Disclaimer: I don't own any of the characters you recognise. They belong to J.K. Rowling. I'm not making any money from this in any way.
This fic ignores several major events from the books – but includes other major events – so bear with me. If you have any questions please ask and I'll explain as best as possible, though more of the past will be revealed throughout the fic.
Slash of the male/male and female/female kinds will eventually be appearing in this story. If you don't like slash then please leave. Don't read what you don't like.
Cross-posted to and AO3. Note - if you want to see the newspaper articles as actual articles or not the email addresses be a bit weird, then head over to AO3. Thanks to everybody who liked, kudos, or reviewed!
The Archaeology of Magic
Chapter Two: Settling back in
To: hgranger
From: hpotter
Date: 14th August 2000
Subject: You will be happy to know that
I've finally moved into my townhouse in Oxford! You'll have to come over for dinner and check it out yourself.
I guess you can bring Parkinson along as well.
Just make sure to bring a decent bottle of wine, please.
Oxford is lovely. I've been wandering around the university the last couple of days, orientating myself for when classes start at the end of the week. The libraries here are amazing – you would love them. Very old-school scholar vibes going on.
Anyhow – I'll tell you more over dinner – this Friday at 7 pm.
I should even have the place unpacked by then.
Love Harry
Harry surveyed the kitchen. He had focused on unpacking that first. Of course, Kreacher was unhappy he was doing anything. When he had decided to enrol at Oxford he hadn't realised that the Potters had a townhouse in Oxford, let alone in Park Town. Thankfully, Irontooth, his Gringotts account manager had finally pressured him into going through his portfolios. Or else he may have considered student accommodation… Harry shuddered memory of some of the student houses he had toured.
That the Potter Townhouse was only a fifteen walk from the university would be handy.
"Young Master," Kreacher croaked from behind Harry, "the dining room is ready". Harry turned around and smiled at the old elf. He was decked out in a black suit with the Black family crest embroidered across it as a pattern in silver. Harry had found a fabric maker in Cambodia and commissioned a bolt for Kreacher. For once Sirius and Kreacher both liked the same thing.
"Thanks, Kreacher. You can head back to Hogwarts or Grimmauld if you like. I'll be able to unpack the rest." Harry turned back to his new kitchen surveying the space.
Kreacher coughed, "No. Kreacher will stay with you." Harry turned back to the old elf and smiled again, "Ok Kreacher, if that's what you prefer. I'll take the wards down on the kitchen then."
Kreacher just smiled showing sharp pointed teeth, "Good".
Of course, Kreacher would be happy Harry was finally taking up a house. It meant he could leave Sirius finally.
To: hpotter
From: pparkinson
Date: 20th August 2000
Subject: Thanks for the party
I'm glad that you've learned to loosen up a bit since Hogwarts Potter.
That was a terrific party on Friday night. Oh – I know you hadn't planned it, but even you can't deny that it was fun. And of course, I knew that my darling Theo was also studying at Oxford. And of course, I just had to invite him along to dinner when I mentioned I would be in Oxford. So glad you didn't mind having the extra mouth to feed. You're a surprisingly good cook.
And of course, the party which evolved after (who knew that Oxford students were so much fun!) needs no forgiving.
You'll thank me later Potter when you start Term at the beginning of October and are already the hottest newbie on campus.
Kiss kiss,
Pansy
To: hpotter
From: tnott
Date: 30 August 2000
Subject: Coffee
Hi Harry,
I'm happy that I bumped into you today at the library. I realised after dinner (and another one of Pansy's impromptu parties), that I didn't have your email or phone number. Want to catch up for a coffee on Friday? I can show you the best cafés near the History and Archaeology departments….
Also - were those medieval magical theory books you were checking out? Heavy reading before even starting term. I recognised one of them as Secretum Secretorum. I had to read that last year for my Magical Theory 101 class – I would like to hear what you think about it if you've started to read it yet, of course.
Hope to see you soon,
Theo
Hermione looked at the card sitting on her desk. The front had a charcoal sketch of Hogwarts and the inside…
Happy 21st Birthday Hermione! I hope you like your present – I know you'll put it to good use! I'm looking forward to the party! Love Harry
Hermione grinned, oh yes, she would make use of the present Harry had gifted her…
Steve Jobs wouldn't know what had hit him.
Though she did wonder why Harry just happened to have 49% shares in a muggle company…
Minerva McGonagall sat at the Head Table. The first month of Hogwarts classes was always stressful – for teachers and students alike. She nodded to Pomona who had poured her a cup of strong black tea and unfolded the Daily Prophet that had been waiting next to her plate. The front page on Saturday 20 August 2000 had the headline, 'Verevosa sighted in Madagascar'. Minerva missed the sidelong glances and smirks the other professors were giving her. All of them had already seen the double-page spread on pg.2 3.
