Thoughts of Dragons

The start of another school year at Hogwarts was always a time of excitement and anticipation. Students gathered on Platform 9¾, their trunks and pets in tow, as the scarlet Hogwarts Express waited to take them back to the castle. Among the throngs of students, Gwendolyn stood with her friends Draco and Daphne, her citrine eyes gleaming with a mixture of anticipation and something darker.

As the train chugged away from King's Cross Station, the familiar chatter of students filled the compartments. Gwendolyn sat with Draco and Daphne, her sketchbook open on her lap. She had been filling it with drawings of magical creatures, particularly dragons, her latest obsession.

"Do you think we'll see any dragons this year?" Gwendolyn asked, her eyes alight with excitement.

Draco smirked. "I wouldn't count on it, Gwen. But you never know what surprises Hogwarts has in store."

Daphne nodded, her expression more reserved. "Let's just hope this year is a bit less... eventful than the last."

The journey passed quickly, and soon they were disembarking at Hogsmeade Station. The familiar sight of the horseless carriages awaited them, ready to take them up to the castle. Gwendolyn's heart raced with excitement as she climbed into one, her friends following closely behind.

The Great Hall was as magnificent as ever, the ceiling enchanted to reflect the night sky. The four house tables were filled with students, their faces a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Gwendolyn took her seat at the Slytherin table, her eyes scanning the room.

Professor Dumbledore stood at the head of the room, his presence commanding attention. He raised his hands, and the hall fell silent.

"Welcome, students, to another year at Hogwarts," Dumbledore began, his voice warm and welcoming. "Before we begin our feast, I have a few announcements to make."

Gwendolyn listened intently, her gaze never leaving the headmaster. Dumbledore spoke of the Triwizard Tournament, a legendary event that had not been held for many years. The announcement was met with gasps and murmurs of excitement from the students.

"The tournament will be a test of courage, skill, and magical ability," Dumbledore continued. "And this year, Hogwarts will play host to students from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang, who will be joining us for the duration of the tournament."

Gwendolyn's eyes widened with excitement. Dragons. The thought pulsed through her mind, filling her with anticipation. She had seen glimpses of the tournament in her visions, and now it was finally happening.

As Dumbledore concluded his announcements, the feast began. Platters of delicious food appeared on the tables, and the students eagerly dug in. Gwendolyn picked at her meal, her mind racing with thoughts of the tournament and the possibilities it held.

"Can you believe it?" Draco said, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "The Triwizard Tournament. This is going to be incredible."

Daphne nodded, her expression a mix of excitement and apprehension. "It's going to be dangerous, though. I just hope none of us get caught up in it."

Gwendolyn smiled, her eyes distant. "Danger is part of the excitement, isn't it? This is going to be a year to remember."

As the feast continued, Gwendolyn's thoughts were filled with visions of dragons, magical creatures, and the challenges that lay ahead. She knew that this year would be different, more dangerous and thrilling than any before. And she was ready for it.

The students chatted and laughed, the anticipation of the tournament hanging in the air. Gwendolyn felt a thrill of excitement coursing through her. The darkness within her seemed to pulse with anticipation, urging her forward, promising new opportunities and challenges.

As the feast drew to a close, Dumbledore rose once more, signaling for silence.

"Now, off to bed with you all," he said, his eyes twinkling. "Rest well, for tomorrow brings new adventures and challenges."

The students rose from their seats, the hall filled with the sound of scraping benches and excited chatter. Gwendolyn followed her friends out of the Great Hall, her mind already racing with thoughts of the coming year. She knew that the Triwizard Tournament would bring new opportunities to explore her powers, uncover secrets, and perhaps even see the dragons she so longed to study.

As she made her way to the Slytherin common room, Gwendolyn felt a sense of anticipation unlike any she had ever known. This year, she would embrace her darkness and power, and she would let nothing stand in her way. The future was uncertain, but one thing was clear: this year at Hogwarts would be unforgettable.

-----

Albus Dumbledore stood in his office, gazing thoughtfully out the window as the early morning light cast long shadows across the grounds of Hogwarts. The new school year had just begun, and the Triwizard Tournament had already brought an air of excitement and anticipation to the castle. However, his thoughts were preoccupied with one student in particular: Gwendolyn Grimshaw Gaunt.

Despite his initial concerns, Dumbledore had been surprised to find that Gwendolyn had not deteriorated over the summer. In fact, she seemed to be in a more solid position, her control over her magic noticeably improved. Yet, there was a new intensity about her, a focus that bordered on obsession—particularly with dragons.

He shook his head, a mixture of concern and curiosity in his eyes. The changes in Gwendolyn were both intriguing and worrisome. Her transformation over the past year had been profound, and he couldn't ignore the darkness that still clung to her. However, the control she exhibited over her magic was impressive, even if it was driven by a dangerous fascination.

The door to his office creaked open, and Professor McGonagall entered, her expression as stern as ever. "Albus, you wished to see me?"

"Yes, Minerva," Dumbledore replied, turning to face her. "Please, have a seat."

She took a seat across from him, her eyes sharp with curiosity. "What is it, Albus?"

