The boat ride ended uneventfully. Harry and the other first year students were led to the castle entrance by the largest man Harry had ever seen. The man was easily twice the size of Vernon, if not more. The young students were escorted through an enormous entry way and arrived quickly at their destination and were met by a familiar face.
"First years Professor McGonagall," The large man said.
"Thank you Hagrid."
Minerva surveyed the group of new students quickly spotting Harry. She hid her happiness of their reunion well but the smile on Harry's face made it difficult. She now truly understood what parents experience sending their children off to school; it was not pleasant. She gave her introduction to the students then led them inside to be sorted.
Entering the Great Hall, the young students were in awe of their new surroundings. Hermione said.
"The ceiling is charmed to look like the night's sky. I've read about that in Hogwarts: A History."
"I read that one as well. I wonder what it looks like during the different Holidays." Harry said.
"That will be interesting to see. I wonder how all the lit candles about do not drip wax on everyone." Hermione said.
"It's a simple charm; the flame gives off light but no heat. My Gran told me about it." Neville said proudly.
"That would be a most useful charm to learn." Hermione said.
"It's a wicked charm to use for scented candles; my aunt uses a modified version at home. The candles last forever." Susan said.
The four friends ended their conversation once they reached their destination. Minerva said.
"When I call your name, you will sit here and I will place the sorting hat on your head and you will be sorted into your houses. Abbott, Hannah."
"A hat, I'll bloody kill Fred and George. They said I had to wrestle a troll." A tall red haired boy said angrily.
Harry looked at the boy and shook his head but was slightly amused by his rant. He watched as one by one his friends went to their houses. Susan got her wish and went to Hufflepuff. Hermione was placed into Gryffindor. Neville, looking frightened, went to Gryffindor. As the names were called, Harry's anxiety grew. When his name was finally called, there were murmurs coming from everyone. Harry walked towards the stool and gave his surrogate aunt a weak smile then took his place. The hat said inside Harry's head.
"Well let's see here. You are most intriguing Mr. Potter. You are loyal to your friends and family and not afraid of hard work; Hufflepuff would work well. You have a good mind for learning so Ravenclaw would also suit you. You are most cunning, when you need to be, Slytherin would be lucky to have you. Your bravery knows no bounds so you would do well in Gryffindor. I dare say that the founders themselves would come to blows over you."
"Anywhere but Slytherin please. I don't like Draco Malfoy," Harry pleaded.
"Not Slytherin you say. I see it now; it's all right here inside your head. You haven't been biased by other people's views on the houses. I agree that Slytherin would help you achieve greatness but that is not your desire. You would do well in all the houses but placing you in one of them may hinder your development but I must choose."
"Could you put me in Gryffindor please? I'd like to be in my aunt's house." Harry asked politely.
"Your loyalty to your aunt knows no bounds. Allow me to give you this advice. Stay true to yourself and to your own beliefs and you will do well. Learn from the other houses and teach them as well. The houses have been separated for far too long. Good luck young badger in . . ."
"GRYFFINDOR" The hat shouted.
The Gryffindor table burst into cheers, the loudest being a pair of twins chanting, "We've got Potter." Harry gave his aunt a smile which she returned and he took his place next to his friends. He was greeted by the prefect he met on the train named Percy but disliked him because of his actions towards Neville. He looked towards Susan and the two friends shared a heart felt smile. They knew this could happen but it wouldn't stop them from being friends.
The sorting ended and the food appeared. Harry had never seen such delights and wanted to try them all. Mipsy was a wonderful cook but he doubted she could match this variety but he would never tell her that. He filled his plate and began eating. He met the House Ghost, Sir Nicholas, and greeted him with respect that he was unaccustomed to but was more than grateful. Harry caught the eye of a professor with greasy hair and felt uneasy. The teacher gave him a foul look then returned to his meal. Harry asked.
"Percy, who is that teacher by the one with the turban?"
"That is Professor Snape. He teaches potions but he would rather teach Defense Against Dark Arts. He's been after that job for ages." Percy said.
"Who is the one with the turban?" Harry asked.
"That is Professor Quirrel. He teaches Defense but he used to teach Muggle Studies. I heard he went to Albania for a year to gain some experience." Percy answered.
