"You wanted to see me?"

Danny looked up from his office desk. Before him stood Draco Malfoy himself, looking angry and displeased to come visit the professor. The room was... surprisingly bland. Fenton obviously preferred to keep his things in the bedroom. Aside from the books needed for teaching and pieces of parchment there wasn't much to see. Draco noticed that the professor was not his usual upbeat self, but that his look was now serious, peering right into the not-so-diligent student. But, at the same time, he wasn't near the levels of intimidation McGonagall or Snape had. Sighing, Fenton spoke up, gesturing at a chair in front of him.

"Yes, Mr. Malfoy. Sit down."

As Danny was finishing scribbling something on the parchment, Draco landed on the chair. Fenton put the list away and turned to his visitor.

"I have been told that you are not taking your responsibility diligently."

"Skip the pleasantries," Draco huffed and crossed his hands. "I need to go back to the dorm."

Fenton sighed, "Keep talking like that, and I may just go against your wish," he muttered, skipping the pleasantries as he was told. "I want to talk about Longbottom."

"Obviously. And I don't wish to involve myself with that fool. Whether I do it or not, he still can't hope to reach an acceptable level."

"He almost did it just a couple of hours ago, Malfoy," Danny interrupted dryly. "Granted, his aim could be better. But you are obviously mistaken."

"Well, I am not the teacher here."

"I haven't had this job for long now, have I?"

"Yes, why do you have it?"

"Now that was uncalled for," said Danny dramatically. "I know plenty about Dark Arts, Draco. That's all that I need for the job — I never once was beaten in a fight. But right now we are talking about you. And your refusal to do your homework."

"This is a chore that you dumped on us. Not a homework."

"One learns best when they are teaching. It is to benefit you all in the end. I've seen that you will be taking O.W.L. on my subject. So I am naturally concerned."

"I will be fine without Longbottom dragging me down."

"I have been warned that you two are far from being best friends," Danny admitted. "Why so?"

"Being a councillor is Professor Snape's job."

"I'll have you know that my sister taught me a lot of smart words to fit this role. Besides, he has obviously performed a poor job so far."

"What's that supposed to mean?" Asked Draco, sounding insulted.

"That you are being awfully inconsiderate and selfish. But you are not here to hear an hour long lecture. In fact, I would rather use another approach. Are you sure that you are not going to help Neville? I have already done most of the job."

"No, I am not going to waste my time when I can do something more useful even for this subject."

Danny clicked his tongue. "We will have time to learn the reasoning," he said, taking note of the sudden concern in the boy's expression. "I can't have you do nothing while others work their sweat, now can I? And I have something for you to do instead."

"Am I going to write lines? I'll let you know, my father won't stand for this."

"And I'll let you know, Mr. Malfoy, that you can't scare a nobody. I don't have any life to ruin. AND avoiding homework is something that generally lands you in bad kids' corner. You knew it perfectly well and I gave you the second chance. Which you chose to dump. You are going to write an essay for me."

"On what topic?"

"I ask for a two feet-long essay on why exactly you refused your job. The language used is to your discretion."

"T-two feet?!" Stuttered Malfoy, so unbecomingly surprised. "This is outrageous!"

"Are you saying that you can't do that?" Fenton smirked, playing the violin named pride.

"I can, but is that the task a teacher is supposed to give? I would expect an essay on why it was wrong or something akin to that."

"Is what you are doing wrong?"

"No, it is not."

"Then the problem is nonexistent," responded Fenton with satisfaction in his voice. "We both know that such kind of an essay would have been disingenuous. This one, however, I'm expecting to be most interesting. You have two weeks from now, Draco, present it to me by then. If you fail, then you will have to miss out on Quidditch. And we both won't like that. There is no way of escaping the punishment."

"Aren't other teachers going to question your plans?"

"Oh, they absolutely will. Umbridge will be fuming once more and I, frankly, do not care."

"She is the High Inquisitor. She can fire you. I won't stand by either, because my father will hear about this."

"I heard you the first time," Danny sighed. "I'm here for one year. By its end or during the summer something might just happen so that I won't be able to continue. Apart from that I am a jobless and miserable bum."

"Are you trying to make me pity you?"

"Of course not. You are hardly the person to give me any. I'm saying that it won't be worth the sweat, especially since you have plenty of stuff to worry about as it is. There is a goal behind this essay, Malfoy."

"You are beating around the bush, professor."

"I know. If I tell you the goals and methods behind this then it simply won't work. On another note, Quidditch tryouts are soon, huh?"

"This Thursday," Draco said, disgruntled. "We need to replace some players that have graduated last year. They both were our beaters."

"I heard of it. You are a seeker for your house, right?"

"You are awfully nosy, professor."

