Hey everyone,
So there was one person who actually read and answered the second question of the Bottom AN of last chapter, yet he was only half right. Yes, the Prewett twins are the twins that Dumbledore saw in his memory, yet no, it was not Ms. Rosie who was the second woman, that was someone else and someone who is actually Canon.
Care to guess, anyone,
Venquine1990
Chapter 10
Little Hummingbird
Oliver's POV
The break has been very interesting and I actually used it to convince the other girls that this is what Harry wants and what I want and that even Black himself accepts the bond between us, yet the three of them were still a little wary, which I can't really blame them for as I can sometimes be a little blind to very obvious things.
Two pieces of evidence for this are being presented to me multiple times in the book itself, one of them being my behavior regarding Harry and the Firebolt, the other being that book-me doesn't even feel like showing book-Harry any signs of the crush he has on the other lad and the final having taken place two years ago.
Yes, the fact that I never noticed how the others turned on Harry for losing one third of the 150 points that Gryffindor lost in his first is still a sore for me, yet when the girls tried using it, had I turned angry and spat: "You seriously dare to use that against me when you were in the wrong just as much going against him like you did?"
The three had turned silent at this in guilt and I had avoided them for the rest of the break, part of me still wanting to spill on them to the teachers, but another part of me not wanting this because I don't know how Harry will feel about that, yet the lovely lad had apparently had a bit of fun himself with his old friends.
The nine young adults had held a little private meeting in the middle of the Great Hall during the break and while I had wondered how this was possible when I heard about it, do those that told me say that the youngest, Jeffrey, used his wind powers to make them hear nothing but a rushing sound before the meeting ended.
The fact that the nine of them are actually Elementals is absolutely amazing, yet something about Jeffrey and the twins, for some reason or the other, reminds me of Harry and while I wonder if this little mystery of my own can be solved by the end of the reading and the file that the girl named Irma has, do I sit down.
Harry sits beside me and so does the Gang, Hermione, the Weasleys, Black and Professors Lupin and Dumbledore and then Snape, who had kept the book at his seat opens it at the marked page and smirks in interested glee before he sleekly asks: "Who would like to read this chapter? Mr. Flint or perhaps you, Mr. Wood?"
And instantly I know what the chapter is about and before the other Team Captain can do anything have I summoned the book over, Snape sneering at me, but I ignore it, feeling ever so confident that Book-Harry will be winning the Quidditch Finals for us and wanting to read him do it myself as I open the book and read:
The Quidditch Final
Instantly screams and cheers rush through the hall, everyone excited and most of those in my year and the year below mine making bets, the Snakes starting to stop cheering and start glaring as more and more bets are coming up in our favor and I quickly turn to Dumbledore, who silences everyone with his wand as I read on.
"He – he … us. Hagrid
Instantly the cheerful, excited mood from before is completely gone, only Malfoy himself and a few of his cronies still looking gleeful and then a Fourth year Hufflepuff says: "You know, I'm not as close to Professor Hagrid as Potter is, but this? This is just wrong on so many levels." And many of those around us nod as I read on.
"They can't … I'll help."
"Like I really should have done from the start. I really am sorry that I let you do all that work yourself, Hermione. I mean, I was as adamant to help Hagrid during winter as you were and then that fight between us worsened and boom – there goes my interest. That's just wrong. It's wrong to you and it's wrong to Hagrid and to Buckbeak."
Ron then says, his head lowered almost completely onto the table while his ears are as red as tomatoes and while the girl smiles in pride at his words, does Malfoy say: "Well, you know what they say." But then Greengrass spats: "Oh shut up, Malfoy. No one here cares what you think." And while the blonde turns red, do I read on.
"Oh Ron!" … drew away.
"Well, that must have been awkward." The twins then chorus, but then Hermione lowers her head and says: "I'm as guilty in there as Ron. I was so happy to finally have a pet that I was blind to what he could actually do. I just – I'm sorry, Ron." Yet while he hides a hint of anger in his tone, does the lad shrug and say:
"At least he's safe now. And you promised to keep a better eye on Crookshanks when we're both in the Common Room or other public places, right?" The girl nods, while Harry tries to hide a smirk in his happy smile and while I wonder why the boy could be so happy about his friend's pet being safe, do I read on.
"Ron, I'm … owl now."
"Forget it, by the end of the book those costs will be on me." Black then says and then finally a Ravenclaw who is one year younger than me stand up and says: "Honestly, what is the link between you and that rat? It's just some animal, isn't it?" But while Black shakes his head, does he keep silent and I read on.
The safety … told them…"
"That just proves who has real power and who only thinks he has, nothing more, really." Malfoy then smirkingly says, but then Harry snorts and says: "Sorry Malfoy, but after last year do I kind of wonder if your father even deserves that power. Didn't he get shot out of the Board of Governors for expelling my grandfather at the wrong time?"
The blonde glowers, while Ron and Hagrid are now snickering and then the Elemental Twins chorus: "It's like Aunt Rosie always says. With great power comes great responsibility." And then they turn to Malfoy and say: "Maybe you should tell your father that. Might make him realize responsibility differs from arrogance."
And while Snape is now almost fuming in his seat over the simple insults thrown at his favorite student, does Dumbledore notice this as well and does he motion for his temple while locking eyes with the Potions master, the man nodding and calming down, his face pensive and confused, while I just shrug at the behavior and read on.
"There's still … doors, listening.
Instantly half the school turns to glare at the young blonde scion of the Malfoy House and then Black rolls his eyes and says: "Sounds like James when he wanted to insult a Slytherin." And while Malfoy turns both white and red at the same time over being compared to a Gryffindor, do I smirk at the perfect insult and read on.
"Have you … our teacher!"
"Tell me, Mr. Malfoy, when exactly did I transfer my rights to decide who is proper teaching material over to you?" Professor Dumbledore then asks and while the man had simple been gazing into his goblet of water, does the boy turn red with embarrassment as several of my own House Mates laugh at the clever joke and I read on.
Harry and … first – SMACK!
