Crow's Descent

Disclaimer:

Harry Potter and its world belong to J. K Rowling. I only own the original characters I made.

"Dialogue"

'Thoughts'

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Little Creek was a quaint small town located in a valley. The name was quite misleading as the closest river was miles away deep inside the nearby forest.

What was once a bustling agriculture settlement almost turned into a ghost town. The days of cultivating land long forgotten, with a couple of elderly still stuck in their ways. However, one business still stood proudly, against all odds, a renowned tulip plantation.

The Night Crowns with three generations of history made a brand for themselves. Even the Royal family couldn't resist their charm, buying off thousands of flowers for the palace and gifts.

Currently the family responsible for keeping the town afloat lived in a rather modest household. No one would've guessed they stayed in a log cabin which was slowly releasing a lazy pillar of smoke from its chimney. The building's walls were covered in climbing plants which for the most part made it harder to see for undiscerning eyes.

"Remember to come back at 6 for dinner!" A woman's voice echoed in the halls of the cabin, eventually reaching its supposed target.

A blonde teen was sitting on a wooden step tying his shoes. He was wearing a black and light blue famous brand's tracksuit, clearly standing in contrast with the dull brown colors of the hall.

"I know mom." Her son responded with indignation.

He wasn't entirely happy with the vision of leaving home. He glared at the source of his problem, a little girl with golden locks of hair. She looked to be about 7 years old, wearing a green dress and hiker shoes. A straw hat adorned her round, sporting a big blossoming smile face. Clearly thrilled with going on a walk with her brother.

"Let's go Robert." She rushed him and opened the door, welcoming the last rays of sun into the rather dim interior of the house.

Begrudgingly, he stood up and took his baseball cap from the hook. Taking his keys and smartphone from the small table loaded with other knickknacks and a crystal vase with his family's well-known purple with black contours Nocturne tulips.

The girl was already swinging on the gate, waving towards her older brother. Because of depopulation she rather felt lonely at times. Her closest friends lived across the hill at another more vibrant town, filled with better facilities and commodities.

Robert reached his sister and took her hand into his. "No running off, Lucia." He said. "We don't need a repeat of last week."

The girl puffed her cheeks as he patted her head. "It's your fault for being so slow." She was a bundle of energy, bringing chaos and much needed liveliness into the surroundings.

Hand in hand the duo entered the part of the forest which belonged to their family. Gerald Crow, the doctor of the town and their father got the parcel from his late younger brother. The circumstances of Hubert Crow's death still puzzled the local authorities. He was found leaning against a tree at the side of the road in this part of the forest without any injuries.

After a police investigation and an autopsy, no explanation was found for his departure. The only suspicious thing they could find was a large amount of strange purpulish black butterflies covering his body. When they're taken for inspection they disappeared without a trace from the evidence vault. Making the case put on the backburner before finally getting filed away for good.

The Crow sibling's made this part of the woods their sanctuary. Often coming across other animals which surprisingly didn't run away from them.

"When are you leaving?" Lucia asked with a sad expression. Her brother just reached 18 years today. Meaning that he was going to head to the city for university.

Robert gently stroked her trembling hand with his thumb. "We still have a week for each other."

Personally he couldn't wait to move out. Tired of living in the middle of nowhere with flowers as his only companions. His friends either lived faraway or started working, thinking of starting their own families. But he wanted none of that, at least not for now.

"Is it because of me?" Her eyes started to water. She always felt that he didn't want to spend time with her. Always looking annoyed when their mother made him babysit her.

Sighing he took Lucia into his arms. She cuddled around him like a koala. Making her best to keep him close.

"I just want change, Lucia." He kissed the top of her head while humming her favorite lullaby.

"I just want to experience by myself whether the grass is truly greener on the other side." He muttered when she finally left his embrace, skipping along the road happily by herself.

The fragrances of sap and wet ground cover played a symphony on their senses as they reached deeper into the forest. The tree tops started to thicken, leaving only a couple of rays of sunshine seeping through the cracks.

"Turn on your flashlight, Lucia." He sighed as she didn't listen.

With his phone's flash on he ran towards the mischievous child. Jumping over tree roots and puddles. The girl saw this and decided to play tag, speeding up her footsteps and giggling in the process.

"You can't catch me brother." She disappeared behind the hill they were climbing.

"Damn it Lucia." Robert huffed as he ran even faster. "I'll spank out the light out of your name when I catch you."

After a couple of minutes of chasing he finally grabbed her before a pond in the forest's clearing. She laughed wholeheartedly while Robert wiped his sweating temples.

"Why are you being so difficult?" He pinched Lucia's cheeks inciting even more joy from her.

They sat down next to the small body of pristine water. You could see the clear orange sky mirrored on it's surface. Giving even more light to the surroundings. As the sun descended under the tree line animals started coming out of the woods. Seeking the rare source of water to satisfy their thirst.

Lucia sat in her brother's lap, putting his arms around her to bring more warmth and comfort. The chilly wind of spring rustled the trees and caused small waves to appear in the pond.

"I don't want you to go." She tightened her grasp on his clothes as her hands were too small to cover his forearms.

"I'll still come back for holidays and some weekends." He gently combed through her hair. "And I've taught you how to use the laptop."

"But that's not the same." He heard her whispering.

Robert took out his phone. "Let's take a couple of pictures together."

They took many different shots. Firstly only with each other until the animals became curious with their posing and laughter. A fawn tumbled towards them under its mother's watchful gaze. Lucia put her hand out so it could get used to her smell. Her laughter rang like small bells as the small deer's tongue haphazardly licked between her fingers.

