Chapter 17 A railed trip pt2
1st September 1993, Hogwarts express
Just as Harry will be out of Susan's eyesight someone steps in front of Harry to stop him. The Slytherin is none other than Daphne Greengrass. Susan keeps watching and sees that they are talking. She wonders what it goes about. She doesn't know if Daphne saw what she requested from Harry if she did she will tell Harry and even worse if Harry get mad at her (Susan) as she wanted it.
Harry almost bumped into Daphne and says "Sorry Daphne. I didn't see you there."
Daphne just looks at Harry surprised and Harry wonders why. Harry sees that the look on her face has changed to a look he hasn't seen before. He suddenly feels something for Daphne and thinks of Susan, Hermione and Ginny, almost as strongly as he feels Hermione and Susan the most. However, Ginny is fast approaching, especially in the last couple of days.
Almost bumping into her Harry forgot the etiquette lessons from Andi. As Daphne doesn't respond and looks away to the ground he wonders why. He suddenly remembers he needs to formally introduce himself before he can call her by her first name if she allows it.
He says "Heiress Greengrass, where are my manners? I am Heir Harry James Potter of the Most Ancient and the Most Noble House of Potter. It is a pleasure to meet you."
Daphne immediately gets up her mask, her ice-queen persona when she hears someone call her Heiress Greengrass although the voice sounds at least a thousand times better than everyone that called her that before and the voice on its own sounds so good too. No matter how good it sounds she still uses the mask she learned to use as a pureblood Heiress not that it matters to her or her family that they are still pureblood.
She looks at the sound of the voice coming and sees Harry. The moment she sees Harry she suppresses a moan as she feels his magic coming off him and engulfing her. It seems like Harry's magic tries to beat her magic into submission without hurting her or her magic. It was like the only way her magic was able to resist is because Harry didn't use his full power as that could hurt her. It was a losing battle and it felt like hours but could not be more than a minute or two Daphne's magic was beaten into submission. Daphne becomes scared but the moment she feels Harry's magic she was surprised she feels safe and cared for and even better she feels protected with a flicker of love. Harry's magic retreats and leaves a presence of him while her own magic 'returns'.
Daphne shudders as she thought her magic would push his magic's presence off her and she didn't want that. Exactly the opposite happened her magic submitted to his magic and she felt to listen to every word Harry said. It scared her and while she was sure about the bond to do if it was needed to protect her, Tracey, Lilian and especially Astoria now she isn't sure if it is a good idea and that is not to mention if Harry refuses her. She knows she is beautiful and certainly the second of her year with only Hermione above her. She shouldn't feel threatened by Hermione, but she is as she is his best friend and she feels the need to obey Harry so strongly it almost feels like she wants it. Daphne is afraid if she loses her willpower Harry will choose other girls maybe even her biggest rival over her even though Daphne is one of the best-looking witches, especially in her year.
Harry says again "Heiress Greengrass?"
Daphne says "Oh, Heir Potter. I apologize for getting lost in thought."
Harry says "Ah, yes I see. Please allow me to reintroduce myself to a beautiful Lady like yourself. I am Heir Harry James Potter of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. I must say that you look amazing today."
Daphne wonders why Harry thinks so as she wears muggle clothes and it was just normal clothes nothing special.
Daphne says "Thank you, Heir Potter, I appreciate it. I am Heiress Daphne Isabel Greengrass of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Greengrass. I prefer for you to call me Daphne."
Harry says "Of course, Daphne. If you prefer you can call me Harry."
He grabs her hand and kisses it as he should actually before they talk but Harry wanted to do it. Daphne looks surprised.
Harry gives a cheeky smile and says "I am sorry, Daphne, for such a beautiful Lady as yourself I should have done this before you graced me with your attention and voice certainly allowing me to call you by your beautiful name that is Daphne."
Harry doesn't know where this came from and actually hoped he could have said something among the same lines to Susan, Hermione and Ginny as he feels the same for them. He wasn't certain but he does now although, for Hermione and Susan, it is much stronger with Ginny right behind them. He knows he feels also a lot for Daphne that is close to Ginny but it isn't as close as Ginny is with Hermione and Susan.
Daphne tries to suppress her blush. She wanted to talk to Harry and ask for his help, but his magic engulfs her and submits her magic with only a small bit of his magic which makes her afraid and aroused at the same time that must mean Harry is incredibly powerful if he uses his full power. She feels her magic and the witch wants to submit to this strong wizard that can make her submit with ease. It frightened her too much because if she gives in Harry will have total control and she is afraid of what will happen then. She feels something inside her want to give in to his magic and him but her being the primary Heiress of the Ancient and Most Noble House of Greengrass can't do that and she is afraid that the feeling isn't hers but Harry's magic makes her feel like that.
She strengthens herself and uses her ice queen persona on her, on the mind, and thinks 'I will never submit. I am a strong witch who doesn't need a wizard even if it is Potter. He may be strong but so am I. I will not fall for the Golden Boy and I will not be like those weak witches submitting to their wizard husbands. My mother may have done it but I am not the same as my mother. I love my mother as I should and I really do. I may look like her but I am not her. She also said more than once I have a couple of good qualities of my father which means I don't want to be dominated and only want a wizard who sees me as his equal and treats me as such. Also, I want a job if I desire to and not be a stay-at-home wife like dominant wizards demand of their wives or maybe better said slaves.'
Her thought maybe only last a second but that is enough for Harry to let go of her hand and say "I am sorry for being so forward, Daphne. I can better go before Malfoy try to find me and sees us."
Before Daphne can respond especially as she tries to suppress her ice queen persona in responding Harry leaves her in the carriage on her own. She does manage to see someone with Crimson hair go into a compartment at the end of the carriage while she wants to know who and go look she knows she needs to get in her compartment to have a chance to compose herself. The only ones she trusts while she is in this state are in her compartment, fortunately, and not someone she doesn't trust like when she is in the Slytherin common room that she hates. It takes a few seconds before she realizes she is jealous of Susan, but can't hate her as she knows Harry will not like that and she feels she must not displease Harry. She barely can call Harry, Harry, not sir or in her mind even worse Master.
