Chapter 06
Veela Issues Concern Everyone
Harry's POV
I feel very happy to be Dumbledore's grandson as his diversion technique worked flawlessly and I happily take the book, laughing when I read the title because grandpa was indeed telling the truth; this chapter has me and Professor Lupin written all over it. Then my excitement is piqued as I had already studied this spell and I start reading.
The Patronus
This makes especially the Seventh years and my friends turn to me excitedly and I know that while the Seventh years probably want to know about the spell they are only told about, that my friends want to know how I learn it in the first place. This has my interest as well as the best test subject is a Dementor and that makes me shudder lightly.
I then look at Professor Lupin and think: "No way would he expose me to such a thing, even if he can use the spell himself, he knows how badly the Dementors affect me. I told him myself that they're my –." And instantly do I realize what my practice subject will be and I smile happily at the man before turning back to the reading.
Harry knew … with her.
This makes me cringe and I say: "That's probably my first thought on the whole matter. The real reason I would be angry is because I would feel betrayed that you didn't trust me enough to try and explain." The girl nods, sending me a small smile while I can still see the hurt and guilt shine in her eyes and I read on.
He had … come back.
This makes Ron and me lower our heads and Hermione says: "Hey, courage is – in some eyes – just another word for stubbornness and you are the best Gryffindors Hogwarts has ever known." And Ron shouts: "HEY!" Before we all look at each other and laugh hard, all of us glad that, even if this could have happened, it won't now.
I then look at the two friends that were always there for me, even if the whole school turned on me and think: "This probably won't be the first time one of us will feel betrayed by the others, not with how my Gang described the contents of the other books." I then turn to where the books are stacked and my smile vanishes as I think:
"At least now we can read about and prepare for it before it even happens. Though – if we change all that will happen in just the first few books, what will happen in the rest of them? Who's to say those years won't be even worse than the books describe? Is it really safe to go this far back?" And while I worry over this, do I read on.
All in … against Ravenclaw!"
"Harry can fly anything against anyone, trust me on that one." Jack then suddenly says and Eddy goes on: "Yeah, he didn't chose to become a Test Pilot for just about all Broom Building Companies without reason, you know." And while I feel shocked at what they just said, can I not help but feel as if that job really fits me.
This makes me smile at the two and I ask: "When did I take that job?" And Jeremy says: "You were offered to redo your Seventh year a week after the war ended, but told McGonagall you wanted to live up your family name. You got in contact with Gringotts through Bill and he showed you a list of all the companies your family owns."
I nod, while curious over what could be on that list and say: "And from that did I decide to become a Test Pilot?" Jeremy nods and I say: "I can certainly see myself as such, even if our plan was for me to be teacher." Jeremy cringes and he says: "You explained us why you didn't follow up with that plan, Harry, it wasn't pretty."
This worries me and I ask: "What was the reason?" And Jeremy sighs and takes a deep breath, Elena and Rosaline taking one of his hands each as he says: "The reason you didn't want to become teacher – was because Hogwarts was the battlefield for the Last Battle and it only reminded you of all the deaths you had to witness."
This comes down on me like a crasher wave and I look from my Gang leader to everyone else, my mind's eye already picturing how each and everyone around me could look would they be killed here, on the one place I have called home for the last three years. Shuddering and trying not to let my tears drop, I suddenly feel something.
A warm arm around each of my shoulder and looking around, I see Sirius and Aunt Rosie both holding me while looking at me with eyes that invite me to chose with who I wish to seek comfort. Deciding to pick the man that has just faced hell for twelve years, do I send a short glance at Aunt Rosie and turn to Sirius.
The man hugs me closely, his arms around me in a loose, but loving hold and I know it's because I initiated the hug that the Aurors aren't making a sound of protest or anything else, yet I don't care for this as the idea of these students dying – dying when they should be safe within Hogwarts – is just impossible for me to process.
For a few minutes Sirius and I just keep close to each other, until the idea that we can change this – that we must change this – finally reaches my heart and mind and I take a deep breath and whisper: "Thank you." But not just to Sirius as my eyes seek out my Grandfather, who I know kept the students quiet during those few minutes.
The two men nod, both smiling at me and I take another deep breath and a quick hug from Aunt Rosie before I grab the book and ask: "A reading break after lunch?" And Grandpa nods, while many students sigh in relief, obviously glad with the new opportunity for them to discuss what they had just been told. And with that do I read on.
"He got … a broomstick?"
This makes Oliver send me a regretful look, but I smile at him as I have a feeling that I share first spot in his heart along with Quidditch and that, in the story, the boy has just decided not to seek me out anymore as Christmas has already passed here. Sending the elder boy an understanding smile back, do I focus back on the book.
"I know." … a Firebolt …"
"And there I proved my mum right." Oliver grumbles and we all look at him as he says: "She just told me that I sometimes channel my dad when I talk about brooms and she's still got this crazy idea in her head that Professional Quidditch killed him. He was 67 and had been retired for over 25 years. How could a forgotten career kill him?"
He asks with his arms in the air and I ask: "Your dad resigned Quidditch before you were born?" Oliver nods and says: "He played as reserve for the Captain of several Junior Leagues and played a few friendly games between international teams if their Keeper had a bad injury, but neither occurred during his death."
