Chapter Text
As Halloween approached I nervously hoped for a reply to my letter.
Every time the Owls swooped down and delivered letters I'd perk up. Obviously I wasn't trying to make it look too obvious, I didn't want anyone to know that I had written to one of the most feared dark wizards of all time after all.
I had decided that if two weeks passed with no reply then it wouldn't have worked out, and I'd have to find a new subject for my project in History of Magic. I'd written my letter on the October Fifteenth, so I'd give up if a reply wasn't here by Halloween.
Speaking of Halloween most all anyone in our year could talk about was Hogsmeade. I wasn't to bothered since I wouldn't be going, after all given Flitwick had signed my form I could technically go. However I knew that if I was a mass murderer, crazed, psychopath like Sirius Black and my targets were usually in a well defended castle with wards, I'd try and get them if they ventured out of said castle and to the nearby village where I could get to them easier.
Of course Harry still didn't see it that way. He was being his typical Gryffindor self, and was sulking and moody the closer we got to Halloween. I had tried to cheer him up, yet when Harry was in one of his moods I knew it was hard to snap him out of it.
I got a chance to see this up close one day, after Penelope had pulled me aside in the Common Room one morning.
"Hey Sarah, you mind finding Percy and giving this to him?" Penelope asked. Holding out a letter for me.
I smiled. "Of course Penelope. I won't let anyone but Percy see it."
With that I went to find Percy, I had to suppress a giggle. He'd taken Harry aside and was trying to convince him that Hogsmeade wasn't all it was cracked to be. Harry for his part wasn't looking convinced in the slightest.
"They make a fuss about Hogsmeade, but I assure you, Harry, it's not all it's cracked up to be," Percy was saying to Harry in a very serious tone. "All right, the sweetshop's rather good, and Zonko's Joke Shop's frankly dangerous, and yes, the Shrieking Shack's always worth a visit, but really, Harry, apart from that, you're not missing anything."
I noticed Harry trying not to groan as he nodded along, as I approached.
"Uh Percy." I said, as he turned to me.
"Ah Sarah." He said, noticing the letter. His eyes widened, then he quickly took it. "Uh, thank you." Percy gave Harry a look. "Anyways Harry remember what I told you. Don't be so down." And with that Percy walked away, clearly eager to read the letter from Penelope.
Harry turned to me. "What was that all about?" He asked with a raised eyebrow.
I made a zipping motion. "My lips are sealed." I chuckled.
Harry chuckled. "Was it from Percy's girlfriend? What was her name again? Penelope?"
I sighed. "Yes it was, but don't tell anyone. I know Percy is a little pompous. But Penelope is really sweet and nice and she asked me to keep this quiet."
Harry shrugged. "If you say so, I'll keep quiet about it."
I smiled. "Thank you." Then noticed his still glum expression. "Why don't you walk with me? I'll let you vent." I offered.
And Harry let a very soft smile creep onto his lips. "If you're sure."
"I am."
And with that the two of us walked the corridors. I let Harry vent. He told me one of his fellow Gryffindor's, Dean Thomas, was supposedly pretty good at forging things and had offered to forge Uncle Vernon's name. But given he'd already told Professor McGonagall about Uncle Vernon not signing it that was dead on arrival. He also said Ron had suggested using the invisibility cloak to sneak out, but Hermione had been the voice of reason and reminded them the Dementors would still be able to see them.
"It's just so annoying. That's all anyone in our year is talking about, Hogsmeade, and we can't go." He sighed.
I slowly nodded. I really did understand Harry's frustration, even if I myself wouldn't go until Black was caught, still.
"I know you're upset Harry, I truly do." I replied. "And I'm sorry we didn't get Uncle Vernon to sign those forms." I then tried to lift his spirits. "Maybe after Black's caught Professor McGonagall will." I suggested.
I knew she would, given Flitwick had signed mine and told me I could go only after Black was caught, I knew McGonagall would too despite her stern nature.
"Maybe." Harry mumbled, kicking a pebble as we made our way across the courtyard.
After a moment of silence, I tried to change the subject. "Where are Ron and Hermione?" I asked.
"Probably off arguing about Crookshanks again." Harry said in a annoyed tone.
"Ah." I replied, still not really knowing what to say to that.
Harry shook his head. "I'm sorry, I'm being a horrible twin brother. I know you're not going to be able to go either. I shouldn't be acting like a git to you."
"It's fine." I replied gently. "I know you were really looking forward to it, you can vent as much as you need to." I smiled softly.
Finally Harry gave a real, genuine, thankful smile. "I know. And even If I don't always show it, I'm always thankful for your support."
"Aw Harry."
He chuckled. "Anyways I better get going. Hermione was going to check over mine and Ron's potions essays this afternoon. I'll see you around."
"Yeah, see you." I smiled.
With that Harry strode off. I knew he was still upset about Hogsmeade, but all I could do was stay positive, and try to take his mind off it.
"I still can't believe you can't go to Hogsmeade with us Sarah." Padma said, disappointment etched in her voice as we sat around the Ravenclaw table on Halloween morning.