The feast ended with a warning from the Headmaster about the third floor then Prefect Percy led the new students to their house dormitory. He explained the rules about curfew and about the portrait password. He instructed the first years to go to their rooms, explaining that their things have already been delivered.
In the dorm, Harry was reunited with Dean Thomas and met his other dorm mates Seamus Finnegan and Ron Weasley. He said aloud.
"Does everyone have their trunks?"
"I think so. Why? Where's yours?" Seamus asked.
"It's not here; I'm going to tell Percy," Harry said with a hint of fear in his voice.
He found Percy, still in the common room and he said.
"Percy, my trunk isn't here."
"Are you certain?" Percy asked concerned.
"Yes, I've looked all over the room. The others have their's though." Harry said.
"Very well, not to worry we'll speak to Professor McGonagall. Come along," Percy said in a stern voice.
The two Gryffindors left the common room and quickly found their Head of House. Percy explained what the problem was and Minerva was not pleased. She instructed her students to wait in her office on the first floor while she handled the problem. She suspected this might happen but hoped it wouldn't. She made her way to the Headmaster's office and was allowed entry. There she saw the missing trunk and Severus Snape as well. She spoke.
"I see you have found what I'm looking for. One of MY students didn't have his things delivered as they should have."
"Now Minerva, it has only just arrived. I was just coming to find you." Albus said in his grandfatherly voice.
"Very well then. I will return Mr. Potter's trunk to him so that he can get settled in. It has been a long day and he needs his sleep after all." Minerva said in a slightly condescending tone.
"Headmaster, I must protest. This trunk has not been properly searched." Severus said in his superior tone.
"Since when does a student's belonging need to be searched? There is no written rule that give us the authority to do so. If it was necessary, the student has to be present and his head of house as well. What is the meaning of this Albus?" Minerva said angrily.
"Now, now my dear, there is no need for any accusations. I was merely trying to discover who the trunk belonged to so it could be returned." Albus said twinkling his eyes.
"His name is on the trunk's name plate as is his house. I will be taking this to him so he can return to his dorm. He has been kept awake long enough." Minerva spat.
Albus Dumbledore sighed heavily then said, "Very well Minerva." Severus Snape was about to protest but was silenced by a look from the Headmaster.
Minerva shrank the trunk then bid her colleagues good night. She had only just departed when Severus said angrily.
"Headmaster I must protest; Potter is hiding something. His trunk must be searched; the security charms were nearly impenetrable."
"Now, now Severus do calm yourself. You really need to let go of your animosity towards James. Young Harry is nothing like him. I dare say that your students have some interesting charms on their trunks. What is your basis for accusation?" Albus said.
"I attempted to enter his mind," Severus said with a sneer.
"Severus was that really necessary; he has only just arrived. Attempted you say," Albus said plainly.
"Yes Headmaster. It was like looking through a thick fog. His mind was there but I could see nothing," Severus said.
"Interesting, I will look into this peculiar phenomenon personally. It is best to air on the side of caution but do try to control your temper. The board is looking for any reason to have you removed and I would be virtually powerless to protect you if the matter were pressed. Thank you for your insight, Good night Severus."
"Good night Headmaster."
The stern potions professor left the office in a huff leaving the aged wizard to ponder this latest development. For a man who enjoys being in control of everything, mysteries were an unwelcome nuisance.
At the same time, Minerva was walking towards her office; she was not a happy kitty. She knew something like this could happen but was relieved to hear that Harry remembered to activate the security charms on his trunk. She grinned evilly at the thought of what Isis would have done if Snape had tried to touch her. Minerva composed herself as she entered her office. She smiled when she saw a very sleepy looking Harry sitting on the sofa and an equally tired Percy trying to keep the two of them from drifting off to sleep. She announced her arrival loudly causing the boys to jerk themselves awake quickly causing her to chuckle. She returned Harry's trunk and explained the confusion then ordered her lions to bed.
Harry and Percy returned to Gryffindor tower, where they separated then headed to their respective rooms. Harry was met by his dorm mates, who were awaiting his return.
"So what happened?" Dean asked.
"Nothing really, just some sort of confusion. You didn't have to wait up for me but thanks." Harry said.
"No worries mate; we just wanted to know what happened. It's late so I'm off." Ron said sleepily.
