Forbidden: A Tale of Four Friends

by Hecateslover

A sort of different Harry Potter is sorted into Ravenclaw in his first year. Sticks to canon very loosely. Goes through first year and beyond. SLASH, HET, FEMSLASH, HPDM, HPNL, HPLL, and other pairings. MATURE readers only please!

4. Kisses and Snakes

Gah! I couldn't wait until Monday to update, I'm too excited. Here, it's early again! I loved everyone's reviews. They made me do a happy dance.

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Harry was glad to return to Hogwarts, because that meant less awkward silences between him and Draco. Of course, he now noticed Neville staring at him every once in a while. That was a bit awkward as well. No one said anything, because as soon as everyone settled into school that first month back, Hermione Granger and Penelope Clearwater had been petrified.

So the kids upped their search on possible monsters, using what clues they had. One: For some strange reason, Hermione Granger had a mirror in her hand when she'd been found, and the same with Penelope Clearwater. Two: It was something that the acromantula were afraid of.

Three: Whatever this creature was, it was scared of roosters.

And four: It resided in the "Chamber of Secrets", which was reportedly Salazar Slytherin's secret abode.

Now, Harry and Draco immediately thought it was some sort of snake. But Neville and Luna said that a snake that acromantula were scared of had to be pretty big- after all, the acromantula had tried to eat them!

So they were stuck. And to top it all off, half of the books in the Magical Creatures section of the library were still checked out!

Harry had been cornered by the twins between classes. It was rather hard to do, since all of the students were being watched like hawks, but somehow they'd slipped under the radar and had gotten to him. They managed to get into an abandoned classroom, and the twins pulled out their bag of tricks.

Harry looked at the number of pens in his hands, grinning widely. They were every color you could possibly think of, and more, with different colored inks, patterns, smells, shapes and sizes.

"This is amazing guys."

Fred and George grinned, exchanging a look.

"So, how are we marketing it? How are we going to sell this stuff?"

Harry looked thoughtful. "The muggleborns, of course, will eat this stuff up. Halfbloods too. Sell them for a sickle a piece, and then we can write Zonko's for the trick pens, asking them if they'd like to sell the merchandise."

Fred nodded, looking thoughtful. "We always wanted to open our own joke shop-"

"Yeah, Zonko's is good, but we know we can do better."

Harry laughed. "Alright. Don't sell the idea to them. Now that we have the patent, and no one else knows how to make it, we've got it covered. Sell them to students, and we can see how they do. Maybe try to make some…pretty ones." He made a slight face. "For the girls, and the snobby people. Fancy stuff."

"Can do!" George said.

"A sickle a piece?" Fred asked, looking thoughtful, as though as he didn't like the idea.

Harry shrugged. "Okay, what do you think is a better price?"

Fred nodded slightly. "Well, to add all those extra things costs a bit in supplies, so…I'd say four sickles a piece for the fancy stuff, two for the plainer ones-"

"And maybe for ten sickles, you can get a set of three fancy ones." George added.

Harry grinned. "Sounds great. They'll buy more, that way."

"Split three ways?"

Harry shrugged. "Sure, why not. Course, I'd rather have you guys spend my bit so you can keep up with the work. Those pens last a long time, so people will need tons of variety to keep on buying them."

Fred nodded. "That's what we were planning too."

George raised an eyebrow. "You don't want the money?"

Harry laughed. "Hey, I would just be glad to get rid of quills altogether. Yeah, some of them look nice, but they're terribly impractical!"

As soon as the snow melted, just after Luna's birthday, and before Hagrid's, the kids decided to take a fly over the Forbidden Forest. They had mapped out the Forest by now, and were putting the finishing touches on it- some animation runes and some colorful flourishes a-la Luna. It would be ready just in time for Hagrid's birthday. Of course, it would be a plus if they got to borrow it once in a while.

Harry was on Persephone, along with Neville, while Luna and Draco rode their own threstrals. Neville was still terrified of heights, so he couldn't fly alone.

"Hey, there's that place again!" Luna said with a grin, pointing down to the clearing. Instead of it being lush with fall leaves like it had been last time, it was rather barren looking from far away. It didn't look nearly as appealing.

But still, she swooped down on her threstral, making the boys go after her. Neville hid his face in his hands as Harry swept down, both he and Draco whooping with delight.

Luna touched down first in the clearing, then Draco, and then Harry and Neville. They got off their rides, looking around.

"The pond is still a little iced over." Draco observed.

Luna nodded, climbing onto the rocks to get a better view. Some of them were smooth, a couple hung slightly over the water, just enough so someone could jump in. She smiled, taking in the barren trees around them, and the muddy meadow.

"This place would look gorgeous in the spring and summer. Fall wouldn't be so bad either."

Draco nodded, looking into the water. "Of course, not really fit for winter."

Harry looked around, wrapping up his scarf around him a bit more. "This would be a cool place to hang out. I mean, by the Lake, there's always people around, especially in the spring…"

Neville nodded, going to one of the larger trees, tracing the bark on it with his fingers. "Yes…this tree, during the summer, at least, will provide tons of shade." He looked up at the sky. "And there would be plenty of sunlight every where else. You'd never know you were in the Forbidden Forest."

Harry looked around. "Do you guys know if there is anything we should be careful of around here? Any more acromantula or what have you?"

Luna shook her head. "We've checked out every other part of the forest. This place is pretty isolated. I think it's safe."

Harry grinned. "Great." He sat on the rocks. "This would be a great place to work on some projects."

"Like my guitar that you never did." Draco pouted.

Harry rolled his eyes. "We've been a bit busy!"

Neville smiled bashfully. "Do you think you could make me something too?"

Harry crossed his arms, and sniffed. "Maybe I should just let you two make your own, then."

"But you made Luna's!" Draco whined.

Luna giggled. "I'm just special, that's all."

After Hagrid's birthday, Harry saw something in the paper that shocked him. A large number of students were staring at him, more than usual anyways, and were whispering.

He leant over. "Luna…read this."

SIRIUS BLACK UNDER TRIAL!

It has been discovered that Sirius Black, supposed traitor of James and Lily Potter, was never put under trial, never actually convicted of his grievances. He has been in Azkaban for the last eleven years, since that fateful day James and Lily Potter had been killed. He was also accused of killing his best friend Peter Pettigrew, and 12 Muggles.

Now, evidence has come forward that he never was interrogated under veritaserum. Madam Amelia Bones of the DMLE says this: "We are correcting this oversight as soon as possible. If it is possible that Sirius Black is innocent…well, let's just say we made a huge mistake."

And that is certainly correct. After all, Sirius Black is none other than the Godfather of the Boy-Who-Lived, Harry Potter. If found innocent, Sirius Black will also inherit the Black Estate, one of the largest Wizarding Estates in the world. Of course, all properties and assets had been liquidated with Mr. Black's incarceration, so who knows what will happen…

Rita Skeeter, Special Correspondent

Harry gaped as he read. He had no idea he had a Godfather! He looked up at the Headmaster, and the man gave him the tiniest nod. Harry frowned, throwing the paper on the table, and grabbed his bag. He was out the door, with Luna on his heels.

"Harry…you didn't know?" She asked, running to keep up with him, their book bags smacking against their sides as they ran.

Harry shook his head. "I had no idea! I don't even know who this Sirius Black is, and I suddenly find out he's my Godfather…"

Flitwick came out of the Great Hall doors, and sighed after seeing Harry. Flitwick gave him a sad smile. "Come on, let's go to my office."

Luna stood awkwardly beside Harry, not really wanting to leave him. Flitwick tilted his head slightly in invitation. "You are welcome to join us, Miss Lovegood. I am sure Harry will need some support from his friends in the next few days."

Luna nodded, and she followed them to Flitwick's office. When they got there, Harry collapsed in 'his' seat, his head in his hands.

Luna sighed, rubbing Harry's back. "Harry…if he's innocent…would you want to live with him?"

Harry straightened up, looking at her. "I…I don't know." He looked at Flitwick. "What would happen if he was innocent? Would he become my Guardian?"

Flitwick looked thoughtful, sitting in his chair. "Well Harry, several things could happen. If he is found innocent, he is legally allowed to claim guardianship of you. Now, if you do not want to live with him, you could contest it on the fact that he's been in Azkaban for the last eleven years…and probably not mentally stable at the moment."

Harry blanched. "Is he…"

Flitwick shook his head. "Dumbledore told the Professors just before breakfast this morning. He said that Sirius was in remarkably good shape for someone who has been there so long. Of course, he was a bit upset that it took people this long to give him a trial…but who wouldn't?"

Harry bit his lip, frowning slightly.

Flitwick looked to the ceiling, deep in thought. "Of course, it would solve the problems with the Dursleys immediately. Dumbledore would have no claim over you, no say in where you live. Of course, we have been trying to do this all along, but it is rather hard to contest the 'Great' Albus Dumbledore. We did make some headway with Narcissa's help-"

Harry's eyes widened at this. He had no idea that Draco's Mum was trying to help him. Flitwick was still talking.

"Of course, since Sirius is her Cousin, she might have been involved with the 'information' coming forward."

Harry blinked. "They're Cousins?"

Flitwick nodded. "Yes. Her maiden name is Black."

Harry remembered something that someone had mentioned to him once. "Wait…wasn't my Grandmother a Black?"

Flitwick smiled. "That's right. Of course, that would make you, I believe, a third cousin to Mr. Malfoy."

Harry's jaw dropped. His Cousin had kissed him! Yeah, it was his cheek, but still...

Flitwick saw Harry's shocked look, and pressed on. "Of course, almost everyone is related to the Blacks. It's not that uncommon."

Luna squeezed his shoulder. "I even think I'm related to them somewhere."

Harry looked up at her in surprise. "Really?"

Luna shrugged. "Yeah. I think it was the 17th century or so. I don't really keep up on Family history all that much. A bit boring, compared to the fun stuff we learn about here." She added with a grin.

"But didn't you kiss Draco?"

Luna blushed immediately, and Harry clapped his hand to his mouth. He shouldn't have said that. He glanced to Flitwick, who looked a bit surprised, and a bit amused as well.

"Well then, there is nothing further we can do until tomorrow, when we find out the verdict. I will escort you to your classes."

Flitwick walked far behind the two Ravenclaws so they could talk 'privately.'

"How did you know that I had kissed Draco?" Luna whispered.

Harry looked down at his feet, watching them follow each other as they walked down the corridor.

"He told me. Over the holidays."

"Oh."

Harry glanced at her. She was still blushing.

"He likes you, you know." Harry blurted, and instantly regretted it. What was he doing? He liked her too! Was he an idiot or what?

Luna didn't look terribly surprised at this. "Really?" She mused.

Harry nodded, looking back down at his feet.

They didn't say anything for the rest of their walk, until they arrived to Luna's classroom. They dropped her off, and Harry and Flitwick walked together to the transfiguration classroom.

After they had walked silently for a few moments, Flitwick suddenly spoke. "You like Miss Lovegood, don't you?"

Harry blushed, shrugging.

Flitwick shook his head. "You are a bit young, and sometimes these things are fleeting-"

"I've liked her since the moment I saw her." Harry blurted, and instantly blushed.

Flitwick looked thoughtful. "And now that you know she likes Mr. Malfoy…"

Harry shrugged. "I…I can't stop her from doing what she wants. She likes him, and he likes her. I…I don't want to get in between that. He's my best friend."

Flitwick stopped outside the transfiguration door. "Is he aware that you like her?"

Harry nodded. "He…he said he was sorry. That…that he couldn't blame me for liking her."

Flitwick chuckled. "Only time will tell with these things. You never know. You best get into class, Harry."

The next day, Harry was woken early, by Flitwick. The man was beaming. Terry and Anthony were sitting up sleepily in their beds as well. "Wa's goin' on?" Anthony asked.

Flitwick smiled at Harry. "Your Godfather is innocent! Quite early this morning, they interrogated him! He's already talked to Dumbledore, and he said he'll be by at lunchtime, after he's cleaned up a bit."

Harry beamed, jumping out of bed, wide awake. "That's great!"

Terry got out of bed, as it was clear he wasn't going to get any more sleep. Anthony rolled over, pulling the pillow over his head. Flitwick left, and Harry got ready for the day, very excited about meeting his Godfather, and a little nervous too.

