AN:

As the next chapter came together sooner than expected, I'm sharing Chapter 11 a bit earlier too! Enjoy!

Don't miss the sneak peek for the next chapter, called Ron's Birthday—I'll be posting it on Tumblr in the next few days!

A big thank you goes to KSummer, GryffindorHealer, and dumnonian for their much appreciated help.

It was an unusual warm day for late February, a few degrees above freezing, and the sun was shining as Emily Apparated into Dumbledore's garden. She glanced around as her mother and brother arrived behind her, but it was clear they were the first to arrive.

"I told you we were early," her brother muttered, sounding slightly annoyed.

"Better than being late," Emily retorted, equally irritated though for different reasons. She'd been so excited and couldn't wait to meet the new students. Nervously, she adjusted her jacket, trying to focus on anything other than her ridiculous anticipation.

A series of soft popping sounds caught her attention. Relief washed over her as she spotted Ginny, Ron, and their mother arriving. Ginny raised a hand in greeting, a broad smile on her face.

"Hello, Mrs Potter," she greeted warmly, offering Harry a friendly nod. "Hi, Harry." With a wide grin, she turned to Emily. "Hi, Emm! How are you?"

"Fine," Emily sighed. "I can't wait to meet the new students. I hope they're nice."

"Don't worry, they will be," Ginny replied, putting a hand on her shoulder.

Emily couldn't help but smirk slightly as she caught Harry sneaking a glance at Ginny. He was always doing that. It was so obvious that even Ginny, who had always denied it, had to notice.

Tonks and Charlie emerged from the house and greeted them. "The portkeys will activate in a few minutes," Tonks announced. "Our guests should be arriving shortly. We'll meet them outside and then have a snack in the drawing room."

Sure enough, within moments, people began to appear seemingly out of nowhere. Most of them looked slightly disoriented, clearly unaccustomed to this kind of transport. A few stumbled upon arrival, and one woman nearly toppled over, only to be steadied by Lily's quick reflexes.

It appeared that four students had come to the meeting, each accompanied by a parent. Tonks glanced around, and her brow furrowed. "The Entwhistles are still missing," she said with a shrug before gesturing to the group. "Let's go ahead and introduce ourselves before we go inside, where Professor Dumbledore, our former headmaster, is waiting to meet you all."

She turned to Lily with an encouraging nod. "Why don't we start with you, since you already know everyone here?"

While her mother introduced the Weasleys and the Potters one after the other with a few brief words, Emily discreetly studied the newcomers. Her eyes landed on a sandy-blonde boy about her age, a little taller than her. When his bright blue eyes met hers, her breath hitched. She quickly looked away, focusing back on Tonks as she asked the newcomers to introduce themselves.

The woman who had nearly fallen earlier spoke first, "I'm Caroline Brocklehurst, and this is my daughter, Mandy. I'm a witch and have been home schooling her, but I'd be happy to help here if needed." She gestured towards a thin man standing nearby, offering him a small, encouraging smile.

The man, who had short, thinning blond hair, seemed nervous. He took a deep breath before finally speaking, "My name is Richard Creevey, and I'm here with my son, Colin. I...I'm afraid we don't really know much about all this. We've never had anything to do with magic, except...well, except for some odd things my Colin does now and then, which Mrs Tonks explained were magic."

"That's perfectly fine," Tonks reassured him. "It might be a little harder for Colin at first, but I'm sure he'll catch up in no time."

Next, a tall, dark-haired man stepped forward. "I'm Malcolm Whitby, and this is my son, Kevin. I'm a wizard, but I work closely with Muggles, so my wife, who's a Muggle herself, has been handling most of Kevin's magical education." He chuckled lightly. "Between us, my Eloise probably knows more about magic than I do, at least when it comes to theory."

His remark earned a few amused chuckles from the group.

