Severus Snape was heading to the headmasters office, when he stumbled upon what appeared to be a fistfight between the Gryffindor and Slytherin first years.
"What is going on here," he sneered, taking in the situation he raised his voice and yelled "Enough!" he took another look around, one Gryffindor girl had her wand pointed at Malfoy, whilst the other girl was fighting Crabbe, Daniel, the one he knew the name of was doing an impressive job with Goyle.
"What in the name of Merlin is going on here?" he sneered in his most fearful voice, whilst pulling out his wand.
Very quickly Magenta and Dan pulled away not wanting to get into anymore trouble than they were already in, but Crabbe and Goyle had other ideas. With all their strength, they each lobbed a punch at the two, knocking Magenta unconscious, and sending Daniel to the floor landing on his badly injured arm.
"Professor…" the all started.
"Silence," he sneered, "Daniel, you come with me… You," he pointed at Cassandra, "you bring her to the hospital wing. Crabbe, Goyle, help Mr Malfoy back to the common room, there seems to be nothing that will help him. If you have any injuries yourselves then afterwards bring yourselves to the hospital wing."
Daniel followed Snape carefully cradling his injured arm. After rounding the first corner, Snape stopped, turned to Daniel and said.
"Talk,"
"We were just walking, and we stumbled on Malfreak, sorry Malfoy and Co, beating up Rachael Jones. So I went to help, Alondra and Erin took her to the infirmary just before you arrived I think," said Dan quickly, hoping to get his story out before Snape ran off.
"Ray? Is she okay? Lets go Daniel," said Severus in a slightly softer voice, then practically ran to the infirmary.
When the arrived at the hospital wing Severus went straight to Madam Pomfrey, wanting to get a report from her about Ray's injuries.
"How is she? What happened?" he whispered, not wanting the other students to know he actually had a heart.
"She has a badly broken wrist, and a sprained wrist, a concussion, several broken ribs, and many many bruises. The poor girl has been through the wars Severus. What happened?" replied Madam Pomfrey.
Severus sat down heavily on the end of Ray's bed, and dropped his head into his hands rubbing his face. Poppy Pomfrey sat down next to the man and placed a hand on his back.
"It's not your fault Severus," she said quietly, "Who did it?"
"Mr Malfoy, Mr Crabbe and Mr Goyle, as far as I can determine," Severus answered, hearing the gasp come from Poppy.
"So that's why Miss Bracho was so upset about," Poppy wondered, "You stay here with Miss Jones, Severus. Keep an eye on her; let me know if anything changes. Don't worry about Mr Malfoy and Co, I'll deal with them," she said, heading over to where the next group of students arrived.
Severus summoned a chair and placed it next to Ray's bed. He sat down and picked up one of her hands, wiping a strand of hair away from her face.
"Ray, I'm so sorry. I should've seen this coming. Draco Malfoy needs to be taught a lesson," he whispered to the unconscious girl.
"Sev…" Ray whimpered, opening her eyes slightly.
"Stay still Ray, I'm just going to get Madam Pomfrey for you," he said in a soothing voice, whilst waving Poppy over to check Ray again.
"Miss Bracho, would you like to assist again?" Madam Pomfrey asked whilst walking over to Ray's bed.
"Are you in pain dear?" Madam Pomfrey asked Ray, who nodded in affirmation.
"I'm having trouble breathing," she whispered, "Asthma,"
"That will be because of the broken ribs dear, Professor Snape?" Madam Pomfrey asked, "Would you make Miss Jones a Flatus Draught?"
Severus, nodded once to Poppy, leant down and placed a soft quick kiss on Ray's forehead and whispered, "I'll be back soon," to her before turning quickly and strode to the dungeons.
Madam Pomfrey looked between Ray, the storming Severus, and a shocked Alondra, before saying, "Not a word Miss Bracho, not a word."
Alondra nodded and asked, "What do we do now? How can I help?"
"We need to clear up her breathing whilst waiting for the potion to heal her." She said. "Miss Jones, do you trust Miss Bracho to spell you?" Madam Pomfrey asked, receiving a nod in answer
"Me?" asked Alondra shocked, Madam Pomfrey trusted her with the Slytherin girls breathing.
"Yes Miss Bracho, do you think you're up to it?" inquired Madam Pomfrey, once receiving a nod in answer, she continued. "Now the incantation is 'Respiro' and the wand movement is this," she said slowly moving her wand in the correct movement.
"Respiro" Alondra incanted, the results immediate Rays breathing evened out.
"Now Miss Bracho, will you sit with Miss Jones until Severus comes back, please inform me of any changes," Madam Pomfrey instructed leaving the two girls together.
"Thank you," Ray whispered, although her breathing was clearer, she was still in pain.
"There is nothing to be thankful for Rachael," said Alondra.
"Ray please," she said, "and I do have to be thankful, you guys saved me from Malfoy and Co, that is the least I have to say thank you for, you obviously brought me to the hospital wing, and now your sitting with me instead of your friends, I think that's quite a bit to be thankful for," pointed Ray.
"Anyone would have done the same Ray. I'm just sorry we didn't get there sooner," she said biting her lip, not sure wether to ask her next question.
"If you hadn't of stopped him, he just would have done it again, this time in the common room, and no one would help me there," Ray answered honestly.
"You don't need to answer this. I'm just wondering. What did you do to Malfoy to have him and the goons beat you up so impressively?" asked Alondra.
"Nothing, he likes to pick on me because I'm a muggleborn. My dad is a wizard, but mum is a muggle, and they disowned me when I was accepted into Hogwarts and when I was placed in Slytherin. Dad was a Gryffindor and thought I should be like he was." Ray answered looking away, "Malfoy only likes 'purebloods' and has made my life living hell since I got here."
Alondra frowned and looked to her hands sadly. "That's insane! You're a half-blood! Which means you have some pureblood in you. Malfoy is just… anyway, yea, I've heard of his obsession with purebloods and Muggleborns. Sebastian mentioned that he had to defend me from Malfoy's cruel words more than once. See, I'm a muggleborn as well. Except unlike you who has one magical parent, both my parents are muggles. Anyway, I'm sorry for babbling I tend to do that a lot,"
Ray sighed softly, as she winced a little. "No, it's fine. I don't mind. I was just listening to what you were saying; I could've sworn you were a pureblood or Halfblood, but never a muggle. I mean, you got that incantation on the first try,"
Alondra's face flushed and she giggled lightly. "Well, I do like to tryout new spells. Never get them on the first try, though. That was a surprise for you as it was for me. I guess it was just I was determined to get it right to help you breathe."
Ray smiled lightly. "I was also going to point out that, I had no idea you were the Gryffindor friend that Seb talked to me about over the holiday break."
"Seb? I mean, er, you've talked to Sebastian, really? And about me?" Alondra cleared her throat and shifted little at the slight thrill of Sebastian actually talking about her with his Slytherin friends, when he had so abruptly broke off their friendship. "Well, I mean, he's no longer my friend so I'm just surprised he'd talk about me, sorry."
"Yea, he mentioned that too. Something about his father and the blood being an issue."
Alondra narrowed her eyes pensively and nodded. "Anyway, I hope Sebastian isn't giving you any trouble."
Ray coughed slightly and shifted her arm to rub her eyes tiredly. "No, not at all. He's nice, well, from what I got from our talk. He even offered to tell Malfoy to stop picking on me, but I told him not to bother. Like I said, nothing will make Malfoy stop. He's just got it in for me,"
Alondra nodded understandingly. "I think he'll be less likely to bother you again, though. Just the memory of Cassandra hexing him, should be enough for him to leave you alone."
Ray smiled and tried to giggle, but decided against it.
"I'm sorry, Ray. You should be resting and instead I'm babbling on. Here, do you need anything? Maybe some water?" Alondra offered.
"Some water would be great, thanks," Ray replied and Alondra smiled, patting her hand softly and rose to her feet to go and get some water for Ray.
By the time Alondra returned with the water Ray had fallen back to sleep. Alondra set the glass on the bedside table, and sat next to the sleeping girl thinking about the conversation they had just had.
Before she knew it, Madam Pomfrey was gently shaking her, pulling her out of the light sleep she was in.
"I'm sorry Madam Pomfrey, I didn't mean to fall asleep," Alondra whispered in a sleepy voice.
"It's okay dear, I've set up a bed for you across the room, go to sleep child," replied Madam Pomfrey, she knew this girl was special.
Alondra was up and out of her chair before noticing Professor Snape standing at the foot of Ray's bed; he was holding a potion vial and had a grim look on his face.
"Professor," Alondra said as she walked past him.
Madam Pomfrey gently woke Ray. She had to be awake to take the potion, but still needed her rest. It was a loose/loose situation. Severus quickly moved forward and sat by Ray's side helping her into a sitting position and helping her to drink the potion, then gently lowering her back to the bed. After a few minutes of silence, Ray exclaimed,
"Why don't the muggles have medicine like that? I wish I had that when I was younger."
"How are you feeling Ray?" asked Severus.
"Sore, and I don't expect it will change anytime soon will it?" asked Ray
"Not until we see if you have a reaction to the potion I just gave you," answered Severus honestly.
"What's going to happen to Malfoy?" she asked quietly.
"Because there were no witnesses to what he actually did to you, there is not a lot we can do. He has been given detention with Filch for a week along with Mr Crabbe and Goyle for what they did to you," Severus said. "Also everyone else involved will be getting detention as well."
"But they didn't provoke the attack," said Ray, "If they hadn't come to help me, who knows what shape I'd be in,"
"But they were still fighting Ray," Severus started before Ray cut him off.
"Yes but they wouldn't have been fighting if they weren't helping me, don't you see, you can't punish them for helping. They didn't even know who it was they were helping, but they did, Allie sat with me all night but she didn't need to. There are people in the hospital wing tonight that don't need to be here, they are here only because they HELPED me," she said her voice growing stronger the more she said.
"I will talk to Professor McGonagall, it will be up to her to resolve the issue, is that okay with you Ray?" said Severus smiling at the small girl sitting before him.
"Thank you Sev, I don't want Daniel to be expelled just for helping me," she said. "How long do you think I'll be stuck in here?" she asked quietly.
"I would think a few days at least, why?" asked Severus,
"My gymnastics competition is this weekend, do you think I'll be okay for it?" she asked hopefully.
"I will talk to Madam Pomfrey in the morning Ray. If you can she will be the one to get you there," he answered, leaning forward and kissing Ray on the forehead, "Sleep well my little Ray, I will be here when you wake," he said, standing up and heading towards Madam Pomfrey's office.
What they didn't know, is one of the injured Gryffindor's couldn't sleep, and had heard everything that had been said.
Chapter 112: Magenta Coldren, Cassandra Serenity, Alondra Bracho, and Rachael Jones
Magenta lay in bed in the infirmary, her mind racing. She couldn't believe what she had just heard. A Slytherin had spoken up for a Gryffindor, for Daniel. But that wasn't what had her reeling the most. Snape was caring, no fussing, over the little Slytherin girl like she was his own child. Magenta knew she had to tell the others this in the morning.
The last thing she remembered was thinking how Snape had comforted the girl to sleep. Magenta's eyes drooped closed as she fell asleep.
Next morning, after Madam Pomfrey has looked over her cuts and bruises again, Magenta was able to leave the hospital wing. Daniel had also been given the green light to leave the infirmary once Pomfrey had checked the mended bones in his arm.
Together the duo made their way from the infirmary to the Gryffindor common room where the rest of their friends were waiting for them. Alondra and Erin must have gone up to bed sometime during the night because they weren't in the hospital wing the next morning Magenta noted as she looked around. On the way up Daniel and Magenta began to talk about the young Slytherin girl, Ray, they had saved the night before.
Daniel explained how he had met Ray while he was out for his early morning runs around the Quidditch pitch. How they had a tentative friendship, but mostly each did their own thing. Listening to Daniel as the two students climbed to the seventh floor and the Gryffindor portal Magenta felt relived to be back in the common room. Waiting for her when she entered were all of her friends gathered together in front of the fire.
"You're back!" Alondra cried happily as she launched off of the couch towards the two.
Alondra squeezed both Daniel and Magenta with a tight grip, more than one might expect from the small girl.
"Ok, ok," Magenta said while prying herself out of Alondra's embrace, "that's enough now."
"What she said," Daniel agreed.
"I was just worried about you two" Alondra smiled while walking back over to the couch and taking a seat next to Cassandra.
"Good to have you two back" Cassandra commented with a bit of a smirk. "Enjoy you're night?"
Shooting Cassandra a dirty look Magenta walked over to one of the empty seats near the group. "Oh yeah, loads" she replied as she rolled her eyes dramatically.
