. But if that was the case, wouldn't they have told him immediately? He calmed, wondering why this worry came to him so late. Instead, he figured it was about what Professor's Forester's purpose there was. Suddenly, he began to realize that it had to do with him....
"I'm glad you were able to come, Ron." Professor Forester said softly. Ron immediately noticed she'd used his given name. The way she said it was....he began to feel his face burn.
"I am pleased as well. Please sit, Mr Weasley." Professor Dumbledore gestured toward an area beside Professor Forester, and another red plush chair appeared instantly beside her. Ron slowly made his way over and sat gingerly on the chair.
Ron remained silent for several moments before saying quietly, "I've been meaning to ask, Professor Dumbledore, if you've heard anything more about the brain." Ron started to feel odd for asking it...after all, if he had, he would have let Ron know...right?
"As a matter of fact, we have." Professor Dumbledore stated. He nodded toward Professor Forester.
She turned to him. When they made eye contact, Ron started to feel the floaty feeling, this time deep in his gut. It was more intense this time than any other. Finally, Professor Forester reached forward and brushed a cool hand over his face. He snapped back to reality with a jolt. And he stood up.
"What is that? What the hell are you trying to do to me? Professor Dumbledore....." Ron looked outraged, and turned entreatingly to Professor Dumbledore. He realized he had sworn in front of the Headmaster, but Dumbledore paid it no mind. Instead, he said, "Calm down, Mr Weasley. Please listen as Professor Forester explains."
She looked at him, her brown eyes glazed over, with a look of pity clouding her face. Ron didn't want to look into those eyes, and he turned away.
"Ron, I work for an agency in the U.S. very similar to the Department of Magical Creatures at the Ministry of Magic. I also work part-time as something known here as an Unspeakable. When I heard about the events at the Department of Mysteries last year, and how you had been attacked, I contacted Dumbledore.
"For many years, Death Eaters have been trying to obtain the most powerful and dangerous weapons to aid in the strength of Lord Voldemort." She said the name without fear, and Ron cringed. Without blinking, the professor continued. "One of the most sought-after prizes is any part of a true Siren. I became to realize that if the Death Eater's had the brain of a Siren, they may be able to extract its powers and transfer them to Lord Voldemort.
"With this power, Ron, Lord Voldemort could be a worthy foe. He'd be able to control anyone he liked, block people from probing the secrets of his mind and the minds of his followers. He'd have a the ability to foresee events just about to happen, but he couldn't see far into the future. He would do this because he is not afraid of the evil that resides in the mind of a Siren."
Ron was beginning to piece it all together in his mind, and the horror crept over him.
"You don't mean that....the brain that attacked me....is the brain of a Siren?" Ron croaked, looking with fear at Professor Dumbledore.
It was Professor Forester who answered. "Yes, Ron."
Ron's eyes grew wide and he clenched his hands to the arms of his chair.
"But how did it...why was it....I don't understand..." Ron stuttered, glancing back and forth from the Headmaster and Forester.
Dumbledore spoke up this time. "There was a raid several weeks prior to your adventure in the Department of Mysteries. The ministry confiscated the brains and were able to put them into the large tank. Originally, they had been found in separate jars of their own, and were not labelled. We did not know the true power of the brains...we had been hoping to analyze them before your lot and the Death Eaters destroyed the Department." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled as Ron squirmed. "The brain that attacked you is now dead. We don't believe it had planned to attach to your arms, we believe its final intent was to latch onto your skull. If it had, the full power it possessed would have been drained into you. Instead, it transferred its power only partially. Even so..." Dumbledore trailed off, looking again toward Professor Forester.
"Even so, Ron, the power is in you. I wasn't certain until I probed your mind. I tried to make you stand up, speak, or sleep, and nothing happened. Instead, you just sat there, focused on my eyes. The more I tried to make you do something, the more resistance you put up. Then I knew, after several more attempts, what power you truly possessed. Only someone with true Siren power would have been able to resist my suggestions." Professor Forester smiled, and then said, "I know that in my class today, I informed everyone how painful being possessed by a true Siren is. I'm a hybrid, so my powers are very weak compared to a true Siren. If I attempt to control anyone, they won't feel the initial pain. I have a feeling that once your powers are explored, you'll have an ability equal to, or exceeding what I have."
