Harry's time spent in Hogwarts seemed to fly by in a rush; each day started a repeated cycle of classes, lectures, homework assignments, and studying. Their weekends were spent walking around the hallways of the ancient castle and becoming familiar with its many hidden secrets. After the initial shock and awe of their first few weeks, Harry and his classmates began to settle into their own personal routine.
Harry, keeping mindful of his exercises and martial arts training, resolved to utilize his early morning awakenings to continue his runs and practices to remain in shape. Waking up each day before 0530, Harry made his way to the first floor landing and ran around the Hogwarts grounds. In fact, it was during these runs that he met and became friendly with the giant man from their first day.
"Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts! But everyone calls me Hagrid"
However giant and powerful he may appear; Hagrid was the literal physical embodiment of a 'gentle giant.' A booming voice and a thick black frizzled beard, Hagrid cut a pretty intimidating image, at least, until you looked past his initial appearance and see his gentle smile and friendly eyes. With an opened invitation to tea and cake during their weekends, Harry and his friends would make an appearance every other weekend and spent their time hearing about the many creatures that Hagrid found interesting. It quickly became noticeable that for Hagrid, the more dangerous the creature, the better.
During his runs, Harry would take the time to look around and discover as much as he could about the ancient woodlands. Near the Great Lake, by a landing shore, was an old decrepit stone building that had apparently served as a landing depot for any landing ships. This building, along with the use of ships, went out of fashion several hundred years ago. Therefore, the old stone building remained as the sole reminder of a time past method of transportation.
Seen from afar, in the midst of the lake, floated a small island covered with trees and shrubbery that could be accessed by making your way around the lake, past several thick trees and bushes before finding a single pathway that connected the island to the mainland. Harry hadn't yet made the time to venture out into the island, however, he hoped to make the journey before the years end.
Hermione, ever the studious bibliophile would resolve to read a new book while sitting in the comfortable sofas found in the Ravenclaw Common Room. While not as early of an awakener as Harry, she would wake up early enough to enjoy the relative silence and emptiness each morning before their breakfast. Already, midway through their school years, she had finished reading an impressive amount; made even more impressive since, in the House of the Wise, reading was an all too common practice. So, for her to have already read such an amount had impressed many of the upper years. Seeing a likeminded witch in their Transfiguration professor, Minerva McGonagall had made an impressive impact on the young witch. Already seeking to walk down a similar path as her newfound idol, Hermione enjoyed the intricacies and complexity of Transfiguration. Having finished their first year textbook, Hermione continued to read their second and third year Transfiguration textbook. Whenever given the chance, she would seek counsel with Professor McGonagall regarding anything Transfiguration related. Each evening, Hermione could be seen practicing simple transfiguration as she resolved to complete their entire first year text material before their upcoming winter holidays. Never one to discourage the practice of learning and exploring, Harry and Terry would join her in her many practice sessions.
Terry on the other hand enjoyed in what he declared to be "a more perfectly reasonable amount of sleep." As such, he would typically be awake and ready minutes before the start of breakfast. Regardless of that, unlike Hermione, Terry would always be awake filled with energy; every morning would have the words "Good morning!" loudly proclaimed by him. During their spare time, Terry would indulge in his passion, Charms. An aspiring enchanter, he enjoyed the many textbooks about enchanting that could be found in the Ravenclaw Library. Speaking with several 7th year students, he would ask them about their own personal experiences with the advance coursework. However, much they moaned and groaned about the piles of homework and lectures, Terry was only encouraged to continue his passion. His interest, clearly evident to anybody with eyes, caught the eye of their Head of House, Professor Flitwick. A 'Claw through and through, their Head of House encourage him to continue his interest, always reminding him that his door was always open for any questions or concerns.
Whatever tribulation and worries the trio may have had in their first days in Hogwarts, they were washed away as the sense of normalcy and belonging settled in.
It is, as it's been said, the days are long, but the years are short.
September went away and before they knew it, the end of their first semester in the hallowed halls of Hogwarts would soon come upon them.
Most days blended for Harry; indeed, they would appear to be the same day simply in replay. However, as he sat in the comfy cushion of the Hogwarts Express, there were several memorable instances that Harry would easily remember.
7th September 1991
Walking through the castle's entrance, the trio made their way to their common room to change out of their school robes, filled with dirt and mud from their Herbology class, they were quick set to clean up before dinner.
"You must think yourself so high and mighty, don't you, Potter."
A drawling comment, uttered from behind a stone statue of a knight, stopped the trio in their step. Turning towards the voice, Harry noted Draco Malfoy standing there. Dressed in his Slytherin robes, platinum hair slicked back, he maintained his sneer prominently.
With a raise of his eyebrow, Harry replied, "Greetings, Heir Malfoy. I'm afraid I do not understand what you are talking about."
With a snort, Malfoy answered, "Oh, please! As if you wouldn't know, it's so clear that you think you are better than everyone else. First in the class to master everything, always being able to answer every question. I'm surprised that your overgrown ego can even be supported by your body."
With a laugh, Harry said, "The pot calling the kettle black, much? What an absolutely ridiculous accusation. I have never uttered words of self-importance. Why would I resort to bragging about myself? Do I deny that I am the first person to master or answer questions in class? No. But I have never resorted to such an uncouth act of behavior. Unlike a blond ponce who cannot go a single day moaning and whining about his 'monumentally perfect Malfoy Manor'."
With a direct look, Harry took note of an increasing spread of red across the blond's pale face.
"If you feel inadequate, Malfoy, simply say so. No need to make up false accusations to settle your own lack of self-worth. Now, if it's not too much of a bother, we will be going now and change before dinner. I suggest you do the same. Good day."
With a stern look, Harry made his way towards the Ravenclaw Common Room with Hermione and Terry at his rear.
If only this were the only confrontation with the blond Slytherin.
If only.