Just after lunch, Harry went up to Dumbledore's office, with Flitwick at his side. They entered the office, and Harry was startled to see the Minister, as well as Lucius Malfoy, and a rather thin looking dark haired man standing by the fireplace.

Harry stared at him. Was this….

"Harry?" The man croaked.

Harry nodded minutely. The man swallowed visibly, looking him over, staring at his hair, his eyes, and then the Ravenclaw crest on his robes.

"A Ravenclaw…I thought Dumbledore had been pulling my leg." He chuckled. "I'm Sirius Black. Your Godfather."

Harry couldn't help but smile. "I know. It was all over the papers yesterday."

The man smiled, transforming his gaunt face. Harry made a few more steps into the office, seeing Dumbledore at his desk, and another man, with brown hair, with silvery streaks in it.

The man saw him looking, and smiled at Harry gently, but said nothing.

The Minister spoke. "Well, Mr. Black, we have a very busy day at the Ministry…best be going…"

Sirius looked at the Minister coldly. "Yes, you should." He glared slightly at Mr. Malfoy, and the two men left. Sirius let out a bark-like laugh, and some of the tension eased from his shoulders.

The brown haired man approached him, and Sirius clapped him on the shoulder. "Harry, this is a good friend of mine, and well, your parents' too, Remus Lupin."

Harry smiled at him. "Nice to meet you Mr. Lupin."

Remus smiled. "Remus. Mr. Lupin makes me sound so old."

Dumbledore and Flitwick excused themselves, smiling, while Harry and the two men sat.

Sirius studied Harry for a long time, and Remus seemed to do the same.

"Merlin, you look so much like them." Sirius finally said.

Harry smiled. "Really?" Of course, he'd heard this from Hagrid, and sometimes, the other professors, but it still wasn't the same…

Remus nodded. "You have Lily's eyes." He looked speculatively at Harry's hair. "I bet it's rather messy when it's short, isn't it?"

Harry nodded. "I wore it short, my first semester, but Mrs. Malfoy grew it out for me."

Sirius frowned at the name. "So…you are friendly with the Malfoys."

Harry tensed. "Well…yes. Draco is one of my best friends. And his Mum has always been nice to me. I even spent the holidays with them, and the year before, I went to their Christmas party."

Sirius seemed to look sad at this. Remus spoke up. "Do you have any other friends, Harry?"

Harry nodded, smiling. "Luna, Luna Lovegood. There's also Neville Longbottom."

Both men smiled at Neville's name. "You two used to play together all the time, when you were just babies." Sirius said, grinning mischievously. "I think there's even a picture of you in the bath together…"

Harry colored, mortified. "Oh Merlin, don't say that to him, I'd never live it down…"

Remus spoke up. "Doesn't a Lovegood own the Quibbler?"

Harry nodded, grinning. "Yep, that's Luna's Dad. She helps him sometimes, over the holidays."

"Are they all Ravenclaws like you?" Remus asked.

Harry shook his head. "Neville's a Gryffindor, and Draco is a Slytherin. Luna's a Ravenclaw, but she's just a first year." He grinned. "She's so smart though, they should just move her a year up. I mean, she even helps us with our homework sometimes."

The two men laughed. "So, what is your favorite class?"

Harry looked thoughtful. "Well, I like all of them for different reasons, really, and the subjects I like best I haven't even taken classes in." He admitted. Seeing their looks, he explained. "I like runes a whole lot, I've been in the Runes club since my first year. I dunno, I think they're fun, I guess."

Remus tilted his head. "You're just a second year…"

Harry leant back in his chair. "So?" He smiled. "And I love Magical Creatures. Luna and I would probably ace that class if we took it right now. Draco and Neville too, although Lu and I are a bit more into it."

"Yes, Dumbledore said you were a bit close to Hagrid."

Harry smiled. "Yeah, we go see him all the time." He leant forward conspiratorially. "Don't tell the Professors, but we all sneak into the Forbidden forest all the time!"

The two men laughed, and Sirius spoke. "I bet you couldn't break our record of it, though."

Harry smirked. "Is that a challenge?"

Sirius and Remus exchanged a look, grinning. "Your Dad would get that same exact look on his face…"Remus started, shaking his head. "No…we shouldn't be encouraging you guys to go into the forest like that. It is a bit dangerous."

Harry spoke up. "Did you ever find the Acromantula lair?"

The two men's eyes widened. "N-no." Sirius finally said.

Harry laughed. "And the Unicorn glen?"

Remus shook his head. "Wouldn't let us near them."

Harry shrugged, looking thoughtful. "What about the Threstral caves?"

Sirius nodded. "Yeah, we found those, in our sixth year."

Harry grinned. "Aren't they cool? Did you ever fly them?"

Both men looked startled. "You can see them?"

Harry's smile faded. "Yeah." He looked down. "Actually…all of us can. For one reason or another."

"Was it from…that night?" Sirius' voice choked.

Harry shook his head, looking up at the man. "I…I just found out about you yesterday…how come no one ever told me?"

Sirius looked upset. "I don't know. The Ministry has a lot to answer for, believe me." He shook his head, and got up from his chair. He went to Harry's side, kneeling by Harry.

"Harry…have you ever seen a rat? That's missing its toe?"

Harry frowned, looking thoughtful. "No…I don't think so…why?"

Both men heaved a sigh of relief at that. Sirius smiled, ruffling Harry's bangs. "Just wondering kiddo." His eyes darted to Harry's scar for just a moment, and he stood, looking serious. "Now…Dumbledore didn't really want us to know, but Flitwick and Minnie spilled the beans, so to say….what happened with those muggles?"

Harry blanched.

Remus sighed. "We just want to help you, Harry. Sirius will get the adoption papers if you just say the word."

Harry looked at his Godfather in shock. "Really?" He asked hopefully.

The man nodded. "Yeah…" He whispered. "You're the closest thing I've got to a son. Why wouldn't I want to adopt you?"

Harry let out a sob that he didn't know he had, and he was suddenly being hugged by the dark haired man.

That evening, Harry was all smiles. By the end of the week, his name would officially change to Harry Potter-Black. He was going to have a Dad…sort of. And an Uncle, sort of. He'd spent all afternoon talking with them. Sirius was like a big kid, in some ways, and couldn't wait to spoil Harry, making up for all the years he missed.

It was immediately apparent that Remus was the more practical one, and talked about getting a house ready for the summer. They even talked about having his friends come to visit, even Draco (although Sirius didn't look to happy as he said the blonde's name.) They really weren't the parental type, but Harry knew he'd have a lot of fun with them, though.

They talked about school, and about the courses Harry was going to sign up for his third year. They talked about Harry's parents, and some of the adventures the Marauders had. They talked about Pettigrew, and how he had betrayed Harry's parents. They talked about Remus being a werewolf, which had Harry interrogating the man about all sorts of stuff, wanting to confirm the things he'd read from books.

They talked about the map of the Forbidden forest, and then they told him about the map they had made of the school, but it had been confiscated by Filch, so they didn't have it anymore.

Then Sirius asked about Harry's cloak, and Harry told him that he had it. They'd asked him if he'd had any adventures with it, and Harry said no, he had enough adventures as it was.

Snape had been unbearable for the following week, glaring and taking points from Harry whenever he could. Of course, everyone had noticed this, but everyone was a bit too scared to say anything. Draco, of course, was upset.

Snape had nearly vanished their potion, but seeing his Godson's face, he thought better of it, and took points away from Harry instead. Draco sighed roughly as the man stalked away.

"What it is problem?" Draco hissed, scowling angrily at his potion.

"Dunno. This is really pissing me off, though." Harry whispered back, glancing to the man who was yelling at a pair of Ravenclaws near the back.

Harry had just returned from a flight with Persephone when Luna came running out of the castle, along with the twins and Ron. Ron looked angrily at him. "You took her, I know you did! Where is she?"

Harry blinked, alarmed. "What are you talking about?"

Ron grabbed him by the front of his robes. "Ginny! She's gone! She's been taken down to that stupid chamber! You go get her right now, you slimy git!"

The twins dragged Ron off of the small Ravenclaw. "Ron, don't be silly-"

"He's not the Heir!"Luna spoke up, looking at Harry. "Harry, we have to do something." She begged, looking at Ron and his brothers, who were dragging him back to the castle. "Everyone thinks it's you…maybe if you found her, they won't think that anymore-"

Harry gaped. "We don't even know where that stupid chamber is!"

Luna beamed. "Actually, I think I do. I found a bathroom, on the second floor, that's haunted by that girl who was killed last time. I say we talk to her and ask her what she knows."

Harry rolled his eyes. "I guess I don't have any way out of this."

"Nope, come on!"

The two of them headed to the bathroom. "Don't you think we should get Neville and Draco?" Harry asked.

Luna shook her head. "No time! She could be dying right now!"

Harry sped up a bit at that, damning his 'helping people' instincts along the way. They arrived to the bathroom, breathless.

They could hear sobbing in one of the stalls. "Hello?" Luna asked carefully, voice echoing in the bathroom.

"Go away!"

Harry and Luna exchanged a look. "Myrtle?" Harry called out.

A ghost of a pudgy girl with glasses floated through the stalls, staring at him. "You're a boy! What are you doing here?"

Harry colored. "Well…uh, there's been a girl, she's in the Chamber…she might be killed by that same Monster that killed you."

The girl stared at them, sniffling. "And you just expect me to just drop everything and help you?"

Luna rolled her eyes, looking around the bathroom. Harry spoke up, frowning at the girl. "How did you die?"

The girl suddenly smiled, as though it was a cherished memory. "It…it was quite dreadful. I was here, crying, about that dreadful Olive Hornby, when I opened the door, and saw these…great big yellow eyes…" She shivered, smiling in a way that made Harry quite uncomfortable.

"If you die…you could share my u-bend, if you like."

Harry colored. "Um…"

"Hey, I think I found something." Luna said, peering at the sink.

Harry went over to join her, the ghost following them. "Hey…it's a snake."

"Say something." Myrtle whispered, ghostly eyes lit up. "That's what that boy did."

Harry and Luna exchanged a look, and Harry stared hard at the snake. "Open"

The sinks suddenly rumbled, and Harry and Luna backed up slightly. Myrtle peered down. "Ooh, I wonder how far it goes."

"Could you check for us?" Harry asked.

Myrtle smiled blushingly. "If you promise to share my U-bend with me…"

Harry cleared his throat, and seeing the look that Luna gave him, he sighed. "Okay…I…er…promise to share your U-bend with you if I die."

Mrytle grinned, delighted, and dove into the tunnel. For a long moment, Harry and Luna stared down into it, waiting for the ghost to come back, or say something…

They could hear the girl speak. "It's quite a drop, but you'll be fine!"

Harry and Luna grabbed each other's hands, and jumped in. They landed on crunchy mouse bones quite hard, and Harry glared at the giggling ghost halfheartedly.

Luna brushed some of the bones off of her robes. "Come on."

They walked for a bit, and their path was blocked by a huge stone that was covered in engraved snakes. "Open?"

The snakes slithered apart, their path clearing. The two Ravenclaws went forward slowly, wands drawn. Luna stilled suddenly. "What's that?" She whispered.

Harry looked, and saw a huge shadow of something. It was still, though. They crept forward. "It…It's a snake skin." Harry whispered, eyes widened. He turned to Luna, smirking. "I told you it was a snake."

Luna rolled her eyes. "And look how big it is! How could it have possibly have gotten through the school without being noticed?"

"The pipes." Myrtle said, and both Ravenclaws stared at her, dawning looks of realization on their faces.

"Um…let's keep going." Harry whispered.

They turned a corner, and saw a huge empty hall, and a small red headed little girl lying on the ground.

Harry and Luna gasped, and they ran towards her, Myrtle floating along behind them. The girl was cold to the touch, but looked as though she was sleeping.

"She won't wake."

All three of them looked towards the voice. It was a dark haired boy with a Slytherin crest on his robes.

"Tom Riddle!" Myrtle cried in surprise.

Harry and Luna exchanged a look. Neither of them knew a Tom Riddle, but apparently Myrtle did.

The boy was looking at Harry though, smirking. "So you are the Great Harry Potter."

Harry frowned, standing. "What have you done?"

The boy laughed, a high cold laugh that Harry recognized. He flinched, and stepped in front of Luna slightly.

Riddle smirked. "What? Acting the big hero again?"

"Voldemort." Harry said, watching the boy's reaction.

