The Footsteps of my Father

The Footsteps of my Father

Chapter Twelve

-Revelations-

"What?!" Brianna exclaimed, her eyes wide, her mouth open in shock, stepping backwards. She swallowed, staring at Sarah in fear. Gabriel's a what?!!

Sarah took a deep breath, smiling slightly. "Gabriel is a Death Eater, Brianna."

"Oh, no, this can't be happening," Brianna said, walking backwards. Her back connected with the wall.

"Brianna, it is not what you think," Sarah said slowly. Worry filled her delicate features. "Gabriel works against the Dark Lord. He is a spy. However, it is not going too well, not since . . ." her voice trailed off and she bit her lip in worry.

"W - what?" Brianna managed.

Sarah walked over to the couch, sitting down and resting her head in her hands. Brianna walked over cautiously, sitting down in the chair across from Sarah. "Sarah?" Brianna asked slowly.

Sarah lifted her head and Brianna saw that her face was filled with worry, concern, and . . . fear? Fear of what? Brianna wondered. "Brianna, I am so sorry that this had to come out like this," Sarah said softly, looking at Brianna sadly. "I am sorry that we could not tell you and that we waited . . . but now . . . I am afraid I do not know what to do . . ." her voice trailed off again and she looked down.

"Sarah, what's wrong?" Brianna asked, for she had never seen Sarah look so worried or sad before.

Sarah looked up at Brianna. "When the Dark Lord reigned over fourteen years ago, Gabriel became a Death Eater." Brianna tensed, but didn't say anything. "He did it for Dumbledore," Sarah continued, "and he and Severus Snape became the link of information between the Dark Lord and Dumbledore. Gabriel has not made it into the Inner Circle of the Dark Lord, but once he has, it will help us a great deal. That is primarily the reason why we could not say anything, especially around Mr. Nott. If anyone ever found out that Gabriel was working as a spy, we would be done for. That is the reason for the secrecy, for our entire family and for Dominic's sake."

"What do you mean about Mr. Nott?"

"Nott is a Death Eater, Brianna, and a bad one. He did not go to Azkaban with the Death Eaters that stayed loyal to the Dark Lord. He has been hiding under a job at the Ministry, pretending that he has renounced the Dark Lord. Of course, now none of that matters," Sarah said bitterly.

"What do you mean?"

Sarah took a deep breath, sighing. "A few moments ago, the Dark Mark on Gabriel's arm burned. It has been growing clear for a while now, but we were not sure, so we were not going to worry about it. And, then, it burned, and it has not done that for over fifteen years."

"Why would it burn?"

"When the Dark Lord summons his Death Eaters, the Mark burns so that they will Apparate to where he is."

"So . . . that means . . ." Brianna's voice trailed off. Her eyes went wide. "You don't mean . . ."

"Yes," Sarah said gravely. "The Dark Lord has returned."

*~~*~~*

Somewhere, in a dark place, someone clutched their left forearm in agony, biting back a scream, and Disapparated.

*~~*~~*

In another dark place. "She will be at Hogwarts in the fall," a voice said.

"So . . . she wasn't a Squib after all," a dark voice said thoughtfully. "Would you look at that? I would never have guessed. And quite powerful . . . we will have to keep an eye on her. You will do that, won't you?"

"Yes," the other voice said.

"Good, very good. It's about time I got my due."

Suddenly, a white searing pain flashed up the speaker's arm, causing him to make a slight noise.

"What is it?"

"He's back," the dark voice said coldly and laughed, a dark, sinister laugh. "He will be very pleased with my find."

"Yes."

"Watch over her. That's an order. I'm going." And the man with the dark voice Disapparated.

*~~*~~*

"So, he's really back?" Brianna asked, looking at Sarah.

"I am afraid so," Sarah said. "That is why Gabriel had to leave so suddenly. The Dark Lord was calling his Death Eaters."

"Does Dominic know?"

Sarah shook her head. "No. It is much safer the less people that know about Gabriel. He and Severus are invaluable to us as spies."

Brianna nodded. "Right." She breathed a sigh of relief. "I'm just glad that he wasn't bad. You really had me scared there."

"I am sorry," Sarah said with a smile. "We did not expect this. Well, actually, we knew that this would come sooner or later, but we did not expect it to happen when you were with us."

Brianna smiled. "That was pretty shocking."

They sat a few minutes in silence. Then Brianna spoke up. "Will Gabriel be okay?"

Sarah nodded. "He will. The part I am worried about is that with the Dark Lord returning, the war has begun again."

"But we have Harry Potter."

Sarah smiled. "Yes, we do. And that is our greatest advantage."

"I still haven't even met this kid," Brianna said, laughing.

"You live on the same street as him. I expect you will see him this summer."

Brianna grinned. "You're right! Brilliant; finally I get to meet the famous Harry Potter."

Sarah nodded. "Yes, and -" She stopped as an owl swooped through the window, landing on the table in between Brianna and Sarah.

Brianna grinned, her heart thumping wildly in her chest. "My letter!"

"Yes," Sarah said, smiling, as she took the letter off of the owl's leg and fed it an owl treat.

Thank you.

"The owl says thanks," Brianna said, grinning.

Sarah chuckled. "I forgot that you can speak with animals." Sarah looked at the owl. "Thank you for bringing her letter."

Yes, yes, you're welcome. Now, I must be off. There's a storm brewing in the north. The owl hooted again and flapped its wings, soaring out the window.

"Thank you!" Brianna called after it. Then she turned to Sarah, a broad grin across her face. Sarah smiled and handed Brianna her letter.

On the front, in purple script, it read:

Miss B. J. Olsen

The Study Room, Conner Estate

Birmingham, London, England

She turned the letter over, looking at the Hogwarts crest on the back; a raven, a serpent, a lion, and a badger. Exactly what I saw on that robe upstairs! Well, it's no wonder, Sarah did go to Hogwarts. This is brilliant! I think if my heart beat any faster, it'd fly out of my chest!

Careful not to damage the seal, she opened the envelope, drawing out the two pieces of parchment; her grin broadening if that was possible, as she read the letter.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL

of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

,---------------------'

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore

(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock,

Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Miss. Olsen,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on September 1^st. We await your owl by no later than July 31^st.

