A/N: Short and sweet. Plot twist that I hope tripped up TheGreatBubbaJ. Let's see where it goes. Everyone loves chocolate. Also, as the title suggests, the Time-Turners will make an appearance. These are going to be governed by my lore. Not Pottermore, not Harry Potter Wiki. Mine. So if it confuses you or you don't agree with it then you can leave a comment for me as to why, but I hope to make them believable. That scene is for you TheGreatBubbaJ.
And away we go!
Chapter 18: Trains, Thestrals, Teachers, Twins, and Time-Turners.
A whole slew of emotions ran over Harry's face. He was borderline panicking. What on earth did Luna mean? Could she speak with Fate? Was something like that even possible? Or was Luna just saying random things and by coincidence this one meant something to him.
The young blonde girl merely looked at Harry with those piercing eyes. He was able to discern nothing from her gaze. Harry could hear his heartbeat, so quiet was the compartment.
"Errr… Harry?" Ron's voice shattered Harry's thoughts like a hammer. The redheaded Lord looked at the redheaded friend. Ron looked concerned at the fact that Harry was standing there. All Luna had said to him was thank you and he just froze up.
Harry cleared his throat, and stood up trying not to show that he was freaking out. Luna's words once again cut through to him, "She also says don't worry, no one can hear what I'm saying and I won't even remember these words. Keep up the good work, Chosen, and you'll reach your goals"
Harry looked at Luna strangely, to which the girl looked largely unaffected. Indeed Luna Lovegood even looked happy about something only she was aware of, and was making Ginny laugh with the strange way she ate chocolate frogs. Who just licks a chocolate frog like that? Finally Luna's words and dichotomous actions caught up with Harry and he breathed a sigh of relief. Okay, Luna might have some Seer blood in her but that didn't mean she knew about the Game and was simply being used as a conduit for Fate to talk to him. Don't scare me like that, Fate. Harry thought to himself.
"Sorry, Ron. Just worried about them is all," Harry clapped Ron on the shoulder and moved past him to the hallway. He slid the compartment door closed as he left. There were only a few more compartments left so Harry checked each one, passing out chocolates, until shockingly he found Remus Lupin reading a book alone in the last compartment.
"Oh, sorry." Harry stammered, thinking of the last time he had seen the man. A ghostly summoning from the Resurrection Stone.
***Break***
Remus looked up from his book at the words, and was shocked. Standing before him, dressed in well tailored Acromantula Silk robes, was none other than Harry Potter. Sure the boy looked different than he would have expected. Red hair, a lot less James in his features than his 1 year old baby face had indicated, and much taller than his father had been at that age. But there was no mistaking those vivid green eyes, even if the boy didn't have the scar visible in his hair. Remus cleared his throat and set down the book.
"Not a problem. Hello, I'm Remus Lupin." Remus stood up and shook the boy's hand, werewolf strength surprised to meet its match in Harry's firm grip.
"Harry Potter," Harry recovered from his own shock.
Remus chuckled, "Yeah, I figured that. How can I help you?"
"Oh, no worries, no help needed. I was actually just checking for students. I've been passing out chocolate for the train." Harry explained the reason for his intrusion.
"Chocolate? Well, good to know not all of my students are unlearned. I felt the Dementors pass by but they did not bother my compartment." Remus was impressed at the boy's knowledge, "Did they cause any trouble?"
"They tried to come into my compartment. I was riding with a few students who were particularly affected, but I used my Patronus to send it on its way," Harry explained what had happened.
"Your Patronus?" Now shock once again came onto Remus's scarred face. A Patronus? At his age?, "Is it corporeal?"
"Yes," Harry grimaced, having not meant to let that tidbit slip. Past memories of the man before him teaching him the powerful Charm had let his guard down.
"Fascinating, and impressive. I'll want to see it sometime this year, if you're alright with that, might use it in some of my classes" Remus smiled at the boy. Talent had always been strong in the Potter line and he imagined that Lily had no small influence either. Still, though, a Patronus? Extraordinary.
Harry saw a chance to pull the topic away from himself for a moment and jumped, "Classes? Are you a teacher?"
Lying Skill has increased! It is now 13!
"Not quite yet, technically, but I've accepted the post of Defense Against the Dark Arts classes." Remus helpfully supplied, not realizing that Harry was already aware of that fact.
"Very cool. It's my favorite subject, so I look forward to your lessons. I really must be getting back to my compartment though. I'd recognize that hill there anywhere, so we must be nearing the school" Harry excused himself and headed back to his own compartment.
***Break***
When the compartment door slid open, Daphne's head came up from Astoria's where she had been dozing. Harry walked in, his return to the compartment having been slowed a bit by the string of thank yous from various students who had been helped by his chocolate deliveries. Harry looked at the girl and smiled warmly, glad to see that she had recovered well.
"Hey, sorry for my absence, are you okay?" Harry asked Daphne with concern.
"I'm feeling much better now, thank you" Daphne admitted. Hermione had left the covers, as she hadn't been quite as cold, but the blanket still covered Daphne and Astoria, the latter of whom was contentedly sleeping on her sister.
"No thanks needed, just happy to see you're okay" Harry smiled and received one in return. He turned a questioning gaze to Hermione, who also confirmed that she was well.
Harry turned to Neville, who had started to stir when Harry's voice had entered the compartment.
"Neville, easy there. Here, I got a thermos of tea here and some scones from breakfast. I'd also recommend a bit of chocolate to top it off." Harry handed the boy the supplies, rations that he had cooked up for his Inventory.
Neville sat up and took the food and drink with a small smile, "Thanks, Harry. What happened there?"
"Dementors. They were searching the train for Sirius Black most likely, and one decided that our compartment deserved special interest. You fainted, mate." Harry explained what happened to the previously unconscious boy who shivered at the mention of the dark creatures.
