"There is no right or wrong, only fun and boring." –The Plague Hacurs
Chapter 11
As I left the buzzing hall behind me I cursed myself for letting the Weasel get to me. I should have just…Damn him! I let out an aggravated sighed and violently took a seat at the bottom of the great marble staircase.
Prince sat at my feet cleaning his whiskers. I studied him impassively, letting my temper slowly fade as I considered him. He'd kept me from losing my head back there. Never harm a student…I suppose it should, it did apply to both of us. Brushing my hair out of my eyes I leaned down to rub his head.
Taking on the look of a cat that's gotten into the cream, His Majesty leaned into my hand. I smiled as the unmistakable sound of a small diesel engine. I sat there for a couple minutes cooling down until my stomach growled.
"Perfect." I muttered, leaning back and running a hand through my hair as I slouched against the steps. The motion sent a sharp pain through my palms and I winced. The cuts weren't deep, but they would sting for a couple days.
I sighed heavily, wondering where in the hell I could find place to shower. And the kitchens. I would take a shower and then find the kitchens. Glad to have a plan I hauled myself to my feet. It was harder than I expected it to be. I was dog-tired. I stood at the bottom of the stairs for a moment, gray with exhaustion.
"Been a long day has it?" Nonplused, I nodded my head in agreement with a painting on the wall. Hogwarts had so many paintings it was a wonder I could see the walls at all. No doubt they were used as a type of spy system.
"Poor thing looks like she could use a bath." The old crone said to no one in particular. She had a sly look about her, but I was too tired to pay attention.
"I could help you there. Follow me deary and I'll set you to rights. Not you though." She said, waggling a long bony finger at prince.
"You wait here and follow Salazar's students so you can lead her there later. Hide behind that gruesome facade all you want, but I know what you are. I'll make sure the headmaster knows you're not where you're supposed to be." Her eyes had a mad glint to them and I could see saliva glistening around the corners of her lipless mouth.
I drew back but she rounded on me before my mind could follow up with a reason to refuse her offer.
"This way deary. We'll get that mud off you and have one of the house elves bring you something that'll warm you right up. This way deary." Prince lashed his tail once before stalking off to do as he was bid. Seeing him comply dissolved what doubts I'd had. I followed the small stooped backed woman up the stairs as she hobbled through painting after painting.
"Showers are just through there. I'll send up an elf with your dinner after you've scrubbed that filth off you." The crone said. We'd reached the second floor corridor and walked a ways down the hall till we'd reached a door with a sign indicating it was a facility for girls only. And, apparently, it was out of order.
My brow furrowed as I placed my hand on the brass doorknob. I glanced over my shoulder at the crone but she wasn't there. The painting was empty except for a cracked vase sitting on a poorly made wooden table. Shrugging, I pulled the door open and walked in.
As soon as the door had closed behind me I knew I'd been duped. I'd never seen a more depressing bathroom in my life. The wooden stalls were flaking and scratched, the doors hanging off their hinges. Everything had an air of neglect about it from the fractured and spotted mirror, to the chipped sinks. Water covered every inch of the floor and I could make out a warped image of myself by the light of a few squat candles.
A loud crash followed by two cackling voices reached my ears through the door. I closed my eyes briefly in displeasure.
"A painting has suckered me. A painting. How—I must really be out of it." Shaking my head I went to open the door but was met with resistance.
"What in the…" I pushed harder with the same result. I heard more cackling from the other side and swore. Something very large and very heavy was blocking the door.
"I knew Peeves was up to something! He's always finding ways to disturb my toilet and now you're stuck here until Filch comes! Why can't he just leave me alone? Why does he have to make my life so miserable?" The pudgy ghost of a glum faced girl wearing thick bottle coke glasses and pigtails wailed. I blinked at her a few times in surprise.
"Making your death miserable, you mean." I knew it was the wrong thing to say as soon as I said it. I winced as she flung herself into a toilet, howling. A gigantic wave of water celebrated her exit.
"Perfect. Just perfect." I said, spitting out the toilet water in utter disgust. I tried the door again and fired off a Blasting Hex at it in frustration. The only visible damage was a rather large scorch mark.
My eyes narrowed. That should have worked unless there was a protective shield charm on the door. But why would they put one on the door of a grimy restroom? I tried several other spells, hexes, and jinxes I knew to no avail. I shook my head and stepped over to see if this place got any hot water.
"Might as well be productive while I'm in here." I headed over to the row of sinks and began twisting all the handles to see which one ran the hottest water. The last sink was out of service and had been for a long time if the lack of drip stains was anything to go by. I shrugged and tested the temperature of the water of first sink.
"Ow! Damn that's hot. Shit." I shook out my hand in an attempt to cool it off; I was not sticking the filthy things in my mouth. I glared at the running water and fiddled with the knobs until it was bearable. This mud was coming off one way or another. I switched off the other faucets and let the water run as I hunkered down to take off my boots. I saw the toilet water on the tiles and wrinkled my nose. I drew my wand and cast a Drought Charm, drying up most of the nasty water.
I proceeded to conjure up a large, waterproof flame to keep me from catching cold. I could also use it to dry out my clothes. I placed my boots a safe distance from the fire and threw my socks in the sink, adding in a scourgify for good measure. Taking care to do the same with all my clothes, I had soon hung up my robe on one of the stall doors near the fire along with my jeans. My shirt and undergarments had dried quickly with my assistance after I myself scrubbed down with some transfigured soap.
