Chapter 9 – The Hogwarts Express
Harry Potter and the Valeru
By Lady Urquentha
PG – 13
Disclaimer: All characters belong to J. K Rowling, the exception being any OC characters that might wander in. The plot is my own, and even that may have been influenced by stories I have read in the past, and if so, I apologise.
Telepathic speech
Beast speech
Chapter 9
It was the 1st of September, and chaos reigned in Number 12 Grimmauld Place.
"HURRY UP, we're going to be late!"
"Hey, get off my sock, I need that!"
"MUM! I can't shut my trunk!"
"Pass the book, please!"
"Harry, stop grinning and give me that!"
"ARTHUR!"
Harry rolled his eyes as he hurried down the stairs, his trunk bumping on the steps behind him. A flash of red caught his eye as a frantic Ginny Weasley hurtled down the stairs after her trunk, which had preceded her. Moments later, Carmen hurried down the stairs, her own trunk being dragged behind her. Mrs. Weasley had given her the trunk the day earlier, saying that McGonagall had brought it from her aunt and uncle's. Clearly Ingrid and Gregorio were friends of Dumbledore's to arrange it all. Carmen had quickly fitted in with Hermione, becoming fast friends, especially once Hermione had discovered Carmen's passion for books as well. They spent hours discussing this or that book, whether an author was right or wrong.
Harry jumped the last two steps; he was pleased to be returning to Hogwarts. Regardless of the fact that the people he cared for the most lived in the BSS and thus it was his home, home is where the heart is after all, Hogwarts had its own special place in his heart. The elvish realm was also a special place, he could easily adapt to calling that home as well. He dragged his trunk after him as he headed outside Grimmauld Place to the waiting Ministry cars. Mr. Weasley had managed to get a pair of Ministry cars to come and fetch them, and Harry knew the 'chauffeurs' were actually aurors, who were there to protect him.
He loaded his trunk into the front car easily, and then slid into the car, beside Ron. Ginny, Carmen and Hermione would be taking the other car, accompanied by Mrs. Weasley. It would be Mr. Weasley who rode with the boys in the front car.
Twenty minutes later they were in Platform 9 ¾, with only 10 minutes till the train left.
"Go on, you'll need to get seats," Mrs. Weasley urged them. The five of them hurried towards the train. They were just about to board, when a woman in long robes stopped them.
"Are you Hogwarts students?" she inquired. Harry nodded,
"Yes."
"May I have your wand, please?" she requested.
"Why?" Harry demanded.
"An ID check," the woman explained patiently, "I'm an auror."
"Oh, right, sorry," Harry handed his wand over, mentally kicking himself for forgetting about the check. She tapped his wand with her own, and then handed it back to him,
"Thank you, Mr. Potter." A few minutes later, and the rest of them were checked as well.
"Harry, Carmen, I was made prefect, so we've got to go to the prefects' compartment for a bit, okay?" Ginny asked.
"Sure, we'll save you a seat wherever we dump our stuff off," Harry agreed cheerfully.
Harry and Carmen searched for an empty carriage as the others hurried off to the prefects' carriage as the whistle blew. Harry shut the doors of the carriage just as the train began to move. The two of them put their trunks up, and settled down for a nice long chat, after a group of locking and silencing charms.
"Welcome," McGonagall nodded to them as they sat down, "For those of you who are new to the post, I will go over the instructions. Prefects must keep order among the houses, and you have the power to recommend the removal of points and giving of detentions to your Head of House, as long as you can justify it. You personally cannot say it, you must check with your Head. You are supposed to give a good example to the younger students, and to be there when they need you. Fifth year prefects, you need to show the first-years how to get to the common room after dinner tonight. A prefect is allowed to be out of the common-room after hours, and you will be required to patrol the corridors in pairs. The timetable will be given to you tomorrow along with your schedule. There is a prefect bathroom on each floor as well, ask the older prefects how to get there. If there is any misbehavior of younger students, you should deal with it or go to your Head of House if it is serious. If we hear about misbehavior from you, you may have your prefect badge removed. Please group yourselves according to house now, so that I may hand out the passwords to the Towers."
