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\begin_body

\begin_layout Chapter
The Planning Fallacy
\end_layout

\begin_layout Initial

\emph on
\begin_inset Argument 2
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

\emph on
S
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default

\begin_inset Argument 3
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

\emph on
ome
\end_layout

\end_inset

 children would have waited until
\emph on
 after
\emph default
 their first trip to Diagon Alley.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Bag of element 79,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, and withdrew his hand, empty, from the mokeskin pouch.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Most children would have at least waited to get their
\emph on
 wands
\emph default
 first.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Bag of
\emph on
 okane,
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

 said Harry.
 The heavy bag of gold popped up into his hand.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry withdrew the bag, then plunged it again into the mokeskin pouch.
 He took out his hand, put it back in, and said, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Bag of tokens of economic exchange.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 That time his hand came out empty.
\end_layout

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\begin_inset Quotes eld
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Bag of
\emph on
 okane,
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

 said Harry.
 The heavy bag of gold popped up into his hand.
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Give me back the bag that I just put in.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Out came the bag of gold once more.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry James Potter-Evans-Verres had gotten his hands on at least one magical
 item.
 Why wait?
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Professor McGonagall,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said to the bemused witch strolling beside him, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

can you give me two words, one word for gold, and one word for something
 else that isn't money, in a language that I wouldn't know? But don't tell
 me which is which.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Ahava
\emph default
 and
\emph on
 zahav,
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That's Hebrew, and the other word means love.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Thank you, Professor.
 Bag of
\emph on
 ahava.
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Empty.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Bag of
\emph on
 zahav.
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 And it popped up into his hand.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Zahav is gold?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry questioned, and Professor McGonagall nodded.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry thought over his collected experimental data.
 It was only the most crude and preliminary sort of effort, but it was enough
 to support at least one conclusion:
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Aaaaaaarrrgh this doesn't make any sense!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch beside him lifted a lofty eyebrow.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Problems, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I just falsified every single hypothesis I had! How can it know that `bag
 of 115 Galleons' is okay but not `bag of 90 plus 25 Galleons'? It can
\emph on
 count
\emph default
 but it can't
\emph on
 add?
\emph default
 It can understand nouns, but not some noun phrases that mean the same thing?
 The person who made this probably didn't speak Japanese and
\emph on
 I
\emph default
 don't speak any Hebrew, so it's not using
\emph on
 their
\emph default
 knowledge, and it's not using
\emph on
 my
\emph default
 knowledge 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry waved a hand helplessly.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

The rules seem
\emph on
 sorta
\emph default
 consistent but they don't
\emph on
 mean
\emph default
 anything! I'm not even going to ask how a
\emph on
 pouch
\emph default
 ends up with voice recognition and natural language understanding when
 the best Artificial Intelligence programmers can't get the fastest supercompute
rs to do it after thirty-five years of hard work,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry gasped for breath, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

but
\emph on
 what
\emph default
 is going
\emph on
 on?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
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Magic,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That's just a
\emph on
 word!
\emph default
 Even after you tell me that, I can't make any new predictions! It's exactly
 like saying 'phlogiston' or 'elan vital' or 'emergence' or 'complexity'!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The black-robed witch laughed aloud.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But it
\emph on
 is
\emph default
 magic, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry slumped over a little.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

With respect, Professor McGonagall, I'm not quite sure you understand what
 I'm trying to do here.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

With respect, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter, I'm quite sure I don't.
 Unless 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 this is just a guess, mind 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
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\end_inset

 you're trying to take over the world?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
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\end_layout

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\begin_inset Quotes eld
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No! I mean yes 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

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--
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 well,
\emph on
 no!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
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\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
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I think I should perhaps be alarmed that you have trouble answering the
 question.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry glumly considered the Dartmouth Conference on Artificial Intelligence
 in 1956.
 It had been the first conference ever on the topic, the one that had coined
 the phrase 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Artificial Intelligence".
 They had identified key problems such as making computers understand language,
 learn, and improve themselves.
 They had suggested, in perfect seriousness, that significant advances on
 these problems might be made by ten scientists working together for two
 months.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
No.
 Chin up.
 You're just
\emph default
 starting
\emph on
 on the problem of unravelling all the secrets of magic.
 You don't actually
\emph default
 know
\emph on
 whether it's going to be too difficult to do in two months.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And you
\emph on
 really
\emph default
 haven't heard of other wizards asking these sorts of questions or doing
 this sort of scientific experimenting?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry asked again.
 It just seemed so
\emph on
 obvious
\emph default
 to him.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Then again, it'd taken more than two hundred years
\emph on
 after
\emph default
 the invention of the scientific method before any Muggle scientists had
 thought to systematically investigate which sentences a
\emph on
 human four-year-old
\emph default
 could or couldn't understand.
 The developmental psychology of linguistics could've been discovered in
 the eighteenth century, in principle, but no one had even thought to look
 until the twentieth.
 So you couldn't really blame the much smaller wizarding world for not investiga
ting the Retrieval Charm.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall pursed her lips, then shrugged.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm still not sure what you mean by 'scientific experimenting', Mr.
\emph on

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status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
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\emph default
Potter.
 As I said, I've seen Muggleborn students try to get Muggle science to work
 inside Hogwarts, and people invent new Charms and Potions every year.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry shook his head.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Technology isn't the same thing as science at all.
 And trying lots of different ways to do something isn't the same as experimenti
ng to figure out the rules.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 There were plenty of people who'd tried to invent flying machines by trying
 out lots of things-with-wings, but only the Wright Brothers had built a
 wind tunnel to measure lift… 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Um, how many Muggle-raised children
\emph on
 do
\emph default
 you get at Hogwarts every year?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Perhaps ten or so?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry missed a step and almost tripped over his own feet.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Ten?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The Muggle world had a population of six billion and counting.
 If you were one in a million, there were seven of you in London and a thousand
 more in China.
 It was inevitable that the Muggle population would produce
\emph on
 some
\emph default
 eleven-year-olds who could do calculus 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 Harry knew he wasn't the only one.
 He'd met other prodigies in mathematical competitions.
 In fact he'd been thoroughly trounced by competitors who probably spent
 literally
\emph on
 all day
\emph default
 practising maths problems and who'd
\emph on
 never
\emph default
 read a science-fiction book and who would burn out
\emph on
 completely
\emph default
 before
\emph on
 puberty
\emph default
 and
\emph on
 never
\emph default
 amount to
\emph on
 anything
\emph default
 in their future lives because they'd just practised
\emph on
 known
\emph default
 techniques instead of learning to think
\emph on
 creatively
\emph default
.
 (Harry was something of a sore loser.)
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
But… in the wizarding world…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Ten Muggle-raised children per year, who'd all ended their Muggle educations
 at the age of eleven? And Professor McGonagall might be biased, but she
 had claimed that Hogwarts was the largest and most eminent wizarding school
 in the world… and it only educated up to the age of seventeen.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall undoubtedly knew every last detail of how you went
 about turning into a cat.
 But she seemed to have literally never
\emph on
 heard
\emph default
 of the scientific method.
 To her it was just Muggle magic.
 And she didn't even seem
\emph on
 curious
\emph default
 about what secrets might be hiding behind the natural language understanding
 of the Retrieval Charm.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
That left two possibilities, really.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Possibility one: Magic was so incredibly opaque, convoluted, and impenetrable,
 that even though wizards and witches had tried their best to understand,
 they'd made little or no progress and eventually given up; and Harry would
 do no better.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Or
\emph default
…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry cracked his knuckles in determination, but they only made a quiet
 sort of clicking sound, rather than echoing ominously off the walls of
 Diagon Alley.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Possibility two: He'd be taking over the world.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Eventually.
 Perhaps not right away.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
That sort of thing
\emph on
 did
\emph default
 sometimes take longer than two months.
 Muggle science hadn't gone to the moon in the first week after Galileo.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
But Harry still couldn't stop the huge smile that was stretching his cheeks
 so wide they were starting to hurt.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry had always been frightened of ending up as one of those child prodigies
 that never amounted to anything and spent the rest of their lives boasting
 about how far ahead they'd been at age ten.
 But then most adult geniuses never amounted to anything either.
 There were probably a thousand people as intelligent as Einstein for every
 actual Einstein in history.
 Because those other geniuses hadn't gotten their hands on the one thing
 you absolutely needed to achieve greatness.
 They'd never found an important problem.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
You're mine now,
\emph default
 Harry thought at the walls of Diagon Alley, and all the shops and items,
 and all the shopkeepers and customers; and all the lands and people of
 wizarding Britain, and all the wider wizarding world; and the entire greater
 universe of which Muggle scientists understood so much less than they believed.

