A/N: Hello everyone! So this story idea just kind of popped into my head one night and I just had to write it! I felt it would be both a funny and interesting concept and I hope ya'll will enjoy reading it as much as I've enjoyed writing it! For those of you who follow my other works, don't worry Grey Dawn and The Old Renewed are still my primary focus as well as another story I'm still working on.
This story is inspired by Rebirth of the Founders by DaSalvatore which I recommend as it's a great story. I'd also recommend his other works as well. One more note I'd like to make is that the Lucius scene is pulled from the movie as it's my favorite scene in the whole movie, so I wanted to show it here. Sorry if you don't like that, but I do. Anyway's please enjoy this crazy idea!
Ms. Slytherin!?
Chapter 1: A Slight Miscalculation
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June 22, 1993 – Chamber of Secrets, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
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'How is it, I always end up in these situations?' Bridgette Dorea Potter thought to herself as she knelt next to the pale and unconscious Ginny Weasley as the shade of Tom Riddle stood over them. The shade had just revealed himself to be a teen version of Voldemort and was ranting about how he would soon return to life. "…Then everyone will remember that I am the greatest sorcerer in the world!" the shade finished his speech.
"If that's true then why are you so afraid of Dumbledore? How curious," Bridgette replied as she glared defiantly at the murderer of her parents.
"Dumbledore was chased out of this Castle by the mere memory of me!" Riddle declared.
"Funny, I thought it was the Board of Governors that suspended him," was Bridgette's reply. Her plan was to annoy the shade enough that he would make a mistake and she could get her wand, which she had so carelessly dropped, back.
"Why you little…" Riddle started but was cut off as a loud cry from Fawkes the Phoenix echoed through the chamber as the bird swooped down and dropped what Bridgette thought at first was a dusty old rag until she realized it was a hat. Not just any old hat, but the Sorting Hat of Hogwarts. "Is that it? Dumbledore sends his champion a Song bird, and a mangy old hat? I'll show you what true power is!" the shade said with a laugh as he turned to the statue of Salazar Slytherin and began to speak in Parsaltongue.
Sensing the danger that meant she was in, Bridgette grabbed the Sorting Hat, then turned and ran. She ducked behind one of the snake head statues and put the hat on her head. "I hope you have some kind of idea." She muttered. As the Basilisk emerged and Riddle shouted orders for it to kill her. As she waited for the hat to answer Fawkes dove at the Basilisk to distract, and blind it by clawing out its eyes. She could hear Riddle's angry shouts at the massive snake.
"You do lead an interesting life Ms. Potter," the hat quipped after a moment. "But none the less, I have something that could help you. But it will change your life forever," the hat added cryptically.
"I'll take whatever help I can get," Bridgette replied.
"Very well, mind your head," the hat replied with what sounded like a chuckle.
"What's that suppose to…" THUD! Bridgette's words were cut off as something metal hit her in the head, causing her to slide down the statue to land on her arse on the stone floor with a thump. Blinking and shaking her head slightly to clear the dizziness and daze from being hit in the head, she took the hat off. Inside it she saw a hilt with silver inlay and a pommel with a large emerald fitted into it. "A sword!?" she asked as she pulled the sword from the hat. It looked like a cross between a rapier and a long sword. "What am I supposed to do with this?"
"Kill the Basilisk of course," the Hat replied cheerfully as if it was obvious.
"I'm a girl vs. a 60ft Basilisk! I can't just charge at it and hope for the best!" she replied.
"You are a Gryffindor, are you not?" The hat answered. Bridgette was sure she saw what equated to an eyebrow for the hat raise slightly.
"Fine, but you're coming to," she snapped back.
"I can't exactly move on my own…" the hat deadpanned. Bridgette rolled her eyes as she stepped out from behind the statue. The Basilisk was still preoccupied with Fawkes as Riddle continued to scream at the beast.
"There you idiot! There she is, KILL HER!" Riddle screamed in anger.
"Hey ugly, over here!" Bridgette shouted as the Basilisk turned its head towards the sound of her voice.
"Now you've done it," the hat commented.
"Quiet you, this is your idea," she replied as she started running towards the massive 60ft snake. It reared back before striking at Bridgette. As it did, Bridgette stabbed up with the blade, and the two met. The sword embedded into the top of the Basilisk's mouth, as a fang pierced Bridgette's arm, below her bicep, on the inside of her elbow. Pain began to spread from the spot through her body as she pulled the sword from the Basilisk's mouth, the fang in her arm dislodging from the creatures' mouth as well, still imbedded in the girl's arm. The Basilisk drew back with a roar before it fell to the cold stone floor with a thud that shook the chamber. As the pain spread Bridgette collapsed to her knees and pulled the fang out as she continued to hold the sword in her right hand. To her credit she didn't cry out as she crawled over to Ginny and the diary.
"You're finished Potter! You will die here in the chamber of my ancestor and I shall return and remind people why I am feared!" Riddle gloated with a laugh. Bridgette grit her teeth and looked up at the shade.
"Well then I guess you do win Tom… but at least tell me how you survived that night… After all what could it hurt to tell a dead girl?" Bridgette replied, as she fought the pain of the venom.
"Because I have done what others were afraid to do! I made myself immortal by creating Horcruxes!" Riddle declared in triumph.
