The Vow Stealer

3

" Are you sure you don't want me to come with you?" Draco asked once they were inside the castle. 

" I'm sure. Don't worry about me," Ellery said, smiling.

Ellery had been stopped by Professor Mcgonagall in the entrance hall and told that she was needed in the headmaster's office. She knew what for; she'd not been sorted yet, and they were kind enough to spare her the embarrassment of being sorted with the first years. Though she wouldn't have minded, she was grateful. Besides, she'd heard so little about Albus Dumbledore, and it was thrilling to be meeting him in person. She was positive she could handle this mini adventure on her own.

" Well... okay. But I want all the details when you join us at the feast! If you do, that is." He laughed nervously. He'd told her he was a little nervous about her being sorted into a different house because of some of the mixed qualities she had. What shined through most was her talent, but she was also brave, loyal and very smart. It was an even gamble for the house she'd be placed in.

" I'll join you. Now stop fretting and go! They're waiting for you to catch up." Ellery pointed to where Pansy, Theo and Robbin hung behind for Draco. He half smiled at Ellery and then strode off to meet him.

Ellery turned the opposite direction and started down the hallway. To her it seemed to get bigger, the ceiling rising higher over her head with each step. The last of the twilight was fading into darkness outside, and the corridor was silent. It was enjoyable while it lasted, but she reached the end of the hallway where a tall eagle statue stood.

 Ellery paused, looking around to make sure no one was watching. After confirming it in her head that she was alone she allowed her aura to bloom and envelope her body in the tart grapefruit scent. Without a word, she extended both arms. The eagle turned to face her, twisting to reveal stairs. She hurried onto the third step with one more quick glance over her shoulder.

In that moment, she saw Harry Potter, standing there, eyes wide in disbelief. Quickly, Ellery looked away from him and focused on reaching Dumbledore's office.There wouldn't be a chance to explain anything to the famous Harry Potter. Ellery already knew he wouldn't understand. No one would understand her abilities. It was best not to think about it. It was just another way she could be labeled as an outcast.

When Ellery reached the office, it seemed empty. She stood rocking back and forth on her heels, hands clasped behind her back. Was she too early or too late? 

" Ah, hello miss Sinclair," said a friendly voice behind her. She jumped and turned around. Sure enough there was Dumbledore, smiling down at her.

" Professor! It's such a pleasure to finally meet you!" Ellery swallowed her nerves and extended a hand to him. Dumbledore took it. When they were done greeting each other, Ellery was seated on a chair in front of the professor's desk.

" Tell me about your previous teachings. Don't worry; your teacher was a friend of mine. You studied under Nicholas Flamel, correct?" Dumbledore asked.

Ellery nodded. " Yes. That is correct. I traveled with him and the twins of legend for a couple of months before things got dangerous for them." 

" That explains your talent. Nicholas was the best alchemyst to ever walk the earth. Your inner potential was awakened, then?" 

" Yes." Her aura winked into existence for a moment and then faded again. Dumbledore smiled at her again. He then got up to retrieve the Sorting Hat from it's perch on one of the shelves.

Ellery sat completely still as the old hat was placed over her eyes. She had closed her eyes anyway and focused on steadying the beating of her heart. A few minutes later, the hat started to speak.