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After the sorting and the feast, Dumbledore stood to make announcements. He looked very twinkly-eyed.
"Now, I have a few announcements to make. Filch has doubled his list of banned objects for the year, most of the new items are coincidentally in the Weasley Wizarding Wheezes catalog-" Students giggled and snickered at this.
"Also, we have reinstated all Clubs, organizations, and social events-" Many cheered at this. "Also, in a week's time, the school will host a contingent of Aurors that will be protecting our school. They will not interfere with our classes- they are here to protect all of us. Oh, and our Defense Professor this year will be myself-" Many gasped at this.
"In the event I am not able to teach a class, I have an assistant that will be arriving within the week. Thank you. Now, may we begin our Feast?" He asked rhetorically, because with a wave of his hand, the food appeared on the tables.
As everyone ate, Harry thought about what he could learn from the man. Even though Harry didn't like Dumbledore very much, he couldn't deny the man was talented. He idly wondered who this assistant would be.
Meanwhile, Luna was being grilled by all of the girls. Why was she wearing pants? Was it allowed? Where did she get the boy's uniform pants from? Was it uncomfortable?
The next morning, Harry dressing for the day in the inner chamber. He glanced over at the still sleeping Neville and Draco, curled up against each other. Luna was sitting on the edge of the bed, watching him.
"You wearing pants today?" Harry asked her.
Luna nodded. "Yep."
Harry tossed her another pair of his pants. "Good thing we wear about the same size."
She got off the bed, pulling them on, not bothering to put panties on. Harry glanced at her, buttoning his own pants. She looked beautiful. He said just that, and she gave him a kiss.
"Thank you Kit." She grabbed a shirt, and pulled it on, and Harry realized that it was also his-
"Hey, I need-"
"Just wear mine- it's not like you haven't done it before." Harry sighed begrudgingly, and pulled on Luna's shirt. It was cut a bit differently than his own- but not noticeably so. It looked good.
Luna left her shirt untucked, slipping on her boots, running a hand through her wavy hair. "Let me brush your hair."
She was doing just that when the other two boys woke.
"Morning Kit. Lu." Neville said sleepily, kissing both of them. Draco did the same.
"I could get used to this." Harry said softly, sighing as Luna tugged on his hair a bit.
"Get used to what?" Draco asked, pulling on his shirt.
"Waking up like this. The four of us." Harry said, glancing at Neville. "Have you guys thought about that?"
Neville stared at Harry, brushing Harry's bangs from his face. "I would be lying if I said I hadn't. I don't think people would understand, though."
Harry stared up at him. "Would they even need to know?"
"Nope." Luna said cheerfully, pulling Harry's hair into a ponytail. "Gorgeous. Come on, Nev, get dressed before breakfast is finished up."
They headed upstairs, and went to the Great Hall. All conversation stopped as the entered the room. Harry looked warily at everyone, and he and Luna went to the Ravenclaw table, while Neville and Draco went to their tables.
"What's going on?" Harry whispered to Padma as soon as he sat down. Padma handed over her copy of the Daily Prophet.
BOY WHO LIVED IN LOVE?
Harry Potter, just starting his sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, has found love. There have been rumors flitting about about the Boy Who Lived's love life for years- but has finally been confirmed- Harry Potter is dating Neville Longbottom, heir to the Longbottom Estate.
Rumors have been going about the two for years, only refuted by the fact that many people think the Boy Who Lived seems to be taken with his other best friend, Luna Lovegood, who has an on again-off again relationship with Draco Malfoy, another close friend.
What do the other students say about the Potter-Longbottom affair? Some say it's been happening for years, while others say it won't last long. People are hoping to see how this turns out- the Potter and Longbottom families have been close for centuries, and a marriage between the two would be quite an alliance. Both boys are extremely powerful, financially, politically, and magically, and many say that only good things can come of this result.
However, what of the Lovegood girl? And Draco Malfoy? What do they think of their friends' relationship? Lovegood is described as an eccentric girl that is quite amorous and attentive with her male friends- perhaps she is dallying with the Boy Who Lived as well. Only time will tell.
Harry growled, thrusting the paper back to Padma. Padma glanced between Harry and Luna. "Luna, where were you last night anyways?"
Luna was cutting some melon. "With the boys." She said absently.
Not having read the article, she didn't think about how that would sound to their housemates, but Harry had. He sighed. "We were just having a back to school get-together. We did it last year too."
Padma nodded slowly, folding the paper. Cho was staring at Luna, disgust forming on her face. She glanced at Harry, who was staring at her, daring her to say something, and she quickly looked away.
Harry smiled as he looked at his schedule. Since they were in NEWT classes, their classes only met once a week- doubles, so he had much more free time. He knew it would be filled with lots of homework, research, and his own projects, but he was happy to be back at school.
All their NEWT classes included all four houses, since the classes were so small. It was strange to see all of them mixed up together, but Harry thought it might make things easier to work together.
Luna came into the Charms classroom, frowning slightly. She had kipped off to the restroom before class. She slid into her seat next to Harry.
