Disclaimer: All of the characters from HP are owned by JK Rowling's and
all the characters from Charmed are owned by the WB. All other characters
and plot lines are owned by myself.
Chapter 3: Beginnings
Meanwhile, the students were just walking into the Great Hall for their last evening of freedom before classes began the next day. While Payton was happy she was getting to know some of the other students in her house, she had been anxiously looking for Ginny. By the time Payton had woken up that morning, Ginny had already gone, and while Payton had hoped to catch up with her throughout the day, she just wasn't able to find her. Apparently Ginny wasn't the only one missing though. Harry and Hermione had also been looking for Ron, Ginny's brother, all day too. At least that had given Payton the opportunity to get to know these two amazing people. She had heard stories of the Boy-Who-Lived before and from what everyone else had said Hermione was one of the best witches in Hogwarts.
Payton was surprised at how well they had gotten along. Hermione showed her to the library where she was in awe at the vast amount of books and other magical materials Hogwarts possessed. Beaubaxtons didn't have half that many books and Payton would know, since she spent most of her time in that very room. However, the best part about the day so far was hearing Harry retell his tales of the adventures of these three friends over their last four years here. Even though Payton could sense they were both nervous about the state of the wizarding world, it was also obvious these two friends had grown into so much more. In fact, Payton had begun to feel like a third wheel shortly after lunch and had excused herself to do some exploring. Knowing she hadn't even scratched the surface, Payton was already amazed at everything Hogwart's had to offer.
Payton made her way back to the Great Hall for dinner, she couldn't help hoping Ginny would show up for this meal. It amazed Payton at how close she felt to a girl she barely knew, but Payton also knew after all these years not to question those feelings; she attributed them to her strongest power. Walking into the Great Hall, Payton made her way to the Gryffindor table, just as Harry and Hermione waved her over. Payton took a seat slightly down a bit from them, since they were sitting so close, she figured it would be best not interrupt so she just muttered a hello as she walked by and sat down at the table. Just then she looked up to the entrance of the hall as Ginny and Ron walked in, she held up a hand and gestured them over.
All the nervousness Payton had been feeling about what had happened the night before quickly faded away when Ginny acknowledged Payton's gesture with a wave and a huge smile. Dragging her brother behind her, Ginny made her way to the seat Payton was saving for her.
As they were making their way to the table, Ron noticed Harry and Hermione sneaking a kiss while the rest of the hall babbled on incessantly. Frustrated by this very public display of affection, Ron's ears began to turn very red. Just at that moment, as Ginny turned to say something to her brother, she noticed his ears instantly and flung her head around to see what was causing her brother's distress. Catching the tail end of Harry and Hermione's kiss, Ginny inwardly cringed at the pain her brother must be feeling and walked directly by the two of them without saying a word. Ginny directed Ron to sit on the opposite side of Payton, where he was unable to see "the new couple's" exploits, as she ran around to the other side of the table. Payton noticed the unusual way Ginny was behaving but shrugged it off as her new friend sat down. Just as they were about to start talking about the day's events, Dumbledore silenced the hall and began to talk.
"Good evening once again to students and staff. I hope you all enjoyed your last day off as tomorrow starts your new term here at Hogwarts. I just wanted to call your attention to two things before I start the dinner. First of all, please remember to wait until you receive your class schedules before leaving the dining hall tonight. Secondly, even though she was unable to make this evening's dinner, I wanted to let you all know our new Defense against the Dark Arts teacher arrived this afternoon and I wanted to remind you all (he looked pointedly in the direction of the Slytherins) to be on your best behavior for her as she gets used to her new surroundings. Thank you all," Dumbledore concluded and instantly the food appeared at their tables.
"Payton, before he eats the entire table in one swift move, I would like to introduce you to my brother, Ronald Weasley," Ginny managed to introduce them.
Grinning, with a drumstick in his hand, Ron smiled at Payton and he said, "Call me Ron. Nice to meet you." Suddenly, their eyes connected as he looked up and Payton began to blush furiously, "I'mmm Payyy-ton" she stumbled. She had never experienced that kind of instant connection with someone by just meeting their eyes. It was as if she could look directly into him and see who he really was without any pretenses and it scared her. Her grandmother had always told her the eyes were the windows to the soul, but Payton had never really grasped the enormity of that phrase until tonight. Stunned by this new development, Payton turned to try to escape the sudden awkwardness she was feeling. Payton began babbling about her day to Ginny while peppering her with questions about Ginny's day, the castle, and some of her classmates; hoping no one would notice how uncomfortable she was in her own skin right now.