Riddle clapped. "Bravo Harry, I didn't even have to spell it out for you! I suppose you are in Ravenclaw for a reason…too bad you weren't smart enough to realize that you had just walked right into a trap."

Harry stepped back slightly as the boy turned, speaking to a huge statue that looked like Salazar Slytherin.

"Slytherin, Greatest of Hogwarts Four, Your Heir asks you to Open your door!"

Harry stepped back again, pushing Luna behind him more fully now. A snake slid out. Harry and Luna suddenly clamped their eyes shut.

"A friend of mine. I see you've been warned of the Basilisk's properties. How clever."

Harry tried to frantically think of what he could possibly do against a Basilisk, when he heard a great crash, and a screech. "Damn you Tom Riddle, it was you!" Myrtle cried.

"Sorry Myrtle. One can only take so much of your bitching and whining before one has to resort to drastic measures."

He felt Luna clutch at him around his waist. "What do we do?" She whispered.

Harry tightened his grip on his wand. "I don't know…Lu?"

"What?"

"I…I always liked you, you know. I just wanted you to know."

He heard a soft laugh. "We can talk about it later, Harry. Skinning curse on three, okay?"

Harry nodded, and they pointed their wands to where they thought the snake was- "one…two….THREE!"

They heard a screech, and flapping of wings, and Mrytle wailing. Harry and Luna could feel something spraying all over them, and it felt warm, so Harry morbidly thought it could have been blood.

He still didn't care to die just yet, and didn't open his eyes until he heard the boy shout "That damn bird! Get away from her eyes! Get away! Shit!" He heard running, and a pillar crashing to the ground.

Harry and Luna opened their eyes, discovering that the snake looked like a huge red mass of blood and guts, and was thrashing about, its skin on the floor in one piece, and a gorgeous red and gold bird plucking at its eyes.

Myrtle was chasing after the boy, screaming at him. Apparently he wasn't fully corporeal, but since she wasn't either, her slaps and punches could hurt him.

"You fucking bastard! You fucking used me!" She wailed. Luna's eyes widened as she saw Ginny dangerously close to the thrashing snake. She went forward, grabbing the girl, and the book that was on the floor next to her. Harry cast a slashing hex at the snake's throat, sending another stream of blood on them, soaking into their robes and skin.

Luna stared at the book, a slight frown on her face. Everything around them was covered in blood, except this book. She flipped through it to find it empty.

Meanwhile Harry went at the Monster with his wand, and cast another a reducto at the beast's mouth, making its head explode. Fawkes safely flew out of the way.

The two of them, along with Ginny, were showered in Basilisk parts, which was not good. Basilisk venom was raining on them, and…that was a dangerous thing.

Harry felt suddenly dizzy and lightheaded, barely getting to Luna's side in time before he collapsed.

The girl was trembling, and she grabbed one of the largest fangs near her, and stabbed the book.

Across the hall, Riddle screamed, and not because Myrtle had just kicked him in the balls. She glided away from him in fright, eyes wide as he seemed to explode into light.

Harry chuckled weakly, losing strength fast. Luna coughed up blood, trembling next to him. "Harry…"

"Hey…we'll….we'll be okay…" Harry panted.

Luna blindly reached for his hand. "I'm scared."

"Hey…you shouldn't be…we just killed a 70 foot basilisk…what else could…." He coughed, his vision dimming as he stared up at the ceiling. He heard some wings flutter nearby.

"I'm going to get help!" Myrtle yelled, and flew out of the chamber.

Harry rolled onto his side, grunting in pain. "I'm sorry Lu…I should have never gotten you into this mess…"

Luna didn't answer him.

Harry gasped. "Lu?"

He squeezed her hand. It didn't react. He felt a warm weight suddenly on his chest, and something liquid on his cheek, and onto his lips. He licked them, gasping for breath. His vision slowly cleared, and saw Fawkes on top of him, crying.

"Fawkes…she's dead…Luna's dead…."

The bird still cried, and Harry pushed it off of his chest gently, looking at the girl. She was covered in blood. Frankly, she looked rather disgusting, but he kissed her anyways.

He felt soft lips move under his, and Harry pulled away slowly, confused. Luna's eyes opened, revealing her silvery eyes. "Harry?"

Harry blinked at her. "Lu…I thought you were dead."

She sat up slowly, and saw Fawkes. "Phoenix tears." She breathed. "Oh Fawkes…thank you." She whispered. She looked at Harry, and hugged him tightly. "We're alright Harry! Fawkes saved us!"

Harry closed his eyes, holding her tightly, crying. For one moment…he had lost Luna. And that was something he couldn't… He pulled away from her gently. "Luna…" He whispered, staring into her eyes. Luna smiled, and lent forward just slightly.

Suddenly, Ginny Weasley coughed, and rolled over, gasping for breath, looking like she had just come back to life too. Harry didn't know whether to curse or be happy that she was alive- frankly he'd forgotten about her at the moment. Fawkes was fluttering off of her chest. She opened her eyes. "W-what happened?" She whispered looking around them.

"Er…" Harry started.

Luna spoke up. "We're getting some help now. Everything will be okay."

Needless to say, there was quite a story to tell in the hospital wing. The wing was quite full of people. Not only were all of the Weasleys there, but Sirius, Remus, Dumbledore, Flitwick, Hagrid, Mr. Lovegood, Neville, Draco, and Narcissa. More of the Professors would have shown up, but no one else could fit.

Mrs. Weasley hugged Harry and Luna, thanking them as much as she could, with invites to visit over the summer. Harry finally met Mr. Weasley, sorry that they couldn't meet in person under better circumstances. Neville and Draco had sort of been upset that they hadn't gone, but after learning that the two of them had nearly died…well, they were more upset about that.

Sirius had just joked if this was a normal occurrence with Harry. Harry just smiled.

After a while, Madam Pomfrey told everyone to leave, to give the kids their rest. Ginny, exhausted, did just that. Harry, though, did not find sleep that easy to come by.

"Harry? You awake?" Luna whispered.

Harry turned over in his bed to face her. She was already looking at him, curled up in her bed. She was dressed in the hospital gown, just like he was. Thankfully, all the blood had been scrubbed off, and they both were healed completely. Harry gave her a small smile.

"Yeah."

Luna drew back the covers on her bed, and crawled into his. "Budge over."

Harry did so, a bit startled at this. Luna gave him a kiss on the cheek. "Thank you again."

Harry blushed, fighting himself from touching his cheek where she'd kissed it. "Hey…you killed that Basilisk just as much as I did."

Luna shook her head. "But still…just…thanks." She said quietly, leaning into his side. They sat there for a moment. Harry felt a bit awkward. She knew he had kissed her when he thought she was dying, what if- Luna interrupted his thoughts.

"You know…waking up like that…was like one of those muggle fairy tales."

"Huh?"

Luna smiled, looking down. "The Prince kissing the Princess, and she wakes up from her deep sleep."

Harry blinked. "Well…I…I thought you were dead."

"So…you'll only kiss me if you think I'm dead?"

Harry blushed. "N-no."

Luna pecked him on the lips. Harry backed up slightly, eyes wide. She smiled up at him sweetly. "That's better isn't it?"

"Um…what about Draco?"

Luna looked down, smiling demurely. "I talked with him…" She glanced at him. "Harry…I think I fell for you the moment I saw you."

Harry stared at her, hope rising in his chest. "Really?" He breathed.

Luna nodded slowly. "And…and I knew you felt the same way. I always have."

Harry gaped at her. "Then…they why did you…" Kiss Draco? Rip his heart into shreds?

Luna blushed. "Well…I like Draco too."

Harry's heart felt crushed. "Oh." He leant back in his pillows, willing himself not to cry.

Luna whispered tentatively, taking his hand. "And Draco likes me too. He…he told me what happened. Between the two of you."

Harry stared resolutely at their hands. "He did, did he?"

"I…I think he likes you, but he's too scared to admit it." She said quietly.

Harry rolled his eyes, clearly not believing her.

"And I know for sure Neville likes you. He told me himself."

Harry blushed. "He did?" This was getting confusing now.

Luna nodded. "Yep. Apparently he's had a thing for you since he first saw you in first year, before he even knew who you were."

Harry let go of her hand, putting his face in his hands. "I don't know what to do."

Luna laughed. "You don't have to do anything, sweetie."

Harry frowned. "I'm tired. I'm going to sleep." He didn't feel like dealing with his hormones at the moment. He had just killed a seventy foot basilisk, after all.

Luna nodded, and kissed his cheek before she went back to her own bed. "Goodnight, Harry."

" 'Night Luna." Harry whispered, turning his back to her. Sometimes that girl was just plain odd.

The next morning, he had decided. He didn't want to get in between Luna and Draco. It hurt, but he knew it would hurt worse if they couldn't be his friends. Then there was Neville, and he wasn't sure how to deal with him just yet.

Harry led the way back to Moaning Myrtle's bathroom. The ghostly girl was waiting there for them when they arrived, looking quite excited. She had been charged (by Harry) to look after the entrance of the Chamber.

"Harry, the Headmaster has already been by." She called out.

Harry sighed, moving out of the way for Hagrid, who looked a bit odd towering over them in the cramped bathroom. Luna, Draco, and Neville all had shrunken things bulging in their pockets, and Hagrid had a rucksack on his back.

"What did he do?" Harry asked Myrtle.

The ghost shook her head. "He was trying to open the Chamber. He didn't notice I was here- I was hiding in the stall. He put a few fancy spells on the sinks, I think to show when people opened it and things."

Harry looked warily at the sinks, drawing his wand. The others did as well. "Alright. If we can't take the spells off, we can get someone else to do it."

"Or we could just smash the sinks up." Hagrid said helpfully.

Harry grinned, and the students started casting spells on it to detect and cancel any spells the Headmaster put on the sink. They managed to get all of them, and Harry was soon speaking to the tiny serpent on one of the sinks. "Open."

Everyone shivered, and the sinks opened slowly. "Ladies first." Harry said, waving his arm to Luna.

The girl rolled her eyes, and flicked her wand at the tunnel, casting cleaning charms and cushioning charms. "Now, I can go." And with that, she jumped.

Neville and Draco peered down into the tunnel.

"I'm alright! It's fine guys!" Luna called up.

The rest of them jumped in, getting out of the way for Hagrid quickly, who jumped last. It said something about the strength of the stone floors beneath them that nothing shook. It had been three days since Harry and Luna had rescued Ginny, so they weren't sure what kind of condition the Basilisk would be in.

Harry wanted to harvest the parts that could still be used. He knew the entire skin was taken off already, all in one piece from his curse. They entered the chamber, and were surprised to find that there were no bad smells, and that the blood still looked fresh.

Draco and Neville stared, aghast, at the remains of the Basilisk, as did Hagrid. Harry and Luna went about siphoning the blood and venom that was on the floor, into jars and vials after putting on some protective gear. Hagrid went to the snake, and started stripping it of its parts that could be salvaged.

Neville and Draco cleaned and laid the basilisk hide out once the floors were clean of blood and venom. After that, the kids helped Hagrid harvest from the giant snake.

"The blood and venom alone are worth a lot." Draco said, humming as worked. He was used to harvesting for potions ingredients, as was Luna. Neville and Harry, however, usually stuck to plants, and a lot less bloody things, and were a bit lost on the process.

Harry cringed as Hagrid started stripping the bones. "Th' last basilisk that had been seen was in 1842. This is a mighty rare experience." Hagrid said, looking rapturous.

Luna nodded. "I'll make sure to use my Daddy's pensieve when I get home, so I can write down everything. A lot can be learned from a magical snake."

"And the parts are extremely hard to find. Some potions can be made with the parts, mostly rare healing potions." Draco said, tilting a vial, and looking through it. "We have enough here to last for decades."

Harry and Neville grinned at this. They worked for a couple of hours, and Harry grew tired of it. Everyone took a break for tea, and he explored the rest of the Chamber. He tilted his head, seeing Runes around the entrance of the Slytherin statue.

He ran a finger over the runes, eyes narrowing. "Open for me, greatest of Hogwarts four." He whispered.

The mouth slid open. He drew his wand. His friends looked up from their tea. "What's that?" Neville asked, and then shoved the rest of his sandwich in his mouth.

"The snake came out of this." Harry said, looking into the darkness warily.