Instantly I stop, my eyes wide and my hands clutching the book in shock while everyone else is just as silent as me, Malfoy's eyes as wide as my own and none of the students commenting as none of them had expected for the studious brunette to lash out like that. But then I remember everything we read so far and I say:
"It's the stress." Everyone looks at me and I say: "She's been going to more classes than she can handle, barely uses her secret for her own health and has two extra topics to worry about, those being her friend having a lunatic after him and two of her other friends losing a pet they loves very much. Her stress made her snap."
And while many now nod in understanding and the girl turns a little red in embarrassment, does the proud, satisfied smirk that adorns her face not lessen any as it's obvious that – stress or no stress – the girl would have followed her book-self's actions in a heartbeat and while I am very proud of the young brunette, do I read on.
She had … the dungeons.
At this the girl snorts and asks: "What? You going to complain to Snape and tell him I attacked you for no reason? Fat chance, Malfoy. Snape might know that I am badly stressed, but even he knows of your dispute with Hagrid. He'll know instantly that I did it to defend my friend." Hermione then says and I snicker as I read on.
"Hermione! Ron … classroom door.
"Wait, that doesn't sound right." Professor Flitwick then says and when we all look at him, does he say: "Whenever Mr. Potter and his friends come in late, I always call them gang, not boys. What happened to Mss. Granger?" Instantly the girl turns red, while the rest of us share worried glances and I read on hurriedly.
"Come along … the door.
"Why wouldn't she enter class with you? Has anyone ever seen her miss a class?" Neville asks and everyone in his year shakes their heads as Parvati says: "Other than the time she was Petrified has she never missed a single class. She was even badly sick during spring in our first and she still went." This worries me as I read on.
"That's weird." … all lesson.
"Mss. Granger, am I right to assume that you missing this class is due to what Mr. Wood concluded earlier. That your stress overwhelmed you?" McGonagall then asks, trying to sound stern, but sounding very, very worried and the girl lowers her head as she says: "I must have left back to the Common room.
I must have seen Malfoy head for the Dungeons and I didn't want to attract Flitwick's attention like I must have thought he would do Snape. I – I must have passed out when getting there or something." The woman nods, while worry can now be felt coming off of both Ron and Harry and while I look at my boyfriend worried, do I read on.
"She could've … Gryffindor Tower.
"Why instantly think I would do something?" Malfoy asks and when Harry answers: "Buckbeak." Does the boy turn red, but keep quiet as he had obviously wanted to rave on, making me and Black send the black-haired lad a very proud smile, yet Harry is still looking at Hermione in great worry and I quickly continue reading.
They passed … Arithmancy book.
"That makes no sense. Why have that open?" Parvati asks and Hermione answers: "I discovered this year that Arithmancy helps me calm down and keep my cool. It's also a class I often have on the same time as Charms, so I must have gone back to the common room to read it before class and the reading must have made me doze off."
The girl nods, still looking worried for her Dorm mate and Harry wraps his arm around her as he asks: "Would you accept that we take a five minute break so I can privately ask Hermione about her secret? Seeing Professor McGonagall asked me to help her with it." All the teachers nod and the two head for the Antechamber.
Ron follows them and while Snape glares at the redhead, does the youngest male Weasley send him a testing glare back before he enters the Antechamber and closes the door behind him. Ten minutes later the three of them emerge and Harry says: "You really need to learn the difference between school and life responsibilities, you know."
And while this little comment doesn't help me one bit into solving how Hermione can be at two places at the same time, does the girl herself look pretty red and ashamed, proving that neither of her friends approved of how she, before this, made use of her little secret and told her so and when the three of them are seated again, do I read on.
They went … to Charms!"
"That makes no sense! She was right behind them, wasn't she?" A Ravenclaw from their year asks and Harry answers: "She used her secret to move away when we weren't looking. She wanted to use the time she had a little more wisely only her nerves got to her and so she fell asleep." The Ravenclaw nods and I read on.
"I don't … of things!"
"Is that when she used her secret?" The Ravenclaw then asks and when Harry nods, does he ask: "What is it?" But Harry shakes his head and says: "I agree with Hermione that her secret should remain such, though I do wish that professor McGonagall had trusted more than just Hermione with it when she gave it to her."
The woman turns a little pink at this and while the Ravenclaw and many of his friends turn to the woman with inquisitive eyes, does she huff and say: "I agree with Mr. Potter. He and Mss. Granger were both in my office when I decided to give the secret to Mss. Granger, though I now regret sending Mr. Potter out when doing so.
I was just of the belief that, because Mss. Granger always takes such immaculate care of her homework, she would do the same for her secret. However, looking back at what I said that night, do I now realize that I put too much emphasis on the need for secrecy and the purpose of the secret and not enough on the side-purposes.
Mss. Granger, Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley, I hope you three can forgive me for this lack of judgment and communication and all the troubles it has caused you and your friendship in the time since." The three teens nod, while many of the elder years are now muttering amongst each other what the secret could be and I read on.
"You know … in Divination!"
At this Professor Lupin shakes his head and says: "It's obviously more than just your fault, Minerva. Her lack of acceptance to the fact that she is far overworked is endangering her and her health. Yet, we are all teachers that have her in our class and we're not even seeing it. We need this book from the future to see the evidence.
Hermione, forgive me. I was in the same year as Lily and I saw how this little secret broke her all those years ago and you're – in the book – showing the same signs and I'm not even seeing it. I really hope you can forgive me." The girl nods, her eyes wide over the fact that the man is so sincerely apologizing and I read on.
Hermione … extremely harassed.
At this Ron and Harry share a look and then Harry says: "Her anger at Malfoy." And Ron goes on: "Her worry over Charms and the exams." Then Harry continues: "Her stress over keeping her secret." And Ron ends: "And now she has Divinations?" And already everyone knows that this can only end bad, making me read on warily.
"I can't … my hands."
"Wait, Sybill, why are you still doing Mr. Potter? Don't you usually switch between two or four students of the same year?" Minerva asks, her curiosity apparently overriding her annoyance at her colleague's actions and then the Divinations teacher gives her new reason to complain as she hums and says:
"It must be Mr. Potter's aura. Even from here I can see that it is just covered with a lingering veil of death. That and I don't recall any of my precious students ever having seen something as terrible as a Grim in their very first cup. You understand, don't you Minerva dear?"