\emph on
 I, Harry James Potter-Evans-Verres, do now claim this territory in the
 name of Science.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Lightning and thunder completely failed to flash and boom in the cloudless
 skies.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

What are you smiling about?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 inquired Professor McGonagall, warily and wearily.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm wondering if there's a spell to make lightning flash in the background
 whenever I make an ominous resolution,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 explained Harry.
 He was carefully memorising the exact words of his ominous resolution so
 that future history books would get it right.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I have the distinct feeling that I ought to be doing something about this,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 sighed Professor McGonagall.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Ignore it, it'll go away.
 Ooh, shiny!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry put his thoughts of world conquest temporarily on hold and skipped
 over to a shop with an open display, and Professor McGonagall followed.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Quote
\align center
\begin_inset Graphics
	filename fleur.png
	scale 50

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry had now bought his potions ingredients and cauldron, and, oh, a few
 more things.
 Items that seemed like good things to carry in Harry's Bag of Holding (aka
 Moke Super Pouch QX31 with Undetectable Extension Charm, Retrieval Charm,
 and Widening Lip).
 Smart, sensible purchases.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry genuinely didn't understand why Professor McGonagall was looking so
\emph on
 suspicious
\emph default
.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Right now, Harry was in a shop expensive enough to display in the twisting
 main street of Diagon Alley.
 The shop had an open front with merchandise laid out on slanted wooden
 rows, guarded only by slight grey glows and a young-looking salesgirl in
 a much-shortened version of witch's robes that exposed her knees and elbows.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry was examining the wizarding equivalent of a first-aid kit, the Emergency
 Healing Pack Plus.
 There were two self-tightening tourniquets.
 A Stabilisation Potion, which would slow blood loss and prevent shock.
 A syringe of what looked like liquid fire, which was supposed to drastically
 slow circulation in a treated area while maintaining oxygenation of the
 blood for up to three minutes, if you needed to prevent a poison from spreading
 through the body.
 White cloth that could be wrapped over a part of the body to temporarily
 numb pain.
 Plus any number of other items that Harry totally failed to comprehend,
 like the 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Dementor Exposure Treatment
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

, which looked and smelled like ordinary chocolate.
 Or the 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Bafflesnaffle Counter
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

, which looked like a small quivering egg and carried a placard showing
 how to jam it up someone's nostril.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

A definite buy at five Galleons, wouldn't you agree?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said to Professor McGonagall, and the teenage salesgirl hovering
 nearby nodded eagerly.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry had expected the Professor to make some sort of approving remark about
 his prudence and preparedness.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
What he was getting instead could only be described as the Evil Eye.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And just
\emph on
 why
\emph default
,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said with heavy scepticism, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

do you expect to
\emph on
 need
\emph default
 a healer's kit, young man?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 (After the unfortunate incident at the Potions shop, Professor McGonagall
 was trying to avoid saying 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 while anyone else was nearby.)
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's mouth opened and closed.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I don't
\emph on
 expect
\emph default
 to need it! It's just in case!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Just in case of
\emph on
 what?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's eyes widened.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You think I'm
\emph on
 planning
\emph default
 to do something dangerous and
\emph on
 that's
\emph default
 why I want a medical kit?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
A look of grim suspicion and ironic disbelief was the answer.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Great Scott!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Harry.
 (This was an expression he'd learned from the mad scientist Doc Brown in
\emph on
 Back to the Future
\emph default
.) 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Were you also thinking that when I bought the Feather-Falling Potion, the
 Gillyweed, and the bottle of Food and Water Pills?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Yes.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry shook his head in amazement.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Just what sort of plan do you think I have
\emph on
 going
\emph default
, here?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I don't know,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said darkly, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

but it ends either in you delivering a ton of silver to Gringotts, or in
 world domination.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

World domination is such an ugly phrase.
 I prefer to call it world optimisation.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
This hilarious joke failed to reassure the witch giving him the Look of
 Doom.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Wow,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, as he realised that she was serious.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You really think that.
 You really think I'm planning to do something dangerous.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Yes.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Like that's the
\emph on
 only
\emph default
 reason anyone would ever buy a first-aid kit? Don't take this the wrong
 way, Professor McGonagall, but
\emph on
 what sort of crazy children are you used to dealing with
\emph default
?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Gryffindors,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 spat Professor McGonagall, the word carrying a freight of bitterness and
 despair that fell like an eternal curse on all youthful enthusiasm and
 high spirits.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Deputy Headmistress Professor Minerva McGonagall,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, putting his hands sternly on his hips.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I am not going to be in Gryffindor
\begin_inset space ~
\end_inset


\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
At this point the Deputy Headmistress interjected something about how if
 he
\emph on
 was
\emph default
 she would figure out how to kill a hat, which odd remark Harry let pass
 without comment, though the salesgirl seemed to be having a sudden coughing
 fit.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 I am going to be in Ravenclaw.
 And if you really think that I'm planning to do something dangerous, then,
 honestly, you don't understand me
\emph on
 at all.

\emph default
 I don't
\emph on
 like
\emph default
 danger, it is
\emph on
 scary.