Instantly, Luna stood, drawing her wand. The others did the same, and Hagrid followed them to the entrance. "Lemme go first."

Harry nodded, and Hagrid led them into the dark area. A few steps inside, and the torches lit all along the room. It was large, an entryway of sorts. One side was a large tunnel, littered with bones, presumably where the Basilisk went to sleep and traveled.

The other side had a doorway, which was covered in runes. It was a large wooden door, with a serpent engraved in it.

"Open." He whispered.

The door creaked open. They went inside the doorway, Hagrid ducking his head.

It was room with a low ceiling, a large marble fireplace that sat in the center of one of the walls. A large four poster bed sat in the corner, and a couch sat in front of the fireplace. Behind the couch was a table with four wooden chairs. The walls were covered with bookshelves, filled with books.

Harry looked around the room. "We have to swear to tell no one about the room."

Luna nodded, looking quite serious. She put her hand over her heart, and the others followed. Harry looked a bit confused. Neville spoke up. "A Magical Oath, Harry."

Harry nodded, putting his hand over his heart.

Luna spoke, then everyone else joined.

"I swear on my life and Magic to say nothing more about the Chamber of Secrets other than what people already know, and besides the others here with me at this moment. So mote it be." They intoned.

Harry felt a little wash of magic cover him, making him shiver. Looking at the others, he knew they felt it too.

"Its late. We should probably head back." Hagrid said finally.

Harry sighed, looking around. "Yeah…we can come back."

Luna pouted, looking around the room. "I wish we'd discovered this place earlier in the term."

Draco squeezed her shoulder as they all walked out from the room. "Well, we still have plenty of years left before we graduate!"

It turned out, that since Hagrid was innocent for the whole Chamber business, and with the Monster gone, he was allowed to get a proper wand again. He'd gotten a copy of his old wand from Ollivander. Since he'd spent the majority of his life at Hogwarts, he'd picked up a lot of spells over the years, so it wasn't too hard for him to get used to using magic again.

He was extremely happy about it, and used magic whenever he could- eternally grateful to Harry and his friends since they helped him get a proper wand again.

Harry was sitting on the rocks in 'their' clearing in the forest, on the last day of term. He was very happy. He had a family now…sort of, and a house…well, it definitely need to be patched up a bit, but still…he had a family with Remus and Sirius. Even if they were a bit crazy.

He glanced over to see Luna and Draco talking over by the trees. Luna was leaning against one of them, looking demurely at Draco. She had forgone her robes for the day, and was wearing a dark blue sundress. Draco was looking at her up and down. Something seized in his chest, and he looked away, frowning. He kept telling himself not to come between them. Something had happened since the Basilisk- Draco and Luna touched each other more often, Luna kissed his cheek more- Harry knew it wouldn't be too long before something happened.

Draco stared at Luna. She was normally covered up by the school robes everyone wore, but since it was a nice day out, the girl had decided to wear one of her dresses. She had started making her own clothes when she was a child, taught by her mother- which was rather fortunate, since she and her Father didn't go clothes shopping all that often.

She was leaning against the oak tree, spots of light coming through the leaves, hitting her on her shoulders and the top of her hair. She looked beautiful. Their eyes met, and Draco smiled- trailing off in midsentence…in fact, he had no idea what he had been talking about.

"Lu?"

The girl's smile widened, and she crept around the tree trunk, fingers trailing over the bark, peeking at him playfully.

"Hmm?"

Draco followed her around the tree, heart beating rapidly. Their fingertips met on the bark, and Luna's playful look faded, and was replaced by something else. Draco leant forward.

"Hey."

Harry looked up to see Neville walking toward him, sample basket in hand. He'd been collecting plants not too far away. He sat next to Harry on the rocks.

"Look what I found."

Harry looked at the different roots and plants with a slight smile, but his thoughts were still with Draco and Luna. "Nev?"

"Hmm?"

Harry bit his lip, heart beating fast. He couldn't bear to have them together, and he be alone. "Have you ever kissed someone?"

Neville's hand faltered, dropping a root back into the basket. "Uh….no."

Harry glanced up, seeing the boy's face was quite red. "Have you ever wanted to?"

Neville's eyes darted to his lips, for just a moment, then went back to his eyes. "I…well…no, not really."

Harry smiled, knowing the boy was lying. Something in his gut told him to tease him a bit. "Oh…that's too bad." He said quietly, looking back at the basket, looking through the plants.

"Why?" Neville croaked. He leant forward, swallowing visibly.

Harry glanced at him, face warm, feeling something niggling inside him, something that made the pain from Luna and Draco lessen. He dropped his eyes slightly, studying the boy.

Neville was a good looking guy. Yeah, he was awkwardly tall, but he was cute. But Harry liked his personality the most. He could trust Neville to stand up for him in a hard spot. He would trust Neville with his life, if had to, just like he had with Luna and Draco.

His nervousness went up a few notches as he slowly raised his eyes, licking his lips nervously. He leant a bit close. "Nev…"

Suddenly, the boy's control seemed to break, and darted forward, kissing him hard. Harry gasped in shock. He had not been expecting it to be like that! He felt arms wrap around his waist tightly, pulling him against a chest, their lips bruising from the force of their kiss.

Harry pulled away, panting and dazed, that little niggling deep inside his gut felt like it had burst into shivers all over his body. What the hell was that? Draco and Luna? Who were they?

Neville was looking as dazed as he was, his lips red and swollen. Their eyes met, and Harry couldn't help but smile, sad thoughts disappeared, and he could only see and think of Neville and that amazing kiss. Who knew?

"That was…wow." He finally breathed. "Kiss me again?"

"Really?"

Harry nodded. Before he knew it, he was back in Neville's arms, being kissed like crazy, and by damned, did he like it. He only pulled away when breathing was an issue.

They heard laughter, and they looked over to see Luna and Draco laughing and whistling, usually pale faces pink, still under the tree.

Harry blushed, burying his head in Neville's shoulder. He glanced up to see Neville making a face at them. He smiled, wrapping his arms around Neville's waist. Yes…he was happy.

So they sat in the compartment on the way home, Harry and Neville sitting quite close together on one side, and Draco and Luna doing the same on the other. None of them had actually come out and asked anyone out, but there was a bit of obvious tension.

Luna was reading a book, while Draco plucked her guitar, looking a bit sad.

Harry saw the look on his face, and smiled. "Hey, I'm making you something this summer."

Draco grinned. "Really?"

Harry nodded. "Yep. Sirius is letting me stay with Hagrid for a bit, so I'm going to get the parts then."

Draco squirmed in happiness. "What is going to be made out of?"

Harry laughed. "A surprise. Something special." He glanced at Neville, wrapping an arm through the boy's arm. "I'm making something for you too."

Neville smiled. "Really?"

Harry nodded. "What would you like?"

Neville bit his lip. "Well, I guess it would have to be something that you could carry around, like your guitars and stuff." He mumbled.

Harry tilted his head. "What do you want to play?"

Neville grinned shyly. "The drums…I think it would be fun."

Draco started laughing, and Harry glared at him halfheartedly.

He looked back at Neville, smiling. After receiving those kisses from Neville, he wouldn't doubt the boy again, or think him clumsy, or think him weak in any way. It turned out the only reason he'd been clumsy before was because he was always staring at Harry, instead of looking of where he was going. (At least that's what Harry thought. In reality, that was only the truth sometimes. The other times, when Neville had landed on him, it was to feel Harry up.)

When Neville wanted to, he could be very…forceful. And surprisingly, Harry found he liked it.

"Okay. You might have to help me. Like you said, the stuff we have is pretty easy to walk around with, and with what I'm making for Draco-"

"You're making me a guitar, right?"

Harry grinned, shaking his head. "It's a surprise!" He looked back at Neville. "Anyways, before I was interrupted, we need to make your drums easy to carry, but I don't want of those marching band drums…" He made a face, and the others didn't know what he was talking about anyways. "I want to make you something very…you." He smiled. "Something special."

Luna giggled, glancing at them over her book. Harry blushed, glancing to Draco, who was trying his best not to grin.

"Shut up, you two." He sighed, leaning against Neville, and looked out the window with a smile on his face.

After they arrived at the Station, Harry was greeted by Remus and Sirius in a great hug. Sirius was grinning like a mad man, and Remus was smiling at Harry with pride.

"Flitwick told us you made first again. Congratulations!"

Harry beamed, motioning to his friends, who were still looking for their families. "I'm sure you remember my friends."

Sirius smiled charmingly at Luna, kissing her hand. "Of course I remember you, Miss Lovegood, and that Father of yours…where is he?"

The girl blushed. "Um, well, he should be here soon."

Sirius grinned, looking at Neville. "So, what are your plans for the summer, Neville?"

Neville shrugged. "Spend some time in the greenhouses, and some time with whatever tutor my Gran has got for me this year."

They all made a face at this. Sirius looked warily at Draco. "Hello."

Draco straightened his shoulders slightly. "Mr. Black. Nice to see you again."

The black haired man gave a slightly distant look, but Remus nudged his shoulder.

Luna spoke up, seeing her Dad. "There's Daddy!" She beamed, running to him.

"Pumpkin!" He hugged her tightly. "You've gotten to be such a lady!"

Luna blushed. "Daddy…"

Mr. Lovegood turned to the boys, putting his arm around the girl's shoulders. "Luna and I are going on a trip this summer, and I was wondering if any of you would like to go." He nodded towards Remus and Sirius. "You are invited as well."

Sirius grinned. "Where are you planning on going?"

"Spain. We will checking out some old church ruins, there's a lead we have, very big!"

Luna grinned. "The Ghost, Daddy?"

Mr. Lovegood nodded. "That's right, Pumpkin."

Neville spoke up. "Well, I don't think I'd be allowed to go." He said morosely.

Draco frowned, as did Harry. Both boys saw Narcissa approaching, waving to her son. Draco smiled, waving back to his Mum. "Where's Father?"

Narcissa sighed. "Business trip." She gave him a good look, shaking her head. "You're getting so tall, before you know it; you'll be taller than me!"

Draco smirked. "I better be!" He glanced to Mr. Lovegood. "Mum, Mr. Lovegood has invited us to go on a trip with him and Luna, even Sirius and Remus have been invited. Can I go Mum, please?"

Mr. Lovegood spoke up. "You're invited as well, the more the merrier!"

Luna nodded, looking quite happy. "Yes, we'll camp out, and have picnics, it will be a blast!"

Narcissa smiled. "When is this trip?"

"First week of July."

Narcissa glanced to Remus and Sirius. Honestly, Sirius wouldn't be a very good chaperone. And she wasn't sure if Mr. Lovegood and Remus would look after the children properly either.

"Oh, all right."

Draco grinned. "Yes!"

Narcissa spoke up, looking to Neville. "Neville, will you be going?"

Neville looked for his Gran on the Platform, his face falling as he saw her walking towards the group. "Um…I don't think I'll be allowed."

Mrs. Longbottom smiled coolly at the group as she went to Neville's side. "Neville."

"Hi Gran." Neville said quietly.

She put her hand on his shoulder, looking at Harry and Luna. "Children." She gave an amused smile to Sirius and Remus. "Sirius, Remus. Haven't seen you in long time. How are things?"

Sirius shrugged. "Better than they were."

Mr. Lovegood spoke up. "Mrs. Longbottom, I was just having a discussion here with the others about their summer plans. Luna and I are planning on going on a trip, and I thought it might be a wonderful idea for all of us to go together."

Mrs. Longbottom frowned slightly. "Well, Neville will be quite busy this summer. I've got him a couple of tutors in Defense and in Potions, so his days will be quite busy."

Neville's face fell, and he looked down.

"Oh." Harry said quietly, going to Neville's other side. "Well…we were all really looking forward to having him there." He smiled at her slightly, then at Neville. Neville looked sadly at Harry. "Well…the trip isn't until the first week of July, so if you change your mind, I'm sure Mr. Lovegood wouldn't mind…"

He glanced to Luna's Dad. The man smiled. "No, I wouldn't mind at all!"

Harry hugged Neville around the neck. "If I don't see you, have a good summer, Nev." He whispered.

Neville nodded, burying his face in Harry's neck for a moment, and they pulled away. "See you."

Luna pecked him on the cheek, and gave him a hug. "You better write. I will be very upset if you don't!"

Neville laughed, and Draco clapped him on the back. "Don't forget to write me either."