Minerva had just taken a sip of tea when she opened the Prophet to its second page and started to choke. There in full colour, was a photograph of Potter waving a stick with a half-transfigured coffee table in front of him showing pigs ears and a tail, dressed in obviously transfigured robes and surrounded by some familiar faces…
Ms Granger and Ms Parkinson were in the background next to Mr Nott. The two Mr Weasley-Malfoys were off to the other side, both with large glasses filled with an obnoxiously pink drink and were laughing at Potter. She blinked again and squinted closer at the slightly grainy photograph…
That boy! Those were replicas of her teaching robes and the hat she always wore on the first day of classes.
However, she would never be caught drinking that blue concoction that Potter was holding in his non-wand hand in the photograph!
To: rweasley-malfoy , hgranger
From: hpotter
Date: 1 October 2000
Subject: Seriously –
Ok – you know I love you both, but did you have to fall in love with very high-maintenance people who are obsessed with an image?
Seriously.
I thought Friday was going to be a nice catch-up dinner with my two besties and their girlfriend and husband, and that the worse I would have to deal with is Draco nagging me about writing a book, or perhaps jokes about Theo and I getting together…
Instead, our nice quiet dinner turned into another party. That somehow made the Daily Prophet social column. Tell Pansy and Draco that I will be retaliating… When they least expect it.
Harry
26 October 2000
Dear Neville,
I am currently in Iceland with my father. We've been following a lead concerning the Huldufólk. Father thinks they may be related to house elves. It will be my turn tonight to watch Black Sand Beach, so I decided to write to you before having a nap. I wouldn't want to fall asleep on the beach! The Huldufólk are known to get nasty sometimes.
How is your greenhouse going? I heard from Ginny that the cuttings Harry sent you are coming along well. I do hope you can manage to cultivate them, there are so many older potions that use Pavetta australiensis. Perhaps you should contact Professor Snape – I heard that he's not nearly as scary anymore. Did you know the Weasley twins have been corresponding with him?
Lots of Love,
Luna
To: sblack
From: rlupin
Date: 3 November 2000
Subject: Happy Birthday Padfoot
You old dog. How does it feel being 40 years old?
Love,
Moony
To: rlupin
From: sblack
Date: 3 November 2000
Subject: If I'm old
then so are you Moony! Especially since you turned 40 eight months ago!
You better be coming tonight – Harry will be there and Cousin Andy and Cissa have been planning this for at least six months. You would think they would have learnt by now that I don't care about being Lord Black.
Love,
Padfoot
P.S – if you show up on time, we can prank Luci by dying his hair blue. It'll be fun!
Neville gulped and waited uncomfortably next to the fireplace in the floo-room of Longbottom Manor. He couldn't believe that he had invited Professor Snape to view his greenhouses… Or that Snape had accepted.
He thought Luna had been joking, but as soon as he had gone through the traditional pleasantries at Sirius' birthday ball (and Neville still wondered what Andy and Cissa had expected….) the Weasley twins had emerged out of the crowd grinning like demons and dragged him over to a shadowy corner of the ballroom behind some potted ferns.
There, in the dark shadows, were Snape and Harry having an enthusiastic conversation. Harry's eyes were bright and his arms were waving. Snape was focused entirely on Harry and the corners of his mouth tilted up slightly. When Harry noticed Neville and the twins, he pulled them into the conversation and then disappeared. Neville was astounded as the twins pelted Snape with questions, and was even more surprised when Snape answered them. When the bell rang indicating that guests should find their table for dinner, Neville had even been drawn into the conservation proper, and Snape had somehow obtained an invitation to visit his greenhouses.
Which led to how Neville was now in this predicament.
Damn Harry.
Damn the twins.
Damn….
The floo whooshed, and Snape stepped out gracefully. Neville took a deep breath and stepped forward, "Good to see you again Professor Snape."
29 November 2000
Dear Bill,
Happy birthday! 30! I hope you like the laptop and phone. Both are creations by Hermione's company. I can't believe how Wixen have taken to the idea of instant communication! Anyhow, enjoy! Try not to get too plastered tonight!
Love,
Harry
To: ssnape
From: dweasley-malfoy
Date: 4 December 2000
Subject: New book
Dear Master Snape,
M&W Publishing wishes to offer you a contract for a series of Potions Textbooks (no less than three books, and no more than seven books) for the education of young (11-17 years) Wixen. Please find the contract enclosed for your review.
Sincerely,
Draco Malfoy
To: hpotter
From: owuenrollments
Date: 20 December 2000
Subject: Term One 2000-2001 Grades
Dear Mr Potter,
We congratulate you on a successful first term at Oxford Wixen University. Please find enclosed your grades for Term One classes and your enrolment details for Term Two and Three. Term Two starts on 16 January 2001.
