So the weeks went by and little by little Naruto's roommates thought that their whiskered friend was going crazy, Neville discovered that the blonde was sleeping little when he woke up to go to the bathroom and saw and heard " Lumos " in a bright light behind the curtains -Naruto - he whispered softly and heard a gasp from the blonde when he peeked out.
-Oh Neville, what are you doing awake? -Neville turns his head slightly trying to see the notebook and the pile of papers on the bed, Naruto has been keeping the curtain stretched around his bed these days.
-That's what I ask... Can't you sleep? - Naruto shakes his head.
-I'm studying- Neville blinks, he can't believe it , he certainly doesn't, he doesn't believe that the blonde with a strict sleep schedule broke it just to study.
-… I see - Neville says deciding that he didn't want to do an interrogation that night.
But maybe after that Seamus and Dean told him about Naruto studying at night, of course at first they didn't believe him, but when they decided to stay awake to spy they didn't need to get up to feel a small light coming from between the curtains of Naruto's bed.
-Please Captain Oliver -Naruto raises his hands and puts them together as he begs.
-No, no, I can't and you know it - Oliver says picking up his Quidditch gloves - What if Percy Weasley finds out or even worse McGonagall does? They'll kill me and even worse! They'll leave me out of the team so close to a match -
-Come on, they don't have to find out - the blonde continued to insist - you know that if they find out, they'll think that I just snuck into the Quidditch cellar, I'll never mention your name! - Oliver can't help but look away from Naruto's bright blue puppy eyes that were starting to gather him with a pout...
Naruto at first thought this was a good idea, it had taken her years to convince Oliver to let her use it and now that she saw the trunk writhe she was regretting it a little.
She fiercely shakes her head before slapping her cheeks.
This was the second time she used it and let's just say that the first time she did it... it didn't go so well, moving forward slowly she opens the trunk and unties the ropes getting ready.
-one -she releases the first one -d-two -she pulls the hook of the second one -three! -she finishes pulling the strings, moving away quickly when the Bludger shoots up into the sky before aiming directly at her.
Adjusting herself by stretching her leg out slightly, she got into her taijutsu stance and then felt the screeching sound of the Bludger cutting through the air from the speed at which it was going, rotating on her outstretched leg, quickly dodging like a matador dodging a bull, before ducking as the Bludger instantly turned to pursue her again.
He jumps, placing one hand on the Bludger in the air and rotating on it before crouching again and sliding across the grass at full speed.
Naruto could tell that dodging a Bludger was difficult, even for her who had years of learning to dodge, maybe that was why they hit them.
For the blonde it was only a few seconds of thoughts and they were, but for the ball it was enough to reach Naruto, she opened her eyes wide when she saw for a second the Bludger hit her stomach with brutality, releasing all the air she had she let herself be dragged to the ground and tried to hold on to the sphere barely managing it without any Chakra... she was sure that this was something she wouldn't have been able to do if she wasn't trying to gain physical strength, she got up in pain, her arms trembled as the Bludger, in addition to wanting to fly away again, hit her bruised ribs.
I tie it well before closing the trunk tightly, letting out a painful but relieved sigh, I fall softly onto the grass, looking at the reddish sky, breathing as softly as I can while feeling the grass on the fingers of my hands, I slowly raise one arm and with my other hand I remove the now very worn glove from that hand before doing the same with the other.
Now feeling the grass all over the palm of her hands, she wrinkles her nose thoughtfully, trying not to fall into the same old words… the same painful words she was saying to herself.
But it was as if her mind couldn't let it go, her mouth opened and the two words came out -stupid Naruto- she finished before opening her eyes horrified for having returned to that, she already knew that saying all that would get her nowhere, so...
BAM!
Naruto slapped his cheek hard before sitting up, his eyes shining too brightly…
This time, even if it hurts…
I look at the quidditch trunk pressing into the grass, I stand up
She knew this was one of the few ways she could prove she was more than people thought and she wasn't going to…
He opened the trunk, taking a deep breath.
- Let's do something, when you come back you will show me that new Naruto, one who is not giving up, one full of courage and guts -
The words echoed, before he looked at the Bludger, his eyes narrowing into slits, now he had a sharp gaze like a lion who had just found his prey -let's start- he murmurs and removes the strings again….
-Naruto has been as weird as Ginny - Ron comments sitting in the dining room next to Harry and Hermione.
-Whiskers have always been unique - Fred says as he grabs some chicken for dinner.
"I don't understand why we should worry now either," George says as Harry raises an eyebrow.
-What if he's preparing a joke? -He then smiles and continues talking before getting an answer from the twins- For you? -That makes the twins look at each other, Jordan who is next to them just sighs at the half-closed eyes and the mental preparation that both boys must be having to try to dodge a joke from Naruto.
Naruto lets out a laugh - a joke for Fred and George? - it was Hermione who asked and now it was Harry, Ron and Hermione herself who raised an eyebrow watching as Naruto let out one laugh after another - remember I told you I was preparing for the last test? That's what I've been doing for the last month! -
-So... you were really studying - Naruto nods at Ron's statement, and looks at his classmates.
-I'm sorry I've been busy these days to help investigate a little more you know -Naruto looks at Hermione with a little more seriousness- but I'm trying to use a lot of my head on this ttebayo –…
Harry walked around a bit before curfew, before deciding he wanted to get out for a bit.
He thought it would be kind of funny if he was petrified right now… he's not sure if people will ultimately think he's not the Heir of Slytherin or think the Heir of Slytherin himself was petrified.
He then hears a scream of pain and jumps a little, looking around he sees nothing but his feet wobble a little before he runs in search of the scream before seeing the big whomping willow, he wrinkles his nose at the memory, before seeing a person who because of the shadow of the sunset couldn't be seen clearly, he was on the ground holding his stomach tightly and then he raised his head and saw a Bludger going at top speed directly towards that person - careful! - Harry exclaims loudly, the person raises his head slightly before doing a somersault in the air remaining standing.
Harry could only stand in shock as he saw how little fear that person had towards such a dangerous sphere. He had a strange posture and when the Bludger lunged forward at the person, he saw why.
The reaction was quick and without many mistakes, his stretched leg would come back every time he changed direction and when the Bludger was about to touch him he would crouch or jump -that's... Incredible- then the person jumped, his hand at full speed, leaned on the Bludger and simply jumped over it as if it were no big deal.
Then Harry took a step forward without noticing that there was a twig on the ground, breaking the person finally looked at him startled and then the green-eyed boy would have preferred not to have moved, the Bludger hit one of the person's legs, who fell face down to the ground, Harry didn't know what to do, but he didn't need to react when the person had something in his hands, something that was undoubtedly a wand - Immobulus - then Harry recognized that voice... it was his friend, he had just distracted his friend and that was surely why she was hurt.
He saw how the Bludger instead of stopping was propelled backwards until it ended up frozen between the trees, surprising Harry, Naruto had undoubtedly not been able to perform that spell correctly before during the class where they explained this spell and of course, although he had sent her flying, he had paralyzed her. "Naruto! Are you okay?" Harry was very upset inside by that question, it was obvious that his friend was not okay, she had just been hit by a Bludger.
-Oh, hello Harry! -Naruto answers looking sore before leaning on her hands shakily, she was very tired after that training.
