Title: Matilda at Hogwarts
By: Anastasia_Romanova03
Email: Anastasia_Romanova03@yahoo.com
Summary: Matilda is eleven years old and is attending Hogwarts in Harry's fourth year there.
Disclaimer: I don't own anyone from Matilda or Harry Potter. They are not my creation. Only Regina Driscoll is. Matilda is the creation of Ronald Dahl and Harry Potter is J.K. Rowling's creation. Chris Smith and the upcoming character of Regina Driscoll is. Jenny is also Dahl's creation. The Goblet of Fire storyline is J.K.R's as well as every character at Hogwarts
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Matilda's birthday is just around the corner on August 6. She is turning eleven and she longed for her friends at home in America. Even though she met a few friends, she still was not looking forward to turning eleven. She finished college just last year when she majored in English and minored in Mathematics. She wanted to finish enjoying her youth before she had to take on an adult job. Matilda thought about going to college again, but she wanted to be with people her own age. Being eleven was not going to be fun.
Matilda woke up around eight o'clock that morning of August 6. That Tuesday morning was as fresh as can be. Matilda got dressed in a pair of jean shorts and a pink shirt. With her headband in her hair, she skipped downstairs into the kitchen for breakfast. Jenny was cooking eggs and toast.
"Hey sweetie, did you sleep well last night?" Jenny asked. She saw that Matilda looked a little weary.
"Yes, mom, I did. I just want to go to school with kids my own age. I feel so alone at times because I am not able to be around kids my own age as much as I used to be at Crunchem Hall," Matilda said. Jenny knew that she definitely was down today.
"Matilda come here," Jenny said as she hugged Matilda. She felt so bad as though she was not being a very good mother. "Matilda I didn't mean to force all the early education on you. I thought I was doing a good thing by keeping you up mentally with yourself. I will see if I can enroll you at a local school. This way I know you will more happy emotionally. How does that sound?"
Matilda looked at her and smiled. This is the best news she heard of in a long time. "Thanks mom. This is the best birthday gift I could ever ask for! I love you!" Matilda exclaimed as she embraced Jenny once again.
"Well Matilda, I am giving you 20 pounds so you can go by herself a new book to read at the local bookstore," Jenny said. She dug in her purse and pulled out a 20 pound note. Matilda took it, gave her a hug, took some toast, and ran out the door. It was a yearly tradition for her to get a book of frivolous means on her birthday and this year was no exception.
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When Matilda got back home around eleven, she checked the mail. There was a birthday card from Aunt Gina, an advertisement for a furniture store, and a letter addressed to her in green ink and sealed with red wax. Matilda's brow furrowed together more then she ever did before. She went inside and set the mail down at the kitchen table and opened up her strange letter. Jenny was outside in the backyard, pruning bushes. As Matilda read the letter, she became so shocked that she screamed. Jenny ran inside to see what the matter was.
"Matilda what is wrong!?" Jenny asked as she ran through the back door.
"Mom, I received this letter and it says that I am going to Hogwarts' School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Things like this don't exist! WHAT IS GOING ON!?" Matilda exclaimed.
Chris came through the front door for lunch and heard Matilda yelling. He ran through the kitchen door and saw the Hogwarts' letter in her hands. His shocked face turned into the biggest smile that could be seen in his wedding photos. "Matilda, congratulations! This is incredible!" Chris said as he ran up to hug her. Matilda could barely hug because she was in such shock. Jenny look at Chris with the most unreadable expression on her face.
"Matilda," Jenny said still in shock, "please go upstairs while I talk to Chris alone." Matilda knew Jenny was upset with her father because of the use of his first name. She took her new book and ran upstairs with it. As soon as Jenny was sure Matilda was upstairs, Jenny started to drop bombs. "Chris, what the hell is going on?"
Chris's smile faded and he knew he would have to tell her the world that he desperately tried to keep from her. "Jenny I need you to sit down and listen to me. Some of the things that I am going to tell you are a little unbelievable, but trust me they do exist." Jenny and Chris sat down at the kitchen table. Chris took her hands in his and began to tell her of what he knew.
"Hogwarts is a school for witches and wizards to learn spells, potions, flying and defense. etc. It was started by four wizards a little over one thousand years ago. It is a very well established school and Harry even goes there. It is ran by one of the most greatest wizards of our time, Albus Dumbledore. If you worry that Matilda will be behind in any of the subjects, then don't worry. There will be plenty of young children there who have never heard of it until they get their letter." Chris thought long and hard and asked Jenny, "Dear, did ever notice strange things happening when Matilda would get mad or upset? Or even scared?"