Unfortunately, Malfoy seemed unwilling to cease his ridiculous attempts to interfere with his classwork or studying. In one instance, his near interfering in Harry's potion would have resulted in an impressive explosion to occur if Harry had not caught his thrown ingredient. Witnessed by their professor, Harry refused to allow this transgression to go uncontested.
"Should I scold Mr. Malfoy for his interference in my potion's work or should I allow the responsible adult wearing the honorific of 'professor' to do his job?"
With a raise of his eyebrow, Harry lifted the thrown ingredient to display it for their class to witness it.
With a drawl, the pale faced Potions Master replied, "I fail to see the issue, Potter. I do not see anything happening."
Looking directly to his professor's eyes, Harry replied, clearly and concisely, "If it happens again, repercussions will occur."
Returning to his work, Harry focused in finishing his potion. The Nail Growth Potion, a simple if not humorous concoction was hardly any issue for him to complete perfectly. Nearing the end of his work, Harry noticed a flying object heading to his cauldron.
In a flash, without turning his head, Harry grabbed the 'object' mid-air and returned it towards its owner. With a 'splash,' it mixed with Malfoy's potions causing a rather impressive explosion of gunk and water in front of the blond ponce. Launching him backwards, Malfoy landed quite hard on his bum. His partner, Crabbe, likewise felt the effects of his explosive potion.
With a whirl, their professor turned to care for the embarrassed duo on the floor.
"Potter! Detention for interfering in Malfoy's potion!"
With an impressive impression of the professor's voice, Harry drawled, "I fail to see the issue, sir. I'm sure Malfoy simply made an honest mistake. Isn't that right, Heir Malfoy?"
Facing the drenched Malfoy, Harry maintained his blank face.
Fists balled, Malfoy grimaced, "I apologize professor, I seemed to have made a mistake."
With a look between both boys, Snape flashed his wand in a whirl above him. Without a flash or sound, the cauldron and spilled potion instantly vanished.
"Class dismissed."
In a beat, everyone began to prepare their belongings to make way towards the door.
Waving away Hermione and Terry, Harry remained behind to wait for the potion culprit. Seeing him exit the door alone, Harry popped out from the shadow of a nearby stand. Grabbing ahold of the Slytherin's robe, Harry shoved Malfoy against the cold stone wall.
"Listen here and listen well, Malfoy," he muttered coldly, a mere whisper flowing quietly, "You better stop whatever foolish attempts you may have in mind to mess with me. If you continue, you better be prepared to deal with the consequences of your fucking idiocy. Have I made myself clear, Bad Faith?"
The initial glimpse of surprise was quickly replaced with a flash of fear that spread across Malfoy's face.
"You better let me go or else…"
"What?! You'll go off and tell daddy dearest? What an absolute ponce, you annoying bugger. Stop or you'll be stopped."
With a push, Harry shoved Malfoy down the empty hallway. Grabbing his bag, Malfoy ran away in fear.
"You'll regret this Potter!"
With a shake of his head, Harry turned back to his previous post and grabbed his bag.
Looking to the Potion's classroom door, Harry noted a shadow peeking through the doorway. A tall dark unmoving shadow remained still.
"Remember, professor, 'met with equal force.' Please make sure to control your class."
Turning and walking down, Harry met up with the rest of his classmates in the Ravenclaw Common Room.
After that instance, any interference or confrontation with Malfoy stopped suddenly. Puzzled, Hermione took note one week later.
"I wonder why Malfoy stopped his childish antics against you, Harry?"
Shrugging, Harry replied, "Maybe he just realize that I don't care about him nor his wasted effort."
~~ Three week later ~~
19 September 1991
On the beginning of their third week, it was announced that the first year Ravenclaws would be attending their first flying lesson with the Slytherins after their last class on Thursday. Their scheduled nightly Astronomy class would be cancelled for the lesson.
He had been looking forward to learning to fly more than anything else.
Harry had found his father's Quidditch plaque in the trophy room which demonstrated his father's skill as a chaser and Quidditch team Captain.
Since Monday, Harry had had many day dreams about flying and feeling the wind blow past his face, his hair flying sporadically in a chaotic manner, and the sensation of freedom from the constriction of being on the ground.
The only negative part of this announcement, was Malfoy's loud proclamation of his own self-described flying ability. According to him, he had been flying since he was in his nappies (this Harry found quite unlikely).
He complained loudly about first years never getting on the house Quidditch teams and told long, boastful stories that always seemed to end with him narrowly escaping Muggles in helicopters. He wasn't the only one, though: the way Seamus Finnigan told it, he'd spent most of his childhood zooming around the countryside on his broomstick. Even Ron would tell anyone who'd listen about the time he'd almost hit a hang glider on Charlie's old broom. Everyone from wizarding families talked about Quidditch constantly. Ron had already had a big argument with Dean Thomas, who shared their dormitory, about soccer. Ron couldn't see what was exciting about a game with only one ball where no one was allowed to fly. The days Harry chose to sit with the Gryffindors were filled with stories of Quidditch and how "bloody brilliant it is."
Hermione Granger was absolutely nervous over the prospect of flying. This was something you couldn't learn by heart out of a book – not that she hadn't tried. At breakfast on Tuesday, she bored them all stupid with flying tips she'd gotten out of a library book called Quidditch Through the Ages. It wasn't until Harry calmed Hermione enough to reassure her that the flying lesson would be safe, that their instructor would be around to ensure their safety and that worrying about it before they began would only serve to worsen her fears.
With the final ring of the day, Harry, Terry, Hermione and the other Ravenclaws hurried down the front steps onto the grounds for their first flying lesson. It was a clear, breezy day, and the grass rippled under their feet as they marched down the sloping lawns toward a smooth, flat lawn on the opposite side of the grounds to the forbidden forest, whose trees were swaying darkly in the distance.
