Sorry for the late post, three things happened. First the old man's legs been getting worse. Second, I hit up a bit of inspiration and had to add a section to this story. Hopefully I nailed it. Third I just got Fire Emblem Three Houses, am totally absorbed into it, and find it hilarious how Harry Potter it feels like. Black Eagles for the win, they feel so Slytherin to me. I also support the Golden Deer, blessed with some of the best characters stat wise.
As a further bonus, the edit is complete. Many of your reviews match my own thoughts as I wrote this and special thanks to GreatEnder for post-beta checking for me. As I stuggled to rewrite the letter to better express what I was seeking from the story, our good friend at his suggest help me past the writers block I was having rewriting the scene. Turns out the solution was additional text, go figure. Thanks again GreatEnder, I feel this chapter with that small addition is better thanks to you. Thanks again.
Anyway, here's the story. Have fun.
xXxXx
Book I :: Chapter 11 :: A Slytherin's Letter
Harry closed his locker as he finished putting away his quidditch robe and gear. Looking over his shoulder he snuck a glance at his fellow teammate Katie Bell. She was still laying still on the bench completely at ease and fulfilled. The smile that practically radiated off of her made here even more attractive than before. Harry felt a grin soften his features.
He had to admit he wasn't really into the shy types himself and possessed a soft spot for those with confidence.
To say he had left her satisfied was an understatement as Katie Bell practically glowed in the afterglow of orgasming. Harry was sure she was still riding the pleasant waves generated by his magic still circling within her.
In hindsight Harry had to laugh. Before he was uncomfortable with having to engage in such relationships to sate his own magic. It just felt wrong, like using them as tools to release himself. Worse still he wasn't even in the midst of his magical growth but on the cusp of it starting. Who knew how bad it could get and how many women he'd need to deal with it?
Now however he was at ease with that fact he'd be leaving many other women just as satisfied. It wasn't give-and-take, but of mutual comfort and need.
As Harry remained still, he knew not everything was perfect.
"Those scars…" Harry muttered to himself. They were in fact not the scars of his past. No, they were all in the wrong places to be those wounds.
Harry pulled his hand from the locker and gazed at it as if it were transparent, the wounds themselves vivid in his mind.
Yes, those scars were from his current youth, the wounds acquired by living with his relatives.
But why had they appeared, why then in front of Katie.
Harry's eyes flickered with a realization. They appeared because it was Katie, Harry realized.
During the whole ordeal Harry had at some point stop hesitating and something loosened within him. A tight knot within him came undone, a knot he didn't even notice until he dropped his guard in front of Katie.
When he let go, magic that had been moving had stopped.
His gaze returned to Katie Bell. When he saw Katie, he knew why she was there… what they would be doing. He resigned and accepted it. Did he not want to lie to Katie? Did that mean he himself was still hiding?
Obviously, he was hiding. His capabilities, his talents, his magic… his past, he was hiding all of it.
As Harry got dressed the lack of scars weighed heavily on his mind. Why did they vanish again, and the question remained, why they were hidden in the first place? A better question was how did Harry hide them and what magic did he perform unknowingly to do so?
"Harry... about earlier, when I first saw you..." Katie began to ask cautiously behind him, drawing him to look upon her. She was still laying there, her arm lax against her forehead still reeling from the ordeal. Harry could tell what she was thinking about even without his mental talents.
"Before I answer that, I need to know. Did the Daily Prophet or any paper for that matter write an article about me some time around late July or August? Anything at all?"
Katie looked at Harry perplexed as she tried to think back that far. "No, not one that I can think of. The only story on you recently was after the sorting where they talked about how you were sorted into Slytherin."
She looked at him inquisitively in the eyes as she asked, "Why do you ask?"
"It's a sensitive subject and I don't want anyone to know of it." Harry replied, still confused as to how his condition hadn't been made public yet.
"Please Katie don't tell anyone about what you saw. Please." Harry asked. "I'm... I don't think I'm ready to say anything about it right now. I don't know why they're gone but... just please. Don't tell anyone." Harry asked. He wasn't pleading but there was a clear need in his voice.
Katie nodded in understanding. She also understood the need to hide painful wounds. Saying no more, vying for trust rather than answers Katie got up to get dressed. When the two finished getting dressed into their regular robes they silently nodded and left the locker room. As the two made their way out and off the quidditch fields, Harry was greeted by several incredibly excited Gryffindor's.
Hermione, Neville, Parvati Patil, Dean Thomas, Eloise Midgen, Fay Dunbar, Susan Bones, and several others Harry didn't know the names of, had gathered around and where shouting, cheering, and asking questions in rapid response. A few from the other houses were also present but none of their number were more numerous than the entirety of Gryffindor House which surrounded them.
Upon seeing him they all started shouting questions at him. Harry unfortunately couldn't make out what any of them were shouting as they literally talked over each other. Neville taking a foot from Dean during their charge to get answers. Harry could only feel sorry for him, Neville had by far the worst luck he had ever seen, and none was even his own fault.
If left as they were Harry was worried, they swarm over him. Thankfully the Gryffindor Team had enough smarts to shield Harry from their stampede.
Once Oliver informed all of them that he would tell them how Harry Potter of Slytherin House made it onto Gryffindor's Quidditch Team did everyone calmed down enough for a smaller group to make their way to the castle while Oliver handled the larger crowd.
"You were amazing up there Harry. When did you catch the snitch? I don't think any of us saw you catch it." Neville Longbottom asked.
"That's not it Nev, Potter didn't catch the snitch he just presented it to Hooch." Dean corrected.
"I caught it about a minute after I took off. Scooped it up into my sleeve and left it there for the duration of the match." Harry answered ignoring Deans jab.
"No way!" Fay Dunbar a fellow first year and member of Gryffindor shouted. "You pulled off an intentional Plumpton Pass? That's impossible. You're only a first year, how can you be that good?"
"Harry, I hope you don't mind me asking but, why did you join the Gryffindor team instead of the Slytherin team?" Neville asked cutting Harry's attention off of Dunbar.
Everyone looked at him eager to hear the answer, Dunbar including. An answer Harry was pleased to provide them and not because Neville pulled him away from returning Dunbar's unintended insult in kind.
"Professor McGonagall offered me the position when I brought up the possibility that there was no rule against it. Turns out teams aren't house restricted, at least on paper." Harry said plainly. Noticing the look of worry on their faces as well as the Team's face Harry continued.
"But if I had a personal reason it's because I don't like the current way Slytherin functions and is viewed."
Everyone looked surprised at this. Wondering why they were so surprised Harry almost missed the question Wood asked him when he caught up to them.
"What do you mean?" It was Hermione who asked, and Harry felt himself smile. He just couldn't help it.
"Well think about it. The Slytherin house is the house of those who value cunning and ambition above all else. Yet the current members treat it like it's the house of Pure-bloods, cheating, and power."
"Well isn't it?" Dean Thomas asked.
Harry glared at him and his words cut harshly and abruptly like a chisel. "It's not."
