Chapter Text
The Great Hall buzzed with the familiar hum of excitement and chatter as students filed in for the Sorting Ceremony. The enchanted ceiling reflected the darkening sky outside, speckled with stars. Together, Hadrian, Isabella, Neville, and the twins walked purposefully down the aisle, pausing briefly to guide Luna toward the cluster of first years at the front. The young Ravenclaw-to-be gave them a dreamy smile before disappearing into the crowd, her ethereal presence already drawing curious glances.
As the group made their way to the Gryffindor table, they crossed paths with the Patil twins, their identical features lit by the soft glow of the floating candles. Hadrian stopped and offered a polite nod.
"Good evening, Ms. and Ms. Patil," he greeted formally, his tone courteous but warm. Turning his attention to Padma, he continued, "Ms. Padma, I have a request."
Padma arched a delicate brow, surprised by the formality.
"I have a hunch," Hadrian said, gesturing toward the first years, "that a dear friend of mine, Luna Lovegood, will soon join your house. She has recently suffered the loss of her mother and is still grappling with it. I’m concerned she may be targeted for bullying. Would you be so kind as to look out for her in my stead? She is very precious to us."
Padma blinked, stunned by Hadrian’s sudden shift in demeanour. This was not the same boy she had known in passing. Regaining her composure, she offered him a small, sincere smile.
"Of course, Harry," she replied softly. "If Luna is sorted into Ravenclaw, I’ll make sure to look after her."
Relief flickered across Hadrian’s features, and he nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Padma. This means a great deal to us. Should you ever need help, don’t hesitate to reach out."
Padma’s cheeks tinted slightly as she nodded back. "I’ll keep that in mind."
With that, Hadrian rejoined the group, his stride purposeful as they made their way to the Gryffindor table. Isabella beamed at him, slipping an arm around his shoulders as they sat.
"That was brilliant, Harry," she whispered, her voice filled with admiration. "Quick thinking and so kind. I’m proud of you. Luna is lucky to have you."
Hadrian’s cheeks flushed a deep red, and he ducked his head in embarrassment. “It’s nothing,” he mumbled, though the shy smile tugging at his lips betrayed his pride. Neville chuckled softly, clearly impressed, while the twins exchanged grins.
“Blimey, Harry,” Fred teased, “if we didn’t know better, we’d think you were practising diplomacy.”
George nodded sagely. “He’s definitely making us look bad, Fred.”
“Impossible task, dear brother,” Fred quipped.
Their laughter was interrupted by the sharp clink of McGonagall’s wand against the goblet, signalling the start of the Sorting. The hall fell quiet as the Sorting Hat was placed upon its stool, its patched brim opening wide as it began its annual song.
When the Sorting officially began, the group clapped politely for each new Gryffindor and even cheered modestly for the students sorted into other houses. However, when Luna’s name was called, their excitement was impossible to miss.
The Hat touched her head, taking a few seconds before declaring, “Ravenclaw!”
Hadrian, Isabella, Neville, and the twins erupted into applause, their cheers echoing through the hall. Even Susan, seated at the Hufflepuff table, and Draco at Slytherin joined in, clapping enthusiastically.
When asked by a fellow Slytherin why he was cheering for a Ravenclaw, Draco coolly replied, “She’s my cousin.” His tone left no room for further questions.
Once the last first-year was sorted, Dumbledore rose from his seat, his silver beard glinting in the candlelight as he spread his arms wide.
“Welcome, one and all, to another year at Hogwarts!” he began, his voice filled with grandfatherly warmth. “Before we begin our feast, a few announcements." Dumbledore said, his tone shifting to one of dramatic flair, “I am delighted to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor: Gilderoy Lockhart!”
A smattering of applause followed though it was clear that many students were more confused than excited. The man in question stood from his seat, his dazzling smile as bright as the sunlight reflecting off his golden hair. He waved theatrically, his peacock-blue robes shimmering as he struck a pose that might have been better suited to a book cover than a school staff introduction.
Hadrian groaned softly, leaning toward Isabella. “This year’s going to be... something.”
“I don’t even need Divination to predict that,” Isabella muttered.
Dumbledore concluded his speech with his usual cheerfulness, inviting everyone to dig into the feast. The tables filled instantly with an array of dishes, the air thick with the aroma of roasted meats, fresh bread, and sweet puddings.
The golden platters brimmed with delectable dishes, their scents blending into a mouthwatering symphony of roasted meats, fresh bread, and sweet puddings. The Great Hall buzzed with the cheerful clinking of cutlery and animated chatter as students indulged in the feast. Amid the noise, Hadrian, Isabella, Neville, and the twins shared a moment of camaraderie, their quiet bond a stark contrast to the boisterous energy around them.
When the feast ended, the houses dispersed, heading to their respective common rooms. Gryffindor Tower was alive with excitement as housemates caught up, sharing stories of their summer adventures. The twins bid Hadrian, Isabella, and Neville goodnight, joining their yearmates in an animated huddle.
Settling into the cushy armchairs by the fire, the trio began discussing their plans for the upcoming week. They exchanged thoughts on their homework, debating strategies for tackling Snape’s likely gruelling assignments. Three knew he had a role to play like all of them.
The peaceful atmosphere was shattered by a loud, grating voice.
“Harry! Where were you?”