Harry walks over and helps Naruto sit down on the grass a little - it's part of your training, right? - Harry frowns as he looks at Naruto's leg, it didn't look broken, but it was shaking a lot, like a bell hit hard with a wooden log - that was... too dangerous -
Naruto just puffs out his cheeks and crosses his arms - he wouldn't have caught me if you hadn't distracted me - Harry sighs sitting next to Naruto on the grass…
-I think… you'll win –Harry says almost in a whisper.
Naruto raises his head slightly and looks at Harry -like... How can you say this without knowing who I'm going to face? - Harry shrugs.
-I'm supposed to have survived against one of the most powerful dark wizards when I was a baby, things don't make much sense, I think you'll win based on how I've seen you fight until you get things that you yourself don't believe you'll get- Naruto couldn't help but give a sincere and small smile at the words -Well now... changing the subject, how did you think of practicing with a Bludger?!-
That startles the blonde who just laughs nervously and ruffles her hair a little while with her other hand she rubs the fabric of her sweatshirt, her robes had been thrown into the grass when she had started training -and- I decided to start training with a Bludger when I thought I would need something to test out my new way… of fighting, plus I want to learn the Bludger pattern - that makes Harry narrow his eyes.
-And you think the best way is to choose the object that has an unpredictable pattern -that makes Naruto shake his head and puff out his chest with pride.
- look, it seems like the Bludger doesn't seem to have any pattern or sense but, really they do - Harry lets out a shriek as the blonde gets up, wobbling a bit on her injured leg before being able to walk properly again surprising Harry, Naruto grabs the paralyzed Bludger in the air, it seemed to want to fight against the Immobulus charm, without really being able to - but really after a while you start to understand well how it works and how it chases you, it detects the player and moves too fast to stop before being dodged and when it is then it chases the next closest player, since it's only me it always chases me but it always gets past so I only worry about keeping my distance and dodging when necessary ttebayo - Harry could see it as Naruto put the Bludger away.
- How did you come up with that? - Naruto hesitated a little while he closed the trunk properly and with his wand he tapped the trunk a little, then the trunk began to move like crazy, shaking and shaking trying to escape.
-Well... it's a bit silly... but I thought that learning about something as complicated as a Bludger would help me improve in understanding who I would fight against, despite being different - Naruto mocks his idea a little.
-Nurse Pomfrey must not be happy about this - Naruto sighs and shudders a little.
-Yes... That's true -Naruto moves back and forth on his heels to the tips of his toes -it's getting tiring that I go to the infirmary so much-
-I think she's more worried because you're getting hurt too often- Harry stands up and walks beside Naruto as they head back to the castle.
-Y-yeah… I don't think so - Naruto whispers, but just shakes his head and gives Harry a smile.
-I have another question, when did you learn to use Immobulus ? -That makes Naruto smile a little.
-You know I wasn't good at that before and I just pushed the object instead of paralyzing it, well I didn't know how to stop the Bludger and one day I decided to try... it didn't work, I ended up in the infirmary, the second time it was the same, but I was able to push it a little before getting out of the way, the third time I paralyzed it for a few seconds and then... - Naruto wasn't quite sure at what point he managed to paralyze her.
- You don't know when it was, do you? - Harry raised an amused eyebrow at how Naruto puffed out his cheeks, a sign that she was a little annoyed.
- We're just going to the tower! -….
Naruto had finished his training and had arrived at the tower hoping not to run into Percy, curfew had arrived half an hour ago and she hadn't even noticed.
-saved- she sighed as she entered the common room before noticing Harry sitting in one of the seats -Harry- she whispered, the fire felt nice as she approached her friend, who had the diary in one hand and a quill in the other.
-Oh Naruto- Harry replied in an excited whisper -come here you have to see this- confused, she rubbed her fingers against the fabric of his robes before walking over, Harry moved a little to the side and Naruto sat down next to him, it was tight, it was supposed to be a chair for one, Harry had ink in a bottle next to him, he took the quill and dipped some ink in it and wrote.
Now I'm with a friend, her name is Naruto Uzumaki
Naruto is confused that Harry mentioned her and now even more so when the letters slowly disappeared.
Surprised, Naruto gasps and adjusts. "How?!" he exclaims and Harry hisses.
-Don't make too much noise- Naruto covers his mouth and nods fiercely but can't help but let out a squeal when new letters appear
Uzumaki?
The diary asked and Harry went back to writing.
Yes because?
For a few seconds the newspaper did not answer
No, just curious
-Toma has told me a lot about what happened fifty years ago -Harry explains quietly, the only thing louder than his voice was the crackling of the flames- fifty years ago, the Chamber of Secrets had been opened and a student was murdered-
- Killed? Not petrified? - Naruto hesitates and Harry shakes his head –"So, if it could be a basilisk, if so, why hasn't Mione chan told me anything about what I sent her?" –
-And Toma caught him, the person was expelled and told to keep the secret of everything that happened, so they gave him a trophy and he received the award for helping the school –
- Did you find out that it is happening again?
-That's what I was going to do when you arrived -Harry answers again putting some ink in his pen and writes.
It's happening again, there have been three attacks already and no one seems to know who is doing it...
Harry hesitated a moment before continuing.
Who was it that did it back then?
The words disappeared and others appeared.
If you want I can show you… show you already… Uzumaki
- Show us... how would he show us? - Naruto feels a strange thorn in his heart, the danger signal was alerting him.
-It's not- Harry was also scared, he looked towards the door that led to the stairs of the tower, it was already very late, he discreetly snuggled a little closer to Naruto.
I can show you through my memories
-mmh there's a similar technique where I live -Naruto squints at the diary- mind control-
-But we should know- Harry is also doubting, more now that Naruto told him about that technique to control minds, but at the same time, he wanted to know who had been the one who released whatever was in the Chamber of Secrets -W-we will be fine-
Naruto looks at the journal for a few more seconds before nodding -okay-
And that was the same thing Harry wrote…
The pages changed, one after another as if a strong wind was pushing them, until they reached a specific page, the one assigned to be June 13.
Then a bright light appeared between the pages and before they knew it it was as if the book had swallowed them.
Harry kept his eyes closed, trembling as he held onto Naruto's hand when he noticed he was on solid ground - Harry, doesn't this look like... Albus's office to you, eye-chan! - that makes Harry open his eyes and confirms it, it was Dumbledore's office, the same one he had visited after what happened to Justin.
-It's true -Harry doesn't let go of Naruto's hand and looks around, there were some differences here and there, maybe this... wasn't his office right now.
Naruto lets out a shriek and pulls Harry towards one of the corners of the room - What's wrong? - Naruto covers his mouth with his hand and points to the desk, then he sees him, it was definitely not Dumbledore, he was a delicate looking wizard, with many wrinkles and bald, except for some white hairs, he seemed too concentrated on reading a letter.
-I-I think it's best to go -Harry whispers when Naruto removes his hand, the blonde wrinkles her nose in distrust -Please, we're invading your office -In the end the blonde sighs and lets Harry pull her hand to be in front of the desk again -Excuse me for intruding -Harry says out loud.
Naruto gets up and turns her head like a confused kitten when the old man didn't react and continued reading - hey, Harry is talking to you ttebayo! - she exclaims loudly, but she doesn't get an answer either, was the old man ignoring them - hey old man! -
- Naruto! -Harry squeals trying to stop his friend from sulking at being ignored, now they were both talking loudly.
Naruto noticed that even so the old man didn't even raise his head, she puffed out her cheeks, used to it, it didn't mean that she liked it.
