64. Old and New

As Apollyon settled into her seat at the Ravenclaw table, the buzz of conversation around her slowly morphed into a tapestry of introductions and shared curiosities. The Ravenclaws, known for their wit and love of knowledge, were quick to welcome her, their questions ranging from her interests to her thoughts on the latest magical theories. Apollyon, while initially overwhelmed, found herself warming to the discussions, her apprehensions about fitting in gradually easing as she engaged in the lively debates and speculative conversations that flowed around her.

The hall gradually quieted as the last of the students were sorted, and attention turned towards the head table, where Professor Dumbledore stood, preparing to address the school. The headmaster's presence was commanding yet gentle, and as he raised his hands for silence, the hall fell completely still, the anticipation palpable in the air.

"Welcome," Dumbledore began, his voice resonating through the Great Hall, "to another year at Hogwarts." His eyes twinkled as he surveyed the sea of students before him, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "To our returning students, I hope you find this year filled with challenges that inspire you and joys that warm your heart. To our new students, may you discover here a place where you belong, where your talents can flourish, and where you will forge friendships that will last a lifetime."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in, his gaze lingering momentarily on Apollyon, as if acknowledging her unique journey to this moment. "Every year at Hogwarts is a new beginning, an opportunity to grow not just in knowledge but in character. I encourage you all to embrace the lessons you will learn, both inside the classroom and out."

Dumbledore's speech then took a more serious tone as he touched upon the rules of the school, the importance of respecting one another, and the value of unity in the face of challenges. "Remember," he concluded, "the choices we make define us. Choose wisely, and always strive to be the best version of yourselves."

With that, he clapped his hands, and the tables before them filled with food, a feast that reflected the diversity and richness of the magical world. The hall erupted into cheers and applause, the earlier tension of the Sorting Ceremony giving way to the warmth and excitement of the start of a new term.

As Apollyon joined in the feast, her conversation with her Ravenclaw housemates continued, their discussion weaving through subjects as varied as magical creatures, advanced potion-making, and the mysteries of the castle itself. She found herself intrigued by their perspectives, and even more determined to dive into her studies and explore all that Hogwarts had to offer.

Throughout the meal, Dumbledore's words echoed in her mind, particularly his emphasis on choices and personal growth. Apollyon felt the weight of his advice, understanding that her time at Hogwarts was not just about academic achievement but about discovering who she was meant to be. She could feel within herself, both the Obscurial raw magic she had once tamed in her last life, that seemed to still be at her call. But also the new raw time magic that seemed to be within her from the destroyed time turners. Their activity heightened from the mana rich environment that was Hogwarts, allowing her to sense them within her.

The feast unfolded around Apollyon like a tapestry of magical gastronomy, the tables laden with dishes that seemed as diverse and intriguing as the subjects taught at Hogwarts. Yet, even as she engaged with her new housemates and partook of the feast, her mind wandered, touching upon the deeper currents of magic that flowed through her.

Dumbledore's speech had struck a chord within her, especially his emphasis on personal growth and the choices that define a person. Apollyon knew her path was more complicated than most. The presence of raw magic within her, a remnant of her identity as an Obscurial in her previous life, was a well of power she had learned to temper and control. Yet now, she sensed something new, a different strain of magic that whispered of time and possibilities, likely a consequence of the shattered Time-Turners that had intertwined their fate with hers.

This new magic, infused with the essence of time, felt both exhilarating and daunting. The environment of Hogwarts, steeped in centuries of magic and history, seemed to amplify her connection to it, offering glimpses of potential that were both thrilling and terrifying.

As the feast continued, Apollyon found herself quietly exploring this newfound aspect of her magic, even as she laughed and shared stories with her housemates. She pondered the responsibility that came with wielding such power, and how it aligned with Dumbledore's words about making choices that reflect the best version of oneself.