Ronald Bilius Weasley had arrived, his booming tone demanding the attention of the entire common room. Heads turned as Ron approached, his freckled face twisted in exaggerated exasperation.
“I was searching for you on the Hogwarts Express but couldn’t find you. Thought you missed it, mate!” Ron continued, oblivious to the growing irritation etched on Hadrian’s face. “Anyway, you’re here now. Let’s play some chess and eat snacks. Why are you hanging around with Longbottom? And seriously, doing homework with Hermione? Just let her do it for you!”
The condescending laugh that followed made Hadrian’s patience snap like a brittle wand.
“Enough, Ron,” Hadrian said, his voice sharp, cutting through the air like a blade. “I will not hear another word against my friends.”
But Ron, as oblivious as ever, pressed on, his grin widening. “But mate, I’m your best friend! Why waste your time with them when you’ve got me? We could talk Quidditch instead of…this. Longbottom can’t even mount a broom properly, let alone fly. And Hermione—” He snorted, clearly amused by his own wit. “She looked at the broom during our first lesson like it was about to attack her!”
The common room fell silent, the firelight casting flickering shadows across the tense faces of the students. Hadrian rose from his seat, his emerald eyes gleaming with an intensity that made Ron falter mid-laugh. A palpable wave of power radiated off him, pressing against the room like a rising storm.
The gathered students instinctively stepped back, dread pooling in their stomachs as Hadrian took a deliberate breath, visibly reigning in his anger. When he finally spoke, his voice was cold and controlled, every word laced with steel.
“Ronald Bilius Weasley,” Hadrian began, his tone devoid of warmth, “I warned you not to badmouth my friends, but it seems my warning didn’t penetrate that thick skull of yours—if you even have a brain to speak of.”
Ron bristled, his bravado faltering. “Mate, what’s gotten into you?”
Hadrian ignored the interruption, his gaze unrelenting. “Neville Longbottom,” he said, gesturing to the boy beside him, “is twice the man you could ever hope to be. He has endured loss, faced fears you can’t even imagine, and still finds the courage to stand tall.”
Neville flushed with a mix of embarrassment and gratitude, but he didn’t look away.
“And Hermione Granger,” Hadrian continued, his voice hardening, “is the most brilliant and capable witch of our generation. While you mock her, she’s the reason we were not failing our exams. Her dedication and intelligence surpass anything you’ll ever achieve.”
Ron opened his mouth to retort, but Hadrian cut him off with a raised hand, his expression ice-cold.
“You’ve mistaken my tolerance for weakness,” Hadrian said, his voice dropping to a menacing low. “That ends now. You call yourself my friend, but a real friend doesn’t belittle others to feel important. If this is who you truly are, then I want nothing to do with you.”
The weight of Hadrian’s words settled over the room like a heavy fog. No one dared to move or speak, all eyes fixed on Ron, whose face had gone pale.
“You have a choice, Ronald,” Hadrian finished, stepping closer. “Grow up and learn to respect others, or stay as you are—a small, petty boy clinging to a friendship you no longer deserve.”
With that, Hadrian turned away, his presence still commanding as he resumed his seat beside Isabella and Neville. The tension in the room remained thick, the silence deafening as the students processed what had just unfolded.
Ron stood frozen for a moment before stumbling back toward the staircase, muttering incomprehensibly under his breath. The common room gradually came back to life, whispers and murmurs filling the air.
Isabella leaned toward Hadrian, her voice low but admiring. “That was…impressive.”
Hadrian sighed, the firelight catching the weariness in his eyes. “It had to be done.”
Neville smiled faintly, his posture straighter than it had been all evening. “Thank you,” he said quietly.
Hadrian nodded, his expression softening. “Always.”
The three returned to their discussion, their bond stronger than ever. The rest of the common room, however, couldn’t shake the memory of Hadrian’s words or the power he had wielded with such quiet authority.
As the warmth of the common room fire began to wane, the group decided to retire for the night. Isabella bid Neville goodnight, then turned to Hadrian with a warm smile. Without hesitation, she hugged him, pressing a light kiss to his cheek before heading to the girls' dormitory.
Hadrian froze, his emerald eyes wide with surprise. A faint blush spread across his face as he stood rooted to the spot, a mixture of awe and a shy smile tugging at his lips. Neville chuckled softly, finally tugging Hadrian toward the boys’ dormitory and shoving him lightly onto his bunk to break the spell.
“Snap out of it, mate,” Neville teased, giving him a gentle shove toward his bed.
Hadrian blinked and stammered, “She—uh, well, goodnight.”
“She got you good, mate,” Neville teased, grinning as he climbed into his bunk. Soon, the dormitory fell silent, the rhythmic breathing of the sleeping boys blending with the peaceful hum of the castle.
The next morning, they woke at the crack of dawn, their bodies tuned to the rigorous schedule they’d followed during their training. They quickly freshened up and donned their workout gear, their determination unwavering as they quietly left the dormitory.
Meeting the twins on their way to the common room, they found Isabella waiting for them by the fireplace. Together, they set off, their footsteps light as they navigated the dim corridors of the castle.
They encountered Luna on the way, her dreamy expression as serene as ever.
“How did you know where to find us, Luna?” Neville asked, curiosity etched on his face.
“The Wrackspurts told me,” Luna replied cheerfully, her tone as matter-of-fact as if she’d said she’d read it in a book.