Taking another of the empty seats near the group Daniel commented, "So what are you all talking about?"
"Ray actually," Cassandra replied sighing lightly as she sat up and looked to her friends with a soft smile.
"What's with the smile?" Magenta asked curiously.
"Nothing," Cassandra said trying to hide her mischievous smile.
Daniel looked to Alondra and quirked an eyebrow. Alondra giggled and shook her head. "She's basking in the fun of having hexed Malfoy bald!" She replied as more giggles escaped her.
Daniel laughed, while Magenta smirked proudly. "He deserved so much worse," Magenta piped up while Alondra and Daniel nodded vigorously.
"Moving on," Cassandra suddenly said, smiling innocently.
"Yea, she's right. Getting back to what Cassie and I were talking about, did you notice how Professor Snape was extremely concerned over Ray?" Alondra mentioned while carelessly flicked imaginary lint off of her skirt.
"That is true, Alondra. From the bit I remember when walking with Snape toward the infirmary, he looked really peeved and unbelievably concerned," Daniel responded.
"Well, she is a Slytherin," Cassandra pointed out matter-of-factly.
"Well, yes that's what I thought too. But his voice," Alondra began to say and then noticed her friends looking to her expectantly. She shifted in her seat slightly. "I heard him, well, overheard him say to Ray about how he knew it had been Draco who'd hurt her and that he should've done something and that him and his cronies would be taught a lesson," She recalled dazedly.
Magenta, Daniel, and Cassandra pondered her words thoughtfully. And finally Magenta spoke.
"Well, I heard something last night too. Mind you, I was semi-awake, but I know what I heard."
"Out with it, Maggie." Cassandra told her impatiently.
"Ok, well, Ray was talking to Snape late last night. Right before you took off, Allie, and he mentioned how we would all get detention-" Magenta began to say, but was interrupted by three grumbles. She rolled her eyes and cleared her throat. "How we would all get detention and then Ray stood up for us,"
"She did?" Daniel piped up.
"How sweet of her!" Alondra added.
"Continue, Maggie," Cassandra sighed, looking to Daniel and Alondra slightly annoyed for interrupting.
"As I was saying, she stood up for us. And Snape actually told her he'd see what he could do! She was very concerned with Daniel possibly getting expelled. And, you can imagine how shocked I was to hear him, and what really got to me was how he was so patient with her. I mean can you ever imagine Snape being nice to someone?" Magenta stated amazed.
"Oh, he can't be all mean and nasty. He's human, of course, he has a heart," Alondra said with a smile.
"Says you. You obviously haven't crossed paths too often with a heartless Snape," Daniel mumbled.
"Did you hear anything else, Maggie? Maybe about our detention?" Cassandra asked while biting her lower lip hesitantly.
"Well, no. After that they got onto the subject of Ray's gymnastics meet-"
"What!" Cassandra, and Alondra shouted at Magenta at once. Daniel only nodded for Magenta to continue.
"Well, it seems Ray is into gymnastics. And her competition is this weekend. She was concerned about not being well enough for it." Magenta explained.
"Wow! Gymnastics! I've always admired people who could back flip and do back hand springs and cartwheels!" Alondra gushed happily.
Magenta smirked and rolled her eyes. "Anyway, I forgot to mention that Snape seems to be accompanying Ray to her competitions. Very close those two,"
"Well, it seems like Ray doesn't have many friends in Slytherin. Maybe that's why Snape is so nice to her, maybe he's the only decent person to her in that House… besides, Sebastian of course. She mentioned he was nice to her," Alondra mentioned quietly.
"Well, why don't we change that!" Cassandra then told her friends suddenly.
"What do you mean, Cass?" Daniel inquired.
"Why don't we go and ask Snape if we could go and watch Ray at her competition? Surprise her!" Cassandra suggested, sounding very giddy.
"We… Us? Do you think Snape would even hear us out?" Alondra asked as her eyes lighted up with hope.
"He might. Ray's a nice girl, she deserves to have some friends cheering her on. And since Snape cares for her so much, he might be lenient towards the idea," Magenta suggested.
"Instead of just sitting here, let's go find out!" Daniel resolved as he got to his feet. Cassandra, Magenta and Alondra following suit.
"Great idea, Daniel! Let's go!" Alondra exclaimed excitedly as the four young Gryffindor's walked out of Gryffindor Tower looking for Professor Snape.
Ray's head snapped up when she heard a knocking at Severus' office door. Severus had smuggled her out of the hospital wing early that morning. He said that no one should have to spend more time than necessary in there. This way he could also keep an eye on her, if she stayed with him.
She had been lying on Severus' leather lounge suit since leaving the infirmary. He had her tucked under a pile of blankets, surrounded by pillows, mainly supporting her arms. She looked over to Severus; he was sitting in his favourite armchair in front of the fire marking papers hardly noticing that there was a knock.
"Severus?" she said tentatively, "there is someone at the door," it didn't seem to matter that she had been gentle when she spoke, he still jumped at her voice.
"Who is it?" Severus sneered, in his normal teacher/student voice.
"Um... Professor Snape, we'd like to talk to you, please?" called Cassandra and Magenta simultaneously, they were answered by silence.
Severus got up from his chair and papers and walked over to Ray. Bending down carefully he lifted Ray gently and carried her into his room, laying her on his bed.
"Stay there till I say so, okay?" he said more than asking.
When the door suddenly opened, Professor Snape loomed in the doorway, a stern look on his face.
"How may I help you," he paused, "four," he sneered.
"May we come in professor?" asked Magenta bravely.
"Indeed," Snape answered, stalking over to his armchair, gesturing to the group to take a seat, forgetting that all of the bedding Ray was sleeping on was still on the lounge.
"Professor Snape?" started Magenta, "last night I overheard you and Ray talking, and I heard about her Gymnastics competition," she paused looking for someone else to talk over.
"What we were wondering," Cassandra added, "is if there would be a way in which we could come and watch?" she asked, watching Snape's facial expression carefully.
"You want to come, and how do you think you'd get permission so quickly?" Severus sneered, "Miss Coldren? Do you think an owl would reach your Aunt and back again before tomorrow? Any of you?" he sneered.
"Sir? I'm sure if we spoke to Professor Dumbledore he could contact our families or give us permission himself," said Alondra quietly. "We think that its time that Ray had some real friends, and as no one in the Slytherin house seems to be doing it accept you, then we would,"
Severus was amazed; here these four Gryffindor students were coming to ask their most hated teacher a favour. Not only that, but they wanted to befriend one of his own house. There was only one thing to do.
"How about we ask Miss Jones if she would like you all there or not?" he asked the group.
"Okay, we'll just go to the infirmary now and ask, do you want us to come back?" asked Daniel.
"Don't worry about leaving," came a quiet voice from a doorway behind them. Severus jumped up and almost ran over to where Ray was standing and helped her over to his chair.
"I thought I told you to stay put," he smirked.
"You did, but I heard my name, and how was I to stay there when you were all talking about me," she said, giggling at the looks on the Gryffindor group's faces.
"RAY!" exclaimed Dan, "How did you manage to get out of the infirmary?" he asked impressed.
"I was smuggled out," she said giggling, "Seve… Pro… Professor Snape told me that no one should have to spend any extended time there," she answered hoping no one picked up her slip.
"You have ten minutes, then you are to go," said Severus to the Gryffindor group, "Ray needs to rest."
"Thank you Professor," came the reply from the group.
"How are you feeling Ray?" asked Alondra, "Is Professor Snape treating you okay?" she asked in barley a whisper.
"I'm getting better slowly, I still have one more dose of the Flatus Draught, and hopefully the potions and spells Madam Pomfrey used on my arms will be enough so that I can still compete tomorrow," she answered.
"That's the reason we're here," started Cassandra.
"I over heard you and Professor Snape talking last night, and we all decided that we wanted to come and see you compete if you wouldn't mind us being there?" said Magenta.
Ray looked between the four Gryffindor's, but her eyes stopped on Dan, she had spent enough time with him in their morning exercise routines that she didn't think he would lie to her, so when she saw his face, she knew her answer.
"If you guys want to come, then I'd love to have you there," she said smiling slightly.
She hadn't had anyone watch her compete, since well before she left Australia. The last two competitions she had at home, neither parent had been able to come, so the gym club had taken her.
The group talked about inconsequential things for the remainder of the ten minutes Severus had given them. When he came back into the room he handed Dan a note and told the group to go and see the Professor Dumbledore. He would arrange for their permissions.
After showing the group out, Severus turned to Ray and helped her back onto the couch. He handed her more of the potions that she had been taking to speed up the healing process, finally a dreamless sleep potion.
"Sleep my child, you have a big day tomorrow," he said, tucking her in, and placing a kiss on her forehead.
Chapter 113: Daniel SmithAs the weak grey light of early dawn flooded the hospital wing, Daniel sat on his bed and watched his friends sleep. He, Magenta, and Ray were the only patients present, occupying three of the infirmary's ten beds. Erin had been sleeping in a fourth, but she was no longer present; Daniel assumed that she had woken up and returned to Gryffindor. A fifth bed was also looking somewhat rumpled; though Daniel wasn't sure who had occupied it.
The infirmary was quiet and empty, populated only by sleeping people. Malfoy and his thugs were gone, though the three of them had come in for treatment at some point. Daniel was pleased to see that his knee had put a nice crack in Goyle's jaw, even if the fracture only took thirty seconds to fix. Malfoy had left disappointed: after brushing some steaming substance over his bare scalp that made him squeal in pain, Madame Pomfrey had told him that she needed him to remain hair-free for a day or two, to make sure his scalp healed properly. Crabbe, unfortunately, had nothing worse than a few bruises: Magenta was better with a sword than she was with her fists. On the other side, Magenta's injuries were significant: Crabbe had fractured her cheekbone and broken her nose. Both breaks were healed in seconds, but she had lost consciousness, and that meant a stay in the hospital wing for observation. Cass was not present, she had presumably returned to Gryffindor.
He was excused from detention: his arm was broken in several places and had been bent about fifteen degrees off-kilter. Fixing a break of that nature was a bit more complicated than a simple fracture: Madame Pomfrey had had to magically position all of the pieces of bone, conjure up a cast on his arm, and give him a spoonful of Skele-Gro, which had to be the vilest substance ever produced. The nurse assured him that he would mend completely, but there was no way he could swing an axe for at least a couple of days. And besides, he had hit his head as well. He had remained conscious, but he was still confined to the infirmary until at least nine the next morning. Madame Pomfrey was not known for being flexible in that regard.
So he was free to sleep in, but that didn't mean his internal clock was going to cooperate. Now that he had awakened, there was no way he could hope to get back to sleep, not after what had happened. Not with what was undoubtedly in store for him.
Professor Snape, upon stopping the fight, had demanded to know what was going on. Malfoy had made up a story about Daniel attacking Crabbe and Goyle, but Snape had cut him off. He had then asked Daniel, who had responded with the truth. Snape had been about to silence him as well when he had mentioned Ray's name. The potions master's attitude had immediately inverted, and he had ordered him to accompany him to the hospital wing. Upon seeing Ray there, obviously suffering from a severe pounding, he had lost interest in Daniel. But he had left the hospital wing immediately after, and for all Daniel knew, he had headed straight for McGonagall. Or Dumbledore, for that matter.
He knew that the Fluffy incident had put him dangerously close to expulsion. Students had lost their wands for less severe offences. And now, while still on probation, he had gotten into a fight. In eight short hours, his life had changed. He wondered how long it would be before he was back at Morning Sun, fighting for a bed and unaware that he had ever been able to hope for more.
He sensed a presence next to him, two presences actually. One was Madame Pomfrey, the other Alondra, who had presumably been occupying the other bed. The former spoke: "Daniel, you should try to sleep. You don't have to..."
"I know about my detention," Daniel said. "I just... I need to use the john. Can I go, please?"
Madame Pomfrey, unused to American slang, looked confused. "Use the what?"
"He means the loo," Alondra said quickly.
"And please, don't offer to get me a bedpan," Daniel said. "I really, really hate those things."
"All right, go ahead," Madame Pomfrey said. "But hurry back, or I'm sending someone after you."
"Right." Daniel hurried to the boys' bathroom, his bare feet padding on the icy castle floor. On the way back, he paused at the staircase. It was a towering chamber, large enough to hold a small skyscraper. Even with no one on them, the staircases periodically moved, back and forth. He had first been awed by this, then irritated, and finally accepted it. But tonight, he loved it, loved everything about this old castle, even the chilly stone floors and the drafty bathrooms.
