I'm back.
I had health issues and all, but I'm sort of fine now.
Anyway, I've been writing while I was away a bit. It's been a long time, but I managed to pump out around 36,000 words of this fanfic a little at a time. It's actually more than that, but the other stuff I've written won't actually come into play until after the Goblet of Fire events.
I've been really busy while I was ill, and this was just one huge chunk that I've broken up into two separate chapters, one of which is going up on FF.net as soon as I'm done posting it here. The other I'll release in a few days most likely.
Lots of stuff happens in these two chapters.
Anyway, on with it!
A Matter of force.
Part 44
The Dark Plot.
OooOOooOO
Harry Potter and Hermione Granger stood in front of Professor Dumbledore's desk. Professor Trelawney stood behind them with a scowl on her face as she looked at the man behind the desk. She'd just finished explaining what had occurred, and about the book she'd found in the girl's possession. “I'm not sure how they managed to summon a demon on their first day. Needless to say, I think it may be best if they chose another elective. I cannot have such things summoned into my class, it will take days to clear the energies after that. It will make things difficult for the other students to be at peace and hone their energies.â€
Dumbledore frowned at her. “I see.â€
Hermione moved forward a bit. “We didn't summon it! It was already here!†She raised her voice and shook her head.
Harry nodded. “I've heard stories about that thing. I'm afraid I agree with her, and that book was already on the table when we got to class.â€
The old man nodded. “I'm afraid I agree with them.â€
“What?†muttered the woman.
Dumbledore gave a heavy and somber sigh. “We've recently discovered this...thing, has been trolling about the students. I am at a loss for what it is. I can find no...â€
Hermione interrupted. “I found it in that book. It's called a Dream Master. It's a kind of demon...†She flushed as she realized what she'd done.
Dumbledore's eyes snapped up at her. There was no merriment or twinkle in them and he had a firm frown on his face.
Hermione backed away and hung her head. “I'm sorry...I didn't mean to interrupt.â€
The Headmaster stood up with a grave looking expression on his face. “Where is this book now?â€
Harry gave a sigh and put his hand on her shoulders. “It was destroyed. That thing possessed Professor Trelawney and she threw it into the fire.â€
The woman seemed confused and stepped back from the children. “I certainly wouldn't leave such a book where students could just stumble across it.†She looked thoughtful as she said it.
Dumbledore nodded. “Tell me what book was this?â€
Hermine seemed to realize the look on his face was not because he was cross with her for interrupting, and she became more forward again. “It was called 'Rare Demons and Imps' by someone named 'Dolr Tasta'.â€
The old man narrowed his eyes at that. “Dolr Tasta you say?â€
Harry frowned and nodded. “That's what it said. It's an anagram isn't it?â€
The Headmaster gave him a weak smile. “Yes. Very clever, and likely not the true name of the author. Not unusual concerning demonology.â€
Hermione looked confused. “Huh? An...anagram?†Her eyes went wide as she understood. “Lord Satan?â€
Harry nodded. “I would guess.â€
Trelawney scowled at that. “How did it get there?â€
The pair shrugged. Hermione spoke up to her. “It was just sitting in those piles you put in the middle of the tables.â€
Dumbledore leaned against his desk and scratched at his beard as he looked thoughtful. “Most unfortunate it was destroyed. What can you tell me of this 'Dream Master'? Anything you can remember. I have been unable to find any mention of such a creature.â€
The brunette girl seemed to think for a moment. “Well, it said that sometimes, if someone is wicked enough, and killed for revenge rather than justice, the guardians of the entrance of hell will allow them to come back to exact their revenge. It enables the damned soul to become a demon of sorts. A Dream Master. Its weak at first and can only scare people..." She shivered as she looked up at him. “...but after a while it will become strong enough to start killing people. When that happens it consumes their souls and uses them to fuel it's own power.â€
Dumbledore looked very grim. “I see. Anything else, anything at all? Any mention of how to defeat this creature?â€
Hermione lowered her eyes. “That's the worst part. No one has ever beaten one. It uses the rumor of its existence to spread like a virus. It feeds on fear and uses whatever scares its victims most. The more people who know about it the stronger it becomes. The book said that every time one has appeared it killed its own rumor by eliminating everyone who was aware of it. Once that happens, the rumor stops and it can't get anymore victims. That does explain why it's not a well known being.†She shivered and clutched at her arms as she looked very worried.
Trelawney gasped. “What?â€
The old man gave a nod. “I see.†He stood up. “It appears that Hogwarts is no longer safe. I shall have to send all the students home until a way to deal with this creature is discovered.â€
Hermione shook her head. “It won't matter.â€
Harry nodded. “It's not confined to Hogwarts. Once someone is afraid of it, this thing can follow them anywhere. If we send everyone home...the rumor will spread. We could infect the whole of Britain.†He looked unusually calm given the subject at hand. “It's better if we don't send people away from the school.â€
Both teachers looked at him. Dumbledore became very pale. “I see.†He slumped down in his chair.
Hermione nodded. “He's right. We don't know who at Hogwarts knows, but the rumor has spread all over the school. I don't know anyone who hasn't at least heard about it from someone. Even if they haven't been attacked yet.â€
Harry gave a heavy sigh. “We've got to figure out how to get rid of it before everyone goes home for the Holiday.â€
Hermione gave a small nod. “That gives us until this summer to figure it out.â€
The boy shook his head. “No, that gives us until Christmas. This needs to be contained, and we may be forced to create a quarantine within the school.â€
Dumbledore frowned at that. “I am to understand that it has been here at least two years already. The rumor appears to have been contained at least that long.â€
Hermione gasped. “Two years?â€
Trelawney seemed relieved. “Well, that's something. Perhaps it's not as bad as we believe?â€
Harry nodded. “Maybe. I only heard about it this year.â€
“Me as well,†agreed Hermione. “Everyone knows about it this year as far as I know. I've heard people in other houses talking about it recently. Ever since I started looking for it in the Library I've been keeping my ears open. I've heard people from every house talking about it, even Slytherin.â€
The young Jedi seemed thoughtful. “Yes. I heard mention of a few isolated cases of bad nightmares last year, but it has spread in scope. It may already be too late to stop the rumors from spreading outside of Hogwarts. I mean, there's no guarantee that someone hasn't mentioned it in letters home or spoken to friends or family about it over the summer. I never thought much about it before, but this seems to have been going on for a while. I just thought it was a ghost story or an urban legend, not something to take seriously.â€
Dumbledore seemed to consider that. “It has only been recently brought to our attention. Percy Weasley spoke to Professor McGonagall and I did some investigation myself. This is...most distressing news.â€
“I'll say,†agreed Harry. “Still, it does seem like it's hanging around Hogwarts for some reason though. As Hermione said, it doesn't appear to be confined here, but it's not showing up elsewhere either that I know of. That's odd don't you think? If it has the whole of Britain to play with, why stay here?â€
Hermione frowned and put her finger on her bottom lip. “He's right. There must be some reason for it though. I don't know.â€
“That's a good observation.†Dumbledore gave a nod. “I do believe you have a good point. It wants something in this school, though exactly what it is I'm unsure of. Is there anything else you can recall about this matter?â€
Hermione nodded. “It's name is Freddy Kruger. Rumor is that he was some sort of rapist and murderer. A pedophile. That would explain why only the younger students are having dreams. I've not heard about any sixth or seventh year students having dreams. He was supposedly burned alive in his house by a bunch of angry parents. I heard about it from some of the girls in the dorms. He shows parts of it to some people. A lot of them talk about some sort of burned out house, and a boiler room of some sort. There's these...little girls, they jump rope and sing this horrible rhyme about him. It's hard to get anyone to talk about it. Those things seem to be pretty common in the dreams. A lot of people have seen them. I think what we know about him is things that have been pieced together from all sorts of different sources within the school.â€
Harry hung his head. “That's awful.â€
The Headmaster worked his tongue on the inside of his cheek as he thought about it. “I see. Very well. I shall ask that you return to class. Do not concern yourselves with it further. You should both focus on your studies. You especially Mrs. Granger.â€
She gave a nod and started towards the hall. Harry looked back over his shoulder. “Well, if we find anything else we'll let you know.â€
Dumbledore nodded. “I shall listen, but again I ask that you allow the faculty to deal with this. It is not a task for a Third Year. I assure you that we will take every possible measure we can.â€
Both of them left. Trelawney gave a heavy sigh. “What do we do? I've not heard about any of this. Strange that I've had no visions of such doom.â€
The Headmaster nodded. “I shall summon Professor Snape. It pains me to do so, but there may be a potion that will help with this matter. At least temporarily.â€
The woman seemed confused. “Potion?â€
“Dreamless Sleep. It is a temporary solution, but could curb these attacks for a short time.†He looked up at her and folded his hands.
“That's dangerous,†said the woman in a warning tone. “Dreams are important to the spiritual health of the students. Without them, they'll start...â€
He nodded. “I know. I do not intend to implement such a measure without cause. Nor will I force it upon them. I have no intention of drugging the meals. It will be offered upon request if the situation becomes dire enough. I believe we should be prepared as it is a potion that takes some time to brew and we may need a healthy supply if the situation worsens.â€
She nodded at that. “I see.†She narrowed her eyes. “It won't stop them from dreaming for more than a week or so of use. They'll just start dreaming while they're awake. That could cause problems.â€
The old man nodded. “I know. Still, it could buy us the time we need if the situation becomes more dangerous. I suspect the affected students will start trying to stay awake themselves, which could cause even more problems.â€
Trelawney nodded. “I see.†She turned and walked out of the room. “Be careful.â€
He nodded and seemed lost in thought. He was very seriously considering using memory charms, but it would be complex and difficult to do. It might help but he wasn't sure. The creature was crawling about the dreams of the school, and it would be exceedingly difficult to do such a thing. It had gotten in somehow and without knowing where it started such a task would prove near impossible.
Still, if things became bad enough the students would likely be willing to allow it. He had no intention of forcing the matter, but if they were cooperative it would become at least possible. He rubbed at his temples and pulled a small bottle of white pills from his desk drawer. It was giving him a headache and he had much to do to prepare. It wasn't something he could do off the cuff. “I pray it does not come to such a measure.†Memory charms could be dangerous and more covered up the memory and replaced it with a false one than eliminated it. As far as he knew even a subconscious memory would be enough for this thing to get a foothold. It was not something to be taken lightly, and had to be done with the utmost care if it came down to it.
