Ghost Hour at Hogwarts

The following one and a half weeks, the time leading up to the beginning of their fifth year, weren't as relaxing as Harry and Danny had hoped. 

Sure, Danny passed all of his exams with flying colours (their professors were both proud and suspicious) but he didn't expect anything less. It did feel nice though to see that he wasn't a bad student after all- but again, he used to be a straight A student until the accident. Without all the ghost fights and otherworldly interruptions, he got the studying part down.

His ghost powers were also a great help. And since they were a part of him, he also didn't cheat (a fact he had to remind himself of quite often, he absolutely hated cheating since C.A.T.s).

The Golden Trio was barely on speaking terms and by now Harry was just too fed up with his best friends to try and reconcile. He hoped that once they got to Hogwarts and had more space, they'd automatically calm down. 

Still, it left a bitter aftertaste in his mouth when Ron became the new Prefect. Hermione was a given but Ron? Harry wasn't quite sure what to think about that particular choice. On one hand, he was happy for the red head who wanted to prove himself so badly, on the other hand, Harry was sure that Neville would have been a better option. Or Seamus, maybe even himself. To be fair, it probably shouldn't be him, seeing as he breaks the school rules more often than any other student in his year.

Maybe he was just jealous. And still angry. And miffed because nothing good seemed to happen to him- ever.

But that wasn't true anymore, was it?

He has escaped the Dursleys (and hadn't that been a scary interaction when he asked Danny after his revenge plans and his twin just grinned with sharp teeth and glowing eyes?), his uncle Sirius acknowledged him, he became the heir to the House of Black, survived Dementors and a sham of a trial and not to mention has a twin brother who he knows will never leave his side again.

All in all, his summer break went from bleak to eventful. And although he was still mad at certain people that haven't mentioned Danny before, it had been interesting to learn about their reasoning. Because of the Prophecy, Lily and James kept it a secret that they would have twins (they apparently thought Voldemort would definitely come after them if he knew about the third possible child) and after their deaths, Dumbledore didn't think it prudent to mention his assumed dead twin. 

To the world he was still a single child and Sirius and Remus? Well, they had been told to keep it secret and to be fair, Sirius had other problems to deal with in the past two years to mention Danny. Remus had been too loyal to Dumbledore still to tell Harry (and they didn't have the best relationship in all honesty) and Pettigrew had promised to never mentioned the second child back then. Because of course the traitor wouldn't mention it. Ha.

That had been a mistake on his parents part: trusting others. Remus, Sirius and Wormtail knew about the twin children. And one of them turned traitor. Voldemort did exactly as Lily had feared and believed that the chances to find the child of the Prophecy was higher if he went after two out of three children in one fell swoop. 

Not that Sirius and Dumbledore had mentioned the Prophecy at all after Danny and Harry had inquired about the silence surrounding the older twin. Harry was secretly glad that Danny could listen in on everything and everyone and wasn't selfish enough to keep everything to himself. 

Danny also went out more often after everyone had gone to bed and even though Harry wanted to accompany and help his brother, he was still human and needed sleep. Not that he has gotten that much of it in the last few nights at Grimmauld. For some reason, his nightmares had picked up again and he saw vision like pictures of a sinister looking hallway. It reminded him of last summer, when he saw Voldemort in his dreams.

More often than not, he would wake up, panicking and sweaty. His heartrate going through the roof and it took too long to calm down again. Sometimes he waited until Danny came back or he cuddled with Hedwig and Ari who always seemed to know when he needed their comfort. 

Not once did he think of waking Ron and asking him for help or to tell an adult. His trust in them was still breaking apart.

Danny himself had noticed the change in Harry's sleeping pattern as well but didn't know how to help, he did realize near the end of summer break that his presence seemed to comfort Harry, allowing his brother to sleep more deeply. He wished he had realized it sooner, however, he had found a strong natural portal near Stonehenge and many rogue ghosts showed up there, which was never a good idea near strongly populated areas.

The problem with such powerful portals was, that they opened every couple of centuries and stayed open for an extended period of time. Not just a couple minutes like most natural ones but several days.

So Danny had his work cut out for him. Interestingly enough, a lot of ghosts wanted to go in so he just made sure they wouldn't cause any havoc. There had been a few ghosts who thought they could challenge Phantom but they were quickly thrown back into the Ghost Zone. The portal finally closed two days before he had to leave for Hogwarts. And the last two nights he could see how Harry began to sleep comfortably again. 

It made him very curious but right now he needed more data to make a thesis... he shuddered at how much he thought like his parents. Even though they accepted his ghost half, there was still a part inside of him that believed it to be a scheme. Jack and Maddie Fenton were scientists at heart, who is to say that their curiosity wouldn't get the better of them at some point?