With a click Robert immortalized their interaction. Sending it to their mother as he had done with the rest. Rose Crow was the main person behind their tulips, as his dad didn't get the talent from his own father, Richard Crow. The old geezer almost popped a blood vessel when Gerald told him about medical school. Uncle Hubert on the other hand was the local woodsman. Content with keeping the forest in check. If not for grandmother he wouldn't even had a wife. After his death Aunt Paulina took his cousins, Janette and Philip back to her hometown to live with her parents. Over there she found another man with children of his own, Max and Serene. Sometimes they visited, making Robert's hands even more filled with bundles of pure mayhem as the adults sat back in the patio.

"It's good that Granny is here." Robert thought about the next murder of brats coming their way as his mother was pregnant with twins.

"Yeah. Mommy is more and more tired." Lucia couldn't wait for her new siblings.

Although she loved Robert, there was always a divide between them. Not because he didn't care, but the age difference made it hard on the both of them. However there was something they bonded over.

Last Christmas their Aunt gifted them a series of books about a boy. At first Robert reluctantly read the story to his sister and cousins. But with each page he found himself yearning for the world of wonder. Exploring the tumultuous landscape of magic. Discovering facts and hidden pieces of long forgotten lore.

When the new game came out he and his sister threw everything they were doing and got lost again in the new tale.

"Do you think she'll agree." Lucia was petting a brown rabbit. Giving it strands of grass to enjoy while keeping her hat out of its reach.

Robert returned back from his thoughts and scratched his right cheek. "I don't believe she'll give our younger brothers Fred and George as names."

She loved those boys. The way they pranked everyone. Their ingenuity and passion for being something more than just another cog in the system. One time she tried to emulate the dung bombs. Their father wasn't amused with the living room smelling like manure. He grounded her for a week. To ease her pain Robert bought a bunch of stuffed animals to keep her company.

While reading the book he hidden from her the fact that Fred died. Not wanting her to come to hate the series. Hopefully when Lucia's older, she'll be more prepared for the painful truth.

A melody played out. It was Robert's alarm which was set just half an hour before they were supposed to return. After saying their goodbyes to the animals they started their journey back home.

Once again they're surrounded by darkness. However this time with the power of two sources of light they steadily made their way down the hill. Lucia was humming a tune from her favorite afternoon show. Robert on the other hand was cautiously watching his surroundings. Although nothing ever serious happened to them, he was still nervous whenever they were close to where they found his uncle.

He released a breath of relief when they finally saw a pillar of smoke in the distance.

"The last one there doesn't get dessert." Lucia started legging the leftover distance. Today their grandmother was making her famous pudding. She even won dozens of trophies for it in town.

Smiling, he let her go as it was just a straight line to their home. Robert continued his walk, taking in the sights as he'll won't be able to after this week comes to an end.

The wind swayed the trees making their shadows dance to the sounds of the awaking forest. Robert lost himself in the nature's music. Cricket's and owls began their sonatas. Bringing even more sense of serenity to the youth.

After taking a couple of steps he looked towards the tree of death. He felt his heart rate speed up.

"Why am I getting paranoid for no reason?" He scoffed and shrugged off the feeling of unease.

As Robert cast his entire attention on the tree, he didn't discover something was amiss. Silence engulfed the forest. Everything was caught in a cage of stillness with shadows anchored in place.

Still not realizing what was going on Robert continued walking. However he started to feel something was wrong. Step by step a feeling of uncanniness grew stronger within.

He stopped in his tracks. "This isn't right." Robert raised his foot and kicked the ground. But he didn't hear anything. No thumping sound or rustling of dead leaves.

Tension was rising in his muscles. He quickly turned back and forth but nothing was in sight. Only the eerie atmosphere and gloomness of the forest looked back. Making him even more disturbed.

He started running, with the lights of his home as his beacon. Not looking under his feet he almost tripped. But with a front flip he landed safely and continued his escape.

Eventually he got out of the woods. His face pale from the frightening experience. With his hands on his bended knees he tried to catch his breath.

When he regained his composure Robert looked up only to find himself back at the tree. But this time it was covered with purplish hue. Blood drained from his face as he felt something on his cheek. With a slap he hit his face only to find nothing under his fingers.

A crazed laughter rang sharply in the forest. Causing Robert to close his ears in pain. When it ended he fell flat on his bottom to the ground. Raising his head he saw a blanket of butterflies covering the tree and nearby rocks.

Panicking he turned himself around, only to find a mesmerizing portal in front of him. Ethereal or maybe devilish whispers entered his mind, beckoning him.

Gritting his teeth he stood up in defiance. "Let me go!" He roared, challenging whatever was trying to reach him. However, he was answered with silence. The portal flickered, ignoring his meaningless display of resistance.

Huffing Robert looked around. Finding nothing of concern other than the purplish floating hole he started walking towards his home. As he was circling around the portal he found himself pushed. Without anything to grab he fell into the portal while screaming.

An ocean of darkness greeted him as he got further away from the last view of his world. Tears came down his face as he tried time and time again to reach the portal, but to no avail. His voice became hoarse from calling his family's names. Despair took over until he finally lost consciousness. Making him just another speck inside the seemingly infinite expanse of space.

Drifting away in darkness the youth woken up a couple of times, just to fall asleep once more. Desolation wouldn't do justice when describing the magnitude of nothingness he was experiencing against his will. Without any means of telling time Robert could only guess how long he was floating in inertia. Not capable of even turning around. The void's coldness stuck to his skin, making him long for the warmth of something or someone.

After hours on end finally a shadow of hope flickered while he was awake. A spot of light danced around him, dousing his thirst for warmth. His eyes narrowed because of the sudden brightness. The ball touched Robert as if prodding him for a response.

With new found vigor the youth reached for the friendly sphere. With it in his grasp he placed the ball close to his heart.