"Blimey. Fainted. I hope no one saw." Neville sipped at the tea gently, the contents of the thermos piping hot.
Harry patted the gentle boy on the shoulder, "No harm in fainting, Neville. No shame either. Dementors bring out the darkest memories one can have. I wouldn't be surprised if there were some other students who fainted, but no one mentioned anything to me when I walked the train. Eat that chocolate though, I bet you've still got a little numbness"
Neville nodded and looked a little better after the scone and some chocolate. He looked at Harry, "How do you know so much about Dementors?"
"What Herbology is to you, DADA is to me mate. We all have our strengths," Harry smiled at the boy who grinned in return.
***Break***
The train pulled into Hogsmeade with a loud whistle. A light drizzle of rain had begun falling. Harry stepped back into the compartment with Neville, having stepped out to stand guard for the girls changing inside. He had simply switched the clothes he had equipped, drawing a look of envy from Neville who struggled a bit with his robes. Harry had only grinned and helped the boy get his robe sorted. They all exited the train together, covering their faces with their hoods.
The castle of course was not visible from where they were, which frustrated Astoria who was excited to finally see Hogwarts. "You mean I can't go with you?" The girl whined when she realized the older teens would be taking the carriages while she was riding the boats.
"No, Astoria. You get to ride the boats with the other first years, per tradition. Come here," Daphne explained to Astoria, pulling the girl close and straightening her robes.
Harry smiled and waved his wand, casting a Warming Charm over the girl as well as a Repelio on her hood to help her stay a little dryer. "Daphne's right. You'll have fun, I promise. Hagrid's a great guy and that first reveal of the castle is probably the most important tradition."
Daphne looked grateful at the thoughtful spells, and they smiled as Astoria broke off from the group at Hagrid's call of "Firs' Years! Firs' Years over here!"
Harry waved at the giant, who waved back, and both Hermione and Daphne walked with the boy to the carriages. They both shot him thankful looks when Harry duplicated the charms he had cast for Astoria over them both, Hermione immediately asking about the proper wand movements and the incantations.
Harry pulled up short at the carriages though, when the all too familiar Thestrals were present. He racked his brain for a moment to wonder at their appearance, as he had not seen them in 3rd year before, until he remembered the Chamber. So even lives taken in Instances satisfied the requirements to see the strange, leathery winged Horses of Death. Harry helped both Hermione and Daphne into the carriage before he walked to the front.
They were strange creatures, creepy in their appearance, but held a token of respect for Harry as misunderstood creatures of beauty. He reached into his Inventory and brought out some raw meat, the 2 Thestrals of his chosen carriage appreciative of the snack. He patted their necks gently.
"What in Merlin's name are you doing, Potter?" Malfoy sneered at Harry as the blonde ponce walked by, seeing Harry waving his hands around like an idiot.
Harry looked at the boy calmly, "I'm petting the Thestrals, Heir Malfoy."
"The what?" Malfoy looked at him like he had said something weird.
"Thestrals, Heir Malfoy. And it's Lord Potter. One more slip-up and I'll be pressing for recompense for slighting my House." Harry smirked at Malfoy's agape face and stepped into the carriage.
***Break***
Astoria grumbled as she tried her best not to slip and fall on the walk down to the water. She was luckier than most of her year-mates though, with the warming and repelling charms doing wonders for her body temperature as the light rain had brought the air to an almost brisk temperature. Hagrid loomed ahead of her, the sheer size of the man being fascinating to the small girl.
"Righ', now, no more'an 4 to a boat. Make room, make friends. And whateve' ya do, no roughhousin' you hear?" Hagrid's booming voice cut through the idle chatter like thunder.
Astoria chose a boat with a 2 other girls and a boy, it being the closest and easiest for her to get to. She greeted the others happily, "Hello!"
They all seemed a bit more muted,and their unenthusiastic greetings in return made Astoria grumpy once more. She pressed on though, "I'm Astoria, and you are?"
"Romilda" came the first reply from one of the girls, "Haley" from the other.
"Dustin" The quiet boy replied, and Astoria took keen interest in his surprisingly melodic voice.
"Nice to meet you." Astoria's bubbliness started to bring some life out in the others in the boat and they were all smiling a bit when the boats started moving.
"Oooo, I can't wait," Astoria practically vibrated with eagerness. She was not disappointed.
"Wow!" Astoria's amazed voice was drowned out by the other First Years as they finally saw the castle almost floating above them. The windows were all lit, and the reflection of the Castle onto Black Lake painted an amazing picture for the new students. "That's Hogwarts? It's so big!"
***Break***
Harry held out a confident hand. Daphne's own hand rested on it as she climbed out of the carriage. Daphne sent him a small smile for his etiquette, and made room for Hermione to receive the same help. With the girls safely down from the carriage Harry looked up with a large smile. Hogwarts! Even visiting over the summer did not dampen the magic of seeing the Castle so close after so long. Like welcoming back an old friend the Castle's doors were thrown open to allow the older students access to the Great Hall. They would be closed by the time the 1st years came up, to allow the unveiling of the Entrance Hall.
"I'll catch you in class?" Harry said to Daphne as they walked up to the Castle. It would be the first real time they had spent apart since the duel and Harry was honestly a little sad at the prospect, having come to enjoy Daphne's company in their short time together. He would miss the girl's dry wit and manners compared to his boisterous fellow Gryffindors.
"Certainly," Daphne replied with a smile. She too would miss Harry's warm aura, the Lord's skill at relaxing a room only matched by Astoria's ability to brighten one. They split up as they entered the Great Hall and Harry sat down with Hermione at the Gryffindor table.
