The Order of the Black Cat

by xWolfx93

During his first year at Hogwarts, Harry befriends Daphne Greengrass and encounters Jingles, a magical cat. Their revelations help Harry see the world isn't just black and white and give him what he always wanted: a family. Together, they form a secret society to better the wizarding world. The OC will be a brotherly figure to Harry. No SI. This is a longfic.

7. A Mirror and a talking cat

Chapter 7 – A Mirror and a talking cat

Daphne's sleep was restless, her brow furrowed as she tossed and turned beneath the covers. In her nightmare, she found herself trapped within the cold, imposing manor of her family, its high ceilings and dark corners instilling a sense of dread. Her father's harsh voice echoed through the shadowy halls, relentlessly berating her for her shortcomings. The pain and humiliation she had endured for so long felt as real as ever, causing her heart to ache with the weight of the memories.

In her dream, just as her father raised his hand to strike her, she felt a gentle touch on her shoulder, warm and comforting. She awoke with a start, her breaths coming in short gasps, her heart pounding in her chest. Blinking in the darkness of her room, she realized Harry was standing beside her bed, his face etched with concern.

"Hey Daphne, are you okay? You seemed to be having a nightmare," he said softly, offering her a reassuring smile.

Daphne, still groggy from sleep, rubbed her eyes and nodded. "Yeah, I'm fine, just a bad dream. What's going on, Harry? What time is it?"

Harry's eyes sparkled with excitement as he whispered, "I found this special mirror, and I saw my parents in it! You have to come and see it for yourself!"

Daphne yawned and rubbed her temples. "Can't it wait until morning Harry? I'm exhausted."

He hesitated for a moment before adding, "Well, the thing is, I don't know if they'll still be there tomorrow. And Jingles ignored me when I went to get you; he just kept staring at the mirror."

Hearing this, Daphne's curiosity piqued, and she reluctantly agreed to accompany Harry. She quickly threw on a warm robe over her nightgown, slipped into a pair of shoes, and joined him under the invisibility cloak. They made their way through the dimly lit castle, the stone walls and floor cold beneath their feet. They passed by the occasional slumbering portrait, the figures within snoring softly or muttering in their sleep. The air was chilly, and Daphne couldn't help but shiver as they walked in silence.

Upon reaching the fourth-floor corridor, Harry led Daphne to the room with the mysterious mirror. As they entered, they found Jingles sitting on the floor, his eyes locked on the mirror's surface, utterly transfixed. The room itself was bathed in the soft glow of moonlight filtering through the dusty windows, casting eerie shadows that danced on the walls. The mirror itself was a masterpiece, its ornate frame adorned with intricate carvings of mythical creatures and swirling patterns.

Daphne gently approached Jingles, her curiosity growing as she observed his unwavering focus on the mirror. She crouched down beside him, her hand reaching out to stroke his soft fur. "Jingles," she said softly, "what's going on?"

Jingles, however, remained silent, his eyes still locked on the mirror's surface. Harry, seeing Daphne's confusion, turned her attention to the mirror. "Look, Daphne," he said, pointing towards his mother. "That's my mom!"

But when Daphne looked into the mirror, she saw something else entirely. She saw herself, older and with a rebellious ponytail that her parents would never approve of, as it wasn't 'proper' for a girl of her standing. She was standing in a pool of blood, her parents lying lifeless at her feet. As she studied the scene, she couldn't help but smile, her mind momentarily blocking out Harry's words about his parents in the mirror.

Daphne's eyes scanned the mirror's frame, finally landing on an inscription etched into the wood. The words appeared to be written backward, and she tilted her head, trying to make sense of it. Then, she realized that the text was meant to be read as a reflection. She held her hand up to the inscription, covering the mirror, and read the mirrored text: "Erised stra ehru oyt ube cafru oyt on wohsi."

With a growing understanding, Daphne mentally rearranged the words and read the inscription backward: "I show not your face but your heart's desire." Her eyes widened as she grasped the mirror's true nature. She turned to Harry, her voice slightly shaky, and shared her findings. "Harry, I don't see your parents. I think this mirror shows us what we desire the most."

Harry's expression grew thoughtful as he considered Daphne's words. He looked back at the mirror, his gaze lingering on the images of his parents. After a moment, he turned back to Daphne, curiosity etched on his face. "So, what did you see in the mirror, Daphne?"

She hesitated for a moment, then asked him a question that had been burning in her mind. "Harry, what would I have to do for you to hate me?"

He looked at her, taken aback by the sudden and unexpected question. His brow furrowed in confusion, and he struggled to find a response. "I... I don't know, Daphne. Why would you even ask something like that?"

Daphne looked at Harry, her voice barely above a whisper. "Harry, I'm not a good person." She picked up Jingles, who was still staring at the mirror, and carried him towards the door. She sat down against the wall, out of sight of the mirror. The moment she did, Jingles broke out of his trance, his eyes widening in surprise and happiness to see Daphne.

As she held Jingles close, Daphne took a deep breath, her voice shaky and on the verge of tears. "I didn't go home for the holidays because... because my parents abuse me." Harry's eyes widened in shock, and he took a step closer, his attention fully on her.

Daphne continued, her voice trembling, "They keep me confined to my room, barely giving me enough food. They only let me out when I have to attend some ball or when Tracey requests my presence. My father wants to keep good relations with Tracey's father for business purposes." She paused, her hands gripping Jingles tightly. "My father... he hits me sometimes. Thankfully, it's rare, but I think it's only because he wants to protect my body so I can be married off more easily."

Tears welled up in her eyes as she confessed what she saw in the mirror. "In the mirror, I saw my parents dead at my feet. I know it's extreme, but... it's what I think they deserve for abusing me." Harry's expression was a mix of shock and sympathy.

Daphne began to sob, her tears flowing freely. "I understand if you hate me now, Harry," she choked out between sobs. Jingles licked her face, trying to comfort her, and Harry hesitated for a few moments, searching for the right words.

Finally, he spoke, his voice soft and sincere. "Daphne, I don't hate you. I'm so sorry you've had to go through all that." As he said this, he sat down next to her, showing her that he wasn't going to leave her. She hesitated for a moment before resting her head on his shoulder. Harry was startled by her closeness, but he didn't pull away, understanding that she needed comfort and support in that moment.

After a few moments of silence, Harry hesitantly asked, "Why... why would your parents do that to you, Daphne?"

Daphne wiped her tears and sighed. "During the last war, my parents sided with the Dark Lord, turning House Greengrass from a neutral house to a dark one. I hate them for it. The Greengrass family had been neutral for centuries, making most of their money by doing business with both sides at inflated prices. My grandparents, who both died a few years ago, were clever and diplomatic, always striking a balance. They knew how to handle our house properly. I adored them."

She continued, her voice full of bitterness, "I was raised to believe that you, the Boy-Who-Lived, were a villain who destroyed their precious Dark Lord. They wanted me to become a powerful witch in his army upon his return and started teaching me their twisted ways and ideologies from a young age." Daphne shook her head, her eyes filled with pain. "My big mistake was openly disagreeing with my parents when I was seven years old. I told them that once I inherited our house, I would move it back to being neutral. I said that I would never serve the Dark Lord, and that I wanted to follow in my grandparents' footsteps, preserving our family's legacy and honour. That's when they began abusing me, trying to force me to comply with their twisted ways."

Daphne's voice trembled as she revealed her deepest fear. "If I never comply, I'm afraid they'll kill me off in an 'accident' so that my little sister, Astoria, becomes the heir to our house." She talked about her sister, her voice softening. "Astoria and I were very close until the abuse started, and she chose our parents' side over me. I hope she's doing it out of self-preservation, seeing how they treat me."

As Daphne spoke, Jingles continued to comfort her, nuzzling against her and purring softly. Harry listened intently, his face reflecting a mix of shock, sympathy, and anger at what Daphne had been through. He stayed by her side, letting her know that she wasn't alone in this dark moment of her life.

Harry took a deep breath, gathering the courage to share his own story with Daphne. "You know, my situation is similar to yours, Daphne. My aunt and uncle treat me horribly too, but their reasons are different. They hate my mother and all things magical, so they take it out on me."

He looked at the floor, his voice shaky. "Like you, they only give me scraps of food, just enough to survive. Thankfully, they don't confine me to my 'room' which is the cupboard under the stairs. In fact, they're happier when I'm not in the house. I've had to do all the chores since I was five years old. I do everything from cooking to cleaning, and if I make a mistake, they punish me."

Harry hesitated for a moment, but he knew that Daphne had been vulnerable with him, and he wanted to do the same. "The physical punishments are far more frequent than you've experienced," he said quietly, pulling up his pullover to reveal a scar on his lower stomach. "This is just one example."

