A/N: Guess what? School finally starts!!!! *waves Japanese flag* BANZAI-AI-
AI!!!!
Part Eleven: School Finally Starts
Sitting up quickly, Heero's eyes moved restlessly as he scanned his surroundings. He didn't recognize where he was, but there were three possible exits, a large oak door entrance to his left, and two balconies with French doors. Scanning the room once more, Heero's Prussian blue eyes landed on the door to his right labeled 'Madam Pomphrey'. Not knowing who that was, Heero's eyes narrowed. Had he been captured?
"Calm down, Hee-bunny. It's mornin' and you need to get up. Madam Pomphrey is the nurse and you're in the Infirmary, or more specifically, the East Wing of Hogwarts," came a bright, bubbly voice. Heero looked up to see Duo standing in the doorway to the hall, black school robes clinging to his body and Quatre's blond head visibly behind him.
"Yes, it is perfectly safe, Heero. Madam Pomphrey says you may leave now. It's breakfast time now, and I think Duo would appreciate it if we went to eat before classes. We received our schedules yesterday and you have Transfiguration first. It's Monday, by the way," the blond said.
Heero looked from one boy to the other, guaging the danger level he was curently in by their eyes. When he found none, he nodded, 'hn'ed and got up. Duo ran forward and held out a Gryffindor school robe. "I got this for you, Hee-chan. The nurse says you can shower in there--" he pointed toward the bathroom, "before we head for breakfast. Ten minutes tops, Yuy!" Shoving the robes into Heero's hands, Duo grinned and both boys spun and left.
Staring down at the material clutched in his hand, Heero's eyes narrowed again. Finally, shrugging, Heero headed for the bathroom. "Hn."
~~~***~~~
Head bowed and deep in thought, Harry wandered into the Great Hall for breakfast, for once sans Hermione. Though he loved her as a friend, she sometimes hung around him a bit too much. And with the lose of Ron not two days ago, Harry was feeling a bit depressed. The only bright spot in this entire situation was Harry's new found comraderie with his crush, Draco Malfoy. The usually cruel Slytherin had been very good the last few days, and Harry hoped this would repeat all through the summer programme. It was too much to hope the boy liked him, but atleast he was being civil.
Harry was dragged from his thoughts by a sound from the entrance of the Great Hall. He slipped into his seat at the Gryffindor table and turned to watch the door. In came Duo and Quatre, followed by a disgruntled looking Heero. The braided boy was laughing along with the blond as Heero stalked to the table. He sat in the seat beside Harry and mumbled a tight 'Ohayo'.
The other two followed, Duo still laughing loudly. The braided boy threw his arms around Heero's neck and sat in his lap, hugging him. "Oh, come on, Hee-chan, stop bein' so uptight! Even Draco's looser than you!" he said, squeezing. Heero stiffened at Draco's name, as Harry did. Duo laughed again. "Jealous, Hee-babe?" The braided boy leaned closer, his nose almost touching a frozen Heero's. "Don't be jealous. I only have eyes for...you." Then Duo gave Heero's nose a big kiss and hopped up, changing the entire atmosphere in less than a second. He turned to Harry and winked.
"Let's go to our tables, Duo. We can't eat breakfast here everyday," Quatre piped up, tugging on Duo's arm while still blushing from his display. Grinning, Duo nodded.
"Right as always, Q-bean. Guess we'll meet back here before class then, ne? Ciao!" Duo gave Quatre a big hug before happily skipping to the Slytherin table. Still blushing, Quatre turned to Heero.
"Is that okay with you, Heero?" he asked. Heero gave his usual response and Quatre smiled softly. "Of course, Heero." Then the blond lowered his voice. "You know, if you want Duo to like you more, extend your vocabulary," he whispered. Nodding once, Quatre trotted to the Hufflepuff table and sat next to Susan Bones, immediately striking up a conversation on the merits of pink to yellow.
Harry turned to Heero, catching the glum look in his eyes. "What's wrong?" he asked, immediately regretting it when Heero shot him an eye eviler than any ever described to him. A moment later the despondent look was back, and Heero actually sighed.
"Duo is always telling me that I should talk more, stop being so anti- social. He calls my glare the Glare of Death. He even had it patented...what?" Heero said, catching Harry staring at him in astonishment.
Harry tried to shake it off but it was too late and he blushed. "Sorry. The thing is, this is the most I've ever heard you say since I met you. No offense or anything," he rushed to say.
"None taken," Heero answered, a bemused smile on his face. "I don't have very many...people skills. They weren't required for a sol--for my line of work."
"What was your line of work?" Harry asked curiously. Heero shot him the Glare of Death and his mouth shut with a click.
An apologetic look appeared on his face. "Gomen ne. Reflex. But I really can't tell you, not until I trust you more. Maybe when the others have fully accepted you will I tell you our pasts," Heero said. "That said, I must have breakfast. Today will be a day of firsts and I must have strength for it."
Nodding in understanding, Harry dug into the eggs, bacon, sausage and kippers served for breakfast. Heero consumed just as much as he did, and soon they were on their second plates. Before they were quite finished, Dumbledore stood.
"Students, Professors, staff and ghosts of Hogwarts, I would like to solemnly welcome you to the first annual Hogwart's School of Witchcraft and Wizardry summer programme. I am extremely pleased with the amount of students that decided to take these extra classes over the summer to further your education early. As I understand it, this is a muggle practice, but the wizarding world would do well to take up a few of these rituals," Dumbledore began, blue eyes twinkling.
"Breakfast is truly a unifying affair this morning. I spy several Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs at different House tables. Unfortunately, it seems as if the Slytherins and Gryffindors aren't getting into the spirit. Need I remind you of the importance of a unified front?" Straightening his robe collar, Dumbledore continued. "As I was saying, I would like to congratulate Hermione Granger on expanding the Society for the Protection of Elvish Welfare to Rome, the entirety of France, and parts of East Russia. Good job, Miss Granger."
The Gryffindor table exploded into applause, as well as a few Ravenclaws, Hufflepuffs, and Draco, the only Slytherin. Hermione just sat there and blushed redder and redder until even Ron, now their mortal enemy, was visibly concerned.
Professor McGonagall performed a quick calming spell, then Dumbledore continued. "As my final announcement, I would like to introduce a new professor, someone I'm sure none of you have heard of. He will be teaching Physical Combat. Please welcome Professor Romulus Lupin."
Complete quiet descended over the Great Hall, not a sound issuing from even the Gryffindor table. Harry's mind worked furiously as he tried to remember where he'd heard the name before. 'Oh, on that tapestry thingy in Sirius' house. What was it--oh, Remus' brother! But I thought he was dead or something,' Harry thought, everything jumbling in his mind. 'Well, only one way to find out.' Harry stood. "Sir? Are you related to Remus Lupin in any way?"
Several students stared at Harry as Romulus, a tall, young looking man with darker blond hair than Remus and deep blue eyes, moved forward. "Hm, Harry Potter, is it?" Romulus drawled. "A bit small for his age, isn't he?"
Harry blushed lightly, but stood straighter. "Answer my question, sir," Harry demanded softly. Romulus looked a bit surprised, then smiled.
"Aw, yes, courage of a Gryffindor. How very quaint. Yes, I happen to be Remus' older brother," he said, smirking. "What is it to you, little Griffy?"
Harry scowled. How dare this man call him that! "None of your business...*sir*." And Harry sat down.
