Harry Potter and the Eye of Isis

Chapter 6 - Detention in the Dungeon

September 1, 1996

Harry, Ron and Ginny followed Mr. Weasley and Mad Eye Moody through the barrier at platform 9 ¾, with Mrs. Weasley and Remus Lupin right behind them. They actually had ten minutes to spare.

"This is a first I think." Ginny sighed as she began pushing her trolley into the back of Ron's legs. "We're never early."

"Knock it off, Ginny!" Ron glared back at her.

"Oh, look." Harry pointed. "There's Hermione."

Hermione was approaching them at nearly a sprint, her trolley flying in front of her. Harry held out his palms to brace himself for impact but instead Hermione and her trolley stopped abruptly a meter in front of him.

"Harry, I thought you were supposed to be careful about that?" she asked quietly, not wanting to draw any attention to them.

"What?" he asked while defending himself. "You were going to crash into me, I was just protecting myself." He hadn't realised that Hermione didn't stop of her own free will; he stopped her.

"I was going a bit fast, but you didn't have to hold me off. I was planning to stop."

"Hold you off?" he asked with a puzzled expression.

By that time Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were standing on either side of him. "You're going to get better control, don't worry, Harry," Mr. Weasley assured him. "It's almost like learning magic all over again. Use caution in class tomorrow."

"I hadn't even realised...." Harry looked around uncomfortably. "I'm sorry Hermione, I would never intentionally use magic against you."

"I know, Harry." She hugged him quickly. "It's good to see you again. I have so many questions for you."

"I bet." He smiled as he gave her a good squeeze.

Before Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny could get onto the train Mad Eye pulled the four to the side. "Now," his voice seemed to have a permanent growl to it, "all of you, watch out for each other. Constant vigilance! Do you understand me?"

"Yes, sir," they all snapped back. Moody turned, walking away making a clucking noise suggesting that he was disappointed with the level of enthusiasm displayed in their response.

Ron just rolled his eyes. "I think he's still mad about this morning."

Harry chuckled to himself recalling Moody (and Lupin's) reaction when they arrived at the Burrow. Dumbledore had just removed the Fidelius Charm but for some reason it took longer for the charm to wear off of Ron than the others. Ron had figured out that Moody and Lupin couldn't see him and decided to take full advantage of the situation. He kept following the two men around the house until Lupin looked over his shoulder, obviously catching a glimpse of something. Ron had shouted so loud that Moody fell forward while drawing his wand, poking himself in the face and popping his magical eye out of its socket. It rolled across the floor into the dustbin.

Needless to say, Mad Eye Moody was quite irritated with Ron.

Lupin had been shocked as well, but the hilarity of Moody scrambling on the floor after his rolling eye had been too funny to resist. He'd laughed almost as hard as Harry, Ron and Ginny.

They were getting their things settled into a compartment when Ginny spotted Neville, and beckoned for him to join them. Harry was grateful for Neville being there because he knew that Ron, Hermione and Ginny would have to go to the prefect's compartment for part of the journey, and it would give him an opportunity to visit with Neville.

Once the trunks were stowed, Mrs. Weasley gave a last round of hugs to everyone, including Neville, saving Harry for last. "Be careful. If you need anything, just write to me." She stepped away, beckoning Dobby to join her.

"How does this work?" Harry asked looking at Dobby, who seemed reluctant to leave his side. "Do other students bring their house elves to school with them?"

"I don't think so, Harry," Mr. Weasley answered, "but we'll make arrangements for him if he chooses to stay with you." He looked down at Dobby. "I think you'll need to come home with us for the evening, Dobby, and I'll talk to Professor Dumbledore straight away, okay? I'm sure we'll have you back at Hogwarts in the morning."

Dobby looked at Harry and when he nodded he went to Mr. Weasley's side. "See you tomorrow, Dobby."

"Good-bye, Master."

Hermione looked ill as Dobby called Harry 'Master' but said nothing because she didn't have the time. She, Ron, and Ginny left for their prefect meeting. Harry and Neville sat quietly in the compartment. Harry wanted to talk to Neville about his wand, but knew it was best to wait until he talked to Dumbledore first. He really hadn't had the opportunity while he was at Hogwarts, given that he was in a coma.

"Harry." Neville broke the silence. "I never thanked you for sending me Exotic Magical Plants: How to Grow Them In Your Own Backyard. It's really great."