Jenny knew she has a secret to tell Chris now. She wanted to protect Matilda, but he would find out sooner or later. "Chris, ... how do I tell you this?" Jenny thought. "Matilda has been able to move objects with her mind since she was about six and a half years old. She is very good at it too. She can do one task, such as pouring a bowl of cereal, to even cleaning the kitchen, doing everything from mopping to dishes, all at once. I did not want her to seem like a freak of nature to you, so I asked her not to use her powers around you. I am sorry I kept this from you," Jenny said as she bowed her head in shame.
"Oh no, no. Don't feel ashamed," as Chris took his finger to her chin to raise up her head. "I feel ashamed for not telling you I was a wizard. I am not mad at you as long as you are not mad at me," Chris said smiling as he kissed her on the nose. "When we go to Diagon Alley to get Matilda's school supplies, I will get you Hogwarts: A History, Quidditch Through the Ages, Fantastic Beast Through the Ages, and the History of Magic, so that way you can learn what Matilda will learn. This will help you keep up to date on what to expect in the next few years."
"I am not mad at you," Jenny said as she kissed him. Then a thoughtful expression came on her face. "Why all the books? What is Quidditch? Where is Diagon Alley?"
"Well to answer your questions, the books will give you the basis of what every wizard knows, quidditch is a wizarding sport you will learn about in the book about it, and Diagon Alley is in London. My sister Regina is a witch too. She is going to Hogwarts to get some tips teaching potions from the potions professor, Severus Snape. He may not seem very well respected in some circles, but he is a good man. Maybe we can let Matilda stay with Regina for a few weeks before school starts, while you and me go get her school supplies. Then two days before September 1, we can meet Matilda and Regina in Diagon Alley so she can get fitted for some robes and get her wand and we can spend some time together. Does that sound good?" Chris asked her.
"That sounds wonderful. Lets go tell Matilda the wonderful news. I just talked to her this morning about sending her to a school so she can be with kids her own age. She will adore this idea!" Jenny exclaimed as she practically dragged Chris upstairs. Jenny entered Matilda's room, along with Chris. Matilda put her new book down, sat up on her bed and waited for the verdict.
"Matilda," Jenny started with the biggest smile on her face, "we decided that you are going to Hogwarts after all!" Matilda got off her bed and hugged both of her parents.
"You will also be going to visit Aunt Gina tomorrow for about a month to learn about the wizarding world. She will also be taking you to the Quidditch World Cup too. After that, we will spend two days together before school starts to get your robes and a wand," Chris stated absolutely delighted. Matilda started to pack her things for tomorrow. She was in such a hurry that she forgot to say bye to Harry.
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It was Wednesday and Matilda was going to get to spend two and a half weeks with her favorite aunt in the whole wide world. Regina knew how to have fun and excitement. Matilda was sitting on the bay window sit in the living room waiting for Regina to come by. Her stuff was all packed and sitting by the stairs. Regina said she would be there at eleven o'clock and it is 11:15.
"Mom, is Aunt Gina going to be here soon?" Matilda asked a little impatiently.
"I am sure she is going to be. She might be running a little late," Jenny said to Matilda with a little smile on her face. "I know for a fact that she is trying to move a few belongings to Hogwarts so she can stay there for a little bit. You will be staying there with her." Jenny gave her daughter a hug.
All of sudden a nose started to come from the fireplace. Then in a flash, Regina came flying out of the chimney. She got herself up and brushed herself down. Matilda stared at her, speechless at what just happened. Matilda looked at Jenny, surprised because there was no shock on her face. It seemed as though she was expecting this.
"Well Matilda, I think you have grown at least four inches since the last time I saw you!" Regina exclaimed as she hugged Matilda and swung her around. When Regina put Matilda down, she had a big smile on her face. Matilda always looked forward to spending time with her Aunt Gina "Sorry it took a while, but Albus Dumbledore was telling me about a few changes that are being made for this year at school. Matilda, I also have a few letters from my stay in America that are from your friends at Crunchem Hall. They have missed very much and they say the new principal is wonderful. I have the letters back at Hogwarts, so when we get there remind me to give them to you. I am famished! What about you?" Regina asked, with everything in a rush.
"Sure!" Matilda exclaimed. Matilda gave her mom one last hug goodbye and got her stuff by the stairs and carried it in the living room. "How are we getting there?" Matilda asked, giving the chimney a mistrusting look
"We are taking the Floo Network. All you have to do is take this floo powder," Regina started as she took a pouch of sand out of her robe's pocket, "and state the name very clearly of where you want to go, throw the powder to the ground and poof,... you are there." Regina finished her sentence with a great big smile. "Hey Jenny, please take this bag of powder and give it to Matilda when she goes on her turn." Regina took a handful of floo powder out of the pouch. Matilda looked at her as though she was insane. "Don't worry, you would have to be a troll in order not to do this! It's as simple as stopping a boggart! I will go first. Watch closely and let me take some of your stuff too." Regina took Matilda's larger suitcase, stepped into the fireplace and said "Hogwarts School." As green flames enveloped her, Matilda took a surprising jump backwards. She hoped this wouldn't be a bad trip.
