Harry Potter and the Secret Serpent

by Enchanted Quill by Sameera

In this book 2, Harry explores his relationship with Daphne, his family, and his friends along with his year 2 adventures, the story will follow the canon events but will completely be non-canon. As usual, My same characters bashing and most importantly not good at summaries, but the story will be good.

5. Chapter 5 serpent

Chapter 5

Hogwarts, Sorting, Weasleys

The Hogwarts Express rumbled on its tracks, carrying its cargo of students towards the ancient castle that held so many secrets and adventures. Inside one of the compartments, the familiar faces of Daphne, Tracey, and Neville awaited Harry's arrival.

Daphne's smile was warm as she looked up at the approaching figure. "There he is."

Harry entered the compartment, his trunk stowed away, and his expression a mix of happiness and anticipation. "Missed me?"

Tracey chuckled. "Of course, we did. Hogwarts wouldn't be the same without our resident hero."

Neville's grin was infectious. "Definitely. And speaking of heroes, look who we have with us." He gestured towards a petite figure seated beside Astoria.

Astoria Greengrass, her eyes bright and her smile beaming, looked up at Harry with affection. "Harry, you're back!"

Harry's heart warmed at the sight of the young girl. "Astoria, how have you been?"

Astoria's voice was filled with excitement. "Much better! And I've been practicing some spells too."

Daphne's voice carried a note of pride. "With a wand in your hand, you're going to be unstoppable."

The compartment hummed with the lively chatter of friends reuniting as the Hogwarts Express carried them closer to the castle. However, the harmony was about to be disrupted. The door to the compartment slid open, and the unmistakable figure of Hermione Granger stepped in. Her presence brought with it a tension that was palpable, a reminder of the rivalry that had brewed between them since their first year.

Hermione's gaze swept across the compartment, her expression bearing an air of superiority. "Well, well, if it isn't the Slytherin quartet."

Daphne's voice held a mixture of annoyance and amusement. "Granger, always a pleasure."

Tracey's tone was dry. "What brings you to our humble abode?"

Hermione's lips curled into a smirk. "I just wanted to see how Slytherins prepare for their second year. After all, last year's triumph was a fluke, wasn't it?"

Neville's voice carried a touch of exasperation. "You know, Granger, there's more to us than house rivalries."

But Hermione seemed to relish in the opportunity to provoke. "Is that so? Well, it's about time someone set the record straight. This year, Ravenclaw is going to come out on top, and you can't cheat your way to victory this time."

The compartment fell silent for a moment, tension hanging in the air like a storm cloud. And then, Harry's voice cut through the quiet, his tone firm and unwavering. "Granger, it's clear you're here to boast and provoke. We're not interested in your rivalry games."

Daphne's voice was equally resolute. "We've come a long way from that. We've grown, learned, and forged bonds that go beyond house divisions."

Tracey's words were sharp. "We're not interested in your quest for supremacy. We have our own goals and challenges."

Neville's gaze held a hint of frustration. "And you'll find that there's more to success than just winning a house cup."

But Granger's resolve seemed unshaken. "We'll see, won't we? Good luck trying to keep up with us this year."

And just as quickly as she had appeared, Granger turned and left the compartment, the door sliding shut behind her.

The compartment's atmosphere remained tense as the train carried on its journey towards Hogwarts. The echoes of Granger's departure still lingered, and the camaraderie that had been so strong moments ago seemed slightly frayed. The silence was abruptly shattered as the compartment door swung open once again. Draco Malfoy stormed in, his face flushed with anger and his eyes filled with resentment.

"What are you doing here, Malfoy?" Daphne's voice held a trace of annoyance.

Draco's sneer was evident as he surveyed the occupants of the compartment. "Just wanted to see if the Slytherin serpent and her little sister were having a cozy ride."

Astoria's eyes flashed with indignation. "Don't you dare call me that!"

Draco's taunting smile only grew wider. "Oh, touchy, are we? I guess the snake doesn't fall far from the tree."

Daphne's patience seemed to wear thin as she regarded Draco with a raised eyebrow. "What's your problem, Malfoy?"