"You're welcome, Neville." Harry smiled. "I thought that you might find it interesting."

Neville just nodded, but looked puzzled. "Harry, how did you know when my birthday was?" It didn't bother Neville, but he was curious. "Who told you?"

"Professor Dumbledore...in a way," Harry answered, but did not want to tell Neville about the prophecy; he didn't even want to tell Ron And Hermione about it. "He made mention that you and I were both born at the end of July, so I figured you're birthday was at the end of July." He smirked.

Neville just nodded, but looked as though he thought Harry were hiding something from him. "It's July 31, the same as you."

The train lurched forward, giving Harry a warm feeling all over. "It's good to get back to school, huh?" He thought he may be the strangest boy on the planet, not for being the Boy-Who-Lived, but because he loved school, and longed for a new school year to begin the moment the previous one ended.

Neville nodded. "It seems strange to me that we are almost finished. I mean, we're only going to go back one more time after today."

"I know." That thought frightened Harry. What would he do once these next two years had passed? Would he really be accepted into the Auror training? And did he seriously want to be an Auror? "A bit scary isn't it?"

"Oh yes, but we've got two years left."

Neville's comment helped Harry relax as he reclined in his seat wondering what this year would be like. Obviously, there would be more tension since a war had begun again. He was surprised at how quiet it had been in the past month. The only attack he knew about was the one on the Burrow, and he wasn't sure if that had even been reported.

Only a few minutes into the train ride their compartment door was flung open. Luna gazed at them absent-mindedly and slid into the compartment. She had an issue of the Quibbler tucked under her arm and her trunk dragging behind her.

"Do you mind if I share?" she asked with big eyes.

"Of course not, Luna." Harry jumped up and got her trunk for her.

"Thank you, Harry." She settled into the seat next to Neville. "I almost missed the train," she explained as she unfolded her magazine, flipped it upside down and buried her nose into it, but every few seconds she would glance up at Harry. Harry noticed the glances and stares. It was so unlike Luna that he finally had to ask her if he had something on his face.

"No, no," she insisted. "There's something different about you. You look...well...different."

"She's right, Harry, you look older somehow."

"Yes," Luna agreed with Neville, though not completely, "but that's not what it is."

Harry glanced out of the compartment door to make sure no one was standing about. "I'll tell you guys, but you must swear not to say anything." They both nodded. "I went through magus subolesco."

"Already?" Neville stared in amazement. "How long was it?"

"Seven days, seventeen hours."

"Bullocks, Harry." Neville had to contain his astonishment as he realised that Harry was going to be one of the most powerful wizards in history.

"Dumbledore doesn't want me to tell anyone, so please, don't say anything. Hermione and the Weasleys know, but that's it."

"We won't say anything," Luna said dreamily as she returned to her magazine. "I knew there was something different about you."

"Hey, Luna--" Harry interrupted her, needing to know, "--why do you read that upside down?"

Her eyes grew even wider, though Harry didn't know that was possible, as she let out a high pitched laugh and answered, "It's the only way to read the Quibbler."

Luna's laugh became softer but did not disappear completely for a few moments. With nothing better to do, aside from watching Luna engrossed in her magazine, Harry and Neville began a game of exploding snap.

About halfway into the journey Draco Malfoy stalked by their compartment. He glared at Harry but obviously thought better of starting a fight. Harry was relieved that Malfoy didn't enter. Without any training, he was afraid of being provoked. Already he was doing magic when he didn't mean to.

In the last few days, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley had to repair several dishes that Harry had broken just by looking at them. He'd also engorged the couch, and blown up a portion of the fireplace while lighting a fire. The accidental magic hadn't stopped either since he'd unintentionally stopped Hermione running into him on Platform 9 ¾. Even on the train he had done magic. While playing exploding snap with Neville, Harry accidentally burned him, extinguished the fames and healed the burn without realising he could perform a healing charm.

Harry wasn't sure what would happen if Malfoy provoked him, and Malfoy was definitely someone who knew just how to do that. Harry was certain that Draco Malfoy was the second-to-last person on earth that should discover the changes that Harry had been through over the summer.

Harry thought that the prefect's meeting was over since Malfoy was stalking about, but Hermione, Ron and Ginny didn't return for another hour. When they did Ron had the silliest grin on his face, reminding Harry of how Ron had treasured watching Barty Crouch Jr., posing as Professor Moody, turn Malfoy into a ferret and bounce him about.

