Thanks ants. Thants.

And eternal gratitude to the unshakeable Mogul, my beta and who is most likely to point out when I've inadvertently written something creepy. Good on ya, mate.

Previously: Harry takes a few trips to round his summer, including one to visit Neville and his parents in St Mungo's. Near the end of his birthday party, chock full of various pals and related peoples, Harry asks Dobby for help bringing his presents home, including a very mysterious one from the Weasley twins. Once home, Dobby reveals that Harry's home has once again been the target of a break-in, but they were unable to get anywhere, and Dumbledore isn't worried. But as the summer begins to wind down, Harry heads off to Diagon Alley, happier than he has been a long while...

Harry and the Mysterious Curse of the Girl-Who-Lived

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE: A TURN, A TRAIN, AND A TREMOR


Although Harry could admit to himself that he wasn't always the most sociable of people, the long, lonely hours with just him and Dobby had ceased being freeing. Instead, Harry realized he craved the chaos and energy of Hogwarts, and whatever silly new drama or life and death situation he'd almost assuredly be involved with.

And he was quite curious how Remus Lupin would be as a professor, although he kept this little rumour from everyone except Parvati.

The day at Diagon felt a blur for a while as he darted from place to place, catching up with Luna in the back of Flourish and Blotts ("Haven't found any books here about mysterious gender curses Hrrprr, but one day I expect I shall!"), watching in amusement as Hermione purchased a very ugly cat ("I'm calling him Crookshanks, Harriet - don't laugh at me, it's a perfectly respectable name for a half-Kneazle!"), and spotting Malfoy with his mother near the Apothecary (neither said a word, but gave Harry identical looks of disdain, which Harry attempted to return in kind).

Harry also spotted a gaggle of Ravenclaw girls that included Mandy and Lisa, so he gave them a wide berth - no need to bring on any unpleasantness on such a fine day. Near lunchtime, the Weasleys found him having ice cream at Fortescue's.

"Harriet!" Ginny ran over and seemed about to hug him, but changed her mind at the last second and just stood nearby, smiling widely. "Finished your shopping already?"

"For the most part," said Harry as he finished off his treat. "I still need to check at Eeylops to see what Parvati got me for my birthday."

"Didn't save any for me?" Ron asked with a pout.

"Ron, that's inappropriate!" Mrs. Weasley hissed, looking around, clearly to see if any random stranger had been horrified by Ron's joke.

"I can order one for you," said Harry, and he got up to signal Florean or one of the other employees.

Ron grimaced and said, "I'd like to, but I can't." This seemed to greatly have pained him, although Harry wasn't entirely sure why he had declined.

"Well, if Ronniekins doesn't wish to partake, mayhaps I'd be willing to share a sundae," said Fred. He then turned to his parents quickly. "Not to worry, I'll pay for it."

"Don't ruin your supper, boys," said Mrs. Weasley. "But I suppose something small isn't such a terrible idea."

"Need to borrow a Sickle?" George asked with an overly loud whisper.

"Inside," whispered Fred just as loudly and they followed Harry into the store.

"You haven't opened it yet?" George asked out of the corner of his mouth in a casual tone.

Harry shook his head. "I wanted to. Why didn't you just wait until the Express and give it to me then?"

The twins exchanged a grin.

"Where's the fun in that?" Fred asked and he chuckled. "This way we can reward your patience. No Weasley could've managed to hold out to start of term, so think of it as a compliment."

Harry rolled his eyes but nodded in agreement. The Twins ordered the same double orange sherbet, and Harry decided he wouldn't be displeased with an ice cream lolly. When they rejoined the rest of the Weasleys, both Ron and Ginny looked longingly at the ice cream, but neither said anything about it.

"Harriet," said Mrs. Weasley with a soft tone. "I'm sure you think you're fine by yourself in Diagon Alley, but don't you think you ought to have an adult around?"

Harry frowned and tried not to get annoyed at her. "I know it seems a bit odd," he said. "But I've had to be by myself before, plus Dobby is keeping an eye out. He just stays hidden, but he pays attention. Professor Dumbledore thinks it's safe enough that way."

Mrs. Weasley seemed not to like this answer but Ginny grinned.

"Dobby's cool, Mum, he helped save me, remember?"

"Yes, I do," said Mrs. Weasley with a frown. "Arthur, don't you think..." Then she trailed off.

"I'll bring it up with Dumbledore," said Mr. Weasley. "But I suspect Harriet is likely right about it. House-Elves have a great deal of capability when treated well, and Dobby is certainly quite loyal to her."

"I'm sure Dumbledore would be happy to help," said Harry with a bit of a strained smile, trying to move on.

After a bit more of casual chatter and additional dessert consumption, Harry split ways with the Weasleys to meet up with Parvati at Eeylops. He spotted his friend waiting outside the owl shop, reading a parchment and not really paying attention to the people walking by.

"Oi, Parv!"

Parvati started, and almost dropped the parchment. Then she saw Harry and grinned. "Thought that was Ron for a moment. How's your day been?"

"Surprisingly fun, actually. Hermione bought this really ugly cat she named 'Crookshanks'."

"Is that the highlight?" Parvati asked with her eyebrows raised. "It's not that odd a name, honestly. I mean, Ron's rat is called 'Scabbers', and that's certainly... descriptive."

"I suppose so... I wonder what happened with it. I know Ron lost track of him last year, but I don't know if he ever found him."

Parvati shrugged. "I never really liked seeing the rat around, to be honest, but don't tell him I said that. People can be odd about their pets."

"Neville loves his toad, which I still don't understand."

"Toads are magically interesting, Harriet," said Parvati with a laugh. "I think that's your Muggle upbringing sneaking up again. There's a reason Hogwarts normally only allows cats, toads, or owls."

"Because they're 'magically interesting'?" Harry grinned. "I don't know what that means."

"Well, maybe you should take Care of Magical Creatures this year, which I believe you already are. So we can ask Professor Kettleburn. I actually don't really know why they're magically interesting either. Padma probably does, but who wants to sit through a lecture from her?"

Harry laughed. "I can think of two people, but that's it. So if those are the only pets allowed, how did Ron sneak his rat in?"

"I'm sure exceptions here and there are allowed if the Head of House okays it. I think Ron inherited the rat from his older brother, and weren't they all McGonagall's favourites?"

"That sounds right," said Harry with a frown. "Yeah, Percy had it first. McGonagall isn't as hard up as Percy about rules, but I think he might actually be Head Boy this year. So a young Percy likely had it easy going to convince McGonagall to allow in his old rat."

"Well, if Scabbers has lived this long, he's probably got a touch of magic in him anyhow. I suppose we ought to hope Ron finds him again, despite how creepy it is."

"Alright, enough about Scabbers. Where's my birthday present?"

Parvati took a step back and made a show of looking Harry over. "Harriet, you seem in a properly pleasant mood. I approve."

"I guess I just missed the whole Hogwarts business, chaos and all. But don't try to distract me from this present of yours, if it ever really existed."