Within moments, there four groups of six prefects, with the Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff houses having an extra person for the Head students. McGonagall informed the groups quietly of their password, and then dismissed them. Finally, she arrived at Gryffindor.
"The password for the Tower is 'Voldemort'," she told them quietly, "you must encourage the younger students to learn to say his name without fear. If you need to find me, my private rooms are guarded by the portrait of Merlin in the north corridor, and my study is next to the Transfigurations Classroom. You may go"
The trio was quick to leave the carriage and hurry down to the one with their friends in it. They slipped inside and found Harry leaning against a window, reading and Carmen writing a letter.
"So," Harry looked up mischievously as they sat down, "anyone wants to become prankers?" Ron, Carmen and Ginny brightened,
"Of course," they said in unison.
"I don't know," Hermione said unsurely, "prefects aren't allowed to misbehave; we could have our badge removed."
"Come on, my father was head boy, and he was still a pranker. Remus was a pranker, he was a prefect and then a teacher," Harry coaxed, "besides, Dumbledore will understand."
"...All right, I'm in," Hermione said.
"Good, well let's plan a prank for tomorrow dinner," Harry said, leaning forward.
Thirty minutes later there was a knock on the door, and the trolley lady looked in,
"Anything off the cart?" Harry stood up and hurried out. He bought some of everything as he had in his first year, and came back to tip it on the seat.
"Help yourself," Harry said. Ginny was the first to move, scooping up a pile of chocolate frogs, and the other three were quick to follow.
They had just started to unwrap their food when the door slid open. Harry knew who it was as soon as he heard the voice that came next.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't Scar-head, Weasley and the mudblood, I see you've managed to get another Weasley and another mudblood as well," Malfoy drawled. Hermione lunged to grab Ron, successfully preventing him from attacking the Slytherin.
"Well, if it isn't the baby Death Eaters," Harry taunted, turning around slowly, "missing your daddies? Got no-one to run to for orders now, do you?" Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Ron struggling not to laugh and Hermione's disapproving expression, she clearly wasn't happy with the way either Malfoy or himself was acting. Ginny was smiling, and Carmen looked torn between amusement and worry. Harry didn't care, just watching Malfoy turn red was enough to make him ignore his soul-mate's feelings for the moment.
"You'll pay for that, Potter," Malfoy hissed, "my father may be imprisoned, but I can still make your life miserable." Now anger was very much apparent.
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. The only thing you can do is go running to your mummy, or your father's Master," Harry yawned theatrically, "I've survived your father's master four times, I'm sure I can manage a fifth, but I daresay your mother is far more powerful, isn't she? I'm trembling in my boots. Opps, I forgot, I'm not wearing any boots, so I can't tremble in them. I'm ever so sorry." Malfoy went pale, flushed red, and went pale again,
"You will be, Potter!" he snarled before storming out.
"Are you sure you don't want to play any more, Draco?" Harry called after him.
"That was bloody brilliant, Harry," Ron said, grinning at him.
"So you're Quidditch Captain," Ginny said, changing the topic, "what are you planning on doing about the team?"
"We've got quite a bit of work to do. We three and the beaters are the only ones left from either the reserve team or the original team. Though I'm not sure what'll happen about my broom, I don't even know if it's still safe."
"Ask Professor McGonagall, she'll know if it's still around," Hermione suggested, "if not, you'll have to get a new one."
"But it won't be the same," Harry pointed out, "that was one was from Sirius." Ginny nodded approvingly,
"Good, you're over his death."
"I don't think I'll ever get over his death, but I've moved on and accepted it," Harry disagreed. They hadn't talked much about Sirius over the last couple of days, so no-one had realized he was over it.
"At least you're not dwelling on it," Hermione commented, "so, what's happening about seeker? Both you and Ginny play that role."
"I'll take chaser?" Ginny offered, "so we've only got to get two more chasers who can work with me, as well as an entire reserve team."
"Yes, a reserve team is definitely needed," Ron muttered, "in case Harry gets banned again."
"Hey, I didn't intend to get banned from Quidditch," Harry protested, grinning.
