"I am so hungry," Parker said, as the girls sat down for breakfast.
"Aren't you always?" Kylie said smirking.
Parker grinned. "Yes," she said, "And it's worse because I'm so excited."
"I thought that usually made people less hungry," Daniella said softly.
Parker shrugged. "Not me. I'm starved."
Veronica laughed. "I'm excited too. It's like going back home."
"Except that you're going to a wizarding school that you didn't even know existed until earlier this year," Kylie said grinning.
Veronica smiled. "I know, but still. I lived in the United States for eleven years. I consider any part of it home."
"I wish that they would let us leave now," Parker said.
"But then we would miss class," Daniella said.
"Exactly," Parker said sighing.
Kylie laughed. Veronica smiled and turned towards the teachers table. She wished her mom was coming with them. She had never been separated from her mom for more than a night. Even when her mother had taken business trips, Veronica had gone.
Sighing, Veronica glanced towards the Slytherin table. Her eyes fell on Tristian. He was eating sausage and looking extremely bored. Amelia was talking to him animatedly. She obviously can't take a hint, Veronica thought smiling. He's totally ignoring her. Tristian looked up. Veronica smiled and he winked.
"Come on, Nicci," Daniella said. "Let's get to class."
"No," Parker said dramatically and pretending to die.
"Come on Drama Queen," Kylie said laughing.
Veronica was restless after lunch. Since it was Friday, she had no classes after lunch and she was going insane waiting for it to be time to leave for Salem. Sighing loudly, she glanced over at Kylie and Daniella, who were playing a game of Wizard's Chess. Kylie was losing badly which was not surprising in the least. Daniella was a brilliant chess player and Kylie was absolutely horrible. Parker was reading, which struck Veronica as hilarious. Of course, it was a book on pranks, but still. Parker reading happened to be a strange and very funny sight. Now that she thought about it, she had never seen Parker evenpick up aschool book.
"Where are you going?" Parker asked without looking up.
"For a walk," Veronica said, "I'm going crazy just sitting here."
"Are you sure that's a good idea?" Daniella asked, looking over at her. Veronica noticed out of the corner of her eye that Kylie took this time to knock one of Daniella's pieces off the board, that shouldn't have been knocked off. "What if you lose track of time and miss the portkey?"
"Don't be a worry wart," Parker said rolling her eyes.
"Nicci will be fine," Kylie said, while knocking off another chess piece.
"Don't worry," Veronica said, "I'll set an alarm on my watch."
Daniella still looked uncertain, but nodded. She turned back towards the board. Kylie was looking innocent, whilst Daniella was looking puzzled. Veronica knew that Daniella noticed the missing pieces, but she was too nice to accuse Kylie of cheating.
"Kylie took them off while you weren't looking," Veronica said, as she headed for the door.
"Hey!" Kylie shouted in mock anger, "Way to rat out a friend, Nicci."
Veronica simply laughed and kept walking. She grinned over at Kylie who stuck out her tongue. "You were going to lose anyways," Veronica heard Parker say, as she left, "You're the worst player to grace this earth."
"Shut up!" Kylie said loudly, throwing a chess piece at Parker, who dodged easily.
Veronica sighed again when she got outside. She really needed someone to talk to. What was she supposed to do about her mother? All those lies were seriously starting to get on her nerves. Sure, her mother's past was her business, but keeping her family a secret was unfair.
Veronica frowned. If only I knew who they were, she thought. Well, she did say she was going to tell me. Perhaps I should wait before I confront her. Veronica sighed. That was what she would do. Her mother had until the end of the year to tell her what was going on before she confronted her.
A soft beeping noise broke Veronica's thoughts. Finally, she thought glancing down at her watch. A wave of nervousness came over her. In twenty minutes, she would be on her way to spend the weekend at Salem, another wizarding school. She started walking towards the Entrance Hall, where the portkeys were being set up.
A small smile crept on to Veronica's face. Maybe I can use this weekend to get away from everything happening here, she thought. A series of footsteps jolted Veronica from her thoughts. She glanced around but saw no one. She frowned but kept walking. The footsteps continued to follow her.
A wave of panic swept over Veronica as the footsteps now sounded directly behind her. She whipped around quickly. "Oh, Tristian, you scared me," Veronica said, with relief.
"Did I?" Tristian asked smirking.
Veronica shot him a glare. "I was wondering if you would come say goodbye."
"What makes you think I wasn't just walking this way?" Tristian asked coolly. He glanced over at the clock. "You better hurry up Winters. You don't want to miss the Portkey."
He turned and started off down the hallway. Veronica frowned. What is wrong with that boy? she thought irritably. Why can't he just admit that he likes me? Honestly, one minute he acts like we're friends and the next it's like he's never met me. Halfway down the hallway Tristian turned around. "See you around Winters," he said, before turning quickly and disappearing down another corridor.
"Bye Tristian," Veronica said softly before she turned and headed out towards the Entrance Hall.
"Nicci!" a voice called. Veronica turned to see Parker, Daniella and Kylie beckoning for her to join them.
Veronica walked over to them quickly. "Hey," she said forcing a smile.
"Hey Nicci," Kylie said smiling.
"I told you she'd be fine, Dani," Parker said, as the girls walked into the Entrance Hall.
Practically all of the Gryffindor house was already there. Veronica spotted her mother standing by Levinia and Annabel. She beckoned them over towards her. "Come on. Over there," Veronica said, pointing towards her mom.
"Hey, Nicci, Parker, Daniella, Kylie," Ginny said smiling. "Are you four excited?"
"You bet," Kylie said.
"Of course," Parker said.
Veronica nodded. "I'm nervous," Daniella answered quietly, "I've never been out of the country."
"I'm sure you'll love it," Ginny said smiling. She glanced down at her watch. "Oh, almost time," she said, grabbing an empty glass bottle. She bent down and gave Veronica a hug. "Be good baby," she whispered, "I love you."
"I love you too, Mom," Veronica said. She pulled back and looked up at her mother. There was a strange look in her eyes. Worry, anxiety, fear, or was it guilt? Veronica wasn't completely sure.
Ginny noticed Veronica's gaze and smiled briefly. She handed the bottle to the girls. "Now everyone make sure that you are touching the bottle. We wouldn't want anyone left behind," she said, "Ten more seconds."
Must we always use portkeys, Veronica thought. An all too familiar tugging began behind her navel. She closed her eyes as a wave of nausea swept over her. She wished for it to be over, but took it back as her butt slammed into something hard. She opened her eyes, when she heard laughing.
"Very funny," Veronica said, feeling annoyed, "That actually hurt you know."
"It was still funny," Parker said smiling, "I never get tired of seeing you land on your butt every time we use a portkey."