"How did he die?" Hermione asks and Oliver shakes his head with his eyes on the table and he says: "We don't know. It was some kind of internal injury and my mum was dead against Muggle doctors, because she feared it would reveal our secrets as wizards. He – he just got more and more ill and died in his sleep when I was 8 years old."
This makes us all lower our heads and Hermione whispers: "Do you think it could have been cancer or aids, Harry?" And I nod my head, while really wishing I was closer to Oliver so I could personally question him about this. I then send a quick look at Madam Pomfrey and the woman nods when she catches it before I read on.
Lessons started … white-hot logs.
This makes Hagrid smile widely and Dumbledore nods, while Ron grumbles: "See, he can give good lessons, if idiots don't try to ruin it." But I send him a look as he starts to raise his voice and I whisper: "Keep personal beliefs personal when in public rooms, Ron." And my best friend nods, looking red, before I read on.
The first … ever seen.
This makes the woman gasp and she wants to run over, but then grandpa says: "Sybil please, think of your class schedule." And he sends me a quick wink, while the woman nods and sits back down. I sigh in relief and think: "Yeah, and by the time you get there, I'll be in Ancient Runes and far away from you." And I quickly read on.
It was … as possible.
This makes me smile and send a smile at the man, which the man catches and I whisper: "Tea, this morning." And my teacher seems to realize what I mean as his own face grows into a wide smile, while Ron and Hermione send me a confused look as I only told them of my meeting globally, but I shake my head and read on.
"Ah yes." … her again."
This makes me look at Ron as if he's lost it and I ask: "You do realize that you're talking about Hermione, right? The same Hermione that realized what the Monster of last year was through my little Snake ability?" To which the redhead turns as red as his hair and he asks: "Yeah, I know. What was I thinking saying that?"
This makes me shrug with a smile and then Hermione whispers: "You know too, don't you?" And I quickly look around to make sure no one heard her, but when I see all the curious eyes aimed at me, do I quickly diverse their attention and say: "Future me sure does, seeing the book will reveal it." The girl nods and I read on.
At eight … on him.
"Why are you so sure of that, Remus?" Professor McGonagall asks and the man sends me a questioning look, to which I nod and he answers: "Because Harry confessed to me that his biggest fear is indeed a Dementor, Minerva. He confessed it because I had my Third years face one during their first class this year."
The woman nods and asks: "And Mr. Potter's changed into a Dementor?" But Lupin shakes his head and says: "I was, back then, of the belief it would change into Lord Voldemort and therefore jumped in front of Harry when it was his turn to face the Boggart." The woman nods with a proud smile and I read on, slightly irked.
I can … Patronus Charm."
Again all Seventh years and my friends lean forward, but now the twins and those in their year also lean forward, obviously excited about hearing something that is beyond the test level they will be undertaking later in the year. This makes me slightly worried that I won't be able to do it and I bite back a gulp before reading on.
"How does … large club.
This makes the man in question laugh hard and he says: "Harry, I could never be your Patronus. I'm as scared of those monsters as anyone." This makes me smile at the man as I shrug and Grandpa says: "I think it shows just how much Harry really trusts you, Hagrid, that he sees you as his guardian against the Dementors."
To this I nod and the man turns red, while I can see on the faces of those around me that many others are agreeing with my idea of Hagrid being a good guardian against Dementors. But then the words he said turn my idea around and I think: "As much as I trust Hagrid, I would never let him face something he fears."
And I look at Ron, who I know willingly did so last year and was almost eaten for it. Wincing at this thought and hoping that it will never come up in the stories, do I whisper: "Jeremy, does Aragog appear in the stories?" And Jeremy whispers back: "Sixth year." Making me wince again before quickly reading on again.
Professor Lupin … happy memory."
This makes me turn grim as I know that, even with Ron and Hermione – and now Sirius, the Gang and grandpa – I don't have all that many happy memories and that will certainly make the lessons on how to conjure one all the harder. Hoping I won't burden my favorite teacher by having to come back again and again, do I read on.
Harry cast about … to do.
"Not even our Gang?" Jeffrey asks shocked and I answer: "I'm probably trying not to think of you guys in case something of our plan went wrong. Seeing it already sort of did back in my first." The young boy – who I consider my younger brother in all but blood – nods in understanding while Sirius grabs my hand and I read on.
Finally, he a broomstick.
This makes Lupin wince and I wince myself as I see it, before asking: "Not happy enough?" And Lupin shakes his head as he says: "Winning an important Quidditch match or breaking a Quidditch record would have been better and even then am I not entirely sure if it would have been enough for a Corporal Patronus."
This makes me sigh and say: "Then that Boggart is sure to make me faint again." And I shudder as I just know I will be reading about my mum again. Looking from the book to Aunt Rosie, the woman nods and whispers: "I'll read that part." Making me smile at her in pure relief before I focus back on the book and read on.
"Right." he … did he?
This makes everyone around me wince and Aunt Rosie grabs my shoulder again, pulling me under her arm and into her side as she lovingly rubs my upper arm in comfort, Sirius moving along the bench a little himself to keep a firm hold on my hand. I smile at both of them, grateful for all the support they give me and read on.