"I'm sure you didn't," Carmen teased, "you just happened to infuriate Umbridge."
"That was just a pleasant side-effect that came close to balancing out losing my place on the team," Harry grinned again. Hermione shook her head and clucked her tongue in exasperation,
"Harry! I'm surprised she didn't expel you," she admitted.
"Just because she didn't doesn't mean she didn't try her damned hardest," Harry retorted, smirking, "but she found me harder to dislodge then Dumbledore."
"And Professor Dumbledore got himself kicked out for you," Hermione pointed out.
"It turned out okay," Harry shrugged, "and I have to admit, even if Dumbledore was there, and I'd told him about my vision, it wouldn't have helped. Even if he'd told me Sirius was at Headquarters, I'd have been suspicious that there was an imposter, and gone anyway."
"You and your 'hero complex'," Ginny rolled her eyes. Harry grinned at her, eyes laughing.
"Hey, Harry!" a voice called, as Harry got out of the train. Harry turned to see Susan Bones and a couple of Hufflepuffs hurrying up to him.
"Are we going to continue the D.A?" she asked eagerly.
"I don't know," Harry said slowly, "it depends what the teachers are like. If we've got good teachers for DADA and Dueling Club then we won't need to, you'll learn enough in school."
"Just for extra help?" she pleaded.
"Maybe. It depends, because I'll be quite busy this year," Harry relented. Susan nodded, and she hurried off with her friends. As a group, they headed towards the long line of carriages drawn by Thestrals, some of which were already heading towards Hogwarts.
The five got into a carriage and settled down. Harry felt the carriage start to move along the road, and leaned back against the wall. He peered out the window, watching as the scant light that the moon gave off set the waters of the lake to shimmering. A dark shadow gave away the presence of the Forbidden Forest, and Harry shivered as he looked into its dark depths.
"Come on," Ron said impatiently when they'd gotten off, "I'm hungry."
"You're always hungry," Harry laughed, as they set off towards the Great Hall. On the way, Professor McGonagall intercepted them.
"Mr. Potter, Professor Dumbledore would like to see you after the feast," she told him softly, "the password is Snickers." Harry nodded.
"Ms. Cortez, come with me, please," she led Carmen away.
"What was that for?" Hermione asked. Harry shrugged,
"Dumbledore wants to see me later," he answered quietly.
They took their seats at the Gryffindor table and Harry scanned the staff table, noting the teachers. As normal, Professor McGonagall was gone, tending to the first-years no doubt. Snape was scowling at them all from his place, and tiny Professor Flitwick was animatedly having a discussion with Dumbledore. Hagrid was in his seat, dwarfing the people next to him, one of which was the unfortunate Professor Flitwick, who himself could not be called tall. But what really startled Harry were two very familiar people sitting at the table, conversing quietly. The woman wore flowing elegant silver robes with black embroidery, with a matching choker, bracelet, ring and earrings. The man was in high collared red robes with bronze embroidery, with the matching ring and choker.
McGonagall led a line of about thirty new students, all of whom were very obviously first-years. He could almost feel the fear and nervousness washing off the first years; it was so obvious from their faces and stances that they were petrified. Carmen, who was at the back of the line, on the other hand, was completely calm. The head of Gryffindor set the Sorting Hat down on the three-legged stool, and the entire school waited. The rip opened in its brim,
A school of magic and learning,
Was created by four wizards and witches,
For spurning,
On the growth of the race.
Four houses named,
After the Founders,
But the rivalry between houses was blamed,
On but two, Gryffindor and Slytherin.
To win this war against the Dark,
Unite we must, or else shall we fall,
Sing the same tune like the larks,
And work together.
Think no more of yourselves,
As members of Slytherin or Gryffindor,
Or Hufflepuff or Ravenclaw selves
But as students of Hogwarts School.
But still must you be Sorted,
To learn and grow in your houses,
Though you work together supported,
By none but yourselves.
Now in Gryffindor shall dwell,
Those brave and courageous,
Or those who cast their spell,
Before stopping to think.
In Slytherin help shall come to those,
Of cunning minds and quick wit,
And I s'pose,
To those of ambition.