Mr. and Mrs. Conner will be able to show you the way to the Leaky Cauldron and to Diagon Alley to purchase your supplies. Your parents are welcome and if they have any questions, have them come to the Leaky Cauldron on July 10^th and I will be there personally to answer any questions or concerns.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Brianna looked up at Sarah, beaming, her entire body energized with excitement. "I'm going to Hogwarts!"

"Did you ever doubt that?" Sarah asked, a smile on her face and in her eyes.

"This is going to be brilliant!" Brianna exclaimed. Then her smile faded. "Oh, no . . . my parents. Do you think they're going to understand?"

Sarah shrugged. "That, I cannot answer, Brianna. But I will be there with you when you explain."

"Thanks," Brianna said gratefully. "I think my parents would lock me up if I just came in and told them I was a witch. At least I have this," Brianna added, holding up the letter. "This might help a bit. Especially if I can convince them to come to the Leaky Cauldron with me."

Sarah nodded. "Yes, that will help. If Gabriel is back, which he should be, then we will go on July 10^th. In the meantime, let's go see your parents."

*~~*~~*

When Sarah and Brianna entered Brianna's house, her mother walked up to her. "Brianna, good, you're back," her mother said, smiling. She looked at Sarah. "Mrs. Conner."

Sarah nodded. "Yes," Sarah said, smiling.

"Thank you for having Brianna over," her mother said. She looked at Brianna. "Your father is in the living room. We'd like to talk to you about something."

Brianna's throat tightened. Had they found how that I'm a witch? I wanted to be the one to say it . . . oh, no; they're going to lock me up for sure! "Okay. Is it alright if Sarah comes with me? We have something to talk about too."

Her mother looked at Sarah before looking back at Brianna and nodding slowly. "Okay."

Brianna followed her mother into the living room, her Hogwarts letter clenched tightly in her fist, her heart beating quickly, quite nervous. Sarah trailed behind, careful to stay back, taking a seat by the fireplace.

Her mother took the seat next to her father on the couch. Brianna stood facing them, swallowing nervously. "You wanted to speak to me about something?"

"Yes," her mother began, taking a deep breath. Her parents had very serious looks on their faces and Brianna was always nervous when they looked like that. Glancing around quickly, she noticed that Maria and Terrance were nowhere to be found. Probably at a friend's house, Brianna thought, looking back at her parents. "Your father and I have been talking, and . . . we felt that we should let you know something that we should have told you a long time ago." Brianna tensed.

"Brianna, you're adopted," her father said.

Brianna nearly fell over in shock, her eyes wide, thoughts about the letter completely leaving her mind. Her mind was spinning, trying to comprehend what exactly they had just said. "What?" she managed, her heart hammering in her chest. I'm adopted? How . . . why?

"We found you, abandoned at our doorstep, when you were eight years old," her mother said.

"But how come I don't remember that? Wouldn't I know something?" Brianna asked in confusion

"You would think so," her father said, "but you had no memory of before you were eight, so we didn't want to disrupt your childhood by telling you that you were abandoned."

"Why are you suddenly telling me this now?"

"There was a note lying next to you on top of a letter," her mother explained. "The note said that you were not to be told anything until after your twelfth birthday and that if you should manage to get to a school called Hogwarts; that only then could you read the letter."

Hogwarts!! That means . . . either my father or mother was a wizard!!

"Of course, we took the note straight to the authorities, but they didn't find anything wrong with the letter, so we kept it," her mother continued. "We searched for your parents, Brianna, but we had no luck. So you became our daughter. We didn't want to keep it from you; we just didn't feel that you were old enough to understand. Will you forgive us?"

"Oh, of course, mum!" Brianna cried and hugged her parents. "It's just so . . . sudden."

"We had hoped you would understand," her father said as Brianna stood.

"So you have no idea who my parents are?" Brianna asked.

"No, not a clue," her father said, shaking his head. "It's a shame. I don't see why any decent parent would ever want to abandon such a good child."

Brianna smiled, feeling warmed from her parents' love. Even if they weren't her blood parents, they were the only true parents she had ever known, and she loved them deeply for that.

"Now, what did you want to tell us, dear?" her mother said, smiling up at Brianna.

Oh, God, here it comes, Brianna thought. No backing out now. "I . . . I got a letter today," Brianna began slowly, holding up her acceptance letter.

"Oh, really?" her mother said. "Who from, dear?"

"I - I don't think you're going to believe me."

"Well, you don't know that until you tell us," her father said, smiling.

"I'mawitchandIgotaletterfromHogwartstellingmeIgettogotoawizardingschool," Brianna said in a rush.

"Brianna, you're going to have to slow down so that we can understand you," her father said, laughing.

Brianna looked between her mother and father, her face deadly serious. Her mother looked at her in confusion. "Brianna?"

Brianna sighed and handed her parents the letter. "It's an acceptance letter for a school," Brianna said slowly. She watched her parents nervously as they read the letter.

"B- Brianna, I don't understand," her father said, looking up at her. "A wizarding school? What rubbish is this?"

"Witchcraft?" her mother exclaimed, looking horrified. "Brianna, you said you weren't into any of that!"

"Mum, I can explain -" Brianna began but Sarah, who had been quiet all this time, broke in.

"Mr. and Mrs. Olsen, this is not rubbish," Sarah said, looking at the two adults. Brianna's parents looked at Sarah, wide-eyed.

"Don't tell me you're in on these fantasies, too?" her father asked.

"Mr. Olsen, the Wizarding world is very real and if you would let me explain, I am sure we can come to an understanding," Sarah said calmly.

Brianna was relieved that Sarah was there with her. She didn't know what she would do without the calm woman's reassuring presence. "Mum, Dad, it's true, I can do magic."

"I - I've never heard of anything more absurd than this in my entire life!" her father exclaimed.

Brianna looked at Sarah. "Should I do something?"

"Do a simple Summoning Charm," Sarah answered, "nothing too big."

Brianna nodded and pulled out her wand, pointing it at the mantle. "Accio candelabra!" she called and the candelabra flew into her hand, much to the astonishment of her parents.

"H-How did you do that?" her mother stammered.