"It is what it is." I shrugged. "The Dursley's didn't sign either my or Harry's form."
All the Ravenclaw's at the table frowned, and looked annoyed at the situation. Of course Anthony and Lisa both knew the truth, that Black was the real issue here and that after he was caught I could go due to Flitwick signing my form for me.
But for now I had decided it was best to tell everyone that I couldn't go.
"It sucks." Terry said rolling his eyes. "Those gits you and Harry call relatives really need to be taken down a peg.
"Yeah." Michael added nodding. "What they need is a good hexing or something, would serve them right."
"Let's not talk about hexing muggles guys." Padma scolded gently, and the two rolled there eyes.
"You're no fun Padma." Michael said, a playful smirk gracing his features.
"No fun at all." Terry added, both he and Michael chuckling
Padma gave her signature sigh, shaking her head.
Meanwhile Mandy still looked very upset and disappointed. "Shoot. I was planning to take you and all the girls to Madam Snelling's..." Mandy sighed.
"Madam Snelling's?" I couldn't help but ask, raising my eyebrow. "What's that?"
"Only the best shop in the whole town." Mandy replied excitedly. "It's a hair dresser, and beauty parlor...I was going to get all our hair done..."
At that Morag snorted and shook her head. "I'm already wearing these earrings for you Mandy, I'm not going to get my hair done."
Mandy looked absolutely scandalized. "But we'd all look so cute!"
"And you think I care about that why?" Morag replied.
"Because we're thirteen year old girls and..." Mandy tried to explain.
"Sounds like a stereotype to me." Morag said.
"Come on Morag, you'd look brilliant."
"No."
"Come on. It would be fun if you just gave it a chance." Mandy said in a pleading tone.
"Again, no."
And with that Morag and Mandy got into a squabble, and me and Lisa shared a look.
"Well I'm sure you are going to have loads of fun." I said chuckling. "It seems Mandy has got everything planned out for you."
Lisa gave me a look. "I'm still waiting for the promised boys who are supposed to be carrying my books for me everywhere I go." She replied, a small smirk on her face.
"I think you're supposed to put in the effort to look pretty, then they notice you and do that." I replied, and Lisa gave a evil smile.
"Why do all the work when I already have a strong man to do it for me?"
With that Lisa turned and looked at Anthony, whom had mostly been eating and not paying attention. But when he was Lisa give her signature smirk, he froze and looked up.
"Uh...what is it?"
After breakfast everyone began to make there way down to the Entrance Hall to go to Hogsmeade. Well, everyone but me and Harry. He was still moping, especially this morning. And it seemed Hermione and Ron had finally stopped there bickering about Crookshanks and Scabbers for Harry's sake.
Meanwhile, my own friends were going through there own argument. Or more accurately, Lisa was simply driving Anthony crazy.
"I'm not going to carry everything for you today." Anthony said, rolling his eyes.
Lisa smirked, and raised a eyebrow. "Yes you are." She said, leaving no room for discussion.
Anthony didn't know if Lisa was teasing, or serious at this point. And I had to hold back a chuckle at the entire situation as all the third years entered the Entrance Hall. I noticed Smith over with the Hufflepuffs giving me an amused look, seemingly having figured out I wasn't going. I simply ignored him, while Mr. Filch was checking names off a list as to who could go and making sure no one who didn't have the form signed could.
"We'll bring you back loads of candy and what not." Anthony assured me.
"Yeah, and I'll make sure he carries them all." Lisa snickered again, while Anthony sighed.
"I know you two will, and don't worry about me, I'm sure I'll find something interesting to do." I assured them.
Anthony and Lisa gave me one final look, then nodded as they walked over to have there names checked off the list. Meanwhile Hermione and Ron were doing the same, and Draco seemingly noticed both of us not joining the line.
When Draco noticed I wasn't going, for just a moment I could have sworn I saw a mix of disappointment and annoyance? But when he noticed Harry, standing there looking glum, he smirked.
"Staying here, Potter?" Draco shouted, his stare making it clear which Potter he was talking about. "Scared of passing the dementors?"
More like scared of the mad man after us who'd betrayed our parents I thought to myself, luckily Harry didn't take Draco's bait and strode out of the Entrance Hall, and I followed behind.
"You okay?" I asked as we entered the empty corridor.
"Yeah." Harry said in a tone that made it clear he wasn't. "Listen, I think I'm going to head back to the Gryffindor common room...I'll see you later."
I slowly nodded, as Harry headed up the stairs and out of sight. Leaving just me standing alone in the empty corridor.
I thought for a moment. It was a Hogsmeade weekend. The Castle would be mostly empty other than first and second year students, and the Professor's who were to stay behind for this trip. For a moment I thought of heading up to the Ravenclaw Common Room, or the Library.
In the end, I decided to head up to the Owlery to check on Uric. Partly to simply make sure he was okay, and partly to confirm that my hoped for reply from Grindelwald was not happening.