I'd placed a Cushioning Charm on the floor near the fire and had been coming my fingers through my hair when I heard footsteps. Desperate, I jumped up and yanked on my pants, hissing at I burned myself on the zipper. Snatching up my wand I ran over to the door, sucking in a breath as my bare feet touched the cold tiles. I put my wand to my throat and started pounding on the door.
"Sonorus. HEY! HELLO? SOMEBODY OPEN THESE DAMN DOORS!" I briefly wondered if I'd get docked points for swearing if a teacher answered, but at this point I really didn't give a shit. I was washed-out, worn-out, hungry, and cranky as hell.
"HELL–OO?"
The footsteps drew closer and I ceased beating my fists on the door. It was quiet for a moment then a loud crash made me start. The door began to open and I sighed in relief.
"Quietus." I said, canceling the voice projection charm. "Thanks. I've been stuck in here…for…hours." I said, my voice dying as I saw exactly who had come to my rescue.
"Miss Vanderhorn, what are—? Are—you're—you're a student here?" Mike Sarlow stammered out. His face was a mixture of disbelief, shock, and affability.
His robes weren't unlike the robes of a student, yet there were a couple differences. For one they were pullovers, not the open-fronted robes recommended for students. Secondly, instead of having a house crest on his left shoulder, he had his name: Auror Sarlow.
I opened my mouth to speak only to snap it shut. I didn't know what to say. We stood there for a moment, stunned into silence before I shook my head and went back inside to get my boots. My thoughts were writhing around like a ball of worms as I leaned against the sink and pulled on my socks and stomped into my boots.
What was up with this man and toilets? And what was he doing here? He must be patrolling the castle, but why? I absently undid my spells as conversations I'd had raced through my mind.
After Dumbledore interviewed him…Today's my last day patrolling Diagon Alley…
"Slap my ass and call me Sally." I said as I recalled murmured dinner conversations between Potter, Granger, and the Weasel at Number 12. Security guards, I should have realized...
"Sally, eh?" I looked up and saw that Sarlow had followed me into the bathroom. My face darkened and I glared daggers at him. His eyes laughed into mine as I stood there, making me feel awkward.
"That cabinet out there looks like Peeve's work. He's been corrupting some of the paintings lately, using them to trick some of us while we're on duty. Did you miss the welcoming feast?" He asked, holding the door open for me. Irritated, I didn't answer. I shrugged into my robe and brushed past him into the hallway.
I didn't want to socialize. Couldn't he see that I was tired? It'd been an unbearably long day and I had classes tomorrow. It was bad enough to admit that I'd been stuck in that wretched bathroom for a couple hours without thinking about classes. I made a face at the thought of getting up at some unholy hour tomorrow.
"Hey, come on, I'm not that repulsive." I gave him a martyred look and shook my head. Men, you can never be thinking about something else. You always have to be thinking about them.
"At least let me escort you to the kitchens."
"I'm not—" The unmistakable sound of an empty stomach reached our ears. "—hungry." I finished lamely, sighing in frustration.
"Uh-huh. And my sister's clothes are color coordinated." I smiled before I could stop myself.
"Fine, but I want it to go."
I followed Prince down a set of stone steps leading into what I presumed must be the dungeon, a large cup of soup in hand.
After dragging me to the kitchen Sarlow had left me to follow Prince, who'd been practically spitting nails when I'd found him.
"Hey, you weren't the one stuck in a nasty ass bathroom for the past couple hours. Besides, I wouldn't have gone off with her if you hadn't of stalked off. Yes I mean you." I went to take a drink from my cup and frowned. Peering into it I wondered where it'd all gone.
"How much farther?" Now that my stomach was full I was starting to feel sluggish. Walking was proving to be a challenge and I had to keep my eyes wide open so I wouldn't collapse right there in the hallway.
Prince hissed at me as I nearly fell flat on my face to keep from stepping on him.
"Argh!" He'd stopped partway down a dimly lit stone passageway. The air was cold and clammy; the walls were slimy with water and streaked with a green substance I could only assume was some sort of algae. Nice.
"Damn catergys." I muttered, grimacing as I tried to shake off the slim I'd gotten on my hand when I'd clutched at the wall to prevent myself from falling.
A concealed stone door swung open to my right and I blinked. Prince stuck his tail high in the air and flounced through the hidden entrance to the Slytherin Common Room. Relieved that we'd finally made it, I stepped over the threshold after him.
The common room was extensive. Located far underground the room had rough stonewalls and ornate green lamps hanging from the ceiling. Deep green, almost black curtains covered one wall, covering what I didn't know. At the other end of the room was the fireplace. It was huge and the mantelpiece was a real work of art, depicting several intertwined snakes. High backed armchairs and tables were sprinkled around the room. The glow from the fire encompassed three luxuriously upholstered couches.
The overall effect was darkly elegant and set a meditative mood.
"I could get used to this." I said, plopping down on one of the couches. I exhaled happily and sunk into the cushions, my eyes drooping. The flames didn't rise any higher in the grate, but it seemed to exude more warmth. I heard more than saw Prince seat himself comfortably on the back of the couch.
