Killing Time
Author: Devo
Date: 12-01-03 17:54
Devo sat and waited for her parents to return from where ever. It seemed like her parents were always gone, even on her birthday! She looked at her clock; it read 4:39. "Almost time to start for the train station," she thought. She sighed. Now the clocked read 5:00 pm. "Well I better start out for my three hour flight." She started writing her parents a note.
Dear Mom and Dad,
I had to leave for the train station. I wish you would be here for at least a month or two at a time. I'll be at Hogwarts if you need me!
Luv,
Devo
Devo ran to her closet and grabbed her bags and her owl, of course her broom. She stuffed all the things into her large suitcase and set off to Hogwarts...
Taking a Short
Break
Author: Bellatrix Lestrange
Date: 12-01-03 18:19
"It's no good Rodolphus; the stupid woman's as insane as they come!" Bellatrix continued to pace up and down the floor, hands behind her back.
"Well, I'm sure you didn't know that trying to lift the prophecy would turn her mad," Rodolphus mused. He held out one hand, admiring the nails on his left hand and checking to make sure they were even. He looked up, mentally registering the fact that Bellatrix was now pacing over on the other side of the room.
"If she was totally insane she wouldn't have made it back to the meeting place!" Bellatrix was thinking out loud now – perhaps the hundredth attempt to make sense of the whole thing would suddenly make everything clear. "But no, I used the Imperio curse so even if she was barking mad she would still need to complete her ordersÉthe urge to return to me would have been too much. So, she made it to the cottage but without the prophecy. It's been a few weeks since then and I still can't get her to tell me what she saw in there! Did the prophecy turn her insane or was there some kind of spell on it? I bet that interfering Auror ni Ciaran has something to do with this!"
"Well dear, I don't suggest a trip down there yourself. I would just dispose of the creature and dump her body somewhere."
"I'm always dumping bodies, Rodolphus! This is getting tiring! One day someone's going to put all this together and spoil everything. But you're right – we have no choice."
Her mind made up, Bellatrix saw no reason to delay any longer. She left the room without a backward glance, sweeping down the stairs and into the lower levels of the mansion. She passed the cell holding Mr. Granger, he was obviously still alive because her passing was greeted with a pleasant, "Let me out of here now, you bitch, I can't deal with this incessant babbling!"
"Shut it Granger," she hissed, pausing at the second door on the left. From outside the door she could hear the woman, babbling away just as Mr. Granger had said. She flung the door open and paused on the threshold, amused at the site that greeted her. The woman was crouched on the floor, debris and waste scattered all about. It seemed she hadn't used the bucket in the corner for quite some time. "So bright, so shiny and small. With just a little label, but not for me, no. Not for me..." the woman sang.
Wrinkling her nose at the smell, Bellatrix wondered what the hell the woman was talking about. Shaking her head in confusion, she stepped inside and grabbed the woman about the neck, twisting it violently to the left. There was a brief moment of give when the woman resisted and then a sickening looseness as her neck snapped with a loud crack. The body fell to the floor, lifeless.
"Mobilicorpus". Bellatrix watched as the body began to levitate from the floor, finally hovering at waist level. She grabbed the sleeve of the dead woman's shirt and watched with interest as her head bobbled about below the body, almost as if it was on a string. Something about it was amusing; she made a mental note to tell Rodolphus about it later on. It was time to dump the body. With a final look around, Bellatrix disapparated.
Havana, Cuba:
Liquid Lunch
Author: Professor Belladonna Sinistra
Date: 12-01-03 19:55
Bella smiled as she stepped into the cafe. One of Cuba's best kept secrets, the little place featured one of the most lovely ocean views and was the most tropical spot in the world. It was a odd day. First, she'd left the hermitage to let her parents know she wasn't dead or sick and now she was in a tropical climate where even the air was sultry. It was almost unbelievable decadence and the music was beginning to work its way into her very bloodstream.
She really should be unpacking at Hogwarts, but Twinkle could do that. Still, she should be anywhere but here, wearing some silly sundress and strappy shoes. The rum, her first drink in a month, would go straight to her head and it would serve her right to be tipsy at the feast. However, the sun and the promise of a daquiri was worth any recriminations.