And while the woman bristles, does Irma sigh with a calm tone in her voice as she says: "I fully understand your intentions, Professor, but if you continue to try and warn the same person over and over again, your warnings will lose severe credibility.
If you really, like us, want to protect Harry, wouldn't it be better to just focus on the greater evils that could threaten him and leave the rest to chance? After all, Chance allows Growth with those of the younger years, wouldn't you agree?" And while I feel slightly lost at the end of her speech, does Trelawney glow and say:
"You are absolutely correct, dear child. Are you perhaps related to Seers, dear?" But Irma shakes her head and says: "The water flows, even where others cannot always see." And while this confusing statement makes me look at her, makes her friends snicker behind their hands and makes Trelawney nod, do I read on.
"Good day … the noise –
The same happens in the Great Hall, the choking sound coming not just from my boyfriend and his best friend, but from several others who don't take Divinations, yet it seems as if Trelawney is still thinking about the confusing message left to her by Irma as she doesn't take offence to what I read at all and so I quickly read on.
"So as … Cheering Charms –"
By now it seems as if one of the Gang has enough of this waste of a class as he turns to Professor Dumbledore and asks: "Professor, I know you have elective classes that Second years can choose from and all that, but wouldn't it be better to have the students do a written test to see what elective classes fit them best.
Maybe even a practical for classes like Ancient Runes and Divinations seeing that some people do have the ability to be Runerals and others are indeed born Seers, yet for people who are not classes like those are either too hard or completely useless." At this the man nods and says: "You are indeed right, Mr. Isaac.
Can all those in Second Year agree on this?" And instantly all of Second year nods, while Neville asks: "Can we also take the test and, if needed, switch classes, Professor?" The Headmaster nods and Ron, who sits next to the brunette gives him a happy high-five while Hermione sighs in obvious relief and I read on.
Professor Trelawney … the Gr –"
"Wait a second, Professor, that can't be right." Irma then interrupts me and when everyone looks at her, she says: "I'll agree that something like the Grim is indeed a serious threat, but that ball was to be used for the futures of all three of them. How could you have seen only something for Harry and not for his friends?"
The woman looks shocked and while Hermione quickly slaps a hand over her mouth to hide her self-satisfied smirk, does it take the woman several minutes before she says: "I – I must have seen it moving and thus focused on it only and not anything else. Forgive me, Mss. Granger, Mr. Weasley." The two nod and I read on.
"Oh, for … unmistakeable anger.
"Professor, you cannot blame Hermione for this one." Irma then says, this time her voice no longer sounding calm, but more like a waterfall crashing down on rocks as she says: "You've known for a whole year that Hermione did not possess the sight. It is your Responsibility to teach those with the Abilities to pass."
At this Hermione looks conflicted and Irma goes on: "I understand your love for your subject, Professor, don't think that I don't. However, if you continue to teach those that are not able to perform your Subject's tasks or has your subject's abilities, then sooner or later your class will become nothing more than a laughing stock.
And I think we both know that, ever since 1861, Seers have become more and more rare, especially here on the Great Lands of England, so if you really want to hold up the honor of a dying Gift, you need to make sure you have only those with true powers, ability and talents for your class. Just help the others move into better classes."
And while the girl's voice had become a mix of a serene stream and a fierce storm, her tone of voice soft, yet the power behind her tone not able to be missed out on, do many of the teachers look at each other shocked, all of them realizing that what the girl said is indeed right and that Divinations indeed only for the Gifted.
I, in the mean time, look at the black-haired girl who is three years older than me with a happy smile and think: "I cannot thank time sand enough for sending her and her group back in time to us. Hogwarts really is the best school ever and with their help it can only get better." And with that, do I happily read on.
"I am … hopelessly Mundane."
"SYBILL!" Both Professor McGonagall and Sprout shout at the woman and even Parvati and Lavender now look at their favorite teacher in clear shock and then Sprout says: "You say you knew the whole time that Hermione would fail the class. Does this mean you kept her in the class just to insult her at this point?
Is this chapter supposed to tell us that you treat all of the students who don't have your subject's requirements with insults like that?" And while the woman turns red to prove that the Head of Hufflepuff House caught her in the act, does Irma sigh painfully and say: "Didn't I just say that Divinations is a Dying Art?"
Many of those around her nod and she grumbles as she says: "Well, people like that teacher over there certainly don't make it any easier for real Seers to save that dying art, honestly." And while it's obvious that the Divinations teacher has just lost all trust of the students around her, both of her own class and not, do I read on.
There was … of sight.
"You should have never been forced to leave, Hermione. Your teacher should have informed your Head of House and urged you to change classes or just drop her own class. This is not your fault, nor your responsibility." And while I can clearly hear the icy anger sounding through the boy's voice as he says teacher, do I read on.
It took … ago, Professor!"
"Oooooh, Good Merlin. Someone please wake me up and make me realize what kind of scam happened here." The girl in question then moans and Ron kids: "Don't worry, with a dorm mate like Hermione, you'll realize it soon enough." The girl smiles at him, while Trelawney is still looking at her colleagues in fear and I read on.
Professor Trelawney … Grim again?
This seems to draw Trelawney out of her feared state and she tries to send Harry a winning smile as if to prove him that she did indeed see that Grim approaching, yet everyone around me and my boyfriend prove her how they think about her as they scare her into looking somewhere else with their furious glares before I read on.
Would he? … to tears.
This makes many of those in my year, most of them being Ravenclaws, along with Isaac of the Gang and the teachers either shake their heads or turn their heads to Hermione with great worry and Lupin mutters: "You know it's a bad situation when a thirteen year old can be compared to someone like me." And I read on with a nod.
Ron had … to Crookshanks.
This shocks me, but then – unknown to anyone else – I notice the three amazing friends share a proud smile with each other and while I wonder what they know about the actual truth behind the cat, rat and dog – the same three as the ones mentioned in a future chapter – that the rest of us don't, do I just ignore the glance and read on.
Harry, meanwhile … hundred points.