Harry met Albus's eyes from the Head Table, and waved with a large smile. The Headmaster smiled at seeing his favourite student so well after their heavy talk. It appeared that the Lord Potter had taken an old man's words to heart, and pressed on. Albus was shocked however when Remus Lupin, as his new DADA Professor, and Percy Weasley, as his new Head Boy, both had, with a quiet conversation, informed the Headmaster of what Harry had done on the train. Albus caught Harry's eye once more and raised his goblet to Lord Potter. Harry nodded, smiling sheepishly, having inferred what the gesture meant when Harry noticed Percy and Remus leaving Albus's side.
The Great Hall slowly filled with more and more students, many of whom were dripping water onto the floor drawing the ire of Argus Filch. Ron chose not to sit with them and instead settled between Seamus and Dean and looked positively delighted when Seamus asked Ron about his new awards, the Irish boy's mother being an avid reader of the Daily Prophet. Harry smiled softly, maybe Ron would get a 2nd chance at some other friendships if the rift between them didn't heal. Harry was drawn out of his introspections as many students clapped him on the back for his actions on the train. He accepted the praise with a sheepish smile, having not done it for glory but instead knowing that Dementors were ugly creatures that would bring out the worst in anyone.
***Break***
"Apricott, Henry!" McGonagall's stern voice echoed across the Great Hall signifying the start of the Sorting Ceremony, Harry chuckling as Astoria seemed to be chatting up everyone around her and bouncing on her feet her excitement apparent.
The names continued on, with each House cheering at their newest member. Harry noted the names, none really standing out to him as ones to look out for. Finally, "Greengrass, Astoria!"
Daphne watched her sister skip up to the stool, a smile of pride on her face. Her sister's excitement was apparent even to those who did not know her and the girl's skip drew a few chuckles from the 2nd Years and up.
The Sorting Hat, like so many other First Years before her, looked comically large on the girl. Daphne and Harry and even Hermione watched the Sorting in interest.
"Gryffindor!" Daphne looked shocked. Gryffindor? What? She had thought that if anything besides Slytherin, her sister would go to Ravenclaw. Even Hufflepuff perhaps. But Gryffindor?
Harry too was shocked. He had thought the girl a shoe in for Ravenclaw. He was a little bit worried at the girl being separated from Daphne, and he glanced at Daphne across the Great Hall, easily able to discern the elder Greengrass's face from amongst the crowd. It looked like Daphne too was a bit worried.
However if there was one House that could be counted on to look out for its First Years besides Hufflepuff it was Gryffindor and their tight-knit bunch. The House of Lions cheered loudly, as they always did, for the newest girl in their group.
When the Sorting Hat was pulled from her head, Astoria looked conflicted. She had no real worries about being in a new House, having told the Hat as such, but she was worried for Daphne who had probably counted on Astoria to join her in Slytherin. But there wasn't anything Astoria could do about it now and she headed over to join the Lions. Maybe she could sit with Harry?
Harry saw that Astoria wasn't very concerned for her new Sorting, so put it out of his mind for now and welcomed the little blonde to his side and they watched the rest of the Sorting in interest.
***Break***
"I can't believe you joined the Lions, Tori" Hermione commented to the girl as the names moved into the M's.
"I know! I told the Hat that I didn't much care where it put me, but I didn't expect all you weirdos," Astoria joked, seeing Fred Weasley with some sort of goofy mask on being pummeled for scaring Angelina Johnson.
"The Hat places you where it thinks you'll experience the most growth. It almost put me in Slytherin, but took into account me praying for anything besides that," Harry let the girl sidle up to him, a bit shocked at the girl's closeness but allowing it.
"You didn't want to be a Slytherin?" Astoria asked in interest. She could see Harry doing pretty well in the House of Ambition.
"At the time, I had just met Malfoy, and people were quick to tell me about what house Voldemort came from." Harry ignored the gasps around him at his casual use of the name like he usually did, "If the Hat were to ask me now though? I don't know that I wouldn't be placed there"
Hermione looked thoughtful, "The House system does seem a bit archaic, doesn't it?"
Harry though, knowing that revolutionary look, was quick to defend the ancient system, "A bit, as most things in the Magical World are, but honestly it's just a way to fill the beds. Nothing stops students from interacting with each other. If people were allowed to pick their own house then it would likely be less even, skewed often, by which house is most popular in that era. With Dumbledore and even me Sorted to Gryffindor it'd be too likely that people would want to follow that trend. And to Slytherin's credit it is the House of Merlin."
Hermione mused over that while the names were now in the R's. "That's true. I just wish people put less stock in what House you get sorted to. Slytherin's the House of Ambition, but I want to be Minister for Magic. Ravenclaw's the House of Intellect but Astoria here probably matches or exceeds any of the new Ravens in that aspect."
Harry nodded, enthusiastically, while Astoria listened to the words in interest, "Exactly. I've had my moments but I'm hardly the most cunning bloke in the House of Lions, yet I was almost Sorted to Slytherin. Your House does not make you. And you're right, people probably should put less stock in what House is whose."
They were cut off from their debate by the tinking of a goblet as Albus Dumbledore rose to his feet as the last new student found their seat.
***Break***
"Welcome!" Albus's voice carried easily over the Great Hall, "Welcome new faces and old to another new year for Hogwarts!"
The Headmaster waited a moment for the cheering to die down, "It is heartening to see so many fresh faces and freshly reunited friends. A few announcements before the year begins. First, I would like to say goodbye to Professor Kettleburn who has decided to retire to enjoy time with his remaining limbs."
When the student body didn't seem that sad at losing the Professor, Albus continued, "To take over the post, it is my honor to welcome Hagrid as your new Care of Magical Creature Professor!"
Cheers erupted, most of the students had a good impression of the affable half-giant, Harry's cheers were louder than most even though he had known it was coming. Albus let the cheers die down once more.