The other boys agreed and went to there own beds. Harry quickly resized his trunk then changed into his pajamas. He was practically asleep when his head touch his pillow.
The next morning, Harry awoke refreshed and eager to start his new adventure. He gathered his things and went to the first year's lavatory to deal with his morning business. Dressed in his school attire, he headed to the common room and found Hermione reading the current postings on the bulletin board. Remembering their first conversation he said.
"Bonjour Hermione. Comment etes-vous aujourd'hui? Good morning Hermione How are you today?
"Bonjour Harry. Je suis bien. Comment vas-tu?" Good morning Harry. I'm well. How are you?
"Je suis un peu fatugue, Ron ronfle." I'm a little tired, Ron snores.
Hermione smiled the said, "That was fun Harry, Thank you. I'm sorry about Ron though."
"I'll be okay, and you're welcome. Did you find anything interesting?"
"Yes, there is copy of the house rules and a list of contacts for several house and school clubs. I'll have to copy them down later. Where are the other boys?"
"Still sleeping; I'm an early riser so decided to get started. Where are your dorm mates?"
"The same; I like to start my day early as well. Should we wait for them?" Hermione asked.
"Let them sleep, shall we head down to breakfast?"
Hermione agreed and the two friends headed towards the Great Hall. Harry was very thankful for Hermione's presence; he didn't remember the way back but paid more attention this time. They entered the Great Hall then went to their house table. Many of the professors were present as well as a few other early birds from other houses. They began filling their plates when Professor McGonagall arrived ad handed them their time tables. Harry said.
"Good morning Professor."
"Good morning children," She said politely.
"Professor could we please have a map? I'd rather not be late on our first day," Hermione asked politely.
"Of course; here you are," She said handing her students each a map of Hogwarts.
"Thank you. What time does the mail arrive?" Harry asked.
"It should arrive shortly. Most mail arrives during breakfast; are you still reading that series?" Minerva asked smiling.
"Yes ma'am; this is the last part of the series."
"What series?" Hermione asked curiously.
"I have subscriptions to several periodicals. The Daily Prophet, The Quibbler, Transfiguration Today and Charms Weekly. I've been reading a four part article on human transfiguration written by our own Professor McGonagall. She was June's cover girl but she won't give me her autograph," Harry said teasingly.
"Now you behave Mr. Potter," Minerva scolded playfully.
Hermione snickered aloud at their interactions and asked, "Do you still have the earlier copies? May I borrow them?"
"I have them in my trunk; just remind me sometime today. Professor what are the rules about sitting at other tables for meals?" Harry said.
"You only have to sit at your house table during the Start of term and End of term feasts as well as any official school assembly. Otherwise, you my sit wherever you wish but remember your actions at other tables reflect upon your house," Minerva stated professionally.
Harry thanked his aunt then she left to handle her official duties. Harry and Hermione were chatting lightly when Hedwig arrived with his mail. He greeted his faithful familiar warmly, as did Hermione, then offered her a bit of bacon which she was thankful for. After her morning repast, Hedwig flew off to rest in the owlery as Harry sorted through his mail with Hermione's assistance.
The two were enjoying their morning meal when Susan arrived with a blond girl in pig tails. She said.
"Good morning Harry, Good morning Hermione; this is Hannah Abbott. Hannah this is Harry Potter and Hermione Granger."
"Nice to meet you Hannah. I'm glad you made it into Hufflepuff Susan. Do you like it?" Harry said.
"It's wonderful, everyone is really friendly. I was thinking that we could all study together, if you're interested?' Susan said.
"I'd like that; I'm certain we can find somewhere to get together. What do you think Harry?" Hermione asked.
"Sounds good, I'll ask Neville if he'd like to join us. We can get together at lunch and talk more."
"Are you sure we won't get in trouble for eating at your house table?" Hannah asked fearfully.
"We asked so it's okay. Oh, you may want to ask for a map when you get your timetables," Hermione said.
"Thanks, it was nice meeting you both," Hannah said smiling.
The two Hufflpuffs returned to their house table, then Harry and Hermione read their timetables and returned to their dormitories for the necessary supplies. Harry was still confused, even with the map it was most difficult to navigate the immense castle. The portraits, for the most part, were helpful but both Harry and Hermione agreed to explore the castle this coming weekend to learn the lay of the land; besides both wanted to see the famous Hogwarts Library.