This alone makes me groan heartedly and lower my head a little as I don't even need to read ahead to know that this fact will not be taken lightly by my book-self and then I say: "Fred, George, if we get to this point, please keep me away from Harry until the match itself, will you?" The two look shocked and I read on to explain.
This meant … Harry yelled.
"And that is exactly why I asked." I then continue my earlier statement and while the three girls are raising their eyes as if this just proves their side of our earlier argument, does Harry then prove to me that he really does believe in our relationship as he tentatively puts his head on my shoulder, making me look at him as he asks:
"Oliver, do you really think we should be separated now that, you know, we're dating? I – I mean, I – I think we could, you know, do things couples do to keep you distracted, don't you think?" This, combined with how he sounds needy and tentative at the same time makes me just love the little third year even more and I smile.
I then softly grab his chin and move our faces so I can kiss his forehead, taking extra care not to touch his scar as I'm not yet sure whether he would appreciate that or not and while this makes a small smile appear on Harry's face, do I then lock eyes with him and say: "Yeah, I think we can." Making those around us smile as I read on.
The whole … entire school.
"Care to further explain that one, Mr. Potter?" Snape then asks and Harry answers: "Malfoy thinks he owns the school and that he can make it run the way he wants, even if he hurts others. He's also very arrogant and selfish, so to push him off that sky-high throne of his is the only way I think I can get back at him for what he did."
"And what makes you think that Mr. Malfoy believes this?" Snape then asks, his thin lips proving he doesn't approve of Harry's opinion of the Snake and Harry raises an eyebrow before he asks: "Ehm, does the sling around his arm ring a bell, Professor?" And while the man glares at my boyfriend, does he keep quiet and I read on.
Never, in … their ears.
"Why? Why hurt people who don't even play? What's the point in that?" Jeffrey asks and while the students in the two mentioned years and houses turn red as they realize that they got hurt for no good reason, does Harry shrug and say: "I'm kind of surprised it's them and not me." But then I grumble and draw attention as I read on.
Harry was … him up
"Ehm, excuse me?" Edena then asks and instantly I shiver in fear as the same anger that he had felt at Snape before the break is now back in her voice, yet this time her actual powers can be felt throughout the entire room, the heat of the entire room rising ever so quickly and making me want to take off my cloak yet again.
I look at the girl and she glares at the Slytherins as a table before she asks: "Did I just hear this right? Were you actually willing to trip my friend up?" And Snape again digs his own grave as he asks: "Why exactly does that anger you so much, young lady?" And the answer the girl shouts scares my soul right out of me:
"WE'RE LIVING IN A CASTLE, YOU SLIMEBALL! DOES THAT MEAN THAT THOSE SNAKES OF YOURS WERE WILLING TO TRIP MY FRIEND ON THE STAIRS?" And instantly everyone around me whitens, my body reacting on instinct and pulling Harry closely against it as if fearing he is falling right now.
The teachers around Snape and even some of the Snakes whiten and start to look at each other, yet it seems as if Snape just isn't willing to let himself be intimidated – which in my eyes is really stupid of him – as he sneers and says: "Young Lady, I am very certain that my Snakes are not stupid enough to make a mistake like that."
Yet Edena does not seem willing to believe him and she asks: "Really? You don't think that your Snakes are stupid – or better said arrogant – enough to make mistakes like that? Then explain me why your favorite snake thought he could ruin your school's healer's reputation for 2 months with a faked injury, exactly?"
And while the heat that is now in this room makes me take off my robe with one arm while the other is still around Harry, the boy himself not even moving in any way that makes me think he is feeling uncomfortable, does Madam Pomfrey seem to remember that event as she glares at her colleague, who sneers and Edena says:
"Snakes are known for their arrogance and pride. You are known to not punish any of your own House no matter what they do. So either those rumors, that have been running for years, can be proven false or I have all the reason to believe that my friend is – in the book – in danger of breaking his neck thanks to your snakes."
And while Snape keeps his thinned lips shut and just glares at the girl, as if trying to threaten her into taking back her words and while Edena glares right back, her anger apparently growing the longer Snape keeps silent, does something happen that I had never expected and that makes everyone turn to Slytherin table.
"I, Adelaine Jennifer Jefferson of the Noble House of Jefferson and Head Girl of the school year of 1993-1994 hereby swear to Edena of the Elemental Gang that, in Name of the Honor of Slytherin House, there will nevermore be an attack on any Gryffindor student that can have life-threatening after-effects or results.
So I swear, so mote it be." And while everyone in the House of Slytherin looks at the brown-haired, purple eyed in pure shock, does the girl herself turn her angry glare at her Head of House and say: "My apologies, Professor Snape, but I agree with what Potter said. You are the cause that we are still being hated and I am done with it.
This is my last year here on Hogwarts and I feel with all that I am that, with help of those of the Elemental Gang, I can actually make name here in this school and make sure that life will be better for all those that will follow after me. Besides, I'm Head Girl, so it's my responsibility to stand up for my fellow students where and when I can.
Slytherins are known for their Ambition and I decide here and now that I will use the rest of this year, with hopefully the help of said Gang, to prove that being Ambitious isn't a bad thing, nor does it make you a Dark Wizard or Witch. It's time we step out of that shadow of a reputation and I will do what I can to get that accomplished.
And you may be my Head of House, but I promise you here and now, not even you will be able to stop me and if you, as Head to the House of Snape, have any respect for me as Heir to the House of Jefferson, you will not stop me. Because, and I really hope this, deep down inside, you will know – that I'm right."
Everyone looks at the girl in pure shock, me feeling proud that she actually voiced my earlier thoughts about the Gang and while the Head Girl's words have apparently helped calm Edena down and made her pull back on her Fire Elemental powers, making the temperature in the room go back to normal, do I cough and continue reading.
Crabbe and … chattering crowd.
This, while Edena is now glaring at the two boys mentioned with fury, obviously still thinking about the dangers her friend could be in, makes most of those in my own House turn a little red in humiliation and then Jack says: "Wait, if Harry never got to his classes in time." And Eddy goes on and asks:
"What does that say about everyone else?" And while the teachers already seem to get what they are getting at and look at each other shocked, do they then chorus: "Does that mean they get late for class too?" And while almost everyone in my House now looks awkward, do the twins snicker at the prank pulled by Jack and Eddy as I read on.