The coldness in his tone was only marked by the dark shadow in his eyes. "Salazar Slytherin created his house based on his own dream and desires. His dream back then was so outrageous that when he spoke to others about it many called him too ambitious and his dream a fantasy. Funny thing was he succeeded in his wish and Slytherin House was formed in respect of that achievement. His house is the house of dreams although no one has ever call it that."
"Man, your delusional."
Harry turned to look at Dean sharply. Dean recoiled and attempted to placate Harry. "What I mean is everyone knows that Slytherin betrayed the founders. His ambitions and hate were so deep that he's practically remembered for it. Even the hat says Slytherin is for the cunning and dark."
"One," Harry counted off, "The hat at no point in its entirety of existence, has ever called Slytherin dark."
Holding up a second finger, "Second, history is written by the victors. Rarely is anything as simple as this man was evil."
"Third, unlike you I own a document written personally by Salazar himself that paints a very different portrait to what the dogma you believe states."
And with four fingers at attention Harry finished off as he said, "And finally, regardless of which one is true, the idea that Slytherin is a house for those who dream bigger then anyone is far better then a house where backstabbing and cruelty is expected."
Harry had left them speechless, not because of his words but the coldness in his eyes that was slowly replaced by warmth.
As Harry continued toward the castle the rest found themselves following him.
Harry looked over his shoulder towards Dean. "I'm not lying either. Salazar wrote it himself in a journal."
Harry looked up at the Castle a far off look in his eyes.
"Slytherin once said, 'Within this house I will make you all coordinators. The guides to our future. You stand within the achievements we completed ourselves. Together we made Hogwarts and together was will teach and protect the next generation. We, your forbearers, did what none thought possible. You however from this day forward are as we once were. Today you are all snakes. Snakes who look up at the hawks in the sky and dream of flying yourselves.'"
They all looked at him stunned. Neville was the first to recover. "D-did he really say that?"
Harry looked at him and nodded. Neville withdrew into contemplation. He had never known this, and it was the first time he had ever heard it. Sure, Harry could have been lying but something in Harry's eyes, eyes that shown pride and confidence told him that he wasn't.
Neville however was one of the few to believe him. Most didn't seem to believe his words completely and several seemed slightly disturbed when he mentioned Salazar achieved his desires. For several awkward moments the group walked in hushed conversations.
"I still don't get how you ended up in Slytherin house. You'd make a far better Gryffindor." Pavarti Patil boldly declared breaking the silence.
The rest of her house gawked at her. "What?" she remarked confidently. "What other students do you know could pull off Quidditch moves like that. He even stood up to Snape. If that's not brave, I don't know what is." She said confidently or ignorantly, Harry wasn't sure."
"Well I don't think he should be a Gryffindor. Like Granger he's too smart for your house." A random Ravenclaw said speaking up."
"I don't know. Standing up to Snape sounds pretty stupid to me. Pretty sure that be Gryffindor worthy for sure." Another said.
Harry had to give the girl credit. Wither ignorant or disregarding the atmosphere, whatever the reason was she certainly showed her Gryffindor when she spoke up. Whatever the case she sure as hell knew how to spark a conversation.
Harry laughed as he turned to Pavarti to answer her. "That's easy. I value my dreams and ambitions over my own courage and bravery. That's why the sorting put me in Slytherin. It doesn't mean I wouldn't fit in another house."
"Take Hermione for example." Harry stated causing everyone to stare at the girl in question, "Smartest witch of her age, smarter than any raven and yet she's a proud lioness. Why?"
Under everyone's stares Hermione both blushed and fumbled clumsily under the attention and flattery Harry had boldly declared and placed upon her. No one had ever said she was the smartest witch of her age to her. No one argued that she was smarter than most but as no one argued against him she realized that most did consider his words accurate. A few Ravens appeared to not like that statement but didn't vocalize it.
Everyone else present though thought about Harry's statement for a moment and for that instant the barriers regarding their houses and house divisions suddenly vanished.
Each of them for a moment asked what characteristics they possessed. Pouring a bit more fertilizer onto that seed of doubt Harry added. "No one would say she isn't smart. She is. But she's way braver then most of us, myself included. Muggleborn, she left behind the familiar muggle world and chose to enter ours. No friends, relations, connections, utterly alone with only her knowledge and wits she entered the unknown. If that's not Brave as fuck I don't know what is."
"Harry! Language." Hermione shouted.
"Isn't any less true." Harry stated with a smile.
The seed grew as Harry watched the students realized what he was getting at.
Harry watched as several of them started to ask themselves silent questions regarding what traits they possessed that they shared with the other houses. Some of them even wondered what the true nature of their house was, as was in the case for several Ravens and Badgers. Slowly some began to wonder if they Slytherin house was as bad as they originally thought.
"POTTER!"
The moment was utterly shattered as the voice of Slytherin shouted over their mutterings and thoughts as the group made their way into the main hall.
Harry and said friends turned to see Draco Malfoy's face contorted in fury, storming angrily towards them.
"Blood Traitor! You're no Slytherin and you dare hang around these riffraff shaming those who wear our color. I warned you Potter, some families are better than others and you've just announced to the whole school where your alliances lie. You better be ready for the consequences." Draco shouted.
Harry could spot that look a mile away. The boy was beyond words, righteous fury would be accurate however Harry always questioned anything considered righteous.
Draco's breath was ragged and his face a sour purple of anger. Harry spotted several bruises on both his face and arms.
Clearly Harry's display on the pitch and words against Malfoy had left him worse for wear. Malfoy's antics as far as Harry could tell served only two purposes. To vent his anger through loud obnoxious vocalizations and a desperate attempt to display his dominance and position within Slytherin as unquestionable.
"Are you done?" Harry asked, his tone exasperated and bored.
Everyone turned to Harry when he spoke. Within the main entrance several other students were gathering to see what all the racked was about. The atmosphere was almost palpable. Tensions and curiosity high, thick enough that a wand could part it.
"You seem to think I care what you think Malfoy. Or what anyone else thinks about me. I don't, so get lost. I've dealt with your kind all my life Draco and I still suffer the scars from it." Harry proudly declared. Katie inhaled sharply at the mention of the scars he had suffered, wondering who and what exactly Harry had endured.
"Slytherin, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, Gryffindor, I don't care. I'll make up my own damn mind as to who is worth being around. Each and every person here has either earned the respect I give them or, like you, the lack of respect I present. They don't have to like me. They don't have to trust me. But every one of them has shown respect in their own ways. Some of them slip and slide into their biases, but we're young."
Harry's eyes narrowed down like a hawk to Draco. "And Riffraff? Shamming?" Harry asked raising his arm dramatically to display the group of kids behind him. "This group alone possess talents far greater than most wizards and witches. Each of them carries gifts that honor the Hogwarts name. Gifts that will enter the world once they graduate."
Harry stared Malfoy dead in the eye as he spoke and to those viewing it almost looked like Harry was growing in size as Malfoy shrunk. Neither was changing shape, but Harry Potter certainly wasn't backing down.