Ginny witnessed the exchange that had just occurred between her brother and her new friend and she smiled. /Maybe Ron wouldn't be having such a bad year after all, she thought./ Ginny began to answer some of Payton's questions, while she pondered some of her own.
"So Payton, I'm sorry to have left you all day but Ron and I needed a little quality time together. What did you wind up doing?" Ginny questioned.
"Well actually I spent most of the day with Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. They were looking for Ron and I was looking for you so we deduced you two must have been together. While we were searching for the two of you, they were showing me the castle and grounds. However, after lunch I started to feel like the odd man out, so I left to do some exploring on my own. Are they a couple, because they seem really close?" Payton nodded over to where Harry and Hermione were sitting. Both the girls couldn't help but notice Ron's obvious discomfort as he was cringing every time Harry and Hermione were mentioned.
Hoping to change the topic, Ginny answered very briefly, "Yes, I believe they are." "So Payton, I had so many questions I wanted to ask you today. Do you mind?" At the widening of Payton's eyes, Ginny pointed out "I was wondering if you could tell me about Beauxbatons, why you came here, and maybe where you are from."
Payton relieved that she didn't mention her powers in front of Ron said, "Sure, I would love too. Even though it probably isn't as exciting as you may think."
"I grew up in the town of Toulon, France. Well it was more of a city than a town, constantly bustlingly with activity, thousands of tourists (Muggles of course) filtered in and out every day. Toulon is a beautiful city of the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. My grandparents Marie and Avenall Trudeau lived in the house of Avenall's ancestors. Our house was high on the burnt orange cliffs overlooking the sea. I miss gazing at the sea every day, the smell of the ocean, the deep blue ocean the color of the night sky, I love the sea, and it's endless possibilities. Anyway, my grandparents had left the house and moved to America, it wasn't until after my grandfather retired from his muggle job that they finally moved back.
See my grandparents were both magical people, but they very rarely used their magic. So, after they had my father Andy, and moved to America, they stopped using magic completely. My grandparents waited for the longest time for my father's abilities to manifest themselves, but he kept them hidden because he was scared. After my father graduated high school, he decided to remain in America to attend the police academy and stay with his girlfriend, Prue, because she was a year behind him in high school. My grandparents had wanted him to return to Toulon with them but he refused. It wasn't until about a year later that my father even spoke to them again.
One morning my father and mother showed up at my grandparents doorstep. Apparently, they had gotten pregnant but Prue couldn't tell her family and Andy was just starting his first assignment on the force. They asked my grandparents for help and they took me in. Really, I wish I could thank them because my grandparents loved me so much that I couldn't even imagine it any differently. They taught me magic and how to use my powers. (Payton paused here and looked up at Ron, he hadn't seemed to notice anything unusual so she continued with her story.) I really had it all.
Then when I was eleven I received two letters to attend school. One was from Hogwart's and the other was from Beauxbatons. I decided to go to Beauxbatons because it was closer to my home. Shortly after I left for school, my grandmother passed away. Three years later, my grandfather followed. With nothing tying me to Toulon anymore I owled Headmaster Dumbledore and asked to be transferred. And so now, here I am. There is more to that story but that's the overall gist of it." After explaining all of this Payton looked pointedly at Ginny as seeming to convey with her eyes, she would tell her later.
Ginny sighed. "Wow, Payton that's some history you got here."
Payton smiled, "I wouldn't have had it any other way. I loved my grandparents as if they were my parents and I have no regrets about how I was raised."
At that moment, Ron turned to say something to Payton when Professor McGonagall interrupted with an ehhem. "Here are your schedules, Ron and Ginny Weasley. Payton Trudeau, I am afraid I was unable to formally introduce myself last night; I am Professor McGonagall, Head of Gryffindor House, and your Transfigurations teacher. Here is your schedule." " Thanks, and nice to meet you too." Payton replied.