Harry was … still there.
This makes me look at Harry in great worry together with everyone around me, except for Mss. Rosie who sighs and says: "I always knew that one of you would develop a lack of self-preservation thanks to those Muggles. And that blasted title of yours really can't have helped any either." Making me nod before I whisper:
"You are worth more than you can ever realize, my little Hummingbird and I will be damned if I don't help you realize it." Making the woman and those who heard me smile, Harry's smile the brightest as he looks up at me from where he is still wrapped under my armpit and while I hope to get to the match itself soon, do I read on.
All usual … said nervously.
"Malfoy was willing to fake being a Dementor just to see Harry fall off his broom. I must have been terrified of whatever else he would be willing to pull when in the air himself." The girl in question mutters and while the blonde glares at her, does he keep quiet as he knows that we have written evidence of this before I read on.
There was … "Team! Bed!"
"Wood not even using full sentences?" Fred asks, looking at George, who says: "He must be more tense than during his first ever match." To which I tensely mutter: "I experienced the boy I had a crush on going through a life-threatening adventure and saw someone try to kill him by pretending to be a Dementor.
I had all rights to be scared, thank you." The two nod and then make my day as they move over to stand with me and the one on my left says: "Wood, we promise you that." And the other goes on: "Once you've graduated." And they chorus: "We'll keep Harry safe for you." Harry and I smile at them and I read on.
Harry slept … Neville instead!"
"Why me?" Neville asks shocked and confused and Harry shrugs as he says: "I don't really know seeing as how it's a dream and it's has yet to happen, but I think my subconscious just picked the first person I remembered doesn't like to fly and that's either you or Hermione, so – yeah." The lad nods and I easily read on.
Then he … a start.
This makes quite a few of the First to Fourth years around the hall shudder and then one of them asks: "Will we be hearing about other nightmares too?" And to my shock, does Irma answer: "Yes, and this one was still a very tame one compared to what else my mind's eye made me see." We all look at her and she says:
"Harry saw it coming. He had the chapter title and the description of the nightmare written along with the actual message. Though he did add another part at the bottom. Though not all of my dreams were really my own. He doesn't say anything else." This makes me look at my little boyfriend worriedly before I turn back and read on.
It was … silvery lawn.
"Wait, what?" Lupin then asks, before he turns to Black and asks: "Don't tell me –." And Black answers: "I must have decided to give my hunt another go." Our Defense Teacher nods and while I now know that the man doesn't mean my boyfriend, do I still not see the link between him and the Willow as I read on.
Harry dashed … the match –
"Sirius!?" Lupin says warningly and Black retorts: "I don't even have any reason to defend myself here. You know I would never do anything these people suspect me to and this is something that happened in the future. I can't be sure if that's me or not." His old friend nods and while wondering if it is Black, do I read on.
He peered … only Crookshanks …
"How did he get down there?" Hermione asks shocked and Harry says: "He must have prowled along with one of the Gryffindors when they left the common room. But – wait, how did he get outside? There's no way he could have climbed all those staircases and the Clocktower can only be accessed through portraits."
Everyone looks around confused and Ron asks: "Do you have an answer for this?" But the Gang shakes their heads and Jeremy says: "Harry didn't tell us anything about this. I guess he never told Hermione he saw her cat outside, so he never really bothered with it." Everyone nods and I feel confused but relieved as I read on.
Or was … the lawn,
"Say WHAT?" Everyone shouts in shock and then suddenly Sirius is surrounded by a huge tornado, the wind catching at least three different spells all from the same direction, which makes me look at the source of the Tornado and see Jeffrey holding his hands in the same way he did when we read the first chapter of the book.
"I knew this would happen. The minute Harry spotted that something rustling in the shadow, I just knew that idiot would try and attack Sirius for something." Which makes me turn to look at the source of the spells – which are actually still being cast – and to my shock do I see a furious Auror Johnson waving his wand.
Yet the man seems to finally realize why he can't hit Black for all he's worth and to my absolute alarm does he change his aim from the black-haired man to the long-haired fourteen year old, the first of his spells looking a very sickly colored blue, yet the spell isn't even halfway across the room when suddenly something happens.
The shadow of a Fourth Year Ravenclaw springs up from underneath her and her seat and actually catches the spell in its darkened grasp, the whole thing looking misty and murky black in color and while many look at the ghost-like manifestation, do I feel something happening very close besides me, making me look.
My eyes widen as I then see Harry, his messy black hair suddenly lying flat on his head, his entire face a cold mask of fury, his lips thinner than a drawn line and his eyes harder than green-colored crystal as he has his whole body tensed next to me and only one arm extend, his hand palm down and fisted as if holding onto something.
He then stands up, his movement making many others turn to him and when they see his hand stretched like it is, do they realize that the specter showing up behind the Fourth Year Raven is his work, but before anyone can really get over their shock of seeing this happen, does Harry prove me why he is as strong as he is.
"Give me one bloody good reason why I shouldn't push this spell right back at you, Auror Johnson and give it to me right now!" Everyone shivers as Harry's voice actually turned softer in volume, yet at the same time stronger in tone, making a shiver of dread run down all of our spines and proving one thing above all;
Harry deserves to be part of the Elemental Gang as he is one himself and he has full control over every aspect of his ability. Yet the one man who his ire is aimed at seems not to realize that he is in more trouble than Snape was when he called Harry a liar and he says: "Black's an illegal Animagus and that brat's protecting him.
They're both nothing but criminals and I have the evidence to –." But then the man squeaks as he ducks the sickly blue-colored spell that was shot back at him from the specter that Harry controlled by suddenly opening his hand with him palm facing the man and the way that the spell leaves a burn on the wall makes me even more sick.
"Yes, Sirius is an Animagus. No, that does not make him a criminal. It makes him someone who should have registered years ago. That does not imply that you can suddenly start casting harmful and – if my Shadow Senses are correct – even Dark spells at him. You're an Auror, Johnson, not a follower of Voldemort."