"Aheh..ahem, yes, that was...er...interesting, wouldn't you say, Minerva?" Dumbledore stammered, sending surreptitious looks toward both Romulus and Harry. "As I was saying, Professor Lupin will be teaching anyone who is willing during lunch hours, and occasionally after dinner. If you are willing to forego eating, he will instruct you in hand-to-hand combat, four different styles of martial arts and various defensive styles. Any assistance is welcome, as Hogwarts has many students. A box will be placed near the Entrance Hall for anyone who would like to submit their assistance."
"Now, there is nothing left to say but this: zigger, canit, dice, whoohoo. Enjoy your day. Thank you." And Dumbledore swept out of the Great Hall in a swirl of brightly colored robes.
"That dude is so crazy," Duo muttered, half a piece of bacon hanging from his mouth.
"Some say that true power must be balanced by insanity. Perfect examples would be Dumbledore and He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named," Draco said as he stood up. "Either way, we have no time to think about that barmy coot. We have a class to attend, and Slytherins are never late."
"Aye aye, Malfoy, sir!" Duo said, saluting stiffly before collapsing in a giggling mass. Draco smiled fondly before leading the way to their first period, Divination.
~~~***~~~
Quatre and Trowa hurried through breakfast then followed their fellow Hufflepuffs out of the Great Hall. Quatre stopped for a moment and dropped a slip of parchment into the box Dumbledore had placed in the Entrance Hall, stating that he would assist in teaching Tai Chi (the meditaton half, anyway. He couldn't do any of the wavy-arm moves). Trowa did the same, willing to instruct some students in the art of Tae Kwon Do.
They moved with the stream of students, up one staircase that suddenly moved while they were on it (Quatre giggled and clapped his hands like some of the first years). Finally the group stepped off on the second floor, and the two boys watched as several sixth year Hufflepuffs entered a large wooden door at the back next to a mirror.
"I take it this is Charms?" Quatre asked a passing housemate, his schedule held before him. The Hufflepuff, a boy with dark brown curls, grey eyes and an easy smile, stopped and turned to Quatre.
"Aye, this be Charms," he said in a thick Scottish accent. The boy smiled at Quatre. "H'lo. Jon MacRamsey, 6th year. Who be ye?"
"Q-quatre Winner. I am also in my 6th year," the blond stuttered, blushing. Jon had an arresting smile. Unfortunately, Trowa didn't share the same sentiment.
"Trowa Barton. A pleasure. Are you going in?" Trowa said, stepping in front of Quatre. Jon looked taken aback.
"Er, aye. Nice ta meet ye. I'm goin' in," he said. He winked at Quatre. "See ye in class, little laddie." With one last smile, Jon entered the Charms classroom with the other Hufflepuffs. As soon as he was out of sight Trowa scowled.
"Trowa!" Quatre reprimanded, waving a slender finger in the tall European's face. "Why were you being so mean to that nice boy? You go apologize right now!"
A dark blush stained Trowa's face. He was sorry, kind of, but mostly embarassed. Oh no, he didn't care about the people milling about him heading to different classrooms watching him get scolded by a small blond boy. He cared that he'd lost control of his emotions and let a small spark of jealousy control his actions.
"I'm sorry, Quatre. I didn't mean to scare away your new friend. If you want, we can sit with him and make friends. Forgive me, angel," Trowa said softly, reaching out with one hand to softly caress the inside of Quatre's palm. The blond boy melted instantly. He leaned slightly into Trowa, tilting his head back ever so slowly for a kiss...and realized the Charms door was closing behind the last Hufflepuff.
Seperating, they hurried to the door and yanked it open again, slipping through and shutting it. Smoothing his robe quickly, Quatre tried to look casual as he searched for the face of the boy who'd made his boyfriend jealous. He spotted Jon sitting at a table in the far corner. There was a seat empty beside Jon and another seat empty beside the Justin Finch- Fletchy boy Susan Bones had pointed out earlier during breakfast. Unfortunately, Justin was sitting at the desk behind Jon, so the choice was kind of hard.
Not for Quatre, though. He hurried up and slipped into the seat beside Jon, smiling a greeting. Trowa stayed frozen to the spot for a moment, in momentary shock. He'd always known he wasn't good enough for Quatre, but having the evidence before his eyes was really fucking with his thought processes.
"Is something wrong, Mr. Barton, that you have to stand in the doorway of my classroom?" asked a cheerful voice. Trowa turned around and looked down. There stood the professor for the Charms course, the three foot tall dwarf, Linus Flitwick.
Embarassed (that seemed to be happening to him alot today) Trowa slipped into the seat beside Justin, trying especially hard not to stare evilly at the boy his lover was currently chattering happily with.
"Ahem, well," said the extremely short instructor. He moved to a high stack of books behind the podium and Trowa expected him to grab one and flip it open. That was not the case. Professor Flitwick climbed a stepping stool before stepping on te books themselves. They effectively gave him much needed height.
"Welcome to my summer Charms course, students," Flitwick began. "This will mainly be a revision course, helping you prepare for your N.E.W.T.s. You will be learning old charms and practicing them daily, as well as take exams on the practical part of the subject." Flitwick brought out his wand and gave it a wave. "I sincerely hope all of you know what this is? Good. Now put them away. You won't be needing them today."
Groans filled the room, the majority disappointed sighs. What else would you do in charms aside from casting? There was only one explanation. Bookwork.
"Now, now, children, don't get your knickers in a twist," Flitwick said with a laugh. "We will only be going over a brief history of Charms. Please open your books to page 349." The Hufflepuffs did as they were told. "Now read quietly until class ends. There will be a small quiz on Wednesday, after which we will review the Levitation Charm. Carry on, then."
Trowa looked down at his copy of Charmed, I'm Sure, one eyebrow raised. The page was filled to capacity with tiny, almost illegeble writing. Trowa noticed many saying a quick word under their breath and waving them at the book. After that, they leaned back in their chairs, closed their eyes, and relaxed.
"Jon, what is everyone doing?" Quatre asked the Scottish boy. Jon smiled back at the blond.
"Oh, their doing the Auditorius Spell. It's this spell that allows the book to read itself to you and only you can hear it. That way you can relax and not bother anyone else," he said. "Here, let me show you." Jon pulled out his wand, aimed it at his Charms book, and whispered, "Auditorius!" It seemed like nothing happened, but Jon smiled, indicating that the spell had worked. "You try it."
Quatre obeyed, and soon had an awed look on his face. Trowa lifted his wand and pointed it at his textbook, whispering the required word. Suddenly his head filled with words. Surprisingly, they were almost inaudible, and very soothing, the perfect tone for which to absorb teaching. He leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes, and allowed the words to wash over him.
[...When one uses the word "charm" in everyday conversation, one is usually referring to a certain sense of social grace, a rare enchanting quality that makes some people more alluring and persuasive than others. But the term "charm," which derives from an old Latin word for "song" or "ritual utterance" (carmen), has many different meanings, most of which are totally unrelated to a person's appearance or social skills. In a world of witchcraft and sorcery, a charm is usually a phrase that is recited or written down to achieve a particular magical effect...]**
And so the class went, with Trowa, Jon, Quatre and everyone else listening to their books as Professor Flitwick did Merlin knows what behind his desk.
**Just wanted to inform you that the above passage, as well as any passage for any class hereafter, was taken from either The Sorcerer's Companion by Allan Zola Kronzek and Elizabeth Kronzek, Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them by Newt Scamander, and Quidditch Through The Ages by Kennilworthy Whisp. Thank you.