"Lu, everything alright?" He asked quietly.
Luna nodded, pulling things out of her bag. "Yeah. I'm fine, Harry."
Harry glanced over at Draco, who was on her other side, looking at her worriedly. Harry leant forward, putting his hand on Neville's shoulder. Neville turned slightly, looking at Harry, with a small smile. Harry squeezed, and leant back.
Flitwick made his speech about NEWT classes- it sounded rather similar to the OWL's speech- with one noticeable exception.
"Since all of you are now in NEWT courses, instead of being expected to write essay after essay of separate topics, you will be expected to write just one-"
Ron grinned widely at this.
"This essay, due at the end of the year, can make or break your grade in this course. It will be on a topic of your choosing- so choose wisely. It will be 50 feet long-" There were several whimpers at this- "With no larger than one inch letters." He glared slightly at Ron and several other slacking students.
"Now, for the next two years, we will be covering Modern charms- charms that have been invented within the last 100 years, and how they improve our life- in your seventh year, you will have the opportunity to make your own Charm-"
Harry's eyes widened, and he grinned, before he could help himself. Flitwick went on. "Keeping that in mind, it may help you come up with some sort of direction to go with your essay. Think of a problem you have often, and how it could be solved with a Charm. Now, let's review."
Flitwick then quizzed them quickly about the charms they had covered last year, to check up on all of them- it was quite dizzying, as they were expected to answer quickly. Harry grinned. This was going to be fun.
Transfiguration was much like it. They were going to be learning conjuration that year, progressing throughout the year from small inanimate objects, to eventually larger animate objects by their seventh year- in their seventh year, they were going to cover the animagus transformation. Many seemed excited by this, but McGonagall told them that not everyone could do it.
Harry thought about his own form, and debated, not for the first time, whether he should tell her. Luna had finally finished her form over the summer, but hardly used it, because her bird wasn't native to their area. Neville was still struggling with his, while Draco was about halfway through his.
He approached the Professor at the end of the class, motioning for the others to go on. They did so, and Harry knew they would be waiting outside for him
McGonagall looked at him curiously. Harry just gave her a sheepish grin. "I'm an animagus."
She didn't look terribly surprised. "Alright, let me see it."
Harry transformed into his cat form, and bounded onto her desk. She seemed to study him clinically. "Hmm….your green eyes and that tuft of grey are your only distinguishing marks. Very good, Mr. Potter. I assumed you haven't registered."
The cat shook its head, and hopped off the desk, transforming back to Harry.
"No. I won't register until after the war is over."
The woman nodded. "Completely understandable."
Harry blinked at her surprised. "Really?"
McGonagall chuckled. "Yes. We are in a war, are we not? You need every advantage you can get. Have you told Albus?"
Harry shook his head. "No. And I'm not planning on it until I'm ready."
She nodded. "Very well then. You best be going off, hmm?"
As Harry went to the door, she spoke up again. "And your friends?"
Harry grinned. "Luna's a bluebird. Neville and Draco are still working on theirs- they're both having a bit of trouble."
She nodded. "Have them come to me, and I can help sort them out."
Harry grinned again. "Thank you professor."
She just gave him a soft smile, and waved him out.
Harry and Luna were walking to dinner that evening when a group of girls passed them, glaring at Luna. Luna seemed to be unperturbed, and didn't seem to notice them.
"Luna…maybe you should stay in the chamber tonight."
"Nonsense, Harry." Luna said, hooking her arm through his.
Harry paced the common room that morning, waiting for Luna. Several gaggles of girls already came down the stairs, giggling- shutting up as they saw Harry. They hurried off before he could say anything, though.
Harry looked up to see Padma coming down the stairs, looking worried. "Harry, it's Luna…"
Harry looked at her worriedly, drawing his wand. "Is she alright?"
Padma shook her head. "No, but it's not like that…while we asleep last night, some girls…cut her hair…it looks…" She sniffled.
Harry put his wand away, sighing. "Tell her to come down. Please, Padma."
Padma nodded, and went back up the stairs. Luna came back down, red eyed, wearing a purple nightshirt. She broke into a sob, running down the stairs, hugging Harry tightly.
Her long blonde hair had been cut jaggedly all over the place, chunks of it was missing. It could easily be fixed with a haircut or a potion, but it was the fact that it happened in the first place upset them both the most.
Harry pulled her over to the couch, holding her."Hey, Lu, it's alright." Harry whispered, rocking her. "You still look beautiful to me."
Padma, who was sitting down across from them, stilled at this, but neither of them noticed.
"It looks awful, Harry." Luna sniffled. "I haven't cut my hair since my Mum died. It just…didn't seem right…she was always the one to do it, and…"
Harry held onto her tighter. "I know, Lu. But you know what?"
"What?" Luna said, wiping her tears away.
"We can fix it. I know you can whip up a potion that will fix this right away- or we can cut your hair."
Luna stared at him. "Cut my…"
Harry nodded. "Yep. That way, you can show everyone 'hey, I don't care what you think about me- I'm stronger than this."