She took a seat at a table and ordered a strawberry daquiri while she was waiting. She took small sips, while trying to think of reasons for the note. Perhaps a charity ball was coming up, something was going on at the MOM, or perhaps there was a shortage of blonds. Still, it was a pleasure to be asked to lunch, even if it was rather sudden and by someone she hadn't expected.
Her eyes locked on an approaching figure and she flashed a warm smile. If she did have a lunch date, at least not talking for a month gave her voice a lovely huskiness. Now, if she could only prevent manic talking, things would be perfect.
Diagon Alley
Shopping
Author: Nick Stokes
Date: 12-02-03 06:02
Nick strode across the cobbled street of Diagon Alley, his new green robes billowing behind him. Various Hogwarts students were darting in and out of the shops. Carrying packets and parcels for the coming term. They were going fast because they'd left the back to school shopping to the last minute to catch any bargains.
Nick had done most of the shopping with his parents a few weeks ago. But he enjoyed coming here by himself to get the interesting items his parents wouldn't approve of, tricks and potions, that sort of thing.
Once he's chosen the ones he liked the look of, he browsed around the other shops. The latest make of broom glittered from the broom shop window. Even Nick was impressed.
Glancing at his watch he realised he was running late and set off home as fast as he could.
Back at home his mum was in the middle of packing his case for him. His best robes, his casual clothes, all neatly stacked and packed.
"And where have you been?" she said.
"Out." he snapped and left the room.
A little while later and they were driving down to the station. Trains were been boarded here and there, all off to different destinations. When the muggles weren't looking Nick gave his parents a quick hug and jumped through the wall to platform 9 and 3/4.
Surrounded by students from all years jostling and running about, Nick set his case down next to him and waited for the train.
Time to Go
Author: Annie Paul
Date: 12-02-03 07:42
All my things were packed and ready to go. We reached Kings Cross Station with half an hour to spare and made it to the divider in time. I gave mom and dad each a kiss and said I'd write as soon as I got there, and entered the portal.
The train was a beautiful sight to see. Smiling I went to the baggage car and put my trunk and owl in telling Morgana to behave and I'll see her soon. I went back to the coach cars bustling among the crowds that were building and got on the train and found a compartment by myself. As I sat there I wondered about the new comers and how scared they would be like I was when I first came. I then reached for my backpack and pulled out "Qudditch through the Ages." and began to read about famous Beaters and wondering how I would do for the house team.
Soon I heard the train's whistle and knew the train would soon be leaving. Soon the hallways were filling students and I greeted some of my friends from last year as they passed. I knew this year would be fun.
Back to
School
Author: Amerah Patterson
Date: 12-02-03 11:48
After saying goodbye to Mum, I mount the train and take a seat beside Ariella and Leonora, and we eagerly discuss the upcoming trips to Hogsmeade, now that we are finally able to go.
"I can't wait for this year!" Leonora says excitedly. "We will finally be able to visit Hogsmeade!"
"I know," I agree enthusiastically. "It will be so cool! I want to see the sweet shop! There are supposed to be loads of that, and Zonko's sounds like fun, too! Plus, quidditch time will be soon!"
"Yeah," says Ariella. "Changing the subject, who do you think our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher is going to be?"
"I don't know," I say, rolling my eyes. "It would be nice if he stayed for more than one year though. We've been here three years, and this will be a different teacher for the third year in a row. I can see why the other students say it's cursed."
Hogwarts Express
Author: Trey Wolf
Date: 12-02-03 12:42
Trey leaned against his cart filled his luggage and his snowy white owl he had name, Aegis. He felt sad, having to leave his friends back in America, but he had promised to write to them, Elayne more than the others. But he saw this as an adventure that he couldn't pass up.
Aegis hooted at him and stared with her eyes.
Trey laughed, "I know, I'm being to depressed. I've got to get out of this rut and enjoy my time here. I'll be back before Christmas and the summer. I'll see Elayne then."
