Chapter 3
Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts, Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards, Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot was having a crappy night. It had been a VERY long time since he'd been taken out to the woodshed like he had been on this night.
To be certain, he probably deserved it, although he would have much preferred such things be done in private. There was no need for Gryffindor to spank him in front of the student body of three schools, representatives of the ministry, or his professors!
He knew his decisions had been correct, if a little harsh. Placing the Potters and Longbottoms in danger was not, technically, his doing. But he'd been close enough to the decision making to be an influence on those families. And to their harm they'd followed his suggestions.
Making sure Sirius was not a hindrance to his plans, he'd wound up the mutt like a toy soldier and pointed him towards the rat. A little compulsion magic and Sirius was a problem no longer. Harry was in his grasp.
The Longbottoms mattered little after this. He would save Neville if he could. Just to be on the safe side, having a back up boy-who-lived couldn't hurt. But his parents needed to be out of the way. No one, besides his illustrious self, could have any influence on baby Harry as he grew. And so he'd placed them with his muggle relatives. He was keenly aware that these people were the worst sort of muggles. Petunia was nothing like her sister. Where Lily was light, Petunia was dark. Where Lily was bright, Petunia had a hard time putting one foot in front of the other. That she'd married Vernon spoke volumes about her character, but he didn't care. He needed Harry away from everyone and everything magical. This would guarantee that as he grew, Harry would have absolutely no clue about his heritage or that his family was so distinguished in wizarding Britain.
Seeing Harry arrive for his sorting had almost, almost, dragged Albus back into the light. Seeing the half-starved and obviously abused child had pulled at his remaining humanity. It took a bit of concentration, but he'd been able to dispel that notion quickly. He steeled himself for the task ahead, uncaring that his weapon was mistreated and unloved. Sebastian had placed Harry in Gryffindor, after what seemed like an exceedingly long time. His little redheaded spy was already embedded in that House, someone to keep a watchful eye on the young Potter, and all for a few bits of gold.
But there were problems that needed taking care. Greengrass had tried to befriend Harry. She'd known that her parents had been friends with both the Potters and Longbottoms. She also knew that Harry was a member of the Peerage of magical Britain. She'd been tasked by her parents to make friends with Harry. She'd been obliviated of her meetings with him, made to forget the friendship that they'd been forming. Miss Davis had been included as well; she was the best friend of Greengrass, someone who she would have confided in regarding her budding friendship with Harry.
Fred and George were Weasleys. Their family had been serving him for a long time. He had no worry where they were concerned. They would do as they were told, and if they didn't, Molly would be sure to make them see the 'light.'
Neville had been obliviated as well. He knew he was Harry's brother by blood ritual. Knew that they should have grown up together but for that fateful night that had taken his parents from him. His memory altered sufficiently, he'd be no hindrance to his plans even if they did become friends. Albus had turned him into a soft and pliable person. He'd not have the Longbottom heir being strong.
When Luna was saved by Harry from a particularly nasty bullying incident, she'd been taken under his protection. Luna became to Harry the sister he'd always wanted. She loved him as the big brother he was becoming to her. Nip that in the bud he did. It mattered not that the bullying restarted after they'd forgotten about each other. It was, after all, for the 'greater good.'
But the greatest thorn in his side was that damnable mudblood Granger. He did not anticipate them growing so close. That little shit Ron was to have kept them separated. Not even a troll sent to kill her had been enough. Harry and his damn noble streak had seen her rescued. Even with all the charms, compulsions, potions, and outright manipulations, it was still impossible to keep them separated. They were drawn to each other. And it had to stop. Maybe young Miss Weasley could fill the part of damsel? Ron, despite his obvious laziness and stupidity, was splendid idea as a romantic interest for the mudblood.
And up until tonight, his plans had been succeeding beyond expectation. Harry would once more be ostracized by his peers and friends. His plans for the tournament had been perfectly executed. The tasks had been set. Tom would have the final piece for his ritual. Tom could kill Potter at his leisure, and when he did, the great leader of the light would be able to hunt down the soul-anchors and finally be rid of the evil half-blood. He's once more be the toast of Britain. And he'd be able to influence and push through the laws and legislations he wanted established. Getting rid of the creatures polluting his beloved country, making sure that the pureblood families survived by infusing them with some new blood, and setting himself as the head of government. Merlin would look like a court jester compared to the accomplishments he'd oversee. Camelot would be reborn.
The appearance of Lord Gryffindor had been a setback, to be sure. But he knew that applying his vast intellect to the problem would see those obstacles overcome. He did regret losing power over Hogwarts though, the portraits and elves having been a most excellent spy ring. Being able to curry favor from the pureblood contingent by easing the curriculum had been easy enough. Sure, the purebloods would be morons for a generation, but with his plans for the mudbloods, the future would be secure. The Families would survive. He would be glorified in life and in death. A hero.
Fawkes looked at Albus sadly, and trilled a song of sadness. His formerly bonded wizard was fighting for his very soul, and the immortal being was hoping that he'd make the correct decisions. He'd broken the bond many years ago. The last straw had come when he'd allowed the Potters to be murdered. He lifted nary a finger to save them, instead congratulating himself on a well conceived plan. But Fawkes had stayed by his side, biding his time until the reappearance of one of his former bond-mates. With a heartbreaking glance at Albus, Fawkes vanished in a fiery ball.
ooOOooOOoo
Severus Snape had been one seriously pissed of Potions Master. If the school had been awake at the time, he'd be dishing out the detentions and taking away points by the barrel full.
But as it stood, he'd been staring at the empty remains of the bottle of firewhiskey on his desk for the better part of an hour. He needed answers. Answers to questions he'd been pondering for some time. And he had no idea who to turn to. Albus might see himself as the 'leader of the light' but Severus had seen enough to be certain that nothing could be further from the truth.
"Master Snape, might I trouble you for a moment or two?"
"What could you possibly want of me? You made it abundantly clear at the Feast that I was beyond redemption, that all I needed to do was sit here and wallow in my misery."
Godric walked over to one of the cauldrons and lit a fire. "Can you remember what it was like the first time you walked into this classroom to teach? Be honest now!"
"Exhilarating, I suppose. I don't really think about it that much."
Grabbing a couple of vials of the shelf and mixing them in the cauldron, Godric continued. "And that doesn't strike you in the least bit odd?"
"That I don't think about it much? No, not really. Trying to keep these moronic students from destroying my lab takes up too much of my time."
"Where has all this anger come from, Master Snape? Have you always been this…distasteful?" asked Godric as he poured another vial into the steaming cauldron.
Snape chuckled. "Minerva and the rest of them think I'm a right bastard. The student body, I'm sure, would like to see me blown up by one of my experiments. Doesn't really bother me anymore. I suppose it is something to live up to. My life has very little in the way of happiness, I figured I'd go the other way and be as miserable as possible."