Luna gave him a small smile. "Okay."
Harry studied her hair. "Unfortunately, the longest it can be cut is about your shoulders." He flicked his wand, transfiguring some scissors out of a nearby box of tissues.
He and Padma cut Luna's hair right there in the common room. After they banished the blonde locks on the floor, Luna ran a hand through her hair, marveling at the new length in a transfigured mirror.
"Wow."
Her hair had been transformed. Yeah, they were all sad to see the long blonde tresses go, but it had been replaced by a short, spunky cut that made Luna look a bit older, and a bit edgier. It was layered, the longest bits were halfway down her neck- the layers were angled, and her bangs were as well, brushing into her eyes.
Padma couldn't believe the change- no beauty spell could recreate a haircut like this- it was a very unique look, and it looked great on the girl.
"You look wonderful Luna." The girl gushed.
Luna hugged them both tightly, and bounded up the stairs to get ready for the day.
Padma turned to Harry. "She does look great."
Harry gave her a sad smile. "Yeah."
Padma shook her head. "I don't know what happened. I'm usually such a light sleeper- I would have noticed if someone had come in and done something like that."
"Don't worry, Padma. It's fine."
Harry toyed with his wand a bit. "Still, it wasn't right. I'm sure we'll find out who it was soon enough."
Luna came back down the stairs, grinning. She was wearing Harry's pants again.
"Where did you get the uniform pants anyways, Lu?" Padma asked as the three of them headed for the common room doors.
"Oh, they're Harry's. We wear the same size. We borrow each other's stuff all the time." Luna said, skipping ahead of them.
Harry blushed immediately, glancing at Padma, who quickly hid a smile.
"Er, I don't wear her skirts or anything."
"I know. I'm guessing she meant your ties and stuff." Padma said, snickering.
"Um, yeah."
When Luna walked into the Great Hall that morning, Draco's eyes widened, and his jaw dropped.
"Wow, she looks good." He heard another Slytherin boy say.
"She's mine." Draco growled, before he could help it. He stood from the table, and walked right over to her.
She only had time to squeak before he snogged her, right in front of everyone. Luna pulled back dazedly.
"Um…what was that for?" She breathed.
Draco stared at down at her, holding her tightly around the waist. "For looking so lovely."
Luna gave him a smile. "Harry and Padma helped cut my hair."
Draco grinned at them both- Padma was blushing slightly. "Thanks guys. You did a wonderful job."
Mail arrived, and stacks of letters seemed to pile onto Harry and Luna's plates, as well as Neville's and Draco's. They banished all of it, not really wanting to read stupid fanmail.
They walked into the Defense classroom, not really knowing what to expect. All of the students gawked at the classroom.
There were no desks, no chairs. There were mats and pillows about- in fact, it looked a lot like HA.
Harry exchanged a look with Neville- realizing that Dumbledore must have been watching their HA meetings. As Harry looked around the classroom, he noticed that the majority of the students who had passed the class with high enough grades to get into the NEWT course were HA kids- only two Slytherins and one Ravenclaw were there that had not been in HA.
They were Su Li, Blaise Zabini and Theodore Nott. Dumbledore didn't seem to be anywhere, and Harry thought it odd. He'd been looking for the man as soon as he came into the room.
He motioned to Luna, Neville, and Draco, and all four of them casually looked about the room, looking for Dumbledore.
Harry then thought he saw something out of the corner of his eye- he cast a stunner, and heard laughter, Dumbledore raising a shield casually.
"Good job, Harry. I was wondering if anyone would see me." He glanced at the rest of the students- most of them had drawn their wands as soon as Harry cast the stunner, others, when he'd drawn his wand.
"Good job, all of you. Please, sit."
"Where?" Nott asked, crossing his arms.
"On the floor, if you like."
The students did just that, while Dumbledore chose to conjure his squashy looking chair.
"Now, this is your NEWT defense class. These next two years will be focusing on the practical sort of things- after last year, you need a break from theory."
"Thank Merlin." Ron muttered.
Dumbledore twinkled at him.
"Now, I would like all of you to pair up. When pairing up, choose wisely." The man said pleasantly, and everyone paired up quickly. Luckily, those in the HA knew exactly who to work with- after all, they had done a lot of group work the year before.
Harry had paired up with Susan, while Neville was with Daphne- Luna was with Hermione, and Draco with Padma. They were the strongest duelers there (that they knew of), besides themselves- and their strengths and weaknesses worked well together. Nott, Zabini, and Su Li thought it odd that the four of them had split up, but said nothing. The others paired up rather easily, and got to it.
Dumbledore watched them all with a twinkle in his eye. "Very well, then. You and Your partners shall be dueling other pairs, or dueling each other throughout the year. Sometimes you will be joining other pairs to form larger groups, and you will go head to head."
He looked thoughtfully at the students. "Now, since we only meet once a week, I expect that all of you should be sufficiently prepared for each class. Each week, we will cover five spells. Those five spells shall be learnt and ready to use for the following class. Considering we have 40 classes together this term, you will be learning 200 spells this year in this class alone."