Parvati clucked her tongue. "Tsk, tsk, Miss Potter. So obsessed with your presents. Come on, I think you'll quite like it."

Inside there was a Muggle family (or at least dressed like them), with a young girl in brand new robes clearly Hogwarts firstie age. "Mum, can I get a raven instead? I hear that it's the official animal of Ravenclaw."

"Actually it's an eagle," said Parvati, causing the family to look back at her in surprise. "Rowena Ravenclaw was the founder, but that's just her name. But you can't buy an eagle for mail, they're far too proud, think they're too good for it. Owls are proud too, but the proper sort of pride. I think you'd be pleased with a classic barred owl."

She pointed out a barred owl in a nearby cage. "See how majestic he looks? And you can tell by the look in his eyes that he's sharp enough for any Ravenclaw."

"Oh, are you for Ravenclaw?" Harry asked.

"Yes," said the girl with a happy nod. "I could tell it was the right sort for me from what that nice professor told us. She left us with a great book about Hogwarts."

"Harriet and I are Gryffindors," said Parvati and then she winked. "But my sister Padma's in Ravenclaw and it suits her perfectly. I think you'll have a grand time there."

"Um, thank you," said the girl's mother and she shared a glance with her father. After a few more words with their daughter, the barred owl was purchased and they left the store.

The shopkeeper looked over at Parvati and frowned. "You could've sold them something a bit pricier."

"A barred owl is a better choice, and it's more pricey than most. How many snowy owls have you sold since Harriet got one her first year?"

The man grinned. "Got me there. And true, it's not like I paid her for selling out my stock of snowies."

Harry frowned in confusion. "Wait... what's going on here?"

"Your friend here agreed to help me sell some owls in exchange for a bit of a rare gift. My normal employee had a touch of the 'groit so I needed the help," said the shopkeeper. "She's a natural. I'd say she should work as a saleswitch after Hogwarts, but that's probably selling her short."

Parvati smiled widely. "Flattery won't get me to sell any more owls, Mr. Tyton. Just bring out Harriet's gift."

"Can't blame me for trying," said Mr. Tyton and he disappeared to the back of the shop. After a few minutes, he returned with a small box, which he handed to Harry.

"Go ahead and open it," urged Parvati. "Your birthday's already passed, after all."

Harry opened the box to reveal a small golden hoop and whistle. "Well. I'm stumped."

Parvati laughed and Mr. Tyton chuckled.

"Not to worry, Miss Potter," the man said. "It's easy to explain. This is a Featherchanger, but a high quality one. The hoop goes around your owl's leg, and it will magically adjust itself. She won't mind, that's part of the charmwork. Otherwise owls can be quite particular about that sort of thing. And the whistle is what you use to change your owl's feathers."

"I mean..." Harry scratched his head and looked at the Featherchanger. "That's cool, I suppose, but how does it help me?"

"Think of it this way," said Parvati. "Hedwig has beautiful plumage, we all know it, but everyone can recognize she's your owl. With this trick you can not only change her feather colours, but completely how they appear! She can even disappear entirely!"

"It's a fairly complicated charm," said Mr. Tyton. "Although, heh heh, I didn't do it myself, I've just had it for a few years. Most people wouldn't be interested in something like this, despite how difficult it was to make. I'm happy to pass it on, nobody's even tried to make an offer since I got it."

"So nobody, not even Sirius Black or... other people will know it's Hedwig." Parvati smiled, and looked very proud.

Harry sighed and smiled back. He still wasn't sure how useful the gift would ever be, but it was clearly given with a great deal of thought and consideration. "Thank you, Parvati. I love it." He turned to the shopkeeper. "And thank you too, sir. Hedwig's been a great friend, and I know Hagrid bought her from you."

Mr. Tyton nodded, a very pleased look on his face.

After they left and walked around the Alley for a little while, Harry looked back at the box and frowned. "Do you really think Black might be able to spot Hedwig?" Harry said. "I haven't really had to use her much during the school year. And it's not like it's hard to spot I'm in Godric's Hollow."

Parvati raised an eyebrow. "You think he's the one that tried to break in?"

"Who else would bother? Malfoy or his dad? Doesn't seem their style, too obvious. And I can't imagine Mandy would try to overwhelm Dumbledore's defences just because she's a bint."

Parvati laughed. "Language, Harriet! You've picked up some awful habits from me and Lav."

Harry grinned at her and realized that they were passing by Quality Quidditch Supplies. And then he looked in the window and gasped. "Parvati, look it's here!" He ran over and with great difficulty, stopped himself from pressing against the glass. There it was, the Firebolt, which was heavily advertised in the International Quidditch Monthly as the new premiere broom for professionals. It was utterly gorgeous in person, handmade with care, not a twig out of place and a handle that shone even through the glass.

Parvati whistled as she walked closer. "That's one beautiful broom. Is it the new Nimbus?"

"Ha, no!" Harry shook his head. "That's the Firebolt, Parvati. The Firebolt. Every pro Quidditch worth their salt will be flying one if they don't want to be left crying on the pitch."

"Interesting way to phrase that," said Parvati, narrowing her eyes. "Are you going to buy one then?"

Harry gave her an annoyed look. "Each broom is worth more than all of my yearly Hogwarts supplies combined. But you know..." Harry thought of his vault, filled with Galleons, and was tempted to break into his inheritance - but he couldn't justify the expense on a broom that was professional level. He looked between her and the broom thoughtfully. "After all that rot with the owl bloke, maybe we could get a Firebolt for less if it was advertised as 'Harry Potter's broom' and you helped them sell expensive supplies to a bunch of hapless Muggles."

"They weren't 'hapless'," said Parvati with a frown. "They needed an owl, and it's not like I pointed them towards the most expensive ones. Who really needs Quidditch supplies other than players anyway? And besides -" Parvati suddenly grinned. "What's all this about Harriet Potter, Girl-Who-Lived and Quidditch Superstar? Thought you hated that sort of attention."

"I do, but for a Firebolt..." He looked back at the broom with longing and then sighed. "Ah, you're right. Better off in my dreams. Some of the analysts say it's too fast for most players to manage safely, so I'm better off with my Nimbus."

"Once we graduate, we'll figure out how to get you one," said Parvati, hooking her arm in Harry's. "In the meantime, we should just enjoy the day."

It was a fair point.


A few days later, Harry waited impatiently in what he had been calling his "sitting room" for Dumbledore to arrive through the Floo, which normally Harry kept unlit for security reasons. Naturally, Harry still had no idea what the Headmaster wanted to discuss, but that felt strangely familiar and normal.

Finally Dumbledore walked through the fire, a calm smile on his face and wearing a long robe of deep purple, although it also appeared that the night sky twinkled throughout it as well. "My dear, might we confer in private?"

"I thought we already - oh, do you mean Dobby?"

Dumbledore nodded. "Dobby is quite trustworthy, naturally, but I believe it is better safe than sorry."