"Magic," Brianna said, standing and putting the candelabra back on the mantel.

"The Deputy Headmistress, Professor McGonagall, wishes to speak with you on July 10^th at the Leaky Cauldron," Sarah said. "She can answer a lot of your questions. I do not think it would hurt to at least meet with the woman."

Her parents stared at Sarah as if she had just suggested that they go jump off a cliff. "Y -you expect us to m - meet with a witch?" her father sputtered.

"Mum, Dad, please. I really want to do this," Brianna pleaded.

Her parents looked at her. "We will have to discuss this later, Brianna," her mother said sternly. She looked at Sarah. "And I suppose you're a witch?"

Sarah nodded. "Yes."

"So you're responsible for putting all this rubbish in her head," her father said accusingly.

"Dad, please, be reasonable," Brianna said. Her father looked at her. "How else do you think I brought that candelabrum over to me?"

Her father just shook his head and stood. "I need some time alone," was all he said and left the room. After a quick glance at Sarah, her mother followed suit.

Sarah stood, looking at Brianna. "I am afraid that did not go over too well," Sarah said with a small smile.

Brianna shrugged. "You did what you could. I don't think I expected it to go over well, either." Brianna shook her head. "I don't believe I'm adopted."

"One of your parents must have been either a witch or wizard. And they must have put a Memory Charm on you so that you wouldn't remember anything," Sarah said thoughtfully. "I wonder why you were abandoned. . ."

"Well, I don't care much for my so-called parents that abandoned me. At this moment, I have two people that care about me very much in the next room. I have to see if I can fix this somehow."

Sarah nodded. "Of course. Owl me tomorrow and tell me if the situation gets any better."

"Yes," Brianna said, nodding. "I hope Gabriel comes back."

"So do I," Sarah said softly. "So do I." With a quick hug, Brianna and Sarah parted. After Sarah had left, Brianna walked into the kitchen where her parents were sitting at the table.

"Mum? Dad?" Brianna said tentatively.

Her parents looked up at her, the Hogwarts letter on the table between them. Minutes of silence passed between them. Finally, her father spoke. "Brianna, why didn't you ever say anything about this?"

"You wouldn't have believed me. You still don't believe me," Brianna explained. "I had to have my letter so at least you could see some truth to it."

Her father sighed, glancing down at the letter. He was silent for awhile. "I don't see what it can hurt to meet this McGonagall, whoever she really is."

Brianna breathed a sigh of relief. "However," her father said, cutting short her relief sigh, "if this all turns out to be a hoax, you have to swear that you will never bring up the subject of witchcraft again."

"I swear," Brianna said, "and it's not rubbish. It's true."

"We'll see," her father said slowly. "Now, go off to bed. Your mother and I have a lot to talk about."

"Yes, Dad," she said, millions of questions rolling through her mind. She left, heading to bed.

She didn't sleep much, for she was thinking about all that had happened that day. First, Gabriel turns out to be a Death Eater, then she's adopted, and now . . . now she wasn't sure about anything. She sighed, closing her eyes and trying to get to sleep.

*~~*~~*

The next few weeks passed quickly, and though her parents were quieter around her, she knew that they still loved her immensely, and she loved them just as much. However, she was told that she was not to mention a bit about witchcraft to Maria and Terrance, and she didn't, although she really wanted to tell them. She received numerous letters from Dominic, telling her about what had happened at the third task and that the other Hogwarts Champion, Cedric Diggory, had been killed. Brianna felt sorrow for the boy that she had never even met.

Occasionally, when she was outside helping with yard work, she noticed a boy that lived a few houses down. He was tall, with messy black hair, and glasses. And, the thing was, she recognized him from the Quidditch World Cup, or thought she did. Could that be Harry Potter? she would often think.

On the morning of July 10^th, he was lying outside, looking up at the blue sky, spotted here and there with white clouds. Brianna was planting some flowers, occasionally glancing over at the boy.

"Where do these go, Brianna?" Brianna looked over to see Maria holding a tray of plants.

"Just over there, Maria," Brianna said, pointing to a flowerbed by the front door.

"Okay," Maria said, smiling and walking over to the flowerbed. Brianna watched as Maria knelt down and began planting some of the flowers. Terrance would run over every once and while from where he was playing with his friends, and annoy Maria. Maria, however, would just throw dirt at him, both of them laughing.

God, I love those two, Brianna thought with a grin, turning back to her planting. Hm . . . maybe I should go talk to that boy. If he is Harry Potter, then I probably should introduce myself, since we'll be going to school together. Though Dominic said he wasn't really that nice, I could still give him a chance. I haven't even met him yet, so I can't really form an opinion. On the other hand, that look he gave me at the World Cup wasn't very nice; but then, I was sitting with a bunch of Slytherins, so it could just be that . . . oh, I think too much! I just need to go over and talk to him!

Brianna stood up, brushing the dirt off of her jeans, and pulled off her gardening gloves. She moved to go talk to the boy, but he was gone. Drat! Where did he go? Well, I suppose I can just go up to the front door and talk to him.

Brianna walked down the street, past the identical houses, and up to number Four. An expensive looking car was sitting in the driveway and a recent addition to the house showed that Harry's folks were decently well off. Stepping up to the door, she knocked three times and waited patiently.

A few minutes later, the door opened to reveal a tall, spindly woman with her dark hair pulled back and a sour expression on her face. She looks like she just sucked on a lemon, Brianna thought with a smile.

"May I help you?" the woman asked in a snobbish tone of voice.

"Yes," Brianna said. She smiled. "My name is Brianna and I was wondering if Harry Potter was here."

The woman sneered down at her. "And what do you want with Potter?" she asked nastily.

Brianna was taken aback by the woman's rudeness. "I just want to talk to him," Brianna replied. "What harm is there in that?"

The woman sniffed. "What's all this ruckus about?" a deep voice asked and Brianna watched as a very large man came up behind the woman. He wore a business suit, despite the heat of the day, and his neck rolled in fat, making it look like he had no neck. Disgusting, Brianna thought.

"This, girl, wants to speak with Harry Potter."

The man looked at Brianna, narrowing his gaze. "If you're one of Potter's freaky little friends, you're not welcome here. Now leave us alone." The man moved to close the door, but Brianna put her foot in the way.