All of their eyes widened. It seemed so simple, putting it just for 5 spells a week, but the total...it was rather daunting.
"However, some of you may already know some of these spells. When we cover them, I will not only expect you to know how to use it, I will expect you to know how to use it creatively."
He paused, smiling. "Now, can anyone tell me a spell all of you learned in your first year?"
"The levitation spell? Sir?" Hermione asked hesitantly.
Dumbledore nodded. "And how could that spell be used effectively in a duel?"
She didn't answer for a moment, slightly confused.
Harry spoke up. "Levitation spells can be used to lift Heavy objects, and if another power is put into it, another person. You could do some serious damage with that."
Dumbledore nodded. "Correct." He flicked his wand, banishing his chair.
"Let's get to work, shall we?"
"You can't deny Dumbledore knows his stuff." Neville said, rubbing his shoulder as they walked out of the classroom. They were all exhausted and sore.
Harry groaned, holding onto the other boy. "I think I need a nap."
Neville chuckled. "Come on Kit. We don't have class until Runes this afternoon. Naptime."
Draco spoke up. "I think I'm going to head to the library. Lu?"
Luna smiled, winding her arm through Draco's.
Harry and Neville stripped as they got into bed together, Harry sighing softly as the boy rubbed into his back. "Feels good." He murmured.
Neville kissed his temple. "Good."
They both dozed off for a bit, and then Harry woke, checking the time. They had a bit longer until lunch. Harry looked Neville over with a smile, and leant over, grabbing the lube from the bedside table.
They had the muggle stuff, provided by Luna, as well as the handmade lube, made by Luna as well. He uncapped it, and used a cleaning spell on himself, and quietly prepared himself, staring down at the other boy.
He struggled to keep from crying out, and he slowly straddled the boy, slicking him up. Neville shifted under him, sighing in his sleep. Harry slowly penetrated himself, sliding onto Neville's cock.
He let out a groan as he felt hands grip his hips.
"Hey…oh…" Neville was awake.
Harry squirmed, feeling the boy harden even more inside him.
"Fuck…fuck me." He panted. "All that dueling gets me riled up."
Neville chuckled, thrusting into him shallowly, and sat up. "Yeah, I know." He murmured, kissing Harry on his neck.
Harry wound his arms around the boy's shoulders, tilting his head back. Neville kissed Harry's collar.
"You haven't taken that off since I gave it to you."
"I know. I put some charms on it so it would stay clean and stu-" Harry groaned, cutting himself off, bouncing in the other boy's lap. He cried out, clawing at the boy's shoulders.
"Fuck Harry…you're mine, aren't you baby?"
Harry nodded breathlessly. "Yes, Nev, always- harder, harder Nev…" He begged. "Please?"
Neville's hands tightened on his hips, one of them slid to his bottom, pushing him up and down on Neville's cock.
"Fuck me…fuckfuckfuck yes!" Harry cried out as the boy slapped his bottom. Harry thrust himself onto Neville's cock even faster.
"Fuck, do it again Nev-" He whimpered as the other boy slapped his bottom again.
"Yeah, I bet you like that, you little slut, you just love my cock, don't you…" Harry groaned at Neville's dirty words breathing into his ear-
"Oh yeah….fuck me…please Nev…Harderharderharder-" He was shoved down onto the bed, and Neville got on top of him, kissing him hard, muffling his pleas and begging.
Neville was pinching his nipples and down his abdomen, making Harry writhe under him, and then slid his hands into Harry's hair into a bruising grip.
"Fuck Neville, hurt me..please…that feels so good-" Harry babbled as the boy yanked on his hair, being cut off with a bruising kiss.
He felt like he was being swept away, higher and higher, nothing could ever bring him down- he was turned over onto his stomach, and he spread his legs, feeling Neville kneel behind him, and thrust into him again. Harry thrust back into him, gasping for breath, stilling as the boy slapped his bottom. And again. And again.
Neville had stopped thrusting, his cock still in Harry as he slapped the boy's bottom and thighs repeatedly, making his skin pink-
Harry nearly trembled in excitement, almost over the edge, if only…if only… "Neville, please fuck me." He begged, unashamed. "Please, I want you so bad-"
Neville stopped his slaps, stilling Harry's hips. "Have you been good?"
Harry nodded. "Yes… I've been very good Neville. You know I have."
"I seem to remember you were up rather late last night…"
Harry whined piteously. "I was studying…you were with me…it was okay…"
"I know sweetheart-" thrust "I was just checking-oh…"
Harry let the boy thrust to him- by the grip on Harry's hips, he could tell that Neville didn't want Harry to push back. So he just knelt there on the bed, letting the boy use him. His arms grew weak, and he leant forward on them slightly, bowing his head.
He would never, ever get tired of this. Never.
He felt Neville come into him, and he felt the other boy collapse beside him on the bed- however, he was too far gone himself to move, and stayed there, kneeling on the bed, Neville's spunk dripping down his thighs.
He felt…wonderful. Perfect. Nothing was wrong in his world- at this moment.