"In another post, so often refilled, it is my immense pleasure to welcome Professor Remus Lupin as your new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher!" The cheers were more reserved this time, the students taking in the shabby appearance of the werewolf and Slytherin noting the immense dislike apparent on their Head of House's face.
"Now, before we all sit down, I have one more announcement to make. 2, actually. It is Hogwarts' unfortunate pleasure to play host to the Dementor's of Azkaban as many of you have come to know. Our illustrious Minister has felt that Sirius Black poses a threat to our school and has posted a host of Dementors to keep watch over the school's perimeter. Please be warned students, these are not creatures to trifle with. They do not know fear, rarely feel pain, and once their interest is piqued are not easy to stop. Care must be exercised by each and every one of you. And that brings me to my last announcement. As many of you found out the hard way, the Dementors launched a search of the Hogwarts Express. This was kept under wraps should anyone have been trying to smuggle Sirius Black into the school, and I had made sure previously to make my displeasure of the plan known to the Minister. Many of you suffered for this, and I am sorry that it was necessary. I have been informed however by Professor Lupin and our newest Head Boy Percy Weasley that one student took it upon themself to pass out chocolate to each and every one of you. I'm a fan of dessert before dinner as much as any of you, but I'm sure you all felt the magic that chocolate has on the effects of exposure to the Dementors. Though I normally do not like to do this, certain acts of selflessness must be rewarded even this early in the year so I award Harry Potter with 50 Points to Gryffindor for charitable acts and selfless actions in the face of what had likely been a traumatic event even for him!" Albus was deafened by the cheers that erupted at this as many of the students, even many Slytherins, cheered at Harry's efforts to make sure that all of them were okay in the wake of the Dementor's search. It took nearly 3 minutes for the cheering to die down though Harry was sporting a blush that would make any Weasley proud, something that had Albus chuckling.
"Yes, yes. Madam Pomfrey as well will have a host of chocolate for any student who comes across any ill effects this year. This is not to be taken advantage of by students merely sporting a sweet tooth. For sweet teeth we come to the Great Hall, where we can all tuck in!" At the last of his words and a wave of his hand the tables were covered in the Welcoming Feast's delectable fare and the students immediately set into the food with abandon. Albus settled into his seat after his welcoming speech and spied a tasty looking bread roll literally calling his name. He shot a keen eye at Remus, who tucked away his wand with poorly veiled innocence at the small prank, and almost choked on the bread when he bit into it and it cried out in fear "Albus, noooo!"
***Break***
Astoria looked around in wonder at all the food, and quickly had a plate piled high which she tucked into with fervor. She hadn't ate anything since her smaller than usual breakfast, and was appropriately starving. Harry and Hermione made much more sensible plates, well balanced and with multiple food groups.
"So, Harry, you're going to tell me what that spell that you cast at that Dementor was." Hermione didn't phrase it as a question, because it wasn't one, and waited politely for Harry to finish the large bite he had taken from his turkey leg.
"I knew you'd be asking, I'm surprised it took you this long. The spell was the Patronus Charm. It summons forth a representation of your personality and is fueled by positive emotion, countering the effects of Dementors and repelling both them and Lethifolds. Though a fairly easy spell to learn it is harder for most to provide a memory, the source of the positive emotion, strong enough to repel either creature and many do not bother learning the spell beyond being able to produce a heavy mist. The incantation is Expecto Patronum, and the movement a simple thrust of the wand." Harry explained to the interested girl, as well a few eavesdroppers, as to the spell's effects and uses.
"But what was yours? That was a very large snake." Hermione noted all of the details that Harry had shared, promising herself to try the spell at some point. Astoria was more concerned with filling her belly and contented herself with paying attention, but not contributing, to the conversation.
"That, my dear Hermione, was the Basilisk of Slytherin," Harry commented casually, and multiple gasps were heard around him as more people listened in, "Though significantly smaller than the true beast. I'm surprised you don't remember it"
"A Basilisk? The Basilisk? But you just said that it was supposed to represent your personality, so what, you're represented by a Muggleborn killing snake now? And I had only gotten a glimpse of its eye through a hand-mirror before being Petrified" Hermione was confused by the revelation and also a little annoyed to be reminded of losing out on almost half a school year. She had spent a lot of time that summer reacquainting herself with all of the lost knowledge she had missed out on.
"Despite what many who are listening in right now may think," Harry cast an eye around to all of the interested faces looking at them right now, "The Basilisk of Slytherin was not intended to be used in such a manner. It was actually one of 4 defenses installed by each of the Founders in preparation for a siege, as Basilisks are actually immortal creatures in the sense that age will not kill them. It was intended to be used in defense of students, not to kill them."
"Interesting, Potter, but why should we believe you? If anything your Patronus, by your own admission, confirms what we all thought last year of you being the true Heir of Slytherin," This snide remark came from Cormac McLaggen, a Gryffindor boy a year older than Harry who had never really liked him.
"Interesting theory, McLaggen. You're forgetting, however, my publicized press conference in front of hundreds where I confirmed that I am not, in fact, the Heir of Slytherin. Like usual, the only thing you've proven is that you're an idiot," Harry commented to the boy in question idly, and the boy settled back into his seat fuming. The dislike went both ways.
English Skill has increased! It is now 71!
"So the Basilisk means what for you? And what were the other defenses?" Astoria finally chimed in, interested in the odd turn the discussion had taken.
"Well… Let's see. The Basilisk, born of unlikely circumstances, is a creature of power. The snake aspect harkens to my own Parseltongue abilities. And despite its ability to kill with a look, it is largely a territorial animal who possesses a keen intellect." Harry thought for a moment. There were probably other similarities but he could not think of them at the moment.
