Harry, Hermione and Ron sat in a compartment on the train to Hogwarts
School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. For the length of the trip the trio had
caught bits of conversation that floated between compartments. Apparently
there was a new student joining that had transferred from a school no one
had ever heard of. It seemed he was something of a celebrity.
"I wonder who he is?" Ron told his friends, "Especially since he seems to be getting all this attention."
"We could go find out." Harry offered.
"Well, do we know where he's suppose to be?" Hermione asked Harry.
"Well, no. I guess we don't."
"Oh well, we can wait for the sorting ceremony. I can't wait to see our big celebrity sorted with the first years." Ron said smiling.
Well, it won't be long now," Hermione told him, looking out the window, "we're almost there."
The train pulled to a stop and the trio shuffled toward the carriages waiting to take them to the castle. As they made their way the looked to try and find the mystery celebrity. They watched Hagrid lead the first years across the lake in their fleet of little boats. After they'd gone from sight the three turned and got in a carriage.
"Well, he wasn't there, unless he was really small." Ron joked.
"Yeah, I guess we'll have to meet him at the ceremony." Hermione restated with a slightly entranced look in her eyes. Ron looked at her quizzically.
"Are you going to be okay, Hermione? Not going to space out over our mystery man, are you?" Hermione jabbed him in the arm playfully. "No, I'm not spacing out. I'm just wondering what he'll be like, especially if he gets put in Gryffindor."
"I suppose you have a point. But, think about it, if he's in Gryffindor he's got to be somewhat decent."
"Yeah, that's true. Well, let's hope he doesn't turn out to be a Slytherin. We've got enough trouble with Malfoy and his thugs. I don't want a Slytherin celebrity strutting down the halls."
"Yeah, neither do I." The carriage pulled up toward the front doors of Hogwarts castle and the trio jumped out and hurried to get good seats in the Great Hall.
The Great Hall ceiling was a calm night sky, reflecting the one outdoors. Harry, Hermione and Ron sat at the Gryffindor table near the front. Other than good timing and a general curiosity that seemed to be present throughout the school they had no real reason for being there. Harry and Hermione didn't have siblings, and Ron's younger sister Ginny was in her sixth year. After a few minutes of waiting the doors were opened and a stream of young children dressed in Hogwarts robes walked nervously into the hall. Trailing behind them was a tall, slender boy. He looked like he was probably in his sixth or seventh year. He was rather pale, and had long silver hair that almost gleamed in the many torches of the great hall. He was wearing deep blue robes and had a silver band of intertwined metal on his forehead. As he passed several students at the four tables whispered and threw glances at his ears. They were large, and upturned to points above his eyebrows. His eyes were a piercing, icy blue and he kept his gaze fixed at the front of the room. The group of newcomers huddled together at the front of the hall as Professor McGonagall stepped to where the famous sorting hat sat at the ready on its stool. Suddenly it stirred and sprang to life. The hat began to sing the same poem it had every year since the trio of friends had arrived, save for their fifth, which had been a rather extenuated circumstance. When it finished Professor McGonagall picked up the hat as she began reading names off the list in her other hand. First was a short, thin boy with dark hair who joined Ravenclaw. Next, a tall blonde girl was deemed a Hufflepuff. The next two boys, both rather stocky, were put in Hufflepuff, and so it went, one by one the new first years were sorted into their houses, until the only one who remained was the stranger. Once everyone had quieted down Professor Dumbledore rose from the teachers' table in the front of the hall and addressed the students.
"Welcome, Welcome everyone. Before we begin, and before the sorting hat leaves, I'd like to introduce a special new student." He nodded toward the boy standing alone at the front. "I'd like to introduce Heian Nailo. He's transferred here from Holimiom Elven Academy. We're very glad to have you here." Heian nodded politely to Dumbledore, and walked toward McGonagall who placed the sorting hat on his head. The great hall was completely silent. This was almost as exciting as when Harry was sorted. Everyone waited to find out which house the strange elf would be put into. At last the sorting hat announced Gryffindor. The Gryffindor table erupted in applause and cheering. The other three tables cheered more out of respect than anything else. Heian walked to the Gryffindor table, nodding his head to the many welcomes and congratulations at the table, and sat down quietly next to Harry, Hermione and Ron. After he was seated Dumbledore announced the start of the feast. The platters on the tables were piled high with food of every sort, and all the students immediately started into the banquet. Hermione decided to start a conversation with Heian.
"Hello, my name is Hermione Granger," she pointed to the two boys, "this is Ron Weasley and Harry Potter."
Heian acknowledged them all. "Hello. Hermione, I've heard you're the head of your class, that's quite impressive." Hermione blushed slightly. Heian turned to Ron and Harry, across the table. "Ron Weasley, your father works for the Ministry of Magic, correct?"
"Yeah, he does." Heian looked at Harry. His blue eyes peered hard into Harry's. "And the famous Harry Potter." He paused, "it's nice to meet you." At that he turned back to his meal. The three friends looked at each other. Ron shot Hermione a questioning look. She shrugged and pressed the conversation.
"I didn't know elves existed, other than house elves that is."
Heian stopped eating and turned to the three again. "No, I wouldn't expect you would. We do our best to keep ourselves unknown."
"Then why did you come to Hogwarts?" Ron asked him around a mouth of roast chicken.
"Professor Dumbledore is a friend of my father. He asked that I be transferred here to study under him."
Harry swallowed a mouthful of pumpkin juice; "Will you be taking classes here like the rest of us?"
"Perhaps." Heian shrugged. "I'm sure I'll be involved somehow."
"Well, that's good to know." Hermione said, "I wonder if we'll be in any classes together."
Heian shrugged again, "It's possible, depending on the level of classes you're all taking." Hermione was about to explain that they all take very advanced classes when they were dismissed to their dormitories. Heian nodded to the three and followed the first years out of the Great Hall. Harry, Hermione and Ron walked together a ways behind them.
"What was that all about?" Ron asked indignantly, " 'depending on the level of classes you're all taking' he's certainly proud of himself."
"I don't think he meant any offense." Hermione said, "After all, what do we know about Elven culture?"
"Hermione's probably right, Ron." Harry said, "We should give him a chance. He's probably a fine guy."
That night the three friends sat in the Gryffindor common room with several of the new first year students. Harry and Ron sat at a table playing a game of wizard's chess. Hermione was sitting in an over stuffed armchair paging through her "Defense Against The Dark Arts" textbook. She had already managed to read almost all of it before school had begun. The main topic of discussion among the upper classmen was the new boy, Heian Nailo. No one had known elves existed, at least not elves like Heian. Sure they'd known of house elves, and some of them had even met one, but Heian was definitely not a house elf. Hermione looked up from her book at the two boys playing chess.
"You know, he's kind of attractive." She told them.
Ron looked up at her. "Who's kind of attractive?" He asked.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "That Heian boy. Who has everyone been talking about lately?"
Harry kept looking at the chessboard, trying to find someway to beat Ron for once. "Well, maybe, but did you see his ears?"
Ron joined Harry's side, "Yeah, plus he seems really arrogant. I mean, he's only been here a couple of hours and he already thinks he's smarter than you, Hermione."
"No he doesn't." Hermione defended, "He didn't say that. He just meant that." She was cut off by a familiar voice, one they'd all heard not too long ago.
"He just meant that he wasn't going to promise to be in classes with you three before he found out." The three of them looked toward the stairs to the dormitories. Standing some five feet away from them was Heian, apparently having heard the majority of their conversation. Hermione jumped up to apologize. "Heian, we were just talking about you."
"Yes, I noticed." He said, his face void of emotions. Hermione looked at her feet slightly. Heian continued. "Don't worry about it. I'm sure you meant no offense. Besides, I'm sure I did come off as somewhat arrogant at the banquet. You'll have to excuse me, I did not mean to offend any of you."
Hermione looked noticeably relieved. Harry stood up from the table and invited Heian to join them. "Why don't you come sit with us." Heian sat down in a chair opposite Hermione. For a while he just stared into the fire burning on the other side of the room. Ron was the one to break the silence.
"So, Heian, what do you think of Hogwarts?" Heian pulled his gaze away from the dancing flames and turned to Ron.
"I must admit. I was surprised to find such a marvelous school here. While it is all stone, it has a grace and refinement I did not expect." Ron smiled, not quite sure if that had been a compliment or not.
"What was your school like back home, Heian?" Hermione asked.
"It was not nearly as large as this. Though that is to be expected as there were only twelve students." He told her. Hermione looked amazed.
"Only twelve. That doesn't seem like a lot. How many Elven schools are there?"
"Only one, Holimion. You have to understand, we have no need for a school as large as this, since there are only twelve of us that are enrolled."
Harry and Ron had stopped playing their game, and Harry looked toward Heian questioningly. "How many elves are there?" He asked.
"Twenty-nine, including myself." Heian answered.
Ron raised his eyebrows, "Only twenty-nine?"
Heian nodded and got a far away look in his eyes. Harry decided to turn the conversation away from their current topic. He might just have been imagining it, but he sensed some amount of resentment or bitterness from Heian when he and Ron had asked how many elves there were.
"Heian," he began, "tell us more about Holimion. What subjects did you study?" Heian came out of his minor trance and looked at Harry momentarily before he turned back toward the group.
