Unofficial Portkey Archive

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Professor Terrwynebas

When Harry woke in the morning, it took a few moments to remember he was Head Boy. Every time before, he would be woken by his roommates. Now that he was alone, he woke to complete silence, with the exception of the odd bird he would hear from the window. He looked at his watch, and was glad to find he was early for breakfast. He continued to lie in bed for a few minutes, embracing the silence, and silently praying it wasn't a terrible mistake to return to Hogwarts. After a few moments of this, he let out an audible sigh, went ahead, got dressed, and proceeded to the common room. Hermione was already there in her school robes, reading one of Dumbledore's books.

`Morning' mumbled Harry, as he took a seat in front of the fireplace and yawned. The dying embers in the fireplace made the odd crackle here and there. From the large undraped window on the far wall, Harry could tell the day would be cloudless and pristine.

`Morning Harry' Hermione acknowledged, not looking up from the tattered book.

`Couldn't wait, could you?' Harry remarked. Hermione finally tore her gaze from the ancient book, and smiled.

`Well, I would have started on these last night, but I was too tired. Could barely sleep wondering what's in them. This one' she held it up, showing Harry an old leather bound notebook, `was Dumbledore's notebook. You should see it Harry, there's so much stuff in it!'

`Well, maybe you could read more at breakfast, `cause I'm hungry' he mentioned, his stomach notifying him of its emptiness. Hermione marked her page, and stood up. They exited the Head dormitories, and made their way to the Great Hall. When they entered, Harry found almost all the students were looking at newspapers, with fearful looks on their faces. Harry glanced towards the professor's table, and found the professors doing just the same. Professor McGonagall looked almost as worried as she was after the Sorting Hat's song the night before. Harry caught sight of a hand waving, and looked to see Ron beckoning the two towards him. Hermione sat down next to Ron, and Harry next to Hermione.

`What's everyone looking at?' Harry asked.

`The Prophet. They heard back from Azkaban' informed Ron quickly, handing the two of them a copy of the Daily Prophet. The front page was covered with pictures. The biggest one, just below the headline, showed a ghostly looking castle on a small island, the Dark Mark floating above it menacingly.

AZKABAN ATTACKED BY HE WHO MUST NOT BE NAMED

Ministry Scout Team finds prison deserted, guards dead

Late last night, a scout team sent by the Ministry of Magic to ascertain the situation at Azkaban Prison, returned with grim news. The prison has been emptied of its occupants, the guards killed, and the mark of He Who Must Not Be Named set floating above the ancient prison.

The Ministry, in a state of utter confusion, did not accept our worry over Azkaban weeks ago, and we now must fear as to what could be next. We wonder, since the Ministry is obviously incapable of protecting the public from He Who Must Not Be Named, where can we turn? - Continued in Sections A-9, 12, 13, 16

Harry finished reading, and looked at the pictures. Below the article, several other small articles were dedicated to mentioning some of the crimes of the escapees. Most of the front page was taken up by pictures of the prisoners, with names and details of how long they were held in Azkaban, and what for. Harry looked at the various faces, and saw a few he recognized, including Lucius Malfoy.

`This is horrible' Hermione sighed darkly, Harry nodding in agreement. Voldemort now had all his old Death Eaters with him, and could imagine that he must feel happy about it.

`Where'd you guys go to last night? You left for that meeting, and didn't come back. I waited in the common room for hours before I went to bed' commented Ron.

`Well, we had the meeting. Found out that toad Umbridge is back' Harry started. Ron let out a more than perceptible swear, Hermione elbowing him in response.

`My thoughts exactly. Ministry put her in charge of the Aurors at the school. Anyways, we found out Heads have their own dormitories, in the East Tower' Harry continued.

`You guys don't stay in Gryffindor Tower?' Ron asked awkwardly. Hermione finally looked away from the paper, and started getting herself some food.

`No, Professor McGonagall told us Heads have their own dormitories, for a number of different reasons. I think it'll be a good change, having more space. Don't worry Ron, you can come anytime, right Harry?' asked Hermione. She and Ron both looked at Harry. Harry wondered why she would even ask.

`Yeah, of course you can. Password is "Quidditch and Quills"' Harry answered plainly, and taking a bite of his toast. He and Hermione changed the password that morning. Since Harry wasn't good at choosing passwords, they decided on something simple, a word that described both of them. Harry loved quidditch, and Hermione loved quills. So they reasoned, for the time being, to put them together.