"A sad and wasteful way to live your life. You could be so much more if you tried." Godric waved his wand, and the fire snuffed out.
"And why should I care? I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I serve two evil masters. A psychopathic narcissistic pile of crap on one hand, Voldemort on the other. They only care enough about me to make sure I serve their purpose, once I have fulfilled this need, I will be cast out like yesterdays trash. This tournament is no coincidence, my Mark burns. It can feel Voldemort drawing nearer. The world is about to change, Lord Godric, and there is nothing that you will be able to do about it."
"Is that so?" said Godric as he reached for a ladle. "I happen to know someone who can defeat them."
"Potter? Please! He's an annoying, attention seeking shit stain! I have never seen any indication of his might, never seen a demonstration of his so called intelligence!"
"Severus, where is this hatred coming from? He is the son of your best friend. Don't you think you should have gotten to know him a bit better? His other professors all have indicated an extremely bright young man, gifted even, who has a better handle on his magic than some adults greater in age than he." Godric ladled a small portion of the liquid into a small vial.
"He might be the son of my only friend, but he is also the son of the man I detested above all others! James Potter was a bullying bastard that made my life here at Hogwarts hell! I suppose I get a measure of vengeance from seeing his son miserable."
Godric handed the vial to Severus. "You really are a miserable bastard, aren't you?"
"What is this?" Snape said, indicating the small vial.
"A hangover cure, your classes start in a few hours, it wouldn't do to have the professor show up in that state, now would it?"
"Thank you, I suppose…who else alive can say they had a cure brewed for them by Godric Gryffindor? Cheers." and Snape downed the vial.
The potion felt chilly going down his throat. But when it hit his stomach, that's when the fireworks really started! He could actually feel the potion begin its work, feel the way it traveled up his veins. A twinge of pain happened just behind his eyes. His mind seemed to open up. Memories that had been blocked began appearing in his mind's eye. "That's not possible!"
"Severus, whatever do you mean?" asked Godric with a smirk.
"This can't be happening. That is not the way my life was." yelled Severus. "I hated James Potter, what I am seeing cannot be true!"
"You know the potions, Severus; the memory restoring potion heals the brain. Memories that had been obliviated or blocked are restored, depending on the severity anyway. What you are experiencing is the truth. And you know in your heart that they are true."
Severus began crying. Deep, soul-wrenching sobs tore through him. The life he had been living for the past decade and a half had been a lie. A lie that had been thrust upon him by the Master Manipulator himself.
"Why?" cried Severus.
"I don't know the answer to that question. Not yet, anyway. If you will allow me, we shall discover that answer together, and restore the balance to your life that has been missing all this time. Now, you need rest. Don't worry about your classes; I shall be taking over from you tomorrow. It will be fun to teach again, I should think!"
"Harry, oh my god, Harry! What have I done?"
"Don't worry about that now. You now know what has happened. In time you will fill us all in about the extent of the manipulations you have suffered." He gently raised his wand to the Potion masters forehead and said "Sleep, Severus. Remember happier times" and gently transfigured his chair into a bed.
ooOOooOOoo
"Harry Potter sir, you wished to be awakened at this time."
A groggy Harry reached for his glasses. 'Where am I?' he thought, the fog in his mind disappearing slowly. He rubbed his eyes a bit before putting on his glasses. As the room came into focus he thought 'Oh, yeah, Casa de Pendragon.'
He got out of bed and headed towards the shower. His shower. He was happier than he had a right to be at that. He no longer had to endure the waiting in Gryffindor common, where only luck would determine whether one had hot water or not. Turning on the water, he let the bathroom fill with steam before he stepped under the scalding water. 'Merlin, I needed that!'
As he toweled himself dry after an incredibly long and luxurious shower, he walked over to the closet. What he found in there surprised him.
"Uhm, Dobby? Could you come here for a sec?"
"Harry Potter sir?"
"What's this? I don't think you grabbed my clothes from the dorm."
"I did not! Such clothing not fit for anyone to wear. Lord Godric sir asked me to go to Diagon and fetch you new clothing." answered a grinning Dobby.
"Remind me to pay him back, would you please? This must have cost a fortune!"
"Oh, Lord Godric sir not pays. Harry Potter sir pays. Dobby went to Gringotts, got galleons, pay Madam Malkin" he said indicating the clothes.
A tear fell from his eye, staining his cheek. Harry had never had clothes of his own, and now he had a closet full. "Thank you Dobby, this really means a lot to me."
"Harry Potter sir is most welcome!" said Dobby before popping away.
He found some jeans to wear, pulled on a t-shirt, before stepping into some hiking boots. He hurriedly headed to the kitchen and turned on the ovens. Grabbing two dozen eggs, he began cracking them into a large bowl. Whisking away, he noticed the waffle iron tucked into a corner. 'Awesome' he thought to himself. He also spotted a radio in a cubby hole, and turning it on was surprised to hear muggle stations playing as well as the wizarding ones. He set the dial to some music that got his blood pumping, and got back to whisking his eggs.
"Dobby help, Harry Potter sir?"
"Sure, grab the bacon out of the fridge, lay it out on one of those sheet pans over there and stick it in the oven, if you would, please."
Dobby grinned at him, and set about his task. Harry turned to the pantry and got himself some spinach and cheese. Grabbed a handful of chives from the fridge, noticed some mushrooms and grabbed those too. He then started on the waffle batter. Once that was finished, he grabbed a bowl of butter and set it by the stove to soften. All that was needed now was some people to show up to eat, and the waffles and omelets would be ready to go!
As Hermione stretched in her bed upon awakening, she thought she heard music. 'Must be still sleeping' she thought. But she pulled herself out of bed and showered. She grabbed some comfortable clothing and headed out to find the source of the music. The scene she walked into was not one she had been expecting to say the least! There he was, Harry, dancing about the kitchen like a mad chef. She leaned against the door-frame and stared. She'd never seen her best friend this…elated. Not even when he was flying! His happiness was everything to her. He felt a presence behind her, and noticed Lord Godric had somehow stepped up behind her without her noticing.
"Amazing, isn't it?"
"It is, I've never seen him look so content" she answered.
"You love him." he said. It was not a question, but a statement.
Her head whipped around to look at him. "What? No I don't! He's been my best friend for years; I'd not jeopardize that for anything!"
"You love him." he said again.
She looked at him, and dropped her head, defeated. "I do. With all that I am."
"And was that so very difficult to admit?"
"To myself, not really, but saying it out loud was almost the most difficult thing I've had to do"
"Almost the most difficult?"
"Troll." she answered.
Godric chuckled at that. "Yes, I believe that may qualify as being a slightly more difficult task."
"'Mione, you're awake! Hungry? Forgive me, My Lord, would you care for some breakfast?" said Harry when he noticed him standing at the door.
