Chapter Seven: Trusting in Secrets
Disclaimer: Aside from the original characters in part or whole I don't own them, don't sue me, and don't hex me. Enjoy
Author's Note: I had a hard time with this chapter, I'm not entirely sure how well I like it, and I may end up rewriting it eventually. Also I mistakenly said Ayden was a fourth year in the last chapter, she's not, she's in fifth year along with the twins, she's also 16 because her birthday is after the start of term~Jade
"Miss Wynters, Mister Wood, good morning to you both, it's nice to see students eager to begin a new class period." We were greeted by Professor Lupin and immediately my senses were assaulted with a very primal scent. I raised an eyebrow at our Professor and met his gaze.
"Good morning Professor Lupin." Oliver's voice snapped me out of my musings causing my gaze to shift to him for a moment before returning to our Professor's.
"Good morning Professor…we didn't want to be late." I smiled at him and a flicker of recognition passed through Professor Lupin's eyes as he nodded opening the door to his classroom, I felt as if he could see through me.
"Indeed, since you both know each other why not take the middle desk…" Oliver and I nodded and took the desk he had appointed, settling in to wait for the rest of the students.
"He seems nice enough…" Oliver had lowered his voice slightly as Professor Lupin stood at the door. I nodded absentmindedly as I tried to sort out the Professor's scent; it was strong and rather dominant, though I did not feel at all threatened. It made my senses seem sharper, I felt as alert as prey that knows it is too near a predator's cave. As I shifted in my seat though, I caught Oliver's scent and instantly felt much calmer. Even if my stomach did flips whenever he smiled at me, I was grateful he was sitting next to me. I didn't feel threatened by the other scent; though it kept me very alert as the rest of the class filed in.
I looked around noticing it was a Slytherin/Gryffindor class, each House keeping to its side. Most of the students don't meet my eyes as I look around, not even the Slytherins, though there are a few exceptions. The Gryffindors seemed a bit more at ease with me, offering me tentative smiles and I have a feeling it has to do with the fact that Oliver is sitting with me. By contrast the few Slytherins, who met my gaze, glowered at me, sneering in my direction which only caused me to roll my eyes at them in annoyance. One such boy was tall, muscular looking with dark hair, grey eyes and horrid teeth, who decided to sit at the desk next to mine. His sneering was more of a leer as I felt and watched him slowly look me over.
"Lost something?" I turned my gaze on him, cold and impassive, controlling the urge for my skin to crawl. I didn't know this boy, but everything about him, from his cold malicious gaze, the sneer and his very scent next to me, screamed malevolence.
"Not at all…just wondering what hex Wood used on you, why else would you hang about him?" His voice cut through me, it didn't seem entirely human, gruff and gravely in the worst sense of the words, more guttural in sounds than words should be in any circumstance.
"Unlike you some of us have actual personality Flint, and don't require placing our dates under the Imperius curse to gain their attention." I felt Oliver shift behind me closer to my form, as if cradling my body though he didn't actually touch me.
"If it's personality that she is looking for, why stick around with you? You've the personality of the back end of blast ended skrewt…" I felt Oliver tense behind me as Flint attempted to sneer at me, his dental problem ruining the effect.
"And you obviously are part troll…keep away from me Flint." My voice was cold as I glared at him and turned away his sneer faltering as he glared at me with a kind of hatred that made a chill run down my spine. I'd seen that look before, and I've never liked it, especially since I know he's not stopped staring at me as if I were some sort of prize. I did my best to ignore him, turning my head slightly instead towards Oliver who was glaring at Flint over my shoulder. I allowed my blond and black highlighted hair to cascade into his line of view, not wanting any trouble to start over me.
Oliver's eyes met mine and my breath hitched for a moment, it was as if every nerve in my body was being overcharged. His eyes seemed to pull me in, take my breath away, make my pulse race (the reliability of my feedings allowed me to still have one) and make my stomach turn knots.
I startled slightly as the door closed behind Professor Lupin and he started his first class. I fought hard to pay attention while ignoring the lewd looks Flint kept throwing my way. I try to slowly scoot further from him, inching closer to Oliver in the process; there was something vaguely familiar about the boy, which is unnerving.
I felt slight pressure on my knee and tilt my head to see Oliver's hand on my knee gently. The warmth served to focus me on the lecture Professor Lupin had started. I breathed deeply, Oliver's scent invading my lungs before picking up my quill and taking notes. He was taking questions on Dementors; I stiffened as we turned to our books. I couldn't help but wonder if certain topics existed only to torment me this way.