"As to the other defenses, the 2 others I know of, there are the suits of armor around the school. These were crafted by Gryffindor, both a skilled blacksmith and a general of no small talent, to animate and follow the orders of the Headmaster of that time. Ravenclaw placed a room within the school that could serve as a safe house for any students not yet trained enough, or even unwilling, to defend Hogwarts from an attack. It's Hufflepuff that I'm unaware of though I will say that she probably played a part in Hogwarts never being short on food, despite various famines over the centuries. You can't siege a place that never goes hungry. They all worked together to build the various secret passages within the school, routes that they could follow that would let them respond readily to any attack that is focused in any one particular area." Harry explained what he knew from doing a lot of reading over the summer with the Gamer abilities.
"5 Points to Gryffindor, for exceptional knowledge of the school's history and defenses. You do the student body proud, Mr. Potter" A voice cut in. Harry looked up to see Minerva McGonagall staring at him with fondness just behind her stern demeanor. A few students behind the Professor were snickering into their hands.
"Oh, hello Professor. May I just say you look lovely today?" Harry tried a little flattery, in case he was in trouble. Minerva smiled slightly at the reminder of James pulling the same defense in his school years.
"You're not in trouble, Mr. Potter, but don't think that flattery would have gotten you very far if you were. I was just coming down for a moment to request that both you and Ms. Granger reported to my office after the Feast." Minerva smiled at the Potter lad, just a bit, and when both students nodded in confirmation she walked back to the Head Table.
"Whew. For a second I thought she'd noticed the note." Harry wiped imaginary sweat from his brow, and that prompted the students to look at the Transfiguration Professor who was walking away. On her back was a note that said 'Feisty Kitty' and had a small animated kitten roaring and pouncing drawn on it, prompting the students to devolve into snickers. Fred and George looked at Harry with a keen approving eye at the simple yet effective prank.
***Break***
Severus Snape was not typically a happy man. Right now he was furious. Next to him sat the werewolf Remus Lupin. That alone would have been enough to set the easily provoked man into a mood. But what really set him off was seeing Harry Potter surrounded by people who seemed to be following his every word. And the boy had the daring, the audacity, to give himself red hair. The similarities to Lily Evans' hair was astounding. Snape couldn't, even after all these years, bring himself to refer to his childhood friend as Lily Potter. The boy was clearly different this year, as previously Harry had at least seemed to keep to himself and not follow his father's popular ways. Snape would be keeping an eye on the boy, and at the first sign of trouble would work to bring the boy humble again.
***Break***
Daphne Greengrass was not typically a happy girl. Right now she was a little miserable. Her sister, sweet Astoria, had been sorted into the House of Lions. While Daphne knew that Astoria would be safe under the watchful care of Harry she had honestly expected her sister to join her in the House of Snakes. So in the wake of the tension that was now between her and Tracey, Daphne was ostensibly alone in a pit of snakes. None of this was reflected in her face though, nor Tracey's across from her whose thoughts were much the same.
The snake pit was a place of hierarchies and alliances governed by who you know and who you could count on either due to histories or owed favors. Any weakness was filed away in a small black book, and each member probably knew more about each other than any one member realized. The table was a reserved affair, everyone choosing to exercise manners and decorum lest some small detail give them away to any enemies. There were some exceptions, like Crabbe and Goyle or Mullicent Bulstrode, who were protected by alliances with power players like Malfoy.
Marcus Flint and his rowdy group of good ol' boys were another exception as they were now 7th years and thus held a lot of power. Daphne had never liked the boy, his leering eyes on any girl in Slytherin being unwelcome. A discrete appraisal, even a noted linger, was forgivable, even expected at times. Flint, however, would often make a habit of staring at the female members of Slytherin House for minutes at a time from the position he would often take on the back of the couch in the Common Room with his circle of friends.
Daphne honestly couldn't wait to get to the Common Room and through that to her own room she shared with Tracey so that she could put the business with Harry behind them and at least maintain an alliance that had served to protect them thus far from any trouble. Tracey across from her seemed to be of the same mind and together they kept up appearances for old times' sake.
***Break***
Astoria happily crunched on her dessert, a delicious peanut brittle, and watched the people around her. There were so many strange and exciting faces, each unique in their own right. Harry next to her had casually answered any question she had about who was who and about the school itself. Hermione had apparently snuck a book in with her, and Astoria was a little jealous when she saw it. Luckily the bushy haired friend had let her peek at it a bit but it was an Ancient Runes text, and she was at a section that was actually written in the runes so Astoria lost interest pretty quickly. So she people watched. And it was as she was running her eyes down the table of green and silver that she saw Daphne.
"Hmm. Daphne's worried about something." Astoria commented to Harry.
"She's likely dreading the talk with Tracey, remember? She said they'd be talking once they got to school." Harry looked at the blonde in question and tried to see how Astoria could tell that her sister was worried. He couldn't see it though.
"I hope she'll be alright, that probably won't be easy." Hermione commented without looking up. Harry grinned at her for her multitasking prowess.
"She'll be fine, it's her childhood friend and I made it very clear that I did not want to come between the 2." Harry tried to reassure Hermione.
"Fine like you were when you talked to Ron?" Hermione replied easily. Harry grimaced at the reminder and looked over at his redheaded friend. The shiner was healing, but it wasn't gone.
"That's hardly the same thing. I've known Ron a short time in comparison, and Daphne isn't likely to hit the girl… Is she?" Harry directed the question to Astoria.
"No, Daphne's more of the poison and wait type," Astoria joked, making Harry choke on his bite of treacle tart.
"And that's more my method," Astoria smiled cheekily at the redhead.
"Don't do that when I'm eating," Harry chided the tiny girl.
"I can do it when you're sleeping, if you'd like" Astoria smiled winningly at Harry, who flicked a piece of treacle tart at her. She glared at him when it stuck to her cheek, but only stuck her tongue out and ate it which made Harry laugh.