The Slytherins were already there, and so were some twenty odd broomsticks lying in neat lines on the ground. Harry had heard Roger Davies complain about the school brooms, saying that some of them started to vibrate if you flew too high, or always flew slightly to the left.
Their teacher, Madam Hooch, arrived. She had short, gray hair, and yellow eyes like a hawk.
"Well, what are you all waiting for?" she barked. "Everyone stand by a broomstick. Come on, hurry up."
Harry glanced down at his broom. It was old and some of the twigs stuck out at odd angles.
"Stick out your right hand over your broom," called Madam Hooch at the front, "and say 'Up!'"
"UP!" everyone shouted.
Harry's broom jumped into his hand at once, but it was one of the few that did. Hermione's had simply rolled over on the ground, and Terry's hadn't moved at all. Perhaps brooms, like horses, could tell when you were afraid, thought Harry; there was a quaver in Hermione's voice that said only too clearly that she wanted to keep her feet on the ground.
Madam Hooch then showed them how to mount their brooms without sliding off the end and walked up and down the rows correcting their grips. Harry and Terry were delighted when she told Malfoy he'd been doing it wrong for years.
"Now, when I blow my whistle, you kick off from the ground, hard," said Madam Hooch. "Keep your brooms steady, rise a few feet, and then come straight back down by leaning forward slightly. On my whistle – three – two –one"
With a gentle jump, Harry began to float a few feet from the ground, his feet dangling on the sides of the broom. The initial wobble of floating quickly settled as Harry began to get comfortable with the position.
To his right, Harry noted that Terry was similarly getting comfortable in his broom; seemingly more at ease in it than Hermione.
She was pale in fear, her hands tightly clenching the broom's body were as white as snow. Her eyes were opened wide, her mouth clenched.
Leaning slightly forward, Harry 'nudged' his broom to float closer besides Hermione.
"Hermione, try to relax as best as possible. Remember to keep a looser grip on the broom, otherwise you'll be more likely to make sudden movement. Tell me, what did the book say about the initial fly?"
Refusing to move her own head to face him, she replied shakingly, "A firm grip is best in maintain control of your broom; too loose could result in the flyer's inability to maintain full control of it; too tight could cause jerk movements that increase the risk for falls and injuries. Therefore, it is recommended for beginner flyers to maintain a calm level-headed control of their movement and make slow gentle nudges to their desired direction."
"Just follow the directions, take a deep breath and do as the book stated."
Nodding, Hermione began to take several deep breathes as she attempted to regain her composure.
A few minutes later, she was sitting more comfortably than before.
Madam Hooch's voice could be heard throughout the grounds.
"Very well now, for those who wish, they may fly around the designated fly zone. Otherwise, continue to fly gently around for those who wish to continue practicing in safer heights."
Hermione, regardless of her regained composure, chose to remain in the safer limits of her flying; Terry likewise chose the same.
Harry, however, wished to seek the higher heavens with his broom.
Rising higher and higher, his classmates began to shrink in size until they resemble big dots down below as Harry began to feel confident in his ability flying.
Standing on the ground, hand covering the sunlight from hitting her eyes, was Madam Hooch, who was observing keenly the rare few students who had chosen to fly above. Malfoy, for all his braggart acclamation in his flying abilities, was proving to be a rather poor flyer; wobbling and shaking as he continued to fly above the rest. Theodore Nott appeared to be an adequate flyer, looking right at home in his broom while he performed simple turns.
Harry, however, was a natural. The feeling of the breeze, the warmth of the sunrays and the weightless sensation filled Harry with more happiness and freedom than he had ever felt. Each turn and twist was as seamless in movement as moving his limbs were; the broom simply an extension of his body.
For the majority of the class, Harry enjoyed performing fast descents and sharp turns as he became acquainted with flying.
Suddenly, from down below, a loud voice reached Harry's ears, "Mr. Potter! Catch!"
Looking down below, Harry noticed the flying instructor launch a small round object up in the air.
Immediately, leaning completely forward, Harry pressed his chest flat against the wood as he made a sudden sharp descend as he calculated the arch of the ball's movement. In a flash, Harry reached where he thought the ball would fly to and reached out with his hand to catch it.
A soft, green ball landed directly in the palm of his hand as he took hold of it while simultaneously pulling upwards in an attempt to level himself parallel to the ground.
Stopping suddenly, Harry took note of the shocked expression in the faces of his classmates.
"Well, I must say, you are a natural in the broom, Mr. Potter. I look forward to your time in the Quidditch team if you choose to try out."
Standing in the midst of the group, the flying instructor had an impressed look on her face as she stood witness to Harry's natural skill.
After that day, Harry's popularity improved as word of his natural skill seemed to spread like wildfire throughout the school. To Harry, the speed in which gossip, and news spread throughout Hogwarts was simply magical. By the time dinner had ended, almost every person within Hogwarts had heard the tales of Harry's flying.
In fact, after dinner, as they made their way to the Ravenclaw Common Room, Professor Flitwick asked to speak to Harry regarding the option to join the Quidditch team. His skills and prowess well witnessed; the professor was jumping in excitement on the prospects of a Ravenclaw win for this year's season.
Harry's response? Simple, he would assent to joining the Quidditch team on the proviso that the rest of the first years would be given the same opportunity to try out and join the team. It was, as Harry had told Professor Flitwick, "I would hate for others to think that I am receiving special treatment."
In agreement, the week after their first flying lesson, the announcement was made that first years would be given the option to try out for their respective House's team. Scheduled for that following weekend, many people were excited in the prospects of joining their House team. Unfortunately for many, out of the many that tried out, only a few were chosen for their team.
Ron Weasley joined as the backup Keeper for the Gryffindor quidditch team.
Susan Bones became the newest member of the Hufflepuff Chasers.
Theodore Nott became the newest member of the Slytherin's Chasers.