"Well, similar to those you study here, I would imagine. Though, they're treated somewhat differently as those taught here, I'm sure." He paused for a moment. "To some extent Elven magic is taught in levels, similar to your O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s only, slightly different. For example I learned how to brew potions, in a similar manner as is taught here. However, classes such as charms were taught much differently. Almost all elves train to become wizards, and many donate several decades to it's study. The first level of study includes the classes Enchantment and Illusion. Within those classes are taught charms, figments and phantasms and a few others. The first level focuses on introducing younger elves to magic, and so teaches somewhat easier magic. The second level encompasses a much wider variety. Normally students discover the fields they are most interested in during the span of the second level. Second level classes are Evocation, Conjuring, Transfiguration, and Abjuration." Heian noticed the somewhat confused look in his audience's eyes, and tried to explain. "Transfiguration is basically the same subject as it is here. Conjuration is a mixture of summoning, calling, and creation spells. Evocations are spells that manipulate or tap energy. Abjuration is the study of protective spells, similar to Defense against the Dark Arts here. Most students are considered under qualified to advance beyond second level. The only classes taught in third level are Healing and Necromancy." Harry, Hermione and Ron looked at him blankly. Hermione was the first to respond.
"I think I understand." She tried to explain to the two boys, "Basically, classes are grouped by difficulty and the students focus on the subjects of most interest to them." Harry and Ron seemed to get the idea, more or less. She turned to Heian, "How many teachers were there?"
"Three," Heian stated, "one for each level." Hermione nodded.
"Well," she said, standing up, "I'm off to bed. We get our schedules tomorrow at breakfast, Heian." He nodded politely, and turned back to Ron and Harry as Hermione walked up the stairs to her dormitory. Ron stretched his arms over his head, and yawned.
"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Harry, do you want to continue our game tomorrow?" He asked; looking at the table where the miniature animated figurines had been waiting. Harry shook his head.
"Nah, you'll end up beating me anyway."
"Alright, I'll clean it up tomorrow morning. Don't worry about it." He said, as he left up the stairs toward his dormitory. The only ones left in the common room were Heian and Harry. After a moment of silence Heian spoke again.
"I've heard of your exploits." He said, looking into the fire again. "I'm very impressed." After that, he stood up and walked quietly up to the dormitory. Harry's eyes followed him as he went, quite puzzled. I wonder what that was about, he thought before he too climbed the stairs and went to bed.
Harry woke early the next morning; most of the other Gryffindors were still asleep. He wanted to talk to Heian about what he'd said last night. Granted that most of the wizarding world had heard of his exploits, and most of them were impressed. Heian, however, was different somehow. He wasn't sure how, but Harry was almost positive he was different. Well, maybe it's just that elves aren't impressed much, he thought back to yesterday after the banquet when Ron had spoken about Heian's apparent arrogance. Either way, he wanted to talk to Heian about it alone, and he wasn't in the dormitory. Harry descended the staircase and found Heian sitting in the same chair he'd sat in last night in the common room. He was wearing the normal robes of Gryffindor house. He looked up at Harry as he came down the stairs. Harry smiled toward him and sat down in the chair across from him.
"Good Morning."
Heian nodded, "and to you." For a minute or so Heian just looked into the fire as he had done the previous night. Harry rung his hands slightly and yawned. He was quickly finding Heian to be very hard to talk to.
"Last night, when you said you'd heard of me," he paused before continuing, "and that you were impressed. What did you mean, exactly?" Heian turned to him, his eyebrows slightly furrowed.
"What do you mean?" He asked Harry. Harry stumbled for a minute trying to say something that wouldn't sound arrogant. He was about to respond when Hermione came down the stairs and joined them.
"Hello." She sounded well refreshed and ready for the first day of studying, same old Hermione.
"Hi Hermione." Harry greeted her as she leaned against the side of his chair. Heian nodded.
"Good day, Miss Granger." Hermione giggled and blushed slightly.
"You can call me Hermione." Heian nodded again.
"Very well, Good morning Hermione." She smiled and began talking about school.
"Schedules today." She beamed at them, so overly excited about the event. "So, have either of you started reading?" Harry shook his head.
"Actually, I did start reading a few of them." Heian told her.
"Really? Ron and Harry never read their books. Never any time," She gave Harry a look of mock sympathy. "They just ask me to help them study after Quidditch practice. Can't miss Quidditch, can we?"
Heian looked at the pair confused. "Quidditch?" He asked. Harry looked at him in surprise. After all Heian's wizarding in elven country, he didn't know what Quidditch was? He looked at Hermione expecting an answer; she just shrugged at him. Heian looked at them both and continued, "ah, what exactly is Quidditch?"
Harry smiled and began explaining the game to him. Hermione smiled to herself, once you got Harry going on Quidditch, there was no stopping him. Some minutes later, while Harry was explaining the object of the game, Ron came down to the common room, rubbing sleep from his eyes. He waved them hello, sat down next to Harry and began putting last night's chess game away. As Harry was finishing his explanation on Quidditch most of Gryffindor house had joined them in the land of the waking, and some had already left for breakfast. Hermione suggested they do the same, Ron's stomach growled in agreement. The four started off toward the Great Hall. As they neared the source of the usual breakfast commotion Ron caught sight of the three people he disliked the most of anyone at Hogwarts. He nudged Harry and glanced toward Crabbe, Goyle and Malfoy as they made there way toward them. It took Hermione a moment to notice why they had stopped, when she saw the familiar smug grin of Draco Malfoy she caught Heian's eye and he stopped behind Ron and Harry as well.
"Well, it look's like Gryffindor has itself another celebrity." Malfoy sneered, throwing a look toward Heian. "Hope you're not too jealous Potter." Harry was about to respond, but Heian stepped in front of him. His gaze traveled over the three Slytherins without emotion. When he addressed them his voice was eerily cold.
"I assume you are Draco Malfoy." He said, before continuing without waiting for an answer. "You seem to be the leash holder of these two." He surveyed Crabbe and Goyle. Malfoy wasn't going to be insulted by the new star of Gryffindor.
"You could say that, I would be surprised that you'd heard of me, but I suppose we Malfoys are well known, and with ears like that," Malfoy nodded toward Heian's pointed ears, "I bet you can't miss much." Crabbe and Goyle laughed. Harry, Ron and Hermione remained silent, watching Heian incase Malfoy tried anything. Heian kept his face void of emotion as he returned Malfoys insult.
"Yes, with my ears I hear a great many things. Such as how all your fathers are currently imprisoned in Azkaban. How Lucius Malfoy seems to jump ship at the first sign of loss, and then re-pledge his allegiance when circumstances deem it prudent. Yes, I've heard a great deal of things." Malfoy went red with anger. Crabbe lunged for Heian but the elf side stepped him, and pushed his off balance bulk to the floor. Malfoy drew his wand in a flash, but Harry, Ron and Hermione already had theirs out. Crabbe picked himself up, and Malfoy stowed his wand.
"You'll get yours elf!" Malfoy spat as they walked toward the Slytherin's table.
"How about at lunch then." Heian offered, "A duel, before the student body, I'm sure we could have a table reserved for that. Perhaps Slytherin." Malfoy glared daggers at Heian, he knew his house wouldn't like their table being commandeered. Yet, if he refused it looked like he wasn't willing to duel. He really had no choice.
"Fine then, lunch, our table will be cleared. Then everyone can watch me mop the floor with you." Malfoy jeered. Heian smiled slightly.
"Wouldn't you be mopping the table with me, Draco." Malfoy sneered and led his cronies into the Great Hall. Hermione hopped forward.
"Heian are you alright?" She asked.
"Yes, don't worry." He answered. Harry and Ron smiled at each other. Hermione was quite taken with Heian. The four of them went to sit down for breakfast. Heian pretended nothing had happened; though on the other side of the room the Slytherin table seemed to have a great dislike for the new seventh year now. Harry and Ron stole quick glances around the room. Rumors had always traveled fast at Hogwarts, and Heian's choice of action having just occurred outside the Great Hall was now well known. Of course, it would be forgotten tomorrow, after all, most people didn't care much about the fights Malfoy and his friends got into, there were too many to keep count. As Hermione had explained the previous night all the students received their schedules. Heian finished his meal before looking at his. Harry and Ron had double Divinations with Ravenclaw. Ron let out a disappointed sigh, granted the class had improved since Firenze started teaching with Trelawney, but it still made very little sense to anyone who wasn't a centaur. Hermione had Potions and Defense against the Dark Arts. She was working toward a position as an Auror and was one of the more promising students in Snape's N.E.W.T. class. Harry was also trying for an Auror position; unfortunately, Snape was not being lenient with him. Heian had Care of Magical Creatures and Defense against the Dark Arts. He turned to Hermione.
"Well, it would appear we do have a class together." Hermione smiled.
"Yep, well, I'll see you after Care of Magical Creatures. You'll love Hagrid, he's great." Heian smiled and nodded. As Hermione turned to head to the dungeons Heian called after her.
"Hermione."
"Yes." She turned.
"Where would I find Hagrid?"
"Oh, um, out on the grounds. He usually has class out by his house." She pointed out Hagrid's home through a window. Heian followed her directions out over the grounds.
"Ah. Thank you. I'll see you in a short while then." He nodded again, and made his way toward Gryffindor tower. Hermione looked puzzled for a moment.
"Heian." She called.
"Yes."
"The doors, that way." She said quietly, pointing down the hall.
"Oh, I know." Heian told her, "I just need to pick up my things."
"Oh, okay. Sorry." Hermione turned and hurried off toward the dungeons. Heian watched her go for a moment, before he headed off to get his things for class. He turned the hall and came to the fabled moving staircases of Hogwarts. Navigating the stairs had been somewhat difficult with other students present. He wasn't used to having so many bodies moving in such a small area. Though now, with most of the students already heading to class and away from their dormitories Heian was much more comfortable. He reached the portrait barring the way. The fat lady asked him for the password. This is exceptionally primitive, he thought, anyone seeking an easy way in could simply threaten the old woman into producing the entrance. Never the less, he did remember the password, so there was no need for such things. Now, it was some ridiculous word. Ah, yes.