OooOOooOO
Harry walked with Hermione. They wouldn't make it back to Divination before the end of the period. “I guess we're not kicked out of Divination.â€
She frowned a little at that. “I wouldn't have minded much. Still, I guess that's good.â€
He glanced at her. “I'm going to try and fight it.â€
The girl narrowed her eyes at him. “What? That's dangerous! Harry, if it hasn't bothered you yet...â€
The boy shook his head. “I can't ignore it. It's attacking students. Colin is my friend and he was a real mess last night. I've got to try and do something before that happens to anyone else.â€
“How?†she scowled at him. “You'll just have to wait for it to attack you then?â€
Harry considered for a moment. “Don't tell anyone what I'm about to tell you.â€
She blinked in surprise. He looked very serious. “All right, I promise.â€
The boy gave a heavy sigh. “I have the power to enter other people's dreams. I can go looking for it. I'm going to hunt it down and try and stop it.â€
The girl looked at him with wide eyes. “Wh...what?â€
He shrugged. “Anna taught me. I'm going to speak with her about it as well. See if she knows anything about this.â€
The girl looked completely shocked. “She taught you?â€
The Boy Who Lived shrugged. “Yeah. It's part of the whole Jedi thing. Part of my training I do in my sleep. It's not all the time, but pretty regularly. It's...complicated.â€
The girl narrowed her eyes. “That's...you should keep it secret. If anyone finds out, they might think...â€
He nodded. “Yes. That's why I asked you not to say anything. Anna hasn't said anything about this. I want to talk to her and see if she knows anything about this demon.â€
The girl nodded and seemed to consider that. “I guess. Still, enter people's dreams?†She didn't look comfortable with that. Neither did he, and it helped a bit to see it.
“It's not something I do to others. Anna and I use it for training and only training with each other. It's wrong to get into people's heads that way. Dreams are personal and private. I've got no place sticking my nose into the private business of others that way. She's pretty strict about that sort of thing. I think I should make an exception here though. I can go looking for it and try to stop it from attacking people. Maybe I can keep it busy and away from everyone else while we figure out what to do?â€
The girl scowled at that, but gave a nod. “All right. I trust you. Still, that sounds kind of scary, Harry. A person able to do such a thing?â€
He nodded. “That's why we don't use it that way. I know you don't think much of Anna, but discipline is an important part of our training, and having powers like that is part of the reason why.â€
She hung her head. “Well, I hate to say it, but...can you get with me tonight in my sleep? Maybe I can help.â€
The boy flushed at that. “Well, I guess. I should warn you that you'll remember everything. It's not like a normal dream. It's almost like you're awake. I'll talk with you about it and meet you, but I'm not taking you into other people's heads with me. It's bad enough I'm doing it myself and I'm not so sure I'll be able to protect you in that sort of environment.â€
Hermione frowned at that. “That's what people say about the dreams that thing gives them. Why can't I go? You don't trust me?â€
Harry narrowed his eyes a little. “That's one of the reasons I want to talk to Anna about it. See what she knows, and it's not a matter of trust. I have my doubts it's right for even me to invade people's private thoughts even with that thing sneaking around. I don't want to make it worse by bringing someone else into it if I don't have to. I should consult my sister about it though. She knows more about this sort of thing than I do.â€
The brunette gasped and her eyes went wide. “You...you don't think?â€
The boy gave her a wry grin. “That it's her doing this? I doubt it. Listen, she's really strict about abusing that sort of power. I know you don't know her that way, but she's worse than Snape about being strict as a teacher. She takes that sort of thing really seriously.â€
The girl nodded and scowled. “All right, if it was anyone but you...â€
He smiled at her warmly. “It's all right. I'll talk with her later. I'll probably pull her aside at dinner and have words with her about it. Shouldn't be much trouble.†Inwardly he wasn't so confident. Anna was acting weird lately, and he did have a small suspicion. It was deep in the back of his mind, but there. He couldn't deny it and he wanted to talk to her as much to put that to rest as anything else. He was hoping she might know more or be able to help him deal with it.
OooOOooOO
Anna Potter looked around the empty room. There were two arm chairs sitting around a medium sized round table. The table was black wood with a blood red table cloth covering it and in the center was a large crystal ball. There was a fireplace behind the chairs with a small fire going in it. It was the only light the room had. Shelves had rows of dusty books along the walls, and the stone floor had a large red and gold carpet draped across it.
“Welcome, Miss Potter,†said the older woman in the room as she stood up and gave her a firm but not unpleasant looking appraisal.
The girl was calm and emotionless as she looked back at her. “Professor Warwick,†she greeted the woman with a small polite curtsy.
The old woman seemed to approve. “Come, have a seat. I've made tea and we should discuss what you can expect in the coming year. We have a lot to do and I do not expect this class will be easy for you. It will always be the last period of your day as it will be quite taxing on your mind.â€
The girl walked over and sat down as the woman set out tea before them. “Professor Trelawney mentioned that you taught her when she attended.â€
The woman nodded. “Yes, that's correct. She was not a terrible student. Though, I'm sure you're aware of her tendency to overcompensate. Her gifts are limited, but also very real. I suspect you are aware of that as well.â€
“Yes. She's the one who spoke the prophecy concerning my brother and Lord Voldemort,†replied the redhead in an emotionless tone.
The older woman glanced at her as she set out tea. “Yes. I'm pleased you have that much understanding of your gifts at least. You do not create prophecy. You merely channel it. The future you see in visions is not something of your own making.â€
Anna got a faint hint of a smile on her face. “Isn't it? I sometimes wonder. How much of it is destiny, and how much is our own workings? It is an odd balance.â€
The old woman seemed to consider that. “You do not believe in destiny?â€
Anna cocked her head and got a smile that was not entirely pleasant. “Yes. Destiny is unavoidable, but I also believe in free will,and a person's ability to guide their own destiny. It is limited, but it is possible to alter the course of your own future. Some things simply cannot be changed. Others are workings of our own hands. Half of divination is reading people. Perhaps more than seeing the future directly. If you understand the person, their motivations, and their feelings, it is often a simple matter to predict what they will do and even what they might become. It is like sailing a ship through a storm. There are choices you can make, and you have some control over your direction, but in the end you are at the mercy of the winds and waves around you.â€
Mrs. Warwick narrowed her eyes at the girl. “I see. I suspect you did not learn that from Trelawney. She is my student and I am not ashamed of her, but that's considerably more advanced in this matter than she is capable of comprehending.â€
“This is not the first life I have been gifted with sight, though it is more powerful now than it was then.†Anna nodded and sipped at her tea.
“You drink your tea straight?†the woman seemed surprised. Most children liked a bit of milk or cream and at least a few lumps of sugar. She squeezed a lemon wedge into her own and stirred it. “I usually take my own straight as well, but with black tea I like a bit of lemon.â€
The girl's false but polite smile was subdued as she set her cup down. “Assam Tea. You spent time in India?†Mrs. Warwick was a little surprised at her refined manners. She acted as a girl who was well trained in etiquette. Her posture was very good and she sipped at her tea properly and spoke in a calm and dignified tone. At the moment she was a model example of how a young British lady should behave.
The woman smirked. “Yes. When I was a girl I lived there for a few years. My father was studying with the Sadhus. You noticed by induction?â€
Anna nodded and replied. “Yes, that pin on your blouse is of Indian origin. It's Brahma, the Deva of Creation. You've got a few baubles in this room that are of Indian origin as well. Such as that statue of Shiva over the fireplace.â€
The old woman seemed satisfied with her answer. “You're quite talented. I can see that you've come a long way in the art of divination. A great deal of what the greatest of us have done was more deduction and induction than power. It is perhaps our greatest secret, one that I was sadly never able to get your former teacher to grasp.â€
Anna kept her polite smile. “Thank you, Professor.â€
The woman set her cup down. “Now to business. There will be no looking at tea scrapings or peering into crystal balls here. I have no intention of honing your skills with your cards. You will keep them in your pocket here. My goal is to teach you one thing, and that is control.â€
Anna looked up at her and her smile fell away. She did not look disappointed, but rather serious and thoughtful. “I see.â€
Mrs. Warwick narrowed her eyes a little. “I can see that you know you have difficulty with that. That is good, I think you will be motivated by your weakness in this area. I expect you to do your best, and there will be no slouching or playing around here. I am not unkind, but I am firm and strict. I cannot go easy on you. Your gift is far too powerful to go unchecked. You must take the reigns and become the master of this power or it will land you in trouble.â€
Anna gave a firm looking nod. “I know. If I cannot control it I am a valuable target. The Ministry has enough interest in me as it is. I have no intention of giving them any reason or motivation to take advantage of me. I'm aware that some there would like very much to see me locked up in a cell, and as I am now there is even more motivation to do so.â€
The old woman didn't reply to that but went quiet and narrowed her eyes a little. “Huh. She's a sharp one. Noticed that did she?†she thought to herself. She reached down beside her chair and put a briefcase onto her lap. She flipped it open and took out a folder. Anna looked at it as she replaced the briefcase at her side and then moved to straighten it out in front of herself.
The girl looked interested and attentive as she sat facing her on the opposite side of the table. It was obvious she didn't know what the folder was for, and she seemed cautious.
Professor Warwick opened the folder and laid out six photos in two neat rows. They were evenly spaced apart and straight. “Now. I think you should grasp this easily. These are six people, that much is obvious. None of them attend here, and I doubt you've met any of them.†She cleared her throat and tapped the corner of the photo in the middle row nearest to herself. “I have given them all readings in the past. Much of what I have foretold has come to pass already, but some of it has not yet occurred. I am not perfect, so some of it may never come to pass at all. You know the nature of such things I'm sure.â€
The girl nodded. “I see.â€
The teacher closed the folder and put it near the edge of the table out of the way. “Now. I am going to ask you a series of questions about them, and you are not going to answer. If you feel compelled to answer, you will lie.â€
The redhead seemed to understand. “I am to intentionally give a false reading.†She said it more to make clear that she understood than anything else.
Her tutor nodded at that. “That is correct. If possible, give no reading at all. I suspect you will not have that much difficulty with it at first, but sooner or later...â€
“It will try to take over if you ask the right question,†said the redhead once again more to convey that she understood what was going on. “I must then try to resist.†That would be difficult, she suspected that she would black out more than once in this new class. “I understand Professor. I am eager to begin, and I shall do my best.†Her face and eyes grew hard as she leaned forward. She looked as if she had accepted a challenge.
The old woman put her nose up a little and seemed pleased with her attitude. “Very good. Now, we shall begin.â€
OooOOooOO
Hagrid grinned as he stood before his class in front of the Forbidden Forest. “All right then, ever one 'ere then? Gather round the fence, and get out yer books. All right then, first ye should open em...â€
About half the students did so, but the rest of the class looked confused and bewildered. Many of them had the books bound tightly and tied up to subdue them. Quite a few of them were blushing and looking interested in what their classmates were doing. Lavender Brown spoke up. “Um...how do we open them?â€
One of her classmates she didn't know well put her hand over her mouth and giggled. “Oh. You must have gotten yours early. The shopkeeper at Flourish and Blotts told me that someone told him about the trick behind it. You stroke the spine like this.†She demonstrated and her book opened easily and relaxed.
Within a moment the rest of the class caught on and everyone had theirs open.
“How were we supposed to figure that out?†grumbled Crabbe in irritation.
“Stupid thing tried to bite my arm,†muttered Goyle.