"Oliver Wood, passionate and capable Keeper who loves the sport to death. Neville Longbottom, shy as hell, but is a bloody Merlin reborn at Herbology. Heir to the Longbottom name and more loyal to his friends and duty bound then any Hufflepuff. Fred and George Weasely, there isn't a student alive who doesn't fear the business end of one of their pranks. They stay true to themselves and pursue their dreams with ironclad boldness and subtlety. With tact that puts Slytherin's to shame their business sense is second to none. I honestly can't imagine anyone more deserving of being a Slytherin than them. Hermione Granger, The boldest and brightest witch of our age. There isn't a single spell that she can't master when she tries."
Oliver looked at Harry, honored filling is tearing eyes at the fact Harry thought so highly of him. Neville tried to hide himself uncomfortably from the praise directed towards him. In the back of his mind he bloomed at the fact someone thought he was capable. Fred and George were speechless but grinning madly. Hermione blush darkened and reach down her blouse, heat radiation off her face.
Everyone was surprised by Harry's speech, but this didn't hinder them from listening intently. The hall was beginning to fill up as students came out to investigate the racket. Many were interested and taking note of what Harry was saying.
Even a few Slytherin's present seemed open to what he was saying. Many were even looking at him intrigued while glancing at Draco with disapproval. None of this made it to Harry's eye.
"Shall I go on Malfoy? There's plenty more. Susan Bones, niece to the head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and blooming talent in charms. The Patil Twins, connections with numerous important family's within India and show talent for cloth crafting and enchantment weaving. Both are brave and intelligent. Seamus Finnigan, possesses an aptitude for pyrotechnics and looks to possess talent in the more fire based dark arts. A child who could one day make fire dance and even produce spells that would make black powder look tame. He could easily grow to be a well-known Auror or spell crafter. Hannah Abbott, capable in both Defense and Herbology. Ernest Macmillan, potential Auror and capable duelist. Terry Boot, skilled in Potions and Charms. Roger Davies, capable Quidditch Captain and potential leader. Eddie Carmichael capable in business and talented in mathematics, need I go on Malfoy." Harry declared his tempo rising as he went on.
Harry was practically overshadowing Malfoy, his magic ebbing off him increasing his dominating presence.
"As for me, I'm capable at Potions, possess a strong desire to achieve my dreams, and will not back down when those around me are threatened. A fast and skeptical learner I don't take things at face value and make my own choices." Harry practically growled.
"Now tell me what do you offer the world. What makes Draco Malfoy great." Harry said with a vain of disgust.
"Tell me, what does average scores, bold without brains, zero cunning, whines to daddy, little git, Draco! Malfoy! Have that makes you worthwhile?" Harry asked leaving many jaws hanging precariously from their cheeks.
Draco was completely overshadowed, Harry's magic radiating painfully on him. Silently promising a painful future if he answered poorly. Instinctually he kept silent, but his silence was all the school needed to hear to know his answer.
"I'm proud to be considered a Slytherin. What I can't stand is how many of you aren't worthy to speak the name let alone carry his colors. Most of you are exactly like Draco here. Slytherin House is the house of ambition and cunning. Not the house of cheating and bigotry. All of you have at some point tried to corner me or catch me so as to apply your manipulative methods onto me. That's right, I've noticed." Harry stated as his gaze honed in on the few Slytherin's that made it a habit of shadow his steps were they could.
"Being spotted by your target and submitting to those with the loudest mouth is nether cunning or ambitious. Salazar must be crying in his grave. Every one of you snakes slithers on the ground content and not a single one of you seeks wings you do not have. You cling to your blood and your traditions unwilling to change or dream for the impossible. None of you seek the betterment of the world, none of you wish to add something that only dreamers could obtain. As far as I am concerned, I am the only real Slytherin of Hogwarts. I am willing to befriend those of skill, talent, and loyalty. I am willing to accept their flaws along with their gains. And I will not blindly hide behind blood or traditions for fear of facing my incompetence or ineptitude."
Harry's words echoed across the entire hall everyone person steadfast engaged and contemplative over his words.
Harry looked up at the school, his eyes looking at nothing in particular. The great entranceway seeming far off to his eye.
"Salazar along with three others created a school that eventually revolutionized how magic is learned. It inspired the creation of other great schools across the world. I have heard the rumors and seen the relics left behind by him and his comrades. I have seen how Slytherins tend to be ambitious, shrewd, cunning, and achievement-oriented. I have also seen them act loud, careful, considerate, silent, and cautious. How much of that is acquired, forced, or even demanded because of the preconceived ideas that make up my house? Rumor says Salazar left and hated muggles. That he promoted pure-blood ideology. I have seen nothing that proves this, only the word spread by those who hold a dogmatic view about Slytherin."
Ending his speech Harry glared at Malfoy. "You have no loyalty, don't value knowledge if it doesn't match your beliefs. Any truth that you don't like you reject. You're as brash as the stereotyped Gryffindor without the bravery to make it remotely justified. You lack even the smallest amount of cunning. Your ambitious aren't even your own. Just dreams forced down your throat by your parents. You have nothing to your name aside from your Father's blood inside you. If he's anything like you, then he is probably just as foul and sickening as you are." Harry calmly and barely spat out.
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I won't let my house change what I am. I sought out answers instead of just drinking in what I was told. I have reason to doubt our history, that Salazar was as cruel and heartless as they say. Unless I find otherwise, I will follow the founder's words. I will be a serpent that within these halls, finds their wings. I will make my dreams come true, my aspirations reality."
Harry finally cut his speech with an air of finality. He wasn't persuading or questioning anymore. This was his definitive statement. Both a declaration of war, and rebellion. Harry potter would not bow to anyone or anything. You either sided with him, observed, or obstructed him, and the latter would not be wise.
The whole hall was stunned silent, entranced by the way Harry carried himself and took hold over each of their thoughts with his words. There was something almost magical, otherworldly about him. His words while just bland, carried a weight that none of them could place.
"Now if you excuse me, I have an appointment to make." Harry calmly said.
Brushing past Malfoy, Harry stormed up the main staircase with a confidence and air of belonging that everyone acknowledged. Entire rows of students parted from his path to make way for him. Seniors and Freshmen alike watched with respect. All of them watched as he made his way too where he was to meet up with Tonks. Harry left behind the entire school stunned, speechless, and shocked.
oOoOoOo
"Your late." Tonks said begrudgingly as Harry finally arrived fifteen minutes late.
As Harry closed the door to the abandoned class he tiredly meandered inside. "Sorry I'm late Nym-"
In the instant he was about to say her name, Tonks had her wand out and had cast an overpowered stinging curse at Harry over the cauldron she was setting up. In the instant she had her wand out, Harry already had his halfway drawn. When the spell was cast Harry had already flicked his wand up and swatting it back down, he parried the spell back at her.
The events that followed happened in quick succession. Tonks was hit by her own stinking curse in the chest, toppled over and flipped the cauldron onto her head and knocked over her entire setup. Beakers, books, everything toppled over and collapsed on top of her.
"-phadora. I got held up at the pitch and at the entrance." Harry calmly continued as if he hadn't just been attacked. Walking around the table he found Tonks groaning and complaining as she stood up. Rubbing her left tit even as the cauldron hung over her head.
"Blimey Harry what the hell was that?" Tonks asked a slight waver in her voice.
"Something I read in a book," Harry half lied, "If you can see a spell coming your way you can parry it if you get the timing right."