"G'n-ni-ght." I yawned, absently kicking of my boots and curling my feet up on the couch. I felt my body relax and my thoughts went hazy. I don't remember falling asleep.
The purring of an engine woke me. My brows drew together in confusion while I stretched out. My toes curled in their socks, hanging over the edge of a couch. I snuggled further under my blanket, pulling it over my head as I tried to muffle the familiar drone of a truck.
Someone pressed on the gas and the volume increased. The noise drew me away from the dream-like state I'd been floating in and I shifted irritably. Why was a truck in my room anyway? Had one of the twins…but no…
I squinted through the mess that had become of my hair and grunted. Prince had climbed down to rest on the arm of the couch, purring as he cleaned his paws. I flopped a hand in his direction, a poor imitation of a shooing motion. He caught it and proceeded to run his rough tongue on the back of it.
"Uck!" I scowled at him and snatched it back quickly. I pushed myself up into a sitting position and rubbed my head. A rich, low laugh from the next couch over made me blink a couple times in surprise.
Damn. I probably look like hell. Ah, screw it. Ugh, I need to take a real shower.
"Rough night?" I turned my head to look at who was talking and had to stifle a disbelieving laugh. The same guy who'd in one moment captured the heart of almost every female Hogwarts student was seated across from me. It was a good thing I wasn't inordinately vain or I'd probably have died of shame.
I guess almost was the key word in that sentence. What was his name? All something, Allan, All—Allman! Yes you certainly are. No, don't think like that. Get up and get your ass in the shower…still, it's too bad I'm not dating.
Perching inelegantly on the edge of the couch I nodded, one hand covering a yawn. Whether it was in answer to his question or my thoughts I wasn't sure. I ran a hand though my hair and reached over for my boots.
"Some people thought you'd be trapped wondering the corridors all night with no one to lead you here or provide you with the password." He said lightly, leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees.
"Did they?" I had to work hard to keep the sigh out of my voice. School politics. He wanted to know if I was a threat, or if I was an ally. It was too early for this. I looked around for a clock or a window but didn't find any. I'd had to toss my watch after I'd gotten on the train. Muggle gadgets didn't work on school grounds unless they'd been tampered with; I hadn't bothered to since somebody else always knew the time.
"Seven fifteen." Tall, trim, and dead sexy supplied. I held in a sigh. I really had to stop admiring the poor guy. Well, it was early and I hadn't had any coffee yet. I nodded my thanks and stretched.
My blanket dropped to the floor and I reached down to pick it up. It was a robe. I raised my eyebrows in surprise.
"Here." Allman held out a hand, smiling. If I'd been a normal girl with normal urges, I would have leaned over and kissed him. But I wasn't so I tossed it back to him, not even trying to use it as an excuse to touch him.
"Thanks." I said courteously. I ran a hand through my hair and looked around for the hall leading to the dorms.
"The girls' rooms are that way. You're looking for one that says 'transfers'. The showers are at the very end of the hall. I'll wait here for you." I turned back around and cocked an eyebrow at him.
"Excuse me?"
"They start serving breakfast at seven forty." I stood there for a second, considering.
"Alright. Later." I left, wondering what he wanted.
Turning into the side hall I'd bypassed in the dark last night, I started to read the small silver plaques on the doors.
Seventh years…sixth, but no transfers…fifth…third…first…ah, here we are.
The dorms were set into a smooth wall of rock that curved into the shape of a horseshoe. Pretty pale green lamps lighted the hallway, switching on and off again as I passed them. At the end of the horse shoe were the showers, before that was my room.
"Not a long walk then." I said, quietly opening the door. The room I entered was pitch black. I searched my robe pockets for my wand, slightly wrinkled and twisted from being slept in. Ifound itand quickly sketched arune over my eyes.
When I next opened them I could make out most of the objects in the rectangular room. One of the two beds was occupied. I saw my trunk resting at the foot of a large four-poster bed. I stole across the carpet and unhooked the keys from my belt. Unlocking the one containing my school bag, I silently began removing the basics. As a rule of thumb teachers usually didn't hand out detentions for being unprepared on the first day of school. They settled for public humiliation and cracked the wipe across your back on the second day if you failed to meet their standards again.
I gathered up my clothes and my bathroom bag before heading out.
"Hey." I tapped the sleeping figure on his shoulder with my wand. He started a little and his eyes darted about before settling on mine. I smirked.
"Ready?" He asked, picking up his book bag.
"Evidently." I said dryly, leaving him to stretch. He caught up with me at the door, hiding a yawn. Prince preceded us and took off after a few minutes to scamper down a side corridor.
"I must admit, that is the ugliest creature I've ever seen. Two second year girls fainted after he brushed past them to get to you last night." I made a noncommittal sound, concentrating on where we were going. I wanted to be sure I could find my way back if Prince wasn't around.
"In fact, one would wonder why your familiar was so desperate to reach you. Even from my place at the end of the table your anger was almost palpable. For a moment there I thought I actually saw little bolts of electricity jumping around your fingers." He said it with a laugh, but the sideways glance he gave me was calculating.
"You presented a very imposing figure. I was most impressed." I tried not to heave a sigh at his subtle hinting.
"Most people are." I said calmly, my eyes briefly shifting to his as we turned around our last corner.