"It is easy to understand why Dementors are both hated and feared, but despite all that we in the wizarding world know about them, we truly know very little." I watched Professor Lupin as he addressed the class, trying to both pay attention to his words, and determine what it was that I smelled from him. His scent was very distinct, granted everyone has a unique scent, but his stood out from the other wizards that I had come across. It was more than just a normal wizard's scent…it had something out of place…primal….
"Miss Wynters?" I snapped out of my thoughts as Professor Lupin called on me, I blinked a few times, my face settled into an impassive mask as I realized I had no idea what he just asked me.
"I'm sorry Professor, could you repeat the question?" I didn't offer any excuse and though I saw his eyebrow raise and his look set sternly, he was not unkind when he repeated his question.
"I asked if you had any thoughts as to why it may be that we have such incomplete information about Dementors, though we have known of their existence for some centuries now." I pushed my hair back slowly as I considered the question for a moment.
"I imagine it has to do with the very nature of a Dementor. Neither a wizard nor witch can simply trapeze over to one and ask it questions, or just watch them in their natural habitat. Dementors are nasty creatures with no sense of loyalty other than to themselves, they are sentient enough to understand how to get what they need to survive, but being soulless hinders their ability to show any sense of empathy, sympathy nor reason to anything that does not resemble their own. They almost don't seem to belong in this world; they do not seem to be connected in any way to anything around them aside from death and despair which they thrive off of. In any case they are just as deadly to a wizard or witch as they are to everything else, as much as we may want to understand them more, even if in some morbid fascination, it is simply not possible unless we can develop a way of communication with them that can be trusted, and in such a way that they could not harm us." I could sense the rest of the class' eyes on me, quite a few I noted in surprise, and either they assumed I was daft, or they didn't expect me to answer at all. I ignored them focusing instead on Professor Lupin at the front of the class; he seemed very pleased with my answer as he smiled at me in earnest.
"It is a shame Miss Wynters that I cannot award you House Points, for that was a very insightful answer to a question I have asked many classes before you. Miss Wynters makes very good points; does anyone have anything to add?" Professor Lupin looked around and I watched his eyes darken slightly as he called on someone else.
"Yes Mr. Flint?" I fought the urge to roll my eyes; I'm starting to assume guys like Flint are the reason Ayden really hates the reputation her house gets.
"What do we need to know about Dementors other than we can obviously control them enough to have them do what we say, like guard Azkaban prison? I think it's stupid to want to learn anything else about them because it doesn't matter, as wizards we're superior to them and they're only here for our use…" His words made me sick, on a lot of levels, especially the very simple tone; he honestly believed what he was saying.
"Aye, control them so well Sirius Black has escaped Azkaban prison this summer. Your arrogant attitude is as repulsive as your dental hygiene Flint, and I take back the comment about you being part troll, even they understand enough to be insulted at having been compared to the likes of you. Dementors have NO loyalty, they don't follow the Ministry's orders because the Ministry controls them, they guard places like Azkaban because it provides them with a steady food supply. They would turn their backs on anything and anyone as long as they had something to gain. If wizards are really so superior in your opinion Flint, then tell me how does a wizard prevent against a Dementor's kiss? How do you guard from it? How do you reverse its effects? How do you destroy a Dementor Flint?" I couldn't control my mouth as I glared at the Slytherin at the desk next to me, and at some point I had actually stood up. I only registered that fact when I felt Oliver's arm snake around my waist tugging at me to sit down again.
"Miss Wynters! While I encourage free thought in my class I will remind you to raise your hand and not insult your fellow classmates. While I cannot take points away from you for such an act, I would like to see you after class for a suitable punishment. Having said that Mister Flint, and while again you are entitled to your opinion, the points Miss Wynters has stated, are in fact valid." Professor Lupin's tone was sharp and I finally let Oliver pull me back down to my seat, the force causing me to press against him.
"On that note, your assignment due Friday will be an essay on the dangers of wizards working with and relying so much on creatures such as Dementors. No longer than 3 feet please, and it will have to make a firm point either for the continued use, or reasons as to why the wizarding world should discontinue such alliances. For our next class please read the first three chapters making sure to define each creature discussed." Professor Lupin tapped the board behind him and the class copied down the assignments and points from the lecture and discussion. A few more questions were asked though I paid them no mind before the class was dismissed.