They arrived at the Charms classroom with time to spare then took their seats. They were chatting amiable when the rest of their class arrived. They were most pleased to see Susan and Hannah, who took their seats near the two Griffindors. The Class began as a diminutive Proffessor Flitwick began to take the role. He was so short that he had to stand on a stack of books to be seen. The class was lively and informative; Professor Flitwick was full of energy and life. He relayed the information well and created the perfect environment for learning. They learned a simple lighting charm called Lumos and it's counter Nox. Most of the class had mastered the simple charms before it ended. Homework assigned, the class departed eagerly anticipating their next charms class.
Since this was their only class for the day, much to their confusion, Harry and Hermione along with Susan, Hannah and Neville decided to find the library and complete their homework. Hermione led the way, as Susan remarked that Hermione could practically smell a library. This met with some snickers but a glare from Hermione. All teasing aside, the group found the library quickly and were not disappointed. The collection was vast and impressive. This was the largest semi-public collection in existence seconded only by the Ministry Archives but that was open only to Ministry employees. Hermione quickly commandeered a table and the group set to work. Their homework was completed quickly, with each person helping the other. All of them had found different useful books and shared the information equally. The only problem that existed was the appearance of several students wanting to meet THE Harry Potter. It was most annoying but Harry held his distaste and greeted everyone politely but even Harry had his limits.
The group left the library then went to the Great Hall for lunch. They all decided to eat at the Hufflepuff table and the three Gryffindors were greeted nicely. Their pleasant chat was interrupted by a young man that said.
"Hi Harry, why didn't you tell me you were famous?"
"Hi Justin, I didn't think is was that important. I apologize for any confusion," Harry said.
"No worries, this is Ernie McMillan. Ernie this is Harry," Justin said.
"It is an honor to meet you Lord Potter," Ernie said in a formal tone.
"It's a pleasure to meet you as well Mr. McMillan and the name is Harry. I'm only a Lord for official functions," Harry said politely.
"Oh sorry, I just wanted to be proper," Ernie said slightly embarrassed.
"Think nothing of it; its almost impossible to be proper here at school. These are Hermione Granger and Neville Longbottom," Harry said.
Ernie and Justin greeted them kindly and joined the motley group for lunch. This interaction did not go unnoticed. Two Heads of House were pleased by their interaction but the headmaster was not so accepting. The aged wizard thought to himself, Harry is quickly gathering a group of followers. Miss Bones and Mr. McMillan will be most influential in the future but this is not the time for that. I will have to keep a closer eye on him than I thought.
With lunch completed, everyone separated to return to their respective houses. Harry was quickly approached by Ron who said.
"Oi Harry, how come you didn't eat lunch at our table?"
"I know Susan and I just wanted to hang out with her," Harry said.
"Oh. Alright then; want to play chess?" Ron asked eagerly.
"Sure, just let me drop off my stuff. I have to get something out of my trunk anyway."
"I'll set up the board," Ron said happily.
Harry quickly dropped of his book bag and retrieved the periodicals for Hermione. Upon his return, he handed them to her and she gave him a copy of the house rules and other information of the bulletin board then found Ron. After three devastating losses, Harry called it quits and Ron sought another victim. Harry returned to his dorm and pulled out some parchment; he promised to write Luna and he wasn't about to let his best friend down. By the time he finished, Hedwig was waiting eagerly for her assignment. He affixed the letter to Hedwig's leg and after a few owl treats and gentle strokes of affection; Hedwig was off. In the mean time, Harry returned to the common room and found a comfortable spot to relax and read up on the house rules.
Dinner was an enjoyable as Harry's Hufflepuff friends joined him at the Gryffindor table. Ron and Ernie were talking amiably about trading Chocolate Frog Cards and Hermione was engrossed in an issue of Charms Weekly. All in all it was a glorious first day at Hogwarts but there was one thing left to do. An hour before curfew, Harry knocked on Minerva's office door. She allowed entry and the two shared a warm hug; they both missed each other. Minerva said.
"How was your first day?"
"It was good; Professor Flitwick was really fun. I met a few new people and found the library. The lot of us want to start a study group but we need to find a place to meet and I wrote Luna a letter earlier," Harry said excitedly.
"I'm happy you're adjusting well but aren't you forgetting something?" Minerva said with THAT look in her eye.