Veronica scowled. "I doubt she'll ever get used to it," Kylie said grinning, "That's how my dad is with Floo Powder."
"What about me?" a voice asked. Professor Potter was glancing at Kylie with his eyebrows raised. A small smile was playing on his lips. He turned towards Veronica. "Don't worry, you'll get better with time and if not, you can just avoid it."
Veronica smiled at him. "Well, let's get going," Professor Potter continued, "The others seem to already be in a group and the Salem people will be waiting." Veronica looked around. Everyone had left, including Levinia and Annabel who'd shared the portkey with them.
The girls followed Professor Potter over towards a large group of Gryffindor students, who were talking excitedly. They made their way to the front and stood next to the boys while, Professor Potter joined the teachers. There were four of them including Professor Potter.
Veronica glanced around curiously. They were standing in a large clearing. Behind them, Veronica could make out what appeared to be a town. In front of them, was a large open field that seemed to go on forever. I wonder where Salem is? Veronica thought. It can't be in that town, can it? And there is nothing out that way besides a large rock and a field.
Frowning slightly, Veronica turned to get a better look at the teachers there. She noticed Sirius and Coach Weasley immediately. She had assumed they'd be there. After all, Sirius was the Headmaster and Coach Weasley coached the team. There was another Hogwarts teacher standing with them as well. She had long black hair and dark brown eyes. Veronica recognized her as Professor Stern. She taught some class for older students. The last woman, Veronica didn't recognize. She had long blonde hair twisted in a bun, and had a pleasant atmosphere about her.
"Hello everyone," said the woman, "My name is Miss Sandra Morgan. I teach Defense Against the Dark Arts here at Salem. I will lead you onto the grounds. The Principal and the students are waiting to meet you by the school."
There was a murmur of excitement among the students. Miss Morgan smiled. "Please stay close and don't get lost," she said, "I will also give you some background on Salem as we walk, so you can listen if you're interested."
Veronica smiled and glanced at the girls as they started walking. "This i cool."
"I know," Kylie said grinning. Parker and Daniella nodded.
"Now Salem was built in the late sixteenth century by its four founders Leona LeBeau, Virgon Vanderhilt, Gemma Golding, and Scorpina Stratner," Miss Morgan began.
"Dark witch," Orion coughed.
Miss Morgan seemed not to hear. "All four of them had attended Hogwarts and moved to the United States after their schooling ended. Their time in Hogwarts was the happiest of their lives, so they strived to make a school like it. That is why Salem, like Hogwarts is a castle, and the four houses mirror that of those at Hogwarts. Leona was the founder of Leo, which is the equivalent of Gryffindor. Virgon founded Virgo, much like your Ravenclaw. Gemma founded Gemini, which is like your Hufflepuff. And Scorpina made Scorpio, which is similar to your Slytherin house."
"I told you all she was evil," Orion said.
"Shut up Black," Parker said before turning back to the girls, "I hope we get to stay in Leo."
"I think any would be cool as long as it's not Scorpio," Kylie said scowling.
Miss Morgan stopped when they reached the a large rock. She placed her hand on a dent in the rock, that strangely enough seemed to be shaped like a hand. The rock emitted a soft silver glow. Veronica gasped and so did several others. Where there had once only been open fields, there now stood a large forest, filled with silver trees that seemed to glow.
"This is called Crystal Forest. It is the only one of the three forests surrounding Salem that students are allowed in and they are only allowed with special permission. This forest is filled with several magical creatures, from unicorns to wild phoenixes. Only good creatures live in this particular forest." She waved her hand for them to continue and started walking.
"Who bloody cares?" James asked irritably, "I'm starving. Can't she just hurry up and get on with the walking?"
"Hey, shut up," Veronica said, "Some of us actually want to hear what she has to say."
"Yeah, but can't she tell us later," Parker said groaning.
"For once, I agree with Keowen," Shane said.
"Me too. She is walking way too slow," Jeff said, "Do you see us giving the other schools the history of Hogwarts before we let them eat?"
"Oh, give it a rest," Kylie said, "You four can't be that hungry. I saw you eating just before we left."
"That was almost an hour ago," Shane said, looking confused.
Veronica rolled her eyes and turned back towards Miss Morgan. "Salem can only be entered by two paths, which are difficult to find unless you know exactly where to look. Three sides are surrounded by forests and the other is side is a cliff that over looks the ocean. The only land path is the one we are on now and as you have seen, if you can't use the rock, you can't get in."
"Several years ago, a principal tried to build paths through the Forest of Shadows and Devil's Peak Forest, but he failed. The dark creatures there attacked so many times and so many people were hurt, that they abandoned the project."
Veronica shuddered. Who would want to put a school right next to forests filled with dark creatures? Then again, I suppose the Forbidden Forest has dark creatures as well. "The only other way into Salem is by sea. However, where the entrance in the cliff wall is has long since been forgotten. Nobody knows where it is, so entrance by sea is impossible." Miss Morgan paused. "We should be out of the forest in a few moments."
Veronica took the time when she stopped talking to look around. The forest really was quite beautiful. Most of the trees were a shiny silver color and every now and then Veronica spotted one that was a golden color. Several flowers lined the path as well. They came in a variety of colors from dark blue to white, but all of them had a silver tint. I wonder why they didn't call it the Silver Forest?
She glanced back in front of her as the forest cleared. Spread out in front of them was a large lawn. Directly in front, was a huge castle, that immediately reminded Veronica of Hogwarts. She could just make out a large crowd of people, dressed in assorted colored robes, standing in front of it. As they walked, she looked around quickly. The sun was starting to set, but she could still see quite well. Off to the left were several greenhouses and what looked to be Quidditch pitch. Behind in loomed a menacing looking forest. To the right was a large lake and what appeared to be another Quidditch pitch. Behind the lake, was another forest which seemed to be filled with black trees.
I wonder which forest is which, Veronica thought. She didn't have time to really think on it though, for at that moment they reached the castle. "Sirius," said a tall man, with curly brown hair and light green eyes. "Welcome to Salem."
"Ah, Jacob," Sirius said smiling and shaking his hand, "It's good to see you again." Veronica couldn't help but notice that Sirius had a strange look on his face. Veronica had seen it often when he visited when she was younger. It meant he was thinking about something. Most likely about this Jacob fellow, Veronica thought.
"Hello Hogwarts students," Jacob said, after shaking hands with the other teachers, "My name is Principal Corbett. Welcome to Salem. I'm sure you're all hungry. Why don't we go in and eat?"
"About time," Parker said loudly, as they began to walk inside the castle.
"Parker," Daniella said, disapprovingly.