`So did you ask about the song?' Ron asked, sounding a bit more cheerful, and diving into his mound of scrambled eggs.

`Yeah, Dumbledore's portrait said he expected it. The Hat sang about the Heir of Slytherin and Gryffindor when the Chamber of Secrets was first opened, which was way back in Hagrid's time' Harry explained.

`So . . . are you the Heir of Gryffindor?' Ron asked shakily.

`The Hat said I am. Dumbledore's portrait said it's from my Dad's side' said Harry. Ron whistled in response. Harry understood the reaction. Only seven years ago, Harry was just a regular muggle, no idea of magic. Now, not only was he a wizard, but a descendant of one of the most famous wizards to ever live.

The three of them continued on with their breakfast. Harry and Hermione told Ron about their meeting, and about the gifts from Dumbledore. Harry began to think that Ron wasn't too happy that he wasn't left anything. The numerous students that came to congratulate Harry and Hermione for becoming Heads probably did not make it any better. Harry of course felt terrible that they were doing it in front of Ron, who when someone approached, would suddenly become enthralled with his empty plate.

Just before breakfast was over, the young looking auburn haired professor whom Harry saw the night before, came around the Gryffindor table with timetables, while wearing scarlet robes. His hair was not as tamed as the night before, and seemed slightly lost for direction. Harry could see now, that he was a little heavy in appearence, with wide set shoulders and a sqaure like frame. He greeted many of the students with vigor and seemed quite lively. When he arrived at Harry, he stood back for a moment, and took a moment to look at him. Harry noticed, by surprise, that the professor had green eyes as well, although dulled compared to his, and slightly inset more.

`Harry Potter, it's nice to meet you. I am Professor Terrwynebas, the school's new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, and Head of Gryffindor House. Congratulations on appointment to Head Boy. Here is your timetable. I believe we should schedule a meeting. I have some issues I wish to discuss, if that is alright with you?' he smiled, giving Harry his timetable. Harry told the young professor that it was alright.

`Great. We can arrange a time after our Defence lesson tomorrow' he said. He then turned to Hermione and Ron, giving them their timetables.

`Oh, and you must be Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley. I've heard much about all of you. I look forward to seeing you in my class. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more timetables to hand out and students to meet' he exclaimed, moving over to hand timetables to a few third years.

As the three of them left the Great Hall minutes later, they started their way to the potions dungeon. All three of them had double potions in the morning, with transfiguration in the afternoon. Hermione also had arithmancy in the afternoon, while Ron and Harry had a free period.

`Well, he seems decent, now doesn't he?' supposed Hermione, commenting on their first impression of Professor Terrwynebas. Harry just shrugged his shoulders.

`I'll judge that when I see what he's teaching.' The three turned, and started down the steps towards the old potions classroom.

`I wonder who's teaching potions? I mean, the two new professors McGonagall talked about are teaching transfiguration and defence. She didn't mention potions' Hermione wondered.

`Maybe Slughorn stuck around' Harry proposed.

`Well, as long as he doesn't do that stupid "Slug Club" thing, I don't mind' Ron commented.

`Agreed' both Harry and Hermione stated, chuckling slightly. Harry remembered the party he went to last year, and vowed never to even think of going to another one.

As the three of them descended the stone steps into the bowels of school, approaching the classroom, they found several students waiting outside the door. When they came closer, they were surprised this group included some sixth years, including some they knew.

`Ginny?' Ron asked. She was talking to Luna, who was also waiting for the potions class. Ginny turned around, and greeted the three seventh years.

`Hi there. You guys have potions now too? Weird huh?' Hermione looked confused.

`I wonder why-` she started, however right then, the door to the potions dungeon opened, and a large belly wearing a dark green waistcoat almost bursting at the buttons preceded the man it was connected to, who had a shiny bald head, and silvery walrus-like moustache.

`Ah, you're all here! Please, come in, come in!' Professor Slughorn charmed, opening the door, and moving aside so the students could make their way past and into chairs. As Harry passed the door, Slughorn made it a point to say hello.