Exchanging amused glances, they simply nodded—this was Luna, after all—and invited her to join them.
When they reached the tapestry of the troll attempting to teach ballet on the seventh floor, they waited for Susan and Draco. Moments later, the two arrived, looking sharp and ready. Hadrian approached the blank wall and began pacing, his thoughts clear.
We need a space to train, both with magic and without. A place to refine our skills, push our limits, and remain unseen.
After the third turn, a heavy oak door materialized, its intricate carvings of magical creatures and symbols glowing faintly in the dim light. The group stepped inside, their eyes widening as they took in the Room.
The Room of Requirement had transformed into an impressive training hall. The vast space was well-lit, the walls adorned with tall mirrors to monitor their form and movements. One side of the room was lined with enchanted dummies for combat practice, while another housed racks of training equipment for physical exercise. The centre of the room was open, perfect for sparring and magical duelling. A small corner held shelves stacked with books on advanced magic and theory, alongside a cozy seating area for study.
“This is… incredible,” Isabella murmured, running a hand over a nearby training dummy.
Hadrian nodded, satisfaction glinting in his eyes. “It’s perfect.”
For the next two hours, they pushed themselves to their limits. They began with stretches and warm-ups, their movements synchronized from months of practice. Neville and Hadrian sparred with wooden staffs enchanted to withstand their strikes, honing their reflexes and physical strength. Isabella and Susan paired off to duel with shields and hexes, working on speed and precision.
Luna watched intently at first, her wide eyes absorbing every movement. To everyone’s surprise, she displayed a natural knack for physical balance, mastering the beam with ease while humming softly to herself. Then, under Hadrian’s gentle guidance, she began practising simple yet effective spells, her focus unwavering despite her inexperience. Draco, ever sharp and strategic, focused on blending his wandwork with fluid physical movements, developing a style uniquely his own.
The session was punctuated by bursts of laughter, shouts of encouragement, and the occasional bang of a spell gone awry. After two hours of relentless training, the group was covered in a sheen of sweat but felt invigorated, their spirits high.
“Same time tomorrow?” Hadrian asked, wiping his forehead with a towel.
“Absolutely,” Neville replied, his face flushed but determined.
After sealing the room, they split off to their respective houses to shower and change. They regrouped at breakfast, their energy still buzzing from the morning's exertion.
Professor McGonagall approached their table, her sharp eyes twinkling with a rare trace of warmth as she handed them their timetables.
“Thank you, Professor,” Isabella said with a polite smile.
Hadrian glanced down at the parchment, scanning the week’s schedule. As second-years, they had a mix of familiar subjects and a few new challenges:
---
MONDAY
-9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Herbology (Greenhouse 3)
-10:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Transfiguration (Classroom 1)
-1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Defense Against the Dark Arts (Classroom 3C)
---
TUESDAY
-9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Charms (Classroom 2E)
- 10:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Potions (Dungeons)
-1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
History of Magic (Classroom 4F)
---
WEDNESDAY
-9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Care of Magical Creatures (Grounds)
-11:00 PM – 12:00 AMa
Astronomy (Astronomy Tower)
---
THURSDAY
-9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Defense Against the Dark Arts (Classroom 3C)
-10:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Herbology (Greenhouse 3)
-1:30 PM – 3:00 PM
Charms (Classroom 2E)
---
FRIDAY
- 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Potions (Dungeons)
-10:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Transfiguration (Classroom 1)
-Afternoon Free
---
They discussed their timetables while finishing their meal, noting their shared classes, sharing their excitement and mild trepidation for certain classes—especially DADA with Lockhart. After breakfast, they returned to the common room to gather their books and supplies.
As they passed through, they noticed Ron and Ginny huddled together in a corner, whispering urgently. The Weasley siblings stiffened when they saw the trio and quickly exited through the portrait hole, avoiding eye contact.
“Well, that wasn’t suspicious at all,” Isabella remarked dryly.
“Leave them to their antics,” Hadrian said, brushing it off. “We’ve got more important things to focus on.” Though he filed it away for later.
They retrieved their books and made their way to the greenhouses for Herbology.
Their first class, Herbology, was a refreshing start to the day. Professor Sprout greeted them warmly in the greenhouse, where they worked with Mandrakes. Though the plants were far from friendly, the group’s teamwork and enthusiasm shone, earning them approving nods from their professor.
Transfiguration followed, where Professor McGonagall demonstrated the intricacies of turning animals into goblets. Her stern demeanour was offset by the excitement of watching their own attempts—some successful, others less so.
The classroom buzzed with anticipation as the students settled into their seats, awaiting the arrival of the infamous Gilderoy Lockhart. When the door swung open, the man himself swept in, his robes billowing dramatically. His signature dazzling smile was in place, a gleaming beacon of self-assurance. He paused mid-stride, pointing flamboyantly at the various portraits of himself adorning the walls.
“Me. Gilderoy Lockhart, Order of Merlin, Third Class; Honorary Member of the Dark Force Defence League; five-time winner of Witch Weekly's Most Charming Smile Award,” he announced, his voice dripping with self-importance. “Ah, I see you've all bought my complete set of books. Excellent, excellent! A fine investment in your education—and, might I add, in wizarding culture itself!”
Hadrian leaned toward Isabella, whispering, “This is going to be a very long year.”