~~~***~~~
Draco and Duo left the Great Hall in good spirits, still laughing at a joke Millicent had told. "C-can you imagine? Stockings? Stockings?!" Draco cried, almost falling over in mirth. Duo joined him quick enough, and soon they were drawing stares. They entered the Entrance Hall and Duo stopped Draco.
"Hol' on a minute, Dray. I wanna drop a note for this Physical Combat thingy," he said, snagging some stray parchment off the floor and digging in his robe pockets for a pen, Duo scribbled 'ninjitsu and street fighting', then tossed the scrap in the box.
"Dray?" Draco questioned, raising one aristocratic eyebrow.
Duo grinned. "Hey, gimme a break, ok? I've always wanted to call you that. It's kinda cute!" he said.
"Cute?! I'll have you know that--" Draco began.
"I know, I know," Duo interrupted. "The Malfoy family are never considered cute, even as a baby, because it is simply undignified. Yeah, whatever." Draco stared at him and opened his mouth, a question in his ice blue eyes. "How did I know that? Simple. People from my world spend a whole lotta time developin' your psyche, man. You're, like, the perfect subject or somethin'. I bet I know you better than you know yourself."
Draco just stared at Duo as if he'd grown an extra head. "Now don't we have a class to go to? Divination, wasn't it?" Duo continued. He skipped along, and Draco was obliged to follow.
They finally arrived on the 7th floor, curtesy of several moving staircases and a secret passage on the fourth floor Draco had known about. They entered the classroom, other Slytherins around them. Incense permeated the room in such large amounts one could see clouds of it floating by. Pansy, Blaise, Millicent, Crabbe and Goyle were already seated, Blaise and Millicent paired off, as well as the to hulks. Pansy sat alone, obviously waiting for Draco. In a corner a few seats behind Pansy sat Theodore Nott and Magdeline Greenlake (OC), an empty two-seater couch beside them.
"Let's sit over there," Draco said, his lip curling at the sight of Pansy. Duo agreed and they made themselves comfortable beside Magdeline and Theodore. Draco nodded to the two Slytherins. "Greenlake. Nott."
"Malfoy," said Theodore, nodding to Draco. He gestured to Duo. "Who's this?"
"I had forgotten that you weren't at the Welcoming Feast, Nott. This is one of the foreigners, Duo Maxwell. Say hello, Duo," Draco drawled.
"Hello Teddy. Maggie," Duo said, grinning to both. They looked taken aback. They were both used to people calling them by their last names, or atleast the entirety of their first names. This strange boy with the long braid, weird eyes and American accent had shocked them.
"Teddy?" Nott whispered.
"Maggie?" Magdeline whispered. Before either could say much else, a large glittery bug entered the room. Upon closer inspection the bug was revealed to be Sibyll Trelawney, the Divination Professor there at Hogwarts. She swept in and sat on her garishly sparkly cushion at the front of the room.
"Good morning, class," she said, her voice low and supposedly mysterious. To Duo, it sounded more like she was about to croak. "Today is the start of the summer programme, and I believe that it would be well spent reviewing a few key points about Divination. I have brought my usual summer assistants for this class, as I have been training them specifically for this introduction. You may begin, Miss Patil, Miss Brown."
Lavender Brown and Parvati Patil moved to the front of the Divination classroom from behind a curtain. Both wore garish colors and sparkled more than any human should.
"Who will I marry?" Lavender asked the class.
"How long will I live?" Parvati continued. "What's the winning number? Will this product sell?"
"Will this plane crash? Will we win the war?" Lavender finished. "Everyone from lovestruck teenagers to world leaders wants to know what lies ahead. That's why divination--the art of foretelling the future--has existed in some form in every culture in recorded history."
Lavender waved a hand and a screen appeared, showing various forms of divination. "Today one can find practitioners of the most popular forms of divination--astrology, tarot card reading, crystall-ball gazing, palm- reading, numerology, and tea-leaf reading-- in most any city," she said.
"And those examples are only a tiny sample of hundreds of divinatory systems that have been developed over the centuries...
~~~***~~~
Wufei stopped at the box inside the Entrance Hall, leaving a parchment stating that he would assist with the physical aspect of Tai Chi (he knew that Quatre would cover meditation), before he continued on his way to his first class. According to his schedule, and the Ravenclaw beside him, Terry Boot, that class was Transfiguration, with the Deputy Headmistress from earlier, Minerva McGonagall.
Also, according to the schedule, Gryffindor 6th years would also share this Transfiguration class with Ravenclaw. Meaning Wufei would most likely see Heero there at some point.
"What are you thinking about so deeply?" Terry asked, coming up beside Wufei. The oriental boy snorted.
"My commanding officer," he said without thinking. Hogwarts seemed to do that to him, all of them. It made them talk before they thought. It was actually highly embarassing.
"Commanding officer? What, do you foreign people play army or something?" the Ravenclaw asked, confusion marring his visage. Wufei grimaced, realizing his mistake.
"Um, yes, something like that. It is a game we play in America. Currently, Heero Yuy is our commanding officer," Wufei quickly explained.
A light seemed to go on in Terry's head. "Oh, I see. So this game overlaps real life?" he asked.
"Occasionally," Wufei said, quickly tiring of the subject. He hurriedly racked his brain for something the Ravenclaw would be interested in. "Well, er, have you read Home Life and Social Habits of British Muggles by Wilhelm Wigworthy?" he asked.
Terry's eyes lit up. "Why yes! Quite a piece of literature, that is! It deals extensively with the muggle concept of electricity and how--"
"Nihao ma," said a voice, cutting Terry off. Wufei woke from his Terry- induced stupor to glance up at the speaker. It was the girl he'd met at the feast, Suiren Zao Po of the Water Lily Clan. She was standing in front of the door to the Transfiguration classroom, which was one floor up from the Entrance Hall. Students flowed around her, and Wufei couldn't help but think she was just as beautiful as the first time he'd met her.
"Nihao ma, Lady Po," he said respectfully, bowing to the waist, then rising slowly.
Suiren laughed, and infectious sound. "You don't have to call me Lady, Mr.Chang," she said. "Unless you want me to call you Lord Chang all the time?"
"I am used to it," Wufei said, unwittingly pompous. Suiren frowned.
"Is that so? Well, I hope you find someone that doesn't mind calling you that, Mr.Chang. I have to be getting to class now. Good day." And she spun around and entered the Transfiguration classroom. Wufei frowned. What was wrong with her?
"Smooth, Chang. Suiren Po is a sweet girl, with ideals about people that lean toward equality and all that. I believe you have just...what is that American term?...'pissed her off'. Yes, that is it," Terry said. "Also, I think she liked you right up until five seconds ago, so I would not give up on her, if I were you."
"Give up on her? What do you--" Wufei began.
"Chang," said a cold, flat voice.
"Yuy," Wufei answered immediately, subconsciously straightening his tie and standing taller. Before him stood Heero, Harry beside him. "The usual?" At those words, Heero's eyes darted left and right, before coming back to rest on Wufei.
"Hai," he said quietly. "Harry tells me that inside our Houses will most likely split up. I'll relay you information the usual way." Heero bowed quickly. "See you inside."
"Understood," Wufei said, nodding at his 'commanding officer'. He waited until Heero and Harry passed through the doorway before following after, a slightly perplexed Terry trailing behind.
"What was all that about?" Harry asked, sliding into his usual seat during Transfiguration. Heero sat beside him and put his elbows on the table, steepling his fingers before him.
