A Timeless Beauty

Prolouge

"There comes that mysterious meeting in life when someone acknowledges who we are and what we can be, igniting the circuits of our highest potential."                  

I pull my coat tighter around me as i walked to the headmaster's office. Even though its just the end of October, I still feel the early winter chill surround my body. I've never liked the cold much, my entire life I've lived in the sunny town of Arcata, California. My warm hometown left me with sun kissed skin, but leaves me cold during the harsh winters of Scotland.

I make it outside the gargoyle in front of the headmaster's office. "acid pops" the gargoyle simply nods his head and opens the passage way for me. I never understood my headmaster's obsession with the candy from honey dukes. but I ignore this useless thought and make may way up the steps.

I'm not too worried about being called to his office. I've done nothing wrong, I'm a prefect and top of my class. Besides, the only reason I were to get in trouble is if Fred and George were to ask me on advice for a prank, and I haven't seen them all week.

Before I even get a chance to knock on the door I hear a faint 'come in' from the headmaster. It never stops to amaze me that he is able to just know things, but I don't bother asking because I know I wont get an answer.

I walk in to see the the headmaster at his desk with Fawks. The Phoenix sits there staying contently as the headmaster gently strokes its side. He turns to look at me with those kind eyes the hold a bit of mischief. I see the gears grinding in his head as he offers me a seat in front of him. 

"How are you miss Stryker?" He says using my last name. Stryker, a noble pureblood family that can be traced to the first wizard families. My parents never had a problem with muggle and half borns, but my family still likes to keep muggles out of the bloodline.

"I'm fine, Headmaster. May I ask why you have sent for me?" his smile never falters "of course, it has come to my attention that you haven't taken defense against the dark arts this year." I had decided against taking DADA this year, it would've been useless to take it. It has been one of my best classes that I had completed my 7th year course last year. "Yes sir, I found it   unproductive to take a class I finished last year. And with my Newts coming up, I wanted more time to prepare for it."

He nods in understanding "And I heard you would like to work with the ministry, am I correct?" I nod again, where is he going with this? "Well as I explained at the beginning of the year, we have a new Defense against the dark arts professor, And as you've said before, you had already completed this course. So I was wondering that on your free period, you go and help him teach the class. a teacher's aid, if you will. I know this is much to ask of you, but if your willing I'll make sure that the ministry takes an extra look at your application." I was at a shock at his words. I was perfectly fine with accepting this without his favor, but then he offers me something he knows I wont refuse. Why go the extra mile, though? "I would be delighted to sir, may I ask what the professor's name is again?"

"Professor Lupin"

I rush to the classroom I will star going to for my free periods. Its my first day and I've already gave a bad first impression by being late. I make my way towards the dungeons as I see Slytherins stare at me. Although being in Gryfindor, my sir name has them treating me with some respect. I finally make it to the door with a golden plaque saying 'Defense against the dark arts' in bold letters.

I begin to contemplate what kind of teacher he would be. Will he be stern but fair like professor Mcgonagall? arrogant and conceited like Lockhart? Or will he be rude and Biased Like Professor Snape? He must have never taught  before, otherwise the headmaster wouldn't have asked me to help. I open the door while trying to grab the folder of his teaching schedule. "I'm sorry I'm late, it wont happen again" Once I get the folder I look into the eyes of Professor Lupin.

He was younger than I expected, he couldn't have been more than 13 years older than me. Scars covered his face and he looked tired from the bags under his eyes, but he still managed to put a smile on his face. Once he turned to look at me his smile seemed to falter, as if he was shocked that I was really here. "Oh, yes your the 7th year Dumbledore had assigned. And your name is?" he asked, outstretching his hand towards me. When I took his hand in mine I felt sparks, like actual bolts of electricity going from my hand to his. "Amelia Stryker" I say while letting go of his hand.

"So miss Stryker, do you mind telling me why your late for my class?" he says with a hint of amusement. "I'd rather not give you some excuse. I'm a legal adult, I'm responsible for my actions." His eyebrow arches slightly, conveying his emotions for my choice of words. "I see, well I was just about to give these students a pop quiz. Would you mind passing these out for me?" Groans and minor words of protest came from the student at hearing about the quiz. I nodded slightly and grabbed the papers from his hand. Being careful to not touch him, for fear of the electric shock from his touch.

What have I gotten myself into?