Lockhart continued, undeterred by the muffled snickers from the back of the room. “Before we begin the real work, I need to ensure you’re all well-acquainted with the genius that is Gilderoy Lockhart. A quiz! Thirty minutes. And… start—NOW!”
Hadrian glanced down at the parchment, raising an eyebrow at the absurd questions. A mischievous smirk tugged at his lips as he picked up his quill and began to write.
1) What is Gilderoy Lockhart's favourite colour?
Gold—the colour of the Galleons he earns by making poor children spend an exorbitant amount on his books.
2) What is Gilderoy Lockhart's secret ambition?
To make lots of money by fooling not only the British Wizarding public but people worldwide through his worthless books.
3) What, in your opinion, is Gilderoy Lockhart's greatest achievement to date?
Successfully convincing the public that the fiction in his books is fact—making a career out of deception is no small feat!
54) What would Gilderoy Lockhart's ideal birthday gift be?
A Niffler, so he wouldn’t have to make people spend gold on his books; he could simply dig it up himself. Or perhaps a mirror—for endless self-admiration.
Satisfied with his work, Hadrian cast the Gemini charm, duplicating his answers several times, and with a flick of his wand, passed the copies around the classroom. A ripple of laughter spread through the students as they read his answers. Dean Thomas and Seamus Finnegan laughed so hard they fell out of his chair, drawing even more snickers from the others.
Lockhart, however, remained blissfully oblivious, preening in a mirror at the front of the room. After a few minutes, he finally gathered the parchments and began rifling through them, his expression souring as he read.
“Tut, tut—not one of you remembered my favourite colour is lilac. I clearly mentioned it in Year with the Yeti. And a few of you—” He stopped abruptly, his face turning an alarming shade of red.
“Detention, Mr. Potter!” he snapped, his voice shaking with indignation. “One evening every two weeks until the winter holidays. And ten points from Gryffindor!”
Hadrian’s smirk widened, his emerald eyes glinting with amusement. “Totally worth it,” he murmured under his breath as Lockhart fumbled with a cloth-covered cage, clearly eager to move on.
With his pride clearly bruised, Lockhart attempted to regain control. The professor placed the cage on his desk with a dramatic flourish. “Now, be warned! I’m here to train you against the foulest, most deadly creatures known to wizardkind! I must ask you not to scream. Stay calm, as you are about to witness… freshly caught Cornish pixies!”
Hadrian’s laughter broke the tension. He doubled over, the sound contagious as others joined in. Even Neville, usually reserved, couldn’t hold back his amusement. Lockhart’s expression darkened.
“And what, may I ask, is so funny?” he demanded.
Neville, still chuckling, managed to reply, “Well, they’re pixies! They’re not all that dangerous.”
“I have to agree with Neville,” Hadrian added, his tone dry. “The way you were building it up, I thought we were about to meet a Nundu.”
Lockhart’s jaw tightened. “Really? Let’s see how you handle them, then!” With a grand gesture, he unlocked the cage.
The classroom erupted into chaos. The pixies shot into the air, chattering loudly and wreaking havoc. Books and parchment flew as students ducked for cover. Hadrian, unfazed, calmly flipped through his own textbook, stunning any pixies that dared approach him.
Lockhart, meanwhile, attempted to assert control. Rolling up his sleeves, he waved his wand dramatically and shouted, “Peskipiksi Pesternomi!”
Hadrian snorted. “That doesn’t even sound like a real spell.”
Sure enough, nothing happened. A particularly bold pixie snatched Lockhart’s wand and hurled it out the window.
“Hades, do something!” Isabella exclaimed, her voice cutting through the chaos.
With a sigh, Hadrian stood, his wand in hand. “Everyone, drop to the ground—NOW!”
The command was sharp and authoritative, and the students obeyed instantly. With a single slash of his wand, a wide jet of red light erupted from its tip, sweeping through the room in an arc. The pixies froze mid-flight before dropping to the ground, unconscious.
Hadrian moved his wand in a graceful, sweeping motion, and the pixies floated back into their cage as though carried by an invisible tide. With a flick, he sealed the cage with a Colloportus charm.
“And here’s your lesson for the day,” Hadrian said, addressing the class. “Pixies aren’t dangerous, but in large numbers, they can be bothersome. The best way to handle them is with a Stunning Spell—Stupefy. Practice the incantation and wand movement on your own time.”
Without sparing Lockhart a second glance, he turned and walked out of the classroom, his robes billowing behind him, Isabella and Neville following. The room was silent for a moment, save for Lockhart’s spluttering.
Draco Malfoy rose from his seat with a deliberate, almost theatrical air. A smirk tugged at the corners of his lips as he strode toward the classroom door, his voice carrying just the right amount of drawl to command attention.
“You’ve got to admit, Professor,” he said, glancing over his shoulder at the still-flustered Lockhart, “he’s got style.” With a flick of his robes, Draco exited the room, leaving a stunned silence in his wake.
The class collectively gawked at the closed door. Draco Malfoy—who had spent much of the previous year sneering at Harry Potter—had not only agreed with him but openly praised him. It was a moment no one could have predicted.
Whispers erupted as the door closed behind him. Something about Harry Potter was undeniably different this year. He seemed more poised, exuding a quiet confidence that made him almost unrecognizable from the boy who had fumbled his way through his first year. His demeanour was sharper, his presence more commanding, and his knowledge, it seemed, far beyond what anyone had expected.