A hand slid over his thigh. "Harry, you can relax now." Neville said softly beside him.
Harry relaxed subconsciously, lying down next to the boy. He glanced down, and he didn't even realize that he wasn't hard any more. What had happened?
"Wha- happened?" He felt a little sluggish, like his mouth was full of cotton- like he'd been drinking.
"I don't know." Neville looked at him worriedly. "Are you alright?"
Harry didn't answer, he just curled into the boy's chest.
He finally answered a bit later, after trying to gather his thoughts. "I…I think so. I…I think I'm just a little out of it."
Neville pet him a bit, cleaning him up, kissing his hair tenderly. "We should get going soon- we have to get to lunch. Will you be okay to walk?"
Harry nodded slowly. "Yeah…just slow. I'm really thirsty."
Neville nodded. "I think we should start allowing the House Elves access down here. It'd make things easier."
Harry nodded, feeling a bit sleepy as the boy helped him dress. "We'll talk to them later."
They sat together at lunch, at the Gryffindor table. Harry was still feeling a bit off and sluggish, so Neville was putting food onto Harry's plate for him. Harry smiled at him, thanking him silently.
Neither of them noticed Hermione studying them intently.
Harry bit his lip, head bent down over his paperwork. He was in Runes class, and they had jumped right into work. There were only six people in the class now- NEWT runes were notoriously tough.
Neville had decided to drop it, as did Draco, both of them choosing to concentrate on Herbology and Potions, respectively. That left Harry, Luna, Hermione, Padma, Daphne, and Zabini in the class.
They were each to make a magical object, using runes- having done this already, Professor Vector expected Harry to do something phenomenal, although he hadn't said it in so many words.
Luckily, Harry already had several projects going. Luna was going to make another yoyo with runes on it. The one Harry had made her ages ago was working just fine, but it had a habit of hurting people if they didn't know what to do- so she was remaking it so that it would not hurt the wielder- what no one realized, except for perhaps Luna and Harry, was that this item would be a very effective weapon, if used properly.
Harry had three projects- but he was only going to be 'officially' working on one for class, keeping quiet about the other two. He didn't want his ideas to be stolen.
Harry was paired with Draco in potions, like they had always been since their very first potions class. Harry was slicing their materials with a practiced hand, humming under his breath. Draco was preparing their cauldron now, reading up on the instructions again.
Snape walked by their station casually, and stopped. Harry glanced up at him to see the man was staring at his hands.
"What is that on your hands?" The man asked, a sneer on his lips.
Harry looked down. "Er…" He glanced at Draco, who bit his lip.
"Is that nail polish?"
There were several snickers in the classroom. Harry felt his face warm.
"Er…yes sir. It's just black nail-"
"Take it off." The man said, glaring at him.
Harry's jaw set, staring at Snape. He was uncomfortably reminded at that moment that the man was his Father, and- he saw Snape's eyes widen a moment, and Harry's eyes widened, and he looked down, paling. His Occulemncy shields…damn, Snape must have been a legilimens!
"Potter, stay after class!" Snape barked, striding away to his office.
Harry's hand shook slightly as the door slammed closed. Draco leant over. "Kit?"
Harry glanced at him, eyes suspiciously wet. "He knows."
Draco paled, almost dropping his stirring rod in their cauldron. "Oh shit."
Harry nodded, glancing at Luna and Neville, who were looking at them intently.
At the end of the class, All of the students cleaned up. Snape stood by his office door expectantly, crossing his arms.
Harry glanced worriedly at his friends, watching the last student walk out. Luna and Draco quickly put up some silencing and alarm wards, and Neville stood by the door.
Severus watched all this with a careful eye.
"What's going on?"
Harry tensed. "I…so you did…hear it. I usually have my barriers up, you must have-"
Snape stared at him, striding towards him. "What the hell is going on Potter?"
Harry cringed, stepping back slightly. Draco went to Harry's side, looking at his Godfather. "Sev…all of us took inheritance potions to…er, make sure there weren't any surprises."
"Needless to say, there were." Neville said, crossing his arms.
Harry shifted uneasily. "I could hardly believe it myself, but I-"
"When? When did you take this test? When were you going to tell me?"
Harry bowed his head. "At the end of our fourth year. Only we know- Sirius…Sirius didn't even know."
Snape stared at him. "Why didn't you tell me?"
Harry shrugged. "I…I thought things were hard enough." He said quietly. "You're a spy, sir. You've got enough going on. I know I certainly do-"
"You. Are. My. Son." Snape said, grabbing Harry by the shoulders, eyes dark. "You should have told me. We can take the test again, I want to see the results with my own eyes."
Harry nodded mutely, eyes wide. Snape glanced over to see the others looking at Harry worriedly, and Neville looked as though he was going to draw his wand at any moment. He pulled away from the boy.
"I…just want to know one thing." Harry said softly. "How…how…how did it happen?"
Snape just sighed. "Your…Mother and I were best friends growing up. We…were neighbors of a sort. We distanced ourselves from each other when we were about…fifteen or so. Things changed when we got out of Hogwarts."