Yours Sincerely,
Margery Baghest, Undergraduate Coordinator, Oxford Wixen University
Term One 2000 2001 grades for Mr Harry Potter
Understanding Magic – the basics (Wixen) - Distinction
Introduction to History of Magic (Wixen) – High Distinction
Introduction to World Archaeology (Muggle) - Distinction
The Nature of Archaeological Enquiry (Muggle) – High Distinction
Term Two 2000 2001 enrolment
You are enrolled in the following classes for Term Two (16 January 2001 to 16 March 2001):
History of Magic – the ancient to the medieval period (Wixen)
Understanding Magic – Intermediate (Wixen)
The Emergency of medieval Europe, AD400-900 (Muggle)
Anglo-Saxon Society and Economy in Early Christian Period (Muggle)
The documents attached outline the course requirements and materials for Term Two.
Term Three 2000 2001 enrolment
You are enrolled in the following classes for Term Three (23 April 2001 to 22 June 2001):
Chinese Archaeology (Muggle)
Byzantium: The transition from Antiquity to the Middle Ages AD 500 1100 (Muggle)
Understanding Magic – Advanced (Wixen)
Beginners Spell crafting (Wixen)
You can change the Term Three enrolments up until 9 April 2001.
27 December 2000
Dear Mrs Weasley,
Thank you for having me for Christmas dinner. It was delicious as always. And thank you for the new jumper – I love the charcoal colour, and the wool is so soft. I think I'll be living in this jumper for all of January.
I hope Mr Weasley is feeling better. Draco informed that his father is still under the weather following their 'prank-off' on Christmas Day. Sirius informed me that he had never seen the engorgio charm mixed that way with the pudding spell. It was enlightening for all of us – though I do wonder about it inspiring Fred and George, and what new product it may lead to at Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. I'm sure you were happy that Bill was there to reverse the immediate effects, and that Harry knew a charm to at least delay some of the other effects.
Anyhow – I hope you've had a chance to relax a bit since Christmas. I'm glad you're enjoying the phone – it is good to be able to contact family members immediately. I don't think you should worry if Charlie doesn't answer straight away though. I also don't think that he's screening your calls. Ron mentioned that Charlie leaves his phone in his hut when he's out on the reserve – apparently the ringtones don't agree with the dragons.
Love,
Hermione
RW: Why on earth did you give my mother a phone for Christmas?!
HG: Why on earth wouldn't I?
RW: Because YOU KNOW that she would ring us constantly?!
HG: Yes, I know.
HG: Pansy and I decided it would be good for you all.
RW: Pansy and I?! Why are you listening to Pansy about this? My sanity is on the line now! Draco's sanity is gone – his eye is twitching constantly.
RW: She's been ringing at least ONCE a day….
HG: Well… Actually…
RW: ….Harry suggested it didn't he?
RW: Do you think this is payback for our parts in the last party? I know he received a letter from McGonagall after that Prophet article in September…
HG: …..
RW: If this is Harry paying back Draco and me, then what is he going to do to you and Pansy?
HG: Oh dear.
9 January 2001
Dear Professor Snape,
Happy birthday! I hope you like the coffee beans. Headmaster Dumbledore mentioned that you enjoyed the ones from Turkey last year. Thankfully, the roasters are Wixen and do express owl posts. Have a great day!
Sincerely,
Harry
To: adumbledore
From: ssnape
Date: 10 January 2001
Subject: Why?
Why are you talking about me to Potter? Stop gossiping about me.
S Snape
P.S – thank you for the book and whisky.
Harry watched Neville look around the parlour at his townhouse and frown slightly. "You need some greenery in here Harry." Harry just smiled. Neville would say that the bloody dryad incarnate.
"Says you who lives in a greenhouse." Harry smirked, "Didn't your grandmother tell you off again about bringing Devil's Snare inside the manor?"
Neville turned back to Harry, and smirked, "Who said that wasn't deliberate?"
Harry couldn't help but laugh. Neville was hilarious sometimes.
"Ok – so what do you think about being part of Draco's test group for Professor Snape's first textbook."
Neville shrugged and his mouth pulled into a wry smile, "Well – if we can get through the book then I guess it should be okay for first years…."
DM: Oh my god. You weren't a fluke.
RW: What?
RW: You're sounding more insane than usual Dray.
DM: Don't call me Dray. You know I don't like it.
DM: And seriously. Severus is a genius.
RW: Ok – I have no idea what you're talking about.
DM: I'm standing here watching Neville Longbottom, the terror of the Potions classroom, brew.
RW: And you're not cursing about nearly being blown up yet?
DM: No….
DM: Because every bloody potion is 100% correct. Texture, colour, thickness. Perfect.
RW: Well fuck.
RW: Good thing Snape is better at writing than he is at teaching in person.
DM: We're going to make so much money from these textbooks.
Ron just sighs and leans back into his work chair putting his mobile in the desk drawer. Of course – that would be Draco's main concern.