Her thoughts were interrupted as the feast drew to a close, and Professor McGonagall stood to announce the start of the new term and the expectations for the year ahead. Apollyon listened, her mind still swirling with the implications of her unique magical abilities and the path they might set her on.

Later, as the students filed out of the Great Hall and made their way to their respective common rooms, Apollyon felt a mixture of anticipation and resolve. The night had offered her a glimpse into the communal life of Hogwarts, a chance to start anew surrounded by peers who shared her love of learning. Yet, it had also reminded her of the singular journey she was on, one that would require her to explore the depths of her own magic and its potential.

As she entered the Ravenclaw common room, greeted by the sight of bookshelves lining the walls and the cozy fire crackling in the hearth, Apollyon knew that Hogwarts offered her a unique opportunity. It was a place where she could grow, not just in knowledge and skill, but in understanding the dual nature of her magic and how to harness it.

The Ravenclaw common room welcomed Apollyon with an air of intellectual curiosity and warmth, the walls lined with bookshelves brimming with volumes of magical texts and artifacts that seemed to hum with potential. The crackling fire in the hearth cast a cozy glow over the room, where clusters of students gathered, some engaged in quiet conversation, others lost in their own studies.

As Apollyon took in her surroundings, a sense of belonging began to take root within her. This was a place where her love for knowledge and her desire to understand the intricacies of magic could flourish.

Her reverie was gently interrupted by the approach of a Ravenclaw prefect, a badge gleaming on their robe. "Welcome to Ravenclaw, Apollyon," the prefect said with a friendly smile. "I'm here to show you to your dormitory. Our dorms are shared, but they're spacious and designed to encourage both study and rest. You'll be sharing with a few other first-year girls."

Apollyon nodded, grateful for the guidance. The thought of sharing a dormitory was both exciting and nerve-wracking. It promised companionship and a shared journey through their first year at Hogwarts, but it also required adjustments to living closely with others, something she hadn't experienced in a long time.

The prefect led her through the common room and up a spiraling staircase that seemed to twist endlessly before arriving at a door carved with intricate symbols that shimmered under the prefect's touch. The door swung open silently, revealing a room that was both inviting and functional.

Each dormitory was designed to reflect the values and aesthetics of its house, and Ravenclaw was no exception. The room was airy and filled with natural light, with tall windows offering a breathtaking view of the Hogwarts grounds. Four beds were arranged along the walls, each with its own desk and bookshelf, providing a personal space for study and reflection. The walls were adorned with paintings of famous Ravenclaws from history, their eyes seeming to follow the room's inhabitants with a mixture of curiosity and approval.

"You'll find everything you need here," the prefect explained, pointing out the wardrobes and the enchantments placed around the room for comfort and privacy. "The common room is always open for study or socializing, but we find it's important to have a quiet space to retreat to as well."

Apollyon's bed was by the window, the bedding in soft blues and silver, the house colors. A small plaque above the headboard bore her name, making the space feel truly her own. Her trunk had already been brought up, waiting at the foot of her bed.

As the prefect left her with a reminder about the schedule for the next day and an offer of assistance should she need it, Apollyon took a moment to sit on her bed, taking it all in. The reality of her new life at Hogwarts was finally sinking in, surrounded by the possibilities of the year ahead.

As Apollyon settled into the quiet contemplation of her new surroundings, her gaze drifted to the other beds that would be home to her dormmates for the year. Each bed was neatly made, the house colors of blue and silver echoed in their bedding, creating a cohesive, tranquil atmosphere within the room. It was a physical manifestation of the unity and scholarly pursuit that Ravenclaw House was known for.

The bed opposite hers bore a small plaque with the name "Marietta Edgecombe" engraved on it. Apollyon remembered hearing the name in passing during the Sorting Ceremony, a moment marked by a mixture of nerves and excitement. Next to Marietta's bed was another, this one labeled "Cho Chang." Cho's name Apollyon recognized immediately, not just from the sorting but from whispered conversations among students about her talent in Quidditch and her expected academic excellence.