Harry called out, "Dobby!" The House-Elf appeared, looking expectantly at the two of them.

"Mister Dobby, we were hoping for a bit of privacy," Dumbledore said while still smiling. "Can you help ensure that no one can listen in on our conversation?"

Dobby nodded eagerly. "Dobby can do this!"

Harry looked at the House-Elf and felt a bit guilty. "Um, Dobby, also, don't listen in for now, we'll let you know when you can come back, okay?"

"Of course, ma'am, Dobby is happy to do it." He snapped his fingers and vanished.

"Are you satisfied?" Dumbledore asked with a soft chuckle. "I do not believe Dobby was displeased at your request."

"He rarely is, I just want to keep it that way. So... what's this about?"

"Let us sit down first, and I shall explain." The room had a few chairs and a comfortable sofa that had been conjured by McGonagall, one of the few rooms with much furniture at all, so it was still the best place to sit and think, or sit and do something else for that matter.

"Before we begin," said Dumbledore, who had somehow gotten a cup of tea. "Might I ask that you check on the location of the diary?"

"I- well, of course I have it," said Harry, although a sudden burst of fear hit him. He patted his pockets where he often had kept the diary, but there was nothing there but his wand. "Um, sir, do you mind if I go check?"

The Headmaster nodded and Harry ran off to his bedroom, hoping he had merely dropped it somewhere. It was odd, Harry realized as he frantically began searching under mattresses and behind bookshelves, that he hadn't noticed the absence. When the diary was with him, Harry always felt a bit more comfortable, and without it, he often felt out of sorts. But he hadn't had that particular peculiar sort of feeling in a while.

Harry heard Dumbledore walk to the door and he sighed. "Sir, is there some sort of spell that can bring an item to you?"

"Indeed, although it may not work in this case. But I shall attempt it: Accio Diary!" Dumbledore stood with his wand outstretched for a few seconds, but nothing happened. He waved his wand again and looked around with a frown. "I do not sense the diary's presence here, and it should be fairly easy to spot unless someone was actively hiding it."

"I don't know what happened," said Harry miserably. "I thought I was taking it with me every day, or at least every day that I left the house."

"Ah, well that is highly unfortunate," said the Headmaster with a frown. "I did hope you were taking better care not to misplace it. I do not suppose you have some notion of where it might be?"

"I've barely left here, sir," said Harry, furious with himself. "I was at Susan's house where I know I had the diary, and then back here. After that I was back there and then to St Mungo's. Then not really anywhere until the party at the Weasleys, then well, I mean I was all over in Diagon Alley. But..." He frowned. "I don't entirely remember bringing the diary with me that day."

"Well, I suppose I must investigate," said Dumbledore and he had a disappointed look on his face. "As I am still quite certain no one has breached the protections here, it must have inadvertently been left somewhere along your path. Hopefully it was not lost in Diagon Alley, that would make it quite difficult to find."

"I'm really sorry, Professor," said Harry, feeling his face burn with shame and his throat began to feel choked up. "I was being extra careful, I... I don't know what happened."

"Ah, I suppose it is also my fault, if we are being fully honest," said Dumbledore with a sigh. "I ought to have insisted on keeping hold of the diary myself. Although you are quite mature and responsible for your age, I believe I was not being nearly as judicious as I ought to have been."

"Is there anything I can do?" Harry sniffed, trying to hold back tears.

Dumbledore smiled down at him. "Please, my dear, no need for that. If there is something I have that requires your help, I will let you know. And do try to recall anything further about where you may have left it, if you can."

Harry nodded and wiped his nose on his sleeve. "I will," he promised. "Is that the only reason you came by?"

"No, not at all," said Dumbledore and he chuckled softly. "A notion I mentioned in a recent letter has successfully come to pass. It was not particularly easy to achieve, but I will spare you the sordid details."

"Um, okay," said Harry, completely confused. "Is that about that Unplotting thing you've mentioned a few times?"

"Ah well, although the Ministry has still been quite difficult about Unplotting your house, there is something else I have been able to get approved through the assistance of my old friend and Unspeakable Croaker. It is something that I hope will only be used in the case of the most extreme of emergencies, but with Sirius Black still out there, I must place your safety as my highest priority."

"Well, okay then," said Harry, curious and happy that Dumbledore still seemed willing to trust him after losing the diary. "What is it?"

Dumbledore pulled out a small box from one of his pockets and opened it carefully. He revealed a small pendant, which was light gold and appeared to be in the shape of a small hourglass. "With this little device, you can perform miracles, although there is grave risk if it is not utilized correctly. It has a quite evocative and explanatory name, this little artefact. The Ministry calls it a 'Time-Turner'."

"Wait, sir, are you saying..." Harry stopped, unable to keep going.

Dumbledore beamed and nodded. "Precisely! Of course, if you are not careful, the universe might be erased, but what is life without a little risk?"

"I mean... sir, does it let you travel through time or have I gone mad?"

"I don't see why it cannot be a touch of both," said Dumbledore with a chuckle. "Delving into time travel, my dear, it is something that has beguiled and begoggled far more cleverer minds than either of the two of us."

Harry frowned, not believing that for a moment. "Fine, but what's this about the universe getting erased? Don't you think that's a bit unsafe for someone who doesn't know anything about time travel?"

"I don't believe we will have to worry about that particular outcome," said Dumbledore. "More likely if you misused it you would simply cause enough strain to the timeline to either truly go mad yourself or perish. But I have assured the Ministry that I will explain every single rule or regulation, and practice with you to ensure you have it right."

"Oh." Harry breathed out and relaxed back into his chair. "Well, alright then. I guess a time machine would've come in handy a few times over the last two years now that I think of it."

"Be that as it may, I should qualify this item as what is: an official, temporary loan of a highly Restricted Temporal Artefact from the Department of Mysteries. I understand the temptation to immediately leap into thoughts about changing the past, am I correct?"

"I mean... mostly." Harry scratched his head. "There's isn't too much that is truly terrible that I'd want to change. Maybe my parents, but then I don't know, maybe they'd think I'd be throwing away their sacrifice. I guess I'd make sure we knew about Quirrell at the start of first year, or maybe to keep an eye on Sirius Black before my second year?"

"It is good that your life is mostly free of tragedies," said Dumbledore, who now looked sad. "If only I could say the same. But ah, you do not need to hear the hoary old tales of woe from me, I believe we are better off if I merely go through a few notes of safety.

"Firstly, the Time-Turner works simply, by turning the hourglass for each hour you wish to travel backwards in time, up to five hours, as restricted by the Ministry. Secondly, whilst back in time, you must take care never to talk to or interact with yourself, or you may face grave consequences. Thirdly, you must also never attempt to change events that you witnessed occurring. And fourthly, do not reveal your temporary ownership of the Time-Turner, not even to your very closest friends."

He smiled kindly at Harry. "I know you have great trust in your friends, but this is simply a situation where it is too dangerous to let more people know than is strictly necessary. If you think the time comes where you must tell someone, please let me know first and we can talk it through."