Finally, the mother of the sandy-haired boy stepped forward. "I'm Rosalind Pritchard, a tailor by trade," she said, her elegant appearance reflecting her profession. "I'm here with my son, Graham. My late husband and I were both magical, but I've had to raise my son alone while running my tailoring business to make a living. I'm grateful for the opportunity for Graham to learn alongside others." She hesitated briefly, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her face. "Of course, I'm more than happy to assist with the new school if I can."

So, Graham was his name, Emily thought, stealing another glance at him - only to realise he was watching her. Feeling her cheeks grow warm, she gave him a small smile before quickly looking away.

At that moment, Dumbledore appeared, flanked by his house-elves, seated in his usual comfy armchair. Clearing his throat, he let his gaze wander over the group, his familiar twinkle in his eyes. In a calm, solemn voice, he began, "Welcome, everyone. We are gathered here today under somewhat unusual circumstances, but let me assure you, you are all among friends."

As Dumbledore spoke, Emily's attention drifted back to Graham. He caught her looking again and returned her gaze with a warm, quiet smile. Feeling flustered, she quickly turned her attention back to Dumbledore, willing herself to focus on his words.

"We will be working together to ensure our children receive the best magical education possible," Dumbledore said, his voice warm and reassuring. "I hope everyone here will find support and camaraderie within this group, which we expect will grow in the coming months." He gestured toward Emily's mother, Mrs Weasley, and Tonks, offering them a kind nod. "Lily Potter, Molly Weasley, Nymphadora Tonks, and Charlie Weasley have been giving lessons since the beginning of the year, each bringing in their expertise. If any of you would like to contribute in any way, your help would be most welcome." He glanced around the gathered guests. "Today is primarily about introductions and addressing any questions or concerns you may have."

"Exactly," Tonks chimed in. "Let's start by getting to know one another. The weather's surprisingly nice for February, and we've set up some hot drinks over at the table. In about half an hour, we'll head inside into the drawing room for a snack, and that will be a good time to discuss any thoughts or questions you have. But for now, feel free to mingle and chat."

Ginny leaned toward Emily, whispering, "You know, Graham isn't that bad-looking." Her eyes twinkled mischievously.

Emily rolled her eyes, trying to hide her nervousness. "Oh, come on. Didn't you say blondes weren't your thing?" Desperate to change the subject, she added, "besides, we're here to learn magic, not... whatever you're implying."

Ginny nudged her playfully. "Sure, magic. But don't miss your chance."

Emily risk a glance at Harry, who was standing nearby. His expression had darkened slightly, especially when Ginny gestured towards Graham and Colin. Though he wasn't glaring, there was a slight tension in his posture.

Before she could dwell on it, Ginny grabbed her arm and steered her toward the boys. She greeted them brightly, "Hi, how are you?"

"I'm good," Graham replied with a glance at Emily. "And you?"

Ginny gave him a wide grin. "Not bad. It's not every day we meet magical folk. Do you know many wizards?"

"A few," Graham admitted with a shrug. "Though not all of them are people I'm proud to know."

Colin, who had been hovering nearby, joined the conversation, his broad smile infectious. "Are you all really wizards?"

Ginny laughed. "Actually, we're witches, you're a wizard," she said playfully. "But don't worry. You'll get the hang of it soon enough."

The group wandered to the edge of the garden, chatting easily. Ginny soon found herself in a lively chat with Colin, laughing heartily at a story he told about his younger brother.

"I swear Dennis is even more excited about magic than I am," Colin assured her, his eyes wide with excitement.

"Is that even possible?" Ginny chuckled, raising an eyebrow.

Colin gestured wildly with his hands. "He even wanted to come with me, but of course, he's too young. And we don't even have our wands yet."

As they laughed, Emily felt a presence beside her and glanced up to see Graham. He wasn't as talkative as Colin, but his quiet presence made her feel comfortable. When he gave her another of his shy smiles, she couldn't help but return it.

"So," Graham said, nodding towards the others, "how are you feeling about all this?"