Regret marred his face. "I just wanted to see the world." He said unconsciously.

Maybe this was his punishment for trying to overreach. For not being satisfied with the blissful life he lead up to this point. Robert fell to sleep, this time a little bit more comfortably.

Unbeknownst to him the ball of light heard his words. After casting a scanning flash of light both it and Robert disappeared. Making the void reclaim its absolute state of emptiness once more.

-------

"I'm going to be late, again." A middle-aged woman was hurrying up a cobblestone road.

She passed by rows of thatched houses with well-kepted gardens and entered what seemed to be the more urbanized part of town. Rows of semi-detached houses stood on each side of the street.

As she was making a turn into a small alley a thundering sound made her falter. Thankfully she grabbed the nearby lanturn pole, saving herself the embarrassment of falling.

"Did that blasted old fool, finally kick the bucket?" She looked towards the direction of her acquaintance's house.

Huffing she ran towards the source of the noise. As she got closer she saw people gathering around. Having pushed through the crowd she noticed a young man laying on the ground. He was wearing weird clothing and didn't look like he was from here.

Concern appeared on her face as she got closer. Asking a couple of the nearby men for help they put the body on a nearby bench.

"Can you hear me?" The woman shook the young man. Groaning escaped his throat.

"Well," a rough voice sounded from one of the man, "at least he's not dead, yet."

"Hush now Stanley." She berated the man and cast a glance towards the onlookers. "Does anyone know what happened?"

A lady in her twenties raised her hand. "I've seen it Mrs. Thunberry." She replied. "He appeared out of nowhere and hit that wall." She pointed to wall next to were he laid before.

"So a problem occured while he was getting here." A snobbish looking woman said with disdain. "Truely its the end of times when they allow anybody to get their license."

"Enough, Mrs. Wicklow." Mrs. Thunberry cut her off.

She then took out a stick and started waving it above the body. Flashes of different lights washed over the figure. Redness returned to the man's face and he started to move.

"No moving until I'm done, mister." The boy complied to the voice.

The crowd bored with the proceedings dispersed. It was a working day after all and many still needed to commute. Only Mrs. Thunberry and the unknown man was left.

With each passing minute Robert started to feel better. His lungs greedily grasped for fresh air. His ears rang from the overload of sounds. And his face felt as if ants were crawling over him. Warmth was slowly washing out the ingrained coldness.

Mrs. Thunberry watched suprised as waves of chilly winds escaped from the man's body. She checked his temperature and relaxed as it was rising. Grabbing towards her pouch she brought out a vial with blue liquid inside.

"Open wide little one." She raised his head and poured the contents into his mouth. Making him cough as some got into his airways. "This should give you some energy."

Strength was returning back to Robert's limbs. First he started to move his fingers and toes. Then he tried to sit up only to fail to lift himself. With a bit of external help he was leaning against the bench.

When he opened his eyes he saw an unfamiliar woman standing before him. She had an oval face. Her hair was placed into a bun and brown. Some visible strands of grey hair were mixed in between. But the most eye catching thing about her was her yellow dress and matching jacket.

"Who are you?" Robert said with a stutter and his eyes closed because of the sunlight.

"You can call me, Mrs. Thunberry." She put her wand away. "What about you young man?"

"Robert." He put his hands on his eyes to lessen the photophobia he was experiencing. "Robert Crow."

"Nice to meet you." The woman smiled. "You've had quite the landing Mr. Crow."

"You could say I've had enough distance to accelerate." He blinked with his eyes getting more used to the light.

"Aren't you a jokester." She let out a chuckle.

Robert decided not to dispell her confusion, as he didn't want to get branded as a nut job. "Thank you for your help, Mrs. Thunberry."

"It was nothing, but unfortunately I have to leave." She frowned as she looked at the sun. "Are you strong enough to be let alone?"

"I'll manage." He replied. "I'll just sit here for a while."

Mrs. Thunberry took out a card and handed it to Robert. "If you'll need my help you can find me here, okay?"

The blond man took the piece of paper and placed it into his pocket. "You've done much for me already." He tried to hide his trembling voice.

Casting one last look at him she said. "Look after yourself. Goodbye." And with haste she rushed into the alley nearby.

The youth sat in silence. The wind gently caressed his face lifting small tufts of his short hair. He placed his hands once again on his face. Tears started to gush down, escaping between his fingers and landing on the ground.

"I'm finally free." The dams opened. The long stifled emotions broke out.

After regaining his composure Robert wiped his wet face with a tissue. He tossed it away into the nearby bin and tried to stand up. Little by little he got himself off the bench and with wobbly steps and using the rail he walked down the street.

At first everything seemed normal. He didn't see anything out of the norm. Other than some odd tastes in decore and fashion.

"Did I land in some kind of theme park?" He muttered to himself while climbing down the stairs.

No street signs were in sight. Not to mention no cars and electric poles. The infrastructure started to look even more dated and hard to place on a map.

A plausible explanation came to his mind. "This surely must be a renaissance fair." He looked from his vantage point. "And a well known one if they could afford building all of this."

Clicking his tongue he continued exploring the odd town. More people passed by him causing Robert to admire the length they must've went to capture the details of their clothing. On the other hand the villigers had different expressions when they saw Robert Crow. Some glanced at him with a fleeting sense of curiosity, while others cast gazes of suspicion. But nobody approached to talk to him.

A whistling sound spread throughout the town. Robert tried to determine it's location. "Was that a train?" Excitement filled his heart as he found a possible way out of here.

"Excuse me." He asked a child sitting on the front stairs of a house. "Could you tell me where the closest station is?"

Baffled by the strange looks of the young man before him, the little boy pointed at a direction and ran into his house. Leaving Robert frustrated with the treatment. "Kids." Nevertheless he walked towards the direction the boy had shown him.