"What's going on?"

"Two Slytherins were suspended from their prefect positions," Ginny explained.

"Malfoy is one of them." Ron smiled even wider. "He has to behave this year in order to get his badge back next year."

"Because of last year?" Harry asked.

"Not just that," Hermione answered, "it turns out the Malfoy and Pansy Parkinson were caught by Dumbledore doing some very un-prefect-like things to first years last June. They're both suspended from their prefect positions for the year."

"Wow, I'm surprised that the punishment was that harsh."

"It does seem a bit severe," Hermione concluded, "but they did seem to go above the call of duty to help that awful woman."

"He got what he deserved." Ron stated. "He never should have been a prefect to begin with. Always starting trouble, picking on younger students and such."

"Well, I'm sure it didn't help that his father is now a known Death Eater." Ginny offered. "It seems like that could've gone against him as well."

"Dumbledore has known that the Malfoys are Death Eaters for a long time." Harry pointed out. "That's no surprise."

It went without saying that they'd had enough talk about Malfoy, and the remainder of the train ride was playful, yet uneventful. They were at Hogsmeade station in no time. The six students split up into two different carriages. The carriages immediately began up the road to Hogwarts. It was a beautiful September evening, the moon hung brightly in the sky and Harry couldn't help but stare at it for a moment before entering the castle. This had probably been the best arrival he'd ever had.

Luna bade them a good evening and departed for the Ravenclaw table when they entered the hall, Ginny made her way to some friends in her year already sitting down, so Harry, Ron, Hermione and Neville had a seat in an empty section of the table. It wasn't long before they were utterly surrounded by students but Harry had his eyes focused on the head table.

"We've got some empty chairs up there." Harry said as he surveyed the Head Table. "I wonder who the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher is going to be."

"As long as it's not Umbridge, I don't care who it is." Ron sighed hopefully.

A hush fell over the great hall when the doors opened and Professor McGonagall entered with a group of first years trailing behind her.

"We're we ever that small?" Harry asked Ron. "They look so tiny."

"There doesn't seem to be as many as usual."

Hermione had already counted them. "Twenty-nine, it is a small class."

Harry and Ron kept speculating about the first years and didn't even pay attention to the hat singing it's yearly song. Harry picked up something about courage, freedom and fighting but other than that he didn't know what it had said, and wasn't really concerned because Hermione could quote it if necessary.

What pulled their attention back to the first years was the first name being called out. "Andrews, Maurice." A small dark boy took the stool. He looked a bit on the timid side and Harry hoped the hat would be kind to him. "Hufflepuff!"

"Thank goodness," Hermione let out a sigh as she looked the boy over. "It looks as though a stiff breeze might blow him over."

"Cooper, Alice."

Harry stifled a laugh. "Rock on." Hermione, too, laughed but Ron just looked at them like they were crazy.

"Slytherin!"

Cheers erupted from the Slytherin table as Alice took a seat. The noise from the Slytherin table would become hard to dull soon. Five first years in a row were placed into that house. Harry and Ron stared at the first years, willing one of them to make it into Gryffindor. Finally, after two more tries, a girl (Fought, Jeanette) became the first Gryffindor. Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Gryffindor seemed to get their fair share of new students, but the last four went into Slytherin. All told, five first years went into Gryffindor, but nine went into Slytherin.

"I wonder what that means?" Ron's brow was furrowed in thought.

"It means Voldemort is back..." Harry said quietly, but before he could say anymore, Dumbledore stood.

"Well done." Dumbledore looked over the students; his periwinkle eyes twinkled in delight. "Welcome to another year at Hogwarts! I have a few announcements to make then we shall get down to business. Though we have a few seats empty tonight, I wanted to let you all know that Professor Hagrid will be resuming his duties as gamekeeper and Care of Magical Creatures instructor. Professor Trelawney will also be resuming her duties with Firenze assisting her in her N.E.W.T. level classes. And of course, our new Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor, who will join us tomorrow, is Professor Romulus Lupin. Now tuck it."

Food appeared before them, glistening in the candlelight, but Harry didn't dig in. "Romulus Lupin? Do you guys think that he's related to Remus Lupin?"

"Probably." Hermione scooped potatoes onto her plate. "It is a full moon tonight, so maybe that's why he's not here. Perhaps he's staying with Professor Lupin."