"Pumpkin juice." He told her. Her portrait obediently swung open. He stepped through the porthole and up the stairs to his the foot of his bed. He tapped his trunk, it sprang open and he withdrew his books. He kicked it shut and started off toward his first class at Hogwarts.
Hermione sat in Professor Snape's classroom copying the instructions on their assignment for the day. It was particularly long and difficult, even for one of Snape's concoctions. Hermione thought of Harry, and hoped he'd do well. Snape had never liked Harry, but the last few years he seemed especially intent on making his life miserable. Well, Harry will have to take extra care with today's lesson, she thought, as she lit a small fire under her cauldron.
Harry and Ron sat on the grass in Firenze's room, Professor Trelawney was ill today. Firenze had them looking up at the ceiling, which depicted the night sky. He explained the significance of Mercury's position, shrouded in part by Venus and Mars.
"It would appear a messenger is covered by both beauty and violence. It is in these times, when communications are delayed or misinterpreted that we must be most careful, as we are most likely to make judgements with false information." Harry felt a painful memory at Firenze's words. He'd wished he'd had that warning two years ago. Ron glanced at Harry with a look of concern. Harry shook his head.
"Don't worry. I'm fine."
Heian stood outside Hagrid's rustic cabin with a small number of other students. While there were some students from Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, there didn't appear to be any Slytherins. Heian didn't complain, he was quickly growing to dislike the Slytherins. The complete disregard for ethics, and their entrenched belief that the ends always justified the means didn't sit well with him. He didn't have any more time to dwell on the subject. Out of the corner of his eye he caught sight of an enormous figure emerging from the woods. Heian stood watching, as the hulk strode up to the cabin. The other students gathered around him in something of a circle.
"Well, I guess yer all here. My name's Hagrid, for any of yeh that don't already know." So this was Hagrid, thought Heian. "Well, let's be off then. We're goin' a little ways into the forest, so stay close." The group followed Hagrid as he led them into the forest. Heian hadn't seen it earlier but he now noticed the Professor was carrying a crossbow, a case of bolts was partially covered by his overcoat. All the students stayed in close knit groups, but Heian fell back a little ways. The forest reminded him of home; the massive trees, the soft earth. It was a bittersweet memory, now that he was away from home. Normally he wouldn't have minded being away, especially for so short a time, but the conditions he'd left under were not happy, and being reminded of them was not comforting. After a few minutes he realized the class had stopped in a small clearing. Without knowing it he'd nearly walked into the center of a group of sixth year girls looking anxiously at a something in the center of the clearing. Heian was too short to see over the girls. He found a spot where no one seemed to be standing. As he stepped toward it he realized why. In the space he was going to occupy lay a large, yellow and brown reptilian tail. He looked to the center of the clearing in surprise. On the charred ground was a dragon. About the size of a large dog, it was brown and yellow. It sat looking expectedly at Hagrid, who was standing a short distance away so he could speak to the class and watch the dragon at the same time. Heian was almost stunned, he'd heard humans were known to be unusually impulsive , but to bring a dragon into class. That definitely qualified as madness to Heian. He didn't think a dragon this small would pose a serious threat with this many senior students and a professor, but it could still cause some very real damage to many people with little effort. Hagrid spoke again, shattering the unearthly silence that had been previously punctuated only by the students heaving breathing at their lesson.
"Most of yeh have probably guessed this is the lesson fer awhile." He waved a hand at the dragon, which cocked its head slightly. "Well, I had ter get special permission to bring a dragon onto the school grounds, but that's all taken care of. So, does anyone know anything about dragons?" Heian stood carefully watching the mottled form as it quietly stood up on its scaly legs. For another couple of moments no one said anything. Heian knew a little of dragons from various courses that involved something about them. He kept his eyes on the beast as he answered Hagrid.
"They grow to be very large, and usually quite aggressive. They're very hard to affect with magic, as their body is impervious to most hexes and minor spells. On the whole they're considered rather dangerous." Heian turned to Hagrid as he finished his answer. The huge man's smile was barely visible beneath his enormous beard.
"Very good. Yer right there, dragons can't be affected by most magic. Even stunning spells don't work real well against 'em. Our little boy here isn't more than seven years old though. He won't give you much trouble, either. I just fed him breakfast a bit ago, so he may go to sleep on us anyway. Well, for the next couple weeks we'll be studyin' Norbert here. That's his name by the way, but fer now we gotta head back or you'll be late for your next class. So then, stay together, take them same path as on the way in." The class seemed glad to be leaving the forest, but many of them seemed fonder of Norbert than before. Hagrid stayed back a moment with the young dragon and Heian once again found himself lagging behind the class and admiring the forest. As he was walking he felt a large hand clap him roughly on the shoulder. He turned to see Hagrid walking next to him. His long strides having easily caught up with Heian's quick steps.
"Ye'll get lost out here if yeh stray to far." Warned Heian smiling. Heian nodded.
"My apologies professor."
"Ah, don't worry about it, ain't nothin' wrong with lookin' at the trees."
"No, there's certainly not."
"Yeh can call me Hagrid, don't bother with the professor stuff, no one else does."
"Very well, Hagrid." They were nearing the edge of the forest. Hagrid's small cottage was visible through the trees. All the students had made their way up toward the castle. Heian turned to leave when Hagrid spoke again.
"Yeh name's Heian isn't it?" Heian nodded. Hagrid continued as he set his crossbow down next to a large pile of wood. "Have yeh met Harry Potter. He's in yer house."
"Yes, I have, along with Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger. She said good things about you." Hagrid smiled.
"Bless that Hermione. Well if its not too much trouble, could yeh tell em I said hi? I'm afraid I may not see much of em for awhile. With Norbert to look after and all."
"Of course, I'll be sure to tell them."
"Thanks a lot. They're a good lot, those kids." Heian nodded and made his way toward the castle after bidding Hagrid goodbye.
Hermione was on her way to the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom when she saw Malfoy coming down an adjacent hallway. He gave a small, evil smile as he turned the corner and began walking next to her. Oh great, she thought, don't tell me he's in the class too. Malfoy turned to her.
"Where are you headed Granger?"
"Class." Hermione responded. Malfoy rolled his eyes.
"No really? You, headed to class?" His voice full of sarcasm, "What a thought." Hermione wasn't really in the mood to banter with Malfoy, but apparently they were going to the same class. When the two of them arrived most of the class was already there. Hermione looked around for Heian, but he wasn't present. Malfoy, apparently bored of harassing her, sat down with another Slytherin across the room. Hermione sat next to Neville Longbottom. She was impressed that he had managed to make it into this class, but he'd done surprisingly well the last year. She hadn't asked him but she thought he was trying to become an Auror. She took out her books and opened it to where she had left off the previous night. Having read through it once already she knew most of the material anyway, but there was no harm in being prepared. A few minutes later she heard the door open and close. She turned to see Heian slip into a seat at the back of the room. She flashed him a smile and a waved. He smiled back and nodded as he set his books on the desk. Just then a tall slender woman with raven hair and dark eyes entered the room from the office at the front wall. She walked smoothly to the front of the room and withdrew an incredibly thin wand. She jerked it sharply at the blackboard and thin silvery letters began to appear on its surface.
"Hello class, my name is Alexandra LeFey. I will be your instructor for the remaining 267 days of the school year." Her voice was smooth, cold and slightly unnerving. "Your first reading assignment is on the board. We will spend ten minutes reading this section, and then we will practice what was just covered." Hermione had already finished the section and it only took her a moment to review. Neville was doing his best to plow through the several pages. Heian had apparently finished quickly and was now waiting patiently to begin the implementing. When the allotted ten minutes was over Professor LeFey called the classes attention. "I'll ask you to please stand. You may leave your things, I only need to rearrange the desks slightly." She waited for the students to move toward the center of the room, then she drew her wand again and waved it quickly back and worth once. The desks slid to the sides of the room leaving a long stretch of open floor in the middle. Hermione was almost certain they were going to practice their new knowledge by dueling. She was glad Harry wasn't here with Malfoy. The two of them would have tried to tear each other apart for the whole class. Out of the corner of her eye, Hermione noticed Heian step into the center isle, directly opposite LeFey. The professor raised an eyebrow.
"Is something the matter, Mr. Nailo?"
"Not at all, Professor. I simply wished to volunteer for the first trial." LeFey gave a half smile, more cold than amused.
"Very well, but what makes you think you know what we'll be doing?"
"I would venture either we were about to duel, or you were going to teach me to dance, Professor." The smile slowly faded.
"Very well. If you're ready." She responded. From across the room Hermione heard a too familiar voice.
"Don't you want a wand, your Elfness?" Malfoy called. Heian gave him an emotionless stare.
"Why yes, I suppose a wand would be useful. Unfortunately, I don't have one of my own, so I'm afraid yours will have to do, Mr. Malfoy." Before Malfoy could object, his wand seemed to come to life and fly straight into Heian's outstretched hand. "Thank you Mr. Malfoy." Heian turned to face Professor LeFey again. A thin smile appeared on her lips again.
"When ever you're ready, Mr. Nailo." Heian nodded and brought his wand in front of him. LeFey kept hers at her side. Heian slid forward and waved his wand in a circle.
"Expelliarmus!" Heian shouted. LeFey barely moved her wand as she blocked Heian's attack. Hermione thought she saw a smile flash briefly on Heian's face. LeFey responded almost instantly, jerking her wand up forcefully. A bright cord of ice blue shot toward Heian. He shot his wand straight out, and shouted, "Protega!" The cord hit the protective barrier and dissipated in a shower of indigo sparks. Before anyone knew what happened next, Heian flew backwards, landing hard against the wall and sliding down to sit dazed on the floor.
