Captivation
Chapter 1: The Quidditch Academy
An owl from Hermione came to the Weasleys' house two days later addressed to Harry. It was breakfast time and Ginny of course was wearing her most prized nearly see-through pajama gown. Darian wasn't there thankfully but Harry still felt awkward sitting across from her. He had kept his eyes on his plate the whole time and only spoke when answering Ron's questions.
"Harry, this is for you," Molly smiled as she handed him a letter.
The owl on her shoulder hooted gleefully. Ron muttered something about it being better than a cat (referring to Crookshanks most likely). Harry opened it and saw it was the application to the Quidditch Academy.
"Looks complicated," Ron spoke over his shoulder. "You sure you want to apply for this?"
Glancing at his friend, Harry immediately knew what was going through his mind. The Quidditch Academy housed the individuals while in training. They took classes and practiced a lot which meant it would be like Hogwarts. Harry would only be coming back to the Weasleys on holidays or weekends that he could, which meant he would be there a lot less often. Truthfully, despite knowing Ron would be kind of bored and sad without him there much, he was glad to have a chance to get away from Ginny for a long period of time.
Since he was living there (helping out with chores and errands), it made it harder for Ginny to move on. It was probable she just asked out the first guy she met (Darian in this case) just to use him against Harry. If he went away for a while hopefully she'd get over him and stop trying to seduce him or make him jealous (neither was working and Harry knew the more frustrated she got the harder she tried).
"I'm sure," Harry said firmly, making sure Ginny heard him.
"What is that Harry?" Ginny asked curiously (although with a hint of suspicion).
"Harry's thinking about attending the Quidditch Academy of Scotland," Ron said.
A loud crash followed and immediately Arthur ran into the room.
"Did I hear that correctly? Harry, are you really applying for the Q.A.O.S.?"
"Er, yeah," he answered awkwardly.
"It's the most prestigious Quidditch school in the world!" Mr. Weasley exclaimed. "I heard their Quidditch field is the size of the one they use in the world championships! That's amazing! Why, we might even see you on one of the famous teams!"
Just like Ron, Mr. Weasley was obsessed with Quidditch almost as much as muggle items. Ron grumbled something and started picking at his plate. Obviously he was jealous that Harry was going to go into a profession that could possibly lead to more fame. After all, Quidditch was the number one sport in the wizard world. He wanted to comfort his friend, but also part of him wanted to be proud. After all, he had suffered his entire life, why shouldn't he get an opportunity like this? Ron had a new house, better clothes (because of more money coming in), he had graduated and was looking for a career possibly in the Ministry, not the mention he and Hermione had been mildly dating (they had started recently after graduating). His life was looking up but yet he still found reasons to be jealous of Harry.
Sure, Harry was incredibly famous, but he had gone through so many hardships. Even telling Ron about them didn't justify just how horrible they were, especially with losing Sirius (and then Dumbledore not too long after). A small part of Harry wanted to get away from his old ties and just start over. Of course he would always remain friends with Ron and his family, Hermione, Neville and his old friends at Hogwarts, but he really wanted to meet new people (people who hopefully wouldn't be so enamored with his fame that they'd just want to be friends with his scar).
Yes, Harry was absolutely sure he was going to go for this. Mr. Weasley started talking about how wonderful a Quidditch career would be and Harry became more and more excited. It would be hard work and it would take a few years to graduate from the school, but it would be well worth it, especially if he became a professional player.
"If you do well enough, Harry, you could earn enough money to retire by the time you're thirty. Then you could just do whatever you want to. Go on vacations, travel the world…anything! It's a perfect opportunity for you," Mr. Weasley grinned.
Harry smiled enthusiastically as Ron glared at his plate. "Thanks! It sounds like something I really want to do."
After breakfast, Harry immediately went up to Ron's room (which they shared just like at the old Weasley house) and began filling out the application. Ron came in moments later seemingly in a bad mood.
"You know that you'll have to stay there, right? I'll hardly see you!" Ron exclaimed.
Harry inwardly sighed and began scribbling an owl to Oliver Wood (since he was better known as a Quidditch captain compared to Katie Bell) for a letter of recommendation. Once he filled out the basics of the application, he signed the contract that if he was accepted he'd pay the down payment right away and the tuition no more than two weeks later.
"Look Ron, this is something that means a lot to me, alright?" Harry said sternly.
"Oh sure, so I'm not important anymore then," Ron shot back hotly.
Harry stood up and glared at him. "This isn't always about you!"
"No, it's always about the famous Harry Potter, isn't it?" Ron retorted angrily.