When word spread that this option for the first years was provided only due to Harry's interception, more and more people became friendly with him.
October 1991
Whenever possible, Harry and his groups would join together with members of other houses to help one another in their class. Initially beginning as a study session between the three 'Claws; Susan and Hannah were quick to join, eventually making way for Neville, Ron, Dean, Seamus, and the entirety of the first year Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw cohort to join. They all met up in one of the available study rooms found on the side of the library; making sure to reserve the room in advance, it allowed the group to study together. While they were all a part of the study group, each session did not always have them showing up.
Ron, Dean, and Seamus would show up every now and then; mostly coming in the day before a big assignment was due. Anthony and Michael would usually come every few sessions, however, would prefer to study together. Justin and Wayne, two first year Hufflepuffs, would similarly follow suit. Regardless, the invitation was available to anybody who wanted to study in the comfort of their fellow peers.
The idea had initially been Hermione's after having a conversation with Susan and Hannah about the expressed desire for Megan to likewise study with them. Coming to Harry, Hermione encouraged him to form the "Scholar's Squad," their uniform name for their study group.
Harry had been hesitant to begin this study group for the sole reason that he did not believe himself so far advance to be able to help them all, but he quickly took note that he rarely did not have the answer to their question. This was only due to his rather fanatic studying habits and liberal use of his Occlumency to help him recall information faster. Regardless, he entered the formation of the group with the same charm and affable attitude he had carefully cultured in his primary school.
His reputation of being a kind and approachable, yet frightfully intelligent young man was quickly forged as the weeks flew by.
The organization of the group was rather simple; anybody who had a knack for a specific class would band together to help those with lesser understanding of it. Neville was quickly found to have an intimate knowledge of flora and fauna, became their go-to resident expert in Herbology; likewise, Hannah would help Neville in helping others with their Herbology coursework. Terry and Padma became the go-to for Charms; Hermione and Harry became their Transfiguration experts; in potions, Harry and Susan became the de facto teachers.
While it did keep his evenings busy, the group provided a sense of camaraderie for many in their year group. Neville, once a shy and bumbling boy, began to shed his skin as he began to form friendships with many within the group. Ron, once a rather lazy and whining boy, began to understand their courses better due to the studying in their group. However, nobody would ever call Ronald Weasley a bookworm.
The only hold out in making their group a true House-friendly group was the integration of Slytherin members within their numbers. Even after many invitations and encouragement by Harry, the emerald striped members were hesitant to join their group. Either way, Harry continued to make headway in forging friendships with any willing Slytherin.
Homework and studying were not all that concerned Harry. For weeks, Hrothgar remained silent regarding the matter of his godfather's innocence. Statements and updates regarding his bank accounts and investments came in throughout the weeks, keeping him informed of his finances. Already opening their doors, his invested potions business was able to open their doors weeks after the beginning of their school year. Within the first month of business, it became quite evident the benefits of having invested in this up and coming Potions Mistress; the business became a quick favorite for many throughout the community. As a show of gratitude for his investment, Ms. Douglas informed him that any potion that he required would be made and prepared for him, free of charge. Due to its increasing popularity, she was forced to hire an additional two workers, both working for their Potions Mastery, to be able to handle the influx of requests and a full time cashier. Regardless, Ms. Douglas was certainly enjoying her growing business.
It was not until the 31st of October, All Hallows Eve, that Harry received word regarding Sirius Black.
"Greetings, Lord Potter
I must apologize for the delay in the update regarding the Heir Presumptive Sirus Black's innocence. Following your choice to pursue his freedom, I reached out to several reputable barristers for their expertise in legalese and intimate knowledge of criminal law. Out of the many I reached out to, only a few were willing to hear more regarding this rather clandestine topic. Only one was willing to take up the case in the pursuit of Heir Black's freedom. Tonks and Tonks, Barristers-at-Law were willing to take the necessary oaths to maintain the secrecy of this endeavor. I am obligated to inform you that the interest and eventual agreement to take this case by them is due to their own personal interest in Heir Black. Mrs. Andromeda Tonks nee Black was a close cousin to your godfather and was disheartened to hear his innocence and confession. Regardless, both Mrs. Tonks and her husband, Mr. Theodore Tonks, are reputable barristers and have extensive experience in criminal law.
Presenting them both the evidence we now have regarding his innocence; the absence of trial, lack of a due process and investigation, the oath bound confession, and reports by the arriving witches and wizards of the Ministry, they felt that they would have a fighting chance to bring his case out on the open. However, they, as I advise, do agree that obtaining an audience with Madame Bones would heavily help our goal. As such, we await your decision whether to send a missive to Madame Bones.
Following your reported suspicion of your fellow classmates' pet, I searched through the list of registered Animagus within the Ministry. Unfortunately, no such record exist that Mr. Pettigrew was ever a registered Animagus. However, this does not disapprove his ability, simply that it was not registered.
For now, our investigation is stalled as we await the next course of action. I await your answer.
Account Manager Hrothgar"
Dressed in his school robes, Harry sat on the end of his bed whilst holding the letter.
The discovery of useful allies in his endeavor to pursue his godfather's freedom was a welcomed bit of news. It had never crossed his mind to research more about the Black family and see if there remained any further living relatives. Harry knew that his grandmother, Dorea, was born a Black, before marrying his grandfather Charlus. Perhaps he should set time apart to research more about the Black family. Afterall, with him being declared as Heir Presumptive of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Black, it would only behoove him to become familiar with its history.
Regardless, perhaps it was high time Harry sent out a missive to Madame Bones, the Director for the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, or more aptly known as the DMLE.
Deciding to write it now, in the security of his empty dorm room, Harry obtained his quill, ink pot, and parchment.