Though Harry hadn’t displayed much of his newfound prowess in the first few classes—Herbology and Transfiguration—it was clear to those who paid attention that he had changed. His circle of friends, too, had shifted; Neville Longbottom now sat with him at meals, replacing Ronald Weasley in the trio that had once seemed inseparable., while Hermione Granger remained his constant companion.
The rumour mill had already caught wind of Harry’s falling out with Ronald Weasley, and the incident was spreading through the castle like Fiendfyre. Some claimed there had been harsh words exchanged in the Gryffindor common room, while others whispered of an outright duel. Whatever the truth, the change in Harry was undeniable.
The next class proved to be a stark contrast to the chaotic disaster Lockhart had orchestrated. History of Magic was as dull and lifeless as ever, Professor Binns droning on about the Goblin Wars in his monotone voice. Students either feigned interest, succumbed to quiet distractions, or the lul of sleep, but Hadrian and Neville endured it with a carefully crafted facade of attentiveness.
“Another thrilling chapter of our magical education,” Isabella whispered dryly, taking notes silently in her parchment.
Hadrian smirked but kept his eyes on the professor, seemingly paying attention while his mind wandered to more pressing matters.
The rest of the day passed without incident. By dinner, the Great Hall buzzed with the usual chatter, the comforting hum of students unwinding after a long day of classes. Hadrian, seated between Isabella and Neville at the Gryffindor table, was cutting into a slice of roast when a familiar flash of white feathers caught his attention.
Hedwig swooped gracefully through the hall, her snowy wings illuminated by the floating candles. She landed on the table before him with a soft hoot, her amber eyes gleaming with affection for Hadrian.
“Missed me, girl?” Hadrian murmured.
At first, her presence seemed routine—Hedwig often joined him during meals—but then he noticed the small parcel tied securely to her leg.
Hadrian’s brow furrowed slightly. He wasn’t expecting any deliveries this early into the term. Gently, he untied the package, careful not to draw too much attention. Hedwig nibbled at his hair affectionately, earning a soft chuckle from him.
He offered her a piece of sausage which Hedwig accepted. After finishing her meal, she shook out her feathers and, nipped at his fingers before taking flight once more, her exit as elegant as her arrival. The trio couldn’t help but chuckle at her antics.
“Half? You’re being generous,” Neville replied, earning a snicker from Hadrian.
“What do you think it is?” Isabella asked, glancing at the small package, now tucked into Hadrian’s robes, Neville nodding along.
“Not sure,” Hadrian replied casually, though his mind was already working through the possibilities. “I’ll open it later—away from prying eyes.”
As the hall buzzed with the usual dinner chatter, Hadrian discreetly scanned the Hall. His sharp gaze found Fred and George at the Gryffindor table, Susan Bones seated with the Hufflepuffs, Luna Lovegood among the Ravenclaws, and Draco Malfoy lounging at the Slytherin table. With a series of subtle nods, he signalled for them to meet in the Room of Requirement after dinner. Each of them acknowledged him in their own way—Fred and George with cheeky grins, Susan with a small tilt of her head, Luna with her usual dreamy smile, and Draco with an imperceptible smirk.
When the meal ended, Hadrian, Isabella, and Neville stood, excusing themselves with the well-worn excuse of a “library run.” It was a plausible alibi to avoid suspicion.
The trio moved swiftly through the castle, weaving their way to the seventh floor. Once there, Hadrian paced three times in front of the blank stretch of wall, focusing intently on their needs. A door appeared, and they entered a cosy meeting room with plush chairs, a warm fireplace, and a table in the centre.
Only those they had authorized could enter. They didn’t have to wait long. The door opened once more, admitting Fred and George Weasley, Susan Bones, Luna Lovegood, and Draco Malfoy. Each of them carried a mixture of curiosity and anticipation, their gazes sharpening as they took in the atmosphere.
“Bit posh for a secret meeting, don’t you think?” Fred quipped, flopping onto a chair.
George grinned, adding, “Not that we’re complaining.”
The group settled into their seats, ready to discuss whatever Hadrian had in store.
Susan shot them a look of exasperation before turning to Hadrian. “What’s this about?”
He set the unopened parcel on the table before him, the faintest smile playing on his lips.
“What’s in it?” Fred asked eagerly, his twin leaning in with equal curiosity.
“That,” Hadrian replied, tapping the package lightly, “is what we’re about to find out.”
“Alright,” Isabella began, her voice steady but laced with intrigue as she carefully opened the package. “Let’s see what we’ve got.”
The first thing that caught Hadrian’s eye was an envelope sitting neatly atop the package, addressed to Hades. He smirked at the nickname and picked it up, holding it up for the others to see.
“It’s from Siri and Remi,” he said, a mixture of curiosity and excitement in his voice. “I wonder what was so urgent that they sent it tonight instead of waiting for breakfast tomorrow.”
Carefully, he broke the seal and unfolded the letter, heartwarming as he recognized the familiar handwriting. His eyes scanned the parchment, his lips quirking upward at the playful yet heartfelt tone.
Hey Hades,
We hope this letter finds you well and settling into school. The first day is always a whirlwind, isn’t it? Remi has been pacing all day, convinced you’d dive headfirst into some heroic mess before the first class even starts. (I told him you’d at least wait until the second day, but he remains unconvinced.)