`Harry, my boy, good to see you! Terrible incident with Dumbledore, but we must move on. It is very good to see you back' he expressed warmly, however still as thunderous as usual. Harry was taken aback by his last sentence. He sounded genuinely glad to see Harry again, and not for his fame. Harry gave a curious look to Hermione, who looked just as confused. Harry, Hermione, and Ron took their seats in the back, along with Ernie Macmillan. Ginny sat with Luna, along with another two Ravenclaws. Theodore Nott, a girl from Slytherin, and two Hufflepuffs shared the other table

Harry looked around the dungeon, and found the class was made of sixth and seventh year students. The same three cauldrons that stood at the beginning of last year's first lesson stood again on the desks. Harry could smell the scents in the air. The cauldron on their desk, Harry could see, was full of Polyjuice Potion.

Professor Slughorn made his slow amble up to the front of the class, his round figure obscured slightly by the vapours in the room.

`Alright, everyone, scales out, potion kits, and Advanced Potion-Making' he directed. Harry pulled out his new copy of Advance Potion-Making by Libatius Borage, and his scales. As much as the used copy he had last year helped him, he vowed never to use the book again. He kept it, however had it locked away in Grimmauld. While the students clamored with their scales and potions kits, Slughorn moved behind his desk.

`Now, you may be asking why sixth and seventh years are in the same class. Simply put, there aren't enough of you. The numbers this year are unfortunately lower than normal, so for this class, we will be covering potions at sixth and seventh year levels. Now don't worry, seventh years will get more than enough time to work on N.E.W.T. potions' he guaranteed. Hermione let out a sigh of relief. She became noticeably tense when hearing they would be doing potions from last year again, no doubt worrying they wouldn't have enough time for N.E.W.T. potions. The stout figure of Slughorn moved around in front of his desk now, and looked at the students.

`Now, I've placed these potions, like last year for your seventh years, as examples of potions you should be able to make after your N.E.W.T.s. Only open to sixth years now, can anyone tell me what this one is?' he asked, pointing towards the table Ginny sat at were the cauldron was filled with a soft white coloured potion, with steam coming off in swirls. Harry had forgotten at the time what potion it was called, however remembered the smell. Just as the year before, the scent of treacle tarts, the wood of a broomstick, and something flowery engulfed his senses. Something was different though. The flower smell had changed, and smelled sweeter. It was almost like . . .

`Is it Amortenta?' a Ravenclaw girl asked, who was sitting at Ginny's table, bringing Harry's mind back to class. That smell couldn't be what he thought it was. Slughorn smiled slightly at the girl's response.

`Close, it's Amortentia, the most powerful love potion to exist. Now, who can tell me what this potion is?' he asked, now moving from Ginny's table, onto Harry's. One of the Hufflepuff girls correctly named the Polyjuice Potion, and Ginny was able to identify Veritaserum, which sat at the last table.

The rest of the class went without incident. Slughorn moved around as they brewed their Confidence Concoction. Harry thought it was a pretty simple potion, and made it easily. It ended up looking close to the sky blue colour it should be at the end, although Hermione's was brewing towards the correct pallid shade. The potion itself was a lesser version Felix Felicis. It gave the person confidence to do things they were normally too scared to do. Of course, the potion had bad effects in some instances, and was brewed to only have effects lasting twenty minutes. As they exited the dungeon, Professor Slughorn called Harry over to his desk. Hermione and Ron told him they'd meet him in the Great Hall for lunch.

`Harry my boy, how are you doing?' he asked as he took his seat, the buttons on his waistcoat begging to be let free. Harry took a seat at one of the tables close to the professor's desk.

`I'm OK. I didn't expect to see you here this year professor' Harry admitted honestly. Slughorn gave a trifle of a laugh.

`Neither did I. When Albus passed, I thought I'd be gone faster than a seeker hot on a snitch. However, during the summer, I realized that returning to Hogwarts would, once again, be the safest place to be. I'm an old man, I need somewhere were I can stay put. All that running around did me no good. Plus, Albus asked me before he passed, actually the day it happened, if I would stay at Hogwarts for this year, promising me he would not bother me anymore. I agreed, and I sadly see he was correct. I would have rather put up with his bothers than the current situation' he confessed.

Harry was staggered at his comments. Slughorn was always one for personal gain, and never really got sentimental, except when drinking too much mulled mead. Slughorn seemed to be in deep thought for a few moments staring at a wall, before snapping out it, and looked back at Harry, leaning forward in his chair.

`Now Harry, Albus asked me to help you with some things this year. I know your mother's talents will be more than enough, however Albus claimed that you may be making potions for an out of school project, and may need my professional assistance' he proclaimed, straightening his overly-tight waist coat, looking quite content with himself. Now Harry could see the Slugclub leader coming through.