"Chris' sister sure does know how to make an entrance. Well Matilda, I want you to be good and be safe. Don't forget, we will meet in Diagon Alley two days before school starts. Give Regina all of our love." Jenny kissed Matilda on the forehead and gave her the bag of floo powder.
Matilda walked into the fireplace, put her suitcase to open it up and put the remainder of the floo powder in her case. She picked up the suitcase again, gave her mom one last smile and said firmly "Hogwarts School." She felt herself being spun around to the point of being sick. Before her body had time to register the nausea, she landed on a hard floor with a loud thud. She opened eyes and was in a room that things strewn around everyone. Obviously, this was Aunt Gina's room. Regina was a young woman of 25 whose height was an average five feet and seven inches. She had long, straight brown hair and hazel eyes that seemed to laugh at everyone. She was a good natured and was usually a person of many words. Her wit, when in use, was as sharp as a knife. Knowing how sharp it is, she only used it when necessary.
"Matilda, I want you to come here," Regina said. "I want to show you your new room." Matilda followed her inside the doorway and to her amazement, the room was just like the one she had back at home. Everything was the same, including all of her favorite books on the white shelf. Matilda turned around, gave Regina a hugged, and whispered thank you in her ear. After everything was put away, mostly due to Regina's wand waving, they were ready to eat.
"Hmm... do you think we can eat lunch here and eat out for dinner?" Regina asked in response of her stomach growling.
"Sure Aunt," Matilda stated, trying not to giggle. They headed downstairs into the Great Hall for lunch. There was a small table with chairs around. To Matilda, the Great Hall was amazing! She looked up, but instead of seeing the Gothic style ceiling and windows, she saw the bright sunny sky. The Great Hall was massive and she knew that this is where the students assembled to eat and have assemblies. At the table, Matilda noticed that Severus Snape was there talking with a old man that had a long beard with white hair. His face was older than 70! Matilda wondered if he was at least 200 years old but her logical mind said that was impossible. But then again, with things like wizards, anything must be possible. Matilda and Regina sat down at the table to eat. There was a platters full of bread rolls and slices of turkey and ham along with condiments. There were also bowls filled with fries and cookies. To Matilda, this was the best lunch to ask for.
"Go on Matilda, dig in!" Regina told Matilda as she was digging in, already making herself two sandwiches. Matilda grabbed the things she wanted and made herself a ham sandwich along with fries. "Sev!? Is that all you are going to eat!? Give yourself more food. Everyone knows you are only skin and bones." Regina said, shocked at what little food was on Snape's plate
Snape cringed at the use of the nickname, but at least it was better than what Sirius used to call him. "I do not eat alot. And how are you Ms. Wormwood?" Snape replied silkily.
Matilda was a little shocked at him remembering her name, let alone her last name. Matilda swallowed her bite of sandwich and said in reply "I am just fine, sir." Matilda was thirsty and saw the pitcher of water by Snape. She figured that it was okay to use her powers now. She beckoned the pitcher of water towards her and the pitcher floated across the table into Matilda's hands. Matilda poured herself a glass of water. Everyone was amazed at what she did. Everyone that is, except Dumbledore. He just gave a small smile and asked Matilda "Where did you learn to do that?" Matilda swallowed her water and began to relate her story to the table.