Daphne's eyes widened in shock, and she reached out to touch the scar tenderly, her fingers brushing over it with care, her eyes welling up with tears once again.

As Harry spoke, Jingles seemed to sense his pain and moved to comfort him, rubbing against his leg and purring softly. The three of them sat there, sharing their deepest secrets and fears, finding solace and understanding in each other's company.

Daphne sighed and looked at Harry with a sad expression. "You see, Harry, this is why I think I'm a bad person compared to you. While you see your parents in the mirror, I see myself having killed mine. Despite all the abuse you've suffered, your heart is still good, unlike mine."

Harry shook his head "Daphne, I think you're just looking for a way to remove them from your life. It's not you who's evil; it's your parents. They've done terrible things, and you want to be free from them."

He took a deep breath before continuing. "I'll be honest with you. While I've never thought about killing my aunt and uncle myself, I've hoped every time they went away that they'd get into an accident and never return. I've also fantasized about running away."

Daphne looked at him with surprise, her eyes glistening with tears as she bit her lip nervously. "I've thought about running away too, but it seems so impossible. I've never told anyone else about that before."

Harry nodded, understanding her feelings. "I know what you mean, but I believe that you're a good person at heart, Daphne. You're just desperately searching for a way out of your terrible situation."

Daphne took a deep breath and began to explain her plan, one she had only shared with Tracey so far. "You see, Harry, I know that my parents are looking to sign a betrothal contract for me. Thankfully, these contracts aren't typically made until we're in our mid-teens, so I still have some time. Time to look for a potential husband myself."

Harry's eyes widened in shock, but Daphne continued. "I've already resigned myself to the idea that I might not live a life full of love, but at least I want to try to move my house back to the neutrals. So while my parents are looking among the dark families, I'm searching among the light families and the few neutral families left. I know that if the price is right, my parents would even accept one of those families, as long as they're pureblood."

Harry couldn't believe what he was hearing and tried to discourage her. "Daphne, you don't have to do this. There must be another way."

But Daphne was adamant. "This is the only way, Harry. I will get betrothed, either by my parents or by finding someone myself. I can't let my parents have complete control over my life. If I can choose my own path, even just a little bit, then maybe I can have some control over my future."

Harry hesitated for a moment before asking, "Daphne, was the nightmare you had earlier about your parents?"

Daphne nodded, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Yes, it was. They're always haunting me, even in my dreams."

She looked down at Jingles, who was still sitting by her side, and smiled weakly. "I never have nightmares when Jingles is around, though. He's like my little protector." Jingles meowed in agreement, as if to confirm his role in her life.

Daphne continued, "That's why I've been focusing on Jingles lately. I was hoping he'd be able to help me, both with my plan since he knows about the older students here, and with staying sane in general. He's been a real source of comfort for me."

After a few moments of silence, Harry turned his attention back to the issue of Jingles' behaviour earlier. "I wonder what Jingles saw in the mirror that had him so transfixed," he mused, glancing at the cat.

Daphne looked thoughtful, her eyes narrowing in contemplation. "I don't know. It must have been something incredibly important to him. But we may never know for sure."

Harry furrowed his brow and looked at Daphne thoughtfully, the dim light casting shadows across his face. "You know, I've been wondering about our first meeting at Madam Malkin's store," he began, his voice gentle and curious. "I saw a brief flash of fear in your eyes when we spoke. Why was that?"

Daphne paused, her gaze shifting downward as she remembered that day. She finally met his gaze and replied, "As I mentioned earlier, I was raised to see you as a villain. I was afraid of punishment if my father found out I had talked with Harry Potter," she confessed, shuddering slightly at the memory of her father's potential wrath.

Harry nodded in understanding, his eyes softening. "Ever since, I've been fascinated by you, since you reacted so differently from everyone else I met before. The usual awe and admiration I received was starting to annoy me, so your reaction left an even bigger mark on me." He paused, a faint smile touching his lips. "In a way, it was refreshing."

He continued, his smile growing more pronounced, "Hermione has been teasing me about it ever since, much like how Tracey teases you."

Daphne's cheeks flushed a deep shade of pink as she recalled Tracey's teasing present from earlier in the day. She had nearly suppressed the memory, but now it resurfaced, making her feel exposed. "I assure you, I don't wear something like that," she stammered, her voice slightly shaky, "at least not yet." The last part was barely a whisper, causing Harry to blush at the implication. He stammered in response, "Oh, um, I didn't mean to imply... I mean, I wasn't... uh..." His words trailed off, leaving an awkward silence hanging in the air.

The two sat in silence for a while, Jingles sprawled across their laps, his hindquarters on Harry's lap and his front half on Daphne's. They both stroked his soft fur, lost in their thoughts as they absorbed the other's stories. Eventually, Harry broke the silence, looking at Daphne with determination. "Let's make a pact, Daphne."

He extended his hand towards her, a warm smile on his face. "Let's help each other escape our terrible families."

Daphne's brow furrowed as she bit her lip, her voice wavering slightly. "But how would we even do that, Harry? It seems so impossible."

Harry's resolve didn't waver. "The how doesn't matter right now, Daphne. We'll figure it out somehow, if we work together."

Daphne appeared thoughtful for a moment, her eyes distant as she considered his words. Jingles, sensing her hesitation, let out a soft meow and gently nudged her chest with his paw. She sighed, and her hand met Harry's in a firm shake. "Alright, Harry. Let's try to help each other, even if we don't know how yet."

Harry responded with a nod and a warm smile.

As the night wore on, the castle's shadows deepened, the flickering torchlight casting eerie patterns on the stone walls, and the silence grew heavier, punctuated only by the distant hooting of an owl. Harry offered to escort Daphne and Jingles back to her room under his invisibility cloak, knowing that they could easily get caught by a wandering Professor at this late hour. Daphne gratefully accepted his offer, and they made their way through the dimly lit corridors, their footsteps echoing softly against the stone walls.

Upon reaching Daphne's room, they exchanged quiet goodbyes, and Daphne hurried back to her bed with Jingles in tow. As she snuggled under the covers, her thoughts drifted to her decision to confide in Harry. She had shared her life, her fears, and her plan with him, and it felt like a weight had been lifted from her chest.

She mulled over the events of the night, replaying their conversation in her head. Deep down, she knew that opening up to Harry had been the right choice. The connection they had formed and the understanding they shared brought her a sense of comfort she hadn't felt in a long time. Daphne was surprised that they both had the unfortunate experience of being abused, something she never would have imagined they had in common.