`Dumbledore said I'd be making out of class potions? Did he say why?' Harry asked. Slughorn looked slightly bemused.

`You mean you don't have an out of school project?'

`Err, I do, but . . . never mind. Thank you Professor. If I need your help, I'll let you know' he assured. Harry got up, and left the dungeon before Slughorn could ask about the so called "project", and made his way to the Great Hall. He found it interesting that Dumbledore got Slughorn to promise to come back the day he died. Moreover, he asked him to help Harry with potions for some reason. Something told him, as he passed through the Entrance Chamber, that Dumbledore knew more than he told Harry.

`So what did Slughorn want?' Ron asked, while in between bites of his pasta. Harry gathered some food on his plate, and started eating before answering Ron.

`Just to tell me he'd help me with any potions I need for outside of class' he answered. Hermione looked over at Harry.

`Why would you need to make potions outside of class?' she asked, looking over her timetable again for what Harry thought was the fiftieth time that day.

`That's the thing, he said Dumbledore asked him to stay at Hogwarts, and help me with potions. He asked him on the day he died too' Harry recounted to Ron and Hermione. Ron continued to eat, however Hermione looked up from her timetable.

`He asked on the day he died? That's definitely not a coincidence, considering that he left me a potions book, and told Slughorn that you'd need help on potions from outside of class. Maybe there's a potion in there I should read about that might help us find the chamber pots' she deduced.

Hermione decided to start looking at the potions book that night, in hopes of finding something that could help them find the Horcruxes. Harry was glad that they were getting a good start at understanding Horcruxes. The only big thing left was learning what the Horcruxes were, and where they are hidden. They finished lunch, and went ahead to the transfiguration classroom.

Transfiguration class proved to be, well, interesting. Professor Fourmove, however young, was amazingly gifted with transfiguration. Her shadowy black hair was set framing her face, and her blue eyes surveyed the class as they sat down. Her charcoal robes where simple, but professor-like in appearance. She began the class by telling them a bit of her past, and her experience. Harry found out she had graduated from Hogwarts not too many years before Harry and the others in the class started. She had been in Ravenclaw, and remembered McGonagall's stern teaching style.

`Now, I will tell you that I won't be as strict as the Headmistress, however as this year you will be taking your N.E.W.T.s, I expect you all to try your hardest, and pay attention' she informed, getting up and pacing around the classroom.

She went on, and told the class the expectations of N.E.W.T. level transfiguration. Harry was flabbergasted to learn they would have to do human transfiguration, as well as demonstrate the ability to transfigure magical creatures, such as baby dragons, and nifflers. During the class, they took notes on human and self transfiguration, and how changing forms can add extra powers to the person, depending on the animal. As they left, Hermione leaving Harry and Ron and making off towards the arithmancy classroom, Ron did not sound pleased with the idea of transfiguring baby dragons.

`It's mad! Can you imagine me trying to turn a dragon like Norbert into a teacup!' he ranted, as they made their way to the East Tower. Ron still had not seen the Head Dormitories, and Harry figured to show him now, since they had a free period. They ended up in front Evander not to long after exiting class. Evander seemed as ebullient as the night before.

`Oh, hello there Harry! Who is this young lad?' he asked, giving Ron a look over.

`This is Ron, my best friend, and Hermione's boyfriend. You'll see him here quite a bit I can imagine' Harry answered. Evander beamed at Ron.

`Greetings Ron, I am Evander the Enlightened. You say he's dating Hermione?' he asked Harry, who nodded.

`Ah, well, good for you. Just remember the password, and things will be fine!'

`Quidditch and Quills' Harry told Evander. Evander bowed his head, and the portrait swung open to reveal a stone passage which Harry and Ron followed. It wasn't a long hallway, only a few steps. They reached the common room, and sat down in the chairs by the fireplace. Ron was looking the room over thoroughly.

`Wow, this is nice. You guys are lucky' Ron remarked enviously. Harry wondered if he was going to relax about Hermione and himself being Heads.

`Com'on, how about a game of wizard's chess?' Harry asked, trying to get Ron off the topic. Ron looked around a little more, before nodding.

The chess games went well. Ron kept winning, and Harry could see his confidence go up with each win. He was still trying to beat Ron, and came close sometimes, but chess was never Harry's game. When it came time to return to the Great Hall for supper, they had played five games, Ron winning them all. He was gladly out of his funk when he sat down at the Gryffindor table. Hermione was already there.

