DISCLAIMER! I do not own the Harry Potter series. It belongs to J.K. Rowling.
A/N: First and foremost, I just realized the site where I found the Animagus text didn't appear so know it doesn't belong to me and that I found on .
* Second, I wanted to ask the readers what they think Islinn should be: a backup Seeker or should her and Harry switch (he plays one game and she plays the next)? I don't know what to do and your opinion as a reader is highly valuable to me.
Third, you'll notice throughout the story that she meets people that perhaps Harry doesn't meet until later or at least doesn't know them very well then. I want her to meet people so she can have some influence later… or she can convince people, so please just bare with me.
Fourth, I must warn you that this chapter is very long, and when I say very, I mean very long. So, yeah, there's some flashback, and you may perhaps find Neville/Islinn fluff.
Weasleytwinsjunkie, I promise my next update will be the last chapter of Alike Opposites. Blaise/Hermione chapter! =]
***
Islinn was sitting with her usual company in the Great Hall. The atmosphere around them was glum; after all, flying lessons were imminent. Islinn took a spoonful of oatmeal and delicately put it in her mouth. As she took the spoon out of her mouth she exhaled through her nose quietly, but not silently. She had asked her companions about what a certain someone had revealed about the way she was portrayed by people, and they had assured her they didn't think that of her now that they had interacted with her. Islinn was surprised at how relieved she felt when she heard that.
Today was Thursday and at three-thirty in the afternoon they were having flying lessons. To Islinn, this was good news because she had wanted to learn to fly for a long time. She felt excited while others felt nervous. Hermione was so nervous she had read at least two whole books on flying. Neville was probably worse because he also had never been on a broom and at the moment he was hanging on her every word.
"I still can't believe we have flying lessons with Slytherin of all Houses," Harry said looking upset. "I don't want to ridicule myself in front of Malfoy."
"I doubt you will," Islinn soothed really believing it. His father had been a naturally good flyer according to her father. It only made sense that Harry would be too.
"I've never flown before," Harry pointed out.
"I suppose, Mister Potter, that the art of flying works in the same fashion as many other things. You need to follow instructions closely and have confidence. However, I have never flown before so perhaps Mister Weasley may say if I am incorrect or not," Islinn equipped.
"Actually, you're right," Ron said and Islinn allowed a small smile.
"I guess," Harry said unconvinced.
Islinn was lost in thought when the owls came and she thought Harry might have gotten something, and Neville too, but she wasn't sure. "Guess who?" she heard someone say as her world disappeared. She stiffened. She was surprised because she wasn't expecting that from someone she had recently met, though the twins had done so on the first and second day at Hogwarts.
"Mister Lee Jordan?" Islinn asked sounding slightly confused. The hands covering her eyes went away and she turned around. "Good morning," she greeted Lee Jordan and the twins.
"Morning," they answered grinning.
"How do you do that? It's so cool," Lee Jordan stated.
"Truthfully speaking, I do not know, but if I did I would tell you," Islinn responded.
"Well, anyway, good luck in your flying lessons," Fred said.
"Yeah, but if something happens to someone, let us know," George put in. Islinn smiled a little.
"You wish to laugh at the expense of others?" Islinn asked raising an eyebrow.
"We're pranksters, what did you expect?" Lee Jordan asked and shrugged. Islinn offered a small half smile.
"I suppose," was all she said.
"Anyway, we have to go, so we'll see you around," George said.
"Of course. Good day," she answered and then they left.
Islinn left the Great Hall early and she was going to the library to return a book – not the one about Animagus. She walked serenely and with her head held high as she always did. She was excited about the incoming flying lessons because it presented another challenge. She decided to follow her own advice: listen carefully to instructions and be confident.
"Ignotum!" she heard someone call and Islinn turned. She was surprised but didn't show it.
"Good morning," she greeted Ernie Macmillan. This was really a surprise to her because other House members, with the exception of Malfoy and Ian, avoided talking to her at almost all costs because of the unemotional reputation she had. Apparently, unemotional was synonymous to mean. Perhaps Macmillan felt safe because his friends were with him, but… why would he even talk to her? To try to intimidate her?
"Are you going to the library?" Macmillan asked.
"Yes, I have a book to return," Islinn replied.
"We're heading there as well. Did you finish you Potions essay?" he asked.
"Yes," she responded and understood why they had chosen her.
"We had a bit of trouble with it and were wondering if you could help us," the dark-haired boy, Justin Finch-Fletchley, said. Hm, she was being asked for help by Hufflepuffs?! That was definitely surprising, not that she would show it. Besides, if they needed the help she would give it to them; after all, they haven't said or done anything bad to her at the moment. However, it looked as if they were waiting for her to lash out. Perhaps they were expecting her to say no.
"Of course, it would be my pleasure," she said with utmost sincerity and they all seemed to relax; the girls blinked at her while the boys raised their eyebrows in surprise. Were Islinn more picky, she would have found their surprise rude. She wasn't like that however, she was a naturally humble and giving person and she understood why they would be surprised.
"Thank you," the fair-haired girl, Hannah Abbott, said giving her a tentative smile.
"You are most welcome," Islinn replied with a small smile.
Walking with the Hufflepuffs to the library was very uncomfortable; however, the only indication Islinn gave of being uncomfortable was holding her book tightly and the way she walked straighter than usual. This went unnoticed by her company who was more focused on how uncomfortable they were feeling at the moment. Islinn almost sighed in relief when she saw a familiar figure approach them.
"Good morning Miss Arctic," he said and Islinn's companions stiffened. The girl, Susan Bones, gasped. Islinn did not make a reaction.
"Good morning Mister Hederstern. I trust you are well?" Islinn asked and as she dipped into a small, neat curtsy she felt her heart skip a beat. When she looked at him she was smirking.
"Yes, thank you; and yourself?" he asked.
"I am fine, thank you," Islinn replied. She didn't know why she had told him that he could be the only one to use that nickname without consequence; he had taken the task of calling her that since, but never in a mean way, simply in a teasing manner. If someone else ventured to use it though, she wouldn't respond to it… unless someone like, Neville used it.
"I am glad to hear that. I must be on my way, but I wish you luck in your flying lessons today. Good day, Miss Arctic," Ian said and inclined his head.
"Thank you. I wish you a good day as well, Mister Hederstern," Islinn said and inclined her head slightly. Islinn and her company began walking once again and Islinn wasn't at all surprised when one of the Hufflepuffs spoke.
"You know about that?" Susan Bones asked.
"Yes, he was the person who informed me of it, Miss Bones," Islinn answered serenely as they walked into the library.
"Don't you mind?" Macmillan asked and frowned. Islinn went to Madam Pince before she answered.