As sleep began to claim her, Daphne felt a sense of gratitude for the bond she had formed with Harry. With Jingles curled up at her side, she finally drifted off into a peaceful slumber, her heart lighter than it had been in years.

~~~o~~~

Harry entered the Great Hall the following morning, the enticing smell of breakfast filling the air. He quickly scanned the hall and spotted the Weasley twins sitting together at the Gryffindor table, chatting animatedly. As he approached them, they noticed him and grinned expectantly.

"Morning, Harry," said one of the twins, his eyes gleaming with curiosity.

"Morning," Harry replied. He handed them a folded note, his voice low and discreet. "This is for you."

One of the twins took the note, nodding seriously. "Thanks, Harry."

With that, Harry turned and made his way further down the Gryffindor table, where Daphne and Jingles were waiting for him. He slid onto the bench beside Daphne, who welcomed him with a warm smile. Jingles meowed a greeting, his whiskers twitching as he eyed Harry's arrival.

The table was laden with a variety of breakfast options, from steaming stacks of pancakes and crispy bacon to a colourful assortment of fresh fruits. Harry helped himself to a heaping plate of scrambled eggs, sausages, and buttered toast, while Daphne opted for a more delicate serving of yogurt topped with granola and sliced strawberries. Jingles, true to form, happily munched on a bowl of cooked beef, purring contentedly.

As they enjoyed their meal, Harry took a moment to inform Daphne about the arranged meeting with the twins. "I managed to catch them before breakfast," he said, between bites of scrambled eggs. "They agreed to meet us in an unused classroom on the second floor after lunch."

Daphne's shoulders relaxed, and a grateful smile spread across her face. "Thank you, Harry. I really appreciate your help with this."

"No problem," Harry assured her, smiling as they continued to eat their breakfast, making small talk and enjoying each other's company.

As they neared the end of their breakfast, two owls descended towards Harry and Daphne, each carrying a letter. A tawny owl swooped gracefully into the Great Hall, its wings gliding silently through the air. With practiced precision, it landed on the table before Harry and Daphne, presenting a letter penned in Hermione's neat handwriting, addressed to both of them. The other, a sleek black owl, brought a letter from Tracey, similarly addressed to the both of them.

They each opened a letter and began to read. Hermione's message shared stories about her Christmas at home, asked about how things were going at Hogwarts, and inquired how they had spent their own Christmas. Tracey's letter was filled with light-hearted teasing, gossip about their fellow Slytherins, and tales of her own festive celebrations, also asking about their time together during the holidays.

When it came time to write their replies, Daphne and Harry decided to work on them together. As they wrote about their Hogwarts Christmas experiences and their recent adventures, Daphne's face took on a mischievous expression. She filled the letter to Tracey with various death threats related to the teasing present she had received. Harry chuckled as he read over her shoulder, remarking, "If the Aurors intercept this letter, you'll be under investigation."

Daphne merely shrugged, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Let them investigate. It'll give them something to do besides chasing after dark wizards."

They also finished their letter to Hermione, sharing stories and sending their well-wishes for the remainder of the holiday season. Once their letters were complete, they rolled them up and tied them securely.

After finishing their breakfast and leaving the Great Hall, Harry and Daphne went to find Hedwig, knowing they needed her to deliver their letters. They found her perched on a windowsill, her bright amber eyes watching them intently. Approaching her, Harry secured the letters to her leg. With a soft hoot, Hedwig spread her wings and soared out of the window, vanishing into the sky to carry out her delivery task.

Harry, Daphne, and Jingles spent the rest of the morning in their secret hideout, engaging in a series of friendly yet competitive games of wizard's chess. The enchanted pieces moved around the board, animatedly following their commands. Laughter and friendly banter filled the room as they playfully trash-talked each other, making the most of their time together.

During their games, Jingles enjoyed another dose of catnip, resulting in him rolling around playfully and pawing at invisible objects in the air. Both Harry and Daphne couldn't help but laugh at his antics, which provided a nice, light-hearted break from their intense chess matches. They also took some time to play with Jingles, using a toy wand to make him chase after shimmering lights and pounce on them.

Soon enough, lunchtime arrived, and the trio made their way to the Great Hall to enjoy a hearty meal. With the castle relatively empty due to the Christmas holidays, the atmosphere was quieter and more peaceful than usual. Harry and Daphne took the opportunity to have a leisurely lunch, chatting just between themselves and enjoying the calm atmosphere.

After satisfying their hunger, Harry and Daphne headed toward the unused classroom on the second floor, where they were to meet with the Weasley twins.

As they arrived at the designated location, they noticed Fred and George already waiting for them, grinning mischievously. The stage was set for an interesting exchange of information, and all four of them could feel the anticipation in the air.

The door creaked open as they entered the unused classroom, dust particles dancing in the few shafts of sunlight filtering through the grimy windows. Jingles stalked into the room, sniffing at the dusty air with his whiskers twitching. He leaped onto an old desk and began to groom himself. As soon as they were all inside, Harry began to speak about Fluffy. "So, about getting past Fluffy—"

Daphne interrupted him, her eyebrows knitting together with concern. "Wait, Harry. Can we really trust the twins to keep their end of the bargain? Are they even capable of getting into the Forbidden Section?"

Fred and George exchanged a glance, their eyes twinkling with mischief as they smirked confidently. "Oh, we can handle it, Daphne," said Fred, crossing his arms over his chest.

"No need to fret, Daphne," added George, a confident smile on his face as he mirrored his twin's posture. "We've got the skills and the know-how, trust us."

Daphne's expression remained sceptical, prompting Fred to elaborate. "Trust us, we've been in and out of that library more times than we can count. We know it like the back of our hands."

"And we're no strangers to sneaking around Hogwarts either," George chimed in with a grin, waggling his eyebrows playfully.

Fred continued, a hint of amusement in his voice. "We can't exactly provide you with proof right here and now, can we? If you want to get into the Forbidden Section, you'll just have to trust us. Or, you know, try it yourself." He paused for a moment before adding with a mischievous grin, "Besides, we wouldn't want to upset our star seeker, or his lovely Slytherin lady friend."

Daphne rolled her eyes at the implication but gave a nod to Harry, signalling for him to continue. "So, about Fluffy, and yes, Hagrid has called him that, the trick for him is to play him music on any instrument. He will fall right asleep, according to Hagrid."

Fred and George exchanged an excited glance, their eyes sparkling with mischief. The gears in their minds seemed to turn as they began to piece together a plan for getting past Fluffy. George then spoke up, "Well, if you've ever looked at the lock for the Forbidden Section, you will have noticed that it is rather ancient. I assume you could open it with Alohomora, but you would probably need to be as powerful as Dumbledore to accomplish that."

Jingles paused in his grooming, one paw raised as he tilted his head, listening to the conversation with keen interest.

"But, fortunately," Fred chimed in, rubbing his hands together, "the key to the Forbidden Section is always stashed away in the library."

"Usually in the top left drawer of Madam Pince's desk," George chimed in. "This is due to a prank 15 years ago by a group called the 'Marauders,' where they stole the key. Ever since, it has been enchanted by Flitwick so that it can't leave the library. We assume that they did that since replacing that lock seems pretty much impossible."

At the mention of the Marauders, Harry perked up, and he could clearly see that the twins adored them. He was about to share what he knew about them, but he realized that this might be a good bargaining point for a later date. He would discuss this later with Daphne, as to how to handle such a situation.

Fred went on, "The drawer is locked, but even for a first-year, a simple Alohomora should do the trick."

George picked up the thread of conversation, "Once you're inside the Forbidden Section, it's crucial to remember that you can't take a book with you. An enchantment on the entire section will alert the Professors if anyone tries to leave with a book."

Fred nodded in agreement, his expression a mix of seriousness and mischief, "We learned that the hard way when we got caught once."

George then offered some helpful advice, "We can give you some intel on the typical patrol routes of the Professors and prefects in that area. Since it's the Christmas holidays, though, you're unlikely to run into anyone."

"But," Fred warned, his tone turning serious, "you'll need to watch out for Peeves. Most portraits and ghosts mind their own business, but Peeves is always looking for trouble."

"And he won't hesitate to alert the Professors," George concluded, emphasizing the importance of being cautious around the mischievous poltergeist. "So, keep your eyes peeled and stay on your guard."

Fred nodded thoughtfully, then added, "A Disillusionment Charm would help, as ghosts can't see through them. But," he paused, realizing the potential issue, "that spell might be too advanced for first-years like you."

As they wrapped up their exchange of information, George grinned and said, "Remember, if you ever need someone pranked or need any other kind of information, we're always open for more deals." He winked, making it clear that this partnership was just beginning.

As the twins disappeared down the hallway, Harry scooped Jingles up into his arms, and the trio made their way back to their secret hideout to discuss their next steps. Jingles purred contentedly in Harry's arms, radiating his usual warm and comforting presence.

~~~o~~~

Jingles approached the door of their secret hideout and slipped through effortlessly, his black fur blending in with the dimly lit room. The atmosphere inside was cosy and inviting, with warm, flickering candles casting shadows on the walls.

Harry watched Jingles enter and recalled seeing a similar cat flap appearing on the door of the room containing the mirror when Jingles had been with him. He turned to Daphne, his brow furrowed in thought.

"You know, I noticed there also was a cat flap that appeared on the door to the mirror room when Jingles showed it to me, just like the one that always appears on the door to our hideout," Harry mentioned, his green eyes reflecting his curiosity.

Daphne considered this for a moment before suggesting, her tone thoughtful, "It could either be something Jingles is doing, or it might be the castle itself. We should look into 'Hogwarts: A History' at the library later to see if there's any information about it."

Harry nodded in agreement, his gaze meeting hers. They decided to tackle that mystery later. For now, they needed to focus on their plan to enter the Forbidden Section. Settling down, they watched Jingles jump onto a nearby table, his blue eyes scanning the room vigilantly.

"So, we're going to do this tonight," Harry started, determination evident in his eyes.

"Right," Daphne agreed, her expression resolute. "And we won't take off the Invisibility Cloak at any point to avoid being spotted by Peeves or anyone else."

Harry nodded, "Jingles can come with us as a lookout. A cat roaming the halls at night shouldn't raise suspicion."

"Once we're inside the Forbidden Section and have the book, we'll write down everything important since we can't take the book with us," Daphne added, her eyes focused on their strategy.

"And we should spend the rest of the day practicing Alohomora," Harry suggested. "We need to make sure we can unlock the drawer holding the key without any trouble."