Neville gave him a small smile, and picked up his trunk. "Bye guys."

After he left, Luna seemed to wilt. "I don't like her very much."

Narcissa sighed. "She's just…worried about him." She gave a small smile to the girl. "You look more grown up every time I see you! You're almost a young lady!"

Luna blushed.

Narcissa went on. "I bet all the boys will be lining up for you." She winked at Mr. Lovegood, who had gone more wide-eyed than usual. "You'll have your hands full."

Harry and Draco glanced to each other, and Harry looked down at his shoes. Narcissa kissed Luna on the cheek, and Harry too. "Goodbye children. Come along Draco."

"Bye guys." Draco called out, kissing Luna on the cheek, and squeezing Harry's shoulder as he passed.

Harry watched the Malfoys go. Luna and her Dad left, and Harry was left with Remus and Sirius. "So, where is this place at?"

Sirius grinned, shrinking down his things, while Remus took out two helmets out of his pocket, resizing them.

Harry's eyes widened. "What are those for?"

Sirius laughed, throwing one to Harry. "Have you ever ridden on a motorcycle?"

Needless to say, by the end of the ride, Harry was hooked. Remus had ridden in the bucket seat, while Harry had ridden behind Sirius. It was like riding a broom, or Pegasus, except in traffic. They stopped in the square of a rough looking neighborhood. As far as Harry knew, they were still in London.

His legs were a bit wobbly as he got off the bike. He took off the helmet, shaking his hair out. "That was so wicked! When can I get my own?"

Sirius laughed. "I'll teach you how to ride when you're a bit older. Glad you had fun." He winked, ruffling the boy's hair. "Number twelve Grimmauld Place." He called out, and suddenly, a house appeared in between two others.

Harry's eyes widened. "Fidelis?"

Remus nodded. Yep. Just put it up yesterday. The place isn't in the greatest of shape, but we've had a few months to work on it."

Harry nodded as they went up the front steps, Sirius tucking in the shrunken motorbike into his pocket.

They went inside, and Harry found that the place was rather dark and dreary, and one wall was completely demolished for some reason- right in the front hall.

Sirius saw him looking and commented "I didn't like that wall very much."

Harry blinked, glancing about. "So…since we're under Fidelis, any magic I do can't be tracked by the Ministry, right?"

Sirius laughed, and Remus shook his head, smiling.

"Yes, you are right Harry. I had rather hoped you wouldn't figure that one out for a little while yet."

Harry drew his wand. "At least this way I can help you guys out. So, where am I going to sleep?"

Sirius grinned, dragging him up the stairs. "Coolest room in the house. Come on."

He was dragged up to the top floor, to the attic. "This used to be my room when I was a kid. Of course, I cleaned it up a bit, but…"

Harry grinned, looking around the room. It had a bit of a Gryffindor color scheme going on, and some pictures of girls up. There was full sized bed on a platform, and a large desk in the corner.

He looked up, spotting a skylight above the bed. He grinned. He liked that the best. He twirled his wand between his fingers, looking around a bit more. Expansion runes on the closet…definitely a fixer upper…but it was clean.

"Thanks guys." He finally said.

Sirius beamed. "You can decorate it however you like. Remmy is going to get us some pizza and stuff, and I can help you here."

By the time Remus came back with the pizza and beer, Harry's room looked quite different.

Harry had managed to get up to the ceiling with Sirius' help, and put some expansion runes on the window, so that it could stretch across the ceiling. They'd transfigured the bookshelves to something more sturdy, covering one of the walls. One the wall next to it, Harry and Sirius had transfigured the desk into something a bit larger.

Harry took down the girly posters. Sirius had grabbed them, though, and told them he'd keep them, since they were keepsakes. Harry had just rolled his eyes at this.

They color charmed anything they could, making all the furniture the color of oak, and everything in Ravenclaw colors. Sirius had drawn the line at adding emerald green, saying that there was enough of it in the rest of the house.

They had pizza in the kitchen, where Harry found out that Sirius was a horrible cook, and Remus wasn't much better. He volunteered himself to be the cook, since he didn't fancy being poisoned.

Remus and Sirius had their muggle beers, while Harry had a butterbeer.

Harry made a face at the smell of it. "Is that beer actually any good?"

Sirius handed it over. "You want to try it?"

Remus snatched it from Harry's hands. "Sirius, he's twelve!"

Sirius grinned, looking a bit sheepish. "Oops."

Harry bit his lip. "I…I've actually had alcohol before."

Both men looked at him in surprise. "Merlin, we and your Dad didn't get into firewhiskey until we were…what was it, fifteen?" Remus asked.

Harry colored. "It wasn't on purpose! I was cleaning up the table, and I thought my Uncle had been drinking water. It tasted awful…I think it was vodka. I had drank the whole glass, 'cause I had been really thirsty, and I felt funny for the rest of the night." He shook his head.

"When was this?" Remus asked, amber eyes soft.

Harry shrugged, looking down. "I was Nine, I guess. Uncle Vernon found out what I'd done, and he made me drink the rest of the bottle, and he…" He shook his head. "I was so sick." He made a face at the beers. "I just wanted to know if those tasted like that."

Sirius sighed. "I'm sorry Harry."

Remus took the man's bottle, and they put the drinks on the counter. He sat back down, running a hand through his hair. Things were quiet for a long moment, until Harry spoke again.

"So…fifteen, huh?"

Harry was having a nice dream. He was in the forest, playing his guitar with Neville. It was late in the afternoon, and they were smiling and having a good time. Neville looked at him…that way, that way that made that niggling feeling deep inside him come alive.

Harry smiled shyly at him, and Neville leant forward, kissing him. He felt that little niggling burst into shivers, and his guitar seemed to vanish, and the boy got on top of him.

Harry gasped into the kiss, groaning and throwing his head back, winding his arms around the boy's neck. "Yes…please…" He begged.

Neville pulled back lazily, licking his lips, hazel eyes bright. "What do you want, Harry?" He breathed.

Harry felt a shiver go up and down him as the boy stroked his arms. He groaned again, feeling the hand go down, down to the front-

He gasped, bolting upright in his bed. He was breathing hard, his face still flushed. Wow…what a dream!

He glanced down, frowning, looking under his sheets. What the…

There was knock at the door. "Harry?"

Harry colored, pulling the sheets back up. "Um…come in."

Sirius opened the door. "Are you okay…er…" He coughed, face going red. "You alright?"

Harry swallowed. "Um…yeah. I think so."

Sirius glanced away, looking a little embarrassed. "Um…you were dreaming…not a nightmare?"

Harry shook his head, mortified.

Sirius sighed. "Alright, get cleaned up and come downstairs."

Harry did just that, and crept down the stairs. Both men were sitting on the couch, coffees in their hands. They were very still. There was a creak on the stair that Harry stepped on, and both men looked at him.

Harry cleared his throat awkwardly, continuing down the stairs. "So…um…yeah."

"Sit down Harry." Remus said.

Harry sat in the armchair across from them, fidgeting nervously.

"So, has anyone given you the talk yet?"

Harry colored, shaking his head. "I mean…I've heard things…at school, but…"

Sirius nodded slowly. "Alright then. So…." He coughed. "Have you ever kissed a girl?"

Harry looked down at his feet, nodding. "Yeah."

Both men smiled. "That's great! So, did you go any further than that? I mean, we need to know what you know." Sirius added.

Harry bit his lip. "Well…I guess…if you love someone enough, and they love you back, you're supposed to get married and have kids."

Remus hid a grin behind his hand, and Sirius sighed. "Well…what happened this morning…er…leads up to that, I guess. You're getting older, and when wizards get older they er…"

"They have dreams. And those dreams make them have certain reactions…" Remus added.

Harry furrowed his brow. "Even if they're about other boys?"

Both men stared at him. Sirius blinked. "You were dreaming about a boy?"

It was Harry's turn to cough. "Um…yes?"

Remus looked a bit confused. "I thought you had just said…"

Harry spoke up patiently. "Yes, I've kissed a girl. But I kissed a boy too. Draco told me-"

"You kissed Draco?" Sirius blurted.

Harry colored, slapping his hand to his forehead in frustration. He sighed. "No! I mean, yes. And I've kissed Luna. And Neville."

The two men stared at him. "Woah Harry, I think you started early with the-" Sirius started, but Remus nudged him, shaking his head.

Sirius bit his lip. This was really hard. "Okay…so…anyways…um…when you like someone, and they like you back, there…there's more to kissing."

Harry's eyes widened. "Um….like sex?" He squeaked.

Both men nodded, chuckling.

"Of course, you shouldn't be doing that anytime soon; you're too young for that, cub." Remus said.

Sirius nodded. "Wait a while, okay? So…er…do you know the basic…"

"Slot A into slot B." Remus said, looking pained.

Harry nodded, looking a bit confused. "Wait…how does that work with boys?"

"Slot C, then." Sirius added, looking as though he really didn't want to explain any further.

Harry just got more confused. "What the…what's slot C?"

Remus let out a groan of frustration, and looked at Sirius. "I say we just buy him some magazines."

Sirus looked at the man. "You were the one to say we should give him the 'talk', I was all for the magazines-"

"Guys…"

"He's just a kid, why does it have to be so comp-"

"Guys!"

"It's not like you don't know where things go-"

"Guys! Way too much information!" Harry yelled, holding his hands to his ears.

The two men looked at him. "Er…sorry." Sirius said.

Remus looked sheepishly at Harry. "Okay…so…magazines. Right. Um…any questions?"

Harry bit his lip. He really wanted to know what this Slot C was, but he was a bit afraid to ask. But he supposed the magazines would show…he colored.

"Um…you won't tell anyone about…about this?" He asked shyly

Sirius spoke up. "No, Harry. We really don't want you doing anymore than you have until you're sixteen, okay? We'd prefer even later, but then we'd be hypocrit- ow! Moony!"

Remus glared halfheartedly at the man, and looked at Harry. "Whenever you're ready for…that, just let us know, or let Madam Pomfrey know. There's things you'll need to do to protect yourself."

"Like what?"

Sirius spoke up. "Well, there's a couple of potions and spells to keep people from having kids, there's the muggle ways too, of course, but those are a bit trickier."

"Oh…okay."

That afternoon was quite embarrassing. Sirius and Remus took him to the store to pick out magazines. They, nor Harry, really fancied sharing magazines, so they just let Harry get his own.

Sirius had fun picking out some for the bewildered boy, and Remus had tried to talk him out of the few…stranger ones.

Harry colored, seeing the burly man on the cover of one, dressed in leather-

"Hey, what are you doing there?" The shopkeeper said, walking over to them.

Harry colored, mortified. "Er…"

Sirius spoke up. "Well…we er, I'm his Dad, and he…you know. Just thought he should be educated."

The man laughed. "Well, I think you might be in a little over your head there…" He looked at Harry, shaking his head, and walked away, an amused look on his face.

Harry glanced at the magazine in his hands. The burly man on the cover stared up at him, a little smirk on his lips. "Erm….this one."

He grabbed the closest girly one, one with a girl on the cover in a schoolgirl outfit. "This one too."

He rolled them up, not wanting Remus and Sirius to see what he'd gotten. They looked casual about the whole thing at the register, and so did the shopkeeper. He put them in a brown paper bag, chuckling.

That night, Harry had waited until he heard Remus and Sirius go to their rooms. He slid the magazines from the paper bag, sitting on his bed.

He picked up the girly one first, and stared at the cover. He made a slight face, suddenly reminded of Cho Chang. He opened it, hoping all of the girls in there didn't look like her. He didn't like her very much. His eyes widened immediately, his mouth dropping open.

He closed it again, putting it facedown on the bed. He went to the other magazine, and opened it carefully. This one seemed a bit safer, at least this guy was dressed…sort of. Harry tilted his head, frowning slightly. Why would someone wear pants that didn't cover their bottom? This was a bit confusing.

He flipped to the next page, coloring instantly. One man was pressed against another, kissing, frozen in time, half naked. The slightly larger man seemed to pin the smaller one, his knee between the other's thighs.

Harry swallowed, feeling a bit warm. He flipped to the next page. Oh. Slot C. He definitely got it now. He licked his lips, turning to the next page. He gasped, magazine wrinkling in his hands. A man was on his knees, his mouth on another guy's…

He closed the magazine, feeling slightly feverish. He put both of the magazines back in the paper bag, and dropped it in his trunk.