"Are you alright Isabella?" Oliver's tone was soft as he looked at me, I just noticed his arm was still around my waist somewhat. I nodded and looked up at him taking a deep breath, my hand pushing through my hair slowly.
"Aye…annoyed…but I'm all right…is Flint always such an arse?" Most of the class had left, Flint included. I heard Oliver snort as he finally let go of me and started putting his belongings away.
"Indeed…though he is usually better behaved in classes. And by that I mean he pays little attention and keeps quiet, which may explain why he's had to repeat a year." I watched Oliver, his closeness was very calming though often threw my senses into overboard. It was confusing, all that I was feeling and yet…I had no intention of letting it be any other way, there was a strange pull I felt when I was around him that I enjoyed. I felt the corner of my moth tug upward as he spoke; it was obvious Oliver disliked Flint, though it seemed everyone did.
"I feel I should worry why you're smirking at me, and yet it looks nice on you…come on you don't want to be late to Transfiguration." I fought the urge to blush, as he spoke, his eyes roamed my face as he stood next to me school bag slung over his shoulder. I knew Ayden would have fun when I told her about this crush of mine, and how it seemed to have a mind of its own.
"Don't worry about me Oliver, I have to stay behind to speak with Professor Lupin remember? And I know my way to the Transfiguration room; go on no need for you to be late…" I stood and actually offered him a smile as I gathered my things, he seemed hesitant to leave.
"Miss Wynters if you would go on up to my office please. Mister Wood I suggest you head for your next class unless you wish to be late" Professor Lupin motioned up the stairs in his classroom and I nodded, pulling my school bag onto my shoulder and heading for his office. I looked up as I started the short stairs and saw Oliver watching me, I gave him a small smile and nod which he returned and turned to leave.
I looked around Professor Lupin's office, liking it instantly, though I had to hold onto a nearby chair, the scent from before much more pronounced here. It made my senses nervous, making me feel much more alert than usual. This was starting to get on my nerves as I closed my eyes and attempted to calm myself, there were few times I had feelings such as this. An uneasiness that bothered me only because I couldn't quite place it, I didn't feel in danger, at least not in any other way but that the scent surrounding me drove a primal sense of worry into me, there was something about Professor Lupin I needed to place.
"Miss Wynters, please have a seat, are you all right you seem a bit paler than usual…" I startled slightly as I felt and heard Professor Lupin next to me, he had placed a hand on my shoulder leading me to the chair, and the scent had increased dramatically and was making it difficult for me to think clearly.
"You, I'm sorry Professor…but…Circe…it's your scent doing this…Professor? Are…you a werewolf?" As I struggled to keep my mind focused and fought the primal urge to run away from the man standing first next to me and then at his desk, my eyes had come to fall on a discarded bottle on his desk, one I recognized though it was empty. Normally I wasn't so disrespectful with anyone but I couldn't help myself.
The look of slight panic, and worry fell onto Professor Lupin's face almost immediately, and it was clear to see that he was ashamed of his lycanthropy.
"Merlin…Dumbledore warned me you'd' be among the first to figure it out but I didn't think it would be so suddenly Miss Wynters…" Even his voice had changed now, tense with certain undertones of sorrow and dejection. I realized his life must be much worse than mine, though we were both considered half breeds; he had suffered much more than I.
"Professor…I'm sure Headmaster Dumbledore told you why I'd be among the first to figure it out?" I wasn't sure if Dumbledore had told him I was a turned vampire, but it didn't seem so from his reaction.
"He remarked you are an incredibly apt and intelligent young woman Miss Wynters, and while he has implied you seem to have certain gifts, he told me it would be up to you to tell me anything more precise." Professor Lupin sat heavily in his chair, watching me closely, I'm sure he wondered what I would do now knowing his secret.
"Professor…I'm a half breed, a turned vampire witch…I'm not about to hold your lycanthropy against you. I do however ask you to forgive me for my behavior today. I could not help it, your scent was off to me and while I couldn't quite place it at first my primal instinct was of preservation. Vampires and Werewolves are not exactly known to be friends…" I watched Professor Lupin's reaction to what I was saying. There seemed to be a bit of shock as he listened, and then a sense of understanding before he offered me a tentative smile.
"Of course, that's why you picked up my scent though I'm not due to transform anytime soon…." He looked quite impressed and watched me with a sense of respect, though it soon turned sad.