She walks back into her compartment which is a couple of feet behind her so no one in her compartment should have seen her interacting with Harry. His magic and her magic not being able to overpower the small magic of him she still feels inside her has made her decision she made before the school year even scarier and while she feels she can trust Harry she still doubts if it is the right way to go but also if there is no other way that would produce the same results without the drawback of her losing control. She is even more afraid as a small voice in her mind wonders if giving up control and giving control to Harry would really be so bad. Her ice queen persona keeps Tracey, Lilian and Astoria from noticing anything, especially the shock of her own dark desires. She starts to question the small voice but nothing made it go away when she takes a seat she groans and tries to start thinking about something else.
Fortunately, Tracey does that as she says "I think you had the displeasure of meeting Malfoy already."
Daphne just nods and says "Kind of. He didn't talk to me but seeing Pansy on his arm, I pity her, he still looks at me like a piece of meat."
She lies but she knows that this will keep them quiet as they know she needs a little bit of rest after meeting Malfoy after the summer even if he didn't talk to her. The mere sight of him is enough. The others also know that Malfoy would still stop by before the end of the train ride as he didn't talk to them yet and he always comes to threaten Daphne to become his and with Astoria her little sister it would probably become worse. Tracey knows Daphne is planning something to make sure Astoria is safe and can't be used against her although Tracey doesn't know what. She will always help Daphne and protect her back, but if or when Astoria is safe she knows Daphne and in addition, she will make them a target. She is Daphne's best friend and does not care about the danger. Also, Astoria is almost her little sister too.
Harry steps inside the next carriage and just stands there as he is still confused about the interaction with Daphne. Harry hopes she didn't see him and Susan, not as he thinks Daphne will gossip and even if Tracey knows he trusts Tracey enough to not gossip it around like she does a lot although she isn't as bad as Lavender. He trusts Tracey as she never gossips anything around about him maybe she did it as repayment as he saved her from the Troll but he doesn't care he is just happy she doesn't. He wonders if Daphne saw what she would do with the knowledge as she is a Slytherin and Harry knows what Slytherins will do with this kind of knowledge although he trusts Daphne very much.
He doesn't notice the door behind him to the other carriage open. The person bumps into him that normally will send Harry to the ground, but as he has grown a bit and isn't as scrawny as before he takes multiple steps forward. The person behind him also remains standing.
Harry turns around and sees Neville. He knows what to do and says "Ah, Heir Longbottom I was wondering where you were."
Neville looks at Harry as he is surprised Harry uses his title as Heir Longbottom. Neville has learned a lot from his grandmother, especially how to respond in kind. He knows he promised he would not bring it up but now Harry greets him as Heirs should.
Neville decides to respond like he should "Good morning Heir Potter. I was looking for you. I saw you talking with Heiress Greengrass but as you were talking I didn't want to interrupt before I could reach you I passed Heiress Bones who didn't seem to notice me and you left Heiress Greengrass before I reached you. She also didn't seem to notice me as she went to her compartment without saying anything."
Harry doesn't want anyone to know he took his Heirship but knew he needed to let Neville know he knows he is Heir Potter and Heir Black although at this moment he will keep that to himself. He didn't know Susan was still looking. He hoped he didn't make her mad or sad for talking with Daphne, but he will think about it later as now he just wants to return to the compartment.
Harry says "I suspected so Heir Longbottom. Why don't you accompany me to my compartment?"
Neville nods and says "I would be delighted, Heir Potter. Please lead the way."
It takes a couple of minutes before they reach the compartment with Hermione, Ginny and Ron. Ron seems angry but looks outside of the window while Hermione glares at him with full anger. Ginny looks very sad and seems to lack the confidence he saw the last few days he started to know her.
Harry doesn't know why but wants to punch Ron until Ginny is happy again and he just knows Ron has saddened Ginny, especially with Hermione glaring at Ron. He feels protective about her almost as much as he is protective of Hermione with Susan fast approaching and a little bit of Daphne but that is mostly because it looks like she can never be sad and hurt anyone that tries. She isn't known as the ice princess, for nothing.
He decides to first properly greet Neville as Heir Longbottom. He knows if he does inside the compartment Ron will question it and if he doesn't he may try to introduce himself as Heir Weasley while he isn't, especially as the youngest Son. He is wondering if he should properly address Ginny as Heiress as she is the only girl despite being the youngest. Andi did say Miss Weasley is more appropriate but Harry doesn't know if he should as she is the only girl. While he understands with Ron is the youngest son and not called Heir Weasley, Ginny while being the youngest should be automatically Heiress Weasley even if she isn't the primary Heiress as the primary Heir is Bill Weasley unless he doesn't come back to England as then it should be Percy as Charlie lives in Romany most of the time according to Ron.
He looks around and sees nobody out of the compartments. He stands just a little to the side of the compartment but makes sure the compartment next to them sees as little as possible. Harry turns to Neville. Neville sees only Ron as Hermione and Ginny sit across from him next to Professor Lupin he also can't see from his point of view.
Neville looks surprised as Harry. Harry holds out his hand and says "It is a pleasure to meet you, Heir Longbottom, from a powerful House and long-time Ally of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter."
Neville smiles as it seems Harry also knows about their Alliance. Neville wants to grab Harry's hand when Harry moves his hand. He quickly moves his hand to grab Neville by his forearm as Allies do. Neville understands what Harry wants to do. Neville did but when grabs Harry's forearm he feels something is there.
Neville asks with his voice full of confidence "Heir Potter, may ask what I felt when I grabbed your forearm like Allies we should?"
Harry says "Of course, Heir Longbottom. What you felt is a wand holster given to me by the beau….. I mean by Miss Granger regarding the escape of Sirius Black. She thought it would give me better protection as I can reach my wand much sooner than if I put it somewhere else like my back pocket what most of us do."
Neville nods and says "Thank you for your honesty, Heir Potter. Let me formally introduce myself. I am Neville Frank Longbottom, Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Longbottom. I prefer if you call me Neville."
Harry grabs his forearm when Neville does the same but weakly, not wanting to damage the wand holster or Harry's wand.
