MoP

Harry Potter and the Myriad of Possibilities: Betrayal

Chapter 6: Nicodemus

Disclaimer: This is solely a not-for-profit fan activity and does not intend to infringe on copyrights held by Time Warner, DC Comics, Bloomsbury et al, or JK Rowling. Any characters that are original to this work remain the property of the author.

A/N: The Myriad of Possibilities Series primarily uses the background from the Harry Potter books but some elements and scenes have been borrowed from other sources – including the movies, Pottermore and my own headcanon – that will be covered where they fit into the narrative. The timeline of the DC Comics elements borrows heavily from Young Justice (2011) and may adapt elements and characters from the comics and several additional other media instalments – including but not limited to Smallville (2001) and Superman and Lois (2021) – and relocates events of Young Justice to the Eighties and early Nineties rather than the New Tens and Twenties as screened and includes several 'legacy' and original characters as a result.

A/N: Thanks to Jon and 6f5e4d for their help on this chapter.

Smallville,
March 12, 16:16 CST.


Linda blinked against the harsh hospital lights, trying to piece together the events that had led her here. She felt a mix of embarrassment and confusion as her memories of that wild night began to resurface: the thrill of the pool, of being out of control, and the complicated feelings swirling between her and Lucy… Linda had a feeling that her life was about to change a lot, and she wasn't sure she was ready to deal with that yet.

She sensed someone leaned over her from her blindside, and then a familiar hand – and brief mental touch – crossed into her field of view and brushed a damp strand of hair away from her face.

"Hey, sweetie," said her aunt, her tone full of warm and understanding. "How are you feeling?"

"Honestly? A little disoriented," Linda admitted, shifting uncomfortably under the crisp white sheets. "What day is it?"

"Saturday, unday, you've been out for two days…"

"Sixteen hours…" Linda murmured. "What happened to me? I think I remember something Lucy and I in the high school pool… but after that it's a blur… " Which wasn't good, Linda distinctly remembered dire punishments being threatened for any student – particularly any middle school student – who did that.

Lana nodded, "Apparently, Lucy was out riding by Lucas' lakeshore development and was exposed to a rare – allegedly extinct – plant called the Nicodemus flower. According to investigators it can cause... unusual behaviour," she explained carefully, watching Linda for any signs of distress. "Apparently, Lucy infected you and the two of you broke into the Smallville High pool."

"But Principal Kwan caught us," Linda concluded, as her memory of the embarrassing, confusing event became clearer.

"He did," her aunt confirmed, a little amusement in her tone. "I think James found it almost as embarrassing as you too did."

"Are we suspended?"

"Honestly, if you hadn't been showing signs of unusual behaviour afterwards and collapsed with a high fever the next day you might be." Lana replied. "Terrence has been willing to be flexible in the past but this was different… We discussed it with James and Mariah and we agreed that as your actions were out of your control, you are on 'authorised medical absence' until after Mid-Winter Break so you can deal with any lingering issues, and then nothing more will be said about it."

The memories continued to flood back—she and Lucy giggling, the splash of water, the sudden fear of getting caught, fleeing the pool. "What about Lucy?" Linda asked, her heart sinking. "Is she okay?"

"She's fine," Lana reassured her. "She's in another room, sleeping. Rebecca had some specialists flown in from Edge City and they were able to identify the pollen and come up with an antidote."

"Well, I guess I owe Lucas now," Linda mused.

"I've talked to him…" her aunt revealed. "He says that he'll accept 'even and no more'. Particularly as he got infected too, so it was 'all part of Rebecca's job' according to him."

17:00 CST.

As Linda lay in the hospital bed, she felt a sense of familiarity mixed with anxiety. The door creaked open, and in walked Dr. Harden, the young, friendly Indian paediatrician who had treated her several times since she arrived in Smallville.

"Hi, Linda! It's good to see you again, even if the circumstances aren't ideal," Dr Harden said, her voice bright and comforting.

"Hi, Dr Harden," Linda said, her nervousness surfacing as she adjusted her position under the thin hospital sheets. "Can you tell me a bit more about what happened? Aunt Lana mentioned a 'Nicodemus Flower'…?"

"That's right," Dr Harden replied, her expression sympathetic. "Its pollens acts as both an intoxicant and a stimulant. We think we've got everything out of your system, but I need to give you a full examination to make sure everything is back to normal. I know this can feel a bit uncomfortable, but I'll guide you through it, just like before. How does that sound?"

"Okay, that sounds good," Linda replied, feeling reassured by Dr Harden's kind demeanour.