"A what?" Bridgette replied in confusion
"Horcruxes, soul containers. I split my soul into seven the most magical number in the world and chose six containers to house the shards, I can never die because no one will be able to destroy them!" Riddle replied in an arrogant tone. Bridgette frowned at such an idea, and concluded Voldemort really was as mad as they said he was.
"And what would someone as great as Lord Voldemort deem worthy enough to hold shards of his soul?" She asked as she continued to stroke his ego. Even if she couldn't do anything about them, maybe the Sorting Hat could pass the information on to Dumbledore.
"The most prized possessions of the Founders of Hogwarts and my Familiar are the only things worth enough to house my Soul!" Voldemort declared with an arrogant smile.
"And this?" Bridgette said as she motioned to the diary in front of her.
"Ah yes, my very first Horcrux, I killed my idiot father to make it!" Tom replied then frowned as he watched what happened next.
"Oh really, guess I better take care of it then," Bridgette said with a smirk as she raised the Basilisk fang and stabbed it into the black book. The Shade of Riddle let out a shriek as the fang and basilisk venom damaged the diary.
"No! Stop! What are you doing you silly girl!" the Shade yelled as Bridgette opened the diary and stabbed it again. This time the shade screamed out and faded into a black mist which gave another shrill cry before disappearing.
"Well I guess that takes care of that…" Bridgette said as her vision started to fade around the edges and she dropped the fang. The venom and loss of blood taking effect as Fawkes landed. "Thanks Fawkes… But it still got me in the end…." She replied as she watched the phoenix lower its head towards her arm and a single tear fell where the fang had pierced it, healing the wound and negating the Basilisk venom. "Phoenix tears… of course I had forgotten…"
"Before we go, there is more that must be done Ms. Potter. First place me on Ms. Weasley's head, I'll ease her memories of what happened this year, then you must stand before the statue of Slytherin and say, 'Open and grant me passage,' in Parsaltongue. Then follow the walkway that appears. You'll find something quite important to you," The Hat explained quickly. Bridgette was a bit confused by the statement but did as the Hat requested feeling that she truly needed to do it. As she spoke the words in Parsaltongue the same passage that opened for the Basilisk opened for Bridgette, and stone slabs rose from the water to form a bridge. With a glance towards Ginny, now with the Sorting Hat on her head, she crossed the bridge and found a narrow hallway.
It wasn't a long passage, when it ended, there was a passage to the left which Bridgette felt the Basilisk had come from, but that wasn't important now. She wasn't sure how she knew that even as she turned to the wall on the right. Without thinking about it she cut her hand with the sword she still held and pressed it to the wall. A rune flashed green then a door appeared. Curious, and feeling she had seen it somewhere before she opened it and entered. The room looked like a cross between a library, a study, and a potions lab, with another door leading out of the room, which she somehow knew led to a bedroom. As she took in the room her attention was drawn to a desk, atop which sat a small ornately decorated crystal vial. In it was a shimmering green liquid which she felt she needed to drink.
Bridgette felt like she was in a dream as she reached for the vial and removed the stopper before drinking the honey flavored liquid. She gasped as a warm sensation spread through her body, then cried out as pain suddenly erupted from her head. She collapsed to her knees as she dropped the vial which fell harmlessly to the floor as she gripped her head. Memories of a past life flooded her mind and her magic swirled around the room as her core merged with another. The items in the room shook as Bridgette's magic released uncontrollably, but nothing was damaged thanks to protection spells cast a long time ago. It was then that a black ooze began to leak from her scar, followed by a dark mist much like the one that came from the diary and disappeared with a loud shriek. The shard of Voldemort's soul that had attached to the only living thing in sight all those years ago was no more. With one last flare the magic calmed, and the pain subsided as Bridgette caught her breath. Her eyes still glowing slightly as she opened them, a new consciousness present in her mind. Salazar Slytherin, the most feared of the Hogwarts Founders was reborn. Slowly standing something felt off to the Founder who quickly turned to a mirror in the corner of the room and realized what exactly was wrong. "SEBASTIAN!" Salazar screamed in Bridgette's voice.
"This should be interesting," Sebastian the Sorting Hat of Hogwarts said with a laugh as he heard the scream from his place on Ginny Weasley's head in the main chamber. Fawkes seemed to roll his eyes at the hat as he gave a small thrill. Just as Sebastian expected the girl that was now also the reborn founder stormed out of the statue that led to Salazar's personal quarters, sword in hand once more.
"Sebastian! What happened? How did this happen? I'm a bloody girl!" The reborn founder shouted.
"Well perhaps if you calm down I can explain," Sebastian replied cheekily.
"Calm down!? How do you expect me to calm down?" was the reply.
"You sound like Godric," Sebastian replied. This caused Salazar to blink then take several deep breaths before regaining the composure the founder had once been known for.
"Alright, elucidate," Sal-Bridgette replied.
"Right then, as you and Rowena both admitted and suggested. You knew this might be a possibility. After all resurrection can as unpredictable as using a new potions ingredient. You played the odds, which in all fairness were 50-50. So now you are a girl plan and simply, Sally." Sebastian replied with what sounded like a chuckle at the end.
"And the others?" Sal answered, if anyone could accept this he knew he could. Besides Sebastian was right they had played the odds. They had known this was a possibility, it was why Godric had been against the idea at first. But Sal and Rowena had assured him it was a remote possibility, that now seemed to be a lie or at least a bluff.