Ron was silent, still reeling with this news. He had a power he didn't even know about? Then, something else came to him.
"You mean, I can control people, too? Wouldn't I have noticed? And when does this power go away?" He tried to ask every question he was thinking of at once, but he couldn't speak fast enough.
"You can't control people now. Once I have worked with you, your nightmares will be gone, and your real power will begin to surface." She hesitated, and then said, "This power will be with you the rest of your life, Ron. There's no way we can rid you of it, once you pursue it. You have the choice now, to live on with your nightmares, or continue to learn how to use and control your power." Professor Forester said in finality.
Professor Dumbledore leaned forward and gave Ron a steady look.
"There are a few things I would like to say regarding your choice, Mr Weasley. Keep in mind that your powers prevent anyone from mind-reading or mind-controlling your friends and family, Mr Potter included. Just being in your company will prevent Lord Voldemort from tempting him with tainted visions, like what happened last year. In fact, I think just being with you now is helping Harry. Once your powers are explored, there will be an even greater handicap for Voldemort. I would also like to mention that once you explore these powers, Voldemort will face a terrible foe in you--in wishing to obtain power for himself, he has provided you with the ability to stand up to him."
"Me?" Ron said shakily.
"Yes, Mr Weasley. There is no defense against the power of a Siren. Anyone can be controlled by one. No potion in the world will keep you immune." Dumbledore said softly. "The only protection he could ever have is to be a Siren himself."
Things were becoming too hard for Ron to grasp. He felt his hands shake. So did this mean he would have to take on He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named in combat? Would he have to kill him?
"So, Ron, what would you like to do? Would you like me to help you explore your powers?" Professor Forester looked at him eagerly, and he opened and closed his mouth. His tongue was dry. He cleared his throat. Both Professor Dumbledore and Professor Forester were looking at him. It was the first time in his life that he felt different, valued, and appreciated....for something all his own.
Ron began to speak, and was interrupted by a loud snore coming from one of the paintings above......
Chapter Six--Secrets of the Siren
*
The day after Hermione tried to give the sugar quill back to Ron, Hedwig came into the Great Hall at breakfast and gracefully dropped a letter on Harry's empty plate. Hermione had finished eating earlier, and was sitting at the Hufflepuff table, enlisted in some early morning tutoring.
"It's from Professor Lupin." Harry muttered, and ripped open the envelope.
Ron grinned. "You know, Harry, we don't need to call him Professor anymore."
Harry gave him a look and said, "What else should we call him? Remus?" He unfolded the letter.
Ron shrugged, and leaned to read the letter over Harry's shoulder.
*
Dear Harry;
I'm glad to hear that you reached Hogwarts safely and that school is going fine so far. I have to admit to you that I don't recognize the name you gave me in your letter, but I have been in contact with Dumbledore recently. He has assured me under any circumstances that he has complete faith in the new teacher. He was very confident, and I respect his wisdom in this realm.
I understand your concerns regarding prior teachers Dumbledore hired; those who happened to have schemes to destroy you. I must make it clear that in this case, Dumbledore has taken all the proper measures to ensure that Professor Forester has no such intentions. In fact, I get the distinct impression he hired her to protect you.
Remember that if you ever need anything, let me know. I didn't tell you this last year, with all that was happening, but Sirius once told me that if anything ever happened to him, he wanted me to take care of you. I promised him that I would.
I hope you have a great year, and congrats on making Quidditch Captain. Your father would have been proud, and so would Sirius.
Yours,
Remus
*
Ron moved back, wishing he hadn't read the part about Remus taking over Sirius's place as godfather. "Harry...."
"Shut it." Harry said steadily, quietly. He folded the letter and put it back in its envelope.
Ron shrugged, feeling depressed, and looked up as Hermione came back to their table. "It's about time for us to go to History of Magic, are you both ready?"