13 February 2001
Dearest Loveliest Luna,
We wish you a happy birthday and hope that your quest for the snarflegargles is going well. Where are you currently? We hope you like the hat we've included for your present – it was made especially to the specifications you asked for – tin foil and all (we had to go to Tesco to get the foil – so many interesting things in a Tesco).
Yours,
Fred and George
To: ssnape
From: iyarran
Date: 17 February 2001
Subject: Potions for Beginners
Dear Master Snape,
A copy of your recently released textbook, Potions for Beginners, was forwarded to me by a mutual contact. I passed the copy on to one of our Potions professors who teaches the lower levels. At his recommendation, the Australian Wixen Secondary School will be exclusively using your textbook for 1st and 2nd-year Potions.
If you visit Australia, please let me know, as I have contacts with potion growers and collectors who specialise in rare and individual Australian ingredients. They have likewise been impressed with your textbook. I believe this is the first in a series. We are eagerly anticipating the rest of the series.
Sincerely,
Master Iluka Yarran, Headmaster Australian Wixen Secondary School.
To: bweasley
From: hpotter
Date: 11 March 2001
Subject: Back to school
Hi Bill!
Thanks for the email and the scanned copies of that ancient text. You were right, I am very interested in any information you come across Aurelius Merlinus – please continue to send me anything you happen to come across. Interestingly, there are hieroglyphic mentions of Aurelius, especially in a First Dynasty tomb….
Yes – I am looking forward to classes starting back. This is the third term of my first year (and yes – OWU does match the muggle side in terms of terms, and I agree they are odd), and I'm looking forward to my classes. I'll be doing Chinese Archaeology and Byzantium archaeology (both muggle), as well as the advanced class of Understanding Magic. What I'm most interested in (magically-wise) is the Beginners Spell crafting class. Theo told me it was crazy hard, but I'm looking forward to the challenge.
Actually – I have to choose whether I want to attend a field school in Varna (near the Black Sea in Bulgaria) or whether I want to do the one at Yangguanzhai, China. Which one do you think I should do? I'm leaning towards the Chinese one – I missed China when I was travelling, and am intrigued by what I've read about their magical practices.
Love,
Harry
P.S: As promised, I'm owling you a package of recent releases by WWW. You could just ask Fred or George you know. But I'm always happy to help.
21 March 2001 – The Daily Prophet
WIXEN MUSIC GOES DIGITAL
Ms Hermione Granger and Mr Steve Jobs released the Wixen version of Apple's latest digital technology, the iPod on Friday 16 March 2001. The Wixen version of the iPod, known as the wPod, is the creative brainchild of Wixen technomage Hermione Granger and squib techno-giant Steve Jobs. Ms Granger in a press release on Friday said "This true merging of muggle and magic in the wPod is just the beginning. Wixen Wireless is currently working on several projects with select muggle technological companies, as well as developing our own products. "
The wPod is a portable music player. Music can be purchased from an online store wTunes and is automatically loaded on the wPod. Some of the major Wixen bands already available on wTunes include the Weird Sisters and the Hobgoblins. Lorcan D'Eath is also currently in negotiations with wTunes. The wPod costs56 galleons, 10 sickles, and 19 knuts and is available at Wixen Wireless outlets in all major Wixen centres worldwide. For a full list of stockists see pg.10. For further information concerning Steve Jobs see pg.5.
To: tnott
From: pparkinson
Date: 4 April 2001
Subject: Eugh
I can't believe you, Theo! You let Mr Desirable himself slip through your grasp.
And no, I don't care how much you deny that you and Harry are just friends…
And that you're not gay.
Now – I'm stuck with bloody Kevin Entwhistle for the foreseeable future. Blerg. Hermione is already planning on how to get rid of the bloody pest. She doesn't think he's sincere about actually liking Harry, and not 'The Man who Defeated Voldemort'. Draco agrees with her. Ron and I are just hoping this isn't a sign of the oncoming apocalypse as the two are now plotting together.
Damn you, Theo!
Couldn't you have just turned gay?! Surely – if you could have for anybody it would have been Harry Potter. (And seriously – he would have been a great catch for you. Can cook, likes discussing obscure historical events, draws).
Argh! And to think it's because of the wPod release party that the two even met. Remind me to be stricter about the invitees to the next release party.
Kiss,
Pansy
KE: Hey Babe, I hope you're ready for tonight, I have something awesome planned.
HP: Kevin, I already told you that I'm busy studying tonight! I have a major paper due tomorrow and I haven't finished it yet.
HP: I told you this yesterday.
KE: Ok. Ok. I'll move the plans to next week. I just wanted to help you relax a bit.
KE: And you never seem to have time for us.
HP: That's because it's the end of term. All the lecturers set their final essays to be due this week, on top of classes with exams. It's hell. We can definitely hang out more next week, but don't plan anything for Friday and Saturday since I'm hanging out with Hermione and Ron and the Weasley twins.
KE: I guess I'm not invited. Though of course their partners will be...