The final bed, situated near the room's entrance and bathed in the soft glow of the evening light filtering through the curtains, had a plaque that read "Lena Warwick." Lena was a name Apollyon hadn't heard before, suggesting she was perhaps less known among their year or simply someone whose talents and interests hadn't yet made her a topic of conversation among the Ravenclaw students.

Apollyon felt a ripple of curiosity about her new roommates. Each name represented a story, a life full of experiences and dreams that had led them here, to this room, at the start of their Hogwarts journey. She wondered about the friendships that might form among them, the late-night conversations, the shared challenges, and successes. The dynamics of their small community were yet to be discovered, but Apollyon felt a hopeful anticipation at the thought of getting to know Marietta, Cho, and Lena.

The presence of Cho Chang, a known entity for her Quidditch skills and academic prowess, was particularly intriguing to Apollyon. She looked forward to seeing how their interests might align or diverge, and whether their shared house would foster a camaraderie among them.

Lena Warwick, a mystery to be unraveled, added an element of the unknown to their group. Apollyon was keen on understanding what Lena would bring to their collective experience, what interests and talents she possessed that would enrich their time at Hogwarts.

As the evening deepened into night, Apollyon unpacked her belongings, placing books on the shelf above her desk and arranging her personal items in a way that made the space feel more like hers. The process was meditative, a quiet assertion of her presence in this new chapter of her life.

Before climbing into bed, Apollyon paused to look out the window, the Hogwarts grounds bathed in moonlight, a serene and beautiful sight. The castle, with its towers and turrets, seemed to promise endless possibilities, a labyrinth of knowledge and adventure waiting to be explored.

As Apollyon settled onto her bed, the comfort of the mattress and the soft rustle of the sheets provided a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions and experiences of the day. The moonlight streaming through the window bathed the room in a calm, ethereal glow, reinforcing the sense of peace and solitude that enveloped her. However, instead of succumbing to the embrace of sleep, Apollyon chose a different path to rest and rejuvenation.

Sitting cross-legged on her bed, she closed her eyes and began to meditate. This practice, a skill honed in her previous life, had become a vital part of her routine, allowing her to strengthen her mental fortitude and refine her occlumency shields. Through meditation, Apollyon could process the day's events, organize her thoughts, and prepare for the challenges ahead, all while her body rested.

As she delved deeper into meditation, her mind's eye visualized the intricate layers of her occlumency shields. These mental barriers, meticulously constructed and maintained, were her defense against external intrusions and unwanted influences. They were also a sanctuary, a place within her mind where she could retreat, reflect, and find clarity.

Throughout the night, Apollyon worked on reinforcing these shields, weaving strands of thought and memory into a tighter, more resilient fabric. She reviewed the knowledge she had acquired, integrating it into the vast tapestry of her understanding. The conversations with her new housemates, the words of wisdom from Dumbledore, and her anticipation for the year ahead—all were sorted, analyzed, and stored within the secure confines of her mental fortress.

This practice of meditative rest was more than just a method of relaxation; it was a discipline that allowed Apollyon to maintain a sharp, focused mind and a steady, controlled grasp on her magic. It was a time for her to connect with the raw, chaotic energy within her, to understand it better, and to harness its potential without being overwhelmed by its intensity.

As the night progressed, the rest of the dormitory succumbed to the gentle pull of sleep, the soft sounds of their breathing a rhythmic accompaniment to Apollyon's silent vigil. Yet, despite the physical stillness of meditation, her mind was alive with activity, a testament to her dedication to mastering her own abilities and preparing for the unknown challenges that lay ahead.

When the first light of dawn began to filter through the windows, Apollyon slowly emerged from her meditative state, feeling refreshed and focused. The night of mental exercise had not only bolstered her occlumency shields but had also provided her with a deeper sense of inner peace and readiness for the day.