He stared over the heavy stone railing. The third floor was a good twelve feet down, followed by the second, the first, the ground, and a couple levels of dungeons. It was probably about seventy feet to the bottom of the stairs, and the hard stone floor there, with nothing but air in the way. He thought about just vaulting over the railing and into space. There would be a few short seconds of terror, and then it wouldn't matter anymore. No expulsion, no memory charm, no Morning Sun. Just a red splatter on the dungeon floor, another mess for the house-elves to clean up.
A gentle tap on his shoulder startled him. Bristling, he turned, but it was only Alondra. "Oh. Sorry, you surprised me."
"Daniel, you weren't thinking what I think you were thinking."
"If you came from where I did, you'd have thought the same," Daniel said harshly, turning away from the rail.
"It wouldn't have worked if you had," Alondra commented.
"How'd you know that?"
"Hermione told me. It's in that 'Hogwarts, A History' book. With the moving staircases, hardly a year goes by when they don't have someone fall," Alondra said. "So there's a cushioning charm at the bottom."
"Well I wasn't going to do it anyway," Daniel snarled. "I was just thinking about it."
"Good." Alondra didn't tell him that students, for many reasons, had found ways to cut themselves from the tapestry of life. The Astronomy tower was a popular choice, since it was over 150 feet high, and no one had placed any bothersome Cushioning charms outside. Other students had employed home-brewed poisons, crashed their brooms into the ground or the castle wall, stepped in front of the Hogwarts Express, or simply headed into the Forbidden Forest without an escort, never to be seen again. One young man, despondent about being expelled, had even tied himself to the Whomping Willow and allowed it to do what it did best. Alondra had heard stories about what he had looked like, after fifteen minutes' quality time with the tree.
"You didn't do anything wrong," she said. "You were saving that girl. They can't expel you for that."
"Tell that to McGonagall," Daniel said grimly. "She's already had it up to here with me." He indicated his eyebrows.
"Co'mon," Alondra said. "Madame Pomfrey's worried about you."
In silence, they headed back to the infirmary.
Minerva McGonagall sat in her office, poring over her latest NEWT-level transfiguration essays. With her duties as Gryffindor head of house and deputy headmistress, it never seemed like she had enough time: she was up with the sun each morning and up past midnight each evening. And each year, the stretch between summers seemed to get longer. She wondered how Dumbledore managed, his workload was even greater than hers, and he was over twice her age, but he never seemed to lose his boundless energy.
A hiss in the fire, and Snape's face appeared in it. "Professor McGonagall?"
"Yes, Severus?" McGonagall queried. Another of her Gryffindor's had obviously crossed Snape. Maybe Potter again; Severus was always complaining about him. Whatever it was couldn't be that bad. Each head of house had a special quill that kept a log of house awards and deductions: five points awarded by Professor Sprout, ten points taken by Madame Pince, et cetera. There were no recent subtractions made by Snape, and he never hesitated to blast Gryffindor whenever he could. Of course, it might be really terrible, something that merited serious action against a student.
The potions master did not keep her in suspense for long. "I wish to speak to you about young Mr. Smith," he replied.
Big surprise, McGonagall thought. That one's always in trouble. It probably has something to do with how he broke his arm. Madame Pomfrey had notified her that Daniel had been injured and was being held overnight for observation, so that he would not face trouble for missing his early morning tryst with Chonker, but her note had only mentioned the nature of his injuries, not how he had gotten them.
Out loud, she said, "Very well, Severus, what's the little terror done now?"
Snape appeared momentarily taken aback, which seemed odd. Severus seemed to complain about her Gryffindor's almost as often as he breathed, as though it was necessary for him to sustain life. "You are aware of the incident outside Slytherin yesterday."
"I've heard rumours that you broke up a fight," McGonagall replied. "Since Gryffindor still has the same number of points, I assumed that none of my students were involved." Snape, being only a teacher, could not take over fifty points per incident, but she had no doubt that he would have taken a full fifty for a matter like this.
"You misunderstand me," Snape said. "Mr. Smith and his young friends were indeed involved. Miss Jones, one of mine, was being attacked. By three of her housemates, I am ashamed to say. Your students were the ones who came to her aid."
"Ah," McGonagall said. She was aware of Snape's special relationship with the young lady in question. It seemed a bit questionable to her; she after all did not act similarly with her parentless students. However, Dumbledore was also aware of it, and clearly condoned it, and that was good enough for her. Perhaps, she reflected, the opportunity to give love to another and receive it in return would make him a less loathsome person. In any case, no further explanation was needed. "So this is not a complaint."
"No," Snape said. He gave a nutshell description of what had happened. "I'm hoping that you will take your students' intentions into account when you determine their punishment."
"Indeed I will, Severus," McGonagall said. "What about the three in your house?"
"Mr. Malfoy's father is very influential," Snape said. "I'm afraid it will be... problematic to try to expel him, at least this time. But I will be writing Lucius about this matter. I am confident that he will deal with his son appropriately. In the meantime, all three will have a very nasty detention. And instead of Filch, I've arranged for it to be with me."
Minerva shuddered. The Potions master had a reputation for coming up with detentions that ranged from merely unpleasant to utterly ghastly. If those three had indeed hurt his favourite student, they would undoubtedly have to endure the latter. "Very well."
Snape seemed to remember why he had floo'ed his counterpart. "Regarding Mr. Smith, however, there is one more matter I wish to discuss."
After she brought Daniel back, Madame Pomfrey thanked Alondra, then dispatched her back to Gryffindor. She then re-examined his arm. Satisfied that it was healing nominally, she ordered him back to bed. After he had tossed and turned for over an hour, and Magenta had awakened, she relented. After shining a light into their eyes and asking them if they were experiencing dizziness, blurred vision, double vision, headache, neck ache, ringing ears, nausea, confusion, or anything else out of the ordinary; she gave then each a dose of counter concussion serum and dismissed them both back to their dormitory. As they headed upstairs, Daniel explained to Magenta how he and Ray had met and become friends.
Upon passing through the portrait hole, they met up with Alondra, who greeted them with a pair of rib-crushing hugs. Cass greeted them as well, a bit less enthusiastically. As the reunited friends discussed their previous evening, it was soon revealed that Ray was to be having a competition. The idea soon surfaced of accompanying her, and Daniel suggested asking Snape about it. After some consideration, the potions master agreed to try to arrange it.
Back in the dormitory a few minutes later, as the girls chatted excitedly about the trip and as Daniel tested his newly repaired arm by using it to brush his sleep-tangled hair (Madame Pomfrey had encouraged him to use it, but not for anything strenuous), one more person entered the common room behind them: a very stern-faced Professor McGonagall. Daniel sat up straight and forced himself to meet the transfiguration teacher's eyes as she approached. If he was going to get the boot, he was going to go down like the Gryffindor he was.
"Good morning, all of you. Daniel, Miss Coldren, Miss Serenity," McGonagall said. "I'll have you three know that Professor Snape has notified me as to what happened yesterday evening, down near the Slytherin entrance."
Daniel considered asking if she wanted to hear the truth, but decided to hold his tongue. Institutions could be very different, but they had similarities as well. One was that you didn't speak ill of one staff member to another.
"Then you know that we rescued one of his Slytherins from three thugs," Magenta said, also meeting the teacher's eyes.
Surprisingly (to Daniel) McGonagall nodded. "Yes, I do. However, I feel that there were undoubtedly better ways to resolve the situation than by using violence."
"What would you have done if you saw someone attacking one of your friends?" Daniel asked mildly.
McGonagall sighed. "Probably exactly what you did. Which is why I'm not going to take any points from Gryffindor, nor will I object to your attending Miss Jones's competition. However, each of you will spend this coming Monday evening in the library with Madame Pince, writing three feet of parchment on why the use of violence to resolve one's problems should always be avoided. Consider yourselves lucky." She eyed Daniel. "In addition, Daniel, at Professor Snape's request, I am relieving you of your morning detentions." Although Minerva wasn't wild about letting another teacher tell her how to discipline her students, this was the first kindness that Severus had shown any Gryffindor, and she had no intention of discouraging him. She had been planning to let him off in a week or two anyway.
"Oh, Dan! That's wonderful!" Alondra gushed, and made a second attempt to squeeze the stuffing out of him. Daniel, still amazed at this reversal of fortune, could not speak.
"So, I suggest you thank him next time you see him," McGonagall continued. "As for the two of you, Miss Bracho and Miss Stephens, I award each of you ten points to Gryffindor for your courage and compassion in getting Miss Jones out of harm's way. Well done." She eyed the group. "Are there any questions?"
All shook their heads. "Uh... no, ma'am," Daniel said.
"Then, that will be all. You are dismissed," McGonagall said. And with that, she turned on her heel and left the room
Chapter 114: Rachael Jones & Cassandra SerenityRay woke up the next morning early, a mix between excitement and nerves. She had originally thought it would only be the people from the club and Severus that would be watching her, but now with Allie, Magenta, Cassandra and Daniel coming, she was really nervous.
Sitting up and stretching she noticed she wasn't in the dorms or even the hospital wing, but in Severus' quarters again. 'Oops' she thought, 'I must have fallen asleep again.'
Looking around the room, she noticed Severus sitting in his chair by the fire watching her.
"Morning Ray," he said, "How are you feeling this morning?" he asked.
"What time is it?" she asked ignoring the question about how she felt, because if she was honest she felt terrible. The arm that was broken was still hurting, she didn't think it had healed properly, but she wasn't going to tell anyone that. She was competing today no matter what.
"It's eight am Ray, now how are you feeling?" he said, smirking at her attempt to dodge the question.
"I'm felling…" she started, "…stiff" she said after a minutes thought, "I really need to get moving, can we go early so I can do some extra warm ups?" she asked, moving to get up off the lounge she had been sleeping on.
"You're not going anywhere until Madam Pomfrey takes a look at you," Severus stated, standing up gesturing for Ray to do the same thing. "Shower," he said, "Get," he added pushing her gently towards the bathroom.
Ray giggled, if only everyone could see this side to Severus, he would be much more popular if he would show it to others. After a hot shower, Ray dressed in the clothing that Severus had laid out for her, and the two walked to the infirmary.
"Well?" asked Ray hopefully, she knew it would be hardest to pull off her act in front of Madam Pomfrey, she had been given four potions, and had three spells cast on her arm, not that they had helped much.
"I would really prefer you to take it easy for the next few days," she said, watching Ray's face fall, "But," Ray's face lit up again, "But I will allow you to go, and yes compete, on the condition that you come and see me as soon as you get back," she told Ray, "Professor Snape here will be in charge of getting you back here safely, and that means I am giving him the right to pull you out at any sign of pain or disorientation," she said.
"Thank you Madam Pomfrey," said Ray bouncing up and down on the balls of her feet.
"Now go, scoot," Madam Pomfrey said, "Good luck child,"
Daniel, Allie, Magenta and Cassandra were eating breakfast when Ray approached them.
"Hi," she said shyly, "would you mind if we left a bit earlier. I'd like to get some practice in before the competition, if I could," she said quickly.
"Sure Ray," said Daniel, "I think we're all done here, we'll just go get changed. It's Muggle clothing isn't it?" he asked.
"Yeah," answered Ray, "If you want to meet us at Professor Snape's office, we'll be portkeying from there."
"Sure, see you there soon," said Cassandra.
After arriving at Professor Snape's office, they all were given a lecture about being well behaved, and not leaving him. Before they knew it, the portkey had transported them to the Leaky Cauldron. A short walk later and they were at the hall that had been converted into the gymnastics stadium.
"My coach said we could get in as of 9.30am," said Ray, looking at her watch, "but its only 9.15am, so we have some time to kill," she said, "I'm going to start to warm up, okay?" she asked.
"Sure, don't go far," he called after her, watching her jog down the road.
"Where is she going Professor?" asked Daniel.
"There is no point her stretching her muscles with out warming them up first, so she will jog for the next ten or so minutes to warm up," answered the Professor.
"Would you mind if I joined her?" asked Daniel, getting a nod in answer, he stood, took off his jacket and ran after Ray, and falling into step next to her.
Cassandra, Alondra, Magenta and Snape remained waiting by the hall as Daniel and Ray began to jog down the road. All three girls feeling very out of place with their minder. Looming over them, Professor Snape was dressing in dark muggle clothing that surprised Cassandra a bit. He had never seemed the type to own muggle clothing let alone wear it.
Afraid to talk openly around their feared Professor, the three girls moved slight way, but still well within sight. When enough distance had been put between them and the most hated Professor at Hogwarts, all three breathed a little easier. Each keeping a hesitant eye on the dark figure as they began to talk openly with each other.