Malfoy looked lazy eyed and disinterested in either of them. He didn't know about it either, but was able to force the book to calm down on his own. “I just tamed mine. Wasn't difficult.â€
Harry looked back at him and smiled. “Well, at least most of us knew about it.â€
“I'm glad you told me, or I wouldn't have gotten any studying done,†said Hermione. She frowned a bit at the way he was looking friendly with Draco but didn't say anything.
Hagrid looked pleased. “All right then. Now we'll be needin the magical creatures. Hang on a bit and I'll be back.â€
The class stood about with many of them flipping through the books they hadn't been able to read at all up to that point with mild interest.
Anna was standing nearby with Pansy beside her. Margaret was taking another class and wasn't there, and neither was Ron. Melvin was standing next to Harry and looked about ready to fall asleep on his feet. Her brother moved a bit closer and leaned towards her. “Any idea what he's going to bring out?â€
She gave a small sigh and cocked her head. “It's pretty dangerous. Hippogriffs. Careful, they can have a bit of a temper if you're not polite.†She glanced back and noticed Crabbe and Goyle goofing off. Malfoy was still hanging around them but didn't talk to them much anymore. He didn't appear to ignore them and pretty much just let them run their mouths as they pleased while giving a rather lazy looking attention. “Hmm. It may not be wise for him to be so cocky.â€
Harry looked confused at that but Hagrid's return distracted him. He was pulling several very large creatures behind him. They looked to be part horse, part eagle creatures. They had dangerous looking eyes that gleamed with intelligence. “Oh. They can understand human speech can they?†The boy had the book in his hand and had gleaned a few facts about them from it. It made him a little nervous that Hagrid had chosen such creatures for the first lesson. “They must be very clever then.â€
The instructor looked a bit surprised. “Thas right, Harry. Yer a sharp one to catch tha already. Hippogriffs are very smart and very proud. Yev got ter be careful nah. Don't insult em, er it might be the las thing yer do. Come on up and ave a look then.†He motioned for the class to draw near.
Anna, Harry, Hermione, Parvati, and Malfoy all moved forward immediately. Crabbe, Goyle, Lavender, Pansy, and Padme all moved in behind them looking a bit nervous.
Melvin seemed to shake out of his lazy state and hung back a little as well. “Huh. Didn't expect something so big on the first day.â€
The half giant seemed cheerful and paused as Anna slapped Crabbe and Goyle on the back of their heads lightly. She hissed at them both and her glare cut off any protests. “Pay attention idiots, your lives depend on it. Those talons and beaks are not just for show.â€
The pair looked annoyed and glanced at Draco. He shrugged at them. “What? Don't look at me like that. She's right.â€
Hagrid almost said something to scold her, but the oafish pair seemed to settle down and looked at him. “All right then. Now, always let them make the firs move. It's polite ye see.†He tugged on the chains a little and the animals calmed a bit more and moved a little closer. “Bow, and then wait for em to make the first move. If they don't, back away and let em be cause those talons hurt.â€
“Wait, those things are dangerous?†muttered Lavender as she went a little pale. Parvati seemed to be of a similar mindset.
“You don't say,†Melvin was less than surprised considering what he knew of Hagrid.
“Not at all,†replied Hagrid.
“Actually they are, but only if you act a fool and disregard what he told you,†commented Anna as she crossed her arms and looked at the things. They peered back at her and squawked a bit. None of them seemed alarmed though.
“All right. Who wants ter go first?†asked the teacher.
Harry smiled. “I'll go. Seems interesting.†He smiled and approached, bowing deeply towards the one closest to him. “It's a pleasure. I've never seen a Hippogriff before. You're quite impressive.†The creature reared back and made a sharp sounding call as it blinked at him. The class gasped but Harry stood without fear before it. He scratched the back of his head. “I apologize. I didn't mean to sound so foreword. I hope I didn't embarrass you.â€
Anna rolled her eyes a little. He was overdoing it but it wasn't hurting him either. The animal seemed flustered by his over polite manners. He'd impressed it. The creature gave a bow and Harry approached and stroked at the feathers on it's neck.
“Tha's great Harry. I think e'll let ye ride em.†The teacher looked impressed that the creature had taken to him so quickly.
“Oh, if it's no trouble I think I'd like that,†he replied looking sappy and cheerful.
Hermione blushed a little. “Don't lay it on so thick, Harry. They're impressive, but you're going to make the rest of us look bad.â€
The boy was already on the creature's back. The animal shifted as it beat its wings and took off. A moment later the boy was flying around over the forest. He was obviously having a good time of it, and the beast landed back in the paddock. Harry slid off and smiled at his ride. “That was great. I hope we can do it again some time.â€
The creature reared back and called again.
Anna smirked at that. “Seems you've made a new friend.â€
The other students were all bolstered by his success and climbed into the paddock. Hagrid released them one by one. Neville was backing away from his, and the other students seemed to be in no danger despite varying levels of success at interacting with the creatures. Anna hung back and didn't seem interested in having a ride or being sociable. She stood near to Malfoy and his group. The bad tempered trio had taken over the one Harry had ridden.
Hagrid smiled at the boy as he moved off so the other students could interact with them. “Buckbeak seems really impressed, Harry.†He looked around. “I don't see Ron with ye? Is he sick?â€
The boy looked up at him and his smile faded a little. “Well, he wanted to come, but he's not able to take this class.â€
“Huh? Why not?†the large man seemed confused.
Harry shrugged at him. “It seems he's decided to become an Archaeologist. He had to give up this class to take the required courses. He was a bit disappointed about it to be honest. He said he hoped you wouldn't be upset about it. He wanted to come but he couldn't do both.â€
The half giant did look a bit down about that, but nodded. “Ah. I see. I understand. Tell em good luck with that then. Make sure he comes and visits with ye sometimes.â€
“I'm sure he will. He kind of surprised me to be honest. He's not very good at studying, and he's having to take some difficult courses because of it.†Harry was relieved. He felt a bit silly, but thought there was a chance Hagrid's feelings might have been hurt a bit. He seemed to understand though and while he was a little disappointed, he didn't seem upset with Ron about it. The boy froze and turned his head towards the Hippogriff he'd ridden. “Uh oh.â€
Malfoy was stroking it and looked smug. Crabbe and Goyle were behind him looking pensive. “This is easy. I knew it must have been if Potter could do it. You're not dangerous at all are you, stupid ugly brute.â€
The creature reacted in an instant by slashing out with its talons as it gave an angry cry. The students gave a collective screech and backed away from the animals.
Anna was standing in front of Malfoy with her hand extended towards the animal with the other back behind her. Malfoy tumbled back and ended up falling to the ground. The Hippogriff was on the ground with tendrils of electric energy crackling across its fur and feathers. “Idiot,†she growled. “You couldn't tell could you?â€
He was glaring at her on his back and she thrust her hand forward again as the animal tried to stand and snapped at her. More energy erupted from her fingertips and sent it back down again. The class backed away and looked nervous. Those there all knew that she could do such things, but actually seeing it happen in front of them was another matter. “Stay down. If you hurt him the humans will kill you for it.â€
“Whas the meaning of this? Stop it!†roared Hagrid.
Anna looked up at him and frowned as she lowered her hand. “Hagrid, take control of this thing. Malfoy insulted it and I had to save his worthless hide from getting injured.†Buckbeak was pretty upset, but unable to move enough to retaliate. It wasn't injured seriously. She had used just enough to keep it stunned and away from them.
“Eh?†the teacher muttered in confusion.
Anna glared back at him. “Fool, these beasts are resistant. You cannot control their minds as you do these two morons.†She jabbed her finger at Crabbe and Goyle. “If it wouldn't have gotten Hagrid in trouble I would have let it maul you. Dumbass.â€
He staggered to his feet. “I didn't need your help.†His wand was in his hand.
She ignored his posturing and looked over at where Hagrid was lifting the animal over his shoulder in a fireman's carry. “I didn't do it to help you. I was more concerned with Buckbeak. You would have cut off his head and caused even more trouble if I hadn't stepped in.â€
Harry put his own weapon back on his belt. He was right next to the scene. “No, he wouldn't have.†He nodded at her. “Thanks, but you could have been a bit more gentle about it.â€
“Why should I have been? This one could use a lesson in humility,†she glared over her shoulder at Malfoy.
Draco scowled at her as his cheeks burned. He was clearly upset. Harry looked annoyed at her. “Actually, I meant being a little gentler with Buckbeak.
“Thas enough,†snapped Hagrid. “All right now. No harm done. Ye should be more careful. I warned ye about that.†He gave the redhead an annoyed glare but didn't say anything to her. He considered scolding her, but wasn't pleased with Draco and his friends, and they seemed to be reacting more to her chiding than he'd ever seen them regard a teacher that wasn't their house head.
“Don't be so careless,†commented Anna at Draco. “There are beings in this world that are resistant to such power, and you're lucky I was here to stop you this time.â€
“No one would have cared if I had killed that beast,†said the blond as he spit on the ground at her feet. “It's nothing but a game animal. My father has a few Hippogriff heads on the wall of his study. I would have added one of my own before it touched me.â€
Anna narrowed her eyes at him and he stepped back a little. “Careful Malfoy. Don't confuse me with my brother. I'm not so forgiving.â€
“Anna, calm down. It's over and no one was hurt,†replied Harry as he stepped between them.
“You as well. You should be more careful about who you show our back to, Harry. Malfoy is looking for an opportunity to stick a knife into it and you know it.†She turned away and took a few steps away purposely brushing the situation off.
“What was that about?†muttered Pansy in confusion. “Really, Malfoy. I know you don't care for Hagrid but try not to cause too much trouble. I want to pass this class and if we just behave ourselves that shouldn't be hard with Hagrid teaching.â€
The boy's angry frowned lessened a little. “Humph. I suppose I can't argue with that. That brainless oaf is a bit of a pushover isn't he?†Crabbe and Goyle both chuckled at that.
“Don't be such a prat, Draco,†grumbled Melvin. “Hagrid is decent and we should have an easy time of this class if he's teaching.â€
Parvati scowled at Malfoy but didn't speak. Hermione crossed her arms and growled under her breath. “Horrible boy.â€
Harry gave a sigh and hung his head a little. “Well, that could have come out worse than it did.â€
Anna got a wry and somewhat dark grin on her face. “You have no idea.â€
Melvin glanced at her. “I bet she does though. I get the feeling she was expecting that to happen. I thought it was weird she was standing so near to them.â€
Her brother looked confused for a moment but seemed to give up. “Well, it's over now. We've only got a few minutes left anyway.â€
Hagrid had corralled the Hippogriffs over to one side of the pen and the students started milling about. The animals had gotten nervous from the exchange and moved away from the students. The children seemed aware enough to just let them be and back away.
OooOOooOO
Anna looked up at Harry. She scowled a bit as she realized she had too. “Hmmm. You've gotten taller.†The pair were standing in the back of the dining hall near the entrance door. She came up to his shoulder and hadn't grown more than an inch or two in height since her first year. It wasn't exactly easy to mistake her for a first year as she had grown in other ways.