"Or he's a werewolf too." Ron slurred, his mouth already stuffed full of food.

"That's disgusting, Ron." Hermione scolded him. "Didn't your mother teach you not to talk with your mouth full?"

He swallowed, seeming to appease her, but then tore off another large bite of chicken before speaking again. "Well, if he is related to Remus Lupin, Defense Against the Dark Arts is going to be as cool as the third year. Another Professor Lupin can't be bad."

"Cheers." Harry smiled at Ron. He had a good point. Besides, another Lupin couldn't be worse than Umbridge.

After the meal was over Dumbledore addressed the crowd again. He made his usual "forest is forbidden" speech and also informed the students that the ministry decrees passed by the former High Inquisitor were revoked. Most everyone cheered at that.

Ron, Hermione and Ginny went with the other Gryffindor prefects to get the first, second and third years settled into Gryffindor Tower. Before Harry could leave the great hall Professor McGonagall approached him. He followed her into the small room to the side of the hall.

"Mr. Potter, Professor Dumbledore has of course informed all of the staff as to what occurred this summer. We will all use discretion on your magical abilities; so if you are not asked to participate in class, please don't take offense. You never know who could be watching you."

"I understand, Professor."

"Professor Flitwick will meet with you every Tuesday night to help you acclimate to your new abilities..." seeming to anticipate why his mouth gaped open, she explained, "Professor Flitwick is an experienced dueller and quite good with charms. He will be perfect for you."

"Yes, Professor."

"Also, I've been told to inform you that you are eligible for the Gryffindor team again this year. Unfortunately, since you were removed from the team last year, you will actually have to try out again." Her eyes suggested that she was pleased, but her face didn't show it.

Harry felt a little pain in his stomach as he thought of completing against Ginny to get his position back.

"Normally, I don't tell a student who will be the next captain unless it is them, but I'm going to tell you that Katie Bell has been asked to be captain. She is the most senior member of the team, and since you were suspended last year, you aren't eligible to be captain."

"You don't have to explain it to me, Professor, I understand." Harry told her calmly even though his heart saddened a little at hearing this news. "To be honest with you, I've even thought about not trying out. Ginny is the Seeker now and..."

"If this has anything to do with the Dark Lord, I suggest you banish the thought. You cannot let him take over every part of your life."

September 2, 1996

Harry was spooning porridge into his mouth when Professor McGonagall set his schedule down in front of him and tapped on the top of the parchment. There was a hand written note from Professor Dumbledore asking him to come up to his office before his first class.

Harry was gathering his things when Katie Bell walked over to he and Ron. "Harry, Professor McGonagall told me that you are allowed to try out for the team again." He nodded at her. "Well, I've decided to hold full try outs, everyone has to make the team again. After what happened last year, I want to make sure we've got the best team possible."

Ron's face immediately sagged. "Great."

"Yes, try outs will be Saturday at two o'clock." Katie said and then walked away.

Ron glanced at Harry who was grabbing his rucksack with one hand and shovelling porridge in his mouth with the other. "Where are you going, Harry?"

"Professor Dumbledore wants to see me before Charms." Harry slurred. "Don't worry about Quidditch, Ron, you'll still be Keeper. See you in class."

Harry hurried from the Great Hall. He didn't know how long his meeting with Dumbledore would be, but he didn't want to be late for his first day of classes. He stood in front of the gargoyles to Dumbledore's office and stared. He hadn't asked what the password was. After five tries he blurted out, "Chocolate frog legs," and the gargoyles revealed the spiral staircase.

Dumbledore was sitting at his desk waiting for Harry. "I had a feeling that you wanted to talk to me about something, Harry."

Harry grinned and had a seat. "You never miss a trick, Professor." He set his bag down. "I wanted to ask to you about Neville's wand."

"I see." Dumbledore nodded. "You're wondering when Fawkes gave another feather?" Harry just nodded his head. "Fawkes saw fit to give another feather two years ago. Mr. Ollivander informed me that he crafted a wand with Fawkes's feather, and that wand chose a wizard this summer. I know that wizard is Neville."

"Doesn't that mean that Neville and I can...?"

"Yes, I believe it does mean that you and Neville will be having private lessons with Professor Lupin this year."

"Does that mean that maybe the prophecy is really Neville, sir?"