Ron groaned. "As ready as I'll ever be." He wasn't looking forward to the glares Hermione would give him after he fell asleep today.
"I hope you don't lose your...I mean, my quill, this time. And I'm looking forward to Defense Against the Dark Arts....Professor Forester said we were finished with last year's review, and wanted to start on our first major lesson of the year. She mentioned something about a club....I wonder if she'll start "Dumbledore's Army" for good? You know, a legitimate study group." Hermione busily packed a stack of books into her already overflowing book bag.
Harry shot her a look. "So, what if she does? Do you think I'll still be able to do the meetings?"
Hermione was done and was putting her bag across her shoulders. "I dunno, Harry. I suppose if you would want to, she'd let you do it. She might even want to become involved herself....."
Ron had to secretly admit that he was afraid to continue going to Defense Against the Dark Arts, much less a study group the professor would teach. Professor Forester had stared at him many times during the previous classes, and the same floaty, underwater feeling crept into his mind each time. She'd either come up behind him and make a quick motion with her hand near his face, or snapped her fingers near him, and the feeling would be gone. Each time the act appeared innocent, and none of the other students realized what had happened.
Every time the class ended, Ron had to think back to Professor McGonagall's words, to ensure himself that there was nothing wrong with Professor Forester...that she wasn't trying to bewitch him somehow. Each time, Ron became more concerned. However...when he came to think of it, he didn't feel in pain or sick any of the times it had happened. In fact, he felt more clear-headed then he had in days.
~*~
Once they had arrived at the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom that day, Hermione seemed eager to learn something new. She took out her self-inking quill and parchment, and squirmed about her chair. Ron was still trying to wake up from History of Magic, and he rubbed his eyes. Finally, the Professor skipped down her spiral stairs, a teacher's text under her arm, and her wand in her hand.
"Good morning, class." She said anxiously, shooting Ron a quick look before placing her text on her desk.
"Good morning, Professor Forester." Some of the students mumbled.
Today she was wearing scarlet robes and a matching scarlet beret. "Ah, I see you all might need cheering charms this morning. Too bad most of my class today will be a lecture and discussion." She clucked her tongue and the class groaned.
Then she swiftly turned, and surprisingly her eyes were on Ron's in an instant.
She laughed. It was a chilling laugh...at least, it chilled Ron to the bone.
"I highly doubt you'll find this class boring. Now...please open your text to Chapter Five, page 83. Who can tell me what a Siren is?"
She tapped her wand against the blackboard, just as Hermione's hand shot in the air. "What is a Siren?" appeared in bold, in blue, on the chalkboard.
"Yes...Miss Granger." The Professor smiled and nodded toward Hermione.
"A Siren is a rare creature, with the power to lure its victim to certain death, or any activity which it is unwilling to perform. Some experts say the Siren has the ability to foretell certain events, and may also have the ability to prevent mind-reading or mind-control."
Professor Forester looked stunned, but impressed. "Thank you, Miss Granger, that was quite more than I expected. It sounds as though you've been reading different texts on the subject. I'll give 10 points to Gryffindor for that thorough answer. Would anyone else like to contribute to class knowledge?"
There was silence for a brief moment, before Seamus Finnegan said, "I though Sirens were related to Mermaids. At least, that's what my grand-pappy said. And anyway, wasn't that what we learned in third year? From that lizard bloke's book?"
The class began to murmur in agreement, and Hermione muttered angrily, "Newt Scamander!", but Professor Forester held up her hand, and the class became quiet. "Ah, Mr Finnegan, those tales are myths. Newt Scamander wrote about some of those "fantastic beasts" and related them to myths, because the real truth about the Siren is ghastly. Sirens are actually humans, with a powerful gene handed down through countless generations. Sirens can make anyone see their form whichever way the Siren sees fit. They can be beautiful, then can be exotic...but only to get their way. They are...or were, if you will, one of the most evil, vain, self-absorbed, and murderous beings to ever walk the planet." She finished sharply, eyeing everyone in the room in turn, and focusing the most on Ron. Ron expected to feel the floaty feeling, but it never came.