Harry says "Well met, Neville. I am Harry James Potter, Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter. You may call me Harry. I know our Houses have been allied for a long time and were last renewed by our fathers. However, as none of us is the Lord of our House and my House has a Regent that at this moment cannot enter any agreements as I am only 13, I want to give you the Heirship oath that we are still Allies and that when we both reach our maturity we will renew the oath that our fathers and previous Lords before them made to each other for formal ally our Houses again as I don't think there will be any reason to not follow up on the Heirship oath."
Neville happily nods and says "That will be brilliant. As you are the older House, I need to start it first."
"I, Heir Neville Frank Longbottom, Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Longbottom offer the Heirship oath to thy, Heir Harry James Potter, Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter the Heirship oath of Alliance between our two houses and that we have the intention to formalize it between our head of houses or to do so when we became the head of our houses."
"As Heir, I cannot pledge my House to your House's aid, but I can pledge my own aid to you and help you in any way I can. I will help you, fight with you, protect our house, protect our loved ones and anything else you may need of me unconditionally."
Harry smiles and says "I, Heir Harry James Potter, Heir of the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Potter accept the Heirship oath with the intention it is given. And as you pledge your aid to me so do I too you. So I say it so mote it be."
Neville says "So mote it be."
Harry's ring lights up and Harry noticed that Neville's ring finger on his right-hand lights up. Harry sees a ring and asks "Neville, I didn't know you have a ring. I suspect it is the Heir ring of House Longbottom?"
Neville nods and says "Yes, it is. I need to have it or I couldn't accept the Heirship oath or as I did with you offer it as the lower or less ancient House should always be the one to propose it. I got it from my grandmother this summer as I take the first step to becoming Lord Longbottom one day by choosing the study of Ancient runes as the manor is protected by wards created by Ancient Runes. At least that is what my grandmother said. I think you are right that Arithmancy can help with potions which we need with Snape as a teacher. While it is not needed for a lot of jobs many of those jobs prefer if you have an OWL or NEWT in it. My grandmother also liked me to take Arithmancy. I think I must thank you for that too, Harry."
Harry says "It is not a problem. I mean we both know there is no way Ron will take them as you really need to do your homework and do your best. We both know that Ron will not do that or wait until the last moment. He even said he would take divination as it is an easy grade."
Neville agrees. Harry says "We can better go inside or they will start to wonder why I am just standing here as Hermione and Ginny can't see you."
Neville asks "Ginny, is also here?"
Harry says a bit hotly "Yeah, is that a problem?"
Neville notices that Harry doesn't like his question. He says "No, it is not a problem. I was just wondering and I think after last year she could use some friends."
Harry's slightly angry face turns into a big smile and says "Exactly, that is one of the reasons I wanted her to stay here with us. If she wants to go she can but when Ron tried to send her away again I saw she didn't want to so I asked her to stay which she did."
Harry wants to open the door to the compartment when he says to Neville "Oh yes, we need to be silent as there is a Professor in the compartment. It is probably the new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher. I don't know why he is here but he is asleep and it is the only compartment we could find."
Neville says "Oh, there were some empty ones in the first two carriages."
Harry shrugs and says "I don't mind staying here if you don't."
Neville says "Not really. I just don't want another teacher to already hate me."
Harry says "I don't think he would even if we accidentally wake him up."
Neville trusts
Harry says "alright."
Harry opens the compartment and says "Look, who I found."
Hermione looks up and it sounds like Harry wants her to look. Ginny feels the same and looks at Harry.
Hermione says "Hey Neville. How was your summer?"
Neville says "It was great, Hermione. How about yours?"
Hermione says the same and starts to talk about going to France. She told him everything except going to the nude beach that she told Harry and only Harry not even Ginny. She hopes that Harr will look at her without lust or at least not as a piece of meat or just some perverted girl and still see her as Hermione, his best friend.
Harry helps Neville with his trunk and animal container for his toad, Trevor, before he takes a seat beside Ginny who sits next to Hermione who sits next to Professor Lupin. Neville takes a seat across from them next to a clearly sulking Ron.
Neville is shocked when he sees Athena. Harry sees and tells Neville how he met but keeps it vague as he did with Hermione. In the end, Neville is less scared and even gives her a small scratch under her head even if it is only for a second. Harry is happy Neville pets Athena as that would also mean that Neville isn't too afraid of Athena. Harry also asks Athena some things in Parseltongue to show Neville that Athena listens to him.
After almost 15 minutes Ron stops sulking and starts talking about Egypt with Neville while Hermione is whispering with Ginny about school last to not wake Professor Lupin up. Harry grabs a book from Andi about Occlumency but just keeps it so that nobody sees what he can read.
Also for the first time the chasers come by and greet Harry and the others even Ginny. They talk a little bit before they start to return to their compartment. They just wanted to be sure Harry was alright because of Sirius Black's escape. Harry made sure Athena wasn't visible when someone came by and will tell them later if it is needed.
It wasn't much later Malfoy came by. The moment he opens the door and starts calling them names starting with Scarhead Potter then mudblood followed by Squib, Weasel and Weaselette.
Harry wants to stand up and show him he will not stand for this as Heir Potter and that he should watch his step when Malfoy notice the adult in the room and ask who that is. Hermione as always knows so tell him. When she tells him it is Professor Lupin Malfoy doesn't seem to notice he is asleep and immediately says that he was just kidding and quickly moves away with Crabbe and Goyle. Harry stands to close the compartment door and sees when he looks after Malfoy Pansy following him like a lap dog although clearly not happy about it.
A couple of hours passed as did the trolley with sweets Harry bought some sweets for everyone much to Hermione and Neville's refusal. Ginny thanked him and barely resist the urge to hug him and kiss him. Ron on the other hand didn't even thank Harry and just started to gulf down on the sweets he was given.
Hermione decides to let Crookshanks out of his crate and Harry did the same with Athena. Harry introduces Athena to Neville who puts his trust and Harry to make him pet Athena. They start to sit around a bit and eventually Hermione, Ginny and Ron sit on one side with Harry, Neville and Professor Lupin on the other side mostly because Crookshanks lay down on the bench next to Ronald although it was clearly looking for Scabbers. Hermione decide to sit there to make sure Crookshanks didn't attack Scabbers in the compartment. Ginny followed her so they could talk about the last school year so Ginny know if there is something she needs to pay attention to and maybe study on her own.