Godric waved away the apology. "That would be delightful Harry. Please, feed me, I haven't eaten in nearly eight hundred years, and am totally famished."
Harry laughed at that, and with a grandiose bow said "My Lord, breakfast will be ready momentarily. Please, seat yourselves and I'll bring it out in a minute."
Hermione grinned at Harry, happy to see him happy. She grabbed Godric by the elbow and led him to the dining table. A moment later Dobby appeared two dishes in hand, and sat one down in front of each of them. She glanced at her dish and noticed the golden deliciousness in front of her. A perfectly cooked omelet and a small Belgian waffle. She grabbed her utensils and dug in. A sound of bliss escaped her lips, 'dear Merlin, this is good' she thought. She also noticed the satisfaction coming from Godric, the look of utter delight coming from his features was marvelous to behold.
As the smell of bacon and eggs wafted through Pendragon, she could hear the signs of life from the various rooms. Slowly but surely, her roommates made their way to the table. The twins were first to appear. When they sat down and Dobby put the plates in front of them, their rumbling stomachs were all she needed to hear to start giggling. When they echoed her earlier sounds of bliss, she knew they were in heaven as well. Nothing came between a Weasley and their stomach!
Dobby made sure everyone had everything they needed before popping back to the kitchen. "Mistresses Luna, Daphne and Tracy have arrived Harry Potter sir"
"Give me a second Dobby; I'll have three plates out momentarily."
Luna poured herself a glass of orange juice and passed the jug to Daphne. When Dobby appeared with her plate, the smile on her face grew. She'd never thought an egg could look so beautiful! But as beautiful as it looked, it tasted so much better. At this moment, she was happier than she'd been in a very long time. Daphne had the same look of bliss on her face that was shared by everyone else at the table. Tracy looked like she'd been stunned. Blaise looked equally stunned. The twins looked ready to pass out from delight, and even Lord Godric had a contented smile on his face. But it was the look on Hermione's face that intrigued her. She did have the look of satisfaction that everyone else had, but to it was added another layer, one of elation.
Hermione blushed a little when she noticed Daphne staring at her. But she held Daphne's gaze, and raised an eyebrow at her. Daphne smiled at her, nodding a bit, as if an understanding had been reached. 'Girls!' Hermione thought to herself.
"Seconds anyone?" said Harry leaning out from the kitchen door.
"Seriously? I don't think I have ever eaten a finer breakfast, Harry. Whatever disparaging remark we made when we saw the kitchen last night is taken back! We will never doubt that having a kitchen in here is a bad idea" stated Blaise.
"Hear, hear" intoned the whole table.
"Join us, Harry, I'm sure you're hungry as well!" Godric said with a smile on his face.
Harry sat next to Hermione as Dobby sat a plate down for him. "I told you guys I could cook."
"That, Harry, was not cooking. That was a master chef displaying his abilities." said George.
"As always, I concur with my uglier half. That was a splendid meal the even Mom would have trouble recreating" added Fred.
"Uglier?"
"Well, if the shoe fits…"
That set the whole table to laughing. And as they all dug in to their breakfasts, Godric could see he had made the correct decision in reopening House Pendragon. These children…no, these young men and woman before him would shake their world to its foundation.
"Alright, now that we are without a doubt all well and truly fed, we have a small matter or two to take care of. Firstly, you are all excused from class today!"
"What?" said the girls in unison as the boys cried "YES!"
"But we'll get detention!" shrieked Hermione.
"Miss Granger, who am I?"
"Lord Godric Gryffindor, Lord of Hogwarts and Foun…" answered Hermione.
"Yes, Founder, and as such I believe I am entitled to give a few students a day off after a harrowing evening, don't you think?
"…but I like going to class…" she whispered.
Godric laughed at that. "You will use this day to explore this chamber, Harry, maybe you could take everyone down to Sal's at some point today as well? Get to know the place. Make use of the library and the arena. Secondly, I wanted to add a little more information regarding the rings that you are all wearing. You can feel each other, yes? Good. Don't worry, that is all it will be. No one will be able to read your minds with the rings on, including your Housemates. Think of it as a natural occlumency shield. As such it will prevent compulsion charms from affecting you. It will also alert you if your food has been tainted or poisoned. If any of you are ever in danger, the rings will let you know and allow you to apparate to the location of your distressed Housemate. That said, I want you all to have fun this weekend, because starting Monday we begin looking toward the future. Training in dueling and battle techniques, research into defeating Voldemort, and subjects as the need arise."
"Where will you be today, Lord Godric?" asked Harry.
"Why, teaching potions of course. Professor Snape finds himself under the weather today. I will take his place today as professor. Should be fun, for me anyway! Alright, so off you go, explore. Get to know each other better. Tonight we have something to do that will not be pleasant, but is necessary. Tomorrow, our new Head of House will join us. Questions? No? Good. We'll see you all tonight, hopefully Harry here can surpass himself with our dinner!" said Godric as he popped away.
ooOOooOOoo
The nine sat around the dining room table, looking perplexed.
"Well, that was quite the exit, wasn't it?" stated Neville.
"At least we got out of classes today. After the Great Hall incident, rejoining the school is the last thing I want to do. I can just hear the chants of 'loser' and 'cheater' following me as I walk down the halls." said Harry.
"How did your name come out of the Cup, Harry? I could tell from your conduct that you didn't enter your name. Someone had to have placed it in there though." wondered Blaise.
"Blaise, I haven't the faintest idea! It was my intention to be a spectator like everyone else! After the excitement of my first three years here, having a nice quiet fourth year would have been like a dream come true. And before you ask, yes, Hermione and I will fill you all in on the 'adventures' we got up to in that time."
"Well, I guess you can start with second year? Godric said we should head down to Slytherins Chamber. Should we go?" asked Luna looking at everyone.
"If you guys are sure. Oh, and change into some clothing that you don't mind getting dirty, I don't imagine it's going to be a any cleaner now than it was when I was last there."
Everyone headed towards their rooms quickly, invigorated by the prospect of seeing the legendary Chamber of Secrets. When they were all back in the common room, dressed in their sturdy Herbology uniforms, they were ready.
"So, we are headed to the second floor girl's bathroom, the one that Moaning Myrtle hangs out in. Ready everyone?" and Harry popped away followed closely by Hermione.
"We're going to the bathroom? Did Slytherin really put his Chamber in a bathroom" asked Tracy.
"Trace, it's been hundreds of years. I'm sure the architecture of Hogwarts has changed much in that time. The entrance was probably a broom closet or a forgotten dungeon or some such. The entrance moved to adjust to the changes." stated Daphne.
"Well, yeah, that makes sense I guess." said Tracy, followed by the chuckles of her friends.