Harry frowned. "Maybe I should write all this down."

"Not to worry," said Dumbledore with a wave of his hand. "I have a delightfully droll Ministry pamphlet that has all of what I have said in more terrifyingly dry prose. Normally of course, the Ministry would not loan a Time-Turner to anyone outside the Department of Mysteries, much less a student at Hogwarts. But I pressed on them the danger with Sirius Black still on the loose, and I believe the Minister is more feeling than a touch guilty about not resolving that dreadful situation as of yet."

"Right, well... he should be, honestly! We've already had two break-in attempts here and I bet both were Black." Harry sighed and leaned forward to look more closely at the Time-Turner. "It does look interesting, doesn't it? Are we going to practice or something?"

"Yes, indeed, you shall be doing just that. You will be handling the Time-Turner, but we can't use this room, and do you recall why?"

"Um." Harry thought for a moment. "Oh, right, because I might see my past self?"

Dumbledore nodded proudly. "Precisely. So before I hand over this little object to you, we shall be working with your Head of House. Minerva insisted on being present for any actual time travel practice, which I suppose is wise enough. Technically speaking, three people is more than is allowed, so only one of us shall be with you at a time."

He looked over at the Floo, which no longer had a fire burning. "I believe using the Floo is the most expeditious manner to return to Hogwarts. Normally I do not permit Floo travel to Hogwarts over the summer holidays, but I believe an exception in this case is warranted. Professor McGonagall and I have set up a few rooms specifically for this exercise, so we will not be disturbed."

Harry nodded and got up, excited about the prospects of such an unusual sort of magic. "Dobby!" He called out and the House-Elf reappeared. "Please douse the Floo fire after we leave, as per usual."

"Dobby always does, ma'am," the House-Elf said with a bow.

They arrived at Hogwarts in the Headmaster's office, where Professor McGonagall was standing, an impatient look on her face.

"Where have you been?" McGonagall asked with an annoyed tone. Then she shook her head. "Oh, never mind, I'm sure the answer would be just as frustrating. Miss Potter, are you well?" She asked this in such a suddenly kind tone, it was a bit disorienting.

"Yes, ma'am," said Harry. "Not to worry, Professor Dumbledore was simply explaining some of the basics of the Time-Turner. He said you'd be involved with the practice."

"That's correct," she said with a nod. "The Headmaster might not have mentioned it, but in a way the Time-Turner was my idea. I had something else in mind at first, but he did point that you have been all alone and in danger more than once over the last two years. It's something unforgivable, really, Hogwarts should be a safe haven for all her students. But you are hardly the typical student."

She gave Harry a small smile. "Not that I mean that in any negative way, of course. But special danger calls for special circumstances. Now, let's go."

Harry and Dumbledore followed McGonagall as she led them through the hallways, which felt odd without the constant press of students.

"We shall first move to a room that none of us have been in several days," said McGonagall. "So when we arrive back in time, we will easily be able to note the place."

"You've used a Time-Turner already, Professor?"

"Yes, although I find it a bit disorientating. I had reason to use one many years ago, so I am familiar with the rules and regulations surrounding it."

"Minerva, would you care to take the first time around?" Dumbledore asked. "I can stay in the old overflow Arithmancy classroom until you two return."

McGonagall looked over at Harry with a serious look. "Very well," she said finally. "But only after we use it the first time, just in case something goes wrong."

The Headmaster nodded in agreement.

They eventually reached a seemingly random room, which was quite dusty and filled with chairs. "For your first go around," said Dumbledore. "I shall wait here for your return, as you suggested Minerva. But do send a Patronus or something similar if there is an emergency before then."

Dumbledore waved his wand to close and lock the door with an audible click, which was unusual as the door had no lock in the first place.

McGonagall made a face that indicated she was not amused. "Albus, no one should be around, we have ensured it."

"Ah, but better to be cautious, wouldn't you say?"

"I have, many times," said Professor McGonagall and she crossed her arms. "Very well then, please get on with it."

Dumbledore pulled out the Time-Turner again and gestured to Harry.

"Now, watch carefully. Each turn of the hourglass sends you one hour back in time, up to five at a time, and once activated, you cannot use it again until you have 'caught up' to the present. It prevents what we call 'infinite recursion', although that bit is not particularly important to remember."

"I recommend you try to remember anyway," advised McGonagall. "And I will be quizzing you on some of the details later."

"I mean I don't need to get it completely to understand why that'd be a problem," said Harry with a laugh. "If you went back two hours, waited an hour, then went back two hours, etc., there'd be way too many copies of you." An image of several Harry's running around trying to avoid each other jumped to his head, and he chuckled.

"Exactly," said Dumbledore with a pleased smile. "Professor McGonagall will trigger the device this time, but I will ask you to try the next one. But first, I will Disillusion you so that the past version of you will not see us." Dumbledore waved his wand, and Harry felt a curious sensation of water being dripped down his back.

"Did it work? I can still see you and Professor McGonagall."

"Ah, well naturally I modified the charm slightly so that you and the dear Transfiguration professor could see each other. It would hardly be so helpful if you could not see, would it? If you must use it in the future though, I believe your Invisibility Cloak would serve better. You do still have it?"

"I haven't misplaced that one at least," said Harry with a sigh. "Although I haven't really had a need to use it in a while."

McGonagall shook her head and sighed. "Albus, don't you think-?"

"It belonged to her father," interjected Dumbledore with a gentle tone. "And I hardly think Miss Potter here is likely to use it even half as problematically as that, don't you?"

She smiled slightly at Harry. "That is true. I'd say you've gotten in trouble despite yourself, not because you sought it out. More like Lily than James."

"That's nice to hear," said Harry. "Honestly, sometimes I expect to be blamed even with things that aren't my fault."

MgGonagall scowled. "Alright then, I think that's enough of a reminder of our past mistakes. Harriet, please come closer."

"Here you are," said Dumbledore, handing the Time-Turner carefully to McGonagall. "I was able to come up with a way to extend the chain so it covers you both - that is the only way more than one person can use it at a time. Technically speaking, the Ministry would not approve of my temporary modification, but I shall not tell if you don't." Another wave of his wand, and the chain (normally long enough to hang easily around one's neck) was extended three times.

McGonagall raised an eyebrow and then she nodded. "That was quite elegantly done, Albus. We'll have to go over the finer details later."

Dumbledore nodded in agreement and then he turned to face the wall.

"Now then Harriet," said McGonagall softly. "Please hold still a moment." She carefully draped the chain over them both. "Now, keep your eyes closely on the Time-Turner."

Harry watched carefully as the Professor turned the small hourglass just once. At once, a wave of something like wind blew over him, although he felt it oddly under his skin, and then the world faded and blurred, and a sound like a great vacuum blew in his years. Harry felt like a tug, like he was falling backwards very quickly, but before he could feel dizzy, the sensation stopped and suddenly Harry was back in his Floo room.

