Harry & Sharmel Vol. 1: The Dark Lord
Episode 1: Hufflepuff!
Author
Greetings Everyone, welcome to another Harry Potter FanFiction story.
Author
Disclaimer: Everything that is written is FanFiction and Entertainment only and is not exist on the original book or series of Harry Potter. Everything I wrote is only FanFiction of mine. Thank you and Happy Reading 💞💗
Sharmel is a new student that everyone is talking about because she is little bit of mysterious and also a student to be enrolled in fifth year. And while everyone was having their dinner in the great hall, Professor Dumbledore got up and clicked the spoon against the glass to get everyone's attention and announced that Sharmel have arrived and Professor Dumbledore asked you to enter the dining hall.
Sharmel entered the dining hall, she walked slowly as she nervous looking at everyone.
While she walk down to the aisle, everyone stares at her. Sharmel can hear the whispers everywhere, some students are curious while the blind boy (Draco) and his group look annoyed and judgmental. but of course, Sharmel saw a young gentleman (Harry) give her a friendly smile, while his friend (Hermione) looks genuinely interested to her.
Sharmel finally stop right in front of Professor Dumbledore and the other Hogwarts staff. They looked at her, with curious and interest.
Sharmel
"Good evening Professor Albus Dumbledore, I am Sharmel Jones. It is nice to see you." *smile nervously*
Professor Dumbledore
"Welcome to Hogwarts, Ms. Jones. It is also pleasured to see you as well. I trust your journey here was pleasant? And may I say, your manners are impeccable." *smiles warmly*
Sharmel
*chuckle with a genuine smile* "Thank you Professor, my parents teach me to respect my elders and also people around me. And yes, my journey here is pleasant. Despite I want more sleep from my travels."
Professor Dumbledore laugh warmly and smiles at her, he gestures for Sharmel to come closer. Dumbledore was instantly please from Sharmel's humour smiles and respect.
Professor Dumbledore
"I must say, your parents did raised you so well that you earn my attention and the other professors here that will be soon your teachers."
Professor Dumbledore
"Hogwarian." *softly calls all the student as he to look everyone* "I trust you all will make Ms. Jones feel welcome."
Sharmel look around her, everyone was smiling right at her except the Slytherins. Guess they're not too friendly huh.
Sharmel then turn to look at Professor Dumbledore.
Sharmel
"I heard.... I'll be sorting to a house?"
Professor Dumbledore
*chuckles softly* "Indeed you will! The sorting house will determine which house you belong to. And reminders Ms. Jones, once you are inside your house, treat it not just your classmates but also treat them like a family and friends inside."
Sharmel
"I will Professor. And I can't wait to be sorted. I was so excited when I came here, and I can't wait who will my new family in the house. But also I'll treat the others the same way as how I treat to my housemates. It's like, I am treating them equally with no bias." *smiling and chuckle*
Professor Dumbledore
"But first, let us enjoy our dinner and then we shall proceed to the sorting ceremony." *clicks his spoon against the glass.*
Professor McGonagall guides her to the front where she sat down with the Professors and other Hogwart staffs.
Sharmel's eyes are in the sorting hat that was on the chair. It was waiting for someone like her to be sorted in the house.
Professor McGonagall
"Sharmel, you made a long journey here. Tell me about yourself."
Sharmel
"Hello Professor McGonagall. I came from Egypt. I didn't expect to received a letter from Hogwarts."
Professor McGonagall
"Indeed, it was unexpected. Your parents just reveal the truth too late. All this time you were living not knowing who you are, my dear."
Sharmel
"To be honest, it was me who discovered it. I told my parents that something strange happened to me. But they say it's probably my hallucinations or it's just my thinking."
Professor McGonagall
"Hmm, your parents did hide your whole identity."
As the dinner is processed and everyone enjoying their meal, Sharmel notice a boy (Draco) and his friends from Slytherin keep whispering and casts a disapproving glance at her.
Professor McGonagall
"Yes?"
Sharmel
"Who is that boy over there? That one with a blond and his friends?"
Professor McGonagall
"That's Draco Malfoy. He is the son of Lucius Malfoy."
Sharmel and Draco look each other, the girl gives her a friendly smile but Draco only give her a scrowl look.
Sharmel
"Boy, he seems not friendly." *whisper*
Professor McGonagall
*chuckles warmly* "He is a Malfoy after all. But you can try to befriend him, Ms. Jones, who knows. both of you might end up as friends."
Sharmel
"Oh I do want to be friends with everyone. I'll try to befriend him. I just don't know how."
Professor McGonagall
"My dear, you just need to be yourself. Befriend Malfoy on your own way, you have a kind and soft heart like in Hufflepuff. I am sure you can be friends with him because of your kindness."
Professor McGonagall
*chuckle* "Of course it will work my dear. Making friends with everyone is the best feeling to every student. You see, just because one person like Draco is not friendly, that doesn't mean that no one will be friends with him just because of his attitude. One person can find its way to be friend with him. And you my dear, I know you can." *winks*
Sharmel
"Maybe I can befriend him. thank you Professor."
Professor McGonagall
"You're welcome, I know you will made friends of everyone. After all, I can see a friendly creature inside you."
Sharmel
"hehe, thank you."