As Professor McGonagall walked away, Ginny, Payton, and Ron hunched over their schedules to review the upcoming year. "Cool fourth and fifth years are studying together in Defense against the Dark Arts, Herbology, and Potions, this year Gin" Ron exclaimed. "Payton looks like we have all of the same classes. Good I was worried you may have chosen a different subject then me." Ginny replied.
Soon after all of the schedules were handed out the Great Hall started to empty. "Ron, where have you been all day?" yelled Harry and Hermione as they began walking out the door hand in hand. "Well, I guess it's time to face the music, see you two later. Nice meeting you Payton." Ron yelled as he ran to catch up with his friends. Harry and Hermione separated to make room for him and the three walked out the door arm in arm. "Well it has been an interesting day, you want to head back to the dorm?" Ginny asked Payton as they made their way through the large doors of the Great Hall. "Sure. Nothing better to do," Payton grinned as the two friends made their way back to their sleeping quarters.
The next day was the first day of classes and the entire school was nervous. Another new year with so many changes in front of them, who knew what challenges might lay ahead as well. Phoebe awoke with a start. She couldn't believe how long she had slept as she looked over at the clock. /Oh, no! 7:35, I only have 20 minutes before my first class./ Phoebe jumped out of bed and got ready in record time. /So much for meeting Minnie at breakfast./ She ran out of her room and down the hall, following the map's direction to her classroom. She arrived just as the bell started to ring and instantly the halls were filled with chattering students. /Now, where was that roster./ Professor McGonagall popped her had in right at that moment looking as disheveled as Phoebe was feeling. "Oh good, you made it," she exclaimed. "Just," Phoebe replied "sorry about missing breakfast." "No bother, but I will pick you up here for lunch," she replied as she hurried down the hall to her own classroom. "Shoot, I forgot to ask her about the ROSTER!" Phoebe cried. And instantly, there it was.
/Whew. Ok, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw third years, first period. It is going to be okay, you can do this Phoebe./ She was lost in her own thoughts when the bell rang. Finally, she opened her eyes to find the students were already seated in front of her. /Good grief, she hadn't even heard them come in./ She cleared her throat and began. "Good morning class, I am your new defense against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Phoebe Halliwell."
Chapter 3: Beginnings
Meanwhile, the students were just walking into the Great Hall for their last evening of freedom before classes began the next day. While Payton was happy she was getting to know some of the other students in her house, she had been anxiously looking for Ginny. By the time Payton had woken up that morning, Ginny had already gone, and while Payton had hoped to catch up with her throughout the day, she just wasn't able to find her. Apparently Ginny wasn't the only one missing though. Harry and Hermione had also been looking for Ron, Ginny's brother, all day too. At least that had given Payton the opportunity to get to know these two amazing people. She had heard stories of the Boy-Who-Lived before and from what everyone else had said Hermione was one of the best witches in Hogwarts.
Payton was surprised at how well they had gotten along. Hermione showed her to the library where she was in awe at the vast amount of books and other magical materials Hogwarts possessed. Beaubaxtons didn't have half that many books and Payton would know, since she spent most of her time in that very room. However, the best part about the day so far was hearing Harry retell his tales of the adventures of these three friends over their last four years here. Even though Payton could sense they were both nervous about the state of the wizarding world, it was also obvious these two friends had grown into so much more. In fact, Payton had begun to feel like a third wheel shortly after lunch and had excused herself to do some exploring. Knowing she hadn't even scratched the surface, Payton was already amazed at everything Hogwart's had to offer.
Payton made her way back to the Great Hall for dinner, she couldn't help hoping Ginny would show up for this meal. It amazed Payton at how close she felt to a girl she barely knew, but Payton also knew after all these years not to question those feelings; she attributed them to her strongest power. Walking into the Great Hall, Payton made her way to the Gryffindor table, just as Harry and Hermione waved her over. Payton took a seat slightly down a bit from them, since they were sitting so close, she figured it would be best not interrupt so she just muttered a hello as she walked by and sat down at the table. Just then she looked up to the entrance of the hall as Ginny and Ron walked in, she held up a hand and gestured them over.
All the nervousness Payton had been feeling about what had happened the night before quickly faded away when Ginny acknowledged Payton's gesture with a wave and a huge smile. Dragging her brother behind her, Ginny made her way to the seat Payton was saving for her.