"I prefer the word 'prepared'. You haven't answered. If I were to give you detentions, Quidditch would greatly affect the date. Leaving a team without a seeker would just be unfair. So. Are you?"

"Yes, I am a seeker."

"Are you good?"

"Of course I am! I've got the skill, our team's got the best brooms there are and our team is not some bunch of useless knuckleheads."

"I'm afraid to imagine who you imply. Although I have an idea. So, you fancy anyone for those spots? I know you are not a captain, but..."

"We could use brawn. Crabbe and Goyle are not bright in the slightest, but they can hit a bludger hard enough. I already told our captain, and I am certain he will accept. My father gives us the equipment, of course he will."

Everyone had a button that made them more pleasant to talk with. In case of Malfoy, not so much. Still, Danny maintained his friendly expression.

"Well, I may just come to look. Is it worth the time?"

"The tryouts? No. Mostly it will just be a bunch of hopefuls failing miserably. The novelty wears off fast."

"I see. Well, off you go now, don't forget the essay, Mr. Malfoy," Danny gave a pleasant smile and waved, "Anything else?"

"No, I think I will go," Draco said and rose to his feet.

And he didn't say goodbye as he left. Despite the bratty behaviour, Danny paid it no heed. Sure, the boy was just as those Gryffindor kids said, reminding the young man of his own blonde menace back in school. But he was not a person to project his past grievances and treat Malfoy the way he would use on Baxter. He wanted to, but that would mean being like the least likeable teachers he had met. Draco got his deserved punishment and that was enough. That was a very wise excuse for giving an essay. That way Danny had much less work. Cackling gleefully, Danny got up. It didn't mean that he did not have a plan, but it was probably not as detailed as he would present it to others.

It WAS largely about trying to appear competent while he didn't have any teaching experience. The teaching plan was largely a composition of what he remembered from Ilvermony, how the teachers taught there, and his own personal home reading and past knowledge. Danny also spent the first periods of school not just dawdling, but invisibly observing his colleagues. Lessons by Flitwick and Snape, the total opposites, allowed him to draw a middle path he was willing to take. Adapting was what he did best.

When Saturday rolled around, Danny was a bit at a loss about what to do. It wasn't time yet to chaperone trips to Hogsmeade, and thus he was a bit at a loss about what to do on that day. His work was mostly done, the rest could be done any time of the weekend. After another failure on Friday Danny was also discouraged from doing the experiments for a while. Without getting up from bed, he gave a glance at his desk, at a small beaker that was still smoking just a bit. His head, topped by messy raven hair, rested on a soft pillow, and he was extremely tempted to just go back to sleep while the sun was still barely above the horizon. Danny stared at the wooden ceiling, and finally decided to get up. He couldn't sleep, even if he wanted. He had got used to waking up multiple times in the middle of the night and before the morning birds began their songs.

So, his first week as a teacher had gone by, Danny thought as he put on a black sweater. He had expected this job to be harder, if he was honest. Sure, it had its downsides, with all the homework he had to check, but he had his ways around it, too. The young professor yawned and was about to exit his room. But then, he stopped himself, seeing it just slightly open. While he always locked the doors for the night.

"Strike first while the enemy is unprepared," he muttered, swinging his palm.

The door opened, and a bucket full of water fell on the ground. Shaking his head, Danny exited, his ice-blue eyes soon falling on the twins hiding around the corner.

"That's the oldest trick in the book, you two!" Shouted Danny almost scoldingly. "Isn't this a violation?"

"We haven't entered your room!"

"We just opened the door!"

Danny smirked, before suddenly the water sunk into the ground. As far as he was aware, there was only an empty classroom beneath.

"Just go have breakfast," he called and turned to leave, closing the door of his room. "Although now is probably not the time... I guess I will go for a walk."

And as he was saying it, his voice was reducing to the level of a whisper. The twins looked at each other and shrugged. Their teacher was odd, they had noticed him thinking aloud before. Danny gave them a wave and went off.

"He still isn't making any noise. Doesn't that creep you out?"

"It sure does. But that ain't gonna stop us. Take out your list, brother, we have two long days ahead of us."

The young professor caught their whispers just fine. Woe to those who didn't know about his heightened senses. Danny fixed the high collar of his sweater and continued his travel through the halls of Hogwarts. He reasoned that a stroll near the woods and the lake was a nice start of the day, however grim the weather may be. Going through one of the corridors, however, he noticed a gust of air escaping his mouth. It was getting quite irritating with how many ghosts there were here. It's not like he could turn that radar off at a whim. It was just his heart replacement of a core being agitated. Soon after, Sir Nicholas emerged from one of the walls, his eyes lighting up as he saw the professor.

"Ah, Daniel! Just the person I need."

"Good morning to you too, Nicholas," deadpanned Danny.