Dumbledore shook his head. "You lifted the orb from the shelf, Harry, so I have little doubt that you are indeed the child the prophecy spoke of. However, I do think that Neville with be a great asset to our cause."

"Two against one." Harry muttered the thought again.

"Thank you for coming up to see me, Harry. You don't want to be late for your first class." Harry grabbed his rucksack and slung in over his shoulder. "Is there anything else you wish to tell me?"

Harry thought for a moment, almost beating his brain about it when he realised what Dumbledore was getting at. "Mr. Ollivander gave me a wand. Did he tell you?"

"He told me that he gifted you a very special wand, but no more. If you wish to tell me I would like to know about this wand that Mr. Ollivander believes will help you against Voldemort."

"Godric Gryffindor's wand, it was a match for me, sir."

"That is an opportunity not to be passed." His eyes twinkled at Harry. "Mr. Ollivander doesn't often let anyone see a founder's wand, let alone try one. I'm very pleased to learn that it chose you. This is great sign." He was truly comforted by that. "Harry, I imagine it goes without saying that that wand is very special. Please use extreme caution with it."

"I haven't even used it, sir. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with it."

"I'm sure you will know when the time comes, Harry." Harry nodded and started to leave. "Oh, Harry, one other thing. Dobby--"

"I forgot, sir. Did Mrs. Weasley talk to you?"

"Yes, Dobby will be coming back to Hogwarts today. We will make special arrangements for him with the other elves. I hope you don't mind that he helps out in the kitchens again, I can't really have him following you to class."

"No, sir, I think he'd go mad after a bit with nothing to do."

Harry was thankful that Charms was his first class of the day. It was close and Professor Flitwick wouldn't react the way a certain Potions Master would at Harry being late. It was only a minute or so after the bell when he slid in next to Ron.

After class Professor Flitwick called him over. When Harry started to apologize for being late he told him he already knew why and that wasn't what he wanted to talk about. He simply informed him that his lessons would be at six o'clock sharp every Tuesday and they would last for ninety minutes.

Harry ran from the classroom to his next class, which happened to be Defense Against the Dark Arts. Ron and Hermione were already sitting together by the time he got there so he had a seat next to Neville. The class waited in anticipation for the new Professor Lupin to show himself.

As soon as the bell rang the door that connected the classroom to the Defense Against the Dark Arts office swung open and a tall wizard with long grey hair pulled into a ponytail stepped out. He was wearing black robes and in many ways his demeanour reminded Harry of Professor Snape.

"My name is Professor Romulus Lupin." He stood directly in front of the class, towering over the first row. "Yes, to answer your question, a former Professor is my brother, and no, I am not a werewolf. I am sure you are all aware that being a werewolf does not run in the blood, you actually have to be bitten.

"You will find that our teaching styles differ slightly. First, know that I do not accept tardiness. If you are late, you will not be admitted to my class. Second, as sixth year N.E.W.T. level students I expect you to be able to defend yourselves at a moments notice." His wand was suddenly in his hand and pointed directly at Harry.

Harry stood and shouted, "Protego!" the curse seemed to just bounce off of Harry.

"Take five points, Mr. Potter." He tucked his wand back into his robes. "In my class you will duel each other, you will duel me, and we will learn from each other. Is that understood?"

"Yes, sir!" the class shouted very happily. This is the kind of teacher that they wanted. No body cared if they got cursed every day. They hadn't had a decent teacher in two years, and Professor Lupin was certainly looking to be one.

After double Defense Against the Dark Arts they were dismissed for lunch. Harry was relieved that he wasn't the student that Professor Lupin called on to stay behind. Neville had that happy privilege. When he joined them at lunch it was obvious that his visit with their new Professor had been a pleasant one.

"He's going to give me private lessons." Neville said excitedly. "He said that his brother had told him I had raw talent and just needed to be trained up a bit."

"I'm not surprised, Neville." Harry said. "You did so well in D.A. last year. I think Professor Lupin's right, if someone were to work one on one with you, you'll be kicking my arse by Christmas."

They had a good laugh, but Harry and Neville shared a look. And Harry couldn't help but think that Neville was catching on; that Neville understood he was going to have to help Harry. Harry wondered if Neville had been told that he and Harry could perform tandem magic once they were trained. Maybe Neville was getting this training to bring him up to speed with Harry. Dumbledore did say that they would take lessons together. If only Neville was now, he must need some polishing up before Harry came in.