\emph default
 I am being
\emph on
 prudent
\emph default
.
 I am being
\emph on
 cautious
\emph default
.
 I am preparing for
\emph on
 unforeseen contingencies
\emph default
.
 Like my parents used to sing to me:
\emph on
 Be prepared! That's the Boy Scout's marching song! Be prepared! As through
 life you march along! Don't be nervous, don't be flustered, don't be scared
 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 be prepared!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
(Harry's parents had in fact only ever sung him those
\emph on
 particular
\emph default
 lines of that Tom Lehrer song, and Harry was blissfully unaware of the
 rest.)
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall's stance had slightly softened 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 though mostly when Harry had said that he was heading for Ravenclaw.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

What sort of
\emph on
 contingency
\emph default
 do you imagine this kit might prepare you for,
\emph on
 young man?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

One of my classmates gets bitten by a horrible monster, and as I scrabble
 frantically in my mokeskin pouch for something that could help her, she
 looks at me sadly and with her last breath says,
\emph on
 `Why weren't you prepared?'
\emph default
 And then she dies, and I know as her eyes close that she won't ever forgive
 me 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry heard the salesgirl gasp, and he looked up to see her staring at him
 with her lips pressed tight.
 Then the young woman whirled and fled into the deeper recesses of the shop.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
What…?
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall reached down, and took Harry's hand in hers, gently
 but firmly, and pulled Harry out of the main street of Diagon Alley, leading
 him into an alleyway between two shops which was paved in dirty bricks
 and dead-ended in a wall of solid black dirt.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The tall witch pointed her wand at the main street and spoke,
\emph on
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Quietus
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said, and a screen of silence descended around them, blocking out all
 the street noises.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
What did I do wrong…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall turned to regard Harry.
 She didn't have a full adult Wrongdoing Face, but her expression was flat,
 controlled.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You must remember, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

that there was a war in this country not ten years ago.
 Everyone has lost someone, and to speak of friends dying in your arms 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 is not done lightly.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 I didn't mean to 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 The inference dropped like a falling stone into Harry's exceptionally vivid
 imagination.
 He'd talked about someone breathing their last breath 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 and then the salesgirl had run away 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 and the war had ended ten years ago so that girl would have been at most
 eight or nine years old, when, when, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm sorry, I didn't mean to…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry choked up, and turned away to run from the older witch's gaze but
 there was a wall of dirt blocking his way and he didn't have his wand yet.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm
\emph on
 sorry!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
There came a heavy sigh from behind him.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I know you are, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry dared to peek behind him.
 Professor McGonagall only seemed sad, now.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm sorry,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said again, feeling wretched.
 "Did anything like that happen to 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 and then Harry shut his lips and slapped a hand over his mouth for good
 measure.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The older witch's face grew a little sadder.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You must learn to think before you speak, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter, or else go through life without many friends.
 That has been the fate of many a Ravenclaw, and I hope it will not be yours.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry wanted to just run away.
 He wanted to pull out a wand and erase the whole thing from Professor McGonagal
l's memory, be back with her outside the shop again,
\emph on
 make it didn't happen 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But to answer your question, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter, no, nothing like
\emph on
 that
\emph default
 has ever happened to me.
 Certainly I've watched a friend breathe their last, once or seven times.
 But not one of them ever cursed me as they died, and I never thought that
 they wouldn't forgive me.
 Why would you
\emph on
 say
\emph default
 such a thing, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter? Why would you even
\emph on
 think
\emph default
 it?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I, I, I,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry swallowed.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

It's just that I always try to imagine the worst thing that could happen,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 and maybe he'd also been joking around a little but he would rather have
 bitten off his own tongue than say that now.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

What?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But
\emph on
 why?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

So I can stop it from happening!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 the older witch's voice trailed off.
 Then she sighed, and knelt down beside him.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said, gently now, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

it's not your responsibility to take care of the students at Hogwarts.
 It's mine.
 I won't let anything bad happen to you or anyone else.
 Hogwarts is the safest place for magical children in all the wizarding
 world, and Madam Pomfrey has a full healer's office.
 You won't need a healer's kit at all, let alone a five-Galleon one.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But I
\emph on
 do!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry burst out.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Nowhere
\emph default
 is perfectly safe! And what if my parents have a heart attack or get in
 an accident when I go home for Christmas 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 Madam Pomfrey won't be there, I'll need a healer's kit of my own 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
What
\emph default
 in Merlin's name…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said.
 She stood up, and looked down at Harry an expression torn between annoyance
 and concern.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

There's no need to think about such terrible things, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's expression twisted up into bitterness, hearing that.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Yes there
\emph on
 is!
\emph default
 If you don't think, you don't just get hurt yourself, you end up hurting
 other people!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall opened her mouth, then closed it.
 The witch rubbed the bridge of her nose, looking thoughtful.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter… if I were to offer to listen to you for a while… is there anything
 you'd like to talk to me about?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

About what?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

About why you're convinced you must always be on your guard against terrible
 things happening to you.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry stared at her in puzzlement.
 That was a self-evident axiom.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Well…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said slowly.
 He tried to organise his thoughts.
 How
\emph on
 could
\emph default
 he explain himself to a Professor-witch, when she didn't even know the
 basics? 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Muggle researchers have found that people are always very optimistic, compared
 to reality.
 Like they say something will take two days and it takes ten days, or they
 say it'll take two months and it takes over thirty-five years.
 For example, in one experiment, they asked students for times by which
 they were 50% sure, 75% sure, and 99% sure they'd complete their homework,
 and only 13%, 19%, and 45% of the students finished by those times.
 And they found that the reason was that when they asked one group for their
 best-case estimates if everything went as well as possible, and another
 group for their average-case estimates if everything went as usual, they
 got back answers that were statistically indistinguishable.
 See, if you ask someone what they expect in the
\emph on
 normal
\emph default
 case, they visualise what looks like the line of maximum probability at
 each step along the way 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 everything going according to plan, with no surprises.
 But actually, since more than half the students didn't finish by the time
 they were 99% sure they'd be done, reality usually delivers results a little
 worse than the 'worst-case scenario'.
 It's called the planning fallacy, and the best way to fix it is to ask
 how long things took the last time you tried them.
 That's called using the outside view instead of the inside view.
 But when you're doing something new and can't do that, you just have to
 be really, really, really pessimistic.
 Like, so pessimistic that reality actually comes out
\emph on
 better
\emph default
 than you expected around as often and as much as it comes out worse.
 It's actually
\emph on
 really hard
\emph default
 to be
\emph on
 so
\emph default
 pessimistic that you stand a decent chance of
\emph on
 undershooting
\emph default
 real life.
 Like I make this big effort to be gloomy and I imagine one of my classmates
 getting bitten, but what actually happens is that the surviving Death Eaters
 attack the whole school to get at me.
 But on a happier note 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Stop,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry stopped.
 He had just been about to point out that at least they knew the Dark Lord
 wouldn't attack, since he was dead.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I think I might not have made myself clear,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 the witch said, her precise Scottish voice sounding even more careful.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Did anything happen to
\emph on
 you personally
\emph default
 that frightened you, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

What happened to me personally is only anecdotal evidence,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry explained.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

It doesn't carry the same weight as a replicated, peer-reviewed journal
 article about a controlled study with random assignment, many subjects,
 large effect sizes and strong statistical significance.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall pinched the bridge of her nose, inhaled, and exhaled.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I would still like to hear about it,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Um…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 He took a deep breath.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

There'd been some muggings in our neighborhood, and my mother asked me to
 return a pan she'd borrowed to a neighbor two streets away, and I said
 I didn't want to because I might get mugged, and she said, 'Harry, don't
 say things like that!' Like thinking about it would
\emph on
 make
\emph default
 it happen, so if I didn't talk about it, I would be safe.
 I tried to explain why I wasn't reassured, and she made me carry over the
 pan anyway.
 I was too young to know how statistically unlikely it was for a mugger
 to target me, but I was old enough to know that not-thinking about something
 doesn't stop it from happening, so I was really scared.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Nothing else?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said after a pause, when it became clear that Harry
 was done.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