As the all appeared in the bathroom, Harry positioned himself in front of the sinks and spoke in parseltongue. The sinks slowly parted, causing a tube of sorts to appear.
"Let me go down first, I'll cast some cushioning charms so no one gets too bruised up. And remember I said it was nasty down there, well, the nastiness begins as soon as we get down there." said Harry as he launched himself down the slide.
"Who wants to go down the sinister looking death-slide next?" asked a grinning George
"Oh, come on, it can't be that bad if Harry just went down there like that" George, Fred, Neville and Hermione stared at Daphne as she said that. Her cheeks pinked a little at the glares directed her way.
"What?" she asked.
"I don't think any of us would have done what Harry did. He came down here to save my sisters life, without thought to his own. It's who Harry is. I bet when we see the bloody snake it will be the size of the quidditch pitch, all Harry ever said was that it was a bit big. I'm sure he feels fear like the rest of us, but that will never deter him from saving a life.
"Guys, you coming or what?" came Harry's voice from below. They all steeled themselves, and one by one jumped into the hole.
"Whoa, you weren't kidding about it being nasty down here, were you?"
"Told you, Hermione. Follow me everyone, stay close together." said Harry as he led them farther, towards the Chamber itself.
"Hey Harry, isn't this where you said Ron got trapped behind the cave in?"
"Yeah, why?"
"Oh nothing, just curious I guess" said Fred with a meaningful glance at his twin.
"You thinking what I'm thinking Gred?"
"There's no way Ron was trapped back here. It's hardly a cave-in at all. A couple of smaller rocks moved and he could have gone on with Harry."
The anger in Georges face was reflected in that of his twin.
As they approached the entrance to the actual Chamber, Harry turned to them and said "This thing has been down here for a couple of years now. Two years in which to putrefy. I'm going to guess that bad smelling is going to be an understatement. You lot ready"
Everyone pulled out their wands and started casting air-freshening charms. Once that had been accomplished they turned back to Harry and nodded. Once again, Harry spoke parseltongue to the huge door. When the door opened, he was a bit surprised to see the torches in the Chamber still lit. Purposefully, he strode in to the Chamber and made his way towards the place where he stabbed the diary. He looked around, and was once again surprised that no stench was emanating from the dead behemoth. Noticing that no one was with him he turned around and stared at his friends.
"I think it's still dead if that's what worrying you lot."
Hermione was the first to enter the Chamber. She looked toward the dead basilisk, and then at Harry. Tears started to freely flow from her eyes. At full speed, she launched herself at Harry and started crying with abandon.
Being hit by the charging brown haired missile was something he always liked. Hurt like hell, but he liked it nonetheless. When he noticed she was crying, the gentle hug he had her in was tightened. "'Mione, I'm alright. I survived. I'm standing right here, holding my best friend." He felt her nod into his chest as her crying subsided.
"Fuck me sideways, are you kidding me? You killed that? With a damn toothpick?" yelled a rattled Blaise.
Daphne slapped him upside the head. "Knock it off Blaise! No need to be crass, everyone is just as astonished as you." Tracy giggled, followed by Luna, which made Neville join in before the twins joined them all.
"So what happened down here, exactly?" asked Daphne.
Harry related the tale. Starting at the point where he and Ron had gone to ask Lockhart for help, up until the point where he impaled that infernal diary with a fang. "Tom…Voldemort, was actually here?"
"He was, Nev. He somehow put part of himself into that diary. He was draining Ginny of her life-force, and as her life dimmed his brightened. Destroying the diary seemed to banish him. Always wondered about that…"
"Harry, this is the bravest thing I've ever seen or heard. And you did this to save our baby sis?" Harry found himself enveloped in a twinly hug.
Blaise stood by the basilisk. It was easily sixty feet in length. The fangs in the beasts' mouth were the size of a sword. It had been almost two years, and the basilisk showed no signs of decay.
"Guys, is it just me, or do you all also agree that it is weird that this thing hasn't decayed?" he asked.
A popping sound announced the arrival of Godric. "I imagine the magic of the Chamber has kept it in some form of stasis. I don't know what Salazar was thinking putting that thing in here as a guardian. He always did like his dangerous creatures, though. We could harvest it for potion ingredients. The carcass will be quite valuable. Its skin could provide us with some decent armor. We'll have to ask the goblins for a hand."
"Should we explore some more, I don't imagine that thing was guarding an empty chamber? Hermione, Nev, Luna, why don't we take this side. You guys alright with taking the other end?"
"Sure thing, Harry, just make sure that you can summon that sword of yours if things get hairy down here." said George with a smile.
"The only thing bound to get hairy down here is you two. And I don't think your girls would be willing to shave you guys a second time! Get on with you now, call out if you find anything, ok?" Fred and George saluted Harry, adding "Of course, mon capitaine!"
Harry took Hermione's hand in his saying "Are you ready?"
"No," she answered "but you're here with me so I'm sure I'll be ok."
He squeezed her hand gently planted a quick kiss on her forehead. She almost fainted. Luna grabbed her arm, helping to steady her. She glanced at the petite blonde girl, a grateful look on her face. Luna intrigued her, she had an air about her of utter tranquility; there was just something about her that she trusted. She promised herself to get to know the young witch better. Having a girlfriend to talk to would help with her Harry issues.
Luna turned to Neville, and extending her hand towards him said "coming Neville?" Neville took the offered hand, smiling, and said "gladly, Miss Lovegood!" She giggled at him, and blushed slightly when she caught Hermione's eye. Hand in hand, the foursome headed for the far side of the Chamber. Godric had chosen to follow them.
"Sal was a secretive bugger, pay attention for any hidden doors and such. They won't be easy to spot"
"My Lord is there a way to detect the presence of magic that is in a room? A spell to highlight places that have spells cast on them?" asked Hermione.
"You really are the brightest witch, aren't you?" said Godric. She blushed slightly, but when she caught the look of pride on Harrys face, her face turned tomato-like.
"Would you care to cast the spell? The incantation is 'profero venificium', literally reveal magic. No wand movement except for waving it at the area you want to affect." Hermione smiled at being offered this opportunity. She uttered the words, and a soft silver glow began pouring out from her wand. And like a fog or a cloud, the spell expanded out from her wand. A blue glow illuminated what looked like a door. Harry walked up to it, and in parseltongue asked it to open.
With a loud creaking sound, the door opened slightly. Harry had to muscle it the rest of the way open. He was slightly astonished at what he saw inside. The room was HUGE! Every available wall was covered by bookcases. The tables were groaning under the weight of scrolls.
"Huh…I always wondered where he hid his library!" said an astonished Godric. "I believe we have found what we are searching for, wouldn't you say?"
"Oh, you think?" said Harry before his hand flew to his mouth. "I'm so sorry, My lord!"