It had been the same at the Institute. Everybody wanted to know where you stood. Who was behind who, who thought what, who had enough influence to make your life a living hell.
It was gangland America personified, only I didn't get to be Al Capone.
My mind raced as I played out all the different scenarios. I couldn't ignore this. I didn't have the security of walking away from this without some regrettable repercussions. Some of the more manipulating, scheming, back stabbing students only wanted one thing and that was power.
Besides, Hitler reincarnated had people here. I did not want to call attention to myself by refusing to adapt to the system. I already had my fair share of problems, I didn't need to add 'Targeted by Fellow Students' to the list. Because that's what would happen, I would find that I tripped over nothing while walking down the hall, books would go missing, clothes would be taken, the list is endless.
I would be considered an untrustworthy outsider. I'd avoided this at the Institute by hexing the shit out of everybody. Things were different now though. I didn't know anyone here and they didn't know me. If I jinxed the wrong person I might find myself up against an entire House.
Or better yet I could accidentally hex a Death Eater's child and end up on Voldemort's Most Wanted List. I did not want to be on that list.
The rules of the game were simple. The person with most influence, a.k.a power, got to be Al Capone and those with less power got to be his minions. The goal was to work your way up to the top by any means necessary.
But if I was going to play the political game I was going to walk away as the grand prizewinner. I was going to be Al Capone, or if need be Bugs Moran. I was no man's flunky.
"Would you like to have breakfast with me?" I asked, my voice affecting a causal air.
Or in other words: wanna be friends?
"Certainly. That was why I waited."
Uh-huh. And my name's Pinocchio. But are you joining me or recruiting me? That tis the question.
We climbed the stairs in silence. The great hall was virtually empty except for a smattering of the more anxious first year students.
Allman directed me to the table on the far left and indicated that I should sit across from him.
"You're a transfer student, right?" I asked, scanning the table for the coffee pot.
"I believe you are looking for this. Yes, I transferred here from Durmstrang. I would have originally gone to Hogwarts but my father is a very—traditional man." He said carefully, taking the coffee pot back once I was through with it.
So…? I bought time by taking a sip from my mug of coffee.
"My mother went to here however and used current events to persuade my father that it'd be safer for me to attend Hogwarts." I smiled wryly at him. Yes, so much safer.
Seeing my look he nodded, handing me some creamer before attending to his own mug.
"Yes, you see the irony." We sat there in silence for a while. I buttered a piece of toast and thought about where this conversation was going. Why did he feel the need to befriend me? I ate my toast and mulled over the possibilities for a while as we talked about what we knew of Hogwarts.
When I was tired of beating around the bush I gave him a pointed look. If he didn't get to the point soon I was leaving.
Sensing that I was becoming impatient, he set down his mug and leaned toward me.
"I do not want to serve He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named or his Death Eaters." His voice was low and dead serious. I blinked at him.
"And I care because...?" He sat back and started to dish some eggs and bacon onto his plate.
"Because you don't either."
"Really. What makes you so sure?" I asked smoothly. He looked up at me from his plate and smiled grimly.
"Your mother." I drew back as if slapped.
"And what would you know about my mother?" I asked, my voice cold enough to brew a winter storm. Realizing that he was treading on thin ice, he rushed to explain himself.
"Your mother was a good friend of my mother's. They went to school here. Your mother died in a muggle hospital did she not?"
"Yes." I ground out. I did not appreciate someone sifting through my family history. That was my business and mine alone. It was personal and I didn't take kindly to his probing.
"Haven't you ever wondered why she wasn't taken to a wizard hospital?"
"Because my father didn't know she was a witch. If he had he never would have married her. I think I've heard enough, goodbye." I snatched up my book bag and made as if to stand.
"Astrid," He grabbed my arm to prevent me from leaving.
"You presume too much, friend." I said harshly, jerking out of his grasp.
"Stop and listen to me damn it! Do you want the Dark Lord to find you after all these years?" Well that certainly got my attention.
More people were starting to enter the great hall as the excitement of the first day of school came over them. The tables were filling up with groups of friends as they loaded their plates. Teachers had begun to filter into the room and take their seats at the high table.
Allman ran an irritated hand over his face and glanced over his shoulder. His face went taut. The pug-faced girl I'd cursed yesterday for pushing me was hanging off the arm of a pale, arrogant boy who's daddy must have money. He had the walk of someone used to being catered to and a permanent smirk of his face that shouted First Class Prick.
Ah, this must be Malfoy. Ron was right; he does slightly resemble a ferret. Huh. Go figure.
"The pointy chinned asshole heading our way is Draco Malfoy. Presently he considers himself the Slytherin Prince and is known for throwing his father's name around. His father is a Death Eater who was recently admitted to Azkaban, though that doesn't seem to shut him up." Allman informed me.
"He managed to corner me last night and ask—uncomfortable—questions about my father's business. He currently holds most of the influence in Slytherin."
Ah. So if I was to read in between the lines he is blackmailing you and you want my help. In return I get information. What a way to start the morning.
Allman stood up, holding out a hand to me.
"We should leave." Understanding that I wouldn't get my information here, I took his hand.