"Plot murders later you 2," Hermione half-heartedly reprimanded the 2 chuckleheads across from her. "Harry, what do you make of this section here?"
Harry took the book and read it eagerly, the book having shown gold to him since Hermione had brought it out.
+1 Ancient Runes
"Hmm. That does seem a little confusing doesn't it? It brings up Beorc, yet then mentions Ing as being the Root…" Harry started to explain before Astoria tuned him out.
***Break***
"55 Points, and in the first hour?" Fred slipped an easy arm around Harry's shoulders as they walked up to the Common Room.
"And, don't forget Forge, feisty kitty" George too slipped an arm around Harry, though it was around his waist.
It was all the warning Harry received as he was separated from Hermione who was enthralled by her book. The twins guided Harry into a secret passage opened by tilting a vase that was on a small detailed stand. The twins grinned at Harry when they released him.
"You've been a busy boy, Harry, balancing pranks and points so soon. You're going to make the year pretty easy for us at this rate," George commented like they were talking about the weather.
"Let's hurry this along, Gred, I have to meet with McGonagall," Harry warned the 2 twins. It wouldn't do to be late.
"Not to worry Harry, we know this school like the back of each other's hand," Fred placated Harry.
"We merely wanted to congratulate you Harry, on a job well done. It's no easy task to prank our Head of House and you did it subtly and with taste. We appreciate that in a fellow prankster," Fred spoke again.
"As a token of that appreciation, as well as what you did for Ginny last year and Ron with the award, we'd like to give you something," George said, and Harry realized what they were talking about almost instantly.
"And not just any something. The ultimate something." Fred pulled a blank piece of parchment out of his pocket.
"This little fella has taught us more than any teacher in this school, and has been the key to our success thus far." The tone George used was almost reverant.
Harry decided to tease them a little bit, "Ah, just so long as someone were to… solemnly swear to be up to no good?"
The twin's jaws dropped as Harry hinted very heavily as to the activating phrase. They even seemed at a loss for words. How in Merlin's name did Harry know about that.
"I'd like to propose a trade, my dear boys. Something of mine for something of yours." Harry took control of the situation and pulled out a small book from his Inventory. He had originally wanted to give this to Sirius, but saw an opportunity for Fred and George to put it to good use.
The 2 boys looked eagerly at the book, but Harry did not offer it up. "Map first." Harry said, shocking them again with his knowledge.
They placed the Marauder's Map into Harry's hand and he grinned at the familiar weight. It slipped into his Inventory with a thought.
"In return I bequeath unto you both, as is my right as the Son of Prongs" Harry's tone took on a comical formal quality and he held the book up like he was christening them both. The twins, still reeling from Harry's previous bombs, were blown away when Harry casually mentioned one of their idols. Their eyes locked onto the book.
Harry grinned, and waited. And waited. Fred and George's eyes flicked to his, and Harry boomed, "THE PLAYBOOK"
In his hand, in the same handwriting as the Marauder's Map, was the Marauder's Playbook from his father's trunk. George took the book carefully, once he saw the title, as if the slightest touch might break it.
"That book was their true legacy and it contains many secrets. Use it well, my sons" Harry equipped his Invisibility Cloak so that when Fred and George looked up from the book he was nowhere to be seen.
"What… What just happened?" Fred looked lost.
"I have no idea…" George whispered.
Pranking Skill increased! It is now 25! Boon Unlocked!
***Break***
Harry chuckled to himself once the twins left, confused but also eager at their newest link to their idols. Harry knew that both Sirius and his father would have approved of the trade. He looked down at the Map in his hand. He hadn't counted on getting this thing this year, in his past life he was only really given it due to a need to get to Hogsmeade.
Not one to look a gift horse in the mouth Harry's wand appeared, "I solemnly swear that I am up to no good"
Congratulations! You have found the Marauder's Map! Mini-Map augmented!
Harry looked up in interest to see that his Mini-Map had a bit more detail, and would now show secret passages in and around Hogwarts. Or at least the one that he was currently in. Harry skimmed the paper map with a big grin, this would be so useful! And he could keep an eye on people. He'd be keeping an eye out for Sirius to finally meet his Godfather, but would be checking out a few more people of interest just in case. With a start, Harry realized that he had been in the secret passage for much too long and took off at a run to get to McGonagall's office.
Running Skill has increased! It is now 30!
***Break***
Harry caught up to Hermione just as she made it to the landing of the floor of McGonagall's office. The girl was still nose deep in the book, but looked up at Harry in relief when he bounded next to her.
"I noticed you disappear, I thought you just went to the loo or something. What happened?" Hermione asked Harry.
"Fred and George wanted to talk to me about something. I'll tell you later," Harry promised when it looked like his friend wanted to ask more questions.
Harry knocked on McGonagall's door while Hermione put the book away, and they stepped inside. McGonagall's office was much neater than most Professor's and she had everything in a proper place so that she could balance Transfiguration Professor with Head of House and Deputy Headmistress.
"Professor" Harry greeted with a warm tone that Hermione matched as well.
"Right on time, Mr. Potter, Ms. Granger. Please take a seat" Minerva looked up from some papers she was reviewing and smiled faintly. Harry and Hermione took her up on the offer and she even provided some biscuits from a tin that were ignored due to their full bellies, Hermione's anyways as Harry didn't really get full.
"You both have decided to pick up extra elective this year, and I wanted to take a moment to say how proud I am of that choice. It's not been unheard of for students to want to take that extra step, but for the only two of your year to do so to also be two of my lions gives me no small measure of pride. I trust you both will live up to that expectation." McGonagall eyed them both in a look that was both stern and friendly, mostly Harry as she had little concern with Hermione.