"Greetings, Madame Amelia Bones
I hope this letter reaches you well, Madam. My name is Harry Potter, Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter. I am reaching out in the hopes that you may agree to a meeting to discuss a rather controversial topic regarding some family matters. My godfather is currently a resident in the maximum ward in Azkaban, and I am hoping to bring into light some rather revealing information that you would find most interesting. I mention no names, but I am sure that a woman of your caliber could easily decipher his identity.
Please let me know of your decision. I await your response.
Lord Harry J Potter
Head of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Potter"
It was a rather short letter due to Harry being hesitant to reveal too much. From Hrothgar's report, Madame Bones was a competent, fair and thorough witch who was a firm believer in the justice system. He hoped the little he did say would grab her attention enough to agree for a meeting.
Placing the letter in the trust of his snowy owl, Hedwig flew away into the endless sky.
Grabbing a second piece of parchment, Harry penned a short reply to Hrothgar.
"Greetings, Hrothgar
I have sent a letter to Madame Bones; I shall inform you of her reply as soon as possible. Please pass along my deepest thanks to the Tonks family for their willingness to join our effort in seeking freedom for my godfather. Once I have obtained a letter of confirmation for a meeting with Madam Bones, please pass along the date and location with the Tonks to ensure their availability. For now, I shall continue to attempt to obtain Ron Weasley's rat to confirm our suspicions.
Harry Potter."
Placing the enclosed letter in his private mailbox, a muted flashed glowed around the seams of the door signaling the disappearance of his reply.
Business finished; Harry returned to the Common Room to join his classmates as they continued to finish this weeks homework assignments.
Time Skip
All Hallows Eve Feast
The loud chattering and laughter of the Hogwarts residents echoes throughout the full Great Hall. Floating blazing pumpkins, animated skeletons, and glowing floating candles decorated the walls around them in celebration of All Hallows Eve.
Initially, Harry was under the impression that the celebration was for Halloween, however, a quick question to Terry disapproved that thought.
"I understand why you would be confused but no, today celebrates All Hallows Eve, the annual day in where we remember our past ancestors. The veil between the mortal realm and the afterlife is the thinnest today, therefore there is a strong connotation of death and heritage that is celebrated. For many pureblood families, today is spent together over delicious feasts as they reminisce over their past loved one. Many muggleborns see the decorations during today and assume that we are celebrating Halloween. However, nobody goes around and dresses themselves up in costumes or seek candies. Today is a day of remembrance."
Growing up, the Dursley's never celebrate Halloween. Deeming it a 'useless waste of money to wear ridiculous drapes during the night,' they chose to simply buy Dudley a bag of candies to feast by himself. Harry, however, was cast away in his room under the stairs.
As such, he held no sentimental attachment to the celebration of Halloween. All Hallows Eve, however, was something more relevant for Harry. Today marked the 10th year anniversary of his parent's death; or as it was more commonly viewed as, the day the Dark Lord Voldemort was defeated.
Initially, Harry was hesitant to celebrate such a day. Why would he want to participate in the celebrations when today was the anniversary of his parent's death…of his family's death.
However, after Terry explained the relevance held for today, he chose to view it as a way to remember his parents; to honor them. Harry had no memories of them, no true link to them other than carrying their blood and name. Even so, he chose to honor them by living. By enjoying each day to its fullest and remaining thankful for their sacrifice, for their love.
So, seated in between Hermione and Terry, Harry indulged himself in the veritable feast laid before him.
Piles of chicken legs, salads, turkeys, hams, sausages, potatoes, tomatoes, and so much more could be seen spread across the long tables. Already on his second plate, Harry began to settle in to the warm and inviting environment of the room. The ambience was inviting, the food was delicious, and his company was welcomed.
As the feast continued, Harry began to feel the soothing callings for sleep.
However, interrupting a rather engaging conversation regarding the importance of incantations in invoking magic, a thunderous 'CLAP' echoed throughout the Great Hall.
Professor Quirrell came sprinting into the hall, his turban askew and terror on his face. Everyone stared as he reached Professor Dumbledore's chair, slumped against the table, and gasped, "Troll – in the dungeons – thought you ought to know."
Then he sank to the floor in a dead faint.
There was an uproar. It took several purple firecrackers exploding from the end of Professor Dumbledore's wand to bring silence.
"Perfects," he rumbled, "lead your Houses back to the dormitories immediately!"
Immediately, Penny stood up and began to corral the 'Claws, "First years to me! First years to me!"
"Follow me! Stick together, first years! No need to fear the troll if you follow my orders! Stay close behind me, now. Make way, first years coming through! Excuse me!"
"How could a troll get in?" Harry thought as they climbed the stairs.
They passed different groups of people hurrying in different directions. As they jostled their way through a crowd of confused Hufflepuffs, Harry suddenly grabbed Terry's arm.
"Look," Harry said as he pointed towards Justin and Megan arguing.
Tugging on Terry's sleeve, Harry pulled him closer towards Justin and Megan.
As they got nearer, Harry began to hear snippets of their conversation.
"We need to find them!" "We can't! We need to stay together."
Reaching them, Harry began to ask them, "Justin. Megan. What's going on?"
Startled, they turned to face him. A look of relief melted on Megan's face. "Harry! Please, you need to help them! They do not know about the troll."
Confused, Harry replied, "Hold on! Calm down," grabbing ahold of Megan's shoulders, Harry attempted to settle her, "Take a deep breath and tell me what's going on."
With a shuddering breathe, she answered, "It's Susan and Hannah. They went to the restroom during the feast. Hannah was having stomach issues, so Susan went with her to keep her company. But they don't know about the troll. Please! We need to find them."
With a flurry, Harry thought of his course of action. On one hand, Harry could simply choose to walk away and avoid this issues, but Harry's conscious would never let him choose this. Another option was to go and notify a nearby teacher and hope they could be found. The last option was for them to find them themselves; this was the most risky option, something Harry would rather avoid but a loud voice in him urged him to go and find them.
Susan and Hannah were his friends and a part of him felt obligated to go help them.