Veronica smiled and turned to look around as they entered the dining hall. It was similar to the one at Hogwarts though much bigger which made sense because the United States was a bigger country than England. Surely there would be more witches and wizards here. Four long tables ran almost the entire length of the room. Hanging above each was a large banner. At the front, sitting up on a stage was the teacher's table, over which another banner hung, this one with the school crest on it. Windows lined the entire length of the room, giving a view of the ocean.
"Where do we sit?" Kylie asked.
Veronica glanced around again. "I don't know."
"Probably with the house where we are going to sleep," Parker said.
"Children," Professor Stern shouted over the talking, "Children!" Nobody paid any attention to her.
"Attention," Sirius said calmly. The talking stopped. A look of annoyance crossed Professor Stern's face. Sirius, however, smiled. "Listen carefully and I will tell you which table to sit at. You will go by your year, not your house. First and fifth years will sit at the Leo table..."
"Yes!" Someone shouted from the back and the talking started up again.
Sirius held up his hand and it quieted down. "That is the table with the blue and silver banner on the far left. Second and forth years will sit at the Gemini table, below the yellow and white banner. Sixth and third years will sit at the Virgo table beneath the green and gold flag. Seventh years will sit with Scorpio, beneath the red and black flag."
Several seventh years groaned. "Are you trying to kill us?" someone shouted.
"Now take your seats," Sirius said, ignoring the protests from the angry seventh years.
The girls took a seat at the end of the table, and the boys sat next to them. The Salem students followed moments later. Food was already set out on the tables. "I am so glad we get to sit with Leo," Orion said.
"Me too," Parker said smiling, as she piled food on her plate.
"It's the end of the world," Kylie said dramatically.
"Did I just hear what I think I did?" James asked, smirking.
"I don't think it's possible," Veronica said grinning.
"Something is seriously wrong here," Jeff said.
"Maybe they're sick," Shane said.
"They have to be," James agreed.
"What are you guys blabbering about?" Orion asked looking confused.
"You and Parker actually agreed on something," Kylie said laughing.
"I would never agree with anything Black says," Parker said scowling.
"I can't believe my own friends would insult me like this," Orion said, glaring at Parker, "Do I look like I'm stupid enough to agree with Keowen?"
"Are you calling me stupid Black?" Parker asked, looking angry.
"No," Orion said sarcastically, "Would I ever do that?"
"Who knows with the way your brain works," Parker sneered, "Oh wait, I forgot, it doesn't."
Veronica sighed and tried to block out Parker and Orion's arguing. "So does anyone know how good the Salem team is?"
"I heard that they're undefeated," Kylie said.
"You heard right," James said, looking thoughtful, "They'll definitely be the toughest competition Hogwarts has had so far."
"But we're undefeated," Shane protested.
"So are they," James said.
"Do you think we'll win?" Veronica asked.
"Possibly," James said.
"Yeah," Jeff agreed, "I think it will come down to who has the better Seeker."
"I mean, we have the better Keeper and Carly is certainly the best Beater," James said, "But they have two really good Chasers."
"Well it should be a good game then," Kylie said.
"Hopefully we'll win," Veronica said, grabbing a bread roll.
"As long as the team does their best," Daniella said, "I don't think it should matter."
"Suit yourself," James said, glancing at her, "I want to win."
"Me too," Jeff and Shane said.
"I am not!" Parker shouted furiously.
Veronica rolled her eyes. When was dinner going to be over? Honestly, you'd think they'd want a break from fighting or something, Veronica thought. Do they ever get tired?
Twenty minutes later, Sirius and Principal Corbett stood up. There was a soft clinking on glass. "Listen closely," Principal Corbett said. Veronica turned to look at him. "All Salem students, please report back to your dorms. Fifth year prefects come up here to be briefed on the rooming situations."
"And my students, please remain seated," Sirius said.
There was a loud scuffling of feet as the Salem students left the room. Rob, Annabel and Levinia walked over and took a seat. "So how do you suppose they are going to fit us all into the dorms? I mean, there are six girls and five of us," Rob said.
"I don't know," Kylie said.
"Maybe they'll expand it," Daniella said, "Like we did for Brimhall."
"I don't know," Rob said frowning, "Maybe for the us. I mean, that is if they aren't many first year guy Leos. I suppose they could do it for you if they aren't many girls. Somehow I doubt that though."
Veronica frowned. "I'm sure they'll think of something."
Less than one minute later, a girl walked over to them. Her long blonde hair was pulled back into a ponytail and her hazel eyes were surveying them curiously. Veronica got the distinct impression that this girl was not one to be messed with. "I'm assuming you are the Gryffindor first years."
"Yep," James said, "That's us."
The girls smiled briefly. "Well, my name is Layne Cullen. I'm a fifth year Leo prefect. I'll be taking you to the Leo dorms. Follow me."
Veronica got up and followed Layne closely. "Stay close," Layne said, "You don't want to get lost at Salem. Trust me."
Layne led up a flight of marble steps and through a tapestry disguised as a wall, before stopping in front of a large stone statue of a lion. "Step back," Layne instructed.
"Does someone remind you of Professor Weasley or what?" Parker whispered. "Honestly, I bet she'll end up a bloody Transfiguration teacher just like Professor Weasley."
Veronica stifled a giggle. Layne had reminded her of Professor Weasley as well. Layne turned around and glanced at them sternly. "Be quiet and pay attention to the password, unless you want to be locked out tomorrow." Layne sighed and muttered something that sounded like children.
"Who is she calling children?" Orion hissed, "She's not exactly old."
"Shh," Daniella said softly, "Please. I'm trying to listen."
"Now to open the statue you must tap the statue and say 'Phoenix Feather', like so," Layne said, tapping her wand against the statue. The lion roared loudly, before stepping out of the way to reveal a small, brightly lit room.
"Get in everyone," Layne said stepping inside.
Veronica glanced at the other girls, who looked just as confused as she felt, before following her. "This is one nice common room," James said sarcastically.
Layne rolled her eyes. "This is not the common room," she said, "This is the elevator."
"Elevator?" Orion said, looking confused.
"Purebloods," Layne said, rolling her eyes. "It's like a moving room that takes you up and down."
"Oh," Orion said frowning and clearly not understanding.
"Idiot," Parker coughed. Orion glared at her.
"Wait a minute," Jeff said glancing around. "I've been in one of these with Mum and we got stuck in it for three hours. Oh, get me out of here." Jeff was about to jump out when the opening faded back into wall. "Bloody great," Jeff said scowling.
"Relax," Layne said, "You'll be fine. This elevator doesn't get stuck. Just hold on to the railings."
Veronica frowned. She'd been in elevators plenty of times and had never had to hold the rail. Daniella, Parker, and Shane were looking curious as well. Still frowning slightly, Veronica grabbed the rail. She was glad she did.