Various shops started to show up. A savory smell of freshly baked bread playfully teased his nose as he stood before the bakery. Grumbling erupted from his stomach when a staff member in a apron walked outside. Robert got red from embarrassment as the lady giggled, hearing his body's plea for sustenance.

She took out a bagel out of her basket and gave it to Robert. "Only the first one is free of charge, handsome." She winked. "Otherwise my boss will hex me again."

"Thank you." He tried his best not to devour the piece of bread in his hand. "I'll remember to pay you back."

"Then let me at least know the name of my debtor." She replied with a wry smile.

"Robert Crow at your service, Ms?" He asked.

"I'm Melinda Woodsmith." She walked pass him. "See you around."

"Yeah." Robert replied while inwardly questioning if he will even keep that promise. Once he got out of this place the frail connection will certainly snap, leaving only a pleasant memory of a person that helped him at his worse.

The landscape started to change as he left the heavy residential area. More trees and patches of fields spread into the horizon. A windmill was lazily turning its blades in the breeze.

"Mom would be fascinated with these crops." Robert commented after seeing various odd looking flora. "A shame they're just props." He overcame his curiosity as he didn't want to treepass.

Eventually his journey brought him to a rather shabby brick building. With no banners or plates in the front he couldn't get a read on what it was. Taking a deep breath he opened the door, revealing an mostly empty interior filled with benches. On his right a small ticket counter with a closed sign confirmed that this was indeed the station he was looking for.

"Where is the schedule?" Robert was puzzeled by the arrangements. It's almost as if someone didn't want their passengers to get on time or know where their destination was.

Hearing the familiar sound of a train, this time much louder Robert went towards the exit. Maybe he'll find his answers at the platform.

As he walked through the gate he stood in awe. Red train cars stood in a line, a steam locomotive was way to the front. Smoke was rising from its chimney, keeping it ready for its next run.

"Don't tell me this is just a theme ride?" Sweat dropped from his temple in disbelief. All this work for finding a possible park attraction. "No wonder there were no signs at all."

Tired with the wild goose chase he took a seat in the middle of the platform. "Did I find myself in some kind of cult?" His musings came to an abrupt end as he heard multiple footsteps and bouts of laughter nearing him.

Piles of children rushed through the gates. Happiness and joy present on their faces as they were pulling along big trunks. Most of them wore black robes with different colored stitchings. Red, blue, yellow and green flashed by Robert as he looked at the happenings with bewilderment. The sight seemed vaguely familiar. But he couldn't put a finger on it.

"Once again they've had to get the cup." A disgruntled voice reached his ears. Two younger girls, maybe 15 years old engaged in a conversation.

"It is what it is Sherry." The browned haired girl with a yellow scarf tried to appease her friend. "Snape was, is and will be an ass."

"Snape?" Robert whispered to himself. Taking a look at the train once more it finally clicked. "That's why it felt so familiar."

The town and train started to make sense to him. He saw and read it before. "Someone went to great lengths just for a children book series." He shook his head at the magnitude of this fantasy land. How much money was burned to make a one to one scale of the settings. And there was a chance someone built the castle too.

"Maybe before I leave I should check their version of Hogwarts?" He scratched his chin in thought. "I should take Lucia here one day. With a military escort of course." He chuckled to himself making the people think the strange looking man had finally lost his marbles.

"The Hogwarts Express will be leaving in ten minutes." A disembodied voice spread throughout the station. Making Robert look for the sounding system, but he found none.

Focusing back in the crowd he saw something strange. The trunks were somehow being levitated into the train. Children waved with some long pieces of sticks, which Robert presumed were props of wands. But the question remained, how did they keep the trunks afloat?

He felt something hit his feet. Looking down he found a rolled newspaper. Picking it up he checked if someone was searching for it. After a moment went by he gave into his curiosity and unrolled the paper.

"They even have The Prophet." He eyed the first page which featured a moving picture of some kind of assembly. "The ban on magic carpets passed with the majority of votes." Robert read the headline with a smirk. "They have great imagination I'll give them that."

Bringing his focus back to the picture he touched the paper, feeling its smooth texture. "Just how did they do it? He marveled at the ingenuity of what he thought was new technology.

In the right corner the paper's issue number was written. Underneath was the date 24th of June 1991. Robert narrowed his eyes.

"Why would they lie about the year?" Was there a reason to make a 30 year difference?

"Maybe they just have this one issue and didn't bother making new ones." He said to himself gradually losing his certainty.

"I heard Harry Potter is finally coming this year to Hogwarts." A male voice echoed behind Robert.

"Look at you Chaz." Someone responded in a mocking tone. "You know how to add."

"Piss off Kent." The voices became more muffled as the men walked away.

Robert watched their departure with a new sense of trepidation. "Either this is some messed up role-playing or I'm not in Kansas anymore."

With a resounding whistle and sounds of released breaks the train started to move. When the last cart left Robert's front view, his eyes opened wide. Before him on the other side of the tracks stood a banner with "Hogsmeade Station" written on it. Suddenly everything started to make sense. The foul tasting rejuvenating liquid. The uncanny accuracy of clothes and buildings. The unexplainable lack of electricity and unearthly crops. The grand red steam train full of returning kids with sticks.

He glanced at the paper once more. The full of life picture reflected in Robert's shocked eyes. Unease crept into his beating like a drum heart. His palms and started to feel cold.

"Hoot." The man almost jumped in fright. He turned his head to the right and saw an owl. It had a white body and brown colored wings and back.

"And what is your problem?" Robert's forehead wrinkled in displeasure.

Ignoring the blond's gaze the barn owl raised its leg. A letter was held in its talons. "Hoot, Hoot."