Draco's voice dripped with scorn. "Problem? Your little family broke the engagement contract my father had with you. He lost face in the Wizengamot because of you."

Daphne's gaze was unwavering. "That's not my problem, nor my responsibility."

Draco's gaze bore into Daphne, his voice dripping with disdain. "You've cost my family a considerable amount of influence and prestige, Greengrass."

Daphne's response was laced with defiance. "Perhaps it's time your family learned that power isn't the only thing that matters."

But Draco was undeterred, his anger escalating. "Your little stunt with the marriage contract was a direct blow to my family's reputation."

Harry's voice held a note of warning. "Watch your words, Malfoy."

However, Draco seemed to relish in the opportunity to provoke. "Oh, what's the famous Harry Potter going to do? Duel me?"

Just as Harry was about to respond, Daphne's voice cut through the air, her tone cold and controlled. "No need, Harry."

And then, with a swift motion, Daphne's hand extended, and from her palm, icicles formed, glistening with a frosty chill. Without a word, she flung them towards Draco, the ice projectiles streaking through the air.

Draco's eyes widened in shock as the icicles approached, and he stumbled back, trying to evade the unexpected attack. But the icicles found their mark, embedding themselves in his robes, chilling his skin with their icy touch.

As the coldness spread, Draco's expression contorted in both surprise and discomfort. His face turned an unhealthy shade of blue, and his teeth chattered as he struggled to regain his composure.

The compartment fell into silence, the air heavy with the implications of what had just transpired. Daphne's newfound power, unlocked by the removal of her curse, had manifested in a spectacular display.

Tracey's voice broke the stillness, her tone a mixture of awe and amusement. "I guess the curse removal came with some perks."

Neville's grin was infectious. "Icicles, huh? That's one way to put Malfoy in his place."

As the shock began to wear off, Draco's scowl deepened, his pride wounded by the unexpected retaliation. Without a word, he turned and stormed out of the compartment, his exit marked by the lingering chill in the air.

As the Hogwarts Express pulled into Hogsmeade Station, excitement buzzed through the air like a tangible force. The students chatted eagerly, their voices mingling with the familiar sounds of hustle and bustle. The journey from summer to school was complete, and a new chapter was about to unfold.

In their compartment, the quartet of Harry, Daphne, Tracey, and Neville exchanged smiles and anticipation as they changed into their school robes. The transition from Muggle attire to the distinct Hogwarts attire felt like a rite of passage, a reminder that they were stepping back into a world of magic, mystery, and adventure.

Astoria's voice was filled with excitement as she said her goodbyes. "I can't wait to meet Hagrid and take that boat ride to the castle!"

With a wave, she disappeared into the crowd, her enthusiasm propelling her towards her own first-year experience.

Harry, Neville, Daphne, and Tracey made their way toward the carriages, drawn by the allure of the castle perched atop the hill. The Hogwarts Express was behind them, and the castle awaited them like an old friend.

As they approached the carriages, the sight of thestrals pulling them caught Harry and Daphne's attention. The skeletal, winged creatures were visible only to those who had witnessed death, and their presence was a reminder of the darkness that had touched their lives.

Harry's voice was tinged with a mixture of solemnity and understanding. "You can see them, right?"

Daphne's gaze met his, her expression a blend of empathy and acknowledgment. "Yes, I can."

But as Tracey and Neville joined them, their expressions were marked by confusion. Tracey's voice carried a note of puzzlement. "See what?"

Neville's gaze held a hint of uncertainty. "Thestrals. They're pulling the carriages."

Percy Weasley, who had just appeared nearby, overheard their conversation and approached with a friendly smile. "Ah, I see you're discussing thestrals. They're magical creatures that are only visible to those who have witnessed death."

Daphne's voice held a touch of sympathy as she looked at Tracey and Neville. "That's why we can see them, but you can't."

Neville's expression shifted to one of realization. "Oh, I remember. The end of last year, Quirrell..."

Percy nodded. "Exactly. It's a rare sight for those who can see them, and they're quite misunderstood creatures. But they're gentle and loyal beings."