He blinked at that. “Um. I guess. This is kind of important though.â€
“What is it?†she had a piece of buttered bread and was chewing on it as she spoke. She wiped a bit of butter off the corner of her mouth and sucked on her finger in an absent manner.
“What do you know about this 'Freddy Kruger'?†he said as he crossed his arms and scowled at her.
“Huh? That thing? I've bumped into him before. Gave me a jolt once or twice. No worse than any other nightmare.†The redhead didn't seem concerned. “A bit unusual, but hardly stranger than any other haunting in this place. Perhaps a bit more disturbing. He's unpleasant.â€
The boy seemed surprised. “Huh? No worse? He's hurting people. That thing is some sort of demon. If this keeps up he'll get stronger and he can kill people.â€
She arched her eyebrow. “Huh? Where did you hear that? Just seemed like a restless spirit to me. Nasty, but I haven't seen any more damage than a bit of lost sleep.â€
“Hermione found out a bit about him in a demonology book we found in Divination. He's some sort of demon thing. A Dream Master, and it's not just annoying. According to what we found he'll start killing people if he gets strong enough.†Harry looked very serious.
Anna seemed to consider that and looked a bit suspicious. “Are you sure?â€
He seemed to think about that. “It's the only reference we could find about it. No one else seems to know anything about it. Dumbledore knows, and I think most of the teachers do as well, but they didn't seem to have ever heard of such a thing. It's seems like it's a rare sort of monster.â€
The girl's expression was maddeningly calm. “I see. I suspect you have some sort of plan?â€
“I hate to say it, but I don't think I've got any other choice. I'm going to start looking for it at night while I'm sleeping.†He adjusted his glasses in what she knew was a nervous habit. “Are you going to help out? We need to do something about it.â€
“No. I don't think that's a good idea,†she replied simply.
“Huh?†he looked confused. “We can't just...â€
“I wasn't talking about just me. Your plan is crappy. You shouldn't be going into other people's minds without permission. Besides, if people start noticing you lurking about in their heads what will they think about it? How long do you think it will take them to connect you to that thing? I'm not about to stick my neck out and broadcast that I have that sort of power. Especially with something like that sneaking around.†She poked him in his chest and narrowed her eyes.
“What should I do then? I've not run into it before. I don't think we should wait until someone dies.†He looked firm.
She cocked her head and smirked. “What makes you so sure anyone will? You only found one reference right? Are you sure it was trustworthy?â€
He worked his mouth and scowled. “It fits what's been going on. It might not be much to go on, but it's a little too...â€
“Convenient?†she responded simply. “Yes. That's what I'm thinking. Tell me, where is this reference now? I'd like to have a look myself.â€
The boy froze in place again and struggled to respond. He knew his answer wouldn't satisfy her already. “It...was...destroyed. Trelawney threw it into a fire after something possessed her.â€
“Well, isn't that even more convenient?†she wasn't really asking anything and seemed a little more thoughtful.
He scowled and crossed his arms with a thoughtful expression. “What do you mean?â€
“Well, someone has tried to kill you every year up till now. It's been quiet this year, don't you think? It's still a bit early to call that I suppose, but still. How do you know this thing wasn't here before we came to Hogwarts? I heard rumors about it when I was a first year. It's never been a problem before. Exactly why is it so urgent now?â€
He seemed to consider that. “It's getting worse. There are a lot more attacks.â€
“Really? Attacks? I'll admit it's unpleasant, but up till now it's been about as harmless as a prank. A nasty one to be sure, but no more dangerous than that.†She shoved the rest of her bread into her mouth and waited patiently for him to respond as she chewed on it.
“Dumbledore seemed to think it might be a serious problem when we spoke to him,†he replied. “I...â€
“Why? Is it because he was concerned already, or did it have more to do with what you told him?†She seemed patient and cool.
He frowned at that and balled up his fist. “You're right, but still. We should do something.â€
She closed her eyes. “What if it's a trap?â€
“Huh?†he replied. “Well, it's not killed anyone...†He sounded a little reluctant to admit it.
“Exactly,†she gave a nod. “Not every trap has the goal of killing the one it's set for. I suggest you consider what might happen if anyone discovers what you can do. Who would become the number one suspect here? I'm not about to risk my own neck here.â€
He thought very hard about that. “Huh. So, this whole thing might be a set up? Who though? How and why?â€
She nodded. “Well, consider this. If it is a trap, where do you think the one who set it is at? Hiding in people's dreams? A figment of imagination?â€
“No, it would be someone real, in this world.†He slapped his fist into his palm. “Someone...but who? Malfoy? That Rage girl? Vol...You know who?â€
“There's also our mysterious 'unknown' Sith as well,†she nodded at that and crossed her arms. “It might not be a Force user. There's always the possibility that this thing is magical in nature. We don't know the motivation behind it. It could be someone looking for revenge for something, or just some sadistic prankster.â€
Harry nodded as he considered that. “You're right. As far as we know it's staying within Hogwarts. Why though? What's here?â€
She poked her finger in his chest. “We are for starters. It may be after something else. I've seen him before, but you've not encountered it yet. That's odd, don't you think?â€
“Huh? How so?†he asked her.
“You've never been attacked. That won't look good if you're caught running around in other people's dreams, will it? I on the other hand, have my dorm mates who can corroborate that I've had a run in with it in the past. He's given me a few nasty starts and woke me up in the middle of the night a few times before.†She leaned against the wall. “That suggests that out of the two of us, you're the most likely suspect if our power is discovered.â€
He nodded at that. “You're right. If something like this is pinned on me somehow I could be expelled.â€
“Which would mean you would be out of Hogwarts and away from myself and Dumbledore.†she chuckled and pinched his nose. “I doubt you'd die, but...â€
He looked frustrated. â€I can't just ignore it though. I've got to do something.â€
“Why?†she replied simply.
“What do you mean?†he snapped. “I...â€
“No one has been injured. It smells like a trap. You have no leads and nothing but suspicion to go on.†She ignored his small flare up and looked at her nails. “There's no reason to think it's anything but a bluff and a trap at this point.â€
He hung his head. “But...I should do nothing?â€
She slapped his shoulder. “It's what Buddha would do.â€
He gave her a small glare. “I'm not Buddha.â€
“Well, sometimes he's right anyway.†She turned away. “You asked for my advice and I gave it. If there's nothing else I want to eat before classes start. Later.â€
He balled up his fist and worked it back and forth for a moment. “Damn. I hate to say it but she's right.â€
He walked back to his table and sat down next to Ron and across from Hermione and Parvati. “Hey.â€
“Did you talk with your sister?†asked Hermione, she looked quite anxious to hear it.
“Yeah. You probably won't like it though.†He responded with a small sigh. “I'm backing off for now.â€
“Huh?†she looked confused and gripped his arm. “But...you said...and that book...â€
“I didn't think about it that much when I said those things earlier. I'll talk with you about it later all right?†He slouched a little and poked at his food. He ate a bit slower than usual and pushed things around on his plate.
Ron scratched his head and looked tired. “My brain hurts.â€
Hermione looked over at him. She was distracted by Harry, but seemed to accept his answer. “I told you that course was difficult.â€
Parvati giggled. “I'm impressed though. I've never seen you stay awake through a History of Magic class before. You were paying attention the whole time.â€
The redhead yawned. “It's not so boring if you actually think about what we're studying. I never realized it before, but it's just how Professor Binns puts it that makes it sound so dull.†He stretched his shoulders a little. “Still left me feeling stiff.†He glanced at Hermione. “I'm glad you're with me in Runes though. I'd have gotten lost for sure if you weren't there to help me out.â€
The Indian girl narrowed her eyes a little at that. “Huh? What do you mean by that?â€
Hermione rolled her eyes at the scene. “He means he's horrible at studying. If I wasn't there to help him out, he would have gotten so confused he wouldn't know which end of his quill to use.â€
“We've got Language studies later.†Harry seemed to think about that. “Hey. When did you take Runes anyway? You've been...â€
She slapped her hand over his mouth and leaned in to whisper into his ear. “Look, I'll...explain later when we talk about that other stuff. I think I can trust you, but I'm not supposed to say anything to anyone.â€
He looked as if he realized something and shrugged. “Don't worry about it then. This is Hogwarts after all, and I can venture a guess about it. I've had experience with that sort of thing if you recall.â€
She blinked and blushed a little.
Parvati was looking on with rapt attention along with Lavender Brown. “What are they talking about?†asked the ditsy girl.
“I'll tell you later, it's so cute,†replied Parvati.
Harry ignored it. Hermione looked annoyed. “It's not that all right?â€
“What is it then?†asked Parvati.
“Yeah?†agreed Neville.
“It's nothing, just forget about it,†growled the brunette girl as she blushed and looked away.
Ron didn't want to know and continued to pick at his food. “Well, the three of us have Language Studies next, then Transfiguration. I hear we start off with Gobbledegook for the first year. I'm guessing your sister will be there? She said she was taking it as well.â€
Harry shook his head. “No. She has a different period. She's in a second year class. It turns out Kreacher knows Gobbledegook and has been working with her. She also talks to the Goblins at Gringotts pretty regularly.†Harry didn't think he'd have much trouble with the first year class from the sound of it. He'd spoken to enough Goblins to pick up a bit here and there himself. “From what I've heard, second year Language Studies is mostly Mermish.â€
The red haired boy looked a bit aghast at that. “How does she have time for all that stuff?â€
Harry smiled at him. “I don't think she's capable of just sitting around. It drives her crazy when she's got nothing to do. If she's awake she's doing something or has her nose in a book. It sounds worse than it is.â€
Parvati smiled at her boyfriend. “Hey. I'll teach you Hindi then. I can work with you over the Summer a bit if you'd like. It'll be fun and it's a good excuse to visit you over the holiday.â€
He cringed a little. “Well, all right. Just go easy on me. My head hurts as it is just with what I've got to learn in class.†He relented after seeing her expression.
OooOOooOO
“Destiny is a strange thing,†commented the young redheaded girl as she smirked. She was standing in a dark and dank boiler room and turned her head a little. “Don't you think?â€
The tall figure in the shadows chuckled. “Yeah. Whatever. You've got no problem with this, Potter?â€
“That name no longer has any meaning to me,†she replied in a cool tone.
He pushed off the side of the furnace and it left his shoulder smoking a little. “I worry that you might be stalling.†He smirked as she glared at him. “Don't look at me like that. I've got plenty of reason to worry a little. He is your brother after all.â€
She nodded. “I cannot have such pitiful attachments. I learned that lesson well. It was what destroyed me in the end. I suggest you take care with your tone. Don't forget which of us is the master here. I will strike when it is most advantageous to do so. Patience is one of the most powerful tools of the Sith. My former master taught me that lesson well.â€
Freddy nodded and turned away. “Sounds like quite a guy. Almost wish I could have met him.â€
“No, you don't,†she replied simply.
He chuckled at that. “I said 'almost'.†He waved over his shoulder with his gloved hand. “Well, I've got places to be, people to torture, and all that sort of thing.â€
She nodded and moved in the other direction. “Yes. You do that.â€
OooOOooOO
cont...
