AN: Starting with this chapter I will be ditching the POV switches for Daphne/Harry, as they are the main POV's (alongside with Jingles, but he isn't used to talking much yet. Chapter 9 will have a big part from his POV though).
There will still be Scenes from other Characters POVs, like we had for Snape. Those will still be clearly marked, but they are going to be quite rare.
Also, shoutout to CaskettFan5 for beta reading this story 😊.
Chapter 8 – The Philosophers Stone
Daphne and Harry sat down for lunch in the Great Hall, with Jingles happily munching on a bowl of cooked beef at their feet. The house-elves had prepared a delightful spread of warm, crusty bread, a fresh garden salad, and roasted vegetable quiche for them to enjoy.
As they began to eat, Daphne hesitated for a moment before looking at Harry with a mix of determination and vulnerability in her eyes. "Harry, I've been thinking," she started, taking a deep breath. "When Hermione and Tracey come back tonight, I want to tell Hermione about... well, about my home life, about my parents."
Harry's eyes widened with understanding, and he placed a comforting hand on hers. "Are you sure about this, Daphne? I know it's not easy for you to talk about."
Daphne nodded. "Yes, I am. Tracey already knows, and I think Hermione should know too. They're our friends, and I trust them."
A shy, sheepish expression crossed Daphne's face as she continued, "I was also thinking... maybe you could share your own story with them? I know it's a lot to ask, but I think it might be easier for both of us if we did it together."
Harry considered Daphne's suggestion, his heart heavy with the thought of revealing his own painful past. He knew that confiding in his friends wouldn't be easy, but he also recognized the value of honesty and trust among them. With a sigh, he finally agreed. "Alright, Daphne. I'll do it. I think you're right – it's important for our friends to know the truth."
Daphne's eyes softened with gratitude as she gently squeezed his hand. "Thank you, Harry. I really appreciate it."
As they continued to eat their lunch, the two friends found comfort in their decision, knowing that they would face the evening's revelations together. The thought of sharing their burdens with Hermione and Tracey brought a sense of relief, as they looked forward to strengthening their bonds and support for each other. Jingles, sensing their emotions, rubbed against their legs, offering his own quiet support as they prepared for the challenging conversation ahead.
After lunch, Harry, Daphne, and Jingles decided to spend the afternoon in the Room of Requirement to pass the time. They engaged in various activities, including reading books from the magical library within the room and trying their hands at creating magical origami creatures. The hours passed quickly as they chatted, laughed, and enjoyed each other's company, all the while feeling a mix of anticipation and anxiety about their upcoming conversation with Hermione and Tracey.
As the sun began to set, they made their way back to the Great Hall for dinner. Students who had gone home for the holidays started to trickle back into the castle, their excited chatter and laughter filling the air. Harry, Daphne, and Jingles scanned the crowd for Hermione and Tracey, eager to reunite with their friends.
Finally, they spotted them walking through the entrance of the Great Hall. Hermione's bushy brown hair was as untamed as ever, and Tracey was now sporting a sleek ponytail. The two friends waved enthusiastically, their faces lighting up with happiness at the sight of Harry, Daphne, and Jingles.
As they came together, they exchanged warm hugs and shared their excitement about being reunited. "I can't believe how much I've missed you all!" Hermione exclaimed, her eyes shining with joy.
"Same here," Tracey chimed in, her ponytail swinging as she nodded in agreement. "It feels like we've been apart for ages."
With dinner nearly upon them, they quickly made plans to meet in the Room of Requirement after their meal. "We have so much to catch up on," Daphne said, a determined glint in her eyes. "Let's meet in our secret hideout after dinner, alright?"
Everyone agreed, and as they parted ways to join their respective House tables for dinner, Harry and Daphne felt a sense of resolve.
~~~o~~~
The five friends met in the Room of Requirement, the enchanted space adapting itself into a cosy, well-lit room filled with comfortable chairs and cushions. Jingles jumped onto one of the cushions and began grooming himself.
Tracey and Hermione grinned as they showed off their Christmas presents from Daphne. Tracey had received the latest book by Gilderoy Lockhart, titled 'Daring Duels: A Guide to Graceful Combat', while Hermione had gotten a book about everyday charms called 'Practical Magic: Charms for the Modern Witch or Wizard.'
"Thanks, Daphne!" Hermione said, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she clutched her new book to her chest.
Tracey gave Daphne a grateful smile, her eyes shining. "Yeah, thank you so much! I've been dying to get my hands on this book!"
Daphne smirked, "I know how big a fan you are of Lockhart, Tracey."
Tracey blushed slightly, but nodded enthusiastically. "You know me too well!"
Harry looked at his two friends apologetically. "I'm really sorry I didn't get you both anything for Christmas. I'm not used to giving gifts," he explained, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.
Hermione waved off his apology with a warm smile. "It's no big deal, Harry. We understand."
Tracey, however, narrowed her eyes playfully and wagged her finger at him. "Just make sure our next gifts are worth double to make up for it, alright?"
Harry chuckled and agreed, relieved by their understanding.
Tracey then turned to Daphne, her new ponytail swishing as she did so. "Oh, and this," she gestured to her hair, "is a little present for you, Daphne. Now you can see how a ponytail would look in action, since your parents won't let you wear one."
Daphne's eyes widened in surprise and appreciation, and she couldn't help but smile. "Thank you, Tracey. It looks great on you."
Tracey then produced a letter sealed with wax, handing it to Daphne. "There's more," she said. "This is a letter from my father, Lord Davis, addressed to Lord Greengrass. He's requesting that you stay with us after our family vacation for the rest of the summer."