"I'm sorry my scent is affecting you as such, I will look into seeing if there is something I can do for you, and now knowing your heritage…I will know where to double check. This also explains the inquiries I've gotten from both the Headmaster and Madame Pomfrey, both I presume concern you." He leaned back slightly in his chair, eyes unfocused and lost in thought for a moment.
"Aye, I asked Headmaster Dumbledore under what circumstances a corporal patronus form could change, and I asked Madame Pomfrey about my sudden inability to control the scents that affected me. Or rather my inability to block them out, to be honest it's starting to annoy me a great deal…" I sighed and pushed my hair back, leaning back into the chair. My mini rant was apparently amusing as the look on my professor's face was no longer tense.
"I'll look into it, but I can't help but think if it isn't something simpler. After all it seems your turning hasn't affected your magical abilities, though it has accentuated and even strengthened some of them, such as your sense of smell for instance, which is very important both as a witch and as a vampire." He gave me a pointed look and I raised an eyebrow.
"I suppose, but…for vampires scent is used to find well food…but…a mate…and surely Professor…you're not thinking that could…be…" The look on his face was obvious and I felt myself blanch at the thought.
"Well we will just look into it Miss Wynters, do not fret. It could be something much less complicated, perhaps due to the stress of having to reincorporate into the student body. As for the punishment I must ask you to help me tomorrow catch a grindylow from the black lake, sometime in the evening if it will be best for you?" I nodded shivering at the thought, grindylows are creepy.
"Aye creepy lil buggers…if you mean because of my sensitivity to sunlight…with the proper protection I should be okay, but the evening would be nice if possible." He nodded and I sighed shifting in my seat.
"Well let me write you a note so that you can get to Transfiguration, correct?" I nodded as he pulled out a piece of parchment and penned a quick note to excuse my tardiness, I also watched him write me a note for tomorrow's punishment as I would be late for dinner. I stood picking up my bag and taking the offered notes.
"Thank you Professor, and don't worry your secret is safe with me." I smiled and turned walking out of his office. The fifth years had come in and taken their seats, I noticed the Weasley twins sitting a seat behind where Oliver and I had sat, and Ayden sitting to Fred's left. I winked at her as I passed her making Fred and George whistle at the act, Ayden blushing brightly as she glared at me.
"Good morning students…" Professor Lupin's voice brought them to attention as I walked out of his classroom. I mulled over what he had told me, the bit about him being a werewolf made sense. His scent had stirred the most primal survival instinct I had, but I felt completely at ease once I realized it came from him. I make a mental note to ask Professor Snape if he needed help brewing Wolfsbane potion for Professor Lupin, I'm sure he'll let me help, as he's usually complaining that I don't spend as much time with him as I did the other Professors.
"Miss Wynters, I take it you have reason for being so late…" I had to resist the urge to roll my eyes at Professor McGonagall and simply handed her the note from Professor Lupin.
"Aye I do Professor, forgive my tardiness…" I watched her read over the parchment and nod her lips pursed tightly.
"Indeed, please take your seat next to Mister Wood…" I raised an eyebrow at Oliver who was giving me a cheeky smile as I took the seat next to him. I hurried to catch up with the lesson, glad it was more theoretical today as there was too much on my mind to do much practical magic.
The class passed uneventfully, and I realized it was because I shared this hour with Gryffindors and Ravenclaws. I was missing the first two pages of notes, but I made a mental note to ask to borrow someone else's to copy later, I'm sure Oliver wouldn't mind. I sighed inwardly, now my mind was looking for excuses to talk to him more, I wonder if I'm becoming one of those hopeless girls, fawning over an attractive boy…I pushed the thought away as it started to annoy me to no end.
I somehow managed to make it through the rest of Transfiguration, and Charms without much effort. I was relieved to find it was lunch time, as my stomach growled rather loudly. I knew I would have to eat more as Madame Pomfrey had pointed out to me before, the longer days meant my body would require more than just the every other day blood feedings. Luckily for me, I did not suffer from what full turned vampires did, the inability to eat actual food anymore unless spiked or prepared with blood. I made my way down to the Great Hall from Charms, though I hadn't spoken much to the other students, since I did not share that class with Oliver, I walked alone. Most students in my year let me be, giving me ample space to walk, as they tried to pretend they weren't whispering about me as I passed them.