Instead, she said softly, "They were also one of the most powerful. That is why they were sought after, and that is why there are none left." She flicked her wand toward the blackboard, and a handy summary of everything that had been said appeared there. Several students bent over their parchments to jot down the information. Even Ron copied every word there.
Hermione's hand shot up again. Professor nodded toward her, and Hermione said hesitantly, "But Professor....everything I have read seems to imply that there are still Sirens left...even human-Siren hybrids."
Professor Forester smiled through pursed lips. "Everyone in the magical creature professional field, including me, were of the opinion that all true Sirens were dead. Even though technically we are still of that opinion, we've been given hope by recent events that it might not be true. But I must agree with you, Hermione, in thinking there are hybrids out there. I, in fact, am one quarter Siren...."
She said it so matter-of-factly, any student with a wandering mind might not have noticed. But Ron had heard, so that meant most of the class had, too.
Hermione gasped next to Ron. She turned toward him, the expression on her face reflecting absolute horror. That's when he began to piece together what Professor Forester might have been doing to him.....trying to control him.
But for what? And why?
"...but I assure you, class, I'm not here to harm any of you..." She gave Ron an intent look "...or to frighten you. I'm here to help. Though I can't tell you the full extent of why I have been brought here, I can tell you that it is for the good." She cleared her throat, and said, "Now, I would like you to read silently the chapter on Sirens from the Hector Wilkins text in front of you--which I assure is one of the more realistic experts on Dark Arts and dark creatures--in which I have had the pleasure to work with. Once we are all done, I would like each of you to give me one fact from what you read that differs from what we've already spoken about. I assure you, there is enough content in the chapter to provide two answers each. Then, once you leave here today, I'd like a 24 inch essay on Sirens, to be turned in a week from today. Please write a comparison/contrast from Siren myth to Siren fact. You may begin reading."
Everyone became silent, and Ron leaned over his book, trying to focus on what he was reading. It was hard when he heard Hermione's deep, unsteady breathing beside him. He turned just enough to see that she was trying to be calm, even though she appeared afraid.
Surprisingly, after a while her breathing slowed and Ron was able to concentrate on his reading. Over time, he began to realize that what the Professor was doing to him couldn't be mind control. There were detailed explanations in the book of how the intended victim felt when they were being controlled by a Siren. Initially, it was not a peaceful experience. In fact, it was so painful the victims screamed in misery and fear. One intended victim claimed that it felt like his brain was being ripped out of his skull. After a few minutes these effects subsided, and they were under the full control of the creature.
Ron's mind was so overwhelmed by the end of the class, he never realized the professor didn't call on him for the requested information. It could have been because Hermione went on and on with what she'd found, and some students began to glare at her because she was taking their answers. He knew she had noticed what he had...that people being controlled by Sirens felt intense pain and anguish the first time they were being, in a sense, possessed. Her answers to the class related to most of that particular information.
So that's why she's so calm. She knows that's not what's happening to me. The question is...what is?
~*~
After the day's classes, Ron spent the rest of the afternoon practicing Quidditch by himself, with an enchanted practice quaffle. His mind began to wander from his worries to the coming Quidditch try-outs, and he began to feel excited. They might have some new talent this year, and it would be tough to be top-notch with new players. They'd need a lot of practice before their first game, scheduled near the very end of September. It was against Ravenclaw.
Just when Ron felt that his mind was totally void of all troubles, he saw a brilliant red bird flying toward him. Ron suddenly recognized it as Fawkes, Professor Dumbledore's phoenix.
Fawkes landed on the front end of Ron's broom, trying to balance as Ron floated gently up and down. He tried to coax his wayward broom to float motionlessly, but it was no use. He grabbed the letter held in Fawkes beak, before Fawkes lost his balance and managed to gracefully fly away.