There isn't anything
\emph on
 else
\emph default
 that happened to you?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I know it doesn't
\emph on
 sound
\emph default
 like much,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry defended.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But it was just one of those critical life moments, you see? I mean, I
\emph on
 knew
\emph default
 that not thinking about something doesn't stop it from happening, I
\emph on
 knew
\emph default
 that, but I could see that Mum really thought that way.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry stopped, struggling with the anger that was starting to rise up again
 when he thought about it.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

She
\emph on
 wouldn't listen
\emph default
.
 I tried to tell her, I
\emph on
 begged
\emph default
 her not to send me out, and she
\emph on
 laughed it off
\emph default
.
 Everything I said, she treated like some sort of big joke…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry forced the black rage back down again.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That's when I realised that everyone who was supposed to protect me was
 actually crazy, and that they wouldn't listen to me no matter how much
 I begged them, and that I couldn't ever rely on them to get anything right.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Sometimes good intentions weren't enough, sometimes you had to be sane…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
There was a long silence.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry took the time to breathe deeply and calm himself down.
 There was no point in getting angry.
 There was no point in getting angry.

\emph on
 All
\emph default
 parents were like that,
\emph on
 no
\emph default
 adult would lower themselves far enough to place themselves on level ground
 with a child and listen, his genetic parents would have been no different.
 Sanity was a tiny spark in the night, an infinitesimally rare exception
 to the rule of madness, so there was no point in getting angry.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry didn't like himself when he was angry.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Thank you for sharing that, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall after a while.
 There was an abstracted look on her face (almost exactly the same look
 that had appeared on Harry's own face while experimenting on the pouch,
 if Harry had only seen himself in a mirror to realise that).
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I shall have to think about this.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 She turned towards the alley mouthway, and raised her wand 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Um,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

can we go get the healer's kit now?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch paused, and looked back at him steadily.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And if I say no 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 that it is too expensive and you won't need it 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 then what?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's face twisted in bitterness.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Exactly what you're thinking, Professor McGonagall.

\emph on
 Exactly
\emph default
 what you're thinking.
 I conclude you're another crazy adult I can't talk to, and I start planning
 how to get my hands on a healer's kit anyway.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I am your guardian on this trip,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said with a tinge of danger.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I
\emph on
 will not
\emph default
 allow you to push me around.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I understand,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 He kept the resentment out of his voice, and didn't say any of the other
 things that came to mind.
 Professor McGonagall had told him to think before he spoke.
 He probably wouldn't remember that tomorrow, but he could at least remember
 it for five minutes.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch's wand made a slight circle in her hand, and the noises of Diagon
 Alley came back.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

All right, young man,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Let's go get that healer's kit.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's jaw dropped in surprise.
 Then he hurried after her, almost stumbling in his sudden rush.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Quote
\align center
\begin_inset Graphics
	filename fleur.png
	scale 50

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The shop was the same as they had left it, recognisable and unrecognisable
 items still laid out on the slanted wooden display, the grey glow still
 protecting and the salesgirl back in her old position.
 The salesgirl looked up as they approached, her face showing surprise.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm sorry,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said as they got closer, and Harry spoke at almost the same moment,
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I apologise for 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
They broke off and looked at each other, and then the salesgirl laughed
 a little.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I didn't mean to get you in trouble with Professor McGonagall,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said.
 Her voice lowered conspiratorially.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I hope she wasn't
\emph on
 too
\emph default
 awful to you.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Della!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall, sounding scandalised.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Bag of gold,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said to his pouch, and then looked back up at the salesgirl while
 he counted out five Galleons.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Don't worry, I understand that she's only awful to me because she loves
 me.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
He counted out five Galleons to the salesgirl while Professor McGonagall
 was spluttering something unimportant.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

One Emergency Healing Pack Plus, please.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
It was actually sort of unnerving to see how the Widening Lip swallowed
 the briefcase-sized medical kit.
 Harry couldn't help wondering what would happen if he tried climbing into
 the mokeskin pouch himself, given that only the person who put something
 in was supposed to be able to take it out again.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
When the pouch was done… eating… his hard-won purchase, Harry swore he heard
 a small burping sound afterward.
 That
\emph on
 had
\emph default
 to have been spelled in on purpose.
 The alternative hypothesis was too horrifying to contemplate… in fact Harry
 couldn't even
\emph on
 think
\emph default
 of any alternative hypotheses.
 Harry looked back up at the Professor, as they began walking through Diagon
 Alley once more.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Where to next?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall pointed toward a shop that looked as if it had been
 made from flesh instead of bricks and covered in fur instead of paint.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Small pets are permitted at Hogwarts 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 you could get an owl to send letters, for example 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Can I pay a Knut or something and
\emph on
 rent
\emph default
 an owl when I need to send mail?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Yes,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Then I think emphatically
\emph on
 no.
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall nodded, as though ticking off a point.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Might I ask why not?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I had a pet rock once.
 It died.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You don't think you could take care of a pet?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I
\emph on
 could,
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

but I would end up obsessing all day long about whether I'd remembered to
 feed it that day or if it was slowly starving in its cage, wondering where
 its master was and why there wasn't any food.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That poor owl,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 the older witch said in a soft voice.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Abandoned like that.
 I wonder what it would do.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Well, I expect it'd get really hungry and start trying to claw its way out
 of the cage or the box or whatever, though it probably wouldn't have much
 luck with that 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry stopped short.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch went on, still in that soft voice.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And what would happen to it afterward?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Excuse me,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, and he reached up to take Professor McGonagall by the hand,
 gently but firmly, and steered her into yet another alleyway; after ducking
 so many well-wishers the process had become almost unnoticeably routine.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Please cast that silencing spell.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Quietus.
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's voice was shaking.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That owl does
\emph on
 not
\emph default
 represent me, my parents
\emph on
 never
\emph default
 locked me in a cupboard and left me to starve, I do
\emph on
 not
\emph default
 have abandonment fears and I
\emph on
 don't like the trend of your thoughts, Professor McGonagall!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch looked down at him gravely.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And what thoughts would those be, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You think I was,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry was having trouble saying it, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I was
\emph on
 abused?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Were you?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
No!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry shouted.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

No, I never was! Do you think I'm
\emph on
 stupid?
\emph default
 I
\emph on
 know
\emph default
 about the concept of child abuse, I
\emph on
 know
\emph default
 about inappropriate touching and all of that and if anything like that
 happened I would call the police! And report it to the head teacher! And
 look up social services in the phone book! And tell Grandpa and Grandma
 and Mrs.
 Figg! But my parents
\emph on
 never
\emph default
 did anything like that, never ever
\emph on
 ever!
\emph default
 How
\emph on
 dare
\emph default
 you suggest such a thing!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The older witch gazed at him steadily.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