"You heard about what happened on the train?" Harry said quietly.
"Yes I did. Now tell me your side of the story. You aren't in any trouble but I would still like to know," Minerva said in a comforting tone.
Harry went about telling her of his confrontation with Draco Malfoy. Minerva listened attentively knowing he was telling the truth which was quite different than the story she had heard from Severus. Once Harry finished his tale, Minerva said.
"Thank you for telling me. If something like this happens again I want you to let me know straight away. Things like this can be blown out of proportion quickly. Is there anything else you would like to tell me?" Minerva said.
"Well. . . Something weird happened on the train. I bought some chocolate frogs and the card I got glowed blue for a moment; I thought I was seeing things. And when we were on the boats, I felt a tingling sensation. It didn't hurt but it felt strange," Harry said.
Minerva thought for a moment then asked, "Which card did you receive and where exactly did you feel this tingling?"
"I got the Headmaster's card. When we went under some trees is when I felt it. Is something wrong with me?" Harry asked concerned.
"No, nothing is wrong. The tingling you felt was probably the wards; they are much more powerful than at home. The card however; I'm not quite certain but it may have been just a harmless prank so try not to think of it," Minerva said knowing she was lying.
"That's good; I thought I was going mad or something. I have some questions."
"Yes."
"Why do we have so few classes per day? I mean in muggle school we had several different classes everyday," Harry asked.
"During your first year, you are just beginning your education in magic. There are few classes because it would be too exhausting for you to use that much magic daily. The classes are organized to allow you to replenish your magical core for the next wand related class. This will change by your third year and change yet again after you take your O.W.L. exams in fifth year. I'm not saying you can not use magic daily but do be careful. One of the most common ailments for first year students is magical exhaustion from those that try to do too much too soon," Minerva answered.
"Do you have any ideas on where our study group could meet? The library was too public," Harry said distastefully.
"You felt overwhelmed by the attention; I understand. It will become easier as time goes by and the newness subsides. There are many unused classrooms about the castle; I'm quite confident you will find one of them," Minerva said.
"It won't cause any problems?"
"Of course not, the unused classrooms have been used for all sorts of activities; many of the clubs meet in them. As long as you don't do anything foolish, there will be no problems."
"Wicked, I'll tell the others and we can find one this weekend. We were all planning to explore the castle anyway."
"That is one of the most enjoyable experiences for first years. I do have one suggestion however," Minerva said smiling.
"What is it?"
"I would like you to try out for the Quidditch team. With your skill on a broom; it would be a waste of talent for you not to try."
"I'll do it. When are the try outs?"
"They are posted on the notice board in the common room. I also suggest you read it daily for any announcements. Things happen quickly here and its best to stay informed."
"I'll remember. I better head back. Good night Aunt Min," Harry said.
"Good night Harry."
The two hugged warmly then Harry departed for Gryffindor tower. Minerva wasted no time in visiting her friend and colleague Anastasia Fitzpatrick. She entered her friend's stateroom and spoke in a very concerned tone.
"Ana we have a problem. Harry just came to see me and told me of two incidents before he was even in the castle."
"I'll check the readings from his pendant," Ana said.
The Rune's Mistress went through the documentation of Harry's pendant and found some startling information. She said.
"According to these readings; the pendant protected Harry from two attempts to enchant him. The first one was a loyalty charm that happened on the train; according to the time. The second was a tracking charm, just before the sorting," Ana said confused.
"I often wondered how Albus knew where all the children were at any given time. As far as enchanting his own Chocolate Frog Card; I never would have suspected that, but how?" Minerva said.
"Honeydukes has the contract for the cart on the train. That's a good place to start."
"The entire magical world practically worships him. I wonder if that is even possible."
"You're suggesting that Dumbledore has enchanted ALL of his cards. That would be extraordinary; diabolical but extraordinary," Ana said.
"At this point it is only a theory, but a frightful one. I'll have Tonks buy some chocolate frogs on the first Hogmeade weekend and we can see for ourselves. This is going to be more difficult than I first suspected."
"What should we do?" Ana asked nervously.
"We have a meeting next week then we can all discuss this new development but for now we just keep an eye on things," Minerva said firmly.