"When I was born, I was born into a family that didn't appreciate me. My mother was addicted to the game bingo while my father sold people cheap, wrecked cars he fixed up cheaply that only ran well for 10 miles and sold them ten times then what there worth was. In other words he was a crook. When I was four years old, after reading everything there was in the house, I walked all the way to the local library. The librarian was able to give me a library card so I could check out books and bring them home. When I was six and a half years old, I found out something odd. One night, while I was reading Moby Dick, dad wanted us to watch television together as a family. I really dislike the television so I kept my lamp on to read while they watched the television. Dad was in a bad mood because I glued his hat to his head with super glue, although he never found out it was me. I also made his hair orange that day too because of mom's blonde hair die. He never found out that was me either. So he looked at me, stood up, and asked me what I was reading and I said I was reading Moby Dick. He took the book out of my hands, torn it and said it was garbage. Then he positioned my face towards the television and I grew angry. So angry that I made the television blow up only thinking about it. I thought it was only a coincident, but I was wrong. When dad finally put me into school, it had the worst principal imaginable. Mrs. Trunchbull was her name and she was my new mom's aunt. When the car my dad sold her began to act up, she put me in the choky. It was a hole in the wall with a door that had nails and sharp objects pointing into the hole. Sometimes she would leave kids in there all day. Miss Honey, my mom that I have now, was my teacher then. She got me out of the choky and brought me back to class. Mrs. Trunchbull was making her daily inspections in my class that day. When she poured herself a glass of water, out of the pitcher came a newt. She started screaming saying it was a snake. When I corrected her, she started to yell at me, so I kept thinking 'tip glass tip' and the glass tipped onto her, newt and all. She wasn't too happy about that. I learned how to use my powers and kept practicing them and improving the trouble spots. I got it so well that I went to Mrs. Trunchbull's house and got my mom's Lissie doll back and played a mean trick on her. I pretended that my mom's father was haunting her house, but she found out it was me when my ribbon was left behind. The reason I haunted her was because my mom said that her father committed suicide and that just wasn't the case at all. At school the next day, Mrs. Trunchbull came to our class again. I made the class room act bizarre, with blinds moving and things flying, and wrote a message that I made out to be from my mom's dad and told her to get out of town. To make sure she got out of the school, I made the lunch boxes fly out and then all the kids at school threw food at her. My old family was chased out of the country by the F.B.I. and Miss Honey adopted me. That is basically the extent of my life and I haven't done anything so highly mean since. I can say one thing for sure is that the people punished in this story deserved it." Matilda finished her story and took a bite of her sandwich. Snape looked at the young girl, amazed that she was able to do wandless magic that was so controlled. Regina rubbed her niece's back, so proud that she was brave.
"Matilda I hope you go into Gryffindor. You are such a brave child," Regina said with such happiness. "You would get to be in Gryffindor just like your dad and me."
"But with such sly and underhanded actions, she is a good candidate for Slytherin," Snape replied in his silky voice.
"Now before an argument ensues about where this young girl belongs, I think the sorting hat should choose. Who knows, with such eagerness to learn, she might even be put into Ravenclaw," Dumbledore said this in voice that was calm and sweet yet showed an air of authority. "Besides, you two bicker like brother and sister. Would you like to take a walk with me on the grounds Matilda?"
"Yes, I would like that very much," Matilda replied eagerly. "I will be back before dinner I promise." Matilda gave her aunt a hug and followed Dumbledore out of the doors that lead into the Great Hall. Once out on the grounds going towards the forest Matilda knew she had to get some answers. "Mr. Dumbledore, I know now that Hogwarts is a school for witchcraft and wizardry, but why did my father mention things about security? How did my dad know about Harry? He obviously doesn't teach here." Matilda looked up at the old man expectantly.
"The security issue... you will find out why during the first day of school. I absolutely promise," Dumbledore replied to her question, with his blue eyes twinkling. "As for knowing young Harry, I think you will need to sit down for a little bit." They moved to sit down at a large log that had come to lay there in the shade underneath a tree. "Harry's parents were murdered when he was a year old by an evil wizard known as Lord Voldemort. He once was a student here who went by the name Tom Marvolo Riddle. He wanted to get rid of all non-magic people, muggles."
"Kind of like Hitler wanted to get rid of all the Jewish people during the 1940's," Maitilda interrupted.
"Exactly like that. Without the concentration camps, of course," Dumbledore replied as his eyes twinkled with surprise at the girl's knowledge.
"Why did Tom, or Lord Voldemort as he likes to be called, kill Harry's parents?"
"Alas, I cannot tell you that. Even Harry does not know why..."
"But you know. He is about 14 years old, of course he should know. He is old enough to."
"You are very wise, Matilda, but that is a decision for me to decide when the time is right."
"I am sorry for the interruption. Please, do tell me more about Lord Voldemort." Matilda pleaded
"He killed Harry's parents and tried to kill Harry himself, but something stopped him that night. No one knows exactly what happened that night, but Voldemort disappeared and followers came out or were found. There have been reports that he might still be out there, but he is barely alive I can assure you. Harry has a scar on his forehead in the shape of a lightening bolt. That scar is the only remains of the curse Voldemort tried to put on him. That is all I can tell you on the subject. If you want to hear more about it, then you can ask Harry, but there is not much he can tell you either." Dumbledore replied.
"Can I ask one more question?" Matilda asked with her brow furrowed.
"Sure," replied Dumbledore, wondering what could make her this tense.
"Why did you say that Mr. Snape and Aunt Gina bicker like brother and sister?"
Dumbledore had a hearty laugh. "You haven't seen them get in a good debate, have you?"
Matilda had to laugh now. What a foolish question to ask when she had never seen two people argue." I guess not!"
Matilda was amazed at how comfortable she was around the people in the wizarding world. She went to bed that night with dreams in her head of what happy things were to come next.