-I don't think... c-can see us- Harry says and that removes Naruto's frown and puffed cheeks.
As if to prove this theory, the old man stood up and walked past them as if they didn't exist to open the curtains, making it clear that it was getting dark.
- We traveled in time! - Naruto exclaims in surprise, jumping to his feet, before Harry pulled on his hand that he was still holding, causing him to stumble on his feet - Hey... Why? -
-I don't think it's a time travel as such... we're just in the memories -
Then there was a knock on the door, startling Naruto and Harry, they turned around when the old man said "come in" and a boy appeared.
It was a boy of about sixteen who entered taking off his pointed hat. On his chest shone a silver prefect's badge,
He was much taller than both of them, well Harry and Naruto were still quite small for their age, but Naruto could compare that dark head with his friend's.
-Ah, Riddle -said the director
"You wanted to see me, Professor Dippet?" Riddle asked. He looked flustered.
"Sit down," Dippet said. "I've just read the letter you sent me."
"Ah!" Riddle exclaimed, and sat down, clasping his hands tightly together.
"My boy," said Dippet kindly, "I'm afraid I can't let you stay at school over the summer. I suppose you'll want to go home for the holidays."
-No- Riddle replied immediately- I would rather stay at Hogwarts than go back to that... to that...-
"I believe he spends his holidays in a Muggle orphanage, right?" Dippet asked curiously.
"Yes, sir," Riddle replied, blushing slightly.
- Are you from a muggle family? -
"Half-way, sir," said Riddle. "By a Muggle father and a witch mother." "And both are—?" "My mother died shortly after I was born, sir. At the orphanage I was told she had lived just long enough to be given a name: Tom after my father, and Sórbalo after my grandfather."
Dippet clicked his tongue in sympathy. "The thing is, Tom," he sighed, "an exception could have been made for you, but under the present circumstances…"
- You mean the attacks, sir? - said Riddle, making Naruto's heart and probably Harry's speed up, attentive to what they were going to say next.
-Muggle father… witch mother -Naruto murmurs softly… that could be his case, from what little he knew he had received his last name from his mother, who surely had magic.
Naruto felt the tug as Harry approached, probably not wanting to miss out on the information either.
"Exactly," said the Headmaster. "My boy, you must realise how irresponsible it would be for me to allow you to stay at the castle after the end of term. Especially after the tragedy… the death of that poor girl… You will be much safer at the orphanage. In fact, the Ministry of Magic is considering closing the school. I don't think we'll be able to locate the… find out the source of all these unpleasant events…" Riddle's eyes widened.
-Sir, if that person were captured… If everything were over… -
"What do you mean?" Dippet asked, letting out a roar. He sat up. "Riddle, do you know anything about these assaults?"
"No, sir," Riddle replied quickly. Dippet sank back into his seat, slightly disappointed. "You may go, Tom." Riddle rose from his seat and stomped out of the room.
Naruto and Harry followed him, but the green-eyed boy mentions -those words-
- What words? -
-Well, do you remember when I was taken to Dumbledore's office when Justin was petrified? -Naruto nods -he asked me if I had anything else to say… I had that same tone, I didn't want to tell him about the voices… but I guess that's just something curious- Harry moves faster dragging Naruto for a few seconds before getting used to his pace.
Then Naruto saw Toma drop a piece of paper, he let go of Harry's hand when he saw that the paper was open and the contents could be seen.
Harry continued to follow Toma.
It seemed as if he had transcribed from a book, in a poem about the basilisk.
The basilica is a creature to be feared.
In a flash of his gaze, yours freezes.
There's no way to escape
Much less to confront.
If anyone manages to survive.
It would be the one with golden blood .
But it's just a legend.
Let whoever can flee.
Since there is not
Way to escape
Much less to face
Naruto was paralyzed by what was written, golden blood was what they called the people descended from Uzumaki, as Albus had told him... but.
Naruto jumped as the paper was picked up, he looked up to see Toma taking the paper and putting it in the pocket of his Slytherin cloak, it was totally different from the robes Naruto and Harry had, it was more like the ones fourth years and up had.
-Naruto what's wrong? -Harry asks coming back looking worried -I got worried when you let go of my hand and you weren't next to me anymore- Naruto looks back at Toma before turning back to Harry.
-I have something to tell you- they walked again, Harry took Naruto's hand tightly as he followed Toma- do you remember that last year I had been looking for information about my family... about Uzumaki- Harry nods.
-You never told me what you found- Naruto twists a little, his fingers on his free hand rubbing against the fabric of his robe.
-Well, I heard about a legend, one that explained that there were two wizards, one who was unknown and another who called himself Uzumaki, who in addition to having magic was able to control the vital energy of the body... Chakra, both had their own legacy, the unknown wizard wanted magic to remain among the purebloods while Uzumaki wanted all people to be able to learn about Chakra, there was a war and in the end Uzumaki decided that both ideas would separate and a veil was created between the hidden land and... the one you know - Naruto finishes the first part.
-So you are… -Harry looked surprised and Naruto laughed nervously.
-I don't know, maybe I'm just a muggle daughter and the magic gene was awakened in me, and Albus Ojii-chan told me that everything is possibly distorted -
- And why don't many people know about the legend? –
-According to Albus Ojii chan, a long time ago people who matched Uzumaki's red hair were hunted -Harry looked at Naruto's fluffy, but not red hair, making him laugh -I think I got this from my father -Naruto points to his head -and that's why Merlin forbade talking about the legend again, that's why there are so few wizards who know of the existence of the hidden land or Uzumaki, but again it's just a legend…. -then Naruto looked ahead -something that apparently… also interested Tom. You see Albus Ojii chan also said that they hunted Uzumaki look-alikes because of what they called them, golden blood , and that there are writings that claimed that the blood of Uzumaki's descendants improved the healing of wounds, strength and other things -
Harry thought about the words before feeling a huge worry press on his chest -be careful, maybe the person who opened the chamber of secrets is looking for you… what if he tries to kill you! - Naruto even though she now felt a little worried too, but at the same time she felt a little happy that Harry seemed to care.
Tom stopped dead in his tracks, causing them both to do the same, he looked strange... almost hesitant, he was biting his lip hard before walking again, changing direction, as if he had... Made a decision .
They saw no one until they reached the entrance hall, when a tall wizard with long, wavy auburn hair and a beard called to Riddle from the marble staircase.
- What are you doing walking around here so late, Tom? - Naruto recognized the voice and pointed.
- It's Albus Ojii san! Well, not so Ojii san anymore - she lowers her arm and Harry nods vigorously.
"I had to see the headmaster, sir," Riddle replied.
"Well, go to bed at once," Dumbledore said, giving Riddle the same piercing look Harry knew so well. "It's best not to wander the corridors these days, since…" He sighed deeply, bade Riddle goodnight, and strode off. Riddle waited for him to leave, then quickly took the path up the stone stairs that led down to the dungeons.
- Do you think that besides… kidnapping… he also picks up? - Naruto can't find the word.
-discover, Naruto, discovered the heir –
- That's it! He found out about the heir, does he know where the Chamber of Secrets is? - Harry shrugs.
-I don't know... it could be, I hope he's guiding us to a secret passage or something like that - Naruto nods, although she had already explored a lot of Hogwarts with the help of the Marauder's Map, she was still missing a part that seemed strange to her... precisely in the tree where she has been training.