Lupin grasped … were dissolving …
Here I stop as I can already see that I will fail at this attempt and Aunt Rosie takes the book from me, holding it open with the arm not around my shoulders and kissing my temple, whispering: "You did great, just relax." And I lie my head down on her shoulder, Sirius now using his other hand to rub my back as Aunt Rosie reads on.
Harry was … girl –""Harry!"
This confuses me as that wasn't said last time and Lupin says: "That last one must have been me. I must have been trying to wake you up again." I nod, while trying not to feel embarrassed and Sirius whispers: "When I was in Auror training it took me until halfway through my second year of training before I mastered the spell."
This makes me smile at the man gratefully and he says: "And I was eighteen. There's nothing wrong with missing on your first chance. That's what learning at Hogwarts is all about. To have plenty of room for opportunity and more than enough chances to learn where in school you excel best at. Right Remus, Albus?"
And both my grandpa and Professor Lupin nod with proud smiles at the man and Aunt Rosie says: "Good to know my little one has someone care for him here as I did when he lived with his aunt." Making Sirius smile at her widely, his eyes showing not just his gratitude for her, but his love for me as well.
This makes tears appear in my eyes and I quickly turn my head deeper into Aunt Rosie, faking to lie a hand on her other shoulder in order to sneakily wipe the tears away and I take a deep breath, before moving away again and saying: "I can read from here, Aunt Rosie, thanks." The woman nods and I take the book and read on.
Harry jerked … very happy.
This makes Lupin smile, but I already know, just by a feeling in my gut, that this won't do either and I wonder why my gut feels as bad as Hermione's must have when she insisted on reading last chapter. Looking at the girl and then back at the book, I slightly move back a little closer to Aunt Rosie and then quickly read on.
He gripped … shouting, panicking –
This shocks me enough to drop the book, making it fall and balance on the table's edge for a second, before falling off and dropping down onto the stone floor below. Yet, the whole thing goes unnoticed by me as I can only think of what I just read and who that panicked male voice could be and Sirius voices my thoughts as he whispers:
"James." Making everyone look at me and making Aunt Rosie hug me so tightly, I almost disappear from sight in her embrace. I cling to the soft orange jacket she's wearing and bury my head in her chest, if only to hide from the fact that I will come to hear both my parents die if I try to learn the Patronus Spell.
This makes a strong shudder go through me, even if the thought of finally hearing what their voices sound like entrances me and I think: "What am I going to do? I never heard their voices, but to hear it when I am on the brink of danger? I can't risk that, the Gang will have come back in time for nothing if I do that."
I shake my head and think: "There has to be another way I can hear their voices, find out more about them. There has to be a way and I'll find it." And I take a deep breath to solidify this new determined thought stream before parting from Aunt Rosie again and sending a concerned look at Professor Lupin and Sirius.
Both of them are as pale as I must be, but both have looks of determination on their faces as they seem to be sharing a private conversation with each other just by glances and this makes me look at Ron and Hermione, who look at me worried, but I smile at them as I know our bond is just as close as the bond between the two males.
Ron and Hermione seem to take new courage out of my smile and I silently motion for Lupin and Sirius as I whisper: "We're just as close." And the two nod, obviously happy that I found something to help me forget what I am about to read about. Then suddenly I notice that Grandpa has the book and before I can ask, does he read.
"Lily, take … pitched laughter –
This makes everyone look down, even Snape, while I clearly saw his eyes widen when he heard what my dad had said and while I can't help but wish I could have heard his voice and the tone of it when this was read, am I still happy to know just what my dad's final words were as they are truly words to be proud of.
I smile at Grandpa and thank him with a nod, the man smiling back at me as he says: "I read ahead, you won't be hearing them anymore." This makes everyone around me smile and as the man hands me the book, I hear him whisper: "Well done, Harry." Shocking me as it might mean that I actually did it and I hurriedly read on.
"Harry! Harry … did you?"
This makes Sirius look at Lupin and he asks: "He didn't know you knew James?" Lupin sighs and I answer: "We suspect that either someone has been keeping people's mail from reaching me or that it was taken from me before I could find out about it by Aunt Petunia." The man looks shocked but nods and I read on.
"I – I … what was …
"Especially because it meant we could create our plan and through it find help for all of us." I add, smiling at my friends, before I lower my head and say: "Even if the plan didn't exactly go as we had hoped." But the Gang shrugs and Jeremy says: "We like this outcome better. Has better results for everyone." I nod at this and read on.
Concentrating very … better judgement.
"I probably did. I don't think I would have planned for you to face that Boggart three times in such a short time span, not with what it changes into." Lupin tells me gently and then Sirius asks: "Why didn't you let him learn it the way we did? By letting him perfection the spell before trying it out against a Boggart Dementor?"
And while I am shocked as such a strategy is much better and makes me determined to do so, something I know the Gang probably already expects of me as they smile at me while I look at Lupin, does the man answer: "Probably because I didn't want to risk him not knowing the spell before he could get attacked again."
Sirius nods and I smile at the man, feeling it must be pretty hard for him to change his time plans so drastically, just to make sure I can defend myself, would the need arise. Then the same Auror as the one who had been against us this entire time scoffs and says: "Leave it to a newbie teacher to get his student endangered during class."
