The train arrived at Hogwarts station with a whoosh of steam. Nearly all the kids disembarked with joy, each hurrying to their respective coaches. Some walked leisurely past, others ran. A crowd of young students huddled together next to a very large man. Harry stopped next to Willow, "That's Hagrid" He said. "He takes the newbies across the lake." He paused, for effect, "There's a giant octopus in there you know".
Willow stared across the lake. She sent her senses diving down and discovered that the octopus was the least of what was down there. "I think I might go across the lake, seeing as technically I am a newbie" She grinned down at Harry, "Introduce me to Hagrid".
The two walked up to Hagrid, leaving the Weasleys and Hermione with the luggage. The large man turned around and beamed down at Harry. "Harry lad, good to see you back. Lots of exciting things this term" He bent down and whispered (his whisper was like a rumble of thunder) "No monsters this time though, ay Harry" And chortled. Willow had never actually heard someone chortle but she assumed that's what this was.
She nudged Harry. "Oh, erhm yes, Hagrid, this is the new defence against the dark arts teacher, Willow." He pushed Willow forward while saying this. "Hopefully she'll last a bit longer than the last few."
Hagrid turned his beaming smile on her and clapped her back in what she supposed was a friendly way. "Ho, you're coming across the lake then," He queried.
"Oh yes" Willow agreed, "The Merfolk want to say hi."
Both of her companions looked at her, stunned expressions on their faces. "You know about the Merfolk?" Hagrid asked.
Willow looked up at him, smiling shyly. "I sent my senses out and down. They felt the reverberations and sent a reply".
"Oh Harry, lad, I don't think we have to worry about her lasting, she's a natural she is. No need for a wand, seen something similar a few times myself." He rubbed his belly then continued; "Right we'd best be off before any bad weather sets in. We'll see you back at the School Harry, safe there".
The trip across the first half of the lake was uneventful. The children were awed by the apparent depth of the water, and the overwhelming size of their guide. Willow peered ahead into the murky darkness, sending her senses before her. "Ah", she exclaimed, causing Hagrid to turn around an jostle the boat, "Here they come." Again the half giant turned, rocking the boat dangerously. Several of the young wards were turning green and clinging on for dear life.
Out of the water came several odd looking people. A gasp could be heard from the other boats as they swam towards the boat containing Willow. "Ah, little tree", they intoned, "It is well you have come, danger is lurking and swimming at your tail." They stopped in front of the boat and the leader swam a little further. "My child, beware those who swim in foreign waters, trust only those whose soul you can see, and remember, you're tree will guard you, should you wish it. It stands alone and will obey you." He paused and looked around before beckoning her forward, closer, "He who is not named is looking for you, but your heart belongs with one other alone, may you recognise the dangers and open your soul to those that need it." With that he dove back down into the depths, closely followed by his followers.
Willow stepped back, "Well that was interesting" she mumbled. "Better watch my back here." She decided to test the warning given and stare at Hagrid. Almost immediately she discerned his soul, almost blinding in comparison to his dark and wild appearance. She smiled "We're almost there." Hagrid nodded, a little bit dumbfounded by what had happened. The children were even more awestruck now. It was rare to see the merfolk. Even rarer to do so on ones first night at Hogwarts.