But to their disappointment, he didn't lead them to a passageway and instead took them to Professor Snape's classroom.
Since the torches were not lit and Riddle had almost completely closed the door, the only thing Harry and Naruto saw was Riddle, who, motionless behind the door, watched the corridor on the other side.
Naruto wanted to peek out a little further, but stayed next to Harry still holding his hand….
Harry and Naruto were almost yawning, at this point it felt like hours had passed according to Harry, but for Naruto it had been years, they sat on the floor totally relaxed watching Toma wishing to go back to the tower and get some sleep.
Then footsteps tormented Naruto's sensitive ears before even Toma or Harry noticed, he stood up not remembering that Harry was holding his hand, he let out a squeal at the tug and stood up. "What's wrong? Oh..." Then the footsteps were much louder, the tension returning with force as Toma led the way while they chased the sound of footsteps.
Naruto walked lightly, used to being silent and having forgotten that she couldn't be heard no matter how loud she made a sound. Harry wasn't as used to it or as professional, he walked on tiptoe, also forgetting that.
It was five minutes of following the sound of footsteps before Toma stopped dead in his tracks, Harry stumbling slightly as he did so, Toma tilting his head towards the direction the noises were coming from. Harry heard the creak of a door and then someone speaking in a hoarse whisper.
-Come on... I'm... going to get... you... out of here... The box -Harry tightened his grip on Naruto's hand... while the blonde frowned... they both recognized that voice.
Suddenly, Riddle leapt around the corner. Harry and Naruto followed, seeing the silhouette of a tall, giant-like boy crouching in front of an open door, next to a very large box.
Naruto gasps, "h-he... no," he shakes his head and looks at Harry who looks just as upset or even worse than her.
-Hello… Rubeus –
The boy slammed the door and stood up.
-t-Tom, what are you doing here? - Tom takes a step further, while Naruto wants to move forward, to avoid what seemed like it was going to happen, Hagrid couldn't be... just no.
"It's all over," he said. "I'm going to have to hand you over, Rubeus. They say they'll close Hogwarts if the attacks don't stop."
- What are you going to…? -
-I don't think you wanted to kill anyone. But monsters don't make good pets. I imagine you let him out to get some fresh air and… -
"He didn't kill anyone!" the big boy interrupted, backing up against the closed door. Harry could hear curious clicking and creaking sounds coming from the other side of the door.
-Come on, Rubeus, - said Tom, moving even closer. - The dead girl's parents will be arriving tomorrow. The least Hogwarts can do is make sure that whatever killed their daughter is put down… -
- It wasn't him! - the boy shouted. His voice echoed in the dark corridor. - He wouldn't be able to do it! Never! -
"Step aside," said Tom, taking out his wand.
His spell lit up the corridor with a sudden glow. The door behind the boy swung open with such force that it slammed into the wall in front of him.
Harry screamed very loudly, a scream that only Naruto could hear, while the blonde stared with narrowed eyes at the creature.
A large, hairy body, almost at ground level, and a tangle of black legs, several glowing eyes and razor-sharp pincers…
-Harry... Hagrid is not the heir - Naruto says suddenly and confuses Harry, but he couldn't say much more when the creature escapes through a hole.
Hagrid could be heard in the background yelling a loud "no" before everything started spinning and shining….
They were back in the seat, still holding hands, Harry looked at Naruto in confusion - What do you mean by that? -
-What Hagrid was protecting… yes, it is dangerous because it eats human flesh, it is a baby acromantula after all, but as far as I remember they are not capable of paralyzing people –
- That doesn't fix anything! - Harry exclaims before lowering his voice - You're right about the paralyzing thing, but... the creature that Hagrid brought killed a girl, what if it found the Chamber of Secrets and also found the creature that is causing all this and is taking care of it - Naruto frowns and pulls Harry's arm and pinches it with his free hand - Wah! - Harry lets out a shriek before Naruto lets go - Why are you doing that?! - Harry whispers, exclaims.
-I'm sure, very sure, that Hagrid would put his hand in the fire for you and you... wouldn't you? ttebayo - that stops Harry's anger. He lowers his head, adjusting his glasses with his free hand, feeling the itch of the pinch and the guilt in his heart. Hagrid had already gone to defend him once in front of Dumbledore thinking that he would be expelled and now he was here doubting again.
-I-I'm… sorry - Naruto relaxes when he sees Harry's sad face.
-And I… I'm sorry I pinched you… -Harry shakes his head.
-I was blinded, they have been thinking for a long time that it is possibly me and... -Naruto listens as Harry sniffles... was he crying?...
He tilted his head slightly and saw how Harry's nose was wrinkled and his eyes were shiny, while he wiped away the trail of tears with the sleeve of his pajamas. "It's not fair," Harry mentions in a low voice.
Then Naruto thinks about all the times she was blamed for things that are out of her control and she was labeled as a bad person without looking any further -it is… it's unfair that they do that, but she thinks that everyone is scared , they need to find someone to blame… someone to make pay- Harry looks at Naruto, those words sounded like he truly meant it.
-Where do you live… do they blame you for something you didn't do? -That makes Naruto squeeze Harry's hand now she wrinkles her nose… before quickly shaking her head.
-They do, but… -Naruto gives a small smile- someday I hope people look at me without hate, or fear, without any resentment , that is one of the reasons why I want to be… the leader of my village ttebayo –
- One of them?... What are the others? -Harry can't help but smile at Naruto's smile.
Naruto puts a finger on his lips -that 's a secret! -
-Well we should tell Ron and Hermione-Harry says as he stands up and lets go of Naruto's hand.
-… no - Naruto answers after hesitating for a moment. Harry looks so confused - well… Ron first of all doesn't like spiders and second, I know you're going to want to interrogate Hagrid, right? So I want to be here for that - Harry knew about that.
-We can wait until you come back from April vacation, just like you said... Ron hates spiders and it'll take me a while to convince him - that makes Naruto laugh as he gets up from his seat.
-So... Mr. Heir Potter, wait for me - Naruto leans in a little, amused, Harry rolls his eyes and shakes his head before leaning in a little as well, gently bumping into Naruto's head, blonde hair against black hair.
-Okay, Uzumaki heiress , I'll wait for you before continuing the investigation - they both let out a giggle before deciding it was too late and going to sleep.
Naruto hadn't been studying extra like she was usually forced to do now, but today she had decided that she should take a break from training.
-I'm regretting it, I think I'd rather train ttebayo - Naruto says, letting his face fall against the table, Draco doesn't pay much attention and tries to finish his potions essay.
-You should finish the essay if you don't want Snape to scold you, Uzumaki –
-But I leave it from one day to the next- Naruto pouts.
Draco rolls his eyes - don't be silly, he quit four days ago - that makes Naruto sigh even more.
They returned to silence, only the restless way Naruto moved his foot could be heard, tapping it quickly. "Draco," Naruto called, sitting up straight. "How does this world work?"
That makes the boy raise his head in confusion – What do you mean by that? –
-Well… I know there are many countries, with different languages, but how does it work? Who leads them? Why do they separate in so many countries?
-Well... I don't know much about what surrounds Muggles, but wizards are rather separated by simply being born in a different area. We take the names of the countries and for example I am a wizard from England and you... I suppose you could be a Japanese wizard, something that makes me think, why did you end up studying at Hogwarts? -
- What do you mean by that? Doesn't a wizard or witch always go to Hogwarts when they turn eleven? - Naruto, surprised, leans back in her seat, looking better at Draco, who just rolls his eyes, avoiding the blonde's gaze.