Today marked just over two weeks since I'd first sent the letter. And given how quickly mail was usually delivered in the wizarding world, I pretty much assumed my gambit hadn't paid off and I'd have to do another subject for the History of Magic project.
I reached the Owlery, and first saw Hedwig. I gave her a little pat on the head. Then turned to the perch I knew Uric was usually at, but noticed he wasn't there. Confused I began to look around the Owlery for a moment, but before I could start to panic, Uric came flying back into the Owlery and landed on his perch.
And in his beak, was a neatly folded envelope.
And my heart nearly stopped.
I quickly went over. With one hand I gave Uric a gentle pat on the head, and with the other took the Envelope out of his beak. I looked at it, and saw some handwriting,
Sarah L Potter
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
There was nothing else to signify who it was from. I nervously swallowed, looked around to make sure no one was watching. Seeing that the only other living creatures were owls, tore open the envelope with shaking hands. Took out a piece of parchment from inside, slowly unfolded it, and began to read.
Dear Miss Potter.
I did, in fact, receive your letter in my cell. After consideration, I have decided to acquiesce to your request. Not out of the kindest of my heart mind you, but seeing as currently I have nothing better to do.
So please, ask your questions. Know I won't answer somethings, but I will what I can. Before you reply, you should know I will be brutally honest when I do answer. Don't expect me to sugar coat anything I tell you. You wrote me, you supposedly have read of me, so don't be surprised if some of my answers disgust or even disturb you.
Do write soon. It's not like I'm busy or anything.
Yours Truly,
Gellert Grindelwald
Convicted Dark Wizard.
I swallowed as I finished the letter, my hand still shaking. Gellert Grindelwald, the most infamous Dark Wizard before Voldemort, had replied. He'd actually replied.
"Merlin." I replied. Both excited but nervous as I read over the letter again. I could feel the bluntness and sarcasm of Grindelwald's word hit me like a train. After a few moments of standing there. I quickly refolded the parchment, put it back in the envelope, and put it in my robe pocket.
I decided I needed to reply as soon as possible, and I figured the best place to write said reply would again be Professor Binns classroom. So as normally as I could I made my way down the Owlery and towards the ghost Professor's classroom.
However around half way there. I found Harry, wandering the corridors alone, looking bored and lost. So I stopped.
"I thought you said you were going back to the Gryffindor common room?" I asked gently.
"I did but...well Colin was there." Harry replied, clearly trying to hide the annoyance.
I slowly nodded. I remembered Colin, that boy with the camera who'd gotten petrified last year. I'd heard he was still as obsessed as ever with Harry, and I couldn't blame him for not wanting to be hounded by him.
"Well I'll walk with you." I offered, knowing I had all day to write a reply.
Harry nodded, and softly smiled. "Thanks."
We walked for a moment, and I could tell Harry was thinking of doing what I'd just done, heading up to the Owlery. However before either of us could go any further, a voice called out.
"Sarah? Harry?"
We both turned, and saw that Professor Lupin was looking at us from his office door. He had a gentle look of confusion, warmth, and concern on his face.
"What are you two doing?" Lupin asked, in a very gentle tone. "Where are Ron, Hermione, Lisa, and Anthony?"
"Hogsmeade," Harry replied, clearly trying to sound casual.
"Yeah we...didn't get our forms signed over the summer." I added, knowing after how Lupin had helped me the other day, he wouldn't judge.
Harry looked embarrassed that I told Lupin that and seemed to shrink. While for the slightest second I thought I saw a flash of guilt on Lupin's face. Though as quick as it was there it vanished, a understanding tone on his face.
"Ah, "Lupin said looking us both over for a moment. "Why don't two you come in? I've just taken delivery of a Grindylow for our next lesson."
At the mention of the Grindylow, Harry looked confused, while I raised a eyebrow. I'd heard of Grindylow from Anthony in the past when he was on on of his reading sprees, though didn't know to much about them.
"A what?" Harry asked.
"Can we see it?" I asked curiously.
"Of course you can." Lupin replied, motioning us into his office.
We entered, and the first thing I noticed was a large tank of water sitting on a table in the corner of the room. Inside the tank was a creature with a sickly green color. It had small, sharp horns on its head. It's face was pressed against the glass, it was making faces, and flexing it long fingers again and again.
"Water demon," Lupin began to explain, his tone thoughtful. "We shouldn't have much difficulty with him, not after the Kappas. The trick is to break his grip. You two notice the abnormally long fingers? Strong, but very brittle."
I looked at it. Both disgusted, but intrigued. "Fascinating sir." I smiled.
Lupin smiled, and again I noticed though he was clearly fond of both of us. he was putting just a little more of his focus on me.
"Thank you Sarah." Lupin smiled, as in the tank the Grindylow bared its sharp teeth at us, then hid in some of the weeds in the corner of the tank.
"Cup of tea?" Lupin asked, as he began to look for his kettle. "I was just thinking of making one."
"All right," Harry replied rather awkwardly.
"Of course sir." I replied warmly.