As they walked to a table, Islinn spoke. "I do not mind because neither my acquaintances nor my friends believe it, and that is all I could ask for. If people believe what is said about anyone without really knowing the truth, then that is their choice to make."
"He was a Slytherin," Macmillan stated. Why did it matter? Of course, Islinn didn't want to be Slytherin, but that didn't mean she had to shun the people that were in that House.
"Yes, Mister Ian Hederstern is a Slytherin prefect in his fifth year. I met him over the weekend and he is an interesting person," she said, waiting for them to take their essays out.
"I thought Slytherins were…" Finch-Fletchley trailed off frowning and glanced at Macmillan. It was then Islinn knew Finch-Fletchley was Muggle-born.
"Yes, Slytherins are known to be sly, and will go through certain measures to obtain what they want. Most of them, or perhaps all, are haughty and calculating. However, some may be quite civil, as Mister Hederstern is. I am aware of the House rivalries, but I am not rude to people who have not done anything to me," Islinn responded, taking the nearest essay – Hannah's – and withdrawing her wand. They nodded and gave Islinn strange looks. She simply tapped the parchment twice with her wand and was surprised not many things moved.
"What is that for?" Finch-Fletchley asked curious.
"It is used to correct spelling and grammatical errors," Islinn responded, skimming the essay. "What exactly is it that you need help on? This essay is well written," Islinn said looking at Hannah who smiled at the compliment.
"We need help in the conclusion. We don't know how to end it," Hannah said and Islinn nodded.
"For your conclusion, Miss Abbott, you may want to expand on this factor," Islinn said sliding the essay back and pointing a finger at the second paragraph. Hannah nodded and took her essay. Then Islinn took Macmillan's essay and proofread it with her wand. She also skimmed through it.
"I like the way you wrote the explanation of the name. Now, I suppose it would be best to use a small summary of what you have written because the information you have is all that you need," she said handing the essay back to Macmillan who gave her a half smile; she allowed a small smile in turn. Islinn then took Susan's essay and proofread it. After skimming through it she slid the essay to Susan, pointing at a particular sentence. "This sentence is very well written, Miss Bones, perhaps you could expand a bit more on it in you conclusion," she said and Susan looked relieved and nodded.
When Islinn took Finch-Fletchley's essay and proofread it, there were only two mistakes. She glanced briefly at him with a raised eyebrow and he gave a sheepish shrug. She turned her attention to the essay and skimmed through it. "You have great writing skills and your essay is written well, Mister Finch-Fletchley. In your conclusion you could write about how neutral the plant is by stating the best benefit and the worst occurrence," Islinn suggested sliding the essay to him.
"Thank you," he said grinning at her bashfully; she allowed a tiny smile.
"You are welcome Mister Finch-Fletchley," she replied not noticing the others' looks. She didn't really know what to do with herself at that point so she took her bag and stood. The Hufflepuffs looked at her. "Perhaps I should be heading to class. I am glad I could be of assistance and I wish you all a good day."
"You're not staying?" Susan asked.
"But we'll need you to look over our conclusions," Macmillan said.
"It is too early to go to class," Hannah offered.
"We don't mind you staying," Finch-Fletchley said. Islinn looked at them briefly. She felt… accepted and it made her give them a kind but small smile.
"I thank you," she said after taking a seat and then inclining her head slightly. The others nodded and gave her tentative smiles before getting to work again. Islinn took her reading book out of her bag and began reading. Not much later she was quite into her book.
"Islinn?" she heard a shy voice ask after some time. Islinn bookmarked her book and closed it.
"Yes, Miss Abbott?" Islinn asked pleasantly, looking at Hannah impassively. Hannah seemed to relax and it was then it occurred to Islinn that Hannah had ventured to use her given name.
"Um, we're done. Could you…" Hannah trailed off.
"Would you like me to examine it for you?" Islinn asked and Hannah nodded. "Very well," the redhead said, taking Hannah's essay. Islinn read and quickly determined that all of them were righteously Sorted into Hufflepuff. "It is well written, Miss Abbott," Islinn said giving an appreciative nod and gave the essay back while Hannah thanked her. Next, she took Macmillan's and found he was the kind of person who would write a bit more just to be safe. "This is very well elaborated Mister Macmillan," Islinn said giving the essay back with raised eyebrows and he grinned and thanked her also. Islinn found Susan Bones had a way to explain things with ease and told her so. Susan blushed and thanked her. Then, she took Finch-Fletchley's essay. Islinn truly thought Finch-Fletchley was a good essay writer. Perhaps it was because he had gone to a Muggle school that his writing skills were good. Maybe he was as good as Hermione because as a Muggle-born, he also wanted to prove he truly belong here at Hogwarts, in this world. As Islinn read her eyebrows rose. "Mister Finch-Fletchley, this piece of work is very well done," Islinn said with a trace of admiration on her features as she gave the essay back.
"Thank you," he replied with a mixture of shyness and pride. Islinn nodded.
"What were you reading, Islinn?" Macmillan asked with slight hesitation before he said her name. He was eyeing the strange cover of her book.
"A Muggle science fiction book," Islinn replied.
"A Muggle book?" Susan asked and Islinn heard the underlying question. Did Islinn look like the kind of person that would be prejudiced against Muggles and Muggle-born people? Apparently the answer was yes.
"Yes, it is a Muggle book. I was raised knowing both worlds and I found I enjoy many Muggle things," she replied without hesitation. Their eyebrows rose at this. Was it really that hard to believe?
"What kind of books don't you like?" Hannah asked and Islinn thought that was a strange question.
"I do not like romance novels, I find them quite pointless," Islinn admitted.
"You don't like Romance?" Susan asked.
"As you might have noticed Miss Bones, I am not a very romantic type of person," Islinn said with a slight smirk. Macmillan tried to mask his laugh with a cough while Hannah and Finch-Fletchley tried to suppress grins.
The Hufflepuffs had been kind enough to walk her to class, and as they did they apologized for believing what the people had said about her being unemotional and that they were wrong. They also stated they liked her company (Hannah had made the statement and the others agreed) and wished her luck in her flying lessons. As Islinn made her way into class she felt like it would be a good day…even if she had History of Magic and Defense Against the Dark Arts.
At three-thirty sharp both the Slytherins and Gryffindors were already there. Madam Hooch, who was the referee at their Quidditch matches, was to be their instructor. All the students had brooms to their right side, but they were on the ground.