Offering her a hand Harry removed the cauldron from her head. "Really glad you took my advice." Harry said as he flipped the cauldron and sat it on the table.
Tonks hissed a bit as here stinging curse continued to leave her breast throbbing in pain. "What advice was that?"
Harry turned and smiled sweetly. "Not to use any curse you can't take."
Tonks blinked in as gears started to click into place within her head.
"Yeah, now that you mention it how did you do that?"
"Do what?" Harry asked.
"Block my curse while casting on at me?" She asked.
"Oh, I didn't." Harry replied passively as he bent down to pick up the books and ingredients that littered the floor. "Mind helping pick some of this up?"
"What?" was all Tonks could say as she started picking some of the ingredients the had spilled over. "Then how did you not get stung, but I did?"
"Because I parried the spell back." Harry stated blandly. When he realized Tonks was no longer moving Harry turned to look at her. Her mouth was agape with awe.
"You mean to tell me you repelled my spell, a stinging charm, back at me?" she asked.
Harry shyly nodded slowly, a bit unsure why that was so impressive. "Well it wasn't that hard. If you know where the spell was shot from and recognize the spell its pretty easy. I knew the timing and how to perform the parry, so it was really easy."
"B-but that's like an advance duelist's skill." Tonks stated indignantly.
Harry looked at her in shock. "Really? Its not that hard to perform."
"Harry, not everyone can pull it off." Tonks stated in a reinforced tone.
"Well they should. I mean if you use your eyes to try to follow it, I mean yeah, I can see it being hard cause you'd be distracted, but if you follow the timing then it's really simple. The wand movement isn't hard either. It's even really easy to pick up" Harry explained.
Waving her wand Tonks levitated the rest of the junk on the floor back onto the table. Placing her wand down on the table she smiled evilly as she spoke. "Okay smart guy, prove it to me."
Harry nodded and walked over beside her. Taking out his wand he held it a low angle, forty-five degrees down. He took the position and Tonks realized he wanted her to watch and mimic him.
"Start with your wand down, when you flick it up invasion your magic swatting away a fly. If you practice this, you can get a feeling for what direction your swatting that fly away too."
Tonks took the position and let her imagine just he Harry suggested.
"Swing up ward sharply, let he magic burst out as you flick your wrist when you swat upwards. At that moment image a catcher's mitt as you swing up. When you swing down imagine your magic shooting forward as it throws the mitt and spell back toward the caster." Harry continued.
Tonks performed and was shocked to feel that what he was describing was relatively easy to do and even felt simple to perform. When she looked at Harry, she saw he was intently focused on his movements. His wand was stead, his eyes focused, not a part of him showed hesitation, only concentration.
"It's really just the intent behind your magic that parry's. In fact, it's more like playing catch only with magic. I mean I practiced with a shuttlecock since its pretty light and is easy to see. Helps get the timing down." Harry explained unaware of the smile forming on Tonks's lips as a sinister idea sprouted.
Tonks got a sinister grin as she turned her wand at Harry. With a flash of white light Tonks cast the stinging hex on Harry. Just as before Harry was quick to identify and turned, swatted the spell back at Tonks. In shocked surprise Tonks swatted her wand in reflex. To her surprise she succeeded in swatting the spell into the ceiling which shuttered slightly and caused a bit of dust to fall.
Tonks looked up in shock. Unknowingly she, on reflex, had deflected her own spell that Harry had parried a second time around. She looked at Harry in awe.
"See totally easy." Harry stated flatly as he pocketed is wand into his sleeve. "Now I'm guessing from the lack of a syllabus for seventh year potions that its mostly spent on NEWT practice?"
Tonks regaining her bearings, nodded, "Y-yeah. Seventh year you spend mostly in self practice making potions and in class learning how to harvest ingredients instead of making potions. The N.e.w.t. pretty much consists of making a random sixth year potion from memory."
Harry nodded and glanced at the equipment on the table. "So, I'm guessing your practicing Polyjuice right now?"
Tonks still enraptured by how easy, if accidental, it was to deflect Harry's parry just nodded before wondering how he knew what potion she was working on.
"Wait, how did you know I was making Polyjuice?" Tonks asked.
While holding several books in one hand Harry used the other to count off the list of reasons. "Fluxweed, knotgrass, leeches, bicorn horn, boomslang skin, lacewing flies… these ingredients are mainly used in conjunction with Polyjuice. The fact your using a copper cauldron pretty much cemented my guess. Polyjuice is the only potion that really benefits from a copper cauldron since it cuts down the time needed to brew."
"Color me impressed, looks like you've done your homework." Tonks stated confidently. "So, what else can you guess from what I got."
"Well your problem right now is that most of your ingredients aren't prepared yet." Harry stated.
Tonks looked at Harry as he picked up the knife on the table and grabbed the leeches held in a bottle. "Polyjuice works well, but foreign ingredients can easily effect the potion," Harry explained as he used the knife to gut one the leeches. With a careful slice and cut Harry graciously removed the crop and separated it from the leech's head and intestines.
Tonks was worried at first but was intrigued by what Harry was doing. "Leeches like any living thing eat so any foreign substances in the body can effect the potion. If you cut out the crop from the mouth and intestines you can increase the purity." Harry stated as he placed the finished leech off to the side and threw away the crop he just removed.
"Doesn't that effect he potion though?" Tonks asked having never heard such a thing.
"Not really. The important part of the Leech is the overall body. The stomach doesn't affect the potion very much except introducing foreign elements into the potion. It's the actual flesh you need."
Tonks nodded as she said nothing. She'd never heard of that before and wasn't about to jump up and call him on it. Professor McGonagall had nothing but praise for Harry saying he'd be helpful. However, she really couldn't believe what he was saying. He was a first year, right?
Pulling out another leech Harry pointed his knife at the bottle of knotgrass, "Can you wash that while I do this. Use warm water with soap to clean your hands then after you dry them wash each leaf and stem under warm water."
The commanding, confident tone settled it for Tonks. A part of her wanted to shout and say they were doing it her way, but the other side after seeing Harry was right about parrying magic wanted to see how knowledgeable he was in potions. The later won out with his tone and she was now way to curious to see how things played out.
Cleaning up the damn celery under warm water she turned her head and watch Harry. In the time it took to wash her hands he had finish gutting the leeches, effectively group up the lacewing flies, and started polishing off the bicorn horn until is shined.
Bringing back the knotgrass to him Harry smiled as he looked at her. His smile was alluring, and Tonks found herself thinking it was cute, even as she hit her toe on a stool and fumbled the knotgrass. As quick as lightning Harry had his wand drawn and levitating the knotgrass before it hit the ground.
Tonks caught herself before she hit the floor completely and panicked slightly at fumbling the grass. Her panic turned to surprise once more that evening as she watched Harry levitate the grass onto the table.
Harry chuckled as he settled it down and looked back at her. "Now I see why the professor wanted someone with you. This is gonna be interesting working with you isn't it."
Tonks felt herself grow flush with embarrassment and outrage. She was being mocked by a damn firstie. "So, what!? I'm clumsy. Not helpless."