Looking directly at Megan's scared face, Harry's resolved hardened as he chose his option.
Turning to Terry, Harry took note of his fear; pale face, a thin layer of sweat and dilated pupils, Terry could not have made it more obvious of his fear. However, once he caught Harry eyes, Terry's fear began to fade away. With a shallow breathe, Terry straightened up and tightened his lips as he caught on to what Harry was choosing to do.
"Listen. Terry and I will go to the girl's bathroom while you and Justin go and tell any teacher you find about Susan and Hannah."
"No, we should all go together," said Justin, fervently.
Shaking his head, Harry said, "No, the two of you should go for a professor to help us. Now go!"
Pushing them, Harry saw them running down the hallway as they swerved their head side to side as they looked for any nearby professor.
Without a word, the began to join the Hufflepuffs going the other way, slipped down a deserted corridor, and hurried off toward the girl's bathroom. They had just turned the corner when they head quick footsteps behind them.
"Hide!" hissed Harry, pulling Terry behind a large stone griffin.
Peering around it, however, they saw Snape crossing the corridor and disappear from view.
"What's he doing?" Harry whispered. "Why isn't he down in the dungeons with the rest of the teachers?"
Pallor still set; all Terry could do was shrug in confusion.
Quietly as possible, they crept along the next corridor after Snape's fading footsteps.
"He's heading for the third floor," Harry said, but Terry held up his hand.
"Can you smell something?"
Harry sniffed and a foul stench reached his nostrils, a mixture of old socks and the kind of public toilet no one seems to clean.
And then they heard it – a low grunting, and the shuffling footfalls of gigantic feet. Terry pointed – at the end of a passage to the left, something huge was moving toward them. They shrank into the shadows and watched as it emerged into a patch of moonlight.
It was a horrible sight. Twelve feet tall, its skin was a dull, granite gray, its great lumpy body like a boulder with its small bald head perched on top like a coconut. It had short legs thick as tree trunks with flat, horny feet. The smell coming from it was incredible. It was holding a huge wooden club, which dragged along the floor because its arms were so long.
The troll stopped next to a doorway and peered inside. It waggled its long ears, making up its tiny mind, then slouched slowly into the room.
"The key's in the lock," Terry muttered. "We could lock it in."
"No. That's the girl's bathroom, maybe the girls are in there," observed Harry.
"Are you su-"
A high, petrified scream and a shout for help cut off Terry's question.
Running to the doors, the boys stood witness to the sight of Susan and Hannah.
Hannah was shrinking against the wall opposite, looking as if she were about to faint. Susan stood between her and the troll bravely with a frightened look on her face. The troll was advancing on them, knocking the sinks off the walls as it went.
"Confuse it!" Harry said desperately to Terry, and, seizing a tap, he threw it as hard as he could against the wall.
The troll stopped a few feet from the girls. It lumbered around, blinking stupidly, to see what had made the noise. Its mean little eyes saw Harry. It hesitated, then made for him instead, lifting its club as it went. Susan seized the opportunity and tried to help Hannah to her feet
"Oy, Snot-Brain!" yelled Terry from the other side of the chamber, and he threw a metal pipe at it. The troll didn't even seem to notice the pipe hitting its shoulder, but it heard the yell and paused again, turning its ugly snout toward Terry instead, giving Harry time to run around it.
"She won't get up!" Susan panted, trying to get Hannah to stand, "I'll go help Terry!" Susan ran off and started shouting to continue confusing the troll.
"Come on, run, run!" Harry yelled at Hannah, trying to pull her toward the door, but she couldn't move, she was still flat against the wall, her mouth open with terror.
The shouting and the echoes seemed to be driving the troll berserk. It roared again and started toward Terry, who was nearest and had no way to escape.
Suddenly, everything stop.
Thump.
Terry was stuck. Wall behind him and the troll advancing towards him, there was no way Terry could escape. Drenched from the burst water flowing from the ruined sink pipes, Harry saw the scary realization that he was about to meet a very gruesome end.
Thump.
Susan was shouting, throwing anything within her reach towards the troll. Flying red hair floating around her, her mouth was agape as she continued to scream in an attempt to distract the troll.
Thump.
Hannah was frozen in a perpetual state of shock. Curled against the wall, her head was placed in between her knees as she continued to shake in fear.
Somehow Harry was able to process all of this in the split second it took for it to reach his brain.
Suddenly, Harry remembered a spell he had reach during the summer. It was a powerful explosive hex that could destroy several inches of concrete when performed appropriately. Harry would have never thought to use it. The power required for such a spell was rather high, but he could not think of anything else that could reach his intended goal.
Bursting forth, Harry drew every ounce of strength within him, every bit of concentration and willpower to ensure he did it right.
"CONFRINGO!"
Immediately, a bright burst of a blue flew from the tip of his wind towards the back of the troll's right knee.
With a concussive blast, the spell pushed Harry backwards as he saw his hex fly across the room before reaching it's target.
With a powerful impact it produced an impressive explosion of blood and muscle as it paved it's way through the hard exterior of the troll's skin.
A splash of dark red burst backwards spraying the immediate vicinity in a gruesome display of blood and gore.
With a roar, the troll buckled as it was forced to kneel down onto it's single intact knee. From where he stood, Harry observed the exposed blood vessels pulsate rapidly in a hopeless attempt to maintain it's circulation. Hanging from its torn edges, pieces of skin could be seen grabbing to the edges of the impact site.
Seeing this much needed reprise, Terry ran around the edge of the troll before reaching Harry and the girls.
Punching the floor, the troll used it's club for support as it pushed itself upwards.
Roaring, the troll turned to face them. With a maddening glare of hatred aimed towards them, the troll raised it's club while releasing a challenging roar.
"Terry, you and Susan grab ahold of Hannah and run to the door. Come on, go!"