McGonagall held a finger to her lips and shook her head, which was good, as Harry was about to speak. Instead, she grasped his shoulder and they vanished, appearing again on a path near Hogsmeade.

"I think we're safely away," said McGonagall. "We are isolated enough here so none can easily overhear us. And it is still nearly an hour until we used the Time-Turner, so we are safe."

"Wait, ma'am, I thought of something," said Harry. "If I go back to the same place I left, won't I see myself?"

"An excellent question," said McGonagall with a proud smile. "But this all comes down to how the Time-Turner was designed. Once utilized, you will find yourself removed just enough from yourself in space and time that you will have ample time, at least a minute or so, to hide or move quickly away."

"Oh, okay - so there was no real danger of us seeing our past selves?"

"Oh, there was, but only after a minute or so. But not to worry, we have some time to spend until we return to the Headmaster. Albus agreed this morning to stay away from Hogsmeade so there's no risk of running into him here." She looked over at Harry. "Are you feeling peckish, Harriet? We could have some lunch in the meantime, and after the hour is through, we can return."

"That's fine," said Harry. "I definitely could eat."

They ate lunch outside at a small pub while McGonagall asked mildly probing questions about Harry's studies and his friends. Harry answered as best he could, although he avoided any embarrassing details.

As they finished up, McGonagall took a look around the open area of Hogsmeade, where a few people were milling about. "I'm not such a fan of you being out and about on your own," she said. "It's not safe for a girl your age."

Harry tried not to roll his eyes. "I don't go out at night," he said. "And Dobby is always watching out for me."

"Well, keep it that way," McGonagall said. "And if you must be outside, make sure that there are many others about. I do not think Sirius Black would care much unless the threat against him was great."

"That's fair," said Harry with a nod. "I'll be sure to be safe."

After they came back to the Hogwarts, the door to the abandoned room was still closed and locked. McGonagall pulled out a watch from her robes and nodded. "Yes, we are a few minutes over the hour, so there should be no issue." She waved her wand and said, "Homenum Revelio. Hmm, I don't see anyone else behind the door than one person, so we should be safe."

Another wave of her wand, and the door creaked open to reveal Dumbledore, who appeared very pleased to see them.

"My dear Miss Potter," said Dumbledore with a smile. "How does it feel to have travelled through time?"

"Wicked," said Harry with a grin. "So I can try now?"

"Yes," said Dumbledore. "But this time we will try two hours, and you shall be the one to perform the task. We have ensured that neither of us has been in the library all day, so you can spend the remaining time there reading over the Ministry information until we are sure you have no questions."

This was not exactly sounding like the most fun idea, but getting to time travel was enough to allow a bit of painful reading. They moved to a different room, and this time Dumbledore waved his wand causing a book to appear out of nowhere.

"A bit of reading material whilst I wait for your return," he said. "Since I shall not have the resources of our grand library at hand."

McGonagall gave the book, which was called Petrefectious Pleasantries and appeared to be made out of charred bone, a look of disdain. "Might I ask that you refrain from sharing that book, Albus?"

"Not to worry," said the Headmaster with a chuckle. "I know you would never permit it."

"Very true," she muttered. "Alright then, Miss Potter, are you ready to try yourself?"

Harry nodded eagerly, and while Professor McGonagall watched carefully, he activated the Time-Turner by turning the hourglass twice. For some reason, Harry was expecting things to go differently, but other than showing up in a slightly different room with his past self busying himself nearby (which was admittedly a bit freaky) not much was different.

McGonagall nodded her approval with a pleased smile, and they returned to Hogwarts where they found that the library indeed only had Madam Pince with her typically baleful glare present.

The Professor gave Harry a small pamphlet. "I would like you to read this over carefully, Miss Potter. You can ask me anything in the meantime, but I will ask you a few in return once you are finished."

Harry sighed but nodded, accepting the pamphlet with a grimace. It figured that his first time back in Hogwarts he'd still have to study something.

It was far too long after that Harry threw down A Most Elegant and Relevant Set of Rules and Regulations on Time-Turners That Must Be Followed To A Truly High Level of Precision with annoyance. The title was just like the rest of the instructional pamphlet, overly long and with far too flowery language, and felt designed to have the author sound much more important than the material he was writing about.

Dumbledore appeared suddenly nearby, although it was more likely Harry hadn't noticed him walk up, and he nodded to both of them. "I am pleased to see that nothing went wrong, or did it?"

"No, it was all fine, Albus," said McGonagall with a sigh. "I still wish we didn't have to give such responsibility to a student, but Miss Potter is certainly one of the most responsible young ladies I have seen throughout my years."

Harry grinned. "Thanks, Professor! I feel the same about you."

McGonagall's face quirked up, as she was clearly trying to hide a smile.

"Ah, very good," said Dumbledore. "If you don't mind, will you allow a few follow-up queries?"

Harry sighed but nodded. He was easily able to answer most of the questions, although he stumbled a bit on the question about how many people you were permitted to bring along with you (the answer was one, but had several exceptions).

Dumbledore looked over the pamphlet and flipped through its pages quickly, his eyes scanning abnormally quickly. "I feel fairly satisfied," he said, handing it back to Harry. "Of course, if it comes to it, please ask me or Professor McGonagall any questions that may arise, although if an emergency precludes it, I hope you will remember all of the rules we have discussed today."

"So do I," admitted Harry with a smile. "But I think I'll be able to. It's mostly common sense anyway."

"Not as common as you'd suspect among wizardkind," replied Dumbledore with a chuckle. "But fairly noted. Now, there is always the possibility of someone misusing the Time-Turner and attempting to manipulate you from the future. I ran into such a set of circumstances during my youth, and attempting to decipher the truth was quite vexing."

He looked over at Professor McGonagall. "Now, Minerva, might I have a quick word in private with Miss Potter? We shall be right nearby, so need for alarm."

McGonagall seemed a bit taken aback but she nodded. "Alright Albus, but don't be long. We both have to be getting back to work. I'll give you some space, it'll be easier that way." She walked over to one of the many columns of books, until she was clearly out of earshot.

"Um, right, so what's this about," said Harry, not sure what the Headmaster was getting at. "Was that meant to be a warning about something?"

Dumbledore nodded. "Imagine that someone manages to illicitly gain access to the Time-Turner, and leaves a message for you in the past pretending to be you. Such an act could potentially influence you to put yourself in danger or make yourself a fool."

Harry blinked and then he got it. "Oh! Wow. Yeah, I see what you mean. But how can I be sure a note is really from me? Is there a charm for that sort of thing?"

"Many, and countermeasures alike, but thankfully we have a method that ought to work for all except your friend from the diary. Your true name."

"So..." Harry began to think it through. "I leave a note with 'From Harry Potter' or 'To Harry Potter', and I know it's me since nobody, not even you, can write that name."

Dumbledore nodded, clearly pleased. "Yes, my dear, you have 'cottoned on', as they say. Now then, let us return to your home, as I am sure you have a great deal left today to do. I know that I have a great deal left undone, so shall we be off to it?"