`Hey there guys, enjoy your break?' she asked as they sat down, Ron next to her and Harry opposite both of them. They went ahead, and talked about the prospects of human transfiguration, and wondering how the DADA class would be, which they had the next day, in the afternoon. They left the Great Hall, and the three of them went to the Head dorms, where Hermione started reading over the potions book Dumbledore left, while Harry and Ron looked over Harry's notes on the Horcruxes.

As it stood right now, Harry had to believe, like Dumbledore did, that there were seven Horcruxes: the diary, the ring, the locket, Hufflepuff's cup, something of Ravenclaw's or Gryffindor's, Voldemort's pet snake Nagini, and the living part of the soul. The diary and ring were both destroyed, and the locket was still secure in Harry's trunk. The cup, Harry had no idea where to look, and the snake would have to come last before destroying Voldemort himself probably, since they stayed so close to each other. The last Horcrux, Harry had no clue what it could be, however the idea Dumbledore suggested with it being an artifact of Ravenclaw or Gryffindor, sounded to all three of them the best idea for now.

By time they finished pouring over Harry's notes, it was coming close to midnight, and both Harry and Ron were blurry eyed. Harry wanted to look into the Pensieve, however decided to wait. He didn't know what memories would be shown to him when he went in, and was weary of what he would see. As they packed up his notes, Hermione stirred in her chair, and stood up, marking her page in the thick potions book, and wiping her eyes.

`Who ever wrote this book was very intelligent, although they didn't leave their name. Some of the potions in here I've never heard of, however I haven't found one that would be good for finding Horcruxes. I'll keep reading it though Harry' she reassured. Harry had hoped she would find something that would at least tell him they were getting somewhere with research. They had spent almost a month going through the books at Grimmauld, only to find nothing. He hoped that coming back to Hogwarts would jump start the search.

Hermione escorted Ron out of the common room, and Harry put his notes away in a folder. She came back in a moment later, looking exceptionally tired.

`Well, goodnight Harry' she said drowsily, and started her way up the steps to her room. Harry took the folder, and put it back in his trunk, and went to bed.

As Harry, Hermione, and Ron entered the defence classroom the next afternoon, Harry was surprised to see it almost entirely empty. Aside from the desks and seats, nothing else stood in the room, the walls bare. The black drapes for the windows were drawn open, allowing the afternoon sunlight to shine into the room.

The three took their seats in the back, and waited for everyone else. Once all the students were seated, Professor Terrwynebas entered through the door to his office, and came down the stairs. He stopped behind the desk, and surveyed the class with his green eyes, giving a smile to Harry as he passed by.

`Hello everyone, welcome to Defence Against the Dark Arts. I am Professor Topher Terrwynebas, and I will be your teacher this year. You are all expected, by the end of this year, to take your N.E.W.T.s, and it is my hope that you will all be more than ready for any spell the Ministry wishes to ask of you' he started, still surveying the class. He walked slowly to the window, and made a quick glance out, and gave a bleak look at the floor.

`However this year, learning defence spells should not be for a Ministry test, but for your own safety. As you know, these are hard times, and as much as I know you want to learn defence theory, this year will be devoted only to practical defence spells. That being said, please everyone stand up' he addressed. Most in the class were hesitant to stand, however Harry was more than glad to stand. The prospect of a total practical defence class was what he always wanted. Professor Terrwynebas smiled again at Harry, however looked over the rest of the class.

`Unless you wish to be crushed by the desks in front of you, I would suggest you all stand up' he said again, pulling out a bright wooded wand. Students quickly moved out of their chairs as the desks began to rumble slightly in their places. The moment everyone was standing, the desks zoomed across the room, and stacked themselves on top of each other on the right side. Everyone stood oddly spaced in the room, wondering what would come next.

`Excellent. Now, today we will be working on a charm called the Firewall Charm. This charm, when performed correctly, will create a wall of fire around you. Does anyone know why this could be beneficial ? Ah, Miss Granger.' Hermione's hand sprung up the second he said "does anyone know."

`It can be used to ward off Inferi, and any other animals that live in the dark. Also, it can sometimes be used to protect against spells' she answered happily.

`Great, ten points to Gryffindor. Now, everyone stand back please, and watch.' Students moved to the edges of the room, while Professor Terrwynebas moved into the center of the classroom, and raised his wand.