And so, as the carriages began to move, carried by the mysterious creatures that were visible only to some, the echoes of thestrals and the mysteries of the magical world whispered in the wind.

As the carriages rolled through the Hogwarts gates, the castle loomed before them like a beacon of magic and mystery. The familiar turrets and spires stood tall against the sky, a testament to the centuries of history that had been woven into its stones.

The excitement among the students was palpable, a collective energy that mirrored the beating heart of the ancient castle. As the carriages came to a stop, Harry, Daphne, Tracey, and Neville stepped out, their gazes fixed on the awe-inspiring sight before them.

And then, as if the castle itself recognized its Lord, a wave of enchantment spread through the air. Bells chimed from the towers, their notes carrying a melody of welcome. From above, colorful petals descended like gentle rain, painting the scene with a touch of magic.

Harry's heart swelled as he stood there, the acknowledgment from Hogwarts itself a reminder of the unique role he held as its Lord. The bond between him and the castle was undeniable, a connection that transcended time and destiny.

"Welcome back, Harry Potter," Hogwarts whispered in Harry's mind, her voice carrying a note of reverence.

Harry's smile was filled with appreciation. "Thank you, Hogwarts."

Together, they made their way to the Slytherin table, taking their seats among their housemates. The camaraderie among Slytherins was strong, a unity that had been solidified over the past year. The whispers of old magic and the flame of friendship had guided them through challenges and triumphs alike.

And then, as the students settled in, a hush fell over the Great Hall. The Sorting Hat, perched upon its stool, cleared its throat with a resounding echo that carried to every corner of the hall.

"Greetings, students of Hogwarts," the Sorting Hat began, its voice carrying timeless wisdom. "A new year dawns, filled with potential and promise. But before we proceed, let us acknowledge the presence of one who bears a unique connection to this castle."

The Sorting Hat's gaze seemed to fix upon Harry, a recognition that held both respect and affirmation. "Harry Potter, Lord of Hogwarts, may your presence continue to light the path of knowledge and unity."

A murmur of appreciation swept through the hall, a response to the recognition of Harry's role as a guardian of old magic and a beacon of hope.

With a nod, Professor McGonagall returned her attention to the task at hand. "Now, let us begin anew. Sorting shall commence with the name Balley Aleck."

As the sorting ceremony unfolded, the students' attention shifted to the first-year who stood before the Sorting Hat, his nerves and anticipation palpable.

The Sorting Hat's voice resonated through the Great Hall, its ancient wisdom guiding the sorting of the new students. As the names were called and students found their rightful places, the anticipation in the air was palpable, a mixture of excitement and curiosity.

However, the magical atmosphere was interrupted as the doors to the Great Hall burst open. A disheveled and slightly panicked-looking Ron Weasley stumbled into the hall, his hair mussed and his robes askew. He looked as though he had just experienced quite the adventure.

But it was not just Ron's appearance that drew the attention of the students and teachers. Behind him, striding with a mixture of annoyance and exasperation, was Professor Severus Snape.

The whispers and murmurs that had been carried through the hall fell into silence as Snape's voice cut through the air like a blade. "Mr. Weasley, explain yourself."

Ron's face shifted between embarrassment and defiance as he faced Snape's ire. "Well, you see, Professor, I... I couldn't get onto the train—"

Snape's eyes narrowed dangerously. "You couldn't get on the train, so your solution was to fly your father's enchanted car all the way here?"

Ron shuffled his feet, his cheeks reddening. "It seemed like a good idea at the time..."

Snape's tone was icy. "A good idea? Flying an enchanted car over Muggle territory, risking exposure of our world to the non-magical population?"

Ron's expression shifted from embarrassment to realization, the gravity of his actions settling in. "I didn't think it through."

Snape's voice dripped with sarcasm. "Clearly."

With a heavy sigh, Snape turned to the staff table. "I trust I have your permission to assign Mr. Weasley a week's worth of detention, Headmaster?"

Dumbledore's voice was tinged with both amusement and reprimand. "Indeed, Severus. Mr. Weasley, I suggest you think twice before making such impulsive decisions in the future."