Daphne's eyes filled with tears of joy as she hugged the parchment to her chest. Overwhelmed with gratitude, she wrapped her best friend in a tight embrace. "Thank you, Tracey. I don't know what to say."
Tracey explained the summer plans, "When the summer holidays begin, we'll spend a week at home, where I'm sure to spend as much time as possible with you. Then we're going on a two-week vacation to France, and afterward, you're welcome to stay with us for the rest of the summer."
As they separated, Tracey snatched the letter back with a mischievous grin. "Actually, I might have to revoke the invitation," she teased. "I'm afraid for my life due to the death threats I received in your letter!"
Daphne's face paled, and she stammered out apologies. Tracey laughed and patted her friend's arm reassuringly as she handed back the letter. "I'm just joking, Daphne. Relax!"
While the girls talked, Jingles basked in the attention from Tracey and Hermione. The two girls took turns petting him and cooing over his sleek fur and bright blue eyes. He purred contentedly, occasionally stretching or rolling over to demand more attention.
Tracey turned to Harry, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "So, Harry, did you like the present I gave to Daphne?" she asked, her voice teasing and playful.
Harry's cheeks flushed a deep red, and he couldn't help but glance at Daphne. Hermione and Tracey burst into giggles at his reaction. Daphne, looking confused, shot Hermione a questioning glance.
Hermione, still chuckling, explained, "Tracey told me on the train what she did."
Tracey leaned in closer to Harry. "Tell me, Harry," she purred, "did you envision Daphne wearing it?"
Daphne's face turned crimson, and she exclaimed, "Tracey, stop!" Her hands balled into fists at her sides, torn between embarrassment and anger.
As Harry's face reddened even more, his thoughts began to wander, making it impossible for him to form a coherent response. He opened and closed his mouth, trying to stammer out a reply, but found himself at a loss for words.
Both Hermione and Tracey burst into laughter, and Tracey playfully said, "Oh, that expression says it all. You must have imagined it, but I can't blame you." She offered him a light-hearted wink. "And I thought I was the one with the naughty thoughts."
Seeing the teasing was getting out of hand, Daphne decided to defuse the situation by changing the subject to Jingles. "Let's talk about something else, like our success with Jingles and the plea," she said, trying to regain some control over the conversation.
Hearing this, Tracey's excitement shifted to Jingles. She abruptly grabbed the feline, startling him. "Can you finally talk now, Jingles?" she asked eagerly.
Daphne stepped in to clarify. "He can only talk to me through the plea," she explained. "If you want to ask him something, I'll have to relay the answer."
Tracey's eyes sparkled with excitement, but before she could bombard Jingles with questions, Hermione interjected, her curiosity piqued. "How did you manage to get into the Forbidden Section to find the plea?"
Daphne recounted their daring adventure into the Forbidden Section, describing how they encountered Mrs. Norris on their way out. The cat didn't see them, but she got into a fight with Jingles, who scared her away, allowing them to escape undetected. As she finished her story, Harry decided to show off his invisibility cloak, unfurling the silvery fabric for all to see.
Hermione and Tracey stared in awe at the magical artefact, their eyes wide with wonder as they took in the sight of the cloak that had aided their friends in their daring escapade. As they examined the cloak, Harry's mind drifted back to something Tracey had said earlier.
With a puzzled look, he asked, "What did you mean by Lord Davis and Lord Greengrass earlier?"
The three girls looked at him in shock, and Hermione admonished, "Harry, I can't believe you still haven't read 'A Deep Dive into Wizarding Etiquette'!" she then explained, "There are ancient families in the wizarding world that hold titles like Lord and Lady. They wield considerable influence and often have seats on the Wizengamot, which is our governing body."
As Hermione spoke, Daphne thought back to what the Sorting Hat had said about Harry—he truly knew nothing about their world or the political power he could wield due to the combination of his fame and him being the future Lord Potter. She made a mental note to offer to teach him, as the hat had suggested.
Hermione turned to Daphne, her curiosity piqued. "Have you asked Jingles about our secret hideout yet? I'd love to know more about it."
Daphne nodded, a smile forming on her lips. "Yes, it's called the Room of Requirement. To summon the door, you just have to walk past it three times while focusing on what you need the room to be. Once inside, you can form the room's appearance according to your needs." She paused, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Jingles told me he loved watching our fruitless attempts to summon the room, especially Tracey's."
Tracey narrowed her eyes at Jingles and leaned in close, putting him right in front of her face. "Oh, really?" she asked, feigning offence. "So you find joy in my failures, do you?"
In response, Jingles began to lick her face, his rough tongue causing her to giggle and immediately forget that she was angry with him. She pulled back, her previous annoyance replaced with laughter.
Daphne observed the interaction with amusement, noting how well Jingles had Tracey figured out. He knew exactly which buttons to press to get the desired reaction from her, and it was fascinating to see the bond between them grow.
Feeling the weight of what she was about to share, Daphne looked at Harry and asked, "Is it okay if we tell them now?"
Harry hesitated for a moment before nodding, his eyes filled with a mixture of sadness and determination.
Daphne took a deep breath and began, her voice trembling, "My parents... they're not exactly nice people. They're abusive, both emotionally and physically." She looked down, tears forming in her eyes. "Tracey already knows, but I thought you should know too, Hermione."
Tracey reached out, squeezing Daphne's hand in support. Hermione's eyes widened in shock and sympathy, and she looked at Daphne with concern.
Daphne continued, swallowing hard, "I'm barely fed at home, confined to my room most of the time, and sometimes... sometimes they hit me." She wiped away her tears, trying to keep her composure.