I rolled my eyes as they had started speculating if I was dating anyone, if I was part Veela, and where I had come from. I ignored the whispers and kept walking, I heard a few whispers about Sirius Black, Harry Potter (as usual) and all the other incessant gossip that Ayden had always complained about. I brought a hand up to my neck and rubbed idly, the dull throb beginning there was usually the first sign of a headache. I made it to the Great Hall and looked around to try and find Ayden but couldn't spot her turquoise dyed hair anywhere along the Slytherin table. I wondered if perhaps she had gotten in trouble in her last class, or if she had opted for having lunch outside. I tilted my head up slightly to look at the enchanted ceiling, noticing the bright blue sunny sky I opted for not going to check the school grounds. I sighed slightly and considered my options, looking around to see if I found anyone I knew.
The Great Hall was still somewhat empty so that if I chose to walk back out no one would really pay me much mind. I refused to sit at the Slytherin table on my own, the Hufflepuffs present seemed a bit scared of me, the few Ravenclaws had their noses to books and didn't notice anything and while I'm sure the Gryffindors wouldn't deny me a seat, part of me wondered if it weren't best for me to keep some distance between Oliver and myself. Granted the moment I even thought of it, my senses seemed to protest, the sudden rush through my body made me almost nauseous, as I suddenly wanted nothing more than to have him near.
"Oi if it isn't Wynters, how's it going Isabella?" I turned to see the grinning faces of Fred and George Weasley. I couldn't help but smile even as my stomach lurched again, hunger pains and an incessant need to see Oliver mixing.
"Hey lads…starving to be honest, either of you seen Ayden?" I ignored the feelings and opted for giving them a slight smile, my hand coming to rest on my stomach willing it to calm.
"We've just left her in the Hospital Wing, we just had Herbology and the Venomous Tentacula is teething again it got a hold of her when she walked by it. Madame Pomfrey kicked us out though when she heard us offer to sever the plant and stuff it in Malfoy's trousers…" Fred grinned at me while his twin tried to look innocently over his shoulder leading me to the Gryffindor table.
"I'm beginning to think you two are much more trouble than you seem, and that's saying something as mischief is clearly spelled wherever you two are present." I laughed as they spoke, letting them lead me to the table, my laughing louder as they feigned looking offended by my statement.
"I'll have you know Miss Wynters, that it is not our fault if mischief follows us about…we're just lucky this way." George put on a haughty look that reminded me of his older brother, Head Boy Percy.
"Aye of course not…" I shook my head in mock agreement as I started reaching for the chicken salad on the table. I could see why Ayden liked their company, both twins were witty, smart, and knew how to make any situation enjoyable. I also noted Fred had a much darker sense of humor than George, which would be one of the many qualities Ayden found attractive. There was a damn good reason as to why she had been sorted into Slytherin, and though I knew she would never be a Dark witch, and that much of her house's bad reputation is slightly exaggerated, I also know what she is capable of; it's a fine line to walk.
"How's your day been then?" George smiled at me passing me the rolls after taking a few; I noted he seemed quieter than Fred as well.
"Not too bad I suppose, except…I met Flint…and my stomach is still churning…"I rolled my eyes and they snickered.
"I'm sorry Isabella perhaps we should talk to Madam Pomfrey, your poor stomach will never be the same again!" I laughed as the twins made dramatic faces, mocking Flint.
"Oi lads let her breathe…" I felt shivers down my spine at his voice; I turned my head to see Oliver sitting next to me, he wrapped an arm around my waist gently, rubbing my back slowly.
"You okay Isabella?" I nodded leaning a bit into his half embrace, the violent twisting in my stomach stopping almost immediately.
"Aye these two are wickedly entertaining…" As much as I wish I could say the throb of my headache was starting to go away, it actually became much sharper. Between the laughing and my incessant desire to be near Oliver, my head was out for revenge. I rubbed my neck gently as I started on my lunch, listening while the twins talked to Oliver about what happened to Ayden. I shook my head as they retold the story, while having Oliver near meant that most of the noise in the Great Hall seemed more like background noise, I knew I should finish my lunch and go somewhere else before my headache got worse. I had one more class to deal with, Potions, before having the rest of the day free.
"You sure you're okay? You've gone quiet you know…" Oliver's voice in my ear caused my heart rate to jump; this boy is hazardous to my health.
"Bit of a headache actually, I think I may go check on Ayden, or I might head for the library for a bit…" I shifted slightly, trying to put space between us, though there wasn't much for me to do as I realized Fred was sitting to my right. As I looked into Oliver's warm eyes I couldn't help but remember what Professor Lupin had mentioned, and I shifted uncomfortably.