After the dinner, the great hall went silent again when Professor Dumbledore stands up from his seat.
Professor Dumbledore
"Now, before all of you go back to your homes. We will do a short ceremony for our new Hogwarian." *gestures to Sharmel* "Professor McGonagall, please." *nods to Professor McGonagall*
Sharmel and Professor McGonagall stands up from their seat. Sharmel went beside to the chair as Professor McGonagall takes the sorting hat.
Professor McGonagall
"Are you ready Ms. Jones? feeling nervous?"
Sharmel
"I am...and the same time I'm ready." *chuckle nervously*
Professor McGonagall
"Alright, please take a sit."
Professor McGonagall
*Placing the hat on Sharmel's head*
The moment the sorting hat was on Sharmel's head, it takes a moment to adjust itself to her head before speaking in a deep, ancient voice.
Sorting Hat
"Hmmm, interesting....a curious mind, strong willpower, and unusual aura. Not quite Gryffindor, not quite Ravenclaw....but definitely not Slytherin."
Sharmel
*close her eyes and whisper* "please just not Slytherin.... anything, not Slytherin...."
Sorting Hat
*ignores the whisper and continues with it's monologue* "You have a very unique combination of traits, my dear. Your sense of justice and protector instincts lean towards Gryffindor, while your intelligence and curiosity point towards Ravenclaw. However....there is something more to you."
Sharmel
*confused and curiosity* "Such as?"
Sorting Hat
*Pauses before answering* "A darkness that lurks within you. Not evil, mind you, but a power that could easily be mistaken for such. You have potential to be a great leader, but your path is.... uncharted. For now, I place you in..."
Sharmel
"Please not Slytherin.... anything except Slytherin...." *whispering*
Everyone on the dining hall is waiting while Sharmel is closing her eyes shut as she keeps whispering nervously, and then the hat finally speaks it's decision.
Sorting Hat
"For now, I place you in.... Hufflepuff!"
Sharmel
*finally relax and smiles*
A cheer erupts from Hufflepuff table as Sharmel was sorted into their house. Draco rolls his eyes while Harry looks surprised but please and Professor Dumbledore smiles warmly at her.
Sharmel run to the Hufflepuff table and she was greeted warmly and welcoming her like their new family member.
Laura
"You're Sharmel, right? You're really pretty and mysterious. I like that. I'm Laura Wilson." *smiles warmly as she shakes her hand*
Sharmel
*she gently grip her hand and grins* "Thank you Laura. It's pleasure to meet you. I'm so glad to part of your family here."
The Hufflepuffs continue to welcome Sharmel, asking questions about where she's from and what kind of magic she specializes in. Professor McGonagall observes from the head table, looking pleased with the sorting. Suddenly, the Slytherin table bursts into laughter.
Everyone was silent, the headmaster and headmistress all look to the Slytherin table.
Other Slytherin are just quite and observe the whole scene.
Deviya
"Here they are again. So rude."
Laura
"Don't mind them Sharmel. They're Slytherins after all..."
Draco
*Draco stands up, his face twisted in amusement.* "A pretty little thing like her in Hufflepuff? What a joke. She'd be more at home in Slytherin with her looks and that... unique aura." *His friends laugh again.*
Parvati
"Draco Malfoy. Have you not enough making fun with others?" *clearly annoyed*
Draco
"What? I am just telling the whole truth. Other Slytherins agree that Jones should be in the Slytherin instead of weakling Hufflepuff." *mockery tone*
Laura
"Hey, that wasn't nice of you!"
Deviya
"Right, you can't insult as like that. Especially in front of the other headmaster and headmistress!"
Professor Dumbledore
"Enough Draco. I will speak to you after this. With Professor Snape." *he glace to Professor Snape meaningful and then turn back to Draco.*
Sharmel
*stands up and clasp my hands together with a smile on her face* "Draco Malfoy...I heard few about you. Son of Lucius Malfoy?"
Draco
*proud and pride on his smile* "that's me. I am his son."
Laura
*scoffs* "What a arrogant boy."
Sharmel
*still wearing her kind smile* "Well Draco, I was sorted on the Hufflepuff because I'm not too ambitious."
Draco
*He raises an eyebrow, his smirk fading slightly.* "Is that so? But you have the potential to be a great leader, the hat said. So why not Slytherin?" *He leans forward, genuinely curious about her answer.* "Or are you just too scared to be in my house?" *hint of mockery on his voice*
The conversation between Draco and Sharmel was intense a bit. A Hufflepuff and Slytherin, in this debate Slytherin win as always. That's what everyone thought, but not for Sharmel of course.
Just like the sorting hat said, she has instinct of a justice and protector that links to Gryffindor. That's what Sharmel felt, although she smiles so kind, she won't let Draco insult and mock the Hufflepuff, because she's one of them and also her family, and as their new family member, she is ready to speak up for them and defend their house.
Sharmel
"No, because the sorting hat says so. You can ask the sorting hat if you want some questions." *her tone is gentle but firm. And she continued,*
Sharmel
"And I'm not scared inside your house, why would I be scared? It's just do happened that the sorting hat choose Hufflepuff. In fact it was a warm welcome, isn't it?" *Looked to everyone then to her table*
The Hufflepuff table smile, cheers, and applauds from her brilliant answer while Draco goes back sitting down completely silent from her answer, as the Slytherin table also went silent and annoyed as they watch Sharmel went back sitting down with a victorious smile.