Harry quickly apologized. "Sorry that came out wrong. I'm just saying that if your clumsiness happened to flip a bubbling cauldron it would be bad if you were all alone." Harry sated logically as he handed her the fluxweed. "Here can your dry these off with a clean towel or drying spell? Haven't found any magic method to do that yet."
Tonks waved her wand and soundlessly dried off the plant. "Thanks." Harry replied.
Tonks walked beside him, "Is this really necessary?"
Harry looked at her then paused to contemplate her question. "I guess not, but I've found that potions are a lot like cooking. Washing your hands and making sure nothing foreign get into your work tends to make it a lot better. Especially with potions. Its slight but I found it does make a difference. Although with potions it seems to make a bigger difference then with cooking. We could make it as we have it now, but it would probably be less forgiving if my potion experience has anything to say about it."
Harry nodded as he looked at his work, complete and ready. "I'm just trying to help. This is your potion so unless you want me to do any of the actual brewing, I'll just follow your lead."
True to his word Tonks had to admit it was really nice having Harry around. For a firstie, Harry was competent and more importantly had reflexes rivaling a cat's. When she when to pick up the knotgrass after putting in the leeches she nearly hit the cauldron over which harry causiously moved. When she nearly stumbled while stirring Harry had caught her and prevent her arm from adding an additional stir. She was also amazed at how much leeway the potion gave her. Normally an abnormality to the potion such as not enough knotgrass or a measure of fluxweed to small tended to cause odd colors or aromas to protrude form the bubbling grey gooey content.
While she wasn't positive the cause was because of Harry's preparations, the only abnormality that could cause such a change was because of his precautions. Harry also suggest the use of a time telling spell to make sure of accurate brew time for preparations of part two.
As the two talked it over Harry's questions regarding the potion also led to a lot of questions of her own. Before she knew it, she was actually enjoying Harry's company and the aid he provided. By the time they finished part one of the potion, Tonks found herself passing a great deal of time talking to Harry about his notes on potion making.
After the first two chapters of his first-year book on potion brewing, even Tonks had to admit that Harry knew his stuff.
As the cauldron bubbled a putrid grey muddy texture, for the remaining eighteen hours behind them until their next task with it, Tonks went over the notes he had made late into the night. His potions book left behind in her hands as she went over his notes, Harry having left moments earlier to return to his dorm.
Looking up from his book and at her near flawless Polyjuice potion she had to admit defeat. "I should thank professor McGonagall when I get the chance."
As she thought his Harry made his way down the stairs towards the dungeon. Without a note he had to be careful not to get caught out this late after hours. He spent way too much time explaining his altercations to his first-year potions to Tonks. Thankfully sneaking through the castle was way too easy for him, child's play really.
Just as he made his way towards the third floor a meow sounded to his left. Turning his head Harry nearly shat himself. Down the stairs he could hear Filch's desperate running as he heard almost simultaneously Peeves the poltergeist screaming, "STUDENTS OUT OF BED! STUDENTS OUT OF BED DOWN THE CHARMS CORRIDOR!"
Harry dashed behind one of the brazier's and as he did, he swore he saw Ron, Neville, and Hermione rush down the third corridor. As he hid Harry could hear Filch arguing with Peeves.
However, his mind was focused more on staying hidden and contemplating what the unusual trio was doing up this late at night. Before Harry could get much thought done Filch rushed past him and up the staircase pass Harry without so much as a glance.
Moments latter Harry could hear the trio running with all their might down the charm's hallway and past him up the changing staircase. Giving chase in concern Harry followed them carefully. Harry had seen the looks on their faces, the look a terror that only those running for their lives possessed. It was only when they finally made it to the seventh floor Gryffindor portrait that they stopped.
Harry was still a way off but managed to hear the butt end of the conversation.
"What do they think they're doing, keeping a thing like that locked up in a school?" Ron shouted between pants of lungsful of air.
"Who cares," Neville exclaimed, "pig snout, pig snout." It was after he said this the portrait opened and cut Harry off from their conversation.
The week that following Hogwarts was bombarded by talks concerning Harry's speech in the main entrance. The new trend around the school was talking about what other characteristics made up a house and what traits they shared with others. Subtlety all the houses were slowly becoming more accepting of other students and even proud that when they found someone in another house that proudly carried one of those traits.
Concerned Harry returned down the stairs to the third floor. Upon seeing the door Harry felt a strong compulsion on the door for individuals to both avoid and strongly approach which was counter intuitive. It wasn't hard to spot if one contemplated their actions. There was a big difference between natural curiosity and forced compulsion.
Putting that knowledge aside Harry opened the door, locked from the inside. Effortlessly opened on his part to a bit of wand work Harry was greeted with quite the sight on the other side. Staring at his was a massively large, two-story dog with six eyes, two on each of its three heads. Canines bared and with a yellowish hue. Saliva dripping and dangling down from its mouths. The thunderous growls from his maws told Harry all he needed to know. As it charged him Harry flicked out his want and firmly shouted, "Efflortis!"
The spell shot out like a cannon, three times the size of the one from his battle with the troll. The charging dog was hit squarely and slammed against the stone wall of the chamber behind it. The monstrous beast reared up to charge again but Harry casually stepped forward. Eyes never blinking, cold as ice, the massive beast made to charge again but a quick shout put that away.
"Efflortis" Another grey flash landed the dark against the wall. Slowly this time the dog crawled up and with a commanding shout Harry stopped and glared.
"Stay."
The monstrous beast hesitated but slowly sat down. Harry grinned, "Good boy."
Turning around to leave harry spotted at the floor the trap door that laid there. "Interesting." Harry muttered under his breath. Closing the door behind him and casting a locking charm Harry was about to use his magic to rip at the compulsion charm on the door but decided against it.
Heading back down the stairs once more Harry looked back. "What the hell is a Tribusos Hound doing in a school for children?" A few steps later Harry changed his question. "Right, better question, What the hell is a Tribusos Hound guarding at Hogwarts.
Harry chewed on that info for the rest of the night and much into that week. Even as a week passed and Harry had completed the Polyjuice potion with Tonks to its eventual completion, harry chewed on this question like a hound on a piece of meat.
The question led Harry to once again wonder how a Troll could break into Hogwarts. Why a troll was there to begin with and why a mountain troll of all things.
The school was the most magically protected location in all of Scotland or at least it was, but even in its currently weakened state was more then protected from a mountain troll. Plus, a mountain troll was no were near smart enough to break in without notice. Adding onto this fact, Mountain Trolls were nowhere near Hogwarts to begin with. They lived in mountains. The closes range to Hogwarts was on the other end of the Forbidden forest and well past Hogsmead, miles away.
This in turn let to him questioning why if the Troll was reported to be in the dungeon was Snape heading to the third floor. Not to mention directing the students to their dormitory's. The great hall was perfect place to shelter students from a troll in contrast to the dormitories. Especially since the Slytherin's and Hufflepuff's dormitories resided in the dungeons. Why send them out into danger?
Then there was the dog and the third-floor questions. What could that furry monster be guarding? Was Snape after it or something else? What else lied beyond that trapdoor? As Harry replayed the events of that night, he recalled Snape rushing down the hall. Was Snape after whatever was being guarded or was, he defending it? Was someone else after it? What was it?