We wanted to check in on how your first day went. Are the lessons as dull as we remember, or have they somehow found a way to make them worse? We’re hoping Isabella and Neville are keeping you company—and keeping you out of trouble. (Though let’s be honest, you’re probably dragging them into it.)
On a more serious note, we had a meeting with your godfather, Lucius, earlier today. He handed over the diary you asked about. It’s now safely in my possession—don’t worry, it’s locked up tight. Lucius sends his regards and assures us he’s ready to help whenever you need him.
Now, onto the fun part: we’ve included a little surprise in the package. Call it a little back-to-school surprise from the two of us. Inside, you’ll find something for you and your closest friends—and a few professors. Take your time unboxing it, and enjoy. (If Fred and George are around, make sure they behave. Or don’t. That’s always fun too.)
Once you’ve gone through everything, there’s more for you to discover. Point your wand at this letter and say the same words you use to make that enchanted map of yours disappear. That’ll reveal the next steps. (Don’t roll your eyes at us. You are James’s son, after all.)
Remus insists I remind you to study hard, even though I think that’s overrated. Me? I say do all the pranks you want, just don’t get caught! (He’s glaring at me right now. Worth it.)
Remember, Prongslet, you don’t have to tackle everything on your own. You don’t have to tackle everything alone. You’ve got us, and you’ve got friends who clearly care about you. Lean on them—and on us—when you need to. Always.
We both love you more than you’ll ever know. Write back soon, and if you need anything, we’re just a letter away.
Take care, pup.
Love,
Siri & Remi
P.S. Remus says he’s slipped a little chocolate into the package too. He claims it’s for emergencies, but honestly, I think he just wants to spoil you. Don’t let him fool you.
P.P.S. Tell Isabella, Neville and Draco we said hello. And don’t let Draco’s dramatics get to you—he’s worse than a Hippogriff with a bruised ego sometimes.
Hadrian’s hands trembled slightly as he lowered the letter. Warmth spread through his chest at the unexpected affection and concern. It was a foreign feeling, one he wasn’t used to—not from adults, anyway. It was the first time an adult had written to him just to check in, let alone express concern about his well-being. He swallowed hard, touched by the genuine care Sirius and Remus had put into their words.
“They’re amazing,” he murmured, his voice thick with emotion.
With renewed curiosity, he turned his attention to the package. Carefully peeling back the wrapping, he revealed a smaller box nestled inside. Opening it, he found a collection of pouches, each labelled with the names of his friends—Fred, George, Neville, Susan, Isabella, and even for a few professors. When he came across the one bearing his own name, he paused, taking a moment to admire the exquisite gold embroidery before opening it.
Inside, he found a stunning wizarding watch. It displayed not only the time but also the phases of the moon (Moony’s idea probably). Alongside it was a sleek, compact mirror. Both designed with sleek emerald, burgundy, black, and gold accents. The craftsmanship was exquisite, and the designs felt personal as if they had been created just for him.
“What is it?” Isabella asked, leaning closer to peer at his find.
Hadrian held up the watch, the gleaming surface catching the light. “Looks like a wizarding version of a Muggle watch,” he said, then opened the mirror to inspect it. “And this—well, I guess we’ll find out.”
Curiosity rippled through the group as they examined their own pouches, each item tailored to the individual it belonged to. The room buzzed with excitement, but Hadrian’s thoughts lingered on the letter.
“Alright,” he said after a moment, pulling it out again. “Let’s see what else they have for us.”
Touching the tip of his wand to the parchment, he whispered, “Mischief Managed.”
The ink on the page shimmered, rearranging itself into new words. The room fell silent, everyone leaning in to see what the letter had revealed.
Hadrian read aloud the new message revealed by the enchanted letter, his voice carrying a mixture of wonder and warmth:
Prongslet,
What you have in your hands is a modified version of the communication mirror I gave you in the fifth year of your previous life—according to your story. When you told us about the mirror while narrating your past life at Gringotts, it sparked our inner Marauder.
As soon as you left for Hogwarts, Remi and I got to work. Luckily, we still had a base version, so it only took a few hours to modify it. Now, it’s better than ever, and you can connect with a larger number of people. Alongside the mirror, we included watches designed for discretion—they’ll allow you to send and receive text or audio messages when subtlety is required.
Here’s how it works:
- The Compact Mirror: Open the lid, press the green button, and say the name of the person you want to call. To connect with everyone, just say everyone. If you want to form groups for easier communication, press the silver button, speak the names of the individuals you want in the group, and double-click the same button to finalize and name the group. Disconnecting a call is as simple as pressing the red button.
- The Watch: These are linked to the mirrors. To send a message, press the green button, think of the person or group’s name, choose the mode of delivery (text or audio), and then clearly think about your message. Receiving messages is just as easy—press the red button to read or listen to them.
Both the devices also contain tracking charm and an SOS alert for emergencies.
To ensure these devices respond only to you, you’ll need to bind them to your magic. Wear the watch, open the mirror, and channel a small amount of your magic into it until it glows golden. Once connected, the devices will follow your magical intent seamlessly.
We’ve already sent pouches with mirrors and watches to a few key people: Augusta, Amelia, the Malfoys, the Grangers, select Weasleys (don’t worry, we were discreet), and even Lord Ragnarok. Of course, we kept a set for ourselves.