Without complaint, Susan and Terry each grabbed one of Hannah's arms and worked together to drag her to the exit. In a crouching stance, Harry began to walk backwards covering their exit.
Limping, the troll began to make it's way towards them. Swinging it's club towards him, Harry was barely able to roll away before he found himself a mess of blood against the wall. Launching himself up, Harry was forced to jump in between the troll's legs in order to avoid being hit by a swipe of the club. Landing on his back, Harry looked up and saw the troll's makeshift loincloth that protected him from being forced to see an otherwise horrible sight.
Thinking quickly, Harry pointed his wand towards the trolls groin and muttered, "Ignis."
A spark, launching itself from his wand onto the troll's loincloth, ignited a flash of fire onto the dirty soiled cloth. With a roar of pain, the troll began to squirm and jump in a poor attempt to smother the fire.
Using this distraction, Harry got out from the floor and ran towards the door where he found Terry standing over Susan and Hannah bedside the entrance.
"Guys, get up. We need to run away. Let's try to make our way towards the main stairway."
As before, both Terry and Susan began to carry Hannah down the corridor to where the stairway lied. Running behind them, Harry heard a loud 'SMASH' boomed as the doors of the bathroom were demolished by the enraged troll.
In an attempt to provide more time, Harry stopped to face the troll and loudly proclaimed,
"CONFRINGO!"
The flash of blue raced to the floor directly in front of the trolled causing an explosion of stone to hit the troll face first. Shrapnel of every size flew into the troll's face causing multiple lacerations to appears across it's forehead and torso. Within seconds, the troll was laying on it's back, miniature lines of red caked it's body as the cuts allowed for it's blood to leak.
As sudden as the explosion was, the silence that followed was just as quick.
Creeping closer, Harry could still see the rise and fall of it's chest to indicate that it was still alive.
Choosing to not get closer, Harry turned and made his way where he last saw Terry, Susan, and Hannah.
Running, Harry reached the stairway landing and ran down the stairs in twos.
Reaching the landing below, Harry saw Terry and the girls sitting besides the Headmaster, Professor McGonagall, and Professor Flitwick.
"HELP!"
With a quick flash of their wands, the three professor quickly formed a protective cover in front of the students. The Headmaster in the center, he was flanked by the two professor as they observed the limping form of Harry making his way towards them.
Behind him, roaring in anger, the troll made his way towards him. It's eyes filled with unrestrained rage; it's knee injury long forgotten.
Immediately, with a swirl of his wand, without uttering a single word, the Headmaster released a concentrated beam of white light that rushed past Harry and hit the troll dead center of it's forehead.
The white beam made the troll stop in it's tracks as it continued to flow outwards to encompass the troll's body. Mesmerized, Harry took note of the paralyzing effect it had against the troll.
With magic-resistant skin, trolls were well known for their difficulty in sustaining damage from spells that were not explosive in nature. Irrespective of their immunity, the Headmaster spell began to transform it's very skin into stone in a crude reminiscence of a troll statue crafted by a medusa.
Within seconds, a realistic life-size stone statue rested in the exact location of the troll.
"Mr. Potter, are you hurt?" asked Professor Flitwick, suddenly appearing bedside Harry.
Facing the diminutive Charms professor, Harry's body suddenly gave out from exhaustion.
His body trembling, Harry attempted to take in slow, deep breathes as he tried to maintain his composure. His training of Krav Maga always emphasized the importance in maintaining your composure in the heat of a fight.
Delving into his mental shields, Harry quickly centered himself enough to open his eyes.
"Yes, sir. Just some cuts and bruises."
Breathing rapidly, Harry took note of the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall investigate the troll statue.
"Headmaster, I believe that these students would benefits from a visit to the infirmary."
Facing them, Harry took note of the Headmasters interrogating gaze observe the quartet as they each laid on the floor.
"Yes, of course. If you don't mind, Professor Flitwick, please accompany them to the infirmary. Professor McGonagall and I will ensure the troll is taken care of."
Within minutes, the four students stood before the entrance of the infirmary.
A long wide hall, the Hospital Wing was tall with arches that held innumerous tiles. On the right side, windows could be seen that allowed the silver nightlight to beam through it's clean crystal glass. Empty of any activity, their entrance made enough noise to announce their arrival for Madam Pomfrey to exit her office near the door.
"Oh, my goodness! Filius, what happened?"
"Sorry for the interruption, Poppy. These four students were unfortunate enough to be in a battle with the loose troll."
Guiding them into a bed each, Madame Pomfrey quickly began to wave her hand around them as she began to take note of their injuries.
"Well, I'm glad to see that nothing serious appears to have happened to them. Mr. Potter has several minor abrasions and bruises that will heal well enough, as well as severe magical exhaustion. Mr. Boot and Ms. Bones both appear to have escaped unscathed. However, Ms. Abbot appears to be in shock."
Uncorking a small vial, Madame Pomfrey placed it near Hannah's lips, "Here you go, open up. This'll help you."
Immediately, the tension and fear evident in Hannah began to seep away as the potion did it's work.
"A Calming Draught should do the trick."
"Your words sooth me, Poppy. Thank you."
Bringing a glass of water for Harry to drink, he suddenly realized how thirsty he was. Like a man lost in a desert, Harry made quick work of his glass of water. As he finished, he noticed that his hand continued to tremble as his body's adrenaline began to fade away.
As it did, the pains and aches that his body had been masking quickly became prominent in Harry's mind.
"Here, drink this. It's a mild Pain Reliever to help with your aches."
Suddenly appearing to his right, Harry took the offered potion and drank it.
Within seconds, the aches that plagued his body were washed away, "Thank you."
"Of course."
As Harry began to settle into the comfortable bed, he turned to face Terry who was laying on the bed besides him.
"You doing okay, Terry?"
With a weak nod, Terry answered, "Just really tired. You did all the work, Harry."