Harry nodded, and he tucked the Time-Turner carefully under his robes. Hopefully he'd never actually have to use it, but Harry also knew that there was no way there wouldn't be a life threatening emergency that year. It was Hogwarts after all.


And then, before he knew it, it was time for Harry to return to Hogwarts. Harry fretted around the house while Dobby waited patiently with the trunk stuffed with everything they had already remembered. He double-checked that the Time-Turner was still around his neck, and checked it again each time he left a room. At one point, he opened the trunk to verify that the Invisibility Cloak had not been forgotten.

"Wait, parchment! Dobby, I'll need parchment and quills and ink in case I need to write... a note for some reason."

"Um, yes, ma'am, but Dobby has already packed those things for Harriet Potter. Does she need more?"

"Hmm." Harry scratched his head and thought it over. Then he sighed. "No, I suppose not, Dobby. How long before-" He cut himself off. "Never mind, I have a watch, don't it?" After checking his timepiece, Harry looked around again, just in case he had still missed something. "Ten minutes until the Express leaves. Ah, the hell with it, let's go Dobby!"

Dobby nodded and grinned widely. He snapped his fingers and suddenly they were on Platform 9 3/4. Harry looked around for a recognizable friendly face, nearly ducking when he saw Mandy and Lisa board the train - but he then thought it unlikely he had been spotted.

"Harriet L. Potter!" A voice rang out and Harry saw Parvati running over, looking more tired and out of sorts than usual.

"What does that 'L' stand for?" Harry asked, amused and not entirely sure himself.

"Don't tease, Harriet," said Parvati, her hands on her hips and still breathing a bit hard. Then she took a deep breath. "Being named for your mum is pretty nice, all things considered. You don't want to know my middle name."

"Oh? What is it?"

"I said no, and also don't ask Padma! I know you were thinking it. I know your face, Harriet."

"I wasn't thinking it," Harry lied with a big grin. "Why were you in such a hurry anyway?"

"You're bloody late, that's why," said Parvati with a glare. "Although we did save you a seat in one of the middle cars. As some of us got here early."

"It was just me and Dobby, and I was worried I was forgetting something," said Harry to explain as they walked over, the House-Elf floating Harry's trunk behind them. "Dobby probably didn't forget anything, but I just hope I didn't either."

"Not to worry, I probably forgot something myself, although I doubt Padma did." Then Parvati made a face, and leaned closer. "Padma's being odder than normal," she whispered. "She ran off with Anthony and Hermione to talk privately in another compartment. Something mysterious going on with them."

"Probably not the sort of Mystery we ought to try to solve though," said Harry in a low voice. "As much as we might like to."

"Yeah... yeah, well, you're probably right, but I'm not particularly pleased about my sister hiding something from me."

They arrived in the compartment, where only a few people were waiting. Ron perked up on seeing them enter, interrupting his chess game with Neville, and Susan whipped her head over so fast it almost seemed planned.

"Hullo all, it's been far too long," said Harry. "Ages."

Ron laughed. "Feels that way, don't it?" He stretched back over his seat and grinned widely. "We've got this whole compartment to ourselves. Parv scared off any possible lollygaggers or Harriet Potter fans among the firsties."

Harry grimaced. "Well, good. No offense to them, but I'm not particularly in the mood."

"Are you ever?" Neville asked, somewhat under his breath.

"No, Neville, I'm not," said Harry with a laugh. "How's the game going?"

"Terrible," said Neville with a frown. "Ron's too bloody good at wizarding chess. Ruddy unfair."

"The old boy is picking up a few choice phrases from me along with my stellar gameplay," said Ron proudly. "Either of you two fancy a go?"

"Maybe later," said Harry. "I'm rubbish, but I could stand to be a bit less so."

"How was the rest of your summer, Harriet?" Susan asked, her eyes wide open, leaning forward eagerly.

"Relaxing. Too relaxing," said Harry as he dropped into one of the empty seats. "I rather think I'm looking forward to whatever tries to kill us this year."

Susan paled but Neville laughed. "She's got a point, Susan," he said. "I say, better to be prepared than caught with... well, you know."

"Our trousers down?" Ron offered with a wink.

"Never you mind," said Neville, his face reddening a bit.

"You're incorrigible," Parvati said a laugh. "Know what that means, Weasley?"

"I've got the idea, thanks," said Ron, turning back to the chessboard with a now thoughtful look on his face.

Harry smiled and settled back, content for a while to just enjoy watching the game. After a few minutes, the Express started to move, and a frisson of excitement shot through him. He looked over to the window to see that they had already left London behind, the world beginning to shift into the outlying smaller communities. Soon enough, all they'd see was the green expanse of the English countryside.

He sighed and closed his eyes, listening to the rumble of the train and the wind right outside the window. He could hear the soft chatter of Parvati saying something to Susan, and now and then, a mild curse from Neville or a chuckle from Ron.

It was a while later, after another game had started, this time with Ron and Susan together, that Neville got and stretched his arms back, breathing out loudly as he did so with a sound of satisfaction.

"Wow, that's enough sitting for now." Neville looked over at Harry, who had been quietly reading until then. "Hey, I think I want to go say hey to those Puff pals of ours," he said. Susan made a noise of annoyance.

"Susan, you're busy for now, obviously I didn't mean you," said Neville with a roll of his eyes. "Anyway, that okay Harriet? Parvati?"

"That's fine," said Parvati, curling in further into her seat and leaned against the window. She had her own book, an older one and a bit worn out. "We'll hold the fort until you get back. Just in case Malfoy or someone tries to bother us."

"Actually, if you're off for a walk, I think it'd be a good time for me to find Luna," said Harry and he got up from his seat. "We can walk together until we get to either her or the 'Puffs. You alright with that Parvati? Want to come along or keep reading?"

Parvati frowned. "I'm not in charge of you, Harriet, much to my chagrin. But I think I'd rather finish this chapter at the least. Oh, but if you do happen across Padma, don't mention, you know... what we talked about, right?"

"Naturally," said Harry with a grin. "Ron, Susan, see you guys a bit later."

"Uh huh," said Ron in a distracted tone, who seemed to be concentrating quite a bit more than he had been with Neville.

"I just think Susan is better," said Neville in a grumble after they left the chamber. "I bet she grew up learning wizarding chess with her Auntie or something."

"Well, good," said Harry. "Let Ron get a taste of someone else that might win for a change. I think he grew up playing his older brothers though, that's how he got to be so good."

"Yeah, that makes sense. My grandmum wasn't the sort for that 'frivolity' as she'd call it, but she did buy me books whenever I wanted, and let me work in the family's greenhouse."

"Ah ha, so that explains why you're so keen on Herbology - you're a prodigy."

"Oh, I wouldn't say that," said Neville, his face colouring a bit. "But I do enjoy it, that's true."