He paused. "For a short time, we were working together at the Ministry, in the Potions Research department. I had…thought I had gotten her back- we were constantly together- she was dating your Father at the time, but it didn't seem to be anything serious. Then, suddenly, she's transferred to another Department, where, I don't know, and she's married your Father. Two months later, I find out she's pregnant, and they went into hiding not too long after that. The next thing I heard about her…she was dead."
Harry stared at him. Neville and Draco were holding onto him tightly, and Luna stood next to them.
"She worked at the Department of Mysteries…didn't she?"
Snape shrugged, looking down. "Most likely. She was a brilliant witch."
"And somehow, all the brilliant ones end up stuck there all their lives, or dead." Luna said bitterly. Snape stared at her.
"My Mum worked for them." Luna said quietly. "Sometimes I think they'd rather kill off people if they want to leave- even Obliviates can be recovered, if you're strong enough."
Snape stared at her for a moment, and looked at Harry. "I need a sample of your blood."
Harry nodded.
That night, Snape looked pale and shaken when he came to dinner, and Harry knew the man had seen the results. Their eyes met for a fraction of a second.
Meet me in my office tonight, just before curfew. Your friends may come.
Harry's eyes widened and he nodded just slightly, and started putting food on his plate.
That evening found the four of them in Snape's private lab, pacing. "So…she wasn't even a muggleborn!"
Harry shook his head. "No…but she didn't know that. She had no idea."
Severus slumped onto a stool. "Merlin, Lily, if we had known…" He shook his head, snapping himself out of it.
"What's going to happen now?" Harry asked quietly.
Severus stared at him. "What do you mean?"
Luna squeezed Harry's shoulder. "What Harry means is…with the war and everything…you won't be able to…publicly acknowledge him, but…would you want to?"
Severus stared at Harry for the longest time. "I…I don't know." He said quietly.
Harry's eyes went down. "I understand sir."
"I mean, I don't know, because such a possibility has never occurred to me. You must allow me some time to think about…about everything."
Harry nodded, eyes still on the floor.
Neville spoke quietly. "To be honest…we're the closest thing to family Harry has. We are Harry's family. I think…I speak for all of us when I say that it would be…okay if you were a part of our family too."
Harry and Severus both stared at Neville in shock. Luna just smiled, and Draco nodded encouragingly.
Luna spoke softly. "After all, with…the war, we have to find happiness wherever we can. It gives us a reason to survive, and keep on going." Harry looked at her gratefully.
Severus stared at them, each of them. "I must ask…Draco, I know you've only told me hints of your relationship, but…."
"We're together. All of us." Harry admitted. "I know it's…unusual, but…we can't help the way we feel. I'd rather be with all of them than to have to choose…between them."
Severus nodded slowly, seeming to let this sink in. "No one else knows about…me…"
Harry shook his head. "Although Flitwick is aware of my Mother's family history, he does not know this. He had taken her blood sample, not mine, so he does not know-"
Severus sucked in a breath suddenly. "The Prophecy."
"You know it?" Harry asked, glancing to the others.
Severus nodded. "Yes. Has…has it occurred to you that you may not be…."
Harry stared at him, words going over in his head. Neville's eyes went round. "Thrice defied." He murmured, looking to Snape.
"I know your Mother and…Potter defied the Dark Lord three times- however, in my…position, I have defied him numerous amount of times. I do not know how the Prophecy will take that into consideration…after all, you are James Potter's heir, his…son. But you are also…mine."
"If Harry isn't…the one…then I am." Neville said looking grim.
"Perhaps." Severus finally admitted.
Luna shook her head. "But you weren't marked, Neville."
"And I was." Harry said, biting his lip.
The following week, the Aurors arrived. It wasn't just the British Aurors, but American ones as well. The British wore their red robes, while the Americans wore brown dragon hide.
The students liked to make fun of the funny American accents and slang- they were quite different than the British wizards.
The day they had arrived, Madam Bones had been there, along with the American President, and his son Mike- along with another man, who looked to be in his early twenties.
The Press was there, taking pictures as Madam Bones and the President shook hands, and the President and Dumbledore shook hands.
However, it was when Mike called Harry over from the crowd of students, and shook hands with him, that the photographers went mad. Mike clapped Harry on the back, and motioned to the man.
"Harry, this is my friend Sam; Sam, this is Harry. This is the guy I told you about."
"Nice to meet you." They said in unison, and shook hands. Harry laughed. Sam was a rather tall bloke, with a tan, dark brown eyes, and wild looking brown hair. He was rather handsome, in geeky way. He wore dress slacks and a button down shirt, much like Mike, but Harry was under the impression that he didn't usually wear something like that- he looked quite uncomfortable.
"Sam here is helping Dumbledore out with his classes." Mike said.
Harry's eyes widened, and he grinned. "Wicked. Hey, I've got a few projects I want to show you guys-"
Dumbledore cleared his throat, and everyone went quiet. He looked over the student body. "Sam Whittaker here is going to be assisting me with teaching the Defense Against the Dark Arts classes. He has Masteries in Defense and Runes from the Salem Institute, and is currently working on one for Magical Theory. Please give him a warm welcome."