"He does seem different then at school" Alondra said softly as the three girls formed a small circle.
With the other girls nodding in agreement Magenta continued. "He sure does. I guess Ray is good for him."
"She does seem like a nice girl" Cassandra replied with a smile. "I can't wait to see what this Gem-ass-tics is. My cousin in Durmstrang does it as well."
Both Magenta and Alondra began to laugh lightly at the friend. "It's Gymnastics, Cass, not Gem-ass-tics." Alondra said with a gentle smile and a giggle.
"Oh," Cassandra blushed lightly, "sorry. Never heard about it before now. They don't have it in the wizarding world."
"That's ok," Alondra said with a smile, "I had never heard of Quidditch before Hogwarts."
"I think you're both crazy," Magenta added with a grin.
Cassandra and Alondra shared a small glance as they smirked at their well learned friend. "Well we can't all be such worldly people." Cassandra cracked while playfully smacking Magenta's arm.
Leaning back Magenta checked on Professor Snape who was still standing perfectly still by the doors to the hall. His expression the transfixed mask of indifference they were all used too. This somehow calmed Cassandra, seeing him as he always was.
"Girls" Professor Snape said sharply, drawing all three girls' attentions. "They have returned and the doors are open, please come this way."
Fifteen minutes and about twenty five short laps later, Ray and Dan jogged back to the group, the coach just arriving.
"Becky!" called Ray running up to her, "Sorry I wasn't there yesterday, I can still compete cant I?" she asked.
"Of course, Mr. Snape here made sure we were told where you were," answered Becky, leading the group into the hall, "are you okay now?" she asked concerned.
"Yep I'm fine now," said Ray, "thanks to these guys, Becky. This is Cassandra, Alondra, Daniel and Magenta, they all go to school with me, and helped me out on Friday," said Ray, "everyone this is Becky, my coach."
"Hello," said the group.
"Come on in, Ray. The changing rooms are that way. Why don't you go get changed and we'll start warming up," said Becky, pointing in the direction that the change rooms were in.
"Mr Snape, would you all like to follow me, and we'll get you good seats, so you can see all the action," said Becky leading the group over to the seats at one end of the hall. "The program for today will be one round on each apparatus for each team. Then those who are going for an apparatus medal will go on their chosen apparatus. I know Ray is going for two separate apparatus' she wants to do beam, and uneven bars," said Becky.
"From here you should be able to see everything fairly well. At the end, there will be the medal presentations. We should be finished here around 5.00pm or 6.00pm, and there is a refreshments bar out that door," finished Becky just as Ray got over to the group.
"You know the deal Ray, get running," Becky told Ray.
"I've already run for fifteen minutes, I'm warm, I really need to stretch," answered Ray.
An hour later, Ray finished going through all her routines. She hadn't done the whole versions, just the bits she needed to work on. The rest of the teams had arrived, and it was half an hour to competition time.
Becky sent the four girls off to talk to their family and friends for the last time before the competition started. Ray jogged over to Severus, Cassandra, Alondra, Magenta and Daniel.
"You've improved a lot since your birthday Ray," said Severus briskly, "your accuracy is much better," he commented.
"Thanks Se… Professor," she said, "I've been working on it in the mornings. I have to go," she said after a few minutes, "I hope you enjoy yourselves," she said to the group.
Ray walked up to the beam and presented the judges. Placing both hands on the beam, she bounced once on the beat board, and landed with both hand between legs and her legs in a V position. She held the position for a few seconds before pulling herself up into a handstand position, pivoting to the right, she came down from the hand stand, and went straight into a backwards walkover, followed by a back flip, landing on the opposite side of the beam than the one she started on.
Pausing for a second, she did the compulsory dance arm movements, and the compulsory one and a half pirouette. Taking a step backward she poised ready to do her balance move, Becky her coach and herself had worked on this move for hours.
Starting as if she was doing a cartwheel, she stopped halfway, legs in a V position, counting to ten, she moved her hands so that she was facing the same way that the beam ran, and came out of the handstand, and straight into the splits.
Holding the splits for a few seconds, she pushed off and did a backwards roll into handstand, and landed soundly on the beam. Following that come two scissor split change leg split leaps, she did a half pirouette and paused, calming herself for her dismount, running forward she did a round off back flip, landing on both feet, talking only a minor step backwards.
Turning, she presented the judges again, and walked over to her Becky.
"You were great Ray," she said, giving the girl a hug, "are you okay, I noticed on the dismount round off, you were tender on your left arm?" she asked concerned, "your done for the day now anyway, I'll go get an icepack just in case" said Becky not waiting for an answer.
"Thanks Becky," said Ray, knowing she was going to get it from both Severus and Madam Pomfrey when she got back to Hogwarts.
It wasn't long before her results came in, a 9.650 that was excellent for her, and for her individual routine too. She had competed in the team events, on all apparatus', then again on both the beam and uneven bars. She had fallen on the uneven bars, so she knew she wouldn't be in for a chance with the medal for that. However, she was in with a good chance with the beam and she was excited.
Pulling on her team uniform, she watched the last gymnast on the beam. If they stuck their landing, Ray would get second, if not… well she didn't dare to hope.
The small group of Gryffindor's had sat patently waiting for Ray's competition to start. Professor Snape sitting behind them to keep a close watch over all of the students under his care. It was still beyond Cassandra's comprehension that she was actually here, watching a muggle sport, in a muggle town, with muggle people all around her and Professor Snape sitting behind her. Being raised in isolation the whole adventure of this day was beyond her words to express.
"Cassie," Alondra asked gently, "Are you ok?"
Blinking rapidly to regain her focus, Cassandra gave a small smile to her friend. "Of course, I've just never seen a place like this before."
"I've never seen a Gymnastic competition either" Daniel said excitedly.
"No," Cassandra shook her head lightly, "I've never seen any of this, a place like this, so many muggles, any of it."
All three of her companions gave Cassandra a rather strange look. Their eyes wide with shock that she had never experienced something so innocent as a large group of muggles.
"The match is starting now" Professor Snape's voice loomed over the small group. "Kindly watch Ray, as that is what you said you came for" he sneered at them.
It was amazing to watch Ray dance on the floor and on the different objects. She was so graceful, like a bird in flight. Her body moved with purpose and fluid motion. Gliding across the floor, Ray reminded Cassandra of ghost who never seemed to really touch the ground.
With wide eyes Cassandra watched every movement, every gesture that Ray and the other gymnasts did. It really was like watching a dance. Even the smallest of movements was done with strength. Did human bodies really move like this? Eyes spell bound by the dancing figures on the floor, Cassandra didn't even realize when Magenta had tried to had her a strange muggle drink.
Ray stepped up onto the second place medal stand; her team had come in second all-round. The club hadn't been in medal contention in a few years, so everyone was ecstatic with second place.
Bending down, one of the judges placed the silver medals around the team's necks, and congratulated everyone on a job well done. Looking up, Ray waved at the group cheering her on.
"And in first place, on the balance beam is Rebecca Longly," said the announcer. Ray looked up from her stand on second place, smiling she congratulated the girl. Her whole routine was just slightly more polished than Ray's; in the end there was only .002 difference in scores.
As Ray rejoined the group of Hogwarts students and staff the air between them was charged with excitement. Cassandra was still in a daze over the people and things she had just seen. Alondra, Daniel and Magenta were much more aware of what was going on around them and highly energized about Ray winning second place.
"That was great Ray" Daniel exclaimed when Ray had reached the group.
The red haired girl blushed lightly at the compliment, her cheeks taking on a rosy pink glow. She looked so much different then she had on the floor just moments ago. There she was strong and sure, but now surrounded by her peers she seemed to revert back to her shy nature.
Unaware of Ray's shyness Alondra wrapped her arms around Ray in a tight embrace. "You were SO amazing Ray, that was just incredible!" she squealed in delight.
Magenta gave a sly smile and tried to remove the jumpy Alondra from Ray before Ray needed more air. "Alondra," the dark haired girl paid no attention, "Allie! She needs air!"
Looking embarrassed Alondra removed herself from Ray, a bright red washing over her tanned features. "Sorry" she replied sheepishly.
"You really did great Ray" Magenta added with a pat on the shoulder to Ray.
The rest of the group looked on at Cassandra who had yet to speak. She was still staring wide eyed at the Slytherin girl. An awe in her blue eyes, Cassandra just couldn't find the words to say how truly amazing that was to watch. With a slight shove from Magenta Cassandra seemed to find her voice.
"That was bloody brilliant!"
The moment Cassandra had exclaimed it she felt a red blush come over her. It had been very loud and very unlady like. Professor Snape was glaring down at the fiery haired Gryffindor, but didn't say anything about the exclamation. Ray, however, seemed to blush even more which left nearly all of the girls in the group with a rosy glow about them.
Professor Snape did not say a word as Ray approached him, her brown-green eyes seeking his approval. Instead of speaking he leaned down slightly and pulled the blushing girl into a warm hug. Something none of the Gryffindor's present had ever thought to witness.
The group landed back in Severus' office nearly ten hours after they left, all were hungry and tired. The Gryffindor group said their goodbye's and headed to the great hall to get something to eat, before heading back to the dorms.
"Do you plan on telling me what is wrong with your arm Ray?" said Severus, "Your instructor may have only noticed it in your last routine, but I have seen it all day," he stated.
"I don't think it ever healed properly after being broken," she said quietly, she knew Severus would be disappointed in her.
"Come on, we'll eat then I'll take you to the infirmary and we'll get Madam Pomfrey to heal you up properly this time," he said, calling a house elf and ordering two meals.
"I'm very proud of you today Ray," he said quietly after they had finished eating, "You were wonderful."
"Thank you Severus," answered Ray, "are you disappointed in me for not telling you about my arm?" she asked quietly.
"No," he said firmly, "I knew you wouldn't do more than you knew you could, and I did notice, Madam Pomfrey is going to have my head just as much as yours," he followed.
"Thank you Sev," she said, getting up and giving the man a hug.
"Come on brat," he said fondly, "Lets not make this any worse that it already will be," he said getting up and leading Ray to the Infirmary.
Chapter 115: Sebastian Stirling"Bloody Gryffindor's!" Draco Malfoy scolded under his breath as he tore a letter from his father angrily.
"That bad, eh?" Sebastian casually said as he entered the Slytherin Dungeons and threw his books on one of the nearby couches mindlessly. Draco ran an aggravating hand through his hair.
"Sod off Sebastian!" He scowled as he felt the end of one strand of hair pensively and then balled up his fist jamming it into his side.
"Hey I'm not teasing or anything Draco. I'm simply commenting on the contents of your letter. I assume it's from daddy dearest." Sebastian pointed out coolly as he plopped down on the couch closest to the fire.
"Yes. Well father believes, I could've done a better job at defending myself. Damn nurse sent him an owl about my lack of mane for the night. How could I have defended myself better than I did? Those damned Gryffindor's outnumbered us!" Draco explained as he stood rigid in front of the fire. Not once did he make a move to sit or take his eyes away from the burning flames.
Sebastian did feel sorry for his friend-to some extent. Sitting up he cleared his throat and decided to remind his friend on why he was in this predicament in the first place. "Draco, in case you've forgotten. Let me refresh your memory; you claim the Gryffindor's outnumbered you. Well my friend, kind of like you outnumbered Ray?"
"Spare me your lectures Sebastian! I do what I like when it comes to that filthy mudblood." Draco drawled as turned and glared angrily at Sebastian. Sebastian rolled his eyes and got to his feet, standing right in front of Draco and looming over the blond boy steadily by a good 4 or so inches.
"That's just it Draco! Ray is not a filthy mudblood. She's a Halfblood you twit! Half meaning, she's half pureblood! Pureblood, my friend, like us!" Sebastian told him impatiently. Draco smirked and then casually walked around Sebastian and went to sit on the couch arrogantly.
"You're point somewhere in the conversation." Draco lazily replied as he flopped his feet on the couch before him. Sebastian sighed heavily and rounded on Draco once more.
"The point is that filthy mudbloods, like you always so kindly put, do not not have one trace of pureblood in them like-" Sebastian stopped himself when he realized he was going to say something he would surely regret.
Draco quirked an eyebrow as he suddenly smiled slyly. "Like your friend Alondra perhaps?"
Sebastian shut his eyes angrily and went to pick up his books. "Shut it Draco."
"Why? It's true isn't it? Besides like the filthy mudblood she is, I mean she doesn't have any pureblood in her like you mentioned a mudblood really does, she ran away from the battle. Poor little Alondra, she was terrified her wand wouldn't work against those superior to her!" Draco hissed proudly. Knowing full well he had hit one of Sebastian's weak points.