Lupin found his kettle, and with a tap of his wand the kettle came to life. Steam pouring from the sprout.
"Sit down," Lupin told us, motioning to the chairs in front of his desk. "I've only got teabags, I'm afraid — but I daresay you've had enough of tea leaves, at least in your case Harry?"
Lupin was looking at Harry, clear amusement in his eyes. Clearly he'd heard about how Professor Trelawney was going on.
"How did you know about that?" asked Harry.
"Professor McGonagall told me," Lupin said, handing Harry his cup of tea. "You're not worried, are you?"
"No," Harry replied surely.
Lupin nodded. "Good." He then turned to me, handing me his cup of tea. "As for you, I've heard you have quite the future ahead of you, if what Professor Flitwick told me is true." Lupin chuckled.
My cheeks flushed, and I cleared my throat. "Well...hopefully Harry won't need me to save him from certain death. Not that I wouldn't try mind you, but, well he's the one who's gone on all these crazy adventures."
"So I've heard." Lupin nodded, stroking his chin thoughtfully. There was a moment of silence as we drank our tea. I glanced over to Harry, seeing a troubled look.
Lupin clearly saw this too, as he spoke.
"Anything worrying you, Harry?"
"No," Harry replied. Both me and Lupin shared a quick look. It was obvious Harry was lying about something, and for a moment I was worried he also knew the full truth behind Sirius Black.
"Yes," he said suddenly, putting his tea down on Lupin's desk. "You know that day we fought the boggart?"
"Yes," Lupin replied slowly.
"Why didn't you let me fight it?" Harry asked
Lupin raised his eyebrows.
"I would have thought that was obvious, Harry," Lupin replied sounding surprised.
"Why?" Harry asked, clearly taken aback Lupin was being so honest with him.
"Well," Lupin replied, slightly frowning, "for the same reason I held you sister back, I assumed that if the boggart faced you, it would assume the shape of Lord Voldemort."
I shuddered at the name, and Lupin looked apologetic.
"My apologies Sarah, I forgot you don't like hearing the name." Lupin said.
"It's fine sir." I replied, while Harry simply stared at Lupin, surprise evident on his face.
"Clearly, as with your sister here, I was wrong," Lupin frowned, still a slight frown on his face. "But I didn't think it a good idea for Lord Voldemort to materialize in the staffroom. I imagined that people would panic."
"I didn't think of Voldemort," Harry replied, his tone honest. "I — I remembered those dementors."
I again shuddered at the thought of those vile, disgusting creatures.
"I don't blame you." I said, my face contorting in disgust at the thought of those creatures.
"Nor do I," Lupin replied, again looking thoughtful. "Still Harry … I'm impressed." Lupin smiled as a surprised look graced Harry's face. "That suggests that what you fear most of all is — fear. Very wise, Harry."
Harry clearly didn't know how to respond to that, so took a sip of tea and turned to me.
"What's your boggart Sarah?" Harry asked curiously.
"I'm not sure." I admitted. "I mean, you know how I am Harry, scared of everything. But nothing really stands out over anything else." I turned back to Professor Lupin. "The professor here actually promised to let me take a crack at one if he finds another one."
"I did." Lupin nodded, giving quick smile, before turning back to Harry. " In any case, I'm assuming, you've been thinking that I didn't believe you capable of fighting the boggart?"
"Well … yeah," Harry admitted, and from his tone he seemed to be in a lot happier of a mood. "Professor Lupin, you know the dementors —"
Before Harry could finish his thoughts, there was a knock on the door. And Lupin looked up at it.
"Come in," Professor Lupin called.
With that the door opened, and Professor Snape strode in. He was carrying a large goblet, and I could see that whatever potion was inside was smoking. As soon as Snape noticed me and Harry he stopped. He first glanced at Harry, his eyes narrowing and for the first time I really saw what Harry said when he said Snape despised him. His eyes then found me, and the hatred was gone, replaced by something I couldn't quite make out, Before fading to it's usual neutrality and professionalism.
Out of the corner of my eye I saw Lupin tense when Snape was looking at me, like for a second he wanted to yell, or pounce on Snape. But like with Snape, this look almost instantly vanished, as Lupin gave his usual gentle, professional smile.
"Ah, Severus," Lupin said. "Thanks very much. Could you leave it here on the desk for me?"
Snape placed the goblet on the desk. He looked at both Harry and Lupin with hatred, and I noticed that he was now totally ignoring me. And anytime he even looked like he may, Lupin would tense up behind the kind demeanor.
I knew something else was going on here, something clearly way above either mine or Harry's head. Harry for his part, clearly was trying not to openly glare back at Snape, and hadn't noticed the weird song and dance going on between Lupin and Snape over me.
"I was just showing Harry and Sarah my grindylow," Lupin eventually told Snape in a pleasant tone.
"Fascinating," Snape replied, not even glancing at the tank as he stared at Lupin. Clear hatred behind the feigned professionalism. "You should drink that directly, Lupin."