"Great. First, let's start with some basic checks." Dr Harden placed a small electronic thermometer under Linda's tongue, then unhooked an arm cuff from the bank of machines next to Linda's bed and wrapped it around one of her slim arms, then clipped a probe to her index finger as the cuff began to tighten.

"Saturations are good," Dr Harden observed after a moment. "Heart rate… blood pressure all steady and back within previous norms…" She removed the thermometer and checked it. "Temperature is fine too."

"Now I need to move on to the physical exam, if that's all right?" Dr Harden asked. Getting permission from both Linda and her aunt, she continued: "I'll need to press gently on your tummy to check for any areas of tenderness, alright? Just let me know if you feel any discomfort."

As Dr Harden probed delicately, Linda tried to relax her muscles. "It feels okay," she managed after a moment.

"Good! That's what we like to hear," Dr Harden said, smiling. Next, she brought out her stethoscope. "Let's listen to your heart and lungs. Just take a deep breath in and out for me."

Linda followed her instructions, focusing on the rhythm of her breathing as the paediatrician listened attentively. "Your lungs sound clear, which is great. No wheezing or anything unusual," Dr Harden noted, relief evident in her tone. "Now, let me check your skin as well—this will help us see if there are any reactions from the pollen."

Dr Harden carefully examined Linda's body, looking for any signs of rash or irritation, her touch gentle and considerate. "Everything looks normal here too. It seems like you're handling this well."

"Thank you, Dr Harden," Linda replied, feeling more relaxed with each passing moment.

"Of course! Now, is there anything specific you're concerned about, or any questions you have?" Dr Harden asked, her eyes full of genuine care.

Linda shook her head, feeling grateful for the thoroughness of the examination and the reassurance it offered. "I think I'm okay for now."

"You're doing well, and I don't think you need to stay here any longer but given what you've gone through it might be beneficial for you to talk to someone about your experience."

Linda listened intently, nodding in agreement.

"It's normal to feel overwhelmed, especially after an incident like this. Speaking with a counsellor can provide support and coping strategies. I can set something up if you'd like?"

"No, that's fine," Linda replied. "I'll talk Megan, my mentor… she's a licenced guidance counsellor, and she's helped me through stuff in the past."

Dr Harden's smile broadened. "That's an excellent idea! Having someone you trust to talk to can make all the difference."

"I'll definitely reach out to her as soon as I can," Linda promised, feeling a renewed sense of determination. "And if that doesn't work, there's Auntie Dee and a couple of other people I can draw on."

Satisfied with that response, Dr Harden made several notes on Linda's chart and prepared to leave the room. "Take it easy for a few days if you can," she suggested with a smile. "Just focus on rest and recovery."

"I will, Doctor," Linda assured her, and relaxed back against her pillows for a moment with a sigh. The doctor's brisk efficiency and compassion helped distract her for a while, but now her complicated feelings had come surging back. She still wasn't sure what to make of it all, but one thing was clear: her life was about to change in ways she never imagined. Again.

"Are you ready to go?" asked her aunt as she extracted a bundle of clothing from her bag.

"Almost," Linda declared, and with a deep breath, she swung her legs over the side of the hospital bed and stood up, taking a moment to steady herself. "I think I need a shower before I get dressed though."

"Do you need any help with that?"

"I think I can manage once I'm in there," Linda replied, her determination shining through. "But I wouldn't mind a little help getting there."

Her aunt smiled, wrapped an arm around Linda's waist for support, and gently guided her toward the shower area, encouraging her with soft words of reassurance. "I'm sure you'll feel so much better when you've cleaned up. I always do."

Once inside, Linda took her time under the warm water, letting it cascade over her, washing away the remnants of the hospital smell. The warmth was comforting, and she closed her eyes for a moment, allowing herself to simply breathe and relax. Once she'd dried off, Linda dressed in a cosy oversized sweater, sleek blue leggings, and a pair of comfortable sneakers. Looking in the mirror, she felt a spark of herself returning. She wasn't completely on the mend, but the familiar outfit made her feel more like herself.

"Do you want to go and see Lucy and Lucas before we leave?"

The question hung in the air, as Linda struggled with a new wave of emotions. It was an obvious question, they were two of her best friends, but it wasn't that simple anymore… "I… I don't think I'm ready for that, Aunt Lana," she admitted, her voice quiet. "I need a little more time to process everything that's happened."

Lana nodded with understanding, her expression softening. "That's completely okay, Linda. It's a lot to take in. You don't have to rush into anything that doesn't feel right."

"Thanks," Linda replied, grateful for her aunt's support. "I just need some time to gather myself before I see them again."