"They are still the same gender as before," Sebastian replied, Sal-Bridgette was sure if the hat could he'd have shrugged.
"Great… Godric is going to get a kick out of this…" Sal-Bridgette thought out loud with a small groan. "Then again if this happened to him I doubt he could handle it, I'll continue to use the name Bridgette. After all that is who I am now, and I shall leave my old name behind. If it must be used I shall form this day forth be known as Salzaria Slytherin, Sally for short, so mote it be." There was a green flash as magic accepted the Founder's new name. "Thank you for the idea Sebastian, now stop laughing and fill me in on what's going on. I have to sort out the memories of my past life, everything is jumbled right now."
Sebastian who had been laughing since the newly dubbed Sally's comments about Godric, collected himself and explained everything that had happened since the Founder's deaths and more recently how she had been taken by Dumbledore, after her parents in this life had been killed by Riddle, and was placed with her Aunt and Uncle instead of her Godfather or Godmother as she should have been, and cut off from the Wizarding World. In the hope that she would see Dumbledore as her sort of savor and become his perfect weapon against Tom. All because of a prophecy they both believed.
"A prophecy you say?" Bridgette commented. Sebastian could see the barely held back anger behind the glowing green eyes. She was fighting to keep it contained as her core was still too unstable for an outburst due to the merger. "What do you think of it Sebastian?" her voice was soft and cool, a bad sign for the Founder. Sebastian knew it meant the famous anger of Salazar Slytherin was close to being released. Thankfully Fawkes' song helped to ease some of the anger to keep her from losing control.
"Hogwash, and self-fulfilling only because Dumbledore and Riddle believe it, and are, by their actions, making it come true." Sebastian replied. "But now that you are awake, the prophecy is moot because you will not fall in line I think," The hat added, his satisfaction at the fact Dumbledore would no longer be able to push Bridgette down that path was evident in his voice.
"Good… But now what order do I awaken the others?" she asked looking to their greatest creation besides Hogwarts.
"That you must decide on your own, but each left their vials in their personal quarters, hidden away from anyone save themselves or you, Rowena and her sister had a feeling you'd be first," Sebastian replied.
"I bet Morgana had a good laugh when she saw this…" she motioned to herself and couldn't help but laugh slightly before coughing. The events of the chamber and blood loss were catching up to her. Once she recovered and took a deep breath she glanced around. "We'll need to plan more later… present situation takes precedence, Is Ronald still outside the chamber?"
"Yes, and I've no doubt Dumbledore will have things to say to you as Bridgette, before you can truly rest," Sebastian replied to which Sally-Bridgette groaned. "Ms. Weasley is going to be fine, when she wakes she'll know she had no control over herself and is not at fault for what happened this year, but the hospital wing is a good idea, ready my lady?"
"As I can be," Sally replied with a nod, she was surprised being called "my lady" didn't bother her as much as she thought it would. She chalked it up to growing up as a girl in this life. Bridgette took Sabastian off the girl's head and soon Ginny's eyes fluttered as she regained consciousness and slowly opened her eyes. Then gasped as she turned to see Bridgette.
"Bridgette… The diary…" she started as she moved to a sitting position.
"It's okay Ginny, I know," Bridgette replied. "It's not important anymore, Riddle's gone. What is important is getting out of here," she added as she stood and helped the red-haired girl up. As the pair stood Bridgette looked down at herself and sighed as she thought about what a sight she must be. She was covered in blood, both her own and Basilisk, Basilisk Venom and what wasn't covered in those was soaked by water and tattered especially where the fang had pierced her arm. She picked up the sword she now knew as hers and with a sigh wiped it off on her robes which were ruined anyway. After a questioning and worried look from Ginny she muttered a come on, before leading the other girl out of the chamber.
Once outside the Chamber she found the collapse caused by the backfired memory charm from Gildaroy Lockhart. It looked like Ron didn't even try to clear the path which caused Bridgette to frown and tuck Sebastian under her arm to draw her wand. With a quick wave a small path big enough for them to pass opened. She could hear Ron on the other side moving, and soon he appeared on the other side of the collapse as Ginny and Bridgette walked through the gap. Ron wasted no time in looking over his younger sister, much to both her and Bridgette's annoyance. The youngest Weasley boy hadn't even tried to get through the collapse hoping Bridgette would do all the work.
"Blimey Bridgette you look terrible!" Ron exclaimed as he looked towards her and took in her appearance. "And what's with the sword?"
"That tends to happen when facing off with a giant snake," Bridgette deadpanned. "And it's Slytherin's sword, the Sorting Hat thought it would be funny if Slytherin's sword killed Slytherin's monster," she didn't like how Ron frowned and almost seemed to sneer at the sword. "Where's Lockhart?" she added as she looked for the former DADA Professor.
"He's around the corner still completely out of it," Ron answered.
"That tends to happen after a memory erasing spell," Bridgette replied as if speaking to a child. She then walked around the corner and found the man who had accidentally erased his own memory. Not that he didn't deserve it after trying to use the charm on her and Ron.
"Who are you?" the man asked as he noticed Bridgette.
"Can't we just leave him here?" Ron asked with a little too much hope in his voice.