"Oh, where are my manners. I apologise, good morning to you too," he gave a light bow, "We have a problem, you see. Peeves wants to prank the next person to walk down the Paracelsus corridor. To actually drop a statue on someone..." he muttered angrily. "I was thinking about getting Baron, but you can do it just fine, too. If you will, of course. Oh, good morning, Harry!"

Danny blinked and turned where Nick was looking. Truthfully enough, the fate had decided to bring them together this morning. He also noticed Harry stuff something resembling a letter in his pocket at the last moment.

"Good morning, Nick," he called back, once he regained the composure. "You too, professor."

Danny responded with a wave. "Alright, Nicholas. I'll talk to Peeves. He really ought to know some bounds."

Harry stared at him with a slight bewilderment. "You can stop him?"

Not even Snape was able to put a stop to Peeve's pranking spree. Yes, Fenton taught DADA, but what could he do what Snape, a former Death Eater, could not?

"I have an approach to poltergeists, yes. Spectres are my bread and butter. But I expect that I won't need to do anything special. So, what are you doing here this early in the morning, Harry?"

"Oh, I was just..."

"Ooh, is that a love letter?" Danny grinned and leaned closer.

"No, sir. I mean... yes."

He didn't sound convincing at all. Luckily, the professor didn't press. Their conversation came to a halt when from the corner emerged a very angry-looking Filch, with his hellish cat right at his heels, Mrs. Norris's crimson eyes peering into Danny's ice blue ones.

"Stop right there, you brat!" He barked.

"I'm not going anywhere," Danny said and put his hands in his pockets.

"I wasn't talking to you. Potter! I've had a tip-off that you were about to place a massive order of Dungbombs."

"What? Who told you that?"

"I have my sources," the caretaker hissed, "Now hand that letter over."

Danny glanced and noticed a look of confusion on the teen's face. So genuine, in fact, that something obviously was wrong.

"I'm sure there was a misunderstanding," the professor said. "Harry was just bringing the list of people to me."

"A list?" Filch narrowed his eyes.

"Yes, I was actually curious if there is anyone willing to participate in the duelling club. So I had Harry ask around his house first and make a list of those willing. Do you have it, Harry?"

"Oh, I..."

So lost in the moment, without thinking, Harry took the envelope from his pocket, which Danny quickly took. Only then did the boy realise his grave mistake, and barely kept the normal expression. Do not panic, he told himself several times. And, luckily, neither Danny, nor Filch actually paid enough attention to the address written on the yellowish envelope.

"Ah, very good. I'll take a look at it when I can, Harry. Any more questions, Argus?"

Filch glared daggers at the young professor. "If I catch a sniff of a Dungbomb, I'll complain to Dumbledore about your involvement, too."

"There are many sources of Dungbombs," Danny called after the departing caretaker. "Make sure you learn where they came from before making assumptions."

Once Filch and his feline companion left, the professor turned to the teen, seeming a bit more serious.

"Are you actually sending an order for Dungbombs?" Asked Danny, waving the letter.

"No sir. I don't know who told Filch about this stuff."

"I'll take your word for that, Harry. Don't make me regret it. I love pranks, but I will not allow such violations."

He gave the letter back to the boy, who clearly appreciated the professor's gesture.

"So, about that Peeves issue, Nicholas..."

"Ah, yes. Follow me, Daniel."

"Professor," Harry spoke up. "Can I come too?"

Danny raised an eyebrow at the suddenly displayed curiosity, "It's gonna be a simple talk, Harry. You missed the best part already."

"Still, I would really like to see it."

The professor shrugged and waved for the teen to follow. Nick seemed perplexed at the prospect, but if Danny had no problems with letting Potter come along, neither did he. They passed several corridors, and then came near a statue of the medieval wizard. Keeping a considerable distance at first, Danny was the one to step forward, knowing about the trap that was set. However, as he was near a statue, it did not bulge, despite what Peeves's plan entailed. That led to a very logical conclusion, and Danny didn't hesitate to voice it.

"Peeves, come out, please," he said, sounding awfully menacing with how seemingly nonchalant he was.

Immediately a small, floating man in a jester outfit emerged through the iron suit, and Harry never saw the annoying poltergeist look so humble.

"Heey, boyo," he greeted carefully. "What brings you here?"

"What do you think? Your newest ingenuity."

"Why, I am happy that... wait, are you mocking me?"

"I do," Danny smirked. "Cut it out, Peeves, this one can actually hurt somebody."

"Come now, Phantom, they can heal broken bones overnight here."

Harry blinked. Why did Peeves call Danny that of all things? Was it some sort of a nickname? If so, then it probably had some ground to stand on.

"That's true. But people generally don't like being knocked out by heavy pieces of metal. AND they can die before they are taken to a ward. Have some restraint, Peeves, or it is thermos time for you."

