The Great Hall's enchanted ceiling, a canvas of soft twilight hues, cast a calming glow over the sea of first-year students. Their murmur rose and fell like the gentle tide of an ocean, rippling through the ancient stones of Hogwarts. Among them, Harry Potter, with his untidy black hair framing his distinct lightning-shaped scar, was a study in concentration. His gaze flitted from Susan Bones, whose amiable chatter provided a pleasant backdrop, to Daphne Greengrass, whose blonde tresses seemed to capture the last rays of an unseen sun.
"Harry, did you see that gnome in Herbology today?" Susan giggled, her voice threading through the air. "I thought Professor Sprout was going to hex it into next week!"
"Almost as entertaining as our Charms lesson," Harry replied with a grin, his silver eyes twinkling mischievously. Yet, inwardly, he marvelled at the everyday magic that had become his new reality.
As laughter punctuated their conversation, the double doors creaked open, and Madam Pomfrey, the school's matron with her starched white cap and apron, bustled in. Her presence commanded immediate attention; she was both the harbinger of soothing potions and stern bedrest orders.
"First years, today we are going to go over a mandatory lesson all first years need to know" began Madam Pomfrey. "Magical Exhaustion affects everyone, Muggleborns, Half-bloods, and Purebloods."
"I bet it affects mud-bloods more" snickered Malfoy.
"Detention Mr. Malfoy, and 100 points from Slytherin," said Professor Sprout.
Ignoring the interruption, Madam Pomfrey continued. "Your magic is analogous to a muscle - with regular exercise, your magical core expands and strengthens. However, it's not just about magical training. A balanced diet and regular physical exercise play an integral part in determining the size and strength of your magic core," she lectured.
She took a breath and asked, "So, who can explain what happens when your magic core is depleted?"
Among the sea of hesitant faces, Susan Bones confidently raised her hand. Madam Pomfrey nodded, prompting her to answer. "You enter a state called Magical Exhaustion."
"Excellent, Ms. Bones. That's a point for Hufflepuff," Madam Pomfrey praised, before elaborating. "When you enter the first stage of magical exhaustion. It leaves you feeling tired, but a good night's rest should restore your energy."
She continued, "However if you reach the second stage. It takes 1 to 3 days of magical abstinence to recover. Now, can anyone tell me the difference between being tired and exhausted?"
This time, Lisa Turpin chimed in. "While 'tired' signifies a loss of energy or strength, 'exhausted' indicates an extreme level of fatigue. An exhausted person needs immediate rest, unlike someone who is merely tired."
"Correct, Ms. Turpin. That's a point for Ravenclaw," Madam Pomfrey acknowledged, adding, "If you end up in my infirmary in the second stage, you'll be required to rest for a minimum of three days, regardless of your protests."
She then delved into the third stage of magical exhaustion. "if you end up in the third stage. The symptoms now include coughing, along with exhaustion, and it requires 4 to 6 days of rest without magic use," she explained, her gaze locked onto Draco Malfoy. "Mr. Malfoy, can you tell me the difference between stages two and three?"
Caught off guard, Draco could only stutter, "I don't know, Ma'am."
Madam Pomfrey used the moment to drive home a point. "Then perhaps you should pay more attention, take notes, and save the chitchat for later. ten points from Slytherin."
Moving onto the fourth stage, she explained, "In the fourth stage you experience exhaustion, coughing, and even nausea. This is when your magic core starts getting damaged. Recovery requires 1 to 2 weeks of rest."
Harry's hand shot up, seeking clarification. "What exactly does damage to the magic core mean?"
"An excellent question, Mr. Potter," Madam Pomfrey commended. "At this stage, the damage isn't permanent, but it certainly hinders your ability to cast spells for the recovery period."
With a nod, Harry thanked her for the explanation.
Next, she went into the details of the fifth stage. "the next stage includes nausea, vomiting, coughing, and exhaustion. It takes 1 to 2 months to recover, and this stage marks the beginning of permanent damage to your magical core."
She then introduced the sixth stage. "The symptoms of the sixth stage are similar to the previous stage, but now you start coughing up blood. Recovery from this stage lasts between 3 and 4 months."