-It's true that when a wizard or witch turns eleven they go to a school, but not all of them go to the same school - that makes the brain worn out by thinking about Neji work overtime, before jumping in his seat letting out a shriek.
- Are there more schools besides Hogwarts?! - Naruto asks quickly, only hearing the librarian's "shhh" - oh… - Naruto quickly covers his mouth.
-Yes... there is, just to name a few there is Beauxbatons in France or Durmstrang in the far north of Europe -
-So in Japan there is a magic school?
-I already told you that yes, there is a school there called Mahoutokoro - Draco finishes watching as the blonde thought while rubbing her fingers on his robe.
-I don't know why I came to Hogwarts then ttebayo, I guess because Albus Ojii san was the one who decided where I would study - she shrugs.
-That... is actually the only valid option -Draco looks surprised making Naruto pout -Well actually before coming to Hogwarts, my father didn't want me to come to this school, he wanted to send me to Durmstrang which is very far from the mansion -Draco looks at the page he was writing thoughtfully.
- Didn't you want to go to that school? –Naruto asks noticing how Draco had been silent for too long – Is it a bad school, ttebayo? –
-It isn't, that school teaches dark arts and they don't accept muggle-borns, something that for my father... and for me was good, but... now I wouldn't like to be in that school - Naruto blinks, the first part made him frown a little but the second surprised him, Draco is a faithful believer in the superiority of blood even though these days he doesn't show that fanaticism as much. Naruto knows that Draco ignores Hermione as if she were a plague, but Naruto knows that he can't do anything about that.
- Dark arts? I think you got confused, it's defense, right? - Draco shakes his head.
-No, they teach dark arts - that confuses Naruto, dark arts? The only thing she had learned about them was about dangerous creatures and… that was all for now, she didn't understand the difference between learning "defense" and learning "dark arts" -dark arts is a term used for any type of magic that was used to cause harm, control or kill-
-I haven't learned anything like that yet, is there a book that talks about it or... did I fall asleep during Professor Lockhart's classes? -
Draco scoffs - sleep all you want Uzumaki, Lockhart doesn't teach anything that is true or that isn't in a textbook -
-But, although the dark arts can do harm, I think they could be used for good, in defense of others, right? - Naruto asks and Draco nods.
-Maybe… but it is almost a taboo and most dark magic is forbidden by the ministry… wait, what do you know about the ministry? –
-… oh! They are the ones who rule the magical world! - that makes Draco sigh, but he is a little softer and answers.
-That's... pretty close, but no, look... how can I explain that? -Draco thinks before asking- where you come from, I imagine you have a leader, right? -
Naruto nods and waves his arms out to the side. "The Hokage... I will be one someday." That surprises Draco, he had heard Uzumaki say he wanted to be Hokage, but now... he had a better understanding of the word.
-And the Hokage rules the world?
-No… it is governed by the people, Tierra del Fuego is governed by…. Ah! I understand, there are different ministries –
-Yes, I think you understood Uzumaki, the European Ministry of Magic is the one that sets the rules and… wait a second, I'll show you something – Draco gets up and goes to the "geographical" section of the books
-"The ministry is a lot like the ninja system in some ways" -Naruto thinks –"The hokage rules, the council helps make decisions, then there are the branches of different jobs within the tower, from interrogation to taking care of information" -Naruto sees Draco leave the section with a huge book in his arms before changing direction confusing the blonde who turns her head like a confused kitten, before returning to her thoughts –"Now that I'm realizing it... I don't know much about where I live either, I know Konoha inside out, but... what about the rest of the hidden land? The different lands where the hidden villages are, the civilian villages, some separate clan hidden there and... the empires, the places where they send the jobs to the shinobi villages so that as ji chan said they catalog them and then send the right people... maybe I should... find out a little more -she nods before letting out a shriek when she hears the thud of books falling in front of her
-Well let's start with this- Naruto managed to read "laws" before Draco opened the book to page forty-five, where the letters began to appear.
-They are… the departments -Naruto says smiling- I know what they are, they are the sections in which the work is divided, right? -
-Yes, I suppose Arthur Weasley told you - Naruto nods - Look, this is the department that makes us comply with the law - Draco points, feeling a title.
The Department of Magical Law Enforcement
She read before Draco continued, "This department has a lot of divisions, like the Office of Misuse of Magic or the Office for the Detection and Confiscation of Forgery of Defensive Spells and Protective Objects," Naruto slowly turned the pages looking at each section already feeling boredom but interest born within her, of course she was very curious to learn about this but it was in long lines of text, without images telling each of the laws and prohibitions, "I'm not going to tell you to read the whole book, I myself would never do it, I'm not like Granger, but if you want to learn how the muggle world works you must first learn how your world works first ," that made Naruto's heart jump with joy, Draco had just said that this was her world and that had made her very happy.
-I will, thanks ttebayo - Naruto smiles softly, half-closing his eyes, Draco felt that he should already get used to the accidental magic that hovered around the blond, to that refreshing breeze that surrounded her when she was happy, but it was not easy not to feel anything when somehow that smile made him feel strange -Today... you are being very kind to me-
That makes Draco turn around and look back at his abandoned potions essay text, feeling too hot on his face -I'm not nice, I just feel like I'll have a thorn in my side if you ever get sent to Azkaban for breaking the rules- that makes Naruto blink like an owl.
- What is Azkaban? - that makes Draco growl before explaining.
- Where do you live, aren't there any prisons? - Naruto nods - that's what Azkaban is, a high security prison... the people who go in never come out and many people end up either losing their lives or going crazy -
- "… …why if people thought Hagrid was the heir didn't he go to Azkaban?" - Naruto thinks before shaking his head….
-Whiskers has been plotting against us - Fred says putting his elbows on his knees and striking the pose that could definitely rival the avenging Uchiha emo.
- What joke do you think he's playing on us? - George asks in the same pose.
Lee Jordan blinks between his two friends and sighs before smiling -maybe Naruto is waiting for them to fall asleep so he can dye their hair pink, now that would be fun to tell- he scoffs and the twins just shake their heads.
-No, I've done that before - Lee Jordan couldn't help but laugh at that.
A knock on the bedroom door startled them, Fred and George had their eyes half-closed but a big smile broke out when they opened the door and saw Naruto -oh whiskers, come in, come in- Fred says stepping aside.
-Yes, yes. Take a seat - George continues pointing to the bed.
Either they were now playing that she was the heiress or she was up to something.
Lee Jordan just sighs and walks away until he leaves the room - and... do you need something? - Fred asks Naruto raises an eyebrow confused.
- Is there anything I need to come see you?
-Well... we already know - Naruto freezes
How did they find out?... wait, what did they find out? - About what? - She turns her head like a confused kitten.
-Come on, don't act like you don't know - George says crossing his arms, this now seemed more like an interrogation than anything else.
-Are you… trying to get me to confess something I didn't do? - Naruto just sighs and shakes his head in amusement - you won't succeed! -
George looks closely at Naruto looking for something that would give away the joke he had planned, his shoes were too worn the shadow of his pants before the tunic... maybe he was hiding it there? Before seeing his face, a smiling but confused face, the blue eyes became deeper and darker trying to understand what the twins were referring to, then George backed away as quickly as he could from the blonde to go to where his brother was who was doing the same scan on Naruto -I-I don't think Whiskers is lying- that surprises Fred and he looks at his brother, raising an eyebrow when he notices something strange, but he let it go.