To qualify for Ravenclaw,
Smart of brain and mind,
And eager to learn more,
Must you be.
Hufflepuff; should you be chosen for that,
You are loyal and kind-hearted,
And never say 'drat'
When it comes to hard work.
But regardless of where you're placed,
Remember but one rule,
Work together but give each other space,
United we triumph and divided we fall!
The school clapped, but there were murmurings about the explicit warning the hat had given. The first years were still apprehensive, but some relief had crossed their faces, while they hadn't been told exactly what they were doing, it didn't sound like they would be forced to do magic, or fight a troll as Ron had been told. McGonagall stepped forward, unrolling a long scroll.
"When I read your name, please place the hat on your head and you will be Sorted," she told the nervous first years.
"Abbot, Samantha!" A little girl who was clearly a relation of Hannah Abbot's stepped forward and placed the hat on her head.
"Hufflepuff!" the hat shouted, and the Hufflepuff table exploded into applause.
"Anguifer, Salazar," McGonagall read off. A boy with a cunning face stepped forward.
"Slytherin!"
"Becken, Julie!" A blond headed girl stepped forward.
"Ravenclaw!"
"Cassio, Peter."
"Gryffindor!" The Gryffindor table clapped; as the young boy skipped down to take a seat.
Harry tuned the Sorting out, clapping absently whenever a Gryffindor was announced. At last McGonagall announced Carmen's name,
"Cortez, Carmen, transferee from Beauxbaxtons, sixth year." She stepped forward, and placed the hat on her head. Harry linked into her mind at once, listening in on the Sorting hat.
"Well, well, what do we have here? Lady Hufflepuff of the Valeru," the hat acknowledged, "with the other three Light Valeru listening in. Well, my lady, where to put you?"
"Where do I fit best?"
"You are studious and clever, a fitting thing for one in Ravenclaw, but you are loyal and humble, the traits of a Hufflepuff, as well as being Lady of that house. You know how to keep a secret and don't mind lying if necessary, which is very Slytherinnish. You're also courageous and brave, not to mention your soul-mate is both the Lord Gryffindor and in Gryffindor House. You will fit into all of the houses, so take your pick."
"Gryffindor," Carmen replied at once.
"As you wish. GRYFFINDOR!"
Carmen removed the hat and walked gracefully over to the table, sliding into the seat beside him. McGonagall removed the hat and stool from the hall. Gryffindor had received a total of 6 new first-year girls and 7 new first-year boys, the highest in all of Harry's time there. Dumbledore rose,
"Well, seeing as you all are ravenously hungry, I think I'll save the announcements until after the feast. Enjoy," he clapped his hand, and the golden dishes were filled with food. The noise level rose as people started talking and eating.
An hour or so later, the food had finally all vanished, and everyone was feeling stuffed. Dumbledore rose to his feet, and the talk died away.
"Welcome to another year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry," he said with a smile, "now that you are all fed and watered, you no doubt want to get off to your Common rooms. Before that, I have a few start-of-term announcements. First, all first year students should note that the Forbidden Forest is out of bounds for all students, and a few of our older students should remember this as well." His eyes flashed towards Harry and his two friends, they'd been in the Forbidden Forest at least once per year for one reason or another, almost every year of their school life.
"Mr. Filch has asked me to remind you that no magic is to be performed in the corridors between classes, and that the list of forbidden items has grown to include the fabulous fireworks that you were privileged to see in action last year, and the Skiving Snackboxes," he continued, "as well as the Inflatable Swamps. Also, the life-bans on Quidditch given out last year by Headmistress Umbridge have been lifted, and the brooms will be returned to their owners. Quidditch try-outs will take place in the second week of term; anyone interested in playing for their House team should contact either the team Captain or Madame Hooch."
"In addition, it has been decided that due to the return of Lord Voldemort, all students must be inside the school building by 6 o'clock, unless they are with a teacher, and must remain in their Tower after 9 o'clock. Prefects and teachers will be patrolling the school at night, to ensure that these curfews are not violated," Dumbledore's gaze swept the school, "now, for your new teachers. This year's Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher will be Professors Gregorio and Ingrid Cortez." There was muted applause from every house, as people were unsure what to expect from the two new teachers, especially after the year before.