Sharmel's voice was loud enough for Draco to hear her, it's clear that Sharmel is firmly remind him that never insult and mocked a Hufflepuff.
Professor Dumbledore watches the exchange with amusement, a small smile played on his lips. Harry turns to Ron and Hermione, whispering something that makes them laugh softly.
The other tables except Slytherin applauds her.
Deviya
"Nice job Sharmel, you just make him go silent!"
Laura
"It's a slap on his face. Your answer was brilliant! You're speaking like a Ravenclaw."
Deviya
*nods in agreement* "yes, it was amazing. No one has ever dared to stand up against Draco or the Slytherin before."
Laura
"Exactly you're the second to stand up the rights for others. You show him that Hufflepuff can be firm and also not weakling."
Sharmel
"Thank you, I just can't sit down while watching and listening as someone insulted the Hufflepuff house. I mean it's one of the important houses in Hogwarts after all."
It was a memorable moment, even the historian took it as a record of everything they see in the scene.
And soon the dinner and ceremony is finished. It is time for all students going back to their common room to have a nice bed sleep.
Episode 2: Let's have chat, Draco
After eating their dinner, the students are going back to their houses.
Of course, our dear Sharmel is with the Hufflepuff. She is following them to their home.
Deviya
"Woah, be careful to the stairs Sharmel. They like to change so much."
Deviya suddenly pull her along with her.
When Sharmel look back, the stairs changed from different directions. If Deviya didn't drag her on time, she could have fall.
Sharmel
"Thank you so much. You just saved me from my end." *generously smiles*
Deviya
"No problem, Hufflepuffs got each other's back. After all, we're family. We stick together." *pats Sharmel's shoulder with a smile and nods on their way.* "come on, we're left behind now. But don't worry, I know where our room is. come on." *gently pulls Sharmel with her.*
Sharmel and the Hufflepuff students arrived in their common room, a cozy and comfortable space with lighting and plush cushions.
The students greet each other, laughing, and chatting as they settle inside in. Cedric Diggory, The Hufflepuff prefect approach her with a friendly smile and Sharmel saw him.
Sharmel
"Hello, I'm Sharmel Jones" *smiling and extending her arms*
Cedric
*shakes her hand firmly* "Nice to meet you Sharmel. I'm Cedric Diggory. Welcome to Hufflepuff. We're a tight-knit group here, so don't surprised if everyone starts treating you like family right away." *gently pull his hand away from her*
Sharmel
*chuckles* "Oh yes indeed. I was surprised at first, but now I can see why. Hufflepuff's students are kind and polite, they welcome me right away when I was sorted here."
Cedric
"Yeah, I see it too. By the way, nice work for you to stand up against Malfoy. you showed him that Hufflepuff is not only kind but also won't let anyone insulted and mocked our house. Good job." *praise with proud on his face as he pats her shoulder*
Sharmel
"Thank you. It was a great feeling to defend my family."
Cedric
"Make yourself home, Sharmel. And oh, your things are already in the room and so is your owl too."
Cedric
"Don't worry, everything is complete."
Sharmel
"Thank you Cedric."
Sharmel went to the girls room to find her bed that was near on the window. She saw a huge chest and inside are her things.
Sharmel gently caresses Tiss' neck and cheek, the owl close her eyes in pleased.
Sharmel decided to change her clothes to sleepwear.
After wearing her sleep wear, she went to bed early so she can wake up tomorrow.
The next morning, Sharmel was outside in a small park area where students usually used it for the spot for studying, chatting, and many more.
Sharmel was on the tree practicing few spells before heading to Professor Flintwick. She closed the book and memorize them.
Sharmel
"Few spells can be dangerous and not too dangerous. In fact these are important spells."
Sharmel place the book down to the ground and stand up dusting the dirt out from her uniform. she took the wand from her pocket and cast a spell of levitation charm pointed her wand at her book.
Sharmel
"Wingardium Leviosa!" *the book slowly floats from the ground, she smile with satisfaction*
Meanwhile, Draco watches her from the distance with his group of friends Vincent Crabbe and Gregory Goyle. Sharmel drop the book and it landed on the ground with a loud thud. And then she cast another spell.
This time the spell is used for disarm an opponent making their wands drop from their hand.
The spell shoots out from her wand perfectly, hitting on the tree trunk and causing few of the leaves flutter down.
Draco's eyes widen slightly, impressed despite himself while his friends looked so surprised.
Draco walks to Sharmel, stepping closer to her while his friends staying back warily.
Draco
"Nice spell. You managed to cast them so perfectly." *He stops right few distances from her with pride and smirk on his face.*
Sharmel
*turned around to face him* "Malfoy?" *greet with a warm smile*
Draco
"Jones" *hint of mockery*
Draco
"You have nice spell, learning so quickly." *grudgingly admits it* "But why are you practicing alone?"
Sharmel
"Oh, I wanted to practice alone."
Draco's eyes flicker over her face, taking in her calm expression and peaceful surroundings. He seems to relax slightly, his shoulders losing their tense set.