I had health issues and all, but I'm sort of fine now.
Anyway, I've been writing while I was away a bit. It's been a long time, but I managed to pump out around 36,000 words of this fanfic a little at a time. It's actually more than that, but the other stuff I've written won't actually come into play until after the Goblet of Fire events.
I've been really busy while I was ill, and this was just one huge chunk that I've broken up into two separate chapters, one of which is going up on FF.net as soon as I'm done posting it here. The other I'll release in a few days most likely.
Lots of stuff happens in these two chapters.
Anyway, on with it!
A Matter of force.
Part 44
The Dark Plot.
OooOOooOO
Harry Potter and Hermione Granger stood in front of Professor Dumbledore's desk. Professor Trelawney stood behind them with a scowl on her face as she looked at the man behind the desk. She'd just finished explaining what had occurred, and about the book she'd found in the girl's possession. “I'm not sure how they managed to summon a demon on their first day. Needless to say, I think it may be best if they chose another elective. I cannot have such things summoned into my class, it will take days to clear the energies after that. It will make things difficult for the other students to be at peace and hone their energies.â€
Dumbledore frowned at her. “I see.â€
Hermione moved forward a bit. “We didn't summon it! It was already here!†She raised her voice and shook her head.
Harry nodded. “I've heard stories about that thing. I'm afraid I agree with her, and that book was already on the table when we got to class.â€
The old man nodded. “I'm afraid I agree with them.â€
“What?†muttered the woman.
Dumbledore gave a heavy and somber sigh. “We've recently discovered this...thing, has been trolling about the students. I am at a loss for what it is. I can find no...â€
Hermione interrupted. “I found it in that book. It's called a Dream Master. It's a kind of demon...†She flushed as she realized what she'd done.
Dumbledore's eyes snapped up at her. There was no merriment or twinkle in them and he had a firm frown on his face.
Hermione backed away and hung her head. “I'm sorry...I didn't mean to interrupt.â€
The Headmaster stood up with a grave looking expression on his face. “Where is this book now?â€
Harry gave a sigh and put his hand on her shoulders. “It was destroyed. That thing possessed Professor Trelawney and she threw it into the fire.â€
The woman seemed confused and stepped back from the children. “I certainly wouldn't leave such a book where students could just stumble across it.†She looked thoughtful as she said it.
Dumbledore nodded. “Tell me what book was this?â€
Hermine seemed to realize the look on his face was not because he was cross with her for interrupting, and she became more forward again. “It was called 'Rare Demons and Imps' by someone named 'Dolr Tasta'.â€
The old man narrowed his eyes at that. “Dolr Tasta you say?â€
Harry frowned and nodded. “That's what it said. It's an anagram isn't it?â€
The Headmaster gave him a weak smile. “Yes. Very clever, and likely not the true name of the author. Not unusual concerning demonology.â€
Hermione looked confused. “Huh? An...anagram?†Her eyes went wide as she understood. “Lord Satan?â€
Harry nodded. “I would guess.â€
Trelawney scowled at that. “How did it get there?â€
The pair shrugged. Hermione spoke up to her. “It was just sitting in those piles you put in the middle of the tables.â€
Dumbledore leaned against his desk and scratched at his beard as he looked thoughtful. “Most unfortunate it was destroyed. What can you tell me of this 'Dream Master'? Anything you can remember. I have been unable to find any mention of such a creature.â€
The brunette girl seemed to think for a moment. “Well, it said that sometimes, if someone is wicked enough, and killed for revenge rather than justice, the guardians of the entrance of hell will allow them to come back to exact their revenge. It enables the damned soul to become a demon of sorts. A Dream Master. Its weak at first and can only scare people..." She shivered as she looked up at him. “...but after a while it will become strong enough to start killing people. When that happens it consumes their souls and uses them to fuel it's own power.â€
Dumbledore looked very grim. “I see. Anything else, anything at all? Any mention of how to defeat this creature?â€
Hermione lowered her eyes. “That's the worst part. No one has ever beaten one. It uses the rumor of its existence to spread like a virus. It feeds on fear and uses whatever scares its victims most. The more people who know about it the stronger it becomes. The book said that every time one has appeared it killed its own rumor by eliminating everyone who was aware of it. Once that happens, the rumor stops and it can't get anymore victims. That does explain why it's not a well known being.†She shivered and clutched at her arms as she looked very worried.
Trelawney gasped. “What?â€
The old man gave a nod. “I see.†He stood up. “It appears that Hogwarts is no longer safe. I shall have to send all the students home until a way to deal with this creature is discovered.â€
Hermione shook her head. “It won't matter.â€
Harry nodded. “It's not confined to Hogwarts. Once someone is afraid of it, this thing can follow them anywhere. If we send everyone home...the rumor will spread. We could infect the whole of Britain.†He looked unusually calm given the subject at hand. “It's better if we don't send people away from the school.â€
Both teachers looked at him. Dumbledore became very pale. “I see.†He slumped down in his chair.
Hermione nodded. “He's right. We don't know who at Hogwarts knows, but the rumor has spread all over the school. I don't know anyone who hasn't at least heard about it from someone. Even if they haven't been attacked yet.â€
Harry gave a heavy sigh. “We've got to figure out how to get rid of it before everyone goes home for the Holiday.â€
Hermione gave a small nod. “That gives us until this summer to figure it out.â€
The boy shook his head. “No, that gives us until Christmas. This needs to be contained, and we may be forced to create a quarantine within the school.â€
Dumbledore frowned at that. “I am to understand that it has been here at least two years already. The rumor appears to have been contained at least that long.â€
Hermione gasped. “Two years?â€
Trelawney seemed relieved. “Well, that's something. Perhaps it's not as bad as we believe?â€
Harry nodded. “Maybe. I only heard about it this year.â€
“Me as well,†agreed Hermione. “Everyone knows about it this year as far as I know. I've heard people in other houses talking about it recently. Ever since I started looking for it in the Library I've been keeping my ears open. I've heard people from every house talking about it, even Slytherin.â€
The young Jedi seemed thoughtful. “Yes. I heard mention of a few isolated cases of bad nightmares last year, but it has spread in scope. It may already be too late to stop the rumors from spreading outside of Hogwarts. I mean, there's no guarantee that someone hasn't mentioned it in letters home or spoken to friends or family about it over the summer. I never thought much about it before, but this seems to have been going on for a while. I just thought it was a ghost story or an urban legend, not something to take seriously.â€
Dumbledore seemed to consider that. “It has only been recently brought to our attention. Percy Weasley spoke to Professor McGonagall and I did some investigation myself. This is...most distressing news.â€
“I'll say,†agreed Harry. “Still, it does seem like it's hanging around Hogwarts for some reason though. As Hermione said, it doesn't appear to be confined here, but it's not showing up elsewhere either that I know of. That's odd don't you think? If it has the whole of Britain to play with, why stay here?â€
Hermione frowned and put her finger on her bottom lip. “He's right. There must be some reason for it though. I don't know.â€
“That's a good observation.†Dumbledore gave a nod. “I do believe you have a good point. It wants something in this school, though exactly what it is I'm unsure of. Is there anything else you can recall about this matter?â€
Hermione nodded. “It's name is Freddy Kruger. Rumor is that he was some sort of rapist and murderer. A pedophile. That would explain why only the younger students are having dreams. I've not heard about any sixth or seventh year students having dreams. He was supposedly burned alive in his house by a bunch of angry parents. I heard about it from some of the girls in the dorms. He shows parts of it to some people. A lot of them talk about some sort of burned out house, and a boiler room of some sort. There's these...little girls, they jump rope and sing this horrible rhyme about him. It's hard to get anyone to talk about it. Those things seem to be pretty common in the dreams. A lot of people have seen them. I think what we know about him is things that have been pieced together from all sorts of different sources within the school.â€
Harry hung his head. “That's awful.â€
The Headmaster worked his tongue on the inside of his cheek as he thought about it. “I see. Very well. I shall ask that you return to class. Do not concern yourselves with it further. You should both focus on your studies. You especially Mrs. Granger.â€
She gave a nod and started towards the hall. Harry looked back over his shoulder. “Well, if we find anything else we'll let you know.â€
Dumbledore nodded. “I shall listen, but again I ask that you allow the faculty to deal with this. It is not a task for a Third Year. I assure you that we will take every possible measure we can.â€
Both of them left. Trelawney gave a heavy sigh. “What do we do? I've not heard about any of this. Strange that I've had no visions of such doom.â€
The Headmaster nodded. “I shall summon Professor Snape. It pains me to do so, but there may be a potion that will help with this matter. At least temporarily.â€
The woman seemed confused. “Potion?â€
“Dreamless Sleep. It is a temporary solution, but could curb these attacks for a short time.†He looked up at her and folded his hands.
“That's dangerous,†said the woman in a warning tone. “Dreams are important to the spiritual health of the students. Without them, they'll start...â€
He nodded. “I know. I do not intend to implement such a measure without cause. Nor will I force it upon them. I have no intention of drugging the meals. It will be offered upon request if the situation becomes dire enough. I believe we should be prepared as it is a potion that takes some time to brew and we may need a healthy supply if the situation worsens.â€
She nodded at that. “I see.†She narrowed her eyes. “It won't stop them from dreaming for more than a week or so of use. They'll just start dreaming while they're awake. That could cause problems.â€
The old man nodded. “I know. Still, it could buy us the time we need if the situation becomes more dangerous. I suspect the affected students will start trying to stay awake themselves, which could cause even more problems.â€
Trelawney nodded. “I see.†She turned and walked out of the room. “Be careful.â€
He nodded and seemed lost in thought. He was very seriously considering using memory charms, but it would be complex and difficult to do. It might help but he wasn't sure. The creature was crawling about the dreams of the school, and it would be exceedingly difficult to do such a thing. It had gotten in somehow and without knowing where it started such a task would prove near impossible.
Still, if things became bad enough the students would likely be willing to allow it. He had no intention of forcing the matter, but if they were cooperative it would become at least possible. He rubbed at his temples and pulled a small bottle of white pills from his desk drawer. It was giving him a headache and he had much to do to prepare. It wasn't something he could do off the cuff. “I pray it does not come to such a measure.†Memory charms could be dangerous and more covered up the memory and replaced it with a false one than eliminated it. As far as he knew even a subconscious memory would be enough for this thing to get a foothold. It was not something to be taken lightly, and had to be done with the utmost care if it came down to it.