It is my duty as Deputy Headmistress to investigate possible signs of abuse
 in the children under my care.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's anger was spiralling out of control into pure, black fury.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Don't you ever
\emph on
 dare
\emph default
 breathe a word of these, these
\emph on
 insinuations
\emph default
 to anyone else!
\emph on
 No one
\emph default
, do you hear me, McGonagall? An accusation like that can ruin people and
 destroy families even when the parents are completely innocent! I've read
 about it in the newspapers!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry's voice was climbing to a high-pitched scream.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

The
\emph on
 system
\emph default
 doesn't know how to
\emph on
 stop
\emph default
, it doesn't believe the parents
\emph on
 or
\emph default
 the children when they say nothing happened!
\emph on
 Don't you dare threaten my family with that! I won't let you destroy my
 home!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Harry,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 the older witch said softly, and she reached out a hand towards him 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry took a fast step back, and his hand snapped up and knocked hers away.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
McGonagall froze, then she pulled her hand back, and took a step backwards.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Harry, it's all right,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I believe you.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Do you,
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry hissed.
 The fury still roaring through his blood.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Or are you just waiting to get away from me so you can file the papers?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Harry, I saw your house.
 I saw you with your parents.
 They love you.
 You love them.
 I do believe you when you say that your parents are not abusing you.
 But I
\emph on
 had
\emph default
 to ask, because there is something strange at work here.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry stared at her coldly.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Like what?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Harry, I've seen many abused children in my time at Hogwarts, it would break
 your heart to know how many.
 And, when you're happy, you don't behave like one of those children, not
 at
\emph on
 all
\emph default
.
 You smile at strangers, you hug people, I put my hand on your shoulder
 and you didn't flinch.
 But sometimes, only sometimes, you say or do something that seems
\emph on
 very
\emph default
 much like… someone who spent his first eleven years locked in a cellar.
 Not the loving family that I saw.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall tilted her head, her expression growing puzzled again.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry took this in, processing it.
 The black rage began to drain away, as it dawned on him that he was being
 listened to respectfully, and that his family wasn't in danger.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And how
\emph on
 do
\emph default
 you explain your observations, Professor McGonagall?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I don't know,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But it's possible that something could have happened to you that you don't
 remember.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Fury rose up again in Harry.
 That sounded all too much like what he'd read in the newspaper stories
 of shattered families.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Suppressed memory is a load of
\emph on
 pseudoscience!
\emph default
 People do
\emph on
 not
\emph default
 repress traumatic memories, they remember them all
\emph on
 too
\emph default
 well for the rest of their lives!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

No, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
 There is a Charm called Obliviation.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry froze in place.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

A spell that erases memories?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The older witch nodded.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But not all the effects of the experience, if you see what I'm saying, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
A chill went down Harry's spine.

\emph on
 That
\emph default
 hypothesis… could
\emph on
 not
\emph default
 be easily refuted.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But my parents couldn't do that!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Indeed not,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

It would have taken someone from the wizarding world.
 There's… no way to be certain, I'm afraid.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's rationalist skills began to boot up again.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Professor McGonagall, how sure are you of your observations, and what alternativ
e explanations could there also be?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch opened her hands, as though to show their emptiness.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Sure? I'm sure of
\emph on
 nothing
\emph default
, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
 In all my life I've never met anyone else like you.
 Sometimes you just don't seem eleven years old or even all that
\emph on
 human
\emph default
.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's eyebrows rose toward the sky 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm sorry!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said quickly.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm very sorry, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
 I was trying to make a point and I'm afraid that came out sounding different
 from what I had in mind 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

On the contrary, Professor McGonagall,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, and slowly smiled.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I shall take it as a very great compliment.
 But would you mind if I offered an alternative explanation?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Please do.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Children aren't meant to be too much smarter than their parents,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Or too much saner, maybe 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 my father could probably outsmart me if he was, you know, actually
\emph on
 trying,
\emph default
 instead of using his adult intelligence mainly to come up with new reasons
 not to change his mind 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry stopped.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm too smart, Professor.
 I've got nothing to say to normal children.
 Adults don't respect me enough to really talk to me.
 And frankly, even if they did, they wouldn't sound as smart as Richard
 Feynman, so I might as well read something Richard Feynman wrote instead.
 I'm
\emph on
 isolated
\emph default
, Professor McGonagall.
 I've been isolated my whole life.
 Maybe that has some of the same effects as being locked in a cellar.
 And I'm too intelligent to look up to my parents the way that children
 are designed to do.
 My parents love me, but they don't feel obliged to respond to reason, and
 sometimes I feel like they're the children 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 children who
\emph on
 won't listen
\emph default
 and have absolute authority over my whole existence.
 I try not to be too bitter about it, but I also try to be
\emph on
 honest
\emph default
 with myself, so, yes, I'm bitter.
 And I also have an anger management problem, but I'm working on it.
 That's all.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
That's all?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry nodded firmly.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That's all.
 Surely, Professor McGonagall, even in magical Britain, the normal explanation
 is always worth
\emph on
 considering?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Quote
\align center
\begin_inset Graphics
	filename fleur.png
	scale 50

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
It was later in the day, the sun lowering in the summer sky and shoppers
 beginning to peter out from the streets.
 Some shops had already closed; Harry and Professor McGonagall had bought
 his textbooks from Flourish and Blotts just under the deadline.
 With only a slight explosion when Harry had made a beeline for the keyword
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Arithmancy
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 and discovered that the seventh-year textbooks invoked nothing more mathematica
lly advanced than trigonometry.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
At this moment, though, dreams of low-hanging research fruit were far from
 Harry's mind.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
At this moment, the two of them were walking out of Ollivander's, and Harry
 was staring at his wand.
 He'd waved it, and produced multicoloured sparks, which really shouldn't
 have come as such an extra shock after everything else he'd seen, but somehow
 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
I can do magic.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Me.
 As in, me personally.
 I am magical; I am a wizard.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
He had
\emph on
 felt
\emph default
 the magic pouring up his arm, and in that instant, realised that he had
 always had that sense, that he had possessed it his whole life, the sense
 that was not sight or sound or smell or taste or touch but only magic.
 Like having eyes but keeping them always closed, so that you didn't even
 realise that you were seeing darkness; and then one day the eye opened,
 and saw the world.
 The shock of it had poured through him, touching pieces of himself, awakening
 them, and then died away in seconds; leaving only the certain knowledge
 that he was now a wizard, and always had been, and had even, in some strange
 way, always known it.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
And 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

It is very curious indeed that you should be destined for this wand when
 its brother why, its brother gave you that scar.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
That could not
\emph on
 possibly
\emph default
 be coincidence.
 There had been
\emph on
 thousands
\emph default
 of wands in that shop.
 Well, okay, actually it
\emph on
 could
\emph default
 be coincidence, there were six billion people in the world and thousand-to-one
 coincidences happened every day.
 But Bayes's Theorem said that any reasonable hypothesis which made it
\emph on
 more
\emph default
 likely than a thousand-to-one that he'd end up with the brother to the
 Dark Lord's wand, was going to have an advantage.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall had simply said
\emph on
 how peculiar
\emph default
 and left it at that, which had put Harry into a state of shock at the sheer,
 overwhelming
\emph on
 uncuriosity
\emph default
 of wizards and witches.
 In no
\emph on
 imaginable
\emph default
 world would Harry have just went 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Hm
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 and walked out of the shop without even
\emph on
 trying
\emph default
 to come up with a hypothesis for what was going on.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
His left hand rose and touched his scar.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
What…
\emph on
 exactly…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You're a full wizard now,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Congratulations.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry nodded.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And what do you think of the wizarding world?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said she.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

It's strange,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I ought to be thinking about everything I've seen of magic… everything that
 I now know is possible, and everything I now know to be a lie, and all
 the work left before me to understand it.
 And yet I find myself distracted by relative trivialities like,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry lowered his voice, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

the whole Boy-Who-Lived thing.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 There didn't seem to be anyone nearby, but no point tempting fate.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall
\emph on
 ahemmed
\emph default
.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Really? You don't say.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry nodded.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Yes.
 It's just…
\emph on
 odd.