Athena is in her favourite position coiled around Harry's left arm with her head on his shoulder.
Suddenly it was getting very dark outside while the train is steadily going north towards Hogwarts. Not much later it is storming with rain and thunder.
Hermione says "This is weird, it should be sunny all day."
It takes a few more hours before it is almost like it is the night when it should only be starting to get dark. The train suddenly slowed down and stopped Hermione is the first one to say "Why are we stopping? We couldn't be there yet."
Harry opened the door and looked outside but with a shake from the train Harry fell back in his seat almost on top of Neville. Harry said, "Sorry."
Neville quietly and nervously said "No problem."
Ron asks "What's going on?"
Harry replied what everybody thought "I don't know maybe we broke down."
Ginny thinks the same but still says "That is impossible the Hogwarts Express never breaks down."
The lights went out on the train and everybody looked at each other and moves a little. Hermione said "Ginny you are crushing my hand" and Harry said "Neville that is my leg you are gripping. Ginny said "I am crushing your hand because. AUW Ron that is my foot."
The light turned on again and Ron put his hand on the window. He is looking outside and said: "something is moving out there."
Again, the light went out and Ron the only one looking outside of the window said: "I think something is coming on."
The train shook again and Harry noticed the cold and sees everybody's breath. Ron looked behind him but turned towards the window again and put his hand on the window when the window slowly start to freeze. Athena starts to his loudly towards the door she feels something bad is coming and her master is worrying. She will do everything to protect her master as that is part of her job as his familiar. Athena slithers to the ground and faces the door. Crookshanks jumps to the floor and stands next to Athena hissing towards the door in an aggressive stand just like Athena.
"Bloody hell, what is happening?" Ron almost screamed.
Everybody in the compartment looks at each other not noticing that Professor Lupin woke up when the train suddenly stopped and shook a few times, but Lupin pretended to be asleep when he opens his eyes slightly and saw James, but then saw his green eyes and remembered the present and knew it was Harry Potter, not the-boy-who-lived but the son of his best friends who accepted him and closes his eyes. Lupin suddenly felt the cold and knew what was coming but kept his eyes closed.
After only a few seconds Harry, Hermione, Ron, Ginny, and Neville saw something moving toward their compartment. They see a skeleton kind of hand and something or someone in a large black robe. That thing looked inside the compartment. Crookshanks was hissing at the creature like Athena while Scabbers was hiding in Ron's pocket. The necklaces on Hermione's and Ginny started to slightly heat up and the stones of the necklaces started to glow showing a faint red and green light surrounding Ginny and Hermione respectfully.
The dementor didn't notice the light because its focus was on someone else. Its focus was on Harry and had its head turned towards Harry. He started to close in but before he was too close and kissing Harry Lupin opened his eyes, stands up and cast a spell non-verbally as he says "Nobody is hiding Sirius Black under their robes on this train."
Right after that moment, Harry passed out. The last thing he heard was a woman screaming.
When Harry woke up Hermione and Ginny were sitting on their knees for Harry and behind them were Ron and Neville looking concerned at him. Hermione asked, "Harry are you alright?"
Harry was looking for his glasses and saw Ginny hand him. He grabs the glasses and said, "Thank you, Ginny." Before he got up Crookshanks was bumping his head into Harry's head asking for affection and wanting to know if Harry was okay while Athena was curled up on his chest looking around for any other threat.
Professor Lupin said "Here eat this it will help. It is alright this is chocolate." Before Harry could get up Professor Lupin handed him chocolate. Harry sees that everybody has a piece of chocolate in his hand except Ron but he has probably already eaten it.
Harry sits up and Athena immediately around his left arm as his right hand holds the chocolate. Harry takes a bit of the chocolate and Crookshanks jumps in his lap, He pets Crookshanks and gives the chocolate to Ginny to keep as he also pets Athena. while looking where the dementor has been and asking "Wh- what was that thing?"
Professor Lupin replied looking at the door entrance for a second and replied: "It was a dementor, one of the guards of Azkaban, it is gone now, it was searching the train for Sirius Black and if you will excuse me I need to have the little word with the driver."
Harry immediately thinks 'that was a Dementor! I understand why Sirius says there was the foulest creature and that is not mentioned as looking like Death or maybe better said the Grim Reaper. That he managed to survive that for 12 years being surrounded by those creatures.'
Professor Lupin put down the chocolate next to Harry which makes Harry pay attention to where he is. He stands up and opens the door turns around and smiles at Harry. Before he closes the door, he said "Eat. You will feel better."
Harry takes his seat again and eats a piece of chocolate. Hermione is on Harry's left and Ginny is on Harry's right. They both want to be ready for whatever Harry needs. Neville took a seat next to Ron. Crookshanks after getting a pet and feeling that Harry was alright jumps back in Hermione's lap.
Harry asked the room "What happened to me?"
Ron decided to answer "Well you sort of went rigid, we thought you were maybe having a fit or something."
Harry saw everyone slowly nodding and decided to ask "And did anyone of you do you know, pass out?"
Ron decided to continue and said "No, but I felt weird though like I never will be cheerful again. I also felt depressed and some kind of despair."
Hermione and Ginny did feel the cold, but they were having were feeling less effect by the dementor. There were some thoughts but nowhere as bad as they could be. Hermione and Ginny decided to don't say anything about the lack of effect they felt from the dementor for now and they both found Harry was more important and his wellbeing than the lack of effect that the Dementor had on them.
"But someone was screaming … a woman," Harry said.
Hermione looks to Harry from his left shaking her head and replies: "No, one was screaming Harry."
Hermione was afraid Harry would be mad at her for saying that. Also, it took all her willpower and courage to deny what Harry said.
