Harry was laying on the cold floor of the Room of Requirement trying to catch his breath. He had just finished with his morning workout. It had been a month since he began to train diligently in the secret room. He recalled portions of the past month.
The day after he got rid of Umbridge, Percy Weasley and Penelope Clearwater arrived at the school with Minister Fudge in tow. He made an announcement informing the students of the changes to the staff. The Daily Prophet had informed the magical populace that Umbridge was in Azkaban for life after using the Cruciatus curse on Harry Potter. Fudge had cited that the pressure of having two jobs had sent the woman over the edge. The sheep ate it up.
The Weasley children witnessed their older brother take his post as High Inquisitor. He looked like such a dork as he puffed his chest out.
"What are we going to do to him?" asked George.
Fred laughed "I'd say the usual".
George nodded.
Harry looked at the twins with amusement. 'Poor Percy' he thought with no compassion whatsoever.
Almost immediately Percy began where Umbrigde left off. He inspected the classes and pompously belittled the professors. He had the highest respect for authority figures, but when his was supposedly superior, he expected them to do the ass kissing. Most of all, he just used his post to stalk Penelope everyday.
By the end of the week Percy's office was uninhabitable. The smell was that bad. The pranks began with simple things at first. The twins placed a sticking charm on his chair in the dining room, so when Percy tried to stand the chair followed him stuck to his ass, causing laughter among the younger years.
The funniest moment was when Percy entered his office and waved his wand over his chair to check if it was spelled. It wasn't, so he sat down. As he leaned on his desk he grabbed his quill and began his paperwork. When he was done, Percy tried to release his quill but was unable to do so. He tried moving, but both of his forearms were stuck to the desk. He couldn't even reach for his wand. He began to shout for help and it didn't come as the twins had silenced the door. At the same time, the stink bombs began in full force. He waited for hours until the spell wore off. His face was priceless. No one could stand near him due to the smell. The idiot never thought to ask a Hogwarts elf for help. I guess growing up in a household without house elves tended to make one look over their useful existence.
Then his personal belongings went missing. He had angrily asked the twins to return his things.
Luna had added her pearl of wisdom that the Nargles had simply taken them and that his property would return eventually.
Percy looked at her in disbelief and angrily called her an idiot. Harry didn't like that. He volunteered his services by placing Percy's office under the Fidelius charm. The twins agreed and were impressed that he was able to perform said charm. Harry explained to them that after mastering the Patronus which was a difficult spell, the Fidelius wasn't that much harder.
Throughout the first few hours when he placed the charm, the professors went around helping Percy find his office against their wills. The twins and Harry followed them around with clear amusement painted on their faces. Dumbledore suspected what had happened, but didn't inform Percy. Even he enjoyed a good prank. Percy now forced Penelope to share her office with him. An office that she now almost never spent any significant time in. She made a habit of grading papers at night in bed.
They had to stop on the daily torture sessions soon, as Percy automatically gave the twins detention without proof and the professors weren't of any help. Worse of all Percy had sent Molly an official letter as the High Inquisitor of Hogwarts demanding she reign in her kids. The howler the twins received ensured that they stop pranking Percy for the moment.
On her first day of Defense, Penelope Clearwater had greeted Harry's class with warmth. She apologized to them about having to stick with the coursework Umbridge had outlined. She was against it of course, but knew Fudge would fire her in an instant if she discarded the lesson plans. Penelope knew the job offer was a ploy on Percy's behalf, who hoped to get back with her, but she needed the money.
Dobby had also returned with Harry's vanishing cabinet. It was good as new. Dobby had simply taken it to Dervish & Banges in Hogsmeade. Harry immediately set it next to his bed and placed it under the Fidelius. None of his roommates knew it was there. Sirius was shocked when Harry walked down the stairs during his test run. He showed Sirius the cabinet in his room and Sirius couldn't help but laugh at his ingenuity. Needless to say Harry spent some significant time with his godfather. Sirius had informed him that Remus had even asked Tonks out on a date. Harry was happy for them both.
Coming out of his thoughts, Harry cast the tempus spell. It was almost ten in the morning. He hurried to the corner of the room to take a shower. The first Hogsmeade weekend had arrived alongside his first date with Susan.
Harry was watching himself over in the mirror. He was wearing a royal blue Oxford shirt which he tucked into his slim fitting black jeans. He had on his new pair of basilisk hide boots and a nice basilisk hide belt to go along with it. The belt had a silver buckle that was shaped like a serpent eating its tail. He used a potion and combed his hair back. All in all he thought he looked good.
He arrived at the entrance to the Hufflepuff common room and waited for Susan.
After a few minutes Harry saw Susan stepping out of the Puff's common room.
"Wow. You look lovely" said Harry after a pause. The girl was stunning.
Susan was wearing a cream colored pleated skirt that went just above her knees. A black long sleeved crop top that showed her toned stomach, and her feet were adorned with a pair of laced up heels.
"Thank you" said Susan with a blush.
She wasn't sure about the outfit Hannah chose for her.
"Shall we?" said Harry extending his hand.
Susan gave Harry her hand and allowed him to lead the way. They left the castle under the gaze and whispers of plenty of students.
"Why do they keep staring?" asked Susan.
Harry laughed at how oblivious she was to her own beauty and joked "It's because I look good today".