"No Ronald, he might be a fraud but he's harmless and I won't leave anyone down here," she replied. It was mostly because she planned to come back later for the Basilisk's body and didn't need or want witnesses. The group made their way to the exit and Bridgette sighed as she looked at the exit. With Slytherin's memories she knew stairs could be formed, but she didn't have the energy to climb them. "Think you could lend a hand… well wing Fawkes?" she asked as she turned to the Phoenix that had landed next to them. Fawkes gave a delighted thrill as it moved to Bridgette's shoulders. "Right, Ron grab Lockhart then hold on. I've got Ginny." As she spoke she put an arm around the youngest Weasley and handed her the Sorting Hat as she was still holding the sword.
"Whose Lockhart?" the former Teacher asked looking around.
"You are, ya' idiot…" Ron replied as he grabbed the man's robes with one hand and Bridgette's with the other. Once everyone was ready they disappeared from the passage to the Chamber of Secrets with a whoosh of flames. They reappeared in the same spectacular fashion in the Hospital Wing.
"Not exactly what I meant, but it works I suppose, thank you Fawkes." Bridgette commented as the Phoenix gave a thrill. Just then Madam Pomfrey came out of her office having heard the commotion of the groups arrival.
"Who in Merlin's name is making such…" The Healer stopped mid-rant when she noticed Bridgette. "My word! Ms. Potter what have you gotten yourself into this time!"
"I'm fine Madam Pomfrey," Bridgette spoke up. Of course, it was a lie, and Madam Pomfrey's look said that she was not likely to fall for it. But Bridgette stepped aside and moved so the still pale Ginny was visible. "Ginny is in more need of help, she was under the control of Voldemort through this diary. And Lockhart was hit by a backfired Memory charm he tried to fire at Ron and me," she explained. This got Madam Pomfrey attention and she quickly moved to the red-haired girl as Bridgette took the hat back from her.
"This way dear I'll give you a dreamless sleep potion, Mr. Weasley take Lockhart over there," The Healer said as she led Ginny to a bed away from the petrified patients and pointed to a bed in the far corner for Lockhart. Just then Dumbledore entered the Hospital Wing followed by Mr. and Mrs. Weasley who quickly made their way to Ginny's bed.
"Ah Bridgette my dear, and young Mr. Weasley I've heard about your little Adventure won't you both join me in my office." The Headmaster said in a grandfatherly tone.
"I haven't looked them over yet Albus," Madam Pomfrey spoke up.
"Don't worry Poppy, I shall send them back when I'm done with them," Dumbledore replied using the same tone. The Healer didn't seem happy but let them go.
"I expect to see you back here Ms. Potter," Madam Pomfrey called after them.
"Yes ma'am," Bridgette replied much to the old healer's surprise. The walk to the Headmaster's Office seemed to take far too long in Bridgette opinion as she was getting more worn out by the minute. For her part she hid it very well as they entered the office and Dumbledore sat behind the desk.
"I seem to recall stating that if either of you got into any more trouble I would be forced to Expel you both." Dumbledore said in his Grandfatherly tone, which Bridgette was starting to get annoyed by, she just wanted to rest. "As such I shall be giving each of you awards for special services to the school and 50 house points each." Ron looked shocked and only gaped at the Headmaster while Bridgette just waited for the old man to continue. "Now then, with the real culprit found, there is an innocent man sitting at Azkaban. Mr. Weasley, if you'll take this to the owlery and send it along, Hogwarts wants it's grounds keeper back."
"Yes sir," Ron replied as he left with the official looking letter. Bridgette just hoped he didn't send Errol. Once Ron was gone Dumbledore began to speak once more.
"You must have shown me great loyalty in the Chamber for Fawkes to bring you the Hat," he said as Bridgette fought not to roll her eyes. She noticed Dumbledore's eyes shift to the sword she was holding. "Though I am surprised why it gave you that sword."
"Sebastian thought it would be funny if I killed Slytherin's Basilisk with his own sword," Bridgette replied, noticing as Dumbledore frowned.
"How do you know Sebastian's name?" he asked as she felt a sort of pressure on her mind. This prompted Sal-Bridgette to bring up her occlumency shields to bat away the attempted probe. Dumbledore merely blinked and wondered how Bridgette had learn Occlumency.
"He told me in the Chamber, we had a nice long talk," Bridgette replied with a frown.
"And what exactly did you talk about?" Dumbledore asked as his eyes darkened ever so slightly, but only for a moment.
"I'm afraid that is between me and Sebastian," she replied with a smile.
"Of course, now for the sword, I believe you should leave it with me for now," the old man said, the grandfatherly tone returning.
"I think I'd like to keep it, if it's all the same to you sir," Bridgette replied. Dumbledore looked ready to reply when the door to his office opened and Lucius Malfoy walked in followed by a familiar House Elf. Bridgette was surprised but didn't say anything as the arrogant man came to a stop at the Headmaster's desk.
"So, you are back," Lucius commented. Bridgette toned out most of the conversation as she watched as Dobby tried to point out his master was behind the attacks, though it wasn't very subtle even if the arrogant ponce failed to notice. Her attention was drawn back to the men's conversation when she heard her name mentioned. "Well then let's hope Ms. Potter will always be there to save the day."
"Don't worry, I will be," she replied coolie. This cause Lucius to sneer at the girl.
"Come Dobby, we're leaving," the man said as he turned on his heels and kicked Dobby who wasn't walking fast enough. Bridgette frowned and glared after the man until the door shut behind him.