"Yes, yes, I will," Lupin replied.
"I made an entire cauldronful," Snape continued, still clearly trying to avoid looking at me in any way, as if he knew Lupin would do something if he did. "If you need more."
"I should probably take some again tomorrow. Thanks very much, Severus." Lupin replied nodding.
"Not at all," Snape replied, and in his black eyes I could see a look I'd only seen directed at Smith during the worst of times, like when he'd knocked the burning potion all over me in our first year.
With that Snape slowly backed out of the room. He still avoided looking at me, looking at both Harry and Lupin with a dark expression.
When the door shut some of the tension in the room faded. I noticed Lupin was looking at me, worry and concern in his eyes. Which greatly confused me. After all, the one Snape hated was Harry, not me.
"You okay Sarah?" Lupin suddenly asked in a concerned tone. "Professor Snape didn't stress you out or anything, did he? After all I may be cordial, but I know the man's reputation."
I was really confused now. "Uh no." I replied awkwardly. "In fact Snape has always treated me better than most. Surely you've heard that?" I asked confused.
Lupin bit his bottom lip, and nodded. "Indeed I have, I've heard how he treats both of you."
Then why was he more concerned with me than Harry? Snape's hatred Harry was known far and wide? If Lupin had to be concerned for either of us, shouldn't it be Harry?
This entire situation only made me more confused about Snape than ever.
Meanwhile Harry, was now looking at the goblet on Lupin's desk. Curiosity and worry on his face, as Lupin turned to him, a smile now appearing on his face.
"Professor Snape has very kindly concocted a potion for me," Lupin explained. "I have never been much of a potion-brewer and this one is particularly complex." Lupin continued, picking up the goblet and sniffing whatever was inside. "Pity sugar makes it useless," Lupin finished, taking a sip and shuddering.
"Why — ?" Harry began.
"I've been feeling a bit off-color," Lupin explained, as he answered Harry's unfinished question. "This potion is the only thing that helps. I am very lucky to be working alongside Professor Snape; there aren't many wizards who are up to making it."
As Lupin took another sip, I noticed Harry looked worried. And I could tell Harry was on another of his, Snape is up to evil, episodes.
"Professor Snape's very interested in the Dark Arts," Harry quickly blurted out.
"Really?" Lupin asked, seemingly only half interested in what Harry was saying.
"Some people reckon —" Harry hesitated for only a moment, then continued., "some people reckon he'd do anything to get the Defense Against the Dark Arts job."
Despite Harry's clear inclinations, Lupin didn't seem overly concerned. As he drank the entire goblet, a grimace coming across his face.
"Disgusting," Lupin said as he placed the still smoking goblet down. "Well, Harry, Sarah, I'd better get back to work. I'll see you both at the feast later."
"Right," Harry replied, putting down his teacup.
"Of course sir." I replied, standing. For a moment I really wanted to ask why Lupin looked ready to throttle Snape when he'd looked at me, but I quickly pushed the thought down. "See you then."
With that me and Harry left Lupin's office. As soon as we were out of ear shot Harry spoke.
"I sure hope Professor Lupin knows what Snape's making him." He says.
I sighed. "Harry, do you really think Professor Snape would hurt Professor Lupin?"
Harry instantly nodded. "Of course I do. We both know how much Snape seems to hate Professor Lupin. Add in the fact he's been after the defense job for years, it isn't that far fetched."
I shook my head and sighed. "I think you're just letting your personal hatred cloud your judgment." I replied, and Harry raised a eyebrow.
"Come on Sarah. You saw how Snape was glaring at Professor Lupin."
"Yeah. But he does that to a lot of people. Don't get me wrong Harry. It's clear that Professor Snape doesn't like Professor Lupin. But it doesn't mean he's trying to kill him." I replied firmly.
Harry groaned. "Maybe your just biased because Snape doesn't treat you like crap." Harry replied, and I sighed.
"Harry, you literally thought Professor Snape was after you in first year and were wrong. People can dislike each other without trying to kill each other."
Finally Harry relented. "I still don't like it." He murmured. "I'm going to head back to my common room, hopefully Colin isn't there now. See you later."
I nodded. "Yeah. See you Harry." I said, as he disappeared down the corridor, again leaving me alone.
With that I remembered the parchment in my robe pocket, and continued on my way to Professor Binns classroom. Like usual the ghost was sitting at his desk not doing anything, and when I arrived he raised a eyebrow.
"Yes?" He asked.
"My…project sir, remember?" I asked him.
After a moment the ghost seemed to remember what I was talking about, and nodded.
"Oh yes. Do you have another letter to send?" Professor Binns asked.
"I need to write one. May I use one of your desks like last time?"
Binns nodded. And I sat down at one of the desks, took out my own parchment, and began to write my second letter to Grindelwald.
Dear Mr. Grindelwald.
Thank you for the reply, and the willingness to participate. I'll keep this letter nice and short, as to get to the point. My first question is as follows.
Why did you do what you did? I understand you wished to break the statue of secrecy, but why? As the history books say, was it to rule over muggles? Or was there another reason?