Dumbledore sighed, leaning back in his chair. "I've been observing Gwendolyn Grimshaw Gaunt. She has returned from the summer in a surprisingly stable condition. Her control over her magic has improved, and she seems more focused. However, her obsession with dragons is quite apparent."

McGonagall's brow furrowed. "Dragons? What do you mean, Albus?"

"She has been immersing herself in studies about dragons," Dumbledore explained. "Her sketches, her research—all point to a deep fascination with these creatures. While it's not unusual for a young witch or wizard to be interested in magical creatures, her level of obsession is concerning."

McGonagall nodded slowly. "I see. And you believe this fascination could be dangerous?"

Dumbledore's eyes grew distant as he considered her question. "It's difficult to say. Gwendolyn is a complex young witch. Her power is immense, and her connection to darker magic is undeniable. While her interest in dragons might be harmless in itself, the intensity of her obsession suggests that she is seeking something more—perhaps a deeper understanding of her own power."

"Should we intervene?" McGonagall asked, her voice tinged with worry.

Dumbledore shook his head. "Not yet, Minerva. Gwendolyn is at a crucial point in her development. We must watch her closely, guide her where we can, but also allow her to explore her abilities. She needs to find her own path, though we must be ready to step in if she strays too far."

McGonagall sighed, a hint of frustration in her eyes. "Very well, Albus. But we must remain vigilant. Her potential for both greatness and danger is immense."

"Agreed," Dumbledore said softly. "We will keep a close eye on her. For now, let us see how the year unfolds."

As McGonagall left his office, Dumbledore returned to his contemplations. Gwendolyn's journey was far from over, and the path she walked was fraught with peril. Yet, there was a part of him that held onto hope—that she might find a way to balance the darkness within her and use her power for good.

For now, he would continue to watch, to guide, and to hope that Gwendolyn Grimshaw Gaunt would find her way through the shadows and into the light.

-----

Gwendolyn Grimshaw Gaunt wandered through the corridors of Hogwarts, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of dragons and the Triwizard Tournament. The air was thick with anticipation, and the castle buzzed with excitement. Gwendolyn, however, found herself detached from the festivities. Her interests lay elsewhere, in the dark corners of magic and the mysteries of the world.

As she rounded a corner, she overheard a familiar voice. Draco Malfoy was speaking animatedly to Crabbe and Goyle. Gwendolyn slowed her pace, her curiosity piqued.

"...and you should have seen it," Draco was saying, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and indignation. "The Dark Mark, right above the stadium! It was incredible, but also terrifying. Father was furious."

Crabbe and Goyle grunted in agreement, their expressions a mix of confusion and awe.

Gwendolyn approached, her citrine eyes gleaming with interest. "What are you talking about, Draco?"

Draco turned to face her, a smirk playing on his lips. "Ah, Gwendolyn. Missed the World Cup, did you? There was an attack. Death Eaters caused a riot, and the Dark Mark was conjured above the stadium. Quite the spectacle."

Gwendolyn's expression shifted from curiosity to intrigue. "The Dark Mark? That's fascinating. Tell me more."

Draco seemed pleased by her interest. "It was chaos. The Death Eaters were out in full force, causing mayhem. The Ministry was scrambling to control the situation. But the Dark Mark... it was a clear message. The Dark Lord's followers are still out there, and they're not afraid to show it."

Gwendolyn's mind raced. The Dark Mark was a symbol of power, of the darkness that she felt so connected to. The idea that Death Eaters were still active, still a force to be reckoned with, filled her with a strange sense of excitement.

"Did they catch anyone?" she asked, her voice low.

Draco shook his head. "Not really. A few people were detained, but most of the Death Eaters got away. The Ministry is trying to downplay it, of course, but everyone knows what it means."

Gwendolyn nodded slowly, her thoughts drifting to the visions she had been having. The pieces were starting to fit together, and the attack at the World Cup was just another part of the larger picture.

"Thank you, Draco," she said, her smile unsettling. "You've given me much to think about."

Draco raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by her reaction. "Anytime, Gwendolyn. It's always a pleasure."

As Gwendolyn walked away, her mind was consumed by thoughts of the Dark Mark and the power it represented. The world was shifting, the shadows growing longer, and she felt a thrill at the thought of what was to come.

The Triwizard Tournament would bring its own challenges, but Gwendolyn's focus remained on the darkness within her and the power she sought to understand. The attack at the World Cup was a reminder that the world of magic was filled with danger and opportunity, and she was determined to navigate it with all the cunning and strength she possessed.

The whispers in her mind grew louder, urging her on, and she felt a surge of determination.

The Great Hall was filled with the sounds of clinking cutlery and lively chatter as students gathered for breakfast. The start of the new school year had brought a sense of excitement and anticipation, especially with the looming Triwizard Tournament. Gwendolyn Grimshaw Gaunt sat at the Slytherin table, her eyes flickering with their usual intensity as she observed the students around her.

As the noise reached its peak, a hush fell over the hall when Albus Dumbledore stood, raising his hands for silence. The students turned their attention to the headmaster, curiosity evident in their eyes.