Susan absorbed what Harry had said and suddenly remembered to compliment him in return "You look good as well Harry".
"I wasn't fishing for a compliment, but I'll take it" said Harry with a grin.
Susan smiled and followed Harry onto the carriage. They arrived at Hogsmeade and began to do the basic circuit of visiting shops that every prospective Hogwarts couple on a date always made. After some time, they entered the Three Broomsticks to find the place swarmed as usual. There was one partially available table. Two of its four seats were being occupied by two beautiful girls. One had blonde hair and brown eyes. The other had raven-black hair with striking grey eyes.
"I'm sorry to bother you ladies, but do you mind if we take these two seats?" asked Harry.
The blonde haired one responded first. "Sure Potter, we don't mind. Do we?" she asked her companion.
Harry turned to face the other girl who remained silent.
He shrugged and pulled out a chair for Susan.
"Hi" greeted Susan as she took the seat Harry provided.
"I take it you're on a date" said the blonde as Harry sat next to Susan.
Susan smiled and nodded in confirmation.
"I always figured Potter would end up dating the Weasley girl".
Harry visibly shuddered "Don't say that",
The blonde girl laughed.
"I must confess, I don't know your names" said Harry.
The grey eyed beauty, who until this moment was silent scoffed "Figures".
Harry frowned "I'm sorry?".
"The great Harry Potter. You never interact with those you don't deem worthy of you. Especially us "lowly" Slytherins".
Harry laughed "Worthy huh? Well I'm sorry, but you both never reached out to me as well. Can't really put it all on me. But now that we're here".
Harry extended his hand across the table "I'm Harry Potter. And you are?".
"Tracey Davis" replied the blonde shaking his hand.
Harry extended his hand to the other one and waited for her to respond.
"Daphne Greengrass" she said shaking his hand.
"Charmed" said Harry. "This is Susan Bones".
Susan shook the girls hands.
"Now that we all know who we are, we can begin to enjoy each other's company.
Forced or not" he added with mirth.
Tracey smiled and engaged Daphne in conversation.
Harry and Susan ordered lunch and talked among themselves. They discussed their plans to join Harry and Susan's friends at the Hog's Head later on.
"Oh look. There's Justin again" said Susan noticing her friend looking their way.
Harry saw the look of longing on the boy and shook his head. Justin had been dogging their steps since the beginning of their date.
Susan waved to Justin who replied eagerly with a wave of his own, until he saw Harry wave at him as well.
Susan saw the glare the boy shot at Harry.
"Does Justin not like you?" asked Susan.
Harry laughed "No. He thinks I took something that belongs to him".
"What was it?" asked Susan.
Tracey and Daphne snorted.
"He's totally into you" said Tracey interjecting herself into the conversation.
"What?" said Susan.
"Justin" supplied Daphne.
Susan looked around to all three occupants at the table.
Harry shrugged and nodded towards Justin.
Susan turned to catch the boy staring at her. He immdediately blushed and looked away.
"I didn't know" said Susan.
"I told you you were hot" said Harry amused at her situation.
Susan blushed as Tracey and Daphne laughed.
"So tell me about yourself" said Susan to Harry, hoping to change the topic.
They've been getting to know each other during the small talks they had here and there, but were ignorant of some things.
"What can I say? I'm just a normal guy that enjoys the good things in life like a good drink and good company". Harry winked at Susan and caused her to blush. He continued "I also love muggle rap music".
Daphne snorted "You're anything but normal Potter".
"You don't know the first thing about me" said Harry automatically, while peering into Daphne's eyes. He always hated when people assumed things about him in his past life.
She was momentarily unnerved and looked away.
Harry laughed at how scared Daphne became and clarified for everyone present "Between the BS of being the Boy-Who-Lived, the supposed Heir of Slytheryn in second year, the unexpected 4th Tri-Wizard Champion, and now the Boy-Who-Lies, nobody really does".
Susan nodded in understanding. She had a crush on the unassuming nice boy, who kept to himself. Harry was none of those things.
Harry was munching on his fries when he stopped to watch Penelope Clearwater walk into the bar followed by Percy Weasley.
He chuckled at the scowl adorning Penelope's face.
Susan followed his gaze and saw Professor Clearwater. "What are you looking at?" she asked him.
"That idiot is still following Penelope around like a shadow".
"High Inquisitor Weasley?" asked Tracey.
"Yes" answered Harry. "He got her the Defense teaching post, thinking she'd jump back in the sack with him".
"How do you know all this?" asked Daphne finding her voice.
"I pay attention" said Harry turning back to the duo.
They all witnessed Percy bully two kids out of their seats at the bar. Penelope reluctantly took the seat offered by Percy.
"I miss Umbridge" joked Harry.
Tracey laughed "Even after what she did to you?".
"Anyone's better than that idiot".
A few seconds went by.
"Defense is so boring and useless" remarked Tracey.
"We're definitely going to fail our Defense Owls" added Daphne with a grim look.
Susan turned to look at her and said "Well, you could always join us" she said eating some of Harry's fries. He knew she regretted ordering a salad.
Harry smiled. Things like belonging to a different house didn't prevent Susan from trying to help others.
"Join you in what?" asked Daphne taking a few fries as well.
Harry's lips twitched in amusement.
Susan looked at Harry for his take on the matter. He gave her that "Do what you want" look.