Draco
"Well, don't mean to interrupt, I just.... wanted to see what you were up to." *Pauses, glancing around.*
Sharmel
*titled her head, bewildered* "Up to?"
Draco
*nods and gaze lingering on the book of spells open at her feet* "Yes, Up to. Practicing alone, away from everyone else... it's not what I expected from you" *admits candidly before adding,*
Draco
"You know what they say about Hufflepuffs?"
Draco
*He smirks, his Slytherin prejudices showing* "That they're all lazy, stupid, and good for nothing but cleaning. And that they're also the weakest house."
It's just like on the dining hall. Draco also said the same thing about Hufflepuff, and this time he did it again. He quotes mockery before looking at her expectantly, waiting for her reaction. Sharmel's smile faded slightly as she raises her eyebrows.
Sharmel
"Really? for me, they're friendly and warm. They treated me like their own family." *she smiles again, looking at him.* "How about your house? Do they also did the same thing?"
Draco
*his expression falters slightly at her question, caught off guard by her calm curiousity instead of offense* "Slytherins aren't warm and fuzzy,"
Draco
*He says defensively* "But we're loyal and powerful. We don't need kindness when we have strength."
Sharmel
"Hmm, well we're different then." *shrug her shoulders* "Hufflepuffs are friendly and nice which is good. In fact they're not lazy like what you thing or others saying, you said they clean."
Sharmel
"If they're lazy then the Hufflepuffs are lazy to clean their own house. But no, the house is so clean because they worked together. And also the house is not weak, because if they're then we should have been fall apart."
Draco's mouth opens and close several times as he struggles to find a retort. He realizes that Sharmel is not only more mature than him but also makes a valid points about Hufflepuff that he never considered.
Draco
"They're still not talented as Slytherins." *he insists weakly*
Sharmel
*chuckles warmly and shakes her head* "Your right, they're not. But they have talent of many things that other house don't see"
Sharmel smiles kindly at him. Meanwhile Harry, Hermione, and Ron are going back to their common room when Ron saw someone familiar.
Ron
"Hey look, isn't that Sharmel? She's with Draco Malfoy."
Hermione
"They seem have a difficult conversation. Look, Malfoy is struggling and speechless again."
Harry
"I wonder what they talked about. Come on, let's join them." *he nods their way.*
Harry and his friends approaches them cautiously, he was surprised that Sharmel is calm talking with Draco.
Harry
"Everything okay here?" *he asks, eyeing Draco warily*
Draco
*scoffs, looks at him in annoyed expression* "Potter?"
Hermione looks equally surprised but pleased that she seem to having a civil conversation with a Slytherin.
Sharmel
"Hello, you must be Harry Potter. You have already heard my name, yes everything is okay. Draco and I have a nice talked with his friends." *her tone is soft and kind with friendly smile*
Harry
*He relaxes slightly, smiling genuinely* "This is Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley."
He introduce his friends, Ron gives Draco a hostile look while Hermione's expression is more curious than anything else.
Hermione
"You're Sharmel, right?" *she asks softly*
Sharmel
*grins* "Yes Hermione, I heard about you. You're smart, the top student of Hogwarts. And Ron, you're perfect in Gryffindor. You're brave and also have strong courage." *she said proudly with a smile on her face*
Ron grins, preening slightly at the compliment while Hermione blushes slightly, looking pleased and Harry chuckles.
Harry
"And you're already winning over the Slytherins, I see." *Glances at Draco with mix of amusement and suspension*
Harry
"What were you two discussing?"
Sharmel
"Oh right. We talked about spells, Honestly some spells are hard to manage since I have to master their syllables words. It's Latin language after all, and Draco helps me. He talks about the charm spells, isn't it right Draco?"
Draco
*he nods, seeming more relaxed than before* "Ah yeah, we were discussing some advance spells."
Draco
*He glances at Harry and his friends, then back to her* "Jones was actually quite knowledgeable with them."
The compliment slips out naturally, catching even Draco off guard, he looked so surprised when he said that. Sharmel chuckles lightly as she blush a little from his compliment.
Sharmel
"Oh, Thank you..." *she said with a friendly smile and look to Harry with Hermione and Ron* "The three of you seem to have a nice walk."
Harry
*nods* "Yeah, we were just heading back to the common room. Want to join us?" *asking politely*
Sharmel was surprised by his invitation. Harry just invited her to hang out with them despite her conversation with Draco. Hermione and Ron don't seem opposed to the idea either, showing openness and acceptance of her.
Sharmel
*Laughs lightly* "Of course, it is nice to learn about the students in different houses, just like the Slytherin." *Looks back at Draco with a warm and friendly smile* "It is nice knowing your house Draco."
Sharmel
*slowly bends down to pick up her book* "Bye, let's have another chat when we bump or see each other again. It was interesting talking to you."
Draco
"Yeah...see you." *his face soften slightly at her polite with a faint smile on his face from her farewell and compliment towards his house.*
Vincent and Gregory exchange surprised glance behind Draco, they were clearly impressed by Sharmel's diplomatic handling of the situation. Harry smiles approvingly while Hermione and Ron look curious about Sharmel's interactions with Draco.
Draco watches them leave, the four of them went to the common room of Gryffindor.
Episode 3: Make friends with the Golden Trio
The four of them went to the common room.