As she rose from her bed, stretching the stiffness from her limbs, Lena Warwick, one of Apollyon's dormmates, was also an early riser. As the first light of dawn painted the room in soft hues, Lena stirred from her bed, her curiosity piqued by the sight of Apollyon already awake and sitting in a posture of deep contemplation. The room, still quiet save for the gentle sounds of the awakening day, offered a peaceful backdrop for Lena's approach.

"Morning," Lena said softly, not wanting to startle Apollyon out of her meditative state. "I noticed you didn't really sleep last night. Were you meditating the whole time?"

Apollyon turned her attention to Lena, a slight smile gracing her lips as she welcomed the interaction. "Good morning, Lena," she replied, her voice calm and serene. "Yes, I was meditating. It's something I've practiced for a long time. It helps me to rest and organize my thoughts, almost like sleeping, but with a bit more control over what I'm focusing on."

Lena sat on the edge of her own bed, facing Apollyon with a look of fascination. "That sounds incredible. I've heard of meditation, of course, but I didn't know it could be used like that. Does it really feel as refreshing as sleep?"

"It does, in its own way," Apollyon explained. "It might not be for everyone, but for me, it provides a chance to strengthen my mental defenses and process everything that's happening around me. It's especially helpful given the... uniqueness of my magic."

Lena nodded, understanding dawning in her eyes. "I've heard rumors about your eyes and your magic," she said, hesitating slightly. "It must be challenging to navigate."

Apollyon sighed, a wistful expression crossing her face for a moment. "It can be, but it's also a part of who I am. Learning to control and use my magic effectively is just one of the challenges I'm looking forward to tackling here at Hogwarts."

The conversation between the two flowed naturally from there, moving from the topic of meditation and magic to their expectations for their first year at Hogwarts. Lena shared her own hopes and fears, and as the room began to stir with the awakening of their other dormmates, a bond of understanding and camaraderie started to form between them.

As the weekend dawned over Hogwarts, the castle awoke to a slower, more relaxed rhythm compared to the weekdays filled with classes and schedules. Students took advantage of the respite to sleep in, write home, or explore the nooks and crannies of the ancient school. Apollyon, Marietta, Cho, and Lena decided to spend their first weekend delving into the wonders of Hogwarts, each with their own agenda in mind.

While Marietta and Cho were eager to explore the castle grounds and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Quidditch pitch, Lena expressed a desire to visit the greenhouse gardens she had heard so much about from upperclassmen. Apollyon, ever drawn to the pursuit of knowledge, chose to spend her morning in the Ravenclaw common room, specifically the shared library corner that housed books collected by generations of Ravenclaws.

The common room was quieter in the early hours of the weekend, with only a handful of students scattered around, some deeply engrossed in their books, others simply enjoying the tranquil view of the Hogwarts grounds from the tall, arched windows. Apollyon made her way to the library section, the rows of books calling to her like old friends waiting to share their secrets.

Her fingers traced the spines of the books as she browsed the titles, her eyes lighting up at the variety and depth of the subjects available. Here, nestled within the safety of the Ravenclaw common room, was a treasure trove of magical knowledge, from the fundamental principles of spells and enchantments to the obscure theories of magical history and beyond.

Selecting a few volumes that piqued her interest, Apollyon settled into a cozy nook by the window, the morning light casting a warm glow over the pages as she began to read. The quiet ambiance of the common room, combined with the wealth of information at her fingertips, provided the perfect environment for her to delve deeper into her studies, exploring topics that caught her curiosity.

As she read, Apollyon occasionally jotted down notes or sketches in her notebook, her mind weaving together the new information with what she already knew, constantly seeking to expand her understanding of magic and its myriad applications. The books in the Ravenclaw library offered new perspectives and insights, challenging her to think critically and creatively about the magical world.

The morning passed in a contented blur of learning and discovery, the outside world momentarily forgotten as Apollyon immersed herself in her studies. It was only when her stomach began to grumble, reminding her of the passage of time, that she reluctantly marked her place in the books and gathered her belongings.