"A few of us are getting together to create a Defense Against the Dark Arts study group".
"Really?" asked Tracey.
"We're meeting them in a few minutes actually. You are welcome to join us".
"What do you think Tracey?" asked Daphne.
"The least we can do is see what it's about" responded Tracey joining in on the fries action.
"By the way you're outfit is amazing" said Tracey to Susan.
"Thank you. Hannah helped me with it".
Harry watched the girls consume his fries and begin with their "Girl talk". He ordered another butterbeer and patiently waited.
After a few minutes Susan felt guilty for ignoring Harry who at this point was reciting the lyrics to one of his favorite songs in his head.
"Back in elementary, I thrived on misery
Left me alone I grew up amongst a dyin' breed
Inside my mind couldn't find a place to rest
Until I got that Thug Life tatted on my chest
Tell me, can you feel me? I'm not livin' in the past
You wanna last? Be the first to blast"
-Tupac Shakur, So Many Tears, Me Against the World
He missed his iPod and the Discman he owned was useless here.
"Harry?" said Susan.
"Yes Susan?" asked Harry.
"Nothing" she responded seeing that he wasn't bothered by her not paying attention to him. She liked that about him. She returned to converse with the Slytheryn duo, who were nicer than she expected. As Harry's food was completely gone and the time for the meeting at the Hog's Head neared, Harry stood up and stuck out his hand to help Susan up. As she grabbed his hand, he pulled her up close to him and gave her another deep kiss.
Tracey cheered them on and Daphne smiled as she saw Justin walk out rather angrily. She didn't care about the couple but could clearly enjoy the misery of others.
"What was that for?" asked Susan. "Not that I mind" she clarified.
"Just something I wanted to do" answered Harry.
"You ladies joining us then?" asked Harry turning to look at Daphne and Tracey.
"We are" said Daphne.
"Cool. Follow us" he said as he led the way to the Hog's Head.
At the Hog's Head they found Hermione, Ron, Neville, and Luna waiting for them.
"Harry" greeted Luna latching on to his arm.
Luna dragged him to the table. Harry let himself be led away by the petite girl and in turn led Susan along as well.
"Hi guys" said Harry taking a seat after pulling out a chair for Susan, Tracey and Daphne.
Ron and Neville looked at Harry like he was crazy.
"Such a gentleman" joked Tracey.
"I am aren't I" said Harry.
Susan gave him a peck on the lips. It was the first time she initiated it.
"I hope you guys don't mind, but these lovely ladies decided to see for themselves what this study group is about".
"It's perfectly fine" said Hermione. "We're still waiting on the others".
Ron was going to automatically object to the Slytherin girls joining the group, but decided to enjoy the eye candy.
Harry introduced the girls to the group. Harry wished Ron wasn't as obvious about staring at Daphne. Daphne wasn't enjoying being under the "microscope", as one who knew of them would say.
"Do I have something on my face?" she asked in an irritated tone.
Ron muttered "Sorry" and looked away.
Hermione's expression soured briefly.
"How's your date?" asked Luna.
"Great" said Susan. "It's been rather fun".
At this point the twins walked in followed by a huge group of people. Harry recalled when Hermione asked him to teach them defense. He automatically agreed to it. He needed them trained for the battle at the ministry.
After everyone settled down the twins ordered butterbeer for everyone. Harry joined them at the bar and paid for everyone's drinks. Aberforth, the barman looked surprised at Harry's generosity. The group shouted their thanks to Harry. He waved them off and placed a galleon on the bar counter and pushed it to Aberforth's side of the bar.
"I'll take a glass of firewhiskey".
Aberthforth merely shrugged, took the coin and served the teen his whiskey.
He went to seat himself next to Susan and gave her a kiss on the lips enjoying her taste. Ernie held Justin back as he made an attempt to stand up.
Everyone else was staring at the glass in Harry's hand. A few of the boys went to the bar to ask for some but Aberforth turned them away.
"How come he served you?" asked one of the boys returning to his butterbeer.
Harry only sipped his drink.
"Can we start now?" asked Hermione annoyed at the interruptions.
"Yes" said everyone in unison.
Harry casted a privacy ward around them and motioned for Hermione to begin.
"Right. Now, we're here because we were thinking that we need a proper education in Defense and the ministry isn't gong to allow the school to give us one".
"That's for sure" muttered Dean Thomas sitting next to Ginny. They began to date. Apparently Ginny was secretly dating Michael Corner since the end of last year, but they had broken up during the time Ginny was obsessed with Harry in the beginning of the year. Harry wished them well.
"Also in light of current events, it's prudent we learn to properly defend ourselves" said Hermione.
"And what events are those?" asked a rather pompous blonde boy.
"And you are?" asked Harry.
"Zacharias Smith" he answered proudly.
"Well, if you haven't noticed that Voldemort is back, then prepare to be shocked, he's back".
Many flinched when Harry said the name.
"Anyways" continued Hermione "We need to pass our OWLs. The professors can't help us. I was thinking of having Harry teach us all".
"What makes him so qualified?" asked Justin with a sneer.
"He can produce the Patronus" answered Susan a bit defensively surprising herself and her friends.
"Blimey Harry. I didn't know that" said Lee Jordan.
Harry simply took out his wand and produced Prongs.