"Of course Professor." Hermione said sincerely. Minerva nodded at them both and pulled an ornate box from her desk which she placed in front of them.
"What I am about to give to you, to manage your busy timetables, will not be shared or revealed to your classmates for any reason and will not be taken advantage of. Failure to comply with that will result in either a steep fine, or possibly expulsion. Do I make myself clear?" No amount of friendliness was in the older Professor's tone.
After a hearty gulp and a nod from them both she opened the case. Inside were 2 small golden hourglasses, filled with a small amount of fine golden sand.
"These are Time-Turners, they enable someone to go back in time in increments of hours. They are used by turning this disc here counterclockwise around the hourglass, and then pressing the dial at the top. Each full turn is 1 hour, though half-turns and such are possible. These are filled with a specific amount of sand, to match what electives you have signed up for. Every turn will use one of those grains of sand. I recommend use of the Tempus Charm if you are ever unsure how much of a turn you should use. If you abuse this, in any way, you will quickly find yourself with no way to attend your necessary classes and will likely fail those electives. Am I understood?" Minerva looked at them both.
Harry was looking conflicted. He had signed up for these classes with the intent to simply get a Time-Turner and use it for extra training time. Now he was being told that he would pretty much be stuck to use it as prescribed. Harry wondered for a moment how Hermione had had the extra sand needed, not even knowing beforehand that the amount of sand played a part in the magical item's use, in his last life for the mission to save Sirius but then reassessed McGonagall's words and realized that the Time-Turners were preloaded to match the Classes that were signed up for. So when Hermione dropped out of Divination, she ended up with extra turns that were not being used. Interesting, Harry thought to himself.
Hermione simply looked excited, Muggle space-time theory being as interesting as it was. Her tone matched the look. "So will we be in 2 places at once?"
Minerva smiled at the inquisitive student, her favorite one if she were honest with herself though Harry was a close second, "In a sense, Ms. Granger. I've handed out a few of these over the years and have always reacquainted myself with the theory of the Magic when the Unspeakables would bring them by. You will need to exercise caution in the use of this device. I recommend familiarizing yourself with some of the secret passages and unused classrooms to use this though the safest will always be my office. I also warn you that a lavatory stall is not a safe place to use this. Many times a student has gone back and run into someone using that stall at the particular time they went back to. Not a lovely experience for any party, I assure you. If you must use an area as your point of transfer as it is called, I highly recommend trying to look at it during the time that you are planning to go back to."
Hermione and Harry both paid rapt attention, when Minerva got much more serious. "This will involve planning and care but I have faith that you both will learn quickly and well. The absolute worst thing that can happen though, is the breaking of 2 rules. The first is in any way preventing your past self from going back as planned. This will cause a Rupture. Nothing is known about what happens to those stuck in a Rupture, and the theory is a bit loose but do try to follow along. If you were to go back to a time, an hour ago, and live out that hour but then stop yourself from going back that hour for any reason you will separate the timelines and be lost to us. That version of you anyways. I have no idea how often it has happened as there is no real way to counteract it due to the 2nd rule. Never, never, overlap your returns. The timeline can handle 2 of a person, but 3 has caused strange and dangerous things to happen and that was for tests lasting mere moments. I often ask myself why these magical artifacts are put into the hands of children, and have asked the Unspeakables as such. They simply responded that those who break the rules are forever lost to us, stuck in some other timeline and therefore not affecting our own. It is they who will need to live with their actions, not us."
Harry nodded firmly. Well, it might suck that he could not abuse the shit out of the Time-Turner the way that Tyran was thinking. It was as he was thinking this that something strange and new occurred.
Pause!
Harry did not do that, and he looked around the now gray and still room in concern. Then, behind McGonagall's head a long thin black line appeared. This thin line was then pulled as though a curtain and Harry caught but a glimpse of the Center through the break before Tyran stepped into the room.
"Hello, Chosen," That same feminine voice from the beginning of Harry's summer rang forth and Harry honestly couldn't stop himself from smiling.
"Tyran!" Harry's grin got just a little bit bigger before falling a bit when, thanks to a bit of practice, he could see the look of concern on Tyran's face. Like during the tutorial, Harry let the Runic Construct talk.
"I need to speak with you about the importance of what your role as Chosen is for this timeline. I would have told you this through the Bracelet I left for you but you have fallen out of the habit of wearing it. That's no real concern, and you may choose to continue doing so if you wish. What your teacher is saying is true, Time is not to be trifled with and holds just as much power as Fate herself. The few times that a Chosen has gotten any measure of power over Time, catastrophe has been an all too common effect. If you abuse the trust given to you by Fate, and cause one of these Ruptures, you will lose your Gamer abilities in their entirety as well as any progress you have made and be forced to live out the result of your actions. If those actions result in death, it is not likely that you will maintain your role as Chosen and be allowed another chance. It is up to you if you would like to continue this route and take your extra classes, or perhaps the gravity of the risks will prompt you to new action. It is up to you." The Construct stood for a moment, and smiled at Harry.
"So any slip-up with the Time-Turner will cause me to lose my powers? Why did you agree that I could abuse the shit out of it then?" Harry was annoyed, his plan going up in flames before him.
"That was due to the phrasing of the question. You asked how Time could affect you, not how you could affect Time. You can, essentially, abuse a Time-Turner in the sense that you will not be affected by the strain of longer days nor would you age in any way with the use of one. I am here, now, telling you about the risks you can pose with how you can affect Time. When you asked the question there was no guarantee that you would go through it or even pull it off, as Fate has given you a certain level of autonomy not allowed in many Chosen. Now you are presented with not one, but 2, of these artifacts. We too must plan for any of your actions and therefore must stress the importance of adherence to the rules your teacher is saying. Make of the information what you will, Chosen, the Pause will be maintained until you end it." And without another word Tyran pulled the curtain and stepped back into the Center, the thin black line vanishing as though it had not been.