And with that simple statement – that does make many of those around him shudder in fright at hearing the name – does Harry lower his arm, the shadow moving back until it's the same shape as its actual owner and then Ron is the first to ask: "Hey Harry, how long have you known of these – powers of yours?"
And Harry answers: "When I was three, Ron. The bedroom I had before I met you guys – yes, I moved bedrooms before you saved me – had a lot of dark corners that allowed for a whole lot of shadows. At one night I had a really bad dream and when I woke, I felt something both inside of me and around me.
I felt how the two were connected and made me feel better as I slowly got over the nightmare that I had and when I had calmed down, did I open my eyes and actually see the shadow casting a warm blanket over me. I had been punished the day before, so I didn't tell my relatives, but five years later – I met them."
And while Harry's voice had been filled with apathy and even sounded a little cold, does it turn warm at the very last three words as he turns and smiles at Jeffrey and the others, the smile on his face making me actually a little jealous of the Gang and with the strong hope that I can, one day, receive the same look, do I move.
I stand up and move over to where Harry is still standing himself, wrapping my arm around his shoulder and making Harry smile at me as Jeremy says: "You'll always be part of our Gang, Harry. we told you this when you decided to use your magic over your abilities and it doesn't change now that you've used them once again."
This makes the both of us smile at the lad and then it seems as if Rosaline feels the need to further bring this point home, probably because of what we read earlier, as she stands up, moves over to lie her hands on Harry's shoulders and say: "Past, present or future, time travel or not, you are and remain our brother, Harry."
"And all of you are always my family, Rosa, thank you." Harry replies and while some of those around us now look teary eyed and others – like Malfoy – look bored, do the two of them hug each other close, their bond more than obvious at that very minute before we all go back to our seats and I return to the reading.
Crookshanks trotting … they gone?
"I'm guessing we're back in the woods, kiddo. So you hanging out the window like that probably wouldn't really work." Black then says, his voice a little muffled by the wind shield that Jeffrey is still holding up and then Dumbledore says: "You can stop now, dear boy, Auror Johnson has learned his lesson, I'm sure."
And while it is slightly hidden, is there no mistaking the warning tone that is sounding through the man's voice, actually making Johnson gulp in slight fear and Jeffrey nods at the man, sighing in slight relief as he lowers his arms and drops the Wind Shield surrounding Harry's godfather, Black smiling at Jeffrey as I read on.
Harry and … than usual.
"He could have had the same kind of night as you had, you know." Elena suddenly says, shocking us all as she has been keeping quiet and to herself more than any other of the Gang, yet the girl seems confused about her own statement and why she said it a moment later as she tilts her head to the side before I shrug and read on.
Wood spent … himself blushing.
This makes the Harry besides me send me a slightly guilty smile, but I hug him close and say: "I don't blame you for falling for another person, seeing as how book-me is just too stubborn and stupid not to come out on how I feel in the first place." And while the guilty smile turns into a very happy one, do I read on, feeling quite happy myself.
"OK … no … let's go …"
"Wow, a whole sentence. I'm guessing he's getting his confidence back." Fred says, his body tense and a timid smile on his face, his whole body rigged with excitement, yet his smile proving he doesn't want things to become too tense before we kick off and his smile turns proud as some of those around us snicker before I read on.
They walked … few years –"
"I think I even heard some of the portraits call you the James Potter Reincarnations." Lupin then says and he smirks as he says: "And trust me, that's a compliment as James managed to create the best team in 200 years when he was Team Captain, so I really hope you realize how good you guys actually were."
And while Snape rolls his eyes at this, does Harry suddenly tense and whiten as he shouts: "THE PORTRAITS!" Everyone looks at him and he says: "They're made of purely ancient magic and charms. There – there might be a chance that they didn't get affected by this crazy Mind spell. They might still know the truth!"
Everyone looks shocked and Dumbledore instantly calls the attention to him as he says: "Once we have read our fill, will I instantly call as many portraits together as I can and question them. There are still a few that are painted more recently, in this century, but you might be right about at least half of the ones in the Grand Staircase."
This makes a lot of excited whispering and muttering take place around the hall, some students shocked at hearing this and then Harry makes things even better as he asks: "And the Headmaster and Headmistress portraits? The ones in your office? Do you think they might still know the truth?" His grandfather smiles and says:
"If the Hall will accept, then I will go and check them out right now." Instantly everyone nods and voices their acceptance and agreement, a loud buzzing of hundreds of different voices sounding through the hall and the man nods and leaves for the Entrance Hall, everyone looking at him in excitement as he leaves.
However, when he returns is the happy smile no longer visible on his face as he says: "It would seem that the ancient magic that makes the portrait of the very first Headmaster, Lord Armedius Cornell, was used to actually get this spell to spread nationwide. I can use this to my advantage, but for now – are even they silenced from the truth."
Everyone looks shocked and then Black makes things confusing as he asks: "How is that possible?" We all look at him and he says: "I know who's behind this, but I'm sure I caught him in the act when I went after him and I caught him in his own home. So how could he use that portrait's magic all the way in London?"
Yet Dumbledore seems to have expected this as he sighs and says: "It would seem that our culprit cut a very small bit of Lord Cornell's portrait from the back. I don't know how he got there, as the portrait has a Permanent sticking charm to the wall, but –.""But I do." Black then says and we all look at him, yet all he says is:
"The Promising Chapter. That will explain everything. Or at least – most of everything, I hope." The Headmaster nods, the look he shares with Sirius proving that the elder man too realizes how it was possible for the mystery culprit to get this bit of portrait and while I really want to get to the Promising chapter, do I read on.
Lee's comments … the Snitch.
Instantly everyone is at the edge of their seats, McGonagall and Snape actually both dropping their decorum to sit up closer and their whole bodies tense, both of them obviously racked with the desire to get this one over the other and while I wonder who is more excited, the faculty or the students, do I read on, excited myself as well.
"And it's … its delight –
And just like I read in the book a few minutes ago does almost everyone in Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff and absolutely the entire table of Gryffindor raise themselves off their seats to cheer and applaud for the first goal and while I happily grab hold of Harry's hand and squeeze it tightly to show my own excitement, do I read on.