"Forgiven, Lord Potter! I believe that were I in your position, I would have said exactly the same." laughed Godric.
Harry tensed up for what he knew was coming. Sure enough, that back of his head flared in pain as Hermione slapped it. "Manners, Harry!" she yelled at him. "Sorry 'Mione." he said with his head bowed. She grabbed his face with both hands on his cheeks, looked him in the eye and said "Forgiven, just try not to insult the Founder too often, ok?" Harry grinned at her, and Godric just about lost it he was laughing so hard.
Neville had come back with the others, who hadn't found anything at the other side of the chamber despite Godrics spell. "Circe's tits, what the hell!" cried Blaise, whose head found itself being slapped by both Daphne and Tracy.
Luna slapped the back of Neville's head. "Luna, what the hell…?" he said grabbing the back of his head. "Just in case, also, I didn't want you to feel left out" she answered with a sweet smile. Neville grinned at her, shaking his head.
"I believe that we have found the remains of the lost Library of Alexandria. Sal was a bookworm that only Hermione here could put to shame!" said Godric as he smiled at her.
"Don't think I won't slap the back of your head just because you're a Lord or a Founder!" said Hermione in mock anger, but acknowledging that it was also true, she curtsied to him.
"My Lord, cataloguing this will take ages. It would be the work of a lifetime." said Tracy.
"Worry not Miss Davis. I have just thought of someone who would be perfect for the position of librarian. He will be joining us tomorrow as well. Should we head back to Pendragon? I think lunchtime is almost upon us, and I believe Dobby has made us some soup and sandwiches to last us until our Harry dinner."
One by one they popped away, leaving only Harry and Hermione behind. "Who do you think he wants to make librarian?"
"Don't know the answer to that one. But as he said, we'll be meeting him tomorrow. I'll make sure you have enough time with him to launch your inquisition into his worthiness" smiled Harry.
She smiled back at him, "I think you're right, as long as I can get my worries out of the way, anyone Godric chooses would probably be right for the job."
"Shall we? I can't remember the last time I had a Dobby meal, I'm quite looking forward to it"
She squeezed his hand, and popped away. Seconds later, he followed her.
ooOOooOOoo
Lunch was full of deep thoughts. Ideas poured from everyone as to the disposition of the Library. That Hogwarts would be the beneficiary was unquestioned. Harry's idea of cleaning the chamber, constructing some stairs down from the girl's bathroom, and turning the atrium where he fought the basilisk into a gigantic reading room seemed to be the idea everyone favored. Godric was very pleased with that suggestion. He couldn't wait to tell Minerva that one!
As lunch finished up, the nine split up. The boys headed toward the dueling arena, while the girls headed toward the library. Hermione was in heaven. Here she was, in a library that hadn't had a living soul in it in centuries. Add to that that Harry was with her, and she was floating on clouds.
She hadn't thought of Ron for quite some time. That their friendship had ended was without question. The look of hate and jealousy he'd directed at Harry had been the final straw for her. She'd put up with him all these years because of Harry. As his first friend, and being the loyal person that he was, he'd never just abandon Ron without just cause.
She thought back on her 'friendship' with Ron as she glided down the rows of bookcases. It wasn't so much a friendship as it was her tolerating his presence. Or him tolerating her? In any case, time away from him had cleared her head a bit. She'd caught the look of anger that Fred and George had at the sight of the cave-in, but couldn't understand why they were angry. She'd have to remember to ask them later.
"Thinking deep thoughts, Miss Granger" said a smirking Daphne.
"A bit, Daphne, just thinking some things through" she answered truthfully.
"Want to share, I'm sure all us girls here could put our heads together and come up with some insights into your thoughts."
"Why not, we need to get to know each other better, and what better way than to gossip like girly girls." she said giggling.
"Pendragon do not gossip, Hermione, we lay out the facts and debate the issues. So what if those facts and truths are about boys or something else."
"Pendragons don't gossip, huh? Well as I've only been one for a few hours, I shall take you at your word on that" said a now laughing Hermione.
"Ladies, is it time?" asked Tracy.
"Yes Tracy, it is time for gossip. Hermione lay it on us! We shall endeavor to put our vast intellects into solving your problems." said Daphne.
"Well, since you put it that way, how can I say no?"
"It's about Ron, isn't it?" asked Luna.
"How did you know, Luna?" asked Hermione.
"The look on your face. From what I've learned about you so far, you have two looks when you think of boys. With Harry your face is joyous; when you think of Ron your face takes on an irritable expression. And as your face had on the latter expression, I figured you were thinking of Ron." answered Luna.
"Weasley? Why would you ever want to think about him? He's a pig disguised as a redheaded menace."
"You should have seen the look he gave Harry last night. It was pure, undiluted hatred. It was not something I though him capable of."
"Well, we all know he has the emotional range of a teaspoon" Daphne said jokingly "hatred and jealousy just might fit within that range."
"You're right of course. It was just surprising to see. He was, is, Harrys best friend. Could he have been playing him all this time? I don't know how Harry will react to losing him. It has me worried. With Godric's appearance, Harry keel seems to have evened out. I would hate to see him lose his balance again."
"He's got us now, Hermione. We will never let him falter. More importantly, he has you." said Tracy.
"That he does, without question." mumbled Hermione.
ooOOooOOoo
"What do you think, shields and stunner practice?" asked Neville.
"I'm okay with that. What do you guys think?"
"Harry, we have a bloody dueling arena. In our House. That sounds awesome!" said Blaise.
"Yeah Harry, why don't you teach us plebes how to do it." said George.
"Fine, and since you volunteered, you get to face me first!" George's face suddenly went white.
"Yeah, George, let little Harry here teach you how it's done." said a laughing Fred.
Harry climbed the stairs of the dueling platform and headed for one end. George, walking very slowly, walked toward the other end. "Nev, count us down, won't you please? George, how about tickling and shields instead? That way we can all practice without doing anything too permanent to each other."
"You got it Harry, ready here Neville!"
"Wands up! And begin!" shouted Neville.
What followed was an impressive display of dueling. Granted, they were using comparatively minor spells, but Neville thought it was an awesome display. Harry was unbelievably fast. It took all of George's concentration just to keep his shield up, never mind firing something at Harry. Finally, exhausted, his shields fell and Harry hit his with the hex. He fell over, laughing hysterically, before being released by Fred from the spell.
"Just how in the world do you move so fast?" wondered Neville aloud.
"Hadn't really given it much thought" Harry said "speed just seems to come naturally tom me. More so if I'm in a duel or fight or something similar. Ready for a try Nev"
"Sure thing, Harry, just let me pull my courage out of my back pocket here and I'll meet you up there." he replied with a grin.