Everyone cheered, and not a few girls were giggling and sighing at the boy. Sam groaned under his breath, and Harry caught it.
Mike chuckled. "The old man here hates attention. You two will get along, Harry."
Harry grinned up at Sam. "Don't worry about it. Just don't answer any fanmail, and it will die down, unless you do something absolutely scandalous."
Sam gave him a slight smile at this, and looked over the students.
The following day, Harry and his friends walked in with Sam. Lots of stares went their way, and Sam stiffened at the attention. "Just ignore them." Luna said quietly.
Sam nodded. He was wearing muggle blue jeans, and a band t-shirt, and boots. His wand holster could visibly be seen- it was bit different than Harry had ever seen before. He had a pair of dragon hide gloves stuffed in his back pocket, and had a scar going all the way from the top of his hand, to just above his elbow.
He had explained to Harry and his friends the night before it had been during one of his 'experiments' gone wrong. Sam went to the Head table, and sat next to Hagrid, who he seemed to like.
Ollivander was gone. Luna had told him this one morning. Ollivander just closed up his shop overnight and disappeared. The fact that the older man had closed up shop first made her believe that he wasn't kidnapped, just that he had gone into hiding.
Harry just hoped that he would come back before the following year. Who would make wands for the new students?
Harry laughed as he was shoved into the bookcase. Neville covered his mouth with his hand, stifling his laughter. They were in the library, supposed to be getting books, but Neville seemed to have other ideas. Harry stiffened, as the boy picked him up slightly, kissing him. Harry wrapped his arms around the boy's shoulders, arching into him.
Neville thrust against him, kissing his neck, while Harry tried his best to keep from crying out. Harry bit his lip as Neville slid a hand in between them, into Harry's pants. Harry stiffened. "What are…oh…" He hissed, thrusting into Neville's hand.
"Nev…not here." He panted. "Not…" Harry whimpered as Neville squeezed him tightly. He tilted his head back, reaching up behind him to grab the bookshelves for leverage.
"Yess…fuck, please…Nev…." Harry whispered. They barely noticed a book falling off the shelf.
Neville thrust against him, picking him up fully after sliding his hand out of Harry's pants, and carried Harry over to another bookshelf- this one against the wall, in the corner. He glanced around, quickly casting a silencing spell, and unbuttoned the front of his pants. Harry rubbed up against him languidly.
"What do you want Nev?" He breathed.
"Suck me off."
Harry knelt down in front of him, and started doing just that.
Right there in the library. Just because Neville told him to.
Hidden in between the muggle studies section and household charms section. It was only the second week of term, so there weren't a lot of people there, but still…
Neville was thrusting into Harry's mouth, gripping his hair tightly in his hands. Harry worked quickly, knowing exactly what the other boy liked.
What they hadn't counted on was the wide pair of eyes peeking at them from behind the muggle studies section.
Colin looked down uncomfortably to see his cock straining in his pants. Yeah, they were hot together. Harry was -gorgeous- but Colin had realized a long time ago that Harry was spoken for. He looked longingly at the couple in front of him. He wanted something like that-
"What do we have here?" A whisper from behind him made him jump in surprise.
It was that American. Sam.
"Um…" Colin's face went red, glancing through the bookshelves, and Sam peeked through, studying them intently. He glanced down, and Colin covered himself up, blushing.
"Don't be embarrassed about it." Sam said with a smile. "Happens to everyone. Gorgeous, aren't they?"
Colin nodded.
Sam sighed. "Always the pretty ones." He said, almost to himself, staring at the couple.
Colin didn't know what he meant by that, so he said nothing.
He studied Colin, making the boy fidget. "You have anyone?" Colin shook his head, afraid to speak.
Sam studied him a bit more, and Colin swallowed. The way the man was studying him was-
"You should talk to your friends. They might help you find someone." And with that, Sam left.
Colin stared at him, and glanced through the bookshelves. He should really leave. He picked up his book from where he'd dropped it, and left, intent on finding a loo.
Susan stared at Professor Sprout in shock. "What?"
The woman stared at her quietly, tears in her eyes. "It happened not even half an hour ago. The Papers will have the story out by the morning…I thought you should know. The Headmaster wanted to wait, but…" She shook her head.
Susan's hands trembled. "Merlin, was it…Him?"
Sprout nodded. "It was Him- not any of his Death Eaters…there was quite a struggle. Your Aunt is…was, a very strong woman."
Susan cried, and wished Daphne was there.
Amelia's death was felt throughout the community- it was a hard blow to the light side. Amos Diggory was elected as Minister, and he was trying to continue the changes in the Ministry that Amelia had started...but it just wasn't the same.
Harry was reading his Herbology book in the Forest. He was sitting on the rocks, soaking up the sun's rays. Luna sat behind him, playing with his hair. It was an unusually hot day, so Neville and Draco were swimming. It was probably one of the last really warm days of the year.