Any details you'd willing to share, I'd be thankful. I'll ask more specific questions as we go on, and I hope the question I have asked isn't to intrusive.
Again, I think you for even considering my letters,
Yours Sincerely,
Sarah L Potter
I quickly scanned over the letter. I didn't want to ask to many questions at once, so had decided on a more open ended question of overall intent of the man. Could he just reply his usual platitudes? Maybe, but I thought the first question shouldn't be to personal or invasive.
When I was satisfied with the letter, I went up to Professor Binns desk. Like last time, I placed the letter in one of the envelopes on Binns desk, and like last time it was automatically sent as a school owl came swooping into the office, grabbed the envelope, and took off.
I bid Professor Binns goodbye, then quickly made my way to the Ravenclaw common room. When I arrived I saw Sandra and her followers huddled in the corner, all of them looked at me in annoyance.
I ignored them and made my way up to my dorm, once inside I got into my personal belongings, and placed the letter Grindelwald had wrote me in the very bottom, buried under everything I could, making sure no one would be able to find it.
Once that was done I made my way down into the common room. Having no desire to have Sandra and most of the second years glance and glare at me, or the new first years look at me in awe, I quickly left. And just as I was wondering what to do now, I saw a familiar figure skipping ahead of me in the empty corridor, a bucket in her hand.
"Hey Luna." I smiled, speeding over to her as she turned.
"Oh, hello Sarah. How are you?" She asked, looking at me in that usual dreamy expression of hers.
"I'm well." I replied, glancing at the bucket. "What's that?" I asked, noticing the bucket was filled to the brim with strawberries.
"Oh, well I decided I wanted to try and feed the Thestrals. Care to join?" Luna asked.
I tilted my head. "Thestrals?"
"Yes. They're magical creatures, and can only be seen by those who have witnessed and understood death." Luna explained her expression thoughtful.
I slowly nodded, though I wasn't sure if a Thestral was real, or simply something that Luna thought was real. Still, seeing as everyone else I knew was in Hogsmeade, I nodded.
"Well lead the way." I smiled.
Luna did, as I followed her though the empty corridors, to the entrance hall, and out onto the grounds, Luna skipping the entire time. As we walked, I was curious.
"Where are these Thestrals anyway?" I asked.
"Well there's a herd the school keeps, they're what pull the carriages." Luna explained.
I nodded, thinking back to the carriages that had brought us up to the castle from the train platform these last two years. I had always assumed they just pulled themselves, but if Luna said they were being pulled.
I guess I was wrong.
Luna led me towards the edge of the Forbidden Forest, near Hagrid's hut. Part of me wanted to stop and see if he was home, but from the outside it didn't look like anyone was home, and given I knew Hagrid liked to visit the Three Broomsticks during the weekends, I guessed he was there like most of the school.
We skimmed the edge of the Forbidden Forest for a while, as I was reminded of the first Care of Magical Creatures class earlier this year. I also kept taking nervous glances into the Forbidden Forest, hoping Luna wouldn't want to actually enter the dreadful place.
Luckily she didn't as soon enough we found an enclosure, much like the one the Hippogriffs had been in.
"We have permission to do this right?" I asked as Luna unlocked the gate.
"Nope, none whatsoever." Luna replied cheerfully, as she opened the gates. "But I'm sure it's fine, after all how could we get in trouble for feeding them."
I bit my bottom lip. "If you're sure Luna." I replied, following her into the pin.
It was a rather large area, with lots of trees for shade, a small pond, and lots of shrubs. Looking around I couldn't see anything, but given Luna had said only those whom had witnessed and understood death, that made sense.
After all, despite some chilling memories, I don't remember my parents...passing.
Luna for her part was looking around in a pleased tone. Already taking a strawberry out of her bucket. And walking over towards the edge of the pond.
"Do you know where you're going?" I asked gently.
"I am, don't worry." Luna replied, turning to face me. "I can see them."
At this my eyes widened, and sure enough as Luna held out the strawberry, something took it from her. I watched in amazement as the strawberry seemed to float in mid air for a moment, as if it was in the creatures mouth. But then after a moment the strawberry dropped to the ground, as if the Thestral didn't want it.
"Oh darn." Luna said biting her lip thoughtfully. "I thought for sure the Thestrals would like strawberries, I guess it's back to the drawing board."
"You didn't know?" I asked, raising eyebrow.
"Nope." Luna said as she picked the discarded strawberry up and placed back in her bucket. "I've been trying to see what they liked without looking it up in a book. Last year I tried bananas, and peaches. Maybe I should try plumes?." She muses.
I couldn't help but let out a small chuckle. Luna had come all the way down here, a heavy bucket of strawberries, without even knowing if the Thestrals would like them.
It was so Luna.
"Well when you find out, do tell me. How often do you come down here anyways?" I asked, as Luna seemed to be gently petting one of the Thestrals.