Harry didn't know what in the world Danny implied, but it was enough to make Peeves backtrack in the air.

"No! Anything but that!" He waved his arms frantically. "I got it the first time."

"Wonderful. Go now, I'm not stopping you from harmless entertainment."

Peeves beamed again, "I see now. Oh well, guess we will just float around in search of where to put the glue and glitter."

"If you put it in Umbridge's office I won't say anything," Danny smirked again, before Peeves flew off, snickering in anticipation.

The professor turned back to his companions. "Well, this part is out of the way."

"You could have told him to stop completely," Nick said, sounding disappointed. Danny in response raised his finger.

"A ghost's obsession must not be denied. Best we can do is to direct it."

Harry suddenly realised that that was the approach Danny used with his students, too. His experience probably rubbed off on his methods with living beings.

"You are saying the truth, Daniel, and I'm glad to see that you are being as considerate as some say, but... I just hope that you can 'direct' it properly."

"There is always a harsher option. I'm going to have breakfast, you are free to join, Harry."

"Sorry, professor. I have a letter to send, remember?"

"Ah, okay then. See ya!"

Danny casually left, radiating the same carefree air around him, as if he didn't just tame the most uncontrollable being in Hogwarts. To be frank, Harry was in slight awe at how the man took care of everything so seemingly easy and cooly. And at the same time he was so approachable. It made him even slightly jealous.

"Nick, can I ask you a question?"

"Oh, certainly, go ahead, Harry."

"What was that name Peeves used?"

"What name?"

"Peeves called the professor "Phantom"."

"Oh, ehm... I promised to keep his secrets safe, Harry. It's just a nickname he has among our kind. Because he is very understanding of our problems. As if... he is one of us, dreadful as it sounds. And because he is so quiet and sneaky, the name also has its own irony."

"He really is famous with you guys, huh?"

"That he is. Even if opinions differ quite a lot. I'm afraid you will have to ask him about it."

-Linebreak-

To say that Danny was unsure of where to apply his free time was to say nothing. His warfare with the Weasleys was... one-sided for the time being, and amounted to basically rebutting their attempts. Fred and George were growing awfully frustrated that none of their tricks managed to affect the professor in any way. They mixed some nose-bleed nougat into his tea while the man was absent from the staff table. Thankfully it melted just fine. The result? When they came back to their own table and took a couple of sips from their goblets, their mouths suddenly caught on fire. Literally, with no actual harm, but still obliging to go to the Hospital wing. On their exit from the Great Hall they saw the professor giving them a wave. With that same creepy and devious grin on his face. The twins realised that Fenton had his own tricks, ones that were an unknown territory for them.

Danny's strategy was simple. It wasn't his goal to win. His goal was not to lose. Should he go on the offensive, it might just eventually force them to surrender. And the stimulus Danny had crafted would simply evaporate. Occasional response, the mockery, however, only intensified their desire to succeed. He was having fun as it was. With his powers it was incredibly simple to do anything he wanted without raising any suspicions. And to always be one step ahead. That's why the frootloop played on an even field with him. Vlad had both the cunning and the powers to assist him. Thankfully the cheesehead had stopped bothering him years ago. Danny actually wondered how he was doing now. Well, as long as he didn't interfere with his life, Danny cared relatively little.

And their contest did not go unnoticed, both among the students and among the staff. First, he was confronted by the biggest killjoy in the whole of Britain.

"Fenton."

Danny turned away from the wonderful panoramic view of the lake to face the Potions Professor.

"Yes, Severus? Do you need something?"

"I am here to address your questionable connivance."

The young man sighed and leaned his back over the railing. "Is it about the Weasleys? Don't worry so much, for the first time they are under control, I would say."

"I beg your pardon?"

"Unlike before, we know exactly who is going to be at the receiving end of their pranks. Instead of trying to extinguish their excitable flame we shall direct it," said Danny with all the dramatics he could muster. "With minimal casualties. Did Dumbledore send you or are you just that happy to pick the initiative?"

"Both," Snape sneered. "You must stop indulging their behaviour Fenton. For your own good."

"Oh, is it about Umbridge again? I'm doing all I can to teach the children, it's not her business what they do with their free time."

"On the contrary, Mr. Fenton."

That high and girlish voice could belong to only one person in that world. Umbridge joined them, wearing the same pink cardigan as always, as well as a toad-like grin on her face.

"Education is directly affected by children's spare time. And if they can't behave outside of the class, what are we to expect within it?"

"Obedience and respect, Dolores," Danny rebutted, "Something which they lack towards you."

"Fenton," Snape began.

"What? Certainly our High Inquisitor has her ears everywhere to know that."

Umbridge gave him a smile, but her eyes held nothing but contempt. "I am well informed about the mood of the kids, and your claim is detached from reality, Mr. Fenton. I won't intrude on your day any longer."