Why, fancy seeing you here, Harry said sarcastically.
Hello to you too, Ingrid replied, unruffled.
Why didn't you tell us you were coming? Carmen inquired.
We thought it'd be a nice surprise, Gregorio replied.
"For the new Dueling Club, the teachers will be our DADA teachers," Dumbledore informed them, "who are both international duelers."
Were you?
Yes.
"Now then, scurry along to bed. First years, please follow your House prefects." As he sat down, the school rose to their feet, and the higher grades began to make their way out. Harry spotted Dumbledore leaving the feast quickly, McGonagall on his tail. Ginny rose,
"First years, follow me please," she called, "this way." She began to lead the string of new Gryffindors out of Great Hall. The male prefect followed the line out, making sure that no Gryffindors got themselves lost on the way.
"The password is 'Voldemort'," Ron muttered to his friend, before following Hermione out of the hall and up to Gryffindor Tower, while Harry headed to Dumbledore's office.
He gave the password to the stone gargoyle, and then continued up the staircase. He knocked on the door, and was immediately granted entrance. He entered the familiar office and looked around guiltily. There was no sign of his explosive temper that had caused him to break everything in sight, everything had either repaired itself or Dumbledore had replaced it. Dumbledore was seated in his seat, and McGonagall was beside him. They were still talking in soft voices that Harry couldn't hear.
He stood in front of the desk, waiting patiently. If there was one thing that he'd learnt in the elven kingdoms, it was patience. At the end of his fifth year he'd have been shifting around on the spot impatiently, but now he was calm and collected. At last the two teachers looked up at him.
"Harry," Dumbledore began, eyeing him warily as though expecting Voldemort to possess him at any moment, "have you ...recovered from our last meeting?" Harry stared at him, the first thing Dumbledore did was bring that up?
"I'm in control of my temper, headmaster, if that's what you mean," Harry replied coldly. Dumbledore still wasn't his favorite person, even if he'd become resigned to Sirius's death. He still thought that if he'd been informed of the prophecy earlier, he might not have gone to the Department. His trust in the headmaster had been broken, and it wasn't going to be rebuilt that easily, regardless of the Cortezes's opinions of the man. He intended to tread warily around Dumbledore for the moment, and let him ponder what he'd said to Harry, or rather what he hadn't said, which was more of a problem.
Dumbledore sighed,
"Harry..." he broke off and then began again, "you know now why Voldemort is after you, and I think you understand why you need to prepare for the battle that will eventually come." Harry nodded his assent.
"We were thinking of giving you extra classes to help you. Between Defense Against the Dark Arts and Dueling Club, you'll be magically prepared, and Occulmency will protect your mind, but we were thinking of having you trained as an animangi?" Dumbledore looked at him hopefully. Outside, Harry stayed calm, but his mind was racing. He was already an animangi, how would he cover this up?
I've just been offered lessons as an animangi, Harry called out, what now?
Turn it down, say you'd rather not, Carmen shrugged, or admit to him that you're already trained as an animangi.
"Sorry professor, but I can't," Harry said aloud. McGonagall gave him a startled look,
"why not, Potter? I thought you wanted to become an animangi."
"If Voldemort manages to possess me again, I don't want to give him an extra weapon to use," Harry said, rather proud of the cover-up. He, of course, knew that Voldemort couldn't possess him, but it was a good enough excuse.
"Your Occulmancy training will prevent him from doing that," Dumbledore reminded him.
"But I'm not good at it, and I don't want to risk it," Harry said firmly.
"Very well," Dumbledore sighed, "you may go." With his head held high, Harry turned and left the room. He personally couldn't wait for the day when he could show the two of them that he wasn't a little boy anymore.
A/N: There, chapter 9 done and complete. It's even longer then last time, eight whole pages long plus some more.
E.N. Doing little happy dance!! I am in suspense and if you aren't then you haven't read the story properly! REVIEW PEOPLE!!!!!!