As they were making their way to the table, Ron noticed Harry and Hermione sneaking a kiss while the rest of the hall babbled on incessantly. Frustrated by this very public display of affection, Ron's ears began to turn very red. Just at that moment, as Ginny turned to say something to her brother, she noticed his ears instantly and flung her head around to see what was causing her brother's distress. Catching the tail end of Harry and Hermione's kiss, Ginny inwardly cringed at the pain her brother must be feeling and walked directly by the two of them without saying a word. Ginny directed Ron to sit on the opposite side of Payton, where he was unable to see "the new couple's" exploits, as she ran around to the other side of the table. Payton noticed the unusual way Ginny was behaving but shrugged it off as her new friend sat down. Just as they were about to start talking about the day's events, Dumbledore silenced the hall and began to talk.
"Good evening once again to students and staff. I hope you all enjoyed your last day off as tomorrow starts your new term here at Hogwarts. I just wanted to call your attention to two things before I start the dinner. First of all, please remember to wait until you receive your class schedules before leaving the dining hall tonight. Secondly, even though she was unable to make this evening's dinner, I wanted to let you all know our new Defense against the Dark Arts teacher arrived this afternoon and I wanted to remind you all (he looked pointedly in the direction of the Slytherins) to be on your best behavior for her as she gets used to her new surroundings. Thank you all," Dumbledore concluded and instantly the food appeared at their tables.
"Payton, before he eats the entire table in one swift move, I would like to introduce you to my brother, Ronald Weasley," Ginny managed to introduce them.
Grinning, with a drumstick in his hand, Ron smiled at Payton and he said, "Call me Ron. Nice to meet you." Suddenly, their eyes connected as he looked up and Payton began to blush furiously, "I'mmm Payyy-ton" she stumbled. She had never experienced that kind of instant connection with someone by just meeting their eyes. It was as if she could look directly into him and see who he really was without any pretenses and it scared her. Her grandmother had always told her the eyes were the windows to the soul, but Payton had never really grasped the enormity of that phrase until tonight. Stunned by this new development, Payton turned to try to escape the sudden awkwardness she was feeling. Payton began babbling about her day to Ginny while peppering her with questions about Ginny's day, the castle, and some of her classmates; hoping no one would notice how uncomfortable she was in her own skin right now.
Ginny witnessed the exchange that had just occurred between her brother and her new friend and she smiled. /Maybe Ron wouldn't be having such a bad year after all, she thought./ Ginny began to answer some of Payton's questions, while she pondered some of her own.
"So Payton, I'm sorry to have left you all day but Ron and I needed a little quality time together. What did you wind up doing?" Ginny questioned.
"Well actually I spent most of the day with Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. They were looking for Ron and I was looking for you so we deduced you two must have been together. While we were searching for the two of you, they were showing me the castle and grounds. However, after lunch I started to feel like the odd man out, so I left to do some exploring on my own. Are they a couple, because they seem really close?" Payton nodded over to where Harry and Hermione were sitting. Both the girls couldn't help but notice Ron's obvious discomfort as he was cringing every time Harry and Hermione were mentioned.
Hoping to change the topic, Ginny answered very briefly, "Yes, I believe they are." "So Payton, I had so many questions I wanted to ask you today. Do you mind?" At the widening of Payton's eyes, Ginny pointed out "I was wondering if you could tell me about Beauxbatons, why you came here, and maybe where you are from."
Payton relieved that she didn't mention her powers in front of Ron said, "Sure, I would love too. Even though it probably isn't as exciting as you may think."
"I grew up in the town of Toulon, France. Well it was more of a city than a town, constantly bustlingly with activity, thousands of tourists (Muggles of course) filtered in and out every day. Toulon is a beautiful city of the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. My grandparents Marie and Avenall Trudeau lived in the house of Avenall's ancestors. Our house was high on the burnt orange cliffs overlooking the sea. I miss gazing at the sea every day, the smell of the ocean, the deep blue ocean the color of the night sky, I love the sea, and it's endless possibilities. Anyway, my grandparents had left the house and moved to America, it wasn't until after my grandfather retired from his muggle job that they finally moved back.