With their plan laid out, they felt more confident about their upcoming adventure into the Forbidden Section. Jingles hopped off the table and settled on Harry's lap, purring softly. The rest of the day would be dedicated to preparation, ensuring they were ready for whatever challenges lay ahead. Harry and Daphne diligently practiced the Alohomora charm, ensuring they had it down perfectly to avoid any hiccups during their mission. In between practice sessions, they took breaks to play with Jingles, the black cat eagerly chasing after toys they tossed for him. They also challenged each other to a few friendly games of wizard's chess, enjoying the camaraderie and the mental challenge it provided.

"Your chess strategy is really impressive Daphne," Harry complimented as they wrapped up another game.

"Thanks Harry," Daphne responded with a smile. "I've been practicing whenever I can. It's a great way to sharpen the mind."

Harry, his curiosity piqued, asked her, "Do you have a similar chessboard at home? Your skills are truly remarkable."

Daphne's smile faded a little as she replied, "Yes, I do have one at home. Unfortunately, I usually have to play alone since I'm often confined to my room." Her voice carried a hint of sadness, and it was evident that the topic brought up some unpleasant memories.

Harry, sensing her discomfort, tried to lift her spirits by saying, "Well, I'm glad we can play together now. It's much more enjoyable with a friend."

Daphne's smile returned, and she nodded in agreement. "Yes, it definitely is. Thank you, Harry."

Confident in their mastery of the Alohomora charm, the duo headed to the Great Hall for dinner. They sat together, sharing stories and laughter as they enjoyed their meal. Their excitement for the night's adventure only grew as the evening wore on.

After dinner, they made their way to the library, intent on skimming through 'Hogwarts: A History' to find any information about the mysterious cat flaps that appeared on the doors. As they flipped through the pages, they came across a section about pets at Hogwarts. It explained that most doors in the castle were enchanted to allow pets to pass through, which they deduced must be cat flaps for cats like Jingles. This discovery solved the mystery they had been pondering about the appearing cat flaps.

"Well, that explains it," Harry said with a sense of satisfaction. "It's just another one of Hogwarts' little quirks."

Daphne nodded in agreement, closing the book. "It certainly makes life easier for our feline friend."

With the mystery solved, Harry and Daphne returned to their secret hideout to finalize their preparations for the night. They double-checked their plans and equipment, ensuring they were ready for any obstacles they might encounter. To pass the time until it was late enough to begin their excursion, they continued playing with Jingles and engaged in more rounds of wizard's chess.

As the hours ticked by, the anticipation grew, and they could hardly contain their excitement. They knew they were about to embark on a thrilling and potentially dangerous adventure into the Forbidden Section.

~~~o~~~

Harry, Daphne, and Jingles gathered in the secret hideout, preparing for their adventure to the library. Harry draped the Invisibility Cloak over himself and Daphne, leaving just enough space for Jingles to walk beside them.

The corridors of Hogwarts were dimly lit, with moonlight streaming through the windows, casting eerie shadows on the stone walls. The castle was silent, except for the distant sound of Peeves cackling somewhere in the distance. Harry and Daphne moved cautiously, their footsteps muffled by the thick carpets as they navigated the empty halls. Jingles' tail flicked back and forth, his ears perked up, attentive to any unexpected sounds.

As they approached the library, they spotted the faint glow of light under the door. Daphne exchanged a worried glance with Harry, but Jingles seemed unfazed. They paused for a moment, listening carefully for any signs of activity within the library. The room appeared to be silent, so they decided to proceed with their plan.

Daphne reached out a hand, slowly pushing the library door open just enough for them to slip inside. The creak of the door hinges echoed softly in the room, and they froze, holding their breath. To their relief, no one seemed to have noticed.

Once inside, they found the library dark and quiet, with only a few scattered candles providing minimal illumination. The tall bookshelves loomed over them like ancient guardians, casting long shadows across the floor. The air was heavy with the scent of parchment and aged leather.

Harry, Daphne, and Jingles crept deeper into the library, sticking to the shadows as much as possible. The Invisibility Cloak provided an additional layer of protection, but they were still cautious, knowing that a single misstep could betray their presence.

They approached Madam Pince's desk with caution. The surface of the desk was cluttered with books, quills, and inkwells, but their focus was solely on the top left drawer. Harry took a deep breath, steadying his nerves as he drew his wand and aimed it at the drawer.

"Alohomora," he whispered, his voice barely audible. The lock clicked open, and he carefully slid the drawer open, trying not to make any noise.

Inside the drawer, they found an assortment of miscellaneous items, but among them was a small, unassuming key that matched the description given by Fred and George. With a small smile, Daphne picked it up and closed the drawer.

As they turned to leave the desk, a sudden noise echoed through the library, causing them to freeze in place. Jingles' ears twitched, and his fur bristled, but after a few tense moments, they realized it was just the distant sound of Peeves causing mischief elsewhere in the castle. They shared a relieved sigh before continuing on their mission.

With the key in hand, they approached the entrance to the Forbidden Section. The heavy iron door loomed before them, its intricate lock mechanism seeming to dare them to attempt to unlock it. Harry looked at Daphne, who nodded encouragingly. He inserted the key into the lock and turned it, the sound of tumblers falling into place resonating in the quiet library.

The door creaked open, revealing the shadowy depths of the Forbidden Section. The air was colder here, and the scent of old magic hung heavily around them. Harry, Daphne, and Jingles stepped inside, the door closing behind them with a soft thud. They were now in the heart of the most mysterious part of the Hogwarts library, where secrets and forbidden knowledge awaited them.

As they cautiously made their way through the labyrinth of knowledge, they scanned the shelves for the book that could contain the 'plea' spell they were seeking. However, the vast collection of books seemed never-ending, and it was easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of titles. They checked countless books, each one containing knowledge that would have been fascinating under different circumstances, but their focus was on finding the one book that could help them with their plan.

After what felt like hours, Jingles suddenly stopped in his tracks, his blue eyes fixed on a particular book. He let out a soft meow, drawing Harry and Daphne's attention. They followed his gaze and found themselves looking at a worn, leather-bound tome titled "An Assessment of Ancient and Accidental Magic." The gold lettering on the spine shimmered under the dim light, and it seemed to call out to them.

Daphne carefully pulled the book from the shelf, its pages slightly yellowed with age. As she opened it, the sound of crackling parchment filled the air, and they couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement. They knew they had found the book they were looking for, and they couldn't wait to discover the knowledge it contained.

Together, they flipped through the pages of the ancient tome, their eyes scanning the text for any mention of the 'plea' spell. After several minutes, Harry's eyes widened as he came across the information they were looking for. He leaned in closer to the page and quietly read out the details of the spell to Daphne.

"The 'plea' spell be a manner of ancient, accidental magic that does often manifest itself in a perilous situation," Harry whispered, his voice barely audible. "This spell does bind two compatible individuals, permitting them to share both knowledge and magical prowess. Usually, an individual shall lose control over their magic when threatened, opening such a connection. Then, one who is compatible with the pleading individual may accept the plea; to do so, one need only channel their magic towards the opened connection. A successful plea shall be confirmed by a golden radiance surrounding the individuals."

As Harry read, Daphne carefully transcribed the information onto a piece of parchment, ensuring every detail was included. Jingles prowled the perimeter of their small area, his black fur blending with the shadows as he kept a vigilant eye out for any unexpected visitors.

Harry continued to read softly, "A plea shall dissolve shortly after the cause of the plea hath been addressed; for instance, if one were assailed by a vicious beast, the plea would break after the beast's defeat." At his words, Daphne perked up and whispered to Harry, "That explains why Jingles couldn't talk anymore once we were in the hospital wing; the troll was already dead."

Harry nodded and continued to read, "The nature of compatibility for the plea spell remains unknown. 'Tis generally believed that individuals must share an underlying connection to activate the plea spell. There be only a few documented cases of the spell being used in its non-accidental form, but 'tis possible."

"Here comes the crucial part," Daphne whispered to herself as Harry carried on, "First, physical contact must be established; then, the one making the plea must ask for assistance with a matter that springs from the depths of their heart. The exact criteria for what is and isn't acceptable remain unclear at this time. Then, the one making the plea must speak the following incantation: 'Prex Invocatio' whilst pushing their magic toward the one they wish to form a plea with."

Harry paused for a moment, ensuring Daphne had noted everything correctly. He then read the final paragraph, "Though not an official requirement, the non-accidental form of the plea has mostly worked for pairs who had used the accidental form before. This appears to be due to the rarity of individuals being compatible with one another. The plea can be broken at any time by either party. Should one party actively work against the established goal of the plea, it will also deteriorate and break if the course of action is not altered."

Daphne finished writing, and they proofread it once more, ensuring they had captured everything correctly. Satisfied, they returned the book to its shelf and exited the Forbidden Section.

Once outside, Daphne replaced the key in the drawer. She then realized that neither of them knew any locking charms. "Jingles," she called out softly, "I need a locking charm, quickly!" The feline came to her aid, and she crouched down next to him. As she placed her hand on his back, she felt a surge of magic like she had so many times before. She raised her wand at the drawer and whispered, "Colloportus." The lock of the drawer made a clanking noise as it locked itself.

A sudden 'meow' startled Harry, Daphne, and Jingles, making them freeze in their tracks. It was Mrs. Norris, the caretaker Mr. Filch's cat, who had entered the library and locked eyes with Jingles. Luckily, Harry and Daphne had already donned the Invisibility Cloak, hiding them from view.

Mrs. Norris cautiously approached Jingles, her yellow eyes narrowed and her tail flicking back and forth. Jingles responded with an arched back and a low growl, his blue eyes glaring at the unwelcome intruder. Both felines circled each other, their fur bristling, as they measured each other up.

As the standoff continued, Harry and Daphne held their breaths, hoping that Mrs. Norris's presence wouldn't alert Filch to their rule-breaking adventure. The two cats exchanged hisses and swipes, their claws narrowly missing each other as they displayed their dominance.

Suddenly, Jingles let out a fierce yowl, lunging towards Mrs. Norris. The unexpected move startled the caretaker's cat, and she quickly retreated, scampering away with her tail between her legs. Jingles puffed up his chest proudly, watching Mrs. Norris's departure with satisfaction.

Relieved, Harry and Daphne exchanged tense glances. They knew they had to leave the library before Filch or anyone else discovered them. With Jingles leading the way, the trio carefully made their way out of the library, ensuring that the Invisibility Cloak covered them completely as they hurried back to the safety of their hideout.