"Before learning to mount a broom, you have to know how to be in control of it. Now, I want you all to hold out your right hand and say 'up'," Madam Hooch said. She was demonstrating so when she said "up", the broom rose to her waiting hand. She gave the broom back to the student she had taken it from, and he put it on the ground to his right. Islinn listened around her as the air filled with the sounds of people saying "up". Almost everyone failed; including her acquaintances… even Hermione. Madam Hooch caught her eye and gave her a reassuring smile. Islinn allowed a tiny smile before extending her right hand and saying, "up" in a commanding tone. Her broom soared right into her hand. Madam Hooch gave her a wide smile and complimented her; Islinn thanked her. Apparently, the only other person who was able to do it was a Slytherin. It had been the weedy boy, Theodore Nott. Whenever she saw him in the corridors, or sometimes in Potions she was strangely reminded of herself. She always saw him with a passive expression, he wasn't much for talking it seemed, and he knew how to carry himself; that was probably due to the fact he was a well-taught pureblood. However, he didn't carry himself with the haughty air Malfoy did; instead it was with an air of quiet security, almost like Islinn. It suit him well, despite the fact he was reedy.
Islinn heard Madam Hooch compliment him also. Curiously, she looked at the Slytherin. They caught each other's eye before they both gave the other a curt nod and averted their gaze.
After a while, Madam Hooch instructed them on how to mount the broom and push off. When she was sure everyone understood she told them to mount their brooms and she went around, checking the posture and properness. It seemed that Malfoy, with all his flaunting of knowing how to fly a broom, had been mounting it wrong for many years; Madam Hooch had told him so and Harry and Ron had sniggered. "Alright, when I count to three you all push off. Ready?" she asked, receiving various levels of enthusiasm as they agreed. "One… two-" Madam Hooch was interrupted by Neville.
Neville had been so nervous that when Madam Hooch said "two", he had pushed off with all his might. He soared higher than fifty feet without any control in a short moment. His cries for help were fading. It took a split second for Islinn to act. She acted on pure Shadowhunting instinct: to protect. That, combined with an adrenaline rush and irrationality, motivated her to push off after him. She was surprised at how easy flying was. She supposed it was like riding a bicycle or learning how to use the roller-blades: if you didn't get over your fears, you would never learn. Apparently, that was Neville's case, not Islinn's. She was too absorbed in getting to Neville in time she did not feel fear of flying. When she reached him, his cries were incoherent and his broom wild. She tried to place herself next to him, but with the thrashing she couldn't do anything so she placed herself in front of his broom, perpendicular to him. His eyes were scared and pleading and something within her stirred. She edged closer to his boom and grasped the handle of it while keeping a hand on her own handle. One thing dept repeating itself over and over in her head: make him safe, make him safe, make him safe. She feared for him, feared failing him like she had failed others. She held his broom steady with the strength she had developed from hunting.
"No! Help me! I don't want to fall! Please!" he exclaimed not realizing what was happening because his eyes were now closed tightly. She pulled the broom toward her.
"Mister Longbottom, I need you to open your eyes and look at me," Islinn said but Neville shook his head fiercely. "Mister Longbottom, if you wish to be on the ground alive I need you to first open you eyes. I know you are scared but I want you to know I am going to do whatever possible to make sure you are on the ground alive. Do you trust me?" she asked him and he nodded slowly. "I need you to open your eyes," she told him. After a pause he did so and she tensed at the look of pure horror in his eyes. "Look at me," she told him softly and he looked into her eyes. "Are you willing to follow my instructions?" she asked and he nodded not breaking her gaze. She held his gaze as she pulled his broom and angled hers so they would be side by side. They were so close their knees touched but neither broke the gaze. "Take my arm and grasp it tightly," she told him in that same soft voice. He continued to look straight into her eyes as he took her arm in a grip that was sure to cut circulation, but not even she noticed because she was nervous and scared and hoped her plan worked.
She lowered her altitude slightly and moved even closer, her knee pressing to his shin. "I need you to slide over to my broom," she told him. His eyes widened and the grip on her arm tightened even more. He was about to protest but she cut him off. "Trust me," she said quietly hoping she wouldn't regret her words. He didn't say anything and she moved away a little to give him room to carefully lift his leg, and as he did so, she brought the broom closer to hers so he wouldn't need to stretch so far. When he had done that she said, "Now, release one of you hands and put it around me to grip my other arm. Do you understand?" He tensed and was motionless for a moment before releasing a hand. As he brought it back she saw it was clammy and trembling. She tried to keep as still as possible.
When he had accomplished that she said, "I am going to lower you broom. I will need you to take your hand that is holding the arm grasping your broom. I want you to put that arm around my waist and then your other arm as well. Do you understand what I am telling you?" she couldn't see if he nodded or not and he didn't speak. Tentatively, she began lowering his broom, and when his arm came around her in a vice-like grip, she finished lowering the broom so he was fully sitting on her broom behind her. His other arm came around her waist and he held her so tightly, because he was scared, that her back was tightly pressed against him. Neither of them really noticed this and Islinn was surprised she could still breathe. She took his broom and tried putting it under hers so she would be able to steer both brooms. She began losing altitude steadily as she flew toward the rest of the class on the ground, who was watching them. Neville whimpered and buried his face in the crook of her neck and begun saying,
"Make it stop," over and over again. Islinn thought he had done so much for her during her time in Hogwarts, without really knowing what was going on when she went hunting, and she was glad she finally had done something right.
Islinn stopped in front of Madam Hooch as she let go of the broom that wasn't being used. Then she lowered her broom until her feet touched the ground. "Mister Longbottom, we are on the ground, you may let go and dismount," she told him. He squeezed her closer before complying and then she dismounted as well. She vaguely wondered if her waist or her arms would be bruised and determined she didn't care. When he had let her go she felt a strange sense of incompleteness that caught her off guard and she wondered what it was. "I think he will need a Calming Draught," she quietly told Madam Hooch who was looking at them with an expression Islinn couldn't identify. Islinn began to feel cold fear at the pit of her stomach. Their instructor motioned to Neville who, still trembling, went to her.
"What you did was very dangerous Miss Ignotum. You placed not only yourself in danger but you heightened Mister Longbottom's dangerous position as well. I would have easily gone for the boy had you not interfered. I hope you realize your mistake," Madam Hooch said sternly and Islinn realized she was right. Her insides seemed to have frozen.
"Please forgive my stupidity, Madam Hooch. I understand what I did wrong and will unquestioningly accept the consequences of my actions," Islinn responded not quite looking at her elder. It was silent a moment and Islinn wondered if she would be expelled from this wonderful place. She deserved it, there was no doubt, yet she dreaded it.
"Have you ever flown before, Miss Ignotum?" Madam Hooch questioned breaking Islinn's thoughts.
"No," Islinn replied. The instructor looked at her a moment and Islinn held her ground because she was not lying.
"That was a very spectacular performance Miss Ignotum, if stupid. If it had been under other circumstances not involving this type of danger I would have rewarded your House with points. However, though you don't deserve points, I will not take any away. I must say your skills are superb, but in the future I would like you to follow specific instructions and not impulse," Madam Hooch said.