"Speaking of D.A.," Ginny leaned across the table towards Harry, "when are we going to start up again?"

All eyes fell on Harry. "Well, I hadn't really given it any thought. Do you think there will still be interest with Umbridge gone?"

"I know there is." Ginny nodded. "I've already been asked by some Ravenclaws when you're having the first meeting."

"How about a week after Quidditch try outs okay?" He suggested. "We've got to worry about getting our jobs back."

Ron nodded. "That sounds like a good idea to me, then I'll have something to keep me busy when Katie tells me to sod off."

Ginny seemed irritated with her brother. "Ron, stop talking like that. You're going to make Keeper again." All others tried to reassure Ron but he just grumbled at them as he returned to his lunch.

"What's next?" Ron clapped his hands when he was done with lunch, forgetting about Quidditch.

Hermione looked at her schedule. "Potions."

Ron glanced at his but didn't see Potions on his. "Are you sure yours is right, Hermione? Mine says Care of Magical Creatures."

Harry to looked at his. "Mine says Potions, too."

"I'm in Care of Magical Creatures as well." Neville told Ron. "I guess we didn't make the N.E.W.T. Potions class."

A smile spread from ear to ear on Ron. "Bloody hell, this is fantastic!"

"I don't know why you're so happy about not getting into a N.E.W.T. class." Hermione snapped. "Really, Ron--"

"Congrats mate," Harry looked a bit down in the mouth, "how did I get in?"

"You got an outstanding O.W.L. remember?" Hermione reminded him. "So you're in the N.E.W.T. class." She began packing her books back up. "We'd better get going. I don't want to be late for Potions."

Harry reluctantly agreed. Ron was still smiling when he wished them luck. Harry felt so jealous of Ron and Neville as he took a seat next to Hermione in the dungeon. They were out at Hagrid's hut and he was stuck in the dungeons about to endure another year of Snape's tortures.

"I must say that I am unpleasantly surprised to see some of your faces here today." Snape said as he entered the dungeon, staring directly at Harry. "However, if you received an outstanding O.W.L., by some miracle, then you are here for N.E.W.T. level Potions."

He tapped his wand on a chalkboard revealing a complicated potion that made Harry and Hermione exchange a sideways glance. "We will be starting this term off with polyjuice potion. It is difficult, and it will take a month to brew.

"You will be assigned brewing partners this term, they are as follows." He tapped the second chalkboard to reveal to the class their potions partners. "You will sit together, you will take exams together, and you will pass," he looked again at Harry, "or fail together."

Hermione was paired with Draco Malfoy of all people. She didn't complain though as she gathered her belongings and went to the table where he was sitting.

Harry couldn't really complain about his potions partner, but he did owe her an apology. Parvati Patil had a seat next to him. "Hi'ya, Harry."

"I'm sorry you got me. You know how he hates me."

"We'll live." She smiled as she spread out her things.

They began brewing the potion in silence, working together almost effortlessly. When he needed an ingredient she was already handing it to him, and when she needed something he seemed to know that as well. By the end of class they were both satisfied with the start of their polyjuice potion. Even Snape had stalked by several times and not been able to find anything to complain about.

He was obviously itching to get at Harry though because when Harry dropped an empty vial while clearing his table Snape seized the moment. "Detention Friday, Potter!" Harry just stared at him with evil eyes. "That will teach you not to make a mess in my class."

Several of the Slytherins were laughing at him as he cleaned up the glass. Parvati squatted down to help him. "He really does have it in for you."

Harry just nodded. "Thanks for helping me, Parvati." She just smiled at him and it was the first time he noticed how pretty her smile was. "Look, Parvati, I know it's been ages, but I still want to apologize about the Yule Ball."

"Harry--"

"I'm sorry. I was being a prat and..."

"Thanks, Harry." She blushed slightly. "I know how you can make it up to me."

"Anything, just name it."

"Make sure I pass this class."

"You got it." He couldn't help but smile at her, he felt hypnotized by her suddenly. "Are you in Divination next?" She nodded innocently at him. "Good, we'll walk together then."

Hermione joined Harry's side in the corridor and immediately begin complaining about how uncalled for his detention was. She didn't seem to notice Parvati walking on the other side of him.

"I expected it." He had expected it for some reason. Snape was looking for anything and it was only a matter of time before he found something to pounce on Harry about.