The two Sisters agreed then Minerva departed. This just became more complicated then she first anticipated. She did not sleep well that night.
At the same time elsewhere, Harry returned to his common room and read the notice board for try-outs. He earned a few snickers from the older students who were also interested in trying out for the team but he would not be deterred so easily. He returned to his room and prepared for bed. He slept soundly that night with dreams of flying peacefully oblivious to the happenings around him.
The next morning, Harry awoke and started his day as usual. He gathered his things for the day's classes and met Hermione in the common room. After a delightful conversation in French, the pair made their way to breakfast. They chatted about finding a classroom that would suit their needs and about the articles they have read. Hedwig arrived during their meal with the morning paper and a wonderful surprise; a letter from Luna. Harry pocketed the letter for later and read the morning news about a break in at Gringotts. The fact that the break in happened in late July and was only reported now was a bit disturbing but he thought nothing of it.
After their morning repast and a brief conversation with their Hufflepuff friends, The pair made their way to the green houses for their first Herbology class. Professor Sprout was a plump witch who wore robes that were covered in soil but loved her work. She explained everything well and answered questions happily. She was almost as fun as Professor Flitwick; almost. Harry observed that Neville and Hermione were have what seemed to be a friendly competition on who could raise their hand the quickest; Neville barely won this time. The class ended and the three friends returned to the common room to relax before lunch having received no homework this time. Harry brought out the letter he received earlier and read.
Dear Harry,
I know that you have just started at Hogwarts but I feel that our friendship is at an end. You will meet many new people and I feel that I would be holding you back if we continue. So with a heavy heart I ask you not to write to me any longer as it is for the best. Good bye.
Sincerely,
Luna.
Harry heart dropped with a nearly audible crash. Tears began to form in his eyes but he stave them off for the moment. Hermione saw Harry's reaction to the letter and in a most concerned, soft voice said.
"Harry what's wrong? Did something happen?"
Harry said nothing but handed the letter to Hermione then sat in silence. She read the note quickly and felt badly for her friend. She didn't have the words to comfort him properly but moved next to him a gently took his hand and held it. The two sat in uncomfortable silence for a few moments then Harry let out a strained voice.
"How could she do this? She was my best friend. What did I do wrong?"
"I don't know. You didn't do anything wrong; I don't understand this either. I'm really sorry Harry," Hermione said softly.
"Thanks. I guess this is it then. I'm not really hungry so just go to lunch without me. I want to be alone for a bit," Harry said sadly.
Hermione agreed as did Neville who was just as sad for Harry as she was. Harry returned to his room and Neville and Hermione made their way to lunch. As they entered the Great Hall they were approached by Susan who asked.
"Where's Harry?"
"He wasn't hungry. He . . .He received a letter from his friend Luna and she doesn't want to be friends anymore," Hermione said soulfully.
"That's crazy. I received a letter from Luna today and she asked why Harry hadn't written yet because he promised," Susan exclaimed.
This conversation did not go unnoticed by Professor McGonagall who immediately left and made her way to Gryffindor Tower. She was not in a pleasant mood; her child was hurting.
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Disclaimer: I own nothing related to Harry Potter.
A/N: I know it's a slow start to the school year but things will pick up. I received some personal E-Mails asking some questions so I'll try to answer them here.
First: Hedwig is a Snowy Owl and according to actual data on her species; she does not hoot. Snowy Owls have complex vocal cords and make a wide range of sounds. If you wish to hear what she really sounds like watch the first movie with the scene in which she delivers the Nimbus. That sound you hear is the REAL Hedwig.
Second: A Recorder is a musical instrument sometimes referred to as a vertical flute. It is very easy to play and sounds quite pleasant.
Third: Some people asked me why I skipped over the significance of Harry's wand. Simple, we already know it.
Fourth: How can Harry do such spells early in the story? In cannon Hermione performed a Reparo spell on Harry's glasses without any formal training. Harry had been living with Minerva for several months and she taught him a few things. Besides he studies. He won't be Hermione smart but he won't be cannon dumb either.
Also in this story there will be no Horcrux. I never bought the story that Voldemort made an accidental Horcrux in Harry and I feel that splitting your soul will also split your magic at the same time. They are mutually connected to an extent. He found another way in this story but Harry will have a connection. I hope I got the French translation correct; if not let me know and I'll fix it.