And with that she strolled away, the distance between her chubby legs minimal as she did.

"What an annoying toad," Danny muttered, before looking at Snape. The Potions master's lips became thin as he dug within his black robe. "What are you doing?"

"Take a read," responded Snape and handed him a folded newspaper.

"Jesus, what else do you keep there?" Danny muttered as he began reading the "Prophet".

"In a surprise move the Ministry of Magic passed new legislation giving itself an unprecedented level of control at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

'"The Minister has been growing uneasy about goings-on at Hogwarts for some time," said Junior Assistant to the Minister, Percy Weasley. "He is now responding to concerns, voiced by anxious parents, who feel the school may be moving in a direction they do not approve of."

"Educational Decree Number Twenty-two was passed, to ensure that, in the event of the current Headmaster being unable to provide a candidate for a teaching post, the Ministry should select an appropriate person.

'"However, there has been a last moment appointment," said Weasley last night. "Dumbledore couldn't find anyone so the Minister put in Umbridge, but instead he chose the candidacy of one twenty-year old Daniel Fenton. An enigma with no record in the Ministry has raised many concerns over the course. Thus, Miss Umbridge has been busy, providing the Minister with on-the-ground feedback about what's really happening at Hogwarts."

It is this last function that the Ministry formalised with the passing of Educational Decree Number Twenty-three back in summer, which created the new position of Hogwarts High Inquisitor.

'"This is an exciting new phase in the Minister's plan to get to grips with what some are calling the falling standards at Hogwarts," said Weasley. "The choice of candidacies for Defence against Dark Arts has been controversial so far. Among those eccentric decisions are undoubtedly the controversial staff appointments previously described in this newspaper, which have included the employment of werewolf Remus Lupin, half-giant Rubeus Hagrid and delusional ex-Auror, "Mad-Eye" Moody. We have asked Miss Umbridge on what the current teacher is like'

'"It is both with great concern and relief that I have observed the young man's teaching methods. It is undeniable that for his age Mr. Fenton is a wizard with enough knowledge on the subject of his expertise...'

"Are you sure Umbridge said this?" Danny asked incredulously.

'However, his lacklustre discipline is also very worrying. His teaching methods involve letting children practice the spells outside of the classes and directly putting them up against each other with no regards for safety. Mr. Fenton also chose to ignore the professional recommendations in favour of his own program. His heavy accent on fighting spells, too, raises concerns already prevalent in the Ministry.'

"Ah, no. There she goes."

'Not to mention his lack of manners and restraint, unbecoming of a teacher and more fitting for adolescents he is meant to teach. This man, whose past is covered in shadows, whose teaching is very controversial, shall be closely observed in order to protect the children from incompetent teacher"'

'Rumours abound, of course, that Albus Dumbledore, once Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards and Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, is no longer up to the task of managing the prestigious school of Hogwarts.

'Wizengamot elders Griselda Marchbanks and Tiberius Ogden have resigned in protest at the introduction of the post of Inquisitor to Hogwarts.'

'"Hogwarts is a school, not an outpost of Cornelius Fudge's office," said Madam Marchbanks. "This is a further, disgusting attempt to discredit Albus Dumbledore." '(For a full account of Madam Marchbanks's alleged links to subversive goblin groups, turn to page seventeen.)'

"This doesn't look so bad," Danny pointed out, "I mean, these descriptions are so general, I'm not even sure she herself wrote that report."

"Don't underestimate the public's ability to jump to conclusions."

"Oh, believe me, I do know," mumbled Danny. "Guess I drew a huge target on my back by coming here, eh?"

"Don't tell me you are having doubts now."

"Nope. I am just curious about what will happen. I suspect that Umbridge has already asked MACUSA about me. And hasn't yet got the response, because then the article would have been much better. You saw her. Don't tell me she just dropped by to say a couple of remarks she actually considers witty."

"She is obviously still gathering information," Finished Severus. "This brings us to the first matter."

"I'm not backing down and I never did. Because believe me," Danny looked at where Umbridge went, "THAT will be a drop in an ocean."

"I'm not satisfied with such answer, Fenton. This has to stop."

"I'm not here to satisfy anyone," Danny put his hands in his pockets. "As I said, she will have greater things to worry about. Don't act like she will turn all chummy if I stop. If I do, she will come up with some slander. Might as well have fun."

"You are as immature as I expected," commented Severus. "We are talking about the reputation of everyone in this school."

"Please, Dumbledore didn't seem to close the school when there was a Basilisk. I think that thing was more dangerous than a teacher doing harmless pranks."

"Those were different times. Back then the Ministry didn't watch each of our steps and it did not try to sabotage everything."

"My answer stands. I understand your worries, but some things are simply unavoidable. As I said, she will create a scandal soon enough."