Harry looked past Ginny to the rainy window. After a few minutes, the twins burst in asking if everybody was alright and especially if Ginny was alright. After many reassurances from Ginny, the twins asked if everybody else was and they said they were okay but Harry didn't respond. The twins wanted to ask Harry if he was alright but were stopped by Hermione shaking her head at the twins making sure they didn't ask Harry anything. Both Hermione and Ginny hope Harry wouldn't mind stopping the twins especially as it sees that Harry is occupied. Harry was so occupied he didn't even know that Athena has slithered up his arm with her head on his shoulder like she like to do.
Fred or was it George "Thank Merlin, you are all fine." The other continued "We will go back to our compartment" and they finished in unison "And see you in the great hall."
It takes a couple of minutes before Harry gathers himself and unnoticeably grabs the ring finger on his right hand with the Heir Potter and Heir Black ring. He still doesn't understand how Sirius could withstand these things for close to 12 years.
All the time Athena feels Harry's emotions and tries to soothe him. Hermione and Ginny are looking at Harry almost like they are waiting on Harry to give them an order on how to help him or anything else he wants.
When Harry has calmed down enough also his magic dies down which makes Hermione and Ginny realize that they should soon change as Hogwarts shouldn't be that far away anymore. Although they wait until Harry agrees and say that he, Neville and Ron will wait outside until they are done. Hermione and Ginny nod although they both wouldn't have denied it if Harry decided he wanted to stay as they both feel they should listen to him.
After 15 minutes they switch so Harry, Neville and Ron can put on their uniform although it only takes five minutes before Hermione and Ginny can enter the compartment again.
As they are very close to Hogwarts without anyone sleeping Hermione happily starts to talk about the upcoming year and all the electives. Mostly how interesting they will be besides Divination although the theoretical part intrigues her even if the practical part is woolly and has a lot of guesswork.
1st September 1993, Hogsmeade station
When they leave the train Harry notices a lot of adult witches and wizards. He notices that one is talking with Professor Lupin. Harry wants to know what that is all about but Hermione says "Harry, I think we need to get to the carriage quickly or we have to walk all the way."
Harry nods and says "You are right, Hermione."
Hermione can't shake the great feeling she gets when Harry agrees with her. When they enter a carriage they get joined by Susan under the watchful eyes of Daphne, her friends and Susan's friends. Susan gives Harry a big smile. She wonders why Ronald says nothing, but she notices when she sees that Ronald is almost drooling. He must be thinking about the feast especially as he looks up the trail towards Hogwarts. As only six fit in a carriage Susan's friends take the next carriage with Daphne, her sister and her friends take the one after that.
1st September 1993, Hogwarts
As soon as they have left the carriage and walked into the castle Professor McGonagall is waiting for them. She sees them and says "Mr. Potter, Miss Granger and Miss Weasley follow me. Mr. Longbottom, are you alright?"
Neville says "I am Professor McGonagall."
Professor McGonagall nods and says "Alright, you can go to the Great Hall."
Neville nods. Professor McGonagall walks away followed by Harry, Hermione and Ginny.
They walk to the giant staircase and go to the first floor where the deputy Headmistress's office is as is a Headmaster's office although Dumbledore never uses it and prefers his personal office on the seventh floor and the Headmaster tower. Many Headmasters and Headmistresses prefer the tower but as you can only enter with a password in the earlier centuries of Hogwarts there was a separate office on the first floor if students needed the Headmaster or Headmistress at that time.
1st September 1993, deputy Headmistress office, First floor, Hogwarts
They soon all enter and Harry gives a small groan as waiting for them there is Madam Pomfrey. Athena hears the groan of her master and appears on his shoulder to see why. Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey see the snake. Madam Pomfrey wants to act but doesn't as Professor McGonagall doesn't act.
Harry thinks 'Minnie real make work of her promise that she would look out for me but does it really need to be Madam Pomfrey?'
Professor McGonagall takes a seat with Madam Pomfrey on the right side of her and on the other side of the desk, she conjures three comfy chairs just a bit less comfy than she and Madam Pomfrey have.
Professor McGonagall asks "Mr. Potter, Miss Granger and Miss Weasley how are you feeling? I can understand meeting a Dementor can be very unsettling."
Madam Pomfrey says "Here is some chocolate that should help the exposure."
Hermione says "I think I am alright Professor McGonagall. Thank you, Madam Pomfrey, but Professor Lupin already gave us some chocolate to counter the effect of the Dementor."
Madam Pomfrey clearly says "Thank Merlin, we finally have a Defence Against the Dark Arts Professor who knows his remedies. It was about time we got a capable Professor for that position. Still, take the chocolate a little more can't hurt you."
Madam Pomfrey gives them all a full Honeydukes chocolate bar before she starts waving her wand while Professor McGonagall asks "Can anyone tell me about the Dementor attack? What happened in the minutes before the Dementor appeared, during the attack and what happened after the attack?"
Hermione wants to answer but she doesn't know what Harry wants and she wants to know so she can do what Harry wants her to do. Before she can shake the feeling off her, her magic has found Harry's magic and submits without any fight. She immediately lowers her head as a sign of submission and hopes Harry isn't too mad at her as he should be the first one to answer, not her, as she would follow his lead. Also, Professor McGonagall asked him first.
Ginny feels the same and also looks at the ground. Professor McGonagall notices Hermione's reaction and sees that Ginny is the same while Harry doesn't. She knows if all look to the ground they had done something they shouldn't but Harry doesn't look down. She knows that there is a chance and if she must believe what she is seeing both Hermione and Ginny are found. She is also sure it is Harry or they wouldn't act like this unless they are already bound and the wizard in question is very powerful.
Professor McGonagall, however, knows that Harry is the most powerful wizard in his year and possibly even powerful enough at his young age that he is even more powerful than most if not all seven-year students. She thinks he will probably put even quite a lot of adult wizards and witches to shame if you only look at his power.
As neither Hermione nor Ginny answers, Professor McGonagall looks at Harry. As Harry sees Professor McGonagall looking at him he looks at Hermione and then at Ginny. Harry sighs as neither seems to answer Professor McGonagall. Athena all this time has been coiled around Harry's arm hidden under the robe that Harry asked of her.
Harry starts telling about the attack and says at the end "Apparently I passed out and the last thing I heard was a woman screaming. When I was conscious again I asked who the woman was but none of the others said that they didn't hear a woman screaming. I know I have heard it before but I have no idea who that is or was."