"You must have mistaken me for someone else." Robert didn't want to take the piece of post dangling in front of him. Still wishing inside this was just a dream.

The owl let go of the letter on Robert's lap and walked closer to his face just to peck him on the head.

"Alright already." He wrapped the foul bird with his arms. "Take this." Robert took out the last piece of bread he saved for later.

Grabbing the food the owl jumped on the bench once more and started eating by keeping the piece in its left leg. With each peck the ball of bread became smaller.

As it was enjoying its reward Robert rolled his eyes and took the letter. It was coarse to the touch. The front had his name written in cursive. The back of the envelope was sealed with a blot of wax. An emblem was stamped onto it depicting the famous mascots of Hogwart's houses. Going clockwise from the left upper quadrant a lion, snake, eagle and lastly badger surronded a big letter 'H' in the middle. Underneath the main part of the emblem's body was a sash with hard to read minuscule lettering.

Robert carefully broke the seal and opened the letter which read:

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Headmaster Albus Dumbledore.

Order of Merlin, First class, Grand Sorc.,

Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump,

International Confederation of Wizards

Dear Mr Crow,

We are pleased to inform you that you have a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.

Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl by no later than 31 July.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

Even after reading the letter three times he couldn't believe what was written. A world he knew from books seemingly out of nowhere came into existence.

"Is this that portal's fault?" He subconsciously rubbed the owls head, making it chirp in delight. "Is this actually real?"

His musings were interrupted by angry hooting. The barn owl was smothered on the bench with Robert pressing it.

"Sorry," he paused, "what's your name?" The man scratched his head. Owls usually had their individual names in this place.

"Hoot." The bird started to preen its feathers. Trying to repair their former arrangement.

"Should I be concerned that I understand you somehow, Zephyr?" Robert watched as it ignored him by showing it's back.

"Yeah, I have other more pressing issues." He sighed as he fiddled with the letter. "I need to write a response."

Penless and lacking any sheets of paper he frowned. "Do you know a place were I can write back?"

Happy with its work Zephyr looked at the boy sideways. After a while it jumped on Robert's right shoulder and raised its wing.

"You'll take me somewhere?" The owl nodded in response.

-------

"And I thought I've seen everything." A older woman commented to her costumer.

"Better an owl than a highland squirrel." The man roared with laughter. "Those buggers raided our pantry just last week."

"We've been robbed John." The man's wife corrected him. "Those rodents don't take jewelry."

This and other conversations went on as Robert followed Zephyr's directions. This time around he saw some of the shops he read in the books. Zonko's greeted the passersby with its assortment visible through it's big windows. A large variety of jokes and pranks enticed the childish part of Robert. However, the biggest joy and regret of his was the famous Honeydukes. With no money he could only watch the packed with sweet goodness shelves. Annoyed with the mouth watering human, Zephyr pecked Robert's ear.

After taking a few turns the duo stood before a brown painted building. Owl Postal Service was written in black on the front banner. Taking a big breath Robert opened the door, making a bell ring out in the small room. Stacks of letters covered the counter, blocking their view of the clerk.

"Excuse me," Robert tapped the small silver bell on the countertop, "Could I get some assistance?"

"I believe I've done already enough for you youngster." A whimsical female voice answered. "Or did you already forget about me?"

As the stacks were pushed to the sides Mrs. Thunberry appeared showing a light-hearted smile. Robert marveled at the odds of meeting her again.

"It seems fate wanted us to cross roads again." He nervously scratched his cheek. "However, this time it was my partner's idea." Zephyr tried to peck the pointing at it finger.

"You've bonded quite nicely." She remarked.

"I think it just likes bagels." Robert rubbed his hurting hand.

Mrs. Thunberry continued stamping letters and sorting them into different slots. "What brings you here Mr. Crow?"

"I'd like to borrow something to write." He took out his letter. "I need to give a response."

Finding the envelope familiar Mrs. Thunberry scrutinized the fellow before her. "Aren't you too old for Hogwarts, my dear?"

"I suppose that's not something that happens often?" He replied with a question of his own.

Taking the parchment from his hand she gave it a cursory read. "Well I'll be, you're going to be a firsty." Disbelief flashed in her eyes as she never heard of something like this happening before

"Not if I don't send a response on time." He chuckled.

A quill and sheet of paper was placed before him. "Knock yourself out, junior." She said in a jesting manner.

Robert fumbled with the feather in hand. Trying to feel the best way to hold it. Not satisfied with either option he just scratched the parchment. Mrs. Thunberry's giggling accompanied him throughout the whole ordeal.

"Hopefully someone can come today." Robert sighed. "I don't have anywhere to stay or money."

"The staff usually stays at the castle a day or two after the semester." She replied.

"But if not than you can always come back here so we can figure something out, okay?" Robert sniffed hearing her voice of concern

"I've troubled you enough as it was Mrs. Thunberry." He smiled.

"That you did." She laught at his shocked face. "I've got an earful for being late, buster."

"Sorry." He whispered back awkwardly.

She waved him off. "No harm done."

Robert left the office alone as Zephyr grabbed the letter when they were still inside and flew off. With the castle being its destination. Not knowing what to do the young man found himself tracing his steps back to the station.

The sun has almost reached its highest position in the sky. Showering everything in its way with constant heat as there were no clouds in sight. The presence of heavy patches of dust meant there had to be no rain in the last week or even more.

Finding his previous bench he sat down and wondered about the mess he dropped into. Assuming everything was real, being a student was the least of his concerns.

Remembering the date he sighed. "Why couldn't I arrive in the post war times?"

Murderous beasts wondering around Hogwarts waiting for their prey. Dumb adults playing politics and endangering the unsuspecting public. Not to mention the still at large on a technicality Death Eaters waiting for the return of their master.