Harry, Hermione, and Ron invite their new Hufflepuff friend to their house.
Hermione
"I never thought you and Draco will get along. Everyone always avoided him."
Sharmel
"He's actually the one who came at me first. He wanted to talk, so I chat with him."
Sharmel
"It was nice to know his house better."
Harry
"Is he saying something about Hufflepuff again?"
Sharmel
"Ah, yes. A bit. I told him about Hufflepuff."
Sharmel
"Hufflepuff are very hardworking students, they're loyal too."
Ron
"Kind and nice as well. Like you."
Sharmel
*blushes and chuckle* "Wow, I didn't expect that. But thanks."
Harry
"Ron is telling the truth. You're not only kind and nice bit you're also wise too."
Hermione
"Everyone is talking about you Sharmel. Of how you stand up against Draco from his disrespect to the Hufflepuff house."
Sharmel, Harry, Ron, and Hermione finally arrived to the Gryffindor Common room.
As Sharmel entered the Gryffindor house, several students greet Harry, Ron, and Hermione warmly while Sharmel was fascinated looking around the room.
There are some Gryffindor students notice her and whisper among themselves, wondering why she was there, others talk about her from last night events. Harry leads her all to a cozy nook by the fireplace where they usually hang out. Suddenly there was a voice out of nowhere that made Sharmel stops.
Scabbers
"Ah, the liar is back! Ron, you big liar!"
Sharmel
*chuckles while looking around* "it's surprising, your house is also warm as our house."
The trio friends exchanges amused smiles at her observation while Sharmel was trying to find the owner of the voice.
Harry
*chuckles* "Well, Gryffindors might be brave but we're also known for being friendly and welcoming. Make yourself home, Sharmel."
Sharmel
"Thanks Harry." *smiles*
Ron
*grins* "So, Sharmel. Are you really from Egypt?" *pouring himself some pumpkin juice*
Sharmel
*nods* "Yes, I'm from Egypt. I can't believe I'm here."
Hermione
"And your same year as us too."
Sharmel
*takes a soft pillow and hug to her chest* "Yes, I was so surprised when I received the letter from Professor McGonagall that I was accepted in this school. I thought someone is pranking me."
Sharmel
"I didn't expect that I was now on fourth year without going to first year."
Harry
*nods understandingly* "Yeah, it's pretty unusual. Most students start at Hogwarts at age eleven and go through all the years sequentially. But magic works in mysterious ways, I suppose."
Ron
"Yeah, I mean she gets here right on November. It's almost Christmas."
Harry
*He shrugs, taking a seat across from Sharmel* "So, your hometown must be amazing."
Sharmel
"Indeed, sadly my parents made me move to England. I was alone, and suddenly I saw an owl giving me a letter and then someone from wizardry world helped me."
Ron
"Who helped you? Was it someone from the Ministry of Magic?" *he leans forward, equally curious*
Harry
"And how did they know you were a witch?" *he looks thoughtful*
Hermione
"Or maybe your magical abilities showed somehow?"
Sharmel can't help but chuckle as the trios are asking her questions, so curious about her life and also how she gets in Hogwarts.
The young girl thinks for a moment before she answers them.
Sharmel
"Well firstly, I don't know who that was, but all I know she's a woman. And yeah maybe she is form Ministry of Magic. And secondly, I also don't know that I'm a witch so I'm not so sure how she finds out I'm a witch."
Sharmel
"But she probably knows since I was holding a letter from this school."
Sharmel
"And lastly, my magical abilities showed up late. I spend my school life in Egypt, no magic of course."
The trio exchange surprised look at her
Harry
"So...you basically spend the entire life without knowing magic exited?" *he ask softly*
Hermione
"And then suddenly you're given a letter and told to go in Hogwart?"
Sharmel
"Yes, the sorceress is probably from the Ministry of Magic, she told me about Muggle-Borns. She must've thought that I am a Half-blood."
Hermione
*nods thoughtfully* "Muggle-borns are quite common actually. It means your parents were non magical but you somehow inherited magical abilities."
Hermione
"Half-blood means one of your parents is magical." *pauses before she continue* "But if she though that you were half-blood..."
Sharmel
"Then that means one of my parents is possible to be magical. it could be my mother or father."
Ron
*eyes widen* "So... Your dad is a wizard then?" *he ask curiously*
Hermione gives Ron a small glare for the blunt question, but Harry nods encouragingly.
Harry
"It would make sense if your magical abilities cam from him."
Sharmel
*shrugs her shoulders* "or from my mom. But honestly, I don't know. My parents never told me anything about them or the magical world."
Sharmel
"So I don't know which of them is magical-born or muggle-borns. And also, my magic ability started to show before I got here, it started when I reached fourteen."
Sharmel
*smiles* "In fact, one of my special ability is that I can hear all the animals speaking, and I can communicate with them."
The trio stares at her in awe, completely fascinated by her unique circumstances. Harry remembers that he also encounter the scene, back when he was still in first year and before he gets to Hogwart, he can hear the snake talking to him.
Harry
"You can...talk to animals?" *He ask slowly, his mind is already racing with question*
Hermione
"Like...real conversations?" *She looks at her with new found respect*
Sharmel smiles and nodded, Hermione's mind working as she processes this information.