The duel was certainly a learning experience. He was dueling Harry bloody Potter for starters! For Neville, the past twenty four hours had been a whirlwind of excitement both physical and mental. He knew that deep down inside of him was hidden that warrior spirit that his Gran mentioned his father had in abundance. It was in there, somewhere, and he would do his utmost to bring it out. Joining Pendragon had been a godsend to him. He never felt as if he fit in Gryffindor.
He wasn't overtly cheerful or talkative like Seamus or Dean. Wasn't a friend with everyone like Lee seemed to be. He was a quiet lad, introspective, and didn't feel the need to fill the air with idle chatter. What friends he did have, that is to say Hermione and Harry, were friends he knew he would have for the rest of his life. But he was looking forward to making some new friends in this new House. He'd known Daphne since they were young, and was a bit disappointed she ended up in Slytherin. He thought that maybe they'd be able to reestablish their friendship in the days ahead. Her fellow Slytherins Tracy and Blaise seemed to him wonderful people. The twins had pranked him a time or two, but never maliciously. And they were funny too. And if Godric's endorsement of them meant anything, he was sure they would end up as close friends.
But his wish at the moment was to establish a new friendship with Luna. He'd noticed her, of course. The petite Ravenclaw had stoked his interest since her first year. Sure, she may be a bit odd, but that oddness fascinated him. But mostly it was her bearing, as if nothing in the world could touch her that drew him to her. And he resolved to dig up his courage, and at the very least befriend the girl. The first time she'd grabbed his hand he thought his head would pop from how red his face was. But as she held his hand, he felt as if the puzzle of his life had started to take shape. He wished his Mom was still around, he was certain she'd know what to say or do. His Dad would probably offer encouragement, or slap him upside the head and tell him to man-up!
He was drawn out of his reverie by Harry, who stood over him with a grin on his face. "Alright there mate?"
"Sorry…I was contemplating my life, wondering how the hell I ended up here on the floor! Bloody hell Harry! You're not human! No one should be able to move that fast!" he said as Harry helped to his feet.
"Practice, Neville. That's all any of us can do. We train hard so that when the time comes we are able to protect our friends, protect our families. Voldemort is coming back, probably sooner rather than later if what Godric said in any indication. I intend to be prepared. I will not lose her…any of you to that bastard." Nev, Blaise, and the twins nodded solemnly at him. As one, they headed towards the practice dummies, and began their training.
ooOOooOOoo
After a long afternoon of practice, the boys headed for their rooms to clean up. Harry was the first one out. He peeked into the library, not the least bit surprised at the silence. What threw him for a loop, though, was that it was anything but silent. The girls sat around a small coffee table, joking and laughing as if they'd been friends for ages. This was amazing to him. He'd never seen Hermione enjoying herself this much without there being a book in her hand. To see her this carefree warmed his heart.
"Harry!" yelled Luna "care to join the gossiping girls of Pendragon?"
"Is that the official name?" grinned Harry.
"Haven't come up with a name yet, although GGP is good enough for me!" answered Hermione.
His answer of 'better than SPEW' saw a pillow sail in his direction. He laughed at that. Avoiding a pillow was easy. Having Hermione chase you through the library with another pillow though could be dangerous to his health. "I'm going to get you for that Potter!" she screeched.
"Alright now you two, enough horsing around! This is a library after all, decorum must be maintained." smiled Daphne as she glanced sideways at Tracy and Luna. They'd each picked up a pillow. As Harry approached, he found himself bombarded by pillows. Hermione had even taken to striking him repeatedly with the pillow she carried.
"Enough, please, I surrender." cried Harry.
"Mon capitaine, do you need assistance defeating the hordes of Pendragon ladies?" queried Fred.
"You know, Fred, after the ass-kicking he just gave us in the arena, maybe we should join them and knock some humility into him with these fluffy pillows." replied George.
"Let him make dinner first though, it wouldn't do to kill the chef before we are properly fed." said Fred as he put down the pillow he'd just grabbed.
"Fine, I'll go start on dinner! Just remember that revenge is a dish best served cold…" he said with an evil grin before heading toward the kitchen.
"Don't worry boys, Harry enjoys feeding us too much to do anything but feed us well." Luna said as she caught the look of horror on Fred and Georges' faces.
She stood up, and looking at Hermione said "Should we go see if we can help him with dinner tonight?"
"You know, Luna, that's a brilliant idea! I would love to learn how to cook. If it wasn't for potions class I don't think I'd even be able to bring water to a boil. I wonder what he has planned for tonight."
The girls headed over to the kitchen. Loud music was once again blaring from that room.
"Opera, Harry?" asked Hermione.
"It's the only way to cook pasta properly, 'Mione. What are you two doing here?" he asked.
"Well, Luna and I thought we'd give you a hand as an apology for the pillow incident."
"Yes, Harry" said Luna with a grin "it wouldn't do for the bad girls of the library to leave their hero wallow in his defeat after losing so horribly at the Battle of the Library." Hermione whipped her head toward Luna with a look of astonishment on her face. But as she couldn't hold it in any longer, she laughed until there were tears streaming down her cheeks.
"Laugh it up! See if I don't feed you lot dog food for the rest of the week." Harry stated, trying to keep a straight face.
"Fine, truce! But seriously, can we give you a hand. I'd love to learn how to cook. I wish I could make an omelet half as good as yours. As it is, I have a hard time cracking eggs without getting it all over the place" said Hermione.
"Well then girls, grab an apron, wash your hands, and step right up to the first class of the Pendragon School of Cooking."
Harry was an excellent teacher, thought Luna. He'd patiently taught them how to break eggs for the pasta they were making. Showed them the proper way to dice vegetable without cutting oneself on the sharp knives. He introduced them to the fine art of sauce making, revealing his secrets to building the perfect Bolognese.
"Dobby, could you do me a favor please? Could you head down to Diagon and pick up two loaves of Italian bread?"
"With pleasure, Harry Potter sir!" Dobby stood there for a second, brought his right arm up into a perfect military salute, and then popped away.
"Did you guys just see that, did Dobby just salute me?"
"He adores you Harry! It's just a small gesture that acknowledges his love for you." said Hermione waving away his concern.
"Hmm. Well, when he gets back, we'll make some garlic bread. All we need to do now is cook the pasta we just finished making and get everyone in here to dish out dinner"
"I'll just pop out and get everyone," she said concentrating for a minute "they're all in the library. I'll grab them and be back in a minute."
"Harry, thank you for this. Luna and I enjoyed this immensely."
"Any time, 'Mione. You want to take the salad out to the table, Dobby should be back in any minute, and while I wait I'll get started on the tiramisu."
"Tiramisu?" asked Hermione with a look of awe on her face.
"Yeah, it's way easy to make, and I'm sure everyone will enjoy it. Well, they will so long as they have some room left after the spaghetti!"
"Harry, I swear I could smell your cooking all the down in the potions room!" said a grinning Godric.