"Hopefully there won't be any problems with my identity." He hummed under his nose. "Not that the school was famous for doing background checks."

Robert took a breath of the cold summer breeze. Although he was sitting in the shade the temperature was getting to him.

"I wonder who'll come for me." He closed his eyes and listened to the sounds of flickering grass. Moved by the whips of wind.

The youth's nap was disturbed by a popping sound. Startled, he opened his eyes only to see an unknown creature. It was about 2 feet tall and had bat-like ears on its oversized head. It wore a pillow-like cloth. On its front you could see the emblem of Hogwarts proudly on display. It's big eyes were a curious shade of purple containing shimmering specks of gold. Robert suspected it to be an house elf.

"Are you looking for someone?" The youth felt uncomfortable under the narrowed scrutinizing gaze of the newcomer.

The creature took out the letter Robert sent earlier. "I'm here for Mr. Crow."

"That would be me." The blond paused. "How do I address you?"

A smirk appeared on the elf's face. "I go by the name Albert." He bowed. "House elf of Hogwart's at your service."

Robert's face brightened up in understanding. "I'm sorry. I thought someone from the staff will come for me."

"No need for apologies, sir." Albert assured him. "I came here on behalf of the headmaster to take you to his office."

The elf took out a pocket watch. "And since he's a busy man I hope that we won't dawdle anymore than we should."

Meeting the headmaster himself wasn't something he didn't expect. However, now standing before the fact made him lose his courage.

"You can despair later." The elf mocked the boy's changing expression. "Grab onto my hand."

Without thinking Robert touched the raised hand and felt a twisting sensation.

"Remember to land on your feet." Albert's voice echoed as they disappeared from the station.

-------

The clicking of the grandfather clock gave the headmaster's office a sense of stability. With each beat the mind slowly found itself in trans like state. Anticipating the next descent of the pendulum's swing. The constant clicks became the background for other mysteriously whirling and smoking devices found in the room. Each with their own rhythm. Setting up an atmosphere of mystery woven with a hint of playfulness. The office mirrored in a way its owner, Albus Dumbledore.

The elderly wizard was relentlessly fighting with the invading stack of documents. With measured movements of his wrist the villainous papers succumbed to his will. Falling in agony to the pile of resolved claims and inquiries.

The headmaster of Hogwarts wasn't alone in this endeavor as his faithful companion gazed with its eyes full of fire at the thieves of his friend's time. The majestic and ethereal phoenix, Fawkes sat at his perch near the fireplace. Finding comfort in the blazing sparks eating away at the wood from the Forbidden Forest.

Another set of tunes were introduced into the office as with a sudden pop two new hearts filled in the blanks of the ongoing symphony. A blond adolescent with a taste of colors second to the headmaster and an elf with an astute mind.

"I've brought Mr. Crow, headmaster." Albert with a snap disappeared leaving the two man behind.

Robert feeling as he was the youngest decided to introduce himself. "Hello Mr. Dumbledore. I'm Robert Crow." He lowered his head in respect.

The headmaster put away his quill and replied in a gentle, understanding tone. "When I've received your letter I was pleasantly intrigued with your circumstances."

Robert saw twinkling in the man's eyes. "I've been shocked as well, professor."

With a wave of his wand Dumbledore materialized a chair. Blinking the youth touched the intricate carvings of the new object. If he was skeptical before, this blown away most of his concerns about this being just a billionaire's pass time. Cautiously sitting down he looked at the wizard once more. This time with more reverence and respect.

"I'm glad l could calm your scattered thoughts, Robert." He said jovially.

"Thoughts." Blood drained from Robert's face. "You can read my mind?"

He had completely forgotten about the mind art's existence. It wasn't the first concern on his list of priorities. But now the revelation hit him like a hammer. The man before him aside, how will he hide from Voldemort.

Suprised by the boy's overreaction and misunderstanding, Dumbledore tried to read his outward thoughts. However no matter how the wizard tried, his spell couldn't pick up anything. It was as if nobody was sitting before him.

Stumped Dumbledore cast a cheering charm on the boy. Making him slow down his breathing and regain some color on his cheeks.

"It seems there's more to you than meets the eye, Mr. Crow." Dumbledore waited calmly for the boy to speak.

Seeing the silent treatment Robert's thoughts went to his father. One of the most important things about being a doctor was communication. Knowing how and when to ask questions. But the most memorable lesson he taught him was fishing for information. The skillful application of silence and pauses to give the person space and a sense of security. The image of his father superimposed with the expression he saw on Dumbledore's face.

"I'm afraid I don't understand, headmaster." Robert's poker face attempt almost made the wizard chuckle.

"It appears that you're naturally gifted in the ways of Occlumency." Albus said while stroking his beard.

Robert did a mental fist pump before asking. "And what does that exactly entail, professor?"

"Just that you need to work more on your expressions than mind to hide your true intentions." Fawkes trilled a happy tune, seemingly laughing at the blush appearing on the young man's cheeks.

Tapping could be heard from outside the window. The occupants turned only to see an owl curiously looking at them.

Robert stood up and let the bird inside. "Did you miss me, Zephyr?" After making a small circle it landed on his head. Making the youth's hair its new roosting place.

"Behave for now, please?" He pleaded with it, getting a small peck in return.

"It seems one of our owls found you trustworthy." Dumbledore watched their interaction.

"Or maybe it just likes bagels." Zephyr put it's head to the side and nodded.

Dumbledore clapped making the stacks of documents disappear. "As entertaining as this was we have a couple of things to discuss."

Seeing the more serious look on Dumbledore's face, Robert took a seat. "Indeed sir. I'd also like to know the conditions of my enrollment." He paused. "Unless this was just a mistake."