"OUCH!" Angelina … to bleed.
This actually makes some of the elder teens in the Gang shake their heads and then Isaac says: "I can understand rivalry and a need to win, but serious injuries? I thought that little thing in the pre-game reading was just that, a little thing." And while those in his gang who are senior to him nod in union, do I read on.
"That will … Lee's commentary.
"Hey, that hurts!" I shout over the cheering of the crowd and while those near me hear me and laugh, does Lee just wink at me and say: "Ah shut up and celebrate your actions with your boyfriend, loverboy." Yet this makes Lupin and Black send him a united glare that says Watch yourself, making him cower as I read over the cheers.
It was … the Quaffle.
"That was lower than anything James and Snape have ever pulled on each other! And Snape once even – AAAAAH! MY HEAD!" Black suddenly shouts and instantly the three girls are on their patient yet again, none of them saying a word and all of the degrading shouts silenced as everyone looks at the man in worry.
Yet, not two minutes after he first screamed is the man recovered, two of his fingers softly rubbing his temple as he says: "I really hate this blasted spell." The venom that comes from his voice making me easily know that he doesn't just hate the spell, he also hates the caster and while I feel that I really cannot blame him, do I read on.
Madam Hooch's unbiased way –!"
"With a match like that? Forget it Minerva. Even my own Mr. Diggory would have picked sides in a match like that." Professor Sprout then tells my Head of House and while the Hufflepuff seeker turns a little red, does he still nod to confirm his Head's words and my own Head sighs in acknowledged defeat before I read on.
"I'm telling … saw it …
"Did he?" One of the Slytherin Beaters then asks and I silently read ahead before shaking my head, making the self-confident smirk Malfoy had worn earlier vanish off his face and while the rest of his team sighs at hearing this, do I try to mask my smile with my look of utter concentration as I again read of what happens.
Faking a … from him.
"You know, I can get that even a student of a different House would get biased in a match like this, but wouldn't it be better to have at least one commentator from every House. At least that way, the commentator doesn't have any real reason to be biased as he or she will only commentate matches of the other three Houses."
This makes the teachers share intrigued looks with each other and then Cedric says: "If Jordan's willing to share I would love to do some commentating. Maybe even the upcoming Gryffindor-Slytherin match?" To this the four Heads – even Snape – actually nod in agreement and Lee smiles at Cedric as I read on.
"Sorry, Professor … played in.
"Dirtier than some of the games Dudley wanted to play?" Jack and Eddy ask shocked, but Harry shrugs and to my shock does Jeffrey use his Wind magic to pluck the book out of my hands and summon it over, the boy's clear blue eyes going over the page before his lips turn thin with grim anger and he says:
"Way dirtier. This is almost equal to the day when Dudley wanted to do to Rosaline what he did after seeing that adult movie. The day we all met and became an official Gang." And while many of those around us grimace in memory of that tale, do I look at Harry worriedly as Jeffrey gives me back the book and I read on.
Enraged that … completely winded.
"That's it! I'm going to be part of that match!" Jeffrey suddenly shouts and everyone looks shocked as his clear blue eyes have turned dark and ferocious as if there is an actual storm brewing inside of them and then he says: "I will use my full powers to make sure these disgusting acts don't get played, so DON'T EVEN TRY!"
He then ends and when everyone looks shocked, does Rosie sigh and say: "We get it, Jeffrey. You can sit down now, sweetie." The boy is still tense, even if the storm in his eyes seems to have calmed somewhat and then Malfoy asks: "What is his problem? He's not –." But then the blonde gets the shock of a lifetime.
Right in front of him several shadows jump up and actually move across the table, the shadow of a plate moving over to a water jug, the shadow of a goblet dashing over a plate, the shadow of a jug filled with pumpkin juice turning a clear goblet filled with glass completely dark and instantly everyone turns to Harry.
The boy again has a single arm raised upwards, his hand moving and flexing as he looks straight at Malfoy and his voice cold as he says: "His problem, Malfoy, is that games have been used to bully and pester him his entire life. He's always loved sports, yet those he played with, when they weren't us, always landed him broken and bruised.
His own parents used several famous ball sports to make him end up in the Hospital several times a year and he was always forced to lie about how he got them. He even had to lie to people of Child Services three times in his young life and that was before I left for Hogwarts. So next time you wonder what's up with someone
Watch. Your. Tone." And just by the sound of the last three words, do I feel as if several ghosts have suddenly decided to pass through me, one of them even feeling as if the Bloody Baron did so and while Malfoy is now very much white, does Jeffrey move over to Harry, does he calm my boyfriend down as he says:
"The last time you remember was the last time that ever happened. After you left for Hogwarts, did Aunt Rosie increase the number of times she allowed us to visit and we've been practically living with her or at Camp ever since. We only see our parents maybe 20 days and nights a year, no more. Don't worry about us."
And this seems to indeed make Harry calm down, his tense arm – which Jeffrey has a hold on with his own two hands – sagging and moving back to his side, which makes the shadows at Slytherin table move back to their respectable spots, before Hermione actually speaks my mind as she turns to Mss. Rosie and asks:
"Why did you raise the number of visits after Harry left for Hogwarts? Why not before?" And the woman sighs as she says: "Because I've been onto Arabella for years. I just never reported this, because more often than not I was too busy with either keeping the neighbors busy or helping the kids heal off their injuries.
I've been wanting to report all of this for years, but when Harry went to Hogwarts, did I just believe that his injuries would be noticed and that someone else would take my place, so I started increasing the number of visits to make sure I could put my full focus on the others." Hermione and I nod and I continue reading.
Madam Hooch … it back.
At this the Elemental Twins turn to the Malfoy Heir, the eyes of Jack burning with a fierce fury and the eyes of his brother cold and dead like how the moon sometimes looks to me and then, with voices that have never sounded more in sync than they do now, do they ask: "You really don't know how to play fair, do you?"