"Good morning, everyone," Dumbledore began, his voice carrying easily across the room. "I have an announcement to make regarding our Defense Against the Dark Arts position."

The mention of the Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher drew immediate interest. It was a well-known fact that the position seemed cursed, with a new teacher every year. Students whispered among themselves, speculating about who it might be this time.

Dumbledore continued, his eyes twinkling with a mixture of amusement and seriousness. "I am pleased to introduce our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, Professor Alastor Moody."

The doors to the Great Hall opened, and a figure stepped inside. Alastor "Mad-Eye" Moody was an imposing sight, his face scarred and weathered from years of battling dark forces. His magical eye roved independently of his normal one, giving him a perpetually alert and somewhat unnerving appearance. He limped slightly as he made his way to the staff table, his wooden leg thumping with each step.

"Professor Moody has a wealth of experience in dealing with dark magic," Dumbledore said, his tone respectful. "He will be a valuable addition to our staff and an excellent guide for you in your studies. Please join me in welcoming him."

A round of applause erupted from the students, though it was clear that many were wary of the new teacher's intimidating presence. Moody gave a curt nod of acknowledgment before taking his seat, his magical eye continuing to survey the room.

Gwendolyn watched with keen interest, a small smile playing on her lips. Moody's reputation preceded him, and she was curious to see how he would approach the subject of Defense Against the Dark Arts. The whispers in her mind were quieter today, allowing her to focus more clearly on the events unfolding around her.

"Looks like we've got another interesting year ahead," Draco murmured from beside her, his eyes fixed on Moody.

Gwendolyn nodded, her gaze never leaving the new professor. "Indeed. Moody's known for his... unconventional methods. This should be fascinating."

As breakfast continued, the excitement over the new teacher mingled with the usual chatter about classes and the upcoming Triwizard Tournament. Gwendolyn's thoughts, however, remained fixed on Moody.

The Great Hall buzzed with energy as the students returned to their breakfast, the excitement over Professor Moody's arrival mingling with the anticipation of the Triwizard Tournament. Gwendolyn Grimshaw Gaunt, however, remained unusually still, her attention focused sharply on the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher.

Moody's magical eye roved around the hall, scanning the students with a penetrating gaze. But Gwendolyn couldn't help but notice that it seemed to settle on her more frequently than it did on others. A chill ran down her spine, mingling with a thrill of curiosity. Why was he so interested in her? What did he see with that enchanted eye?

Across the table, Draco continued to discuss the summer's events with Crabbe and Goyle, oblivious to Gwendolyn's growing intrigue. She leaned back in her seat, her eyes narrowing as she studied Moody. His reputation as a relentless Auror, one who had faced some of the darkest wizards of their time, preceded him. He was a man who understood the shadows, who had battled the darkness head-on.

Her thoughts drifted, the whispers in her mind merging with her curiosity. What could Moody see in her? Could he sense the darkness she had embraced, the transformations she had undergone? The idea fascinated her, a dangerous emotion for someone already teetering on the edge of madness.

As the breakfast hour drew to a close, students began to gather their belongings and prepare for their first classes of the day. Gwendolyn remained seated for a moment longer, her eyes never leaving Moody. She watched as he rose from the staff table, his wooden leg thumping with each step as he made his way out of the Great Hall.

Draco finally noticed her distraction and nudged her with his elbow. "Gwen, are you coming? We've got Potions first."

Gwendolyn blinked, tearing her gaze away from the retreating figure of Moody. She offered Draco a small, enigmatic smile. "Yes, I'm coming."

As they walked to their Potions class, her mind remained fixated on the new professor. The whispers in her head seemed to hum with a newfound intensity, urging her to find out more about him. She knew she needed to tread carefully. Her curiosity had led her down dangerous paths before, and Moody was not someone to be trifled with lightly.

The day passed in a blur of classes and whispered conversations about the Triwizard Tournament. Gwendolyn went through the motions, but her thoughts remained anchored to the enigma of Alastor Moody. His presence was a puzzle she was determined to solve, and the prospect of unlocking another secret sent a shiver of anticipation down her spine.

As the final class of the day ended, Gwendolyn found herself wandering the halls of Hogwarts, her mind racing. She needed to speak with Moody, to understand what he saw when he looked at her. The whispers urged her on, a constant murmur in the back of her mind.

When she finally found herself outside the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, she hesitated for a moment, taking a deep breath to steady herself. Then, with a resolute step, she pushed open the door and entered.

Moody was seated at his desk, a stack of papers before him. His magical eye swiveled to meet her gaze as she walked in, a flicker of recognition and curiosity passing over his scarred face.

"Professor Moody," she began, her voice steady despite the excitement bubbling within her. "I was hoping to speak with you about something... important."

Moody regarded her for a moment, his expression unreadable. "Come in, Miss Grimshaw Gaunt. Close the door behind you."

As Gwendolyn stepped further into the room and closed the door, she felt the weight of his gaze upon her. The whispers in her mind grew louder, urging her to find out what he knew, what he saw.

This was a dangerous game, but it was one she was more than willing to play.