"I said shut up! You know that Alondra didn't run away, especially not from the likes of you. She, unlike you, has a kind heart. Not even knowing who Ray was, she rushed her to the infirmary and took care of her for most of the night." Sebastian responded protectively. "Besides, it seems even you have your superior Draco. A little red headed Gryffindor? Couldn't beat up an armed girl I see." Sebastian jabbed harshly. Draco narrowed his eyes icily at Sebastian's sudden comment, a brief look of pain flashing in his gaze, and then he suddenly began to laugh menacingly and clap dramatically.
"Bravo Sebastian. Now, tell me, how do you think your daddy dearest would react if he were to, somehow, find out how passionately you defend that mudblood girl?" Draco taunted Sebastian coyly. Sebastian turned and glared at him disgustingly then decided to simply walk away.
"Taking your girlfriend's example on running away from your superiors?" Draco called challengingly as he rose to his feet and narrowed his eyes on Sebastian's back. Sebastian stopped abruptly on the stairs and felt as the anger made him ball up his fists. However he breathed in calmly and simply chuckled carelessly at Draco's comment.
"No, actually, I figured you were already bald; a cut lip and bruised eye would be lowering myself to your standards of picking on those inferior to me," Sebastian found himself saying proudly, he then turned and smiled innocently at Draco.
The blond boy growled furiously under his breath and sank into the couch, glumly, once more. Sebastian smirked arrogantly and was about to turn to leave when he heard something very intriguing.
"Blast them all. I don't care!" Draco mumbled distantly as he once again ran a hand through his hair and paused. He tugged on a strand and sighed heavily. "Princess," Was all he said and then abruptly got to his feet and stormed out of the common room.
Sebastian lifted an eye brow cunningly. "Who is your little princess Draco? And why do you always mention her name when you're alone? Perhaps a forbidden crush on a forbidden girl? This just gets curiouser and curiouser! I believe Detective Fox has his work cut out for him. I'm going to find out who this girl is and teach Malfoy a well deserved lesson," Sebastian silently promised as he began to whistle on the way to his dormitory for a few hours of lounging about.
Chapter 116: Cassandra SerenityCassandra walked along the mostly empty corridors of Hogwarts. She loved to walk the halls when she could. Though she liked the common room of Gryffindor, she saw all too much of it late at night when it was just her and the house elves. When she could though, Cassandra would slip out and explore the halls by herself. Lost in thought or looking for new places she hadn't seen before. Today was just another adventure to her as she walked down a corridor on the second floor.
Coming down the corridor she noticed a slightly obscured corner that lead to a partly hidden hallway that she hadn't been down before. Just the sort of adventure and secrets I was looking for she thought to herself before taking the turn. A few feet down the corridor the hallway ended and Cassandra turned around a bit disappointed by the lack of interest.
To her distain, however, she was no longer alone. Draco Malfoy and his two goons had stepped up behind Cassandra and were now blocking the only exit from the closed off hallway. A smug look on Draco's face showed that he was highly delighted by this turn of events.
"What do you have here?" Draco questioned in his normal sarcastic drawl. "A little Gryffindor all by her lonesome."
He looked over each shoulder at Crabbe and Goyle as both of the lumbering oafs just shook their heads in response. A wicked smile crept across each of the Slytherin's faces, making them look both wild and frightening. Draco had feral look in his eyes as he looked on at Cassandra. His white-blonde hair finally resorted to its nature state after their encounter early in the month.
"Not just any Gryffindor though" Draco continued on as he stepped closer. "The little princess of Gryffindor" Draco's voice had a venomous quality to it right now that caused alarms to ring out in Cassandra's mind.
"Little princess" chimed in Crabbe while Goyle laughed to himself.
"Yes, she thinks she's a little princess doesn't she?" Cassandra knew this was a rhetorical question, but both Crabbe and Goyle were shaking their head again in agreement.
"Oh leave me alone Draco" Cassandra finally managed to say as she stepped forward trying to make her way past the three boys. "You don't want to loose your hair again do you?" she asked with a smirk of her own.
Stepping in front of her Draco blocked her path yet again. "Going some where little princess?" he said with distain.
Looking him dead in the eyes Cassandra didn't faultier. "What do you want Draco?" she said with a voice of steel.
She wouldn't move an inch, not from the likes of these three anyways. Though at the back of her mind, Cassandra was wishing that someone would come by and help her out. She knew that she couldn't handle all three of the boys at once.
"Just want to talk with the little princess," he replied while taking another step towards her.
There was now only a small distance between Draco and herself. Cassandra could feel the room starting to close in as both Crabbe and Goyle closed the distance between them and their puppeteer. If only I had a size 2 pewter cauldron Cassandra mused to herself.
"And what would we have to talk about?" Cassandra questioned. Her voice was still strong and she showed no outwardly expression of her fear, but that fear was rising up inside in at an alarming rate.
"Oh I know all about you little princess" Draco said while looking her up and down. "Poor little princess lost her hero father" his voice was mocking and it bore deep inside of her.
Stepping forward Cassandra slapped Draco hard across the left side of the face. "Don't you ever speak about my father" she said with unchecked rage.
Draco grabbed her by the wrist and pulled hard, squeezing it tighter with every struggle. "And there's that Gryffindor stupidity" he said with a look of murderous rage on his face. "You Gryffindor's are all the same" Draco's eyes narrowed as he said this.
Cassandra would not look away from Draco as his grey eyes narrowed on her. She wasn't as strong as Daniel and she knew she couldn't fight her way out. Not with Crabbe and Goyle being twice her size. The only strength she had was her wand, but Draco had a hold of her wand arm.
"Stupid little Gryffindor's always think they can win in a fight" Draco nearly spat in Cassandra's face when he said this. "Always pretending to be brave" he continued on.
"What do you want Draco?" Cassandra questioned again. Her gaze locked with Draco's.
"Who said I want anything?" Draco smirked. Twisting Cassandra's wrist harder making her visible flinch for the first time.
Pushing the pain from her mind, Cassandra steadied herself. "Then let me go" she said through gritted teeth, trying hard to struggle against the grip of the pale boy.
Using her wrist as leverage Draco pushed Cassandra hard against the stonewall of the corridor. Jostling her with the force of the movement, the small silver locket she had worn since Christmas fell out of its hidden place beneath her neckline. She had worn the necklace since the day she had received it, but had always worn in secret fearing to be tormented because of it. Draco's eyes glared at the delicate heart shaped locket and Cassandra feared what he might do with her small treasure.
Draco paused for a moment as he stared at Cassandra and her locket, his grip on her wrist loosening a bit. Managing to pull himself back together he met her cool blue colored eyes. His grip on her wrist still relaxed, but enough to keep her from moving. "Oh no, the little princess wanted to be caught or she wouldn't have been out here all by herself." Draco's voice had changed, some how it had become softer than before. It no longer had a frightening quality to it, but still it commanded attention.
Cassandra's mind was racing a mile a minuet as she looked up at Draco's steel face. He was planning something and she really didn't want to find out what it was. She could scream and maybe someone would hear, but that would only play into Draco's hand she thought. She could try to fight them physically, but she was no match for any of them really. Dreading what was to come, Cassandra tried to brace herself for whatever Draco might have in mind.
Luckily for Cassandra just as she was dreading the worst, a light of salvation came shinning through wearing three Gryffindor robes. George, Fred, and Daniel rounded the corner and spotted the four of them just in time. None of the Gryffindor boys had their normal expression on. Both George and Fred were normally jovial and carefree, but now their brown eyes were dark and their faces where like masks. Daniel was much the same way with a ferocity sweeping across his eyes.
"And what do we have here?" George questioned as he looked over the scene.
Crabbe and Goyle had turned around and were now facing the three Gryffindor boys. Behind them was Cassandra pushed up against a wall, her right wrist being squeezed tightly by Draco, who was only a few inches away from her. Draco hadn't yet let go of Cassandra and didn't seem to be bothered by the added company.
"Seems like we have an unfair advantage going on" replied Fred to George's question.
"You better let go of her Malfoy" Daniel said in a deadly voice.
The sound of Daniel's voice made Cassandra shiver on the inside. She had never heard Daniel talk like that before and it was just as frightening as she had heard from stories. All three of the boys were a bit frightening to look at right now.
Draco looked over at the three Gryffindor boys and gave a little laugh. "And who's going to make me?" he said as he twisted hard on Cassandra's wrist.
With the other boys there Cassandra left stronger, more powerful. Maybe it was because the odds were now in her favour or because she knew she had a chance. Either way she didn't feel the need to give into Draco any more.
"I will" Cassandra said as she jabbed her knee between Draco's legs.
A whispered cry eked out of Draco's mouth as he fell to the floor, clutching himself in a protective manner. He didn't move or make any sound after he hit the floor and for a moment Cassandra regretted hitting him so hard. Until, that is, her right wrist started to throb as the feeling returned to it.
The five other boys looked on with horror struck faces. Cassandra guessed that it must be an unpleasant thing to even witness for boys. But she was free and that was all that mattered to her. Looking down at Draco motionless on the floor she thought about kicking him while he was down, but decided that was a bit too Slytherin for her. Instead she matched around the still body and slid passed Crabbe and Goyle who were both still looking shocked at Draco.
George, Fred, and Daniel all gave her appraising looks as she joined them outside of the small corridor. Both George and Fred had laughing eyes again and broad smiles had replaced their serious looks. Daniel's face had softened a bit, but there was still noticeable rage behind those blue eyes.
All four of the Gryffindor's turned to head back to the common room, leaving Crabbe and Goyle to take care of the lifeless Draco on the floor. Cassandra couldn't express her joy in being rescued. If it hadn't been for these three boys she thought to herself I don't know what would have happen. It was then that the thought came to her. How did they know where I was?
"Um, now don't take this as me not being grateful, but.." Cassandra had a quizzical look on her face as she continued. "How did you know where I was? Or that I was in trouble?"
George's normally pale complexion reddened slight as he and Fred looked at each other with knowing glance and then looked away. It was Daniel who actually spoke up and told Cassandra about how he had been in the common room with George and Fred. Both of the twins were pouring over some large piece of folded paper when they said that she was in trouble. Daniel being the only other person in the common room at the time perked up and decided to join them in finding her.
"Well thank you" Cassandra said after the story, a delicate softness in her voice. "All of you" she continued as she looked at all three of the boys. With that she leaned over and placed a soft kiss on each of their checks, standing on her tip toes to reach George and Fred. With that the four Gryffindor's continued until they reached the common room portal. Cassandra slipping the silver locket back to its hidden place next to her heart as they went.
Chapter 117: Daniel SmithJanuary in Hogsmeade began with a nice snowfall, blanketing the buildings with a thick and picturesque layer of brilliant white. However, February began with a blast of icy wind and brutal sleet. Groundhog Day was not celebrated in Britain, but if it had been, the fabled groundhog would have emerged from his hole and frozen solid before he could decide whether there was a shadow or not.
Madame Rosemerta's was almost never deserted, especially on such foul days, but business was definitely slow on this particular afternoon: there were only a few people present there when Dumbledore entered. The white-haired man who had been waiting for him stood up, a little arthritically. "Albus, good to see you."
"And you as well, Casper," Dumbledore said sincerely. He wasn't friendly with all of the school governors, but he and Casper Von Spoone went way back: they had even attended Hogwarts together. Madame Rosemerta approached their table. "Hot chocolate, the works, please."
"Butterbeer, dark," Von Spoone said. "An extra-large, if you please."
"Coming up, then," Madame Rosemerta said.
Both men talked of trivial things until their drinks arrived. Casper's butterbeer was dark and steaming hot, and strong enough to knock out a house-elf. Dumbledore's hot chocolate was full of marshmallows and whipped cream and chocolate sprinkles. They both took sips, then Casper leaned forward. "Thank you for agreeing to see me on such short notice," Casper said. "You look well."
Dumbledore laughed. Casper looked at least thirty years younger than he did. "The years have treated you more kindly than they have me."
"Longevity potions," Von Spoone replied modestly. "I always had a talent for brewing them."
At ages 147 and 143 respectively, the two were far past the traditional age of retirement, even among wizards, who typically lived about half again as long as their non-magical counterparts. Dumbledore kept at it because he took great joy and satisfaction in what he did. Von Spoone knew that if he resigned as head of the Hogwarts Board of Governors, the man most likely to be appointed in his place would be Caiaphas Black, a friend and associate of Lucius Malfoy. With those two in charge, Hogwarts would be quickly run into the ground.