`Your wand must be pointing upwards, and you must keep it there' he informed. He raised his wand higher, and took a breath, the class taking additional steps backwards. Harry was flush against the wall, hoping he would not get singed.

`Ignamoenia! he enunciated. A scarlet and gold ring of fire erupted from his wand and surrounded the professor, staying fairly close to him. The ban of fire burned for a few seconds, then dissipated. Harry remembered this spell from the cave he and Dumbledore went into last year.

The class took turns at standing in the middle of the classroom, and trying the spell. Most people were only able to produce sparks, or a halo of fire above them, but never a full ring of fire surrounding them. Professor Terrwynebas told them they had to be confident though.

`You must trust yourself, and visualize the ring around you. With your mind, you can make it larger, or bind it tighter to you. Now, try again' he motioned to Neville, who at first created a small halo high above his head. Harry could understand why confidence would be a problem. The idea of surrounding yourself in fire really did not inspire confidence.

The class continued to perform the spell sub par. Hermione had made a fire circle, however it was still too high above her, but was better than everyone else's. When Professor Terrwynebas motioned Harry to the center, he smiled again at him.

`OK Harry, now, just visualize the fire around you, protecting you. Trust yourself' he encouraged. Harry raised his wand, and tried to remember the fire around himself in the cave with Dumbledore.

`Ignamoenia!' he proclaimed. A massive fireball ejected from his wand, and started circling fast around him. The flames were close, and Harry tried to control them. Thinking of more space, the flames moved outwards slightly, and gave Harry some room. Harry was surprised he could do it so fast, and visualized the empty classroom, the flames extinguishing quickly.

`Very well done Harry! Excellent! Did you all notice how the ring became larger before it went out. Very well done. I think that will be it for today. Homework, work on this spell, just make sure you're not too close to anything flammable' he smirked. The class picked up their books, and started out the door. Harry told Hermione and Ron he'd meet them in the Great Hall for supper in a moment. They left, and Harry approached the Professor, who was stacking the desks back to their original positions.

`Ah yes, Harry. Good job on the Firewall. You've seen it done before, haven't you?' he asked. Harry was surprised.

`I have sir. How did you know?' he asked. The professor laughed as he put the last desk in place.

`"Sir!" Harry, I'm not much older than you. When we're like this, just the two of us, or even with your friends Hermione and Ron, please call me Topher. In class, professor, just as a formality' he consulted. Harry agreed, and Topher continued.

`Now, how did I know? People who have been inside a Firewall can usually create it easier, simply because they already know what it looks like from the inside. Tell me, who's Firewall were you in?' he asked. Harry chest ached, remembering the old and weak Dumbledore after drinking the unknown potion in the cave, warding off the Inferi with his Firewall.

`Professor Dumbledore's' Harry replied quietly. Topher nodded somberly.

`I see. There's no need to explain. Now, let us retired to my office, I have some things I need to discuss' he said, starting up the stairwell to his office. Harry followed, and entered.

The office, in which Harry had seen kitten plates, dark detectors, a water tank, and innumerable pictures of Lockhart, was much like the classroom, empty. A map of Britain stood on one wall, some dots moving around slowly. A number of bookshelves stood along the walls, and his desk was littered with photos of family members and stacks of old parchment. He took a seat behind the desk, and Harry took one of the chairs in front.

`Now Harry, there are a few things I need to know' he began. Harry shifted slightly. So far, Professor Terrwynebas seemed great in Harry's mind. However, the prospect of questions made Harry begin to think otherwise.

`I'll be blunt, are you fighting against Voldemort?' he asked intently. Harry was astounded.

`You say his name' Harry observed.

`Yes. My father told me other wizards were scared of his name, however raised me not to be afraid of a name. He taught me, and I believe, that a fear of name increases the fear of the person or thing. Now, Harry, are you?' he posed again. Harry weighed his options. After a few silent moments, Topher spoke again, knowing that Harry was thinking.

`I know you're wary of whether to tell me or not. That's a good thing, considering the history of defence professors here. Professor Dumbledore told me about the ones you've had when I met him last year.' Harry decided to pry father into the professor before answering his single question.

`You met Dumbledore?' Harry asked.

`Yes. He sent an owl asking if I wanted to take the defence professorship. I had to of course show what I knew about defence, and Professor Dumbledore told me about past professors. I met Professor Snape, your defence professor at the time. He seemed quite . . .'

`Revolting' Harry offered tersely. Harry was surprised to see Professor Terrwynebas grin.