Finally, she detailed the most dangerous stage. "The seventh stage At this point, you lose consciousness. And possibly you risk losing your life. Any questions?"
The Great Hall, steeped in the rich history of Hogwarts, fell silent as Madam Pomfrey's words resonated with the gravity of their implications. The young witches and wizards, their faces a mix of fascination and concern, glanced at each other, digesting the severity of magical exhaustion.
Hermione Granger, her bushy brown hair framing a face marked by intellectual curiosity, raised her hand with a sense of urgency. "Madam Pomfrey, how can we prevent reaching these dangerous stages of magical exhaustion?"
"A very pertinent question, Miss Granger," Madam Pomfrey replied, pleased by the thoughtfulness. "First and foremost, be mindful of your magical exertions. Don't push beyond your limits, especially when practicing new or powerful spells. Secondly, ensure you have a balanced diet and adequate sleep. Lastly, seek immediate help if you feel unusually tired after performing magic."
Neville Longbottom, his round face showing concern, timidly raised his hand. "But how can we know our limits?"
Madam Pomfrey smiled kindly at Neville. "Your body will give you signs, Mr. Longbottom. Like any form of exertion, magic will tire you. Pay attention to your body's signals. If a spell leaves you feeling drained, stop and rest."
"Madam Pomfrey," asked Harry his hand raised, "You said our Magic cores are like a muscle the more we exercise it the stronger it gets, does this include Physical exercise or just using magic?"
"ten points to Hufflepuff for a very good question Mr. Potter," said Madam Pomfrey, "Physical exercise plays a crucial role in strengthening your magical core, A healthy body supports a healthy mind and magic. Regular physical activity not only improves your overall health but also enhances your magical endurance. It's not just about casting spells; your physical well-being directly impacts your magical abilities."
She paused, allowing her words to sink in. "Now, it's essential to understand that while physical exercise is beneficial, it is not a substitute for practicing magic. Both are important in their own ways. Regular magical practice expands your core's capacity, while physical exercise ensures your body can sustain the strain of magic use."
Ron Weasley, his red hair a stark contrast against the twilight hues of the Great Hall, looked thoughtfully at Madam Pomfrey. "So, playing Quidditch could help with our magic?"
"Yes, Mr. Weasley, indeed it can," Madam Pomfrey affirmed with a nod. "Quidditch or any other physical activity that keeps you active and healthy can contribute positively to your magical strength. Remember, a balanced lifestyle is key."
The students nodded, absorbing the information. The connection between physical health and magical prowess was a revelation to many, who had often considered the two to be separate entities.
"Madam Pomfrey, out of curiosity, if one of us reaches the latter stages of magical exhaustion will we be sent to Saint Mungo's or you will be able to treat us?" asked Daphne sending a wink at Harry causing him to blush.
Daphne's question, laced with genuine curiosity and a playful undertone, hung in the air, drawing the attention of the entire hall. Madam Pomfrey, with her years of experience evident in her composed demeanour, addressed the query.
"That is an important consideration, Miss Greengrass," she began, her voice carrying a blend of authority and care. "The treatment for magical exhaustion, particularly in its advanced stages, requires specialized care. Here at Hogwarts, I am equipped to handle up to the fourth stage of magical exhaustion. Beyond that, the severity of the symptoms and the risk of permanent damage necessitate more specialized medical attention."
She paused, surveying the room filled with young, inquisitive minds. "In cases of the fifth stage and beyond, the patient would indeed be transferred to St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries. There, they have the resources and expertise to deal with such severe cases."
Madam Pomfrey's answer seemed to settle a wave of unasked questions, providing a clear understanding of the seriousness of magical exhaustion and the limits of care within Hogwarts.
"However," she continued, "our aim here is to prevent any of you from ever reaching such critical stages. Education about magical exhaustion is a crucial step in ensuring you all use your magic responsibly and with an awareness of your limits."
The students, now more aware of the potential consequences of overexerting their magical abilities, listened intently. The atmosphere in the Great Hall had shifted from one of casual interest to one of respectful attentiveness.