Hermione finally took notice of Parvati. "I hope his hate for Harry doesn't spill over onto you, Parvati. No offense Harry, but this will make the class harder for her too."

"It's okay, I'm sure it will be worth it." Parvati blushed and quickly changed the subject. "Harry and I have Divination next, we'll see you later, Hermione."

Hermione nodded as they ways for the next class. It was the first time that Harry had been without Ron or Hermione for a class as he climbed up the ladder behind Parvati to the Divination classroom. As quickly as he thought he'd miss not having Ron in Divination to fool around with, he caught sight of Parvati climbing off the ladder and the feeling disappeared. He sat with her during class, feeling suddenly that Divination was going to be an enjoyable class this year.

Though Harry was happy to descend the stifling classroom an hour later, he seemed down about watching Parvati walk away to her next class, which wasn't Transfiguration. Once she was out of sight he hurried to Transfiguration and was thankful to see both Hermione and Ron waiting for him.

Transfiguration went very well for Harry, and it felt strange to him to be leaving Transfiguration having achieved a complicated spell before Hermione. His performance had encouraged Hermione to do it faster, which resulted in one of her first catastrophes. Ron and Harry couldn't help but have a good laugh at their desk transfigured into a cross between a hornet and a seal. Professor McGonagall had to fix it. As a result of Harry and Ron's laughter, Hermione stomped off to her last class of the day leaving them in the corridor.

"She shouldn't get so sore." Ron shook his head as he loosened his tie. "It was bound to happen sooner or later. She can't always be first."

"Shh," Harry teased, "keep you're voice down, she might hear you." He too, loosened his tie. "It is a bit strange how things are just coming to me today. Do you know that I actually had a good gaze into the orb?"

Ron looked at Harry as if he had bees flying out of his nose. "The only good gaze into the orb for me would be to see a thousand galleons piled up on my bed."

"I'll second that." Harry laughed as they entered their dorm room. He was a bit startled to see Dobby waiting for him. "Hi Dobby, when did you get back?"

"This morning, Master."

Ron plopped down on his bed and took a shoe off. "Dobby, could you knick us some food from the kitchen? I'm starving." Dobby snapped his fingers and disappeared. "I bet he's been sitting in here all day waiting for you to give him something to do."

"Probably. Dumbledore said he'd like him to work in the kitchens while he's here but I wonder if it would have just been better to leave him at home."

Ron just laughed. "When we needed a house elf we didn't have one, now we're all in school and mum's got a house elf at her disposal. It's really ironic."

"Welcome to life, Ron."

Ron tossed his tie over to his trunk and noticed it was open and completely unpacked. He went over to the dresser and opened a few drawers. All of his belongings were neatly tucked away inside. "Harry, did he clear out your trunk too?"

Harry opened the lid only to find his broomstick inside. His books were stacked carefully on his nightstand, and he presumed his clothes were put away. "Yep."

"I guess we know what he did today." Ron chuckled, wondering if he had gone to Ginny's dorm and unpacked for her as well.

*

Tuesday found Harry in a somewhat different schedule. He didn't have a first period class, but Ron and Hermione started their morning with double Herbology. He was lazing around in the common room when Parvati joined him.

"It's odd, isn't it?" She asked as she sat. "Not having to rush off to class first thing after breakfast." He just nodded. "Harry, can I ask you a personal question?"

"Sure."

"What happened with Cho? Are you guys...?"

"Nothing really happened." He said as he thought about it himself. "Every time we were alone together, she'd want to talk about Cedric. I really didn't know what to say, and then she'd start crying. I think maybe she just wanted to hear...well, I don't know what she wanted to hear exactly. It was awkward."

"I imagine it was, and it seems to me that Cho was being unfair to you. There was no reason to make you relive the details, it happened to you as well." She sighed. "But I understand why she wanted to know."

Harry just shook his head, wondering if he'd ever understand girls. "Yeah, I guess I do, too. I just wasn't ready to talk about it, especially with the girl I had a crush on."

"Do you still have a crush on her?"

He shook his head realising that he was, in fact, over his crush on Cho. "No, that's done."

After their conversation in the common room, they left for Divination. The day was filled with Defense Against the Dark Arts, more Potions, and double Charms, followed by his first private lesson with Professor Flitwick. Wednesday passed quickly as well, and Harry began to dread the end of the week. His detention with Snape grew closer, and the days seemed to be passing too quickly.