Stepping out of the Ravenclaw common room, Apollyon felt a pleasant sense of fulfillment from her morning of study and exploration. Her mind was alive with new concepts and theories, yet the physical reminder of her hunger guided her towards the Great Hall for lunch. The halls of Hogwarts, usually bustling during the week, carried a more leisurely atmosphere on the weekend, with students meandering in small groups or alone, each absorbed in their weekend pursuits.

As she made her way to the Great Hall, Apollyon couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the castle's architecture, the ancient stones whispering tales of magic and history. Entering the Great Hall, she was greeted by the sight of the four house tables, less crowded than during the week but still filled with students enjoying their meals and conversations.

Apollyon found a spot at the Ravenclaw table, where a few of her housemates nodded in greeting. The tables were laden with a variety of foods, and she helped herself to a hearty lunch, appreciating the quality and variety of the dishes. Eating alone, she took the opportunity to people-watch, observing the dynamics among students from different houses and pondering how her own journey at Hogwarts would unfold.

Lunch concluded with a feeling of contentment, and Apollyon decided to spend the afternoon outside, exploring the Hogwarts grounds. She knew of a clearing near the Forbidden Forest and Black Lake, a place where she could practice spells without the distractions of the castle. Eager to test some of the spells she had been reading about, she gathered her wand and a few necessary items before setting out.

The path to the clearing was less traveled, offering a sense of adventure and solitude. The air was crisp, the sounds of the forest and the gentle lapping of the lake's waters creating a serene backdrop for her walk. As she neared the clearing, Apollyon felt a rush of excitement, the open space before her seeming to invite exploration and discovery.

The clearing was as perfect as she had hoped, surrounded by trees that provided a natural barrier from prying eyes, with a clear view of the sky above. She took a moment to center herself, drawing a deep breath of the fresh, pine-scented air before beginning her practice.

In the solitude of the clearing, Apollyon felt a deep connection to the world around her, the tranquility of nature amplifying her focus and determination. She decided to push the boundaries of her magical practice by attempting wandless magic, an advanced and challenging discipline that required a profound understanding and control of one's internal mana.

Closing her eyes, she extended her hand, palm up, focusing on the sensation of mana flowing within her. She envisioned it as a river of light, its currents swirling and converging in the palm of her hand, a gathering of energy seeking release. The practice of wandless magic was not just about the absence of a physical wand; it was about harnessing and directing magic through sheer force of will and mental acuity.

The first spell she attempted was a simple Lumos. The incantation whispered under her breath, she concentrated on the flow of mana, urging it towards her fingertips. At first, nothing happened, the silence of the clearing a stark reminder of the challenge she faced. Yet, Apollyon was undeterred. She adjusted her focus, visualizing the spell's effect more clearly, feeling the warmth of the light she sought to create.

With a gentle exhale, a faint glow emanated from her fingertips, a soft light that grew steadily as she poured more of her focus into it. The success, albeit minor, was exhilarating, a testament to her potential and a step forward in her mastery of magic.

Encouraged by her initial success, Apollyon continued to experiment with other simple spells, each attempt a dance of mana and intention. She tried Levioso next, focusing on a small stone at her feet. The spell was more complex, requiring not just the generation of magical energy but its precise manipulation to achieve levitation.

The stone quivered, then hesitantly rose a few inches off the ground before it wobbled and dropped back with a soft thud. Apollyon's brow furrowed in concentration as she tried again, refining her control, her understanding of the spell deepening with each attempt. This time, the stone lifted smoothly, hovering in the air before her as she directed it with gentle motions of her hand, no wand in sight.

Apollyon's practice in the secluded clearing was more than an exercise in spellcasting; it was an intimate dialogue with the very essence of her magic. Each attempt at wandless magic required her to listen closely to the subtle whispers of her mana, to feel its ebb and flow within the confines of her being. It was akin to tuning an instrument, each note resonating more clearly as she aligned her intent with her magical energy.