- How do you know? - George doesn't look at Naruto again, instead he smiles.
-I don't think whiskers came knowing that we would realize he was up to something- Naruto gets a light bulb moment.
- Do you think I was planning a joke!? -Naruto then laughs- I haven't had time for that! I've been busy ttebayo –
-So… - Fred turns his head slightly.
- What have you been doing that's made people so curious, Whiskers? –
-For the exams where I come from to rise in rank - both brothers looked at each other - ninjas have different ranks, I have to pass an exam to rise in rank -
-That's what's been keeping you so busy- Fred mentions before continuing- Then why don't we help you?
- Help? - Naruto turns his head a little like a confused kitten - I don't know ttebayo, magicians are... well! Their way of fighting is very different from that of ninjas -
-I know what you mean, you guys use your fists more, right? - George slams his fist into the palm of his other hand.
-w-well if ttebayo –
-If you're training that then how have you been doing it? - Those words from Fred paralyze Naruto, he had just been caught
-If you're fighting the Slytherin monster, then we wish you the best of deaths - Naruto, even in his paralyzed state, lets out a laugh, amused by it.
Naruto still hesitated to say it, he had made a promise to Oliver that his name would not be mentioned in all this -come on Whiskers-
-we won't say anything-
Naruto hesitates for a few more seconds before sighing - he used a Bludger as a rival - Naruto could have laughed at the surprised faces of the twins.
-Do you really want to die, Whiskers? -
-one good hit and we lose you –
That makes Naruto shake his head with a smile -I will survive, besides I feel that I... have improved a little at least- Naruto had felt it, more when she looked at herself in a mirror or when she moved when walking, she felt light but not as if she were hungry, but rather ready and prepared for battle, and when she looked in the mirror she saw that her ribs were no longer as marked and she had some more muscles in her arms and her abdomen, still flat, was now hard -Well, I came to say goodbye in advance! -The twins blink confused -Look, these days I will be training a lot- Naruto stretches out a fistful of cotton and punches the air, before wobbling on his feet -And I'm going to ask Albus Ojii san to leave about two weeks before the April vacation, so I'll be leaving this weekend-
"I don't think it would be too difficult for you to get that permit these days," Fred said.
-With everything that's been going on, I'm sure anyone who wants to leave will be given permission.
Naruto frowns -you know I'm not leaving for that, I have to go home before the exams so that ero... How would you say that here? - Naruto thinks about it before speaking - the perverted sage helps me improve, I'm still not able to completely dodge the Bludger, you know what does a lot of damage and... Why are you looking at me like that? -
Fred had his mouth half open looking like he was listening to Naruto intently, while George looked like he hadn't blinked in a long time -whiskers have changed a lot… - that makes Naruto rub his fingers against the fabric of his robe and turn his head like a confused kitten -well at least you still do that, but… -
-You feel weird - Fred mentions - You're not as fluttery as last year and much less jumpy, it's weird you feel... -
-stable… happier even than the baby we met trying to pack her luggage –
- It wasn't a baby! - She puffs out her cheeks and shakes her arms making the twins relax, this was more the Naruto they knew...
Naruto feels Nurse Pomfrey's heavy gaze on her and squirms from where she sits. "Naruto, may I ask why every time I see you, you have more broken ribs?" Naruto was sweaty and covered in dirt despite no longer having the top layer of her clothes on, left lying beside her.
He crossed his arms when he no longer felt pain, covering his chest and pouting. "W-well, I'm... practicing for Quidditch?" He hoped it would sound like an answer. Nurse Pomfrey sighed and just handed Naruto a potion. "Ew!" Naruto brought it to his mouth and drank it. "Wait... I didn't feel pain anymore... What did you give me?"
Naruto got up from the bed and gathered his bandages before rolling them up before putting on his dirty shirt and began to put it on. "A bone strengthener... a nutrient drink, this is the first time I've given it to you separately from the bone repairer. I usually give you this first, but it was time you knew that." Naruto buttoned his shirt wrong, but didn't bother to correct him as he put on his sweatshirt.
- What thing? -
- that you're malnourished again every time I see you - that startles Naruto and he lifts up the clothes he was wearing a little and saw his stomach and a little of what his bandages showed, his ribs, only to see that they were no longer noticeable at all - you're doing more exercise than your body can produce in fat, of course Tomar manages to transform it into muscle but it also wastes a lot and could weaken you - the nurse takes the tie from the bed and wraps it around Naruto's neck - honey tell me what's wrong -
-I-I already told you Nurse Poppy, I'm training for the Quidditch match we'll have after spring break ttebayo - Nurse Pomfrey finishes arranging the tie and Naruto puts it in his jacket, before taking his robes and putting them on quickly.
-just protect yourself more if you are practicing with a Bludger –
- Who's practicing with a Bludger?! –
Pomfrey couldn't help but laugh at the nervous Naruto, as she knows she hit the mark -you know batters use protection, you know helmets and whatnot, you should do the same- Pomfrey gently taps Naruto's nose repeatedly.
-Okay… I… wait, protect? - Naruto removes Nurse Pomfrey's hand from his nose and shakes his head - armor… you can't see under it and at the same time it protects you… like armor, right? -
-could it be called that… yes - Naruto feels that finally another piece of his puzzle is put together and smiles with all his teeth, the atmosphere changes to a refreshing breeze - thank you nurse Poppy! - Naruto quickly runs out of the infirmary without leaving time for her to respond
-Okay -Naruto claps and opens the Bludger's trunk.
He takes a deep breath and feels his Chakra pulsing, slowly letting it flow around his body without any filter letting it even become visible as in a thin layer of blue and looks at himself –"well, if what I believe is true, Chakra is something as solid as liquid, that's why the Hyuga style was so special, by holding the Chakra in his palms and pushing them with force forward like water but it became solid when it hit, then" -Naruto claps again -if Chakra hits Chakra both will bounce… I hope… I sincerely hope so ttebayo, it also prevents the Byakugan from seeing where I put the Chakra because it's going to be everywhere! The only problem I see is… Neji will quickly realize this -Naruto puts a hand on his waist and rubs his fingers against his jacket -mmh and I don't have an emergency plan –
Naruto stops the excessive flow of Chakra and walks up to the tree, careful not to… attack her and takes out his strategy sketchbook, before taking out a pencil.
-"well let's see" -Naruto draws a chibi Naruto in his notebook -oh kneazle -he suddenly looks up and sees the no longer so small creature walking towards him, he scratches him behind the ears making him purr happily, before drawing a chibi Neji -then - Naruto thinks out loud as he takes the bright blue color that varied depending on how he shakes it, he shakes it a couple of times before noticing the appropriate shade -I can create a Chakra armor that can most likely repel attacks, the only problem is that Neji will be able to easily notice it and have another plan unlike me, who doesn't have another -the chibi Naruto has a layer of blue around her representing Chakra -unless I can… trick him -Naruto thinks before drawing another chibi Naruto, or rather a chibi Naruto with her arm stretched out and rolled up showing the Chakra networks -the shield idea was fine, I just need all my Chakra… to be stable and since every time people hit, the Chakra It flutters, for example, if I hit with my left fist, almost instantly the Chakra moves to my fist, something that Neji would notice without the shield, which is why it was a good idea to improve without Chakra, my strength, so if I control my instinct to give Chakra to my fist and instead I place it in my right fist, Neji will think that since there is more Chakra power in that hand, I will attack with that one - Naruto felt that he was getting tangled up so he took a deep breath.