Over the next few days, Harry got a good idea of what went where, and what to do with it. He read the articles, stared at the pictures, and had more than a few embarrassing dreams. But it helped, sort of.

Now he had more images to go along with his dreams, and found himself thinking about him and Neville doing some of those things in the magazine, sometimes even him and Draco, but it didn't seem nearly as…strong, for lack of a better word. It seemed to be more exciting with him and Neville.

Luna, though, he couldn't quite picture her to be like those girls in the magazine. She wasn't filled out like they were, and he couldn't really picture her doing those things. He did wonder, though, what she would look like, if she did fill out.

Harry spent his time with Sirius and Remus wisely. They talked a lot about school, about the situation with his friends, and about his projects.

He also took joyrides on the motorbike with Sirius whenever he could, and spent some time with Remus in the library, sorting out the books. He also showed them his guitar and flute, and they were quite impressed.

They often went to the muggle world, and brought back souvieners, like McDonald's toys, electronic gadgets, pogo sticks, and other things that could be used for mischief. Living with Sirius and Remus was quite fun.

While Sirius and Remus were giving the 'Talk' to Harry, Luna was writing. She had been working nonstop on documenting their experience with the Basilisk salvaging. She'd had to reference numerous books, getting special permission for some of them. Of course, her Daddy knew people, so it wasn't terribly hard to do so.

Her Daddy was working very hard too, preparing for the upcoming trip. Spain was so nice this time of year, and she couldn't wait to see Alonzo again. Luna tied her manuscript together in a rainbow colored ribbon, and shrank it down to the size of a bar of soap. She called over an owl, and attached the manuscript, along with a note to Obscurus Publishers. She would send two more copies to other publishers in the UK.

But they would all return with a short, but polite note.

Dear Miss Lovegood,

Thank you for sending your manuscript. It was an enlightening read, however, we do not publish fictional stories. Most of the information contained within your text has hardly any references, and could not be fact-checked. Also, because of the Dark subject of this text, it would be banned from the public market here in the UK. Your style of writing is quite unique, and the illustrations were colorful, so if you do choose to write a children's book, or perhaps a fictional book, we would be happy to look it over.

Thanks...

It didn't stop Luna. She knew that the book could be published elsewhere- the English were quite strict with their books compared to other countries. She would just have to figure out where to publish it where it could be appreciated.

Draco was flying. He did that most of the time during his holidays, to get away from his Mother and Father. His Father was terribly upset that both of them were going on a trip, and his Mother had yelled at him about his own little 'trips' to see his lover. In front of Draco.

Then everything came out. Draco found out that his Father went to go see the man quite often during the year, leaving his Mother alone. His Father accused her of taking on a lover as well, and his Mother denied it, talking about how he'd turned her away from Men and Sex altogether.

Draco decided he really shouldn't be hearing things like that. So he flew. Sometimes he went over to Theo's, because he wasn't allowed anywhere else besides the Crabbe's and Goyle's- but he really didn't like going to any of their houses. Theo's Dad was kind of creepy. And Crabbe and Goyle weren't much for conversation.

He missed his friends. He had come to terms that he was really friends with Neville. At first, it was sort of awkward, but once they started hanging out, all that family stigma and things eventually faded away. Now that Neville had stopped being so awkward and clumsy around Harry, Draco could really see that Neville was different than they thought he was.

Neville hated the summer holidays. It was constantly filled with tutors. He didn't mind it so much now, now that his marks were a bit better and that he understood things, but he hated being stuck inside when he could be working on his Greenhouse. But he had made a deal with his Gran. He would get to go if he did well with his tutors, and saw his parents before he left.

He missed his friends, and he missed Harry the most. He had been so surprised that Harry liked him back. He was well aware that Harry liked Luna (who didn't?), but he had no idea that he'd liked himself as well. Harry certainly seemed to like his kisses, at least.

Before they knew it, it was time for the trip. Luna had written, and told them to come to their house through the floo, and they would take an international portkey from there. So, just before lunch, the three of them flooed over to the Lovegood home, their things packed and shrunken into their pockets.

Harry stumbled slightly as he came out of the floo. He smiled as he saw Luna, and got out of the way as Sirius and Remus came out of the floo.

Luna was dressed in a pale green tank top and hiking shorts, and some hiking boots, a pack on her back. Her hair was pulled back into a braid, much like how Harry wore his hair all the time.

"Hi Harry! Aren't we going to have so much fun!" Luna squealed.

Mr. Lovegood came into the kitchen, dressed similarly to his daughter. "Harry, good to see you again. Draco and his Mother are on their way any moment."

The two of them walked out of the green flames smoothly, brushing off the soot from their robes. They were clearly not dressed for hiking, like the Lovegoods obviously had.

Narcissa seemed to realize this. "Oh, can I change before we leave?"

Mr. Lovegood nodded. "We're just waiting for Neville now. We have fifteen more minutes before the portkey activates."

Narcissa nodded, and asked where the restroom was. She went to change her clothes.

"So Neville is coming?" Harry asked hopefully.

Luna nodded. "Dad and I talked to his Gran. I think we wore her down a bit, told her that Neville was crucial to- oh, here he is now!" She chirped.

Neville came out of the floo, grinning widely as he saw his friends. "Hey!" Luna and Harry hugged him immediately, Draco clapping him on the back.

Narcissa came back from the restroom, dressed in some pants and a blouse, instead of the robes she had been wearing, and much more sensible shoes. She had pulled her hair up into a ponytail.

"Wow, you look loads different, Cissa." Sirius said, using his old pet name for her.

Narcissa just smiled, and looked to Neville. "I'm glad you were able to make it, Neville."

Neville nodded. "Yeah...me too. So, er…how are we getting there?"

Mr. Lovegood held out a tattered old book. "This. Portkey. We'll have to go to the back garden, we don't have much time."

They all filed out of the kitchen, and into the garden. Everyone looked appreciatively about for a moment, and grabbed a hold of the boot.

"Kay kids, hold on tight!"

The portkey activated, and Harry and the others seemed to be flying, hurtling through the air at very high speeds. He landed on his back with a hard whump, knocking the breath out of him, His friends laid in similar states beside him, with the exception of Draco, who stood beside his Mother, smirking at them.

They all got up, and looked around. They were on a coast, the waves crashing in the cliffs below.

Mr. Lovegood pointed to the hills above them. "We're going to have a bit of a hike up there. I'm hoping we'll get there before nightfall."

Draco whimpered.

Harry grinned, pulling his flute out. "Music anyone?"

They started hiking up the hills, Harry playing his flute while everyone else talked about the scenery. They made a few stops along the way, taking plant samples, and taking pictures with the camera that Mr. Lovegood had brought with him. Draco was groaning and whining half the time, and his mouth had been hexed shut by his Mother the other half. Neville was delegated to carrying the samples, while Luna held a notebook in her hands, writing down observations.

They finally found a spot to rest a couple of hours later, atop one of the hills. Remus and Sirius went about setting the tents up while the boys, Luna, and Narcissa went to explore the area. They managed to find a creek, where Luna found some toads.

"Hey, Neville, I think I found Trevor's family!" She yelled.

Neville laughed, seeing them. "He can join them."

They went back to the campsite, where the guys had managed to get the tents up. Luna and Narcissa were sharing a smaller one, while Remus, Sirius, and Mr. Lovegood shared another. Harry, Draco, and Neville would be sharing the last.

Harry went in first, sighing slightly at the cramped quarters. Draco groaned as he saw it. "I was hoping for expansion charms."

Neville shrugged, unrolling a sleeping bag. "It's not a big deal."

Draco sighed roughly, going on the other side, and unrolled his sleeping bag. Harry went to the one in the middle, and did the same. "So, did you guys bring any games or anything to do?"

Draco sniffed. "Our tents are usually stocked with everything we need. I had just assumed that ours would too."

Harry frowned. Draco was acting like a snob. Draco crawled out of the tent. "I'm going to see if the others have expansion charms on their tents."

Harry rolled his eyes, and glanced over to see Neville searching through his bag. Harry looked down, blushing as he realized how close they were going to be sleeping together. Neville glanced up at Harry, and he seemed to realize this too.

Harry gave him a flirtatious smile. "I hope you don't snore."

Neville went red. Harry winked at him, and crawled out of the tent. He found Draco complaining to his Mother quietly about how small their tent was, but the woman only glared at him and told him to suck it up.

Luna was helping her Father with dinner at the campfire, while Remus and Sirius were putting up simple wards around the perimeter, to make sure no animals came about.

Harry sat next to Luna on the log, watching her unpack some of the packages. "Hey, you need help?"

"Sure Harry." She handed some of them over. He grinned as he recognized muggle marshmallows. He opened the package, and helped her open the graham crackers. Mr. Lovegood was opening the tin of spam like an old pro, and he and his daughter began to sing 'Animal Fair'. Harry recognized it, because Luna sang it often while they were at school.

Neville, Draco, and his Mother joined them on the logs, and so did Remus and Sirius soon after. Dinner was fun. Spam and hot dogs, along with crips, and smores. None of the purebloods there had had them before, except for the Lovegoods, of course, so they and Harry got to explain the food to them.

After dinner, Sirius told stories, trading off with Remus and Mr. Lovegood. It was finally time for bed, and everyone separated to their tents.

Draco blushed as Harry and Neville were about to go into the tent. "Erm…I'm going to go say goodnight to Luna."

Neville just rose a brow, and then went in the tent. Harry colored, following him in. They had both been a bit embarrassed about undressing, so they did it quickly, their backs to each other. Harry slipped into his sleeping bag just as Draco came into the tent.

Draco yawned. "Luna said we have to get up early. I'm beat. All that walking did me in today." He undressed, and Harry turned his back to him, facing Neville. Neville's back was to him, and the boy was quite still. Harry frowned slightly. He had been hoping the boy would be awake for a bit longer…

Draco climbed into his sleeping bag. "What a strange thing! What does this metal thing do?"

Harry laughed. "That's a zipper, Draco. You can unzip the side of it."

"Oh." The boy turned, his back to Harry. "Good night guys."

"Night." Harry murmured. Neville didn't say anything.

Harry sighed, preparing himself for a long night. He wasn't tired at all, actually. It was dark in the tent, and he could hear Draco's breathing even out slowly, and eventually, he began to snore. Loudly.

Harry giggled at the sound. He heard a rustling from Neville's side, and he turned his head to see Neville's outline shifting. He turned to face Harry. He could barely make out the boy's face and arm peeking over the sleeping bag.

Draco let out another large snore. Harry tried his best to keep from laughing again.

"Merlin, I hope he's not like this all night." Harry whispered to himself.

He jumped as a warm hand grabbed his. He looked over to see Neville's hand was resting on top of his. Harry smiled in the darkness, heart quickening. He squeezed, gently.

The hand squeezed back.

Harry slowly scooted away from Draco, and towards Neville. He could hear the boy's breathing sharpen. "Harry?" Neville whispered.

Harry licked his lips, hearing how close the other boy was. "Hmm?"

The hand slid from his, moving up his arm slowly. Harry sighed as he was pulled gently towards the other boy, into his arms. Harry burrowed into the chest, smiling. He lifted his head slightly, and he felt Neville's lips graze his cheek.

A hand pulled his chin up so their lips met clumsily in the darkness. Harry's hands tightened on the boy's sleeping bag, which was covering his chest a bit. They slid away, and up, over Neville's shoulders, and around his neck, and into his hair.

Harry groaned as the lips on his dominated the kiss, pinning him to the floor as Neville sat up slightly. Harry felt entirely too warm.

The lips pulled away, and he could hear Neville panting next to his ear. "Merlin, Harry…"

Harry sighed, running his hands through Neville's short hair. "Hmm…Nev…that was so good." He whispered, then thought he sounded a bit silly. He just shut up.

The boy turned his head slightly, kissing his cheek. "I'm glad you think so." Okay, maybe saying stuff was okay.

Harry smiled against the boy's skin. "I know so…your kisses…just wow."

He heard a soft chuckle, and the boy let up, letting Harry sit up. They both glanced over to Draco as he let out a particularly loud snore.

Harry giggled, hiding his laughter behind his hand.

"Harry….I have to ask…do you like me?"

Harry sighed. "I do, Nev." But he liked Luna too, and Draco a bit, sometimes. And that was a problem. But he liked-liked Neville the best, so maybe it was okay.