"Do you have another class today?" His demeanor was nonchalant and part of me was annoyed that he didn't seem affected by me in the way I was affected by him. I hated that he didn't know what he was doing, hell I hate that I don't know what he's doing to me by just sitting there.
"Potions, last class for the day after lunch, I should probably head up to the Library if I want to make sure I'm not late…" I pushed my mostly empty plate away, grabbing my pumpkin juice and finishing it quickly, it felt hard to breathe suddenly and I needed to get away from Oliver, I know I'm being irrationally angry at him, and I don't want to snap. He seemed to notice my sudden urgency to leave and raised an eyebrow at me, his eyes showing confusion and concern.
"See you later then…you're welcome to sit with us for dinner if Ayden is stuck near Malfoy again." I nodded at him and grabbed my bag, walking briskly away after saying goodbye to the twins. The moment I left the Great Hall the throbbing in my head grew worse, it had calmed down as I sat next to Oliver, but I couldn't turn around and go back to him. I made my way up to the third floor and walked into the library looking for Madame Pince hopefully she's in a good mood and will help me. Stopping in an alcove before the library I tapped my wand on my current books, casting a charm to trade them for my potions books, ingredients and notebooks.
Madame Pince was of course at her desk busy looking over a list of books. I know most students were slightly afraid of her, and rightly so, I've never met a woman so intent on preserving the books in her care. She was of course not nearly as uptight as most students assumed she was, and if you knew how to talk to her, she was a very helpful witch. However, Madame Pince had a nasty temper when provoked, and so I always made sure to time my requests with her good moods. She looked busy but not annoyed, at least not yet as I approached her desk.
"Hello Miss Wynters, how is your first day of full classes going?" She offered me a small smile as she looked up from her work.
"Hello Madame Pince, it's been a very interesting experience so far. I was wondering if perhaps you could recommend a book for my Defense against the Dark Arts assignment." I smiled at her; I actually quite liked the witch, as long as she was not annoyed with me.
"Certainly, what is the assignment about?" She put down her list and adjusted her glasses, a small smirk on her face at the irony of the situation.
"Professor Lupin wants us to discuss the benefits and dangers of the wizarding world's reliance on such creatures as Dementors, and I was hoping to add a few notes on other equally dangerous creatures to contrast with them. I was also wondering if our library has any reliable books on vampire customs that I may check out." I saw her smirk widen at the second part of my request and couldn't help but snort back as we had a conversation over the summer about vampires being discussed in my classes this year.
"Try these titles Miss Wynters, Classified Creatures includes references to official positions held by the Ministry on the use of certain creatures, and the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures has a sort of guidebook available, as for vampire traditions I do have one book that may help, but you will have to get a note from a Professor as it is in the Restricted Section. Its title is Vampire Coven's Life and I will hold it for you until tonight at my desk as it was just recently returned from a routine binding." Her voice was quiet and kind as she handed me a piece of parchment with the names of a few books that might help me.
"Thank you Madame Pince…" I smiled and headed for the Defense section to find the first few books, I'd hang around after Potions and ask Professor Snape to write me a note for the other book, granted if I did that he'd ask me questions…the throbbing in my head was duller now, but rather steady and I decided to ignore it while I found the books.
It didn't take too long to find three books that would help me for my Defense assignment; I snorted and scoffed as I leisurely looked over the selections on vampires in the library. I long ago learned to take most accounts written by wizards on the subject of vampires with a grain of salt, the exception being one Eldred Worple whose book is actually quite accurate. Unfortunately, the man is rather annoying in my opinion, I sighed checking my watch and making my way back to Madame Pince's desk to check out the books I had found.
Though it had taken be around 15 minutes to find the books I needed, that was more than enough time for Madame Pince to be put into a rather furious state. I flinched as I saw the look she gave the unfortunate third year Slytherin who had spilled something on one of the books, from the looks of it he'd be serving detention with Filch for a few weeks. Madame Pince quickly checked out my books, her lips pursed and her left eye twitching in annoyance and anger. I quickly made my way out of the library before she started screeching at the boy.
I made my way down the stairs and to the dungeons, wondering if I shouldn't have made a quick stop by Madame Pomfrey's for a quick headache potion, but I'd rather dare ask Professor Snape for a vial than be late to his class. I rubbed at my temples as I leaned against the wall near the door for Potions class, the dungeons being much cooler than the rest of the castle is helping keep my headache at bay.