Seconds later, the elevator started moving. It moved ten times faster than any Muggle one. She felt as if she were glued to the ground from the pressure. All of the sudden, the elevator changed directions and now instead of going up, they were going forward, or perhaps it was back. Whatever it was, it was horizontal.
Veronica let out a sigh of relief when the elevator stopped and jumped out as soon as the door opened, almost knocking over Jeff who had jumped out as well.
"Elevator," Shane said, "More like a bloody roller coaster!"
Layne smiled. "Come along," she said, leading them down the narrow hallway. At the very end was a portrait of a beautiful woman with fiery red hair and bright blue eyes. By her side was a large golden lion.
"Hello, Layne dear," the portrait said, "More Hogwarts students I see."
"Hello, Leona," Layne said, "These are the first years."
"Welcome to Salem," Leona said.
"Griffin's Wing," Layne said.
The portrait swung open and they all followed Layne inside. Veronica smiled. The common room reminded her somewhat of their one back home. Spread out in front of the fireplace were several large dark blue armchairs, with silver pillows. Off to one side of the room was a large case, filled with trophies and one the other were several tables and chairs. Surprisingly enough, nobody was there.
"This is the Leo common room," Layne said, "The boys dorms are up the staircase by the tables. You will all be sleeping in the first year dorms, which are at the top. Go on to bed now, it's late."
The boys complained loudly, but walked up the staircase all the same. Layne turned back to the girls. "As for you girls, you had to be placed in different rooms because there are so many of you." She paused, a disapprovingly look crossing her face. "And because our first year girls are notorious for not getting along. They decided to split you based on who you'd be likely to get along with the most."
She pulled out a piece of parchment from her pocket. "Levinia Jordan and Annabel Wood, you two will be staying up at the second to top room. It is labeled first years A. Daniella Carter, Kylie Potter, Parker Keowen and Veronica Winters, you will be at the top room, labeled first years B. The staircase is over by the trophy case."
The girls walked over towards the staircase. "Night girls," Annabel said as they reached their dorm.
"Night Anna, Lia," Kylie said.
"Goodnight," Veronica said.
The girls continued walking. "There it is," Kylie said grinning.
"About time," Parker said, "I mean how many stairs do they need?"
"Come on," Veronica said, pushing open the door.
When the girls walked through the door, they found themselves in a large room. Seven beds, decked in dark blue and silver were spread out around the room. A large armoire was pushed up against one wall. Directly across from the girls, was another door that led outside onto a balcony.
Sitting on the bed closest to the armoire were three girls. The one in the middle was rather tall, with long brown hair and bright blue eyes. On her left was a tomboyish looking girl, with jet black hair pulled up in a ponytail and dark brown eyes. On the blonde's other side was another girl with curly blonde hair and hazel eyes.
Veronica smiled and held out her hand. "I'm Veronica Winters."
"I'm Kylie Potter."
"Hi, I'm Parker Keowen," Parker said grinning, "And this is Dani Carter."
"Nice to meet you," said thetall brunetteholding out her hand, "I'm Samantha St. Clair."
"I'm Loren Sawyer," said the girl with curlyblonde hair.
"And I'm Augustina Cross, but everyone calls me Tina," said the third girl.
"Nice to meet you guys," Parker said grinning.
"You too," Samantha said smiling, "So how do you like Salem?"
"It's pretty cool," Kylie said.
"Yeah, but I'm not too fond of your elevator," Veronica said.
"Or your prefect, Layne," Parker added.
Samantha, Tina and Loren laughed. "Well, the elevator takes time to get used to," Loren said.
"And as for Layne," Tina said grinning, "You just have to learn to tune her out. That's what everyone does."
The all started laughing. "So how many other people are in your year?" Parker asked, "Layne told us we had to be split up because there were so many of us."
"Well, they are three more girls," Loren said, "How many more of you are there?"
"Two," Veronica said.
"Poor girls," Tina said, "You are lucky you get to stay with us."
"Yep," Samantha said, "Poor things. They have to stay with the Gossip Queens."
"Well, I'm sure Levinia and Annabel won't be displeased," Parker said, "They love to gossip."
"Well, then they'll get along great with Erica, Kelsey and Cassandra," Loren said, wrinkling her nose in disgust.
"Yeah, all they do is sit around and talk about people," Samantha said scowling.
"Oh, Chris is so cute. Did you see what Jennifer was wearing? I was like oh my gosh, what is that?" Tina said in a whiny voice.
Veronica couldn't help but laugh. "We heard you didn't like them very much."
"You could say that again," Loren said.
"Well, I think Levinia and Annabel are nice," Daniella said.
"Yeah, they just talk a little to much," Kylie said.
"A little," Parker said, raising her eyebrows, "I'd go more with they talk way too much."
Samantha laughed. "Come on," she said, "Let's get to bed. There is so much to do tomorrow. We'll show you around campus and we can plan our prank for the boys."
"Prank?" Parker asked, smiling evilly, "I like the way you think."
Tina smiled. "I think you British people are more fun than I gave you credit for."
"But they haven't done anything yet," Daniella protested.
"Exactly," Loren said.
"We can't let them get us first," Samantha said grinning.
"Very true," Veronica said, "Sounds like a plan to me." After all, she thought, better that we get them before they can prank us and there's no doubt that they'll try.
"Count me in," Kylie said grinning.
"Dani?" Parker asked.
"Nothing too bad..." Daniella began.
"I'll take that as a yes," Samantha said laughing.
"But I..." Daniella began again.
"Night everyone," Tina said loudly, drowning out Daniella's protests.
"Don't worry, Dani," Veronica said, smiling sympathetically, "I'm sure it won't be anything that bad." Daniella smiled weakly, but looked doubtful.
"Get up!" A voice shouted. Veronica groaned and rolled over. She had been having a good dream for once.
"Come on Nicci!" someone else shouted.
Sighing, Veronica sat up and looked around. For a minute, she panicked, but then she remembered where she was. Yawning, Veronica surveyed the room. Parker and Tina were jumping on one bed. Samantha and Kylie were sitting up in theirs, rubbing their eyes. Loren was still sleeping, though Veronica wasn't sure how she could with all the racket Parker and Tina were making, and Daniella entered the room from the balcony.
"Loren!" Samantha shouted, "Get up!" Loren grumbled something and pulled a pillow over her head. Samantha glanced over at Tina. "Your turn," she said.
Tina smiled. "Loren," she said, "You better get up. Nick Luther just walked in."
"What!" Loren shouted, sitting up and looking around. She stopped and glared at Tina and Samantha. "Sam, Tina," Loren said irritably.