Emily shrugged, trying to sound more confident than she felt. "It's... a bit overwhelming, honestly. But I'm looking forward to learning with others. Up until now, it's just been family. We've been studying with Ginny and her brother for a few months now, and it's a lot more fun than being home alone with just my brother for company."

Graham nodded. "Yeah, I get that. I didn't know what to expect, but it's nice to meet everyone."

They exchanged a few more words about their hopes for the lessons ahead, and Emily found herself growing increasingly at ease around him.

Meanwhile, Ginny and Colin's animated conversation continued nearby. Emily noticed Harry standing further off, his gaze fixed on Ginny. His expression darkened slightly as Ginny threw her head back, laughing at something Colin had said. It wasn't overt, but Emily could see the subtle tension in her brother's shoulders, the way his eyes lingered on Ginny just a fraction too long.

"Do you think we'll all get along?" Graham asked, pulling Emily out of her thoughts.

She glanced back at the others, where Ginny was now teasing Colin, giving him a playful jab in the ribs that left him blushing furiously. Emily smiled softly. "Yes, I think we will. It might take some time, but I think it'll be great."

Just then, Tonks' voice rose above the chatter. "Snacks are ready! If you'd all follow me into the drawing room."

"Oh, wait!" Colin cried, a mix of alarm and excitement on his face. "I completely forgot to take photos. Can we do that before we go inside?" His eyes darted to Tonks, hopeful and eager.

Tonks laughed. "Of course, but be quick," she said, amused by his enthusiasm.

Emily chuckled as Colin dashed off towards his mum, who was already rummaging in a bag for the camera. Moments later, he returned, relief written all over his face as he turned back to Tonks. "Can we all line up in front of the house?" he asked, already bustling about to organise everyone with the natural energy of someone who was used to arrange photo shootings.

Emily shuffled into place with the others, glancing up at the fading sunlight, still bright enough to provide a beautiful light for the photo. Colin called for everyone to huddle together, and Emily found herself next to Graham. She tried not to think about it too much, but the warmth rising in her cheeks betrayed her nerves.

Colin snapped a couple of photos, his eyes darting across the group to make sure everything was perfect. Before he could take another shot, Charlie stepped forward with an easy smile.

"Oi, Colin," he said, clapping the boy on the shoulder. "Don't you want to be in the picture too? Let me take over."

Colin hesitated, looking a little uncertain. "Do you know how to do it?"

Charlie chuckled softly. "It's been a while, but I've taken plenty of photos before." He studied the camera, his grin widening as if letting them in on a secret. "Though I'm more used to magical ones where the people in the picture move."

Colin's eyes widened. "There's such a thing?"

"Sure," Charlie said, his grin broadening. "We'll show you next time. Dumbledore's got portraits inside the house. They move. Some even talk."

"I've got to see that," replied Colin excitedly, quickly joining the group so Charlie could take the photos.

After snapping a couple of shots, Charlie handed the camera back to Colin, who looked thoroughly pleased with himself. By then, the others were already making their way into the house.

In the drawing room, the group settled around at a long table with tea and snacks. The adults gathered at the head of the table, where Dumbledore sat in a high-backed armchair, gesturing for everyone to join him.

"I trust Dora has already explained to the new parents what we are planning," he began, his tone gentle but purposeful, "but I'm sure you'll still have many questions. Today, we can use the time to clarify anything that's unclear. Suggestions for improvement are always welcome, as well."

As the adults launched into a lively discussion, the younger group huddled at the far end of the table. Ginny immediately engaged Colin and Graham into an animated conversation about flying on a broom, while Emily slid into a seat next to Graham. Even Harry, who had been unusually quiet outside, seemed more at ease now, smiling as Colin eagerly shared how excited he was to get his own wand.

"You're going to love it," Harry said, his tone warmer than before. "The moment your wand chooses you is something you'll never forget."

"Wait. The wand chooses you?" Colin asked, his eyes widening with curiosity.

"Yeah," Harry replied with a grin. "You'll see for yourself soon enough."