By: Anastasia_Romanova03
Email: Anastasia_Romanova03@yahoo.com
Summary: Matilda is eleven years old and is attending Hogwarts in Harry's fourth year there.
Disclaimer: I don't own anyone from Matilda or Harry Potter. They are not my creation. Only Regina Driscoll is. Matilda is the creation of Ronald Dahl and Harry Potter is J.K. Rowling's creation. Chris Smith and the upcoming character of Regina Driscoll is. Jenny is also Dahl's creation. The Goblet of Fire storyline is J.K.R's as well as every character at Hogwarts
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Matilda's birthday is just around the corner on August 6. She is turning eleven and she longed for her friends at home in America. Even though she met a few friends, she still was not looking forward to turning eleven. She finished college just last year when she majored in English and minored in Mathematics. She wanted to finish enjoying her youth before she had to take on an adult job. Matilda thought about going to college again, but she wanted to be with people her own age. Being eleven was not going to be fun.
Matilda woke up around eight o'clock that morning of August 6. That Tuesday morning was as fresh as can be. Matilda got dressed in a pair of jean shorts and a pink shirt. With her headband in her hair, she skipped downstairs into the kitchen for breakfast. Jenny was cooking eggs and toast.
"Hey sweetie, did you sleep well last night?" Jenny asked. She saw that Matilda looked a little weary.
"Yes, mom, I did. I just want to go to school with kids my own age. I feel so alone at times because I am not able to be around kids my own age as much as I used to be at Crunchem Hall," Matilda said. Jenny knew that she definitely was down today.
"Matilda come here," Jenny said as she hugged Matilda. She felt so bad as though she was not being a very good mother. "Matilda I didn't mean to force all the early education on you. I thought I was doing a good thing by keeping you up mentally with yourself. I will see if I can enroll you at a local school. This way I know you will more happy emotionally. How does that sound?"
Matilda looked at her and smiled. This is the best news she heard of in a long time. "Thanks mom. This is the best birthday gift I could ever ask for! I love you!" Matilda exclaimed as she embraced Jenny once again.
"Well Matilda, I am giving you 20 pounds so you can go by herself a new book to read at the local bookstore," Jenny said. She dug in her purse and pulled out a 20 pound note. Matilda took it, gave her a hug, took some toast, and ran out the door. It was a yearly tradition for her to get a book of frivolous means on her birthday and this year was no exception.
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When Matilda got back home around eleven, she checked the mail. There was a birthday card from Aunt Gina, an advertisement for a furniture store, and a letter addressed to her in green ink and sealed with red wax. Matilda's brow furrowed together more then she ever did before. She went inside and set the mail down at the kitchen table and opened up her strange letter. Jenny was outside in the backyard, pruning bushes. As Matilda read the letter, she became so shocked that she screamed. Jenny ran inside to see what the matter was.
"Matilda what is wrong!?" Jenny asked as she ran through the back door.
"Mom, I received this letter and it says that I am going to Hogwarts' School of Witchcraft and Wizardry! Things like this don't exist! WHAT IS GOING ON!?" Matilda exclaimed.
Chris came through the front door for lunch and heard Matilda yelling. He ran through the kitchen door and saw the Hogwarts' letter in her hands. His shocked face turned into the biggest smile that could be seen in his wedding photos. "Matilda, congratulations! This is incredible!" Chris said as he ran up to hug her. Matilda could barely hug because she was in such shock. Jenny look at Chris with the most unreadable expression on her face.
"Matilda," Jenny said still in shock, "please go upstairs while I talk to Chris alone." Matilda knew Jenny was upset with her father because of the use of his first name. She took her new book and ran upstairs with it. As soon as Jenny was sure Matilda was upstairs, Jenny started to drop bombs. "Chris, what the hell is going on?"
Chris's smile faded and he knew he would have to tell her the world that he desperately tried to keep from her. "Jenny I need you to sit down and listen to me. Some of the things that I am going to tell you are a little unbelievable, but trust me they do exist." Jenny and Chris sat down at the kitchen table. Chris took her hands in his and began to tell her of what he knew.
"Hogwarts is a school for witches and wizards to learn spells, potions, flying and defense. etc. It was started by four wizards a little over one thousand years ago. It is a very well established school and Harry even goes there. It is ran by one of the most greatest wizards of our time, Albus Dumbledore. If you worry that Matilda will be behind in any of the subjects, then don't worry. There will be plenty of young children there who have never heard of it until they get their letter." Chris thought long and hard and asked Jenny, "Dear, did ever notice strange things happening when Matilda would get mad or upset? Or even scared?"