Professor McGonagall needs to keep her Professor Mask on as she has a good idea who Harry heard. She is happy Harry doesn't know as she thinks he heard his mother, Lily Potter when she was killed by You-Know-Who. It seems Madam Pomfrey also heard him as she stopped for a second with casting before continuing and finishing the last spells and give a small nod meaning she is finished.
Professor McGonagall says "Thank you for telling, Mr. Potter. Now Madam Pomfrey, what is your recommendation?"
Everybody looks to Madam Pomfrey even Hermione and Ginny especially as they notice Harry looking at her.
Madam Pomfrey says "Miss Granger and Miss Weasley are in good health especially after encountering a Dementor. I am actually wondering why that is if you would indulge me?"
Both look immediately look at Harry. Harry shrugs.
Hermione asks "Should we, Harry?"
Harry says "I guess it is alright, as long as you don't take them off. Both of you."
Hermione and Ginny nod before they remove their robes and slowly unbutton the top few buttons of their shirt. As soon as a bit of their bra is showing and when Harry can clearly see the colour he immediately looks to the ground.
Professor McGonagall smiles in her mind that Harry respects Hermione and Ginny enough to look away even though he is a teenage boy. Harry looking to the ground has stopped Hermione and Ginny from opening more buttons.
Hermione and Ginny look at Harry and wait for him. Both Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey notice and give each other a look that they have the same idea. It surprises them when Ginny says "I guess we can show now."
Professor McGonagall thinks 'maybe Ginny isn't found but acts like this because of the last year. I am almost completely sure Hermione is found. Maybe, Ginny is a bit too young to be found as I never heard of being found in the first two years of Hogwarts even before the fifth year of the youngest being found is almost unheard of. Harry must be very powerful to have it happen maybe that explains why Lily became a couple to James so fast as they were both strong and Harry is clearly a Potter by being strong as House Potter is feared as they produce strong witches and wizards even though the last centuries it has always been wizards. I never notice Lily to be found. The question is was Lily already found this young, although Hermione is not Lily no matter how similar they are also Lily never needed to be saved from a grown mountain troll at age 12 by James. Still, she would know he will do it for Lily. I know that Hermione likes, Harry, if not love him and is not like this because Harry saved her although it may help them to be like this. If Lily was found this young then she was lucky James waited on her although I knew he would, also she resist almost too much on James and when he pranked others to focus her love on someone else who gives her attention.'
Ginny asks "Is that alright, Harry?"
Harry nods his head but doesn't look up. Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey decide to focus on the girls right now. Both Hermione and Ginny grab a golden chain and pull it up. They see the necklace, one with an emerald and the other with a garnet. They also notice some inscriptions on the chain and the gemstone.
Madam Pomfrey asked them to step closer to her and Professor McGonagall. As soon as they are closer both Professor McGonagall and Madam Pomfrey notice the inscriptions are actually runes. They aren't flued in runes but both have a NEWT although Professor McGonagall only got an A.
They both see that it is protection for the mind and as Dementors weaken targets by relieving their worst memory in their mind with the feeling of despair, the necklaces should be able to protect them from those effects. The cold of Dementors probably felt the necklaces and even a warming charm doesn't protect you from those effects. Only being behind a Patronus would help against the unnatural cold, as you won't feel the unnatural cold and other effects of the Dementors. Also, only a corporeal Patronus should be able to drive a couple of Dementors away or at least keep them at bay.
Professor McGonagall decides to help Hermione and grabs a box. She opens in pulled out of necklace with a golden chain with an hourglass that seems to be able to turn around as it is in a kind of golden pendant that seems to be able to turn around by the two golden rings that cross each other twice and it on both sides of the gold pendant with the hourglass within (although you can touch the hourglass).
Professor McGonagall asks "Miss Granger have you told Mr. Potter and Miss Weasley that you want to take all the electives?"
Hermione shakes her head. Harry says mostly to himself "No surprise there."
Hermione wants to glare at him but she can't as her magic doesn't let her. Ginny only giggles a bit.
Professor McGonagall decides to not comment on Harry. Harry doesn't mean it badly, she is sure of it. Also, this is a show of confidence he had that Professor McGonagall knows needs to be nurtured to become a part of him and with Snape as Professor here Harry will need a lot of nurture including not being scolded for his show of confidence to make sure she can prevent Harry from losing his new found confidence because of Snape and other problems like being scolded that would remove his confidence again. She knows if she let that happen she would break the promise she made to Sirius and her older promise to James and Lily, she had already failed. She wants and tries to make it right.
Professor McGonagall says "Mr. Potter and Miss Weasley as you now know Miss Granger wanted to do all the electives however that isn't possible with the class schedule and similar things. However, with the time-turner, you can go back in time. You can go back one hour and if there is a double hour you can go back two hours but that is already pushing it. Technically speaking you can go back many hours but as we don't know much about time-turner yet as it is a recent invention we don't know much about any dangers. One or two hours should be completely safe or I wouldn't have requested a time-turner."
"Normally, I wouldn't ask for it and try to convince the student to take no more than three electives but Miss Granger gave good arguments. With the help of Professor Dumbledore, we were able to get one time-turner for only educational purposes and only Miss Granger may use it. While it is safe for Miss Granger to take more than one other with her to the past I would not advise it and I do not see any educational purpose as both of you don't have double classes and should have enough time to finish your homework."
"I will give you a warning that is directed to the other students. You may not change the past more than you already do by being in two classes at the same time. Also, make sure nobody that doesn't know about the time-turner sees two of you, Miss Granger, as that will not be good for their mental health. I was planning to say that you don't tell anyone, but I think it maybe is a good idea that besides Mr. Potter and Miss Weasley take a few others into confidence. I think Mr. Longbottom and Miss Bones will be a good idea as they are both in your year and Mr. Longbottom is also a Gryffindor. Miss Bones is a Hufflepuff. I am sure she will not tell anyone if you ask her and I am confident, if you need it, she will help you in any way she can. What do you think, Miss Granger?"