HP: Look - I don't know who else is invited, but I'll ask if you can come along anyway.
KE: Thanks Babe. Good luck with the paper and your exams.
Kreacher mumbled to himself as he tidied up his little Masters room. Since that waste-of-space had begun hanging his little Master, Kreacher had tried to stay out of the way. Of course, his little Master didn't know how the waste-of-space treated Kreacher when he wasn't around. And Kreacher wouldn't be telling his little Master either. Instead, he had told little Masters' Dog-Father.
Keacher grinned wickedly. Dog-Father had provided some interesting ideas and supplies to Kreacher, which he used to the best of his ability... Meaning exceptionally well. Clothing one size too small or 'mixed up' during washing. Socks and ties going missing. Underwear and socks laced with itching powder. Over-seasoned food (but only for the waste-of-space).
When the waste-of-space had mentioned it to his little Master, little Master had defended Kreacher and said if waste-of-space was being affected by something, then why hadn't he experienced any of it?
Kreacher finished the room, while cataloguing his remaining supplies from Dog-Father and what more he could do to make waste-of-space uncomfortable.
HG: We can't poison the berk.
DM: Why not? It's perfect.
HG: Did you forget Harry's saving people thing? And also, he would just ask Professor Snape for an antidote.
DM: Somehow I doubt my godfather would help Kevin bloody Entwhistle. Especially while he's dating Harry.
HG: What do you mean by that?!
DM: Forget I said that.
HG: …..
DM: No really. Just forget about it.
DM: What do you think about using a bad luck charm but keying it to only working when he's near Harry?
An owl swept through the room and dropped a small package on one of the many desks in the office. The package had Wixen Wireless wrapping and was addressed to Mr Kevin Entwhistle. There was no indication of who sent the package.
To: rweasley-malfoy
From: bweasley
Date: 22 April 2001
Subject: Did they think that would work?
Seriously Ron. Did Hermione and Draco think cursing a wPod to give Entwhistle bad luck around Harry would work?
Maybe you guys didn't quite realise how magic-sensitive Harry became while travelling. He picked up the trick by the Australian Wixen and has only gotten better at it since. I know I mentioned that he detected some hidden traps when working with my team in Jordan.
You guys need to come up with something better.
Bill
Attachment – several scanned pages of Egyptian curses that can be placed on items.
KE: Babe. Could you please just pick up your phone?
KE: Seriously Babe. It didn't mean anything. I was just letting off some steam. You know how stressful work is at the moment. Cyndi is easy with everybody. She threw herself at me. What was I meant to do? I didn't want to hurt her feelings. And I was drunk. My inhibitions were lowered and Cyndi used that to get what she wanted. It wasn't my fault – you know how I get when I'm drunk.
KE: Please Babe - could you just let me explain? I love you.
HP: Fuck off.
KE: Please Babe, just let me explain.
HP: Stop calling me Babe!
HP: I'm blocking your number. Stop texting me.
HP: And again – fuck off!
Wednesday 6 June 2001 – The Daily Prophet
POTTER'S LOVER EXPOSES ALL
Following the disastrous breakup of Mr Harry Potter and Mr Kevin Entwhistle, Mr Entwhistle has contacted The Daily Prophet for an exclusive interview. Mr Potter is a current student at Oxford Wixen University and the well-known defeater of Voldemort. Mr Kevin Entwhistle is a junior administrative clerk in the Department of Sports at the Ministry of Magic. The couple first met at a party held by Wixen Wireless on the release of the revolutionary wPod. The couple parted ways following an explosive argument at the St Mungo's charity event on Saturday 2nd June 2001. An anonymous source close to Mr Potter stated, "I didn't like Kevin from the beginning. All of us could see he was just wanting to use Harry."
The exclusive interview with Mr Entwhistle will be published in the Daily Prophet on Sunday 10 June 2002.
To: hpotter
From: relrich
Date: 25 June 2001
Subject: The Yangguanzhai Neolithic Archaeological Project
Dear Mr Potter,
We are looking forward to having you join our field school as part of the Yangguanzhai Neolithic Archaeological Project. Please find attached the course syllabus, itinerary and list of personal equipment.
As you advised us when applying that you would be securing your travel to and from the site, we anticipate you meeting the rest of your group at the Sheraton Xian North City Hotel on Sunday 8 July 2001. The group will then travel to the site together on Monday 9 July.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely,
Dr Rick Elrich, Coordinator, Institute for Field Research
To: hpotter
From: owuenrollments
Date: 2 July 2001
Subject: Term Three 2000-2001 Grades
Dear Mr Potter,
We congratulate you on a successful first year at Oxford Wixen University. Please find enclosed your grades for Term Three 2000 2001 classes and your enrolment details for the 2001 2002 terms. Term One starts on 1 October 2001.
We have received your paperwork for the Yangguanzhai Neolithic Archaeological Project. Upon successful completion of the course, your transcript will be credited accordingly.