Everyone watched Prongs in amazement. Their body was immediately filled with a soothing warmth. Harry dispelled Prongs and continued to sip his drink.
"Did you really kill a basilisk with a sword during second year?" asked Terry Boot. "One of the portraits told me".
Harry just pointed at his feet and everyone saw the basilisk hide boots he was wearing.
"Wow" said Lavender Brown. "Those are gorgeous, and I love your belt".
"Thank you" said a pleased Harry. He loved them himself.
Justin was impressed but couldn't allow himself to show it.
"He was also a Tri-Wizard Champion last year in case you all forgot" said Cho.
Those in the room nodded. Cho was right. None of them could replicate the impressive feats he'd accomplished.
"Okay so you know a few things. Big deal" said Justin grasping at straws. Susan had put her hand in Harry's.
Harry snorted "You don't have to be here if you don't want to mate".
That shut Justin up rather quickly.
"So? Do we all agree to learn from Harry?" asked Hermione.
The group agreed.
"Good" began Hermione. "Now we need to decide when and where to meet".
"At least once a week" said Lee Jordan.
"It can't affect Quidditch practice" said the Quidditch members in the group.
Hermione nodded "I'll speak with the captains in advance to decide on the time and day. Anything else?" she added.
Everyone felt that everything was sorted out rather nicely. The fact that they didn't have to do a thing but show up appealed to them greatly.
"I'm going to need you all to sign this"said Hermione taking out a sheet or parchment. "High Inquisitor Weasley isn't as bad as Umbridge, but he will frown upon us practicing defensive magic".
"What is it?" asked Zach.
"It's insurance to guarantee our little group remains a secret".
"I don't like signing my name on a document that anyone can find" added Ernie. He was worried over his prefect status.
"Like I said" said Harry. "You all don't have to be here. No one is forcing you all to stay. But if you do, it will remain a secret, or else" he added. He flared a bit of his magic to indicate how serious he was.
Harry had gotten significantly better at flaring his magic. Thanks to practice, he improved on the spell and even made it battle ready. It wouldn't work on anyone magically stronger than him, but with mere students he wouldn't have a problem. Imagination and will played a big part with magic. He willed the gravity in the vicinity to increase dramatically. Those in front of him fell to their chairs. The rest gulped in fear. His friends were standing behind him, so were spared the brunt of the force, but still quivered in fear. Susan was drawn to Harry's power, as were the only two Slytherins present.
Tracey and Daphne looked at each other and smiled. They finally found a way to pass their OWLs.
Zach signed the parchment and left quickly. His friends Justin and Ernie ran after him as soon as they signed. This went on until it was just Harry and his friends.
"That was great Potter" said an excited Tracey.
Daphne remained silent but looked equally excited.
"Glad you decided to join us" he replied.
"We'll keep you informed" said Hermione.
The girls nodded and left speaking animatedly about what they saw.
"What do we do now?" asked Ron looking at Harry.
"You guys are on your own mate" said Harry extending his hand to Susan "We still have a date to finish".
Susan took his hand and followed him out.
"Okay. So what do we do?" asked Ron again looking at Neville, Hermione and Luna.
"Honeydukes" said Luna needing to satisfy her sweet tooth.
Hermione simply followed the girl out of the bar with Ron and Neville falling into step behind her.
Almost a week later on a Wednesday afternoon Harry and his friends were waiting in Moaning Myrtle's bathroom. The defense study group arrived in small groups to avoid detection. As everyone was gathered in the bathroom Harry spoke the password to open the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets.
§§§"Open"§§§
The bathroom sinks moved to reveal the entrance. Everyone stared at Harry in shock. Excitement took hold of Daphne and Tracey as the chance to see their founder's secret chamber was readily available to them.
When he was alone earlier in the week, Harry had commanded for stairs to appear. Surprisingly they did so, but it took too long to do what gravity did in a few seconds. So he discarded the idea of ever using the stairs to descend. To go back up, was another matter. He and his elves had thoroughly cleaned the chamber. Kreacher had hung the remaining basilisk skeleton on the roof of the chamber. It was the only piece of the basilisk that Andromeda said had no value. It looked impressive.
When they were all debating about where to hold the defense lesson, Harry automatically dismissed the thought of letting people know about the Room of Requirement. It would be his secret. So he suggested the Chamber of Secrets instead. Hermione consented after the specifics were discussed. The students' disappearance would draw attention no matter where they went. At least in the chamber they couldn't intrude on them while they trained. Sirius had bought Harry a few training dummies as well. He used his cabinet to retrieve them. They were just as good as the ones the Room of Requirement would provide him.
So he just winked at Susan and jumped into the hole. A few gasps of surprise escaped a few mouths. Ron was the next one to follow Harry. He'd done it before so he knew what to expect. He waved to Lavender Brown and jumped after Harry. Lavender beamed in excitement, while Hermione narrowed her eyes. Neville was the next one who took a chance and copied Harry. He winked at Hannah and jumped.
Zach, Ernie, and Justin were pissed about these Gryffindors trying to poach "their" women.
Everyone gathered around the entrance. No one dared to jump. Daphne and Tracey pushed people to the side and jumped down the hole. Ginny followed quickly and it went that way until the bathroom was lifeless once more.
As everyone gathered in the antechamber Harry spoke the magical language once more.