Madam Pomfrey, sensing the impact of her words, decided to lighten the mood. "Now, while we're on the topic of health and well-being, I would like to remind you all that a healthy dose of laughter is also a powerful medicine. So, don't forget to enjoy your time at Hogwarts, make friends, and create happy memories. These, too, are vital for a healthy life, both magically and otherwise."
The next day, A woman with thick, chestnut brown hair, long eyelashes and heavily hooded eyes walked in with Madam Longbottom. Harry was seated at the Hufflepuff table next to Susan and Daphne.
Madam Longbottom cleared her throat, getting the attention of everyone in the great hall "Everyone good morning, effective today, your new Potions professor and the new head of Slytherin house is Professor Andromeda Tonks" she said before leaving the great hall.
Tonks, the seventh-year Hufflepuff prefect looked at Andromeda in horror. Tonks' horror-stricken expression quickly transformed into one of disbelief and awe as Professor Andromeda Tonks, a woman of commanding presence with her thick, chestnut brown hair and piercing gaze, stepped forward. The Great Hall, usually abuzz with chatter, fell into a hushed silence, the students' attention riveted on the new arrival.
Andromeda's eyes swept across the hall, pausing momentarily on Tonks, offering a faint, reassuring smile before addressing the students. "Good morning, everyone. I'm honoured to join the faculty of Hogwarts and to serve as your Potions professor and head of Slytherin house."
As she spoke, her voice carried a blend of warmth and authority, captivating her audience. Her appearance, strikingly different from the stereotype of a typical Potions master, intrigued the students. She wore robes of deep green, embroidered with subtle silver patterns that shimmered in the morning light.
Harry, was midway through his eggs when a sharp twinge clenched his insides.
"Ow," he muttered under his breath, his hand instinctively curling around his midsection. A ripple of pain washed over him, causing his brow to furrow.
"Are you okay?" asked Daphne sensing his discomfort.
"I am" replied Harry.
"Don't lie to me Harry" growled Daphne.
"I'm fine, really," Harry tried to assure Daphne, though his pained expression betrayed him. The discomfort was fleeting, but it left a lingering unease. He forced a smile, not wanting to cause concern.
Susan, who had been listening quietly, chimed in, "Maybe you should see Madam Pomfrey, Harry. It could be something to do with what she talked about yesterday."
"It's not I have not even touched my wand in three days" replied Harry.
Suddenly, Harry fell backwards and started violently seizing. The Great Hall erupted into chaos as Harry's body convulsed uncontrollably. Students scrambled away in shock and fear, while others called out for help. Daphne and Susan, frozen in horror, stared at their friend writhing on the floor.
Professor Andromeda Tonks, with her years of experience as a healer, reacted swiftly. She rushed to Harry's side, her wand out, ready to provide first aid. Madam Pomfrey, hearing the commotion, hurried into the hall, her medical bag in hand.
"Everyone, back!" Andromeda commanded, her authoritative tone cutting through the panic. She quickly assessed Harry's condition, her wand moving in precise, diagnostic gestures.
Madam Pomfrey knelt beside Harry, her experienced eyes quickly taking in his symptoms. "He's having a seizure," she announced, her voice calm but urgent. "We need to stabilize him. Andromeda, help me clear his airway."
The two worked in tandem, with Madam Pomfrey casting a spell to keep Harry's airway open while Andromeda gently turned his head to the side, ensuring he wouldn't choke. The students watched in tense silence, the gravity of the situation dawning on them.
Professor McGonagall, having arrived in the midst of the commotion, quickly took control of the situation. "Students, please return to your seats," she instructed firmly. "Prefects, help me maintain order. This is a medical emergency, and panic will not help."
As the diagnostic spell was completed, Madam Pomfrey's expression turned serious. "Nightshade and Angel's Trumpet, either he tried to kill himself or someone poisoned him, Miss Bones did Mr. Potter complain about any pain as he was eating?"
"Yes, he mentioned a sharp pain in his stomach," Susan replied, her voice laced with worry.
Madam Pomfrey's brow furrowed in concentration. "Nightshade and Angel's Trumpet are both highly toxic and could cause severe reactions, even in small doses. We need to act fast."
With a swift motion, she summoned a stretcher and levitated Harry onto it. "I'm taking him to the hospital wing immediately. He needs an antidote and close monitoring. Pomona, Andromeda how quickly can I get an antidote for both poisons?"