~~~o~~~

As Harry, Daphne, and Jingles slipped through the entrance of their secret hideout, the room was bathed in the warm glow of flickering candlelight. The trio had made it back unnoticed, and a palpable sense of relief washed over them.

Daphne's blue eyes sparkled with determination as she clutched the parchment tightly. "We should try making the plea immediately," she insisted, her voice firm yet hushed.

Harry hesitated, glancing around the dimly lit room. His green eyes met hers, the weariness of their late-night adventure evident. "Daphne, it's really late. I think it would be better to wait until morning. We'll be more focused and better prepared."

Her brows furrowed as she shook her head, her long blonde hair swaying gently. "No, Harry. I can't wait. I'm way too excited to sleep now. I need to do this."

Harry furrowed his brow but eventually gave in. "Alright, but if it doesn't work, don't be too disheartened. You must be exhausted, and from what I read, a considerable amount of focus is needed to cast the spell."

Daphne shot him a look, her eyes narrowing slightly. "I can handle it, Harry, trust me." She then sat down at the table, her slender fingers tracing the lines of the notes they had taken. Jingles hopped onto the table, his blue eyes full of anticipation. After a few moments, Daphne nodded to herself and turned to Jingles. "Give me your paw," she instructed.

The black cat obliged, placing his paw in her left hand. Daphne exhaled deeply, her voice heavy with emotion as she spoke. "Please help me break free from my parents and gain control of my own life. I beg you." As she uttered the words, she pushed her magic into Jingles, following the book's instructions. With her hand trembling slightly, she pointed her wand at her left hand, still holding Jingles' paw, and said determinedly, "Prex Invocatio."

Her heart raced, and she held her breath. Time seemed to slow to a crawl. Had she done something wrong? Why wasn't anything happening? Before doubt could overwhelm her, the room was suddenly filled with a brilliant golden glow, reminiscent of the troll incident.

The light was so intense that she had to close her eyes. Then she heard it—Jingles' voice in her mind. "I accept your plea." When she opened her eyes, she saw Jingles staring at her intently, purring softly. She turned to Harry, who looked awestruck by the radiant light. "Did it work? Can you communicate with him now?" he asked.

Daphne looked at Jingles with hopeful eyes and inquired, "Can you talk now? Were we successful?" The cat nuzzled her chest, his tail flicking excitedly, and his voice echoed in her head again. "Yes, I can now communicate with you. But 'talk' isn't the right word; I'm pushing my thoughts to you through the connection we just reinforced. It means you'll have to relay crucial information to Harry and the others since they won't be able to hear me."

Nodding, Daphne turned to Harry, a smile on her lips and tears of joy glistening in her eyes. "It worked. He explained that we aren't really talking, but instead, he's pushing his thoughts to me through the connection. It means I'll have to relay his responses to you and the others."

Harry nodded, his face alight with happiness. "That's amazing! I can't believe we did it. There are so many things I want to ask him, but we should get some sleep now. Otherwise, we'll be like zombies tomorrow, and the Professors will get suspicious."

Daphne chuckled. "Always the voice of reason, aren't you, Harry? You've convinced me. Off to bed we go. Will you escort me to the dungeons, just to make sure we don't get caught?"

With a warm smile, Harry agreed. "Of course. Grab Jingles, and let's go." Daphne scooped up the cat and joined Harry under his invisibility cloak. Their journey back to the dungeons was uneventful, encountering no one along the way. Jingles however was softly purring the whole time. Before entering her common room, Daphne turned to Harry. "Thank you. I couldn't have done this without you. I can't even put into words how much this means to me."

Harry simply smiled back. "Don't mention it. We're friends, and friends help each other whenever possible. Try not to talk to him too long tonight, alright? We'll only get a few hours of sleep at most, unless we want to miss breakfast. Good night, Daphne."

Daphne nodded in response. "Good night, Harry." She then entered her common room and quickly made her way to her room. Once inside, she changed into her nightgown and climbed into bed. Jingles immediately curled up against her chest, and she wrapped an arm around him.

As Daphne lay in bed, she noticed that Jingles had been oddly quiet since their conversation in the secret hideout. She couldn't help but wonder if he was unhappy with their newfound connection.

"Jingles," she began hesitantly, "since you can talk, you've been awfully quiet. Are you not happy with us?"

Jingles looked up at her, his striking blue eyes meeting hers, and tilted his head. "No, I'm happy Daphne," he reassured her, his thoughts flowing into her mind. "I've been purring the whole time. I'm just not used to expressing myself with words, that's all."

Daphne smiled at the black cat, relieved to hear his reassurances. "Well, you better get used to it, because my friends and I will have a lot of questions for you," she said with a gentle laugh.

Jingles stretched out on the bed, his tail flicking back and forth. "I'll do my best, Daphne," he promised. "We'll learn together, right?"

"Right," Daphne agreed. She hesitated for a moment, and then decided to ask Jingles the question that had been burning in her mind. "Why did you choose me, Jingles? I mean, there were so many better alternatives."

Jingles looked thoughtful for a moment before answering. "People have put way too much stake into that whole 'favourite' thing. But you're right, it was certainly odd that I chose a first-year." He paused, and then continued, "When I first heard your name, I felt a connection toward you, and that's why I chose you."

He reassured her further, "If the connection hadn't been there, I would have still chosen you, but probably a few years later. You fit my criteria, Daphne. Besides, you're a wonderful person, and I doubt there were actually better alternatives out there."

Daphne smiled inwardly at his words. She then thought back to the instructions on the plea spell. It had mentioned that an underlying connection would help. She decided to inquire more about this mysterious connection. "What is this connection, Jingles? Do you know anything more about it?"

Jingles shook his head. "I don't know much more, but it's the reason why I was able to give you much more detailed information with those surges of magic." He then compared his experience with Daphne to his time with Tonks. "When I used the same technique to give information to Tonks, she never felt a surge of magic or received the information in full detail because we didn't share a connection like ours."

Daphne absorbed Jingles' explanation, intrigued by the mysterious connection they shared. Though it raised more questions, it also gave her a sense of comfort knowing that their bond was unique and special.

She thought back about Jingles mention his 'criteria' and tilted her head curiously. "What exactly are your criteria for choosing your favourite, Jingles? Can you tell me more about them?"

Jingles hesitated for a moment, seeming a bit sheepish as he stumbled over his words. "Well, um... I generally prefer girls, to be honest. They, uh, tend to have softer hands compared to boys, which is quite nice for a cat like me." He paused, trying to think of a way to explain the rest without giving away too much.

"Another important criterion is that the girl has a good heart. It's essential for me to choose someone who's kind and caring." Daphne noticed Jingles appeared to be holding back something, and she couldn't help but smirk, sensing there might be more criteria he was too shy to mention. Deciding not to press him further, she chuckled with understanding and dropped the subject, satisfied with the information he had shared.