Allman let go of my hand only to snake an arm around my waist and pull me firmly against his side. I stiffened momentarily and had to resist the strong urge to knock him flat on his ass. Dead bodies are said to be tough conversationalists and any information connecting me to the Dark Lord was information I wanted to hear.
"Would you care do temporarily date me?" He breathed into my ear.
"How short is temporarily?" I could feel him laughing and I my lips quirked. We drew closer to Malfoy and his girlfriend, and I tried not to laugh at the look of outright jealousy and anger my former assailand pinned on me as she spotted Allman's arm around my waist.
You've got to be kidding. He already has a fan club.
"You! What are you doing wearing Slytherin robes?"
"I believe I'm walking." I said flippantly.
"Ah, so this is the one responsible for Pansy's night in the hospital wing." Malfoy drawled, running his eyes over me.
If anyone around here is a pansy it's you ferret boy.
"Meet me in the common room later tonight, Valentine, and bring your friend with you. I think you will both be interested in what I have to say. Do not forget." It was meant to serve as a warning, but it failed to impress me. Whatever the ultimatum was if we forgot I seriously doubted he would be the one dishing it out.
The boy had no tact. I watched him swagger off to the long table and wrinkled my nose as Pansy began fawning over him, though I thought it was rather defiant than sincere.
More Slytherins entered the hall and quickly took their seats around the blond haired boy. As they took their seats I could almost see the fissures that ran through Malfoy's supposedly loyal subjects. I would bet all my striped socks that a third of them were being black mailed, or threatened. The other two thirds was split in half with those who were indifferent and those who were actually willing to follow Malfoy, if only out of morbid curiosity.
Malfoy might be an easier opponent than I'd realized. The noise in the hall was steadily increasing as teachers began handing out schedules.
As we walked away past the other house tables, both of us earning speculating stares, Allman sighed.
"We are going to have to continue our conversation at a later time." I opened my mouth to ask him why when he jerked us to a standstill. Professor Snape was coming down the hall, an evil sneer on his face as he deducted thirty points from a group of third year Gryffindor boys for crowding the entrance.
Remembering that I was suppose give my Head of House my completed list of classes I called out to him.
"Professor! I was instructed to hand this in to you. I apologize for not finding you last night, I was distracted." I handed him the envelope out of my bag and stepped away from Allman, who frowned slightly but didn't object.
"Yes, Mr. Weasley will be spending two weeks of detention for his thoughtless outburst. As for your classes you will have to wait till tomorrow for your final schedule." He took the letter and tucked it into an inner robe pocket.
"You have chosen to take the newer programs have you not?" Not waiting for an answer he continued, "The Headmaster has agreed with your new defense teachers in deciding to dedicate a full day to these defense lessons for those who decided to take both classes. The first lesson is scheduled for today. You are to meet your classmates in the courtyard. I believe Mr. Weasley has only signed up for the dueling portion of the class." Professor Snape hinted, his lips twisting into a smirk.
In other words I better wipe the floor with his face. No objections here.
"Has he. Thank you, Professor." I said, nodding to him before continuing on down the hall. I walked past the marble staircase and into the hall beyond it. Sarlow had pointed the courtyard out to me last night after asking me to meet him there for lunch sometime.
I heard Allman ask for his class schedule before jogging to catch up to me.
"Where we going?" He asked, placing his hand on the small of my back.
I pulled away, frowning at him. He gave me a bewildered look in return but said nothing.
Not every girl likes to be fondled by you. Arrogant ass. Letting you touch me was a temporary thing.
"Class then the library." I said tersely.
"What books do you need from the library?" He asked, nodding to a very attractive Asian girl who smiled brightly at him from her place near a suit of armor. He drew closer to me but didn't try to put his hands on me. The girl shot me a miffed look and turned back to her giggling friends.
"Ugh, please." I muttered. Then, louder, "Beginner's Guide to Construction, The Art of Healing Volume One, and Dueling, the Correct Approach." He raised an eyebrow asking why. I shrugged.
"The letter came late. What classes are you taking?" I asked, spotting the courtyard entrance. He didn't need to know that I couldn't afford to purchase the books. There was still some time before class officially started at nine so I wasn't surprised to find no one there.
It was an old stone courtyard with benches and a fountain. Not too far down below I could see the surprisingly warm morning sun reflected off the lake. I set my bag on one of the benches close to the fountain and admired Hogwarts's extensive grounds.
"It is nice here isn't it? I'm taking seventh year potions, charms, and whatever else I need to study for my N.E.T.Ws. I'm also taking this class, you?" Allman sat down next to my book bag. He shrugged his off and set it down near his feet.
"Auror classes, all of their new programs, and, of course, History of Magic since it's required. Can I see your dueling book?" I asked, moving my book bag to the ground.
"Sure." He bent forward and pulled out a surprisingly thin, hard backed book with a glossy blue cover. I figured I might as well skip going to the library and risk getting caught breaking the book's Copyright Charm by the librarian.
And be possibly expelled and pay a huge fine or face jail time. Thank you, no.
"Thanks. I'll cripple you for life if you nark on me." I told him seriously. He gave me a bemused look before nodding.
Satisfied, I studied the book for a moment, pulling out my wand and running it gently along its spine. The spine began to glow a dull orange and I carefully began the arduous process of extracting the Copyright Charm from the binding.