"Wufei and the others share a communication system through what we call 'the usual'. Truthfully, it is a series of hand gestures that convey a command or relevent information. For example, I could tell Wufei not to raise his hand, or if picked on, I could tell him the answer," Heero said, all in one breath. After his extensive monologue, he settled into the seat and closed his eyes.
Harry said nothing for a few minutes, then tapped Heero lightly on the shoulder. The asian teen cracked one Prussian blue eye and glared at Harry. His look seemed to convey, 'what, maggot.'
"Could you teach me this system?" Hogwart's Golden Boy asked. Heero momentarily looked surprised, then nodded. According to Dumbledore, the Gundam pilots had been brought to Hogwarts to assist Harry Potter in defeating the Dark Lord. Since that was the case, it would make sense to train Harry and perhaps Malfoy in all the various aspects of guerrilla warfare. In exchange, Harry and Malfoy could teach them more advanced spells, hexes and charms. Which meant that their original plan to have seperate tutors was shot. Not a problem.
"If I am to teach you this, in exchange you must teach the others and I advanced magic," Heero said.
Harry nodded. "No problem. Hermione and a few others can--"
"No. No others. Just you, us, and Malfoy." Heero gave Harry one cold, decisive look, then turned in his seat and moved his fingers rapidly for Wufei to see. Normally he'd be more discreet, but Professor McGonagall hadn't arrived yet and he wanted to make the message perfectly clear. After a moment Wufei nodded and rapidly 'talked' back. Heero nodded and turned around.
"What'd he say?" Harry asked, curious.
"He said that this is a good idea, but first we must test the honor of both you and Malfoy," Heero answered.
"Um, meaning?" Harry asked.
"Roughly, we do not trust you at all. Insufficient information." Before Heero could say more, Professor McGonagall entered the classroom. (A/N: Really quick, I wanna apologize for Heero's OOCness. I can't seem to get him back into character, so bear with me and I'll just chalk it up to post- Relena syndrome. Arigato! ^_^) The Professor immediately moved to the front of the room and began talking.
"First things first, this is a Transfiguration class. Not a Potions class, not a Herbology class, and definitely not a flying class. Therefore, if I catch any of you doing homework for another class, you will become well acquianted with Filch," she said.
"Filch?" Heero said.
"It's the Caretaker of Hogwarts. He lives in the dungeon and has a torture fetish a mile wide. If you get detention with him, there's a high chance you'll be traumatized for life," Harry answered solemnly. Heero nodded and turned back to the professor.
"Secondly, since this is a review course, I expect excellent results from everyone. The only exception are the foreign students. They do not know our ways. But YOU do. So no slacking off or you will receive three feet of homework every night until I deem you up to par. With that said, let us begin. Open you books to page 143 and begin readingm quietly. No spell, mind." And Professor McGonagall settled into her desk and began to grade N.E.W.T.s from the previous school year.
Wufei pulled out his copy of A Guide To Transfiguration Used By People With Five Years Of Subjection to Transfiguration Classes Under Their Belt by Emeric Switch Jr., and turned to the appropriate page. He read quickly, almost too fast for a normal person to keep up.
[...Transfiguration--the magical changing of a person, animal, or object into the form of another--is a complex and dangerous subject requiring years of study. But novices must begin with much less challenging assignments, like turning buttons into beetles...]
What in the hell is the point of that? Turning buttons into beetles, Wufei thought, staring down at the book in astonishment. His scholarly side reared up, and he immediately began reading again.
[...Tales of transfiguration (from the Latin trans, meaning "across," and figura, meaning "shape") are found in myths, fairy tales, and folklore from around the world. Cinderella's fairy godmother transfigures a pumpkin into a coach and mice into horses. In classic tales such as "The Frog Prince" and "Beauty and the Beast," handsome young men become croaking reptiles or repulsive ogres. The Greek witch Circe turns her front lawn into a virtual petting zoo by changing her visitors into tame lions, bears, and wolves (her less fortunate guests end up in the pigsty)...]
Something naggled at Wufei until he finally raised his hand. Professor McGonagall looked at him, her face pinched in slight annoyance. She'd really been getting into marking down the Slytherins. "Yes, Mr. Chang?"
"Was Circe real?" he asked. After a moment he realized just how juvenile his question sounded, and that was reinforced by the look Heero threw him, but Wufei was really beginning to love this world, with its myths and legends. His scholar's heart was finally being allowed to bloom.
"Why, of course, Mr.Chang! What ever have they been telling you in America?" the professor answered, a look of complete surprise on her face. "Madam Circe is indeed real, young Mr.Chang. As is many other supposedly mythological deities. Do a bit of research, if you will."
"Yes, Professor," Wufei said, a truly excited look on his face. As he turned back to his book, and errant thought ran through his head. Maybe this world wasn't as bad as he'd originally thought.
***Tsuzuku or TBC***
A/N: Alright, this part is finally done. I plan to finish morning class in the next chapter, and I want to know if any of you are still curious about the guardians. As you prolly noticed, I've forgotten about them, and I want to devote and entire chapter to them. Just post your answers and I'll be working on it. I promise not to take half as long as usual with the chapers, okay?
P.S. I'll be starting another GW fic called "Worshippers of Shi". Here is a teaser. Tell me what you think.
The doors to Kaatori Academy flew open and five boys stepped through. Their presence dominated the halls and proceeding corridor, reaching the teens in the classrooms behind each door. Soon each door was open and a class of teenagers were peeking through them at the five boys. Most immediately gasped while a few sighed.
Standing at the front, looking like he owned the building he had just entered, stood a boy with tanned skin, softly slanted blue eyes, and a messy mop of chocolate brown hair. He wore a loose black tank top, revealing his wiry muscles and thin arms. His legs were encased in skin tight black jeans.
Beside him, but a little behind stood a slightly shorter boy with a long rope of chestnut hair flowing down his back. Wide cobalt blue eyes looked out of a solemn face that gave the impression of a high capacity for humor. Pale skin graced his pixie-like face, giving away a fragile beauty instead of a rugged handsomeness like his companion. Dressed from head to toe in black leather, the boy wore a black shirt that zipped to his throat, a black mini leather jacket, and black leather shorts with silver chains running from one pocket to another.
To the first guy's left stood a tall boy with a strange hairstyle. A shock of his honey brown hair fell down his forehead, obscuring one eye. The other eye was a bright leaf green, accentuating his European toned skin and handsome face perfectly. He wore a black cashmere turtleneck and a black vest over that. His legs were poured into tight black jeans like.
Behind this walking wet dream was the very image of a fallen angel. Breaking the repetition of black slightly, this boy wore a black dress shirt, grey vest and tie, and gray Doc Marten slacks. Shorter still than the second boy, this boy had feathery blond hair cut short and boyishly, and aquamarine eyes that gleamed with something much more innocent than the other boys. Though his skin was pale, his Arabian heritage was evident by the gold rings on his fingers. An aura of kindness and calm surrounded him.
Lastly, surrounded by a cloud of displeasure, stood a boy of obvious oriental descent. To the right of the blond, this boy had shoulder length black hair pulled back into a tight ponytail, and onyx eyes so dark they were almost black. A tight black gi enveloped his lean form, molding to almost feminine curves. A black belt cinched it at the waist, the only break being the white cuffs and collar.
All five boys regarded the school with no small amount of disgust. It was evident they'd seen either better, or just plain didn't like the atmosphere.