Harry froze and clenched his jaw. Dropping his quill, he glared at his friend. "So that's how you think of me? Is that it? You've always just hung around me because of my scar? I guess we're not really friends then."
The facial expression on Ron's face turned from angry to apologetic. He sighed miserably and slumped onto his bed.
"It's just that…you get everything it seems, you know?"
"No, I don't Ron! I haven't been able to have a normal childhood or anything. I was abused, neglected, nearly murdered so many times! I've been through hell and back! Let me have something that I can be proud of—something that I really want for myself. I've never really done anything for myself before that didn't have to do with surviving some horrible event!" Harry snapped defensively. "I know you're upset I'm leaving. But can't you for once be happy for me? It's always about how you feel, or how you don't have enough of something. You haven't suffered nearly as much as I have! I never asked for fame or for my family to be murdered you know!"
"I know, I know," Ron murmured. "I'm sorry. I guess I'll just miss you, you know?"
Harry's muscles relaxed and he calmed down. He sat down next to him and nodded. "I understand, but you have Hermione here and I'll come back on holidays and some weekends. It's not like we won't ever see one another. Besides, aren't you the least bit sick of me?"
Cracking a smile, Ron nodded jokingly. "Alright, well…I hope you get in."
"Thanks," Harry smiled.
"Can I come in now?"
Harry and Ron both looked up to see Ginny standing there with arms crossed over her chest. She had obviously been standing there for some time listening to them. Harry got up and went to his own bed. Hedwig was munching on some food when Harry picked her up and offered her the letter. She flew out the window and Harry inwardly hoped that Oliver replied soon.
"So you're really planning to leave?" Ginny asked, staring at him.
Harry nodded. "Yeah, it's what I want."
Licking her lips in thought, Ginny shrugged then nodded. "There could be a chance you don't get in though. What will you do if you don't?"
"Probably apply for another Quidditch school," Harry shrugged. "Hermione thinks I'll get in."
Ginny rolled her eyes a bit and then left the room. Ron glanced at him and shrugged.
"She's just upset, you know? No big deal. She'll get over it."
"Yeah," Harry said, though he wasn't so sure.
A couple hours later when Harry and Ron were in a game of wizard chess a reply came back from Oliver with a recommendation. Harry excitedly attached it to his application and sent Hedwig off to deliver it to the school. It seemed that Oliver was extremely happy to hear from him (perhaps because he was famous all over again) but either way he got the reply instantly. Ron seemed sincerely happy for him now.
"By the way, what are you going to wear?" Ron brought up a little while later.
Harry suddenly felt an uncomfortable feeling building in the pit of his stomach. He hadn't thought about that. What were their dress codes? What nice clothing did teenagers wear nowadays? At Hogwarts he hadn't cared for his appearance, but now that the war was over he suddenly felt self-conscious. It brought him back to the time he had liked Cho and some of her friends had said "at least Cedric was cute." He hadn't let it bother him then and although he wasn't unattractive (from what Ginny often told him) he wanted a somewhat fresh look.
"Ron, if you don't mind I think I'm going to go owl Hermione to meet with her," Harry said, not answering his question.
Ron blinked in surprise. "How come?"
"Just to talk about the school. I won't be more than an hour, if she can meet with me."
Shrugging, Ron nodded and Harry owled her immediately. Hermione was the one person that could help him. She had become a very beautiful young lady, much like Ginny, and being a girl she'd know how to help him with his appearance. She owled him back almost twenty minutes later saying to meet her in Diagon Alley. Harry left immediately on his broom and waited for her to meet him.
"Harry!" she smiled as she approached.
"Hey, I have a favor," Harry said uncomfortably. "It's just that…I'm not sure what I should wear if I get into the school and…"
Hermione held up a hand in understanding. "You want help choosing clothes and stuff to pack, right?"
At Harry's nod, she smiled and gestured for him to follow. She took him to some rather inexpensive stores but ones that had nice styles (nothing too drastic). He got some new pants and shirts that Hermione mainly picked out for him (she had good tastes). He even bought some new boxers (and he was the one blushing when Hermione pointed some out).
"Now, are you really attached to your glasses?" Hermione asked, after an hour of shopping.
Harry shook his head and adjusted them. "No, they actually get in my way. And I think these aren't the right prescription."
Although they weren't the ugly horrifically large glasses his relatives gave him, they were a gift from Neville the last Christmas, they still bothered him. Hermione nodded in understanding.
"There is something you can do. There's an eye healing potion you can buy, but it's really, really expensive. It was discovered in the past couple of years by the top wizard and witch doctors at St. Mungo's and although it can only cure eyesight for a week at a time, it's the closest to saving people from becoming blind. And if you keep drinking the potion you can see without glasses or anything. However, you'll have to buy a month's or so supply and then you'll have to keep buying it."