"I'll make sure to pass the message," Severus responded unenthusiastically.

"I can come to Dumbledore himself if he wants, "Danny sighed and looked out at the forest. "People around are so on edge about everything."

"And you are too careless, Fenton. You are an emigré and you have no proper understanding of how heavy the situation is."

"I just don't have an iron rod in my backside. Don't think that I'm careless because I'm taking it all in stride."

"So far you have given no reason to believe otherwise."

Snape glared at the young man and chose to leave him alone. Danny ran a hand through his hair as his look became heavy.

"'Reason', he says," the young professor muttered to himself angrily, "I don't care about your reasons. Just let me do my job."

-Linebreak-

The next lesson of DADA was going splendidly. Students were showing an admirable effort in casting the disarmament charm. Harry was relieved to see that Crabbe could at the very least make the opponent drop their wand to their feet. That was an acceptable level. Even if barely. Professor Fenton instructed both of Malfoy's henchmen to visit extra practice classes to hone the charm, but this time, thankfully, Harry and Ron didn't need to be present for that one. Furthermore, he rewarded the two with points for the level of dedication and presented results. Hermione and Parkinson both showed excellent techniques. Even Neville, abysmal as the help from Malfoy was, managed to knock a wand a meter away, and was rewarded accordingly. Harry never saw the clumsy Griffindor smile so much in a DADA lesson ever since Lupin came about. After everyone showed their level of preparation, the students were seated at their desks as he began speaking, with a grin on his face.

"I must say, the level of potential you generally show is making me very optimistic about your future exams. Keep up the excellent work. I believe now we can move to another topic. This time we will be revising the knockback jinx. I believe you won't have any trouble with it, it's a first-year charm. Despite what I said about it before, it is still a part of the program, even if much less important. And it will be present in your OWLs. By the next lesson I will make sure to fetch some creature to spice things up, you have my word. Now, open your books on the page..." he suddenly became sour in the face as the sound of opening door was heard around the room. "Dolores, what are you doing here?"

His feelings were shared by an absolute majority of the people present. Nobody wanted Umbridge to be there and interrupt the lesson again. Dolores herself, however, seemed oblivious to the fact. Her crooked smile was off-putting, malicious even. She looked like a very fat predator, happy that her lunch stopped by, for it would be a hustle to go hunting. Danny did not like playing this role.

"I have received some very interesting information, Mr. Fenton," Dolores said with feigned concern.

Danny did not like where this was going. So. It was finally the time, huh. The professor sat at the table, his face now surprisingly amused.

"I confess. It was my glue," he said, his sincerity going out of the window.

"Pardon?" Dolores blinked.

"Oh, what are you here for then?"

"I sent an owl to MACUSA at the start of the past week. The other day I received a response, containing your dossier. And to be frank, I am appalled by your biography."

Danny's expression didn't change. "That makes two of us. I'm actually curious myself about what MACUSA writes about me after all these years. Are you sure we should be discussing it here, though? I have a lesson to give."

The students' interest was piqued more than during the lectures. What was there in the man's biography that made Umbridge 'appalled'? The old lady opened the file she had been carrying.

"I believe that the students have the right to know who is being in the same room as them. Daniel James Fenton, age twenty. Born in the town of Amity Park in a family of muggles," she said with a very familiar venomous undertone, "Tell me, is it true that you are a direct descendant of John Nightingale?"

"Who?" Harry whispered, and his sentiment was shared by many.

"He was one of the cruelest witch hunters of Salem. And one of the reasons the Statute of Secrecy was even passed," Danny was suddenly the one to begin explanation, "It should be covered in your History of Magic course."

The people oblivious to the fact, stared wide-eyed at the professor, who remained composed as ever.

"Yes, it is true," he added. "He is my paternal ancestor. But I fail to see how..."

"You were still accepted in Ilvermorny. You had average grades, minimal amount of social interaction. The most audacious thing, however, is that at the age of fourteen you went through expulsion. Mr. Fenton, you never passed a single exam, and yet you are teaching here, at our prestigious institution!"

Danny could hear the murmurs and whispers. Sighing, her rubbed his temples. "The requirements for teaching are not stated anywhere. It is up to the Headmaster's discretion."

"A discretion he constantly abuses," Dolores spat. "How can you teach however you like when you haven't even finished your school?"

"I can sit a NEWT exam whenever you want," Danny responded calmly, standing up. "If that's what you need."

"I doubt you would be able to pass it, Fenton. Considering that your wand has been broken for years."

Now when they thought about it, the students never saw him use a wand once. They never even saw one at his side.

"I don't need a wand to win a duel."

"I beg to differ. But it wasn't broken simply because you were banished, now, was it?" She smiled, "You were expelled on the account of delving into Dark Magic."

Several gasps were heard across the room.