OooOOooOO
Harry walked with Hermione. They wouldn't make it back to Divination before the end of the period. “I guess we're not kicked out of Divination.â€
She frowned a little at that. “I wouldn't have minded much. Still, I guess that's good.â€
He glanced at her. “I'm going to try and fight it.â€
The girl narrowed her eyes at him. “What? That's dangerous! Harry, if it hasn't bothered you yet...â€
The boy shook his head. “I can't ignore it. It's attacking students. Colin is my friend and he was a real mess last night. I've got to try and do something before that happens to anyone else.â€
“How?†she scowled at him. “You'll just have to wait for it to attack you then?â€
Harry considered for a moment. “Don't tell anyone what I'm about to tell you.â€
She blinked in surprise. He looked very serious. “All right, I promise.â€
The boy gave a heavy sigh. “I have the power to enter other people's dreams. I can go looking for it. I'm going to hunt it down and try and stop it.â€
The girl looked at him with wide eyes. “Wh...what?â€
He shrugged. “Anna taught me. I'm going to speak with her about it as well. See if she knows anything about this.â€
The girl looked completely shocked. “She taught you?â€
The Boy Who Lived shrugged. “Yeah. It's part of the whole Jedi thing. Part of my training I do in my sleep. It's not all the time, but pretty regularly. It's...complicated.â€
The girl narrowed her eyes. “That's...you should keep it secret. If anyone finds out, they might think...â€
He nodded. “Yes. That's why I asked you not to say anything. Anna hasn't said anything about this. I want to talk to her and see if she knows anything about this demon.â€
The girl nodded and seemed to consider that. “I guess. Still, enter people's dreams?†She didn't look comfortable with that. Neither did he, and it helped a bit to see it.
“It's not something I do to others. Anna and I use it for training and only training with each other. It's wrong to get into people's heads that way. Dreams are personal and private. I've got no place sticking my nose into the private business of others that way. She's pretty strict about that sort of thing. I think I should make an exception here though. I can go looking for it and try to stop it from attacking people. Maybe I can keep it busy and away from everyone else while we figure out what to do?â€
The girl scowled at that, but gave a nod. “All right. I trust you. Still, that sounds kind of scary, Harry. A person able to do such a thing?â€
He nodded. “That's why we don't use it that way. I know you don't think much of Anna, but discipline is an important part of our training, and having powers like that is part of the reason why.â€
She hung her head. “Well, I hate to say it, but...can you get with me tonight in my sleep? Maybe I can help.â€
The boy flushed at that. “Well, I guess. I should warn you that you'll remember everything. It's not like a normal dream. It's almost like you're awake. I'll talk with you about it and meet you, but I'm not taking you into other people's heads with me. It's bad enough I'm doing it myself and I'm not so sure I'll be able to protect you in that sort of environment.â€
Hermione frowned at that. “That's what people say about the dreams that thing gives them. Why can't I go? You don't trust me?â€
Harry narrowed his eyes a little. “That's one of the reasons I want to talk to Anna about it. See what she knows, and it's not a matter of trust. I have my doubts it's right for even me to invade people's private thoughts even with that thing sneaking around. I don't want to make it worse by bringing someone else into it if I don't have to. I should consult my sister about it though. She knows more about this sort of thing than I do.â€
The brunette gasped and her eyes went wide. “You...you don't think?â€
The boy gave her a wry grin. “That it's her doing this? I doubt it. Listen, she's really strict about abusing that sort of power. I know you don't know her that way, but she's worse than Snape about being strict as a teacher. She takes that sort of thing really seriously.â€
The girl nodded and scowled. “All right, if it was anyone but you...â€
He smiled at her warmly. “It's all right. I'll talk with her later. I'll probably pull her aside at dinner and have words with her about it. Shouldn't be much trouble.†Inwardly he wasn't so confident. Anna was acting weird lately, and he did have a small suspicion. It was deep in the back of his mind, but there. He couldn't deny it and he wanted to talk to her as much to put that to rest as anything else. He was hoping she might know more or be able to help him deal with it.
OooOOooOO
Anna Potter looked around the empty room. There were two arm chairs sitting around a medium sized round table. The table was black wood with a blood red table cloth covering it and in the center was a large crystal ball. There was a fireplace behind the chairs with a small fire going in it. It was the only light the room had. Shelves had rows of dusty books along the walls, and the stone floor had a large red and gold carpet draped across it.
“Welcome, Miss Potter,†said the older woman in the room as she stood up and gave her a firm but not unpleasant looking appraisal.
The girl was calm and emotionless as she looked back at her. “Professor Warwick,†she greeted the woman with a small polite curtsy.
The old woman seemed to approve. “Come, have a seat. I've made tea and we should discuss what you can expect in the coming year. We have a lot to do and I do not expect this class will be easy for you. It will always be the last period of your day as it will be quite taxing on your mind.â€
The girl walked over and sat down as the woman set out tea before them. “Professor Trelawney mentioned that you taught her when she attended.â€
The woman nodded. “Yes, that's correct. She was not a terrible student. Though, I'm sure you're aware of her tendency to overcompensate. Her gifts are limited, but also very real. I suspect you are aware of that as well.â€
“Yes. She's the one who spoke the prophecy concerning my brother and Lord Voldemort,†replied the redhead in an emotionless tone.
The older woman glanced at her as she set out tea. “Yes. I'm pleased you have that much understanding of your gifts at least. You do not create prophecy. You merely channel it. The future you see in visions is not something of your own making.â€
Anna got a faint hint of a smile on her face. “Isn't it? I sometimes wonder. How much of it is destiny, and how much is our own workings? It is an odd balance.â€
The old woman seemed to consider that. “You do not believe in destiny?â€
Anna cocked her head and got a smile that was not entirely pleasant. “Yes. Destiny is unavoidable, but I also believe in free will,and a person's ability to guide their own destiny. It is limited, but it is possible to alter the course of your own future. Some things simply cannot be changed. Others are workings of our own hands. Half of divination is reading people. Perhaps more than seeing the future directly. If you understand the person, their motivations, and their feelings, it is often a simple matter to predict what they will do and even what they might become. It is like sailing a ship through a storm. There are choices you can make, and you have some control over your direction, but in the end you are at the mercy of the winds and waves around you.â€
Mrs. Warwick narrowed her eyes at the girl. “I see. I suspect you did not learn that from Trelawney. She is my student and I am not ashamed of her, but that's considerably more advanced in this matter than she is capable of comprehending.â€
“This is not the first life I have been gifted with sight, though it is more powerful now than it was then.†Anna nodded and sipped at her tea.
“You drink your tea straight?†the woman seemed surprised. Most children liked a bit of milk or cream and at least a few lumps of sugar. She squeezed a lemon wedge into her own and stirred it. “I usually take my own straight as well, but with black tea I like a bit of lemon.â€
The girl's false but polite smile was subdued as she set her cup down. “Assam Tea. You spent time in India?†Mrs. Warwick was a little surprised at her refined manners. She acted as a girl who was well trained in etiquette. Her posture was very good and she sipped at her tea properly and spoke in a calm and dignified tone. At the moment she was a model example of how a young British lady should behave.
The woman smirked. “Yes. When I was a girl I lived there for a few years. My father was studying with the Sadhus. You noticed by induction?â€
Anna nodded and replied. “Yes, that pin on your blouse is of Indian origin. It's Brahma, the Deva of Creation. You've got a few baubles in this room that are of Indian origin as well. Such as that statue of Shiva over the fireplace.â€
The old woman seemed satisfied with her answer. “You're quite talented. I can see that you've come a long way in the art of divination. A great deal of what the greatest of us have done was more deduction and induction than power. It is perhaps our greatest secret, one that I was sadly never able to get your former teacher to grasp.â€
Anna kept her polite smile. “Thank you, Professor.â€
The woman set her cup down. “Now to business. There will be no looking at tea scrapings or peering into crystal balls here. I have no intention of honing your skills with your cards. You will keep them in your pocket here. My goal is to teach you one thing, and that is control.â€
Anna looked up at her and her smile fell away. She did not look disappointed, but rather serious and thoughtful. “I see.â€
Mrs. Warwick narrowed her eyes a little. “I can see that you know you have difficulty with that. That is good, I think you will be motivated by your weakness in this area. I expect you to do your best, and there will be no slouching or playing around here. I am not unkind, but I am firm and strict. I cannot go easy on you. Your gift is far too powerful to go unchecked. You must take the reigns and become the master of this power or it will land you in trouble.â€
Anna gave a firm looking nod. “I know. If I cannot control it I am a valuable target. The Ministry has enough interest in me as it is. I have no intention of giving them any reason or motivation to take advantage of me. I'm aware that some there would like very much to see me locked up in a cell, and as I am now there is even more motivation to do so.â€
The old woman didn't reply to that but went quiet and narrowed her eyes a little. “Huh. She's a sharp one. Noticed that did she?†she thought to herself. She reached down beside her chair and put a briefcase onto her lap. She flipped it open and took out a folder. Anna looked at it as she replaced the briefcase at her side and then moved to straighten it out in front of herself.
The girl looked interested and attentive as she sat facing her on the opposite side of the table. It was obvious she didn't know what the folder was for, and she seemed cautious.
Professor Warwick opened the folder and laid out six photos in two neat rows. They were evenly spaced apart and straight. “Now. I think you should grasp this easily. These are six people, that much is obvious. None of them attend here, and I doubt you've met any of them.†She cleared her throat and tapped the corner of the photo in the middle row nearest to herself. “I have given them all readings in the past. Much of what I have foretold has come to pass already, but some of it has not yet occurred. I am not perfect, so some of it may never come to pass at all. You know the nature of such things I'm sure.â€
The girl nodded. “I see.â€
The teacher closed the folder and put it near the edge of the table out of the way. “Now. I am going to ask you a series of questions about them, and you are not going to answer. If you feel compelled to answer, you will lie.â€
The redhead seemed to understand. “I am to intentionally give a false reading.†She said it more to make clear that she understood than anything else.
Her tutor nodded at that. “That is correct. If possible, give no reading at all. I suspect you will not have that much difficulty with it at first, but sooner or later...â€
“It will try to take over if you ask the right question,†said the redhead once again more to convey that she understood what was going on. “I must then try to resist.†That would be difficult, she suspected that she would black out more than once in this new class. “I understand Professor. I am eager to begin, and I shall do my best.†Her face and eyes grew hard as she leaned forward. She looked as if she had accepted a challenge.
The old woman put her nose up a little and seemed pleased with her attitude. “Very good. Now, we shall begin.â€
OooOOooOO
Hagrid grinned as he stood before his class in front of the Forbidden Forest. “All right then, ever one 'ere then? Gather round the fence, and get out yer books. All right then, first ye should open em...â€
About half the students did so, but the rest of the class looked confused and bewildered. Many of them had the books bound tightly and tied up to subdue them. Quite a few of them were blushing and looking interested in what their classmates were doing. Lavender Brown spoke up. “Um...how do we open them?â€
One of her classmates she didn't know well put her hand over her mouth and giggled. “Oh. You must have gotten yours early. The shopkeeper at Flourish and Blotts told me that someone told him about the trick behind it. You stroke the spine like this.†She demonstrated and her book opened easily and relaxed.
Within a moment the rest of the class caught on and everyone had theirs open.
“How were we supposed to figure that out?†grumbled Crabbe in irritation.
“Stupid thing tried to bite my arm,†muttered Goyle.