It was irrational to even listen to such thoughts but he couldn't help it.

During the day he had to finish his schoolwork and go to Diagon Alley for a third time, since they finally got their letters with the needed school supplies for the year. He noticed Harry's frustration over Ron being appointed Prefect but didn't know how to help him. He didn't care for such things at all and wasn't close enough to the Trio (currently Duo) to feel personally offended like his brother. 

Sirius had also managed to add to the whole school and ghost stress, for he has told Uncle Remus about his halfa status the moment the werewolf came back (fortunately, they had been alone in Sirius' bedroom). He had been utterly shattered after Sirius told him about Danny's accident and Harry's former homelife- they still didn't know much about it, since Harry was being tightlipped when asked but what they knew was bad enough. Knowing that they were only told the less bad things was gut wrenching for the pair. 

Danny hadn't been very happy when he joined his uncles in the kitchen one evening and found Remus teary eyed and snuggled up to Sirius, who had looked at him apologetically. His eyes had flashed green when Remus asked him to elaborate on his halfa status and he couldn't help but snarl at Sirius who apparently couldn't be trusted after all. 

Sirius had felt incredibly bad but tried to explain to his nephew how he couldn't keep a secret from his mate and how it wasn't right to leave him out of it. What if Danny needed support and it was prudent to have knowledge of his ghost half? 

The excuses were rather thin and Danny just felt deeply disappointed but at the same time, it had been his own fault for entrusting someone he barely even knew with something as huge as this.

If he'd just been a little more careful, neither Sirius nor Remus would know about him now. 

In his anger, he made his uncles swear an oath to not tell anyone without his express permission about his ghost half and anything linked to it. Danny had been so disappointed and hurt, he didn't even care that Remus had still been in shock.

After he had some time to calm down, a supportive Harry by his side, he had realised that it wasn't too bad. He was simply so used to keeping his double life a secret, it felt weird to have more people in the know about it. It wasn't nice that it happened without his consent but at least he now didn't have to worry about what they might think.

After all, the two were with the only ones who Danny believed would die for him. Literally. Even though they've only known each other for about a month. 

Having uncles who weren't hellbend on making him their son and taking over the Ghost Zone were an upgrade in his book.

Another thing that happened was Dumbledore's scrutiny. Everytime Harry and the older wizard were in the same room, the man looked like he wanted to say something but decided against it at the last second. That didn't mean he didn't look at Harry and Danny as if he was thinking about something important. 

Harry hoped it was simply Dumbledore contemplating whether or not to tell them about the Prophecy but that couldn't be it, since the headmaster never looked him in the eyes. Danny thought it was because of the Dursleys and even though Harry doubted this revenge plan was working so quickly, he didn't have a better idea.

Everytime Harry was alone or plagued by nightmares, he left to a secluded room and tried to figure out his new ring magic. He could actually command the shadows around him to do whatever he wanted them to and everytime he did, the whispers became quiet. 

Harry liked the quiet and security the shadows gave him.

He was even more excited to find out he could still use this shadow magic while not wearing the ring! So he kept training his magic and became acquainted with the darkness surrounding him.

That's how Danny found Harry on their last evening, sitting on the floor and propped up by his bed. He watched as Harry beckoned the shadows around him and wasn't surprised when they answered his call.

The shadows danced along his brother's arms and caressed him, engulfing him in darkness, ensuring his comfort from what Danny could see. 

The halfa leaned against the door, folding his arms and content to watch Harry figure out his new and slightly weird powers. He must have felt his amusement because Harry looked up and the many shadows stilled to attention, becoming pointier and more threatening. The moment their eyes met, the shadows wiggled slightly before disappearing to their rightful places once more.

Danny just raised an eyebrow and Harry shrugged carelessly before grinning 

"It's actually quite nice. They do what I want them to. Nothing to be afraid of, even though they are quite cold on the skin."

Danny snorted at the description

"If you say so. I only know about ectoplasm and that can feel all sorts of weird- or hurtful but I'm glad you're so accepting of it. Some people would be terrified or try to get rid of such 'dark magic'."

His twin leaned his head back against his bed and wondered quietly why something so nice would be considered 'dark' and thus evil.

It was magic that called upon shadows, uhhh, so scary. 

He smiled and if Danny's grin was anything to go by, then they've had similar thoughts.

...............

The next day, it was finally time to head to Hogwarts and both twinsets were brimming with excitement. Fred and George had a lot of ideas for their soon to exist joke shop and couldn't wait to try their products on the unassuming student body.

Danny and Harry were glad to finally leave the dark house and excited to return to (or in Danny's case see) Hogwarts. The only dampers were Voldemort, the drift between the Trio and all the slander Harry's name has been through that summer.

All because some higher ups were too afraid of a potential war and because it was oh so convenient that the Boy Who Lived returned with a dead body and no other witnesses.