Jenny knew she has a secret to tell Chris now. She wanted to protect Matilda, but he would find out sooner or later. "Chris, ... how do I tell you this?" Jenny thought. "Matilda has been able to move objects with her mind since she was about six and a half years old. She is very good at it too. She can do one task, such as pouring a bowl of cereal, to even cleaning the kitchen, doing everything from mopping to dishes, all at once. I did not want her to seem like a freak of nature to you, so I asked her not to use her powers around you. I am sorry I kept this from you," Jenny said as she bowed her head in shame.
"Oh no, no. Don't feel ashamed," as Chris took his finger to her chin to raise up her head. "I feel ashamed for not telling you I was a wizard. I am not mad at you as long as you are not mad at me," Chris said smiling as he kissed her on the nose. "When we go to Diagon Alley to get Matilda's school supplies, I will get you Hogwarts: A History, Quidditch Through the Ages, Fantastic Beast Through the Ages, and the History of Magic, so that way you can learn what Matilda will learn. This will help you keep up to date on what to expect in the next few years."
"I am not mad at you," Jenny said as she kissed him. Then a thoughtful expression came on her face. "Why all the books? What is Quidditch? Where is Diagon Alley?"
"Well to answer your questions, the books will give you the basis of what every wizard knows, quidditch is a wizarding sport you will learn about in the book about it, and Diagon Alley is in London. My sister Regina is a witch too. She is going to Hogwarts to get some tips teaching potions from the potions professor, Severus Snape. He may not seem very well respected in some circles, but he is a good man. Maybe we can let Matilda stay with Regina for a few weeks before school starts, while you and me go get her school supplies. Then two days before September 1, we can meet Matilda and Regina in Diagon Alley so she can get fitted for some robes and get her wand and we can spend some time together. Does that sound good?" Chris asked her.
"That sounds wonderful. Lets go tell Matilda the wonderful news. I just talked to her this morning about sending her to a school so she can be with kids her own age. She will adore this idea!" Jenny exclaimed as she practically dragged Chris upstairs. Jenny entered Matilda's room, along with Chris. Matilda put her new book down, sat up on her bed and waited for the verdict.
"Matilda," Jenny started with the biggest smile on her face, "we decided that you are going to Hogwarts after all!" Matilda got off her bed and hugged both of her parents.
"You will also be going to visit Aunt Gina tomorrow for about a month to learn about the wizarding world. She will also be taking you to the Quidditch World Cup too. After that, we will spend two days together before school starts to get your robes and a wand," Chris stated absolutely delighted. Matilda started to pack her things for tomorrow. She was in such a hurry that she forgot to say bye to Harry.
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It was Wednesday and Matilda was going to get to spend two and a half weeks with her favorite aunt in the whole wide world. Regina knew how to have fun and excitement. Matilda was sitting on the bay window sit in the living room waiting for Regina to come by. Her stuff was all packed and sitting by the stairs. Regina said she would be there at eleven o'clock and it is 11:15.
"Mom, is Aunt Gina going to be here soon?" Matilda asked a little impatiently.
"I am sure she is going to be. She might be running a little late," Jenny said to Matilda with a little smile on her face. "I know for a fact that she is trying to move a few belongings to Hogwarts so she can stay there for a little bit. You will be staying there with her." Jenny gave her daughter a hug.
All of sudden a nose started to come from the fireplace. Then in a flash, Regina came flying out of the chimney. She got herself up and brushed herself down. Matilda stared at her, speechless at what just happened. Matilda looked at Jenny, surprised because there was no shock on her face. It seemed as though she was expecting this.
"Well Matilda, I think you have grown at least four inches since the last time I saw you!" Regina exclaimed as she hugged Matilda and swung her around. When Regina put Matilda down, she had a big smile on her face. Matilda always looked forward to spending time with her Aunt Gina "Sorry it took a while, but Albus Dumbledore was telling me about a few changes that are being made for this year at school. Matilda, I also have a few letters from my stay in America that are from your friends at Crunchem Hall. They have missed very much and they say the new principal is wonderful. I have the letters back at Hogwarts, so when we get there remind me to give them to you. I am famished! What about you?" Regina asked, with everything in a rush.
"Sure!" Matilda exclaimed. Matilda gave her mom one last hug goodbye and got her stuff by the stairs and carried it in the living room. "How are we getting there?" Matilda asked, giving the chimney a mistrusting look
"We are taking the Floo Network. All you have to do is take this floo powder," Regina started as she took a pouch of sand out of her robe's pocket, "and state the name very clearly of where you want to go, throw the powder to the ground and poof,... you are there." Regina finished her sentence with a great big smile. "Hey Jenny, please take this bag of powder and give it to Matilda when she goes on her turn." Regina took a handful of floo powder out of the pouch. Matilda looked at her as though she was insane. "Don't worry, you would have to be a troll in order not to do this! It's as simple as stopping a boggart! I will go first. Watch closely and let me take some of your stuff too." Regina took Matilda's larger suitcase, stepped into the fireplace and said "Hogwarts School." As green flames enveloped her, Matilda took a surprising jump backwards. She hoped this wouldn't be a bad trip.