"I understand," Islinn said feeling uneasy and hopeful but not showing it.
"Very well," Madam Hooch said and then spoke to the class. "I am taking him to the infirmary. While I am gone, nobody is to fly," she said and then she took Neville away. Islinn wanted to hide away.
Islinn was very suddenly embraced tightly by Hermione and patted in the back by Ron and Harry. The Gryffindors were cheering for her. Islinn didn't want any of this, except the company of Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Islinn hadn't remembered how gratifying it was for someone to be worried about her until Hermione had been feeling so. She didn't want to be congratulated because what she did didn't merit congratulations. Thankfully, everyone quieted down soon.
"Oh, look, it's the crybaby's savior," Islinn heard someone say. She tuned and felt Harry, Ron, and Hermione right there with her along with the other Gryffindor House members. At the moment Islinn felt like she could overcome anything.
"I beg your pardon Miss Parkinson?" Islinn asked politely.
"Isn't that what you want? You want to be called the Crybaby's Savior… or do you just prefer Arctic?" Pansy asked and her gang laughed. The air around them tensed.
"Hey, why don't you-"
"Miss Granger, I ask you to please allow me to speak," Islinn said calmly. A look of surprise quickly crossed Pansy's face. "You are the second person who has called me that. Truthfully, I do not wish to be called either," Islinn said.
"Okay, how about Attention Seeker?" Pansy sneered.
"You seem keen on giving me a nickname, Miss Parkinson; however, I also think the nickname is unfitting," Islinn responded.
"Oh, I think it's very appropriate. You've been seeking attention since you got here," Pansy sneered again caustically. That tampered with Islinn's anger. She had no right to say that!
"I hope you realize that what you are saying is a lie," Islinn said her voice still calm.
"Oh, really? Prove it then," Pansy retorted looking superior.
"If you wish. Please note I am merely stating facts and I am not being haughty."
"Oh, just get to the point," Pansy said exasperated.
"Very well," Islinn said and added, "You see, I am not seeking for attention, in fact, I do not want it. Here is where you are wrong, Miss Parkinson, because I do not seek attention, but people like you have already given me attention, making everyone else notice too." There was a brief silence before Ron and other Gryffindors sniggered.
"You think you're so smart, don't you? A smart little Weaslette," Pansy almost spat. Islinn knew she was talking about the Weasley's; after all, Islinn had red hair too. It was proof enough when Ron tensed.
"I like to think myself intellectual, yes. However, I must correct you in your latter remark. First, it was most disrespectful. It was unflattering coming from someone who considers herself superior, Miss Parkinson; you shame the purebloods of your status. Second, although I think the Weasley family is kind, I am in no way a blood relative," Islinn defended. Parkinson had no right to speak about her or her acquaintances in such manner! Pansy was about to respond but was interrupted.
"Look! Longbottom's Remembrall!" Malfoy exclaimed and Islinn felt herself stiffen. She vaguely remembered Neville talking about it while she spoke to Lee Jordan and the Weasley twins. Harry stepped up then.
"Give it here, Malfoy," Harry said. Ron and Islinn moved closer to Harry. If he had been there for Islinn, she would be there for him. Well, she kind of had to be there for him since she was his guardian, but she wanted to be there. Hermione moved a bit closer too.
"Why don't you come and get it then, Potter?" Malfoy said before mounting his broom and taking off. Hermione began to protest but Harry wasn't listening and he mounted also and took off after Malfoy. Islinn had been right about Harry, he did fine; in fact, he was more than a good flyer, he was skilled. He was a natural, like his father had been.
Islinn watched Harry and Malfoy high above and shifted once. She itched to be up there with Harry. In fact, why wasn't she up there with them? She should be. No, she would get in trouble, she would get expelled for sure; she shouldn't. Yet, she felt like she needed to be there. Many times Isabelle and Alec had told her she needed to control her adrenaline outbursts. They usually helped her immensely when she was hunting, but in this case it wasn't very helpful. She felt the usual adrenaline rush and again, she acted on impulse. She had a feeling Malfoy was going to throw it; he was just mean that way. As quickly as she could, she mounted and pushed off hard leaving Hermione's protests behind. She flew with the unknown grace she had, as she had done before. An instant before she reached them she heard Malfoy say,
"Then go get it, Potter." She reached them just a moment before he threw it. His eyes locked with hers a moment. His arm had gained momentum and when he let go, the Remembrall went straight passed Harry and her. There was a moment of pause as the Remembrall began going downward, and Harry and Islinn both dived for it. It had gone a far way down and the dive was steep but Islinn matched Harry's speed, which she supposed was a good thing. There was an accelerating rush that Islinn thought felt wonderful. They almost reached the ground when they caught it simultaneously and came to a stop. They looked at each other and Harry grinned as Islinn smirked.
"Did I not imply this morning that you would do fine?" Islinn asked Harry.
Harry let go of the Remembrall and tried to flatten his hair. She could tell he was bashful. "Yeah… you too," he said. She would have responded but didn't have time.
"Potter, Ignotum!" they heard McGonagall's voice say. They turned and Islinn stiffened. Now she would be expelled. She saw some Slytherins sniggering. She didn't know why she noticed that Nott was not among them.
"Yes Professor McGonagall?" Islinn responded her voice and expression calm, not betraying her dread. Her heart sank when she realized she was still holding the Remembrall.
"Follow me," McGonagall said curtly and turned on her heel. Harry and Islinn shared a look before following the professor.
They walked in silence and Islinn was sure she'd never see Hogwarts again after so little time in it. They stopped in front of the Charms room and McGonagall entered and asked Flitwick if she could borrow Wood. Islinn frowned and looked at Harry who looked back with a mixture of confusion and anxiety. When they resumed walking, it was with one more guest. "Mister Wood?" she asked quietly and doubted he remembered her.
"Hey Islinn," he said with a smile and gave Harry a curious look. Nobody spoke after that, not until they reached an empty classroom and McGonagall had shooed Peeves out.
"Potter, this is Oliver Wood, and Wood apparently you already know Ignotum," McGonagall introduced.
"Yes, we met the night of the Sorting," Wood answered and nodded at Harry who looked as confused as Islinn and Oliver. McGonagall nodded curtly.
"Well, I have found you two possible Seekers."
"What?!" Wood asked shocked just as Islinn said, "I beg your pardon?"
Instead of answering McGonagall asked, "Potter, Ignotum, was that the first time you flew?"
Harry nodded and Islinn said, "I flew minutes before that. I was chastisized by Madam Hooch for going after a student, but she also complimented my skills," Islinn replied and McGonagall gave a terse nod.
"Professor McGonagall," Wood said confused. She looked at him. "They're first years," he stated.