`Something like that, yes. Professor Dumbledore told me of your relationship with Snape, or lack there of. Anyways, back to my question. If it is true, and you are the supposed "Chosen One", I would ask nothing more than to help you in your quest. I do not need to know the details, it is up to you how much you choose to tell.' Harry was still apprehensive, however enjoyed that Professor Terrwynebas seemed to dislike Snape, and only met him once. For now, he felt he could maybe tell him a little.

`Yes, I am fighting Voldemort' Harry declared. Professor Terrwynebas smiled.

`Thank you Harry. Now the only other question I have is simple: are you in love with anyone?' he asked candidly. Harry tilted his head and gave an odd look, and became worried again.

`Why do you ask?'

`I just need to know. You will find out later why, but I pledge to you that what you tell me will never leave this room' he assured. Harry wondered a little longer, but gave an answer that he knew couldn't be taken wrongly.

`No' Harry answered. Professor Terrwynebas face was crestfallen for a moment, however he recovered and smiled at Harry. He stood up, as did Harry, and they moved towards the doorway.

`Now Harry, I wish to make a deal with you. I will help you when you ask of it. If you need help with spells, defences, anything I know, I will teach you. I wish to help with the fight against Voldemort. I have, what you could say, a personal interest in seeing him fall. The only thing I can ask, is to simply help me with my teaching. Being home schooled, I did not have the pleasure of seeing professors teach, so I might ask for some help, if you are willing.' Professor Terrwynebas appeared quite honest with his request. It seemed like a good deal for Harry, just as long as the professor was trustworthy.

`Why do you want Voldemort to die?' Harry asked. Professor Terrwynebas laughed aloud.

`Harry, why does anyone want him to be gone? My reason is the same as anyone else, only a bit closer to home. There will be another time when I can delve deeper into that. So what do you say, do we have a deal?' he asked again, offering Harry his hand. Harry waited a moment, and accepted, shaking his hand with a firm grip.

`Excellent. Now, you should be off to supper. Let us have a meeting . . . say, on Saturday night, 8pm in the classroom. Is that alright with you?' the professor asked.

`Sure, that's fine. Thank you Topher' Harry returned, and just as he was exiting the classroom, Professor Terrwynebas called him back in.

`Harry, by the way, how was my first lesson?' he asked.

`Excellent' Harry complimented. The professor smiled, and Harry made his way toward the Great Hall.

Harry's thoughts of Professor Terrwynebas were high now, however he would always be suspicious. It was just because of the times though. You always had to be suspicious, especially of new people. Topher however came off to Harry as different from any other Defence professor before. Most of the other ones were slightly, if not totally insane. Lupin was the only one that had his head on his shoulders correctly. Topher was still different though, but in a good way as Harry saw it.

Since he was close to Harry's age, Harry felt he could better relate to Topher. He seemed very interested in fighting Voldemort, and disliked Snape, like Harry did. Plus this "personal interest", what was that? Maybe Voldemort killed one of his family members, or a loved one. Or perhaps he took something from him. And why did he ask if Harry was in love? That could be a bad thing though, because if Topher was a Death Eater, then he could simply capture that person. Harry made a mental note to keep the answer to that question, which he still didn't know how to answer, far away for now. In anycase, as he entered the Great Hall to all the noise of students eating, he felt this year's Defence class would be his favourite again.

`So, what do you think of Professor Terrwynebas?' Hermione asked as Harry sat down across from her and Ron. Harry decided for the time being, to stay on the positive side of thinking about Topher.

`Good. He asked if I was fighting Voldemort' Harry began, Ron doing his usual shudder from hearing the name. Hermione looked slightly distressed.

`He did? What did you say?' she asked.

`Well, I thought about it. He told me he met Dumbledore last year, and Snape. Didn't like Snape too much, which is encouraging. He said if I was, that he wanted to help me'

`So did you tell him?' she reiterated.

`Yeah, but no specifics. Once I know him, then maybe I'll tell him more. He did ask if I could help him with his teaching though. I don't see why, that class was great' Harry boasted, scooping up a large quantity of mashed potatoes.

`I know! Only practical work! No written homework, and we get to learn how to actually do good defence spells!' Ron expressed. Just then, Luna Lovegood came dreamily over to the three of them, a note in her hand.

`Hello Luna, how are you?' Hermione asked politely. Luna was sporting her usual butterbeer cork necklace, and what Harry could see were tomato earrings. Some Gryffindors sitting by starting giggling, however stopped immediately after one glare from Harry. Luna seemed not to notice.

