A/N: There will be a small (read: large) explanation posted at the end of next chapter for this one (this will make more sense after you read it). So please don't come after me with the pitchforks until you read it. After that…feel free.

A/N 2: Thanks to gaul1 (definitely), Just Me (glad I can count on you for honesty), goddessa39 (it will be revealed later and are you feeling well? You didn't ask for B/A…I'm worried), Gylzgurl (I've planned out both the Hank and Snape story line, so you'll have to wait and see), Vld (that's pretty much the way things are at this point), and Sukera (thanks).

Allen Pitt: Thanks for the review. I agree with almost everything you said. Buffy definitely got the short end of the stick by the end of season seven. I think there were a lot of open wounds that would have taken a lot of time to heal. You probably won't see the Scoobies at Hogwarts in this story, but in the next one, definitely.

onlimain: I'm glad you agree. It was something I was worried about because the other ones were much longer. And yes, I have planned this into a trilogy. At first I was just going to lump it all together but I thought separating it would be a better idea (thus the title change). The second will be in a somewhat scattered form (lots of flashbacks and memories) but the third will be in normal story format. And yes, Harry was a baby. Sorry about that.

Shabopo: I completely agree and I hope I'm able to keep you entertained. I read both of your bio pages and it's unbelievable how on the same wavelength we are when it comes to BtVS characters. Your rant…oh my God. You were saying the same words I was saying at the end of the shows. Just goes to show you that people actually read those things.

xoxox

England, December 2007.

"Do you know what form you have taken?" Dumbledore looked truly perplexed, but at the same time, like a question that had been bothering him had been answered.

"A phoenix," she said in awe.

"Yes. And I assume you understand the implications behind this transformation."

She slowly nodded, still stunned, "They never die, but are constantly being reborn from the ashes of their old life…like me."

He gave her a large grin, a teacher proud of their pupil, "Exactly. I realize that after your studies you know that the wizard does not choose the form they change into, it is a reflection of their souls."

"Yes."

"Then I think I should tell you that never before has anyone taken this form. In fact, it should be impossible for any wizard to transform into a magical creature, only lesser animals."

"I wasn't aware of that."

He gave a small shrug, dismissing her statement, "Well, it has never been done before, perhaps that is the reason it was never questioned."

His bland statement brought her out of her daze and she smiled at him, "You know me, never was one for the rules. Heck, I didn't even get the handbook."

"I know," he nodded at her. "It has always been one of your more charming qualities."

"I'm not sure if that was a compliment or not, but I think I'll take it as one."

"As well you should." His expression turned thoughtful, "You know, the phoenix is one of the noblest creatures out there."

She gave him a look, "I'm not noble Dumbledore. I just do what needs to be done."

He nodded again, like she was proving is point for him, "And what do you think that is but the very definition of nobility? You have accomplished so much in your short life, and you have so much more to look forward to."

He shoulders slumped, "I know. But all I feel is tired. I'm tired of my future and nothing but the expectation of fighting forever."

"My dear girl, you have earned a rest, some sort of respite. Why do you think I invited you to this school?"

"Dumbledore," she said, releasing a short sigh and giving him a sad look, "you know, I hate to break it to you but one of the only reasons I'm here is because the powers want me to help the wizarding community to defeat Voldemort. Your invitation was just convenient."

He was taken back by her comment, "I'm sorry. I had no idea." He reached over and took her hand in his own, a sorrowful expression on his face, "Buffy, you have to believe me when I tell you that I had no ulterior motive by extending that invitation to you. I've known you awhile now and I like to consider myself your friend."

She understood and accepted what he was saying, but she couldn't help but let some of her despair leak into her voice, "You know, a person can only struggle for so long before they forget the reasons that are pushing them. Sure I save the world but what does that mean to me?"

"It sounds like you have no hope."

She gave a small smile and her face brightened considerably, "Oh, I wouldn't say that. I have some hope."

"Really, well inquiring minds want to know, if you don't mind."

"Not at all. As you know, lately I've been doing nothing but study so that I wouldn't be embarrassed by the students."

"Yes."

"Well, I've found that I'm finally up to par with your average wizard. And now I have some spare time on my hands."

"And what, pray tell, do you do with yourself," he asked, amused by the mischievous look on her face.

"I study soul magic."

"How interesting."

"I find it fascinating."

Tbc…