A Taste of Magic

Chapter 21: 21st Course - Secrets Come to Light

"The new clubroom looks wonderful," Harry said, looking about.

They moved the clubroom to a different unused classroom, one somewhat closer to Flitwick's office. Dumbledore, Flitwick, and Remus went over it carefully, putting in some extra protections via wards and charms. The House Elves, still vexed having not caught the saboteur, put their own magic in place so they could be warned if any non-Hogwarts elf tried to interfere with the room. They also repaired the oven and after making it thoroughly safe, installed it into the new clubroom along with the icebox and other things.

Permanent cabinets were put in as well to hold things as well as a wardrobe for fabrics and other materials. Bookshelves were put in for books and magazines and it felt like a cozy nice clubroom for the Household Charms club.

"I'm pleased my ownself," Flitwick said, rubbing his hands together. "The Household Charms club never had its own room before so it was very satisfying to make this one a permanent home. Not to mention you know I enjoy casting magic I normally don't get to, so the protection spells were quite fun."

"Sorry for all the trouble," Harry said weakly. "I feel responsible."

"You shouldn't," Flitwick said flatly. "You were the victim in this, Harry, not the cause. Even if it did not happen, I feel better that my students will be protected." He smiled brightly. "Now, that is no excuse to be any less careful, do you hear me?"

"Yes Sir," Harry chuckled. "I do appreciate it."

"It is all finished now and we can enjoy it properly." He hesitated for a moment. "And you are still going to be on your own for Halloween?"

"If that's okay."

"You have my permission, the Headmaster's, and Professor McGonagall, as last year." He hummed softly. "Are you sure you do not want someone to be with you?"

"Not this time, but I appreciate you asking Sir," Harry said softly. "I…well…"

Flitwick patted his shoulder. "No need to explain if you are having trouble to. You have not given me any cause to distrust you, Harry, and I will wait to be shared with if you ever choose to."

"Thank you," Harry half-whispered. "It's hard."

"I understand," Flitwick said sympathetically. "Just know that you are not alone."

Harry nodded, not trusting himself to speak.

-0-

"No, I don't know what Harry would be doing," Remus said in a slightly worried tone. "He hasn't mentioned it to me."

"Hmm, well, he seemed fine more or less last year at this time regardless," Flitwick murmured. "I was just wondering if you had any insight."

"I wish I did," Remus sighed. "Perhaps if I hadn't been so withdrawn from the world up to now, I might."

"Perhaps, but there's no use in lamenting what can't be changed," Flitwick said prosaically. "Focus more on what can be changed, for the better."

"Yes. I'll be doing that more," Remus said quietly.

-0-

The Halloween Feast was in full swing. This year the floating jack-o'-lanterns flew about and sang Halloween songs and had ridiculous conversations with one another. They then had a spirited game of bowling, floating above the students. Impacts with bone pins sent showers of candy all over the delighted students and the air was full of funny noises, laughter, and conversation.