Harry swallowed hard and spoke up, his voice barely audible, "It's the same for me, too. My aunt and uncle, they've never treated me like family. They've always treated me more like a... a servant, really." He clenched his fists, trying to hold back tears. "Instead of a proper room, they make me live in the cupboard under the stairs."
He hesitated before lifting his shirt slightly to reveal a scar on his lower stomach. "They've hit me more times than I can count. This scar is just one example."
Hermione's eyes filled with tears, and she looked at Harry, heartbroken. Tracey's face was a mixture of shock and anger, her grip on Daphne's hand tightening.
Daphne and Harry exchanged pained glances, their eyes conveying a shared understanding of the pain and suffering they had both endured.
After a moment of silence, Tracey initiated a big group hug, her voice cracking as she said, "We'll help you both, I promise. We'll find a way to make things better."
Hermione nodded fiercely, her eyes determined. "We'll stand by you, both of you. You're not alone."
Harry, though uncomfortable with the hug, knew he had to get used to it as both Tracey and Hermione were big huggers. He managed a small, grateful smile, feeling the warmth and support of his friends around him. The shared pain seemed to deepen the bond between them, as they all held each other, vowing to help one another through the tough times.
Jingles, sensing the emotional turmoil in the room, rubbed against Harry and Daphne's legs, offering his own form of comfort. They both managed a small, grateful smile at the black cat's affection, feeling the warmth of his fur against their legs.
After sharing a few more solemn moments, Harry decided to change the subject, his green eyes serious. "Daphne and I have been talking, and we think that whatever was in the vault that got broken into at Gringotts is now here at Hogwarts."
Hermione's eyes widened in surprise, and she furrowed her brow in thought. The flickering candlelight in the Room of Requirement cast shadows on her face as she considered the implications. "That's a bold claim, but... it's possible. And, you know, I've been thinking about that troll incident during Halloween. I don't think it was an accident. I think someone let it in as a distraction, because they're trying to steal whatever's hidden here at Hogwarts."
Daphne nodded in agreement, her eyes dark with concern. "Fred and George told us they've already tried to get past the defences, but they got stuck at some point. There's definitely something going on."
Tracey chimed in, her bubbly nature subdued by the gravity of the situation. "But why would someone want to steal something from Hogwarts? And who could even manage it?"
The group exchanged worried glances, their expressions reflecting the weight of the mystery. It was Jingles who broke the silence, his blue eyes locked on Daphne. "We should investigate further," he said through their mental connection. "I suggest we talk to Hagrid, as he might know what's hidden in the school, and he's the most likely to spill the information if we ask the right questions."
Daphne relayed Jingles' suggestion to the group, and they all nodded, realising that it was worth a try. Even though curfew was approaching, they decided to go to Hagrid's hut now, not wanting to waste any time.
~~~o~~~
The group arrived at Hagrid's hut, the warm glow from inside contrasting with the cool night air. They hesitated for a moment before knocking on the door, unsure of the reception they would receive.
Hagrid opened the door, his face a mix of surprise and concern. "Wha' are yeh doin' here? It's past curfew! I'm a bit busy right now, so yeh best be on yer way."
Daphne stepped forward, her voice firm but gentle. "Hagrid, we know about what's hidden beyond Fluffy. We need to talk to you about it."
Hagrid's eyes widened in shock, and he quickly ushered them inside. "How do yeh know about... the Philosopher's Stone?" he stammered, clearly taken aback.
The group exchanged an excited glance, realising they had just gotten the information they needed. Daphne, maintaining her bluff, replied, "We overheard Professor McGonagall talking about it during the holidays."
Hagrid furrowed his brow, his gaze intense. "So, why are yeh here with me?"
Harry decided to come clean. "We think someone's trying to steal the stone, Hagrid."
Hagrid's face darkened with worry. "Each professor added their own protection ter the stone, but I doubt anyone could get past Fluffy."
Suddenly, a high-pitched roar echoed from the back of the room, capturing their attention. A small baby dragon, its scales shimmering in the firelight, set Hagrid's chair ablaze with a burst of flame. "Norbert, stop tha'!" The giant shouted, his voice booming as he rushed over to put out the fire, his large hands smothering the flames.
The group gasped in shock, their eyes wide with surprise as they took in the sight of the baby dragon. Tracey's eyebrows shot up as she asked, "Hagrid, where did you get him?" Her voice trembled with a mix of awe and concern.
Hagrid grinned sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Won an egg from a stranger in the pub," he admitted, the corners of his eyes crinkling with amusement. He reached out to gently pet the baby dragon, who eagerly nuzzled his hand, only to promptly set his beard on fire with another small puff of flame.
Hagrid's face turned serious as he quickly patted out the fire on his beard, wincing from the heat. He glanced out the window, his eyes narrowing, a furrow creasing his brow. "Who's that?" he asked, alarmed. The group turned to the window, straining to see who Hagrid had spotted, their bodies tense with anticipation.
It was Draco Malfoy, who seemed to be spying on them. Upon realising he'd been caught, he scurried away, disappearing into the darkness. The friends shared a worried glance, knowing that both they and Hagrid were now in potential trouble.
"Ye' best get back ter the castle quickly," Hagrid urged them, aware that they were already past curfew. Reluctantly, they agreed and set off, their hearts heavy with concern.
As they trudged back through the dimly lit corridors, the friends couldn't help but excitedly discuss the incredible events of the night. Their conversation touched upon the Philosopher's Stone and its potential significance, the irresistibly cute but perilously dangerous Norbert, and their lingering concerns about whether Malfoy would rat them out.