"Chris' sister sure does know how to make an entrance. Well Matilda, I want you to be good and be safe. Don't forget, we will meet in Diagon Alley two days before school starts. Give Regina all of our love." Jenny kissed Matilda on the forehead and gave her the bag of floo powder.
Matilda walked into the fireplace, put her suitcase to open it up and put the remainder of the floo powder in her case. She picked up the suitcase again, gave her mom one last smile and said firmly "Hogwarts School." She felt herself being spun around to the point of being sick. Before her body had time to register the nausea, she landed on a hard floor with a loud thud. She opened eyes and was in a room that things strewn around everyone. Obviously, this was Aunt Gina's room. Regina was a young woman of 25 whose height was an average five feet and seven inches. She had long, straight brown hair and hazel eyes that seemed to laugh at everyone. She was a good natured and was usually a person of many words. Her wit, when in use, was as sharp as a knife. Knowing how sharp it is, she only used it when necessary.
"Matilda, I want you to come here," Regina said. "I want to show you your new room." Matilda followed her inside the doorway and to her amazement, the room was just like the one she had back at home. Everything was the same, including all of her favorite books on the white shelf. Matilda turned around, gave Regina a hugged, and whispered thank you in her ear. After everything was put away, mostly due to Regina's wand waving, they were ready to eat.
"Hmm... do you think we can eat lunch here and eat out for dinner?" Regina asked in response of her stomach growling.
"Sure Aunt," Matilda stated, trying not to giggle. They headed downstairs into the Great Hall for lunch. There was a small table with chairs around. To Matilda, the Great Hall was amazing! She looked up, but instead of seeing the Gothic style ceiling and windows, she saw the bright sunny sky. The Great Hall was massive and she knew that this is where the students assembled to eat and have assemblies. At the table, Matilda noticed that Severus Snape was there talking with a old man that had a long beard with white hair. His face was older than 70! Matilda wondered if he was at least 200 years old but her logical mind said that was impossible. But then again, with things like wizards, anything must be possible. Matilda and Regina sat down at the table to eat. There was a platters full of bread rolls and slices of turkey and ham along with condiments. There were also bowls filled with fries and cookies. To Matilda, this was the best lunch to ask for.
"Go on Matilda, dig in!" Regina told Matilda as she was digging in, already making herself two sandwiches. Matilda grabbed the things she wanted and made herself a ham sandwich along with fries. "Sev!? Is that all you are going to eat!? Give yourself more food. Everyone knows you are only skin and bones." Regina said, shocked at what little food was on Snape's plate
Snape cringed at the use of the nickname, but at least it was better than what Sirius used to call him. "I do not eat alot. And how are you Ms. Wormwood?" Snape replied silkily.
Matilda was a little shocked at him remembering her name, let alone her last name. Matilda swallowed her bite of sandwich and said in reply "I am just fine, sir." Matilda was thirsty and saw the pitcher of water by Snape. She figured that it was okay to use her powers now. She beckoned the pitcher of water towards her and the pitcher floated across the table into Matilda's hands. Matilda poured herself a glass of water. Everyone was amazed at what she did. Everyone that is, except Dumbledore. He just gave a small smile and asked Matilda "Where did you learn to do that?" Matilda swallowed her water and began to relate her story to the table.