To which McGonagall turns on him furiously, her nose thrills white and very wide as she says: "First of all, it was not a class, it was a special bit of training between a single student and teacher. Second of all." Now she smirks and says: "Leave it to the newbie Auror to end up blabbing his mouth away with the wrong conclusion."
Now the Auror in question turns red, slightly when McGonagall started tearing into him and even more when she ended, while the female Hit-Wizard groans: "Johnson, that impatience has been costing you your well-deserved promotion for over five fortnights now. Get over it!" She shouts at the end and I read on.
"Concentrating hard? … wasn't sure …
At this I stop as I can barely believe what I'm reading and then grandpa hugs me fiercely, making the silence that had been around me since I started reading burst and making all of the students of Hufflepuff and Gryffindor mostly cheer like mad, while the Ravenclaws applaud wildly and some Slytherins join along.
Yet all of this passes me by completely as the pride and love that I can feel in grandpa's hug is something I have never felt before, except for when Aunt Rosie would hug me for doing well on a school test. And even with that, does this feel different and I cuddle myself into my grandfather's beard, knowing why.
It's because Grandpa is really family, a family of mine that is of my own flesh and blood, someone who is related to me and actually cares, unlike the people I have lived with for the last twelve years and who made my last summer the worst hell on earth I have ever experienced, actually pushing me into committing vengeance.
I then try my hardest to suppress both my shudder of repulsion at how those four ruined my last summer and my shudder of fear at the thought of how they will try and get me back, but these thoughts are now easily pushed to the back of my mind, simply by the emotions grandpa is sending me through the hug as I read on.
"Ridikulus!" roared … more go?"
"Harry James Potter, if your body tells you to stop, you stop, young man." Aunt Rosie now says, her anger being betrayed by the huge proud smile on her face and everyone who sees this laughs, while I just quietly ask grandpa if I can sit in his lap again and the man happily pulls me in, smiling at me widely as I read on.
"Not now." … getting late.
Now many of the adults cringe and Lupin says: "It was actually a common agreement between us teachers that my friendship with Sirius would never be mentioned while I was inside these walls to teach." This makes me cringe, but then Lupin smiles and says: "Something you could not have known, Harry." Making me smile as I read on.
Harry left … parents again.
Now grandpa holds me close and whispers: "I'll make sure as many people as possible will fill my Pensive and then we will enter together so you can see tons and tons of memories of your parents, is that okay, Harry?" I nod, while shocked that such magic exists and many of those around us smile at this as I read on.
"They're dead." … Quidditch Cup."
"Can't believe I'm saying this, but winning that Cup shouldn't be your reason for wanting to learn that spell, Harry." Oliver tells me, while the rest of the team looks at him shocked and I smile at the elder teen, happy beyond words that I can now experience what my book-self never got the chance for – Oliver's love – and with that I read on.
Ravenclaw played … his homework.
Now Oliver cringes and says: "How about we all do our homework together and then team up for practice if I do indeed feel we need more days to practice?" All of my team nods and I feel amazed that, while I am the youngest, the group still wants to study with me. I smile at them widely, all of them smiling back and I read on.
Even so … was interrupted.
This makes Hermione cringe and McGonagall says: "Mss. Granger, I want you to use our agreement from now on to make sure you do your homework, get to your classes and get at least one hour of rest and relaxation a day, do you understand?" My best friend nods and I turn to Ron, both of us nodding as we think the same thing.
I then turn to Hermione and say: "Hermione, I don't know what your agreement with Professor McGonagall holds, but – my instincts are telling me – it would be best if you study in the library and then spend that hour of rest with us in the common room, okay?" The girl looks at me shocked and then nods quickly as I read on.
"How's she … it first."
This shocks me and makes me wonder if I can really trust Oliver in a relationship, but then hear a pitiful moan and look at Oliver, who has his head hidden in his arms as he seems to have moved over to the stone sitting platforms and I'm pretty sure that the elder teen just gave himself a migraine knocking his head against it.
Deciding to comfort the boy that could possibly make my future a lot happier, do I say: "Oliver, I'm sure that Quidditch and I share an equally important part in your heart and because I am a part of your heart and a part of the Quidditch part of your heart, must it be pretty hard for you to word how you feel when in a discussion."
Now Oliver smiles at me, while Ron mutters: "Way too forgiving, that kid." But I ignore him as Oliver looks at Aunt Rosie, grandpa and Sirius real quick before he turns to me and asks: "Can I make it up with a first Hogsmeade date?" Making the three people he looked at look shocked before they all laugh hard.
I personally feel the need to hide back in grandpa's beard as I had not expected such a request, especially not because what we read has yet to happen and I look at the same three people, all of them smiling encouragingly as grandpa asks: "Are you okay with three chaperones, Mr. Wood?" And I blush even harder as Oliver nods.
"Then it's a date." Sirius says, making me look at him wide eyed as I think: "Who did Oliver ask here?" But then Oliver says: "Sorry Mr. Black, but I think I asked Harry." Making me smile at him as his eyes are pleading, making me giggle softly before I mutter: "It's a date." Making a huge smile appear on his face as I read on.
Wood shook … Harry flatly.