Allman watched me carefully for a few minutes then smiled in understanding. It didn't take very long but I almost screwed up and had to start all over when he broke my concentration by greeting another classmate. He rose smoothly and stood in front of me, blocking me from view.
Letting out a pent up breath, I quickly duplicated the book and returned them to our bags. Those Copyright Charms required a lot of concentration, power, and skill. Besides that it was a relatively easy process, if a bit tricky.
Practice makes perfect.
"Maureen, it's good to see you again. Are you taking both classes? I heard not many people are taking the first part of it, though that could also mean that many people are going to be dropping out." Allman hinted, looking down at Maureen.
Ouch. I looked between the two and could tell there was no love lost. At least on Allman's part.
Maureen was an elegant brunette with sharp black eyes and a clear, bronze colored complexion. She'd been studding me carefully while Allman spoke. She hid it well but I could see the look of distaste in her eyes as she noted my short hair, washed-out clothes, pale skin, clunky boots…no I don't think she thought much of me at all.
"Hello." I said civilly. She gave me a tight smile.
I was saved the pain of an introduction by the entrance of a large group of guys. They were laughing loudly and elbowing each other. When they noticed Miss Sophistication they talked even louder, sniggering at what I had no doubt were crude comments. Maureen soaked it in, as if it were her due.
Disgusted, I reached back into my bag for the dueling book. I mentally patted myself on the back for not bringing my other books since I wouldn't be using them, one of the advantages of having an all day class.
I scanned the first couple of chapters as Allman walked over to visit with the other boys. A small circle of girls had begun to form near the center of the courtyard, over exaggerating their hand and facial gestures. I sighed heavily and got myself situated comfortably on the bench.
Air heads.
"I've known Val for six years. We went to Durmstrang together. This may sound droll, but I think he genuinely likes you. Shocking, really. You'd think someone more delicate would be more to his taste." I glanced up from my book and saw Maureen leaning against the outer edge of the fountain, checking her nails.
She was trying to bait me. I could hear the oil in her voice as she tried to get a rise out of me. Unbelievable. She was the third girl to sprout horns of jealousy over Allman.
If she wanted him she could have him, I had better things to do than talk about Allman. I skimmed the introductory chapter to dueling.
"I've seen you somewhere before." She said a couple seconds later. I reigned in a sigh and determinedly finished a paragraph about the history of wizard duels.
I heard the sharp click of her screw-me-heels on the cold flagstones as she drew closer.
"But I can't remember where. My name is Maureen McVeigh by the way. Before you ask yes, my father is Matthew McVeigh. Why he ever named that first batch of potions after us I'll never know. The first product was my mother's idea actually."
What in the hell is her problem? Potion? Ah, I think Tonks mentioned their hair care product line. As I recalled it was some pretty expensive stuff. So, now she was now flashing her family's money in my face. Excellent.
"Good for you." I said sardonically. Maureen pretended not to notice my hostility, though I could hear a glimmer of satisfaction in her voice as she began chattering away about her family's newest product, a hair-replenishing potion.
I read a couple more paragraphs, repeatedly telling myself to ignore The Bitch as I was coming to think of her. I made a noncommittal sound. I'd had no idea that wizard dueling had once been a primitive form of a judicial system where one was subjected to a trail by combat.
"I know, but when I heard Val was transferring too I thought, why not? My parents were very pleased with my choice and promised to take me to Paris for Christmas. I have pictures from our last vacation there. I could show you when we get back to our room. By the way, I was wondering if you managed to find your way to bed last night. I woke up this morning and saw that you'd been there but the bed didn't look slept in. Then I saw you with Val this morning...?" She trailed off, letting me figure out the rest.
I stared pointlessly at my book for a moment before closing it with a loud snap.
No way. Are you actually insinuating that I'm participating in nocturnal activities with Allman after you've flung your wealth in my face...? I might not have more money than you do but I certainly have more class.
Before I could form my thoughts into words a man with a hard, calculating glint in his eyes entered the courtyard.
I contemplated verbally beating The Bitch over the head but retrained myself. Later. I'd wait till I could really do some damage. Maureen smiled at me triumphantly before joining the gaggle of girls. If looks could kill I'd be arrested for manslaughter.
You ass is grass Bitch.
Satisfied with later retribution, I looked back over at our Fitness Professor. He reminded me of my father with his large build, square jaw, and harsh mouth. He stopped just inside the archway, watching us.
Silence descended upon the courtyard as the man's dominating presence washed over us. I smiled to myself as I saw the apprehensive looks being exchanged between the other students.
"Line up alphabetically for roll call!" He ordered in a strong, authoritative tone. It demanded immediate results and that's what he got.
It took us eight minutes to arrange ourselves. We didn't need to be told to keep quiet.
"When you here your name say here. Abbot."
"Here." Our new professor was standing in front of us now with a clipboard and quill. He made a mark on the sheet as the blond haired girl responded.
"Allman."
"Here." Scratch.
"Boot."
"Here." Another scratch.
"Brocklehurst."
"Here."
The entire class consisted of twenty-five boys and seven girls, including me. When everyone had been marked down he introduced himself.
"I'm Professor Gooddell. Class wont begin until I am satisfied that I have weeded out the slackers. I wont waste my time teaching those who don't want to learn. Those who would like to drop this class may do so at any time. All you have to do is walk out that door. I will warn you: anyone who goes out that door will not come back." He said calmly, meeting eyes. When that sunk in he continued.