Ja ne, minna! *wink* Love!!!
Part Eleven: School Finally Starts
Sitting up quickly, Heero's eyes moved restlessly as he scanned his surroundings. He didn't recognize where he was, but there were three possible exits, a large oak door entrance to his left, and two balconies with French doors. Scanning the room once more, Heero's Prussian blue eyes landed on the door to his right labeled 'Madam Pomphrey'. Not knowing who that was, Heero's eyes narrowed. Had he been captured?
"Calm down, Hee-bunny. It's mornin' and you need to get up. Madam Pomphrey is the nurse and you're in the Infirmary, or more specifically, the East Wing of Hogwarts," came a bright, bubbly voice. Heero looked up to see Duo standing in the doorway to the hall, black school robes clinging to his body and Quatre's blond head visibly behind him.
"Yes, it is perfectly safe, Heero. Madam Pomphrey says you may leave now. It's breakfast time now, and I think Duo would appreciate it if we went to eat before classes. We received our schedules yesterday and you have Transfiguration first. It's Monday, by the way," the blond said.
Heero looked from one boy to the other, guaging the danger level he was curently in by their eyes. When he found none, he nodded, 'hn'ed and got up. Duo ran forward and held out a Gryffindor school robe. "I got this for you, Hee-chan. The nurse says you can shower in there--" he pointed toward the bathroom, "before we head for breakfast. Ten minutes tops, Yuy!" Shoving the robes into Heero's hands, Duo grinned and both boys spun and left.
Staring down at the material clutched in his hand, Heero's eyes narrowed again. Finally, shrugging, Heero headed for the bathroom. "Hn."
~~~***~~~
Head bowed and deep in thought, Harry wandered into the Great Hall for breakfast, for once sans Hermione. Though he loved her as a friend, she sometimes hung around him a bit too much. And with the lose of Ron not two days ago, Harry was feeling a bit depressed. The only bright spot in this entire situation was Harry's new found comraderie with his crush, Draco Malfoy. The usually cruel Slytherin had been very good the last few days, and Harry hoped this would repeat all through the summer programme. It was too much to hope the boy liked him, but atleast he was being civil.
Harry was dragged from his thoughts by a sound from the entrance of the Great Hall. He slipped into his seat at the Gryffindor table and turned to watch the door. In came Duo and Quatre, followed by a disgruntled looking Heero. The braided boy was laughing along with the blond as Heero stalked to the table. He sat in the seat beside Harry and mumbled a tight 'Ohayo'.
The other two followed, Duo still laughing loudly. The braided boy threw his arms around Heero's neck and sat in his lap, hugging him. "Oh, come on, Hee-chan, stop bein' so uptight! Even Draco's looser than you!" he said, squeezing. Heero stiffened at Draco's name, as Harry did. Duo laughed again. "Jealous, Hee-babe?" The braided boy leaned closer, his nose almost touching a frozen Heero's. "Don't be jealous. I only have eyes for...you." Then Duo gave Heero's nose a big kiss and hopped up, changing the entire atmosphere in less than a second. He turned to Harry and winked.
"Let's go to our tables, Duo. We can't eat breakfast here everyday," Quatre piped up, tugging on Duo's arm while still blushing from his display. Grinning, Duo nodded.
"Right as always, Q-bean. Guess we'll meet back here before class then, ne? Ciao!" Duo gave Quatre a big hug before happily skipping to the Slytherin table. Still blushing, Quatre turned to Heero.
"Is that okay with you, Heero?" he asked. Heero gave his usual response and Quatre smiled softly. "Of course, Heero." Then the blond lowered his voice. "You know, if you want Duo to like you more, extend your vocabulary," he whispered. Nodding once, Quatre trotted to the Hufflepuff table and sat next to Susan Bones, immediately striking up a conversation on the merits of pink to yellow.
Harry turned to Heero, catching the glum look in his eyes. "What's wrong?" he asked, immediately regretting it when Heero shot him an eye eviler than any ever described to him. A moment later the despondent look was back, and Heero actually sighed.
"Duo is always telling me that I should talk more, stop being so anti- social. He calls my glare the Glare of Death. He even had it patented...what?" Heero said, catching Harry staring at him in astonishment.
Harry tried to shake it off but it was too late and he blushed. "Sorry. The thing is, this is the most I've ever heard you say since I met you. No offense or anything," he rushed to say.
"None taken," Heero answered, a bemused smile on his face. "I don't have very many...people skills. They weren't required for a sol--for my line of work."
"What was your line of work?" Harry asked curiously. Heero shot him the Glare of Death and his mouth shut with a click.
An apologetic look appeared on his face. "Gomen ne. Reflex. But I really can't tell you, not until I trust you more. Maybe when the others have fully accepted you will I tell you our pasts," Heero said. "That said, I must have breakfast. Today will be a day of firsts and I must have strength for it."
Nodding in understanding, Harry dug into the eggs, bacon, sausage and kippers served for breakfast. Heero consumed just as much as he did, and soon they were on their second plates. Before they were quite finished, Dumbledore stood.
"Students, Professors, staff and ghosts of Hogwarts, I would like to solemnly welcome you to the first annual Hogwart's School of Witchcraft and Wizardry summer programme. I am extremely pleased with the amount of students that decided to take these extra classes over the summer to further your education early. As I understand it, this is a muggle practice, but the wizarding world would do well to take up a few of these rituals," Dumbledore began, blue eyes twinkling.
"Breakfast is truly a unifying affair this morning. I spy several Ravenclaws and Hufflepuffs at different House tables. Unfortunately, it seems as if the Slytherins and Gryffindors aren't getting into the spirit. Need I remind you of the importance of a unified front?" Straightening his robe collar, Dumbledore continued. "As I was saying, I would like to congratulate Hermione Granger on expanding the Society for the Protection of Elvish Welfare to Rome, the entirety of France, and parts of East Russia. Good job, Miss Granger."
The Gryffindor table exploded into applause, as well as a few Ravenclaws, Hufflepuffs, and Draco, the only Slytherin. Hermione just sat there and blushed redder and redder until even Ron, now their mortal enemy, was visibly concerned.
Professor McGonagall performed a quick calming spell, then Dumbledore continued. "As my final announcement, I would like to introduce a new professor, someone I'm sure none of you have heard of. He will be teaching Physical Combat. Please welcome Professor Romulus Lupin."
Complete quiet descended over the Great Hall, not a sound issuing from even the Gryffindor table. Harry's mind worked furiously as he tried to remember where he'd heard the name before. 'Oh, on that tapestry thingy in Sirius' house. What was it--oh, Remus' brother! But I thought he was dead or something,' Harry thought, everything jumbling in his mind. 'Well, only one way to find out.' Harry stood. "Sir? Are you related to Remus Lupin in any way?"
Several students stared at Harry as Romulus, a tall, young looking man with darker blond hair than Remus and deep blue eyes, moved forward. "Hm, Harry Potter, is it?" Romulus drawled. "A bit small for his age, isn't he?"
Harry blushed lightly, but stood straighter. "Answer my question, sir," Harry demanded softly. Romulus looked a bit surprised, then smiled.
"Aw, yes, courage of a Gryffindor. How very quaint. Yes, I happen to be Remus' older brother," he said, smirking. "What is it to you, little Griffy?"
Harry scowled. How dare this man call him that! "None of your business...*sir*." And Harry sat down.