"Whenever you're ready, I'll be here," Lana reassured her, placing a comforting hand on Linda's back. "Let's focus on you right now."

The fresh air hit Linda's face as they stepped outside, and although she was still processing everything that had happened, there was a sense of relief in finally being able to leave. The car ride home was quiet, but she appreciated the comfort of her aunt's presence beside her.

Upon arriving at the house, the familiar sight greeted her warmly, and as soon as they entered, they were met with an enthusiastic burst of energy. Melo, their loyal Border Collie, bounded toward them, tail wagging furiously.

"Hey there, buddy!" Linda exclaimed, kneeling to greet him. Melo jumped up and licked her face, his excitement palpable. Linda laughed, her heart lifting as she wrapped her arms around him, feeling his soft fur under her fingers. "I missed you too, you silly boy!"

Her aunt chuckled at the scene. "Looks like you've got your own personal welcome committee."

"Absolutely," Linda replied, a smile breaking across her face. The comfort of home, the love of family, and the joy of seeing Melo helped reinforce her resolve to move forward. She could take things one step at a time, and with support, she felt ready to face whatever came next.

Smallville.
March 16, 16:00 CST.

"Recognized, Raven B-Four-Zero," declared the Computer, as Linda stepped out of the Zeta Tube into the Kent barn, then wandered out into the farmyard, her mind still conflicted despite several visits to Happy Harbor for long chats with M'gann.

She was just about to mount her bicycle for the ride back to town when a familiar neigh from the other side of the nearby fence attracted her attention. It wouldn't do any harm to nip over and check on him, she thought and headed in that direction, easily vaulting the fence.

As she stepped through the stable door, Comet's ears perked up at the sound of her arrival. "Hey there, buddy," Linda said softly, her voice soothing as she crossed the threshold and walked over to his stall.

Comet turned his head and nuzzling her shoulder affectionately as soon as she came in range.

Linda reached up to scratch behind his ears, feeling the rough warmth of his coat beneath her fingers. "I missed you, too," she murmured, feeling a peace envelop her as she enjoyed the moment, her riot of thoughts fading faded away, replaced by the simple pleasure of their bond.

The serene silence was abruptly broken by the sound of the stable door creaking open and Lucy stepping inside, a puzzled look on her face. The atmosphere shifted, an awkward tension settling between them as they locked eyes. "Hey," Linda said, trying to ease the tension.

"Hey," Lucy replied, her voice soft as she shifted from one foot to the other, but her mind a riot of thoughts that resonated with and magnified Linda's own thanks to her telepathy.

They stood for a moment, the quiet hanging heavily around them, both unsure of how to bridge the gap. Finally, Linda realised that she was the only one who could break the silence. "So… uh, are you okay?"

"Yeah," Lucy said, glancing at Comet, who seemed unfazed by their sudden tension. "Still processing…"

Linda nodded, looking back at the gelding, who was contentedly munching on some hay. "Yeah, me too."

A beat passed, and the weight of the unanswered question and potential lingering in the air, but neither were fully able to push past it.

"Can we just go back to normal?" Lucy asked after a moment. "I'm not saying we can't or shouldn't talk about… more… in the future, but…"

"It feels like things got pretty intense really fast," Linda agreed, sensing what her friend was leading up to. "I don't know about you, but I don't want to rush into something that could complicate things. Not with everything else that's on the line at the moment."

Linda felt a wave of relief wash over Lucy. "I agree," she replied with a sigh. "I don't want to jeopardize what we have now… I feel like we should just take it show and see where it all leads without forcing anything."

"And talk to Lucas," Linda added with a nod.

As the two girls shared a reassuring glance, the bond between them felt stronger. The simplicity of their agreement offered a sense of ease amidst the emotional complexity. Both girls turned their attention back to Comet, who nudged Linda's arm, prompting a laugh from her. "Looks like he approves of our plan," Linda teased, her spirits lifting as they both sunk into comfortable chatter until Linda had to head home for dinner.

18:16 CST.

"So, how are things going?" Aunt Lana asked as they started to clear the dinner table.

"Better," Linda replied. "I talked to Linda, and we've agreed that there might be 'something more' there – and we need to talk to Lucas – but our friendship is the most important thing, and we shouldn't rush into something that could endanger that."

"That's a good and very mature decision," Lana declared. "I'm proud of you both."

"Thanks, Aunt Lana."

"Maybe things can get back to normal around here," suggested her aunt as she started the hot water in the sink.

At that moment, a silver-white form trimmed in green flame phased through the kitchen ceiling and spoke in Hank's voice. "I've got him. I've got Sirius Black!"

"Well… what passes for normal around here," Linda observed dryly.