The Luminous Benefactor

Written for Snitchseeker's Harry and the HBP Ficlet Challenge 2005

“The myth of the Half-Blood Prince is well known throughout the Wizarding world,” Hermione read from Great Wizarding Myths. “Otherwise known as the Luminous Benefactor, it is said that the Half-Blood Prince is the good within the evil, the light within the darkness. His powers are beyond that of the entire Wizarding population of England, the full extent of his magical ability unknown. Although no image of his appearance has ever been recorded, he has been described as an auburn-haired wizard of pureblood descent.”

Hermione’s voice faded as she read the last sentence.

“It appears that, after a certain age, the spirit of the Prince removes itself from its current host’s body and finds a suitable teenage wizard for its next host.”

Harry and Hermione stared open-mouthed at Ron.

“What?” he asked quizzically. “Hang on…you think it’s me? No way! I mean…I can’t be. I’m a-”

“Auburn-haired, pureblood, teenage wizard.”