Hermione wants to answer Professor McGonagall when she feels the need to look at Harry and wants to know what he thinks. Professor McGonagall expected Hermione to look at Harry although she hoped her calling Hermione Miss Granger will make her answer her. It almost looks like Hermione is already bound and Harry doesn't give her any freedom to make decisions although the magic of being found may give her the push to let Harry decide even if she is strong enough what she thinks Hermione is she should be able to ask Harry to allow her to make her own decisions. Although, if Harry is too strong she will always look to him for guidance even if she is allowed to make her own decisions. Maybe when they bond properly will Harry's strong magic decrease a bit for Hermione to make her own decision even if Harry doesn't agree with her decision. Professor McGonagall knows one thing for sure and that is the witch in Hermione is attracted to Harry's strong if not massive magical power and the magic on its own, her witch feels his magic and likes it, maybe even their magic connected.
Hermione doesn't seem to Harry to notice to look at her. She almost whispers as she asks "What do you think I should do, Harry?"
Harry thinks for a minute before he says "I think both can be trusted if you ask them to not tell anyone and you may need their help to keep it a secret. If you tell them you trust them I think they will try to not lose the trust you give in them. Neville is our friend. Susan is at least friendly towards us and Hufflepuffs are trustworthy, I guess."
Hermione immediately says "Then I think I will follow your advice, Professor McGonagall."
Professor McGonagall can just barely suppress a smile as Hermione follow her advice and does not question Harry's decision. Also, Harry obviously didn't tell Hermione about Susan, she knows this can be a problem like Lily had with James when James was honest that he could have more wives although he promised he wouldn't without her approval she obviously didn't give as muggleborn even if she was found she was honest with James. Hermione can be the same with Harry although Lily never showed that submissive behaviour Hermione shows that even though Lily was found by James's magic and according to Lily their magic connected and since that time she always felt the presence of James' magic inside of her while many would find that unsettling she loved it as that way James will always be with her.
Professor McGonagall will eat her own hat if Hermione isn't found. However, she wouldn't mind betting half her vault that Ginny will be found within the year maybe even before Yule. Ginny isn't found yet but she is certainly close if she will be found that is. Many witches are never found although that doesn't mean they have an unhappy life. They can still have a good marriage and a happy love-filled life.
Harry asks "Are you sure you want to do this Hermione?"
Hermione doesn't respond for a second before she says "Yes, Harry. I want to learn as much as I can."
Harry takes a big breath to calm down before he says "I understand your quest for knowledge, Hermione. I appreciate that about you, but I don't think it is a good idea with changing the past even if it is just so you can go to class. I don't think it is safe messing with time."
Before Hermione can respond Professor McGonagall says "I agree with Mr. Potter, however, I and Professor Dumbledore think Miss Granger will not mess with time as like you said it is dangerous. I am sure with your support and also Miss Weasley, Mr. Longbottom and Miss Bones, Miss Granger will not mess with time and doesn't do that. If she does do that accidentally I am sure if the change isn't big or bad it will not matter too much but I would still not do anything if you can help it unless really necessary although I can't think of any event where that would be necessary. Also, the only difference is to attend class and have a bit more time for her homework if she needs it."
Harry still isn't sure but just nods. Madam Pomfrey says "Minerva, we must be fast the feast is about to begin."
Madam Pomfrey cast a spell and says "I don't think the time turner will intervene with the necklace with the pendant."
Professor McGonagall says "Thank you, Poppy. It seems you had the same thought as me. Now Miss Granger please put the time-turner around your neck. Then we can need to the Great Hall. If you tell Mr. Longbottom and Miss Bones is, of course, your own decision (or Harry's she thought) just be sure that nobody that you don't want to know hears you if you decide to tell them."
Hermione nods before she asks Harry to put the necklace on just like he did with the necklace he gave her. Harry can't see it but others can see that Hermione is blushing so much it is a wonder she didn't faint and combusted into flames.
When Harry is done Hermione gives a small groan of annoyance and disappointment when she let her hair down and Harry steps away. She didn't want to give the sounds but she couldn't control herself. Harry doesn't seem to notice as he just remains standing without looking surprised or confused.
Professor McGonagall says "Now, we should go."
Everyone nods and she stands as she starts to lead them to the Great Hall. During the short walk, Professor McGonagall tells them to immediately take a seat at the Gryffindor table and that they have probably missed the entire sorting. Hermione isn't happy with missing the sorting.
1st September 1993, the Great Hall
The first thing Hermione says, when they enter the Great Hall where most are happily talking or eating or in the case of Ron and a couple of others doing both at the same time, "We really did miss the sorting."
Professor McGonagall walks them to the Gryffindor table which is when you enter the Great Hall on the far right before walking to the teacher's table with Madam Pomfrey.
If you enter the Great Hall, on the far left is the Slytherin table followed by Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and on the opposite of the Great Hall Gryffindor.
Ron and Neville obviously kept two seats across from them. Harry lead Hermione and Ginny to the seats. Harry sees that there is no place for all three. He says "Hermione, take a seat."
Hermione immediately obeys. Harry is sure there is no space for both him and Ginny. He asks the one next to the open space to move a bit further. It is Katie Bell. She immediately agrees. A few seats further sit Cormac McLaggen who refuses to move just because Harry asked even if it is only one foot maybe two.
Harry almost walks up to him to force him to move when Ginny says "I think this will fit."
Harry is still a bit thin although much better than the previous two years after summer, together with Ginny who is thin, to begin with, they will fit especially when Hermione asks the one to her left to move a little bit what they do. Harry sits to take a seat next to Hermione followed by Ginny meaning he sits between Hermione and Ginny. Ron doesn't seem to notice as he eats and even when he says something you barely understand him with the food in his mouth ending up everywhere.
Hermione reprimands him but like normal, Ron doesn't care. The only one that can successfully reprimand him when he is at any table with food is his mother who isn't here obviously.
Harry hears Potter and looks at the sound of his name. He turns around and sees Malfoy pretending to faint before he can respond Hermione turns him around to continue to eat. He sees Hermione has fire in her eyes and that she wants to curse Malfoy. He can't deny that seeing the fire in her eyes makes her more beautiful and hot than she already is.