"Might I borrow that for a moment?" Bridgette asked as she pointed at the diary. Dumbledore indicated she could and seemed to smile with pride at what he was sure his manipulations had pushed the girl into doing. Bridgette for her part ignored the old man after taking the diary and her sword which Dumbledore seemed to have forgotten about and left the office. On the stairway she stopped long enough to take off a sock and slip it into the diary then continued after Mr. Malfoy.
"Mr. Malfoy, you forgot something," she called after the man who stopped and turned around only to have the diary shoved into his hand.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Mr. Malfoy sneered as he passed the book to Dobby.
"Oh, I think you do, we both know you slipped it into Ginny Weasley's cauldron in Diagon Alley," she replied with a smirk.
"Why don't you prove it!" Mr. Malfoy snapped. He waited a moment and when Bridgette only smiled at him he laughed, "Didn't think so," he muttered as he turned and started down the hall once more. It took him a moment to realize that Dobby wasn't with him. "Come Dobby!"
"Master has given Dobby clothes, Dobby is free!" the house elf exclaimed.
"What!? I didn't…" he paused as he spotted the sock. "You lost me my servant! Avada…." He was never able to finish the spell as Dobby pushed him away with a house elf banishing spell.
"You shall not harm Bridgette Potter!" Dobby exclaimed. Lucius got to his feet with a sneer as he fixed his robes.
"Your parents were meddlesome fools too! And one day you'll share their same sticky end!" Lucius snapped before leaving in a huff.
"Dobby bes so grateful, if there bes anything Dobby can do," Dobby started until Bridgette held up a hand.
"If you don't find a family to serve you'll die…" Bridgette replied as Dobby's ears drooped.
"Yes, House Elf magic bes tied to families magics." Dobby explained.
"How would you like to be my house elf?" Bridgette replied.
"Dobby would bes happy to serve The Great Bridgette Potter ma'ams." Dobby exclaimed as he bounced happily. She was sure the only reason he didn't jump on her was the look she gave him and the fact that she looked ready to collapse.
"Good, first I need you to take this to Gringotts and have it put in the Slytherin vault, then you're free to do whatever you like until I call on you," she replied as she passed the House Elf the sword. To be honest it was very comical to see something so small holding something so big. But Dobby quickly saluted with a yes ma'am! Before popping away leaving Bridgette alone in the corridor. Just as she promised she made her way back to the Hospital Wing, when she arrived she could hear Ron telling his parents about how he had faced down the Basilisk with Bridgette. She had to fight back a snort as Madam Pomfrey noticed her and closed the distance fasted then Bridgette was sure the woman should be able to move. Or maybe it just seemed like that because Bridgette was so worn out. "Well as promised I'm back," she said with a small smirk.
"Yes, and it's a good thing too, you look ready to collapse, this way Ms. Potter," The Healer said as she led her to the closest bed. At hearing her name, the Weasley's looked like they were about to rush over to her, but a look from Madam Pomfrey had them stop in their tracks. The bed just happened to be next to the one Hermione lay in, not that either of them pointed it out. "Now I'm going to scan you for injuries, so hold still."
"Yes ma'am," Bridgette replied, which had the Healer frowning as Bridgette wasn't usually so cooperative. It worried her as she started the scan and soon she realized she had reason to worry. Not only did she find Basilisk venom and phoenix tears in the girl's blood, but she also noticed her magical core was dangerously unstable and she had lost quite a lot of blood.
"Blast you Albus!" she snapped which didn't surprise Bridgette, as much as the sharpness and suddenness had started her. "Sorry dear… I never should have let you leave. It's a wonder you haven't passed out yet! Basilisk Venom! Phoenix Tears! Not to mention the blood loss and how unstable your magical core is."
"I'm tougher then I look," Bridgette replied with her smile which had Poppy rolling her eyes.
"Yes, well you'll need to rest, I'll expect an explanation for the venom and tears later," Madam Pomfrey replied as she started to move to her potions cabinet.
"I was bit and Fawkes healed me with his tears," Bridgette replied quickly. Madam Pomfrey paused and nodded at the answer.
"I see, well then, you'll need to drink three potions, then you can rest. First a Blood replenisher, then one to stabilize your magical core, and finally a dreamless sleep potion. I'll give you some privacy to change while I collect the potions," the old healer said as she conjured curtains around Bridgette's bed and the usual hospital wing pajamas. She then left the girl to change and to get the potions. When she returned Bridgette was already changed, her ruined clothes in a pile on the chair next to the bed, and she was already sitting on the bed. "Alright dear drink up, be warned they don't taste very good," she remembered what happened with the Skelegrow earlier in the year. Bridgette nodded as she drank the three potions. "Now then, you'll fall asleep soon so get comfortable." Madam Pomfrey commented as she started to take the curtains down.
"Wait… can you leave them up please?" Bridgette said as she laid down.
"Alright," The old Healer said with a nod. It would be impossible to deny that she was worried at the request but also understood the girl's need for privacy. The last thing she needed was for the Weasley's to come over and start pestering her. So, she left the curtains and turned to Bridgette's clothes. "I'll have a school house elf take care of these."
"Don't bother ma'am I'm sure the Basilisk blood and venom has ruined them… The incinerator would be better, and no one should touch them directly until then," Bridgette replied in a sleepy voice. The potions were starting to work. With how worn out Bridgette looked Poppy was surprised the girl was still awake.