`I'm fine. I just wanted to give you this report. Some students were lurking around the seventh floor cooridor, close to the Room of Requirement. I just thought you should know.' She gave Ron a long stare, then gave the note to Hermione. She thanked Luna, and read over the note. Luna simply turned, and slowly waltzed back to the Ravenclaw table.

`We should do something about that. Maybe a sentry or something to guard the Room?' Hermione supposed. Harry agreed, and scratched his scar. It had been aching slightly over the past hour. Hermione looked at him for a moment, then continued with her meal, as did Harry.

A few moments later, Harry looked up to see Ron looking at Hermione. She looked up at him, and Ron leaned in. He tried to give her a kiss, however she turned ever so slightly just as he came close. He ended up kissing her cheek. When he retracted, Hermione continued to look at her food, while Ron gave a robbed look at her. Harry looked back to his food, pretending he wasn't there.

`Hermione, what's wrong?' Ron whispered earnestly. Harry glanced up to see Hermione look at Ron uneasily.

`Can we talk later?' she inquired timidly. Ron nodded, and went back to his food. The two of them kept quiet the rest of supper, and left before Harry. He decided to go and tell Professor McGonagall about the seventh floor corridor. She told Harry that two suits of armour would be placed to guard the hallway just in case, along with a secret sensor. By time he finished with McGonagall, the Hall was practically empty. Harry left, and made his way up to the fourth floor, and sauntered down the hallway toward the East Tower.

`Hello Harry! Good to see you. I should warn you, you might reconsider going in there' Evander suggested warily.

`Why?'

`Well, see for yourself. Password?' Harry said the password, and as the portrait opened, he could hear Ron and Hermione arguing. He slowly made his way up the hallway, and stayed out of eyesight from the two of them. Harry didn't like to admit he was eavesdropping, however he didn't want to barge in on them, or just let them go at each other. His scar continued to ache, and was starting to sting slightly. It hurt badly to Harry, considering it hadn't hurt since he went to Godric's Hollow.

`I just don't like it when you do that in public!' Hermione spoke loudly.

`Why not? What's so wrong about people knowing that we are going out?' Ron retorted just as loud. Harry could hear Hermione sigh loudly.

`There's a difference between people knowing, and showing off! I don't want to parade our kissing in front of the Great Hall!' Hermione barreled on.

`What, you never want to kiss when there's people around?!' Ron fumed.

`No, it's just . . . I don't know' Hermione sighed.

`What, did you think we would just kiss when we're alone?!' Ron continued to storm. Harry felt they argued enough, and came around the corner. Both of them were on opposite sides of the common room, yelling at each other from across the room. Ron was looking at the corner of the room.

`No, of course not! It's just . . . Harry' Hermione looked over and noticed Harry.

`It's because of Harry?!' Ron continued, turning his head slightly, still oblivious to Harry.

`No Ron, Harry' she motioned. Ron turned to see Harry standing next to the desk. He was red in the face, just like Hermione.

`Oh, sorry Harry' Ron mumbled, moving towards one of the chairs.

`It's O-` Harry started, however at that instant, Harry's scar burst into pain. Harry clutched his scar, and slowly fell to the floor, yelling aloud in agony.

`HARRY!' Hermione cried, as she and Ron ran over to him. Harry could feel Voldemort's emotions, something he hadn't experienced in a while. Harry rolled on the floor, bumping into Hermione and Ron as he did.

`Harry, what is it?! Why are you laughing!' Hermione pleaded. Harry only noticed when she mentioned it, but he was laughing, in a very sinister and crackling fashion.

`It's Voldemort . . . He's happy . . . torturing someone' Harry gasped, as his scar continued to sting aggressively.

`Who's he torturing?' Ron asked hurriedly. Harry tried to find a face, an image. He could feel Hermione holding his hand as his other covered his scar as it gave another shot of pain. Harry could tell through the anguish that Voldemort had just administered another torture curse at a man, who Harry could now see cloudily in his mind.

`Malfoy.'

A/N - So what do think of this chapter? You get to meet my OC, Professor Terrwynebas, so what do you think of him so far? Also, I hope all you Harmony shippers are getting happier with the R/Hr. You can see it starting to crumble. Please review.

Spell / Name Meanings -
Ignamoenia - L. ignis: fire, moenia: walls (Ignamoenia = fire walls)

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