On Thursday evening, Neville returned from his private lesson with Professor Lupin looking beat. He had apparently been put through hoops, and it was only his first lesson. Harry reassured Neville that he'd have it in no time because he was as good at Defense Against the Dark Arts as he was at Herbology. That seemed to perk Neville up.

Friday evening was the day that Harry was not looking forward to. His detention with Professor Snape started promptly at six with the cutting of frog legs. Harry was about halfway through his task when he felt odd. He felt eyes boring into the back of his head and immediately snapped around, held his hand out and sent a jolt of electricity towards the person responsible for trying to invade his mind.

Snape was knocked backwards onto his bum. He looked astonished at Harry as he picked himself up. "Better, Potter."

"This is really an Occlumency lesson?" Snape nodded at Harry.

The vial had been a means to the end. Snape had been asked to give Harry Occlumency lessons again and couldn't use Remedial Potions as an excuse now that Harry had made the N.E.W.T. class.

Without warning, Snape invaded again. This time it brought Harry to his knees and pain seared within him as he fought off the invasion. In a matter of moments, Harry thrusts his hands forward as if he were pushing off an attacker. Snape was a good five meters from him, but his professor went flying back as if he had been shoved hard.

Harry didn't stop there though. He continued forcing his mind until he seemed to be inside of Snape. He was immediately taken to the memory of a young boy shooting flies off of his wall with his wand with shouting going on in the background.

Then a new memory came to mind. A young Snape was facing a redheaded girl. She was sneering at him. "Who do you think you are Severus Snape? You're no better than me!"

A violent motion sent Harry soaring to the floor. "That was my mum." Harry said as he picked himself up off of the floor.

"You are not permitted to use Legilimency on me. Do you understand?" He was clearly irritated with Harry seeing into his mind, but continued. "Again!"

Harry felt weaker though and when Snape pointed his wand at him it took a minute for Harry to be able to force him out. He sent another jolted to him though, apparently stronger than the last because when he looked up for Snape he found him on the ground with a table lying on top of him.

"Professor!" Harry levitated the table off of him and offered him a hand to help him up. Snape refused the hand. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it."

"You will learn to control that new ability." Snape dusted himself off; refusing to acknowledge that the current of electricity Harry was capable of emitting was anything to be concerned about. "I will teach you."

"Professor, magus subolesco, can you tell me about it?"

"You've already gone through it Potter, what on earth could I tell you about it that you haven't already experienced?"

"What's normal?"

"You aren't, but that has never been a consequence to you."

"Professor Snape, I know it is your unhappy duty to try and train me, but I'm not my father. I'm sorry that he was a git, and I'm sorry I invaded your privacy." Harry returned to the table he was working at and resumed cutting the frog legs. He knew that he was not going to get out of doing that even if the detention had been a mockery.

"Potter, you lack respect--"

"I know, and I have to learn to control my temper."

"Yes."

"Will I have detention next Friday night as well?" Harry finished dicing quickly and pushed them to the side.

"Yes, you may leave now."

Harry left the dungeons calmly but he was anything but. His paced quickened until he began running to the Gryfinndor Tower. When he got to the common room he joined Ron and Hermione, who looked very cosy together by the fire.

"It was a farce." He told them as he sat. "Detention was an excuse for an Occlumency lesson. I have detention again next Friday."

Hermione nodded. "That makes sense, Harry. He needs a reason for you to be in the dungeons outside of class. Remedial Potions is not a viable excuse now." Harry nodded as he rubbed his scar. "It didn't go well?"

"Actually, it went very well. I blocked him twice, sent him across the room, and a table fell on him." Harry and Ron smiled at each other.

"I wish I could've seen that." Ron chuckled.

Harry continued rubbing his scar. Pain was beginning to radiate from it, but Harry said nothing to Ron and Hermione. "My head does hurt a bit, I'm going to go to bed."

Harry entered his dorm and climbed into bed fully dressed. He felt like his head was throbbing and for a moment considered going to Professor Dumbledore. Then he reminded himself that his scar always hurt after an Occlumency lesson. To try and relieve his worry he grabbed Quidditch through the Ages and flipped it open.

As he read he felt calmer, almost as if he were on a boat, silently rowing towards an unknown destination. Waves were gently lapping against the side of the vessel, and the thick fog hung in the air. Red eyes seemed to look at Harry as he drifted off to sleep.