"That will be all for today." LeFey announced, stowing her wand in her robes. "Tomorrow we will be in the Great Hall. You will be in pairs practicing what was demonstrated today." She paused, "Or rather, what should have been demonstrated." The class picked up their things and began to leave. Hermione handed Heian his books after she helped him off the floor.
"Are you alright?" She asked. Heian nodded.
"Oh yes, don't worry. I'm fine."
"Oh yeah. You look fine. Noble even." Hermione and Heian turned to find Malfoy standing behind them with the other Slytherin boy. Heian produced Malfoy's wand.
"I'm sure you'll be wanting this." He said handing the blonde boy his wand. Malfoy sneered.
"I'd ask how it handled, but it was fairly obvious." The other Slytherin snickered.
"Oh yes. Much like it's owner. Nice to look at, but without any real substance." With that Heian stepped past Malfoy and the other boy. Hermione followed, throwing a quick glance behind them to make sure Malfoy wasn't trying anything. The pair walked down the hall. Hermione wanted to ask Heian why he'd volunteered to duel with Professor LeFey, but she thought it might not be the best idea, especially since he'd been beaten. Instead they walked toward the Great Hall in silence. As they reached the corridor to Gryffindor tower Heian turned with a nod and departed.
"I'll be down in a moment." With that he hurried up the moving stairs and was gone. Hermione continued into the Great Hall. The place was quite a scene. Slytherin's table was cleared, and on it's top was a long tablecloth of silver and green, with the image of the Slytherin serpent. Malfoy stood on one end; his hair greased back and dressed in a new set of robes. Hermione caught sight of Harry and Ron, who were sitting at Gryffindor's table, across the room, but still having a good view of the excitement. Hermione sat down next to them and started into a sandwich.
"Hey Hermione, where's Heian?" Ron asked after taking a gulp of pumpkin juice. Harry took a look around and began interrogating her as well.
"Yeah, Snape got this whole thing set up. I think he might be up to something. Either that or he thinks Malfoy is sure to beat the tar out of Heian." Hermione was about to respond when the doors to the Great Hall swung open. Heian stepped in wearing the same robes he'd had on during the sorting ceremony. He walked to Slytherin's table carrying a dark, wooden staff that came to his shoulders. It was straight and polished, but gnarled into a curve at the top that circled a round black stone. Without breaking stride he leapt expertly onto the table and stood to face Malfoy. The two stared each other down for a moment before Heian said anything.
"Professors," he greeted them, nodding, "I'm sure my opponent has told you about our wager. And with this arranged I'm assuming it has been cleared by the faculty." Heian was looking at Dumbledore, but it was Snape who responded.
"Yes, it has been cleared. So long as it does not turn into a bloodbath." He sounded almost hopeful that his stipulation would be broken. Heian nodded, then turned to Malfoy and bowed low to the table, his staff held behind his back. Malfoy returned the bow, merely bending stiffly at the waist and returning with his wand at the ready. Heian stood back up, but still held his staff behind him, the jet stone pointed down at an angle.
"Whenever you're ready." He told Malfoy. The boy sneered and launched his attack immediately. He swung his wand high around his head. Everyone expected Heian to go flying, as he'd done in class just a few minutes ago. Instead he merely stood where he was, seemingly unaffected. Malfoy looked confused, but wasted no time in launching another attack. He pointed his wand straight at Heian and shouted.
"Rictusempra!" A bright beam of silver light flew from Malfoy's wand. Everyone's eyes followed it waiting for the outcome. Heian didn't stay motionless this time. He swung his staff out from behind his back and caught Malfoy's attack. The silver light encircled the dark wood staff for a moment, then seemingly crackled into non-existence.
"Is that the best you can do?" Heian asked, his voice cold and hard. Malfoy's lip cured in anger. He slashed his wand fiercely toward Heian. Several gasps went up from the students. Professor McGonagall stood up, her eyes wide. Harry, Ron and Hermione recognized the spell from the Death Eaters attack on them at the Ministry of Magic, two years ago. With horror on their faces they watched, expecting Heian to be cut in two. Instead he thrust his staff at Malfoy. The red slash seemed to hit a wall of air. Heian then took his staff in two hands and swung it down sharply. Everyone in the Great Hall felt the rush of wind the flowed out from the staff. The Slytherin tablecloth billowed out madly, Malfoy's attack was completely blown away and Malfoy barely had time to block. When the savage wind had vanished, Malfoy looked quite ruffled, and everyone else, with the exception of Dumbledore, was in a state of relieved disbelief. Heian, however, stood calmly on the far end of the table. His staff still pointed at the ground, he simply watched as Malfoy composed himself. The blonde youth was about to wave another attack, but before he could utter any sort of hex Heian tapped his staff on the table hard. The hollow sound reverberated unnaturally throughout the hall. Without warning the table under Malfoy sprouted thick, woody vines that quickly seized the boy, disarmed him, and carried both him and his wand several meters into the air. Malfoy looked horrified, but once the other students realized he was in a safe, though rather compromising position several amused murmurs ran throughout the hall. Snape looked both furious and ashamed. McGonagall seemed secretly pleased. Hagrid let out a brief laugh before he caught himself. After a few moments, in which Malfoy hung gracelessly in the midst of the entire school, the vines receded, depositing Malfoy face down on the floor at the end of the table. Heian was the unspoken victor, and without giving Malfoy a second glance he stepped lightly down off the table and proceeded to walk through the ranks of Slytherins, who seemed only too happy to get out of his way.
After lunch the seventh years were given some time before their next class. Ron, Harry and Hermione went out to sit by the lake. No one had seen Heian since lunch, where he'd left early after humiliating Malfoy in front of the school. The day couldn't be better for the trio. The sun was bright, there was a breeze coming off the lake and Heian's victory was seen as a house achievement. They had a good hour before they had to be back at the castle, and there was nothing to do except lounge in one of the last good days of the year.
"You know, you'd think watching Malfoy get whipped would start to lose it's amusement after a while." Ron said, lying back on in the shade of a large oak. Harry smiled.
"Yeah, but it's a good thing it doesn't. Though if I know Malfoy, he'll find someway to get back at Heian."
"Yes, but that does mean he'll probably stop pestering us for a while." Hermione noted, looking up from another of her textbooks. The three thought about that for a few minutes before Ron had a suggestion.
"Hey Harry, you know what I feel like doing?" He asked. Harry raised an eyebrow.
"What?" He responded.
"Practicing a little Quidditch. What do you say?" Harry smiled.
"Sure. Last one on the pitch cleans up." With that the two sped off toward the castle. Ron called back to Hermione.
"You want to come, Hermione?" Hermione shook her head, and smiled.
"No, that's alright. You two have fun." Ron waved and hurried to catch up with Harry. Hermione shook her head. Those two and Quidditch, she thought. She smiled and picked up her books. She thought she might take a trip to the library. As she walked leisurely back toward the castle she caught sight of two small figures flying over the Quidditch pitch. If those two were half as eager about school as they were about Quidditch, they'd have better grades then she did.
The library was mostly empty due to the excellent weather and lack of homework. Hermione walked down one of the aisles full of old, thick, dusty tomes. She was looking for something that covered advanced transfiguration. She was interested in going more in depth on many of her subjects this year. As she neared the end on the row she found a volume about an inch think. It was covered in dust, but she could faintly see the words "Transfigurations and Transmutations". She blew the dust from the book's surface. A gray cloud rose up and rushed away into the opposite side of the bookcase. Hermione heard somewhat give several quick coughs. She turned the corner to apologize and met Heian, blinking fiercely and shaking the dust from his long silver hair. Hermione put a hand over her mouth.
"Oh, Heian. I'm sorry, I didn't know you were there." Heian shook his head, still coughing, and waved a hand to dismiss it. Hermione kept apologizing dumbly. She led Heian out of the dusty aisle and sat down with him at a table. It took a few more moments for him to clear his head of the coughing fit caused by Hermione's dust attack, but after that he seemed fine. He had a large stack of old articles from the Daily Prophet that he set on the table next to Hermione's transfiguration book.
"I assume that that's for excelling with Professor McGonagall?" Heian ventured, nodding to the book.
"Yes, I just thought I'd study up from other sources too. Just for fun." She said smiling. Heian nodded. "What about those?" She asked, pointing to the stack of newspaper articles.
"Oh, nothing much just a little bit of recent history from the human world. Thought I might read a bit, see if I could further my understanding of how this place works." He paused for a moment, then gathered his articles and nodded to Hermione. "I'll see you later then. Have a pleasant afternoon." Hermione waved.
"You too." She watched him go from the library and head to Gryffindor tower. As she picked up her things to go, she noticed a piece of parchment lying on the ground beneath the table. It was one of the articles Heian had taken. She picked up and read.
Followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named Captured at Ministry of Magic.
Several Death Eaters were apprehended yesterday by a group of
wizards led by Albus Dumbledore. According to Minister of Magic
Cornelius Fudge, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named led the attack on the
Ministry building. When asked to confirm the presence of You-Know-
How Fudge only said, "I wish it weren't true, but we can no longer
ignore the evidence of his return." All citizens are asked to
remain calm. Those apprehended at the attack have been sent to
Azkaban prisoner, which has recently been placed under human guard,
due to extenuating circumstances.
The rest of the article was apparently on a different page. Hermione quickly stowed the article in her pocket and ran out to find Harry and Ron. Why would Heian have been reading about the attack on the Ministry two years ago, and what were those other articles about? Hermione had to let the guys know about this right away. Their new mystery guest had just become much more mysterious.