Harry had to breathe deeply in and out a few times to calm down again. Thinking about everything that went wrong just this summer made him incredibly angry and it made him wanna fight a few more dementors. Or even Death Eaters. 

He shivered when he remembered Voldemort's servants laughing at him a few months ago. Enjoying his pain and the torture Voldemort had inflicted on him. 

Breathe in. Breathe out.

His skin kept prickling and his scar was shooting small bouts of pain into his whole being. Harry once again wished he could cut the damn thing out of his forehead and leave all the Boy-Who-Lived nonsense behind. 

Give the title to someone else.

It would work perfectly for Danny, after all. 

The boy shot a glance at his twin, who was busy looking amazed at the magically changed cars. Things that look small from the outside being bigger on the inside? 

Yeah, Harry's been there. He can understand his brother's excitement and wished he would feel the same. 

Sure, he was happy to finally return to his actual home but something told him this year was gonna be worst one yet. 

Plus, the whole car ride was spent in awkward silence since Harry sat right next to Ron who was trying to get his attention and then glared at him when Harry shot him a questioning look.

Oh well. Somehow he also had to deal with this. Did they even remember what the argument was about? Harry was simply fed up for now and began poking Danny in the side, trying to annoy him.

His brother just laughed and swatted his hand away. Without even looking. Mean.

One breath in. One breath out.

The moment they reached King's Cross, Mad Eye and Tonks, as well as a few other Order members swarmed him, like some sort of weird bodyguard entourage.

Harry caught his brother's amused face and stuck his tongue out in retaliation. Danny just raised an eyebrow and was promptly pushed into the circle with Harry

"You look too much alike," Moody grumbled and pushed the brothers forward. The rest of the Weasleys and Hermione following close behind. "No one is yet aware of the other Potter. Why Dumbledore thought to wait and not even tell anyone is anyones guess." 

'Probably for fun', Harry thought and sent amusement over to Danny who answered with mirth.

Danny himself was being quiet as he tried to get a good look of the station. He was positively giddy with excitement and couldn't wait to take pictures to send to his friends and family soon. 

Sam and Tuck have send him pictures of some people in Amity running around in the most outdated of clothes. They looked hilarious and even Sam had to admit that medieval clothing in the summer was taking it a bit too far. 

These strangers also weren't the nicest, as Tucker told him. They kept sneering at random passers by and Sam admitted that if they were from some sort of circus, they'd have to properly learn how to advertise.

Danny smiled at the messages and scrolled a bit up to see the pictures his friends have sent him over the last month. Them sitting at Nasty Burger, Sam running after an older man who carelessly threw waste on the street, Tucker drooling as he looked at the newest gaming console.

Sam had told him that she'd bought the console simply to show it to Tucker and then donated it to someone who would use it more and didn't have the money.

Tucker apparently had been inconsolable until Sam invited him over to watch the newest 'Jungle World' movie that wasn't even in theatres yet.

His sister was telling him all about her university and her roommate who was as much into psychology as her. It sounded as if they were already good friends and since Helen was more extroverted than Jazz, his sister was finally being dragged to parties to meet new people.

Danny's parents asked everyday how he was feeling, if he was taking his medicine on time and if there was anything he needed. They also showed him new inventions and ideas and asked for his opinion on them.

All in all, he missed them. A lot. But he was also enjoying his time around magic and with his brother and couldn't wait to go to a wixen school.

With stupid uniforms.

Better not think about those for now.

Finally they halted in front of a wall. Moody mumbled something and Danny felt magic washing over them. He allowed it, since he was sure it was necessary. 

In the past weeks, he also had to learn to control his ectoplasm that naturally surrounded him, so that it wasn't interfering with the magic. It would have looked weird if all the spells that should've hit him didn't do anything.

So he could now reduce his ectoplasmic energy to a minimum and use magic freely. It also made him vulnerable around it but in the worst case scenario he could simply release his energy again.

He watched with raised eyebrows as first Ginny, Arthur and Molly ran straight at the wall and then passed through. Like ghosts. 

Danny had to stop himself from smiling at that thought and continued to watch the rest of the children disappear. Tonks then pushed him and Harry forwards and they sank through the wall, easy as butter.

The magic surrounding the illusion tickled Danny and he sneezed unwillingly as he came out on the other side. 

A beautiful express greeted him and Danny wanted nothing more than to fly next to the train as Phantom at that moment.

As he looked around he saw all the other witches and wizards and students bustling around. Some were holding their trunks, others were hugging their family members and one boy was running after a small black cat. 

Danny felt incredibly warm, until Harry stiffened next to him, his eyes trained on a man with long silver hair and aristocratic looking clothes. A woman beautiful woman stood next to him and had her hands placed on a boy around his age with equally blond silver hair. 