As she moved from one spell to another, she became acutely aware of the distinct textures and rhythms of her mana. Lumos called for a steady, outward flow, like sunlight spreading gently across the land. Levioso, on the other hand, required a delicate lift, a coaxing of energy that felt like catching a breeze beneath the wings of a bird.

With each successful spell, Apollyon's understanding deepened. The magic within her didn't just respond to commands; it was an extension of her will, a reflection of her thoughts and emotions. She realized that wandless magic was not about overpowering or bending magic to her will but about harmony and understanding, a mutual respect between mage and magic.

The sensation of casting spells without a wand was profoundly different. There was a directness to it, a raw connection that left her feeling both exhilarated and vulnerable. The wand, she understood, was a conduit, a means to refine and direct magical energy, but without it, she was exposed, relying solely on her inner strength and control.

This realization was both humbling and empowering. As she directed the levitating stone with nothing but her focused intent, Apollyon felt a surge of gratitude for the magic that flowed through her, for the chance to explore its depths and nuances. She was learning to speak its language, to understand its moods and inclinations, and in doing so, she was discovering more about herself than she had ever known.

The practice session in the clearing became a meditation on the nature of magic itself, a deep dive into the unseen currents that shaped the world around her. It was a reminder that magic was not just a tool or a weapon but a living, breathing entity, and her relationship with it was a sacred bond, one that demanded respect, patience, and a willingness to learn.

As the afternoon waned and the shadows lengthened, Apollyon didn't realise the passing of time. As she continued to use her magic, the feeling that would usually come with using so much mana wasn't present for her. Having much more mana then a normal child her age would.

As Apollyon delved deeper into her practice of casting spells without the aid of a wand, she began to tap into memories of spellwork from her previous life. These were not just recollections of incantations or wand movements; they were foundational understandings of how magic itself could be woven from the ground up, a method that transcended the standard approach taught in textbooks.

In her past life, Apollyon had learned to see magic not as a series of discrete spells to be memorized, but as a fluid, dynamic force to be shaped by will and intention. Each casting was an act of creation, where the caster served not merely as a conduit for magical energy, but as an artist, sculpting mana into form and function.

With this mindset, Apollyon began to experiment with her spells in a way that felt both ancient and innovative. She focused on the essence of the Levioso spell, not just as a means to make objects float but as an exploration of the interplay between gravity and magical force. By adjusting her intent and the flow of her mana, she found she could not only levitate the stone but also guide it through complex maneuvers, tracing patterns in the air that felt like a dance between her and the object.

This approach required a deep concentration and a fine control over her mana, but Apollyon found the challenge exhilarating. It was as if she was rediscovering magic, seeing it through new eyes. The spells she cast in this way felt more potent, more alive, as if they were extensions of her very essence.

As the afternoon turned to evening, and the light in the clearing began to fade, Apollyon realized she had spent hours immersed in this intensive practice. Yet, she felt neither drained nor weary; instead, her magic seemed to thrum with vitality, buoyed by the rich mana environment of Hogwarts and her own expanding understanding of her capabilities.

It was a profound realization that her capacity for magic was not finite, not limited by the conventional constraints she had once believed. The deep well of mana within her, augmented by her unique connection to time magic and her experience as an Obscurial, provided a reservoir of power that she was only beginning to tap into.

As she gathered her things to return to the castle, Apollyon felt a sense of satisfaction and anticipation. The practice session in the clearing had opened her eyes to new possibilities in spellcasting and magic manipulation. She knew that her journey at Hogwarts would be one of constant learning and discovery, but she also knew that she had within her the potential to explore the very boundaries of what magic could achieve.

Walking back to the castle, her mind alive with ideas and her heart full of determination, Apollyon knew that the path ahead was hers to shape. She was not just a student of magic; she was a pioneer, ready to forge her own way in the wizarding world, guided by the knowledge of her past and the endless possibilities of her future.