"I wonder who he is?" Ron told his friends, "Especially since he seems to be getting all this attention."
"We could go find out." Harry offered.
"Well, do we know where he's suppose to be?" Hermione asked Harry.
"Well, no. I guess we don't."
"Oh well, we can wait for the sorting ceremony. I can't wait to see our big celebrity sorted with the first years." Ron said smiling.
Well, it won't be long now," Hermione told him, looking out the window, "we're almost there."
The train pulled to a stop and the trio shuffled toward the carriages waiting to take them to the castle. As they made their way the looked to try and find the mystery celebrity. They watched Hagrid lead the first years across the lake in their fleet of little boats. After they'd gone from sight the three turned and got in a carriage.
"Well, he wasn't there, unless he was really small." Ron joked.
"Yeah, I guess we'll have to meet him at the ceremony." Hermione restated with a slightly entranced look in her eyes. Ron looked at her quizzically.
"Are you going to be okay, Hermione? Not going to space out over our mystery man, are you?" Hermione jabbed him in the arm playfully. "No, I'm not spacing out. I'm just wondering what he'll be like, especially if he gets put in Gryffindor."
"I suppose you have a point. But, think about it, if he's in Gryffindor he's got to be somewhat decent."
"Yeah, that's true. Well, let's hope he doesn't turn out to be a Slytherin. We've got enough trouble with Malfoy and his thugs. I don't want a Slytherin celebrity strutting down the halls."
"Yeah, neither do I." The carriage pulled up toward the front doors of Hogwarts castle and the trio jumped out and hurried to get good seats in the Great Hall.
The Great Hall ceiling was a calm night sky, reflecting the one outdoors. Harry, Hermione and Ron sat at the Gryffindor table near the front. Other than good timing and a general curiosity that seemed to be present throughout the school they had no real reason for being there. Harry and Hermione didn't have siblings, and Ron's younger sister Ginny was in her sixth year. After a few minutes of waiting the doors were opened and a stream of young children dressed in Hogwarts robes walked nervously into the hall. Trailing behind them was a tall, slender boy. He looked like he was probably in his sixth or seventh year. He was rather pale, and had long silver hair that almost gleamed in the many torches of the great hall. He was wearing deep blue robes and had a silver band of intertwined metal on his forehead. As he passed several students at the four tables whispered and threw glances at his ears. They were large, and upturned to points above his eyebrows. His eyes were a piercing, icy blue and he kept his gaze fixed at the front of the room. The group of newcomers huddled together at the front of the hall as Professor McGonagall stepped to where the famous sorting hat sat at the ready on its stool. Suddenly it stirred and sprang to life. The hat began to sing the same poem it had every year since the trio of friends had arrived, save for their fifth, which had been a rather extenuated circumstance. When it finished Professor McGonagall picked up the hat as she began reading names off the list in her other hand. First was a short, thin boy with dark hair who joined Ravenclaw. Next, a tall blonde girl was deemed a Hufflepuff. The next two boys, both rather stocky, were put in Hufflepuff, and so it went, one by one the new first years were sorted into their houses, until the only one who remained was the stranger. Once everyone had quieted down Professor Dumbledore rose from the teachers' table in the front of the hall and addressed the students.
"Welcome, Welcome everyone. Before we begin, and before the sorting hat leaves, I'd like to introduce a special new student." He nodded toward the boy standing alone at the front. "I'd like to introduce Heian Nailo. He's transferred here from Holimiom Elven Academy. We're very glad to have you here." Heian nodded politely to Dumbledore, and walked toward McGonagall who placed the sorting hat on his head. The great hall was completely silent. This was almost as exciting as when Harry was sorted. Everyone waited to find out which house the strange elf would be put into. At last the sorting hat announced Gryffindor. The Gryffindor table erupted in applause and cheering. The other three tables cheered more out of respect than anything else. Heian walked to the Gryffindor table, nodding his head to the many welcomes and congratulations at the table, and sat down quietly next to Harry, Hermione and Ron. After he was seated Dumbledore announced the start of the feast. The platters on the tables were piled high with food of every sort, and all the students immediately started into the banquet. Hermione decided to start a conversation with Heian.
"Hello, my name is Hermione Granger," she pointed to the two boys, "this is Ron Weasley and Harry Potter."
Heian acknowledged them all. "Hello. Hermione, I've heard you're the head of your class, that's quite impressive." Hermione blushed slightly. Heian turned to Ron and Harry, across the table. "Ron Weasley, your father works for the Ministry of Magic, correct?"
"Yeah, he does." Heian looked at Harry. His blue eyes peered hard into Harry's. "And the famous Harry Potter." He paused, "it's nice to meet you." At that he turned back to his meal. The three friends looked at each other. Ron shot Hermione a questioning look. She shrugged and pressed the conversation.
"I didn't know elves existed, other than house elves that is."
Heian stopped eating and turned to the three again. "No, I wouldn't expect you would. We do our best to keep ourselves unknown."
"Then why did you come to Hogwarts?" Ron asked him around a mouth of roast chicken.
"Professor Dumbledore is a friend of my father. He asked that I be transferred here to study under him."
Harry swallowed a mouthful of pumpkin juice; "Will you be taking classes here like the rest of us?"
"Perhaps." Heian shrugged. "I'm sure I'll be involved somehow."
"Well, that's good to know." Hermione said, "I wonder if we'll be in any classes together."
Heian shrugged again, "It's possible, depending on the level of classes you're all taking." Hermione was about to explain that they all take very advanced classes when they were dismissed to their dormitories. Heian nodded to the three and followed the first years out of the Great Hall. Harry, Hermione and Ron walked together a ways behind them.
"What was that all about?" Ron asked indignantly, " 'depending on the level of classes you're all taking' he's certainly proud of himself."
"I don't think he meant any offense." Hermione said, "After all, what do we know about Elven culture?"
"Hermione's probably right, Ron." Harry said, "We should give him a chance. He's probably a fine guy."
That night the three friends sat in the Gryffindor common room with several of the new first year students. Harry and Ron sat at a table playing a game of wizard's chess. Hermione was sitting in an over stuffed armchair paging through her "Defense Against The Dark Arts" textbook. She had already managed to read almost all of it before school had begun. The main topic of discussion among the upper classmen was the new boy, Heian Nailo. No one had known elves existed, at least not elves like Heian. Sure they'd known of house elves, and some of them had even met one, but Heian was definitely not a house elf. Hermione looked up from her book at the two boys playing chess.
"You know, he's kind of attractive." She told them.
Ron looked up at her. "Who's kind of attractive?" He asked.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "That Heian boy. Who has everyone been talking about lately?"
Harry kept looking at the chessboard, trying to find someway to beat Ron for once. "Well, maybe, but did you see his ears?"
Ron joined Harry's side, "Yeah, plus he seems really arrogant. I mean, he's only been here a couple of hours and he already thinks he's smarter than you, Hermione."
"No he doesn't." Hermione defended, "He didn't say that. He just meant that." She was cut off by a familiar voice, one they'd all heard not too long ago.
"He just meant that he wasn't going to promise to be in classes with you three before he found out." The three of them looked toward the stairs to the dormitories. Standing some five feet away from them was Heian, apparently having heard the majority of their conversation. Hermione jumped up to apologize. "Heian, we were just talking about you."
"Yes, I noticed." He said, his face void of emotions. Hermione looked at her feet slightly. Heian continued. "Don't worry about it. I'm sure you meant no offense. Besides, I'm sure I did come off as somewhat arrogant at the banquet. You'll have to excuse me, I did not mean to offend any of you."
Hermione looked noticeably relieved. Harry stood up from the table and invited Heian to join them. "Why don't you come sit with us." Heian sat down in a chair opposite Hermione. For a while he just stared into the fire burning on the other side of the room. Ron was the one to break the silence.
"So, Heian, what do you think of Hogwarts?" Heian pulled his gaze away from the dancing flames and turned to Ron.
"I must admit. I was surprised to find such a marvelous school here. While it is all stone, it has a grace and refinement I did not expect." Ron smiled, not quite sure if that had been a compliment or not.
"What was your school like back home, Heian?" Hermione asked.
"It was not nearly as large as this. Though that is to be expected as there were only twelve students." He told her. Hermione looked amazed.
"Only twelve. That doesn't seem like a lot. How many Elven schools are there?"
"Only one, Holimion. You have to understand, we have no need for a school as large as this, since there are only twelve of us that are enrolled."
Harry and Ron had stopped playing their game, and Harry looked toward Heian questioningly. "How many elves are there?" He asked.
"Twenty-nine, including myself." Heian answered.
Ron raised his eyebrows, "Only twenty-nine?"
Heian nodded and got a far away look in his eyes. Harry decided to turn the conversation away from their current topic. He might just have been imagining it, but he sensed some amount of resentment or bitterness from Heian when he and Ron had asked how many elves there were.
"Heian," he began, "tell us more about Holimion. What subjects did you study?" Heian came out of his minor trance and looked at Harry momentarily before he turned back toward the group.