"When I was born, I was born into a family that didn't appreciate me. My mother was addicted to the game bingo while my father sold people cheap, wrecked cars he fixed up cheaply that only ran well for 10 miles and sold them ten times then what there worth was. In other words he was a crook. When I was four years old, after reading everything there was in the house, I walked all the way to the local library. The librarian was able to give me a library card so I could check out books and bring them home. When I was six and a half years old, I found out something odd. One night, while I was reading Moby Dick, dad wanted us to watch television together as a family. I really dislike the television so I kept my lamp on to read while they watched the television. Dad was in a bad mood because I glued his hat to his head with super glue, although he never found out it was me. I also made his hair orange that day too because of mom's blonde hair die. He never found out that was me either. So he looked at me, stood up, and asked me what I was reading and I said I was reading Moby Dick. He took the book out of my hands, torn it and said it was garbage. Then he positioned my face towards the television and I grew angry. So angry that I made the television blow up only thinking about it. I thought it was only a coincident, but I was wrong. When dad finally put me into school, it had the worst principal imaginable. Mrs. Trunchbull was her name and she was my new mom's aunt. When the car my dad sold her began to act up, she put me in the choky. It was a hole in the wall with a door that had nails and sharp objects pointing into the hole. Sometimes she would leave kids in there all day. Miss Honey, my mom that I have now, was my teacher then. She got me out of the choky and brought me back to class. Mrs. Trunchbull was making her daily inspections in my class that day. When she poured herself a glass of water, out of the pitcher came a newt. She started screaming saying it was a snake. When I corrected her, she started to yell at me, so I kept thinking 'tip glass tip' and the glass tipped onto her, newt and all. She wasn't too happy about that. I learned how to use my powers and kept practicing them and improving the trouble spots. I got it so well that I went to Mrs. Trunchbull's house and got my mom's Lissie doll back and played a mean trick on her. I pretended that my mom's father was haunting her house, but she found out it was me when my ribbon was left behind. The reason I haunted her was because my mom said that her father committed suicide and that just wasn't the case at all. At school the next day, Mrs. Trunchbull came to our class again. I made the class room act bizarre, with blinds moving and things flying, and wrote a message that I made out to be from my mom's dad and told her to get out of town. To make sure she got out of the school, I made the lunch boxes fly out and then all the kids at school threw food at her. My old family was chased out of the country by the F.B.I. and Miss Honey adopted me. That is basically the extent of my life and I haven't done anything so highly mean since. I can say one thing for sure is that the people punished in this story deserved it." Matilda finished her story and took a bite of her sandwich. Snape looked at the young girl, amazed that she was able to do wandless magic that was so controlled. Regina rubbed her niece's back, so proud that she was brave.
"Matilda I hope you go into Gryffindor. You are such a brave child," Regina said with such happiness. "You would get to be in Gryffindor just like your dad and me."
"But with such sly and underhanded actions, she is a good candidate for Slytherin," Snape replied in his silky voice.
"Now before an argument ensues about where this young girl belongs, I think the sorting hat should choose. Who knows, with such eagerness to learn, she might even be put into Ravenclaw," Dumbledore said this in voice that was calm and sweet yet showed an air of authority. "Besides, you two bicker like brother and sister. Would you like to take a walk with me on the grounds Matilda?"
"Yes, I would like that very much," Matilda replied eagerly. "I will be back before dinner I promise." Matilda gave her aunt a hug and followed Dumbledore out of the doors that lead into the Great Hall. Once out on the grounds going towards the forest Matilda knew she had to get some answers. "Mr. Dumbledore, I know now that Hogwarts is a school for witchcraft and wizardry, but why did my father mention things about security? How did my dad know about Harry? He obviously doesn't teach here." Matilda looked up at the old man expectantly.
"The security issue... you will find out why during the first day of school. I absolutely promise," Dumbledore replied to her question, with his blue eyes twinkling. "As for knowing young Harry, I think you will need to sit down for a little bit." They moved to sit down at a large log that had come to lay there in the shade underneath a tree. "Harry's parents were murdered when he was a year old by an evil wizard known as Lord Voldemort. He once was a student here who went by the name Tom Marvolo Riddle. He wanted to get rid of all non-magic people, muggles."
"Kind of like Hitler wanted to get rid of all the Jewish people during the 1940's," Maitilda interrupted.
"Exactly like that. Without the concentration camps, of course," Dumbledore replied as his eyes twinkled with surprise at the girl's knowledge.
"Why did Tom, or Lord Voldemort as he likes to be called, kill Harry's parents?"
"Alas, I cannot tell you that. Even Harry does not know why..."
"But you know. He is about 14 years old, of course he should know. He is old enough to."
"You are very wise, Matilda, but that is a decision for me to decide when the time is right."
"I am sorry for the interruption. Please, do tell me more about Lord Voldemort." Matilda pleaded
"He killed Harry's parents and tried to kill Harry himself, but something stopped him that night. No one knows exactly what happened that night, but Voldemort disappeared and followers came out or were found. There have been reports that he might still be out there, but he is barely alive I can assure you. Harry has a scar on his forehead in the shape of a lightening bolt. That scar is the only remains of the curse Voldemort tried to put on him. That is all I can tell you on the subject. If you want to hear more about it, then you can ask Harry, but there is not much he can tell you either." Dumbledore replied.
"Can I ask one more question?" Matilda asked with her brow furrowed.
"Sure," replied Dumbledore, wondering what could make her this tense.
"Why did you say that Mr. Snape and Aunt Gina bicker like brother and sister?"
Dumbledore had a hearty laugh. "You haven't seen them get in a good debate, have you?"
Matilda had to laugh now. What a foolish question to ask when she had never seen two people argue." I guess not!"
Matilda was amazed at how comfortable she was around the people in the wizarding world. She went to bed that night with dreams in her head of what happy things were to come next.