"Aheh..ahem, yes, that was...er...interesting, wouldn't you say, Minerva?" Dumbledore stammered, sending surreptitious looks toward both Romulus and Harry. "As I was saying, Professor Lupin will be teaching anyone who is willing during lunch hours, and occasionally after dinner. If you are willing to forego eating, he will instruct you in hand-to-hand combat, four different styles of martial arts and various defensive styles. Any assistance is welcome, as Hogwarts has many students. A box will be placed near the Entrance Hall for anyone who would like to submit their assistance."
"Now, there is nothing left to say but this: zigger, canit, dice, whoohoo. Enjoy your day. Thank you." And Dumbledore swept out of the Great Hall in a swirl of brightly colored robes.
"That dude is so crazy," Duo muttered, half a piece of bacon hanging from his mouth.
"Some say that true power must be balanced by insanity. Perfect examples would be Dumbledore and He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named," Draco said as he stood up. "Either way, we have no time to think about that barmy coot. We have a class to attend, and Slytherins are never late."
"Aye aye, Malfoy, sir!" Duo said, saluting stiffly before collapsing in a giggling mass. Draco smiled fondly before leading the way to their first period, Divination.
~~~***~~~
Quatre and Trowa hurried through breakfast then followed their fellow Hufflepuffs out of the Great Hall. Quatre stopped for a moment and dropped a slip of parchment into the box Dumbledore had placed in the Entrance Hall, stating that he would assist in teaching Tai Chi (the meditaton half, anyway. He couldn't do any of the wavy-arm moves). Trowa did the same, willing to instruct some students in the art of Tae Kwon Do.
They moved with the stream of students, up one staircase that suddenly moved while they were on it (Quatre giggled and clapped his hands like some of the first years). Finally the group stepped off on the second floor, and the two boys watched as several sixth year Hufflepuffs entered a large wooden door at the back next to a mirror.
"I take it this is Charms?" Quatre asked a passing housemate, his schedule held before him. The Hufflepuff, a boy with dark brown curls, grey eyes and an easy smile, stopped and turned to Quatre.
"Aye, this be Charms," he said in a thick Scottish accent. The boy smiled at Quatre. "H'lo. Jon MacRamsey, 6th year. Who be ye?"
"Q-quatre Winner. I am also in my 6th year," the blond stuttered, blushing. Jon had an arresting smile. Unfortunately, Trowa didn't share the same sentiment.
"Trowa Barton. A pleasure. Are you going in?" Trowa said, stepping in front of Quatre. Jon looked taken aback.
"Er, aye. Nice ta meet ye. I'm goin' in," he said. He winked at Quatre. "See ye in class, little laddie." With one last smile, Jon entered the Charms classroom with the other Hufflepuffs. As soon as he was out of sight Trowa scowled.
"Trowa!" Quatre reprimanded, waving a slender finger in the tall European's face. "Why were you being so mean to that nice boy? You go apologize right now!"
A dark blush stained Trowa's face. He was sorry, kind of, but mostly embarassed. Oh no, he didn't care about the people milling about him heading to different classrooms watching him get scolded by a small blond boy. He cared that he'd lost control of his emotions and let a small spark of jealousy control his actions.
"I'm sorry, Quatre. I didn't mean to scare away your new friend. If you want, we can sit with him and make friends. Forgive me, angel," Trowa said softly, reaching out with one hand to softly caress the inside of Quatre's palm. The blond boy melted instantly. He leaned slightly into Trowa, tilting his head back ever so slowly for a kiss...and realized the Charms door was closing behind the last Hufflepuff.
Seperating, they hurried to the door and yanked it open again, slipping through and shutting it. Smoothing his robe quickly, Quatre tried to look casual as he searched for the face of the boy who'd made his boyfriend jealous. He spotted Jon sitting at a table in the far corner. There was a seat empty beside Jon and another seat empty beside the Justin Finch- Fletchy boy Susan Bones had pointed out earlier during breakfast. Unfortunately, Justin was sitting at the desk behind Jon, so the choice was kind of hard.
Not for Quatre, though. He hurried up and slipped into the seat beside Jon, smiling a greeting. Trowa stayed frozen to the spot for a moment, in momentary shock. He'd always known he wasn't good enough for Quatre, but having the evidence before his eyes was really fucking with his thought processes.
"Is something wrong, Mr. Barton, that you have to stand in the doorway of my classroom?" asked a cheerful voice. Trowa turned around and looked down. There stood the professor for the Charms course, the three foot tall dwarf, Linus Flitwick.
Embarassed (that seemed to be happening to him alot today) Trowa slipped into the seat beside Justin, trying especially hard not to stare evilly at the boy his lover was currently chattering happily with.
"Ahem, well," said the extremely short instructor. He moved to a high stack of books behind the podium and Trowa expected him to grab one and flip it open. That was not the case. Professor Flitwick climbed a stepping stool before stepping on te books themselves. They effectively gave him much needed height.
"Welcome to my summer Charms course, students," Flitwick began. "This will mainly be a revision course, helping you prepare for your N.E.W.T.s. You will be learning old charms and practicing them daily, as well as take exams on the practical part of the subject." Flitwick brought out his wand and gave it a wave. "I sincerely hope all of you know what this is? Good. Now put them away. You won't be needing them today."
Groans filled the room, the majority disappointed sighs. What else would you do in charms aside from casting? There was only one explanation. Bookwork.
"Now, now, children, don't get your knickers in a twist," Flitwick said with a laugh. "We will only be going over a brief history of Charms. Please open your books to page 349." The Hufflepuffs did as they were told. "Now read quietly until class ends. There will be a small quiz on Wednesday, after which we will review the Levitation Charm. Carry on, then."
Trowa looked down at his copy of Charmed, I'm Sure, one eyebrow raised. The page was filled to capacity with tiny, almost illegeble writing. Trowa noticed many saying a quick word under their breath and waving them at the book. After that, they leaned back in their chairs, closed their eyes, and relaxed.
"Jon, what is everyone doing?" Quatre asked the Scottish boy. Jon smiled back at the blond.
"Oh, their doing the Auditorius Spell. It's this spell that allows the book to read itself to you and only you can hear it. That way you can relax and not bother anyone else," he said. "Here, let me show you." Jon pulled out his wand, aimed it at his Charms book, and whispered, "Auditorius!" It seemed like nothing happened, but Jon smiled, indicating that the spell had worked. "You try it."
Quatre obeyed, and soon had an awed look on his face. Trowa lifted his wand and pointed it at his textbook, whispering the required word. Suddenly his head filled with words. Surprisingly, they were almost inaudible, and very soothing, the perfect tone for which to absorb teaching. He leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes, and allowed the words to wash over him.
[...When one uses the word "charm" in everyday conversation, one is usually referring to a certain sense of social grace, a rare enchanting quality that makes some people more alluring and persuasive than others. But the term "charm," which derives from an old Latin word for "song" or "ritual utterance" (carmen), has many different meanings, most of which are totally unrelated to a person's appearance or social skills. In a world of witchcraft and sorcery, a charm is usually a phrase that is recited or written down to achieve a particular magical effect...]**
And so the class went, with Trowa, Jon, Quatre and everyone else listening to their books as Professor Flitwick did Merlin knows what behind his desk.
**Just wanted to inform you that the above passage, as well as any passage for any class hereafter, was taken from either The Sorcerer's Companion by Allan Zola Kronzek and Elizabeth Kronzek, Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them by Newt Scamander, and Quidditch Through The Ages by Kennilworthy Whisp. Thank you.