§§§"Open"§§§
The first thing everyone saw was the skeleton of a huge fang less basilisk facing them. A few screams echoed through the chamber. Harry was sure a few of the shouts belonged to a male source.
"Welcome to the Chamber of Secrets" said Harry extending his arms and giving a mock bow.
Daphne and Tracey ran inside the room and began to inspect everything they could. A few of the other students went around the room looking at the decor. Others just stared at the skeleton of the basilisk. It was intimidating, which was the reason Harry allowed Kreacher to place it in that position.
Harry's elf Dobby, conjured a chair for him and he sat down to wait for the people to have their fill of inspecting the chamber. Susan approached him and sat on his lap.
They had officially become a couple. After their date was over Susan disregarded traditional gender roles and asked Harry to be her boyfriend. Harry agreed. She was fun to be with and it wasn't like they would have to get married or anything. Susan had been attracted to his power and had seen the other girls gazing at him rather hungrily. Looking at Harry, Susan felt happy that she agreed to go out on a date with him. She was reluctant at first with the way he slept around, but he hadn't so much as given her a hint at looking at another girl. Even with Daphne and Tracey present, Harry looked only at her. It also helped that he was a great kisser.
Susan leaned into Harry and they began to kiss. A few of the students in the chamber noticed them, but went about exploring.
Hermione noticed how clean the chamber was. The memory had showed a very different place. When Harry told her he was going to use his elves to clean it, she was going to protest. "Slave labor" was at the tip of her tongue, but Hermione merely nodded with slight resentment. No matter what changes Harry went through, the fact that he owned elves bothered her the most. But she wasn't going to open that can of worms again. Like Harry had told her. It wasn't like she was going to clean her laundry and cook her own meals while at Hogwarts on top of studying for her OWLs.
Harry was currently cupping Susan's ass with both his hands as they kissed. He didn't take too many liberties at the beginning. Susan was still new to dating. The fact that Amelia Bones had sent him a note warning him to treat her niece with respect played a small part. Susan was the one who actually placed his hands on her butt the first time. If she didn't mind, he wasn't going to complain.
Hermione had cleared her throat causing Harry and Susan to stop. When they separated they noticed the entire group staring at them.
"I guess we're ready to begin" said Harry.
"Yes" said the twins excitedly.
Susan got off his lap and Harry slapped her ass. She squealed and Harry smirked. Justin was trembling with rage.
"Okay line up" said Harry. "We're going to start with the basics first. I want all of you to drop on the floor and give me 20 push ups".
Everyone stared at him.
"What are you waiting for?" said Harry.
"Push-ups?" asked Lavender.
"Yes" said Harry.
"Why?" asked Justin. "I thought you were going to teach us magic".
"Oh I am. I just want you all to become physically fit as well. Now once more begin with 20 push ups".
A few of the boys dropped to the floor and began. Tracey and Daphne began to do so as well, even though they've never done them before.
Before long he had everyone on the floor doing various stretches. Harry made them do suicides. Most of the Hufflepuff boys wanted to quit on the spot. They glared at Harry who was enjoying everyone's misery.
He blew Susan a kiss as she was running around muttering about how running was stupid.
After 30 minutes of working on their stamina, Harry divided them into groups of five, lining them up. Harry had them face the five dummies he had set up at one end.
"We are going to see which of you need to work on your aiming" said Harry.
"It's impossible. They're too far" declared Zach.
Harry sighed "See that dummy in the middle there?" asked Harry.
Zach nodded.
"Keep an eye on its head" said Harry.
He drew his wand out faster than any of them were capable of and sent a Reducto at it while looking at Zach the entire time.
The Weasley twins whistled as everyone was stunned.
"How?" asked Ernie.
"Practice" said Harry.
They all began to send stunners at the dummies. Most of them were missing the targets by a huge margin. Harry saw Neville fail miserably and remembered he was using his father's wand. He had forgotten all about it. He felt so stupid. He would tell him he needed his own wand after the lesson was over.
"Your aim is shit" declared Harry to the room. "Those are stationary targets. Your enemies will be moving around. If you can't even hit a defenseless target maybe I'm wasting my time".
A few of the older years took offense and began to concentrate on their aim.
Harry whistled once Daphne sent a severing charm and decapitated her dummy.
"Nice" he said.
Daphne smirked and went to the back of her respective line.
Some of those present were wary of the dark magic being used. Harry noticed their frowns.
"I see some of you have a problem with dark magic. I'll tell you right now, I use dark magic".
Gasps erupted throughout the room. Even his best friends were shocked. They didn't know about that particular secret.
"It's plain stupid to dismiss an entire branch of magic because some old fools declared it dark. You need to know what the spells do, before you can defend against them".
Hermione began to understand Harry's declaration. As a muggle-born, she didn't grow up with the stigma on dark magic. Even muggles fought fire with fire.
"During these lessons I will teach you what you want to learn. If you want to stick to the so called light magic, then that's fine. I will not pressure you into anything. Now, those of you that wish to learn the charm that Daphne just used, simply ask me".
Harry saw a few nods.
After working on their aim he separated them into pairs and worked on the disarming spell. He was surprised he had to actually teach a few of them the incantation. 'Do they even open their spell books' he thought.