Yours Sincerely,
Margery Baghest, Undergraduate Coordinator, Oxford Wixen University
Term Three 2000 2001 grades for Mr Harry Potter
Chinese Archaeology (Muggle) – High Distinction
Byzantium: The transition from Antiquity to the Middle Ages AD 500 1100 (Muggle) – High Distinction
Understanding Magic – Advanced (Wixen) - Distinction
Beginners Spell Crafting (Wixen) – Credit
Term One 2001-2002 enrolment
Roman Archaeology: cities and settlements under the Empire (Muggle)
Physical Anthropology and Human Osteoarchaeology (Muggle)
Intermediate Spell Crafting (Wixen)
Forensic Investigation using Magic (Wixen)
Term Two 2001-2002 enrolment
Lowland South America (Muggle)
Landscape & Ecology Section 1 (Muggle)
Magical Theory – the ancients (Wixen)
Magic, magick, majick: magical theories and traditions worldwide (Wixen)
Term Three 2001-2002 enrolment
Landscape & Ecology Section 2 (Muggle)
Fieldwork and Methods Section 1 (Muggle)
Advanced Spell crafting (Wixen)
Modern Magical History (Wixen)
Friday 20 July 2001
Dear Sirius and Remus,
No internet here, even Hermione's Wixen Wireless isn't available here which I found surprising (though of course if I did have reception, then my classmates would find that weird!). So instead, you both get an old-fashioned letter. At least this way, I was able to include some sketches of the site we're working at. It's fantastic here! I'm learning so much. And excavating is fun – though I'm sure you would hate it Sirius as it takes a lot of patience. The instructors are great as well. Most are PhD students from various muggle universities.
I am the only Wixen at the field school though. Not that I'm much surprised by that, since Wixen don't know what archaeology is. Bill explained that the closest equivalent was curse breaking with Gringotts, but even that doesn't include finding the locations. They just break open and dismantle complete tombs or houses with curses on them. I noticed the difference when I was in Jordan with Bill.
Anyhow – it has been a productive two weeks. I'm looking forward to the last week. Don't forget, I'll be heading to Italy on 29 July and spending a month there. Thanks for letting me use the Black property in Venice.
Love Harry
To: hpotter
From: tnott
Date: 30 July 2001
Subject: Happy early 21st Birthday
Dear Harry,
Happy 21st Birthday! I've let Blaise know that you're currently in Italy. I'm sure you'll get a message from him today sometime. He was whinging the other week about being left out while training with his mother, so I'm sure he'll jump at the chance to show you around a bit.
Ha – I told you spell crafting was hard! I found it hard, and I did my NEWTS in arithmancy and runes. You might want to start brushing up!
Have a great birthday!
Theo
Kreacher watched the young master's laptop ping again – another email arrived with the header Happy Birthday. Kreacher hoped that the young master was enjoying his birthday with a handsome young friend. He wasn't meant to be here in Venice but disliked leaving his young master, especially when he had been banned from looking after him while in China.
What young master and dog master didn't know wouldn't hurt them.
Kreacher returned to tidying up the Black Venice House – so much lovely silver to polish.
A small plane of parchment swooped through the open window and landed on Harry's head. Groaning, he forced himself to sit up and pick up the plane. Unfolding it, Harry couldn't help but smile.
2 August 2021
Ciao Caro,
Thank you for the interesting evening. I hope you had an enjoyable birthday. I must say I enjoyed watching you charm my mother. I didn't think that was even possible anymore, but you are full of surprises. I'll expect you at Castello Carrarese di Este next Friday. My mother is looking forward to showing you some of the best locations. I think she is entranced with the idea of Wixen archaeology.
Addio per ora,
Blaise
Folding the note, Harry inserted it into the journal on his bedside table. Blaise's mum was an interesting woman, and he was looking forward to seeing Castello Carrarese di Este and any other gems of Wixen history that Mrs Zabini, no…. while in Italy she went by Nobildonna Zabini, wished to show him.
BW: Happy belated birthday Harry!
BW: Sorry I'm late, we were out of range all of last week. So much sand. Everywhere.
BW: Did you have a good birthday? You're in Italy at the moment, right?
HP: Hi Bill! Thanks, it was a great birthday. Theo let one of our old classmates know I was going to be in Venice and he took me out for dinner with his Mum. It was fantastic!
HP: Were you guys last week? Back in Egypt?
BW: Sounds like you had a good time, though having dinner with his mum is a bit odd...
BW: Yes – we're back in Egypt for the moment. A big sandstorm uncovered several new tombs. Unfortunately, they are away from our main camp and wrapped in magic – so we have to do a week out there at a time since we can't apparate in each day.
HP: How interesting! I haven't heard of magic that old that saturates so much you can't apparate in….
BW: Umm… What about Hogwarts?