As Ron slumped into his seat at the Slytherin table, his face a mix of shame and chagrin, Harry leaned over to Daphne, his voice carrying a note of wry amusement. "I suppose that's why we didn't have our usual Ron visit on the train."

Daphne's chuckle was soft but knowing. "Indeed. It seems he had quite the entrance this year."

As the sorting ceremony came to an end and the new students found their places among the four houses of Hogwarts, the Great Hall buzzed with a mixture of excitement and anticipation. The magical energy that flowed through the air was palpable, a reflection of the myriad possibilities that awaited the students in the year ahead.

With a wave of his hand, Headmaster Albus Dumbledore signaled the start of the feast. The long tables were suddenly filled with a dazzling array of dishes, each more sumptuous and enticing than the last. The aromas of freshly baked bread, roasted meats, and enchanting desserts wafted through the air, inviting hungry students to partake in the grand banquet.

The guardians of old magic and the flame of friendship sat among their respective housemates, their gazes shifting between the array of dishes and the camaraderie that filled the hall. The bonds that had been formed over the years were evident in the warm smiles and joyful conversations that flowed freely.

Daphne's voice held a note of delight as she surveyed the feast before them. "It's always astonishing how the house elves manage to create such a magnificent spread."

Harry's agreement was laced with appreciation. "Indeed, the feast is a celebration in itself."

Tracey's grin was infectious. "And a perfect way to kick off the new school year."

Neville nodded in agreement. "Absolutely."

As the feast drew to a close, the Great Hall was alive with the sounds of contented chatter and satisfied stomachs. The echoes of laughter and animated conversations filled the air, a reflection of the bonds that had been strengthened over the course of the evening.

Amidst the lingering magic of the feast, Headmaster Dumbledore rose from his seat at the staff table. His presence commanded the attention of the entire hall, and a hush fell over the students as they turned their gaze towards him.

Dumbledore's voice, like the gentle rustling of leaves in a breeze, carried a sense of authority and wisdom. "Dear students, staff, and esteemed guests, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you tonight as we embark upon yet another year of magical education and growth."

His words were met with polite applause and expectant gazes. Dumbledore's speeches were known for their eloquence and the hints of his own brand of wisdom that he wove into them.

"As the headmaster of this venerable institution, I am humbled by the privilege of guiding you on your journey of discovery and enlightenment. Hogwarts is a place where magic thrives, where friendships are forged, and where the potential is realized."

His words were punctuated by nods of agreement and attentive silence. Dumbledore's reputation as a skilled orator and a source of guidance was well-known.

"Each year, we come together to learn, to challenge ourselves, and to explore the depths of our magical abilities. And it is in this spirit of growth that I encourage each and every one of you to embrace the challenges that lie ahead."

A sense of purpose and determination seemed to settle over the hall, the students and staff captivated by Dumbledore's words.

"In these hallowed halls, we are united not just by the pursuit of knowledge, but by the bonds of friendship that transcend house boundaries. It is in times of unity that we find our greatest strength, drawing upon the collective power that arises from understanding and cooperation."

Dumbledore's voice carried a subtle undertone, a reminder that unity was a force to be reckoned with.

"And as we embark upon this new year, it is my hope that we will continue to support one another, to embrace the differences that make us unique, and to stand together against any challenges that may arise."

The atmosphere in the hall was charged with a sense of shared purpose and determination. Dumbledore's words had a way of inspiring, reminding everyone of the values that Hogwarts stood for.

"Now, as we venture into the realm of magical defense, I am pleased to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor." Dumbledore's voice held a touch of intrigue as he gestured towards a figure standing at the staff table.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Professor Gilderoy Lockhart."

The applause that followed was filled with anticipation, the students and staff eager to meet the new professor who had taken up the post that was famously difficult to keep.

As the clapping subsided, Dumbledore's gaze swept over the assembled audience, his eyes twinkling with the knowledge of secrets and the assurance of authority.

"May this year be filled with wonder, growth, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship. To Hogwarts!"

The toast was met with cheers and raised goblets, the echoes of Dumbledore's speech lingering in the air like a gentle whisper.