"Well, similar to those you study here, I would imagine. Though, they're treated somewhat differently as those taught here, I'm sure." He paused for a moment. "To some extent Elven magic is taught in levels, similar to your O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s only, slightly different. For example I learned how to brew potions, in a similar manner as is taught here. However, classes such as charms were taught much differently. Almost all elves train to become wizards, and many donate several decades to it's study. The first level of study includes the classes Enchantment and Illusion. Within those classes are taught charms, figments and phantasms and a few others. The first level focuses on introducing younger elves to magic, and so teaches somewhat easier magic. The second level encompasses a much wider variety. Normally students discover the fields they are most interested in during the span of the second level. Second level classes are Evocation, Conjuring, Transfiguration, and Abjuration." Heian noticed the somewhat confused look in his audience's eyes, and tried to explain. "Transfiguration is basically the same subject as it is here. Conjuration is a mixture of summoning, calling, and creation spells. Evocations are spells that manipulate or tap energy. Abjuration is the study of protective spells, similar to Defense against the Dark Arts here. Most students are considered under qualified to advance beyond second level. The only classes taught in third level are Healing and Necromancy." Harry, Hermione and Ron looked at him blankly. Hermione was the first to respond.
"I think I understand." She tried to explain to the two boys, "Basically, classes are grouped by difficulty and the students focus on the subjects of most interest to them." Harry and Ron seemed to get the idea, more or less. She turned to Heian, "How many teachers were there?"
"Three," Heian stated, "one for each level." Hermione nodded.
"Well," she said, standing up, "I'm off to bed. We get our schedules tomorrow at breakfast, Heian." He nodded politely, and turned back to Ron and Harry as Hermione walked up the stairs to her dormitory. Ron stretched his arms over his head, and yawned.
"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea. Harry, do you want to continue our game tomorrow?" He asked; looking at the table where the miniature animated figurines had been waiting. Harry shook his head.
"Nah, you'll end up beating me anyway."
"Alright, I'll clean it up tomorrow morning. Don't worry about it." He said, as he left up the stairs toward his dormitory. The only ones left in the common room were Heian and Harry. After a moment of silence Heian spoke again.
"I've heard of your exploits." He said, looking into the fire again. "I'm very impressed." After that, he stood up and walked quietly up to the dormitory. Harry's eyes followed him as he went, quite puzzled. I wonder what that was about, he thought before he too climbed the stairs and went to bed.
Harry woke early the next morning; most of the other Gryffindors were still asleep. He wanted to talk to Heian about what he'd said last night. Granted that most of the wizarding world had heard of his exploits, and most of them were impressed. Heian, however, was different somehow. He wasn't sure how, but Harry was almost positive he was different. Well, maybe it's just that elves aren't impressed much, he thought back to yesterday after the banquet when Ron had spoken about Heian's apparent arrogance. Either way, he wanted to talk to Heian about it alone, and he wasn't in the dormitory. Harry descended the staircase and found Heian sitting in the same chair he'd sat in last night in the common room. He was wearing the normal robes of Gryffindor house. He looked up at Harry as he came down the stairs. Harry smiled toward him and sat down in the chair across from him.
"Good Morning."
Heian nodded, "and to you." For a minute or so Heian just looked into the fire as he had done the previous night. Harry rung his hands slightly and yawned. He was quickly finding Heian to be very hard to talk to.
"Last night, when you said you'd heard of me," he paused before continuing, "and that you were impressed. What did you mean, exactly?" Heian turned to him, his eyebrows slightly furrowed.
"What do you mean?" He asked Harry. Harry stumbled for a minute trying to say something that wouldn't sound arrogant. He was about to respond when Hermione came down the stairs and joined them.
"Hello." She sounded well refreshed and ready for the first day of studying, same old Hermione.
"Hi Hermione." Harry greeted her as she leaned against the side of his chair. Heian nodded.
"Good day, Miss Granger." Hermione giggled and blushed slightly.
"You can call me Hermione." Heian nodded again.
"Very well, Good morning Hermione." She smiled and began talking about school.
"Schedules today." She beamed at them, so overly excited about the event. "So, have either of you started reading?" Harry shook his head.
"Actually, I did start reading a few of them." Heian told her.
"Really? Ron and Harry never read their books. Never any time," She gave Harry a look of mock sympathy. "They just ask me to help them study after Quidditch practice. Can't miss Quidditch, can we?"
Heian looked at the pair confused. "Quidditch?" He asked. Harry looked at him in surprise. After all Heian's wizarding in elven country, he didn't know what Quidditch was? He looked at Hermione expecting an answer; she just shrugged at him. Heian looked at them both and continued, "ah, what exactly is Quidditch?"
Harry smiled and began explaining the game to him. Hermione smiled to herself, once you got Harry going on Quidditch, there was no stopping him. Some minutes later, while Harry was explaining the object of the game, Ron came down to the common room, rubbing sleep from his eyes. He waved them hello, sat down next to Harry and began putting last night's chess game away. As Harry was finishing his explanation on Quidditch most of Gryffindor house had joined them in the land of the waking, and some had already left for breakfast. Hermione suggested they do the same, Ron's stomach growled in agreement. The four started off toward the Great Hall. As they neared the source of the usual breakfast commotion Ron caught sight of the three people he disliked the most of anyone at Hogwarts. He nudged Harry and glanced toward Crabbe, Goyle and Malfoy as they made there way toward them. It took Hermione a moment to notice why they had stopped, when she saw the familiar smug grin of Draco Malfoy she caught Heian's eye and he stopped behind Ron and Harry as well.
"Well, it look's like Gryffindor has itself another celebrity." Malfoy sneered, throwing a look toward Heian. "Hope you're not too jealous Potter." Harry was about to respond, but Heian stepped in front of him. His gaze traveled over the three Slytherins without emotion. When he addressed them his voice was eerily cold.
"I assume you are Draco Malfoy." He said, before continuing without waiting for an answer. "You seem to be the leash holder of these two." He surveyed Crabbe and Goyle. Malfoy wasn't going to be insulted by the new star of Gryffindor.
"You could say that, I would be surprised that you'd heard of me, but I suppose we Malfoys are well known, and with ears like that," Malfoy nodded toward Heian's pointed ears, "I bet you can't miss much." Crabbe and Goyle laughed. Harry, Ron and Hermione remained silent, watching Heian incase Malfoy tried anything. Heian kept his face void of emotion as he returned Malfoys insult.
"Yes, with my ears I hear a great many things. Such as how all your fathers are currently imprisoned in Azkaban. How Lucius Malfoy seems to jump ship at the first sign of loss, and then re-pledge his allegiance when circumstances deem it prudent. Yes, I've heard a great deal of things." Malfoy went red with anger. Crabbe lunged for Heian but the elf side stepped him, and pushed his off balance bulk to the floor. Malfoy drew his wand in a flash, but Harry, Ron and Hermione already had theirs out. Crabbe picked himself up, and Malfoy stowed his wand.
"You'll get yours elf!" Malfoy spat as they walked toward the Slytherin's table.
"How about at lunch then." Heian offered, "A duel, before the student body, I'm sure we could have a table reserved for that. Perhaps Slytherin." Malfoy glared daggers at Heian, he knew his house wouldn't like their table being commandeered. Yet, if he refused it looked like he wasn't willing to duel. He really had no choice.
"Fine then, lunch, our table will be cleared. Then everyone can watch me mop the floor with you." Malfoy jeered. Heian smiled slightly.
"Wouldn't you be mopping the table with me, Draco." Malfoy sneered and led his cronies into the Great Hall. Hermione hopped forward.
"Heian are you alright?" She asked.
"Yes, don't worry." He answered. Harry and Ron smiled at each other. Hermione was quite taken with Heian. The four of them went to sit down for breakfast. Heian pretended nothing had happened; though on the other side of the room the Slytherin table seemed to have a great dislike for the new seventh year now. Harry and Ron stole quick glances around the room. Rumors had always traveled fast at Hogwarts, and Heian's choice of action having just occurred outside the Great Hall was now well known. Of course, it would be forgotten tomorrow, after all, most people didn't care much about the fights Malfoy and his friends got into, there were too many to keep count. As Hermione had explained the previous night all the students received their schedules. Heian finished his meal before looking at his. Harry and Ron had double Divinations with Ravenclaw. Ron let out a disappointed sigh, granted the class had improved since Firenze started teaching with Trelawney, but it still made very little sense to anyone who wasn't a centaur. Hermione had Potions and Defense against the Dark Arts. She was working toward a position as an Auror and was one of the more promising students in Snape's N.E.W.T. class. Harry was also trying for an Auror position; unfortunately, Snape was not being lenient with him. Heian had Care of Magical Creatures and Defense against the Dark Arts. He turned to Hermione.
"Well, it would appear we do have a class together." Hermione smiled.
"Yep, well, I'll see you after Care of Magical Creatures. You'll love Hagrid, he's great." Heian smiled and nodded. As Hermione turned to head to the dungeons Heian called after her.
"Hermione."
"Yes." She turned.
"Where would I find Hagrid?"
"Oh, um, out on the grounds. He usually has class out by his house." She pointed out Hagrid's home through a window. Heian followed her directions out over the grounds.
"Ah. Thank you. I'll see you in a short while then." He nodded again, and made his way toward Gryffindor tower. Hermione looked puzzled for a moment.
"Heian." She called.
"Yes."
"The doors, that way." She said quietly, pointing down the hall.
"Oh, I know." Heian told her, "I just need to pick up my things."
"Oh, okay. Sorry." Hermione turned and hurried off toward the dungeons. Heian watched her go for a moment, before he headed off to get his things for class. He turned the hall and came to the fabled moving staircases of Hogwarts. Navigating the stairs had been somewhat difficult with other students present. He wasn't used to having so many bodies moving in such a small area. Though now, with most of the students already heading to class and away from their dormitories Heian was much more comfortable. He reached the portrait barring the way. The fat lady asked him for the password. This is exceptionally primitive, he thought, anyone seeking an easy way in could simply threaten the old woman into producing the entrance. Never the less, he did remember the password, so there was no need for such things. Now, it was some ridiculous word. Ah, yes.