Of course, even with Casper running things, those two had a lot of influence, but he was able to head off their more distasteful ideas. Dumbledore had respected the younger man since their days at Hogwarts, back in the 1850's. Von Spoone was not the bravest thing on two legs, but he did try to do the right thing, even when it was difficult or unpleasant.
"Since we're both too old to beat around the bush, I'll get right to the point," Von Spoone said. "I myself feel that who you invite to Hogwarts is your own business. However, some of my cohorts are concerned about some of the decisions you've made lately."
Dumbledore eyed the younger man with a cool, but still twinkling, eye. "Some of your cohorts, meaning Malfoy and his sycophants."
"Indeed," Von Spoone said, then leaned forward and looked very weak and tired. "Albus, I know that with my monthly dose of longevity potion, if I eat right and stay in reasonable shape, I can expect to walk this earth for another fifty years at least."
Dumbledore nodded silently. Only a limited number of wizards could use longevity potions without losing at least some of their powers. Among them was the woman who had given him his Owl's, she was close to her 200th birthday and still full of spunk. "You are fortunate that they work for you."
Von Spoone looked his colleague right in the eye. "But I have to tell you, Albus, I would gladly trade that gift if I could have half of your courage. If I could just have the guts to tell that... fancy-pants death-eater where to stick his 'concerns'."
"You are wise to be wary of Malfoy," Dumbledore said. "Crooked as he undoubtedly is, he is a very competent wizard. And very influential and ruthless as well. A dangerous combination by any standard."
Glad that his friend was so understanding, Von Spoone sipped his butterbeer and pressed on. "Well, anyway. Mr. Malfoy's son has had several... encounters with a certain group of Gryffindor first years."
Dumbledore's face hardened. So that was it: Lucius Malfoy wanted some students thrown out, so he had pressured Casper into making this little visit. Typical of the oily coward to try to manipulate things behind the scenes. In response, he said, "I assure you, Governor, those encounters were almost invariably initiated by Malfoy and his two underlings. Indeed, were it not for Lucius' considerable influence, his son would have been expelled for the latest one, in which he brutally attacked a girl in his own house."
Von Spoone snorted. "Underlings? Crabbe and Goyle's sons, yes?" Dumbledore nodded. "Typical," the senior governor said.
"Indeed, it disappoints me to see those three following so closely in their fathers' footsteps." Dumbledore had always believed in giving people the chance to prove that they weren't like their relations. Sometimes they did. Far more often, they repeated their parents' mistakes, or improved on them.
"Well, anyway. I do believe you, however I must address an unfortunately relevant issue that Caiaphas pointed out. The leader of these students, he is American, is he not?"
"I would not call him the leader of the group; if anyone is, it would be Miss Serenity. But yes, the boy you're referring to was born in western America."
Casper nodded. "Was he wizard- or muggle-born?"
Dumbledore pensively sipped his own drink before continuing. "There is, honestly, no way to know for sure. His mother was not magical, but his father was unknown. He was born and lived his entire life within the Californian dead zone, so his father might have been a wizard, but not been aware of it."
The Californian dead zone was an area, corresponding roughly to the territory of the American state of California, where magic did not work well. Spells frequently failed, or required more power. And, it was impossible to detect the birth of a magical child there. Over sixteen million muggles lived within its borders, thousands of them were undoubtedly wizards who would never know what they were. There were other dead zones in the world, but most were in desolate areas.
Perhaps, Casper reflected, that was why the place was so odd: the wizards there had assimilated into muggle society, but never quite fit in. "So, how did you become aware of him?" he asked.
"I have a contact at their school. He's the one designated to hunt for junior wizards, once their presence is detected." Dumbledore chuckled. "The Americans call them 'wizardlings', isn't that charming?"
"So he left California, and was detected?"
"No, I told you he lived his entire life near its core. If not for a spike of power he exhibited at age eight, despite the zone's draining effects, he would not have been found."
"The Western American authorities were the ones who found him, did they not?"
"They detected him, but lost track of him. It seems that he left that home in a great hurry. My contact located him."
"Isn't there a school down there, though? One that accepts muggle-born children?"
"Yes," Dumbledore said succinctly.
"Why not send him there, then?" Casper queried. "Children born in the dead zone are their responsibility, not ours."
"The school of which you speak will most likely not accept children of muggle birth for much longer," Dumbledore explained. "The headmistress changed their admissions policy just recently, and has faced unexpectedly powerful resistance, both within the student body and in other places."
"So if he went there..."
Dumbledore told the plain, ugly truth. "Were he to go there, he would have most likely be summarily expelled, and subsequently obliviated, when the school stops accepting those like him. Assuming, of course, that he wasn't driven out by hostile students."
"I certainly don't approve of that," Von Spoone said. "However, is it really our problem?"
"Casper, young Mr. Smith has a hidden power, one that could be used to produce tremendous destruction. If he is cast out of wizarding society by our allies, he will be found and either recruited or controlled by our enemies."
"So you wanted him here," Casper guessed. "So you could keep control of him."
Annoyance flared in Dumbledore's clear blue eyes. "I never control anyone, Casper. I wanted him to have a fair opportunity to learn. There is precedent for my decision."
"That was in 1791, Albus." The young woman in question had been the daughter of two Crown Royalists, and the newly independent American Nation held such people in low regard. As a result, the headmaster of Moor Castle Academy had declined to take the child.
"But the principle remains the same," Dumbledore said pointedly. "The school servicing the area was about to deny him admittance. It was my prerogative to ensure that he received a wizarding education, something that our constitution guarantees to anyone who requests it."
Casper nodded acceptance. This would not satisfy Lucius or Caiaphas, but it would hopefully shut them up. But there was one more thing to clear up: "And if he does something that merits expulsion? What then? You've revealed his existence to the dark side by bringing him out of the zone. And you can't obliviate them all."
Dumbledore stared at his friend. Casper Van Spoone had been a Ravenclaw, but whatever other house might have taken him, he was no Gryffindor. He had no comprehension of taking even the most calculated of risks. "I will do what must be done, should that occur," he said quietly.
Casper nodded again, and said nothing more. He and Dumbledore sat together, and finished their drinks in companionable silence.
Chapter 118: Rachael Jones & Cassandra Serenity
Dear Cassandra,
How was Christmas for you? Was it your first away from home? It was for me, it felt really strange to spend it on my own, I'm not one of the popular kids, and there were only 3 other kids from my dorms that stayed as well, so it made it a bit awkward.
Did you get my pressie? I loved yours thanks, it hurts to think about my dad now, but seeing him at around my age, was different, I really can't wait to meet Gran and Aunt Julia.
It was strange to have a 'White Christmas' I'm use to boiling hot days and swimming in whichever families swimming pool… so to spend it rugged up and in the snow was a learning curve. I can't believe how cold it is here, the snow is so deep, and my winter cloak just doesn't seem to be doing the job, maybe one day I will get use to it.
How is school going for you? Are you settling in okay? It's a big culture shock for me.
Well I'd better head off, I have homework to do… grumble
I hope to hear from you soon…
Ray
Ray,
School is going pretty well. I've made some friends, which is really nice. I didn't really think I would find anyone here who would like me. It's hard being the strange one in the group. I keep waiting for them to realize that I'm so weird and decide they don't really want my friendship.
The holidays were hard. I did spend them away from home for the first time as well. I could have gone home I guess, but I just thought it would be harder to come back to school afterwards. It made me a bit sad to think about Mum and Grandmum home alone. I know they did ok and really didn't need me there, but I missed them when I was opening presents.
I really did like the present you sent me. I had to show it around to my friends so they could all see where my cousin lived. The beach and sun with Christmas hats was just funny. Did you get any special presents? I got some clothes, new books, and jewellery. Actually I got a lot of jewellery for the first time in life. Maybe I'll have to get my ears done sometime so I can get more.
I hope you're doing alright and finding some good friends. Trust me I know it can be hard, but you're a great person. That always helps when looking for a friendly face.
Bye for now, I hope to hear from you soon.
Cassandra
Dear Cassandra,
I agree completely with spending Christmas away from home, I'm glad you still had happy memories of time with your family, you will be seeing them soon.
I didn't get much, but what I got I loved, Gran sent me a journal, I got a photo album full of photos, and a silver bracelet from a teacher, all of which I loved.
Well school started up a few days ago, there was a huge fight between two of the dorms and a group of us ended up in the hospital wing for a few days, we're all okay now.
How are classes going for you, school here is totally different from Australia, its been a huge learning curve. They don't seem to heat the classrooms here, and I'm not use to being cold all the time. I'm also in a dorm that is the least favourite in the school, so everyone gives us a lot of grief about it, even the teachers are harder on us.
There is this one teacher, that is really nice though, he is my head of dorms, he seems to have taken me under his wing, and is helping me settle in, which I appreciate.
What sort of sports do you like?
Ray
Ray,
I'm not really into many sports, I do enjoy a good match of Quidditch when I can see one. Besides Quidditch, which I mostly like to watch because I've never really gotten to play it, I don't pay much attention to the sports world. I will be going to see a friend of mine do Gymnastics soon though. I know you told me before that you enjoy it as well. Perhaps I could introduce you and her together sometimes and you could talk about it. It might be nice to have someone else that you know who likes something as much as you.
School is going well for the most part. I've been having a bit of trouble with a boy here. I don't know why, but he really seems to like coming up to me. Mostly picking on me, but sometimes, even when we're in class, I can see him staring at me. We've fought more than once and none of my friends like him. I know he can be an arse, but I can't shake the feeling that there is something more to him.
I'm glad that you're getting along with your head of house. Mine is nice, but very strict as well. I didn't think it was possible, but she might even be more strict then Grandmum. I would hate to see the two of them working together. I would never be out of trouble now matter how good I was.
Have you been thinking about the summer at all? I love the winter and the snow, but I'm looking forward to spring as well. To be able to be outside in the sunshine again and maybe take a nice walk without fear of freezing. Not that it's too cold here. I'm used to the snow and cold, but it seems to drag on sometimes. I bet you're looking forward to the warmer weather too. Summer at Tranquillity Grove is really beautiful. There is a nice lush forest all around the manor which keeps you cool. Also the ocean breeze which comes up off of the shore helps when it gets hot out.
I know you'll like the manor. It's a peacefully beautify, though a bit removed. This will be the first time I've ever shared it with someone and I'm actually looking forward to it.
I hope you are well and will write again soon.
Cassandra
Dear Cassandra,
Oh I don't really like Quidditch, it's just so scary to watch, I really really really don't like heights, so with all the dives and twists and turns, shudder it's a wonder I have any fingernails left. It would be great to meet your gymnastics friend, it not often I meet people who enjoy it as much as I do.
Boys, what can I say, from my experience if they like you they tend to tease you, the more they pick on you the more they like you, (unless they have a real hatred towards you, but you can tell the difference between playful teasing/picking on, and hateful teasing/picking on.) If I were you, I'd start taking notice of how he is acting around you, and good luck! The only other question is do you like him?
School is getting slightly better for me, I've eaten dinner at another dorms table for a few days, which has been nice, nice to get away from the cruelty of my dorms anyway. There has been lots of pranking going on, some I've been involved in and some I've been victim to, but its all a bit of fun.
I'm not actually a summer person, I prefer Spring and Autumn in Australia, Winter in Australia isn't this cold either, so I don't mind it as well. Being a red head, I get sunburnt REALLY easily so I tend to spend most of summer looking for the shade.
I'm really looking forward to seeing Tranquillity Grove, it sounds really peaceful not to mention beautiful. I look forward to exploring the forest and coastline.
Gran sounds like a character, she has been really sweet writing to me every few weeks, letting me know what has been happening, and making me feel like a part of the family already, I can't wait to meet her.
Well I have to run.
Ray
Ray,
Well that boy most definitely does NOT like me. We had a huge row two weeks ago. He said some truly hurtful things before twisting my wrist and pushing me up against a wall. I was so scared at first, but then something happened and I realized that he was just a scared little boy. So I really didn't have any reason to be scared of him at all.
Some of my friends came along though and were really sweet about looking after me. I really didn't need them, but it was nice that they cared enough to look up on me. I've never had that before, real friendship. Tranquillity Grove is so perfect and I loved my childhood there. But I was so removed from the world that it's hard now to trust people's real feelings towards me.
I know you probably don't know what that's like, but to be surrounded by people and still feel alone is really hard. I'm so different from them all that I wonder what they could see in me. Is this what friendship is really like?
I am having a lot of fun with two of my friends though. They are so happy and fun. Some how they always brighten my spirits even I don't think it's possible. I guess it's their magic, to make people feel happy.