The two passed through a few compartments, ignoring the various stares and mild whispers that followed them as they went.

"Ignore them," said Harry in an annoyed whisper.

"About to suggest the same thing," said Neville with an amused grin.

But then things got a bit unusual as they finally came across Luna.

She was sitting with Ginny, but there were two other people in the compartment, both older students, a boy and a girl, although the girl was bent over while talking to Luna, her dark hair covering most of her face.

"Oi there!" The boy got up and walked over, holding out a hand. He was quite tall, perhaps even a sixth year. "Cedric Diggory."

"Hello there yourself," said Harry, shaking Cedric's hand back. "Aren't you the Hufflepuff reserve Seeker? I recognize your face."

"Ha, thanks, I think," said Cedric and he offered a hand to Neville next, who mumbled his own name in greeting. "Pleasure to meet you both. You're right of course, Harriet - apologies, no point in pretending I don't know you."

"I suppose not," said Harry with a shrug. "So are you off the reserves this year?"

"Indeed I am," said Cedric with a big smile and he seemed quite proud. "I'm actually the captain of the team."

"Impressive!" Harry said with sincerity, as this was certainly a position he hoped to achieve eventually. "Any pointers on how to get there?"

Cedric laughed. "You don't need any help from me, you'll likely be Captain as soon as you wish it, I'm sure. I became the captain because I know the team, I know our strategies and have discussed how to improve them, and well, to be honest, nobody else wanted the job after Caroline graduated. It's a bit unusual for a fifth year to captain, but I shall do my best."

"Very Hufflepuff of you," said Harry, and he smiled to indicate that this was meant as a mild jest.

"Righto, and I know you have a few 'Puffs in your friend group," said Cedric, sounding very pleased about it. "Everybody knows about it in the House, but not to worry, we all are impressed at your intrahouse unity."

The older girl laughed and turned to look up at them. She grinned and Harry couldn't help but notice that she had an extremely pretty smile.

"Such a Ravenclaw way to describe a 'Puffy concept," she said and walked over to them. "Hullo, I'm Cho Chang."

"Um, pleasure to meet you," said Harry, feeling nervous for some reason as he shook her hand.

Cho nodded to Neville, who seemed unable to speak. "Hello, nice to meet you too," she said and Neville just nodded back mutely in response.

"He's normally not that talkative anyway," said Ginny, who had an annoyed look on her face. "So don't worry about him."

"Hello, there!" Luna piped up and she jumped out of her seat. "Have you met Cho? She said she's going to help me find my socks or shoes if some of the other girls steal them."

Harry scowled. "Luna, if it's Mandy, I... I don't know what I'll do, but I won't be pleased."

"Harriet, please, don't worry about it," said Cho in a soothing tone. "Professor Flitwick already asked me to help Luna out. Based on a discussion you had with him, he said."

Harry didn't remember which discussion this might be, but the outcome seemed reasonable enough. "Okay, I suppose so. But if you need help, you let me know, okay?"

Cho laughed. "Yeah, I will, Harriet. You're an interesting girl, that's for sure." She looked over at Cedric with a sly look. "Cedric, I noticed you didn't say anything about that Prefect badge."

"Oh, well, I mean..." Cedric sighed and brushed non-existent dust off a golden badge on his robes. "Honestly, I'm far more excited about being the new Seeker and Captain than Prefect."

"Makes sense to me," said Ginny with a grin. "Harriet, Cho's the new Seeker on Ravenclaw."

"Is that right?" Harry stepped back and pretended to give Cho a onceover look, while somewhat also doing it. "My new competition, hmm. Three Seekers in the same chamber, pity Malfoy isn't here. Or perhaps it's no pity, I don't much care for him. No offense."

Cho and Cedric laughed.

"I'll pretend I didn't hear anything," said Cedric, tapping his badge. "But technically speaking I am supposed to be against all bullying, even when it's warranted. I don't think many outside Slytherin are much fans of Draco Malfoy anyhow."

"Shame he's actually capable," said Cho with a scowl. "When he made Seeker last year, I thought it was 'cause his 'daddy' bought the way onto the team."

Ginny laughed loudly, and she gave Cho a look of surprised appreciation. "Harriet's better though."

Cho smiled warmly at Harry. "Naturally."

Harry smiled back, feeling happy about the compliment. "I do try my best too," he said with a nod at Cedric. "I know Cedric's not a bad flyer from what I've seen, have you been flying long?"

"Oh, yes, ever since I was far too young to do it safely," said Cho with a giggle. "But my parents are mad Quidditch fans, so they encouraged the habit. My dad wasn't born here, but my mum was and she converted him to the Magpies." She raised an arm and shouted. "Git th' Snitch!" Then she laughed. "Team motto, obviously. Turns out Magpies are a team in the old country too, so technically our family roots for both."

"Luckily they've never met in a match, as the 'old country' Mags are pretty rubbish," said Cedric with a laugh, causing Ginny to laugh too and Luna to snicker loudly.

Cho gave Cedric a cross look. "You wouldn't have known that if I hadn't told you, Cedric. And besides, Montrose are one of Britain's best."

"That is true," said Ginny with a frown. "I'm for Holyhead myself. My brother loves the Cannons for some reason."

"Sorry," said Cho with a kind look at the younger girl. "He must be disappointed often."

Ginny's mouth quirked up, and it looked as if she was trying not to laugh. "Fairly noted," she said instead.

"But the Harpies are epic, can't argue with you there," said Cho with a nod. "I'd definitely play for them if they asked, but it'd still be hard for Mum and Dad to root for me on the wrong side."

Neville seemed to still be unable to say anything, so Harry turned to him and said, "Nev, why don't you go on to the other Hufflepuffs like you planned? I need to catch up a bit with Luna anyhow."

Cedric and Cho both gave Harry similar looks of surprise, but Neville nodded.

"N-nice to m-meet you," he said in a near whisper, and then he hurried out of the compartment.

"Tsk tsk," said Cedric with mock sadness. "Hopefully he will find some solace with the Hufflepuffs of your year."

"Don't be an arse, Cedric," said Cho with a sharp tone. "I'm sure he was just a bit nervous, that's all. Anyway." She turned to Harry and smiled. "Harriet, real pleasure to meet you - Ced and I will be leaving now so you can catch up with your friends."

"We are?" Cedric asked with an eyebrow raised.

Cho ignored him and leaned over to give Harry a hug, who felt like his arms locked up for a moment. "Let's talk before the first Quidditch game," she whispered. "Us fellow Seekers need to stick together, eh?"

Harry nodded. "Sounds good," he managed to say in a whisper and Cho broke off the embrace.

Cedric offered his hand again and Harry accepted it. "Pleasure, my dear," Cedric said, and pretended to tip his hat, which he was not wearing.

The two students walked off and Cho waved before they left the chamber. "See ya soon!"

"I think she's cool," said Luna. "Although I'm probably not the best judge of it."

"She's alright, I suppose," said Ginny with a pout and she folded her arms in an aggressive manner.