"You will all run a warm up lap around the castle everyday for homework. Out this door and at the end of the hall is a dressing room. Ladies are to the left, gentlemen to the right. Grab one of each item laid out for you on the tables."
I went back to the bench and grabbed my book bag before following the other girls into the dressing room.
There was a short hall before the room opened up. It resembled a locker room with places to hang your robes and store your book bags. Stark concrete made up the floor and walls; long wooden benches ran down the four isles serving as a barrier between the long lockers on either side. Near the very back of the room I could make out the showers.
"I thought this would be like a technique class, not a sweat shop. I can't be expected to run a lap around the castle everyday, when would I do it?" Maureen said, following me as I dropped my stuff in the nearest locker.
"Then drop out." I said unsympathetically, making for the front wall where a round table covered with stacks of neatly folded clothes had been placed. A large box of one-size-fits all shoes was sitting on the floor beside it.
You're barking up the wrong tree.
"I think not! I signed up for this class and I am going to take it." She declared hotly. Surprised by her vehemence I looked over at her.
"Then shut the hell up." I said. The Bitch didn't hear me. She was too busy talking. I shook my head and resolved to ignore her.
"Though I'm sure you're used to this kind of labor, not all of us are so–manly." Maureen informed me, selecting a pair of tennis shoes, some sweats and a t-shirt.
I closed my eyes for a moment before doing the same and heading back to my locker. The clothes were plain, lacking any labels or slogans. They were comfortably black and easy to move about in.
"Where are the changing rooms? Hannah, do you know where we're supposed to change?" Maureen asked a pink-cheeked girl.
"No, sorry."
Sorry? She's sorry? She shouldn't have to--! Ugh, whatever.
I placed my things on the bench. Maureen looked scandalized as I hung up my robe and began to peel off my shirt.
"I guess there aren't any dressing rooms, though you could use the shower stalls." Hannah offered. My back was to the others as I shucked my clothes. I was dimly aware of a couple scandalized gasps and hushed whispers as I pulled on the workout clothes.
"You've got to be kidding me." I muttered under my breath. And here I was thinking Europeans were parading themselves on nude beaches somewhere.
I threw my regular clothes in the locker and slammed it shut with a satisfying bang. The others were still awkwardly shedding their clothes or taking turns using the shower stalls as I angrily stalked out to join the boys.
"What's her problem?"
"Did you see that tattoo?"
"I can't believe she just did that. That girl has no sense of modesty. She didn't show up to bed–"
My temper slammed the locker room door shut, cutting off further comments. And people wonder why I have few friends and even fewer girl friends.
As I walked back toward the courtyard I wondered at the other girls' modesty. Hadn't they ever changed for swimming lessons or gone to a public gym? I ran a hand through my hair as I entered the courtyard. Unsurprisingly, more than half of the boys were all ready lined up and patiently waiting for everybody else.
"Astrid!" Allman called out from his place in line. I lifted my chin in greeting but ignored the beckoning gesture. He could talk to me after class if he needed to, not right now.
So. Maureen was going to drag my name through the mud before I could do it to her. Fine. Let them talk. It just gave me more reason to retaliate.
First one that says something where I can hear it had better be able to put her words where her wand is.
I took my place near the end of the line next to a guy with hooded gray eyes.
"Hullo. I'm Blaise Zabini. You were sorted into Slytherin last night." He shook my hand firmly, nodding over to Allman.
"Your boyfriend?" I compressed my lips into a tight line before answering.
"No. An acquaintance." He arched a disbelieving eyebrow at me.
"Think I'm lying?" He shook his head, smiling slightly.
"No, of course not. He simply gave us all that impression. I was merely curious." I considered him briefly before turning my attention back to Professor Gooddell who had taken up residence by the fountain.
Damn. I should never had walked out of the great hall with Allman.
By doing so I had indicated that I was attached to him. I could kick myself for being so stupid. I should have realized, or at least have considered the possibility that I would be labeled as his girlfriend.
Moron!
It shouldn't really matter anyway. I didn't like him like that and that was the end of it. I'm sure someone else will screw up and be the victim of the gossip vine soon enough.
By the time everyone was dressed down I was looking forward to the day's activities. I needed to blow off some steam and exercising was looking like a good way to do that. Our first assignment was to jog to the lake edge and back repeatedly until he said stop.
"If I see you walking you will either do five pushups or loose five house points. When you get back here we will stretch before continuing on with the rest of the day's exercises. Begin on the whistle." He held his wand out and flicked it. A piercing whistle cut through the air and I joined the others in jogging down to the lake and back.
A large group of idiots started off at a sprint. I smiled a little at this. The might think they're hot shots now, but just wait until they have to climb back up the hill, and then do it all over again. It was going to be a pain in the ass.
And it was too. I hadn't realized how out of shape I was until I started jogging back up the hill for the fourth time. My breaths were more ragged and steadily increasing in volume. My legs had to pump harder, warming up muscles I hadn't used since I'd cancelled my gym membership in the states when I came to England.
I'd passed up the greater part of the class and was competing for the first with three other guys. Allman wasn't one of them. Sweat beaded on my forehead and upper lip, trickling down my face. My shirt was sticking to my back.