\emph default
 To find out that you were part of this grand story, the quest to defeat
 the great and terrible Dark Lord, and it's already
\emph on
 done.

\emph default
 Finished.
 Completely over with.
 Like you're Frodo Baggins and you find out that your parents took you to
 Mount Doom and had you toss in the Ring when you were one year old and
 you don't even remember it.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall's smile had grown somewhat fixed.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You know, if I were anyone else, anyone else at all, I'd probably be pretty
 worried about living up to that start.

\emph on
 Gosh, Harry, what have you done since you defeated the Dark Lord? Your
 own bookshop? That's great! Say, did you know I named my child after you?
\emph default
 But I have hopes that this will not prove to be a problem.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry sighed.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Still… it's almost enough to make me wish that there were
\emph on
 some
\emph default
 loose ends from the quest, just so I could say that I really, you know,
\emph on
 participated
\emph default
 somehow.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Oh?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall in an odd tone.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

What did you have in mind?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Well, for example, you mentioned that my parents were betrayed.
 Who betrayed them?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Sirius Black,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 the witch said, almost hissing the name.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

He's in Azkaban.
 Wizarding prison.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

How probable is it that Sirius Black will break out of prison and I'll have
 to track him down and defeat him in some sort of spectacular duel, or better
 yet put a large bounty on his head and hide out in Australia while I wait
 for the results?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall blinked.
 Twice.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Not likely.
 No one has ever escaped from Azkaban, and I doubt that
\emph on
 he
\emph default
 will be the first.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry was a bit sceptical of that 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
no one
\emph default
 has
\emph on
 ever
\emph default
 escaped from Azkaban
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 line.
 Still, maybe with magic you could actually get close to a 100% perfect
 prison, especially if you had a wand and they did not.
 The best way to get out would be to not go there in the first place.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

All right then,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Sounds like it's been nicely wrapped up.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 He sighed, scrubbing his palm over his head.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Or maybe the Dark Lord didn't
\emph on
 really
\emph default
 die that night.
 Not completely.
 His spirit lingers, whispering to people in nightmares that bleed over
 into the waking world, searching for a way back into the living lands he
 swore to destroy, and now, in accordance with the ancient prophecy, he
 and I are locked in a deadly duel where the winner shall lose and the loser
 shall win 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall's head swivelled, and her eyes darted around, as though
 to search the street for listeners.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm
\emph on
 joking
\emph default
, Professor,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said with some annoyance.
 Sheesh, why did she always take everything so seriously 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
A slow sinking sensation began to dawn in the pit of Harry's stomach.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall looked at Harry with a calm expression.
 A very,
\emph on
 very
\emph default
 calm expression.
 Then a smile was put on.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Of course you are, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Aw crap.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
If Harry had needed to formalise the wordless inference that had just flashed
 into his mind, it would have come out something like, 'If I estimate the
 probability of Professor McGonagall doing what I just saw as the result
 of carefully controlling herself, versus the probability distribution for
 all the things she would do
\emph on
 naturally
\emph default
 if I made a bad joke, then this behavior is significant evidence for her
 hiding something.'
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
But what Harry actually thought was,
\emph on
 Aw crap.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry turned his own head to scan the street.
 Nope, no one nearby.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

He's
\emph on
 not
\emph default
 dead, is he,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry sighed.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

The Dark Lord is alive.
 Of
\emph on
 course
\emph default
 he's alive.
 It was an
\emph on
 act
\emph default
 of utter
\emph on
 optimism
\emph default
 for me to have even
\emph on
 dreamed
\emph default
 otherwise.
 I
\emph on
 must
\emph default
 have taken leave of my
\emph on
 senses
\emph default
, I can't
\emph on
 imagine
\emph default
 what I was
\emph on
 thinking.

\emph default
 Just because
\emph on
 someone
\emph default
 said that his body was found burned to a
\emph on
 crisp
\emph default
, I can't imagine why I would have thought he was
\emph on
 dead.
 Clearly
\emph default
 I have much left to learn about the art of proper
\emph on
 pessimism.
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

At least tell me there's not really a prophecy…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall was still giving him that bright, fixed smile.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Oh, you have
\emph on
 got
\emph default
 to be kidding me.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter, you shouldn't go inventing things to worry about 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Are you
\emph on
 actually
\emph default
 going to tell me
\emph on
 that?
\emph default
 Imagine my reaction later, when I find out that there was something to
 worry about after all.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Her fixed smile faltered.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's shoulders slumped.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I have a whole world of magic to analyse.
 I do
\emph on
 not
\emph default
 have time for this.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Then both of them shut up, as a man in flowing orange robes appeared on
 the street and slowly passed them by; Professor McGonagall's eyes tracked
 him, unobtrusively.
 Harry's mouth was moving as he chewed hard on his lip, and someone watching
 closely would have noticed a tiny spot of blood appear.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
When the orange-robed man had passed into the distance, Harry spoke again,
 in a low murmur.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Are you going to tell me the truth now, Professor McGonagall? And don't
 bother trying to wave it off, I'm not stupid.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You're
\emph on
 eleven years old
\emph default
, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said in a harsh whisper.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And therefore subhuman.
 Sorry… for a moment there, I
\emph on
 forgot
\emph default
.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

These are dreadful and important matters! They are
\emph on
 secret,
\emph default
 Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter! It is a
\emph on
 catastrophe
\emph default
 that you, still a child, know even this much! You must not tell
\emph on
 anyone,
\emph default
 do you understand? Absolutely no one!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
As sometimes happened when Harry got
\emph on
 sufficiently
\emph default
 angry, his blood went cold, instead of hot, and a terrible dark clarity
 descended over his mind, mapping out possible tactics and assessing their
 consequences with iron realism.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Point out that you have a right to know: Failure.
 Eleven-year-old children do not have rights to know anything, in McGonagall's
 eyes.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Say that you will not be friends any more: Failure.
 She does not value your friendship sufficiently.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Point out that you will be in danger if you do not know: Failure.
 Plans have already been made based on your ignorance.
 The
\emph default
 certain
\emph on
 inconvenience of rethinking will seem far more unpalatable than the mere
\emph default
 uncertain
\emph on
 prospect of your coming to harm.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Justice and reason will both fail.
 You must either find something you have that she wants, or find something
 you can do which she fears…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Ah.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Well then, Professor,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said in a low, icy tone, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

it sounds like I have something you want.
 You can, if you like, tell me the truth, the
\emph on
 whole
\emph default
 truth, and in return I will keep your secrets.
 Or you can try to keep me ignorant so you can use me as a pawn, in which
 case I will owe you nothing.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
McGonagall stopped short in the street.
 Her eyes blazed and her voice descended into an outright hiss.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

How dare you!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
How dare you!
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 he whispered back at her.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You would
\emph on
 blackmail
\emph default
 me?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry's lips twisted.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I am
\emph on
 offering
\emph default
 you a
\emph on
 favor.