Please ensure the professors receive their pouches along with these instructions. Also, convey our regards to them.
We hope these devices make life easier for all of you. Remember, Prongslet, we’re just a mirror call away.
Enjoy!
With love,
Padfoot and Moony
Hadrian set the letter down and looked at the group, who were all leaning forward, listening intently. The room buzzed with anticipation.
“Well,” he said with a small grin, “looks like we’re all getting upgrades.”
“Leave it to Sirius and Remus to combine brilliance with mischief,” Isabella said, her voice filled with admiration.
Neville held up his mirror, inspecting the sleek silver finish. “This is incredible. I didn’t even know something like this was possible.”
Draco exclaimed. “They’re amazing, aren’t they?”
Hadrian smiled softly. "They are". He glanced at the instructions again. “Alright, let’s connect these to our magic first.”
Following the steps outlined in the letter, everyone slipped on their watches, opened their mirrors, and channelled a small surge of magic into them. One by one, the devices glowed a soft golden hue, signalling the bond was complete.
With the devices now bound, Hadrian grinned mischievously. “Alright, who’s up for testing the device?”
The room erupted into laughter, their camaraderie solidifying as they dove into exploring the gifts from Sirius and Remus.
As the group began testing their new gadgets, Hadrian glanced at the pouches still left in the box and let out a thoughtful hum. “We’ll need to pass these along to the professors,” he said, retrieving three pouches labelled with the names Minerva McGonagall, Severus Snape, and Filius Flitwick. With a determined nod, he summoned one of Hogwarts’ house elves.
“Could you please ask Professors McGonagall, Snape, and Flitwick to join us in the Come-and-Go Room? Tell them it’s important but not an emergency.” he requested politely.
The elf gave a respectful bow. “Of course, Master Hadrian. They will be informed immediately,” he chirped before vanishing with a soft pop.
The group spent the next few minutes tinkering with their new devices, the room filled with the buzz of excitement. Laughter bubbled up as the twins debated the best prank-related uses for the watches, while Luna mused aloud about forming a “Nargle Watchers” group.
Soon, the door swung open, and Professors McGonagall, Snape, and Flitwick entered the room, their expressions ranging from curious to mildly annoyed.
“Hadrian,” Professor McGonagall began, her stern gaze softened by curiosity, “to what do we owe this… unexpected summons?”
Hadrian stood and offered them a respectful nod. “Thank you for coming, Professors. Please, have a seat,” he said, gesturing to the chairs that had appeared for them.
The professors exchanged glances but complied, taking their seats at the head of the group.
“Good evening, everyone,” Hadrian said respectfully, standing to address them. “Thank you for coming. I’ve called you here because Sirius and Remus sent something for you, and I thought it best to hand it over personally.”
Hadrian retrieved three pouches from the box and stepped forward, offering one to each professor. “These are for you. They’re enchanted communication devices—mirrors and watches—designed to help us stay connected and discreetly exchange information. Sirius and Remus modified them specifically to improve communication and coordination among trusted individuals.”
McGonagall accepted her pouch with a raised brow. “Enchanted devices, you say?”
“Yes, Aunt Minnie.” Hadrian handed over the accompanying letter containing instructions. “This letter explains everything, but to summarize: the mirrors and watches inside are magically linked and can be used to communicate discreetly via audio, text, or video. They’re easy to use, but you’ll need to bind them to your magic first by following the instructions.”
Professor Flitwick was the first to speak, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he examined the finely crafted watch. “Fascinating! This kind of enchantment work is remarkable. I seem to have forgotten how skilled Sirius and Remus are in magical craftsmanship.”
“Magical adaptation of Muggle communication technology—how fascinating! Leave it to those two to innovate mischief into practicality,” Snape muttered, though his tone lacked its usual bite as he studied the mirror with a critical eye.
Professor McGonagall, meanwhile, unfolded the letter, her expression softening as she read through Sirius and Remus’s instructions. “This is… exceptionally thoughtful,” she said, her voice carrying a note of fondness.
Her lips twitched into the barest hint of a smile, “Leave it to Sirius and Remus to come up with something so functional yet uniquely Marauder-esque.”
Hadrian gave a small smile. “Sirius and Remus hope you’ll find them helpful, and, they’ve also sent their regards."
Professor Snape raised an eyebrow. “And these devices are secure?” he asked, his voice tinged with suspicion.
Hadrian nodded confidently. “Yes, Uncle Sev. Sirius and Remus ensured they were warded against tampering or unauthorized use. They’ve already distributed these to trusted individuals like Amelia Bones, Augusta Longbottom, the Grangers, the Malfoys and, even Lord Ragnarok.”
Hadrian gestured to the group around him. “We’ve already bonded ours. If you’d like, we can guide you through the process now.”
With nods of agreement, the professors followed Hadrian’s instructions. They donned their watches, opened their mirrors, and channelled their magic, watching as the devices glowed goldenly.
As the professors finished the bonding process, Professor Flitwick clapped his hands in delight. “This is quite extraordinary, truly! I can see many uses for these devices, especially for coordinating efforts within the castle.”
McGonagall offered Hadrian a small smile. “Please extend our gratitude to Sirius and Remus. This is a most thoughtful and practical gift.”
“I will, Professor,” Hadrian replied earnestly.