"My Lord, welcome back. How was the teaching?"
"You know, I truly did enjoy it. Snape has made a mess of things with his 'teaching' style, but the children are bright and eager to learn. Given time, I could whip them into shape."
"Well, I'm glad you enjoyed your day. Go wash up, My Lord; dinner should be ready in a few minutes. We're having Italian tonight!"
"Italian?"
"Yes, Italian, from Italy." said Harry slowly.
"Where's is this Italy?"
Thankfully Hermione showed up to answer that question. "My Lord, in your time Italy did not yet exist, you'd know it as the peninsula on the south side of Europe. Cities like Genoa and Rome all form part of what now is known as Italy"
Godric looked at Hermione for a minute before turning to Harry and saying "Why didn't you just say what she just said?"
Harry groaned at that, his groan growing louder as the fading form of Godric heading toward the bathroom broke out into gales of laughter.
ooOOooOOoo
Everyone had an excellent time at dinner. Laughter flowed easily. Godric knew the kids were growing closer. 'This is as it should be' he thought.
"Wait, before we continue with our conversation, could we PLEASE have some tiramisu?" begged Hermione.
A chuckling Harry headed towards the kitchen to dish up dessert. "Tiramisu?" asked those who did not know the muggle confection. "Just wait until you try it!" giggled Hermione. Dobby served everyone as Harry rejoined them with a plate in hand, and everyone tucked in. The smiling and contented look on everyone's faces was like manna from heaven to Harry.
"Merlin's hairy balls, this is orgasmic!" shouted Blaise at the top of his lungs.
"Blaise!" yelled Tracy and Daphne as they in turn slapped the back of his head.
"What, it is! And quit slapping me! My brain is about to slip its moorings with all the injuries you two are causing it!"
"Then moderate your language Blaise. Must you be so gross?" asked Daphne.
"Why yes, yes I must!" said Blaise as he grabbed his dish and sprinted to the other side of the room.
It was Hermione who noticed as Godric's smile vanished as the night progressed. He laughed and teased along with everyone else, of course, but she could tell that something was weighing heavily on his mind.
"My Lord, something is troubling you?" asked a concerned Hermione.
"Very perceptive, Miss Granger," he sighed deeply before continuing "something is indeed troubling me, and it unfortunately concerns all of you as well. I believe it is time to get a bit serious for the rest of the evening. I have some bad news to impart to you all. It is made especially worse by the fact that you've almost all lived with it since your first year."
"Someone at this school has been influencing you all. Be it by obliviation or potion this person has been, without thought or care to your health, altering your memories to serve their purpose." said a grim Godric.
"Someone obliviated me? Who could do such a thing?" asked Daphne.
Hermione was biting her lip hard, the look of concentration on her face easy for all to see. She thought back at all her time at Hogwarts, trying to remember the instances in her memory that felt wrong. Being in the bathroom when the troll attacked, the petrifying glare of the basilisk, meeting Harry and Ron for the first time. And something just clicked, as if all the truths that had been hidden from her had been dumped on her all at one.
"Dumbledore!" she growled.
"What? Not a chance, the headmaster would never do such a thing" said Harry.
"I don't know Harry," said Neville "sometimes I catch him staring at you, not as a like the grandfatherly figure that we all think of him as either. He looks at you as if sizing up a side of beef or a new robe. It's kind of disturbing."
"I've seen the same thing Harry. It's like he has a plan for you; and so he watches you from the shadows." added Luna.
"I'm afraid they're correct Harry. Dumbledore has been the cause of all of your sorrows, beginning with the death of your parents until your selection for this year's tournament." added Godric.
"No! I could never believe that of him! What could I have possibly have done to him that could excuse that kind of behavior?" Harry stood, once again heading toward the far end of the hall. The anger was vividly expressed on his features.
"Harry, please…" said Godric pleadingly.
Harry held up his hand, silencing everyone sitting at the table. He shook his head before turning on his heels and heading toward the dueling arena. He noticed he had his hand tightly coiled around his wand, the knuckles having turned white at his grip. He yelled. And he kept yelling. That his magic was flaring was a given. If the display from earlier was awesome, that display paled in comparison to the one he was unleashing now.
"Stay, Hermione" warned Godric as the young witch made to stand "let him work this out for himself. He'll calm down eventually, and the arena is powerfully warded. I assure you no harm will come to him."
Hermione had tears at the corners of her eyes. She was desperate to go to him. She needed to go to him, but her logical mind agreed with Godric. Harry had to work some of this out on his own. He'd come to her when he was ready. She nodded to him in acceptance.
"There is something I need you all to do, it will be painful. It will not physically hurt you, but it will be emotionally painful. I have here a potion I want all of you to take. It is called the memory restoration potion, as that is what it literally does. It will vanish all traces of implanted memories, and bring those memories that had been affected back to join your accessible memory once again. I've added a mild sleeping drought to his one as well, as I don't think any of you will be able to process this without help from the others. So please, drink up. And don't worry Hermione, I will look after Harry. As wounded as he is now, he will be more so after taking the potion. He will need you. He will need all of you. For those of you who know about his past, about his life before Hogwarts, let me tell you that it pales in comparison to the truth. The portraits, the elves, and even the professors have all given me bits and pieces of information that I have sifted through to come up with a picture. It's not pretty."
"Drink up, everyone," he said gently "I will be here for you in the morning."
They all glanced toward the dueling arena, looks of worry on their faces. Flashes of brilliant light were coming from the room. But they steeled their courage, and drank.
ooOOooOOoo
Luna found herself in a hallway, skipping happily as she usually did. But she found her path blocked by her Ravenclaw housemates. "Hello, everyone" she said smiling "out looking for crumpled horned-snorkacks?"
"Dear Merlin, she really is Loony, isn't she?" sighed a frustrated Cho Chang.
"Goes to show you that the sorting hat can't always be correct." answered Marietta.
"And what are you wearing? Maybe if you dressed decently, you'd not have the problems in the house that you do." said a smirking Roger Davies. "Maybe she can't afford anything nice, Rog. Her father probably didn't have enough to clothe her only daughter decently. But given that rag that passes for a newspaper, their subscription base could probably be counted on one hand" laughed Anthony.
"Mock me all you wish, just please leave my father out of this. Losing his wife, my mother, has had a bad effect on him" said Luna with a tear in her eye. She'd never done anything to these people, why would they harass her so?
Chang got in her face, a look of contempt on her face, and slapped the blonde witch. "Are you talking back to us?"
Harry and Hermione had come up to this scene when the final echoes of the slap were reverberating from the walls. "Step back from her!" he yelled at them.
Cho snorted as she said "And just who are you Potter to tell any of us what to do?"
"Hermione, grab the young lady, please? Take her down to the lake; I'll be right behind you." Hermione did as she was asked, gently holding on to the small witch.