"Oh, are you sad your little lover boy really isn't here?" Samantha asked in a baby voice.
"He is not my lover boy," Loren snapped, "I'll have you know that Nick and I hate each other."
"So you say," Tina teased.
"Shut up, Tina," Loren said, "If I like Nick, then you like Jon Korbin."
"Ugh, he's a Scorpio," Tina said, with a look of disgust.
"Knock it off you two," Samantha said, smiling, "We have to show the girls around."
"And don't forget plan our prank," Parker said laughing.
"Very true," Samantha said, "Come on. Let's get ready. That way we can get breakfast and still have time to look around before the game."
"Sounds good to me," Veronica said, getting up.
"Me too," Kylie said.
Half an hour later the girls left the dorms and headed down to the common room. Several students, Leo and Gryffindor were sitting around talking and laughing. Veronica cringed as Samantha led the way back to the elevator.
"Isn't there any other way we can go?" Daniella asked softly.
"Fraid not," Tina said shrugging.
"Yep, this is the only for sure way we know to get into and out of the Leo common room," Loren said.
"Nobody knows if there is another way," Samantha said, "Same with the other houses too, we suspect. Then again, we wouldn't know. Nobody knows where the location of the any house but their own is, except the teachers and the Head Boy and Girl."
"Strange," Kylie said, "I mean, our houses are like that sort of. Prefects know of course and if we wanted to, it would be quite easy to find out."
"Not here," Samantha said, as the door opened. She stepped in and the others followed. "It's against the rules to go looking for another house's common room. Not that we haven't anyways, of course." She smiled.
Veronica grabbed the rail and closed her eyes while the elevator shot down. This would make a good roller coaster, she thought irritably. Samantha caught her arm, as she stumbled when the elevator stopped. "Thanks," Veronica said.
"No problem," Samantha said grinning, "I didn't realize our elevator was quite that bad though."
"It's not," Parker said, "it's just Nicci. She doesn't do well with transportation."
"Yep," Kylie said laughing.
"Is it the freaking Floo Powder?" Loren asked.
"No," Veronica said, "Portkeys."
"I see," Loren said, nodding, "Have you ever traveled by Floo?"
"Loren," Tina said, "How many times do we have to tell you that there is not a conspiracy against you and the Floo Powder is perfectly fine?"
"I'm telling you," Loren said defiantly, "There is something evil about Floo Powder."
Samantha rolled her eyes. "Don't worry. She's not dangerous, just insane. She's always good for a laugh though."
"Shut up," Loren said, sticking out her tongue.
"Make me," Samantha said grinning, as they entered the dining hall.
"Wow, there are a lot of people in here for it to be so late," Kylie said.
"It's not late," Tina said, "It's eight thirty."
"Are you serious?" Veronica asked.
"It feels like its closer to two," Daniella said.
"I agree," Parker said yawning.
"Must be jet lag," Tina said.
"Jet lag?" Veronica asked, "I didn't think you could get that with portkeys."
Tina shrugged. "I don't know, you can get it with airplanes. I assume it'd be the same."
"What's an airplane?" Samantha asked, looking confused.
"Yeah," Loren added.
"Never mind you two," Tina said, "It's a Muggle thing."
"Oh," Samantha said, "Are you guys all Muggleborn?"
"Dani and Iare," Parker said.
"I'm half and half," Veronica said, "My mom is a witch, but she raised me as a Muggle. I didn't even know about magic until I got my letter."
"How weird," Loren said. Veronica shrugged. "What about you, Kylie?"
"Well," Kylie said, "My dad was half and half and my mom was a pureblood, so I'm whatever that makes me."
Samantha laughed. "So you are Harry Potter's daughter?"
"Yeah," Kylie said, "I'm surprised you're the first one who has asked that. I get it everywhere I go."
"I feel your pain, though probably not as bad," Samantha said, "My dad is Richard St. Clair."
"The lead singer of Othello?" Kylie asked. Samantha nodded. What was Othello, Veronica thought. A band she supposed, but not one she'd ever heard of.
"Hello ladies," a voice interrupted.
Veronica looked up and so did the other girls. Seven boys had just taken a seat beside them. They all looked very excited. She recognized James, Shane, Jeff and Orion, but not the other three. She glanced around for Rob and saw him sitting with Levinia, Annabel and three girls which she assumed were Kelsey, Erica and Cassandra.
"And who are you three?" Parker asked.
"Nick Luther," said a handsome boy with darkbrown hair and blue eyes, grabbing her hand and kissing it before she could pull away.
"Sorry I asked," Parker said scowling, "I'm Parker."
"I know," Nick said grinning.
"I'm Chris Adamson," said another boy with blonde hair and glasses.
"And I'm Patrick White," said a skinny boy with curly brown hair.
"Pleasure," Parker drawled.
"Same here," Chris said sarcastically.
"And you four?" Samantha asked.
"James Potter."
"You have a twin," Tina asked.
Kylie groaned. "Don't remind me." James smirked at her.
"Orion Black."
"Jeff Weasley."
"Shane Bryant."
"Lovely," Loren said, "Now what is it you want?"
"Now what makes you think that, love," Nick asked grinning.
"Because I know you, and don't call me that," Loren snapped.
"Better be nice," Patrick said, "That is if you want to hear what we have to say."
"And trust us, you do," Chris added.
"Alright," Samantha said, "Tell us."
"Aren't you going to say please?" Orion asked.
"No," Parker snapped.
The boys laughed. Nick held up his hand to silence them. "It just so happens that a certain group of Leos found the Scorpio common room."
"What?" Tina practically shouted.
"I thought that was against the rules," Daniella said.
"It is," Chris said laughing.
"But when and how?" Loren asked, looking awed.
"Impressed," Nick asked grinning.
"Just tell us how," Samantha said.
Nick continued to smile. "Well, it just so happens that a certain Head of the Scorpio house always checks up on his house every night at the same exact time," he began, "And it also happens that a certain group of boys, us, found out about this. So one night, we decided to follow him and he led us directly to the common room."
"Well why didn't you do anything to them?" Tina asked, looking outraged.
"We got caught the first time," Chris said.
"Wednesday?" Loren asked.
"Yeah," Patrick said.
"But no worries," Nick said, "We got them with the help of some Gryffindor boys and Weasley's Wizard Wheezes."
"Did you now?" Samantha asked smiling. Her eyes traveled to the Scorpio table, which was entirely empty. Veronica frowned slightly. She hadn't noticed it before. I wonder, she thought, but the answer walked into the hall at that second.
Laughter erupted through the hall. Veronica laughed as well. What seemed like the entire Scorpio house had just entered the hall, led by a furious looking professor. All of them, including the professor, had sprouted pig ears, grown noses the size of basketballs that glowed neon pink, and had varying shades of purple hair specked with gold. Written in glittery blue and silver paint across their robes were the words Scorpio Sucks. Veronica couldn't help but smile at the noses. That must be the boys favorite prank, she thought.