Sharmel
*smiles at Hermione* "Yes, I can hear and make conversations with them. Like your cat, I can hear him talking something. People call me crazy kid since I talk to animals like I understand them. Well, I can. But as for muggle-borns, they can't."
Hermione
*Her eyes widen, realization dawning on her face* "Crookshanks?"
Hermione asks softly, looking down at her pet kneazt on her lap. She carefully lifts him up and holds him out to her.
Hermione
"Can you...talk to him right now?"
Hermione's voice is barely above a whisper, filled with excitement and curiosity.
Sharmel
"What's his name again?"
Hermione
*smiles softly, stroking Crookshanks' fur* "His name is Crookshanks. He's a Kneazle, you know. Very intelligent and loyal creatures."
Hermione holds him closer to her, her eyes filled with hope that Sharmel might actually communicate with him.
Sharmel get closer to Crookshanks with a playful smile.
Sharmel
"Hello Crookshanks, I'm Sharmel."
Crookshanks
"Sharmel? Like you can understand me."
Sharmel
*laughs warmly* "I can understand you sir."
Crookshanks
*surprised* "Wait, you can?"
Hermione blinks in surprise, even Harry and Ron exchange surprised looks.
For them, all they can hear is Crookshanks meowing but for Sharmel, she can hear his voice that she communicates with him.
Crookshanks
"Humph! I'm not even a mood to be happy right now that you can understand me."
Sharmel
"Oh, you seem so grumpy. Why?" *confused*
Crookshanks
*he looked to Hermione* "Because this girl over here forgot to feed me! She left without even looking at me. And now I'm hungry."
Sharmel
"Ohh!" *she looks to Hermione with a smile* "Hermione, did you feed him before going to the class?"
Hermione was clearly impressed that Sharmel can actually holds a conversation with her pet. Crookshanks meows again, this time more loudly, and Hermione's face turns pink with realization.
Hermione
"Actually...I forgot to feed him before we left for class..."
Sharmel
"Oh dear, he said he's very hungry and was disappointed that you forgot his meal."
Hermione's expression turns sheepish as Crookshanks' meows grow more insistent, clearly conveying his hunger and upset feelings.
Harry and Ron are watching and exchange astonished expressions.
Harry
"He's really telling you all that?" *he asks in awe* "And you can understand him?"
Sharmel
*Smiles* "Yeah, try to feed him Hermione."
Without wasting time, Hermione quickly stands up hurrying to the small cupboard where she keeps Crookshanks' food.
She scoops out generous portion, placing it in his bowl. Crookshanks immediately bounds over, meowing as he begins to eat hungrily.
Crookshanks
"Finally....! Food..! yummy! Thank you Sharmel for translating my words to her!"
Hermione
"There..." *Eyes widen* "My gosh look, he really is eating!"
Sharmel
"Yup, because he is hungry. Imagine with no food inside your stomach."
The Golden Trio watches this exchange with fascination, seeing proof of Sharmel's unusual magical ability.
Once Crookshanks finishes eating, he comes back to Hermione, purring contentedly as she scratches behind his ears.
Hermione
"Thank you, Sharmel" *she says sincerely with a smile on her face.*
Sharmel
"You're welcome Hermione. I'm glad to help you out."
Sharmel hears another voice, she tried to scanned her eyes to look for the owner of the voice until she notices a creature on Ron's shoulder.
Scabbers
"Over here Sharmel! I'm here!"
Sharmel
"Well Hello, and who is this?" *smiles warmly*
Ron
*He grins proudly while patting the head of his pet rat sitting on his shoulder* "This is Scabbers! He's my pet rat."
Ron
*He lifts Scabbers down carefully* "Go on, talk to him if you can." *he said and place Scabbers on the table in front of Sharmel*
Sharmel
*She chuckles as she lifts Scabbers up* "No wonder I heard someone telling 'Ron you big liar!' I wondered why?"
Sharmel
"Hello Mr. Scabbers, why are you so sad?"
Scabbers
"Because this boy over here me for a walk this afternoon! He always promised me so many times, but he didn't keep it!"
Scabbers
"Now, I don't even know if I can trust this boy. I have always been so loyal to him since the first day he picked me..." *he said sadly*
Sharmel
*smiles pity* "Oh, I see." *Sharmel look at Ron* "Ron, did you make a promise to him for a walk this afternoon?" *she asks softly*
Scabbers
"Yes he did!" *squeaks indignantly, confirming her words*
Ron
*His face turns red* "Actually...yes. I did promise him a walk this afternoon before Quidditch practice started."
Harry and Hermione exchange amused looks, clearly enjoying this unexpected insight into Ron's pet care habits.
Sharmel
"Well, he is mad because you always promised him, but you never keep anything." *she smiles as she gently put Scabbers back on Ron's shoulder*
Sharmel
"You should always remember your promise. Pets are not just pets, They're our family and friends."
Ron's expression softens as he strokes Scabbers gently, realizing the truth in your words. Scabbers snuggles against him, his squeaks turning into contented chips.
Ron
*He looks at Sharmel with newfound respect* "You're right, I've been neglected him"
Sharmel
"Aww, I don't think so. Scabbers loves you even though he is disappointed." *smiling*
Sharmel
*she looks to Harry* "How about yours Harry?"