"I…I like you too. I've liked you since I ever first saw you."

Harry smiled. "During the sorting?"

"No….I was on the train. I saw you through the window, in your compartment. I…I was looking for my toad, but you were reading…I didn't want to interrupt you. You…you looked…look so beautiful, I couldn't help but just…"

Harry grinned widely, and leant forward, kissing the other boy. "Thank you." He blushed, looking down. "Boys aren't supposed to be beautiful. Handsome, maybe, but I don't think…"

"But you are…" Neville whispered, taking his hands. "You're beautiful."

Harry blinked into the darkness, willing himself not to cry. "No…no I'm not…I mean, I'm so much smaller than the rest of you guys…and, and…"

"What? You've got lovely eyes, and gorgeous hair…"

Harry shook his head. "I…I have scars. They're ugly." He whispered.

Neville's grip on his hands tightened. "The muggles?" He finally asked.

"Yeah."

Neville hugged him tightly. "I think you're still beautiful."

Harry laughed, feeling a little hysterical. "You won't say that when you see them."

"Is that a promise?" Neville purred.

Harry colored, looking up at him.

A hand touched his shoulder. "We should get some sleep." A kiss was pressed onto his cheek. "Goodnight Harry."

The following day, they left their camp, and continued to hike up. On top of the hill sat the old church- it was in ruins, looking like it had been on fire at one point, and there were vines covering parts of it.

"So, why are we here?" Draco asked, looking around.

Mr. Lovegood spoke, peering up at the bell tower. "Well, down in the valley, there's a woman who says these bells ring every night at 3:30 am, and at noon." He checked his watch. "In fact, noon is coming up shortly."

Everyone clapped their hands to their ears as the bells rang out loudly. Mr. Lovegood led the group inside the church. The remnants of the pews and such were all burned and charred.

"So what, is there a ghost or something?"

"Since no one has been up here, we can only assume that." Mr. Lovegood said, peering about.

"Hey, guys, I found a set of stairs." Draco said, waving them over.

They went down, amazed to find a large collection of books, scolls, art, sculpture….

"Wow!" Luna cried. "This is amazing!"

"How come it's not all burnt up?" Draco asked, looking at the books. He was about to touch one when a ghost came through the bookcase, right in his face.

He screamed in surprise. It was dressed like a monk, but he had burns on his face and clothes. He was scowling at Draco. "Do not touch the books!" He said.

Mr. Lovegood spoke. "Friend, we were investigating the church. We mean no harm."

The ghost looked at Mr. Lovegood suspiciously. "You could be spies. You want to take away our collection!"

Sirius shook his head. "We're not!"

"You sound like the Englishmen." He said, looking at them. "Although you are dressed very oddly."

Luna spoke up. "Mr. Monk, do you know what year it is?"

The monk's lips pinched together. "1584."

Luna shook her head. "No, Mr. Monk, it is not. You've been here a long time." She smiled hesitantly, letting that sink in. "It is the summer of 1992."

The monk's eyes widened.

Remus spoke up. "You were given the task of caring for these books?"

The monk nodded. "A most important task! The English were going to have all these burned and destroyed, but the bishop sent them all here." He frowned slightly.

"I remember a fire, but I do not know how the books were unable to burn. I always thought it strange."

The kids exchanged a look.

"Have you ever read one of the books?" Narcissa said.

The monk shook his head, looking sad. "Alas, I cannot pick any of them up. Before the Fire, I, nor anyone else was to read the books."

Harry approached one of the paintings. Like all of them there, they were still, muggle paintings. He examined the frame closely, eyes widening as he saw a flame retardant rune on the frame.

"There's a rune on here!" He exclaimed. "A flame retardant rune!"

All the wizards looked at the ghost questioningly. The monk looked puzzled. "What do you mean? What kind of thing would keep things from burning?"

Narcissa spoke up. "It is magic, a type of magic called runes, they protect-"

The monk gasped. "Witches!" He breathed, backing up from them, looking at all of them. "Most ghastly demon-folk! Away from here!" He tried to pick up a nearby cross, but his hand passed right through it. "Get away from my books!"

Mr. Lovegood spoke up. "Monk, we mean no harm. We want to help you. We can protect the books if you like."

The monk spread his arms across the bookshelf, looking at them threateningly.

Draco rolled his eyes, grabbing a book from the shelf, right through the ghosts' chest. Everyone glared at him as the ghost started yelling.

Draco flipped open the book. "Hey, this is a transfiguration book! I mean, it's all in latin, but…"

Neville went to the blonde's side, and the Monk seemed to pale even further.

"Magic? Why would the bishop ask me to protect magic books?" He whispered, horrified. He looked at the artwork around him as well. "Are these magic paintings?"

Narcissa spoke up. "We do not think so…Monk, do you wish to continue protecting these magic books?"

The monk cringed. "No! Have them! I do not care for them. Take them and go away!"

Mr. Lovegood spoke. "Monk, do you ring the bells?"

The Monk nodded. "Yes! I ring them at noon, like I always did. At night, though, the flames come, and I warn the people."

Sirius and Remus exchanged a look. "They come back?" Sirius asked.

Remus frowned. "Do they ever reach down here?"

The monk shook his head. "No, and that is why I stay here, when I am not ringing the bells." He sighed. "It is terrible…I had no idea so much time had passed….me protecting these…magic books." He made a disgusted face.

Mr. Lovegood spoke up. "You can leave, you know. Once we take the books. Your task will be over."

The monk looked a bit confused. "Leave?"

Mr. Lovegood nodded. "Yes, leave. There are others, like you." He looked thoughtful. "In Madrid, there is a rather well known Matador, and there is the Wailing Woman in Seville. I am sure there are others."

The monk smiled slowly. "Perhaps." He looked around the room. "And you will take these books away, these books that have been desecrating my church?"

Mr. Lovegood nodded solemnly. "We will give them to the proper authorities, they will remain on Spanish soil."

The Monk beamed, which looked a bit odd on his ghoulish face. "Very well, then."

The small group went about packing the books. Draco wanted to keep some for themselves, as a finder's fee, but it was decided by everyone else that the Spanish Ministry of Magic should have the items.

As everything was packed up, the monk followed them out of the church. "In Madrid, you say?"

Mr. Lovegood nodded, smiling. "Yes, Madrid."

They were back at the camp that evening, going over their bounty. The kids were looking over the books. "I wish I could read latin properly. I only know enough for spellwork, but…"

The others looked at Harry in surprise. "Really?" Luna asked, eyes wide.

"Yeah, we all know Latin." Neville said.

"Is this a pureblood thing?" Harry asked, frowning slightly. All the kids nodded.

Draco spoke up. "I also know French and Italian."

Neville spoke up. "Yeah, I know French too."

Luna blushed. "I also know French, Italian, Spanish, conversational Mandarin, a bit of Gobbledygook and a tiny bit of Mermish."

All the boys stared at her.

"What? I have traveled all over the place with Daddy. You can't help but pick things up."

Harry sighed, looking forlorn. "I don't even know one language."

"Well, you know English." Luna pointed out.

Harry shook his head. "My native language- that doesn't count!"

Draco laughed. "It sure does. I know a few people who can barely read or write in English."

"CrabbeandGoyle." Neville coughed, and Luna swatted his arm.

Luna spoke up. "You know Parseltongue."

Harry scowled at him. "It sounds like English to me!"

"Oh." Neville said quietly.

Luna looked thoughtful. "Well, between us, we can teach you the basics of whatever language you might want to learn."

"Latin first." Harry said, motioning to the book in his hands.

That evening, after Draco was asleep, Harry and Neville curled up together and fell asleep peacefully.

The following day, they packed up camp, and headed to Madrid, to meet with the Spanish Ministry of Magic. They booked into a hotel, had a proper breakfast, and then headed to the Minsitry.

Their Ministry was disguised as a old Church, with gorgeous stained glass windows and such. Inside, however, it looked like an office building, partitioned into cubicles and sections for each department. They headed below to the History department, and were met there by a dark haired man that seemed to know Mr. Lovegood quite well.

"Alonzo!" Mr. Lovegood greeted.

The man smiled, looking over the large group. "I see you've brought some friends." His eyes fell on Luna, and his smile widened. "And you! So grown up! You get prettier every time I see you!" He said with a charming smile.

Luna just smiled back. "Thank you Alonzo. You say that every time I see you."

The man chuckled. "So, what news?" He finally asked.

Mr. Lovegood took out the large pack that had been on his back. "We were following a lead about a ghost sighting. He was there, of course, protecting a whole cellar of priceless books and artifacts. They belong to the Spanish Magical Ministry, of course, so I thought we ought to return it to you."

The man raised a brow, and looked into the bag. His jaw dropped. "Well…thank you Mr. Lovegood. I will speak with my supervisor, and I am sure you will be hearing from our Minister soon."

Mr. Lovegood smiled. "Thank you."

Alonzo smiled at the others. "Please sit, make yourselves comfortable. I will have my Secretary bring some tea."

While they had tea, Alonzo firecalled several people, and sent off several memos. A few men came by, and took the bag, presumably to study the items within. The Minister came by, beaming, shaking Mr. Lovegood's hand enthusiastically.

"Thank you, Mr. Lovegood. I've just heard from our Research Department that those items are the real deal! We had thought they had been lost forever. So, thank you." He shook the adults hands, thanking them as well.

He smiled at Luna, pinching her cheek. "Following in your Father's footsteps, young Lady?"

Luna smiled. "Maybe."

The Minister laughed, turning to the other kids. "And who are your friends?"

Luna motioned to them each as she said their names. "This is Draco Malfoy, Neville Longbottom, and Harry Potter."

The Man smiled at Draco's name, and did a double take at Harry once Luna had told him Harry's name. His eyes flicked to Harry's bangs, and he shook Harry's hand again.

"Nice to meet you, Mr. Potter! If I had known that the Boy Who Lived was visiting our fine country-"

Harry shook his head, giving the man a pained smile. "It's fine, sir. You have a lovely country."

Draco snickered at this, elbowing Neville, who was trying to hide his smile. They eventually got rid of the fawning man, saying they had a few more things to do.

They had three more days of their trip. One was spent in the Spanish equivalent of Diagon Alley, which was quite interesting, as they were much more casual about the regulations on what kinds of magic books and items that could be sold. Because of this, Luna sent her manuscript to one of their publishers there. Their Gringott's was absolutely huge, and even more opulent than the London Branch.

The following day was spent at the Beach. Sirius had tried to get them to go to one of the nude beaches, but Narcissa had vetoed that right away.

Their last day in Spain was spent in the muggle world, shopping. Harry showed those the pleasures of the muggle world that had never seen it before. The Lovegoods and Remus were old hats at being in the muggle world, and blended right in. Sirius was a bit awkward sometimes, but that was only because he kept staring at the women as they passed.

It was Draco and Neville that exclaimed and gawked at streetlights, bringing more attention to them than was needed. Narcissa was a bit reserved, but curious about the strange surroundings.

The next morning, they had to go back to England.

Harry slept for their first day back, as did Remus. Sirius, on the other hand, was busying himself by decorating the house in gold and red, laughing about how his family would be rolling in their graves.

Harry was to spend two weeks with Hagrid, just after his birthday. His birthday was loud and happy- all of his friends were there, and Sirius had gotten them all muggle party favors. He had gotten a muggle engraving kit from Flitwick, a book of sheet music from Narcissa, along with another blank book for composing.

Draco had given him a number of books on snakes, while Neville had given him a case of fresh plant samples from his Greenhouse- to use for potions and other things. Luna had made him a butterbeer cap necklace, and had also given him a muggle book on instruments.

Her Dad had gotten him some muggle tools, which Harry greatly appreciated, and couldn't wait to try out. Sirius had gotten him his own helmet for the bike, and some biker boots that Harry put on immediately. Remus had made his birthday dinner and cake- and for once, his cooking wasn't too bad.

Hagrid had already told him he'd get his present once Harry got to the school- which made Harry a bit nervous. After all, the year before he'd gotten Persephone- and the year before that, he had gotten Hedwig. He didn't need another pet!

Harry arrived at the school bright and early, and Hagrid was waiting for him on the front steps. Harry beamed, and Hagrid bent down as Harry ran towards him. Hagrid picked him up in a large hug, while Harry threw his arms around the man's neck.

Hagrid laughed, putting him down. "Come on, I got something to show ya!"

