Forsaken Bloodlines {HP x GOT}

Chapter 2.4: Standing Out in the Crowd

The next day, Lyanna immersed herself in her subjects, navigating through her usual second-year classes with ease. She knew that the real challenge would come with her new advanced course. As the day drew to a close, she found herself standing outside the classroom for Mystical Divination. Professor McGonagall, who had been escorting her, opened the door and led her in.

"Class, I would like to introduce you to Lyanna Malfoy. She will be joining you for Mystical Divination. I expect you all to welcome her and assist if she needs any help," McGonagall announced before leaving Lyanna in the care of Professor Carice van Houten.

Professor van Houten, a striking woman with piercing blue eyes and an air of mystery about her, smiled warmly at Lyanna. "Welcome, Lyanna. Please, take a seat."

Lyanna felt the eyes of the third-year students on her. Initially, their expressions ranged from indifference to mild curiosity. She knew that many of them assumed she was only there because of her family's influence. As she found a seat near the front, she heard a few whispers but chose to ignore them.

"Today, we will be discussing the art of prophecy," Professor van Houten began. "It's a complex and often misunderstood branch of magic. Can anyone tell me why prophecies are significant?"

A few hands went up, and Lyanna listened as students gave their answers. She didn't want to draw too much attention to herself just yet. Instead, she focused on the material, her sharp mind absorbing everything the professor said.

As the days passed, Lyanna's intelligence and dedication began to shine through. Her initial quiet demeanor gave way to insightful contributions during discussions. The third-years, who had initially been skeptical, began to take notice. Her natural ability to grasp complex concepts quickly won her respect.

During one class, Professor van Houten handed out an intricate piece of parchment. "Today, we will attempt to interpret signs and omens from this ancient text," she announced. "Lyanna, would you like to give it a try?"

Lyanna took a deep breath and approached the parchment. She studied the symbols and patterns carefully before speaking. "This text speaks of a great change, a shift in power. It mentions a 'child of the stars' who will play a crucial role in this transformation."

Professor van Houten's eyes sparkled with interest. "Very good, Lyanna. You've captured the essence of the prophecy. Well done."

The room buzzed with admiration. Even those who had doubted her began to see that her place in their class was well-earned.

By the end of the first week, Lyanna had found a new rhythm. The third-years no longer looked at her with indifference. Instead, they saw her as a peer, someone who had earned her spot through hard work and talent. Lyanna couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. Despite the challenges, she was proving herself, not just as a Malfoy, but as a skilled and dedicated witch in her own right.

~~~

As the days passed, Lyanna found herself more and more intrigued by Professor van Houten. The woman seemed to embody a certain enigmatic charm that drew Lyanna's attention. What fascinated her the most was the way the professor effortlessly changed her hair color from day to day, showcasing a different style each time.

At first, Lyanna couldn't help but wonder if such a stylish and youthful appearance was fitting for a professor, especially one teaching such a mystical subject. However, she quickly reminded herself that appearances could be deceiving. After all, she herself often faced misconceptions due to her own youthful appearance.

Despite her initial doubts, Lyanna grew to appreciate Professor van Houten's teaching style. The professor had a way of explaining complex concepts with clarity and precision, making even the most obscure divination techniques accessible to her students. Lyanna found herself eagerly anticipating each divination class, eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of the future.

However, there was one thing that nagged at Lyanna's curiosity—the way Professor van Houten would often cast lingering glances at her necklace. It was a subtle gesture, one that most students would have missed, but Lyanna's sharp perception didn't let anything escape her notice.

Was there something about her necklace that intrigued the professor? Lyanna couldn't shake off the feeling of suspicion, but for now, she decided to focus on her studies and unraveling the secrets of divination.