Graham nodded, chiming in. "I've been practicing with my mum's old wand, but I'm ready for my own now. It'll feel better... more right, you know?"

"Absolutely," Harry agreed. "We only got our wands a few months ago, but they make a huge difference. Are you both getting yours before classes start?"

"Yeah." Graham said with a smile. "My mum's taking me to Diagon Alley next week. Looks like our parents are already planning it," he added, glancing toward the adults deep in conversation.

"Perfect," Harry said, leaning back in his chair. His gaze swept over the group, lingering briefly on Ginny before turning to Mandy and Kevin, who'd been quieter. "What about you two? Are you looking forward to it?"

Mandy tucked a lock of her blonde, shoulder-length hair behind her ear and smiled shyly. "Yes, but I'm a bit nervous. I've been home-schooled my whole life."

"Same here," Kevin said. "But I'm looking forward to being around others for a change."

"We're home-schooled, too," Ginny said with an encouraging grin. "It'll be fine, trust me."

"Have you practised Transfiguration spells yet?" Mandy asked.

"A few," Harry said, shifting his focus. "My mum's brilliant with Potions. She's even got her own lab, and she's pretty good with Transfiguration as well. I prefer the hands-off stuff, though. Theory's not really my thing, you know. What about you?"

Mandy nodded. "My dad's tried teaching me some, but it's been slow going. I hope it'll be easier once we start group lessons here."

Kevin chimed in. "Same for me. My dad's away a lot, and my mum's a Muggle. She helps me with the theory, but we only get to practice magic when Dad's home, mostly on weekends. Practicing magic feels... different, you know? I can't wait to start doing it properly."

Graham, who'd grown quieter again since they'd entered the room, turned to Emily. "And you? Do you get much practice at home?"

Emily smiled, feeling her mother's watchful gaze on her. "Yes, quite a bit. But ever since Ginny and Ron joined us, it's more fun than practicing alone with my brother. Once or twice a week, we even take duelling lessons with Tonks and Ginny's brother Charlie. Competing against each other keeps things interesting."

Graham's eyes lit up. "Really? That does sound fun. Practicing alone gets tough - you don't spot your own mistakes as easily. When you see someone else make one, you can learn from it. I'm glad we'll get to learn together."

As the conversation carried on, Ron chatted with Mandy Brocklehurst, learning that she was actually from Ireland.

"I feel like I'm the only one here who knows nothing about magic," Colin groaned, his frustration evident. "How will I ever catch up?"

"Don't worry, mate, we'll help you," Ron said, clapping him on the shoulder.

Colin perked up slightly, though a shadow of doubt still lingered. "The missing student," he said suddenly, glancing around. "What was his name again? Is he like me?"

Tonks, overhearing from across the room, offered Colin a kind smile. "Thomas Entwhistle. His family couldn't make it today. He's Muggle-born, just like you." Her voice softened. "I'll be checking on them tomorrow, but I'm sure you'll meet him soon."

Colin nodded, looking relieved. "Good. At least I won't be the only one who's clueless." He chuckled, a bit more at ease now.

It wasn't long before the meeting slowly came to an end. Tonks moved about, handing out new Portkeys, reminding everyone that the ones they'd used earlier were still valid. "Keep them handy," she instructed. "Especially in case of an emergency. Better safe than sorry."

Graham turned to Emily, his eyes curious. "How are you getting home?"

"Oh, we don't live far away," Emily explained with a smile. "We'll probably Apparate."

"On your own?" Graham asked, raising an eyebrow. "Or with your mum?"

Emily grinned, a hint of pride in her voice. "We all passed our Apparition exam last week. So, yeah, we can do it ourselves now."

"Apparition?" Colin's eyes widened. "What's that?"

"A bit like travelling by Portkey, only without the Portkey," Ron explained good-naturedly.

Graham and Kevin exchanged equally surprised looks. "Wait, can we learn that too?" Graham asked, his interest piqued.