"Pumpkin juice." He told her. Her portrait obediently swung open. He stepped through the porthole and up the stairs to his the foot of his bed. He tapped his trunk, it sprang open and he withdrew his books. He kicked it shut and started off toward his first class at Hogwarts.
Hermione sat in Professor Snape's classroom copying the instructions on their assignment for the day. It was particularly long and difficult, even for one of Snape's concoctions. Hermione thought of Harry, and hoped he'd do well. Snape had never liked Harry, but the last few years he seemed especially intent on making his life miserable. Well, Harry will have to take extra care with today's lesson, she thought, as she lit a small fire under her cauldron.
Harry and Ron sat on the grass in Firenze's room, Professor Trelawney was ill today. Firenze had them looking up at the ceiling, which depicted the night sky. He explained the significance of Mercury's position, shrouded in part by Venus and Mars.
"It would appear a messenger is covered by both beauty and violence. It is in these times, when communications are delayed or misinterpreted that we must be most careful, as we are most likely to make judgements with false information." Harry felt a painful memory at Firenze's words. He'd wished he'd had that warning two years ago. Ron glanced at Harry with a look of concern. Harry shook his head.
"Don't worry. I'm fine."
Heian stood outside Hagrid's rustic cabin with a small number of other students. While there were some students from Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, there didn't appear to be any Slytherins. Heian didn't complain, he was quickly growing to dislike the Slytherins. The complete disregard for ethics, and their entrenched belief that the ends always justified the means didn't sit well with him. He didn't have any more time to dwell on the subject. Out of the corner of his eye he caught sight of an enormous figure emerging from the woods. Heian stood watching, as the hulk strode up to the cabin. The other students gathered around him in something of a circle.
"Well, I guess yer all here. My name's Hagrid, for any of yeh that don't already know." So this was Hagrid, thought Heian. "Well, let's be off then. We're goin' a little ways into the forest, so stay close." The group followed Hagrid as he led them into the forest. Heian hadn't seen it earlier but he now noticed the Professor was carrying a crossbow, a case of bolts was partially covered by his overcoat. All the students stayed in close knit groups, but Heian fell back a little ways. The forest reminded him of home; the massive trees, the soft earth. It was a bittersweet memory, now that he was away from home. Normally he wouldn't have minded being away, especially for so short a time, but the conditions he'd left under were not happy, and being reminded of them was not comforting. After a few minutes he realized the class had stopped in a small clearing. Without knowing it he'd nearly walked into the center of a group of sixth year girls looking anxiously at a something in the center of the clearing. Heian was too short to see over the girls. He found a spot where no one seemed to be standing. As he stepped toward it he realized why. In the space he was going to occupy lay a large, yellow and brown reptilian tail. He looked to the center of the clearing in surprise. On the charred ground was a dragon. About the size of a large dog, it was brown and yellow. It sat looking expectedly at Hagrid, who was standing a short distance away so he could speak to the class and watch the dragon at the same time. Heian was almost stunned, he'd heard humans were known to be unusually impulsive , but to bring a dragon into class. That definitely qualified as madness to Heian. He didn't think a dragon this small would pose a serious threat with this many senior students and a professor, but it could still cause some very real damage to many people with little effort. Hagrid spoke again, shattering the unearthly silence that had been previously punctuated only by the students heaving breathing at their lesson.
"Most of yeh have probably guessed this is the lesson fer awhile." He waved a hand at the dragon, which cocked its head slightly. "Well, I had ter get special permission to bring a dragon onto the school grounds, but that's all taken care of. So, does anyone know anything about dragons?" Heian stood carefully watching the mottled form as it quietly stood up on its scaly legs. For another couple of moments no one said anything. Heian knew a little of dragons from various courses that involved something about them. He kept his eyes on the beast as he answered Hagrid.
"They grow to be very large, and usually quite aggressive. They're very hard to affect with magic, as their body is impervious to most hexes and minor spells. On the whole they're considered rather dangerous." Heian turned to Hagrid as he finished his answer. The huge man's smile was barely visible beneath his enormous beard.
"Very good. Yer right there, dragons can't be affected by most magic. Even stunning spells don't work real well against 'em. Our little boy here isn't more than seven years old though. He won't give you much trouble, either. I just fed him breakfast a bit ago, so he may go to sleep on us anyway. Well, for the next couple weeks we'll be studyin' Norbert here. That's his name by the way, but fer now we gotta head back or you'll be late for your next class. So then, stay together, take them same path as on the way in." The class seemed glad to be leaving the forest, but many of them seemed fonder of Norbert than before. Hagrid stayed back a moment with the young dragon and Heian once again found himself lagging behind the class and admiring the forest. As he was walking he felt a large hand clap him roughly on the shoulder. He turned to see Hagrid walking next to him. His long strides having easily caught up with Heian's quick steps.
"Ye'll get lost out here if yeh stray to far." Warned Heian smiling. Heian nodded.
"My apologies professor."
"Ah, don't worry about it, ain't nothin' wrong with lookin' at the trees."
"No, there's certainly not."
"Yeh can call me Hagrid, don't bother with the professor stuff, no one else does."
"Very well, Hagrid." They were nearing the edge of the forest. Hagrid's small cottage was visible through the trees. All the students had made their way up toward the castle. Heian turned to leave when Hagrid spoke again.
"Yeh name's Heian isn't it?" Heian nodded. Hagrid continued as he set his crossbow down next to a large pile of wood. "Have yeh met Harry Potter. He's in yer house."
"Yes, I have, along with Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger. She said good things about you." Hagrid smiled.
"Bless that Hermione. Well if its not too much trouble, could yeh tell em I said hi? I'm afraid I may not see much of em for awhile. With Norbert to look after and all."
"Of course, I'll be sure to tell them."
"Thanks a lot. They're a good lot, those kids." Heian nodded and made his way toward the castle after bidding Hagrid goodbye.
Hermione was on her way to the Defense against the Dark Arts classroom when she saw Malfoy coming down an adjacent hallway. He gave a small, evil smile as he turned the corner and began walking next to her. Oh great, she thought, don't tell me he's in the class too. Malfoy turned to her.
"Where are you headed Granger?"
"Class." Hermione responded. Malfoy rolled his eyes.
"No really? You, headed to class?" His voice full of sarcasm, "What a thought." Hermione wasn't really in the mood to banter with Malfoy, but apparently they were going to the same class. When the two of them arrived most of the class was already there. Hermione looked around for Heian, but he wasn't present. Malfoy, apparently bored of harassing her, sat down with another Slytherin across the room. Hermione sat next to Neville Longbottom. She was impressed that he had managed to make it into this class, but he'd done surprisingly well the last year. She hadn't asked him but she thought he was trying to become an Auror. She took out her books and opened it to where she had left off the previous night. Having read through it once already she knew most of the material anyway, but there was no harm in being prepared. A few minutes later she heard the door open and close. She turned to see Heian slip into a seat at the back of the room. She flashed him a smile and a waved. He smiled back and nodded as he set his books on the desk. Just then a tall slender woman with raven hair and dark eyes entered the room from the office at the front wall. She walked smoothly to the front of the room and withdrew an incredibly thin wand. She jerked it sharply at the blackboard and thin silvery letters began to appear on its surface.
"Hello class, my name is Alexandra LeFey. I will be your instructor for the remaining 267 days of the school year." Her voice was smooth, cold and slightly unnerving. "Your first reading assignment is on the board. We will spend ten minutes reading this section, and then we will practice what was just covered." Hermione had already finished the section and it only took her a moment to review. Neville was doing his best to plow through the several pages. Heian had apparently finished quickly and was now waiting patiently to begin the implementing. When the allotted ten minutes was over Professor LeFey called the classes attention. "I'll ask you to please stand. You may leave your things, I only need to rearrange the desks slightly." She waited for the students to move toward the center of the room, then she drew her wand again and waved it quickly back and worth once. The desks slid to the sides of the room leaving a long stretch of open floor in the middle. Hermione was almost certain they were going to practice their new knowledge by dueling. She was glad Harry wasn't here with Malfoy. The two of them would have tried to tear each other apart for the whole class. Out of the corner of her eye, Hermione noticed Heian step into the center isle, directly opposite LeFey. The professor raised an eyebrow.
"Is something the matter, Mr. Nailo?"
"Not at all, Professor. I simply wished to volunteer for the first trial." LeFey gave a half smile, more cold than amused.
"Very well, but what makes you think you know what we'll be doing?"
"I would venture either we were about to duel, or you were going to teach me to dance, Professor." The smile slowly faded.
"Very well. If you're ready." She responded. From across the room Hermione heard a too familiar voice.
"Don't you want a wand, your Elfness?" Malfoy called. Heian gave him an emotionless stare.
"Why yes, I suppose a wand would be useful. Unfortunately, I don't have one of my own, so I'm afraid yours will have to do, Mr. Malfoy." Before Malfoy could object, his wand seemed to come to life and fly straight into Heian's outstretched hand. "Thank you Mr. Malfoy." Heian turned to face Professor LeFey again. A thin smile appeared on her lips again.
"When ever you're ready, Mr. Nailo." Heian nodded and brought his wand in front of him. LeFey kept hers at her side. Heian slid forward and waved his wand in a circle.
"Expelliarmus!" Heian shouted. LeFey barely moved her wand as she blocked Heian's attack. Hermione thought she saw a smile flash briefly on Heian's face. LeFey responded almost instantly, jerking her wand up forcefully. A bright cord of ice blue shot toward Heian. He shot his wand straight out, and shouted, "Protega!" The cord hit the protective barrier and dissipated in a shower of indigo sparks. Before anyone knew what happened next, Heian flew backwards, landing hard against the wall and sliding down to sit dazed on the floor.