Daphne's thoughts drifted to the Mirror of Erised and what she had seen inside. She couldn't help but ask Jingles, "Do you really think I have a good heart, even after what you learned about me from the mirror?"

Jingles reassured her, expressing a sentiment similar to what Harry had told her. "Yes, Daphne, I truly believe you have a good heart. Like Harry mentioned, you're trying to find a way to distance yourself from your parents and their actions. It's not you who's evil, it's them. They're the ones who've done terrible things, and your desire is to be free from their influence."

Feeling a bit better, Daphne suddenly remembered how transfixed Jingles had been when he looked into the mirror as well. She couldn't help but be curious. "What did you see in the mirror, Jingles?"

Jingles hesitated, seeming sheepish once more, and he apologized. "I'm sorry, Daphne, but I can't tell you right now. I promise I'll share it with you in the future, though." He quickly changed the subject, suggesting that they should try to get some sleep. "We really should get some rest now. It's been a long day, and we'll need our energy."

Daphne reluctantly agreed, giving in to her tiredness. "You're right, Jingles. Good night." As she lay in bed, she couldn't help but wonder why Jingles hadn't shared what he had seen in the mirror. She felt a twinge of sadness, thinking that maybe he didn't trust her enough yet. With that thought lingering in her mind, she finally drifted off to sleep.

~~~o~~~

Daphne stirred in her bed, her body still heavy with sleep. Her hand instinctively reached out, searching for the familiar warmth of Jingles beside her. She furrowed her brow, not finding him there, and her eyes fluttered open. The room was brighter than usual, the enchanted ceiling allowing more light to filter in than she was accustomed to.

Panic began to set in as Daphne sat up, scanning the room for Jingles. Her heart raced, worried that something had happened to him. Just as her anxiety reached its peak, a cat flap magically appeared on the door, and Jingles slipped through, his black fur glistening in the sunlight.

"Good morning, Daphne!" Jingles said cheerfully, his blue eyes sparkling. "I hope you had a good sleep. I've got some news for you – you've overslept."

Daphne sighed in relief, her heartbeat slowly returning to normal. "Jingles, you scared me. I thought something happened to you."

He gave a soft, reassuring purr. "I'm sorry, Daphne. I didn't mean to worry you. I just came back from having breakfast with Harry. I thought I'd let you sleep in a bit."

The mention of breakfast reminded Daphne of her hunger, and she quickly swung her legs over the side of the bed. "I think I'll take a bath first, and then have a late breakfast," she said, stretching her limbs.

Jingles nodded, his tail swishing gently. "Sounds like a plan."

Daphne smiled at him, grateful for his company. She stood up and headed to the bathroom, with Jingles following close behind, his soft paws padding silently on the floor.

Daphne turned the knob, releasing steaming hot water into the bathtub. She watched as it filled, the steam fogging up the bathroom mirror. As the tub neared its capacity, Daphne poured a generous amount of lavender-scented bubble bath into the water, watching the bubbles grow and multiply. She tested the temperature with her hand, finding it perfectly warm and inviting.

With a sigh, she disrobed and stepped into the tub, lowering herself into the soothing water. The tension in her muscles began to dissipate, and she closed her eyes, relishing the feeling of relaxation.

Jingles, having found a comfortable spot nearby, curled up and closed his eyes, his black fur contrasting with the pristine white bathroom tiles, the tip of his tail twitching occasionally.

As Daphne soaked in the bath, a thought crossed her mind about giving Jingles a birthday gift. She decided to ask him, her voice soft and relaxed, "Jingles, how old are you, and when is your birthday?"

Jingles opened one eye and looked thoughtful. "I'm not exactly sure," he admitted. "I think I'm around 12 to 14 years old, but it's a bit complicated. You see, I'm special in more ways than just my intelligence and magical capabilities. I also age slower than other cats. It took me two years living at the castle just to grow out of the kitten stage."

Daphne's eyes widened in surprise, her brow furrowing. "Really? That's fascinating. Can you tell me more about your past?"

Jingles hesitated before responding, his blue eyes filled with uncertainty. "To be honest, I don't think I was born at Hogwarts, but I'm not sure. I have one memory that happened outside of the castle, but I'm not sure if it's even real." He sighed. "I'd like to uncover my past too, to understand why I'm so different from other cats. As far as I know, there aren't any other magical cats like me."

Feeling playful, Daphne couldn't help but tease Jingles a little. "Speaking of other cats, do you get along with the ones here at the castle, like Mrs. Norris? Should I expect to meet any lady cat friends of yours?"

Jingles snorted, his whiskers twitching in amusement. "The other cats in the castle actively avoid me. They both fear and envy me. They fear me because they know I'm more powerful than they are, and they envy me because I receive much more attention from the students."

Daphne, intrigued by the mysterious memory Jingles mentioned, inquired further. "Can you tell me more about that memory, even if you're unsure if it's real?"

Jingles shifted his gaze, looking uncomfortable. "It's rather complicated to explain, and quite foggy," he admitted.

Determined, Daphne pressed on. "Why don't you show it to me? You were able to show me your memories when you taught me the Protego Charm, so you should be able to share other memories too."

Reluctantly, Jingles agreed. He leaped onto the edge of the bathtub, balancing gracefully. "Place your hand on my back," he instructed.

Daphne's wet hand touched Jingles' fur, and she felt another surge of magic. Her vision was filled with a hazy memory. She found herself in a warm, cosy room with wooden flooring, and toys scattered about. There were building blocks, stuffed animals, and a small broomstick leaning against the wall. The sound of a kitten meowing echoed through the space, but she couldn't see it. Muffled voices came from the distance, their words indistinct.

Suddenly, a scream pierced the air, and even though it was garbled, it sounded like someone yelling, "Harry!" Then, the memory faded to black.

When Daphne's vision cleared, Jingles looked at her expectantly, his fur damp from her wet hand. "What did you see?" he asked, trying to shake the water from his fur.

She hesitated for a moment before responding. "It looked like a child's room, and I think I heard someone screaming Harry's name at the end. Is that possible?"

Jingles nodded thoughtfully. "I think so too, but I can't be certain, as it was distorted. That memory is the main reason I'm interested in Harry. I hope that by getting to know him, I can uncover more about my own past."

Daphne considered this, and then an idea struck her. "What if we ask the Sorting Hat for help? It can see all our memories, so maybe it can make things clearer for you."

Jingles' eyes lit up with hope, and he began to purr softly, despite his damp fur. "That's an excellent idea, Daphne. We should try that as soon as we can."

Jingles chuckled softly, and Daphne looked at him curiously, her eyebrows raised. "What's so funny?" she asked, genuinely puzzled.

He smiled at her, his blue eyes warm and affectionate. "Your enthusiasm to uncover my past reminds me of my first favourite student, Melanie Fawley. She was a quiet girl, but very gifted. It was she who found the plea spell in her seventh year and attempted it with me, but unfortunately, we were unsuccessful." His gaze turned determined, and his whiskers twitched. "Now that the plea is in place, I'm confident that together, we can uncover my past."

Daphne smiled reassuringly, her eyes filled with determination. "I'm eager to help you, Jingles. I want to learn more about you too." Her expression turned serious as she remembered Jingles withholding information from her earlier. "But do you trust me?"

Jingles looked confused at her question, his ears tilting slightly. Daphne elaborated, her voice soft but insistent. "You still haven't told me what you saw in the mirror, and that makes me doubt if you fully trust me."

His eyes widened, and he replied adamantly, "Daphne, I trust you with my life. The reason I haven't told you what I saw in the mirror is that I'm not sure it was real. How can I know what I desire most if I don't understand my own past? That's the only reason I haven't shared it with you."

Daphne nodded, understanding his perspective. However, she couldn't resist splashing him with water, letting out her frustration. Droplets of water sparkled in the air, catching the light from the bathroom candles.

Jingles hissed playfully, his fur sticking up in damp spikes, and Daphne giggled, her laughter echoing off the bathroom walls. She then looked at him earnestly, her blue eyes meeting his. "No more secrets between us, okay? I'm willing to let it slide for now, as you promised to tell me eventually."

With that agreement, Daphne reached for the edge of the bathtub and slowly rose from the water. The bubbles clung to her skin momentarily before sliding back into the tub. She stepped onto the cold bathroom floor, grabbed a fluffy towel, and wrapped it around herself. Drying her body, she couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

Jingles, still slightly damp from the splash, grumbled good-naturedly as Daphne dried him with a smaller towel, paying special attention to his fur so that it wouldn't mat. Once they were both dry, she dressed in her Hogwarts uniform, her fingers deftly fastening the buttons and adjusting her tie.

With everything in order, she and Jingles left her room and made their way to the Great Hall.