He watched as students passed through the wall on Platform Nine and 3/4 with their parents and luggage, waiting for his mother. She went to park their rental and she would see him off. He pulled out one of his sketchpads from his backpack and began sketching then platform. It was fairly realistic and he was nearly done when his mother came up.
"So where is this Platform Nine and 3/4's?"
"Over there." Trey pointed to the wall between Platforms Nine and Ten. "They said Nine and 3/4's."
"But that's only a wall..." Alicia began.
"Who says." Trey walked to the wall and looked around, to make sure nobody saw him and dashed through the wall.
He saw the Express, and it nearly took his breath away. He never though that any such trains existed anymore. Or at least they didn't run. But then again, this isn't his normal life. Alicia ran through the wall and saw her son already loading his possessions on the train, keeping a small sketchpad and a few pencils and a small sharpener in the pockets of his black jeans.
"Take care, Trey," Alicia embraced him, "and take good care of Aegis to."
"I will. I'll send out a letter to you as soon as I can, and maybe one to Elayne as well."
"You didn't tell her about this, did you?" Alicia asked.
"No, I wish I could have, but I though it better not to. Maybe later, but not now. I told her that I've received an acceptance letter from a prestigious school in England however." Trey said, "She almost laughed in my face, but she smiled at me and wished me luck."
"Then I'll do the same. Good luck Trey." Alicia said, "You'll be back at Christmas, right?"
"Yeah, See you at Christmas." Trey climbed aboard the train and found a empty seat at the window. Pulling out the sketchpad, he began to draw the platform.
Berlin, Germany:
Reunited
Author: Ethan Somerset
Date: 12-02-03 13:29
Deep in the heart of Berlin, not too far from the Brandenburg Gate, was a small, discreet wizarding road similar to Diagon Alley in London. Like the latter, Zauberstrasse* boasted a variety of shops and eateries only at a much smaller scale. Here, outside at a tiny bistro called Die Kaffeekanne**, Ethan Somerset sat reading a copy of the Daily Prophet. The bookstore next door offered newspapers and other publications from around the wizarding world, and upon passing by Ethan picked up a copy of the British paper to learn the current happenings of his home country.
The Ministry of Magic appeared to be in a frenzy regarding the most recent attack on a Muggle home well over a month ago. According to the report, Death Eaters were to blame but no other leads have since surfaced. At any rate, this one cut extremely deep since the attack happened at the home of a Hogwarts student. No name was given as to whom this might be.
Ethan flipped through the remainder of the paper, scouring for any mention of the investigation into his sudden disappearance from the British Isles. Surely Dierna and Dumbledore hadn't given up on him so easily!
"Ethan," a voice broke through the former Hogwarts professor's thoughts. He looked up to see a familiar-looking man wearing a freshly-pressed suit and holding a cigar between his fingers.
Ethan rose to greet his old friend. "Kep-Tian, I didn't expect to see you here of all places." He extended his hand to the Taiwanese man.
"Likewise, I assure you," Kep-Tian declared.
"Please, sit down," Ethan offered, gesturing to the open chair at the small, round cast-iron table.
When they were both seated Ethan asked quietly, "How goes your quest to earn your Dark Mark?"
Kep-Tian exhaled a long-suppressed sigh and explained his endeavors to satisfy the Dark Lord. "I've lost much of my influence. What used to come so easily to me, is so much more difficult to attain today."
"What is your goal?" Ethan questioned, studying his friend pensively.
"Taz-Marah evidently had a secret collection of dark arts materials; shrunken heads, bejeweled daggers, a few books on the occult. It's said she hid her trove of goods here in Berlin. I thought I might find it and bring it to––" Kep-Tian paused because a waiter came outside to take his order.
"Kaffee, schwartz."
The waiter nodded and checked Ethan's cup before leaving to fulfill Kep-Tian's order.
"I didn't know you spoke German," Ethan exclaimed, surprised. "I don't." Kep-Tian revealed a thin German-English phrase book from his coat pocket. He smiled and Ethan laughed.
