Harry Potter Helps Hagrid Challenge:
Just an plot bunny I had, that I wont take time out to write myself: Hagrid explains not being able to do magic in book one, in one of the earliest chapters. Well, he is later proven to not be guilty of the crime he was expelled for. I always saw this punishment as extremely harsh: not being able to do magic for the rest of your life based on circumstantial evidence? I can see the government not caring, due to Hagrid's status as a half giant, but what if Hagrid gained a defender in Harry. The point of this challenge is to explore Harry and Hagrid's relationship. This is NOT intended as a Harry/Hagrid ship, but if one chooses to take it that way, so be it. It is more to explore a what if, as most fanfiction is. So, the parameters:
What if Harry stood up for Hagrid, and fought for Hagrid's right to do magic. This would start in year one, and perhapsCome into effect at the end of year two, when Harry discovers Hagrid's innocence. How would Harry then prove Hagrid's Innocence? By exposing Tom Riddle as the culprit. I am sure you can see possible ramifications of such early exposure.
Additionally, what would a then empowered Hagrid be like, and what would his magic be like. I can imagine him taking more time to learn magic, as he would surely appreciate it much more. Mostly, he would appreciate Harry much more. Think of the possible ramifications of Hagrid's loyalty switching from Dumbledore to Harry. Might Hagrid be the person to stand up to Dumbledore about the whole Dursley issue? You decide. That's certainly an interesting prospect.
Lastly, and most importantly, there are two school years, and one summer in which Harry and Hagrids relationship would build from the point Hagrid declares he can't use magic to the point Harry liberates said magic. It might even take a while for that to happen, so possibly two summers. The point is, EXPLORE the relationship between Harry and Hagrid. This is meant to be cannon, so by all means, keep to that, at least for the first two years, just, how might it be different with a close relationship between Harry and Hagrid.
This is supposed to be one of those very subtle changes, that would slowly build, to the point where something drastic happens: Hagrid regains the use of magic. Then there are a number of possibilities. Super Battle Magic Hagrid? Super Druid Magic Hagrid? Dragon Animagus Hagrid? Staunch Defender of Harry Hagrid? All of the above? You decide.