The tension in the Slytherin common room was palpable as the challenge for a duel hung in the air, the magical energy crackling like lightning before a storm. Astoria Greengrass stood firm, her determination unwavering, while the first-year Moon twins exchanged confident glances, clearly underestimating the resolve of their opponent.

Amidst the charged atmosphere, Harry's voice cut through, his tone steady and authoritative. "Astoria, call for Professor Snape. We need an impartial observer for the duel."

Astoria nodded, her gaze meeting Harry's with an unspoken understanding. She stepped away, her purposeful stride carrying her to the fireplace where she could summon Snape to oversee the impending duel.

As the duel's participants gathered, Harry spoke to Astoria in hushed tones. "You're leading this duel, Astoria. Ginny will be first, and I'll be second. Daphne, you'll follow me as my second."

Astoria's agreement was swift and resolute. "Understood."

The duel was about to commence, each participant ready to demonstrate their magical prowess and their determination to stand up against adversity. However, the charged atmosphere was soon interrupted as the common room's entrance swung open.

Ron Weasley stormed in, his expression a mixture of anger and concern. His voice was loud, filled with frustration. "What in Merlin's name do you all think you're doing?"

Ginny's voice was sharp as she retorted, "We're standing up for ourselves. Something you might want to try sometime."

Ron's face reddened, his voice raised in protest. "This is ridiculous! Dueling each other won't solve anything!"

Daphne's gaze held a hint of exasperation as she joined the conversation. "Ron, we're not just dueling for the sake of it. We're standing against bullies who think they can control us."

Before Ron could respond, Snape's voice cut through the tumultuous scene, his tone cold and authoritative. "Silence!"

The common room fell into an uneasy quiet as Snape's presence commanded respect. His eyes shifted from student to student, assessing the situation with a mixture of curiosity and irritation.

Ginny's voice held a note of defiance as she faced Snape. "Professor, we requested your presence to oversee a duel."

Snape's gaze was sharp as he assessed the participants. "Very well. But this duel will be conducted with strict adherence to Hogwarts' rules. Any deviation and it will be halted immediately."

As the duel's parameters were set and the atmosphere settled, the guardians of old magic and the flame of friendship bore witness to the challenges that arose in the face of adversity.

The tension in the Slytherin common room remained palpable as Professor Snape's presence oversaw the duel between Ginny Weasley and Astoria Greengrass against the Moon twins. The magical energy crackled in the air, each spell cast carrying the weight of determination and resolve.

With Snape's watchful eye upon them, the duel began. Ginny and Astoria stood side by side, their wands raised in unison. Their movements were fluid, their focus unwavering as they faced their opponents. The Moon twins attempted to cast spells with confidence, their overconfidence apparent in their gestures.

However, as the duel progressed, it became clear that Ginny and Astoria possessed a mastery over their spells that far surpassed their opponents. With precise incantations and measured wand movements, they deflected spells with ease and countered with spells of their own. Their teamwork was flawless, a testament to the bond of unity that had formed between them.

The whispers of spectators echoed through the common room as simple first-year spells were deflected with grace and countered with precision. The magical dueling was a dance of light and energy, each spell illuminating the room with bursts of color.

Finally, with a swish and flick, Astoria's wand sent forth a shimmering spell that caught the Moon twins off guard. Their attempts to counter were in vain as the spell connected, leaving them temporarily immobilized and humiliated.

The room fell into a hushed silence as the Moon twins struggled to regain their composure, their faces flushed with frustration. Ginny and Astoria stood victorious, their expressions a mixture of pride and vindication.

Professor Snape's voice cut through the silence, his tone indifferent. "The duel is over."

Ginny and Astoria lowered their wands, their eyes meeting with a shared sense of accomplishment. As the tension in the room slowly ebbed away, the guardians of old magic and the flame of friendship observed the outcome of the duel—a testament to the strength of unity, determination, and the ability to stand up against those who sought to belittle and control.

The Slytherin common room was a battleground of magical tension as the duel between the Moon twins and Ginny Weasley and Astoria Greengrass was about to begin. Snape's presence loomed over the participants, his eyes sharp and unwavering, ensuring that the duel adhered to the rules and guidelines of Hogwarts.