"He won't need to order anything. You both just need some more patience and McGonagall needs to be a little more open to her students." Sirius says, snarling at the end as he spats: "Like she was when we were still in school and like James and I always hoped she would be to –." But then he suddenly screams in pain, shocking us all.
He grabs his head and almost interlocks his fingers as his palms press themselves against his temples, his eyes closed as if he just got hit with a Migraine spell or is suffering from brain damage and he pants and moans as he seems to try and remain upright, his moans actually sounding as if he's trying to say my dad's name.
Wondering what could be wrong with him, I shout: "Madame Pomfrey!" And the woman is as quick as Professor McGonagall when there's trouble between me and Malfoy as she already has her wand out and jumps over the Head Table and the stone platforms, making many of those around us look at her shocked.
She aims her wand at what little she can reach of his temple while his hand is still there and waves it in several delicate and intricate moves before she gasps in shock and says: "There's a terrible mind spell stuck to his Veela self. If he were to try and remember anymore of what his Veela went through, the pain will only worsen."
Everyone is shocked at this and Sirius growls: "That filth." And I know he means whoever actually did betray my parents. Madam Pomfrey then seems to be casting even more spells – of which I can only assume are to help Sirius heal – but then she gasps even worse, her grip loosening to the extend where she almost drops it.
Wondering if Azkaban made the healing process impossible or something, my stomach drops in pure terror as the woman whispers: "The spell is on every single adult in this room that went to school with James and Lily; even I myself. I – I just can't fathom why anyone would use such a dark, dangerous and complex spell."
But then Sirius, who seems to have accepted the reason behind his pain as his mind seems away from my dad, says: "To further break us apart." Everyone looks at him and he says: "Whatever the connection is between my Veela and my memories of James, it obviously made us strong when we were at war.
That means that the person – and I know who it is, but won't ruin the end of the book – has tried to break us up as he must have known the same thing I do. A baby cannot defeat someone with more than fifty years of magical experience. Voldemort will come back and the rat wants us emotionally weak and divided when he does."
Everyone looks at this shocked, the younger years terrified of the idea of Voldemort coming back and Sirius turns to the books as he says: "And it seems that the little scumbag will succeed." But then grandpa says: "Not here, Sirius. I won't allow it." Sirius nods, takes a deep breath and a cup of water and I continue reading, worried myself.
January faded … badgering me."
"He wouldn't have badgered you if you just told him stuff like this at the start, not at the twelfth time he tried." Sirius says, clearly irritable he can't fully remember the things he did with my dad and I wonder who could be cruel enough to manipulate memories like that with someone like Sirius before I quickly read on.
To make … voices again.
"Harry, you're thirteen. It's amazing you got the Patronus that far. It's something to be proud of." Sirius says and he goes on: "Even though it does worry me over how your Patronus will act in the face of a real Dementor." And while a shiver of fear runs down my spine at the thought of that, does grandpa state very clearly:
"That will never happen again, Sirius. The Dementors are off of Hogwarts and I will not allow a single one to return.""Not even if they protect those we want protected?" Auror Johnson asks honingly and the glare Dumbledore sends him actually makes him meep in pure fear and makes me want to hide in his beard.
The power I feel radiating off him, however, cause me to smile happily as it feels warm, protective and comforting, something Uncle Vernon never made me feel when he allowed his full emotions to show and while I shake my head at the stupidity of trying to compare that Muggle with my grandpa, does the latter say:
"My grandson is highly affected by these monsters and I don't recall seeing any threats here as long as my teachers, you yourself and your superiors do their work and keep to their agreements, Auror Johnson." The Auror nods, while his superiors moan at his pitiful behavior and I wonder how he became an Auror as I read on.
"You're expecting … Lupin, smiling.
"You'd be one of few." I mutter softly, but then Ron says: "Bull plop." And I know he changed his swear word because of the teachers near, but I still can't help but look at him in astonishment as he says: "Harry, I can easily name just under 20 people who have full confidence in you – and then I'm not counting teachers along."
To this I raise my eyebrow at him as my years at Hogwarts – not to mention the treatment and nasty words from Vernon this summer – have severely made me doubt my best friend's words, but then he says: "Fred, George, Ginny, Percy, Hermione, me, Oliver, Katie, Angelina, Alicia and your nine friends from the future."
Now I look shocked, having believed my best friend was bluffing and then he says: "And with that you can add Professor Lupin, Dumbledore, Hagrid, Sprout, Sirius and your Aunt Rosie as the adults. So never again say people don't have confidence in you, because those closest to you, will always feel confident in your abilities, mate."
Now I have tears in my eyes, never having expected my best friend – or anyone – to care for me this much and then, while he softly squeezes my hand, does Oliver say: "Hey Ron." Making Ron turn to him as he asks: "I thought I was the one courting Harry?" And while my friend and I turn red, do the others laugh and I quickly read on.
"Here – you've … a while.
"Watch it, this proves that Harry has Blood of the Ancients." Irma suddenly reads and everyone looks at her shocked as she says: "It refers to the file and says that this only proves that Harry has the blood of the Ancients and those never let anyone mess with their families." Everyone nods and Sirius then softly says:
"The Potters were definitely known for being vindictive, but I can't shake the feeling –." Only to scream in renewed pain, shocking everyone and making Madam Pomfrey shove a Pain Relief potion down his throat, while I really hope that she has her kit filled with special potions for those who could be allergic to ingredients.