Looking towards Hannah and Susan, he noted that Hannah had fallen asleep from the turmoil while Susan remain as alert as before.
"Thank you, Harry. You saved our lives." A sincere look of gratitude appeared in Susan's face.
With a tiring smile, Harry said, "We're friends, Susan. You don't have to thank me."
Suddenly, the doors to the Hospital Wing opened, allowing entry to the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall.
"Poppy, how are they?" questioned the Headmaster.
"They are doing find, Headmaster. Both Ms. Bones and Mr. Boot escaped unscathed. Ms. Abbot went into shock, so I had to give her a Calming Draught; she's currently asleep. Mr. Potter received several minor abrasions, bruises and magical exhaustion. I've provided a Pain Reliever."
"Thank you."
Walking towards the remaining three students, the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall sat in conjured chairs created by the Headmaster.
With a gentle look, the Headmaster looked at each student individually. His cornflower blue eyes glistened in concerned for them, a warm smile graced his face as he said.
"I'm sorry to have to ask this of you. I understand what you went through was traumatic and that you may not want to talk about it. But I must ask what happened?"
Both Terry and Susan turned to look at Harry with expecting looks.
With a deep breathe, Harry sat up to begin their tale.
He told them about Megan and Justin's concern for Susan and Hannah; about Harry and Terry's decision to search for them and their eventual discovery of the troll in the girl's bathroom; described the fight against the troll as Harry attempted to stall it long enough to allow Susan and Terry to carry Hannah away.
By the end of his story, both professors looked at Harry with an intense gaze.
In reply, the Headmaster said.
"I must say, you four were incredibly lucky to have survived an attack from a full grown troll. Trained adults would have found it an arduous task. However foolhardy your efforts, your intentions were true and just. The both of you sought to help your friends and for that I cannot lay fault on you. Mr. Potter, it was quite smart of you to tell Mr. Finch-Fletchley and Ms. Jones to notify a teacher. I fear if you had not, any help would have been further delayed. Mr. Boot, Ms. Bones, your willingness to carry Ms. Abbot to safety is commendable. Therefore, as a token for your bravery and loyalty in the face of an adversary, I award you each 50 points to your respective House.
Looking at one another, Harry, Terry and Susan could only look in surprise that they were not being punished.
Catching their look, Professor McGonagall added, "While I would have preferred none of you were in this mess, I do applaud your quick thinking and bravery. Should you ever be in a similar situation, I urge you to seek out a professor instead of running towards the danger."
Nodding, the three affirmed the professors statement.
"For now, we'll leave you in the capable hands of Madam Pomfrey. Rest and recover."
Sleep was rather easy to come by that night. The adrenaline and fear made his body so tired that Harry had barely laid his head on the pillow before he fell asleep.
After that day, the four student, along with Hermione, began to feel a deep sense of friendship and loyalty to one another. After all, the bonds forged in blood and fire are said to be the strongest.
The story of their adventure was the talk of the school for the rest of the week. Hailed as heroes, the quartet received much attention and acclamation from their peers for their earned points. However, what was not spoken of was the effect this fight had on them all.
Hannah continued to have nightmares about their encounter with the troll; during the day she became inseparable from any one of them, feeling more comfortable besides Susan, Terry, Harry or Hermione. It took several days of attempting to have her open up about her emotions regarding the encounter before Hannah consented to speaking about it. One weekend later and a whole lot of sweets later, the friendship group were able to help her reconcile with the event.
Susan proved to be every bit as tough and resilient as her aunt was rumored to be. Other than the increased gratitude and appreciation for one another, Susan was able to handle the near-death escapee with little to no lasting effects.
Terry was better off than Hannah, only having a few nights of restless sleep and increased sensitivity before he was able to return back to baseline. Having Harry around as his roommate proved to be a valuable resource as Harry was able to sit with him during those restless nights and spend their time talking about one another and their family. All-nighters and deep conversations helped bring each other closer and provided Terry with the necessary support he required.
Harry remained as calm and collected as ever. While the events of the troll did leave him with a heightened sense of paranoia for a couple of days, he was able to bounce back with no effects.
What this did, however, was reinforce to them the importance of being able to defend oneself from harm. Returning to the book he had read in the beginning of the semester, the group resolved to help one another learn to fight.
As such, each Sunday evening, they would meet in a private empty classroom and practice several spells that Hermione and Harry had written down as useful.
Depulso was a higher-level spell that would push or launch an object towards the caster's intended location. Depending the caster's power and intention, it could be used for something as mundane as throwing a pillow to someone or to throw an object to hurt someone. The power requirement was not too high, but the control and precision needed to aim correctly took practice.
Mordeo, the Stinging Hex, would caused pain and localized swelling to the target. Erroneously thought to produce a simple 'slap,' it could cause severe pain or swelling if overpowered. Technically a grey hex, it was effective in a fight by causing pain to your attacker.
Stupefy was the Stunning spell that would render its target unconscious. It was a commonly used spell during dueling but could also be used to provide a much needed respite in a fight. Technically a higher-level spell, it did require a higher amount of power to be used effectively.
Petrificus Totalus was a useful spell that would cause the person to become 'petrified' in a stiff paralysis. It was a great spell for beginners as it requires very little power or control.
The most difficult spell to master was the Shielding Charm, Protego, which required a greater amount of power and control than the rest. The book emphasized that it was a spell that even full-grown adults would have difficulty, therefore it was important to not become discouraged.
All of those spells, as well as the previously chosen list of spells that Harry has selected for defense, were practiced each Sunday. It was definitely hard work but weeks into their practices, they began to see the benefits and improvements in their defense.
During those days, the group would practice different 'games' to help improve their endurance, speed, precision, and power. Under the format of a game, they would alternate each week under the guise of games that would promote the necessary skills.
All in all, it was an enjoyable and educational past time for them.