-To stabilize my Chakra in an armor and know how to control it so that it goes wherever I want to fool Neji… that will be the most difficult part -he sighs- It's different to put a lot of Chakra in my whole body and make that same crazy Chakra calm down and move as it wants… well I'll find out that part later! -…
Naruto was happy… even with the current circumstances, he had just gotten permission to leave tomorrow and as Fred and George had said it wasn't something very difficult to get.
-Well with this we leave the review of the Avifors spell , you can leave, have a good weekend - Naruto was getting up talking to Hermione about something - Mrs. Naruto, I need you to stay - Naruto freezes in place, the last time Professor Minerva had stopped her was to tell her how badly she was doing and to give her advice about it, but she still got nervous.
I look at the teacher who was pointing to one of the seats in front, the last students were leaving, before Naruto walked over to sit in front of Professor Minerva, who left a paper on the table for him -… What is that? –
-Albus told me… late -Minerva whispers the last part- that you are leaving tomorrow morning and that you will not return until the end of the Easter holidays, which are the dates to plan your studies for next year –
- Plan? - Naruto didn't quite remember the meaning of that word at that moment, she turned her head in confusion before understanding - The classes I can choose! - She raises her arms and reads the paper.
-that's correct- Minerva nods softly- I see that you already know but I'll explain it to you quickly, here you can choose the elective subjects, it's best that you choose what you think suits you best, you can choose three subjects so that it doesn't clash with other schedules, although of course you could always study what you want in your free time and the teachers of those areas will help you no matter what- Naruto hoped that Professor Minerva would finish her explanation quickly, he jumped impatiently in his seat- I've been putting a little pressure on Albus to convince the Ministry of Magic to allow you to get a license to use Apparition. Taking the courses of course-
- What is apparition ? –
-It's what you've been doing all the time to get from your house to the train station- that surprises Naruto, he hadn't thought much about how the damn cards worked, well it was... magic and magic really didn't make much sense in reality.
-Wait… to use those things, do I need permission from that Ministry of Magic? Why?
-It is forbidden to do it without one, you will be fined if you ever get caught, and it is… well, it is better that you don't realize that for now - Naruto puffs out his cheeks a little at how Professor Minerva was keeping a secret from him - but I know it will be a problem for them to simply let you try it at your age -
-Well I have twelve, that's a big number ttebayo –
-Yeah… better not use those damn cards all the time –
Naruto pouting takes his pen and looks at the elective subjects -if you need me or don't understand something I'll be grading some papers- that hurts Naruto a little, but he just remembers that the teacher was trying to be nice.
-no need ttebayo -Naruto answers starting to write.
Care of Magical Creatures
Fortune telling
Study of ancient runes
Naruto settled on those three, he knew the minimum was two, but a book with fun symbols had caught his interest a while ago only to find out from Draco that they were runes .
Naruto finished copying his name on the top and stood up before leaving it to Professor Minerva -how fast, don't you think you should think about it better, those will be the subjects you will take until fifth -
Naruto crosses his arms -I thought it through, Cedric helped me ttebayo-
-I see- Minerva took the paper and put it away in one of the drawers of her desk, Naruto hoped they would let her go, but they didn't, there was a moment of silence before she continued. -... Miss Naruto, are you sure about the direction your life is taking? - Naruto is confused... the direction...?
- What do you mean, teacher?
- I know you work as a shinobi... a kunoichi - that startles Naruto, it seems Albus didn't keep quiet or maybe... the teacher discovered it on her own.
-I am, I'm already a ninja - Naruto feels some pride in saying that, but notices how the woman deflates at that.
-I don't think it's... the best job for... -Minerva thought Naruto would frown at her for what she was going to say -such a sweet and kind person like you, you are an energetic girl and you work hard at what matters to you... believe me, I know how much you've trained the last month and a half -Naruto, as Minerva predicted, frowned and the atmosphere cooled as he squirmed.
-I… want to be a ninja –
-That's it... because it's all you know -Minerva opens another drawer in her desk and takes out a sheet of paper where there was a list -In our world there are many varied jobs that you would surely love, you could -
- No! - Naruto exclaims loudly, the candle next to Minerva flickers, before Naruto covers his mouth - I-I'm sorry… but I don't want to stop being a ninja, since it's the only way to what I want - Minerva raises an eyebrow.
- Target? - Naruto nods fiercely.
- Yes! You know a lot of things, I guess I can explain this, when you become a ninja, you're not just thrown into... doing complicated things, we're in different ranks, I'm a genin, I do jobs like cleaning or painting fences or taking care of important people's children... although we also have slightly higher missions sometimes, like escorting people who pay the minimum... ah! We escort a bridge builder... the mission got complicated -Naruto summarized, but then softly mentioned -the bridge is now called, the great Naruto bridge -Minerva nods, a little surprised now that she knows that somewhere in the world there is a bridge with the name of her most cared for student
-Miss Naruto, get to the point, what is your objective? –
Naruto takes a deep breath - there is only one person who can be above all the ninjas, the leader of the village, the hokage - Naruto says and that does surprise Minerva.
- Do you want to become the leader of your village? - Minerva thought it would be more common for Naruto to be looking to become stronger or stand out - I don't think the only option to become a leader is being a ninja... working on it -
- It is! - Naruto exclaims raising his arms - the hokage must be the strongest person in the village, he has always been like that and… he always will be - then Naruto feels excitement invade him and smiles - look, look, I have great ideas when I become hokage! -
-Seriously… tell me-Minerva said softly making Naruto's smile widen.
-I want to create trains -Minerva raises an eyebrow but has a smile on her face -look, we've always gone on foot everywhere and I think a train that helps transport people could also help bring things to Konoha and take others to other places -Naruto tries to explain -besides, I would really like to work and create a potions system for the hospital -Naruto knew that Minerva was not going to agree with this so he continued quickly -it is not necessary to know about the magical world or even magic, it could all be anonymous, I could give it a name... mmh, duck! For example -then Naruto had a light bulb go on -ah! Professor Minerva, I have to go now, I... now I have something to do -I hope to be fired and Minerva did not hesitate much and looked into those bright blue eyes.
She didn't like Naruto's job at all, but who was she to take away a girl's dream, one that only sought to improve the condition of the people where she lived - you can go - that makes Naruto jump, turning around and running towards the door.
- Goodbye Professor Minerva! -….
That same afternoon when Naruto was supposed to be packing his bags, he ran straight to the infirmary, burst in and exclaimed - Nurse Poppy! -
The nurse jumps and almost drops the bottle, frowning she looks at Naruto -dear please use your indoor voice-
-I'm sorry- Naruto says, but he doesn't really seem to mean it- you see, I thought you could give me a bone growth potion- Nurse Pomfrey looks at Naruto crossing her arms.
- Did you pulverize your arm or any ribs again? - Naruto quickly denies.
- It's not for me! - This worries the nurse even more.
- Is he a friend of yours? Why didn't they bring him? How many bones were there? - Naruto denies it many, many times, almost getting dizzy from the constant movement.