"Very well Bridgett, now let the potions do their jobs, sleep young lady," she replied as she watched the girl for a moment. Then she waved her wand at the clothes, which disappeared. When she was sure Bridgette had fallen asleep she left her bedside and made her way towards her office. On the way Mrs. Weasley approached her about seeing Bridgette and was promptly denied. When the Weasley Matriarch tried to argue Poppy replied by threatening to kick them all out of the Hospital Wing. That seemed to be the end of it and Mrs. Weasley returned to her daughters' bed. Not long after Madam Pomfrey shooed everyone out that wasn't a patient until the next day.
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oOOo
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June 23, 1993
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As Bridgette began to wake the next day she felt much better then she had the night before. The clean hospital smell of the sheets reminded her that she was in a Hospital Wing bed and not her own bed in Gryffindor Tower. At those thoughts the memories of what had happened only yesterday came back to her. She was no longer just Bridgette Dorea Potter, now she was also Salazar Slytherin reborn. Well Salzaria she remined herself with a mental smile, which was followed by a mental sigh as she thought about all the jokes Godric would have for her now. Pushing the thoughts aside she slowly opened her eyes and realized it was much later then she thought. Judging by the light she'd guess it was near noon. The first thing she noticed was that the curtains remained around her bed, then she noticed the familiar bushy-haired girl sitting in a chair next to her bed reading. This had Bridgette smile, it seemed Hermione hadn't noticed her waking up yet.
"Hey," Bridgette said in a low voice as not to startle her best friend.
"Bridgette!" Hermione exclaimed as she set the book down and pulled the raven-haired girl into a crushing hug.
"'Mione…. Can't breathe…" she said as she hugged the other back.
"Oh… sorry," Hermione said as she pulled back with a bright smile. "I was worried when Madam Pomfrey said you were here, what happened?"
"You mean Ronald hasn't been giving the School the same story he gave his parents?" Bridgette asked with an arched eyebrow.
"Of course, he has, but we both know he isn't that brave, and he always exaggerates," Hermione replied. While Ron had his moments of bravery like in first year when he sacrificed himself in the chess match. But since then they had been few and far between. "So, what really happened?"
"Oh, you know, I just faced off with your average garden variety 60ft Basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets," she answered. At Hermione's frown and expectant look, she went on and explained everything that had happened, except the part about finding Slytherin's, well her, secret potions lab and quarters. By the end Hermione seemed satisfied, but at the same time felt Bridgette was hiding something. It was like she could sense there was more to the story and there was something familiar about Bridgette that wasn't there before, but she couldn't explain the feeling.
"Oh, I was supposed to let Madam Pomfrey know when you woke up!" Hermione said with a small gasp. As she got up to get the Hogwarts Healer she decided not to tell Bridgette that she had noticed the ghost known simply as the Grey Lady pass by several times since she had been woken from her petrification. The ghost seemed to be watching Bridgette quite intently every time she appeared in the Hospital Wing. Soon Hermione returned with Madam Pomfrey.
"Good your awake Ms. Potter, now I'll check you over so hold still," the old healer said in her usual calm but stern voice which left no room to argue. Bridgette had readjusted her pillows while waiting and was not sitting up, mostly. Poppy nodded as she finished the scan, "Good, your core has settled down, but to be safe no magic for the rest of the week, understood?"
"Yes ma'am," Bridgette replied much to both Poppy and Hermione's surprise. Usually Bridgette would put up a bigger fuss about not being allowed to do something.
"Good, now I want you to get a little more rest, so I'll have lunch brought to you. As for you Ms. Granger you should be off to lunch you can come collect Bridgette for dinner this evening," Madam Pomfrey said sternly as she shooed the bushy-haired girl out of the Hospital Wing. It wasn't long before a trey of food appeared on the bedside table and Bridgette was happy to eat. She then spent the rest of the afternoon either sleeping or reading. Occasionally she noticed a grey figure moving in the corner of her vision, but when she looked no one was there.
Finally, evening arrived and with-it Hermione's return with a change of clothes for Bridgette. After one last look over by Madam Pomfrey Bridgette was allowed to dress and leave the Hospital Wing. As they entered the Great Hall it erupted with cheers which honestly caught Bridgette off guard and she had to be pushed forward by Hermione. They found seat across from Ron and Neville with Ginny to Bridgette's right. Soon after dinner started, and conversation picked up around them, many of the Gryffindor's asking if what Ron said was true. It was something Bridgette didn't really want to talk about and Ginny seemed to be uncomfortable with the topic too, so Bridgette did her best to steer the conversation away from the events of the previous night.
Every now and then Bridgette would get the feeling of being watched and when she turned to look she thought she caught a glimpse of grey, like what she had been seeing in the Hospital Wing. She was facing the Ravenclaw table and eventually she noticed a pale blonde-haired girl that seemed to be staring at her with a knowing look. This caused Bridgette to frown for a moment and the girl to realize she had been caught and go back to looking about aimlessly. A cleaver act Bridgette thought to herself before she turned her attention back to her friends.
"Hey, who's that blonde girl sitting by herself at the Ravenclaw table?" she asked. Ron looked ready to answer with a mouthful of food, but Ginny quickly spoke up instead which had Ron snapping his mouth shut with an annoyed look on his face that he wouldn't get a word in yet.