"I just hope Malfoy doesn't cause too much trouble for Hagrid," Hermione fretted, biting her lip with a worried frown.
"Knowing Malfoy, he'll jump at any chance to get us and Hagrid into hot water," Tracey grumbled, her face twisting in annoyance.
Their conversation was brought to an abrupt halt when they were intercepted by Malfoy and, surprisingly, Tonks. She tried to maintain a stern expression, but it was a struggle. "Wotcher, guys. Seems like what Malfoy told me is true." She sighed heavily. "I warned you before that I won't cut you any slack just because I like you lot."
Tonks scooped up Jingles into her arms. "You should have stopped them, or at least made sure they weren't caught." She then turned back to the group. "Alright, all five of you follow me. We're off to Professor McGonagall's office, where she'll decide your punishment."
Malfoy's face twisted with shock. "Did you say the five of us?" Tonks nodded at him. "You too were breaking curfew. You can argue with Professor McGonagall if snitching on them will get you a reduced punishment, but knowing her, I doubt that'll help much."
The group exchanged sly smiles as Malfoy's face fell. At least he was in trouble as well. They followed Tonks, who carried Jingles in her arms, petting him as they walked. Tracey asked sheepishly, "What's the usual punishment for breaking curfew, Tonks?"
"Detention and deduction of House points, usually," Tonks replied. "It can lead to expulsion if you're a repeat offender." Tracey swallowed hard at the thought.
As they silently followed Tonks to McGonagall's office, the group exchanged nervous glances. Upon reaching the office, Tonks knocked and explained the situation to Professor McGonagall, who beckoned them inside with a stern expression.
"Miss Davis, Miss Granger, Miss Greengrass, Mr. Potter, and Mr. Malfoy, I am disappointed in all of you," McGonagall scolded, her voice stern and unwavering. "Breaking curfew is a serious offence. Can any of you provide a reasonable explanation for your actions?"
Hesitantly, Harry spoke up. "We were just trying to help Hagrid with a problem, Professor. We didn't mean to cause any trouble."
McGonagall's expression softened ever so slightly, but she quickly regained her stern composure. "While your intentions may have been good, you must understand that breaking the rules can have serious consequences. As such, each of you will lose 50 House points, and you will all serve detention at the end of the week."
Malfoy, unable to contain his indignation, interjected, "But Professor, I was just trying to report them for breaking curfew! Surely you don't mean to punish me as well?"
Unfazed, McGonagall replied, "Mr. Malfoy, you too were breaking curfew, and your actions have consequences as well. Now, I suggest all of you return to your respective common rooms and consider the importance of following the rules at Hogwarts."
The group exchanged solemn glances as they exited McGonagall's office, each silently making their way to their respective common rooms, the weight of their punishment hanging heavy on their shoulders.
~~~o~~~
The next day, classes resumed, and the group found it challenging to readjust to the rhythm of school life after their recent discoveries and holidays. The Philosopher's Stone occupied their minds, making it difficult to concentrate on their lessons.
In between classes, Daphne decided to tell Hermione about her plan to avoid being betrothed by her parents by finding a husband herself. The goal was to select someone from a light or neutral family to move her house back to the neutrals and regain some control over her own life. Hermione listened intently but disagreed with the idea, arguing that it was deceitful and could cause more harm than good. However, Daphne remained adamant about her plan, insisting it was her only option.
Tracey, overhearing the conversation, couldn't resist teasing Daphne. "You know, Harry would be a perfect fit," she said with a sly grin.
Daphne rolled her eyes, but explained that while Harry had the wealth and political power, her parents would never agree to it since he was a half-blood, and he was Harry Potter, the person they probably hated the most.
To her dismay, Hermione joined in the teasing, though it was mostly directed at Harry. "Poor Harry, never getting his chance with Daphne," she chuckled. Daphne noticed how Tracey's crude humour was rubbing off on Hermione. While she loved Tracey to death, she hoped that Hermione wouldn't become like her, as Daphne wouldn't be able to handle double the amount of teasing.
Later, Harry introduced Hermione to the magical game of Wizard's Chess. He set up the board in the common room, explaining the rules and strategies to her. Hermione was initially hesitant, claiming she wasn't much of a chess player, but her competitive spirit soon kicked in. Harry enjoyed playing against her, as her logical thinking proved to be a worthy challenge, and their matches often attracted an audience of fellow Gryffindors.
Together, the friends began researching the Philosopher's Stone, learning that it was created by the renowned alchemist Nicholas Flamel. They discovered that the stone had the power to turn base metals into gold and create the Elixir of Life, which granted the drinker immortality. This revelation only heightened their concern for the safety of the stone and their determination to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.
One day, after their classes, the friends learned that much to Hagrid's dismay, Norbert had been sent off to a dragon colony. They found Hagrid sitting glumly outside his hut, clearly missing his scaly friend. The group decided to try and cheer him up, with Hermione suggesting they bake him some rock cakes and Harry volunteering to help Hagrid with some of his chores around the grounds. They spent the afternoon assisting Hagrid, and although it was clear he still missed Norbert, their company and support seemed to lift his spirits.
Meanwhile, Harry's first Quidditch practice of the term was fast approaching, and the anticipation left him with a mix of excitement and nerves. He spent his free time honing his skills on the broom, flying through the air with incredible precision and speed.
The study group reconvened as well, providing a welcome distraction from their recent adventures. Hermione, as always, took the lead, organising schedules and ensuring everyone remained on track with their studies. The friends gathered in the library or the Room of Requirement, sharing their knowledge and helping one another master the subjects that they found difficult.