Yet this problem seems not to be the case as Sirius sighs in relief once he is done drinking the flask and Lupin mutters: "Let's hope that reading the file will allow us to understand this strange pain Sirius keeps feeling. I just don't understand why it's focused on his bond and memories of James." Everyone agrees with this and I read on.
"What's under … of Butterbeer.
Which is something that happens to many of those around me as some of the students had been about to take a drink to moisten their dry mouths after hearing such a tense topic change and several of the first years whiten, before grandpa suddenly turns to them and asks: "Do you truly wish to know the truth of the Dementor?"
And the First years now seem divided as some nod, while others shake their heads in pure fear, the largest group of this being at the Ravenclaw table and grandpa says: "Those who do not, please come over, so I can charm you to become primarily deaf to the dangerous parts of the reading, so you can only hear the commentary."
And at least seventy students, not just first years, but also ten Seconds and several Third years, under which Leanne from Hufflepuff come to the man, grandpa smiling at them in pride for acknowledging their fears and I personally feel relieved as I feared the books scarring the younger years when reading of the war.
Glad to now have a solution to this problem, do I say: "You best repeat that request a few times, grandpa, I don't think the students fully realize what's ahead of them. Even I'm not sure what will be ahead of us." Grandpa nods and while some students had looked insulted at first, are they now at ease with my words and I read on.
"What – they … ever … lost."
By now several of the students who hadn't gone to see grandpa about his spell are shaking with fright and some of them are looking at grandpa as if asking him if it's still possible to be spelled like their fellow year and house mates. The man then sighs and asks: "Harry, how many more paragraphs on this topic?"
I quickly read on, but then whiten at what book-me actually says and shout: "Grandpa, privacy spell on Sirius, NOW!" Everyone looks at me shocked, but then Sirius wraps an arm around me and whispers: "I know book-you doesn't think like you do, Harry. I know you don't agree with him. It's okay, kiddo."
But I shake my head and say: "I am NOT reading this. This goes too much against what I belief in. Let Auror Johnson read this part. He'd actually agree on it." This makes many students share shocked looks, but while I had been so vehement on my speech, had my eyes been glued to one small part of the page I'm reading.
These three sentences, all under each other, keep popping up in front of me, my eyes constantly drawn to them, making it hard for me to think of anything else and then suddenly Auror Johnson seems to agree with me as summons the book over and says: "Let's see what scares our little hero so." And while many glare, does he read.
Lupin drank … Sirius Black.
Instantly shouts and screams of shock run through the group, my friends the loudest of them all as they seem to have really grown a liking of Sirius, having been proven by him that what we believed in the story is really not true and Auror Johnson lets sparks shoot out of his wand to quiet us all before he reads on loudly.
It was … find him."
This makes me send a worried, desperate glance at my grandfather and the man holds up his hand, smiling at me as he says: "I've already invited Cornelius to read along with us once we reach the chapters of the truth. Those will most certainly make sure he doesn't make this decision again." I nod in relief and Sirius says:
"Thanks Albus." The elder man nods, but while many students now start to softly mutter about the man's good action, do I hear a derisive snort coming from the far end of the room and – while trying to make it look as if I'm glancing at Hufflepuff table, do I instead look at Johnson, the look in his eyes as he reads unsettling me.
Harry sat … of Black.
Here, knowing that now I will show just how heartless and thoughtless my book-self can be, do I try to push myself into becoming one with Sirius, desperate to show him I don't mean what book-me will say one bit. Sirius seems to realize my intentions as he softly caresses my hair and whispers: "You and him are different."
Making me smile at him, tears in my eyes as I whisper back: "I'm still just so sorry." But then gasps are heard all around me and I realize that Sirius and I were so deep into conversation with each other that we had talked right through the terrible part. I look at Johnson and he says: "Heh, kind of agree with the kid."
Making me whiten more than the white clean sheets on aunt Petunia's bed after she had me wash them for four to five times and for the umpteenth time that day do I feel the room filling itself with the emotions of my grandfather as the man lets his magic strengthen them to surround us all and the man says:
"No murder will ever occur on Hogwarts school, Auror Johnson, just like the Dementors will never commit their foulest acts around my students or staff. Am I clear?" And the man seems to be completely overwhelmed by the fierce, cold anger of my grandfather as he nods and I quickly summon the book back before reading.
"He deserves … by that.
"Happy, no. You're right, I would not have been happy with the fact that you evaded all of our security means and still got to go. Proud and impressed. I definitely would have been, seeing it was your grandfather who installed them. Then again, I don't think I would have shown that, though, so you're probably right after all."
The man says, his side turned to me and his hand softly rubbing his chin with his thumb and forefinger and while Sirius laughs hard, apparently used to this stance and behavior of my Defence teacher, do I smile at the man myself, glad that the man isn't angry at me and that he cares enough to playfully show me so as I read on.
So he … somewhere, Potter."