"Impressive nonetheless," Ethan admitted. Then, he became serious once more. "I'll be willing to help you find Taz-Marah's treasure. I have a little something of my own to deliver to––"
The waiter reappeared with Kep-Tian's coffee and then left again.
"Anyway," Ethan resumed, "I'm free to aid you if you'd like the help."
"I'd like that very much."
"It's settled then." Ethan raised his half-empty coffee cup and grinned.
* Roughly translated as Sorcery
Street
** The Coffee Pot
Back to School
Author: Jared
Date: 12-02-03 18:15
"See, Mum, I told you we wouldn't be late," the twelve year old states matter of factly before turning to face his younger sister. He sneers at her and sarcastically adds, "Though it's not for lack of trying on your part, Brat."
The eight year old, pigtailed girl pulls a face and sticks out her tongue only to be reprimanded. Abigail Wynbourne, her gaze stern, scolds both her children. "Etta, you know better than to act so rude, especially in public. Jared, don't you dare put all the blame on your sister for us running late. I seem to recall a certain young man who doddered around for half an hour looking for his wand when it was in his pocket all along."
The two children speak as one, "Yes, ma'am. We're sorry," though as soon as Abigail starts walking towards the Hogwarts Express, they make scornful faces at each other. Etta, a nickname for Julietta, quickly sticks her tongue out again while Jared pushes his nose up, pulling a piggy face. When Abigail glances back, the two are full of smiles and innocent expressions.
"Etta, hold Alley's carrier while I help Jared carry his trunk on."
"Yes, mum," the pixie-sized girl replies as she picks up the cat's carrier. A plaintive mewling comes from inside the cage so Etta turns it so she can look inside. "You're fine, Alley. Jared will probably let you out once the train gets going and that shouldn't be long now."
A minute later, Abigail steps off the train, Jared bounding down the steps closely behind her. Taking Alley's cage, he then gives Etta a soft punch on the arm. "See you, Brat."
Abigail closes the gap between them to give him a hug and even though Jared returns the hug he steps quickly away, looking around to make sure no one saw him being mushy with his mum.
Jared leaps back up the steps and with a final wave at Abigail and Etta, he starts looking for friends to sit with for the long ride back to school.
Platform 9
3/4
Author: Sora
Date: 12-02-03 19:01
It's now September 1st, and it was time for Sora and his parents to go to the London train station to find Sora's train. "Platform nine and three quarters?" said Jack, "but there is no such thing!" Garnet shrugged. "Well it has to be around here, otherwise why would they give Sora that ticket?" Sora bent down to pet Felix. "Ah who cares, let's just find it!" Felix nodded her furry head.
They reached Platform nine and ten, and Jack was starting to grow impatient. "Well? Where is it?" he mumbled. Garnet looked around as Sora dragged his cart of school things at the barrier between the two platforms. He looked down at Felix and gave a big sigh. "Guess this was nothing but a wild goose chase, huh?" he said as he started to lean against the wall.
"Whoa!"
Jack and Garnet looked where Sora once stood. "Sora?" Garnet cried. Jack looked around for Sora, but had no luck. Garnet was beginning to freak out. "Did he fall on the train tracks?!" she screeched.
Sora sat up rubbing his head. "Ouch!" he said. There was a loud noise and Sora shot up to his feet and covered his ears. "ACK! What the...huh?" He looked up to see an old fashioned train and a variety of people with wands, animals, robes, and luggage lined up to board the train. Sora noticed a sign hanging above his head. "Platform Nine and Three Quarters! I found it!" he cried. He turned around and stared. "How did I get here?" he asked himself. Felix rubbed against Sora's leg and got his attention. Once she did, she walked on through the wall. Sora's eyes widened, he straightened up, took a deep breath, and took a step.