As the week progressed, the thought of their upcoming detention loomed over the group. They couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding about what awaited them, but they knew they couldn't change the past. Each day brought them closer to facing the consequences of their late-night escapade, and they hoped that it wouldn't cost them too dearly.
~~~o~~~
After dinner, the group, along with Draco Malfoy, reported to Mr. Filch for detention. Daphne was carrying Jingles, who exchanged a few hostile hisses with Mrs. Norris, Filch's menacing cat.
With a sneer, Mr. Filch addressed the students. "You'll be heading into the Forbidden Forest tonight with Hagrid," he informed them, taking pleasure in their unease. "Don't think this will be a walk in the park, either."
The group was led to Hagrid, who would be supervising their detention. "All right, listen up," Hagrid said gruffly. "There's somethin' in the forest that's been killin' unicorns. We're goin' in to find out what's been doin' it."
As the friends exchanged uneasy glances, Hagrid went on to explain "Poachers often target unicorns for their hairs and blood," Hagrid continued, his brow furrowing. "They're powerful potion ingredients, yeh know. But killin' a unicorn... it's one of the most despicable acts a person can commit."
The group split into two teams. Tracey and Hermione went with Hagrid, while Malfoy, Harry, Daphne, Jingles, and Hagrid's dog Fang formed the second group. "Stay safe, everyone," Hermione called out as they separated.
As they walked, Malfoy taunted Daphne, sneering with contempt. "Can't believe you'd lower yourself to be friends with Mudbloods and Blood Traitors."
Daphne's eyes narrowed as she retorted, her voice cold and sharp. "At least my friends are interesting, Malfoy. I can't imagine Crabbe and Goyle being much fun, aside from being your personal bootlickers."
Malfoy scowled, his voice dripping with disdain. "This whole detention is a joke. It's more suited for servants than for someone like me. My father will definitely hear about this."
Daphne smirked, not missing a beat. "Oh, please. You're just scared of the dark forest like everyone else. Or maybe you're worried that your father will find out you're not as special as you think you are."
The forest was dark and eerie, filled with the unsettling sounds of unknown creatures rustling in the undergrowth and distant, haunting cries. The group trudged on, their nerves on edge as they ventured deeper into the forest. Shadows danced between the trees, playing tricks on their eyes as they tried to stay vigilant.
Suddenly, they stumbled upon a horrific scene: a dead unicorn, its once pure-white coat now stained with blood, and a cloaked figure hunched over it, clearly drinking its blood.
Harry's scar seared with pain, and he instinctively clutched his forehead, grimacing. Panicked, Malfoy and Fang fled, leaving Harry, Daphne, and Jingles to face the terrifying figure alone.
The creature slowly rose, its bloodied hand reaching out towards them. Paralyzed with fear, both Harry and Daphne fumbled for their wands, but in their panicked state, they couldn't think of a single spell to protect themselves.
Over their connection, Jingles spoke to Daphne, his voice tense. "I have an idea, but I need your help."
"What do you need me to do?" Daphne asked, her voice shaking.
"Just trust me, and let me borrow some of your magic," Jingles replied, his blue eyes meeting hers.
Daphne nodded, and Jingles brushed up against her leg. She felt her magic being drained as he raised his paw and hissed, "Confringo." A small fireball erupted from his paw, flying toward the cloaked figure. It connected, causing a fiery explosion. The figure let out a harrowing scream, but instead of relenting, it only grew more agitated and started advancing towards them.
Jingles then raised his paw once more, sending another Confringo toward the figure. To their surprise and horror, the figure easily batted the fireball away, setting a nearby bush on fire. Panicked, Jingles cast several more spells against the cloaked figure—Expelliarmus, Stupefy, and Impedimenta—all of which were easily deflected or countered. Daphne's magical reserves had now reached their limits as well, and the figure was nearly upon them.
Just as the situation seemed to grow even more dire, a centaur appeared, charging at the figure with a fierce battle cry and forcing it to retreat into the darkness. Harry, Daphne, and Jingles exchanged looks of relief and disbelief, their hearts pounding in their chests as they tried to process the harrowing encounter they had just survived.
The centaur who had come to their rescue, approached them, his hooves making soft thuds on the forest floor. "Are you all right?" he asked, his voice deep and soothing.
"We're okay, thanks to you," Harry replied, his voice trembling slightly. "Thank you for saving us."
Daphne nodded in agreement, her eyes filled with gratitude. "Yes, thank you."
Firenze introduced himself and then examined the dead unicorn, his expression a mix of sadness and disgust. "It is a truly vile act to kill a unicorn," he said solemnly. "Only the most desperate and evil of beings would resort to such an atrocity."
Harry's curiosity got the better of him. "What was that thing, and why would it kill a Unicorn?"
Firenze looked into Harry's eyes, his gaze unwavering. "To drink its blood. Unicorn blood will keep one alive, but at the price of living a cursed life. The act itself is unforgivable."
"Who would want to live such a life?" Harry asked, his voice hushed.
Firenze studied him for a moment before asking, "Does no one come to mind?"
Harry exchanged a worried glance with Daphne, and the realisation hit him. "Voldemort," he whispered, and Daphne shuddered at the mention of the name. Even Jingles looked scared, his fur bristling.
Firenze then asked them, "Do you know what is hidden in the school at this very moment?"
The pieces clicked into place, and they both understood that Voldemort was after the Philosopher's Stone and that someone was helping him.