HP: Ha Ha. But I'm guessing the tombs you're looking at haven't been used in several thousand years, whereas Hogwarts has been in constant use since around 990 AD. Also - it's nowhere near as old as the tombs you guys deal with!
BW: LOL. Yeah – I only said it to get you all ranty. You're always cute when you rant.
HP: :-P
BW: See what I mean – cute! ;-)
To: ssnape
From: hpotter
Date: 26 August 2001
Subject: Monte del Grano
Dear Professor Snape,
I recently visited the Monte del Grano in Rome. Did you know it is thought to be the tomb of the emperor Severus Alexander? Were named after the emperor? If that's too personal, please don't feel like you have to answer.
While I was touring the site with Blaise, I found an interesting plant. I've attached a photograph as well as a sketch. Blaise said his mum could get us permission to take a cutting if you or Neville are interested. Neither Blaise nor myself could identify it.
Just let me know before the 30 August, as well as anything specific I would have to do for it.
I hope you're having a good summer.
Sincerely,
Harry
P.S: I've also asked Neville about the plant.
To: ssnape
From: nlongbottom
Date: 28 August 2001
Subject: Possible Silphium
Professor Snape,
I have asked Harry to collect several cuttings of the plant that I think maybe Silphium. Yes – I have imparted to Harry exactly how to take the cuttings and pot them and then travel with them safely. I even directed him to the crystal seller that Professor Sprout recommended.
Instead of ranting about his luck at stumbling over a previously thought extinct plant, you should be happy that he likes you enough to go out of his way to offer to collect some.
Yes – it is confounding that he just happens to stumble over these things. Ron says it's the 'Harry Effect', and that if Voldemort hadn't been around for much of Hogwarts, it would have likely happened a lot more. Honestly – I think it's best to just accept it and move on.
Harry will be home on Friday, and he said he would drop off the cuttings to me on Saturday. He asked whether you would also be there, so I extend the invitation for you to attend. 10 am on Saturday, you know the floo password already.
Sincerely,
Neville
To: hgranger
From: hpotter
Date: 1 September 2001
Subject: Thank you for the copies of the books!
And for the copies of your class notes and old assignments. And especially for your amazing memories! Thank goodness for shrinking spells or Hedwig would not have been able to carry all of that. When I unshrank the box – it was like a parchment explosion. 😉
But seriously, I just wanted to see the textbooks to check whether I should get my own copies or not. But now with your supercharged (and highly illegal – don't worry I won't tell anybody) copying spell, I don't need to.
Love you lots!
Harry.
Pansy grinned as she sashayed down Greville Street, her red Versace heels clicking against the pavement. The visit to Farringdons Jewellery had gone exceptionally well. She would have to thank Madame Malfoy for the suggestion, it had exactly had she wanted.
Hopefully, Hermione would like her birthday present.
To: hgranger
From: hpotter
Date: 24 September 2001
Subject: Photos
Hi Hermione,
I doubt you and Pansy have emerged from your cocoon of blissful engagement yet, but I took a stack of photographs on Saturday night and wanted to share them with you. I've put them on a USB drive which Hedwig is flying over to you now.
Once again, congratulations on the engagement! And turning 22! You'll enjoy the photographs – I managed to capture nearly everybody's reaction to Pansy's big proposal. You both look lovely!
I am happy for you. Give Pansy my love.
Love,
Harry
Harry stumbled out of the floo into the parlour at Longbottom Manor. Neville managed to catch him before he cracked his head on the tile.
"Whoa there Harry. I'm always amazed that you still haven't managed to get the hang of flooing yet."
Harry just smiled at his friend as he straightened up and shrugged his shoulders, "I know right? You would think that by now I would be used to it. Thankfully I've managed to get better with portkeys though."
Neville laughed, "Yes that is good – especially since you seem determined to visit every country in the world."
Harry laughed as well, "Maybe…."
Neville just shook his head, "Okay – I wanted to show the plant cuttings that you got from Italy…", Harry raised an eyebrow, "Why would you want me to have a look? You know I'm not that great with plants Neville."
Neville just shook his head and started towards the manor's side doors to get to the greenhouse the cutting was currently in. Harry just shrugged to himself and followed his friend.
"Ok – so you know how I had you put raw rose quartz at the bottom of the pots before planting the cuttings for transport," Harry nodded, "Well… Usually, herbologists do this to help the cutting stabilise quicker, especially if you have to transport them afterwards."
Harry could feel the air get thicker as they headed toward the far greenhouse, placed slightly apart from the others. "Sure Neville. Professor Sprout taught us about that in 6th year."
Neville nodded, "Yes – but I think something extra has happened this time."
Harry just looked at him confused. What the hell did extra mean? And why was the air feeling heavier and heavier the closer they got to the greenhouse?