"That will be all for today." LeFey announced, stowing her wand in her robes. "Tomorrow we will be in the Great Hall. You will be in pairs practicing what was demonstrated today." She paused, "Or rather, what should have been demonstrated." The class picked up their things and began to leave. Hermione handed Heian his books after she helped him off the floor.
"Are you alright?" She asked. Heian nodded.
"Oh yes, don't worry. I'm fine."
"Oh yeah. You look fine. Noble even." Hermione and Heian turned to find Malfoy standing behind them with the other Slytherin boy. Heian produced Malfoy's wand.
"I'm sure you'll be wanting this." He said handing the blonde boy his wand. Malfoy sneered.
"I'd ask how it handled, but it was fairly obvious." The other Slytherin snickered.
"Oh yes. Much like it's owner. Nice to look at, but without any real substance." With that Heian stepped past Malfoy and the other boy. Hermione followed, throwing a quick glance behind them to make sure Malfoy wasn't trying anything. The pair walked down the hall. Hermione wanted to ask Heian why he'd volunteered to duel with Professor LeFey, but she thought it might not be the best idea, especially since he'd been beaten. Instead they walked toward the Great Hall in silence. As they reached the corridor to Gryffindor tower Heian turned with a nod and departed.
"I'll be down in a moment." With that he hurried up the moving stairs and was gone. Hermione continued into the Great Hall. The place was quite a scene. Slytherin's table was cleared, and on it's top was a long tablecloth of silver and green, with the image of the Slytherin serpent. Malfoy stood on one end; his hair greased back and dressed in a new set of robes. Hermione caught sight of Harry and Ron, who were sitting at Gryffindor's table, across the room, but still having a good view of the excitement. Hermione sat down next to them and started into a sandwich.
"Hey Hermione, where's Heian?" Ron asked after taking a gulp of pumpkin juice. Harry took a look around and began interrogating her as well.
"Yeah, Snape got this whole thing set up. I think he might be up to something. Either that or he thinks Malfoy is sure to beat the tar out of Heian." Hermione was about to respond when the doors to the Great Hall swung open. Heian stepped in wearing the same robes he'd had on during the sorting ceremony. He walked to Slytherin's table carrying a dark, wooden staff that came to his shoulders. It was straight and polished, but gnarled into a curve at the top that circled a round black stone. Without breaking stride he leapt expertly onto the table and stood to face Malfoy. The two stared each other down for a moment before Heian said anything.
"Professors," he greeted them, nodding, "I'm sure my opponent has told you about our wager. And with this arranged I'm assuming it has been cleared by the faculty." Heian was looking at Dumbledore, but it was Snape who responded.
"Yes, it has been cleared. So long as it does not turn into a bloodbath." He sounded almost hopeful that his stipulation would be broken. Heian nodded, then turned to Malfoy and bowed low to the table, his staff held behind his back. Malfoy returned the bow, merely bending stiffly at the waist and returning with his wand at the ready. Heian stood back up, but still held his staff behind him, the jet stone pointed down at an angle.
"Whenever you're ready." He told Malfoy. The boy sneered and launched his attack immediately. He swung his wand high around his head. Everyone expected Heian to go flying, as he'd done in class just a few minutes ago. Instead he merely stood where he was, seemingly unaffected. Malfoy looked confused, but wasted no time in launching another attack. He pointed his wand straight at Heian and shouted.
"Rictusempra!" A bright beam of silver light flew from Malfoy's wand. Everyone's eyes followed it waiting for the outcome. Heian didn't stay motionless this time. He swung his staff out from behind his back and caught Malfoy's attack. The silver light encircled the dark wood staff for a moment, then seemingly crackled into non-existence.
"Is that the best you can do?" Heian asked, his voice cold and hard. Malfoy's lip cured in anger. He slashed his wand fiercely toward Heian. Several gasps went up from the students. Professor McGonagall stood up, her eyes wide. Harry, Ron and Hermione recognized the spell from the Death Eaters attack on them at the Ministry of Magic, two years ago. With horror on their faces they watched, expecting Heian to be cut in two. Instead he thrust his staff at Malfoy. The red slash seemed to hit a wall of air. Heian then took his staff in two hands and swung it down sharply. Everyone in the Great Hall felt the rush of wind the flowed out from the staff. The Slytherin tablecloth billowed out madly, Malfoy's attack was completely blown away and Malfoy barely had time to block. When the savage wind had vanished, Malfoy looked quite ruffled, and everyone else, with the exception of Dumbledore, was in a state of relieved disbelief. Heian, however, stood calmly on the far end of the table. His staff still pointed at the ground, he simply watched as Malfoy composed himself. The blonde youth was about to wave another attack, but before he could utter any sort of hex Heian tapped his staff on the table hard. The hollow sound reverberated unnaturally throughout the hall. Without warning the table under Malfoy sprouted thick, woody vines that quickly seized the boy, disarmed him, and carried both him and his wand several meters into the air. Malfoy looked horrified, but once the other students realized he was in a safe, though rather compromising position several amused murmurs ran throughout the hall. Snape looked both furious and ashamed. McGonagall seemed secretly pleased. Hagrid let out a brief laugh before he caught himself. After a few moments, in which Malfoy hung gracelessly in the midst of the entire school, the vines receded, depositing Malfoy face down on the floor at the end of the table. Heian was the unspoken victor, and without giving Malfoy a second glance he stepped lightly down off the table and proceeded to walk through the ranks of Slytherins, who seemed only too happy to get out of his way.
After lunch the seventh years were given some time before their next class. Ron, Harry and Hermione went out to sit by the lake. No one had seen Heian since lunch, where he'd left early after humiliating Malfoy in front of the school. The day couldn't be better for the trio. The sun was bright, there was a breeze coming off the lake and Heian's victory was seen as a house achievement. They had a good hour before they had to be back at the castle, and there was nothing to do except lounge in one of the last good days of the year.
"You know, you'd think watching Malfoy get whipped would start to lose it's amusement after a while." Ron said, lying back on in the shade of a large oak. Harry smiled.
"Yeah, but it's a good thing it doesn't. Though if I know Malfoy, he'll find someway to get back at Heian."
"Yes, but that does mean he'll probably stop pestering us for a while." Hermione noted, looking up from another of her textbooks. The three thought about that for a few minutes before Ron had a suggestion.
"Hey Harry, you know what I feel like doing?" He asked. Harry raised an eyebrow.
"What?" He responded.
"Practicing a little Quidditch. What do you say?" Harry smiled.
"Sure. Last one on the pitch cleans up." With that the two sped off toward the castle. Ron called back to Hermione.
"You want to come, Hermione?" Hermione shook her head, and smiled.
"No, that's alright. You two have fun." Ron waved and hurried to catch up with Harry. Hermione shook her head. Those two and Quidditch, she thought. She smiled and picked up her books. She thought she might take a trip to the library. As she walked leisurely back toward the castle she caught sight of two small figures flying over the Quidditch pitch. If those two were half as eager about school as they were about Quidditch, they'd have better grades then she did.
The library was mostly empty due to the excellent weather and lack of homework. Hermione walked down one of the aisles full of old, thick, dusty tomes. She was looking for something that covered advanced transfiguration. She was interested in going more in depth on many of her subjects this year. As she neared the end on the row she found a volume about an inch think. It was covered in dust, but she could faintly see the words "Transfigurations and Transmutations". She blew the dust from the book's surface. A gray cloud rose up and rushed away into the opposite side of the bookcase. Hermione heard somewhat give several quick coughs. She turned the corner to apologize and met Heian, blinking fiercely and shaking the dust from his long silver hair. Hermione put a hand over her mouth.
"Oh, Heian. I'm sorry, I didn't know you were there." Heian shook his head, still coughing, and waved a hand to dismiss it. Hermione kept apologizing dumbly. She led Heian out of the dusty aisle and sat down with him at a table. It took a few more moments for him to clear his head of the coughing fit caused by Hermione's dust attack, but after that he seemed fine. He had a large stack of old articles from the Daily Prophet that he set on the table next to Hermione's transfiguration book.
"I assume that that's for excelling with Professor McGonagall?" Heian ventured, nodding to the book.
"Yes, I just thought I'd study up from other sources too. Just for fun." She said smiling. Heian nodded. "What about those?" She asked, pointing to the stack of newspaper articles.
"Oh, nothing much just a little bit of recent history from the human world. Thought I might read a bit, see if I could further my understanding of how this place works." He paused for a moment, then gathered his articles and nodded to Hermione. "I'll see you later then. Have a pleasant afternoon." Hermione waved.
"You too." She watched him go from the library and head to Gryffindor tower. As she picked up her things to go, she noticed a piece of parchment lying on the ground beneath the table. It was one of the articles Heian had taken. She picked up and read.
Followers of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named Captured at Ministry of Magic.
Several Death Eaters were apprehended yesterday by a group of
wizards led by Albus Dumbledore. According to Minister of Magic
Cornelius Fudge, He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named led the attack on the
Ministry building. When asked to confirm the presence of You-Know-
How Fudge only said, "I wish it weren't true, but we can no longer
ignore the evidence of his return." All citizens are asked to
remain calm. Those apprehended at the attack have been sent to
Azkaban prisoner, which has recently been placed under human guard,
due to extenuating circumstances.
The rest of the article was apparently on a different page. Hermione quickly stowed the article in her pocket and ran out to find Harry and Ron. Why would Heian have been reading about the attack on the Ministry two years ago, and what were those other articles about? Hermione had to let the guys know about this right away. Their new mystery guest had just become much more mysterious.