"Keep it up! Don't stop. Ladies at the back, pick it up!" The professor bellowed from the top of the hill. He'd already had to deduct thirty house points for walkers.
"Hey—what's that?" The guy running next to me panted. The other guy, who happened to be Zabini, was just behind us riding our heels. He nodded at something to the right of us and I turned to look. I felt the blood drain away from my face.
"Shit." My body muscles bunch up as I prepared to gun it.
A large group of students had been huddling around the lantern man from the platform a couple hundred yards away. He'd been cautiously stroking a rather large, feathery creature. A creature shaped roughly like a horse.
I saw the hippogriff stick its hooked beak in the air, brilliant orange eyes flashing. Before the giant could blink it jerked the chain from around its neck out of his hands and charged through the circle of students.
Not bothering to see which way it was headed I bolted for the courtyard. Fear gave me wings as I flew up the hill. I hurtled over the ledge, not wanting to shove past Professor Gooddell who was blocking the courtyard entrance. Startled yells behind me told me to hurry my ass up and I poured all I had into running.
I dodged past the teacher and skidded through the archway, turning towards the great hall. If my brain would have been working properly I would have dove for the nearest room, but anxiety and adrenaline had cut off the blood circulation to my brain, sending it to my leg muscles instead.
With the great hall doors in my sight I focused on reaching them at all costs. I'd just made it to the bottom of the marble staircase when the sound of hooves and deadly talons against stone reached my ears. My stomach dropped and my heart leapt up in my throat.
"Impedimenta!" Someone bellowed behind me. "Stupefy! Impedimenta!"
I chanced a glance over my shoulder and saw Professor Gooddell trying to distract the hippogriff. The spells were bouncing off, sending a few feathers flying. It didn't even turn around to look at him which was strange for such a vain creature.
I sprinted through the door and made a pulling motion with my hands as I concentrated on slamming the huge doors of the great hall shut. They didn't budge. I swore and dove under the nearest table as the madly squawking monster lunged for me.
I scrambled under the table on my hands and knees, telling myself to just keep moving.
"Conjunctivtis!" The hippogriff's outraged screech made me clap my hands over my ears.
"MOVE!" I moved. Huge grasping claws tore at the place underneath the table where I'd been not seconds ago. My breathing was ragged and my throat felt raw. I could see the end of the table coming up and I looked around for the bird. Shouting near the door caught my attention and I pressed my face to the cool stone floor. Several pairs of wizard feet, a gigantic pair of boots, and the feet of both a horse and an eagle near the door made sigh in relief. They'd caught it.
Relief washed through me making me weak with joy. I could feel my body shaking as a result of the energy I'd spent running for my life. My bones felt like jell-O.
Absolutely exhausted, I reached the end of the table and gave the room a cursory glance. I stood up to rest in one of the chairs while Professor Gooddell, several Aurors, and a small giant wrestled with the small blue hippogriff.
Huh. Funny. I thought it was more of a blueish color.
Just as I was completing that thought a set of half foot long talons sunk themselves into my back. I choked on a scream and wrenched myself sideways as primal instincts kicked in.
I hit the floor with a wet thwap and scrambled under a nearby table. My brain went kind of fuzzy and I had to take a moment to adjust to the pain.
My back felt like it was on fire. I began to panic, my mind buzzing with hysterical gibberish as I laid there under the table. Taking deep breaths to keep from passing out, I go to my knees. There was a earsplitting screech before the chairs on my left were ripped apart. The blinded red hippogriff was tearing mercilessly under the table trying to reach me. I rolled to the side and dodge it's cruel beak as it lunged for me. I knocked aside a couple chairs and clamored out from underneath the table, getting to my feet.
I stumbled away from the enraged animal and made a run for it only to be tackled to the ground by an Auror. My head hit the edge of a chair with a dull thwack and I went out like a light.
I woke up fifteen minutes later in the hospital wing with a harassed witch in a nurse's outfit leaning over me demanding that I restrain my cat.
(A/N)
Happy Fourth of July.
The long lost family members have left and I am now updating.
The reason it took two weeks since my warning was because right after the long lost family members left my parents decided to go camping. For a week. I am burnt, tired, and have worked diligently all day (and night for it's five in the morning) to give you Chapter 11.
Beware of minute changes is this chapter (Example: I found out class actually starts at nine not eight). I printed it off and fixed it while I was camping so some of it might be...unorganized. Review me if you have opinions on where it could be changed.
Burnt to a crisp, the author.
PS: I'd like to thank the reviewers who have responded to my story. I initially didn't want to encourage people to overload my email account but now I am finding that the reviews are actually helpful. They also motivate me to work harder.
Originally I didn't think that many people were going to be interested in my story so I took my sweet time fixing and fiddling with the chapters.
The bottom line is: if you want me to hurry my ass up send me a review. They tend to give me a heads up that I'm falling behind.
(I will also grudgingly admit that I like reading reviews, either for their questions or their comments. Both force me to sit back and think about how I could respond to such comments and questions through my story.)
If anyone has certain ideas or events that they think should be included in my story please tell me. I have my own ideas but my ideas aren't always great. I want to know what people want to read about so I can include that in my story. If you don't tell me what you want I can't give it to you.
Again thank you for reviewing, the author