The teacher headed right to the Leo table and stopped in front of the boys. "I know it was you three," he shouted furiously.
"I'm sorry Professor Hathaway, but this time you're mistaken," Chris said pleasantly.
"Yep," Nick agreed, "After all, we don't know where the Scorpio common room is and we would need to know toplan such a massive prank."
"We'd love to put our name on this one," Patrick said, "But we aren't the brilliant and good-looking masterminds behind this one."
"I demand that something be done!" Professor Hathaway shouted.
"Sorry, Lucas," Principal Corbett said, eyes twinkling, "But we can't do anything without proof and this time it seems almost impossible that the boys are behind it."
Sirius, Professor Potter, andCoach Weasley was glancing over Scorpio students with knowing looks. Sirius stopped to look over at the boys. "Orion, James, Shane, Jeff," he said smiling slightly, "Can you four vouch that these young men were with you all night?"
"Yes we can," Orion said grinning. Veronica noticed with interest that Sirius had said 'with you' and not in the dorms.
"Come on," Samantha said over the laughter, "Let's get out of here."
"Good idea," Tina said, "He'll be trying to pin it on us next."
The girls walked quickly out of the hall and out onto the grounds. "That was so hilarious," Loren said.
"Yeah, I must say, your lover boy is pretty good at pranks," Samantha said.
"He is not my lover boy," Loren snapped.
"I didn't recognize all of it though," Tina said quickly, "How did they get their noses to grow and glow pink?"
"That would be a little potion me and a friend made," Parker said grinning.
"Wow, you made it?" Samantha asked.
"Just mixed a few extra things in a potion," Parker said, "Worked like a charm. The boys stole my extra bottles of it. Bloody prats."
"What about the paint?" Loren asked, "How did they get it to dry so fast?"
"Special paint from Weasley's Wizard Wheezes," Kylie said.
"I have always wanted to go there," Tina said, looking dreamy, "All the pranks..."
"They're going to be sending catalogs over here next year," Kylie said.
"Are you serious?" Samantha shouted.
"Yes," Kylie said, "They are like my uncles. I get inside knowledge about that stuff."
"Save your money girls," Loren said smiling, "We're going to need it to stock up on gifts for the boys and of course for the Gossip Queens."
"Sounds like a plan," Samantha said smiling, "Come on. Let's go see the Quidditch Pitch."
The girls walked slowly around the grounds towards the Quidditch Pitch. Samantha acted as tour guide. Turned out that the forest filled with black trees was the Forest of Shadows and the other was Devil's Peak Forest. The field which Veronica had thought to be another Quidditch Pitch, turned out to be a Quadpot field, which according to Loren was second only to Quidditch.
The lake was probably the prettiest and largest Veronica had ever seen. One area was called Emerald Bay, because the water had a green tint to it. It was over two hours later, when the girls reached the front doors to the castle again.
"Wow, it's already eleven," Tina said, glancing at her watch.
"Yeah, we should go get seats before it gets to crowded," Kylie said, "The game starts in about forty minutes."
"Yeah, you guys should," Samantha said.
"Aren't you coming?" Parker asked.
"We wish," Samantha said groaning.
"We haveto meetwithProfessor Hathaway," Tina said, looking annoyed.
"He's going to give us our detention date," Loren said.
"For what?" Veronica asked.
"For absolutely nothing. So we turned a few Scorpios into chickens," Samantha said, waving her hand, "Give us a break. It was an accident. We just wanted to see what the potion we borrowed from my older brother did."
Kylie, Parker, and Veronica started laughing. "Yeah, I'm sure it was a complete accident right?" Kylie said smiling.
"Okay, well maybe we had a little inkling of what it might do," Tina said grinning.
"We'll save you a seat," Veronica said smiling.
"Thanks," Samantha said, "Well we better get going. Don't want to be late." The girls laughed and Samantha, Tina and Loren disappeared down a corridor.
The girls looked at each other. "Well, let's get going," Parker said.
"There is still another half an hour before the game," Daniella said.
"Yes, we know," Kylie said, "But we want to get really good seats."
"Plus we might get lost," Veronica added, as they started walking.
"Somehow, I doubt that," Parker said, "We are only two corridors away from the doors that lead outside."
Veronica shrugged. "Yeah, but..." She stopped when she ran into something hard and fell to the ground.
She looked up to see Principal Corbett smiling at her apologetically. He held out his hand and pulled her up. "Oh, I'm quite sorry Miss..." Principal Corbett paused.
"Winters," Veronica said smiling.
A look of surprise crossed Principal Corbett's face. "You wouldn't happen to be the daughter of Virginia Winters, would you?" he asked.
"Yes, I am," Veronica said. A series of emotions crossed his face, but they were too quick for Veronica to place any of them.
"Oh, well, I must be going now. It was very nice to meet you Miss Winters," he said, "Welcome to Salem." He smiled briefly at the girls before turning and disappearing down the corridor. What a strange man, Veronica thought.
"Okay," Parker said, "He's a bit of a freak."
"Parker," Daniella said with a tone of disapproval, "He's the Principal."
"And you're going to turn into a bloody Transfiguration teacher," Parker grumbled.
Daniella chose to ignore her and kept walking. Veronica shot Parker a glare. "What?" Parker asked, as they stepped outside. "Stop looking at me like that."
Veronica sighed and turned towards the field. Students were already starting to walk out there. "Good thing we left now," Veronica said, "It looks like everyone is having the same idea we did. If we hadn't left now, we might not have gotten a seat."
"I know," Kylie agreed. She stopped. "Merlin, look! It's my Uncle Remus." She pointed over at three men standing a few yards away. "Come on, let's go say hello. I haven't seen him in almost a year."
Veronica squinted to get a better view. One of the men was Professor Potter and the other was Sirius. The third man had graying hair, sprinkled with light brown and light blue eyes. He looked to be about the same age as Sirius was.
"So, Remus, how about that job," Sirius said, "Virginia says she has to go back to her business after this year. And Charms is your favorite class next to Defense Against the Dark Arts."
"Besides, Tonks wants you home," Professor Potter said smiling.
Sirius nodded. "She drops by far too often when you're not around. She scares my neighbors."
Remus snorted. "That's what you get for choosing to live in a Muggle neighborhood."
"Well, I don't particularly enjoy staying at Grimmuald Place. I mean, it's nice for a vacation when I need some quiet time, but I don't want to live there. Besides, Rigel moved into that neighborhood and I wanted to be close to Orion."