"What's your problem with her Ginny?" Harry asked, who had picked up on it but couldn't figure out why.

"Oh. Oh, I don't know!" Ginny threw her hands dramatically. "Harriet, she seems cool in a way, but maybe... I don't know, too cool?"

Harry raised an eyebrow. "You think she's trying to be cool?"

"If she is, she's succeeding," said Luna.

Ginny glared at her. "Traitor. Maybe I don't know why I have a problem with her, is that good enough an answer?"

Harry rolled his eyes. "Ginny, I'm not an expert on these sorts of things. Far from it, actually. If you don't feel comfortable talking to me about it, maybe you can talk to one of your brothers-" Ginny made a face at that. "Or someone else, like a girl in your year? You could also try talking to Parvati, she's cool, right?"

"Yeah, she is," said Ginny thoughtfully. "That's not an awful idea, Harriet."

"Luna, how is everything with you? Still remember I'm not a girl, right?"

Ginny looked confused, as per usual with this sort of remark, but Luna nodded.

"Yes, Hrrprr, I remember. Let me know if you want to try any experiments this year, I think with all the extra time Cho will give me, since I won't have to be searching for my shoes anymore, I'll have plenty of time to help you out."

Harry let out an annoyed breath. "Don't worry too much about it, Luna. I just appreciate you being a supportive friend and ally in all this. Dumbledore's nice enough, but he's, you know... an adult. And honestly sometimes it can be a bit exhausting to try to follow along when talking to him."

Ginny let out a giggle. "Sorry, but that's such a ridiculous problem. Harriet Potter, annoyed at her personal, secret conversations with Albus Dumbledore. It's not a plot either of us thought for our terrible stories, that's for sure."

"It's very relatable," said Luna with a smile. "I'm sure I'd also be confused whilst talking to the Headmaster."

Harry sighed and looked out the window. It seemed the day was moving closer and closer to night. "Alright, I think I had better head back. Luna, Ginny, great seeing you, and I guess we'll catch up later at Hogwarts."

Ginny smiled and nodded, and Luna waved while Harry was still standing there. He chuckled and waved back before heading back to his friends.

A few cars down, he spotted a familiar face walking in the opposite direction.

"Harriet!" Remus Lupin waved and smiled at him. "I don't suppose you have to guess why I'm here."

"I suppose you took the job then?"

"Yes, I did, thankfully the Headmaster helped arrange things with me. I've been doing a bit of a patrol of the cars, as he asked. He didn't want a repeat of last year's attack with the Dementors."

Harry shivered. "They're not around here, are they?"

"No, thank Merlin, they are not," said Lupin with a shake of his head. "But better safe than sorry. Anyway, I'm afraid I still am on my rounds, so I'll see you at school Harriet!"

"Of course," said Harry and he continued back until he found his friends.

Susan and Ron seemed to be playing still, either the same game or a new one, but Parvati was now leaning over Susan and watching intently.

"Who's winning?" Harry asked cheekily.

Their heads all jerked up in surprise.

"I am," said Ron and Susan at the same time, then they frowned at each other.

"They've each won one," said Parvati. "This is the final game. Did you happen to spot Hermione or the Ravenclaws on your journey?"

"No, but I did have some interesting little adventures despite that. I met these two older students, both are the new Seekers for Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw."

This got everyone's attention and Ron and Susan looked up from their game.

"Ooh, it's Cedric Diggory, right?" Susan said in excitement. "He's so handsome! He's like the most popular person in Hufflepuff House."

"Yeah, that's right," said Harry. "He played as a reserve two or three times I think. He's good, even if he's a bit tall for a Seeker."

Ron frowned. "I remember this Diggory bloke. I think. Never got a great look at him, but he was better than the old captain, although you were clearly better than both Harriet."

"Obviously," said Parvati with a smirk. "Susan already had split loyalties, does this make it harder for you?"

"Oh, well, um," Susan stammered. "I mean..."

"Susan you can root for Hufflepuff," said Harry quickly. "It won't change anything with us."

Susan smiled widely and nodded.

"Who's the new Ravenclaw Seeker? Their old Seeker wasn't much to owl home about," said Ron with a laugh. "I didn't see their try-outs, that tends to be kept secret between Houses."

"Yeah, Wood always did that with us," agreed Harry. "The new Seeker is Cho Chang. She's, um, well, she's not tall. She's the right sort of, um, size, I guess. Shorter."

Parvati gave him an odd look. "I think I know who you mean. Pretty girl, right? Popular too?"

"Um, I suppose, I don't really know how popular she is. But Luna thought she seemed cool," Harry said with a fond smile. "And Ginny probably will whinge to you about Cho for some reason, which she refused to explain to me."

"Did Cho do something bad?" Ron asked. "I mean, if Luna thinks she's cool, she's probably not a meanie or bully."

"Just the opposite," said Harry with a shake of his head, still not sure himself. "Flitwick asked her to help out Luna with her bullies. That's pretty cool in my book."

"That's lovely," said Susan with a smile. "I'm sure Ginny just has some jealousy or something."

Harry blinked and thought about that. "Huh. Actually you might be right. But wait, jealous of what?" There was something he wasn't putting together, but he supposed he'd figure it out later. "Well, anyway, Cedric and Cho seem pretty decent. I think Cedric is a sixth year?" Susan shook her head. "Fifth year then. And pretty sure Cho is the year above us."

"Right," said Parvati with a nod. "She is."

Harry sighed and sat down heavily on his seat. "There's something in the air, don't you think? I think this year is going to be the maddest one yet."

Ron winced. "Harriet, I don't much care to hear that."

"Better to be prepared," said Parvati in a prim tone. "Considering how Sirius Black is still out there, and who knows what's going on with-" She gave Harry a look. "A few other troubles we've had that I won't get into. And how those Slytherins are still bloody awful, and I'm sure Mandy Brocklehurst is still an insufferable bint."

The rest of them laughed at that.

"Small favours for some things never changing," said Harry with a sigh and he looked out the window. Night had finally fallen, and the countryside had an eerie, magical quality under moonlight. "Still, rather be at Hogwarts than not, am I right?"

"Too right, Harriet," said Ron with a grin.

Susan just nodded and then poked Ron. "Care to finish your losing game, Weasley?"

"Oh, is that how it is? Alright, Bones, let's see how you manage against my best tactics."

Parvati moved over to sit next to Harry, and she leaned her head on his shoulder.

"Don't get too stuck in your head this year, okay?" She asked softly. "You'll see. Hogwarts will be better than ever, even if it gets as mad as you think."

Harry smiled at her and nodded. "Yeah, you know what? I think you're probably right." And if she wasn't, Harry decided, he'd make sure otherwise.


End of Chapter Twenty-Three

Next Time, teenagers are nutters and Lupin is really trying his best.

"A well prepared Wolfsbane potion, eh?" Harry grinned. "Which means you're the one making it, so it obviously is."

"Obviously," Snape repeated with a small smirk.