Harry grinned, following the man to his hut. He looked warily about for any new pets, and smiled as he saw Persephone sniffing about the hut, Fang barking at her knees. She sniffed at it disdainfully, throwing her head back. Harry petted her flank, dropping his bag on the ground.

"Over here, Harry." Hagrid called out. Harry patted her again, and followed the man to the woodshed. His eyes widened as he saw the bench there, and a blocks of magical wood sitting there. He grinned, hugging the man again.

"Knew you'd like it."

His two weeks with Hagrid were quite hectic. It seemed like most of the Professors were gone, because Lockhart had been fired, which almost never happened, and now they were scrambling to find a new DADA professor. Apparently Lockhart had been writing a new book, and was going to take the credit for slaying the Basilisk. He had been bragging about it to a reporter, and Sinastra had over heard, and had talked to the other Professors.

Now Lockhart was determined to be a fraud, and would never sell a book again. Many of his fans, in fact, had book burnings, also burning autographed pictures and the like.

So Harry spent most of his time with Hagrid in the forest, or exploring the Chamber of Secrets, or at his workbench.

He had promised to make Draco and Neville instruments, and set about to do that. In fact, he did much more than that. He made a violin- a gorgeous one made of ebony, varnished in Basilisk blood. The fingerboard was also made of ebony, but the frets, pegs, and chinrest were made of Basilisk bone, stained with a combination of threstral blood and nightshade.

For the strings, he used a combination of threstral thread for the G and D strings, and unicorn thread for the A and E strings. He made the bow of ebony, staining it like the violin, and used unicorn hair for the bow hair.

When he played it, he got the shivers, making his skin crawl- but in a good way.

He took a break after that, for a couple days. He walked a lot with Hagrid in the forest, and drew a lot of pictures of the Unicorns in their glen, and the threstrals in their caves, saving them in a sketchpad.

He then set about making Neville's instrument. After doing some careful thinking, and the handy use of Mr. Lovegood's book, he came up with an idea. Of course, it was a bit illegal.

He was not only melting Galleons, but he was using an illegal dark curse to do it with. He had to make sure no one was around when he did this, because he could have gotten in big trouble for doing it. But first, he made the mold. It was made out of solid oak wood, and he tempered it so it could withstand the heat from the gold.

He would have to work quickly. He carved into the block of wood a spherical shape, with ridges, that followed the shape. He melted down the gold using a boiling curse, and had to drop it into the Black Lake for it to cool. He fished it out of the water, still hissing and sizzling, and used magic, once he was back at his work station, to blast the wood apart.

Now Harry had a hollowed out spherical golden metal shape. It nearly glowed in the sunlight, and Harry looked forward to seeing it take shape. He took his tools to it, forming the ridges into tongues, that curled at a slight angle. The muggles generally called it a 'steel tongue drum', but Harry didn't have access to steel. So his was made of pure Goblin gold.

He fashioned two hooks on either side of it, made of oak, and made a strap that could be worn across the chest. The strap was woven unicorn and threstral thread, with moonstones and basilisk bone chips woven in every so often. He had carved the usual runes, on the inside of it, with the addition of a no fingerprint rune, leaving the outside an untouched looking, gleaming gold. It was gorgeous.

Now, to see if it worked. He set it on the bench, and gently tapped it. He gasped, feeling a bit weak in the knees. He sat on the bench, and tapped it again. He slowly got used to the sound, feeling that familiar niggling feeling inside him. He couldn't wait for Neville to try it out.

Now he wanted instruments to go with the ones he had just made. His and Luna's guitars seemed tame in comparison to the instruments he had just made. He thought the Basilisk pieces he had introduced in these new ones made them sound a bit edgier- they definitely shouldn't be playing these in public until they were used to them. They were damn powerful.

The flute was good to calm the beasts in the forest, but he wanted something a bit edgier, to go with the sounds with the new instruments. He found another type of flute called a 'divergent' flute. This would definitely be his.

He carved the body of it out of Basilisk fangs, after cleaning them and making sure they were completely empty of their venom. It took some doing to find the right ones, but he did. They were a bit smaller than the rest of the fangs, but a perfect size for his hands.

He used a hollowing charm to carve the holes, coating the inside with threstral urine like his other flute. To connect them, he fashioned a wooden bit, which was connected by a combination of threstral and unicorn thread. The mouth piece was made of the same type of wood, willow.

He carved the runes inside carefully, and tried it out. He felt himself get hard immediately, and he pulled it away, eyes wide. After he calmed himself down, he focused on other things, and started to play. After he got used to it, he noticed it had a dark low tone, something that sounded very different from his other flute. He liked it. A lot.

He made Luna a Lyre. He used basilisk heartstrings for the strings, making the frame out of the same wood as her guitar, and inlaid moonstones in it. He varnished it with a mixture of basilisk blood and unicorn blood. It had taken quite some time to dry, and Harry busied himself with the odds and ends of his materials.

He fashioned some bracelets and a set of stud earrings out of moonstones for Luna, a choker out of basilisk bone chips for himself, with a tiny dangling fang. He then made a couple of thin cuffs for Draco made out of ebony and threstral hair, and a rather large cuff for Neville, made out of woven threstral and unicorn thread, with a large chip of basilisk bone.

By the time he was finished, it was dark, and the lyre had dried. He plucked a few notes, and his stomach clenched, and he bent over slightly, out of breath. Hopefully Luna would have a better go of it. It was a bit too much for him.

After all these projects were done, it was the next to last day before he had to leave. He went inside for the night, taking the lyre with him, and the pieces of jewelry.

Hagrid oohed and ahhed at the pieces, and Harry knew that he'd make one for Hagrid's birthday. He made a case for the jewelry that night, while Hagrid told him stories about the school.

The following day, he was out at the pond, sewing bags for all the new instruments. They were all laid out in the sun, shining brightly. He was humming idly, a nameless tune that he sometimes heard in his dreams, but he could never remember the words.

Harry heard hooves, and he stiffened, turning to face them.

It was Firenze.

"Harry Potter." He peered down at the boy, then looking to the instruments. He looked back at Harry thoughtfully. "You visit here often."

Harry smiled sheepishly. "I like it here."

Firenze smiled, trotting towards him, onto the rocks. He looked over the pond thoughtfully. "You are not the first to find the wonders of this pond. But it has been some time since a human has come here."

Harry paused in his sewing, looking up at the centaur. Firenze tilted his head slightly, looking to the sky. "You and your friends are quite talented. We listen often."

"Thank you Firenze." Harry said shyly.

Firenze nodded. "You are welcome. The forest calms with your presence. Like Hagrid before you, we welcome you and your friends to our forest."

Harry beamed.

Firenze still spoke to the sky. "Your passion is in music, and in your friends- yet you have much to learn." He looked down at Harry with sad eyes. "So young."

Harry frowned, a little nervous now. "Firenze?"

Firenze sighed. "Do not be afraid, Harry. You have much ahead of you. Let your friends help you. Don't fight your feelings. Don't fight your magic." He paused. "Your greatest gifts are not your talents- but it is your heart. Be wise, and listen to it."

Harry stared at the centaur, and he had a feeling that the creature was completely serious.

"I will." He promised quietly.

Firenze nodded, and began to trot off. "I shall see you again, Harry Potter."

Harry watched him go, and then looked down at his sewing with a deep sigh.

As soon as he got back to Grimmauld Place, he found the place a mess. Apparently Remus and Sirius had thrown a party the night before. He frowned, going up to his room, kicking aside some bottles that were on the stairs. He shook his head, and put his things in his room.

"Siri? Remmy?"

He heard a groan, and some shuffling. Remus opened his bedroom door, his clothes looking quite rumpled, holding his head. "Oh…hey Harry." The man said quietly.

"Had a party last night?"

The man colored. "Well…a celebration, really."

Harry rose a brow questioningly.

Remus smiled at him sheepishly. "Lemme go find Sirius."

They found him in the library, passed out on the sofa. The two of them cleaned the man up, and gave him some coffee to sober him up.

"So, what was the 'celebration' about?" Harry asked, once they had their drinks.

"We got jobs." Sirius said with a grin, his face still pale.

Harry grinned. "Really? Where?"

Remus smirked. "Hogwarts. Surprise!"

Sirius glared at him halfheartedly, holding his head.

Harry gaped. "Hogwarts? Who got the Defense position?"

Remus smiled. "I did. Sirius will help from time to time when I'm recovering from the full moons, and while he isn't, he'll be working with the Hogwarts Board on a few things."

"Like what?" Harry asked, pouring himself some more tea.

"Well, the school desperately needs some new brooms. And the muggle studies course needs to be updated, and I was thinking we could introduce some language courses, or clubs, at least."

Harry grinned. "Yeah, that would be great!"

Sirius nodded slowly, wincing. "Yeah, well, it all takes money, so…but I think some of those things will be approved, if arses like Malfoy don't have a say. I was also thinking of introducing some more social things for the students. I mean, you're just now getting to go to Hogsmeade this year. And they only do that every few months or so."

Harry frowned. "Honestly, I've been pretty busy, I don't think-"

Remus chuckled. "Not everyone is involved in clubs like you are, nor do they find secret chambers and slay Basilisks. For most kids, if they aren't on the Quidditch team, and they're under third year, there isn't that much to do outside of class."

Sirius grinned. "We were thinking of hosting a couple of dances. Purebloods love those sort of things-"

Harry cringed. He liked to dance, but not that formal stuff. Sirius could see what he was thinking, and he added "And we'll try to find some great bands, like the Weird Sisters. Dunno." He looked thoughtfully at Harry.

"Hey…you and your friends play those guitars and stuff, have you thought about making a band?"

Harry laughed. "No way! We played a couple of times at some of the Ravenclaw/Slytherin socials, but that was just us fooling around until we got bored, and started debating about our classwork."

Sirius and Remus exchanged a look. "Ravenclaws." They muttered in unison, grinning.

Harry made a face at them.

Sirius sighed. "Well, you are pretty good. I mean, you're a bit young, but I don't see why you shouldn't think about it."

Remus chuckled. "Don't listen to him-"

"Anyways, from what I hear, guys in bands get all sorts of girls-"

"Sirius!" Remus hissed, swatting the man's arm.

Harry was up in his room, brushing out his hair. He had just gotten out of the shower, and had been thinking about what Sirius had said. And Firenze.

He shook his head, pulling his hair back into it's usual braid. It was silly. Like he could be in a band. He looked at his reflection, trying to imagine himself to be like one of those muggle rockers he used to see on TV. He laughed, shaking his head.

He pulled on a sweatshirt and boxers, and sat on his bed, and grabbed his guitar. What a silly thing to say. He started strumming along, leaning back on his pillows, staring up at the ceiling.

What would a band be like? Of course Luna, Draco, and Neville would be in it. But…what would they sing? Muggle songs? Wizarding ones?He started to hum mindlessly. He liked a couple of muggle ones, older stuff, not that crap his Cousin liked to listen to.

And he knew a lot of the classics, thanks to Narcissa and her helpful sheet music. Hmmph. Most of the lyrics were in another language, if it had lyrics at all. And you couldn't really dance to them. And they were mostly made for posh formal things….they'd have to be rearranged. And Luna would have to sing, at least.

He set his guitar aside for a moment, and went to his bookcase, searching for some sheet music. He smiled, flipping through the pages, grabbing a pen, and sitting on his bed. He grabbed some paper that was on his bedside table, and put it all in front of him, and started to play from the sheet music.

His last couple of weeks of summer were spent alternately in his room, or with Sirius, taking joyrides on the bike. He bounced ideas for this…band idea with Sirius, and the man seemed quite excited about it. Apparently he loved muggle rock music, and had wanted to be in a band, but unfortunately, the only one out of his friends who could hold a tune was Harry's Dad, who was too obsessed with Quidditch and Lily to care about muggle rock bands.

When he wasn't working on his music, he was taking apart the muggle gadgets and things they'd gotten from the muggle world, to see how they were connected. Now that he had the pens, and they were being sold by the twins, he was wondering...what else could he do now?

He wanted to keep going, keep improving, keep exploring. He wanted to know how things worked, and how they could work in the magical world. He wanted to make the magical world modern.

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Lots of stuff happened in this chapter. I don't which part is my favorite. Which part is your favorite?

I hope you like it. Thanks for reading. Please review! More cookies for all of you!