"I am aware of that. However, both simultaneously went into a steep dive of about fifty feet to catch the thing in Ignotum's hands and they caught it at the same time. They stopped right before they hit the ground. It was quite impressive. Charlie Weasley couldn't have done it," McGonagall told Wood whose eyes widened. He suddenly looked as if all his wishes were coming true at the same time. Islinn raised an eyebrow at the name. Charlie was probably an older brother of Ron.
"Well, they have the build of a Seeker, lithe and light. I'll have to make them try out," Wood said.
"Do as you see fit. They both seem equally able. Whoever you choose, make sure they do a good job because I don't want our House to lose to Slytherin again. The last time that happened I couldn't look at Snape in the eye for weeks," then McGonagall turned to Islinn and Harry, "whoever he chooses, make sure you practice and do a good job." They both nodded.
"Hey, ever seen a game of Quidditch?" Wood asked them.
During dinner, Harry told Ron what had happened while Hermione chastisized Islinn. She only caught bits and pieces of what Harry told Ron but she could tell Ron was impressed; after all, he wasn't eating and that was proof enough. Neville was not there because Madam Pomfrey had said he had to spend the rest of the day in tranquil places – so of course he couldn't be in the Great Hall.
"I still can't believe you did something like that. It was wrong… even if you were rewarded for it," Hermione said not for the first time.
"I do realize my actions were irrational and stupid. I was a fool," Islinn said for the umpteenth time. It was true, she felt guilty, but she couldn't rid herself of the bit of pride she felt. Hermione was about to respond, but at that moment the Weasley twins came grinning.
"Oliver told us about you two," George said so that only them four could hear. Islinn smiled faintly and Harry grinned and nodded.
"We're Beaters for the team and Oliver told us that if you're both that good he would alternate between you two," Fred said.
"Yeah, apparently you can do that," George finished.
"Well, then, we have to wait and see, do we not?" asked Islinn with a raised eyebrow.
"Of course," the twins responded and then Fred wished them luck before him and his twin left.
"Aren't you excited?" Ron asked.
"Very much so, Mister Weasley," Islinn responded with ease.
"I still can't believe-"
"Enjoying a last meal, Potter?" Malfoy asked interrupting Hermione, who was about to chastisized Islinn again. Islinn was almost thankful toward Malfoy. Almost. She turned and her eyes locked with Malfoy's. Harry saw this and didn't reply.
"Mister Malfoy," Islinn greeted with a slight coldness in her tone and gave him a stiff nod. He seemed to understand why she was acting as she was but looked surprised at the strict politeness.
"Miss Ignotum," he replied with a slight inclination of his head. "I am most sorry about what happened," he added and could not quite look at her.
"I am most inclined to believe that you are not indeed sorry, Mister Malfoy. Seeing as how you wish to have Mister Potter expelled, I would not be surprised if you wished the same for me," Islinn replied in a neutral voice.
"Most definitely not, Miss Ignotum; you are a brilliant witch and very much deserve to be here. Might I also compliment your flying abilities. You did superbly well," Malfoy complimented. She wanted very much to tell him many rude things but refrained herself.
"I thank you; however, you should not praise or encourage my foolishness. Flying without permission was unwise and dangerous," Islinn said instead.
"You are correct, but I simply could not refrain myself," he said and Islinn gave an understanding nod though she wanted very much to say many things.
"Are you here to compliment Mister Potter on his very evident flying skills as well, Mister Malfoy?" Islinn asked serenely and innocently.
"No, I am not," he said in a clipped tone. Islinn raised an eyebrow but nodded, ending their conversation. Malfoy turned to Harry again.
"Going back to the Muggles then, Potter?" Malfoy asked with this haughty smirk Islinn wanted to slap off.
"Tough now that you're on the ground with your little friends, Malfoy?" Harry asked instead.
"What are you playing at, Potter?" Malfoy scowled.
"Nothing. I simply mean you can't taunt anyone unless you're in the company of them," Harry answered calmly gesturing toward Crabbe and Goyle.
"I'll have you know I can do more than that without help, Potter. How about a wizards duel to prove my point – just wands," Malfoy said.
"A wizards duel?" Harry asked with the slightest bit of confusion.
"What's wrong Potter? Haven't heard of a wizards duel before?" Malfoy asked with another arrogant smirk.
"Of course he has," Ron said glowering at Malfoy.
"Alright then, how about a wizards duel in the trophy room at midnight. That room is always open," Malfoy stated simply.
"I shall wish to be Mister Potter's second," Islinn interjected. The thought that it was a wizard's duel and not a witch's duel didn't cross her mind.
"Miss Ignotum, you cannot possibly be proposing such thing. You should not put yourself in such position," Malfoy answered.
"I appreciate your concern Mister Malfoy; however, I am induced to believe you are suggesting I am not able to defend myself," Islinn said with a raised brow. If he said "no" he'd have to let her be second, if he said "yes" he knew he'd offend her, it'd be rude. He gave her a nod before speaking.
"I am sure you are very able Miss Ignotum; however, you told me not to encourage your foolishness," he answered. Well, she had said that. Islinn took unperceptively longer to answer.
"Are you implying Mister Potter is being foolish?" Islinn queried calmly. If he said "yes" he'd be saying that he was also being foolish.
"I am not encouraging you to be second because it is foolish, as I did not challenge you," Malfoy said. Islinn was surprised at Malfoy's evasiveness, very much like her own, very well done. Perhaps she had underestimated him. She only inclined her head slightly and said,
"Perhaps you are correct, although I still wish to be there."
"I do not believe that to be a good idea," Malfoy replied.
"I'll be his second," Ron said, not letting Islinn answer. "Who's yours?" he asked. Malfoy looked at his company for a moment, sizing them up.
"Crabbe," he finally decided. Harry gave a curt nod.
"We'll be there at midnight in the trophy room then," Harry said shortly. Malfoy left, but not without making a comment about Ron being foolish. Islinn gave a sigh and excused herself to go to the common room.
Today had been nothing but trouble, and something about the upcoming duel didn't bode well with her. As Islinn walked toward the Gryffindor tower, she was deep in thought. Why does Malfoy challenge Harry to a duel? What is Malfoy's motive? It can't be to actually duel because they're first years who haven't been to Hogwarts for very long. Islinn walked up the stairs, skipping the tick step and giving the password when she had reached the portrait. She wouldn't have gone to the duel but, what if Malfoy did know some spells? He had grown up in the wizarding world after all. That wouldn't be a good thing because it was obvious Harry didn't know any spells, and Ron… it would just be better if she went. She looked at the fire that was keeping the common room warm. Her hands were behind her back and she was deep in thought.
"Islinn?" the quiet voice broke her thoughts. Surprised, she stiffened and hardly suppressed a flinch. Finally, she turned around.
"Mister Longbottom, I beg your pardon. I thought you were in your dormitory," Islinn replied composed.