Astoria and Ginny stood side by side, their determination mirrored in their unwavering gazes. The Moon twins exchanged smug grins, their overconfidence evident. The air seemed to crackle with anticipation, the weight of the duel settling upon the participants.

"Begin," Snape's voice announced, and with a swish of their wands, the duel was set into motion.

The first-year Moon twins struck first, sending spells hurtling toward Ginny and Astoria. But the girls were well-prepared, and their instincts were sharp. With quick reflexes, Ginny and Astoria countered the spells with simple yet precise defensive charms.

A jet of sparks erupted between the dueling pairs, creating a temporary barrier that absorbed the force of the spells. The twins' smirks faltered, replaced by surprise as their offensive efforts were thwarted by the determination and skill of their opponents.

Astoria's voice was steady as she retaliated, casting a Stinging Hex that whizzed through the air with precision. One of the twins managed to shield themselves just in time, but the other twin yelped in pain as the hex made contact.

Ginny seized the opportunity, her voice resolute as she cast a Leg-Locker Curse at the twin who had been wounded by the Stinging Hex. The twin stumbled, their movements freezing mid-step as the curse took effect.

As one of the Moon twins remained incapacitated, the remaining twin realized the tide was turning against them. With a hasty swish of their wand, they attempted to Disarm Astoria, but the spell was deflected effortlessly by the skillful Slytherin.

Astoria's gaze was unwavering as she countered with a Jelly-Legs Jinx, causing the remaining twin's legs to wobble and buckle beneath them. The twin's eyes widened in shock as they stumbled and fell to the floor, their wand slipping from their grasp.

Ginny's triumphant grin was mirrored by Astoria's as they stood united, their victory evident in the humiliated and defeated expressions of the Moon twins. The common room was silent, the duel's outcome clear to everyone present.

Snape's voice cut through the silence, his tone cold and calculating. "The duel is over. Victory to Greengrass and Weasley."

The common room erupted into cheers and applause, the students expressing their support for the victors. The guardians of old magic and the flame of friendship watched as Astoria and Ginny's triumph was not just a victory of magic, but a testament to the power of unity, determination, and standing up against those who sought to exert control.

As the Moon twins were escorted away, the remnants of their arrogance replaced by embarrassment, the lesson of the duel echoed through the hearts of those who witnessed it.

As the cheers and applause filled the Slytherin common room, Ginny and Astoria stood amidst the triumphant atmosphere. The victory was not just theirs; it was a victory for unity and defiance against bullies. With their heads held high, they exchanged proud smiles, their bond strengthened by the shared experience.

Ginny's gratitude was evident as she turned to Astoria. "Thank you for standing up for me, Astoria. You didn't have to do that."

Astoria's response was immediate and sincere. "Of course, Ginny. We're friends, and I won't stand by while someone tries to belittle you."

Ginny's smile was genuine, her appreciation clear in her eyes. "You're a true friend, Astoria."

Astoria's gaze softened, a warm camaraderie evident in her expression. "Likewise, Ginny. Always."

However, the celebratory atmosphere was tempered as Astoria's body suddenly tensed, her expression contorting with discomfort. She stumbled, a sudden wave of weakness sweeping over her.

Harry's quick instinct had him by Astoria's side in an instant, his voice laced with concern. "Astoria, are you alright?"

Daphne and Tracey joined him, their worry evident as they exchanged concerned glances. Astoria's breathing was uneven, her face pale as the effects of her condition began to take hold.

Astoria's voice was strained as she explained. "It's a malediction episode. Overexertion triggered it."

Neville's voice was filled with urgency as he spoke. "We need to get her to a quiet place."

Without hesitation, they guided Astoria to a quieter corner of the common room, their concern evident in their actions. Gently, they helped her sit down, Harry's voice steady as he reassured her, Ginny along with them though she didn't know what to do.

"Take deep breaths, Astoria. We're here with you."

Daphne's hand was soothing on Astoria's shoulder, her expression compassionate. "Just focus on your breathing. We're right here."

Tracey summoned a vial of calming potion, her voice gentle as she offered it to Astoria. "This will help."