It didn't take long before I heard footsteps down the corridor; I knew most students would wait in the Great Hall until the last possible moment if this was their destination, so I wasn't surprised when I opened one eye to see Professor Snape heading my way.
"Isabella…is there something the matter?" His tone told me we were utterly alone in the corridor, or he wouldn't be so nice to me. I looked up at him and debated for a moment lying, but after all I had learned…
"Oh the usual Professor, I think my head has decided to mutiny against the rest of my body…there's a creepy Slytherin who is going to get hexed next time he antagonizes me, and if what's happening to me is what I've been told…I think I'm about to lose my mind…" He raised an eyebrow at me and I just shook my head following him as he opened the door to his classroom.
"Do you need a headache cure?" He pointed to one of the desks near the front and I followed, setting my bag on the chair.
"Aye if you please Professor…" I pushed my hair back slowly as he brought me a small vial, I took it without question and looked at him as he stood there expectantly.
"Something else on your mind Miss Wynters?" He smirked at me though his eyes betrayed some small amount of amusement as he crossed his arms again.
"I was wondering if you could write me a note to check out a book from the restricted section in the library Professor." I watched his eyebrow raise, his dark eyes attempting to bore into mine.
"For which title Miss Wynters?" I smirked at him and met his eyes.
"Vampire Coven's Life, Madame Pince suggested it for me but as it is a restricted book I need permission." The look on his face was quite amusing, either he's already read the book, or he is incredibly uncomfortable at what the book may entail.
"I'll write the note; I imagine if the book does not answer your questions you'll owl the Wynters for assistance?" I watched him pen the note on parchment quickly and blow lightly on the ink to dry it.
"I suppose if I have to, I would rather not as it is a rather personal matter." I shrugged and Professor Snape had to let the subject drop as the first few students had started to wander in. I went about setting up my desk and opening my book, before I could stop myself I groaned as my book opened to the potion we were to brew today.
"Is there a problem Miss Wynters?" Snape drawled slowly as I looked up a slight glare on my face, not that anyone else would notice, after all my back was to the rest of the class.
"Nothing at all Professor, who wouldn't want to begin the year brewing Amortentia?" He shot me a glare at the sarcasm in my tone and I quite smartly closed my mouth as he turned instead to the rest of the class, the heavy door closing abruptly signaling the beginning of class.
"Since you have all somehow made it into Advanced Potions there will be no idle chatter, the instructions are on the board, and any ingredients needed provided on the tables before you. Now, get to work." His tone was as always, steady and firm. No one dared argued and we all set about starting our potions.
The rest of the class was uneventful, as the class size was small and mixed from all four houses, we each had our own desk and the complexity of the Amortentia potion meant little talking unless you wanted to blow your cauldron and have to start all over again. Granted even with that, there were a few students who did just that and had to begin again. The hour long class was not enough to finish the potion as they had to simmer overnight.
"Those of you who have potions left in your cauldrons may, carefully carry them into the adjoining room to simmer overnight…We will check them again tomorrow…"I watched him wave his wand, evaporating away any unsatisfactory potions. Only four students beside myself had anything left in their cauldrons to take into the lab and I heard the mutters and groans from the others, it meant they would have to redo their potions tonight and bring them in tomorrow for Professor Snape to check them, they'd have to do so in the morning before breakfast.
The class milled out after copying down the essay questions on the board, I took my time making sure I was the last in the classroom before approaching Professor Snape.
"Something else you needed Miss Wynters?" He sounded tired and part of me worried for him, the small part that recognized him for who he was to me.
"Just to let you know Professor…the agreement between Ayden Vascot and myself stands. Have a good afternoon Professor…" I offered him a slight smile and gathered my bag making my way out of the dungeons without waiting for any word from him. It was still awkward to be around him…this past summer had changed so much.
I made my way up towards my room without much thought; I desperately needed some quiet time before dinner. I walked down my corridor and almost instantly felt a bit better, though the now familiar pangs in my body accompanied me. I had the note from Professor Snape and as I walked into my rooms, I made a note of putting the note in a journal by the door so that I could quickly grab it when I went down to dinner. I made my way over to the welcoming couch and laid down only stopping to pull off my robes.
