Chapter Saba
Harry couldn’t understand the small cat’s cries, could it hear what he was saying and respond with empathy? He had met some pretty extraordinary cats but never had he met one that could understand human speech and emotion. He placed his hand on its head. “Thank you little one, but you don’t need to worry about me.” The kitten looked him straight in the eye and scoffed. “You have a serious attitude, next thing I know you’ll start being sarcastic.”
He picked up the small ball of fur. It squirmed a little but stopped as they met eyes. The Kitten showed no fear, on the other hand, exuded distaste. Harry was stubborn and continued to hold him. “Who is your owner, little guy? You are a bit young to be on your own yet” That cat proceeded to shake its head dismissing the question of ownership. “I have met many animals in my life, but so far, you're one of my favorites.” Harry smiled. The kitten mewed happily. “You can stay with me if you like. I can give you a name too,” The small animal compiled. “Then what about I call you Storm?” The kitten tilted its head confused. Harry continued explaining “Well your eyes are like mini storms. Sometimes when light reflects on them you can see lightning. I think they are rather beautiful!”
The kitten now named Storm snuggled closer to him in positive affirmation. Impulsively he started to stroke the kitten's fur, which was as smooth as satin and as soft as fresh snow. He stood up and walked out of the dorm room and proceeded to exit Gryffindor Tower. He could just simply have a new pet, he had to get “Her” permission. He wondered if Hermione might know what kind of cat he had found, maybe after this important meeting.
He headed down the stairs and underneath the clock tower, into the courtyard, making a right onto a small gravel path. He entered a small circular stone building. A breeze whisked past him causing him to shiver. There were no glass windows, just open air. Hay, feathers, and excrement were strewn across the floor. One had to tiptoe to avoid stepping in the bone and waste-filled poop. Perches stood everywhere. The place was cleaned every week. Hedwig had plopped herself at the farthest window to spite Harry.
Harry hopscotched his way through the room eventually presenting himself in front of her. She gave him a side glance before noticing the ball of fur in his arms. She squawked as if asking for an explanation. Harry lifted the kitten to her eye level and said “I found him in the hallway almost frozen solid, he doesn’t have an owner. Can I keep him?” The snowy owl looked at the porcelain kitten. The tension was high for a couple of seconds and then Hedwig nudged Storm’s head with her beak affectionately. Harry sighed, Storm mewed, and Hedwig hooted. Then the two animals went into an incomprehensible conversation leaving Harry to feel like a third wheel. At one point Storm even pointed at him. What kind of gossip was he sharing with Hedwig, Harry had no clue.
After a bit, Hedwig flew off and Storm snuggled close to Harry once again. Harry had always thought he was a dog person. Mostly because of Sirius, but the small furry creature in his arms was slowly changing his mind, (sorry Sirius).
Tiptoeing his way back out of the Owlery he saw Pansy heading north toward the dungeons. That's right he had detention. He jogged to catch up with her, careful not to disturb Storm too much. “Hey Pansy,” she looked up. “Hey, Harry, ready for another terrible detention?”
“No,” he sighed. “Oh, by the way, this is Storm, My new animal companion.” Pansy quirked her eyebrow, “you mean pet?” Harry shook his head, “he doesn’t like being called a pet.” Pansy looked at the cat who nodded in affirmation. Storm squirmed a little toward Pansy. “I think he wants you to hold him.” Pansy hesitantly put her hands toward the white fluff. He sniffed her then rubbed his head against her hand. Pansy carefully took Storm from Harry’s arms and cradled the small cat gently.