"I wish to speak with Harry. How hard is that to understand? And, for your information, I'm not one of his 'freaky friends' as you call them. I've never even met him before."

"You're one of them," the woman sneered. "That's enough."

"One of what?" Brianna exclaimed, exasperated.

"An unnatural being. A freak," the woman replied.

Brianna, knowing fully well what could happen if she let her anger take the better of her, took a deep breath. "Look, I just want to talk to him. Please?"

"Aunt Petunia? Uncle Vernon? Who is it?" a pleasant voice called from within the house.

"Nothing, boy. Finish your chores!" the man yelled into the house.

"But it's for me. Can't I talk to them?"

"No!" The man turned back to Brianna. "You're not welcome here. Go!"

Brianna put on a fake smile. "Yes, sir. Have a nice day," she said, sarcasm dripping from her voice. She turned and walked down the pathway, her anger boiling inside of her. What were those two Muggles' problems? I just wanted to speak to Harry! They acted like I was a plague or something! Why, oh why can't the world be rid of those sorts of people? We need more of my family.

*~~*~~*

Harry stood on the steps going up to the second floor as Uncle Vernon shoved the front door closed, Aunt Petunia running off to the kitchen. "Uncle Vernon, why didn't you let me speak with that girl?" Harry asked.

His uncle looked up at him. "I told you not to have any of your freaky little friends come around. Now go finish Dudley's packing. We have to leave tomorrow for the station and you have to go to Mrs. Figg's."

"I don't think my godfather would be pleased to know that you didn't let one of my friends come visit me," Harry said, eyeing his uncle.

His uncle paled slightly, but said, "She wasn't one of your friends. She had never even met you."

"Well, I'm going to go talk to her." His uncle began to protest but Harry held up a hand. "My godfather would be happy if I made more friends."

His uncle stuttered, and then walked away, muttering under his breath.

Harry smiled, running down the stairs. Always good to have a convict for a godfather! At least the Dursleys are going on another trip. It was hard enough putting up with them for this week, much less for the rest of the summer.

He opened the door and ran down the walkway, seeing the girl heading down the road. "Hey!" he called. The girl turned and Harry froze in his tracks. The girl had silvery-blond hair that was currently tied up in a pony-tail, an aristocratic nose, and a beautiful face graced with high cheekbones. She looks just like she could be Malfoy's sister! Quickly shaking that thought from his mind, he walked up to her. "Hi, my name is Harry Potter," he said, smiling.

"Hello," the girl said, smiling back, her gray eyes sparkling. She even has the same eyes1 Harry thought with a laugh. "My name is Brianna Olsen. I live just down there," she added, pointing to number Seven where two kids were running around, chasing each other with diggers. Harry laughed as the boy grabbed the garden hose and began spraying the little girl. Brianna looked at Harry, laughing. "Oh, those two? They're my younger siblings; twins. Maria and Terrance. They're the best."

Looking into her eyes, Harry could see the love and affection Brianna had for the two children. "You really love them a lot, don't you?" Harry said.

Brianna smiled. "Yes, very much. So, Harry, you'll be in your fifth-year, right?"

For a minute, Harry was startled and looked at her, his eyes wide. Then he relaxed. Oh, she must be thinking of Smeltings, the place the Dursley's kept telling everyone I was going. Harry frowned. But how could she even know that? "I'm in my fifth-year at Smeltings," Harry said slowly.

Brianna laughed, quirking an eyebrow. "Is that what those awful people tell everyone?"

"What do you mean?" Harry asked, now very confused. Did this girl - wait . . . I think I've seen her before! But, no, possibly . . .

"I mean Hogwarts, silly," Brianna said, laughing.

"You're a witch?" Harry asked and then immediately felt very stupid. Of course she's a witch, dimwit! She knows about Hogwarts! "Wait, did you go to the World Cup?"

Brianna nodded, grinning. "It was bloody brilliant, don't you think? I saw you hanging out with that red-head and the girl. Your friends, then?"

"Yes, my best friends, Ron and Hermione," Harry said, grinning back. She's so easy to be around. I wonder why she was hanging out with those Slytherins? "Is your family -?"

"Wizarding?" Brianna finished. "No, they're Muggles."

Harry nodded. "You'll have to meet Hermione, then. Both her parents are Muggles."

Nodding, Brianna said, "Yes, I've heard of her. Top of the school. But, my parents aren't both Muggles; at least, one of them isn't, anyway."

"What do you mean?" Harry asked, confused again. "You just said -"

"Well, the people that have taken care of me since I was young are both Muggles, but my real parents . . . one of them was either a witch or wizard."

"So you're adopted?"

Brianna nodded. "Yep, but -"

"Brianna! Sarah is here!" Brianna turned to face her younger sister, who was standing in the driveway next to a nice looking car.

"Okay, just a minute!" Brianna called back and turned to Harry. She smiled. "I'm sorry; I have to go. Sarah and Gabriel are taking me to Diagon Alley to purchase my school supplies. That's them over there," she added, pointing to the car as a tall boy stepped out, sun glinting off of his brown hair.

He looks like one of boys that always hangs out with Malfoy, Harry thought, frowning inwardly. Outwardly, he smiled. "I'll be going to Diagon Alley soon, but hopefully we'll meet back up on the train."

"Hopefully," Brianna said, smiling. "Bye!"

"Goodbye," Harry said, waving as Brianna ran over to the boy by the car and enveloped him in a huge hug. Harry laughed and headed back to his house. This is going to be a very interesting year.

*~~*~~*

"Dominic! I haven't seen you in ages!" Brianna cried, grinning as she stepped back from Dominic.

Pushing a stray strand of his hair from his eyes, Dominic laughed. "It hasn't been ages. Only a few months."

"It's long enough for me," Brianna said. "Well, come on, let's go inside," she said, grabbing Dominic's hand and pulling him indoors. "Mum, Dad! The Conners are here!"

Her parents walked into the parlor, her mother looking nervous, and her father showing no expression. "We shall go into London and to the place where you say this 'Leaky Cauldron' is located," her father said calmly. "Then, once and for all, you shall see that this wizarding stuff is nonsense and we can come back here and you won't speak another word about it."