"What? Oh, n-no. I-I just had dinner here," he said wishing he could add to the statement but not knowing what else to say.
"I see. So you will retire to your dormitory when the common room begins to fill?" Islinn queried and he nodded. "Very well, I shall leave you to your rest then."
"Um, wait… please. I-I wanted t-to talk to y-you," Neville stuttered and blushed noticeably.
"If you wish," Islinn said and went over to sit next to him. Her eyes conveyed the curiosity her expression did not.
"I-I… th-thanks for s-saving me t-today," he began but he wasn't really looking at her.
"You are most welcome; however, it was foolish and unwise of me. Madam Hooch would have done a better and more efficient performance than me," Islinn answered.
"Still, you… y-you went for m-me," he managed. She allowed a small, soft smile.
"I am simply glad you are all right," she told him unsure of why she had spoken such thoughts aloud. It caused Neville to blush darker and a shy smile to appear. They were silent a moment and Islinn pondered over the strange feelings swirling in her chest… the only one she could identify was a relief to know her acquaintance was safe.
"I-I heard about m-my Remembrall," Neville said quietly.
"Oh, yes, I have it," she said and searched her robe pocket for it. As she handed it to him, their fingers brushed slightly, and with the tickling sensation there was something else, but neither she nor Neville could identify the feeling. Neville looked at eh clear, glass, smooth and unshattered. Islinn is partly the reason why my Remembrall isn't broken, Neville thought, knowing Harry had dived for it too. It had been hard not to hear about it. He also knew McGonagall had caught them.
"Islinn?" he asked softly.
"Yes?" she queried.
"Are you getting expelled?" he questioned afraid of the answer. It wouldn't be fair.
"No, I am not," she answered to his great surprise and relief. She told him then what had happened and asked him not to tell anyone. He assured her he wouldn't.
"That's gong to be great! I bet it will be loads of fun for you two," Neville expressed excitedly. Really, if McGonagall had thought her and Harry equal, then maybe they could both be in the team… somehow, if that was even possible.
"I suppose it would be, yes. Do try to calm down Mister Longbottom; being excited is not going to do you very well," Islinn chastisized gently. He smiled and blushed some more. They sat in comfortable silence and Neville's mind was again playing the strangest parts of Islinn rescuing him. He remembered the way she had spoken to him, her voice gentle. He remembered that she held his gaze and her eyes had been soft, soothing him infinitesimally. He remembered the feel of her skin, warm and firm. He flushed darker remembering how he had held her really tightly against him and how he had hid his face in the crook of her neck. What was wrong with him? He was only eleven. He recently seemed to have to remind himself of the fact constantly. Why was he thinking of this? Alarm bells were going off inside his head. He was a boy who didn't know what he was feeling. Why didn't he feel like this around Hermione? Why just Islinn? Of all the girls, why Islinn? Maybe it felt different because of the way Islinn was.
Islinn was a strong girl, someone who was willing to take action, and she was different. She was kind, and despite her unemotional façade she was gentle and understanding. Hermione was too, but she seemed too mindful of rules and she was lively, which was a good thing. Islinn wasn't lively but calm and Neville liked to be around her because she gave a quiet comfort because they didn't have a need to speak while lost in thought; Hermione had to talk quietly to herself whenever she thought and though he didn't mind it, he preferred the quiet. Aside from that, he felt closer to Islinn because he had seen, or she had told him, things about herself that nobody here at Hogwarts knew… except maybe Dumbledore. Maybe, just maybe, he felt different about her because they had fallen asleep together; even if it was a little awkward whey they woke up it wasn't all bad. He still remembered being woken up the Monday of that week:
He had been sleeping but he kept feeling shivers that weren't coming from him. He rubbed his eyes before opening them so they wouldn't feel so groggy. Neville looked at the girl he held loosely. Islinn's body was stiff and she was shivering, but she was asleep. She was cold and her feet were not covered, one of her arms was bare and a hand peeked out of the blanket. He leaned in carefully, as to not wake her, and he covered her feet and her arm. She shifted, inched her body closer to his and as her body relaxed. He pulled back to find her still asleep with an unguarded expression, and much closer than he had expected. He thought it was strange that his heartbeat increased, that his arms around her tightened, and that he had this urge to lean in closer. She turned her head a little causing some of her hair to fall forward and cover her face. He thanked Merlin for that and took some time to calm himself.
When his heart rate had become normal he looked at her again. Her hair was still covering her face and he realized it was loose, not in its traditional ponytail. He saw that her hair had a natural wave to it, but it was slight and it was mostly straight. The contrast between her pale skin and her dark red hair was shocking. He wondered what people would say or think if they saw her hair down. He thought it looked pretty, but that was just him, and he wasn't exactly an expert in the area. Tentatively, he finally tucked the loose hair behind her ear to reveal an innocent sleeping face. He studied her closely; he'd wanted to do that for a while because he saw that somehow she looked different to the other girls in their year. Her mouth was closed and her expression serene. He smiled to himself; she was even composed in her sleep. Her cheekbones were noticeable and her nose was straight. Her eyelashes were thick and her face heart-shaped. A hand peeked out of the blanket and he saw her hands were slim and her fingers elegant and long; dainty and yet strong. His thoughts scattered upon seeing the watch on her slim wrist. It was a strange watch-band. It was made of thick, black leather and weaved into it (or it looked that way anyway) was a thin, elegant, and intricate pattern that matched Islinn's hair color perfectly. Of course, the watch was embedded in the leather band. It looked uncharacteristic on her small wrist and yet it didn't look bad. He saw it was thirty minutes before seven and knew he should wake Islinn.
"Islinn, wake up," he said quietly in her ear and shook her gently just like she had done before. It was the first time he got to wake her so he went with what she had done. She sighed and lifted her head; she blinked at him slowly with alert but sleepy eyes. It was strange to him that she could wake up so quickly. This time, unlike all the other times, she didn't stiffen but she went still for a moment. "Morning," he said smiling but blushing.
"Good morning Mister Longbottom. I trust I allowed you to sleep?" she asked with a smirk. How could she be so coherent and word-perfect when she just woke up?
"Of course," he grinned briefly. "You sleep okay?" he queried. He could never be as word-correct as her.
"Indeed," she replied with a slight smile and checked her watch. "I thank you for waking me," she added. She scooted closer to him and sat up. His eyes widened at her proximity and he realized she had done so because his arms were still around her. He didn't know what to feel… yet again.
"Welcome," he said shyly.
"Would you like to walk with me to the Great Hall?" she had asked.
"Yeah, okay," he said and he let go of her and they both stood.
"Mister Longbottom, are you feeling all right?" Islinn's voice broke the memory.
"W-what?" he asked distracted.