\emph default
 I am
\emph on
 giving
\emph default
 you a chance to protect
\emph on
 your
\emph default
 precious secret.
 If you refuse I will have
\emph on
 every
\emph default
 natural motive to make inquiries elsewhere, not to spite you, but because
 I
\emph on
 have to know!
\emph default
 Get past your pointless anger at a
\emph on
 child
\emph default
 who you think ought to obey you, and you'll realise that any sane adult
 would do the same!
\emph on
 Look at it from my perspective! How would you feel if it was YOU?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry watched McGonagall, observed her harsh breathing.
 It occurred to him that it was time to ease off the pressure, let her simmer
 for a while.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You don't have to decide right away,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said in a more normal tone.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'll understand if you want time to think about my
\emph on
 offer
\emph default
… but I'll warn you of one thing,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, his voice going colder.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Don't try that Obliviation spell on me.
 Some time ago I worked out a signal, and I have already sent that signal
 to myself.
 If I find that signal and I don't
\emph on
 remember
\emph default
 sending it…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry let his voice trail off significantly.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
McGonagall's face was working as her expressions shifted.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I… wasn't thinking of Obliviating you, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter… but why would you have
\emph on
 invented
\emph default
 such a signal if you didn't know about 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I thought of it while reading a Muggle science-fiction book, and said to
 myself,
\emph on
 well, just in case…
\emph default
 And no, I won't tell you the signal, I'm not dumb.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I hadn't planned to ask,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 McGonagall said.
 She seemed to fold in on herself, and suddenly looked very old, and very
 tired.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

This has been an exhausting day, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter.
 Can we get your trunk, and send you home? I will trust you not to speak
 upon this matter until I have had time to think.
 Keep in mind that there are only two other people in the whole world who
 know about this matter, and they are Headmaster Albus Dumbledore and Professor
 Severus Snape.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
So.
 New information; that was a peace offering.
 Harry nodded in acceptance, and turned his head to look forward, and started
 walking again, as his blood slowly began to warm over once more.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

So now I've got to find some way to kill an immortal Dark Wizard,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, and sighed in frustration.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I really wish you had told me that
\emph on
 before
\emph default
 I started shopping.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Quote
\align center
\begin_inset Graphics
	filename fleur.png
	scale 50

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The trunk shop was more richly appointed than any other shop Harry had visited;
 the curtains were lush and delicately patterned, the floor and walls of
 stained and polished wood, and the trunks occupied places of honor on polished
 ivory platforms.
 The salesman was dressed in robes of finery only a cut below those of Lucius
 Malfoy, and spoke with exquisite, oily politeness to both Harry and Professor
 McGonagall.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry had asked his questions, and had gravitated to a trunk of heavy-looking
 wood, not polished but warm and solid, carved with the pattern of a guardian
 dragon whose eyes shifted to look at anyone nearing it.
 A trunk charmed to be light, to shrink on command, to sprout small clawed
 tentacles from its bottom and squirm after its owner.
 A trunk with two drawers on each of four sides that each slid out to reveal
 compartments as deep as the whole trunk.
 A lid with four locks each of which would reveal a different space inside.
 And 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 this was the important part 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 a handle on the bottom which slid out a frame containing a staircase leading
 down into a small, lighted room that would hold, Harry estimated, around
 twelve bookcases.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
If they made luggages like this, Harry didn't know why anyone bothered owning
 a house.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
One hundred and eight golden Galleons.
 That was the price of a good trunk, lightly used.
 At around fifty British pounds to the Galleon, that was enough to buy a
 second-hand car.
 It would be more expensive than everything else Harry had ever bought in
 his whole life all put together.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Ninety-seven Galleons.
 That was how much was left in the bag of gold Harry had been allowed to
 take out of Gringotts.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall wore a look of chagrin upon her face.
 After a long day's shopping she hadn't needed to ask Harry how much gold
 was left in the bag, after the salesman quoted his price, which meant the
 Professor could do good mental arithmetic without pen and paper.
 Once again, Harry reminded himself that
\emph on
 scientifically illiterate
\emph default
 was not at all the same thing as
\emph on
 stupid.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'm sorry, young man,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

This is entirely my fault.
 I would offer to take you back to Gringotts, but the bank will be closed
 for all but emergency services now.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry looked at her, wondering…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Well,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 sighed Professor McGonagall, as she swung on one heel, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

we may as well go, I suppose.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
…she
\emph on
 hadn't
\emph default
 lost it completely when a child had dared defy her.
 She hadn't been happy, but she had
\emph on
 thought
\emph default
 instead of exploding in fury.
 It might have just been that there was an immortal Dark Lord to fight 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 that she had needed Harry's goodwill.
 But most adults wouldn't have been capable of thinking even that much;
 wouldn't consider
\emph on
 future consequences
\emph default
 at all, if someone lower in status had refused to obey them…
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Professor?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The witch turned back and looked at him.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry took a deep breath.
 He needed to be a little angry for what he wanted to try now, there was
 no way he'd have the courage to do it otherwise.

\emph on
 She didn't listen to me,
\emph default
 he thought to himself,
\emph on
 I would have taken more gold but she didn't want to listen…
\emph default
 Focusing his entire world on McGonagall and the need to bend this conversation
 to his will, he spoke.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Professor, you thought one hundred Galleons would be more than enough for
 a trunk.
 That's why you didn't bother warning me before it went down to ninety-seven.
 Which is just the sort of thing the research studies show 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 that's what happens when people think they're leaving themselves a
\emph on
 little
\emph default
 error margin.
 They're not pessimistic enough.
 If it'd been up to me, I'd have taken
\emph on
 two hundred
\emph default
 Galleons just to be sure.
 There was plenty of money in that vault, and I could have put back any
 extra later.
 But I thought you wouldn't let me do it.
 I thought you'd be angry at me just for asking.
 Was I wrong?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I suppose I must confess that you are right,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

But, young man 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That sort of thing is the reason why I have trouble trusting adults.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Somehow Harry kept his voice steady.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Because they get angry if you even
\emph on
 try
\emph default
 to reason with them.
 To them it's defiance and insolence and a challenge to their higher tribal
 status.
 If you try to talk to them they get
\emph on
 angry.