"Oh, maybe once or twice a term. Really just depends on how much school work I have, and the weather. And finding all the fruit I'd need takes time." Luna replies, still petting the Thestral.
I just watch the scene for a while. It was odd. I could tell there was something there, something Luna was petting, even if I couldn't see it.
"What do they look like?" I finally asked curiously.
Luna bit her bottom lip in concentration, and looked at where I assumed the Thestral was as she began to explain. "They have the basic figure of a horse, but have no flesh. They're totally skeleton, with a dark grey coat, and also have large wings to they can fly. They're faces kind of have the look of a dragon, with a pointed beak instead of any sort of tongue. Finally, they have pure white eyes with no pupils."
I slowly took in what Luna was describing, and had to admit the creature didn't seem all that nice to look at. But from how Luna was smiling and gently petting it, she seemed to adore them.
"Would you like to pet it?" Luna turned to me, a warm smile on her face.
I swallowed. Part of me wanted to shake my head, to say no, to say that Thestrals sounded terrifying. But the way Luna was looking at me, with that innocent, kind, and welcoming look. I slowly nodded.
"Sure." I said as I slowly walked over to where Luna was standing near the ponds edge.
Once I was standing right next to Luna, she gently took my hand and guided it until I felt it. It was just as she described. The feeling of bony flesh, yet at the same time it wasn't as monstrous as I imagined it would feel.
"You're petting it around the neck." Luna explained as she went back to petting it herself. "Aw, I think he likes you."
"Likes me?" I asked confused, when suddenly I felt breaths against the side of my head, as if the Thestral was right next to, and looking right at me.
Luna giggled. "He really does like you."
I went rigid for a moment, then took a deep breath. After a few more moments of petting I turned to Luna. "This isn't so bad."
"Not at all. People usually don't like Thestrals because they either can't see them, or because they look the way they do. But they're actually really sweet and gentle once you get to know them." Luna said fondly.
I nodded, and for the next several moments we petted the Thestral together in silence. The longer I did, the more comfortable I became. Until eventually I turned back to Luna.
"You were right Luna, this is really amazing."
Luna smiled. "I'm glad you think so."
Another few minutes passed, and I couldn't help but wonder.
"You said only those that had experienced and understood death could see Thestrals, right?"
Luna nodded. "Yes."
I bit my bottom lip, not sure if I should ask. But Luna already seemed to know what I was thinking.
"It was my mum." Luna began, a hint of sadness on her face. "She loved to experiment all the time with different spells. One day when I was nine and playing by the mantle while my mum was working and...there was an explosion and...she was gone."
And instantly I felt so sorry for Luna. "Oh Luna, that's horrible."
Somehow Luna managed to look at me. There was still sadness, but also acceptance.
"It makes me sad sometimes, but I still have my dad. And besides, I know I'll see her again someday." Luna said, and at that I nearly chocked up, thinking of my own parents.
"That...is a really mature way to look at things Luna." I said softly.
"Thanks." Luna said, turning back to the Thestrals. "I knew she wouldn't want me to mope or be sad, but to live life."
I swallowed, nodding. "True that Luna, true that."
Another few moments passed as we petted the Thestral. Until finally Luna pulled away and I did the same.
"Well, we best get back up to the castle." Luna said, as she picked up her bucket of uneaten strawberries.
"Yeah." I replied, following along as we exited the enclosure, Luna closing it back up, then the two of us began the long track back up to the castle.
"Thank you for letting me join you today Luna, and for trusting me enough to share what you shared." I said softly.
Luna turned to me, a soft smile on her face. "Well you've always been really nice and kind to me since I arrived. And I also know you understand, given what you and your brother have gone through."
I swallowed. "I do Luna, I do." I said looking up to the sky. "Today's actually the anniversary, twelve years ago today."
I was now Luna's turn to look sympathetic. "I'm sorry. If it's any comfort, I'm sure your parents are proud of both you and Harry." Luna told me.
At that I closed my eyes for a moment, took a deep breath, then turned to Luna. "You really think so?"
"Of course." Luna smiled. "You're such a nice and kind person, and though I've never really interacted with Harry, he saved the school last year. So I'd say they are."
I gave Luna my own smile. "And I'm sure your mum is proud of you too Luna."
"Thank you." Luna smiled.
The rest of the trip back to the common room was quiet, neither of us saying much. But from then on I knew one thing, I wasn't going to just defend Luna out of principal anymore.
I wanted her to be my friend, no matter what anyone else thought.
I spent the rest of the day before Anthony, Lisa, and everyone else got back from Hogsmeade with Luna. I sat with her in the common room, and made sure Sandra nor any of her cronies so much as looked at Luna wrong. I listened to Luna talk about her father, there magazine the Quibbler, and all the creatures she believed in. From the Nargles, to the Crumple-Horned Snorkacks, and everything in between. And though I didn't think any of these creatures were real, who was I to tell Luna they weren't.
Eventually, around dusk, Anthony, Lisa, and everyone else returned from the day at Hogsmeade. Lisa and Anthony made there way over to the corner me and Luna had been sitting in, and to my surprise and slight amusement, Lisa had made Anthony carry everything.