"SORA!!!' cried Garnet as she took him into her arms. "Where were you?" she asked as she squeezed Sora tightly. "Ay wef nt ptfrm nin a tee kartrs" he tried to say. "What was that honey?" said Garnet as she released Sora. "I found the Platform! Come on! Or we'll miss the train!" Sora said excitedly as he grabbed Felix and his cart and dragged it to the wall. Jack cleared his throat as he and Garnet stood before the wall (Sora was behind them). "Sora there's nothing here," Jack pointed out. Garnet sighed. "I hate to admit it, but he's right." Sora wasn't listening. He was looking to see if anyone was watching. "Oh, but there is!" he said as he raised his arms. "You're just not there yet!" Sora then pushed Jack and Garnet through the invisible barrier.
Jack was a little enraged. "Sora! Why did you...?" but he then realized that there was no impact. He looked over to Garnet, whose mouth was hanging open. Jack then finally took a good look at where he was as his mouth fell open like his wife. Sora folded his arms as Felix jumped onto his shoulders. "Told ya so!" He smirked.
After long goodbyes, Sora and Felix finally boarded the train, settling himself into an empty compartment.
Schooltime
Again...As a Prefect
Author: Ariana Maison
Date: 12-02-03 20:00
"G'bye Mum...Daddy." Ariana hugged her parents before turning towards the train. "I'll see you at Christmas!"
For a moment, the Ravenclaw started towards the end of the train, then remembered she was prefect. Hurriedly she went towards the car, wondering who the other prefect was.
Glancing around, she didn't see any other student from her house. Shrugging, Ariana took a seat figuring he'd not arrived yet. While waiting for departure she began to hum to herself, trying not to let the thoughts about how terrible she might be as a prefect plague her mind.
Marblehead
Author: Lucius Malfoy
Date: 12-02-03 22:04
Radinka knocks on the cottage door and in reply to the tentative, "Who's there?" she sweetly says, "Miz Marbleline? Myrtle Marbleline? My name iz Fedorovskaya. I haf been sent by the Ministry to check on you."
The door opens a crack and an eye appears in the small space. The door inches open just wide enough to allow Radinka to squeeze her small frame through as Myrtle urges, "Hurry up, hurry up. It's not safe out there, you know."
Once inside, Radinka is surprised to find the entry and the parlor off to the right in deep gloom despite the brightness of the morning. Thick, heavy curtains cover every visible window and Radinka doesn't see a single lighted lamp or candle. Myrtle motions for Radinka to follow her, leading Radinka down a set of stairs into a cellar. A few lit candles are scattered around the space but all in all, the cellar is almost as dark and gloomy as the rooms upstairs that Radinka saw.
Myrtle points out a chair for Radinka then settles herself in a well worn, but comfortable looking, recliner. "About time the Ministry sent someone. I've been pestering them for months now."
"Ve haf received an anonymous tip zat makes us belief your concerns are walid. If you are villing, I am to escort you to a safe house."
"Yes, yes. Of course I am willing. You don't even need to wait for me to pack. I've had a bag ready in case I needed to flee on a moment's notice. How will we go? Floo?"
"No, not by floo. The netvork might be watched."
"Oh, yes, of course! So you will tell me where we are going so I can apparate there."
"No, ve vill go by portkey."
"I should have thought of that! Really is the best way to travel if you can't tell me our destination well enough to apparate there."
Radinka smiles and nods while taking a lipstick tube from her robe pocket. Holding it out towards Myrtle, Radinka gives another smile. "If you vould take hold of ze portkey, Miz Marbleline, ve can be on our vay."
Myrtle grabs a duffle bag from behind the recliner then hastens over to touch the portkey masquerading as a portkey. Seconds later, Myrtle blinks to help her eyes adjust to the well-lit room she now finds herself in. She sets down her bag and looks around what seems to be a well furnished, very cozy looking bedroom.
In the meantime, Radinka has shoved the lipstick tube back in her pocket and gone to the open bedroom door. Hearing someone re-enter Myrtle states, "This looks like it will do nicely, Miss Fedorovskaya."
"I'm so glad you like it, Myrtle, but don't get too comfortable. You'll be staying in a room much better suited to traitors."
Myrtle's blood runs cold and the hairs on the back of her neck stand up at the sound of that voice. She forces herself to turn around and face Lucius Malfoy, his mouth creased in a wicked grin.