At that moment, Hagrid arrived with Malfoy, Tracey, and Hermione, panting and visibly worried. He caught sight of the dead unicorn and his face fell. "Blimey, are yeh all right?" he asked, his voice full of concern as he looked at Harry, Daphne, and Jingles.
"We're okay, thanks to Firenze," Harry replied, still shaken from their encounter.
Firenze nodded at the group, his wise eyes seeming to take in everything. "You have faced great danger tonight, young ones. But remember, the forest holds many secrets, and not all of them are as dark as what you've encountered."
With that, Firenze said his goodbyes, his hooves making a gentle clopping sound as he disappeared into the depths of the forest.
The friends exchanged worried glances over the dead unicorn. Hagrid, his eyes sad, gently covered the creature with a large cloth he had brought with him. "We'll make sure it gets a proper burial," he murmured solemnly.
Together, they made their way back to the castle, Hagrid leading the way with his lantern casting shadows on the forest floor. The events of the night weighed heavily on their minds, a mixture of relief and unease filling the air around them as they walked in silence.
Rather than heading straight to their respective common rooms, Harry and Daphne exchanged a meaningful glance, urging everyone to meet urgently in the Room of Requirement. They knew they needed to discuss the unsettling events they had just experienced.
The group made their way to the hidden room, their expressions serious and sombre. Once the door materialised and they stepped inside, the room transformed into a cosy, dimly lit space with plush armchairs and a crackling fireplace, as if sensing their need for comfort and privacy.
Seated in the comfortable chairs, Harry and Daphne recounted their harrowing experience to Hermione and Tracey, their voices tinged with fear and urgency. They explained their troubling deduction that Voldemort, with the help of someone within the school, was after the Philosopher's Stone. Hermione's eyes widened at the mention of Voldemort, her hands unconsciously gripping the arms of her chair, while Tracey listened intently, her face a mixture of shock and disbelief.
Daphne shivered, as she cuddled Jingles against her chest. Her voice barely audible as she admitted, "If it hadn't been for Jingles and Firenze, we might not be here right now." Her eyes glistened with unshed tears, betraying the vulnerability she usually kept hidden.
Daphne turned her attention to Jingles, her curiosity piqued. "Jingles, back in the forest, how did you manage to use my magic?"
Jingles tilted his head, thinking before responding. "Well, I figured if we made physical contact, I might be able to channel your magic, based on what I know about the 'plea' spell."
Daphne relayed the information to the others as Jingles spoke. Hermione's eyes widened in surprise, impressed by Jingles' resourcefulness. Tracey looked intrigued, listening intently.
"However," Jingles continued, "there are some limitations. Since I can't use a wand, the spells I cast will be less powerful, less precise, and more costly than if you cast them yourself. Also, I'm not sure if some magic isn't lost when we share it over our connection. It would be best if I taught you the spells instead."
Harry nodded in agreement, chiming in, "That's a great idea, Jingles. It would be helpful if you could teach us some of the spells you used earlier tonight, so we can defend ourselves."
Tracey grinned. "Yeah, we could definitely use some extra magical firepower on our side."
Jingles nodded. "I agree. I'll teach you some of those spells during our next study session."
Hermione's determination was evident in her eyes as she said, "We'll make sure we're prepared."
The group delved into a discussion about who might be helping Voldemort from inside the school.
Hermione, ever the logical thinker, pointed out, "Considering the student-to-professor ratio, it's more likely that the person helping Voldemort is a student rather than a professor."
Tracey frowned, mulling it over. "That makes sense, but it's still quite a big pool of potential suspects."
Daphne nodded in agreement, her brow furrowed in concern. "It's unsettling to think that one of our fellow students could be working with Voldemort."
Harry clenched his fists, anger and determination flaring in his eyes. "No matter who it is, we'll stop them."
The group shared a determined look, their resolve only strengthening as they continued their discussion. With the knowledge that they had to be cautious and prepared for anything, they finalised their plan to get to the Philosopher's Stone and committed to learning the necessary spells to protect themselves and the stone.
~~~o~~~
The group approached the Weasley twins, who were huddled together, undoubtedly plotting their next prank. Harry cleared his throat, catching their attention.
"Fred, George, we need your help," Harry said. "We want you to keep an eye on any activity in the third-floor corridor."
The twins exchanged glances and grinned. "Sure thing, Harry," said Fred. "But you know, we don't do anything for free."
George chimed in, rubbing his hands together, "That's right. How about a few Galleons for our services?"
Harry nodded, understanding the deal. "Fine, we'll pay you. But you have to promise that you'll keep a close watch and let us know of any suspicious activities."
The twins agreed, and after the group handed over the Galleons, Fred said, "We have a safe way of monitoring it, don't you worry."
"Yeah, no one will even know we're there," George added, a mischievous glint in his eye. They didn't elaborate further, leaving the group to wonder just what the twins had up their sleeves.
Later, in their secret hideout, the Room of Requirement transformed into a spacious practice room with high ceilings and protective enchantments on the walls. The group gathered around Jingles, eager to learn the spells Confringo and Protego. The air was thick with anticipation, the temperature slightly cool to keep them comfortable during practice.
Jingles communicated the instructions to Daphne through their mental connection, and she translated them for the group. "Jingles says that the key to casting Confringo is to focus on the intensity of the explosion you want to create," she explained, demonstrating the spell with a flick of her wand. A powerful blast shook the room, and the others stared in awe at Daphne's skill. Her mastery of the spells came easily, thanks to the memories Jingles had shared with her.
"Now, for Protego," Daphne continued, "Jingles says that it's crucial to visualise a strong, impenetrable barrier when casting the spell." She demonstrated the shield charm, and an almost invisible barrier shimmered into existence in front of her.