Malfoy looked lazy eyed and disinterested in either of them. He didn't know about it either, but was able to force the book to calm down on his own. “I just tamed mine. Wasn't difficult.â€
Harry looked back at him and smiled. “Well, at least most of us knew about it.â€
“I'm glad you told me, or I wouldn't have gotten any studying done,†said Hermione. She frowned a bit at the way he was looking friendly with Draco but didn't say anything.
Hagrid looked pleased. “All right then. Now we'll be needin the magical creatures. Hang on a bit and I'll be back.â€
The class stood about with many of them flipping through the books they hadn't been able to read at all up to that point with mild interest.
Anna was standing nearby with Pansy beside her. Margaret was taking another class and wasn't there, and neither was Ron. Melvin was standing next to Harry and looked about ready to fall asleep on his feet. Her brother moved a bit closer and leaned towards her. “Any idea what he's going to bring out?â€
She gave a small sigh and cocked her head. “It's pretty dangerous. Hippogriffs. Careful, they can have a bit of a temper if you're not polite.†She glanced back and noticed Crabbe and Goyle goofing off. Malfoy was still hanging around them but didn't talk to them much anymore. He didn't appear to ignore them and pretty much just let them run their mouths as they pleased while giving a rather lazy looking attention. “Hmm. It may not be wise for him to be so cocky.â€
Harry looked confused at that but Hagrid's return distracted him. He was pulling several very large creatures behind him. They looked to be part horse, part eagle creatures. They had dangerous looking eyes that gleamed with intelligence. “Oh. They can understand human speech can they?†The boy had the book in his hand and had gleaned a few facts about them from it. It made him a little nervous that Hagrid had chosen such creatures for the first lesson. “They must be very clever then.â€
The instructor looked a bit surprised. “Thas right, Harry. Yer a sharp one to catch tha already. Hippogriffs are very smart and very proud. Yev got ter be careful nah. Don't insult em, er it might be the las thing yer do. Come on up and ave a look then.†He motioned for the class to draw near.
Anna, Harry, Hermione, Parvati, and Malfoy all moved forward immediately. Crabbe, Goyle, Lavender, Pansy, and Padme all moved in behind them looking a bit nervous.
Melvin seemed to shake out of his lazy state and hung back a little as well. “Huh. Didn't expect something so big on the first day.â€
The half giant seemed cheerful and paused as Anna slapped Crabbe and Goyle on the back of their heads lightly. She hissed at them both and her glare cut off any protests. “Pay attention idiots, your lives depend on it. Those talons and beaks are not just for show.â€
The pair looked annoyed and glanced at Draco. He shrugged at them. “What? Don't look at me like that. She's right.â€
Hagrid almost said something to scold her, but the oafish pair seemed to settle down and looked at him. “All right then. Now, always let them make the firs move. It's polite ye see.†He tugged on the chains a little and the animals calmed a bit more and moved a little closer. “Bow, and then wait for em to make the first move. If they don't, back away and let em be cause those talons hurt.â€
“Wait, those things are dangerous?†muttered Lavender as she went a little pale. Parvati seemed to be of a similar mindset.
“You don't say,†Melvin was less than surprised considering what he knew of Hagrid.
“Not at all,†replied Hagrid.
“Actually they are, but only if you act a fool and disregard what he told you,†commented Anna as she crossed her arms and looked at the things. They peered back at her and squawked a bit. None of them seemed alarmed though.
“All right. Who wants ter go first?†asked the teacher.
Harry smiled. “I'll go. Seems interesting.†He smiled and approached, bowing deeply towards the one closest to him. “It's a pleasure. I've never seen a Hippogriff before. You're quite impressive.†The creature reared back and made a sharp sounding call as it blinked at him. The class gasped but Harry stood without fear before it. He scratched the back of his head. “I apologize. I didn't mean to sound so foreword. I hope I didn't embarrass you.â€
Anna rolled her eyes a little. He was overdoing it but it wasn't hurting him either. The animal seemed flustered by his over polite manners. He'd impressed it. The creature gave a bow and Harry approached and stroked at the feathers on it's neck.
“Tha's great Harry. I think e'll let ye ride em.†The teacher looked impressed that the creature had taken to him so quickly.
“Oh, if it's no trouble I think I'd like that,†he replied looking sappy and cheerful.
Hermione blushed a little. “Don't lay it on so thick, Harry. They're impressive, but you're going to make the rest of us look bad.â€
The boy was already on the creature's back. The animal shifted as it beat its wings and took off. A moment later the boy was flying around over the forest. He was obviously having a good time of it, and the beast landed back in the paddock. Harry slid off and smiled at his ride. “That was great. I hope we can do it again some time.â€
The creature reared back and called again.
Anna smirked at that. “Seems you've made a new friend.â€
The other students were all bolstered by his success and climbed into the paddock. Hagrid released them one by one. Neville was backing away from his, and the other students seemed to be in no danger despite varying levels of success at interacting with the creatures. Anna hung back and didn't seem interested in having a ride or being sociable. She stood near to Malfoy and his group. The bad tempered trio had taken over the one Harry had ridden.
Hagrid smiled at the boy as he moved off so the other students could interact with them. “Buckbeak seems really impressed, Harry.†He looked around. “I don't see Ron with ye? Is he sick?â€
The boy looked up at him and his smile faded a little. “Well, he wanted to come, but he's not able to take this class.â€
“Huh? Why not?†the large man seemed confused.
Harry shrugged at him. “It seems he's decided to become an Archaeologist. He had to give up this class to take the required courses. He was a bit disappointed about it to be honest. He said he hoped you wouldn't be upset about it. He wanted to come but he couldn't do both.â€
The half giant did look a bit down about that, but nodded. “Ah. I see. I understand. Tell em good luck with that then. Make sure he comes and visits with ye sometimes.â€
“I'm sure he will. He kind of surprised me to be honest. He's not very good at studying, and he's having to take some difficult courses because of it.†Harry was relieved. He felt a bit silly, but thought there was a chance Hagrid's feelings might have been hurt a bit. He seemed to understand though and while he was a little disappointed, he didn't seem upset with Ron about it. The boy froze and turned his head towards the Hippogriff he'd ridden. “Uh oh.â€
Malfoy was stroking it and looked smug. Crabbe and Goyle were behind him looking pensive. “This is easy. I knew it must have been if Potter could do it. You're not dangerous at all are you, stupid ugly brute.â€
The creature reacted in an instant by slashing out with its talons as it gave an angry cry. The students gave a collective screech and backed away from the animals.
Anna was standing in front of Malfoy with her hand extended towards the animal with the other back behind her. Malfoy tumbled back and ended up falling to the ground. The Hippogriff was on the ground with tendrils of electric energy crackling across its fur and feathers. “Idiot,†she growled. “You couldn't tell could you?â€
He was glaring at her on his back and she thrust her hand forward again as the animal tried to stand and snapped at her. More energy erupted from her fingertips and sent it back down again. The class backed away and looked nervous. Those there all knew that she could do such things, but actually seeing it happen in front of them was another matter. “Stay down. If you hurt him the humans will kill you for it.â€
“Whas the meaning of this? Stop it!†roared Hagrid.
Anna looked up at him and frowned as she lowered her hand. “Hagrid, take control of this thing. Malfoy insulted it and I had to save his worthless hide from getting injured.†Buckbeak was pretty upset, but unable to move enough to retaliate. It wasn't injured seriously. She had used just enough to keep it stunned and away from them.
“Eh?†the teacher muttered in confusion.
Anna glared back at him. “Fool, these beasts are resistant. You cannot control their minds as you do these two morons.†She jabbed her finger at Crabbe and Goyle. “If it wouldn't have gotten Hagrid in trouble I would have let it maul you. Dumbass.â€
He staggered to his feet. “I didn't need your help.†His wand was in his hand.
She ignored his posturing and looked over at where Hagrid was lifting the animal over his shoulder in a fireman's carry. “I didn't do it to help you. I was more concerned with Buckbeak. You would have cut off his head and caused even more trouble if I hadn't stepped in.â€
Harry put his own weapon back on his belt. He was right next to the scene. “No, he wouldn't have.†He nodded at her. “Thanks, but you could have been a bit more gentle about it.â€
“Why should I have been? This one could use a lesson in humility,†she glared over her shoulder at Malfoy.
Draco scowled at her as his cheeks burned. He was clearly upset. Harry looked annoyed at her. “Actually, I meant being a little gentler with Buckbeak.
“Thas enough,†snapped Hagrid. “All right now. No harm done. Ye should be more careful. I warned ye about that.†He gave the redhead an annoyed glare but didn't say anything to her. He considered scolding her, but wasn't pleased with Draco and his friends, and they seemed to be reacting more to her chiding than he'd ever seen them regard a teacher that wasn't their house head.
“Don't be so careless,†commented Anna at Draco. “There are beings in this world that are resistant to such power, and you're lucky I was here to stop you this time.â€
“No one would have cared if I had killed that beast,†said the blond as he spit on the ground at her feet. “It's nothing but a game animal. My father has a few Hippogriff heads on the wall of his study. I would have added one of my own before it touched me.â€
Anna narrowed her eyes at him and he stepped back a little. “Careful Malfoy. Don't confuse me with my brother. I'm not so forgiving.â€
“Anna, calm down. It's over and no one was hurt,†replied Harry as he stepped between them.
“You as well. You should be more careful about who you show our back to, Harry. Malfoy is looking for an opportunity to stick a knife into it and you know it.†She turned away and took a few steps away purposely brushing the situation off.
“What was that about?†muttered Pansy in confusion. “Really, Malfoy. I know you don't care for Hagrid but try not to cause too much trouble. I want to pass this class and if we just behave ourselves that shouldn't be hard with Hagrid teaching.â€
The boy's angry frowned lessened a little. “Humph. I suppose I can't argue with that. That brainless oaf is a bit of a pushover isn't he?†Crabbe and Goyle both chuckled at that.
“Don't be such a prat, Draco,†grumbled Melvin. “Hagrid is decent and we should have an easy time of this class if he's teaching.â€
Parvati scowled at Malfoy but didn't speak. Hermione crossed her arms and growled under her breath. “Horrible boy.â€
Harry gave a sigh and hung his head a little. “Well, that could have come out worse than it did.â€
Anna got a wry and somewhat dark grin on her face. “You have no idea.â€
Melvin glanced at her. “I bet she does though. I get the feeling she was expecting that to happen. I thought it was weird she was standing so near to them.â€
Her brother looked confused for a moment but seemed to give up. “Well, it's over now. We've only got a few minutes left anyway.â€
Hagrid had corralled the Hippogriffs over to one side of the pen and the students started milling about. The animals had gotten nervous from the exchange and moved away from the students. The children seemed aware enough to just let them be and back away.
OooOOooOO
Anna looked up at Harry. She scowled a bit as she realized she had too. “Hmmm. You've gotten taller.†The pair were standing in the back of the dining hall near the entrance door. She came up to his shoulder and hadn't grown more than an inch or two in height since her first year. It wasn't exactly easy to mistake her for a first year as she had grown in other ways.