"That's alright, as long as I don't need these annoying things anymore," Harry touched his glasses.
Hermione nodded and brought him into a potion store. There he spoke with the owner who told him about the potion. It was expensive! However, once the owner saw the scar on his forehead the price had miraculously been cut down at least 25 percent. Harry bought a three-month supply (which Hermione gapped at) but thankfully the potions were fairly small and light to carry.
"Well, that's probably about all you need, Harry. Harry?" Hermione glanced over her shoulder.
Harry was staring wide-eyed in the window of a broom store. Hermione rolled her eyes and came over. He was staring at the newest edition of brooms—the Volare3000 imported from Italy (as the blinking sign indicated). It was absolutely gorgeous. It was a bronze colored wood—neatly polished and as the sign said nearly indestructible (it had charms and hexes permanently manufactured within it to avoid bludger damage and such). The end of it wasn't full of wiry broom bristles but silky flowing strands, like hair or something. It was a golden color as well. And it was faster than the Firebolt.
"Harry, look at the price on this thing! It's outrageous! Not to mention this is the only one available right now—the shipment of these isn't supposed to come out until winter time. Harry, are you listening?" Hermione poked his arm.
It was almost like he was hypnotized. Harry walked right into the store with Hermione yelling at him. The owner looked up as they came in and Harry pointed to the broom.
"Is that for sale?"
The man's eyebrows rose. "That is just the sample brought in. These editions won't be sold until after Christmas. They're brand new and very hard to make, which is why it's taking so long to perfect them. They're made from a combination of wood—Mahogany and Holly."
"And the end of it? What's that made out of?"
"Oh yes, specially made from Demiguise hair," the man smiled coyly. "Very fascinating. If the hair is mixed with herbs, not sure what kinds, it won't become invisible and in fact turns from grey to golden-yellow."
"Wait, isn't Demiguise hair used for Invisibility cloaks?" Harry's eyes widened.
"Yes, that's why the hair is dipped into herbs first to give it that silky smooth texture and color," the man replied. "But that isn't for sale. And it would be way out of your price range if it were. It's the only one out right now and it's just to show people what to expect."
"Please sir, I'll pay whatever you ask. It's just…I'm going to hopefully get into a Quidditch Academy and it'd be nice to have such a wonderful broom," Harry said hopefully.
The man's eyes brightened. "Really? Which Academy?"
"The Q.A.O.S.," Harry responded.
"And he's Harry Potter," Hermione interjected.
Harry sent her a mild glare but she just blinked up at him innocently. The man rubbed his chin in thought.
"Well, Harry Potter I can't very well just sell it to you."
"No, I understand. I'm not trying to get it because of my name. I really do love Quidditch," Harry said sincerely.
The man smiled. "I'll tell you what. If you get into the school, I just may be willing to sell it to you—for a hefty price though."
"Of course!" Harry agreed instantly. "If I get in I'll come back and show you."
Nodding, the man held out his hand and Harry took it firmly. "Agreed. And good luck, Mr. Potter," he smiled.
Harry thanked him graciously as Hermione dragged him out of the store. She then began scolding him after.
"Harry, do you know how much that's going to cost! It's at least going to be 682 galleons! That's almost equivalent to 5000 dollars! I know your parents left you a fortune, but…that's way too much!" Hermione exclaimed.
"You forget that Sirius willed his bank account to me too," Harry reminded her, not really wanting to bring up his Godfather.
Hermione shut her mouth instantly and nodded curtly. "That's right. He was pretty wealthy too since he was an heir to a large inheritance like you. I guess you do have two large inheritances. Just be careful how you spend it. I know you have a lot—heck probably just as much as the Malfoy family if not more, but you still need to be careful. Money is easily spent."
"I know. I haven't bought myself anything in a long time. Not since Sirius' death, except for books and stuff for school," Harry said quietly.
Hermione nodded and patted his arm. "That's good. At least you watch yourself. Some people end up in debt before they even realize it. But I'm sure you have more than enough to last you through the next fifty years of your life without work. Though I'm sure if you do get onto a professional Quidditch team you'll be paid handsomely."
Harry nodded. "Yeah, hopefully I'll get in."
"Don't worry so much. You know you can always try again too. If you really want that school in particular you can wait until the winter semester to try again and this time submit an application early. I'm certain it was late, that's all. So don't give up," she smiled.
"Thanks Hermione. And thanks for taking me shopping and helping me with clothes and stuff. I guess I'm not very good with fitting in."