Neville pushed open the door to the greenhouse and Harry followed him in. Inside the air was so thick it was difficult to breathe. Neville watched Harry's reaction as he took it all in. Everywhere was covered in thick fennel-looking bushes. But unlike fennel, the leaves of the plants were glowing a bright golden colour. Surely those three little cuttings couldn't have grown this much since August…
Harry swallowed and looked back to Neville who was smirking, "Ummm… This isn't normal is it Nev? I mean – I didn't even think it could be Silphium, especially since I found it in Rome, which is not anywhere near Libya…."
Neville's smirk just deepened, "Let's just say that your luck struck again Harry."
Harry looked around the greenhouse again, "Well at least Professor Snape will have fun experimenting."
29 October 2001
Dear Nobildonna Zabini,
Thank you for the book. I am most impressed that you managed to find De Lamiis et Pythonicis Mulieribus and I thank you for the copy. I have been searching the archives at Oxford for it and had not had any luck so far – something I'm assuming Blaise mentioned to you.
In thanks, I've included one of the grown plants from the cutting you arranged for me to take from that odd plant at Monte del Grano. Professor Snape and my friend Neville Longbottom have successfully grown and propagated the cuttings. You may have read or heard of their recent success in publishing their initial findings about the plant in Herbs & Potions Monthly.
Sincerely,
Harry Potter
To: hpotter
From: rlupin
Date: 1 December 2001
Subject: Christmas!
Hi Cub!
I hope you're ready for Christmas this year! Sirius and I know that you've been studying so hard, so we are organising everything (and everyone) for a week of fun and Christmas delights at Black Manor. Kreacher has been popping to help as well.
All you have to do is show up.
So far we've had the Weasleys (all of them, even Bill and Charlie), Panermione, Dranold and Severus indicate yes. Invitations have also been extended to the Tonks, older Malfoys, Neville and Luna. I'll keep you updated as to who is coming or not.
Good luck with your final exams this week!
Love,
Moony
HP: WTF Moony?!
RL: What are you talking about? This isn't about us taking over the Christmas planning, is it?
HP: No, of course not.
HP: It sounds like it will be fun!
HP: I'm more concerned that Sirius has got you using Panermione and Dranold.
HP: It's horrible.
RL: Ha! I know. And can you just imagine Pansy's and Draco's faces when we use it on them in person? Hilarious!
HP: Yes, it will be hilarious. But fair warning - your death. And if Draco and Pansy don't do you in, then it's likely Hermione and Ron will, because those names are terrible.
To: hpotter
From: owuenrollments
Date: 14 December 2001
Subject: Term One 2001 2002 Grades
Dear Mr Potter,
Please find enclosed your grades for Term One 2001 2002 classes. Term Two starts on 14 January 2002.
Yours Sincerely,
Margery Baghest, Undergraduate Coordinator, Oxford Wixen University
Term One 2001 2002 grades for Mr Harry Potter
Roman Archaeology: Cities and Settlements under the Empire (Muggle) - Distinction
Physical Anthropology and Human Osteoarchaeology (Muggle) – High Distinction
Intermediate Spell crafting (Wixen) – High Distinction
Forensic Investigation using magic (Wixen) – High Distinction
Harry's phone buzzed and he checked the caller – a number he didn't recognise. He had just gotten home from the Black-Lupin Christmas Extravaganza and was still feeling a bit wired.
"Hello," he said.
Professor Snape's smooth voice came through the speaker, "Potter – I still don't understand why you got me one of these mobiles"
Harry blushed, despite there being no real reason, "Umm… Because you did well learning how to use the Wixen Wireless laptop? And so, you know, you could join in texting and phone calls..."
There was no sound from the phone for several seconds. Harry could almost imagine the slightly narrowed eyes of his ex-professor drilling into him.
"Ok, but only as long as you don't use any ridiculous acronyms when texting," Professor Snape paused again, "Thank you, Potter."
Harry smiled, "It's Harry. And it was my pleasure. I enjoy the discussions we have in person."
Severus cleared his throat, "You may call me Severus."
Harry couldn't help but grin, "Thanks, Severus." Harry paused slightly, "Neville and I have been working our way through your second textbook. Draco is amazed – all the potions are turning out correctly."
"I don't understand why you are all so amazed. It's two men who have already graduated from Hogwarts brewing 3rd to 4th-year potions that they've been taught previously."
Harry had no reply to that, except for something rather insulting to Professor Snape – Severus… Better just to change the topic a little.
"Sure," Harry said, "Let's leave it at that. But the good news is, that Nev and I have finished, which means Ron and Draco's quality control is finished. I know Master Yarran will be happy – he was raving about your first textbook."
"What?" Severus said sharply.
"Well Master Yarran liked the first textbook that I sent him, so I know he'll be excited to see the second."
Another pause from Severus, "You sent my book to him?"
Harry was slightly perplexed, "Yes – of course, I did. I met him when I was travelling through Australia."
Harry could hear Severus sigh, "Of course you did."