Tracey and Hermione attempted the spells, but struggled to grasp them. Tracey's Confringo resulted in a weak puff of smoke, while Hermione's Protego barely held up against a light push. Frustrated, they turned to Daphne for advice.
"Don't worry," Daphne reassured them, "Just keep practising and focusing on the proper wand movements and visualisation. You'll get it eventually."
Harry, on the other hand, managed to cast the spells after several attempts, albeit with difficulty. After a shaky start, he improved with Daphne's help and encouragement. However, he realized that the magical power required to cast Confringo and Protego was so high that he could only use them a couple of times before feeling drained.
As they took a break, Harry sighed, "These spells are tough. It's going to take a lot of practice to master them."
Daphne nodded in agreement, "Yes, but with determination and Jingles' guidance, I'm sure we'll all improve."
Jingles, ever the wise mentor, watched them with a mixture of patience and amusement, confident that they would eventually overcome their challenges.
~~~o~~~
It was the day of the Quidditch match against Slytherin. Daphne, Tracey, Hermione, and Jingles were in the stands, watching and cheering for Harry. Daphne and Tracey, in a show of support, had even donned Gryffindor colours.
The match was intense, with both teams giving it their all. Harry, as the Gryffindor Seeker, was locked in a fierce duel with the Slytherin Seeker, both of them trying to catch the elusive Golden Snitch.
Jingles, perched on Hermione's lap, watched intently, his blue eyes never leaving Harry. The girls clung to each other, their nerves getting the better of them as the match drew to a close.
Finally, Harry spotted the Snitch and went into a breath-taking dive, the Slytherin Seeker hot on his tail. Inches from the ground, Harry caught the Snitch, securing a narrow victory for Gryffindor.
The crowd erupted in cheers, and the girls hugged each other, their excitement palpable. Jingles let out a triumphant meow, his eyes shining with pride for Harry's accomplishment. The victory was sweet, and the group couldn't be prouder of their friend.
After the exhilarating Quidditch match, the group gathered in the Room of Requirement to celebrate Harry's victory. The room had transformed into a cosy space with comfortable chairs and a warm fireplace crackling in the corner. The girls couldn't contain their excitement as they entered the room.
"Harry, that was amazing!" Hermione exclaimed, her eyes shining with admiration.
"Well done, Harry!" Tracey chimed in, her smile wide and genuine. She playfully added, "You know, you look really good on a broom."
Harry blushed, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly. "Er, thanks, Tracey."
Daphne, wearing a soft smile, patted Harry on the back. "You were brilliant out there, Harry. Congratulations."
Wanting to change the subject away from himself, Harry turned to Daphne and asked, "So, are you going to try out for the Slytherin team next year?"
Daphne's expression shifted to a hint of sadness. "I wish I could, Harry. But my parents would never allow it. They believe girls of my standing shouldn't play Quidditch."
The atmosphere in the room became sombre for a moment as everyone considered Daphne's words. Harry, not wanting to dwell on the topic, quickly changed the subject, and suggested they should practise spells for their mission to retrieve the Philosopher's Stone. The room adjusted itself to their needs, providing them with ample space to practise and tables laden with books and scrolls for reference.
"Alright, let's start with enchanting an instrument to play music on its own," Hermione suggested, her voice all business.
Tracey's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "Oh, I have a flute in my trunk! I've been playing it for years."
Harry and Hermione exchanged surprised glances. "Really?" Harry asked, curious about this new side of Tracey.
"Yeah," Tracey confirmed, grinning. "I'll go get it."
While Tracey fetched her flute, Hermione and Daphne discussed the incantation and wand movements necessary for the enchantment. Jingles jumped onto the table, meowing for attention as they flipped through books and scribbled notes.
When Tracey returned, they all took turns practising the spell until they were confident in their ability to enchant the instrument. Jingles watched them intently, occasionally purring with approval as their enchantments improved.
Next, they moved on to Lumos. Though they were fairly certain they could cast the spell with ease, they still decided to practise and revise it as a failure could mean a dangerous encounter with Devil's Snare.
"I think it's a good idea to practise Lumos," Daphne chimed in, her voice tinged with determination. "We really can't afford any mistakes with Devil's Snare."
Everyone nodded in agreement and spent some time refining their wand movements and incantations for Lumos. They took turns casting the spell, illuminating the room with bright lights.
The group then discussed the locked door with the enchanted flying keys. They were confident that Harry's Seeker skills were honed enough for the task.
"Your performance today is proof that you'll have no problem with the keys, Harry," Daphne reassured him, smiling warmly.
The conversation shifted to the room filled with statues, which they suspected was Professor McGonagall's protection. They brushed up on their Transfiguration skills as broadly as possible, not knowing exactly what awaited them. Jingles offered his insights and suggestions through Daphne, who relayed his thoughts to the others.
"That leaves Snape's, Quirrell's, and Dumbledore's protections," Hermione pointed out. "We should revise Potions and Defence Against the Dark Arts as much as we can."
They spent some time discussing various potions and dark creatures, figuring that Snape might test their knowledge on potions, while Quirrell could employ a dark creature as a challenge. As they talked, Jingles wandered around the room, occasionally stopping to nudge someone's hand for a scratch or to offer his own opinion.
As for Dumbledore's protection, they were at a loss. Harry, trying to maintain a positive attitude, said, "Well, we'll just have to handle Dumbledore's challenge when we get to it."
With a collective nod, the group continued to practise and strategize late into the night, each of them determined to do their best to succeed in their mission.