~~~***~~~
Draco and Duo left the Great Hall in good spirits, still laughing at a joke Millicent had told. "C-can you imagine? Stockings? Stockings?!" Draco cried, almost falling over in mirth. Duo joined him quick enough, and soon they were drawing stares. They entered the Entrance Hall and Duo stopped Draco.
"Hol' on a minute, Dray. I wanna drop a note for this Physical Combat thingy," he said, snagging some stray parchment off the floor and digging in his robe pockets for a pen, Duo scribbled 'ninjitsu and street fighting', then tossed the scrap in the box.
"Dray?" Draco questioned, raising one aristocratic eyebrow.
Duo grinned. "Hey, gimme a break, ok? I've always wanted to call you that. It's kinda cute!" he said.
"Cute?! I'll have you know that--" Draco began.
"I know, I know," Duo interrupted. "The Malfoy family are never considered cute, even as a baby, because it is simply undignified. Yeah, whatever." Draco stared at him and opened his mouth, a question in his ice blue eyes. "How did I know that? Simple. People from my world spend a whole lotta time developin' your psyche, man. You're, like, the perfect subject or somethin'. I bet I know you better than you know yourself."
Draco just stared at Duo as if he'd grown an extra head. "Now don't we have a class to go to? Divination, wasn't it?" Duo continued. He skipped along, and Draco was obliged to follow.
They finally arrived on the 7th floor, curtesy of several moving staircases and a secret passage on the fourth floor Draco had known about. They entered the classroom, other Slytherins around them. Incense permeated the room in such large amounts one could see clouds of it floating by. Pansy, Blaise, Millicent, Crabbe and Goyle were already seated, Blaise and Millicent paired off, as well as the to hulks. Pansy sat alone, obviously waiting for Draco. In a corner a few seats behind Pansy sat Theodore Nott and Magdeline Greenlake (OC), an empty two-seater couch beside them.
"Let's sit over there," Draco said, his lip curling at the sight of Pansy. Duo agreed and they made themselves comfortable beside Magdeline and Theodore. Draco nodded to the two Slytherins. "Greenlake. Nott."
"Malfoy," said Theodore, nodding to Draco. He gestured to Duo. "Who's this?"
"I had forgotten that you weren't at the Welcoming Feast, Nott. This is one of the foreigners, Duo Maxwell. Say hello, Duo," Draco drawled.
"Hello Teddy. Maggie," Duo said, grinning to both. They looked taken aback. They were both used to people calling them by their last names, or atleast the entirety of their first names. This strange boy with the long braid, weird eyes and American accent had shocked them.
"Teddy?" Nott whispered.
"Maggie?" Magdeline whispered. Before either could say much else, a large glittery bug entered the room. Upon closer inspection the bug was revealed to be Sibyll Trelawney, the Divination Professor there at Hogwarts. She swept in and sat on her garishly sparkly cushion at the front of the room.
"Good morning, class," she said, her voice low and supposedly mysterious. To Duo, it sounded more like she was about to croak. "Today is the start of the summer programme, and I believe that it would be well spent reviewing a few key points about Divination. I have brought my usual summer assistants for this class, as I have been training them specifically for this introduction. You may begin, Miss Patil, Miss Brown."
Lavender Brown and Parvati Patil moved to the front of the Divination classroom from behind a curtain. Both wore garish colors and sparkled more than any human should.
"Who will I marry?" Lavender asked the class.
"How long will I live?" Parvati continued. "What's the winning number? Will this product sell?"
"Will this plane crash? Will we win the war?" Lavender finished. "Everyone from lovestruck teenagers to world leaders wants to know what lies ahead. That's why divination--the art of foretelling the future--has existed in some form in every culture in recorded history."
Lavender waved a hand and a screen appeared, showing various forms of divination. "Today one can find practitioners of the most popular forms of divination--astrology, tarot card reading, crystall-ball gazing, palm- reading, numerology, and tea-leaf reading-- in most any city," she said.
"And those examples are only a tiny sample of hundreds of divinatory systems that have been developed over the centuries...
~~~***~~~
Wufei stopped at the box inside the Entrance Hall, leaving a parchment stating that he would assist with the physical aspect of Tai Chi (he knew that Quatre would cover meditation), before he continued on his way to his first class. According to his schedule, and the Ravenclaw beside him, Terry Boot, that class was Transfiguration, with the Deputy Headmistress from earlier, Minerva McGonagall.
Also, according to the schedule, Gryffindor 6th years would also share this Transfiguration class with Ravenclaw. Meaning Wufei would most likely see Heero there at some point.
"What are you thinking about so deeply?" Terry asked, coming up beside Wufei. The oriental boy snorted.
"My commanding officer," he said without thinking. Hogwarts seemed to do that to him, all of them. It made them talk before they thought. It was actually highly embarassing.
"Commanding officer? What, do you foreign people play army or something?" the Ravenclaw asked, confusion marring his visage. Wufei grimaced, realizing his mistake.
"Um, yes, something like that. It is a game we play in America. Currently, Heero Yuy is our commanding officer," Wufei quickly explained.
A light seemed to go on in Terry's head. "Oh, I see. So this game overlaps real life?" he asked.
"Occasionally," Wufei said, quickly tiring of the subject. He hurriedly racked his brain for something the Ravenclaw would be interested in. "Well, er, have you read Home Life and Social Habits of British Muggles by Wilhelm Wigworthy?" he asked.
Terry's eyes lit up. "Why yes! Quite a piece of literature, that is! It deals extensively with the muggle concept of electricity and how--"
"Nihao ma," said a voice, cutting Terry off. Wufei woke from his Terry- induced stupor to glance up at the speaker. It was the girl he'd met at the feast, Suiren Zao Po of the Water Lily Clan. She was standing in front of the door to the Transfiguration classroom, which was one floor up from the Entrance Hall. Students flowed around her, and Wufei couldn't help but think she was just as beautiful as the first time he'd met her.
"Nihao ma, Lady Po," he said respectfully, bowing to the waist, then rising slowly.
Suiren laughed, and infectious sound. "You don't have to call me Lady, Mr.Chang," she said. "Unless you want me to call you Lord Chang all the time?"
"I am used to it," Wufei said, unwittingly pompous. Suiren frowned.
"Is that so? Well, I hope you find someone that doesn't mind calling you that, Mr.Chang. I have to be getting to class now. Good day." And she spun around and entered the Transfiguration classroom. Wufei frowned. What was wrong with her?
"Smooth, Chang. Suiren Po is a sweet girl, with ideals about people that lean toward equality and all that. I believe you have just...what is that American term?...'pissed her off'. Yes, that is it," Terry said. "Also, I think she liked you right up until five seconds ago, so I would not give up on her, if I were you."
"Give up on her? What do you--" Wufei began.
"Chang," said a cold, flat voice.
"Yuy," Wufei answered immediately, subconsciously straightening his tie and standing taller. Before him stood Heero, Harry beside him. "The usual?" At those words, Heero's eyes darted left and right, before coming back to rest on Wufei.
"Hai," he said quietly. "Harry tells me that inside our Houses will most likely split up. I'll relay you information the usual way." Heero bowed quickly. "See you inside."
"Understood," Wufei said, nodding at his 'commanding officer'. He waited until Heero and Harry passed through the doorway before following after, a slightly perplexed Terry trailing behind.
"What was all that about?" Harry asked, sliding into his usual seat during Transfiguration. Heero sat beside him and put his elbows on the table, steepling his fingers before him.