Madam Pomfrey's urgent tone cut through the tension in the Great Hall. Professor Sprout and Professor Tonks exchanged a quick, concerned glance before Professor Sprout replied, "We have a stock of basic antidotes in the greenhouse, but for something as specific as Nightshade and Angel's Trumpet, we'll need to prepare it. It'll take some time."
Professor Tonks, her expression grave, added, "I can assist with the preparation. My experience with potion-making should speed up the process."
Madam Pomfrey nodded, her eyes never leaving Harry's still form on the stretcher. "Every second counts. Please hurry. I put his body in a stasis, but I need that antidote. Someone please contact the Aurors and don't touch any food on his plate."
With a sense of urgency, Professor Sprout and Professor Tonks hurried out of the Great Hall, their robes billowing behind them as they made their way to the greenhouse. Meanwhile, Madam Pomfrey, with Harry on the stretcher, swiftly exited towards the hospital wing, her face a mask of professional concern.
The Great Hall, now filled with a palpable tension, was a stark contrast to its usual vibrant atmosphere. Students whispered among themselves, speculating about what had happened to Harry and who could be responsible for such a heinous act.
Professor Dumbledore, having been informed of the incident, entered the Great Hall with a sombre expression. His usually twinkling eyes were clouded with worry as he addressed the students. "I must ask everyone to remain calm. The situation is being handled with utmost seriousness. Professor McGonagall, please oversee the students. I need to join Madam Pomfrey and the other professors."
As Dumbledore left, Professor McGonagall stood up, her voice cutting through the murmurs. "I want everyone to stay in their seats. Prefects, please ensure no one leaves the hall. We need to maintain order while the situation is being investigated."
In the hospital wing, Madam Pomfrey, with her extensive knowledge and experience, worked diligently to stabilize the son of Artemis. His condition was critical, but she managed to keep him stable until the antidote was prepared.
Back in the greenhouse, Professor Sprout and Professor Tonks were in a race against time. With their combined expertise, they quickly gathered the necessary ingredients for the antidote. Professor Tonks' hands moved with precision, her focus unwavering as she mixed the components.
The Aurors, summoned to the scene, arrived at Hogwarts to investigate the possible poisoning. They began their inquiries in the Great Hall, examining Harry's plate and interviewing students and staff who were nearby when he collapsed.
"Auror Moody, what did you find?" asked Amelia as Mad-Eye Moody finished examining the plate "Assassination attempt or Suicide?"
"A clear assassination attempt, Amelia," Moody grumbled, his magical eye swivelling to scan the surrounding area. "The poison was injected directly into the food. Since this is Potter's second week in school, and he is only eleven he can't gain access to some of these poisons."
"What is the Poison list?" asked Amelia.
"Nightshade, Angel's Trumpet, Lead, and a few others," Moody replied, his voice grave. "Highly dangerous and not something a first-year would casually stumble upon. Someone planned this meticulously. If I were to guess, this is a possible attempt by the children of death eaters."
Moody's analysis sent a chill through the Great Hall. The idea that someone within Hogwarts' walls harboured such malicious intent towards an eleven-year-old was unsettling, to say the least.
"Start questioning the students," Amelia directed, her tone indicating the severity of the situation. "Start with children with a connection to a death eater does not matter if they were freed or rotting in Azkaban. We can't rule out any possibilities. Have someone question the house elves in the kitchen."
"Madam Bones," said Daphne, who is feeling the effects of Harry's situation due to their soul bond, "I sent a letter on Lyra, Harry's hawk to his Grandmother and Uncle." Daphne being the only one in Hogwarts who knows Harry was the son of a goddess. knew she had to keep his identity a secret.
The tension in the Great Hall was palpable as Madam Bones nodded at Daphne's words. "Good thinking, Miss Greengrass. Family should be informed in situations like this."
Daphne's concern for Harry, amplified by their soul bond, was evident. She knew the importance of maintaining the secrecy around Harry's divine heritage. The revelation of his true parentage could have unforeseen consequences in the wizarding world, especially given the current circumstances.