"Okay, now I'll show you the shield spell. It's a useful spell that can block most conventional attacks. Be advised that it obviously doesn't work against the Unforgivables and some of the darker curses. Which is why we're working on your stamina. It's better to dodge the spell than shield it.
'If you can dodge a wrench , you can dodge a ball'. Harry laughed recalling the scene from the movie Dodgeball. He figured that conjuring a wrench and tossing it at them would be ridiculous.
After showing them the wand movements and incantation, Harry walked around the room inspecting their shields.
"Okay. A few of you are having problems with sustaining the shield. That's fine. As your stamina goes up, so will the time you'll be able to keep the shield in place.
Everyone became excited at the prospect of becoming stronger.
"Now for a bit of fun declared Harry. I want you all to get in pairs. One of you will send a stinging hex at your partner and they will dodge it. This will go on until they successfully dodge five times in a row, and then you will switch".
After a while, everyone was on the floor panting.
Harry was in a corner reviewing with Susan on how she did. She wasn't the worse, but could definitely improve.
Soon enough Harry leaned her against the wall and took her mouth.
Justin glared at Harry and then an idea struck him. He told Ernie and Zach to follow along with his plan.
"Potter. How about a demonstration?" asked Justin.
Harry raised an eyebrow.
"You aren't afraid are you? Surely the person teaching us can dodge a few spells from a defenseless puff" smirked Justin.
"Sure" said Harry. He walked up to Justin as people moved out of their way. Justin sent stunners at Harry and he easily dodged them. Ernie and Zach immediately joined Justin and began sending spells at Harry as well.
Ron and Hermione complained about that, as did Susan. But Harry easily dodge their spells as well.
Justin growled and sent a bone-breaker at Harry surprising everyone. He'd been having a bad time since Harry "stole" his Susan. He spent most of his time imagining what he would do to Harry when he had a chance.
Harry saw the spell coming at his head and stopped moving.
Susan, Luna and Hermione screamed at him to get out of the way. The spell was about to hit Harry.
At the last momenet Harry batted the spell back at Justin's wand hand, breaking it.
"Ow" yelled Justin dropping his wand.
"Well look who decided to grow fangs" stated Harry with a laugh. "What Justin just attempted was exactly what I would've done. In battle, it's far better to ensure your opponents can't get back up. A bone-breaking hex to the skull will certainly do that".
There was silence.
Susan ran to Harry to make sure he was okay.
"I'm fine" said Harry.
Susan looked unsure.
"How did you do that mate?" asked Ron.
"Practice" replied Harry.
Everyone began to see how utterly unprepared they all were.
Ernie and Zach helped Justin to his feet. Harry approached Justin and waved his wand over his hand, healing it.
"There, that's better" declared Harry.
Justin walked away to the back of the crowd.
"You could at least say thank you" shouted Neville.
"He's such a prick" said Ron. "He totally wanted to hurt you Harry".
"I know".
Susan sighed. Justin had also changed so much. She never expected that sort of spell to come from his wand. And their attempt to gang up on Harry was also a surprise. Those weren't the actions from members of the house of hard work and fair play.
"Are you sure you're okay?" asked Susan looking at Harry.
"I'm fine Suze. He didn't even touch me".
"Today was a great start" said Harry to the group. "Till next time".
The twins began to clap as everyone else promptly followed suit.
Harry led them back to the entrance tunnel.
"How are we getting out?" asked Ron. "Last time we used Fawkes. I don't think he'd be willing to carry all of us".
Harry laughed "No I don't think so".
§§§"Stairs"§§§
The stairs materialized.
"Why didn't we use those to get down here?" asked Parvati Patil.
Harry responded "And waste 20 minutes climbing down the stairs? No. Sliding down is definitely the way to go".
After they all climbed the stairs, they were exhausted. Harry knew that a few of them would drop the study group. He could tell the quitters apart from the others. They complained the whole way up. Surprisingly Paravati and Lavender hadn't said a thing.
Cho had expressed her grattitude to him and left with her friend Marietta. Harry debated about letting her on the group but with Umbridge gone he didn't think she was a threat.
Everyone left the bathroom. Harry walked Susan to her dorm. They kissed until Hannah came back out to warn Harry that curfew was 10 minutes away. He said goodbye to them and left.
Susan watched Harry's retreating form.
"Can you believe Justin?" said Susan after Harry was completely gone.
"Yes. I can" said Hannah. "He's jealous of Harry. And you parading around with him and kissing in front of us isn't helping matters".
Susan shrugged "I won't let Justin's jealousy affect my relationship with Harry.
Hannah sighed and nodded. She definitely wouldn't put her relationship on hold to appease someone who felt she was rightfully his.
"What are we going to do about Justin?" asked Hannah.
"Nothing" said Susan.
"Nothing?".
"Justin's my friend and all, but he's not my problem. If he attacks Harry again I will respond accordingly. Make sure you let him know when you see him" said Susan and left.
Hannah was stunned. She knew that powerful wizards attracted women like moths to a flame, but Susan was acting like she and Harry had been dating for months. She shook her head and entered her common room. She would speak with Justin soon.
The days bled into weeks and the weeks into months and soon Christmas was almost upon them.
The Gryffindor Quidditch team had outright slaughtered the Slytherin team in their first game. Draco tried to incite them into hitting him, but Harry laughed at him, getting Ron to join him. Draco tried to attack them himself, resulting in McGonagall giving him a month long detention in response.