"And I'm sure Rigel loves that," Remus said sarcastically, "You've certainly corrupted young Orion."
"Corrupted is such a strong word," Sirius said, laughing, "Now how about it? We need a permanent Charms teacher."
"Well, it sounds lovely," Remus said thoughtfully, "But are you sure it's a good idea."
"The Whomping Willow still works perfectly, just in case," Harry said, "Plus the kids always loved you. Are they treating you good here?"
"Well, of course they are," Remus said grinning, "I am the test subject. They don't want to lose me."
"Well, he is a Scorpio," Sirius said.
Remus rolled his eyes. "Honestly, Sirius, are you ever going to get over house rivalries?" he asked. Sirius smiled. "Don't answer that," Remus continued, "I'll be trying to potion next full moon."
"You'll owl us with the results," Harry said.
"Don't I always," Remus said, "Hopefully this time it will work. It looks promising so far."
"Well, I must say you do look younger. I take that to mean the transformations are getting less painful and intense," Harry said, "You look at least as young as Sirius."
"Lovely," Remus said smiling, "So I look as young as a man imprisoned in Azkaban for twelve years."
"Hey," Sirius said, pretending to be offended, "Are you saying I look old?"
"Uncle Remus!" Kylie shouted.
"Kylie!" Remus shouted back, hugging her and smiling, "It's good to see you."
"Good to see you too, Uncle Remus," Kylie said, "I was disappointed when you didn't come for Christmas."
"Well, I promise to spend at least a week at your house this summer," Remus said grinning, "Who are your friends?"
"This is Parker, Daniella, and Nicci," Kylie said grinning.
"Nicci is Virginia Winters' daughter," Sirius said smiling.
Remus looked slightly surprised. "Is she now? Well, they do look quite a bit alike."
"Not really," Professor Potter said frowning. He seemed to be noticing the smiles Sirius and Remus were shooting at each other as well. Veronica frowned slightly. Did Remus know what her mom really looked like as well? How was that possible? It had to be though, or he never would have made the comparison.
"You four better get to the game," Remus said, "We have seats saved for us, but you have to fight for your own if you want good ones."
"Bye Uncle Remus, Dad, Uncle Sirius," Kylie said.
"Bye," Veronica said, as the girls started walking.
"That was a weird conversation," Parker said, "Why does your Uncle Remus have to have tests done?"
"He's a werewolf," Kylie said.
"A werewolf?" Daniella said weakly.
"Yeah, but don't worry," Kylie said, "They've come up with all sorts of potions that allow him to become a wolf, but keep his mind. They're working on a cure now."
"Way cool," Parker said grinning, "I'm glad I got to meet one before they all go extinct."
"Parker? Is that you?" a voice called.
The girls turned around to see two people walking towards them. The girl was short with long blonde hair and blue eyes. She looked to be around fifteen or sixteen. Next to her was a rather tall boy with black hair and blue eyes, that held an all too familiar twinkle to them. Veronica guessed he was close to the same age as the girl.
"Ry? Kaylee?" Parker asked, looking shocked.
"Parker!" the girl shouted running up and giving Parker a hug. The boy walked over and hugged her too.
Parker turned to the girls. "These are my cousins, Rylan and Macaylee. The ones I told you about." She turned back to her cousins. "What are you doing here?" Parker asked, still looking surprised.
"We go here," Macaylee said.
"Impossible," Parker said, "You two are a witch and a wizard!"
"Hey, don't look so surprised," Rylan said grinning, "Our mom's a witch. We're the ones who should be surprised seeing you here. After all, your parents are as Muggle as they come and you live in England."
"I just can't believe that you guys go here," Parker said again.
"I just can't believe your parents allowed you to go to Hogwarts," Macaylee said, frowning.
Parker shifted uncomfortably. "Well it certainly caused a bit of a ruckus."
"I, for one, never doubted your power of persuasion," Rylan interrupted breaking the sudden tension. Parker smiled.
"Seriously though," Macaylee said, still frowning, "Perhaps you should spend your summer at our house. After all, you're one of us now and that can't be going over too well."
Rylan nodded. "It's a good idea. We'll talk to our parents, but I'm sure they won't mind. Dad always had a special liking for you." He glanced at the girls. "Who are your friends?"
"Oh," Parker said, "This is Kylie Potter, Dani Carter, and Nicci Winters."
"Pleasure," Rylan said before he grinned over at Macaylee. "I almost forgot, you owe me five galleons," he said, "I told you it was Parker." Veronica held back a laugh. So betting runs in Parker's family as well.
Macaylee frowned. "You suck," she said irritably.
"Come on. Pay up, little sister," Rylan said grinning.
"Fine," Macaylee said rolling her eyes and pulling some money out of her pocket. "Here, and don't call me little."
Rylan grinned. "But you are little."
"Am not!" Macaylee said glaring at him. She turned back to the girls. "Ignore this moron. Come on, let's get to the game. Run along Rylan, you don't want to be late."
"Oh so it's Rylan now," Rylan said grinning, "What happened to Ry? You really are a sore loser, Macaylee."
"Am not," Macaylee said, sticking out her tongue, "I would just prefer if Salem's star Chaser doesn't miss the game and lose it for us."
"You play?" Parker asked, grinning broadly.
"Yep," Rylan said rather smugly,"As you just heard, I'm the star chaser. I really better get going. We'll talk after the game about your situation." He took off jogging slowly towards the right end of the Quidditch pitch.
The girls started walking as well. "I'll leave you here," Macaylee said grinning, "My friends have a seat for me over there. You four sit up it that stadium. It's reserved for Hogwarts students."
"Oh, no," Parker muttered, "Hey, Kaylee, can you save a seat for our three Salem friends. They are getting their detention dates right now from Professor Hathaway."
"Well, in that case," Macaylee said grinning, "Of course. I don't usually approve of such things like Rylan would, but Professor Hathaway is always an exception to that rule."
"Thanks. Bye Kaylee," Parker said.
"Bye Parker. Remember to meet us after the game," Macaylee said, disappearing into a crowd of students.
The girls easily found seats in the section for the Gryffindors, though they were slightly disappointed that Samantha, Tina and Loren couldn't join them.
"Parker," Veronica said slowly, "What was that all about?"
Parker shrugged. "Nothing to worry about. Just family stuff," she said casually. Veronica stared at her suspiciously. What was going on? But she had to time to voice any more questions.
"And the players take the fields," a voice roared, before Veronica could question anything else, "For Hogwarts, we have Peter Baylen as Keeper, Genesis Gladden as Seeker, Carly Weasley and David Zaben as Beaters, Howard Carver, Natalie Maltalka, and Nathan Richards as Chasers!" The Gryffindors cheered loudly.