The sound of those two voices sounding like a near single voice being echoed through the entire hall makes a shiver of pure fear run down the blonde's spine, while those sitting near him also shiver, yet not as bad as he is and some of them even move to sit away from him before I decide to distract the twins and continue reading.
"You –" Harry … greater heights.
"How is it right for someone's foul to inspire you into playing better? That sounds like those blasted Muggles we grew up with." Jeffrey growls angrily and while the Slytherin team looks furious to be compared with the kind of people that they are known to hate, do I feel as if the boy has a good reason to say this as I read on.
"Slytherin in … miles ahead.
Immediately all faces of the Snakes show clear glee and everyone on the team have smirks of victory on their faces, while at the same time everyone at Gryffindor table is purely tense with fear and worry, yet then something happens that I had not expected as Harry starts to slightly tremble besides me, making me look at him.
Instantly everyone turns their gazes from me to my boyfriend and I whisper: "Harry, little Hummingbird, what's wrong?" And in a voice that is laced with fear does Harry break my heart as he says: "I don't want to lose this match. Not this match. I – I can't take it. I can't take it if I lose this match, not this one."
Instantly I remember how his comment of not wanting to relive the treatment he got when Gryffindor lost 150 and I realize that my little boyfriend is afraid that that behavior will only be worsened and will happen again if he lets Malfoy win, making me feel angry at my own House all over again over that event a few years ago.
Yet I do not focus on the anger and instead pull Harry onto my lap as I hug him close and say: "I won't let them do that, Harry. You won't ever be attacked like that again. I promise, Little Hummingbird, no one will ever hurt you like that again." And instantly everyone else seems to realize what I did.
All of the Gryffindors and some of the Hufflepuffs and Ravenclaws turn red or white with shame and those in my year and the year under even lower their heads in shame, while those in Harry's year all look at Harry in worry and some even in pity, but I don't let these gazes reach him and instead hug Harry close as I read on.
Harry urged … was level –
At this, while the whole hall is now tense with anticipation and a strong desire to win that comes mostly from four points in the hall – Snape, McGonagall, the Gryffindor table and the Slytherin table – does Harry tense up more than everyone around me, a fearful whine escaping his throat as he pushes himself closer up against me.
Hating how this one event, that took several weeks, is still scarring my little boyfriend, do I use my empty hand to pull my wand out of my pocket and do I quickly cast a charm onto the book to make it float in front of me before I put my wand back and wrap both my arms around my boyfriend in comfort as I read on softly.
Harry threw … his fingers.
It takes a couple of seconds after I read this paragraph for the information to reach the silent to death Great Hall, the first to respond being Harry as his whole body relaxes against me, tears of relief and happiness streaming down his eyes and his breath hitching in his throat as he tries to cry and cheer at the same time.
Yet once the first hitched cheer escapes my boyfriend's throat, does this cause for a huge reaction to escape everyone in the Great Hall, the Slytherin table groaning and moaning over their loss, Malfoy banging his head against the table, while the rest of the hall is cheering and screaming the victory of our team and our Seeker.
Yet none of this matters to me and I'm completely ignoring how my Chasers and Beaters are trying to pull me onto my feet alongside them as I only have eyes for my crying mate, Harry trying to hide his face in my shoulder, while a huge smile is also on his face, this part of his face the only part of his face that he is showing.
Hating how my little Soul mate can't even enjoy his victory due to the fear he had been feeling the entire match, do I pull him even closer and whisper: "You did great, little Hummingbird. And you will do great again when this match comes up. And when we win, I'll give you a special little reward." Which makes Harry look up.
His eyes are questioning and shining thanks to the tears he's shedding and while I keep one arm around his sweet, hourglass shaped waist, do I use the other to softly wipe his tears out of his eyes and then whisper into his hair: "Once we have won at the end of the year, I will reward you – with our first shared kiss."
This makes Harry tense in shock and I quickly glance down at his face to gauge his response and while his eyes are wide, does he then make me feel very proud of my decision as a large and excited smile appears on his face before I whisper: "We won." And finally does it seem as if the boy's victory has sunk in with him.
The smile widens and he jumps out off my lap and starts to shout along with everyone else, causing for another wave of cheers and shouts to ring through the entire hall and it takes another ten minutes before everyone has calmed down, most of them drinking water to clear up their dry throats as I happily read the last part.
Then Wood … best Patronus.
And as if he wants to prove the words written true, does Harry actually pull his own wand and – thanks to the chapter he read this morning – does he push it high up into the air and shout: "EXPECTO PATRONUM!" And to the amazement of everyone around does a beautiful stag emerge from the small piece of wood.
The whole creature is pure crystal white and is as huge as I myself, its flanks easily reaching my arm pits and its antlers high and proud on top of its head. Its hoofs float a few inches above the ground as it leaves Harry's wand tip and prattles across the pathway between the Gryffindor and Ravenclaw table, drawing many amazed looks.
It stands still at the end of the table, in between the Great Hall doors and then turns around, its eyes hollow and still looking gorgeous in their whiteness as they seem to gaze upon the entire hall at once and then it takes a single step forward and sound waves start to come off of the noble steed, filling the hall with every wave.
Amazed that my little Soul Mate can control his first ever Patronus so well, do I turn from the great beast to its caster, only to get the shock of my life when I see that Harry has wide eyes and his wand not even aimed at the beast. It's close to his person and he is looking at it with eyes filled with great shock and confusion.
Wondering how the creature could have changed from being my boyfriend's guardian against the Dementors to this strange sound-wave creating specter, do I then find out why the being decided to produce said sound waves as – all at once – all of the teachers cry out and reach for their foreheads, all of them in clear pain.
What is going on!
Harry cast an amazing patronus and suddenly all of the teachers are being hurt thanks to the sound waves hitting them? What is happening here? Sorry, I will only spoil a small bit of it all in the next chapter, but that is because we are only one more chapter separated from the actual Cat, Rat and Dog chapter.
Yes, the chapter after next will be the one hinted at so many times, yet it won't be until the whole book is read that the entire truth will come out. The Cat, Rat and Dog chapter will just reveal who Sirius was actually after and who is actually behind the Mind Altering Spell. It won't reveal all of what has been caused.
Have fun,
Venquine1990