On top of all these questions that simply led Harry in circles within his own mind, he had classes, extra potions with Tonks, Quidditch practice, his writings and several minor projects that required his attention. Not even counting the self-doubts and questions plaguing his own identity of who he was.
Despite the busy week Harry found himself grateful for Hagrid's invitation for tea that evening. It was a welcome distraction from the going ons that surrounded Harry. Knocking on the door Harry was greeted by Hagrid and his pet dog Fang the latter of rich barked loudly at his arrival.
"'Arry. Welcome. Comin Comin. Make yehself at 'ome 'Arry." Hagrid said in great bellowing pride.
Walking inside Harry was greeted by three other inhabitants. Neville, Hermione, and Ron. The Golden Trio of Gryffindor arguing.
"I'm telling you Snape's up to something." Ron declared adamantly.
"Professor Snape, Ronald, and that can't be true. He's a teacher." Hermione argued.
"That doesn't make him any less suspicious and don't call me Ronald." Ron argued.
Sneaking next to Neville Harry asked, "What's that all about?"
"Oh hiya Harry. They're arguing that Snape's been trying to get something on the third floor." Neville explained before covering his mouth embarrassingly.
"Relax Nev. I saw you three that night I already know and won't say anything." Harry whispered.
Harry really came to like Neville who intern like Harry.
After the speech he gave after the match, the shy boy seemed to grow a bit of a spine and had sought out Harry three times during the week. The two spent hours talking about the relationship between Herbology and Potions much to the librarian's annoyance. Irma Pince, said librarian, even had to run them out of the Library twice because their conversations risked running past curfew and disturbing her precious peace. Needless to say, the two were fast becoming good and loyal friends.
Likewise harry gained a trusted friend and Neville gained the acceptance and confidence no one seemed to give the boy.
"Yeah? Well, they've been arguing about that dog on the third floor for the last week." Neville explained to Harry.
"Who told yeh 'bout Fluffy?" Hagrid jumped in causing Neville to jump and the other members to turn towards Hagrid. As Harry observed him Hagrid appeared slightly unsettled that anyone knew about the dog.
"Fluffy?" Hermione asked incredulously.
"That thing has a name?" Ron asked throwing his two cents in.
"Yeah – he's mine – bought him off a greek fella I met in the pub las' year. Lent him to Dumbledore to guard the –"
"Yes?" Harry interrupted knowing full that if he continued Hagrid could get them into trouble or worse Hermione into trouble by knowing. Thankfully his interruption worked.
Realization hit Hagrid hard as he mumbled, "I shouldn' have said that."
"Look don't go askin 'round. That's top secret, that is." Hagrid concluded.
"But Snape's obviously up to something. Bet he's tryin to steal whatever its guarding." Ron insisted.
"Hogwash. Snape's one of the teachers protectin' the stone."
"Stone?" Hermione asked. Harry resisted the urge to slap his own forehead.
"I shouldn' have said that." Hagrid muttered. "Look, no mor' questions. Don't ask any mor' questions. What Fluffy's guarding is stricktly between Albus Dumbledore an' Nicolas Flamel.
"Nicolas Flamel?" Hermione asked. Harry had to suppress his laughter on top of his frustration, while noting to himself that Hagrid would sink plenty of ships in his life.
Harry watched apologetically as Hagrid paced within the small cabin rubbing his forehead. As kind heart and gentle a soul Hagrid was, he wasn't the type of person who could keep a secret for long. When Hagrid ran them out for asking too many questions Harry felt a little peeved at being deprived of his break with the gentle giant.
However, Harry couldn't blame him for it, seeing as they had unintentionally pried several apparently secret pieces of information. It also didn't take him long to piece together what was beyond the gate from what was spoken.
As Hermione was returning to the castle Harry watched as she bit her bottom lip, deep in thought. Neville and Ron beside her.
"So, who's Nicolas Flamel?" Ron asked.
"I don't know." Neville stated.
"Hermione?" Ron asked assuming she knew who the man was.
Hermione looked up but quickly returned to biting her lip. "I've heard his name before, but I don't know from where." Harry could only curse knowing full well she'd stop at nothing to satisfy her curiosity. On the plus side he was in possession of the only book within the restricted section that talked about him so not everything was bad.
As for him, Harry walked behind them he was making his own connections. Nicolas Flamel, he was a famous alchemist. The book McGonagall suggested to him too read over about alchemy was written by the man himself. The guy knew his stuff and supposedly had live to be over 600 years old.
The 'stone' Hagrid said was guarded by a very dangerous three headed dog. He said what Fluffy was guarding was strictly between the headmaster and Flamel. Hagrid also said Snape was one of the teachers guarding said stone. This meant there were multiple defenses place by multiple teachers and that there was a trust between Albus and Flamel.
What stone was made by an Alchemist, worth so much that multiple masters of magic would craft multiple layers of protection to secure it.
"The philosopher's stone" Harry thought. Was it possible? Yes.
It was a stone, famous even among muggle culture. Said to create eternal life and change base metals into gold. If that wasn't worth protecting nothing was. Well except Hermione perhaps, Harry thought happily.
He wondered if he should tell her his thoughts. Sure, her not knowing could prevent her from charging in but even Hermione was smarter than your average Gryffindor. However, he decided against telling her upon seeing her bite her lip in deep thought. Seeing how intently the mystery had gripped her Harry though it be more fun to let her think it out. She always did like a good puzzle and she was attractive especially when in deep thought. So long as she didn't try to reach to stone, which would be the height of stupidity she'd be fine.
Harry stopped. There it was again. Thinking as if he already knew everything about her. Like she was his Hermione from back then. NO! He was Harry he hadn't walked the path of death like he did, no him, the other Harry. He wasn't the Harry who sent himself back, no his memories back. To himself, no, to Harry, not him. He was himself not that man. Wasn't he?
Harry growled out in frustration pushing down all his thoughts. Looking back at the hut that Hagrid made home Harry shook his head wracking his mind to figuring out what to do for the rest of the day. Anything to distract himself form his mental dissidence.
With his plans for afternoon tea dashed, Harry decided to make his way up to the Owlery. Greeting Hedwig, Harry pulled out a piece of paper form his bag and began writing his first letter to Ginny. He had put it off long enough and now was as good a time as any now that he needed a distraction.
He had intended to begin his relationship with her slowly. No, he wasn't trying to manipulate her into a relationship with him. He retold himself this over and over within his head, the voice within growing louder each day.
"Like what you're not doing with Hermione?" He asked himself. Harry banged his head against the stone-cold wall. Swimming in his own head, its contents spinning, Harry stopped thinking about it and just began writing.
Dear Ms. Ginevra Weasley,
I know that you shouldn't read a letter from a complete stranger, but I was hoping to fix that over time. I am a student from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. I'm even in the same year as your brother Ronald Weasley. Speaking of which compared to the twins he's a real git. Sorry, had to say it.
I know you don't know me, but I was on the train and happened to over hear you talking with your family. I heard how you wanted to join your brothers, to be a part of the magic that we are currently learning and enjoying.