He was nodding at something his -probably- mother said and then bowed curtly in front of his father (?) before turning towards the train.

His twin was mildly shaking next to him and the emotions Danny could feel were all raw and a mix of angerfearpanic and the halfa almost swayed on the spot with the onslaught. He grabbed Harry's arm painfully and hoped it would shake him out of whatever was happening.

His brother blinked and turned towards him with a horrified expression that he quickly schooled when he noticed that they were still standing in the middle of the platform. The Order members strewn about and talking with each other. 

Moody was gesturing for the children to enter the express and after Harry breathed a couple times to calm himself, they did. 

It wasn't as exciting as he'd hoped. Though, what did he expect? Seats upside down? A room with a swimming pool? Suites? Maybe. They had magic, they could do a bit better than no-majs. It wouldn't even cost anything, seriously.

Though, he thought, schools are all the same. No matter what world or place-in-between. 

He followed his brother and Ginny like a loyal duckling and noted absentmindedly that Fred and George had split apart to join their own friends and Ron and Hermione were off to some meeting.

The compartment they eventually chose was occupied by only two other people, who gladly allowed them to sit with them. 

Just as Danny was about to sit down, the pudgy looking boy holding some cactus started gaping between him and Harry 

"Woah, mate, what? You have a doppelgänger? I- what? And your eyes, you're not wearing glasses."

Harry gave the boy an honest smile and tucked Danny down next to him, he gestured at the halfa 

"This is Danny. He is my thought-to-have-died twin. Turns out that our parents wanted to bring us to safety but only managed to bring him away before Voldemort showed up."

The twins both ignored the flinch the boy gave at the name. 

"And I bought a potion to get rid of the glasses indefinitely. I never knew you're supposed to be able to see so clearly." Harry shook his head and gingerly touched his eyes in silent wonder. 

However, the brunette nodded in understanding and then turned and smiled at Danny and held his hand out, leaning a bit forward 

"It is nice to meet you, Danny. I'm Neville Longbottom and a Gryffindor."

"Nice to meet you!" Danny responded while enthusiastically shaking Neville's hand "I'm also in Gryffindor."

"That's great!" the other boy said excitedly and shook his hand out, looking a bit bewildered "You're very cold Danny. Are you feeling okay?"

The half ghost waved him off with a small smirk "No worries. My hands are always cold."

He looked over to the younger girl with long blond white hair and weird looking glasses sitting on her nose. The girl was in a quiet conversation with Ginny and looked up to meet his gaze dreamily

"Hi," she said with a soft voice "I'm Luna Lovegood, a Ravenclaw."

"She's in my year, which is why I know her already." Ginny piped in and gestured to the other girl who was giggling at that.

"Hi Luna, nice to meet you."

Harry nodded in agreement and the three smiled at each other. 

Luna turned to take Harry in and worriedly began talking "You have to be careful, Harry. There are many Nargles surrounding you. They could get into your head and that would hurt a lot."

The boy blinked confused but waved his hand around his head to make sure there weren't any invisible beings swirling around him. He threw Danny a questioning glance but his twin just shook his head. At least there were no ghosts here. 

"I'll... keep that in mind, Luna." He stated carefully but felt better when he received a warm smile in return 

"That's all I can ask. Nargles are nasty little things. They tell you what you're most afraid of to hear until they drive you crazy."

Neville looked a little sick at that and Ginny just seemed to accept the talk as simple talk of a slightly weird girl but Danny furrowed his brows

"I've never heard of the term Nargles so far. Are they invisible?"

Luna blinked at him "No," she said and pointed at a place next to Harry's head "they're right there. There are a lot of beings flying, jumping and crawling around, you know. Neville has a lot of Minglets on his chest and Ginny's left hand has a few Thunkers. They are not bad," she added quickly as Ginny looked down at her hand in mild disgust

"They mostly help when people get injured. Have you had an injury there?"

"...yes, actually. I cut my hand a few days ago while scrubbing a piano."

Neville perked up "A piano? Does anyone in your family play?"

The three who knew about the Order stilled and Ginny coughed in embarrassment "No but it was a good project for the summer, you know?"

"Of course!" Neville beamed and then pointed at his plant "I also had a little project during the summer. This is a Mimbulus Mimbletonia- it is a very rare plant, so I am taking special care of it."

"What do the boil thingies do?" Ginny asked as she reached out a hand to prod it. Neville held it out of her reach

"If you touch them, it will squirt Stinksap. It's not poisonous but as the name suggests it's rather unpleasant for the nose. We learned that in third year?"

Ginny and Harry both blinked and Danny vaguely remembered skimming over the plant and its properties two weeks ago. The three shrugged and Luna consolingly patted Neville's shoulder, when the Herbology prodigy realised once more that he was the only plant enthusiast.