How can you say this is rubbish? Brianna thought. You saw me summon that candelabrum! But she didn't voice her thoughts. Instead, she said, "Yes, Dad."

Her father nodded and Brianna ran upstairs, quickly changing her clothes into a dark purple T-shirt and black shorts. She grabbed her supplies list and ran back downstairs.

Her parents followed Brianna and Dominic outside and waited by the car while her mother met Mrs. Clinghurst and made sure Maria and Terrance were taken care of. Then she walked back over to the car and they climbed in.

Brianna sat in the backseat with Dominic and her parents. At her parents' astonished looks, Brianna swallowed a chuckle at their amazement at how the car had much more room inside of it then it looked on the outside. Gabriel and Sarah were sitting up front.

"How are you doing, Gabriel?" Brianna asked.

Gabriel turned his head around to look at her and smiled. His face was still pale, but at least he could smile. "I am doing well, Brianna. Thank you for asking."

"That's good," Brianna said, smiling back. Gabriel nodded and turned to the front, pulling the car out of the driveway.

Her parents were silent the entire trip, and Brianna wasn't surprised. After all, she had just sprung the news on them that she was a witch, and now they were supposed to be going purchase her supplies.

Of course, Gabriel and Sarah explained on the way that they would be paying for everything, including her tuition and her supplies. Money wasn't a problem with them and they'd at least get her through her first year, until her parents could manage the cost. Her parents just nodded mutely, still not looking too crazy about the entire wizarding idea.

Sarah gave Brianna a reassuring smile and Dominic nudged her, leaning down to whisper, "Don't worry, your parents will come around. They always do."

Brianna smiled back. "Thanks," she whispered.

About a half an hour later, Gabriel pulled up in front of a collection of small buildings, all crammed together. The buildings were dark and decrepit. Brianna didn't know how anyone would come here, or what for. They were just abandoned buildings. Gabriel dropped them off, and, after telling them that he would meet them in The Leaky Cauldron, he drove off. "Welcome to The Leaky Cauldron," Sarah said, smiling broadly and motioning with her arms.

Brianna looked around the street corner. Then she noticed the decrepit looking pub sitting in front of her. Above the door hung a sign and when she looked more closely, she saw that it indeed read 'The Leaky Cauldron'.

"Brilliant," she whispered, grinning. She looked around, noticing that the other Muggles didn't even seem to notice the pub, as they walked right past, going about their business. Don't know why anyone would pay attention to this.

"Shall we?" Sarah asked, stepping forward.

"What in the devil are you talking about?" her father asked, looking around, confused. "There's nothing here except a book shop and a record shop."

Brianna furrowed her eyebrows, confused as she looked back at her parents. They couldn't see it? But the sign is hanging there, in broad daylight. Then, looking around some more, she realized that all the Muggles that passed weren't just ignoring it, they couldn't see it.

Sarah smiled. "You cannot see it because you do not have wizarding blood, but I assure you, Mr. Olsen, it is indeed here."

"Rubbish."

"Please, follow me."

I don't know how she can be so calm! Brianna thought as they walked towards the entrance to the pub. I am so glad she is here with us! Brianna glanced over at her parents, who were looking very unsure as to what exactly they were doing here.

"It's okay," Brianna said, grabbing her parents' hands and following Sarah into the pub.

Immediately they were hit with the smoke-filled air and the loudness that came when several conversations were going on at the same time. Her parents looked around, their eyes wide.

"Oh, my Lord," Brianna heard her mother whisper, watching as her mother's hand flew up to her mouth.

"I don't believe this," her father whispered, looking at the various witches and wizards talking amongst themselves, clothed in their various colors of cloaks.

"This is the Leaky Cauldron," Sarah explained, motioning to the wizarding folks around her. "It is where wizarding folk meet to talk and catch up. Out through the back courtyard is the entrance to Diagon Alley."

Brianna nodded, amazed at seeing all the wizarding folk. "Blimey, this is brilliant!" she exclaimed.

"I forgot how amazing this can look for a new person," Dominic said, chuckling.

"Sarah! Welcome!"

Brianna turned to see the bartender waving at them from behind the counter. "Hello, Tom!" Sarah said cheerfully. Sarah walked over to the counter and Brianna, her parents, and Dominic followed, her parents still looking around uneasily.

"Haven't seen you in lately? Anything new?" Tom asked, grinning.

"I am just bringing young Brianna to Diagon Alley to purchase her school things. It will be her first year at Hogwarts."

Tom looked at Brianna and held out a hand. Brianna shook it, smiling. "Welcome to the Leaky Cauldron, Brianna."

"Thank you," Brianna replied. She saw Tom's eyes dart to her parents and then back at Sarah questionably.

"Brianna's parents are Muggles," Sarah explained and Tom nodded.

"Good afternoon, sir, ma'am," Tom said brightly, looking at Brianna's parents. They looked at Tom.

Her father nodded. "Good afternoon."

"Hello," her mother said, still looking quite nervous.

"Oh, there's nothin' to worry about here, ma'am," Tom said reassuringly. "It's quite safe, I assure you."

Her mother nodded. "It - it's just quite different," she managed.

"Mr. Olsen? Mrs. Olsen?" a voice asked and they all turned to see a tall, severe looking witch walking over to them. She had small glasses and her hair was pulled back tightly in a bun. She wore a simple black cloak, looking very regal. "Hello, I am Minerva McGonagall, Deputy Headmistress and Professor at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry," she said.

Her parents nodded nervously. "Hello," her father said.

"While Miss Olsen purchases her school things, I will be able to answer any questions that you might have concerning anything that has to do with the wizarding world," Professor McGonagall continued. She smiled slightly. "Miss Olsen will be fine; I can assure you of that."

Her father swallowed, nodding. He looked at Brianna. "You stay with Mrs. Conner, you understand? I'm still not quite sure about all of this."

Brianna smiled. "Don't worry, Dad. I'll be fine."

Her father didn't look satisfied, but turned to Professor McGonagall and said, "I would like it very much if you would explain what all this is about."

"Of course."

"You be careful, Brianna," her mother cautioned.