Hagrid had returned from his failed mission of convincing the giants to not side with Voldemort. He had taken his teaching post back and showed the students the Thestrals. Harry befriended the gentle creatures whilst everyone was uneasy by the idea of invisible creatures walking among them.
Harry and Susan had gone on more dates. He even took her to muggle London one morning via Kreacher. They went to a local park for a picnic where they ate the various fruits and egg sandwiches the elf prepared. Harry dragged Susan to the swings and began to push her. He quickly joined her in the fun and began to jump off when the swing reached the highest peak. They made it a competition to see who could jump the furthest from the swings.
Kreacher had taken the picnic basket without Harry having to ask him.
Harry and Susan arrived at the nearby movie theater. Casino starring Robert De Niro was showing. The other option was Toy Story. Susan found the idea of mobsters more interesting than watching a kids movie, so they ended up buying tickets for Casino.
After the movie Harry and Susan went on a stroll. They entered various shops, as Susan looked for something to buy. Harry spotted a small music shop. Inside, Harry conversed with the owner who happened to like rap music. He expressed his sorrow over Eazy E's recent death. The man allowed Harry to play a few CD's on his stereo in remembrance. Harry introduced Susan to rap music. She was shocked at the offensive music and couldn't understand how the muggle governments even allowed its production. The Ministry of Magic would have outlawed it automatically. Harry switched it up a bit with some Ice Cube. That had provided the greatest reaction so far.
Harry laughed. He guessed "No Vaseline" was a bit much for someone new to rap. Soon enough Susan began nodding her head to the beat after a few tracks. It was one of the funniest thing he'd ever seen. It's always the best when the people you like appreciate the things you love.
They quickly popped back to Hogsmeade and mixed into the crowd of students heading back to Hogwarts.
They also became quite close. Being an orphan herself, Susan found a lot of common ground with Harry. Their relationship had finally taken that next step. Harry had blindfolded Susan and taken her into the Room of Requirement. He wished for a decorated room that wasn't overkill and it provided one. When Susan looked around she assumed Harry had simply transfigured an abandoned classroom.
He worshiped every inch on her body and Susan reciprocated. He simply loved her breasts. He couldn't get enough of them. Susan called him a baby because of the way he enjoyed sucking on them.
Like Harry predicted, plenty of students quit the defense group. It was simply too tough for them. Hermione had asked him to slow down for the others, but Harry said life wasn't going to be kind to them so neither would he. He gained a following among the ones who stayed. They were definitely getting stronger. Justin and his friends had quit that first day. Harry's threat had worked to ensure their silence, for the moment. The last meeting had arrived and Harry was proud of everyone's accomplishments. Most of all, Neville had indeed impressed the hell out of everyone. His new wand was simply a better fit.
Harry had tasked Dobby to shadow Mr. Weasley from mid December and on. He wanted to leave no doubt Arthur survived his encounter with Nagini.
On the night of December 18 Harry was happily dreaming of a threesome between Daphne, Susan, and himself. He was shaken awake by McGonagall who had a grave expression on her face.
"Get up and follow me Mr. Potter".
Harry looked around the room and noticed Ron was still sleeping.
"Should I wake Ron?" he asked.
"No" said McGonagall. "Grab your wand and follow me to the headmaster's office".
'That's weird' thought Harry. Why leave Ron behind? It didn't make sense.
When he arrived at Dumbledore's office he found Tonks with Remus waiting for him.
"What's wrong?" asked Harry noticing the tears in Tonks' face.
"It's Sirius" began Remus in a grave tone.
"What about him?" asked Harry as he felt a pang in the pit of his stomach.
"He's in St. Mungos".
"Why? What happened?" asked Harry.
"He was attacked by Voldemort's familiar. It's pretty bad. The snake's venom is preventing his wounds from healing".
Harry was silent. He didn't know what to think. Had he really fucked up that badly? In the books, it was Arthur Weasley who was attacked by Nagini. He realized freeing Sirius added him to the rotation of order members guarding the prophecy. It was simply his turn.
"He gave as good as he got" said Tonks speaking up.
Harry looked at her with tears sprouting in his eyes. "What do you mean?"
"He killed the snake. He used a knife and killed it. Kreacher sensed Sirius was in trouble and took him to St. Mungos".
Harry reached for the floo and was about to shout St. Mungos when Remus interrupted.
"There's nothing you can do Harry. They won't let you see him tonight. Andromeda and Ted are there right now. The best you can do is wait.
"Wait?" said Harry. "Fuck that".
He looked at Fawkes "I need your tears".
The phoenix was offended at the way he was asked but complied with the order. McGonagall conjured vials and handed them to Harry.
Dumbledore and Snape just looked at Harry from the corner.
After getting the tears, Harry stepped into the floo and arrived at St. Mungos.
As he stepped out of the chimney, he saw a witch at the reception desk. "Sirius Black. Where?" he asked.
The witch informed him that he was in the ward of creature induced injuries. Harry ran through the halls looking for the room. He spotted Ted and Andromeda standing by a door. Andromeda's eyes were puffy.
Harry gave them a quick nod and walked past them and entered the room. There was a healer sitting next to the bed. He'd been giving Sirius blood replenishing potions regularly, as he tried to heal his wounds. The gashes on his body left by Nagini wouldn't close. The healer had given up and covered the wounds in bandages.