The five teenagers relaxed into their seats, keeping a wary distance from the plant and Neville came back to the most recent topic 

"Harry, do you know about the press taking your name through the mud?"

"Yes? Hard not to when you even have to go to a hearing. It got publicised, didn't it?"

The brunette flushed "Oh, yes of course. Sorry. I just wanted to tell you that I believe You-Know-Who is back. A-and if you need anything, I'll gladly help!"

Harry's face softened and he ran a hand through his messy hair "Thank you, Neville. It's good to know that I have friends I can count on. Who knows, maybe we can throw that mimble plant at him.

"He was defeated by a baby, the next step would be a plant."

The others laughed at that and Neville offered shyly "Maybe. Like I said, anything. Even grangran is with you in this. 'The ministry is behaving more intolerable than back when they argued about witches' rights' she said." 

He paused and looked quickly between the twins "So, how did you meet? If I may ask, of course."

Danny shrugged and took over "No probs. I was raised by a friend of Lily's and live in the US. I'm legally adopted by the Fenton family and didn't know about my status as a wizard up until one and a half months ago. Dumblegore and Snape came to visit and a few days later I stayed at some guy's house."

"So you'll be in first year?"

"Nope. I'm joining you guys. I only want to do my OWLs and then I'll be back in Amity and finish high school. It'll be like a year abroad."

Neville's eyes were huge "But how do you know about everything we've learned so far? How will you keep up?" 

Harry grinned into his hand and Danny smiled proudly "I've got a very good memory and passed all my teachers' tests that allow me to join fifth year."

Both Neville and Luna were now looking at him in amazement. Neville mouthed something along the lines of 'in six weeks?' And Luna seemed very interested in his person now. She squinted her eyes and took her glasses off before leaning her head to the side in silent wonder

"I haven't realised it before but the Gango butterfly keeps disappearing. That never happened before. You're very weird, Danny."

Danny just blinked "The gango butterfly?"

"Yes. It flys around every living being. It only disappears when the being dies. I don't know what it means that your butterfly flutters in and out of existence. But I think you should be careful."

"Of course, thanks Luna." He said quickly before swallowing harshly. This girl could be the death of him (ha!). Who knew wixen folk could be so weird and special? 

Okay, having magic in and of itself was already damn special. 

The inhabitants started talking about benign stuff- things about Hogwarts that Danny couldn't understand yet, which allowed him to watch the changing scenery.

It was very peaceful, so of course it had to get interrupted by the compartment door being thrown open rudely. 

The boy with platinum blond hair poked his head in, his eyes gleaming for a second when they fixed on Harry and a smirk spread on his face

"If it isn't Potter. I was rather surprised to not see you at the prefects' meeting. But on second thought, it's probably better a lawbreaker like you isn't entrusted with such an important job."

Harry was shaking in silent anger "Why, you-"

"Who're you?" Danny threw in when it looked like Harry would jump up to strangle the boy. He locked eyes with the asshole and couldn't quite hide his grin when the teen paled.

His eyes flew from Danny to Harry "Huh?" Was all he could say which allowed Harry to calm down and now enjoy the situation 

"I think it's impolite to ignore a question."

Platinum sneered but he was still pale when he answered "I am Malfoy. Draco Malfoy. Heir to the most Ancient and Noble House of Malfoy. In Slytherin." 

The kid was holding himself as if that was something special. 

Danny coughed into his fist and stood up, offering Malfoy, Draco Malfoy, his other hand

"I am Fenton-Potter. Danny Fenton-Potter. Heir to the most Ancient House of Potter. A Gryffindor." 

Malfoy glared at him and at the hand as if it was personally offending him. He looked over to Harry

"What is this? A joke? I was under the impression that you would inherit the position. And that you're the only member left alive."

He looked back at Danny and sneered

"I've never heard of a Danny Potter."

Harry just shrugged while Danny awkwardly put his hand back 

"Yup, he's my twin. Couldn't you tell? Turns out I'm the heir to the Blacks and not Potters, since Danny is older."

Malfoy sputtered in shock at that information "Who made you the heir of Black? We are a thoroughly dark family. You're more than light! You're the 'Golden Boy'."

"Our family? Oh right. Your mom is Sirius' cousin, right? Well, since Sirius is the Lord and I'm his heir, I'm also the heir of the House of Black." 

The poor kid staggered back "That's impossible. Someone like you... wait till my father hears about this." 

And just like that the terrorhatredfear returned and Danny's legs almost buckled under these intense emotions

Harry was now standing right in front of Malfoy, their noses almost touching. Even Platinum Hair was showing signs of fear

"Don't ever bring your father into any conversation with me ever again. That mindless prick can go die for all I care. He's an asshole who enjoys watching children getting tortured, yet is spineless enough to run back to his master the minute He calls. If I were you, I wouldn't be proud about someone like that."