"The court ruled me innocent in the end. Everyone just didn't want to admit their mistakes, so nothing was restored. Not my studies, not my wand."

"You didn't stop there, however. The following year you were accused of being involved in deaths of three muggles."

Suddenly, something changed in the air. It became chilly, cold for just a moment, so it wasn't as noticeable, but Harry could swear he saw someone's breath.

"If you dare say that I murdered my own family, I will show you how professional I am in my field," Danny said through his teeth.

Even Umbridge subconsciously took a step back. "I never said anything of the sort."

"But you implied it, didn't you? I am free, as you can see. And I do not hide. Because I have nothing to be ashamed of and to be punished for. Is that all, Dolores? I have a lesson to run."

It was evident what was really going on. Umbridge wanted to cause a scene. She wanted everyone to see Danny either confirm or deny everything she said. The very fact of such controversy existing was enough for her. A scandal was brewing. Children could talk to their parents and make the impact much bigger than what could be achieved by writing in a Prophet. She needed eyewitnesses, the sly toad. Danny could see how someone with a face of heavily-drinking grandma could reach so high within a Ministry. His calm attitude was only due to how he had prepared himself for a moment this was going to be brought up.

"I will talk with Dumbledore. And with the Minister. You cannot be allowed to do as you please when you are just an unqualified miscreant."

"You really want to check my abilities yourself, don't you?"

"Is this a threat, Fenton?!"

"It's an offer," Danny put his head on his palm, grinning like Cheshire cat. "You were proposed to take my position, surely you can best the person who was booted out of school. I don't even have a wand, Dolores. Or are you afraid that I will curse you with my dark magic?"

"I have no interest in giving satisfaction to some brute."

"I am no more satisfied than you are. Again, I am ready to prove my capabilities whenever and however you would like. And I am not addressing that nonsensical crap with Dark Arts. There is a court ruling for that."

Umbridge glared at the young professor. "Someone like you must not be allowed to teach!"

"Are you going to repeat the same thing over and over? My hearing is excellent, Dolores. And no, Mr. Zabini, the lesson will continue as planned."

The dark-skinned boy froze. His words to his friend had only been a whisper, and he was in the other end of the room atop of that. So he had heard and would hear every small exchange done before and which would happen in the future.

"This isn't over, Fenton. This was only a minor part of my future report which will inevitably lead to your sacking."

"Oh, brother. Do I get my termination payment?"

"A what?"

Danny deflated. "Your social services have some serious issues."

"Your jokes will lead you nowhere, Fenton."

"You still here?"

He said the last sentence without any attempts at humour, as if obliging her demands. Umbridge didn't wait for long and made her exit. Slowly. Danny kept glaring at the door for a couple of seconds, before turning to the class, pulling the best smile he could offer now, a bit tired, small, obviously faked one.

"Anyways, the knockback jinx... If this question is about me, Miss Patil, I reserve the right to stay silent."

"If it wasn't Dark Magic that got you expelled..."

"It was a project of mine. My knowledge is very specific, and I studied the supernatural extensively. The spectral entities, to be exact. To some it was off-putting and they decided to jump to conclusions. Yes, I was a weird kid. Let's just get back to the topic..."

That evening, Danny was summoned to the Headmaster's office. It was to be expected, honestly. The young man was ready for it, and if he was to be fired, let it be. Umbridge hadn't hesitated to rat him out, it seemed. Opening the doors, Danny went inside, being greeted by the Heads of Houses, Dumbledore and the toad herself.

"I wish I didn't come here like a miscreant student," Commented Danny.

His eyes fell on McGonagall, whose lips were extremely thin. Coincidentally, it was her who spoke first.

"You are something worse, you are a deceitful fraud, Mr. Fenton," she snapped.

"Excuse me?" Danny's eyebrows shot up.

"It appears you neglected to share the information we discussed today even with your colleagues," said Dolores judgementally. Danny really wanted to punch her, knowing the implications of said decision both for her health and his reputation.

"It's not like they asked. I even brought my documents that day," Said the young professor.

"This is not a valid excuse at all," Sprout squeaked. "After the talk we had about how important your post is, you never once chose to mention the fact that you have never even finished your school."

"I am capable. I don't hear the students complaining."

"If I may," Flitwick put in slowly. "While I am very disappointed myself in this fact, my students have only positives to say about him. Don't yours say this, too?"

McGonagall nodded begrudgingly. "That is true, admittedly."

Danny couldn't help a smile from emerging. Those kids.

"The opinion of our students is very important," Dumbledore spoke up.

"Albus," Umbridge said, "Students need discipline. This does not speak of his qualifications. He was expelled! And even before that his grades were acceptable at best. Including the Defence."

"That is quite a speed bump," the old man admitted. "What are you suggesting, Dolores?"