I grew up with my muggle relatives. My parents died when I was but a year old. My relatives hated me. They hated magic. And they tried their best to keep me from learning about magic, from practicing it, from being me. But I knew I was a wizard, that I could do magic and for the longest time it was the sole thing that drove me, carried me. The one thing that kept me alive and driven through, well… everything.
So, believe me when I know what it's like to long for the concept of freedom that magic taunts us with.
When I saw you on the platform, I felt like I was looking at a younger me and it hurt. However, unlike me, you have parents and siblings that love and care for you. Remember no matter how much of a prat or pain they can be, always love your family. I never got the chance too after all.
In the end I'm writing this to you to bring some of the magic that's here to you. To try and let you be a part of it. It's the first letter so I'll try to cover the basic stuff that's been going on.
Potions is a real pain. The Professor is a total git and sneers at everyone. Some students can't concentrate and mess up because of him. He also reads out minds. How uncool is that. The two best teachers in my book are Professors Mcgonagall and Flitwich, our Transfigurations and Charms Professors respectively.
They are really good at their lessons. We haven't done a lot of work regarding transfiguration, mostly charms work. So far as a first year we've learned how to levitate objects, unlock doors – though only three people that I know of can do that – the wand lighting spell and the softening charm. That last one is fun. You can do a lot with it.
I cast it on one of the common room comfy chairs making it extra cushiony. The student that sat in it sank straight down and couldn't get out. Was good for a few laughs till the Professors fixed it. The locking charm is also fun. One of the Slytherin's named Draco Malfoy – real git that one – went to use the restroom. He didn't know but I cast a locking spell on all the doors to the stalls. The poor sap ended up desperate and was caught by another student trying to use the sink, gross. That was a week before the Troll incident.
In case you missed the news regarding that, a Troll somehow found its way into the school. No one knows what really happened, but I know that I kinda stopped it. I only wanted to protect a friend of mine, but I wasn't powerful enough to save her. If it wasn't for my unique condition, I probably wouldn't be alive to write this to you.
…
I've never told anyone this, so I hope you won't tell anyone but I'm an Obscurial. It means I have an Obscurus inside me. It's a type of magic based parasite that goes out of control once it matures.
Thankfully I'm perfectly safe around the other students. Real lucky in that regard. Newt Scamander informed me that I have somehow captured my own mature Obscurus and in doing so, it is bound to my magic and for lack of a better term under my influence. So long as I don't suppress my magic anymore everyone is safe around me and I'm no harm to anyone. No worries there. Been there done that.
It's hard sometimes dealing with the knowledge that I'm different. I've never been able to tell anyone this. Not even the Professors whom I trust wholeheartedly, although a few of them like McGonagall already know. In a way, keeping it secret is too much and I need to tell someone. I Can't explain why but I want to tell you. As to why I'm telling you, well, I chalk that up to the feeling in my gut that you're the person to know.
I'd like to think that someone is you. I have too many secrets about myself that I can't tell anyone, and it weighs heavily on me. Things I like to do that some think I'm not ready for or can't handle. I'm far ahead of all my classes and yet I'm stuck dealing with them since my magic is so different. I'm happy to be around friends but it's so boring at times. Theory is so below me it's painful and practical is disappointing because my magic hasn't stabilized yet. It should be stable by next year but that doesn't help me now. Sure, I can cast spells now which for a special reason I couldn't do prior, but its not really the same.
Listen to me ramble about myself. I'm sorry. I don't really know what you'd like to know or not.
If you'd like to write to me, feel free to use my owl. She's smart and I'm sure you'd love her. If you don't wish to write back, then this will be my first and last letter to you, I guess.
- Harry J. Potter
As Harry looked it over Harry frowned and crumpled up the paper. He wrote it again, deciding that he really couldn't reveal who he was to too soon. It was to creepy and her rewrote it. Removing the entire section.
Upon finishing it again he read it but found it was too distant, random. He wanted to express his but as he wrote it again and again and again, he found himself struggling more and more.
A far time passed, and Harry found his hands speckled black by ink. A Stain for black across his brow showing the frustration he found within writing a simple letter.
"Damnit…" Harry growled out in frustration, "This shouldn't be so difficult."
Why couldn't he write a simple letter without it sounding freakish, broken, or out write creepy? Harry looked up at the ceiling…
Hedwig fluttered down an gave his head a sharp peck. Between a sharp groan of pain Harry turned his accusatory eyes towards his owl. She looked back at him clear, clear and calming yellow eyes. Her eyes were sharp and gentle. As he calmed himself and stroked her write feathers, he found his epiphany.
"Simple. Start simple." Harry muttered to himself. "I'm overthinking it. This is a letter to someone I want to befriend. Start simple.
Dipping his quill into the ink well Harry's words seemed to flow far more smoothly.
Dear Ms. Ginevra Weasley,
Allow me to introduce myself as a complete stranger. My name is Harry Potter. I'm a student currently attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry who's in the same year as your brother, Mr. Ronald B. Weasley.
If I'm honest I feel a bit conflicted since he and I don't get along so writing to you like this feels about as strange to me as reading a stranger's letter is to you.
I know you don't know me, but I was on the train and happened to over hear you talking with your family. I know we barely know each other, but when I listened to you, I felt something familiar.
I grew up as a muggle so when I learned about magic all I wanted was to learn more about it and my heritage. Because of this the words you said that day on the platform has stayed with me all this time.
If your willing to humble this misunderstood Slytherin and grant me the honor to be a writing corresponded with yours truly, I would be honored to part on to you a small part of our schooling experience.
Sincerely, Harry James Potter.
Staring down the letter appeared to be far more reasonable. Letting out a heavy sigh Harry put the letter into an envelope as went to give it to Hedwig.
As he reached her leg a thought came to him which brought an annoyed bark which caused Harry a brief pause of laughter.
"Sorry Hedwig. I know you've been patient. Give me one more second."
Harry himself wasn't sure were the thought came from but he, for whatever reason recalled his own personal writings. Since he had spent all this time writing he might as well consider adding one more letter.
To the humble owners of Gringotts.
And the valuable ally Ragnuk. I have a book of which I want to publish. For reasons that can not be spoken I find myself unable to publish it myself. This humble wizard wishes to ask if you are willing and capable to aid my in this plight.
- Harry James Potter
Harry paused for a moment after writing his name on the parchment. After a moment's thought he cast a small flame from his wand and burned it. Rewriting it he wrote it word for word until the end. It was there he took the quill from the paper up to his hand. Plunging it into his finger harry drew blood from his finger onto the quill.
Rewriting his name Harry J. Potter, in brilliant crimson red. Putting the quill away Harry drew his wand towards the letter. With a sharp jab form his wand Harry whispered, "igazi loba futhi, Ragnuk"
The red letters glowed and rearranged themselves reforming themselves to read as…
– Returner
Harry stared almost impressed. The spell had worked better than he had expected. Glancing at his wand he could see why the simple tool was so respected and desired. Blood magic, one of the truest and oldest forms of magic which was resistant to act and difficult to cast flowed so easily and freely that it was a bit frightening. Only, a bit.