"Yes, Mum, don't worry," Brianna said, smiling. Her mother frowned but followed Brianna's father and Professor McGonagall, disappearing into the crowd.

"Brianna?" a voice asked in amazement.

Brianna turned to see an older man, who was rather tall, pale, and scrawny, looking at Brianna with a look of amazement on his face. "Yes?"

"I can't believe it. Are you going to Hogwarts?"

"Yes," Brianna said slowly, unsure as to whom this man was and how he knew her. She glanced over to where Sarah was talking to Tom and Dominic had been side-tracked by a friend.

The man's eyes widened. "Blimey, so, you actually turned out to be a witch." He shook his head. "Your father will be quite shocked, I am sure."

"What?" Brianna asked, raising her eyebrows. My father? What??? How does he know him? Is he talking about my real father?

Dominic walked over at that time, thankfully, and the man glanced at Dominic. Brianna could have sworn she had seen fear in the man's eyes, but that could have just been a trick of the light. The man rushed away and Dominic turned to Brianna. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm . . . fine," Brianna said slowly, thoroughly shaken. What had he meant about my father? My real father?

"Don't mind Avery," Dominic said quietly, leaning down. He rolled his eyes. "He doesn't know what he's talking about."

". . . Right," Brianna said softly, looking at the spot in the crowd where the man had disappeared.

"Ready to go?" Brianna turned to see Sarah facing them, grinning. Gabriel was standing next to her. When had he arrived?

"Definitely!" Brianna said, grinning, her excitement overcoming the confusion of the previous encounter.

"Follow me," Gabriel said, smiling and heading towards the back of the pub. Brianna looked around once more for her parents, and, not seeing them, walked out the door and into a small courtyard. Brick walls surrounded them; crates were scattered around on the ground.

"It's a dead end," Brianna said, looking around. She looked up at Gabriel in confusion. "I thought you said that this was Diagon Alley."

Gabriel smiled and winked. "This is the entrance to Diagon Alley. We are in the wizarding world now, Brianna; everything is not what it seems."

Brianna quirked an eyebrow but smiled. "Okay," she said slowly.

"Just watch," Dominic whispered, turning her to face the brick wall in the back. She watched as Gabriel strode up to the wall, pulled out his wand, and tapped several bricks. To her wide-eyed astonishment, the bricks began moving, and formed a large archway.

Dominic chuckled softly, took her hand, and led her through the archway and into one of the most amazing sights she had ever laid her eyes on. In front of her, and all around her, lay a street lined with wizarding shops and crowded with witches, wizards, and children. "Oh, my Lord," Brianna whispered, bringing her free hand up to her mouth.

"Welcome to Diagon Alley," Gabriel said, grinning and motioning to the street.

Brianna looked at Gabriel, grinning broadly. "This is brilliant!" Gabriel smiled and handed a large pouch to Brianna. She looked at it and then back at Gabriel, confused. "What's this for?"

"It is some wizarding money so you can purchase your supplies," Sarah said, smiling warmly. "You can only purchase things with wizarding money here."

"Oh, I can't take this," Brianna protested, trying to give it back to them.

"Yes, you can," Gabriel said, reaching out and closing Brianna's fist around the pouch. "Think of it as an early birthday present."

Brianna smiled, a few tears coming to her eyes. "Thank you so much!" she cried and hugged Gabriel tightly, and then did the same to Sarah. "You guys are so wonderful!"

Gabriel and Sarah smiled. "You deserve it."

Brianna was filled with happiness and warmth. "You are positively brilliant! I don't know what I'd do without you!"

"Stay sane," Dominic whispered and Brianna elbowed him. "Hey, what was that for!" he protested.

Brianna just laughed and the Conners joined in. "Well, Brianna, Dominic will take you around to buy your supplies, since he has some things that he needs to pick up," Gabriel said. "I have a few things I need to purchase, as does Sarah. We will split up and meet back here."

Dominic nodded. "Alright, sure."

"Have fun!" Sarah said and Brianna watched as Gabriel and Sarah walked away. At that moment, Brianna noticed that the place where they had entered was just a plain brick wall again.

"Dominic?" Brianna said, pointing to the wall. "Where's the entrance?"

Dominic laughed. "It appears long enough for us to come through, and then it closes again."

Brianna nodded. "Oh, okay."

"Well, come on then, pyro," Dominic said, grabbing her hand again.

"I'm not a pyro!"

He grinned. "Uh huh."

She rolled her eyes.

"Here you have Flourish and Blotts," Dominic said as they began walking. He pointed to a shop to their left that had books in the display case and Brianna saw parents taking their children in and out of the open door, books piled in their arms. "That's where you'll buy all your books." Brianna nodded. "And here," Dominic said, pointing to a shop to their right, "you have Eeylops Owl Emporium, where you can purchase an owl of your choice if you decide that's the sort of animal you want. Then you have Gambol and Japes Wizarding Joke Shop." Dominic grinned. "One of the best shops, in my opinion."

Brianna laughed, looking at the joke shop that was tucked away down a few stairs, in a small courtyard. The front of the shop was covered in advertisements and looked to be rather interesting. "That looks brilliant," Brianna said, grinning. She looked up at Dominic. "We definitely have to go there some time."

Dominic nodded. "Yes, most definitely." He pointed to a shop over to the left. "There's Wistacre's Wizarding Equipment, where we can get your equipment. And Ollivander's, that's where you'll get your wand." They walked around the corner of the street and Brianna spotted a store with a broom in the front window and various colored robes hanging on mannequins. Dominic followed her gaze and said, "Quality Quidditch Supplies, brilliant store," Dominic said, grinning. "Anything that has to do with Quidditch, they have it."

"Brilliant," Brianna commented. "Yet another shop I just have to check out."

Dominic nodded. "We will. First, we should get your robes." He pointed to a shop that had several tables sitting in front of it, enclosed by a small fence. Witches and wizards were sitting at some of the tables, eating ice cream.

"Oh! Ice cream!" Brianna exclaimed, beaming. "We have to stop there after I get my supplies for some ice cream."

Dominic nodded. "Of course. You can't go to Diagon Alley without visiting Fortescue's. There are the Apothecary and the Magical Menagerie," Dominic added, pointing to two shops at the end.