"How dare you-"

"Shut. Up. And leave. Now, Malfoy. Or I swear to the Ancients, your pretty face will have quite the blemishes."

Without another word but a look that could kill, the boy turned around and left, shoving two bulky looking teens to side. 

Harry sighed in relief and allowed Danny's calming emotions to wash over him. 

As the Boy-Who-Lived turned around, he was met with incredulous and awed gazes 

"That was amazing, Harry. Malfoy didn't even know how to respond!" Ginny excitedly chimed up.

Neville worried his lip "Are you okay? Did Lord Malfoy really laugh at you getting tortured?" 

"Yes. I'm fine," Harry sighed "it just irks me that Malfoy would hold such filth in high regard."

Their newest friend nodded sagely "Understandable, Harry."

"Thanks Luna."

They settled all back down and sat in awkward silence. Danny began tapping his leg with his fingers and Luna continued to read her magazine upside down. Ginny was trying to solve a Rubik's cube and Neville petted his plant, carefully not looking at Harry who was trying to meditate a little.

Fortunately, it was actually helping. He could feel himself getting calmer as he imagined his mind palace- or rather mind room, for now. Danny had told him that it took time to create an actual castle. As long as he had a room just for himself for now, it would suffice. 

With his eyes closed and his concentration elsewhere, he didn't hear Ron and Hermione carefully entering.

When the two saw the other occupants they waved awkwardly. Fortunately, there was still space and so the two sat down on the bench with Neville and Luna, while Ginny, Harry and Danny sat opposite them. 

They began to catch up with Neville, Hermione asking questions about his plants and Ron trying to start a conversation about the Hogwarts feast that evening. 

Harry was still in his meditative state and Danny ignored everyone else, continuing to watch the scenery. 

When the trolley witch arrived, no one was interested in sweets or snacks. Ron still had a few biscuits from the last day and the rest wasn't hungry. 

Danny was brought out of his thoughts when his phone vibrated. He quickly took it out and smiled at Neville and Luna who were looking at his gadget curiously. 

He read the new messages from his friends who had started a conversation about the pros and cons of having magic. The funny thing was, that they both agreed to the same points but tried to one up the other by bringing forth better arguments.

Danny: You know, if you need professional advice, how about asking your resident ghost wizard?

Tuck: what a genius ideA. It's not like Sam and I aren't sitting next to each other rn

Sam: Shut it, Tuck. 

Sorry Danny. We wanted to include you, since you're prob bored right now. So: having magic= top or flop?

Danny: Definitely top. There is just so much to see and do. It's amazing. Unfortunately, most wixen are too used to magic. If we'd fuse magic and technology we could do so much more! Imagine magically flying planes. Plane crashes would become basically nonexistent. Or diseases. With magic and science we could help so many people!

Tuck: sounding dangerously like a fanatic, dude (but cool idea. Tech and magic? Awesome, man)

Sam: ^ what he said. Did they brainwash you? Need help?

Danny smiled at their concern and continued to spend the next few hours chatting with them. 

In between, he and Sam and he and Tuck sent a few private messages to each other. 

He missed them. He missed his best friend and girlfriend. He missed his parents and even the other ghosts. 

That reminded him, he had to find a way to travel through England without anyone at Hogwarts noticing that he's missing. Sure, he could easily use his ghost portals but it would still take time to take patrols. 

Oh well. That's a problem for future Danny. 

After what felt like way too long and Harry now deeply slumbering, students began changing into their uniforms and Danny was forced to wear his as well. At least they weren't as ugly as the ones Vlad had forced them to wear a couple months ago. 

That had been the worst week in his half life. And he'd had to fight the former Ghost King. 

He quickly sent his friends and parents a picture of him in his uniform and while Jack and Maddie were cooing over it, Sam and Tucker were laughing their asses off. 

Harry was still groggy when they stepped onto Hogsmead Station and blearily followed his friends. Danny was sporting an amused smile and halted when they arrived at the carriages that would bring them to Hogwarts. 

The twins stared in awe at the leathery and black skeleton like pegasi that were standing in front of the carriages. 

They both went to hold their hands out to pet them and were surprised when the horses actually nuzzled their palms. 

"Harry? Danny? What are you doing?" 

The brothers looked over to Hermione who was standing in front of the carriage's entrance incredulously. Neville, Ron and Ginny were already seated but also looked curiously at the raven heads. 

They both furrowed their brows "Er... petting the horses?" 

"What horses? The carriages fly on their own. You know that. Come on now."