When they are both turned to the table she says "I want to curse him so badly. I almost want to be a Basilisk so my eyes could just kill him."
Hermione's mind caught up and she locks in shock before she looks at Ginny. She sees Ginny is having a hard time as she said that. She wants to hug Ginny to make it better, but Ginny leans a bit into Harry. Hermione immediately moves to make sure Harry can't move away.
The moment Ginny leans into Harry you can see that she starts to relax and the bad memories leave her mind as slowly a small smile appears on her face. Harry let Ginny rest against him as he doesn't mind as Ron is preoccupied with food although they sit right in front of him. Hermione has moved closer to Harry so he can't move back, but Harry also sees that Ginny starts to relax after Hermione's comment. He would have scolded Hermione if he didn't hear her shocked gasp at what she has said. Harry knows she didn't mean to upset Ginny and knowing Hermione she will watch her words from now on. Harry noticed that Athena has slithered to his leg when he sat down under his pants which feel weird but she is around his right lower leg on the left side he has her fang that has been made into a knife.
Harry wonders why but before he can't think about it his hungry stomach demands food. He decides as Athena seems alright he will first eat before he will talk with her maybe when the others in his dorm are asleep although both Ron and Neville know about Athena.
When he has satisfied his hunger he wants to think again when all the food disappears and the desserts appear. Harry can't stop taking a big (part of a) treacle tart. He loves treacle tarts.
Just when he takes the last bite all the desserts disappear. Professor Dumbledore gets up to his stand and says "And so our feast ends. Welcome to another year at Hogwarts! I have a few things to say before we all retire to bed. First the new additions to this year. Let's welcome our new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher Professor R. J. Lupin, he has been grateful enough to fill this position for the year."
There was applause probably as he gave chocolate after the Dementor attack and protected the remaining trip after the first Dementor attack.
Hermione says "Obviously, of course! That's why he knew to give us the chocolate, Harry."
"We have a change in teachers this year. Professor Kettleburn from Care of Magical Creatures retired to enjoy more time with his remaining limbs. The new Professor for Care of Magical Creatures is our very own Rubeus Hagrid."
Hagrid just gave a smile and didn't stand up until Professor McGonagall give him an elbow to stand up. He does that almost make the table fall over. Snape obviously still had a drink that ended up on his robes which make many in the Great Hall snicker. Professor McGonagall couldn't suppress a smile but that was masked by her frown of Hagrid almost making the table fall. Professor Flitwick, however, couldn't suppress a big smile.
There were mummers around the Great Hall before a modest applause begins. After the applause, Harry whispers "Well, that explains the book for Care of Magical Creatures, The Monster Book of Monsters ."
Hermione nods and says "Yes, you are right. Fortunately, we still have the book Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by the Magizoologist Newt Scamander as a book although according to the book list, it was optional to have."
Harry says "I think you are right, Hermione. I think that Hagrid will be a good teacher and probably even has more knowledge on some animals, especially the more dangerous ones."
Hermione can't help but agree as she thinks so too. She doesn't wonder if Hagrid is a good teacher she suspects he will be, but she hopes that Hagrid doesn't introduce too many dangerous or too dangerous creatures although he will probably know how to take care of them and protect his students from really dangerous creatures.
It seems more were talking along the line. When finally everyone stopped talking Dumbledore is still standing and said "Finally, on a more disquieting note, Hogwarts ….. at the request of the Ministry of Magic … will, until further notice, play host to the Dementors of Azkaban."
Murmurs start to fill the Great Hall at every table. Harry starts to look around a bit and catches Malfoy's eye who fakes a dead faint to taunt and embarrass Harry again.
Dumbledore manages to get the Great Hall quiet again as he continues "The Dementors will be stationed at the entrances to the grounds. While they are under strict orders not to enter the castle itself, you will on occasion see them as you go about your daily activities. Under no circumstances are you to approach them. Dementors are not easily fooled not even by an invisibility cloak. Don't tempt them. It is not in the nature of a Dementor to be forgiving."
After a few minutes of letting his dangerous warning sink in he sends them to bed as tomorrow is a school day after all.
1st September 1993, Gryffindor Common Room, Hogwarts
They enter with all the other years by using the password Fortuna Major by the headboy that is Percy Weasley. The headgirl is a Ravenclaw by the name of Penelope Clearwater Harry noticed when the Ravenclaws were led away to their tower. The Hufflepuff and Slytherin house had only prefects as there is always only one headboy and headgirl.
Ron growls out something that sounds like a good night before going to the third-year dormitory. Neville says "good night" and walks to the third-year dormitory too.
Harry says "Good night, Hermione and Ginny."
Hermione immediately hugs him and can just resist kissing him even though she only imagines on his cheek for now. Ginny also hugs Harry but holds on longer than Hermione and she already holds on for a long time, longer than Hermione normally did. Ginny almost doubles that when Harry asks "Uh, Ginny not that I mind but can you let me go? I want to sleep and need to find a place for Athena."
Ginny had her head on his chest. She nods slightly before she let go very slowly. It still takes a couple of minutes before he is free and Hermione and Ginny go to their dormitories.
1st September 1993, The third year dormitory, Gryffindor Tower
Harry walks into the dormitory and is assaulted by the sound. Harry sees that Ron is already in his bed sound asleep. Neville just walks out of the bathroom in his pyjama. Harry notices that Seamus and Dean's curtain is already closed meaning that they are already in bed. Harry shrugs and thinks 'They will meet Athena tomorrow then. I guess I can better tell them myself otherwise someone might during breakfast or first class meaning that before lunch the whole school knows or if he is lucky before dinner.
Almost 10 minutes later he lies on his bed and Athena who was with him the whole time coils herself up right next to Harry's head. When she is sure Harry is asleep she put her head against his forehead and 'falls' asleep.
Let's end here for now. In the next chapter, we will see Tonks talk with Amelia about her special assignment and Tonks tells Amelia that maybe she should tell her mentor and other trusted Aurors.
We see the reaction of Seamus and Dean to Athena as well we see the school's reaction. We see the schedules being given to the students. We will see the first class of DADA with the boggart and if possible the first class of COMC.
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