"You're too hard on yourself. Fitting in isn't worth it if you don't feel good about yourself. You don't have to wear what other people are wearing. And it's not like you have the top fancy fashions now. You just have newer clothes that you feel comfortable in, which is what counts," she said, giving him another pat. "I guess we part here. If you do get in make sure to owl me at least once a month and visit as much as possible."
"I will," Harry said, giving her a small hug. "See you."
They parted and Harry headed back to the Weasleys. Ron eagerly looked through the things that he bought, but when Harry told him what broom he hopefully would get, his mouth dropped open.
"No bloody way! Harry, if you get that you have to let me ride it!"
Smiling, Harry nodded. "I will."
Ron smiled then his head tilted curiously. "Is that Hedwig?"
Harry jumped up from his bed and opened the window. Hedwig came soaring toward him (too slowly in Harry's mind) and after giving her a pat he anxiously grabbed the letter.
"It's from the school," Harry gulped, visibly paling.
"Open it! And read it aloud!" Ron jumped on his bed.
"I can't! You open it!" Harry exclaimed, shoving it in his hands.
Ron opened his mouth then closed it. Finally, he nodded and tore open the letter. He unfolded the parchment and read it silently, which was not doing anything for Harry's nerves.
"Well?" Harry raised his voice anxiously.
Ron glanced up with a pale face and an unusual expression. "Harry…You got in!"
Harry had been holding his breath and even when the words came out he still couldn't believe it. His mouth dropped open and he snatched the letter away.
Dear Harry Potter!
We have received your application (and your recommendation) and we are very pleased to tell you that you have been accepted! Since you signed the contract, however, we will need a down payment of 311 galleons, 2 sickles and 23 knuts (but we can extend the deadline for this if you need it). You have a room already saved and most books used at the school are already supplied as well. The term starts up in three days. Can't wait to meet you in person!
Q.A.O.S. President,
Niall C. Grunnion
"I can't believe it! I…I might be able to get that broom now!" Harry exclaimed.
"Harry, forget the broom for two seconds, you were just accepted to the most prestigious and expensive Quidditch school in the entire wizard world!" Ron shouted. "This is amazing! I have to go tell mum and dad!"
Ron raced out of the room and left Harry standing there still staring at the parchment. Footsteps caused him to look up and he saw Ginny walking into the room with a somber expression etched in her features.
"So you got in?" she asked, already knowing the answer.
"Yeah," Harry said, not really knowing what else to say.
"I guess I won't really be seeing much of you anymore," Ginny said softly, approaching even closer. "It's just like when I first heard about you in the papers and the first time I met you. You were so far away yet so close. I got to see you, got to read about you, but being close enough to touch you…"
"Ginny," Harry said, moving back as she reached out to touch his arm. "You have a boyfriend, Darian, remember?"
She snorted and gave a roll of her eyes. "He's just to distract me. And anyway, Harry, I've had a crush on you since I was ten! When I finally met you, my crush turned into infatuation by the time I was thirteen. I wanted you so bad. I wanted to kiss you and later I wanted to do other things with you. I couldn't stop thinking about you. And it was a miracle when you kissed me back at the end of our sixth year. Even though it seemed like I didn't have a crush on you, like when I started dating other people and didn't seem so shy around you, I still thought about you all the time," Ginny replied, staring at him intensely. "Even now, especially after—"
"Ginny, stop, please," Harry said quietly. "Look…I didn't really want to. You kind of forced it upon me. I'm not like other guys, as you know. And the reason why I kissed you sixth year, I don't know. You were one of my closest friends and I think I was extremely happy that I had survived thus far. I'm sorry I led you on. I'm really not good with expressing emotions or anything."
"But don't you want to have sex?" she asked quietly. "Even if we're not openly going out, we can still be intimate in secret."
Harry shook his head. "Ginny, I'm not like that. Perhaps most teenage boys would agree to that in an instant, especially since you're a very pretty girl, but because of the life I lived I grew up very fast. In fact, my hormones probably are still lying dormant. I never had a chance to act like a normal child or teenager so I'm not controlled by hormones or thoughts of doing…sexual things," he said awkwardly. "Look, you'll meet someone else whether at a job or if you decide to further your education like Hermione. And Darian seems like a nice kid too. But I just want to be friends, like before."
Ginny bit her lip and nodded with a sigh. "I just…I really wanted to be your first, Harry. Since I've loved you and thought about you since I was younger, I imagined what it would be like to give you the best experience of your life."
"That's…nice, but I'm not ready for that anyway," Harry said, thankfully not feeling the need to blush or stutter.