With one last glance at the horses, the twins entered after Luna who smiled at the two

"Don't worry, I can see them too. You're just as sane as I am"

That would have been a helpful statement if it weren't for the magazine that Luna was still reading upside down and the interesting conversations they had on the train.

The twins gave each other a look, but since the two of them were able to see the horses, they knew they were probably real. And who knew, maybe all those weird fantastic beasts Luna had told them about could only be seen by her and actually existed.

The flight to Hogwarts was awkward since the Golden Trio were trying to not stare at each other, making the atmosphere feel uncomfortable and all conversations were awkwardly halted before they could even truly begin. 

Danny spent his time turning just his pinky intangible and then tangible again. It was a good way to keep his focus and relax. 

Then Ginny shoved his shoulder and pointed forwards. Danny felt his eyes widen in excitement. Hogwarts was beautiful. The star filled night sky was lighting up the castle and the moon was shining onto the lake close by. It looked magical and Danny couldn't believe he would live in this building for a year. 

Sure, he had visited the King's Keep several times but that building was more eerie than magical. And don't even mention Vlad's stupid castle/mansion. That was just a building to show off. Hogwarts was a castle to intimidate and be an eye candy. 

He could feel the powerful wards washing over him and shivered as they came to a halt. 

The halfa followed the others and kept looking around, wide eyed, trying to soak up as much as possible. Fortunately, Danny remembered to take pictures and couldn't quite shake the feeling that he was behaving like a tourist. 

On the whole way he could feel Harry's cackling amusement. Danny promised himself then and there that he would take Harry to the ghost zone soon to show off his realm. They'd have to figure out Harry's role as a prince at some point anyways. 

Since the way up to Hogwarts was only barely illuminated, the other students didn't notice two Harry's walking side by side. Even as they entered through the heavy and imposing doors, their eyes being flooded by warm candle light, was everyone too focused on going to the Great Hall to notice the twins.

For the first time, Harry worried about what people would say when they saw Danny. He hoped his brother would be welcomed here and would have a nice year at Hogwarts. Harry would have to try his hardest to ensure Danny had a positive experience here. 

He himself already had a feeling that his fifth year wouldn't go smoothly- like every single year so far but maybe at least Danny could have a good year. 

They entered the Great Hall and Harry gently guided his twin to the Gryffindor table, smiling at Danny's obvious awe. Especially when he saw the enchanted ceiling. 

As they sat down, Harry noticed most other students avoided his space, looking everywhere but at him. The Boy-Who-Lived couldn't help but roll his eyes. Whatever, what did he care about people he barely even knew? It did hurt when even his year mates didn't look at him after he greeted them, only turning their heads away.

Instead of getting worked up over it, he looked up to the teachers table and found none other than that annoying ministry worker sitting in the chair of the Defense Professor. Oh oh. 

The toad like woman was smiling thinly and looking at all the different students, while quietly pouring herself tea. 

Harry took a shuddering breath and could only imagine what this meant- another Defense teacher who would want to kill him? Was she here because of him? She was definitely going to ruin his reputation, or at least what was left of it. 

His magic was buzzing around him in annoyance, why couldn't he have one year without having to worry about his teachers and their intentions? That woman smelled and looked like danger but he'd be damned if he'd just play along. 

He would make the best of this year and a pink toad won't be able to stop him.

A sharp pain racing through his scar made him groan and slap his hand against the lightning bolt. He ignored the worried glances from his friends and brother and scratched irritatedly at his cursed scar. Wishing he could scratch the pain and Voldemort away. Why now, of all times? The last few weeks had been rather relaxing on that front and all of a sudden Voldemort's anger was once again ruining his daily life. Though it wasn't anger, per se. 

It was more like begrudging satisfaction and greed. Merlin, couldn't the madman just stop! 

He suddenly felt Danny's hand closing over his own and saw his eyes flash green for a second. The pain came to an abrupt stop and Harry breathed a sigh of relief. He looked at Danny and silently thanked him. 

His twin returned his smile, albeit it looking very worried. 

Danny himself had to concentrate really hard to focus his ghostly aura only on Harry's scar. He couldn't hold it up for too long, since it was very taxing but he hoped that when he inevitably lost his hold on his target, the pain would be gone already. 

He hated feeling and seeing Harry suffer like this. It hadn't happened that often yet but when he kept his ghostly part locked away deep inside him, it meant magic could roam freely again and everyone around him wasn't protected by his natural ectoplasm anymore. 

He watched with mild interest when the first years were lead inside and cringed when the hat began to sing. What in Pandora's name? At least it told everyone to unite, even though it was off key. 

He cheered along his new 'housemates' everytime a Gryffindor was chosen and clapped for every other student, a bit stumped when he was the only one clapping for Slytherins on his table. Harry was spaced off, so he was excused but the others? 