Brianna looked up at the tall building at the end of the street, a tall, cream-colored building that had a slight lean to it. "What's that?"

"That is Gringott's Wizarding Bank, the safest place for your money," Dominic said, making a large sweep with his free hand. "That's where we have our vault."

Brianna nodded. "So where is the robe shop?"

"Right here," Dominic said, leading her over to a shop with a display case full of black robes. "Usually there are more colorful robes, but since its school shopping time, all the robes are in black."

"Right."

"We'll get you your cloak and robes; I have to get a set of dress robes for the dances." Dominic smiled. "I can't believe I've already grown several more inches since Christmas. At this rate, I'm going to be buying new robes every month."

Brianna laughed. "Now if only your brain grew as fast as your body."

"Hey!" Dominic said, putting a pout on his face. "That wasn't very nice."

Brianna rolled her eyes, hitting him lightly in the arm. "You know I was only joking and you deserved that after calling me a pyro."

Dominic pouted for a bit more, and then a smile broke across his face. He laughed. "Yeah, I know. Come on."

Brianna just shook her head, laughing as they walked into Madam Malkin's.

"Hello!" Madam Malkin said, a smile on the older woman's face. She rushed over to them. "Welcome! What can I get you two?"

"Um . . ." Brianna pulled out her supplies list.

HOGWARTS SCHOOL

of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY

,---------------------'

UNIFORM
First-year students will require:

Please note that all pupil's clothes should carry name tags

COURSE BOOKS
All students should have a copy of each of the following:

The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1) by Miranda Goshawk
A History of Magic by Bathilda Bagshot
Magical Theory by Adalbert Waffling
A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch
One Thousand Magical Herbs and Fungi by Phyllida Spore
Magical Drafts and Potions by Arsenius Jigger
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them by Newt Scamander
The Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection by Quentin Trimble

OTHER EQUIPMENT

1 wand
1 cauldron (pewter, standard size 2)
1 set glass or crystal phials
1 telescope
1 set brass scales
Students may also bring an owl OR a cat OR toad.

PARENTS ARE REMINDED THAT FIRST YEARS
ARE NOT ALLOWED THEIR OWN BROOMSTICKS

"Okay, I need three black robes and a winter cloak," Brianna said, looking back up at Madam Malkin.

"First-year then?" she asked, smiling.

Brianna nodded, grinning. "Yep!"

"That's wonderful. You'll love it at Hogwarts."

"I hope so."

Madam Malkin looked up at Dominic. "And what can I get you, Mr. Conner?"

Dominic smiled. "I need a new set of dress robes." He chuckled. "I grew out of them already."

Madam Malkin smiled, shaking her head. "You grow too fast, Mr. Conner. Before you know it, you'll be going through new robes every month."

Dominic shrugged, winking. "More business for you."

Madam Malkin laughed. "Yes, I suppose so. Well, come on, let's get you fitted up."

She led them into the back and had them stand up on stools. Madam Malkin threw a black robe over Brianna and began working on the measurements. Another witch came over and, after Dominic told her that he wanted dark blue robes with silver lining, the witch hurried off to get the cloth.

"What's your name, dear?" Madam Malkin asked while she worked. Brianna glanced over at Dominic, who was now having his dress robes fixed.

Brianna looked down at Madam Malkin. "My name is Brianna Olsen."

"That's a beautiful name, Brianna," Madam Malkin said, smiling.

"Thanks," Brianna said, smiling.

"I remember when I was a first-year. We had so much fun! I was in Hufflepuff, but I had friends in all the houses. Did your parents go to Hogwarts?"

"No," Brianna said, shaking her head slightly as Madam Malkin stood, working on one of Brianna's sleeves. "My parents . . ." Wait, should I tell her about the family that I live with? Or about my real parents? But . . . I don't even know my real parents, so I suppose I should just stick with the Muggle-born image; at least until I know about my parents. The Muggles have been taking care of me for so long, it's like they are really my parents. "I'm Muggle-born."

"Oh? That's very nice," Madam Malkin said, smiling. She winked. "I'm sure it was quite a shock when they got their first look at the wizarding world."

Brianna chuckled. "Yes, it was."

"Brianna, how do I look?" Brianna looked over at Dominic and her eyes widened.

"Bloody hell," she whispered, looking over the dress robes that Dominic now wore. They fit him perfectly and the dark blue and silver made his blue eyes stand out even more. The sleeves of the robe came down to his wrists, hanging about a foot beneath his arms. When he shifted slightly, the silver lining seemed to shimmer. He looked amazing!

"What?" Dominic asked, looking slightly worried. "Do I look that awful?"

"No . . ." Brianna whispered. "You look amazing!" He's so good-looking and those robes suit him perfectly. She smiled. Those girls will be all over him; that is going to be hilarious.

"Thanks!" He gave her a sideways look. "What are you smiling at?"

"Oh, just how all the girls are going to be all over you at the dances and I get to sit back and laugh," Brianna said, chuckling.

"I don't think so," Dominic said, smirking at her. "Brianna Jacquel, you're going to be with me in that mess."

"Oh really?" Brianna said, raising her eyebrows. "Are you going to drag me into that thrall?"

Dominic laughed and winked. "I'm a Slytherin. We get what we want; always."

Madam Malkin took the robe off of Brianna and went over to magic the other two and the winter cloak to the same size.

Brianna placed her hands on her hips, looking at Dominic, trying to be serious. "You think so? Well, I'm just going to have to prove you wrong."

"And, how, exactly, do you propose to do that?" Dominic asked, folding his arms and raising an eyebrow.

"My secret," Brianna said, smiling and turning to look at Madam Malkin, who had Brianna's robes in her arms. "Thank you, very much."

Madam Malkin smiled. "You're very welcome. It's always a pleasure to talk with such nice girls."

"Thanks!" Brianna said, grinning.

"Will you need anything else?"

"One more set of dress robes," Dominic said and Madam Malkin looked at him.

"For you?"

"No," Dominic said, shaking his head. "For Brianna."

"Very well." Madam Malkin took off Dominic's dress robe and took the pile of robes up front. She walked back, looking at Brianna. "What colors would you like, dear?"