How are you doing? It sounds like you're making some really nice friends. Don't worry about burning at the manor though. Grandmum can cast some nice sun repellent spells on us and there is a lot of shade around to keep us cool. It will all work out.
I hope to hear from you soon.
Cassandra
Dear Cassandra,
Oh I'm soo glad about the sun repellent spells. School has been okay the last few weeks, each day a different person from the first years, comes and asks me to eat with them, it's the group that helped me a few weeks ago.
I know exactly what you mean about being alone in a room full of strangers, in my dorms, I'm the only one in my dorms that no one talks to, I actually think most of them don't notice me. I tend to hide in the shadows a lot, or study in the library, or visit my head of house.
I'm still not totally sure about trusting the other first years that are trying to become my friend, they are from a rival dorm and one that normally don't get along with my dorms, they all seem nice enough but I don't want to find myself the butt of one of their jokes.
You'll have to tell me all about this 'boy' when we meet over summer... I can't wait...
Talk to you soon...
Ray
Chapter 119: Cassandra SerenityThe world was dark as shadows played over the girls' Gryffindor dorm room. Cassandra restlessly stirred in her bed as her vision came into focus. It had been another terrible night with nightmarish figures creeping from the corners of her mind. No matter how much she wanted to push them away she was never able too. They would always find their way back into her mind and into her dreams. But sleep had still claimed her last night after many hours of holding out against the coming terror.
Grateful for the bracing cold air which hung over the room, Cassandra slipped from beneath her burgundy covers. The stone floor was shockingly frigid as she stepped out of her bed. Her skin tingled from the cold all around her. It was a good cold, a cleansing cold, and Cassandra could feel the last of the nightmares being wiped from her mind.
After a warming shower and putting on her school uniform Cassandra descended the stairs to the Gryffindor common room. Few people seemed to be awake yet, as the common room was nearly deserted. Deciding to wait for her friends before heading off to breakfast Cassandra took her usually spot on the left end of the couch in front of the roaring fire.
Sitting in front of the fire was one of Cassandra's favourite things about the Gryffindor common room. She would lose herself in watching the flames dance inside of the grate. It was almost hypnotic the way it moved. The warmth of the fire was also so cleansing. How it moved over Cassandra's skin and down deep inside of her, bringing warmth to her very core.
"Morning Cass" came the voice of George Weasley from behind her.
Turning around to see her friend as he finished the last step from the boys' dorms Cassandra couldn't help, but smile. "Hi George," after a moment of looking around she added, "Where's Fred?"
It was odd not to see them together. They were like two peas in a pod, perhaps even harder to separate. Where there was one you were sure to find the other. But for some reason this morning was different and George was alone when he took a seat next to Cassandra.
"He's coming" George replied with a sneaky grin.
Lifting one of her eyebrows Cassandra could only think that something was going on. "Oh?" she asked in a curious tone. "What's keeping him?"
George knew he was caught and the grin on his face only got wider. "Just trying to get his uniform on" George tried to say with a straight face, but failed.
This was only getting more curious for Cassandra as she thought about it. What could George have done to Fred's clothes? Or did she really want to know? Maybe this was just something better left to the boys. Who knows what George could have come up with as a prank on his brother.
"Cass," George said with a much straighter face, "Whatcha doing this Friday?"
The question bewildered Cassandra. Friday they all had classes. There wasn't a Hogsmeade weekend so even he and Fred didn't have anything special to do that she knew of.
"Friday?" Cassandra asked more then a bit confused.
"Yeah, Friday," George said again, "Valentine's Day," he added in helpfully.
Cassandra's stomach did a funny flip flop. Was this Friday Valentine's Day? She had to think for a few moments before she was certain, but yes this Friday would be Valentine's Day. But she had never celebrated a Valentine's Day before.
"Just school, I guess." she replied in a meek and wavering voice. Cassandra could feel heat rushing to her cheeks and she knew that she must be blushing.
The grin on George's face grew into a true smile. His brown eyes were nearly sparkling and for the first time Cassandra realized that they were beautiful chocolate brown. It was a bit strange to think of George as handsome, but the more she thought about it now the more it made sense. He was handsome in his own sort of way.
"Great!" he exclaimed and nearly jumped up from his chair.
Nervousness settled into Cassandra's stomach. The flip flop from earlier was now doing summersaults. It was all she could do to keep from hyperventilating, but why she was feeling this way she didn't know.
Sitting back down George leaned in closer to Cassandra. His chocolate brown eyes gleamed at her as his smiled wide. He was so close. Cassandra could smell a soft woodsy smell coming off of him. It was like pine and cedar with a fresh clean edge to it.
"We wanted your help with a prank for Valentine's Day." he said in a hushed tone.
Something inside Cassandra snapped back into place. Her stomach was no longer doing summersaults. Air was coming in without trouble. But now she felt a weight on her heart that hadn't been there before. What were all of these feelings? Where did they come from and what did they mean? She had no idea at all and it most troubling.
Faking a smile Cassandra looked up at George. "A prank?"
"A good one too," George laughed, "those Slytherin's wolln't know what hit them."
Regaining control of herself Cassandra pushed the heaviness from her heart. It made no sense to feel that way, so she wouldn't allow herself too. The twins were asking her on another prank and this one was a real prank. It would be wonderful.
"I'd love to help" Cassandra said with a real smile on her face this time.
"Brilliant!" George shifted a little closer as he whispered the rest to her. "Meet us here in the common room on Thursday night. We'll tell you the rest then."
George seemed to pause for a moment as he sat, leaning in, a breath away from Cassandra. Their eyes locked with each others as they talked. The silence now was comfortable and Cassandra could only hear George's breathing, which had become quick. When George pulled away Cassandra noticed that his ears were red. I hope he's ok and not getting sick she thought as she watched him.
The rest of the week passed slowly as Cassandra did her schoolwork and struggled with her nightmares. Alondra had taken to noticing when Cassandra hadn't slept and pushed for her to go to Madam Pomfrey. This was something that a potion couldn't cure, however, and Cassandra knew it. Sleepless draughts were one of the only things that could make the nightmares recede, but even those shouldn't be taking for long periods of time.
Finally Thursday night had arrived. After the rest of her dorm mates were fast asleep Cassandra quietly descended the stairs down into the common room. As always Fred and George were already there waiting for her. Even since their first encounter in the common room the boys had always been there before her. She wondered if they thought she would surprise them again.
"Brilliant, you're here" Fred said as he gave a flashing smile.
Fred had always been the more outspoken of the duo. He was also something of a flirt George had told her once. Of course, the girls of Hogwarts didn't seem to mind at all. Fred had a winning personality, was as handsome as George, and could always make you laugh. What else could a girl really ask for in a guy?
"So what are we doing then?" Cassandra asked quietly as the three of them formed a tight circle.
George and Fred both each lifted up two, rather large, bags. Their eyes were full of merriment and the corners of their mouths were pulled up into a permanent smile. "Just a little treat for the Slytherin's'" George said while tapping the bags.
"Something to get them in the Valentine's mood" Fred added with a laugh.
"Come on lets go," George said motioning for the door, "we'll show you when we get down there."
The three Gryffindor's headed out of the common room and down the seven flights of stairs towards the Great Hall. Cassandra still had no idea what was going on, but rarely did she understand what was going on when she was with the twins. The journey there was luckily easy. Again the twins had pulled out a large piece of paper once or twice to show them which way to go.
When they had finally reached the Great Hall, the trio slowly and quietly opened the massive doors to get inside. It was deathly quiet and Cassandra realized that this was the first time she had ever seen the hall so quiet. It was like a shell of its normal self. Empty and quiet with none of the normal excitement that it was filled with. Closing the two massive doors behind them the trio formed another small circle.
"This is what we like to call Weasley's Fluttering Fairies" Fred said in a proud voice while lifting up one of the bags.
George smiled and handed a bag to Cassandra. When she opened it she was surprised to see that it was filled with small glittering confetti in colours of red, white, and pink. Grabbing a handful of the confetti she looked at each piece more closely. There were hearts, cupids, and small pieces that looked like kiss imprints. Very suited for Valentine's Day Cassandra mused. But she still couldn't see what was so special about these pieces of confetti.
"I don't get it," she said, "what's so special about this confetti?"
Fred laughed while George explained. "That stuff is just confetti, but this," he motioned towards a bag with a red X on it, "is the special stuff. Put it down somewhere and once someone touches it the confetti follows them around all day."
"Only meant for Slytherin" Fred added after he had finished laughing. "You go spread this stuff over Gryffindor table. We're putting it on all the tables, but the special confetti only goes on the Slytherin's' table."
"Sure they'll enjoy the hearts and kisses" George laughed.
The three worked rather quickly to spread the glitter confetti over the four house tables. Once Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw had been done, the trio moved on to Slytherin. They had to use their wands to spread out the confetti on Slytherin's table, just to make sure they didn't touch any themselves.
Once the prank was set the twins pulled out their large folding piece of paper again and looked it over. After a few moments of waiting they were ready to return to the tower. With a near miss of meeting up with Filch, Cassandra was happy to finally reach the portal and get back into the safety of Gryffindor's common room. But she couldn't wait until tomorrow when she would see Draco Malfoy walking around with a bunch of hearts, cupids, and kiss imprints floating around his head.
Impatiently Cassandra waited in her dorm room for other Gryffindor's to wake up. She didn't want to be seen down in the common room until she knew more people would be awake, but there was no way that she would be sleeping tonight either. Both her fear of having another nightmare and the excitement she felt as having done her first real prank where more than enough to keep her from sleeping.
Slowly Gryffindor tower came to life as students began to wake up. Alondra, of course, noticed that Cassandra hadn't slept and gave her a scolding for it. Even a scolding couldn't bring down Cassandra's spirits today, however, and she happily listened while Alondra berated her for another nights lost sleep. The smile on Cassandra's face only seemed to frustrate Alondra and she soon rolled her eyes before heading off to dress.
With Alondra, Magenta, and Daniel at her side the foursome walked down to the Great Hall for breakfast. A very wide smile and sparkle in her eyes shinning through as Cassandra hummed lightly to herself. Her three friends looking at her as though she had went mad over night.
As they reached the Great Hall a furious Slytherin girl with hearts, cupids, and kiss imprints following after her stormed out of the Great Hall. She face was red with anger and her hands balled up into tight fists.
"What's that all about?" Daniel asked more than a little amused.
"Don't know" Cassandra replied with a merry tone.
It was then that a familiar red head in Slytherin robes started to walk pass. Ray was on her way into the Great Hall for breakfast along with everyone else. Cassandra hadn't gotten to know their new friend too well yet, but she still couldn't see putting her through the same prank as the rest of them. Ray most certainly didn't deserve it like the other Slytherin's did.
"Ray" Cassandra called out with a cheerful tone.
The red head turned around slowly, but visibly relaxed when she saw the quartet of Gryffindor's. The group had saved Ray from a brutal attack by Malfoy a little over a month ago and she had joined their ranks as friends from that time on. She was quiet and still kept to herself a lot, but she was slowly warming up to the group.
"Hello" Ray said softly as the group caught up to her.
"Come and eat breakfast with us Ray" Cassandra said happily while slipping her arm around one of Ray's.
Alondra followed suited and slipped her arm through Ray's other arm. "Oh, that would be fun. Come on Ray."
Ray looked bewildered at first, but recognition of what her friends were asking finally seeped in as a soft smile formed on her face. "Really?" she asked in a very uncertain tone.
"Yeah Ray," Daniel added with a smile of his own. "It'll be fun."
Ray's face fell as a look of concern swept over her. "What about the other Gryffindor's?"
"Don't worry about them," Magenta replied, "you're with us. You're our friend."
As Ray was deciding, another angry Slytherin walked out of the Great Hall more Weasley's Fluttering Fairies trailing after him. Cassandra had to bite the inside of her lip to keep from visibly laughing. It was all too funny and how the twins always kept their calm during pranks was beyond her.
"Looks like the Slytherin's aren't having a good breakfast anyways" Cassandra said through repressed giggles.
When the group entered the Great Hall it was all Cassandra could do not to fall on the floor in laughter. Every house table was watching as more and more Slytherin's picked up trails of Weasley's Fluttering Fairies. The whole Slytherin table had hearts, cupids, and kiss imprints floating around them while each of their faces were distorted in anger. The most notable was Draco Malfoy with his pale skin a flaming red right now. If looks could kill he would have murdered the whole school at that moment.
Looking over at the Gryffindor table Cassandra spotted George and Fred Weasley. They were casually eating breakfast, watching as the rest of the school pointed and laughed at the Slytherin's. Even many of the teachers at the head table seemed to be holding back laughter.