"Are you all right?" she repeated.
"O-oh, uh, y-yeah," he said blushing.
"You seem tense, that is not good for someone in your state," she said standing and walking around him. Was she leaving? He flinched when he felt hands on his shoulders. "I did not mean to startle you," he heard her say. He was too surprised to answer so he simply nodded. She began massaging his shoulders and the back of his neck precisely but without hurting him. It was… relaxing. "I use to do this to Jace sometimes to help him relax," Islinn said quietly. Neville said nothing, he simply nodded. Really, what was there to say? Indeed the massage served to relax him enough that his eyes began to droop and his body slumped slightly. He felt her stop. "You should go to the dormitory," she told him, tugging his arm a little. He smiled sleepily and stood. She led him to the base of the stairs.
"Goodnight Mister Longbottom," Islinn told him.
"G'night," he said and was on his way. Islinn watched him leave and shook her head with a little smile on her face.
After a moment, the common room had filled and Hermione came in and she looked upset. "Miss Granger, are you all right?" Islinn questioned.
"They won't listen to me," she huffed, "and neither do you. You'll yourselves into trouble tonight or expelled. You're lucky you didn't get expelled today and now you're gonna blow it. You and Harry are already in enough trouble as is. If you go and get caught, you'll definitely be expelled," Hermione reasoned. Islinn knew she was right, but not only had she said she would be there, but Harry was going to be there.
"Miss Granger, please. You must understand that despite the fact Mister Malfoy is a first year; he was raised in the magical world, giving him the advantage of knowing at least some spell, when it seems Mister Potter does not. I do not wish either of them to get hurt. Also, I gave Mister Malfoy my word that I would be there; therefore, I must attend," Islinn explained. Hermione shook her head.
"Did you see Neville?" she queried changing the subject.
"Yes, I did. He had dinner in the here and then left to the dormitory to rest, I suppose," Islinn provided. Hermione nodded and shortly after, Harry and Ron came in. They greeted her and sat nearby but because she was with Hermione, they didn't talk to her. Islinn and Hermione spoke a little longer before Hermione announced she was going to bed.
"Night Islinn," Hermione said.
"Good night, Miss Granger," Islinn responded. When Hermione had gone, Islinn stood and sat closer to the boys.
"Hey, so, are you really coming tonight?" Ron asked.
"Does it bother you that I am?" she asked both boys in general.
"Nope," Ron replied and Harry agreed.
"We're meeting here thirty minutes before midnight," Harry informed.
"I shall be here then," Islinn said. Then, she gracefully excused herself and went to the girls' dormitory.
Five minutes before the accorded time Islinn was there dressed not in sleeping clothes, but in Muggle jeans and a long sleeved shirt. Islinn hadn't expected to see Hermione come downstairs a little later.
"Islinn, you can't do this," Hermione loud-whispered.
"I am determined Miss Granger and you cannot change my mind," Islinn replied sounding slightly apologetic.
"You'll get expelled," Hermione said urgently.
"Only if I am caught," Islinn reasoned.
"What are you doing here?" a new voice asked. The girls faced Harry and Ron. Ron, who had spoken, wasn't looking very nicely at Hermione.
"If you just listened to me you won't get yourselves expelled nor have House points taken away," Hermione said.
"We have to be there," Islinn said before following the boys, who had began walking toward the exit, ignoring Hermione. She, however, followed then, chastisizing them but the boys (and admittedly, Islinn too) weren't listening. The portrait door swung shut behind the four.
"Well, don't say I didn't tell you," Hermione said with her head held high. She turned to get back into the common room but the Fat Lady had gone away from her portrait. "I'm coming with you," she decided.
"Oh, no you're not," Ron countered before Harry could.
"I'm going with you and if we get caught, I'll say I was trying to convince you not to go, and you can back me up," she responded.
"You've got some nerve," Ron muttered.
"Fine, let's go," Harry urged as they made their way. They were all silent, listening intently, making their way through deserted and dimly lit hallways. Islinn heard a quiet sound and wondered if the others had heard it. It was the faintest rustling sound, but her Shadowhunter training had served her well. She reached for Harry's wrist to stop him. He stopped and looked at her, causing Hermione and Ron to stop and look at her too. Before any of them could speak she brought an index finger to her lips. She took out her wand and let go of Harry's wrist and she stealthily and quietly went ahead of them. Before rounding the other she paused hoping it wasn't a prefect or someone of the kind. Cautiously, she peered around the corner. There was a huddled figure against the wall and she felt herself relax slightly. She walked determinedly toward the figure followed closely by her company. She pointed her wand at the figure… until it lifted its head.
"Mister Longbottom," Islinn said with slight surprise as she quickly lowered her wand. "I thought you were asleep," she added.
"What are you doing here?" Hermione queried incredulously.
"I was sleeping in the dorm… but then I woke up and I wanted a snack, because I didn't have much for dinner, but then I forgot the password and the Fat Lady made a fuss, so then I came here when I heard someone coming… I didn't want to get in trouble," Neville said and his face flushed.
"The password's 'Pig Snout'," Harry said absentmindedly as he looked at his watch. "Oh, we have to go," he added.
"No, don't leave me! The Bloody Baron has already been by twice!" Neville exclaimed. Harry sighed exasperated.
"Fine, but if you can't keep up we'll leave you behind, and you better not got us caught," Harry said and Neville stood and nodded mutely.
The five of them were now in the trophy room. Islinn checked her watch; there were five minutes till midnight. Something occurred to her then, but it was too late because they were already there. What if Malfoy was setting them up? What if he didn't show? 'I do not believe that to be a good idea' he had said when she said she was coming too. He also didn't want her second, even though this duel wasn't serious enough to need a second. She checked her watch again; three minutes left. What if Malfoy wanted to get them in trouble – or expelled? She wouldn't be surprised, seeing how much he disliked Harry. Hermione had been right, Harry and Islinn were already in deep trouble (her more than him she admitted); if they got caught they'd be expelled for sure. Either way, it was too late to regret it… but maybe she could tell them her theory.
"He's late," Harry said before she could say anything. She checked her watch, he was five minutes late.
"What if Mister Malfoy did not plan to come?" Islinn finally asked.
"You mean that he set-"
"Sniff around, my sweets. They ought to be here somewhere," Filch was heard saying, interrupting Hermione. So, Islinn had been right. Malfoy had never planned to come and had probably tipped Filch off. So, now Filch and Mrs. Norris were looking for them. How had she managed to get into so much trouble in one day?! She looked around and tapped her four companions on the shoulder. When she had their attention, she motioned toward the back door of the trophy room. They nodded approvingly and quietly began their way toward the door.
Everything was going well… until Neville, in his nervous and clumsiness, stumbled and knocked one of the trophies and it crashed loudly. "There! Come, Misses Norris!" Filch exclaimed heading toward the group.