Daphne suddenly looked alarmed as Jingles communicated with her through their mental connection. "Guys," she said with a hint of urgency in her voice, "Jingles says curfew started an hour ago. We need to get back to our common rooms."
Everyone exchanged worried glances, remembering their recent brush with trouble. Jingles suggested, through Daphne, that Harry should escort them back in two trips. "First, Daphne, Tracey, and I can go to the Slytherin common room with Harry. Then, on his way back, Harry can pick up Hermione and escort her to the Gryffindor common room."
Jingles' voice took on a stern tone as he added, "And please, do your best to avoid getting caught again. McGonagall might write a letter to your parents if it happens again."
Daphne's face paled at the thought of a letter reaching her parents, and the others could see the fear in her eyes. They quickly and efficiently packed up their things, and the room transformed back to its original state.
With the Invisibility Cloak in hand, Harry led Daphne and Tracey through the dimly lit corridors, making their way to the Slytherin common room. Daphne carried Jingles in her arms as they moved cautiously, avoiding any patrolling prefects or teachers. Once they arrived, Daphne and Tracey quietly slipped inside, thanking Harry in hushed whispers.
Harry then made his way back to the Room of Requirement where Hermione was waiting nervously. Together, they navigated the dark hallways, keeping a vigilant eye out for any signs of trouble. When they reached the Gryffindor common room, Hermione quickly whispered the password, and both she and Harry slipped inside, the portrait hole closing behind them.
Harry let out a sigh of relief as he made his way to his dormitory, grateful that they had avoided another close call. As he climbed into bed, he couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and anxiety for the challenges that lay ahead in their quest for the Philosopher's Stone.
~~~o~~~
The next day passed relatively uneventfully. The group attended their usual classes, trying their best to focus on their studies despite the looming threat of the Philosopher's Stone falling into the wrong hands. During breaks, they exchanged whispers, discussing their plans and sharing their fears. It was a day filled with anticipation, and each of them could feel the tension growing within.
As the sun began to set and dinner time approached, the group met outside the Great Hall. Just as they were about to enter, Fred and George appeared, casually strolling up to them. With a sly grin, Fred discreetly handed Harry a folded note before he and George continued into the Great Hall, acting as though nothing had happened.
Harry's face paled as he quickly unfolded the note, reading it aloud to the group. "It says that Professor Quirrell just entered the third-floor corridor." The others exchanged worried glances; they had suspected a student, not a professor, to be Voldemort's accomplice.
"We have to go after him, now!" Harry exclaimed, his voice filled with determination.
Daphne, however, furrowed her brow and interjected. "Harry, we should eat dinner first. It's important that the other professors see us here. If we suddenly disappear, it'll raise suspicions."
As Hermione hesitated, biting her lip and suggesting, "Maybe we should tell a professor instead?" Daphne considered her words, but then she thought about her encounters with Snape and Dumbledore, who both used Legilimency on her. Based on that experience, she didn't want to trust the professors, but she kept her thoughts to herself.
Daphne shot her a disapproving look. "They would never believe us, Hermione. We need to handle this ourselves."
Hermione's eyes narrowed, and she pushed back. "But are we truly prepared for this, Daphne? This is dangerous, and the professors are experienced."
Daphne's gaze remained firm, her expression resolute. "If we confide in a professor, we risk getting into trouble, perhaps even expelled for meddling in affairs we shouldn't be involved in. We have no choice but to see this through."
Hermione sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "I suppose you're right, Daphne. I just wish we didn't have to do this alone."
The group couldn't help but feel concerned about facing a professor. The thought of battling someone with such knowledge and experience was daunting, but they knew they had no choice. If they didn't act, Voldemort could return to power, and the consequences would be dire.
With heavy hearts, they filed into the Great Hall and took their seats. The aroma of roasted chicken and steaming vegetables filled the air, but their appetites were diminished by the weight of their upcoming mission. They tried to eat and chat normally, forcing smiles and engaging in small talk while their minds raced with thoughts of the challenge ahead. Each of them was acutely aware of the danger they would soon face, but they steeled themselves, knowing that they had to be strong for the sake of the Wizarding World.
As dinner came to an end, the group reconvened outside the Great Hall, their hearts pounding with anticipation. Tracey glanced at the others nervously before speaking up.
"I'll run to my room and grab my flute. Meet you guys at the third-floor corridor," she said, determination flashing in her eyes. With a quick nod to her friends, she dashed off towards the Slytherin common room.
Harry, Hermione, and Daphne exchanged determined glances before slipping through the corridors, doing their best to remain unseen. They ducked behind statues, flattened themselves against walls, and held their breath as professors and fellow students passed by, none the wiser to their secret mission.
Jingles silently padded along, his blue eyes alert and watchful. He guided them through the maze of hallways, his keen senses helping them avoid any potential threats.
As they neared the third-floor corridor, Tracey reappeared, clutching her flute tightly. Her face was flushed from her sprint, but her eyes sparkled with excitement and resolve. The group shared one last look of solidarity, knowing that what lay ahead would test their courage, their friendship, and their magical abilities to the fullest.
In the tense atmosphere, Jingles broke the silence, his voice surprisingly confident. "Listen, I believe that if we all work together, we can outsmart even a professor. With me now being able to channel Daphne's magic, we've got a fighting chance. So, if we find ourselves in a confrontation, let me focus on the offensive, while the rest of you concentrate on defence."
The group nodded, taking Jingles' words to heart. With a deep breath, they stepped into the dimly lit third-floor corridor, their wands at the ready. They knew that the fate of the Wizarding World rested in their hands, and they were determined to succeed, no matter the cost.