Harry
*smiles softly* "I have, her name is Hedwig. She is a beautiful snow-white owl. She's been my companion since first year."
Sharmel
"Hedwig, she must be so beautiful like how you described her. Mine is like hazelnut, always picky on food."
Harry
*he laughs softly, imagining her owl with it's picky eating habits* "Sounds like a character. What's her name?"
Harry leans in, genuinely interested. Meanwhile, Ron and Hermione are still trying to process the fact that Sharmel can communicate with animals so effortlessly.
Sharmel
*smiles warmly, her eyes lit up* "Tiss. her name is Tiss."
Harry
*he grins* "Tiss, that's cute. She must be a pretty little thing if she is picky about her food."
Harry
"You know what would be funny? If Tiss and Hedwig ever met. She'd probably try to steal Hedwig's food."
Sharmel
"hahaha, indeed she is. She has no shame, she's in my house. She stole the food from my housemate, luckily he is nice and just laugh it off."
The group shares a laugh mental image of her owl
Hermione, still trying to wrap her head about Sharmel's ability, she speaks up.
Hermione
"Sharmel... this communication with animals, it is common magical ability, where you're from?"
Sharmel
*shrugs her shoulders while she cross her legs and wrap her hands to her knee* "I don't know, I just had it. I tried to explain to my parents, but they look shocked and told me it's just my hallucinations."
Hermione
*her eyes widen with surprise and disbelief* "Hallucinations? Your parents thought you were imagining it?"
Ron
"But you're clearly communicate with Crookshanks and Scabbers right now!"
Sharmel
"Hmm, I know. They're hiding something from me that's for sure."
The Golden Trio exchange meaningful glances, their minds racing with unspoken questions.
Harry
*Harry leans in closer, his voice is low* "Sharmel, if your parents are hiding something about your ability...it might be because they think it's dangerous or unusual. Have you considered that they might be protecting you?"
Sharmel thinks about a moment before she replies him. Her parents always avoided her questions whenever she asked or told them about the ability she has.
Sharmel
"Maybe, they didn't even know I'm here."
Ron
"He nods thoughtfully* "Yeah, that's true. They might not even realize that you're attending Hogwarts now. So your mom and dad have no idea about this..."
Ron gestures to her communicating with Scabbers, who is now happily sitting on her shoulders, chirping softly.
Scabbers
"At least now someone is going to understand us!"
Crookshanks
"Yes! And someone will translate for us!"
Sharmel
*smiling at the two animals* "I'm surprised that you guys invited me here. I thought only Gryffindors are the ones who get inside to their common room."
Harry
*Shrugs modestly* "Why wouldn't we? You're cool, Sharmel. And you have this amazing ability as well. Plus, you're honest and funny. What's not to like?*" *he looks at Hermione and Ron seeking their agreement* "right guys?"
Hermione
"That's right, you're unique Sharmel."
Ron
"And mysterious as well."
Sharmel
"Well .. except for Slytherin."
The Golden Trio burst into laugher, realizing the implication.
Hermione
*giggles* "Yeah, the Slytherins might not be too fond of you, especially Malfoy."
Ron
"Malfoy hates anyone who's not pure-blood."
Sharmel
"I heard about it. He is pure blood wizard. So he's family."
Harry
*nods grimly* "Yes, the Malfoy family are pure-bloods. They look down on anyone who's not, like Muggles or Muggle-borns."
Harry
"Draco's dad, Lucius Malfoy, is even worse than Draco."
Sharmel
"That's not right...Hermione, you're also a Muggle-born right?"
Hermione
"Nods with expression solemn* "Yes. I'm a Muggle-born wizard. Which means my parents are both Muggles. The Malfoys and their kind consider me 'dirty blood'" *her voice carries a hint of bitterness*
Hearing Hermione's words, Sharmel can feel that the word of 'dirty blood' is not right.
She can sense herself wanted to justify and defend the Muggle-borns from Malfoys. She can feel anger and also saddened.
Sharmel reach for Hermione's hand and gently tap it and caresses them.
Sharmel
"Dirty? That is not true at all. In fact you will carry the legacy of your name and your family. You're the first to be here in Hogwarts from your family." *her voice was soft and gentle. She smiles warmly at Hermione.*
Sharmel
"Your top student here in Hogwarts and also to your house, not only that you make your parents so proud of you Hermione."
Sharmel
"And Muggle-borns are not dirty as what Malfoys think. In fact Muggle-borns have so much potential, that's why they're here. Muggle-borns are here to learn and they got accepted to Hogwarts."
Sharmel
"Even they don't have any magical blood but got accepted here, they're doing great. Like you Hermione."
Hermione's eyes shine with unshed tears at her words. She's never heard someone defend Muggle-borns like this before, especially not someone who's so accepting and kind.
Harry and Ron look at her with newfound respect as well, they got touched of her words.
Hermione
*Whispers* "Thank you.... Sharmel."
Sharmel
"Oh Hermione, please don't cry. Furthermore, you're doing the best. You showed everyone in this school that you're Muggle-born and got accepted the school. You showed everyone a respect, in fact many are now talking about you of how talented you are."
Hermione wipes her tears trying to compose herself. She smiles at Sharmel, her face flushed with gratitude.