"Run!" Harry shouted and they all dashed out the door, as best as they could. Neville stumbled but managed to keep up. They ran and ran until they reached an unlocked classroom, with a back door. They went in and closed the door. Everyone felt relieved… until they turned around. Peeves the poltergeist was floating in front of them with crossed legs.
"Well, well, what do we have here? Ickle first years out of bed," Peeves said seeming to examine them closely.
"Please, Peeves, don't say anything," Harry said.
"I should tell Filch, I really should, it's for your own good you know," Peeves said thoughtfully but there was this certain glint in his eyes.
"Perhaps we could summon the Bloody Baron," Islinn suggested. Peeves focused on Islinn, looking at her intently.
"You threaten me, ickle first year?" he asked looking amused.
"It was not a threat but a suggestion," Islinn replied.
"You're good with words," Peeves observed before getting back on track and adding, "Still, I should tell Filch."
"You should," Islinn said calmly but her mind was racing a mile a minute.
"What?" everyone asked looking at her.
"He should tell Filch, but he most likely won't," Islinn predicted.
"Why do you say that?" Peeves asked giving his full attention and seeming to enjoy this outturn.
"You are a poltergeist, not known for doing the right thing. Would you like to ruin your reputation by doing the right thing?" Islinn reasoned.
"But I would be helping you. So, what's the difference?" Peeves wanted to know.
"The difference is, if you help us, you would not be doing the right thing; therefore, you would be keeping you're mischievous reputation," Islinn declared. Peeves looked thoughtful. Islinn had to work fast because she could Filch getting closer. "This is why you should let us through," Islinn tried sounding nonchalant. It wouldn't do it to let him see how desperate she was.
"But who would know I'd be doing something mischievous if I let you go?" Peeves asked.
"Mister Filch would know," Islinn replied with a smirk.
"How?" Peeves asked curious. Islinn was amazed with herself. She was close to convincing Peeves! Maybe…
"If you allow them to go through first, and then me, you will find out," she taunted. She couldn't tell him, what if once he knew what she was going to do he decided to tell anyway? Peeves took his time looking at her and her company as he considered. Everyone held their breath. Filch was getting closer. Finally, Peeves gave a nod and looked curious at Islinn. She let the others go through the back door before she walked through the front door. She opened the door and peered out and saw Filch nearby. It was nearly dark – perfect. She opened the door wider. "Go," she said loud enough to be heard before she slammed the door shut. She quickly took a chair, letting the legs scrape across the floor, making enough noise for Filch to find the classroom. When she was sure Filch was coming, she gave Peeves a curt nod and left to where her acquaintances were. Without saying anything they ran down the hallway to a dead end, except for the door in front of them. They waited a moment, listening to Filch and Peeves.
"Shan't say nothing if you don't say please," they heard Peeves say. Uh-oh, was he going to tell?
"We can't get out of here," Neville said sounding a little panicky.
"Nothing! Hahaha! I told I shan't say nothing if you didn't say please!" they heard Peeves say and Islinn understood and let a smirk come to her lips. They heard Filch curse.
"The doors locked," Ron said sounding anxious. Hermione huffed.
Without realizing it, both girls had stepped forward and pointed their wands at the doorknob. "Alo-" the girls said simultaneously. They stopped and looked at each other briefly. They shared a small smile and Islinn withdrew her wand and stepped back. "Alohomora," Hermione said successfully unlocking the door. They all quickly went inside, closed the door and pressed their ears to it as they heard Filch curse and draw nearer. She heard a sharp intake of breath from Neville. 'He must be scared witless' Islinn thought. Her thought process was interrupted by someone holding her wrist tightly. She looked at Neville who was quite pale and not looking at her but at the room. She followed his gaze – and froze to her spot. She'd never seen anything like it! She had seen many surprising things; even the different demon forms weren't surprising anymore, or scary. At the moment however, she was looking straight at a giant, three-headed dog! To say she was fascinated would have been an understatement; however, she was aware it was dangerous. As Harry Potter's guardian she had to get him out of there. The others too, she concluded, because she was not heartless and would not leave them there. She took a step, but was retrained by Neville's grasp. She gently disengaged herself and took another step forward. She had to distract the dog somehow. Thank Merlin for her natural dominance over animals… she just hoped it worked with this particular animal. The dog stood noiselessly, and Islinn drew herself up.
"Mister Potter, take everyone and leave – now," she said her voice normal but with authority. She could not allow the dog to sense her fear. Now her company turned, curious at her tone. They froze to their spots (they apparently didn't share the fascination she had), but Islinn wasn't, so she took two more steps toward the beast.
"What are you doing?!" Hermione almost squeaked. The dog growled, making the ground rumble, or perhaps it was Islinn's imagination. Instead of following her orders, her company seemed transfixed. Islinn wanted to yell at them, but that would only make matters worse. She made eye contact with each head a moment and the dog looked back maliciously. Islinn hoped her plan worked. She put a calm "aura" around her as she continued to look at the heads with an unwavering gaze. After a moment of that staring contest, the dog submitted and lay down. She reached for it, petting the heads one at a time while trying not to get saliva all over her.
"Mister Potter, I said to take everyone and leave – now ," her tone was dept low but loud enough to be heard. She began talking softly to the dog as she pet its heads. She heard the door open, and the dog began going on alert, but Islinn made quiet shushing noises as she stroked the beast, and it calmed. She heard the door closed, and knew it was her cue to leave. As she retreated carefully, she concluded this dog was like any other: if treated correctly, it would return the favor. She slipped out the door and closed it. She was tackled into a fierce hug from Hermione. Islinn stiffened with surprise, but after a moment she relaxed.
In the common room, after Hermione had made clear it was worse to get expelled than killed (and Ron commenting on checking her priorities), and mentioning the trap door she went to bed. Islinn thought she had been the only one to notice it, but apparently not. The boys stayed long enough to compliment and thank her (rather awkwardly) about the dog and Peeves. Then, it was just her, alone in the common room… or so she thought.
"Islinn?" she heard Neville's quiet and timid voice ask. She turned and didn't know what to make of his closeness. He wasn't invading her personal space, but he was closer than usual.
"Yes?" she queried. He didn't say anything right away.
"Thanks," he finally said and without think pulled her in a rather awkward and bone-crushing hug. She stilled a moment wondering what the strange emotions going through her were, and knowing he had hugged her out of relief. Awkwardly, for her anyway, she patted his back. When he let go, he was flushing scarlet. Islinn spoke before he could. Giving him a tiny, gentle smile she said,
"You are welcome. Good night, Mister Longbottom." With a small curtsy she left a very surprised Neville Longbottom.
A/N: Please review!!! Yay for 36 pages!!!