Ron tore open the letter. It said simply:
~~~
Mr Weasley;
I hope you are enjoying your practice. Professor Forester and I would like to meet with you, tonight in my office. Please dine with your classmates first, and we will see you in my study at 7 PM. The new password is "treacle fudge."
Respectfully,
Professor Dumbledore
~~~
Ron felt himself blush at the word, "respectfully." That said a lot to him, coming from a great wizard like Dumbledore. Ron began to regret each time he tossed away the Headmaster's wizard collecting card in disgust.
Ron landed and went inside and up to the common room. Only a few people were lingering there, and Ron figured they'd all be up their dormitories or at the library. Sure enough, Dean, Seamus, and Neville were in the dormitory, going about their normal nightly activities. Harry was missing, however. Ron took off his sweaty robes and went to take a shower.
~*~
Hermione and Harry had been rather startled at dinner when Ron told them he was meeting the Dumbledore that evening. Ron put on his annoyed face as they began to discuss with each other what it could mean. Finally, 6:45 arrived and Ron excused himself. Most of the professors at the head table were gone, including Dumbledore and Forester.
Ron found his way to the phoenix statue and mumbled, "treacle fudge." A stairway was revealed and he walked up it, and knocked at the headmaster's heavy wooden door. The door opened by itself, and when Ron walked into the study, he couldn't help but awe at all the previous headmaster's pictures hung on the walls. He'd been here before, but he had to admit it was a bloody brilliant room.
Fawkes stood calmly on his pedestal across from the Headmaster's desk, and Professor Forester was sitting in a red plush chair facing Professor Dumbledore. Presently, she was turned around and watching Ron as he entered the doorway.
"Good evening, Mr Weasley." Dumbledore said. The door closed automatically behind Ron.
"Good evening." Ron muttered awkwardly. It was so strange to be asked here....as if they were about to tell him something serious. What if something had happened to his family, Ron began to think suddenly. But if that was the case, wouldn't they have told him immediately? He calmed, wondering why this worry came to him so late. Instead, he figured it was about what Professor's Forester's purpose there was. Suddenly, he began to realize that it had to do with him....
"I'm glad you were able to come, Ron." Professor Forester said softly. Ron immediately noticed she'd used his given name. The way she said it was....he began to feel his face burn.
"I am pleased as well. Please sit, Mr Weasley." Professor Dumbledore gestured toward an area beside Professor Forester, and another red plush chair appeared instantly beside her. Ron slowly made his way over and sat gingerly on the chair.
Ron remained silent for several moments before saying quietly, "I've been meaning to ask, Professor Dumbledore, if you've heard anything more about the brain." Ron started to feel odd for asking it...after all, if he had, he would have let Ron know...right?
"As a matter of fact, we have." Professor Dumbledore stated. He nodded toward Professor Forester.
She turned to him. When they made eye contact, Ron started to feel the floaty feeling, this time deep in his gut. It was more intense this time than any other. Finally, Professor Forester reached forward and brushed a cool hand over his face. He snapped back to reality with a jolt. And he stood up.
"What is that? What the hell are you trying to do to me? Professor Dumbledore....." Ron looked outraged, and turned entreatingly to Professor Dumbledore. He realized he had sworn in front of the Headmaster, but Dumbledore paid it no mind. Instead, he said, "Calm down, Mr Weasley. Please listen as Professor Forester explains."
She looked at him, her brown eyes glazed over, with a look of pity clouding her face. Ron didn't want to look into those eyes, and he turned away.
"Ron, I work for an agency in the U.S. very similar to the Department of Magical Creatures at the Ministry of Magic. I also work part-time as something known here as an Unspeakable. When I heard about the events at the Department of Mysteries last year, and how you had been attacked, I contacted Dumbledore.
"For many years, Death Eaters have been trying to obtain the most powerful and dangerous weapons to aid in the strength of Lord Voldemort." She said the name without fear, and Ron cringed. Without blinking, the professor continued. "One of the most sought-after prizes is any part of a true Siren. I became to realize that if the Death Eater's had the brain of a Siren, they may be able to extract its powers and transfer them to Lord Voldemort.