With their support, Astoria's breathing gradually steadied, the tension in her body easing. The guardians of old magic and the flame of friendship watched as the bonds between these friends proved unbreakable, their unity evident even in moments of vulnerability.

As Astoria's episode subsided, her gratitude was evident in her gaze as she looked at her friends. "Thank you, all of you."

Harry's smile was reassuring as he responded. "We're here for you, Astoria. Always."

The following day at Hogwarts brought with it the promise of new beginnings and challenges. Harry, Daphne, Tracey, Neville, and Astoria made their way to the Great Hall for breakfast, their footsteps echoing in the corridors. As they walked, the atmosphere was tinged with excitement, ready to embrace the day ahead.

However, their journey was interrupted as they turned a corner and stumbled upon a heated confrontation. Ron Weasley stood face to face with his sister Ginny, his expression twisted with anger and disdain.

Astoria's voice was tinged with disbelief as she caught sight of the argument. "What's going on here?"

Ginny's voice held a mixture of frustration and defiance as she retorted, "Ron is trying to dictate who my friends should be, just because they're Slytherins."

Ron's voice dripped with condescension as he sneered, "I'm just looking out for you, Ginny. You shouldn't be hanging around with these snake spawn."

Astoria's eyes flashed with indignation, her voice firm as she defended her friends. "Watch your words, Ron. We're proud Slytherins, and we won't tolerate insults."

Daphne's gaze was steady as she added her support. "Ron, you have no right to judge Ginny's friends based on their house."

Before Ron could respond, Ginny's patience reached its limit. With a determined flick of her wand, she cast a Bat-Bogey Hex at her brother. Ron's expression quickly turned from anger to shock as bat-like bogeys burst from his nostrils, flapping around him in a chaotic frenzy.

The corridor erupted into startled gasps and giggles from onlookers. Ginny's voice was a warning, her tone fierce as she addressed her brother. "Leave my friends alone, Ron. We're Slytherins, and we stand by each other. You may be a Slytherin, but you lack the loyalty that comes with it."

Ron's protests were muffled by the flapping bogeys, his attempts to swat them away only making the situation worse. Astoria, Daphne, and the others watched as Ginny's hex delivered a clear message to those who dared challenge the bonds of their friendship.

The Great Hall was a hub of activity as students filled the long tables, their voices mingling with the clatter of plates and cutlery. Harry, Daphne, Tracey, Neville, and Astoria, Ginny found their places at the Slytherin table, ready to fuel up for the day ahead.

After a hearty breakfast, they rose from their seats, their excitement palpable as they prepared to embark on a new day of learning and adventure. As they began to make their way towards the exit, Professor Snape approached Harry with a parchment in hand.

"Potter," Snape's voice was measured, his gaze sharp. "Here is your timetable for the term."

Harry accepted the parchment with a nod of thanks, his curiosity piqued as he unrolled the parchment to reveal the schedule for his classes. To his surprise, the classes seemed to align more closely with a Ravenclaw-inspired schedule than a traditional Slytherin one.

Harry Potter's Term Timetable

Monday:

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Transfiguration (Classroom A)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Defence against Dark arts (Classroom B)

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Charms (Classroom C)

Tuesday:

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Potions (Dungeon)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: History of Magic (Classroom D)

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Herbology (Greenhouses)

Wednesday:

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Defense Against the Dark Arts (Classroom B)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: History of Magic (North Tower)

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Break

09:30 PM - 11:00 PM: Astronomy (Astronomy Tower)

Thursday:

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: History of Magic (Classroom D)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Potions (Dungeon)

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Flying Lessons (Quidditch Pitch)

Friday:

9:00 AM - 10:30 AM: Transfiguration (Classroom A)

11:00 AM - 12:30 PM: Charms (Classroom C)

1:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Defense Against the Dark Arts (Classroom B)

As Harry read through the schedule, he couldn't help but notice the emphasis on a variety of subjects, from the precise nature of Ancient Runes to the creative interpretations of Divination. It was as if Snape had tailored the schedule to challenge Harry's intellectual curiosity and thirst for knowledge, characteristics often associated with Ravenclaw.