"That's Luna Lovegood, she doesn't live far from us, but a lot of people call her Loony… I personally think it's just an act," Ginny explained.
"An act! She's bloody mental!" Ron cut in after thankfully swallowing his food.
"Ron don't call her that again. You know I hate bullies," Bridgette replied simply. Ron was about to reply until he saw the glare leveled at him by the raven-haired girl. It wasn't the first time he had seen the glare, and not likely to be the last. He paled slightly but let himself believe it was just the stress from the previous night still being fresh. Bridgette decided she needed to speak to the blonde-haired Raven and learn more about her. The rest of the Leaving Feast passed without any more excitement and soon ended as the Students began making their way to their dorms for their last night at Hogwarts until the next school year, except for the 7th years who would be spending their last night in the Castle, unless they returned as Professors later.
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Later that night once Bridgette was sure everyone was asleep she slipped out of bed and pulled her invisibility cloak on then made her way out of Gryffindor Tower and towards the 2nd floor girl's bathroom. Her plan was to find a way to transport the Basilisk's body off the school ground and pack up everything she would need out of her lab and quarters. She was just around the corner from bathroom when the ghost of a woman floated out of the wall in front of her and stopped, blocking Bridgette's path. It didn't escape her noticed that the ghost which she realized looked just like Rowena seemed to be looking straight at her. Bridgette moved to go around the ghost of Helena Ravenclaw only for her to once more block the path with what looked like an annoyed look on her face.
"You can come out from under your cloak uncle, or should I say Aunt now," Helena said in an impatient tone. Bridgette pulled the cloak off and looked up at the ghost of the daughter of the woman she considered a sister.
"Helena," Bridgette said as she folded the invisibility cloak over her arm.
"Salzaria," Helena replied with a hint of amusement in her eyes. Magic's acceptance of the name change meant that Hogwarts and all her ghosts, as well as the Goblins of Gringotts knew of the Reborn Founder's new name.
"I suppose you're going to have cleaver joke or comment for this turn of event then?" Bridgette replied only for Helena to shake her head.
"I knew who you were and of your change from the moment you stepped foot inside the walls of Hogwarts," Helena replied.
"You know of the others as well?" Bridgette replied, and Helena nodded.
"Except for Auntie," Helena added sounding a bit disappointed. Sally remembered how close Helena had been to Morgana.
"Then why didn't you help us awaken?" Bridgette replied.
"Sebastian said we must wait, Auntie Morgana shared information with him that she didn't tell mother or any of you before she left to face Merlin," Helena replied as she spat the name of her aunt's murderer.
"I see… perhaps you can fill me in some where more private, I'm on the way to my chamber," Bridgette replied.
"I know, I came to warn you that the Headmaster is at the main entrance trying to figure out how to get in," Helena replied. "And as I thought you haven't yet remember where the other entrance is, follow me."
Bridgette nodded and followed the ghost of Helena up to the 4th floor and stopped in front of a blank wall across from the painting of a snake charmer. Upon seeing the painting Bridgette remembered what she needed to do, and she faced the blank wall, pressed her palm against it and let her magic flow into the wall and spoke in parsaltongue, "~Open~" and suddenly a plan looking door appeared. Bridgette opened it to find a narrow corridor then a flight of stair going down. "I'm pretty sure magic will always find a way to amaze me," she commented before starting down the corridor. Helena following close behind. Once closed the door disappeared leaving no trace of its existence behind.
They weren't walking long before they came to another door, this one lead to Slytherin's private quarters and from their they could get to the Chamber. Once they made it to the lab Bridgette called for Dobby as she found a trunk that could be enlarged and shrunk without damaging its content. "Dobby, I can't use much magic right now, my core hasn't completely settled down yet. Take this trunk to the main chamber and put the basilisk in it, then take it to my vault at Gringotts. Then… you can… um go back to your vacation?" Bridgette said as she noticed Dobby was wearing what looked like a Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses.
"Yes ma'am!" Dobby replied with a salute as he took the trunk which resized, so he could carry it better and left the lab.
"You always did know how to attract the strange ones…" Helena commented.
"Oh, shut it you," Bridgette replied as she maturely stuck her tongue out at the ghost. But both giggled a bit before Bridgette shook her head and found her potions trunk with multiple compartments for different ingredients. Many of them with protection runes to keep the more dangerous ingredients and potions from being a problem during transport. Then she began sorting the ingredients and potions before packing them into their specific compartments. Then she placed her notes neatly in the top compartment before closing the trunk. As she worked she talked to Helena about the state of Hogwarts and how things had changed for the school after Morgana, then Sal left.
"Do you know what order you will wake mum and the others?" Helena asked as Bridgette finished packing and shrunk the trunk then pocketed it.
"I don't know yet… but I could really use their advice… or Morgana's for that matter," Bridgette replied.
"You and Aunt Morgana were always the best at working alone, you'll figure it out Aunt Sally," Helena replied as she escorted Bridgette back to Gryffindor Tower. Before they parted Bridgette turned back to Helena.
"What do you think he'll find more amusing? This or this," she said as she first gestured to herself then to the portrait leading to the Gryffindor Common room.