"There's no need to be alarmed." The headmaster replied. "However there will be some complications."

Gears turned in Robert's mind. Trying to figure the crux of the matter. "Is it my age?"

"It is so I'm afraid." Dumbledore replied. "Unfortunately the tuition is reimbursed by the Ministry only up until the student's 18th birthday."

"Which I've already achieved." Robert scowled. Not even a month passed of his adult life and he already came to hate it.

"And that's also the reason you'd not be allowed to stay at the dormitories." Dumbledore said. "However that's quite easy to arrange." The castle had many bedrooms scattered around it's grounds.

"So my only concern is money," Robert lowered his head and sighed, "which I don't have."

"There a couple of methods to resolve this issue." The headmaster's quill started to write on its own. "One of them is taking a loan at Gringotts. However, the Goblin Nation's rates aren't known for being welcoming."

"And the other option?" Robert wanted nothing to do with the bankers.

"Although unconventional, I'd like to propose you working here at Hogwart's as an aide." The familiar twinkling returned to the man's eyes.

"Aide?" Robert was confused. "And how would that work?"

"Sometimes the staff needs a second pair of helping hands with their duties." The man sighed. "And as much as I'd like to hire more teachers the Board of Governor's won't let me."

"That sounds kind of odd" Robert remarked. "Don't they want the best for the children?"

"A well educated person is harder to control, Mr. Crow." He replied with a touch of sadness.

The young man couldn't disagree. When he read the books it showed how many people held positions only because of their blood status. Forgoing any true skills and knowledge needed for the job.

"I don't know if I'm qualified enough." With his grades he was eligible for the most prominent University of Medicine at the capitol city. But this wasn't a school where conventional knowledge he's acquired throughout the years could help.

"Nobody expects you to teach at a Master level, Mr. Crow." Dumbledore smiled. "During your first year helping with the rounds, chaperoning the students and easy menial tasks given out by the staff would be the bulk of your responsibilities."

"And after the first year?" Robert enquired further.

"Tutoring the younger students." The quill stopped writing. Dumbledore handed the parchment to Robert. "I think this'll satisfy your needs."

After a cursory first look the teen scrunched his brows. "I think further negotiations of the terms are needed, headmaster."

"You can try Mr. Crow." The wizard chuckled at his response. "But foremost I must inform you of my degree in cutting bargains."

Stretching his fingers Robert replied with a mischievous smile of his own. "And I professor have a bag full of experience myself." Having a mother that fleeced the monarchy like sheep on a annual basis gave him the boldness to fight for a better deal.

After a half an hour of back and forth the two finally arrived at an agreement. As much as Robert wished he could get much more out of the contract, in the end he couldn't. However, he did negotiate better hours and a bonus for the holidays.

"An hour of free time on New Years seems redundant, headmaster." Robert signed at the line.

"It does look good on paper." The wizard winked and took a piece of candy from a bowl next to him. "Lemon drop?" He offered.

"Only if I'm not charged for it." Robert smiled wryly. "What happens now?"

"As the semester ended the school will shortly be closed down until August." Dumbledore replied. "The staff deserves a vacation as much as the students need it from us."

"So I need a place to stay for over a month?" That wasn't in Robert's plans at all.

"I'm sure you'll work something out." The headmaster clapped his hands. "You've shown to be quite a capable man, Mr. Crow."

Albert reappeared and before Robert could say anything the both of them and Zephyr disappeared.

Fawkes chirped to Albus in a berating tone. "I've most certainly did not do it to get even with him."

The phoenix rolled its eyes at the man's proclivity for childish pranks. But it still felt joy as the man could finally speak with someone without caring about appearances.

-------

"I'll make you pay," Robert was fuming mad, " you cheap imitation of Gandalf."

After the unexpected relocation he found himself standing at the front gate of Hogsmeade.

"After I leave, you may continue with your sulking, sir." The elf's mocking reached the man's ears.

"Contrary to your belief I actually value my time." With a snap a pouch landed on Albert's hand. "Hogwarts sends its regards."

Robert cautiously caught the the thrown bag. It was surprisingly heavy. Untying the rope he saw a golden hue inside.

"Are these Galleons?" He took one out and flipped the coin in his fingers.

"These should last you until August if you're frugal with your expenses." It replied.

"Should I thank the headmaster?" Robert asked but didn't hear a response.

Albert soundlessly left, leaving a confused youth and happily chirping owl behind.

"We're on our own Zephyr." He rubbed affectionately its head inciting melodious purring from the owl. "Let's find a place to stay."

It was the middle of the afternoon and shadows were slowly creeping onto the sidewalk. As the sun left its peak the temperature became much more bearable. Enjoying the delightful wisps of wind the duo was walking on the main street, following behind a crowd of pedestrians and eavesdropping on their conversations.

"Poor fellow, got his limbs in a twist." Some woman said.

"And just as I was about to win the bet." Her companion sighed. "What crossed his mind to enter the Forbidden Forest during Pixie season?"

"Apparently he wanted to study their mating rituals." Another person chimed in. "I knew something wasn't well with his noggin."

"He did ask a lot of sketchy questions." The first woman remembered.

Robert sweated hearing the ongoing gossip. Apparently this year's Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher was a special kind of pervert. Badgering the groundskeeper and citizens of Hogsmeade with questionable queries about many of the local wildlife creatures. They even saw him trying to sneak into the cowshed last semester.

"Rosemerta's going to crack up." A rough man chortled.

"Even after all that bashing he continued his advances." A middle-aged woman snorted. "Like a fly to a flame."

A three-story building was at the end of the street. With bold letters 'The Three Broomsticks' was written on the front banner. On a swaying in the wind hanging sign three crisscrossing broomsticks were engraved in dark wood.