\emph default
 So if I had anything
\emph on
 really important
\emph default
 to do, I wouldn't be able to trust you.
 Even if you listened with deep concern to whatever I said 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 because that's also part of the
\emph on
 role
\emph default
 of someone playing a concerned adult 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 you'd never change your actions, you wouldn't actually behave differently,
 because of anything I said.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The salesman was watching them both with unabashed fascination.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I can understand your point of view,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said eventually.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

If I sometimes seem too strict, please remember that I have served as Head
 of Gryffindor House for what feels like several thousand years.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry nodded and continued.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

So 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 suppose I had a way to get more Galleons from my vault
\emph on
 without
\emph default
 us going back to Gringotts, but it involved me violating the role of an
 obedient child.
 Would I be able to trust you with that, even though you'd have to step
 outside your own role as Professor McGonagall to take advantage of it?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
What?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

To put it another way, if I could make today have happened differently,
 so that we
\emph on
 didn't
\emph default
 take too little money with us, would that be all right even though it would
 involve a child being insolent to an adult in retrospect?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I… suppose…
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 the witch said, looking quite puzzled.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry took out the mokeskin pouch, and said, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Eleven Galleons originally from my family vault.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
And there was gold in Harry's hand.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
For a moment Professor McGonagall's mouth gaped wide, then her jaw snapped
 shut and her eyes narrowed and the witch bit out, 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
Where
\emph default
 did you get that 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

From my family vault, like I said.
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\end_layout

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\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset


\emph on
How?
\emph default

\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Magic.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That's hardly an answer!
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 snapped Professor McGonagall, and then stopped, blinking.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

No, it isn't, is it? I
\emph on
 ought
\emph default
 to claim that it's because I experimentally discovered the true secrets
 of how the pouch works and that it can actually retrieve objects from anywhere,
 not just its own inside, if you phrase the request correctly.
 But actually it's from when I fell into that pile of gold before and I
 shoved some Galleons into my pocket.
 Anyone who understands pessimism knows that money is something you might
 need quickly and without much warning.
 So now are you angry at me for defying your authority? Or glad that we
 succeeded in our important mission?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The salesman's eyes were wide like saucers.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
And the tall witch stood there, silent.
\end_layout

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\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Discipline at Hogwarts
\emph on
 must
\emph default
 be enforced,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 she said after almost a full minute.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

For the sake of
\emph on
 all
\emph default
 the students.
 And that
\emph on
 must
\emph default
 include courtesy and obedience from you to
\emph on
 all
\emph default
 professors.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I understand, Professor McGonagall.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
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\end_layout

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\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Good.
 Now let us buy that trunk and go home.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry felt like throwing up, or cheering, or fainting, or
\emph on
 something
\emph default
.
 That was the first time his careful reasoning had ever worked on
\emph on
 anyone
\emph default
.
 Maybe because it was also the first time he had something really serious
 that an adult needed from him, but still 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Minerva McGonagall, +1 point.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry bowed, and gave the bag of gold and the extra eleven Galleons into
 McGonagall's hands.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Thank you very much, Professor.
 Can you finish up the purchase for me? I've got to visit the lavatory.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The salesman, unctuous once more, pointed toward a door set into the wall
 with a gold-handled knob.
 As Harry started to walk away, he heard the salesman ask in his oily voice,
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

May I inquire as to who that was, Madam McGonagall? I take it he is Slytherin
 
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status open

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--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 third-year, perhaps? 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset

 and from a prominent family, but I did not recognise 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The slam of the lavatory door cut off his words, and after Harry had identified
 the lock and pressed it into place, he grabbed the magical self-cleaning
 towel and, with shaky hands, wiped moisture off his forehead.
 Harry's entire body was sheathed in sweat which had soaked clear through
 his Muggle clothing, though at least it didn't show through the robes.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Quote
\align center
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	filename fleur.png
	scale 50

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
The sun was setting and it was very late indeed, by the time they stood
 again in the courtyard of the Leaky Cauldron, the silent leaf-dusted interface
 between magical Britain's Diagon Alley and the entire Muggle world.
 (That was one
\emph on
 awfully
\emph default
 decoupled economy…) Harry was to go to a phone box and call his father,
 once he was on the other side.
 He didn't need to worry about his luggage being stolen, apparently.
 His trunk had the status of a major magical item, something that most Muggles
 wouldn't notice; that was part of what you could get in the wizarding world,
 if you were willing to pay the price of a secondhand car.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

So here we part ways, for a time,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said.
 She shook her head in wonderment.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

This has been the strangest day of my life for… many a year.
 Since the day I learned that a child had defeated You-Know-Who.
 I wonder now, looking back, if that was the last reasonable day of the
 world.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Oh, like
\emph on
 she
\emph default
 had anything to complain about.

\emph on
 You think your day was surreal? Try mine.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I was very impressed with you today,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said to her.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I should have remembered to compliment you out loud, I was awarding you
 points in my head and everything.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Thank you, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 said Professor McGonagall.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

If you had already been sorted into a House I would have deducted so many
 points that your grandchildren would still be losing the House Cup.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Thank
\emph on
 you
\emph default
, Professor.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 It was probably too early to call her Minnie.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
This woman might well be the sanest adult Harry had ever met, despite her
 lack of scientific background.
 Harry was even considering offering her the number-two position in whatever
 group he formed to fight the Dark Lord, though he wasn't silly enough to
 say that out loud.

\emph on
 Now what would be a good name for that…? The Death Eater Eaters?
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I'll see you again soon, when school starts,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Professor McGonagall said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

And, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter, about your wand 
\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout

--
\end_layout

\end_inset


\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I know what you're going to ask,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 He took out his precious wand and, with a deep twinge of inner pain, flipped
 it over in his hand, presenting her with the handle.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Take it.
 I hadn't planned to do anything, not a single thing, but I don't want you
 to have nightmares about me blowing up my house.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall shook her head rapidly.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Oh no, Mr.
\emph on

\begin_inset ERT
status open

\begin_layout Plain Layout


\backslash
 
\end_layout

\end_inset


\emph default
Potter! That isn't done.
 I only meant to warn you not to
\emph on
 use
\emph default
 your wand at home, since the Ministry can detect underage magic and it
 is prohibited without supervision.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Ah,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

That sounds like a very sensible rule.
 I'm glad to see the wizarding world takes that sort of thing seriously.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Professor McGonagall peered hard at him.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

You really mean that.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Yes,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I get it.
 Magic is dangerous and the rules are there for good reasons.
 Certain other matters are also dangerous.
 I get that too.
 Remember that I am not stupid.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I am unlikely ever to forget it.
 Thank you, Harry, that does make me feel better about entrusting you with
 certain things.
 Goodbye for now.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Harry turned to go, into the Leaky Cauldron and out towards the Muggle world.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
As his hand touched the back door's handle, he heard a last whisper from
 behind him.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Hermione Granger.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

What?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Harry said, his hand still on the door.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Look for a first-year girl named Hermione Granger on the train to Hogwarts.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Who is she?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
There was no answer, and when Harry turned around, Professor McGonagall
 was gone.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Quote
\align center
\begin_inset Graphics
	filename fleur.png
	scale 50

\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard

\emph on
Aftermath
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Headmaster Albus Dumbledore leaned forward over his desk.
 His twinkling eyes peered out at Minerva.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

So, my dear, how did you find Harry?
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
Minerva opened her mouth.
 Then she closed her mouth.
 Then she opened her mouth again.
 No words came out.
\end_layout

\begin_layout Standard
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

I see,
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset

 Albus said gravely.
 
\begin_inset Quotes eld
\end_inset

Thank you for your report, Minerva.
 You may go.
\begin_inset Quotes erd
\end_inset


\end_layout

\end_body
\end_document