Harry's mind whirled back to that time on his 2nd day of the Tutorial when he had asked Tyran the question. The words came to him easily, as most memories did since he acquired his Gamer capabilities.
"How does Time apply to me? I mean obviously it applies to me but since my game age has been separated from my real age, and I don't need sleep, then if I were to get say… a Time Turner, then could I essentially abuse the shit out of it and not run myself into the floor? And not age myself prematurely?" Harry asked himself quietly.
It took him a moment to realize why the words felt so strange to him, and then he realized. He wasn't the same Harry anymore. It was right there in the wording. My Game age has been separated from my real age. That was HJP still talking right there. And upon review, Harry could see how poorly the question had been phrased. He had known at the time that Tyran was a literal type of … person, taking words at their phrasing and not doing much inferring. But he hadn't known the way he did now, backed up by Diplomacy, Logistics, Etiquette, and other Mental Skills the way he was now.
Harry sighed. Now to decide if he would continue like this. The Time-Turner would be useful in some ways, especially if he dropped Divination and got some extra sand, but without the ability to go back multiple times he would be stuck in class for each turn barring sneaking around at night and getting a few extra hours in with whatever sand he had extra. He could pretty much do that now by not sleeping at all. The electives in question were Divination, Ancient Runes, Care of Magical Creatures, and Arithmancy. Did those classes matter to him right now? The school currently afforded him 1 Free Period, with 2 overlapping classes, but he honestly didn't need that with the way his mind and body worked now so he could feasibly drop one and forfeit his Free Period. That might mean a different class, with other students, but that didn't bother him either as he was keen to build some bridges across House boundaries anyways.
Glancing at the frozen girl next to him, Harry wondered how his now reluctance to accept the Time Turner would play out for his friend. Hermione would survive if she broke the rules, this version of her anyways it seemed. The theory was interesting but weird to him, and he only barely grasped it at all. But the inclusion of multiple classes had made Hermione interesting, and shaped the woman she had become in his original timeline. Would that matter now though? She was who she was now, and he couldn't let himself overthink how his actions would change the people around him. He wasn't in the same world he had left 3 months ago. The amount of differences already were too numerous to count and those were just the differences Harry was aware of. No, he would have to do this for himself. The rewards did not outweigh the risks.
Harry looked at McGonagall. She would likely be a little disappointed. Harry himself had pushed for this after all. That was the problem with half-baked plans made in a rush, as he had learned quite well since. Harry should have asked Tyran more about his plan instead of just thinking it would work out for him like so many other things had. She would likely understand though, as since then he has certainly changed in a lot of ways and was now responsible for the care of others. It would take a bit of spinning the yarn, but he knew he had to say no.
Unpause!
*Fin*
A/N: I know that some people are probably bummed that we don't get to see Harry break the game a bit, but he's not the same Harry that he was in Chapter 2. I've been planning this plot-twist for a while now and I'm honestly a pretty happy with how it turned out. I had a lot of fun with the Marauder's Map scene as well.
Review answers below.
Chuysaurus: Luna has a little something going on, and Harry's interest has been piqued slightly. We'll see where it ends up. Thank you for the review!
Adrian King1: Harry will be making waves this year for sure. He's proven to everyone that he has power, he's proven to everyone through the duel that he isn't afraid to use that power, and he's proven to everyone that he only wants them to be safe. It will be a fine line to toe not to make Harry's presence in the Castle oppresive, and he'll probably fail a few times and butt heads some others, but he will get there. He loves the place after all. Thank you for your continued support.
Beccasullivanwrites1: It's really laid out in this chapter, towards the end, that this Harry is not the same Harry as the one at the beginning of the story. And too much has changed for him to have the same Patronus so I thought a Basilisk would be a fun twist. Thanks for the review!
Soryuken: Thank you for the review! This Harry is definitely a lot more different than even he realizes. He is also forgetful because he's constantly on information overload from the Game. He'll slowly get better but right now it's getting to him. He's come a long way though! Thank you for the review! I hope to keep you interested!
TheGreatBubbaJ: Hah! I got you! Not much, as your guess was really close, but just a bit. There's also a scene in here that I hope you enjoyed that was inspired by you. I had to do something when I cackled at the idea of Harry having a Wanking Skill. To clear it up a bit Boons work like feats, you can grab some of the older stuff if it really interests you. But there will also be new stuff that will also end up drawing the eye. He might choose Silent Hands, but the new Self-Greasing Boon might draw his eye as well. Hilarious analogy. And Astoria is a Gryffindor now! So Daphne is all alone in the snake pit.
Firetemplar415: Luna as Voldemort's daughter is both unsettling and weird lol no she's just a powerful conduit who sees things that most people cannot. Thank you for the review! You and all your voices!
Phineas Garcia-Shapiro Flynn: I had to give him a little something for taking away his Time Turner, you know? Thank you for the review!
Greye05: I hope the first scene cleared it up a bit for you! She's not aware of what's going on but can be used by Fate to talk to Harry, when Tyran isn't needed to explain the heavy stuff. It may come up in the future it may not.
Frankieu: My Harry is significantly more Slytherin than Canon so the change felt natural. Thank you for the review!
Reaper505: Thank you! And thank you for the review!
Nina0116: Not really. Percy stepped up this time around and Remus did not have any students in his cabin nor did the Dementor bother his compartment. He chose to wait and see. Thank you for the review!
Kuman: I 100% agree. That's one of those moments where I started this story last year and have learned a lot since then. I have actually gone back and changed it based on this review, so thank you for that! This will actually open up a lottle play for some of Harry's doubters to still hang onto that belief. Works out for me. Thank youf ro the review! You have a lot of twists and turns ahead.