"Wait, is she talking about what I think she's talking about?" The twins ask in unison, both of them amazingly exited and I smile at them, having read ahead while they had asked the question. The smile they apparently take as confirmation and both shout in ultimate joy, the others on the team following them soon afterwards.
This, apparently, causes for all of Gryffindor to realize what is read about and excited chatter rushes along the table, me catching phrases like: "As if he wasn't fast before." And: "Will we even be able to see him with that broom?" And of course: "We're going to win for sure." Making me smile widely as I read on.
Harry's jaw … as ever.
"Which is something I could have told you, had I known you were unknown about the means of striping down. I merely assumed because you had always been so careful with your Nimbus that you knew all about how to care for and protect a broom from both magical and other forms of harm. I'm sorry, Mr. Potter, I should have asked."
The Transfigurations teacher tells me with her head low at the end and I shrug as I say: "I do like to keep my broom safe from harm – especially seeing the rivalry between Houses when it comes to Quidditch, but I never really got to look after it until Hermione gave me my birthday present this last year, Professor."
The woman nods and grandpa says: "I think we can all benefit from a little meeting after the reading, where Sirius, Minerva and I can try – through conversation – to see how much you really know of this world, dear boy." To this I nod, already excited to get a chance to learn more about my own world and I quickly read on.
"Seriously." Said … last night …"
At this I don't know whether to grimace at the man or snicker at the way Professor McGonagall says it, even if I'm sure my tone doesn't resemble the one she would have used during this conversation, but while some of the Slytherins show cocky grins of pride at the reminder, do I keep my back to them and read on calmly.
Speechless, Harry … it? Tomorrow?"
"RONALD!" Hermione suddenly shouts and she goes on: "I know it was my fault, but Harry hasn't even gotten to ride it himself. How selfish can you be?" My best friend turns red and I hear Jeremy ask me: "And he's your best friend here for what reason?" Making me glare at the Leader of my Gang as I whisper back:
"Because he saw through my scar and was willing to sit with me even though he knew I was famous when I first came to Hogwarts." The boy nods and I hiss back: "Everyone has his faults, Jeremy, you know that." And my Leader shows me a small look of pride, making me know I almost crossed the line with our Gang as I read on.
"Yeah … anything … a change."
"Was that you making a point on how you think about working in general or you stating your actual worries for your best friend working so much?" Irma asks Ron and the boy cringes as he says: "A little of both, I think." But I know that Irma loves this kind of answer, so wide and varied like the water and the girl nods as I read on.
They turned … chambers within!"
"You'd think after being our portrait for almost three months that he'd be able to recognize us Gryffindors from other students, don't you?" Fred asks his twin, his tone clearly showing he doesn't even believe his own words and George is quick to grab his twin around the shoulder and shake his head as he says:
"My dear, dear, ever caring brother. We can't all be geniuses and able to tell a red trim from a green one. Or a lion from a raven. Just face it, brother of mine, some of us are just plain blind, even if we have eyes painted on us." And while everyone had been laughing since George called himself genius, do I now read on with a loud snicker.
"Oh, shut … with them!"
Suddenly I see Hermione send me a pointed look and I raise my eyebrow at her before she whispers: "Don't you think it's strange that this comes up in the story? It must have some kind of connection to something." And while I nod at her theory, do I already know that it's something for future chapters and read on.
"Oddsbodikins." Said .. their eyes.
This suddenly makes Sirius snort and he says: "Clever, Hermione, but not clever enough." Everyone looks at the man and he says: "She wasn't learning. She was sitting in the back in the hopes not to get into another argument. I've seen Remus do that so many times when he would disapprove of one of our pranks, hilarious."
And while I noticed the spell going over the twins again, probably making them hear something else instead of our pranks, does Hermione turn beet red and Remus wraps an arm around her as he says: "Just have some more faith in your friends, Hermione. They haven't stuck with you all these years without reason."
"LOOK WHO'S TALKING!" Sirius suddenly shouts and he goes on: "Those are the exact words we constantly threw at your head, at least one to seven times a month. FOR SIX YEARS!" And when Remus says: "They finally stuck." Does Sirius look at him dumbstruck and does everyone laugh at the two of them.
I see Remus wink at Sirius as everyone laughs and Sirius sends him a devious smirk back, his eyes half-closed to mask the mischief in them and while Remus looks slightly frightened, making me know that Sirius just – through his eyes – promised him retribution, do I wait for everyone to settle down before I read on.
Harry and … pouring over.
"Mss. Granger, don't tell me you were doing all that work at the same time." McGonagall says in shock and Hermione blushes as she says: "I – I can't be sure, Professor." And the woman nods as Hermione does speak the truth before she asks: "But that isn't how you're doing your homework now, is it Mss. Granger?"
And Hermione blushes even harder, making her hair almost blend with the red hair of the twins and she mutters: "I – I just don't like procrastinating, Professor. It feels as if – when I read up on something and learn about it – it's wrong of me to wait with showing that I know this, like through essays and papers."
By now Ron and some of the other Gryffindors that like to divide their time between studying and fun look at each other, obviously intrigued with what they've been told and McGonagall says: "Mss. Granger, while there is nothing wrong with your work-ethic, does your need to prove yourself hamper your personal health.