Meanwhile, in the hospital wing, Madam Pomfrey, with her skilled hands and deep knowledge of magical healing, was a bastion of calm in the storm. She administered first aid measures to keep Harry stable, her face a mask of concentration as she awaited the antidote.
Back in the greenhouse, Professor Sprout and Professor Tonks worked with a sense of urgency, their expertise in potion-making proving invaluable. The concoction slowly took shape, a delicate balance of ingredients that held the key to counteracting the deadly poisons.
In the Great Hall, the Aurors continued their investigation. They systematically questioned the students, focusing particularly on those with any connection to former Death Eaters. The atmosphere was tense, with many students feeling a mix of fear and curiosity.
Amelia Bones, leading the investigation, was thorough and methodical. Her experience in dealing with dark wizards and their machinations was evident in her approach. She also directed a team of Aurors to interrogate the house elves in the kitchen, leaving no stone unturned in her quest for answers.
The doors of the great hall swung open as Apollo and Leto stormed in. Moody pointed his wand at Apollo "Who are you?"
"I am Apollo, Harry's uncle, this is Leto Harry's Grandmother, where is my nephew?" sneered Apollo.
Apollo's sudden appearance, coupled with his declaration, sent ripples of shock and disbelief through the Great Hall. His presence, both commanding and otherworldly, immediately drew the attention of every student and staff member present.
"I'm sorry, but I must confirm your identities before proceeding," Madam Bones responded cautiously, her tone respectful yet firm. She was well aware of the gravity of the situation and the need for stringent security measures, especially in light of the attempted assassination.
Apollo, sensing the need for transparency, nodded understandingly. He extended his arm, allowing Madam Bones to perform the necessary identity verification spells. The spells confirmed his identity as Apollo, an entity of significant power and, more importantly, Harry's uncle.
"Your nephew is currently in the hospital wing under the care of Madam Pomfrey," Madam Bones informed them, her demeanour professional yet empathetic. "He is stable, but the situation is serious. Please follow me."
"Can you tell me what happened?" asked Leto, "I apologize for my son we just received a letter saying something happened to Harry, we don't know what."
As they made their way to the hospital wing, Madam Bones briefed Apollo and Leto on the situation. "Harry Potter was found seizing during breakfast in the Great Hall. Our initial diagnosis suggests poisoning, with several toxins identified in his system. We have Aurors investigating the matter as we speak."
Leto's expression was one of deep concern mixed with a motherly resolve. "Thank you for your swift action, Madam Bones. We must see him at once."
Upon reaching the hospital wing, they found Madam Pomfrey and Professor Andromeda Tonks working diligently over Harry, who lay unconscious on a bed. The sight of him in such a state caused a visible reaction in both Apollo and Leto, a mixture of worry and anger flashing in their eyes.
Madam Pomfrey looked up as they entered. "Ah, you must be Harry's family. He's stable for now, but the poison was potent. We're working on an antidote."
"Apollo I am more worried about what Artemis will do once she finds out," said Leto in Mycenean Greek as they entered the infirmary.
Leto sat next to Harry and brushed his hair aside and kissed his forehead.
Mad-eye Moody walked into the infirmary, "I was told by Madam Bones to tell you the situation. "
Apollo and Leto, standing beside Harry's bed in the hospital wing, turned their attention to Mad-Eye Moody as he entered. The atmosphere was thick with concern and a growing tension over the unfolding situation.
"Madam Bones has asked me to brief you on our current findings," Moody began, his magical eye swivelling back and forth, never resting. "The poisoning appears to be a deliberate act. We've found traces of several potent toxins in Harry's food - substances that are not easily obtainable. This was no accident."
Apollo's expression darkened, a mix of anger and worry etched across his face. Leto remained composed but her eyes revealed her deep concern for her grandson.
"We're conducting thorough interrogations," continued Moody. "We're questioning students, staff, and house elves. We're also examining all possible angles, including any connections to former Death Eaters."
Apollo interjected, his voice tinged with frustration, "And what have you found? Who is responsible for this?"
Moody shook his head slightly. "No concrete leads yet. But rest assured, we're leaving no stone unturned. We understand the gravity of the situation."
Leto, still holding Harry's hand, spoke up. "Is there any update on his condition? How is he responding to the treatment?"