He blinked at that. “Um. I guess. This is kind of important though.â€
“What is it?†she had a piece of buttered bread and was chewing on it as she spoke. She wiped a bit of butter off the corner of her mouth and sucked on her finger in an absent manner.
“What do you know about this 'Freddy Kruger'?†he said as he crossed his arms and scowled at her.
“Huh? That thing? I've bumped into him before. Gave me a jolt once or twice. No worse than any other nightmare.†The redhead didn't seem concerned. “A bit unusual, but hardly stranger than any other haunting in this place. Perhaps a bit more disturbing. He's unpleasant.â€
The boy seemed surprised. “Huh? No worse? He's hurting people. That thing is some sort of demon. If this keeps up he'll get stronger and he can kill people.â€
She arched her eyebrow. “Huh? Where did you hear that? Just seemed like a restless spirit to me. Nasty, but I haven't seen any more damage than a bit of lost sleep.â€
“Hermione found out a bit about him in a demonology book we found in Divination. He's some sort of demon thing. A Dream Master, and it's not just annoying. According to what we found he'll start killing people if he gets strong enough.†Harry looked very serious.
Anna seemed to consider that and looked a bit suspicious. “Are you sure?â€
He seemed to think about that. “It's the only reference we could find about it. No one else seems to know anything about it. Dumbledore knows, and I think most of the teachers do as well, but they didn't seem to have ever heard of such a thing. It's seems like it's a rare sort of monster.â€
The girl's expression was maddeningly calm. “I see. I suspect you have some sort of plan?â€
“I hate to say it, but I don't think I've got any other choice. I'm going to start looking for it at night while I'm sleeping.†He adjusted his glasses in what she knew was a nervous habit. “Are you going to help out? We need to do something about it.â€
“No. I don't think that's a good idea,†she replied simply.
“Huh?†he looked confused. “We can't just...â€
“I wasn't talking about just me. Your plan is crappy. You shouldn't be going into other people's minds without permission. Besides, if people start noticing you lurking about in their heads what will they think about it? How long do you think it will take them to connect you to that thing? I'm not about to stick my neck out and broadcast that I have that sort of power. Especially with something like that sneaking around.†She poked him in his chest and narrowed her eyes.
“What should I do then? I've not run into it before. I don't think we should wait until someone dies.†He looked firm.
She cocked her head and smirked. “What makes you so sure anyone will? You only found one reference right? Are you sure it was trustworthy?â€
He worked his mouth and scowled. “It fits what's been going on. It might not be much to go on, but it's a little too...â€
“Convenient?†she responded simply. “Yes. That's what I'm thinking. Tell me, where is this reference now? I'd like to have a look myself.â€
The boy froze in place again and struggled to respond. He knew his answer wouldn't satisfy her already. “It...was...destroyed. Trelawney threw it into a fire after something possessed her.â€
“Well, isn't that even more convenient?†she wasn't really asking anything and seemed a little more thoughtful.
He scowled and crossed his arms with a thoughtful expression. “What do you mean?â€
“Well, someone has tried to kill you every year up till now. It's been quiet this year, don't you think? It's still a bit early to call that I suppose, but still. How do you know this thing wasn't here before we came to Hogwarts? I heard rumors about it when I was a first year. It's never been a problem before. Exactly why is it so urgent now?â€
He seemed to consider that. “It's getting worse. There are a lot more attacks.â€
“Really? Attacks? I'll admit it's unpleasant, but up till now it's been about as harmless as a prank. A nasty one to be sure, but no more dangerous than that.†She shoved the rest of her bread into her mouth and waited patiently for him to respond as she chewed on it.
“Dumbledore seemed to think it might be a serious problem when we spoke to him,†he replied. “I...â€
“Why? Is it because he was concerned already, or did it have more to do with what you told him?†She seemed patient and cool.
He frowned at that and balled up his fist. “You're right, but still. We should do something.â€
She closed her eyes. “What if it's a trap?â€
“Huh?†he replied. “Well, it's not killed anyone...†He sounded a little reluctant to admit it.
“Exactly,†she gave a nod. “Not every trap has the goal of killing the one it's set for. I suggest you consider what might happen if anyone discovers what you can do. Who would become the number one suspect here? I'm not about to risk my own neck here.â€
He thought very hard about that. “Huh. So, this whole thing might be a set up? Who though? How and why?â€
She nodded. “Well, consider this. If it is a trap, where do you think the one who set it is at? Hiding in people's dreams? A figment of imagination?â€
“No, it would be someone real, in this world.†He slapped his fist into his palm. “Someone...but who? Malfoy? That Rage girl? Vol...You know who?â€
“There's also our mysterious 'unknown' Sith as well,†she nodded at that and crossed her arms. “It might not be a Force user. There's always the possibility that this thing is magical in nature. We don't know the motivation behind it. It could be someone looking for revenge for something, or just some sadistic prankster.â€
Harry nodded as he considered that. “You're right. As far as we know it's staying within Hogwarts. Why though? What's here?â€
She poked her finger in his chest. “We are for starters. It may be after something else. I've seen him before, but you've not encountered it yet. That's odd, don't you think?â€
“Huh? How so?†he asked her.
“You've never been attacked. That won't look good if you're caught running around in other people's dreams, will it? I on the other hand, have my dorm mates who can corroborate that I've had a run in with it in the past. He's given me a few nasty starts and woke me up in the middle of the night a few times before.†She leaned against the wall. “That suggests that out of the two of us, you're the most likely suspect if our power is discovered.â€
He nodded at that. “You're right. If something like this is pinned on me somehow I could be expelled.â€
“Which would mean you would be out of Hogwarts and away from myself and Dumbledore.†she chuckled and pinched his nose. “I doubt you'd die, but...â€
He looked frustrated. â€I can't just ignore it though. I've got to do something.â€
“Why?†she replied simply.
“What do you mean?†he snapped. “I...â€
“No one has been injured. It smells like a trap. You have no leads and nothing but suspicion to go on.†She ignored his small flare up and looked at her nails. “There's no reason to think it's anything but a bluff and a trap at this point.â€
He hung his head. “But...I should do nothing?â€
She slapped his shoulder. “It's what Buddha would do.â€
He gave her a small glare. “I'm not Buddha.â€
“Well, sometimes he's right anyway.†She turned away. “You asked for my advice and I gave it. If there's nothing else I want to eat before classes start. Later.â€
He balled up his fist and worked it back and forth for a moment. “Damn. I hate to say it but she's right.â€
He walked back to his table and sat down next to Ron and across from Hermione and Parvati. “Hey.â€
“Did you talk with your sister?†asked Hermione, she looked quite anxious to hear it.
“Yeah. You probably won't like it though.†He responded with a small sigh. “I'm backing off for now.â€
“Huh?†she looked confused and gripped his arm. “But...you said...and that book...â€
“I didn't think about it that much when I said those things earlier. I'll talk with you about it later all right?†He slouched a little and poked at his food. He ate a bit slower than usual and pushed things around on his plate.
Ron scratched his head and looked tired. “My brain hurts.â€
Hermione looked over at him. She was distracted by Harry, but seemed to accept his answer. “I told you that course was difficult.â€
Parvati giggled. “I'm impressed though. I've never seen you stay awake through a History of Magic class before. You were paying attention the whole time.â€
The redhead yawned. “It's not so boring if you actually think about what we're studying. I never realized it before, but it's just how Professor Binns puts it that makes it sound so dull.†He stretched his shoulders a little. “Still left me feeling stiff.†He glanced at Hermione. “I'm glad you're with me in Runes though. I'd have gotten lost for sure if you weren't there to help me out.â€
The Indian girl narrowed her eyes a little at that. “Huh? What do you mean by that?â€
Hermione rolled her eyes at the scene. “He means he's horrible at studying. If I wasn't there to help him out, he would have gotten so confused he wouldn't know which end of his quill to use.â€
“We've got Language studies later.†Harry seemed to think about that. “Hey. When did you take Runes anyway? You've been...â€
She slapped her hand over his mouth and leaned in to whisper into his ear. “Look, I'll...explain later when we talk about that other stuff. I think I can trust you, but I'm not supposed to say anything to anyone.â€
He looked as if he realized something and shrugged. “Don't worry about it then. This is Hogwarts after all, and I can venture a guess about it. I've had experience with that sort of thing if you recall.â€
She blinked and blushed a little.
Parvati was looking on with rapt attention along with Lavender Brown. “What are they talking about?†asked the ditsy girl.
“I'll tell you later, it's so cute,†replied Parvati.
Harry ignored it. Hermione looked annoyed. “It's not that all right?â€
“What is it then?†asked Parvati.
“Yeah?†agreed Neville.
“It's nothing, just forget about it,†growled the brunette girl as she blushed and looked away.
Ron didn't want to know and continued to pick at his food. “Well, the three of us have Language Studies next, then Transfiguration. I hear we start off with Gobbledegook for the first year. I'm guessing your sister will be there? She said she was taking it as well.â€
Harry shook his head. “No. She has a different period. She's in a second year class. It turns out Kreacher knows Gobbledegook and has been working with her. She also talks to the Goblins at Gringotts pretty regularly.†Harry didn't think he'd have much trouble with the first year class from the sound of it. He'd spoken to enough Goblins to pick up a bit here and there himself. “From what I've heard, second year Language Studies is mostly Mermish.â€
The red haired boy looked a bit aghast at that. “How does she have time for all that stuff?â€
Harry smiled at him. “I don't think she's capable of just sitting around. It drives her crazy when she's got nothing to do. If she's awake she's doing something or has her nose in a book. It sounds worse than it is.â€
Parvati smiled at her boyfriend. “Hey. I'll teach you Hindi then. I can work with you over the Summer a bit if you'd like. It'll be fun and it's a good excuse to visit you over the holiday.â€
He cringed a little. “Well, all right. Just go easy on me. My head hurts as it is just with what I've got to learn in class.†He relented after seeing her expression.
OooOOooOO
“Destiny is a strange thing,†commented the young redheaded girl as she smirked. She was standing in a dark and dank boiler room and turned her head a little. “Don't you think?â€
The tall figure in the shadows chuckled. “Yeah. Whatever. You've got no problem with this, Potter?â€
“That name no longer has any meaning to me,†she replied in a cool tone.
He pushed off the side of the furnace and it left his shoulder smoking a little. “I worry that you might be stalling.†He smirked as she glared at him. “Don't look at me like that. I've got plenty of reason to worry a little. He is your brother after all.â€
She nodded. “I cannot have such pitiful attachments. I learned that lesson well. It was what destroyed me in the end. I suggest you take care with your tone. Don't forget which of us is the master here. I will strike when it is most advantageous to do so. Patience is one of the most powerful tools of the Sith. My former master taught me that lesson well.â€
Freddy nodded and turned away. “Sounds like quite a guy. Almost wish I could have met him.â€
“No, you don't,†she replied simply.
He chuckled at that. “I said 'almost'.†He waved over his shoulder with his gloved hand. “Well, I've got places to be, people to torture, and all that sort of thing.â€
She nodded and moved in the other direction. “Yes. You do that.â€
OooOOooOO
cont...