~~~o~~~

Daphne and Jingles entered the Great Hall, only to find it eerily deserted. The morning sunlight streamed in through the tall windows, casting long shadows across the empty tables.

Unfazed, Daphne chose a seat at the nearest table and looked up at the enchanted ceiling. "I'd like a bowl of cooked beef for Jingles, please, and some breakfast for me."

Moments later, the food appeared with a soft plop. A steaming bowl of cooked beef materialized in front of Jingles, while a plate of fluffy scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and buttered toast appeared before Daphne. They both looked at their food appreciatively and began to eat, savouring each delicious bite.

As Daphne chewed thoughtfully, she couldn't help but wonder about Harry's whereabouts. "Jingles," she said between mouthfuls, "do you know where Harry might be?"

Jingles paused from devouring his beef and shook his head. "I'm not certain, but he might be in the Room of Requirement."

Daphne raised an eyebrow, curious. "The Room of Requirement? What is that?"

Jingles licked his paw, taking a moment to clean his whiskers. "Ah, I see you don't know it by that name. The Room of Requirement is actually the secret hideout that you, Harry, and your friends have been using. It's a magical room that can transform into anything you need it to be."

"Ah, so that's what it's called," Daphne murmured, glancing around cautiously. "I've been meaning to ask you about how to summon the door for it. Can you tell me now?"

Jingles chuckled softly. "You know, I thought at least one of you would have figured it out by now. Watching your fruitless attempts was rather amusing, especially Tracey's. She would get so frustrated when the door wouldn't appear." He took another bite of cooked beef before continuing, "It's really quite simple. You just pace three times in front of the wall where the door is hidden and envision what you want the room to look like, what you need it for, stuff like that. You can also set rules for who can enter. When I summon it for you, I always make sure that only our group can enter while we're using it. Though I doubt anyone else knows of its existence."

Jingles paused for a moment, his azure gaze drifting toward a window as if lost in thought. "Melanie found that room during her time at Hogwarts, completely by accident too. She needed a place to hide from some of her bullies, and she just so happened to frantically run up and down that corridor. Unlike you guys, she figured out how to summon it within a day. I sometimes wonder where she is now and what she's doing." His voice trailed off, filled with nostalgia.

Daphne nodded solemnly. "Alright. Also, you need to teach me how to talk to you through our connection. If anyone were to spot me right now, they'd think I've gone mad and am talking to myself."

Jingles gave her a knowing look, understanding the need for discreet communication. "Of course, Daphne. Let's do it right now." He sauntered over and started licking her hand. Daphne glanced down at him, puzzled, as his tiny tongue grazed the back of her hand. "What are you doing?" she inquired.

Jingles responded while continuing to lick her hand, "You can easily pinpoint where I'm licking you through your nerves, right?" He paused and gazed up at her. "Now, you 'hear' my voice inside your head since my thoughts are transmitted to you through our connection. When I send you my thoughts, you should feel them coming in, similar to a nerve. Focus on that sensation as I talk to you." Daphne nodded, and Jingles spoke slowly, "Isolate the connection. Determine where my thoughts are coming from."

Daphne concentrated intently, attempting to pinpoint the source of the incoming thoughts. Suddenly, she sensed it. He was correct in saying it felt akin to a nerve. "I think I've got it," she informed him. Jingles nodded back, "Good, now think of anything—a simple sentence or even a single word. Then direct that thought toward the connection. If done correctly, I'll receive the thought and hear it in my head as if I were thinking it myself."

Daphne followed his instructions, sending a simple "Hello Jingles" through the connection. Jingles purred softly in response, "Hello Daphne." Daphne smiled at him, pleasantly surprised by the ease of the process.

As they finished their breakfast, Jingles tilted his head curiously, "Daphne, about your idea with the Sorting Hat, how would we even get to it?"

Daphne recalled the conversation she had with the Sorting Hat during her sorting. "Oh, right. The Sorting Hat told me that it wanted to speak with me again later. It said all I have to do is ask my Head of House, and they would have to give me the hat for a chat."

Jingles nodded, his blue eyes narrowing with concern. "You need to be cautious around Snape, Daphne. After your first Potions class, he tried to use Legilimency on you. Ever since, he's been avoiding me whenever he can, which is quite unusual compared to the other Professors."

Daphne's eyes widened in surprise. "Really? I didn't notice any Legilimency attempt. Are you sure?"

Jingles confirmed, "I'm positive. Snape also attempted Legilimency on me, but I just bombarded his probe with thoughts about my favourite food." His whiskers twitched with amusement at the memory.

With their conversation concluded, Daphne and Jingles left the Great Hall together, heading towards the dungeons where Professor Snape's office was located. The torch-lit corridors cast eerie shadows as they ventured deeper, preparing themselves for the encounter with the enigmatic Potions Master.

~~~o~~~

Daphne and Jingles approached the door of Snape's office, and she knocked on it politely. The door swung open, revealing the Potions Master seated behind his desk, his dark eyes regarding them with a mixture of curiosity and suspicion.

"Good morning, Professor Snape," Daphne greeted him with a courteous smile.

Snape's eyes narrowed as he asked, "What do you want, Miss Greengrass?"

Daphne hesitated for a moment, her voice uncertain as she explained, "I'd like to have a chat with the Sorting Hat, if that's possible."

Surprise flickered across Snape's face, though he quickly composed himself. "Very well. Go to the Potions classroom. I will retrieve the hat and meet you there."

Daphne nodded and left the office with Jingles. They made their way to the Potions classroom, the air growing colder as they descended deeper into the dungeon. Upon entering the dimly lit room, with its rows of wooden benches and glass jars filled with mysterious ingredients, they chose a spot near the front and waited for Snape's return.

After a short while, Snape entered the classroom, carrying the Sorting Hat in his hands. He placed it on a table and turned to face Daphne. "I will give you thirty minutes," he informed her, his tone stern. With a wave of his wand, he conjured an hourglass that began to tick down.

"Thank you, Professor," Daphne said with a small nod. Snape left the potions classroom, closing the door behind him. Daphne turned to Jingles, her brow knit with worry. "So, um, I just realized that the hat won't fit you at all."

The Sorting Hat chuckled, surprising both Daphne and Jingles. "Don't worry, Miss Greengrass. Just place me on your feline friend's head, and it will work out, I promise. But I must insist that you and I have a chat afterward. I'm quite curious about how your life has developed since our last conversation."

Daphne hesitated for a moment, then picked up the Sorting Hat with care. As she gently lowered it onto Jingles' head, the hat magically shrank in size and formed two holes for his ears. It fit him perfectly, and Daphne couldn't help but smile at the adorable sight of Jingles wearing the Sorting Hat.

Jingles spoke up, "Sorting Hat, please speak aloud. Daphne can hear our conversation as well." The Hat agreed, "Very well. I understand you're seeking answers about your past. You're wondering why you're different from other cats and why you have no memory of your family. However, I cannot provide those answers. You're looking for clarity on your only memory from before waking up at Hogwarts in the Hospital Wing."

The Hat paused, deep in thought. "You may not like my response, but I cannot make your memories clearer or tell you if they are real or not. Our minds are peculiar things. Sometimes they create false memories or store incorrect information as truth. Since I can only read your mind, I cannot determine the reality of your memories."

Jingles' head drooped in disappointment. The Sorting Hat continued, "Still, I can offer some advice. You fear raising people's hopes, like not telling Harry about your cloudy memory or anyone about what you saw in the Mirror of Erised, simply because you doubt yourself. Sometimes, you'll need to disappoint others to progress, but that's not the end of the world. For now, I agree that investigating the Potter family more closely may reveal answers. Surely, someone alive would know if the Potters had a kitten."

Jingles nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Hat. That's all I need from you." Daphne carefully removed the hat from Jingles' head, and it returned to its original size. With a sigh, she donned the hat herself.

The Sorting Hat's voice echoed in her mind, "Ah, Miss Greengrass, it's been too long. Now let me see how well you took my advice." Daphne interrupted, "Please speak aloud, Hat. I have nothing to hide from Jingles."

The Hat obliged, "Very well. I'm pleased to see that you've become friends with Mr. Potter. If I had sorted him before you, I would have suggested you make his acquaintance. However, alphabetical order prohibited that. Confiding in him was a wise decision, as you now know he shares a similar fate to yours. As you've noticed, he was raised by Muggles, so he knows little about our world, let alone the power he could wield. I recommend you teach him. Your upbringing, combined with his fame, power, and wealth, could provide a way for both of you to escape your current situations."

Daphne blushed slightly, and the Hat chuckled, "I didn't necessarily mean marriage, Miss Greengrass. You can advise him by simply being a friend. Your parents wouldn't approve, but that might make the idea more appealing to you. Regarding your plan, it could give you more control over your life, but you must realize that Jingles won't be much help in gathering information about older boys, as he prefers the company of girls."

Jingles meowed softly, avoiding eye contact. Daphne laughed, "While you might be right, I still think he can be helpful." The Hat agreed, "Indeed. I won't dissuade you from your plan, as it doesn't conflict with my suggestion about Harry. For now, focus on building your friendship. As for your concerns about Jingles, having seen both your minds, don't worry about him leaving you. When you finally leave Hogwarts, I wouldn't be surprised if a certain feline also doesn't return. Hopefully, by then, you've uncovered his past and escaped your family."

Daphne felt relieved and shared a glance with Jingles, who purred contentedly. The Hat continued, "That's all I have for now. You're on a good path, and I'm confident you'll achieve your goal of living your own life."

"Thank you, Sorting Hat," Daphne said, removing the Hat and placing it on the table. Moments later, Professor Snape entered the room. "I hope your chat with the Hat was... enlightening," he said.

"It was indeed. Thank you, sir." She picked up Jingles and left the classroom. Over their connection, she suggested, "Let's find Harry. He should be in the Great Hall for lunch."

Jingles nodded but added, "Please, don't tell him about the memory until we know it's real. I don't want to break his heart by making him think I might have belonged to his family."

Daphne frowned, "But if he knew, it would make investigating the Potter family easier. He'd be willing to help. Didn't you hear the Sorting Hat?"

Jingles hung his head, "I heard it loud and clear. But I'm not ready yet to risk disappointing people, even if it's just a chance."

Daphne knew it was futile to push him further, so they continued the rest of the way in silence.