Madam Pomfrey, who had been tending to Harry, looked up. "We are getting the antidote for the toxins we've identified. He's stable, but it's a waiting game now. We need to monitor him closely for any changes. He has been having periodic seizures."
On the bed, Harry's body began to violently convulse. Apollo and Leto quickly put him on his side.
Madam Pomfrey rushed to Harry's side, her experienced hands working quickly to ease his convulsions. "This is a side effect of the poisoning. His body is fighting hard."
As they tended to Harry, the room filled with a tense silence, broken only by the soft murmur of his laboured breathing. The seriousness of his condition was palpable, a stark reminder of the dark undercurrents that could lurk even in a place as magical and seemingly safe as Hogwarts.
Outside the hospital wing, the investigation continued. The Aurors meticulously combed through every detail, determined to uncover the truth behind the attack. In the Great Hall, students whispered among themselves, a mix of fear and speculation hanging in the air.
Back in the hospital wing, Apollo, his face a mask of controlled fury, spoke in a low, urgent tone to Madam Pomfrey. "Is there anything else we can do for him? Anything at all?"
Madam Pomfrey, her expression one of determined focus, replied, "We're doing everything we can. The antidote will help, but he needs time to recover. His magical core is strong, which is a good sign."
Leto, her gaze fixed on her grandson, spoke in Ancient Greek. "We should inform Artemis. She needs to know."
"Are you sure that is wise?" replied Apollo in the same language, "You know how much of an overprotective mama bear she is to Harry, we don't need an enraged Artemis."
"Gra...nd Ma..ma" muttered Harry weakly.
Harry's faint murmur caught the attention of Leto and Apollo, drawing their focus to him. Leto leaned closer, her eyes softening as she gently stroked his hair.
"Yes, Harry, I'm here," she whispered soothingly in Mycenean Greek, her voice a gentle caress in the tense room. Leto began singing an ancient Greek lullaby to Harry.
Harry's breathing gradually steadied, the ancient melody weaving a calming aura around him. The convulsions slowly ceased, and his expression eased into one of peaceful rest. Leto's voice, imbued with centuries of love and care, seemed to reach beyond the physical realm, offering solace to Harry's troubled spirit.
Apollo, observing the scene, felt a surge of gratitude towards his mother. Her presence and the lullaby had a visibly positive effect on Harry. He turned to Madam Pomfrey and asked in a low tone, "Madam, how long before we can administer the antidote?"
"We're nearly there," Madam Pomfrey replied, her gaze never leaving Harry. "Professor Sprout and Professor Tonks are finalizing the potion. It should be ready any moment now."
As they waited, the door to the hospital wing opened, and Professor Sprout and Professor Tonks hurried in, carrying a vial of deep blue liquid. "We've got it," Professor Tonks announced, her voice tinged with relief.
Madam Pomfrey quickly took the vial, examining its contents. "Excellent work," she said, nodding her approval. She then turned to Harry, carefully administering the antidote.
The tension in the room was palpable as they all watched Harry for any sign of reaction. After a few tense moments, his breathing seemed to deepen, a sign that the antidote was taking effect.
Madam Pomfrey sighed in relief. "He should begin to recover now. We'll need to keep him under observation, but the worst is over."
Apollo and Leto exchanged a look of relief, though the concern remained etched on their faces. Apollo spoke up, "Thank you, Madam Pomfrey, and everyone involved. Your swift actions may well have saved Harry's life."
Madam Pomfrey gave a modest nod. "It's my duty to look after all the students at Hogwarts. But for now, he needs rest. We should let him sleep."
Outside in the corridors of Hogwarts, the news of Harry's recovery began to spread, easing the tension among the students and staff. The Aurors, meanwhile, continued their investigation, determined to bring the perpetrator to justice.
In the quiet of the hospital wing, Leto and Apollo remained by Harry's side, watching over him. Apollo glanced at his mother, "I'll inform Artemis. She deserves to know."
Leto nodded in agreement, her eyes never leaving Harry. "Yes, she should know. But be cautious in how you break the news. We don't want to add to the turmoil. Let's hope she does not destroy the school."
AN: please read and review, I appreciate all reviews and comments, and I will try to reply to everyone.