The healer noticed Harry barge in and shouted "What are you doing in here? Get out".
Harry pushed him out of the way. He removed the bandages covering Sirius. The blood began to gush out. Harry was quickly covered in Sirius' blood. He uncorked the vial of the phoenix tears and almost dropped it, due to the excess blood in his hands. He began to drip the tears along the cuts. They began to heal and stopped the bleeding. The healer looked at Harry dumbfounded.
"Phoenix tears" he muttered. "Of course".
Harry nodded at the man and continued his work. The healer approached Sirius and began to vanish the excess blood allowing Harry to see better. They worked as a team until all of Sirius' injuries were closed.
The Tonks family and Remus walked in to the room. The sight of Harry had been nothing short of shocking to them. The healer waved his wand around Sirius and said that he'd be fine in a day or two. He gave Sirius another blood replenishing potion due to the recent blood loss and left to inform his superior. Harry leaned against the wall and took a deep breath. Tonks stood next to him and hugged him.
"He's going to be fine Harry. Thanks to you".
Harry just nodded and appreciated the closeness to Tonks. He feared he'd lost another family member. It was bad enough he lost his mother twice.
After a few seconds he noticed Tonks' blood stained clothes "Sorry Dora" he said. "I got blood all over you"
Tonks waved him off "I'm an auror Harry. It happens all the time".
Harry and Tonks laughed, but Remus looked worried at the proclamation.
"You okay Mooney?" asked Harry seeing his reaction. He noticed Tonks had a slight baby bump on her stomach.
'That was fast' he thought. 'What happened to the potion?'.
"I'm fine" said Remus. "Just glad you were able to help Sirius. We never even thought of asking Fawkes for help".
Harry got a really good look at Remus. He was wearing new robes. They weren't expensive, but they weren't cheap either.
"I see you got the much needed wardrobe upgrade".
Andromeda and Ted laughed as Remus grumbled.
"Remus didn't particularly enjoy it when I took him shopping" said Tonks.
"Dear god Dora" said Harry. "I can already imagine the horrors you put the poor man through"
Remus laughed along with Harry at Tonks' indignant face.
"I missed you" said Tonks hugging Harry again.
"And I you" said Harry patting her arm.
"How about we get you home and cleaned up?" said Andromeda.
Harry looked at Sirius and then back at Andromeda and said "You can all go. I'll stay with Sirius overnight. Can you just wave that stick of yours and clean up this blood? I don't fancy another trial at the Wizengamot".
Andromeda complied.
The Tonks women hugged and thanked Harry. Ted shook his hand and left.
Remus clasped him on the shoulder "You did a good job Harry" and left after his girl.
Harry relaxed into the chair next to Sirius' bed and prepared for a long night.
"Kreacher" he called.
The elf popped into the room " Young master calls Kreacher".
"I want to thank you for helping Sirius tonight. Is there anything you want?".
The elf was visibly shaken. He didn't know what to say. After a moment he responded "Kreacher lives to serve the Noble House of Black. That is all Kreacher desires".
Harry nodded. He would have to find something for him.
"Can you bring me a bottle of Tequila that Sirius keeps at home?".
Kreacher bowed and popped away. He came back with the bottle and a glass that Harry had forgotten to ask for. When the elf left, Harry served himself some of the liquor and began to drink.
'Four Horcruxes down, three to go' he thought staring at Sirius' sleeping form.
AN: THERE IT IS. I'M CURRENTLY DEBATING WHETHER TO INCLUDE HARRY HAVING A DRINKING PROBLEM OR NOT. OH WELL. I'LL SEE HOW IT WRITES ITSELF.
I RECENTLY READ A FIC THAT HARRY HAD THE SKELETAL REMAINS OF THE BASILISK HANGING IN POTTER MANSION. I THOUGHT IT WAS A NICE IDEA. WAS I SUPPOSED TO ASK TO INCORPORATE IT? ANYWAYS NOT MY IDEA. CREDIT TO WHOMEVER WROTE IT. I KNOW I FUCKED UP BY NOT MENTIONING IF ANDROMEDA AND HARRY LEFT THE SKELETAL REMAINS OF THE BASILISK OR NOT.
I DECIDED TO GO WITH GREY COLORED EYES FOR DAPHNE. THERE ISN'T A BIG REASON WHY.
ABOUT HARRY FLARING HIS MAGIC. I SUCK AT DESCRIBING SOME THINGS. IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT I WAS TRYING TO DESCRIBE LOOK UP THE ANIME BLEACH. THE WAY THEIR REIATSU AFFECTS OTHERS IS WHAT I WAS GOING FOR.
LIKE SOME OTHER AUTHOR MENTIONED, A FEW WORDS KEEP DISAPPEARING WHENEVER CHAPTERS ARE UPLOADED. I'LL KEEP A LOOKOUT BUT I MAY MISS SOME THINGS.
AS ALWAYS, THANKS FOR READING AND REVIEWING.
AN2: ALSHENK BROUGHT IT TO MY ATTENTION THAT I HAD WRITTEN 1 HORCRUX DOWN 3 TO GO. IT MADE IT SEEM LIKE THERE WERE 4 TOTAL. MY BAD. AND THANK YOU FOR BRINGING IT TO MY ATTENTION.