"I suppose you might meet someone at the school," Ginny said softly, after a moment's hesitation.
Harry shrugged nonchalantly. "Perhaps, I don't know. It's not the reason I'm going to the school."
"I'm sorry I'm acting so jealous and coming on so strongly. I just…it really makes me angry and upset to think of someone else having you the way I couldn't."
Harry really didn't know what to say to that. As if things couldn't get more awkward, someone cleared their throat and Harry's face burned as he saw Ron standing in the doorway. Ginny saw him too but didn't seem as concerned.
"Well, congratulations," Ginny said sounding reluctant. She glanced at him briefly before walking out.
Harry slumped onto his bed, pretending to read over the parchment as Ron came in. For a moment, Ron was silent and Harry could feel his eyes on him.
"Harry?"
Glancing up nervously, he stared at his friend who had a slightly worried expression.
"Did you and Ginny, um…?"
"No," Harry answered immediately, feeling his cheeks burn. "We didn't, Ron. She, um…she wanted to, but I told her I wasn't ready."
"Blimey," Ron breathed out, slumping on his own bed. "Is that why you two broke up?"
"Sort of," Harry shrugged.
"I guess she came on too strong. Mum always treats her like a little angel, like she's still young but I guess Ginny's not as innocent as she appears. Even Fred had said once when Bill and Charlie were visiting and Ginny was with her friends that they doubted she was still a virgin. I just thought they were trying to make a sick joke, but…I guess she really isn't that innocent. It's just weird thinking about my sister doing those kinds of things," Ron crinkled his nose. "Are you still a virgin?"
Harry felt his throat constrict in partial embarrassment. "It's not like I had a lot time to deal with hormones or girls, Ron."
"Oh, right," he answered. "Sorry. In all honesty though, Harry, being since you'll be eighteen in just eight days I think you should get laid while you're there."
Harry raised his eyebrows in amusement and Ron grinned cheekily. The two of them burst into laughter seconds later and it made him feel much better.
"Well, you better go and see if you can get that broom," Ron smiled.
"Oh yeah! Bloody hell, I almost forgot!" Harry jumped up. "See you later."
Harry raced over on his Firebolt to the store and was grateful it hadn't closed yet. He ran in and saw the owner was beginning to pack up some things, probably to get ready to close. He turned and when he saw Harry he grinned knowingly.
"Let me guess, you got in and you're here to make a deal," the man grinned.
Harry nodded firmly and approached the counter. He showed the man his acceptance letter. "Yeah, but…I didn't stop at Gringotts to pull out any money so I don't have it with me."
The man chuckled. "That's not the only way to pay for things, Mr. Potter. Do you think that people carry with them huge loads of money when buying expensive items? They just sign a magical contract when purchasing an item and Gringotts is then owled and the money is pulled from their account."
Harry's stomach churned with excitement. "So can I buy it?"
"You really have tons of money to spend?" the man asked with raised eyebrows.
"Well…erm, yeah but I'm not wasting my money or anything. This is very important to me. Quidditch is my life, well…as much of my life as it was possible in the past. And now that I have a chance to be surrounded by it and play professionally, it's…," Harry trailed off, not knowing how to describe the feeling he had.
"It's a dream," the man finished knowingly.
Harry nodded eagerly and the man grinned, rubbing his chin again. "Alright. I can sell it to you for 2146 galleons, 11 sickles and 19 knuts."
Harry nearly choked. That was equivalent to 10,350 US dollars or 15,370.27 Euros. He could afford it, but that was more than he was willing to spend. Remembering what Hermione had guessed, he decided to try and bargain with the man.
"How about 682 galleons?" Harry offered.
The man's lips curled. "1227 galleons, 14 sickles and 3 knuts."
It was still too much. Harry decided perhaps if he could get the man to at least bargain closer to 682 galleons.
"I'll pay 1000 galleons," Harry said.
The man clucked his tongue and Harry waited in an anxious silence. He thought the man wasn't going to agree until he saw him pull out a piece of parchment.
"I suppose that will do," he smiled. "After all, I'm sure you of all people deserve such a treasure."
Harry flushed with gratitude. "Thanks."
The parchment was the contract for the Volare3000, which he signed in order to agree to have the money taken from his account. Although it was expensive, Harry wasn't one to shop consistently or buy much of anything besides necessities. So it was alright for him to spend a lot once in a while (as long as it didn't become a habit).
"This should last you a good twenty to fifty years," the man grinned and winked. "And you can also purchase kits to help keep its shine and glamour, but I'll put one in for free."
"Thanks so much!" Harry exclaimed.