Snape, though less effusive, gave Hadrian a curt nod. “Efficient,” he said simply, pocketing the watch and mirror.
The professors lingered a little longer, asking questions about the devices and discussing their potential applications. When everyone finally departed from RoR, their expressions held a new sense of purpose. As the curfew approached, the group decided it was time to call it a night. They left the Room of Requirement, their footsteps echoing softly in the quiet corridors of the castle.
Susan and Draco branched off first, heading towards the dungeons. Draco gave a slight wave, his usual smirk softened into something more genuine as he said, “Don’t stay up too late, Hades. You might not survive another day of Lockhart without a full night’s rest.”
Hadrian snorted, rolling his eyes. “Goodnight, Dragon. Try not to hex anyone on your way back.”
With light laughter and murmured farewells, the rest of the group accompanied Luna to the Ravenclaw tower. She bid them a cheerful goodnight, her silvery voice floating back to them as she disappeared into her common room.
Finally, the remaining Gryffindors made their way to their own tower, speaking in hushed tones about the day’s events. When they reached the portrait of the Fat Lady, Hadrian murmured the password, and they slipped inside. The common room was mostly empty, save for a few stragglers finishing last-minute assignments. They exchanged quiet goodnights before retreating to their respective dorms.
Once in his dormitory, Hadrian pulled the curtains around his four-poster bed and muttered several privacy charms, ensuring he wouldn’t be disturbed. Settling against the pillows, he pulled out the communication mirror, his fingers brushing its smooth, cool surface as he activated it, tapping the green button and softly said “Padfoot”.
Within moments, the mirror warmed under his touch, and the familiar faces of Sirius and Remus appeared on the reflective surface. Sirius’s mischievous grin widened when he saw Hadrian.
“Prongslet!” Sirius exclaimed, his voice a mix of excitement and mischief. “How’s Hogwarts treating you so far? Driving the professors up the wall yet?”
“Not all of them,” Hadrian replied with a smirk, leaning back against his pillows. “Just the ones who deserve it.”
Over the next hour, Hadrian poured his heart out to his guardians, recounting the highs and lows of his first day. He started with the fight in the Gryffindor common room the previous evening.
“Ron crossed the line,” Hadrian said, his tone cool but firm. ““He kept insulting Isabella and Neville—over and over—even after I warned him to stop. I finally had enough and told him exactly where he could shove his jealousy and arrogance. The so-called friendship is over, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier.”
Sirius’s expression darkened. “Good riddance. That boy never deserved your loyalty in the first place.”
“You did the right thing,” Remus reassured him. “True friends don’t treat others like that. It’s better to cut ties now than let his toxicity drag you down.”
Hadrian nodded, feeling a weight lift from his chest. With that chapter of his life closed, he moved on to the lighter moments of the day, beginning with the spectacle of their Defense Against the Dark Arts class.
“You wouldn’t believe the disaster that is Gilderoy Lockhart,” Hadrian began, his tone laced with exasperation. “The man spent half the class talking about himself, then gave us a quiz—all about him . So, I decided to have a bit of fun with it.”
Sirius’s grin widened. “What did you do?”
“Well,” Hadrian continued, his emerald eyes twinkling with mischief, “I couldn’t let it slide, could I? I answered every single question, but instead of writing his answers, I filled it with... creative alternatives.”
Sirius laughed so hard he nearly fell out of view. “That’s my boy! knew you had the marauder spirit in you! Let me guess—he didn’t take kindly to that?”
“Not at all,” Hadrian replied, grinning. “Apparently, Lockhart didn’t appreciate my ‘creativity’ and gave me detention. But that’s not even the worst part. He unleashed a cage of Cornish pixies on the class, then had no idea how to deal with them and panicked when they went berserk. One of them even stole his wand! I had to deal with the chaos while he cowered in a corner.”
Remus pinched the bridge of his nose, groaning. “That man shouldn’t be allowed within a hundred feet of a classroom.”
Hadrian chuckled. “You’re telling me. It would’ve been funny if it weren’t so dangerous. I walked out of his class right in front of him after the debacle. Didn’t bother asking for permission either. No point in sticking around to hear him ramble about his supposed ‘adventures.’”
After the shared laughter subsided, Hadrian’s expression softened as he spoke about the gifts they had sent. “The mirrors and watches are amazing. Everyone loved them. Thank you, truly,” he said, his voice filled with gratitude. “But could you make a set for Luna as well? She’s part of the group now, and I think she’d love them.”
“Consider it done,” Sirius said, his grin warm. “Anything for our Prongslet and his friends.”
Remus added, “We’re glad you liked them. Just don’t forget to actually use them if you need us.”
“I will,” Hadrian promised.
After sharing a few more stories, exchanging words of encouragement, and receiving one last reminder from Sirius to “pull off as many pranks as possible—but don’t get caught,” Hadrian finally bid them goodnight. He set the mirror aside and drifted off to sleep, a rare and genuine smile gracing his face.
Across the castle, similar scenes unfolded among their group. Isabella, Neville, Draco, the twins, Susan—each spent time connecting with their own parents or guardians through their mirrors, recounting the events of the day with excitement and warmth.
By the time the castle fell silent, every one of them had slipped into a peaceful slumber, their hearts lighter and their bonds stronger. The echoes of heartfelt conversations lingered in their minds. They felt content, secure in the knowledge that they were no longer alone.