I was feeling much fresher after my nap, and couldn't help but hum softly as I made my way back down to the library journal and note in hand. I had only stopped long enough to pull off my jumper, my tie was loose now, and I had pulled my blond locks back into a messy ponytail. I knew the sudden rush of energy was a lie, it always happened right before I fed. My body was practically forcing me to use up all the other energy it had stored, so I'd be hungry enough to feed tonight.
I shook my head as I saw a random second year Hufflepuff running from the library eyes watering. Judging from the chocolate smeared around his face, I can only imagine Madame Pince caught him eating in the Library.
I walked in and went up to her desk; I must have been right about the Hufflepuff because there was Madame Pince rubbing her temples with a half-eaten chocolate bar in the trash can.
"Sorry to bother you Madame Pince, but I have the note…" I held out the immaculately penned note from Professor Snape and I saw her nod and pull out an old leather bound book from one of the drawers. It had intricate designs on the front in silver and black velvet.
"You may keep it for a week Miss Wynters, please be careful with it as it sometimes likes to talk back and bite." She let out a soft sigh as she checked out the book, waving her wand over my library card and the note Professor Snape had written for me. Both slid into the back of the book and she placed it on the top of her desk for me to take.
"Thank you Madame Pince I'll take very good care of it." She nodded at me giving me a small smile before turning her hawk like gaze on a trembling fourth year. I made it out of the Library when I was assaulted with his scent again. I felt myself start to lose my balance as I came onto the landing, and instantly his hands were at my waist.
"Keeping up the habit Isabella?" I felt his half smile before I turned my head to see it, seeing as we were both headed down for dinner I didn't see the point of fighting it now.
"Apparently I can't seem to keep my footing around you Oliver…" I shrugged and brought a hand to his indicating he could let go of my waist.
"I don't think that's what they meant when they said a gentleman should sweep a lady off her feet…" He chuckled gently and I rolled my eyes pushing against his shoulder playfully.
"Oh shut it Wood, let's just make it down to dinner in one piece…" I heard him laugh as I started down the stairs in front of him, a soft smile on my face I couldn't control.
"So what did you check out from the Library? I've rarely seen Madame Pince hand over a book that old so willingly to a student." He nodded at the leather bound book cradled in my arms, I was glad I had placed it so that he couldn't read the title.
"Oh just a runes text…" I shrugged and regretted not having pulled on my robes again; we made it down the last stairs before I moved to the side and called for Dobby.
"Yes Missy Wynters?" I smiled at the small house elf though I felt guilty calling on him so close to dinner.
"I'm sorry to bother you now Dobby, but could you do me a favor and take this book back into my rooms? I don't want anything to happen to it and I know I can trust you" I watched as Dobby's eyes grew bigger from excitement and he nodded his head quickly.
"Oh yes Missy…Dobby takes it right to Missy's room, on the coffee table?" He waited just long enough for me to nod and hand him the book before disappearing in another loud crack.
"Good call, I'd hate to see Madame Pince end up in the Hospital Wing suffering a mild nervous breakdown because of you" I raised my eyebrows at Oliver as he went on to explain the time when he was in third year and some stupid seventh year Ravenclaw had managed to let loose one of the cursed books from the restricted section and it almost ate a Hufflepuff first year.
Dinner went by without any disasters, Malfoy not wanting a repeat of dinner the night before stayed far from Ayden, much to her pleasure. She in turn sat behind me talking rather amicably to one of her roommates whom she had classes with.
I was no longer the main attraction at the Gryffindor table though I noticed a few girls glaring at me when Oliver put a hand on the small of my back. I shrugged it off, not at all worried about the girls glaring at me and quite focused on some strange idea Fred and George had come up with. Though they were basics for pranks even I was impressed with the details of their planning though most people around them seem to ignore their mutterings, I realized early on they were actually talking about charms and potions. Intelligence must be another reason Ayden liked Fred, under the prankster's ginger hair there were brains, something else she always admired. By the end of dinner I was feeling much more restless again, and I kept glancing back at Ayden, hunger pains hitting in my stomach, I had to fight to keep my canines from extending.
"Well as much fun as it is to listen to the twins here start off an interesting debate of reactions with their research thoughts. I'll be seeing you lot tomorrow…I have business to attend to with a friend. Night lads…" I parted from the group of Gryffindors as we all made our way out of the Great Hall after dinner was dismissed. My eyes were trained on Ayden as she said good night to her friends and headed up the stairs, making it seem like she was headed for the Library. I felt the confused looks trained on me but didn't bother to look back as I followed behind Ayden.