"And for Salem we have Casey Watson, Jazmin Korbin, and Captain Rylan Keowen as Chasers. Our Beaters are Jess Morgan and Lindsey Cote. Our Seeker is Logan Zanninovich and our Keeper is Miles Hargrove!" The Salem students cheered.
"Your cousin is quite good," Kylie commented.
"Yeah, he is," Parker said, grinning, "It's a family trait to be good at everything." Kylie snorted while Veronica laughed.
"It's Watson with the Quaffle. Oh, stolen by Carver. Carver is taking it down. He dodges a bludger by Morgan. Oh, and a nice reverse to Maltalka. She moves toward the Salem posts. She shoots, oh wait it was a fake to Richards, who shoots and scores."
The Gryffindors cheered loudly. "Yes, that's what I'm talking about!" Kylie screamed.
"Salem in possession. And it's Korbin with the Quaffle. He zooms past Hogwarts Chaser Richards. Passes to Watson, who passes to Keowen. Keowen shoots and he scores! The score is all tied up now, 10-10. Oww, Bludger to Keowen's stomach by Weasley. Watch out Ry, that one has a nasty temper! But Professor, I didn't mean that rudely..."
"And it's Hogwarts in possession. Richards takes it down. Pass to Maltalka. Oh, picked off by Keowen. He takes it down. It's just him and Baylen. He shoots, he scores!"
"Baylen passes out to Carver, who zooms past Korbin and dodges a Bludger by Cote. Pass to Richards, who shoots...Saved by Hargrove!"
Veronica turned her attention to Genesis, who was flying back and forth across the field. Zanninovich, the Salem Seeker was tailing her. She seemed to be irritated, and was jerking her broom in random directions in order to throw him off her tail. She remembered something Jeff had said, about it coming down to who had the better Seeker.
The game continued on for another half an hour in the way it had began. Hogwarts would score and then Salem would. "And the score is tied up once again. Hogwarts 100 and Salem 100."
"Merlin!" Kylie said, "Genesis better catch that Snitch quickly."
Veronica agreed. Carly was now sending bludgers at alarming rates and one of Salem's Beaters, Morgan seemed to be doing the same. The Chasers were getting tired and so were the Keepers. Normally, they wouldn't be, but this game had been extremely intense.
"Wait a minute! It looks like Gladden has seen the Snitch and so has Zanninovich! They're neck and neck!" Veronica scanned the field. She found the two Seekers easily. They were headed directly at toward the ground by the Hogwarts goal post. Veronica held her breath. Kylie was mumbling things incoherently and Parker shouted, "What are you doing? Go faster you bloody idiot!"
Both Seekers were almost at the ground. Each had their arm reached out. At the last second, the Salem Seeker pulled up, but Genesis slammed into the ground. The entire stadium gasped. Oh no, Veronica thought. She's got to be hurt.
For a minute, Genesis didn't move and neither did the entire stadium. Then, slowly not getting off the ground, she raised her hand into the air. Clutched tightly in her fist was a small, struggling golden ball. It took everyone a moment, but the Gryffindors began to cheer and several crowded out onto the field.
"We won!" Kylie cried loudly, while jumping up and down.
A few hours later, Veronica walked up towards the dormitory, extremely tired. There had been a party in the Leo common room, despite that Hogwarts had one. Rylan, Parker's cousin, had hosted it so to speak. He had stolen food from the kitchens, in order to celebrate a "good game."
Veronica let out a yawn, as she flopped down onto her bed. "Don't go to sleep yet, Nicci dear," Samantha said smiling.
"And may I ask why not?" Veronica said, holding back another yawn.
"Because we still have one item of business to finish before we do," Loren said.
Veronica cast a confused glance at the smiling faces of Parker, Loren, Samantha and Tina. Kylie was looking confused as well. "What item?" she asked.
"Our little prank, of course," Tina said, eyes sparkling.
"Oh, we forgot to plan one," Kylie said, frowning.
"Yes," Samantha said, "But we rummaged up a few things that should do the trick. A simple sleeping potion, courtesy of our dearest Parker and of course, my favorite new prank which I bought last weekend. I haven't tried it out yet, but it should be quite interesting..." She pulled out a rainbow colored box small box.
"Let's go girls," Loren said laughing.
Veronica burst out laughing when the boys stormed into the Leo common room the next morning. Samantha's new prank turned out to be quite an interesting one indeed. Everyone else in the common room seemed to find the sight hilarious as well. Then again, who wouldn't laugh at seven boys dressed as clowns.
Veronica had to marvel at the details that came from a small patch that was to be placed on the victims forehead. The boys all wore the clown face paint, in a variety of colors and patterns. Each was dressed in a clowns clothing, down to the red nose and the gigantic sized shoes. The each had even grown long curly hair, that stood up like an afro, in a variety of bright colors.
"What in the bloody hell was this for?" James said furiously.
"Oh, we were just a bit bored," Samantha said grinning.
"Bored! You were bored!" Nick shouted.
"Oh, come on, Nicholas, dear," Loren said, poking his nose, "You look so cute."
Nick glared furiously. "You three are going to get it."
"Oh, and don't think you four get out of it either," Orion growled.
Parker smiled and started humming a song that Veronica remembered hearing at the circus as a child. She had found it frightening then, but now she had developed quite a liking for it. It seemed that Shane had recognized the song as well, but he didn't find it as amusing as Veronica did.
"Stop that now, Keowen," Shane said angrily, "You are going to wish you never did this."
"That sounds so threatening coming from a boy with pink hair wearing makeup," Parker said grinning, "Especially one with a smile painted on his face." Veronica burst out laughing.
Just as Jeff was about to say something, Professor Potter walked into the room. He started laughing.
"Dad!" James shouted furiously.
"Sorry James," Professor Potter said, holding back a smile.
"Make them give us the antidote," Orion said.
Professor Potter turned to the girls. "While I do enjoy the circus ladies, I don't particularly wish to have a clown for a son. Would you mind giving them the counter curse for this?"
"I guess," Parker said, "But personally, I find it an improvement."
Half an hour later, the girls said goodbye and followed a different professor, named Mrs. Caldwell, through the Crystal Forest and out into the small town. Veronica groaned loudly when she felt an all to familiar pull behind her navel.
Parker started laughing. "I can't believe you fell again."
"Shut up," Veronica said, shooting her a glare.
Daniella held out her hand and Veronica took it. "Thank you," Veronica said, glaring at Kylie and Parker, "I'm glad I have at least one decent friend."
Veronica looked up towards the castle. She was glad they had been outside this time. Landing on the grass had to be a lot softer than landing on the stone floors of the castle. It is so good to be back, she thought. Hogwarts and England are becoming more and more like home.