"Wufei and the others share a communication system through what we call 'the usual'. Truthfully, it is a series of hand gestures that convey a command or relevent information. For example, I could tell Wufei not to raise his hand, or if picked on, I could tell him the answer," Heero said, all in one breath. After his extensive monologue, he settled into the seat and closed his eyes.
Harry said nothing for a few minutes, then tapped Heero lightly on the shoulder. The asian teen cracked one Prussian blue eye and glared at Harry. His look seemed to convey, 'what, maggot.'
"Could you teach me this system?" Hogwart's Golden Boy asked. Heero momentarily looked surprised, then nodded. According to Dumbledore, the Gundam pilots had been brought to Hogwarts to assist Harry Potter in defeating the Dark Lord. Since that was the case, it would make sense to train Harry and perhaps Malfoy in all the various aspects of guerrilla warfare. In exchange, Harry and Malfoy could teach them more advanced spells, hexes and charms. Which meant that their original plan to have seperate tutors was shot. Not a problem.
"If I am to teach you this, in exchange you must teach the others and I advanced magic," Heero said.
Harry nodded. "No problem. Hermione and a few others can--"
"No. No others. Just you, us, and Malfoy." Heero gave Harry one cold, decisive look, then turned in his seat and moved his fingers rapidly for Wufei to see. Normally he'd be more discreet, but Professor McGonagall hadn't arrived yet and he wanted to make the message perfectly clear. After a moment Wufei nodded and rapidly 'talked' back. Heero nodded and turned around.
"What'd he say?" Harry asked, curious.
"He said that this is a good idea, but first we must test the honor of both you and Malfoy," Heero answered.
"Um, meaning?" Harry asked.
"Roughly, we do not trust you at all. Insufficient information." Before Heero could say more, Professor McGonagall entered the classroom. (A/N: Really quick, I wanna apologize for Heero's OOCness. I can't seem to get him back into character, so bear with me and I'll just chalk it up to post- Relena syndrome. Arigato! ^_^) The Professor immediately moved to the front of the room and began talking.
"First things first, this is a Transfiguration class. Not a Potions class, not a Herbology class, and definitely not a flying class. Therefore, if I catch any of you doing homework for another class, you will become well acquianted with Filch," she said.
"Filch?" Heero said.
"It's the Caretaker of Hogwarts. He lives in the dungeon and has a torture fetish a mile wide. If you get detention with him, there's a high chance you'll be traumatized for life," Harry answered solemnly. Heero nodded and turned back to the professor.
"Secondly, since this is a review course, I expect excellent results from everyone. The only exception are the foreign students. They do not know our ways. But YOU do. So no slacking off or you will receive three feet of homework every night until I deem you up to par. With that said, let us begin. Open you books to page 143 and begin readingm quietly. No spell, mind." And Professor McGonagall settled into her desk and began to grade N.E.W.T.s from the previous school year.
Wufei pulled out his copy of A Guide To Transfiguration Used By People With Five Years Of Subjection to Transfiguration Classes Under Their Belt by Emeric Switch Jr., and turned to the appropriate page. He read quickly, almost too fast for a normal person to keep up.
[...Transfiguration--the magical changing of a person, animal, or object into the form of another--is a complex and dangerous subject requiring years of study. But novices must begin with much less challenging assignments, like turning buttons into beetles...]
What in the hell is the point of that? Turning buttons into beetles, Wufei thought, staring down at the book in astonishment. His scholarly side reared up, and he immediately began reading again.
[...Tales of transfiguration (from the Latin trans, meaning "across," and figura, meaning "shape") are found in myths, fairy tales, and folklore from around the world. Cinderella's fairy godmother transfigures a pumpkin into a coach and mice into horses. In classic tales such as "The Frog Prince" and "Beauty and the Beast," handsome young men become croaking reptiles or repulsive ogres. The Greek witch Circe turns her front lawn into a virtual petting zoo by changing her visitors into tame lions, bears, and wolves (her less fortunate guests end up in the pigsty)...]
Something naggled at Wufei until he finally raised his hand. Professor McGonagall looked at him, her face pinched in slight annoyance. She'd really been getting into marking down the Slytherins. "Yes, Mr. Chang?"
"Was Circe real?" he asked. After a moment he realized just how juvenile his question sounded, and that was reinforced by the look Heero threw him, but Wufei was really beginning to love this world, with its myths and legends. His scholar's heart was finally being allowed to bloom.
"Why, of course, Mr.Chang! What ever have they been telling you in America?" the professor answered, a look of complete surprise on her face. "Madam Circe is indeed real, young Mr.Chang. As is many other supposedly mythological deities. Do a bit of research, if you will."
"Yes, Professor," Wufei said, a truly excited look on his face. As he turned back to his book, and errant thought ran through his head. Maybe this world wasn't as bad as he'd originally thought.
***Tsuzuku or TBC***
A/N: Alright, this part is finally done. I plan to finish morning class in the next chapter, and I want to know if any of you are still curious about the guardians. As you prolly noticed, I've forgotten about them, and I want to devote and entire chapter to them. Just post your answers and I'll be working on it. I promise not to take half as long as usual with the chapers, okay?
P.S. I'll be starting another GW fic called "Worshippers of Shi". Here is a teaser. Tell me what you think.
The doors to Kaatori Academy flew open and five boys stepped through. Their presence dominated the halls and proceeding corridor, reaching the teens in the classrooms behind each door. Soon each door was open and a class of teenagers were peeking through them at the five boys. Most immediately gasped while a few sighed.
Standing at the front, looking like he owned the building he had just entered, stood a boy with tanned skin, softly slanted blue eyes, and a messy mop of chocolate brown hair. He wore a loose black tank top, revealing his wiry muscles and thin arms. His legs were encased in skin tight black jeans.
Beside him, but a little behind stood a slightly shorter boy with a long rope of chestnut hair flowing down his back. Wide cobalt blue eyes looked out of a solemn face that gave the impression of a high capacity for humor. Pale skin graced his pixie-like face, giving away a fragile beauty instead of a rugged handsomeness like his companion. Dressed from head to toe in black leather, the boy wore a black shirt that zipped to his throat, a black mini leather jacket, and black leather shorts with silver chains running from one pocket to another.
To the first guy's left stood a tall boy with a strange hairstyle. A shock of his honey brown hair fell down his forehead, obscuring one eye. The other eye was a bright leaf green, accentuating his European toned skin and handsome face perfectly. He wore a black cashmere turtleneck and a black vest over that. His legs were poured into tight black jeans like.
Behind this walking wet dream was the very image of a fallen angel. Breaking the repetition of black slightly, this boy wore a black dress shirt, grey vest and tie, and gray Doc Marten slacks. Shorter still than the second boy, this boy had feathery blond hair cut short and boyishly, and aquamarine eyes that gleamed with something much more innocent than the other boys. Though his skin was pale, his Arabian heritage was evident by the gold rings on his fingers. An aura of kindness and calm surrounded him.
Lastly, surrounded by a cloud of displeasure, stood a boy of obvious oriental descent. To the right of the blond, this boy had shoulder length black hair pulled back into a tight ponytail, and onyx eyes so dark they were almost black. A tight black gi enveloped his lean form, molding to almost feminine curves. A black belt cinched it at the waist, the only break being the white cuffs and collar.
All five boys regarded the school with no small amount of disgust. It was evident they'd seen either better, or just plain didn't like the atmosphere.
Ja ne, minna! *wink* Love!!!