The man chuckled and nodded. "I understand perfectly. Now, take good care of it. I'll wrap it up for you but I suggest you shrink it down and put it in your pocket for safe keeping. If anyone sees you walking around with it they'll probably try and steal it. Although, I'm sure you're an expert at defending yourself," he added.
"I'll take your advice," Harry said, glancing down awkwardly.
The man wrapped up the new broom and used an illusion charm to produce an image of it so people could still view it in the window. Then Harry shrank it down and placed it in his pocket very carefully, along with the kit.
"It was nice meeting you, Mr. Potter," he smiled brightly.
"You too. Oh and just call me Harry," Harry responded with a smile. "Thanks again."
The man waved to him as he left and Harry soared on his Firebolt back to the Weasleys more excited than he had been in the longest time. He couldn't wait to try it out. When he arrived back at the house Fred, George and Ron were waiting eagerly to see it. Harry pulled it out to show them but wouldn't let anyone ride it. He wanted to wait until he was at the Quidditch Academy. Ginny didn't join in—she apparently confined herself to her room. Although Harry felt a little bad that she was taking it hard, he didn't feel guilty. After all, she had made him uncomfortable and tried to force herself upon him. That night, Harry went immediately to sleep dreaming about flying his new broom.
The next morning he went to Gringotts and pulled out the down payment for the school. He then owled it to them and began packing his trunk full of his new clothes, items, shrunken down Volare3000 (which he added extra protections to in case anyone tried to steal it at the Academy), some old Quidditch books, his kit, vision-healing potions, parchment and quill along with several other items.
He had taken off his glasses and thrown them in his trunk (hoping to never have to use them again) and then drank one of the potions. Hermione had bought him some magical gel to tame his hair, which worked wonders. It didn't look all shaggy and now could be combed. His bangs fell nicely right above his eyes, which stood out much more since he took his glasses off. He wore his new pair of nicely-fitted jeans (not the huge Dudley-sized ones or the too-small worn-out ones he had had). And a nice black tee-shirt that had cuffs at the wrists and opened just a little at the top of his chest. He looked rather nice, he admitted.
"Hey look, there's Hedwig!" Ron exclaimed, pulling up his pants.
Harry glanced out the window and noticed she was carrying a package. She dropped it on the bed and upon opening it he saw it was a robe with the school's crest and name upon it.
"Wow…look at that," Ron gasped.
The robe was a velvet material (that apparently Ron said was very rare and expensive for it could keep one warm in the winter and suddenly be cooler in the summer), silver in color and when Harry put it on it grew to his length. The crest was a square with a white X in the center (the Scotland Satire flag) and then in cursive the initials Q.A.O.S. sewn in shiny silver letters spread out across the square.
"I guess it's time to go," Harry said, turning to his friend.
Ron's smile faded and he nodded glumly. "Yeah…do you have to leave now?"
"Well, the term starts in just two days and I want to get there so I can be shown around a little and get settled. Don't worry, I'll owl you by tomorrow and let you know how everything is, you and Hermione and everyone, and I'll try and visit this coming weekend," Harry compromised.
Sighing, Ron finally gave in. "Alright. Don't forget to owl me. And tell me about the girls there!"
Laughing, Harry agreed and shrank his trunk to fit in his pocket. Then he got out his Firebolt. Molly gave him a huge hug while Ron just patted his back. Ginny just smiled weakly but didn't move to embrace him. Harry waved to them and took off toward the school. Hedwig would already be there since he sent out the down payment. He was excited, but nervous too. What would the school be like? Would he meet friends right away?
The beautifully modern, castle-styled Academy came into view and Harry felt his throat constrict. He was getting more nervous by the minute. He hoped that he would fit in and not be hated or stalked because of his fame. Once he landed, he nervously wiped his clammy hands on the new robe and shrank his Firebolt, dropping it in his pocket. Then he entered through the large entrance doors. The note that came with the robe had stated that he go to the president's office (president was apparently a more formal title for a headmaster of sorts).
The office was right on the first floor and so far Harry hadn't bumped into any other students there. He knocked on the door and he heard some fumbling around. It opened and a tall, quirky-looking man opened it. Upon seeing Harry, his eyes widened and he broke out in a grin.
"Harry Potter! It is such a pleasure to meet you. I just received your down payment. You're wonderfully punctual aren't you? Come in," he gestured.
Harry was overwhelmed but he managed to hide it. He was offered a cushioned chair and the man sat behind his desk.