Danny shrugged it off, hoping it was normal behaviour and continued clapping for everyone. The looks he got were quite amusing, since no one looked at him long enough to realise that he wasn't Harry Potter. 

Eventually, the Principal began his speech and introduced 'Dolores Umbridge' who promptly interrupted him and went on a tangent praising the Ministry and basically telling everyone that the Ministry was now meddling with Hogwarts. Wonderful, Danny thought sarcastically, exchanging worried and annoyed looks with Harry. The halfa had a bad feeling about this. 

Not to mention that he'd seen that toad at the hearing. She was definitely giving off bully vibes. Not to mention, she'd most definitely sent the Dementors. He could only pray she would leave his brother alone.

After her talk and Dungeon-lore telling everyone about rules that said that entering the Forbidden Forest was, well, forbidden, their eyes met and the old wizard smiled gently

"Before I wish you a wonderful welcoming feast, I would just like to introduce you to an international student, who will be joining us this school year."

He waved his arms towards Danny and said jovially 

"Everyone please welcome Daniel Potter, who will be in Gryffindor for his fifth year along with his twin, Harry Potter. Now tuck in!"

Nobody cared about the food suddenly appearing on the tables, the whole Hall went into an outrage and Danny felt hundreds of eyes on him and Harry. He waved at the hall in embarrassment and hoped Albus knew just what he'd done. 

At least Umbridge's look of utter horror and astonishment tasted like a victory. 

Without being able to catch a breath, Harry and Danny got swarmed by what seemed to be the entire student body. Students rained questions upon them and some Gryffindor shot pictures of the two, making them blink wildly. 

Harry was frozen and Danny didn't fare any better. Both of them disliked large crowds and attention being on them. Not that anyone worried about their personal space currently. 

The questions and demands were too much for them until Hermione couldn't take it anymore. She stood up and used a sonorous charm, making everyone look at her

"Now that I have your attention. Kindly return to your seats and eat. And to make it short: Harry has a twin, I sincerely hope all of you know what that is. Danny was raised in America by an adopted family and only recently learned about his relationship to Harry. He is now here to spend the year with his brother so the two of them can get to know each other better. 

"That's all you need to know. So, go back and stop asking questions."

Everyone slowly scattered and gave the new twin set of Hogwarts some much needed breathing space. Harry smiled thankfully at Hermione, which was instantly returned 

"I think I get it now, Harry. If it's alright with you, maybe we can talk later?" 

Harry just nodded, still slightly skittish from the last few minutes. Just what was Dumbledore thinking! He must have known what introducing Danny like that would mean. And what did the professors do while he and Danny got swarmed by hundreds of people? Nothing. 

He swallowed his frustration and reached for the salad close by. Like everything, the current excitement would ebb away soon enough. 

And hey, Hermione stood up for him. Like friends should, so maybe not all was bad. 

After the feast, he and Danny immediately went up to their dorm room and fell into their beds, utterly exhausted. They didn't even have the energy to ask Seamus why he looked so angry. They just rushed by and ignored everyone who wanted to ask questions or ogle the new Potter.

That night, neither of them dreamed but Harry saw and wished he hadn't. 

......................

Voldemort hissed in exhilaration when he saw the ghost entrapped by a binding ritual in his cellar. He had green fiery hair and a body that looked mechanically enhanced. 

As he got closer, the ghost growled and showed his fangs in a clear sign of aggression. 

Voldemort caressed his wand and looked back to his loyal Nagini, before focussing on his prey. 

"We can make this painful or quick. Whatever makes you feel better. Just know that I'm the strongest wizard there is and I would have no difficulties enslaving you. If you cooperate, I might let you go. Do we have a deal?"

The ghost growled in response but eventually nodded, not looking too happy 

"Very good," the dark Lord said patronisingly "now, let's start off easy: what is your name?"

His prey seemed to struggle with himself before biting out "I go by Skulker."

"Hm, Skulker? You may refer to me as 'my Lord'. What kind of ghost are you?"

"A dead one."

Voldemort hissed in annoyance "Serious answers only. Trust me, I can and will find away to hurt you if you don't cooperate, Skulker ." 

"Tch, that's not what I meant. I am a 're-born' ghost. Someone who used to be human but died."

"So you mean to tell me there are ghosts that haven't died?" 

"...yes."

Voldemort cocked his head to the side, excitement flittering through him

"Is this 'Phantom' one of those ghosts?"

The wizard smirked when the ghost's expression grew surprised 

"I'd like an answer, Skulker."

"No, the whelp is a simple ghost like me." 

Voldemort leaned forward and blinked at his prisoner 

"I think there is more to it. We have all the time in the world, so there is no rush. How about you tell me everything you know about ghosts and especially this 'Phantom'?" 

Skulker couldn't help but curse the day he fell for a wizard trap.