As soon as the small group had reached the Gryffindor table they began to laugh as well. Eating slowly so that they could watch with humour as Professor Snape tried to rid the Slytherin's of their festive decorations. The more he tried the harder it was not to laugh. Whatever the twins had done to the confetti it was not going to be undone with simple spells. It had worked; their first prank together had come off without a hitch. Looking once more down the table to Fred and George she caught their eyes and three pranksters shared a silent moment of joy. This had really turned out to be a wonderful year so far.
Chapter 120: Alondra BrachoHappy
Valentines Day, Alondra! When thinking about
Valentine's Day, you
have to stop and smell the roses,
literally! I remember that a
Valentine's Day not too long
ago, I did just that! Of course you
know what happened. I
met your brother, while taking you for a
stroll around the
park. On Valentine's Day I fell in love at
first sight with my
prince charming! Talk about Fairy Tale,
right? It was all
Fate, Allie. I just had to share that special
memory with you,
my little Fairy Tale angel. To prove my point
remember this
famous quote, "The advantage of love at first
sight is that it
delays a second sight."
From Francesca
Basset to Alondra Bracho, written in
pink ink with hearts all
over it on February 14, 1992.
"You two are cruel!" Alondra giggled as she wiggled her index finger at Fred and George Weasley simultaneously.
"Oh come on, Allie! You have to admit... it was such a sight to see the arrogant Snake-heads up to their armpits in Valentine's Day decorations!" Fred piped up mischievously.
"They were really in the mood for romance," George added as he and his twin shared a proud high five.
Alondra smirked and rolled her eyes. "What ever you two say,"
"Awwww, poor Allie-wallie was just worried that Sebastian was in the mix of the fun! Don't worry he wasn't hurt," Fred suddenly said as he elbowed George to back him up.
"That's quite right, dear brother. I believe Sebastian's head only looked like a tomato with hair. No harm done," George obliged and the twins laughed uproarishly. Alondra gasped and then a giggle escaped her.
"Take that back terror twins!" Alondra fumed and began to chase after the two snickering redheads.
"Alas! A young Gryffindor maiden is chasing us!"
"Have mercy maiden of the dark hair, we meant no terror!"
"The harm came upon a certain frog-prince of the green and silver robes,"
More laughter followed as students cleared the way for the two tall red-haired twins as they ran away from a small, fuming, dark haired girl.
"Get back here!"
Suddenly one of the twins miscalculated their step and flung forward, pulling on his brother to break the fall. Only resulting in both pranksters ending up with their faces head first in the snow. Alondra came to a halt and stifled a laugh as she triumphantly glared at her two goofy friends.
"Well, well, not so tough anymore are you?" Alondra teased as she folded her arms over her chest. Fred was the first to shake off the cold snow and turn to face her, spitting out excess snow that had flown into his mouth. George had a playful pout on his face as he shook off the cold fluff.
"Alas! We've fallen and we can't get up!" Fred cried as he began to kick his feet and whine playfully. George rolled his eyes and with a handful of snow made his brother stop. "Hey!"
Alondra let the laughs escape her as the twins began throwing snowballs at one another. "You're fault!" "My fault! Who's brilliant idea was it to run?" "Who pulled who down?"
"Who's idea was it for the prank in the first place?" Daniel suddenly asked as he, Cassandra, Magenta, and Ray approached them.
"I think it's obvious, Dan. Twin minds think alike, no?" Alondra replied with a sly smile.
Cassandra suddenly began to giggle and they all turned to look at her surprised. "What?" She asked innocently.
"Do you know something we don't?" Magenta inquired curiously.
"Yes, Cassandra. Spill!" Ray added playfully as she smiled brilliantly.
Cassandra blinked and opened her mouth to reply when Alondra squealed loudly.
"Ay!" She cried and turned to glare at the two innocent looking twins. Running a hand through her dark locks, cold ice froze her fingers. "Oh no, you two didn't!" Alondra screeched as she lunged at them with handful's of snow. The twins gasped and ducked for cover.
Soon, it was a snow ball fight all around as Alondra forgot all about targeting Fred and George and just threw snowballs at all her friends for the fun of it. Daniel and Magenta were by far the quickest and rarely got hit with the cold fluff. Ray and Cassandra were giggling like crazy in the midst of being the center targets. While Fred and George ducked and swung at the group of friends randomly. All forgetting of passing-by students and indulging in the fun of laughs and snow.
"AHEM!" a familiar voice suddenly cleared their throat.
"Oliver!" Alondra beamed as she sprung up hastily and ran to duck behind him from a stray snow ball.
"Ack!" The Gryffindor Quidditch Captain let out as the snowball hit him straight in the chest. Alondra giggled madly from behind him. Oliver breathed out annoyingly and then looked to the group of kids in the snow looking to him, frozen in place. "Who threw that at me?" He asked in his Scottish brogue.
"Well, see technically it wasn't meant for you. It was meant for Allie, but she had to go and duck behind you-" George stopped babbling as a larger snow ball hit him square in the face knocking him back dramatically. Cassandra and Ray gasped in unison while Magenta, Daniel, and Fred laughed loudly.
"That was for picking on my little sister, "Oliver began and Alondra beamed proudly. "And for being late for Quidditch Practice!" He bellowed angrily.
"You forgot hitting you in the chest!" Magenta piped up and Fred smirked. George sat back up and sighed dramatically.
"Duty calls! Forgive us, oh most wonderful Quidditch leader!" George pronounced as he got to his feet and helped Cassandra and Ray up. Fred got to his feet and helped Magenta to rise. Daniel was already shrugging off the snow from his attire and ran over to where Oliver stood with a grinning Alondra.
"Get moving! Now, Weasleys, Coldren, and Smith!" Oliver beckoned in his Quidditch captain tone. Daniel smirked and nodded as he began to walk towards the field. Fred and George waved to Cassandra, Ray, and Alondra. Alondra giggled and smiled brilliantly towards her friends.
"See you later!" She added and with a dramatic kiss. Fred and George smirked and shook their heads as they jogged away after Daniel.
"Oliver, I forgot my robes in my dormitory. I'll go quickly to get them and will meet you in a few minutes," Magenta remembered and informed Oliver.
Oliver shrugged and managed a smile. "All right, but make it quick." He replied patiently and then turned to Alondra and ruffled her hair. "Be good, kiddo. I'll see you later,"
"Bye, Ollie!" Alondra called as the older boy walked away. Alondra turned casually to her friends and smiled. "So, what's our next class again?"
Ray giggled and shook her head. "Well, I have practice right now. So, I'll see you girls later." The red-haired girl mentioned and with a wave walked off.
Cassandra sighed as she ran her slender fingers through her golden red tresses to remove any excess snow. Magenta kept jumping up and down to do that exact same thing. Alondra flicked it off coolly. "So, where to? Potions, right?"
"Well, not for another hour. Would you guys walk me to the Tower?" Magenta requested and Cassandra and Alondra nodded.
"So, been having on Valentine's Day? Any of Cupid's arrows hit you?" Alondra asked playfully with a giddy giggle and a sparkle in her caramel gaze. Magenta exhaled heavily and rolled her eyes as she gathered her midnight mane high in a ponytail.
"It's all a bunch of crap!" She suddenly blurted. Alondra gasped and playfully shoved her.
"It is not! Valentine's Day is very real! Romance is in the air! Fairy Tale endings do come true on this day!" Alondra declared passionately as she recalled so many stories her Mama and Francesca had told her.
"Well, I wouldn't exactly say what Magenta said, but maybe it is dramatized to some extent. Of course, that's not saying that I don't believe in your fairy tale endings or anything," Cassandra finally spoke as a soft crimson blush invaded her beautiful features.
"I think you are both mad! You'll see, some Valentine's Day soon, you both will be raving about your prince charming's and I'll remind you of today," Alondra huffed and stuck her dainty nose high in the air.
"Yea, yea, yea," Magenta mumbled when suddenly someone called out their names.
"Allie! Cassandra, Magenta! Wait a minute!"
The three friends spun around and Cedric Diggory ran up to them hastily with a broad grin.
"Hi, Ced," Alondra greeted him with a sunny smile.
"Hey, Cedric," Cassandra and Magenta chorused. "You look a little out of breath," Cassandra added softly.
"Yea, well, I've been looking for you," Cedric mentioned to them, though his eyes were focused on Alondra.
Magenta and Cassandra looked to one another and simply grinned. "So, what can we help you with?" Magenta asked.
"I-I have something for you three actually. A little token to my favourite first years and three of the most lovely girls in Gryffindor House," Cedric recited and suddenly conjured up three exquisite flowers in one hand. Alondra looked to him mesmerized, Cassandra looked intrigued, and Magenta looked confused.
Cedric laughed at all their expressions and then handed the first blue flower to Magenta. "For you, Magenta. An Iris, said to stand for valour, wisdom, and promise. All attributes I believe you possess, Happy Valentine's Day."
Magenta took the flower and a soft pink covered her pretty features. She smiled lightly at the older boy. "Thanks, Cedric. I don't believe I've ever gotten a flower before. It's gorgeous,"
Cedric smiled and nodded. He then turned to Cassandra and produced an exotic looking flower of orange and peach. "Cassandra, an Amaryllis is right for you. Said to stand for pride, timidity and beauty. Happy Valentine's Day,"
Cassandra bit her lip and with a crimson blush on her cheeks took the flower from Cedric. "Cedric, thank you! I'm touched at your gesture, it's a beautiful flower!"
Cedric grinned and then looked to Alondra tenderly. "Allie, your flower was perhaps the simplest to choose." Cedric explained slowly. Alondra tilted her head to one side confused. "I immediately knew what was perfect for someone as special as you," As he said that he handed a delicate, thornless, White Rosebud to a stunned Alondra.
Cassandra stifled a giddy gasp as Magenta elbowed her to look at Cedric's misty look while he regarded Alondra.
"A White Rosebud stands for beauty, youth, charm, and innocence. It was just made for you," Cedric told her softly. Alondra looked to the rose in her hand and brought it up to her nose to smell it's fragrance. She smiled blissfully and then looked to Cedric happily.
"Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you, Ced!" Alondra beamed and threw her arms around him. Cedric grinned at her outburst and hugged her back warmly. "It's beautiful! And not to mention so sweet of you! Oh, I think I'm going to cry,"
"No, no, no!" Cedric told her through a laugh. "Don't cry, Allie. Really, you're more than welcome." He told her heartedly and then looked to Magenta and Cassandra who were smiling teasingly. "You're all very welcome," He added.
Cassandra and Magenta nodded as Alondra detached herself from Cedric's embrace and gave him a dazzling smile. "Happy Valentine's Day, Ced!" She said and then got on her tip toes to place a butterfly kiss on his cheek.
A light and brief blush actually shown on Cedric's cheeks and then he cleared his throat and grinned. "Well, a Happy Valentine's Day to you, Allie." Cedric then shoved his hands into his slack pockets and nodded to Cassandra and Magenta.
"Thanks again, Cedric," Cassandra said.
"Happy Valentine's," Magenta added as the three girls waved good-bye to the older Hufflepuff student as he walked away. "Well, that was a surprise,"
"A very sweet and considerate surprise. I mean he chose flowers with special meanings for us," Cassandra smiled as she eyed her flower thankfully.
"True, smart guy." Magenta piped up as she smiled at her flower and then looked to a dazed Alondra holding her flower closely. Magenta elbowed Cassandra and motioned for her to notice Alondra's behaviour. Cassandra giggled.
"So, Allie. I love your flower, suit you perfectly, but I believe Cedric forgot to mention one thing," Cassandra told her dark haired friend. Alondra blinked and looked to Cassandra curiously.
"Really? What?" Alondra questioned interestingly. Cassandra smiled brilliantly.
"Well, it's a thornless rose,"
"What about it?" Magenta asked for Alondra.
"Honestly, don't you two read!" Cassandra sighed. "Thornless, meaning practically flawless, meaning a special emotion,"
"Which would be?" Magenta pried hastily.
"Love at first sight," Cassandra replied coolly, though she smiled to Alondra sweetly. Magenta smirked proudly and with a wave of her ponytail continued to walk towards Gryffindor Tower. Cassandra bit her lip and patted Alondra's shoulder gently as she hurried after Magenta.
Alondra stood there frozen in place. "Love at first sight? Cedric?" She questioned herself as she debated many things with herself. Finally she breathed in deep and looked at the rose in her hand. "It couldn't be! Cedric just sees me as a sibling! Like Ollie!" She concluded and with a happy smile dashed after her friends. "It was a special surprise, though. Whatever Cedric meant, I'm-I'm speechless." Alondra sighed. "What a perfect Valentine's Day!"