~~~o~~~

As Harry sat in the Great Hall, he found himself reflecting on the day's events. He remembered noticing Daphne's absence during breakfast and figured she must have overslept. Jingles had come to him, and he happily got the cat his breakfast.

After breakfast, Harry had headed to the Gryffindor common room, where he decided to play some chess. The 'hard' difficulty setting proved to be too much for him, but he managed a few wins against the 'medium' setting, feeling a sense of accomplishment.

Later, he had a chat with the Weasley twins, Fred and George, who informed him that they had successfully made it past Fluffy, the three-headed dog. Their excitement and mischievous grins were contagious.

As Harry's thoughts returned to the present, he spotted Daphne approaching him in the Great Hall.

"Hey, Daphne! Finally decided to join the land of the living?" he greeted her with a grin, playfully teasing her for oversleeping.

Daphne rolled her eyes good-naturedly and took a seat next to him. "Very funny, Harry. I suppose it's a crime to enjoy a little extra sleep once in a while," she retorted with a smirk.

They happily chatted and enjoyed their lunch together, a heaping plate of golden roast chicken, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, and brightly coloured steamed vegetables, followed by a dessert of treacle tart with a dollop of whipped cream.

Harry's thoughts drifted back to the Gringotts break-in when a thought suddenly struck him. He connected the dots and realized that whatever Hagrid had retrieved from Gringotts before the break-in might be guarded by Fluffy in the third-floor corridor.

He decided to share his thoughts with Daphne and Jingles. "You know, I visited Gringotts with Hagrid before school started, and we retrieved something from a vault. That same vault was broken into later. I think whatever was in there might be here at Hogwarts now."

Daphne became thoughtful and agreed with Harry. "That's a possibility. Do you have any Galleons on you, Harry?"

"Well, I have some in my trunk, thanks to your guidance," he replied, wondering why she asked. "Why?"

Daphne explained her idea. "We may need to have another meeting with the Weasley twins and buy the information about what they found past Fluffy."

Harry nodded in agreement. "That sounds like a good idea. But I might have something else the twins would be interested in." Daphne raised her eyebrows, curious about what he meant.

"I know the true identities of the Marauders, and I'm pretty sure the twins are big fans of them," he said.

Daphne nodded. "That's worth a try. So, who are the Marauders, anyway?"

As Harry recounted the stories Professor McGonagall had shared with him about his father and his friends, who became known as the Marauders, Daphne listened intently, her eyes sparkling with interest.

After he finished, Daphne playfully suggested, "You know, maybe you should try pulling a few pranks at some point as well. You seem really fascinated by the Marauders."

Harry grinned at her and replied, "Maybe one day. But we have other things to worry about for now."

Once they finished lunch, Harry discreetly asked the Weasley twins if they could meet in an hour at the same place as last time. The twins exchanged excited glances and agreed enthusiastically, their faces stretching into wide grins as they sensed they had gained a new customer.

~~~o~~~

Jingles, Daphne, and Harry entered the unused classroom where the Weasley twins were already waiting for them. Fred and George grinned playfully as they greeted the trio. "What can we do for the youngest Seeker in a century, his Slytherin lady friend, and their faithful feline companion?" Fred teased.

Daphne took charge of the conversation and got straight to the point. "We want to know what you found beyond Fluffy," she said firmly.

George raised his eyebrows, curiosity piqued. "And why exactly would you want to know that?" he asked.

Daphne coolly replied, "That's none of your business." The twins exchanged a glance and shrugged, deciding not to press further.

Fred then brought up the matter of payment. "So, what are you offering in exchange for this information?"

Harry stepped in, suggesting, "I have information that you two might be very interested in."

George leaned in, intrigued. "Oh? And what information might that be?"

"I know the true identities of the Marauders," Harry revealed.

The twins' eyes lit up with excitement, and they readily agreed to the exchange. Daphne prompted them to share their findings first.

Fred began recounting their adventure, "We got past Fluffy by enchanting a flute. Under the trapdoor, we found Devil's Snare."

George continued, "But we easily got past that using Lumos. After that, we found a room filled with hundreds of flying keys."

"There was a broom in the room," Fred said, "but we couldn't catch, let alone locate the correct key."

George revealed what they saw through the keyhole of the locked door. "We caught a glimpse of a dimly lit room with what appeared to be statues inside."

Fred sighed, "We had to turn back after that, but we're planning on practicing our Seeker skills to hopefully catch the right key next time."

With a playful grin, George leaned towards Harry and asked, "Got any pointers on how to be a good Seeker?"

Harry shrugged, "I'm not really sure what makes a good Seeker. I usually just focus really hard on finding the Snitch and, well, I guess I have decent enough reflexes to catch it."

He then went on to explain the Marauders to the twins in more detail. "You see, my dad, James Potter, was Prongs. Then there was Sirius Black, who was Padfoot, and Remus Lupin, who was Moony. The last one was Peter Pettigrew, also known as Wormtail. They were best friends at Hogwarts and became known as the Marauders for their various pranks.

Fred and George were amazed to learn that Harry was actually the son of Prongs, their eyes wide with wonder and excitement as they listened intently to Harry's explanation.

With the exchange complete, Daphne, Harry, and Jingles went to the Room of Requirement. They decided to wait for Hermione and Tracey to return before investigating further. They hoped that by then the twins might have made more progress, although they knew they would have to buy that information if it came to it.

As the holidays passed, Daphne, Harry, and Jingles continued to grow closer. They spent their days exploring the hidden corners of the castle, playing chess and other games in the Room of Requirement, all while deepening their friendship through laughter and shared experiences.

To Daphne's dismay, Harry couldn't resist making a few more visits to the Mirror. However, one day, it simply vanished. Harry's shoulders slumped and his eyes appeared distant. Daphne and Jingles tried to lift his spirits with playful banter and gentle teasing.

On New Year's Eve, all the Professors and remaining students gathered in the Great Hall to celebrate. The hall had been magically transformed, with twinkling fairy lights adorning the walls and floating silver and gold balloons that bounced gently in the air. Tables laden with delectable treats and drinks lined the sides of the hall, offering an array of mouth-watering choices.

As the countdown to midnight began, excitement buzzed through the air. Everyone's eyes were on the large, enchanted clock that hung above the entrance, its hands ticking closer and closer to the hour. When the clock finally struck twelve, a cheer erupted from the crowd, and as the year flipped over, they sent sparks flying into the enchanted ceiling. The sparks burst into a dazzling display of lights and colours, resembling a fireworks show that painted the night sky above them with brilliant hues.

A few days into the new year, the time had finally come. Around dinner time that night, Hermione and Tracey would return, and Daphne and Harry had so much to tell them. The anticipation was palpable as they eagerly awaited their friends' arrival.