Robert entered the pub with the crowd. Half of the tables were already taken by costumers. On his right was a long countertop with mostly vacant seats. Not wanting any unwarranted attention he sat down at the counter to have a better grasp of the room.

With a resounding whistle the kitchen doors opened revealing a beautiful women with a cart full of food. She started calling out the orders, making the plates fly towards their respective tables.

As the last of the dishes left the barkeeper turned her attention to Robert. "What can I get you sonny?"

Madam Rosemerta's welcoming smile charmed the boy in front of her. She had long curling at the end blonde hair. Her eyes carried a hint of mischief, waiting for a poor soul to find himself lost in the ocean of blue. Her body language oozed confidence as her curves fully filled out her dress. Robert finally knew why she was almost every man's crush.

"I'd like the dish of the day, please." He nervously gulped while reading the menu. "And one butterbeer to start."

"One Wednesday Special and butterbeer coming right up." She replied with a wink.

Blushing Robert turned to the side meeting Zephyr's mocking gaze. "Laught all you like. But then no bagels for you."

His threat did nothing as the owl continued enjoying its bowl of peanuts. Sighing the youth observed the whole restaurant. White pine boarding made the bunk of the walls. With a couple of pieces of unknown to Robert wood in the mix. Different types of memorabilia gave the bar it's unique atmosphere. Quidditch posters, awards for best inn and a picture of Rosemerta hugging a Grizzly bear.

Robert couldn't believe the image was real. "She's dangerous."

"That I am little one." Rosemerta's whisper entered his ears.

Spooked he turned around. The barkeep was leaning against the counter. A plate and pint of butterbeer between the two.

"What brings a charming little fellow like you here?" She asked with a warm smile.

"I've been enrolled for first year in Hogwart's." He replied nervously. "And I've also been hired as an assistant of sorts."

"So you're the one I've been hearing about from my patrons." She said.

"Hopefully nothing too bad." Robert took a sip from his glass. His brows shot to his forehead. "I think I'm in love."

A melodious chuckle left the witch's lips. "We have the best Butterbeer in Britain."

The sweet buttery aftertaste and the delectable tickling of the nose fuzziness hooked many before him. It was the most anticipated enjoyment of Hogsmeades weekends for a reason.

"I've heard you provide rooms." Robert changed the topic. "Do you have any left and how much do you charge?"

"We're mostly vacant as guests usually start coming in July." She replied. "As for the rate it depends on how long you'd like to stay."

"Until the first of August." Robert's eyes flashed as he grinned. "Can I count on a bargain?"

"We'll talk after you eat, hot shot." She tapped his forehead. "It'd be a shame for my work to go to waste." Rosemerta went to take orders from other patrons.

Robert waited until the pub got less busy to negotiate the terms with Madam Rosemerta. Even with his skills he barely stayed within the budget. The only silver lining was that three meals a day were included in the price.

Equipped with a key Robert approached his new accommodation for the foreseeable future, room number 7. The room was unexpectedly spacious. It was furnished with a standard bed, table and two chairs. A wardrobe for his non-existing change of clothes and a toilet with a shower included. The main street was visible in it's entire glory from the room's window

Taking his shoes off Robert jumped onto the bed. Taking his first true rest of the day. Zephyr landed on the backrest of the chair watching the young man closely.

Robert grimaced as something dug into his leg. Reaching for his pocket he felt his phone. With haste he pulled it out and turned the screen on. Relief washed over him seeing it worked fine. However there was no signal and the battery was low.

"Great." Robert scowled. "I'll have to wait at least a couple of decades when this dies on me."

His attention was brought to a stream of text notifications. They were from his sister.

I've won brother. You'll get no pudding.

Come quicker. Mom won't let me eat pudding because of you.

Come on brother.

Where are you?

Brother?

Please answer me!

Robert froze. He touched his face feeling it was getting wet. Tears started to fall, splashing the screen. He totally forgot about Lucia. How will he keep his promise to her? How will he return?

Overloaded with sadness and despair his mind went blank. The coldness of the void started to return to him. Making him start shivering on the bed. Zephyr distraught with the situation tried to call for Robert. Flying around the curled up teen.

As the blond spiraled even further into the darkness the room started to shake. If a wizard were to observe the occuring situation they'd say that this was a severe case of accidental magic. The relapse was getting worse with furniture rising up into the air and sparks of pure energy appearing all around Robert.

The currents were greedily devoured by the phone which found itself floating above the body. As the battery bar reached 100 percent a blinding flash covered the whole room.

Everything calmed down. In silence the furniture returned to their rightful places. Only Robert was left afloat in the air, unconscious. A series of sounds were released by the phone. On its screen a wave of text appeared.

Soul link established.

System ready to reboot.

Rebooting.

Loading memory module.

Saving all information found in memory bank.

Crypting all information.

Preparing back up function.

Back up successfully finalized.

System ready.

The phone finally after what seemed to be hours switched off. Silence filled the room.

Nightfall began its assault on the little town. Street lights started its last stand against the black velvet. Giving Hogsmeade its second breath of life. More and more people started to show up on the streets. Some popped in while other's left the vicinity of their houses.

Cafe's, pubs, fancy diners, even the shadier parts of town were brimming with vitality. One room however stayed silent. No one the wiser to what had happened to the young man in it.

As the hours went on the streets started to become deserted and the quiet of the night embraced Hogsmeade. Fireflies flew out as if trying to compete with the stars. To decide once and for all which one of them shines the brightest. The local cats came out of their comfy hiding spots to hunt.

It seemed no matter if was light or dark, life never stopped. It just continued on and with its almighty reach taking everyone with it. You just had to be cautious enough so it didn't overwhelm you.