"Who am I? I am not someone who gangs up on a firstie! I am not one who looks down, bullies, or belittles people! And I am also not one to stand idly by as someone is attacked!" he grabbed his wand from his robes, and purposefully strode up to the bullying Ravenclaws. "You will leave that young girl alone!" The look he was directing at the four could have frozen them in place. His eyes seemed to glow as the power around him increased. "Don't let me catch any of you hurting anyone ever again. The consequences would be severe!" and as one, the four turned tail and ran.
Harry walked hurriedly to the lakes edge, spotting Hermione and the little girl sitting side by side on a large rock facing the lake. The young Ravenclaw still had tears flowing from her eyes. She looked at Harry and smiled. "Thank you." she said sincerely.
"Well, that is not going to happen again, I can assure you. But just in case, I want you to hang out with us Miss…?"
"Lovegood, Luna Lovegood."
Extending a hand, the green-eyed wizard said "I'm Harry, Harry Potter." it was in that moment that Luna's life had changed for the better. Harry had become like an older brother to her. He helped with her homework, taught her new spells, listened to her talk about anything and everything. And he didn't judge her. He liked her for who she was. He saw beyond her need to hide herself behind her 'loony' persona. And she'd been happy.
But Dumbledore had taken that away from her.
ooOOooOOoo
"Hold on a minute, Gran. Are you saying Harry Potter is my brother?"
"Technically he's your god-brother. But yes." said the stern faced matriarch of Longbottom.
"Why isn't he here with us? We could have grown up together, I could've had a friend…" said Neville with a small voice.
"Headmaster Dumbledore said it was for the best. Harry has many enemies, enemies that would seek him unto the end of the world to find him and do him harm. So he was hidden away. But you'll get to meet him on the train tomorrow. He'll be on the Express too. Introduce yourself. I'm sure he'll be just as happy as you to meet his brother."
And he had met Harry on the train. And Harry had been extremely happy at meeting family. He was a little embarrassed though, because he'd come barging in to the compartment while he was looking for Trevor. He'd met Hermione there too, as well as Daphne Greengrass. And when the three had been chosen for Gryffindor, he thought for sure his life was looking up. He had a brother, and a new friend. They'd grown closer as the year went on.
He'd been scared shitless at the three-headed dog. But helping his friends get past the devils snare was redemption of sorts. Watching in wonder as Harry flew like a madman to catch a key was almost a heart-stopping moment. Being so very proud of Hermione for getting them through the chess game. And watching in horror as Harry left them behind to face Voldemort.
But then the happy memories faded. His blossoming courage being stripped from him to be replaced by self-doubt. His confidence replaced by fear.
And it had been Dumbledore that had taken that all away from him.
ooOOooOOoo
Daphne had been regaled by tales of the Potters her whole life. The friendship the Greengrasses and the Potters shared during their Hogwarts years had extended beyond the school. She'd even heard stories of her and Harry playing and napping together when they were toddlers.
Her childhood play partner would be joining her at Hogwarts, and she hoped she'd be able to meet him and become his friend once again. She introduced herself to him on the train, where over the course of the ride she'd told them those stories she remembered her parents telling her about James and Lily. They'd laughed, and they'd cried as well. But the embers of a friendship had been stoked.
She'd argued with the hat at her sorting. She was a studious child, and wanted a place where being intelligent wouldn't be looked down upon. She'd even take Gryffindor, as it would allow her to be with Harry. Anywhere but Slytherin.
But it was Slytherin where she'd ended up. The times she'd tried to talk to Harry had always been interrupted by other Slytherins, who'd taken to bullying her until she gave up on being Harry's friend. The sad looks he'd give her were heart-wrenching. All she wanted to do was run up to him and beg his forgiveness. But she couldn't. She was a Slytherin now, and Slytherins hated Gryffindors.
Dumbledore had taken that friendship away from her.
ooOOooOOoo
"Do you mind if I join you?" asked the bushy haired girl.
"No, not at all. Please take a seat." answered the raven haired boy.
"Hermione, Hermione Granger." she said extending a hand to him.
"Harry, Harry Potter." he said as he reached for her hand.
And as their hands touched an instant connection was formed. No longer would the bookworm be friendless. She would never be teased or bullied again with Harry by her side. She'd found in him strength and compassion.
Ron Weasley had beaten her in to a bloody pulp. He'd been angered by her attitude towards him in charms class. She was on her way to the bathroom when he'd accosted her. Dumbledore found him standing over her. 'Thank god' she thought. But the Headmaster had looked at her with hate filled eyes. Casting the imperius curse on her, he'd made her walk to the girl's bathroom and stand still in the corner. And then the troll had come barging in swinging its club with wild abandon. The sight of Harry charging the beast had allowed her to push the unforgivable off. When the troll was finally felled, he rushed to her side. She'd hugged him hard, the fear she felt dissipating quickly as she buried her head in his chest. He'd saved her
Dumbledore.
She'd managed to get them pass the chess game rather easily, but she thought she'd die from worry as she was watching Harry gather his courage up to continue on their quest to find Quirrel. He'd turned to her and smiled. "I'll be alright, 'Mione." he affirmed.
She hugged him, "you better be or I'm going to kill you myself when I see you again!" He'd chuckled at that. The look in his eyes changed into a look of determination. He very gently raised his hand to cup her cheek. "I'll be right back." he said as he leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on her lips. Dropping his hand he turned and headed on.
Dumbledore.
She could tell she was petrified. She couldn't bloody move! Harry needed to know what she'd found out about the monster roaming the school. But she was petrified. She sensed more than felt Harrys presence by her side. She knew he was holding her hand even if she couldn't feel it. She'd heard him telling her about his life. If she could have cried, she would have. When in a broken voice he told her that he couldn't lose her, that he was in love with her, her heart soared. 'I love you too, Harry' she thought within the confines of her mind.
Dumbledore.
Seeing Harry cast a patronus the size of Hagrid was inspirational. To see the dementors flee before he gigantic sliver stag was amazing. To see Harry together with Sirius was heartening. Seeing Sirius fly away on the back of Buckbeak was sad and happy at the same time. Running her fingers through Harry's hair as she kissed him hard was the most amazing feeling of her young life. The look of surprise on his face when she finally released his lips was hilarious. They'd almost not made it back to the infirmary on time she was laughing so hard. But he was holding her hand the entire way back.
Dumbledore.
Godric stood in the common room, worry lining his face. He'd finally managed to calm Harry down enough to get the potion in him. The sound of crying coming from the dorm rooms was draining. But also something that had to happen.
A/N
Long chapter, huh? Just couldn't stop writing. And with the harassment I'm receiving from the niece and nephew regarding my turtle like writing speed, I thought I'd post this one now. Excuse any mistakes, please. I'll correct them as time allows.