"The summer term just ended a few weeks ago and so you're right on time for the early fall," he smiled. "We start earlier than most schools for fall term, as you can tell since it's still summer. However, there are rules and guidelines to this Academy. And I'm afraid the only long break you get is over Christmas. Otherwise like for New Year's you only get a couple days off. And the classes are rather challenging, but that's why this is the most prestigious school," he grinned.
"Oh, I'm Niall Grunnion, but just call me Niall. I don't like it when people are so formal. I see you got your robe," he smiled, glancing at it. "There are some other simple rules you should know about before I show you around a bit. Curfew is at midnight, no one should be walking around the halls afterward. And no skipping class unless you're ill or there's a very legitimate excuse. We're not all work though, so don't feel intimidated. We have parties, especially after winning Quidditch matches against other teams."
"You mean professional teams?" Harry asked, feeling a bit nauseous.
"Oh heavens no," Niall chuckled. "We're working up to that. This Academy is designed to help you get ready for playing on professional teams, but we don't compete against them. The professional teams only compete nationally at championships. But there are other Quidditch schools out there and we compete against them. And so far we're undefeated for four years straight. We want to win this year, well just like every year, to make our fifth victory! Every five years, we agreed, we would have the hugest parties and invite other schools as well. However, that's only if we reach five."
"How come?"
"Well that's just what me and the presidents of the three other schools agreed on. We joke sometimes and although they want to crush us they're good mates. They play fair, obviously because any cheating or fouls or anything gets students kicked out. So anyway, the other presidents made a deal that if we win for the fifth year in a row all the schools would combine and throw a huge celebration," he grinned. "So that's another reason why I'm so glad you're here! Oliver Wood just couldn't stop complimenting you in his recommendation. He said that you won almost all the Gryffindor games for them."
Harry shifted uncomfortably. "I didn't do it alone. It was a team thing."
"Of course Harry, but don't sell yourself short either," Niall said, pointing a finger. "Well, shall I show you around?"
"Sure," Harry answered, hurrying to stand up.
Niall led him into the hall and explained things as they passed. "Everyone meets in the dining hall for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast ends at eleven so if you miss it you'll just have to deal with the plain snacks in the common rooms. Lunch starts at one exactly and ends at three. Classes resume until eight for dinner and then dinner can go as late as eleven at night. There's always food around. I'm sure that's where most students are right now, since it's dinner time. And you can practice your Quidditch skills anytime as well. The field is big enough for everyone," he winked.
"There are five floors. The first one has the dining hall, my office, the school library, bathrooms and a Quidditch supply room. The second and third floors are all class-occupied. So, all of your classes will be spread out between the two floors. And the fourth and fifth floors are entirely full of dorm rooms and the common rooms. You won't have to share a room, however. How it works is that there are groups that we put together. So because we only accept at most 350 students here there are fifty groups of seven. For example, you have been placed in the Gold Common Room, which is in the West Hall of the fifth floor. There is a flight of stairs that leads up to the seven quarters of that group.
"So you will have a small group of people you'll be seeing regularly by your room. There are fifty common rooms, 25 on each the fourth and fifth floors, with separate quarters for everyone. However, the Quidditch chambers only have communal showers. So there aren't showers in your room or the commons. There's a toilet hidden behind a painting in each common room, in case you or someone needs to go in the middle of the night, but otherwise the communal showers are the only ones. Now don't worry—there are two different Quidditch chambers, one for girls and one for boys. And because everyone has their own separate quarters to sleep in, the Common Room groups are a mixture of genders, for the most part. But it's not like you have to share a room with a girl or anything," he grinned.
Harry nodded, a bit overwhelmed by all the information.
"You will receive your class schedule very shortly. It'll be sent to your room. And I'm afraid newbies have to take mostly required classes so they can't choose. But once the winter semester starts you can have a choice of some classes. Of course there are requirements for graduating in any school. Anyway, I'm sure you'll enjoy yourself here and you will be an expert Quidditch player too! If you have any questions though, feel free to come to my office. Ah, here's your common room."
The gold painting moved aside to reveal a door (that apparently didn't need to be password protected, since the school wasn't divided into houses like Hogwarts). Everyone was the same in this school and Harry liked that fact. The whole common room was painted gold (hence its name). It was much larger than the Hogwart's common room because there were ten times less students so there was more space.
"Well, I'll leave you here to look around. Your room is G3 up the stairs. You are permitted to put locking charms on your door or keep it password protected—your choice. And don't worry about finding your way around the school for your classes. I'm sure you'll meet some friends soon enough who will help you and there are also hall patrols that will guide you. This is a very safe place but if you have any problems, like items get stolen come directly to me. I don't take that lightly at all. We like to keep up a high, clean reputation here," he gave another smile. "Go ahead and get settled. I'll probably see you at dinner."