You are allowing your need to be the best and to show off what you have learned so that others can be proud of you to get in front of your need to care for yourself. That once happened to a student of mine when I first came here as a Head of House and I had to watch that student be on medical hold in St. Mungo's for a fortnight.
This was because I did not yet realize what someone's motivation and pride can do to them physically, but I swore myself never to let that happen again. Please promise me you will try and create a schedule where you can watch both your homework and your health, is that clear Mss. Granger?" The woman asks with a worried tone.
I personally feel shocked that someone would push him or herself that far, but then look from Hermione to Ron and think: "If she hadn't had us to hold her down and make her enjoy games like Chess and Quidditch, would she have turned out like that student?" And instantly fear runs through my body at the very idea.
The girl herself seems just as shocked and then lowers her head as she says: "I – I think I – that I can – try?" The woman sighs and I say: "You just have to give her time, Professor. She's been thinking and working like this for the last two years and two months. She need time to adjust to new schedules, everyone does."
The woman nods and says: "I will be counting on you and Mr. Weasley to help her, understand?" And while I silently think of how this might be a good time to start showing how much I already actually know – especially about things that others take for granted – do Ron and I nod solemnly, making Hermione smile as I read on.
"How are … as Lupin.
This makes Hermione blush and Remus look at the girl in worry as Sirius sighs and says: "Sounds like you when we were friends, doesn't she pall?" And Remus nods with a small smile, while this in itself sets my mind buzzing and while I look between the graying man and my best female friend sitting next to each other, do I think:
"What if Remus became Hermione's personal guardian here in the Magical World? Would that make it easier for her to study less because she could just go to someone she knows cares about her that knows about as much of this world as she does? Would having a parental figure in this world decrease her need to be the best she can be?"
And while I can already see a plan forming in my mind, one I intend to discuss with either grandpa and Professor McGonagall or grandpa and the Minister – if possible – does Sirius suddenly pull me close and ask: "What's on your devious little mind, kiddo? And don't lie to me, I saw that devious glint in your eyes, you know."
But I smile at the man, not quite ready yet to trust him with ideas like this and say: "Just curious about how Professor Lupin was before he became a teacher. If he was friends with you, I doubt he could have gotten much studying done." And while Sirius laughs hard, can I tell by Jeremy's look that he doesn't believe me and I read on.
"Why don't … stunned silence.
This alone is enough to shock everyone silent, but then Sirius rolls his eyes and says: "Great, the little bastard pulls the same trick again, huh?" But while we all look shocked, some of us wondering who Sirius could be talking about, does he grunt and shake his head, before muttering: "Now that was strange."
He then grabs his forehead again and instantly I realize what could be ailing my godfather as I share a shocked look with a bewildered Ron. The boy catches my glance and I mouth: "Lockheart." Before motioning for Sirius with my head and Ron seems to realize what I did as he stands up with shock and shouts:
"Sirius has been memory-wiped!" Shocking everyone silent. He then goes on and says: "He mentioned something being strange after making that comment and then grabbed his forehead. He was obviously talking about something happening in the past, but his pain proves he doesn't have the full memory. He's been wiped."
Everyone is shocked silent and Madame Pomfrey is quick to run her wand over Sirius yet again, the woman stopping with wide eyes as she says: "Mr. Weasley's right. There's a large trace of an Obliviation spell at the end of Mr. Black's memory of the day after Halloween, the day he was arrested."
This shocks and confuses everyone and Sirius asks: "Why would there be a blank at that area?" And Ron, clearly in his element, says: "Because it conceals who the real culprit is. He obviously didn't want you to remember that he did it –." But then Sirius shakes his head and says: "I know who it is. I escaped prison for him."
Now Ron seems bummed, but I know my friend isn't out of the field yet and he goes on: "Then, I – I can only assume that he wanted you to remember the things everyone is accusing you of doing, but you actually caught him doing something else as well. Something you would never do that he did and thus would prove your innocence.
He didn't want you stating about such things, so he wiped your memory of it." At this Sirius nods, but then he mutters: "But what could it be? That little rat already pulled the lowest trick imaginable, so – what else could he have done? And – and why did he wipe my memory from it? Where did I find him doing this?"
But nobody seems to know the answer to this and then suddenly Sirius asks: "In what street was I caught? I remember the Aurors coming to arrest me, but – maybe part of my journey was wiped and therefore do I now only remember them catching me, but not where." Many of those around me nod at this and grandpa answers:
"You were first almost caught at Sicamore street, just three blocks away from the Ministry. You were however yourself caught in –." And then grandpa seems to have made a breakthrough himself as he whispers: "The street where Peter Pettigrew used to live after he left home." And while Sirius seems intrigued at this, do I read on.
"HE'S GONE! … cat hairs.
This shocks everyone, but then Sirius leans back with his arms crossed and whistles as he says: "He sure did a better job of this little act than he did last time. Pretty poorly done, last time he tried." Now everyone looks shocked and then Percy asks: "So wait, you escaped Azkaban – to try and catch Scabbers?"
Sirius nods and Percy asks: "Why?" But Sirius shakes his head and says: "I've already revealed enough of the final chapters. I'm not going to make this entire book useless." And while Ron, Hermione and I all share a wondering look about why someone would try and hunt down a rat, do I lie the book down.