After folding the letter and sealing it he stood up and walked over to his loyal owl. Handing it to Hedwig he wished her safe travels and to stick near Ginny if she wished to write back upon receiving his letter.
With a bark that honestly sounded like a stereotypical hoot Harry watched his trusted friend fly off into the distance.
Leaving the Owlery Harry was stopped by several Slytherin's. Flint head of the Quidditch team was leading the pack and was sneering at Harry with daggers in his eyes.
"What do you want Flint?" Harry asked with barely hidden boredom.
"We want compensation, Potter." Flint said flatly.
"Wow, that was about as tactful as a knife. Compensation for what?" Harry retorted
"For your betrayal to the Slytherin cause and for costing us the match against Gryffindor." Flint declared.
"No." Harry said.
"What?" another Slytherin growled out.
"No." Harry repeated. "First I never swore fealty to Slytherin so I can't betray Slytherin. Secondly you guy lost against the Gryffindor team which I am a part of. Why, because I want to fly and don't want your ugly mugs near me."
Flint pulled out his wand in a rage. "POTTER!" he cried before his wand flew from his hand.
To Harry's surprise Professor Flitwick strolled in and was growling at Marcus Flint and company. Quickly Harry pocketed his own wand which was already halfway up to repel whatever spell Flint chose to cast.
"Mr. Flint. To attempt to attack at student in the halls. Disgraceful, a hundred points from Slytherin. And Mr. Bletchley and Ms. Bulstrode don't think I didn't see you go for your wands as well. Fifty points each. Now all of you be off. Mr. Potter a word."
Harry watched horde of snakes disperse down the hall and turned to the stout professor. "Thank you, Professor. I mean no disrespect, but you pretty scaring when your angry."
"That quite alright Mr. Potter and your quite welcome." Professor Flitwick said joyfully.
"You mentioned needing a word sir?" Harry asked.
"Not I Mr. Potter. Professor McGonagall has asked for your presence. Something regarding a Hufflepuff's extra lessons. However, after your little stunt with your wand I might want a word with you too some time." He replied giving Harry a raised eyebrow. The smoothness and easy at which Harry drew his wand did not go unobserved by him.
Looking at the time Harry's face blanched. "Shite, Thank you Professor. I forgot and didn't realize the time." Harry said as he ran off leaving behind a chuckling Professor in his wake.
Rushing into the abandoned classroom Harry apologized to the two witches that where present.
"Sorry Professor, Nymphy."
"MR. POTTER!" Mcgonagall shouted but became distracted by Nymphodora's laughing giggles.
"Wotcher Harry."
"Not much. Just getting harassed by my dorm mates again. Had a few fifth years this time." Harry replied before he turned to the Professor, "You may ask Professor Flitwick if you wish to hear more Professor."
"Well I'm just glad you weren't standing me up. I don't figure myself that kind of girl." Tonks declared jokingly. Harry nodded.
It still amazed him how quickly Tonks opened up to him after their second lesson. As soon as the potion was finished to perfection Tonks's respect and opinion rose swiftly. Even after his countless harassment revolving around her name which landed her several painful welts over the week. Much like a dog she realized that it was better to get revenge when he wasn't looking and not to use magic since he repelled each attempt expertly. Something else she respected greatly.
"Ms. Tonks." McGonagall said in outcry again. The two laughed at the well-hidden blush underneath the professor's cheeks and went over their studies with her seeing as she permitted their use of the room, meaning they were her responsibility. Wanting to see the progress made and checking to see if Harry was helpful to Tonk's studies, McGonagall requested him to join them and observe to see how it went.
To say it was anything short of a resounding success was an understatement. Nymphadora Tonks was no slouch at Potions, but as the Professor watched Harry study seventh year potions, she noticed several things.
The first was how knowledgeable Harry was in regarding advanced potions. There was a finite and concrete understanding of the fundamentals. For only a weeks' worth of study on seventh year content, which ranged from fourth to sixth year potions, Harry was more capable of studying and even producing higher grade potions than any year technically should.
The second was how quickly Nymphadora was able to better understand the tasks and what to look out for when making potions. The base line example potion Harry was making with her was an advanced potion to be sure, yet Harry had explained it in terms that made it seem like it was a simple amateur level potion. The small things like pre-preping the ingredients, cleaning, and caring for them was just one of the many things that she was impressed by.
While Harry might not have been able to fix Nymphadora's tenacity for clumsiness, the effect he had on her was clearly pronounced and productive. Knowledge he lacked Tonks provided and complexity that she lost he explained professionally. There were also the small moments where Harry would cover her and her clumsiness that saved her potion several times.
After the study session was over McGonagall asked Harry to wait for her in her Office. Nodding, Harry left the classroom and made his way to wait within her office. Along the way he was only pestered by Peeves once thankfully. The ghost was chasing students down with dripping wax from the excess candles from Halloween.
After waiting in her office for a few minutes, McGonagall returned. To his surprise she returned with a professor he had never met before. Harry had seen her at the staff table but never in a class before. She was tall and surprising young with wavy flowing dark brown hair. Her figure was hidden underneath very conservative burgundy colored robe. The multiple layered robe left little to the imagination but then again Harry had heard whispers of what lay underneath those satin folds.
"Mr. Potter, this is Professor Septima Vector. The two of use wish to test something." McGonagall said.
"A test ma'am?" Harry stated slightly surprised.
"Yes," Professor Vector interjected, "Professor McGonagall has informed me of your unique results from a placement test she had you take. She also informed me of the score you achieved and how it contradicts you're in class academic results. During her retelling it got me curious and so I decided to give a test myself to satisfy my curiosity."
Waving their wands, a desk and a piece of parchment was presented to Harry. "Mr. Potter if you're willing will you take this test, I'd be most grateful."
Deciding why the hell not Harry nodded in agreement. Sitting down he started completing the most confusing and spectacularly written gibberish he had ever seen. It reminded him of an IQ test mixed with math. Harry had to wonder if it was a wizarding equivalent of an IQ test.
Completing it he handed it to the Professors who read it intently.
Harry watched as they looked it over before hanging Harry another parchment. This one was much clearer and more precise then the last. Harry recognized it instantly from experience.
"A stunner spell?" Harry asked aloud, drawing odd looks from both Professors.
Before him in written ink was the Arithmacy formula for the stunner spell, Stupify. He noticed several spots were blank and missing key points of reference, numbers, and runes. Harry quickly filled it out as best he could and handed it back. While not an expert himself he recognized the array from his minimal experience reading about it and his, well, risky experimentation with runes.
There was silence as the two looked at each other in heated discussion. For a moment Professor McGonagall seemed hesitant, nodded, and told Harry that he was okay to return to his dorm. She handed him a pass and led him to the door.
Harry left both curious and confused. The day was just not going well for him he guessed.
xXxXx
Tribusos Canis or Three mouthed hound. I wanted a special name since Keroberos was Greek not Latin, and most of magic seems to be Latin in origin. So, in my mind the image seems to be Keroberos was the name given to it by muggles. I mean even Hippogriff is derived from both Greek and Italian words (hippos and grifo). Plus, I might be wrong but Latin is pretty much old Italian. Sure, a lot of Linguistic folks out there are going to call me on this but I really don't care.