"Thank you," Harry said.
"You're quite welcome," Niall smiled back.
Harry watched him go and then took his time looking around. There were four couches (golden colored) some coffee tables, studying desks, a fireplace, some cushioned chairs and a small shelf full of books. It was rather homey. He went upstairs to his room and saw that his room was between G2 and G4. It was a small square-like hall and all the seven rooms were lined up next to one another on each of the three walls. Harry's was straight ahead so he walked in. It was much more spacious looking than the Hogwart's dorms (perhaps because it only had one queen-sized bed, a bureau and a nice desk in it.
He placed his trunk at the foot of the bed and made sure to seal it with charms. He had to protect his new broom at all costs. The bed was comfortable with golden silk sheets. Once he placed his things away, he left the common room and went out into the hall. Since most everyone else was at dinner he decided he should probably go down and eat as well. Taking in a nervous breath, he began heading toward the stairs. He stopped momentarily to take a look at some of the paintings, wondering if perhaps there were some secret passages in the Academy.
"Well, well, so the rumor I just heard is true. Harry Potter has come."
Freezing on instinct, Harry didn't move for a second. He knew that voice; it sounded oddly familiar and gave him an uncomfortable feeling. Not wanting the boy to think he was intimidated, Harry turned around and nearly screamed aloud. Draco Malfoy was standing before him dressed in tight dark jeans with a dressy (and silky) silver shirt. He had his arms crossed over his chest and his blonde hair wasn't slicked back like it had been at Hogwarts. It was short in the back but his bangs were somewhat long in the front, ghosting above his eyes almost like Harry's. The silver-grey eyes were narrowed at him and his expression was cold.
"Malfoy," Harry managed to spit out, "what are you doing here?"
"I should be the one asking that question, Potter," he responded. "I should've known you would want to come to the most prestigious Quidditch school around. Unlike you, however, I got in based on skill."
"So did I! I gave them a recommendation letter from Wood!" Harry snapped defensively.
Draco's lips curled into a sneer. "You think they read it? Not for the famous Harry Potter."
"You're just upset because your dad's in Azkaban!" Harry shot back, clenching his fists.
Malfoy had approached him so quickly Harry hadn't had time to react. Malfoy gripped his arms roughly through his robe and pushed him up against the wall glaring harshly. He was so close that Harry caught a whiff of his cologne. Malfoy's hands had his arms pinned and Harry was in too much shock to use his legs to kick him away.
"Don't patronize me Potter!" he snarled. "Why don't you just keep yourself and your famous scar out of my face," he snapped, glancing at Harry's forehead briefly.
With that, Malfoy released him and wheeled around, disappearing back down the stairs. All of Harry's happy feelings about the school crashed and burned. Sure, it was a wonderful place but it was much smaller than Hogwarts, which meant he couldn't possibly avoid seeing Draco Malfoy.
"Why does this always happen?" Harry whispered harshly.
Just when he thought his life was finally looking up, this had to happen. He scowled but decided he wouldn't let Malfoy ruin his fresh start. He could just ignore him and go on with his life. Gaining some confidence, to rub in Malfoy's face, Harry went down the flights of stairs and entered the dining hall. Many heads turned and some mouths dropped open. He saw Malfoy sitting with a group of people and noticed Malfoy scowling darkly when he saw the reaction he was receiving.
"Hi, may I sit here?" Harry asked, approaching one of the tables.
"Sure mate," one boy said with a thick Scottish accent.
The two boys moved apart and some nearby girls smiled at him. Harry just smiled in return, feeling a bit smug for not letting Malfoy get to him. Hopefully, Malfoy wouldn't be a big problem.
TO BE CONTINUED…
Author's Note: Have no fear! The yummy-ness is going to start building up now! I should hopefully have the next chapter up in one to two days. And from here on out the story will focus entirely on Harry and Draco. Glad you're all enjoying it so far! Thanks for the support (especially since this is my first HP slash fic, as I mentioned earlier).
To Reviewers:
I'm Me for A Reason: Thank you! I'm so glad you like it so far! Don't worry, from here on out the story will surround Harry and Draco. I will try and update this within one to two days!
Naughty-Kitten: Thanks so much! I'm glad you like the plot so far! I promise it'll thicken and everyone will get their Harry/Draco appetites filled. It'll begin building up starting next chapter!
wIthOUt A nAmE: Thanks! Yeah, I figure that's the most realistic, going back in time and all. Don't worry the Draco/Harry-ness will begin building up starting next chapter. I hope to update in one to two days!
Lollylover: Thank you! I will update hopefully in one to two days:-)