Glancing up from the parchment, Harry caught Snape's gaze, his voice measured as he addressed the professor. "Thank you, Professor Snape."

Snape's response was a nod, his eyes briefly betraying a hint of something akin to approval. With that, Harry joined his friends, their conversations filled with anticipation for the day ahead.

With the morning sunlight filtering through the windows of the Slytherin common room, Harry made his way to transfiguration quarters where he often met with his grandmother, Minerva McGonagall.

As he entered the room, he found his grandmother seated by a desk, a scroll of parchment in front of her. Her gaze lifted to meet his as he approached, a fond smile gracing her lips. "Ah, Harry. I've been expecting you."

Harry returned the smile, his voice tinged with curiosity. "You have?"

Minerva's tone was warm as she explained. "Indeed. You see, I've taken the liberty of registering Atherion as your familiar with the International Confederation of Wizards. It's essential to have all matters concerning magical creatures documented properly."

Harry's eyes widened in surprise and gratitude. "Thank you, Grandmother. I didn't even think of that."

Minerva's gaze held a mixture of pride and affection as she regarded him. "As your guardian, it's my duty to ensure that you are equipped with the knowledge and resources you need. Familiars are an important part of a wizard's life, and their registration provides legal protection and recognition."

Harry nodded, his gratitude evident. "I appreciate it, Grandmother."

Minerva's expression turned thoughtful as she continued. "Atherion is no ordinary familiar, Harry. The bond you share is unique, and it carries with it a legacy of old magic and guardianship. Remember to honor that bond, and Atherion will be a steadfast ally and protector."

Harry's gaze held determination as he spoke. "I will, Grandmother. Atherion and I have a connection that goes beyond words."

Minerva's smile was knowing as she rose from her seat, her eyes twinkling with wisdom. "Indeed, Harry. Now, as the year progresses, make the most of your time at Hogwarts. Embrace your studies, deepen your bonds with your friends, and continue to explore the mysteries of old magic. You have a destiny to fulfill, and the path you walk will shape the wizarding world."

As Harry listened to his grandmother's words, he felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

The Transfiguration classroom was a place of both wonder and challenge, where the art of transforming one object into another was taught. Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne took their seats, their anticipation was palpable as Professor McGonagall, the esteemed Transfiguration professor, entered the room.

With a poised air, Minerva McGonagall began detailing the second-year syllabus, her voice a steady stream of information that set the tone for the term. The students listened attentively, their minds already racing with the possibilities that lay ahead.

"As second-year students," Minerva's voice was firm yet encouraging, "you will be building upon the foundation you established in your first year. Transfiguration is an intricate and demanding subject, and I expect diligence and attention to detail from each of you."

She continued to explain the various theories and techniques they would be exploring, touching upon the importance of focus, intent, and precision. Her words resonated with Harry and his friends, echoing the sentiments they held for the magical arts.

"Now, to put theory into practice," Minerva's voice was laden with purpose as she addressed the class, "we will begin with a basic transformation exercise. Please take your glass and attempt to transfigure it into a rat."

The room filled with a mixture of eager anticipation and concentrated determination as the students retrieved their glasses and focused on the task at hand. Harry, Neville, Tracey, and Daphne exchanged glances, their determination evident in their eyes, and changed it easily.

Amidst the shifting of glasses and the occasional hushed muttering of incantations, one student's struggles became apparent. Ron Weasley, who had been seated nearby, attempted the transformation with a visibly broken wand. The incident with the flying car seemed to have taken its toll on his magical tool.

As the room began to fill with the sound of transforming objects, Ron's attempts remained futile. Minerva approached him, her expression a mixture of concern and resolve. "Mr. Weasley, it appears your wand has sustained significant damage. Please bring it to me after class, and we will see about repairing it."

Ron's frustrated expression mirrored his struggle, but he nodded in acknowledgment. Harry and his friends exchanged glances, not knowing why Ron was acting angry hoping only the future would let them know.

A/N:

Hey guys, here is the next chapter of the story, Please continue with the reviews. They are my reprieve from all my situations. Thanks

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