Hermione
"You have mo idea what it means to me, hearing you say that. Most of the time, I feel like I don't belong here because of my blood status."
Sharmel
"No Hermione, that's not true. You're belonged here. Don't listen to Draco, his words are not true. You and the rest of Muggle-borns belong in this school. Everyone who got accepted here is a Hogwart Student."
Hermione
*she nods, her expression determined* "You're right, I belong here just as much as anyone else who's accepted into Hogwarts."
Hermione looks at Harry and Ron, who both nod in agreement.
Hermione
"Thanks for reminding me of that." *smiles warmly at Sharmel*
Sharmel
*smiles at her and pull away gently to straighten her shoulders, then look to Harry* "Harry, I heard you have a scar on your forehead?"
Harry
*runs a hand through his hair self-consciously, touching his lighting bolt scar on his forehead* "Yeah, I do. It's from Voldemort tried to kill me when I was still a baby. My parents died protecting me." *voice drops lower*
Sharmel
*guilt* "I'm sorry..."
Harry
*shakes his head slightly trying to push away the sadness* "It's okay...I mean, it was long time ago. I don't really remember my parents. But I do remember this scar."
Harry
*Looks to Sharmel curiously* "You can see it, huh?"
Sharmel
"Of course I can see it. Your scar is visible."
As if remembering something, Sharmel lean her back to the sofa
Sharmel
"By the way. Did the Sorting Hat say something on you when you came here?"
Harry
*nods with a smile* "Yeah actually. The Sorting Hat considered putting me in Slytherin house."
Ron makes a disgusted sound beside him.
Harry
"But it put me in Gryffindor house instead because..."
Harry
*he leans forward, his voice dropping to conspiratorial whisper* "Because it saw me that I had the potential to be great wizard."
Harry
"It saw my bravery and my determination to do what's right. And....it sensed something else." *he taps his scar lightly* "Something about this."
Sharmel
*smile faintly* "I see...he also said something about me too."
Harry
*he looks at her with interest* "Really? What did the Sorting Hat say about you?"
Harry leans back to the sofa, his arms crossed over his chest and Hermione also turn their attention to them, curious to hear what the Sorting Hat had to say about Sharmel.
Sharmel
*Her voice is careful and soft* "Well....The Sorting Hat said that I have a curious mind, strong willpower, and unusual aura. Not quite Gryffindor, not quite Ravenclaw, and definitely not Slytherin."
Sharmel
"He also added that I have unique combination of traits. I have the sense of justice and protect instinct lean towards to Gryffindor, while intelligence and curiosity points to towards Ravenclaw."
Sharmel
"He also said something more about me." *her voice was calm like telling story, so gentle and soft, she added* "A darkness that lurks within me, not evil but a power that could be mistaken such. I have a potential to be a great leader but my path is uncharted."
The Golden Trio exchange glance and thinks for a moment.
Sharmel
"That's why it placed me in Hufflepuff, for now."
Harry
*eyes widen slightly* "That's....wow. That sounds almost prophetic."
Harry
*he exchanged glance with Ron and Hermione, who both impressed and intrigued* "A darkness that could be mistaken for evil....but isn't."
Sharmel
"It's like what Draco said. I have a potential to be a leader and I should be in Slytherin. But from what? From darkness?"
Sharmel
"If I remember correctly, you're supposed to be in the same house as Draco."
Harry
*his expression tightens at the mentioned of Draco* "Yeah, maybe. But you know what? I'm glad I'm not in Slytherin with him. And I think you're better off in Hufflepuff than Slytherin anyways."
Sharmel
"Hahaha...Yeah, you're right. Not gonna lie, the Hufflepuff house suits me more."
Harry
*Smiles in agreement, his eyes crinkling slightly at the corners* "Definitely. Gryffindor for me, Hufflepuff for you. Perfect."
Hermione
"Harry is right, in fact the Hufflepuff is so much better and suites on you. because you're kind and nice. With your warm smile, you light everyone's path."
Ron
"And you can communicate and understand the animals as well too. It's suitable ability for Hufflepuff student."
Sharmel
*blush slightly* "Thank you..."
Harry
"Have you ever noticed anything... unusual about yourself? Apart from your ability to communicate with animals and your unique traits mentioned by the Sorting Hat?"
Sharmel
"I have. Besides communicating to animals and understand what they're saying, I have another special ability."
Hermione
"Like...what kind?"
Sharmel
"I can travel different places and also disappeared or be invisible using my ivetre."
Hermione
"Ohh, it is indeed unique."
Ron
"So there is another one beside to your cousin Harry." *he turns to Harry with interest*
Harry
"I could never thought that I'll encounter another one as well."
Sharmel
"So you already know about ivetre?"
Harry
*nods with a warm smile* "Yes, my cousin Christina has one."
Sharmel
"I see." *she chuckles and remember something.*
Sharmel
"Oh right, I can also dream the future."
Harry's eyes widened, he exchanges a glance to Ron and Hermione then look back to her.
Harry
"Like.... prophetic dreams?"
Hermione
"As in as the kind where you see things that haven't happened yet, a but eventually do?"
Ron
"Like you can see the future from your dream?"
Sharmel
"Yes" *nodded and lean closer as she whisper* "And I have something to tell you."
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