"With this power, Ron, Lord Voldemort could be a worthy foe. He'd be able to control anyone he liked, block people from probing the secrets of his mind and the minds of his followers. He'd have a the ability to foresee events just about to happen, but he couldn't see far into the future. He would do this because he is not afraid of the evil that resides in the mind of a Siren."
Ron was beginning to piece it all together in his mind, and the horror crept over him.
"You don't mean that....the brain that attacked me....is the brain of a Siren?" Ron croaked, looking with fear at Professor Dumbledore.
It was Professor Forester who answered. "Yes, Ron."
Ron's eyes grew wide and he clenched his hands to the arms of his chair.
"But how did it...why was it....I don't understand..." Ron stuttered, glancing back and forth from the Headmaster and Forester.
Dumbledore spoke up this time. "There was a raid several weeks prior to your adventure in the Department of Mysteries. The ministry confiscated the brains and were able to put them into the large tank. Originally, they had been found in separate jars of their own, and were not labelled. We did not know the true power of the brains...we had been hoping to analyze them before your lot and the Death Eaters destroyed the Department." Dumbledore's eyes twinkled as Ron squirmed. "The brain that attacked you is now dead. We don't believe it had planned to attach to your arms, we believe its final intent was to latch onto your skull. If it had, the full power it possessed would have been drained into you. Instead, it transferred its power only partially. Even so..." Dumbledore trailed off, looking again toward Professor Forester.
"Even so, Ron, the power is in you. I wasn't certain until I probed your mind. I tried to make you stand up, speak, or sleep, and nothing happened. Instead, you just sat there, focused on my eyes. The more I tried to make you do something, the more resistance you put up. Then I knew, after several more attempts, what power you truly possessed. Only someone with true Siren power would have been able to resist my suggestions." Professor Forester smiled, and then said, "I know that in my class today, I informed everyone how painful being possessed by a true Siren is. I'm a hybrid, so my powers are very weak compared to a true Siren. If I attempt to control anyone, they won't feel the initial pain. I have a feeling that once your powers are explored, you'll have an ability equal to, or exceeding what I have."
Ron was silent, still reeling with this news. He had a power he didn't even know about? Then, something else came to him.
"You mean, I can control people, too? Wouldn't I have noticed? And when does this power go away?" He tried to ask every question he was thinking of at once, but he couldn't speak fast enough.
"You can't control people now. Once I have worked with you, your nightmares will be gone, and your real power will begin to surface." She hesitated, and then said, "This power will be with you the rest of your life, Ron. There's no way we can rid you of it, once you pursue it. You have the choice now, to live on with your nightmares, or continue to learn how to use and control your power." Professor Forester said in finality.
Professor Dumbledore leaned forward and gave Ron a steady look.
"There are a few things I would like to say regarding your choice, Mr Weasley. Keep in mind that your powers prevent anyone from mind-reading or mind-controlling your friends and family, Mr Potter included. Just being in your company will prevent Lord Voldemort from tempting him with tainted visions, like what happened last year. In fact, I think just being with you now is helping Harry. Once your powers are explored, there will be an even greater handicap for Voldemort. I would also like to mention that once you explore these powers, Voldemort will face a terrible foe in you--in wishing to obtain power for himself, he has provided you with the ability to stand up to him."
"Me?" Ron said shakily.
"Yes, Mr Weasley. There is no defense against the power of a Siren. Anyone can be controlled by one. No potion in the world will keep you immune." Dumbledore said softly. "The only protection he could ever have is to be a Siren himself."
Things were becoming too hard for Ron to grasp. He felt his hands shake. So did this mean he would have to take on He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named in combat? Would he have to kill him?
"So, Ron, what would you like to do? Would you like me to help you explore your powers?" Professor Forester looked at him eagerly, and he opened and closed his mouth. His tongue was dry. He cleared his throat. Both Professor Dumbledore and Professor Forester were looking at him. It was the first time in his life that he felt different, valued, and appreciated....for something all his own.
Ron began to speak, and was interrupted by a loud snore coming from one of the paintings above......