"Here you are." Lisa said, as Anthony put the large bag down in front of me, clear annoyance on his face.
"You happy now?" Anthony snapped at Lisa. "Carried everything back up here."
Lisa only laughed. "Oh very happy Anthony." She said, opening the bag and began to show off all the things they'd gotten.
"Wow." I said as I began to look through the different candies. "You have to tell me all about it." I said.
"Well it was amazing." Anthony said, a little calmer now that he wasn't carrying anything. "There was Dervish and Banges, which had wand polishing kits, Sneakoscopes, and so on."
"Then there was Zonko's Joke Shop, which was basically the Weasley twins heaven." Lisa said chuckling.
The pair went on and on. So many shops and locations. From the supposedly amazing post office, the famed Three Broomsticks, Honeydukes, and so on.
"Mandy was really, really upset you weren't there. She really wanted you to get to try out Madam Snelling's." Lisa said.
"And how was that?" I asked raising a eyebrow.
Lisa shrugged. "I didn't try, I was to busy making him carry things for me." Lisa snickered, looking at Anthony who just seemed to sigh in defeat.
"Yeah, yeah." He sighed, slouching.
"In any case it did look pretty impressive though." Lisa went on. "Like, you should have seen all the hairstyles you can get. Anyways enough about that, how was your day?" Lisa asked, as both her and Anthony turned to give me there full attention.
"Well." I began slowly. "I had a cup of tea with Harry, and Professor Lupin. Then spent most of the rest of the day with Luna here." I smiled, motioning to Luna who was currently in the chair next to me, reading another copy of the Quibbler.
Both Lisa and Anthony's eyes widened, giving Luna a quick look.
"Really?" Anthony asked curiously.
"Yeah. Me and her really had a great time." I replied, not telling them about the Thestrals...given it was so emotional for both of us we'd decided to keep it to ourselves, at least for now. "She told me all about different creatures, and we just had a blast. Didn't we Luna?" I asked, turning to Luna.
"We did indeed." Luna said standing. "Anyways we better get to the feast, I do hope they have pudding."
With that Luna skipped off. Anthony and Lisa gave me a look.
"All day?" Lisa asked raising a eyebrow.
"Yep." I replied, unabashedly.
Lisa sighed. "You're to nice sometimes Sarah."
"I'll take that as a compliment."
With that the three of us made our way down to the Great Hall for the Halloween feast. Like years past, the Great Hall was decorated brilliantly. Hundreds of floating pumpkins, all with a candle inside, were everywhere. The usual cloud of live bats swooping overhead, and dozens of orange streamers covered the walls.
We all sat down, and I made a point to sit down right next to Luna. Anthony and Lisa shared another quick glance, then sat across from us. Around us the rest of the third years settled. Michael and Terry already looked stuffed from all the candy they'd gotten from Hogsmeade, and Padma was telling them she'd told them so. Mandy's hair had clearly been through Madam Snelling's while in Hogsmeade, as it was in a very fancy and complex bun. Clearly though she was upset she couldn't get the other girls in our year to go along with it.
"I promise, if I ever get to go to Hogsmeade I'll go Mandy." I told her, trying to cheer her up.
Mandy did seem to pop up a little at that. "Really?" She asked, her eyes excited.
"I promise." I nodded.
Mandy squealed in delight at this, going on and on about how pretty my hair would look done up.
I glanced over at the Gryffindor table at Harry to see if he was in a better mood. He mostly seemed to be, though I saw him glancing up at the staff table. Curiously, my eyes followed his, and I saw he was watching both Professor Lupin, whom was having a seemingly cheerful discussion with Professor Flitwick, and Snape, whom seemed to glare at Professor Lupin every chance he got.
I realized he was still wondering about that potion Snape had given Lupin.
"Typical Harry." I sighed, shaking my head.
Soon enough the feast came to a end. The ghosts of Hogwarts rounded out the night by gliding together through the hall. Nearly Headless Nick did a reenactment of his own botched beheading, and I noticed our own house ghost, the Grey Lady, in a dark corner near our table, just watching with her usual guarded expression.
With that we all began to file out. On our way out I caught a quick glimpse of Smith who glared at me like usual, then I heard Draco shout at Harry.
"The dementors send their love, Potter!" Draco laughed, luckily Harry ignored him, as we split off and made our way up to Ravenclaw tower.
However we had maybe been there for a good ten minutes, when the door to the common room opened and Professor Flitwick entered, his earlier cheerful expression gone. As he cleared his throat and spoke.
"Everyone is to head back down to the Great Hall at once." He announced.
Everyone was confused, and as everyone started to make there way back out of the common room, he found me and walked over.
"You are to stay next to me as we walk down Miss Potter." Professor Flitwick said.
And for a moment I was confused, then my eyes widened in shock, and Flitwick sadly nodded.
"Sirius Black is in the castle, and tried to get into the Gryffindor Common Room earlier tonight."