Brianna looked at Dominic, shaking her head, and Dominic began whistling, acting innocent. She just laughed and looked back at Madam Malkin. "Surprise me."

"Hmm," Madam Malkin said, smiling. "A challenge. Very well." She stepped back, looking over Brianna and snapped her fingers. "I've just the thing." She hurried out and Brianna turned to Dominic.

"Dress robes?" Brianna asked, folding her arms in front of her chest. "Are you implying something, Dominic?"

Dominic shrugged, smiling. "You should be prepared for anything."

"First-years don't need dress robes."

"They are if they're going to the Niveus Ball."

Brianna didn't have a chance to reply, however, as Madam Malkin walked in at that moment, holding the most beautiful cloth she had ever seen.

"Oh, my Lord," Brianna whispered, her hand flying to her mouth as Madam Malkin held up the shimmering cloth. It was a deep, deep royal purple, and had dark blue intermixed. Covering the material was tiny silver stars that sparkled in the light.

"I had hoped you'd like it." Madam Malkin put the robe around Brianna.

"It's so soft!" she exclaimed, fingering the fine cloth.

"This is a very rare cloth; it is extremely soft and light."

Brianna looked at Dominic. "Close your eyes." Dominic did as he was told and Brianna turned to Madam Malkin, who, with a swish of her wand, made the cloth fit to Brianna's body, making her look very queenly. Brianna turned to Dominic. "Okay."

She grinned as Dominic stared at her open-mouthed. "Bloody hell," he whispered. "That color is perfect!"

"Thank you," Brianna said and took off the robe, handing it to Madam Malkin. "I'm going to get this."

"I'm glad. This cloth was made for you."

Brianna's cheeks tinged pink from the praise. "Thank you." Madam Malkin smiled and left. Brianna began following, then stopped when she realized that Dominic wasn't following. "Come on, you," she said, laughing.

Dominic shook his head, clearing the shocked look on his face, and grinned, walking after Brianna. Brianna laughed. "Slytherins."

"Pyros."

She just laughed as they paid for their robes. "Boys."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"You two have a nice day!" Madam Malkin said brightly.

"You too! Thanks again!" Brianna called as they walked back outside onto the sunny street of Diagon Alley. "Okay, now . . ." Brianna looked down at her supplies list. "Scales, telescope, cauldron . . ." She looked at Dominic. "Where can I get these?"

"Answer my question first."

"What question?"

"Um . . ." Dominic grinned. "I don't remember."

"Dominic!" Brianna cried, swatting at him and laughing. He ducked, laughing.

"Come on, then. Let's get your other things."

Within the next half and hour, they got her potion supplies, her telescope, brass scales, cauldron, gloves, and hat. They walked to Eeylops and Brianna picked out a snowy owl, which she named Firaxis.

At the present time, after stopping at Fortescue's to eat some ice cream, they stood in front of Ollivander's. "Wand time," Dominic said, smiling.

"Last thing," Brianna said and they entered the wand shop.

"Welcome!" an older man said, smiling. He was currently putting a few boxes away on the shelves behind the long counter. Finishing, he walked around the counter and up to Brianna. "First-year, I presume."

Brianna nodded. "Yep!"

Dominic walked over to a stool, sitting down and watching Brianna intently.

"And what's your name?"

"Brianna." Mr. Ollivander looked shocked, but smiled. What was that look for? "Well, let's get your measurements, shall we?" Mr. Ollivander said, and pulled a tape measurer from the pocket of his apron. "Which is your wand arm?" he asked as the tape measurer began moving around on its own.

"My left."

Mr. Ollivander's eyes went wide but he recovered quickly. "Very good. Yes," he said, but he seemed nervous.

"Mr. Ollivander, what's wrong with being left-handed?" Brianna asked, tired of the looks when she mentioned that fact. "Besides the fact that You-Know-Who was left-handed."

"Well, there's nothing wrong with it," Mr. Ollivander said quickly. "It shows a sign of great power. It's up to the witch or wizard to decide whether they will use it for good or for evil."

"Very true," Brianna said, nodding thoughtfully.

It was quiet for a few moments, and then Mr. Ollivander spoke, "Let me go fetch a few wands for you and we'll try them out."

Brianna looked at Dominic, smiling nervously. Dominic gave her a reassuring smile back. Mr. Ollivander came back at that moment, holding a few boxes. "Eleven inches, mahogany, unicorn hair," Mr. Ollivander said, handing Brianna a wand. "Just give it a wave."

She did, and nothing happened.

"Okay, let's see . . . Seven inches, maple, dragon heartstring." Nothing. "Twelve inches, holly, unicorn hair." Nothing. "Ten inches, oak, phoenix feather." Nothing. After about a half an hour, at which time Brianna's arm was beginning to get rather tired, Mr. Ollivander retrieved two more boxes. "Let's try this one," he said slowly. "Twelve inches, yew, phoenix feather." He handed her the wand and immediately golden sparks flashed out from the tip. "Interesting," Mr. Ollivander said, looking at her with an odd expression on his face.

"What do you mean?" Brianna asked.

"That's a very powerful wand you have there. Brianna . . . yes, I knew your father. Not many Brianna's out there, so you must be her . . . You look so much like him with your eyes . . . your mother's hair . . ." Mr. Ollivander said thoughtfully. "Yes, your father had quite a powerful wand as well. It seems it runs in the family."

"You know my father?"

"I remember every wand I've sold and to whom it was sold," Mr. Ollivander said proudly. At that moment, two girls came in and Mr. Ollivander said, "I have some more customers. It'll be five galleons." Brianna nodded and handed him the money.

"Can you tell me about him?" Brianna asked.

Mr. Ollivander swallowed uncomfortably, glancing at the customers. "I really must attend to them. I'm sorry."

Brianna sighed, watching in confusion as Mr. Ollivander talked to his newest customers. He knew my father! But how . . . how does he know me? This is so confusing! And why won't he tell me anything else?

"Ready?" Dominic asked and Brianna nodded mutely. The sun was beginning to set and the street was growing darker. They met Gabriel and Sarah back in front of Flourish and Blotts, where Brianna purchased her books.

Glancing once more down Diagon Alley, Brianna followed the Conners out of the street and into the courtyard behind the Leaky Cauldron.