Ginny, who had been listening, jumped in. "Sure. Dumbledore thinks it's a good idea for us to learn it early. Just in case, you know." She flashed a grin. "It's dead useful."

As everyone began saying their goodbyes, Emily found herself lingering near Graham. There was something about his easy smile that made her heart flutter. When he shook her hand, he held it just a moment longer than usual, flashing her a broad grin.

"See you next time," Graham said softly.

"Yeah, I'm looking forward to it," Emily replied, feeling her cheeks flush.

"So am I," Graham added with a grin before turning to join his mother, who was holding out the Portkey. With a final wave, they vanished into the evening air.

Emily turned around to find that most of the guests had already left, leaving only the Potters and Weasleys in the now-quiet garden.

Ron, ever the cheerful one, called out before anyone could leave. "Oi! Before you lot disappear, don't forget my birthday next week! It's on Wednesday, and you can all stay over at the Burrow. We've got lessons there on Thursday anyway, so no excuses!"

Harry and Ginny exchanged amused looks, and Emily smiled too, already looking forward to the gathering. But her thoughts kept returning to the afternoon - and to Graham.

As they walked toward the Apparition point, her mother, who'd been quietly watching the evening's interactions, fell in step beside Emily. "You and Graham seem to get along well," she said, her tone light but knowing.

Emily blushed but didn't deny it. "Yeah, he's... nice."

Lily smiled faintly but said nothing more, leaving Emily with her own thoughts as they prepared to Apparate home.

**HG**

In the meantime, some 100 km west of the Burrow.

Dobby's large eyes scanned the table one last time, ensuring everything was perfectly arranged for Mistress Narcissa and the young master's dinner. Master Lucius was away again, as he often had been lately, leaving the already tense atmosphere in the house even heavier.

When the young master shuffled into the dining room, his pallor as sickly and sallow as it had been for weeks. Dobby hurried to pour his tea and added two lumps of sugar, just as the youngest Malfoy preferred. Without a sound, he retreated to the edge of the room, hoping to remain unnoticed. The young master had long since made it clear that he disliked company, least of all that of a house-elf, lingering in his presence for any length of time.

As the boy listlessly pushed food around his plate, Dobby seized the chance to slip away. He would tidy the young master's room while he dined, as the boy always preferred his absence during mealtimes.

Upon entering the young master's quarters, Dobby's nose wrinkled in silent dismay. How the boy managed to create such chaos in such a short time remained a mystery. He began by straightening the cluttered desk but froze when his eyes landed on something alarming.

The files were unmistakably from Master Lucius' office. They were none of the young master's concern. If Master Lucius discovered his son had taken them, the consequences would be dire—not only for the boy but for Dobby as well.

Dobby stood, wringing his hands, torn between options. If he left the documents where they were, Master Lucius would undoubtedly blame him for their misplacement. But if he returned them now, the young master would surely punish him for meddling.

After a moment of breathless indecision, Dobby made his choice. Carefully stacking the files, trying not to disturb their order, he waved his hand and banished them back to Master Lucius' office. He could sort them properly later, when the opportunity arose. No one needed to know they had been moved.

Relieved at his decision, Dobby resumed tidying the rest of the room, though his anxiety lingered. He was nearly finished when the door creaked open.

Dobby froze, barely daring to breathe, but the young master didn't seem to notice him. The boy staggered straight to the desk, reaching into his robes to pull out a small, black notebook, one that seemed to pulse with dark, sinister energy. Dobby felt the chill of dark magic radiating from it, sending a shiver through his bones.

Without so much as a glance in Dobby's direction, the young master opened the notebook and began to write, his pale fingers moving with an intensity Dobby had never seen before.

Taking this as his cue to leave, Dobby silently Apparated out of the room, reappearing in the hallway with barely a whisper of sound. His heart still racing, he knew his presence would soon be needed in the dining room to clear the dishes. But the image of that black notebook lingered in his mind, its shadow darker than the corridors of Malfoy Manor itself.