See my grandparents were both magical people, but they very rarely used their magic. So, after they had my father Andy, and moved to America, they stopped using magic completely. My grandparents waited for the longest time for my father's abilities to manifest themselves, but he kept them hidden because he was scared. After my father graduated high school, he decided to remain in America to attend the police academy and stay with his girlfriend, Prue, because she was a year behind him in high school. My grandparents had wanted him to return to Toulon with them but he refused. It wasn't until about a year later that my father even spoke to them again.
One morning my father and mother showed up at my grandparents doorstep. Apparently, they had gotten pregnant but Prue couldn't tell her family and Andy was just starting his first assignment on the force. They asked my grandparents for help and they took me in. Really, I wish I could thank them because my grandparents loved me so much that I couldn't even imagine it any differently. They taught me magic and how to use my powers. (Payton paused here and looked up at Ron, he hadn't seemed to notice anything unusual so she continued with her story.) I really had it all.
Then when I was eleven I received two letters to attend school. One was from Hogwart's and the other was from Beauxbatons. I decided to go to Beauxbatons because it was closer to my home. Shortly after I left for school, my grandmother passed away. Three years later, my grandfather followed. With nothing tying me to Toulon anymore I owled Headmaster Dumbledore and asked to be transferred. And so now, here I am. There is more to that story but that's the overall gist of it." After explaining all of this Payton looked pointedly at Ginny as seeming to convey with her eyes, she would tell her later.
Ginny sighed. "Wow, Payton that's some history you got here."
Payton smiled, "I wouldn't have had it any other way. I loved my grandparents as if they were my parents and I have no regrets about how I was raised."
At that moment, Ron turned to say something to Payton when Professor McGonagall interrupted with an ehhem. "Here are your schedules, Ron and Ginny Weasley. Payton Trudeau, I am afraid I was unable to formally introduce myself last night; I am Professor McGonagall, Head of Gryffindor House, and your Transfigurations teacher. Here is your schedule." " Thanks, and nice to meet you too." Payton replied.
As Professor McGonagall walked away, Ginny, Payton, and Ron hunched over their schedules to review the upcoming year. "Cool fourth and fifth years are studying together in Defense against the Dark Arts, Herbology, and Potions, this year Gin" Ron exclaimed. "Payton looks like we have all of the same classes. Good I was worried you may have chosen a different subject then me." Ginny replied.
Soon after all of the schedules were handed out the Great Hall started to empty. "Ron, where have you been all day?" yelled Harry and Hermione as they began walking out the door hand in hand. "Well, I guess it's time to face the music, see you two later. Nice meeting you Payton." Ron yelled as he ran to catch up with his friends. Harry and Hermione separated to make room for him and the three walked out the door arm in arm. "Well it has been an interesting day, you want to head back to the dorm?" Ginny asked Payton as they made their way through the large doors of the Great Hall. "Sure. Nothing better to do," Payton grinned as the two friends made their way back to their sleeping quarters.
The next day was the first day of classes and the entire school was nervous. Another new year with so many changes in front of them, who knew what challenges might lay ahead as well. Phoebe awoke with a start. She couldn't believe how long she had slept as she looked over at the clock. /Oh, no! 7:35, I only have 20 minutes before my first class./ Phoebe jumped out of bed and got ready in record time. /So much for meeting Minnie at breakfast./ She ran out of her room and down the hall, following the map's direction to her classroom. She arrived just as the bell started to ring and instantly the halls were filled with chattering students. /Now, where was that roster./ Professor McGonagall popped her had in right at that moment looking as disheveled as Phoebe was feeling. "Oh good, you made it," she exclaimed. "Just," Phoebe replied "sorry about missing breakfast." "No bother, but I will pick you up here for lunch," she replied as she hurried down the hall to her own classroom. "Shoot, I forgot to ask her about the ROSTER!" Phoebe cried. And instantly, there it was.
/Whew. Ok, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw third years, first period. It is going to be okay, you can do this Phoebe./ She was lost in her own thoughts when the bell rang. Finally, she opened her eyes to find the students were already seated in front of her. /Good grief, she hadn't even heard them come in./ She cleared her throat and began. "Good morning class, I am your new defense against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Phoebe Halliwell."