"Why, fire him! He can't remain here any longer than needed."

"You need a replacement, first," Danny pointed out. "You are not telling me that you should be the one?"

"Of course I can take this mantle if needed."

"You are already an Inquisitor. This will harm both sides of your activity," the young still-professor shrugged.

"He does have a point," Dumbledore supported him and rubbed the white beard. "Why don't we find an alternative solution?"

"I fail to see what that is," Dolores huffed.

Danny, however, stepped forward. "I told our friend with abysmal fashion sense that I am ready to take the exam or confirm my abilities in any other way."

"This is not how the educational system works!"

"I'm not asking for a diploma. This is just to calm your nerves, is all. I doubt it will be legit outside of this school."

"It, most certainly, will not. This whole idea is ludicrous, and I demand, as a High Inquisitor, that you fire this man, Dumbledore!"

Danny glared at Dolores, before sighing. "I really hoped we wouldn't have to resort to this."

"What in the world do you even mean?"

"Dolores Jane Umbridge, born of a muggle mother and a wizard father," Danny looked at the ceiling, grinning widely at her surprised expression. "The latter being the Ministry's own janitor. Grades just as average as mine. You see, Dolores, I have a couple of familiar people in the Ministry myself. This summer you have made contact with the head of Azkaban. A meeting, which, strangely enough, did not go into records."

Dumbledore's eyes sparkled with curiosity.

"If you think that this empty accusation will have any effect..."

"He told me what you talked about, too. And if needed, he will tell others."

Umbridge froze. Gogol's silent scene fell down upon the entire audience, as the veiled threat known only to the professor and the Inquisitor made the air heavier.

"What are you talking about?" McGonagall asked.

"Dolores, what about that exam again?" Danny kept smiling, deriving the most delicious of vengeances from the toad's pale face.

"I... will contact the experts," she hissed, as if each word she said hurt her.

Danny approached Dolores and patted her shoulder. "Splendid! I'm glad that we have you on board."

Dumbledore's face may not have been showing it, but he now saw the newest teacher from an entirely new, sinister point of view. That man, with barely any effort now blackmailed the Inquisitor herself. Underneath those smiles and pleasantries was a dangerous, plotting individual, there were no doubts about that. He didn't know how Danny managed to contact the warden of Azkaban, but the fact itself was off-putting. How many people did this homeless man have in his pocket? Dumbledore thought heavily about who Daniel Fenton actually was, too unaware to make a true conclusion. In truth, the situation was much less sinister. A ghostly possession was a universal tool, one of such powers allowed to read the possessed person's memory. So, by calling a favour with some of the ghosts strong enough to overshadow people, Danny got a couple of ministry officials possessed. Following a chain of clues led the young man to the warden. And then the last ghost sent a letter back with the most interesting information. The same information Danny was using now against Umbridge.

However, he was bluffing about calling the warden here. Danny's meddling would immediately be revealed, and he would be knee-deep in shit.

"Albus," Danny broke the old man out of his thoughts, "Do you think this idea will work?"

He knew that the Headmaster's word was now final. Albus nodded and smiled. "This is a wonderful proposition. However, Daniel, what you did to us was deplorable, you should know that."

"I brought the papers," Danny muttered, "Fine. I get it. Sorry, guys. If I fail the exam, I will pack my things."

"That is noble of you. That will be all, I think."

Danny nodded and happily exited the room. For now his main threat was eliminated and was slowly following him out, her hands shaking in anger. When the doors closed, the Heads turned to Dumbledore, as they were now free to discuss the issue between each other. Without extra interruptions.

"This boy is insane," Sprout muttered. "Did he actually just threaten her?"

"She obviously did something nasty to fear him so much," Flitwick added.

"You are still taking his side, Filius."

"I know he is a good boy. But that he is also a sly one, this I cannot deny."

"We should still stay on guard, everyone," Dumbledore said. "With the same resourcefulness he showed against Dolores, he may act against us if Daniel indeed has a hidden, malicious motive. Watch yourself when you are near him but try not to raise suspicions."

"Albus, why even try keeping him around if he is that dangerous?" McGonagall inquired.

"The same reason as to why Quirell was allowed to teach despite his... condition. We can find out a lot if we keep him close."

Everyone was startled by a sound behind them, Flitwick even jumped. They turned around and saw that a book had fallen from one of the tables. The door was still closed. Sighing, Filius fixed his glasses, as Dumbledore turned to the one who had been quiet all this time.

"Severus. Do you have something to say?"

"Albus. He actually asked me to help him with his research."

"Oh? So you think you can get closer to him by joining?"

"Yes, sir."

"That will be an excellent way of learning more about his identity. And putting our minds to rest."

The one who was the reason behind the fallen book narrowed his invisible eyes and turned to leave, going through the wall outside.