"Hmm it will be close… but definitely that your reborn self was sorted into his house," Helena replied with an amused laugh before she bid Bridgette good night and went to her usual place near Ravenclaw tower. Bridgette smiled as she gave the password and entered the common room. She made sure no one was there before climbing the stairs to her dorm and put the potions trunk into her own before getting into bed to sleep.
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June 24, 1993
The next morning Bridgette separated from her friends and boarded the train before them. She found the person she was looking for easily enough. Luna Lovegood was sitting in a compartment all by herself. Bridgette stopped in the doorway and knocked lightly, "May I join you?" she asked in a soft voice.
"Certainly," Luna replied with a smile. Bridgette entered and closed the door behind her before sitting. "I know why you're here Bridgette Potter, you want to know why I was staring at you at the feast."
"What? Well yes actually," Bridgette replied having been caught off guard by the fey like girl.
"It's because I know who you are, Ms. Slytherin," Luna replied with a smile. Her far off look replaced by a serious one. "My mother's family have all been loyal followers of Morgana, from her original second in command and your wife in your previous life. All the women in my family have been seerer, as I am."
"So, then you know who the others are as well," Bridgette replied.
"Yes, but I can't answer your question yet, meet me during the summer and we'll talk more. Your Future is about to pass the compartment door," Luna replied before the far-off look returned and she smiled sweetly at Bridgette, who looked extremely confused by the last comment "Its delightful to finally meet you Bridgette, and I hope we can become good friend," Luna said in her slightly airy voice. It was then that Bridgette noticed Neville passing the compartment and glanced at Luna who continued to smile sweetly at her. Then without thinking Bridgette opened the compartment door and called out to her fellow Gryffindor.
"Neville why don't you sit with me, well us," she said as motioned towards him then the compartment.
"A-alright," Neville replied as Bridgette smiled and stepped back into the compartment. He blushed a bit as he saw the smile and tried to hide it before he entered the compartment and sat next to Bridgette, who was next to the window, as Luna had just stretched out on the opposite seat when the other girl had called to him. Bridgette found herself wondering why Luna seemed determined that Neville sit next to her.
"Ginny, Ron, she's here!" they soon heard Hermione call from outside the compartment. Luna smiled brightly as the others entered the compartment too. Luna waited for Hermione to sit next to Neville before she sat up, so Ginny could sit next to her, followed by Ron who seemed annoyed to be sharing the compartment with "Loony" Lovegood. He looked like he was about to complain when Luna finally spoke up.
"It's nice to spend the train ride with friends," Luna said in her usual voice with a bright smile.
"Yes, it is Luna, I just hope it won't be ruined by bullies," Bridgette replied with a warning glare directed at Ron. "So, what are everyone's plan for the summer? I know mine will be dreadful…" she added, and Neville frowned at her comment, but before he could ask what she meant Hermione spoke up.
"We're going to France, but I'll write every day, I promise Bridgette," Hermione replied brightly. "There will be so much to tell you all!" she added, it was clear how excited she was.
"Probably just the usual for us… degnomeing the gardens and other miserable chores…" Ron complained before Ginny could speak up, Bridgette frowned at what Ron considered miserable. Luna waited to answer so Neville decided to ask what Bridgette meant.
"What do you mean when you say your summer will be dreadful?" Neville asked.
"Oh, I forgot you haven't heard about my abusive, magic hating Aunt and Uncle…" Bridgette replied in a matter of fact tone. Neville frowned at the look he saw in Bridgette's eyes and was about to press for answers knowing his Gran would want to know. After all she had spent portions of the previous summer ranting about how Bridgette or her Magical Guardian should have contacted her. At the time Neville hadn't known exactly why, though after asking he had received a very long lecture before finally being told the reason. Just as he was about to open his mouth to speak Luna's airy voice spoke up.
"I'm going to help papa with the Quibbler," Luna replied with a wide smile. Though her eyes were locked on Bridgette's who seemed to relax at hearing the light voice and smiled in thanks to the blonde girl who didn't look away until she saw the smile from Bridgette. She knew Bridgette would have that discussion soon and decided to save her from it now, so she didn't have to talk about her past twice. Luna's comment soon sparked a debate about Wizarding News, though it soon flowed into lighter conversations. However, Neville couldn't shake the look he had seen in Bridgette's eyes and wanted to know why she had it. It was so like the look he saw in his parents' eyes when he went to visit them at St. Mungo's with his Gran.
After a while Bridgette had fallen asleep, leaning on Neville's shoulder. This went unnoticed until Ginny noticed Neville blushing. "Neville are you alright?" she asked. This lead to everyone turning their attention to the boy in question, then to Bridgette asleep on his shoulder. Hermione moved to wake her best friend but was stopped as Luna's expression soon turned serious.
"No, let her sleep. She needs the rest after what she's been through," she said in a tone that left no room to argue. The others soon realized Ginny might be right about the girl. However, her expression soon went back to its normal far-off look, which ended the tense moment and had everyone thinking it was a fluke as she spoke up ones more. "Besides she looks quite comfortable and content, wish I could sleep like that," her voice holding a dreamy like quality before she attempted the same on Ginny's shoulder.
"Luna what are you… oh never mind…" Ginny commented as the others laughed. This had Ginny oh so maturely sticking her tongue out at them. Bridgette slept for the rest of the train ride, while no one was sure if Luna was actually asleep or not, as she occasionally commented on their conversations blaming various situations on creatures none of the others had ever heard about.
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