-Well, it's for a... muggle... but I could say that we're more or less friends! –
-I'm sorry to disappoint you, but... I don't think the bone growth potion would work well on a muggle –
- Because? -
-because I don't know if the bone is not complete or if it is just broken into many little pieces or if it is actually pulverized, so even so we don't know how that potion works on a person who doesn't have the magic gene -that deflates Naruto and makes him lower his head.
-b-but… I can get you the information about… his injuries and I can ask him if he'd be interested in me giving him… some… disgusting… liquid… that… might… kill him? - Pomfrey gently tapped the tip of Naruto's button nose.
-I think you understand, honey- she removes her hand and waits for Naruto to continue.
-Well… I could at least ask him. I won't mention that it's a potion or magic, don't worry! –
-So tell me how it went… -Pomfrey gives Naruto a sweet smile -if anyone can help your friend, it's you dear, even if you can't cure him-…
When Naruto returns to the room he starts packing his trunk - you're in luck Naruto - Dean mentions - you'll be out of the danger zone for a while, I won't be leaving until Easter -
-If you leave Naruto, who will defend us from the Slytherin monster? - Neville mentions and Naruto raises an eyebrow as he puts his uniform in the trunk having already put on his pajamas - Haven't you been keeping watch during the night? - That makes Naruto laugh nervously and scratches the back of his head.
-a-ah t-that's it, I was keeping an eye on you - Naruto says, avoiding glances.
-Yes, the watcher -Harry mentions rolling his eyes causing Naruto to stick his tongue out at him.
Seamus sees Naruto searching for something in the covers of his bed and raises an eyebrow - What are you looking for? -
- Have you seen the stuffed bunny? - Seamus shakes his head causing Naruto to narrow his gaze at Dean, who raises his hands in innocence.
-I haven't touched it since you almost killed me by making it levitate- he only had two suspects left, he looked at Ron and Harry, taking turns.
They both shook their heads, Ron was feeding Scabbers and at that moment Naruto heard the sound of fabric tearing under his bed - oh no! - she exclaims quickly running before crouching down and seeing him.
The kneazle stopped and saw Naruto with his eyes wide open, with a piece of mote in his mouth, Naruto let out a shriek and pulled the rabbit into his arms with Chakra pulling the kneazle with him, leaving everyone in sight - Let go of it you stupid creature!, that makes the kneazle hiss and he breaks free and climbs onto Naruto's bed.
Ron looks at the kneazle with contempt and squeezes his pet rat closer to him - w-what the h-is that? -
-t-that's, t-that's just a cat - the kneazle opens his mouth looking totally offended and stretches out a paw showing his sharp claws.
- You're taking care of a kneazle?! Since when? - Dean asks seeing how the creature seems about to jump and attack.
-That's not the important thing Dean, if Professor McGonagall found out about this - Neville says watching as Naruto sees his poor stuffed animal torn across the chest and missing an arm.
-No, that would be of secondary importance if… -Seamus whispers, looking worriedly at Naruto -if Naruto has already become fond of the kneazle, it means that if McGonagall finds out… the kneazle could be taken away-
-I don't think they will, we are almost in third year and if Naruto takes classes on caring for magical creatures, with how dedicated she is, she will surely get a permit soon -
-Being close doesn't mean it's a possibility - Neville says, Naruto pouts and launches into the attack, the kneazle does so at full speed as well.
-Well it's not like any of us are going to say anything- Dean mentions.
Neville hesitates before nodding, followed by Seamus and Harry... - And you, Ron? - The boy looks at the kneazle suspiciously, looking at his rat before sighing.
-No -
... -Oh come on Naruto, it's not that bad -Harry consoles- at least your rabbit just survived being torn apart by a kneazle -he says playfully hoping Naruto would leave that face full of scratches and pouts.
-You don't understand Harry, that stuffed animal is important to me - she finally softens before frowning - and he knew it, that's why he did it! - she goes back to pouting.
Harry slowly sewed the stuffed animal to get it back to its old shape… well, that was a challenge, the fabric was so worn that it could tear again and he was pulling the thread too hard, it looked more like a very delicate toy… -maybe he didn't like you giving so much attention to the doll and not to him-
- But the rabbit only stays with me at night, I don't take him anywhere during the day! –
-But… I just found out that you have a pet kneazle… so I can assume that you don't take it out much so that people don't notice. -Naruto crosses his arms and sighs.
- What does it matter if I take him out or not? He's almost an adult, ttebayo, he'll leave when he is, so... why get attached? -
-I doubt the kneazle wants to leave your side- Dean comments the kneazle was now in his bed he was gently caressing him underneath with a finger on his head.
The kneazle hisses when he notices Naruto's gaze on him -I don't know... I think he'll be better off without me-
- Why? -Ron asks.
-Animals usually hate me... I guess he doesn't because I've taken care of him since he was little and Scabbers is a mystery why he doesn't fear me - Naruto sets his sights on the rat, which suddenly jumps into Ron's hands.
-But this creature obviously doesn't, so I don't understand, even though it's convenient that you want to return it to the forest, why you don't want to keep it - Dean mentions.
-Even more so with how much you love the creatures in that book, your love for them can be compared to Hagrid's -Ron says, making both Harry and Naruto freeze - What's wrong? -
- Nothing! - they both exclaimed before Harry pricked himself with the needle, let go of it and put his finger in his mouth.
- Why don't you use magic to fix it? – Seamus asks seeing Harry take the needle back.
-Does anyone know any mending spells? - Naruto asks and looks at his companions.
No one answers until Ron rolls his eyes. "Hermione sure does, if she knows any, oh! My mum too."
- Done! -Harry picks up the rabbit again… healthy enough after a high risk operation -sort of- he finishes correcting himself and hands the stuffed animal to Naruto, who frowns a little looking at the kneazle before bringing the stuffed animal closer to his nose… it still smelled like a mouse, he sighs in relief, although now it had a slight scent of the shampoo he uses to clean the kneazle…. She's not quite sure she wants him to leave yet…
Naruto finished his morning training and was already getting ready to leave, he was wearing the now orange tunic shirt that was becoming so characteristic and blue pants, along with the fingerless gloves that Kakashi had given him.
-hey kneazle- Naruto searches under the bed and sees it looking suspiciously at Naruto -we're leaving ttebayo- he says softly, but the creature doesn't come out, hissing at her and Naruto just sighs getting up -I'm not angry anymore- then she was greeted by a roar... letting out a laugh Naruto makes a decision -you're quite brave- Naruto speaks in Japanese, she knew the creature understood her -aren't you? Brave - Brave jumped out from under the bed rushing out and looked at Naruto who had a smile -do you want... to stay with me? - Brave doubts if her owner was serious, but when Naruto didn't mention it was a joke she jumped climbing up the buso tunic and placed it as a scarf around Naruto's neck, rubbing her whiskers against Naruto's whiskers -hey your whiskers itch! Brave, stop it! -Naruto then pulls the kneazle into his arms before taking out an orange bow, wrapping it around his neck leaving a small bow...
Naruto wasn't quite sure how he was going to get Brave out of school now that he couldn't fit in his pockets, so he decided he'd already said enough goodbyes.
-stay quiet- Naruto whispers putting the kneazle between his robe and leaves the bedroom and the tower.
She tried to avoid passing by the Great Hall, but as she turned a corner she saw Filch, she nearly let out a shriek as she backed away and waited for Filch to pass before walking again, she grabbed her trunk tightly and walked out into the garden before seeing the carriage that would take her to the station…