The fairies were out and about, flitting over the water, giggling at the antics of Neville and Draco. Harry felt a strange sensation in his hair.
"Luna…what are you doing to my hair?"
"Dying it. Parts of it, anyways."
Harry's eyes widened. "What the hell, Luna-" He started to turn around, but the hand on his shoulder made his stay put.
"Don't move. You don't want this stuff on your skin."
Harry set his book aside, crossing his arms. "Should I ask what color?"
"Red. A nice dark red. It should look really pretty. I have to let it set for a bit."
Harry sat there for a few moments, eyes going over to the pond, watching Draco and Neville kiss, and then Neville waded out of the water. Harry watched him walk, licking his lips. That would never get old. Neville had the best bum ever, even better than Draco's, whose bum was toned from all that Quidditch.
Neville saw him looking, and smiled. "Hey kit, what are you up to-" His eyes trailed off, looking at Harry's hair. "Luna…what did you do?"
"Does it look horrible?" Harry asked, worried. Luna swat his arm.
Neville shook his head. "No…right now it's blue-"
Harry gasped, but Luna cut it. "That's because the spell is setting. I've got another two minutes. You can start taking Harry's shoes and things off. He'll need to get into the water."
Neville started taking off Harry's socks and shoes.
"I can do that-"
"It's much better when I do it, don't you think?" Neville asked, not pausing to pay attention to Harry's halfhearted protests.
Soon, his pants were off, as well, and Luna said it was okay to take off Harry's shirt. Neville did just that, and then stripped off Harry's underwear, and dropped him into the pond.
Harry gasped, coming up for air, glaring up at Neville and Luna, who were laughing at him. He glared at Draco, who was laughing next to him as well.
"Guys…"
"Your hair looks good." Draco said, looking at his hair.
"Thanks." Harry grumbled.
He waded out of the water, shivering, grabbing his wand from his wand holster. He transfigured a blanket, and wrapped himself it it. A few drying and transfiguration charms later, he was looking at his hair in the mirror.
It was as Luna said it was. The majority of it was still black, but underneath, peeking out, were locks of deep dark red, almost the color of blood. He ran a hand through his hair, watching the colors play against each other.
"Very nice." Neville murmured, coming up from behind him.
"Do you think I should cut my hair? It's almost to my hips." Harry said in a small voice.
"No, I think it's gorgeous." Neville said running his hands through Harry's hair, finding strands of dark red here and there.
"I…I do like it. Thank you Lu."
"I thought you might. Come on, let's get your nails done- you've started chipping away at it again."
That evening, when walking down the corridor for dinner, several boys stopped, turned, and stared, eyes widening. He'd left his hair down at Neville's insistence. Since it was a Saturday, no one really bothered with uniforms, so Harry was wearing his shorts, tights, and boots, along with his leather jacket and red shirt. His nails had been redone by Luna.
As they walked into the Great Hall, he idly tucked a lock of his hair behind his pierced ear, showing off a bit of red. Luna giggled next to him. They were staring at her too, of course- she was wearing a grey tank top that didn't leave much to the imagination and a pair of faded jeans and hiking boots.
The two of them settled at the Ravenclaw table, intent on eating a fast dinner. They had a lot of work to do tonight. Neville and Draco were meeting their partners for other classes, so they were going to work on a paper for Runes in the library.
They ate quickly, and left the Great Hall, heading for the library. They were just down the corridor from it when they saw Theodore Nott, Adrian Pucey, and Blaise Zabini coming up the opposite way. All three boys stopped and stared at them.
Harry ignored them, not liking the way they were staring at he and Luna. "Come on Lu. We're almost there."
The girl waved to the boys slightly as the two of them passed- that seemed to be some sort of signal, because they jumped.
Harry gasped in surprise, being pinned up against the wall by Nott. "Get away from me, you little-"
He could hear Luna yelling next to him. "Get off me!"
Harry twisted out of the way, cringing as he could feel the boy's hardness- this felt wrong, this was bad-
"What, no big, bad boyfriends to save you now?" Nott breathed into his ear, grinding into him. "You two go shaking your asses all over the castle at us, and I think we should do something about it."
Harry pushed him away, trying his best, and he could hear Luna next to him, doing the same.
"GET AWAY FROM THEM!"
Harry looked over to see Colin and Dennis Creevey, along with Ron Weasley and Dean Thomas. They were running towards the Slytherins, wands drawn. The three Slytherins knew they were outnumbered right away, and ran down the corridor.
Harry crumpled to the floor and looked over at Luna. She looked angry. Very angry. "Lu?"
The blonde's eyes softened, and she grabbed onto him. "Are you okay?"
"Yeah…you?"
The Gryffindor boys went to them. "Are you two okay?" Dennis squeaked, kneeling in front of them. They helped them to stand.
"Thanks." Harry said quietly. "I couldn't get to my wand. Nott was holding my arms back." He shook his head.
Ron nodded slightly. "Alright. You guys need to go to the hospital wing or something? Um…maybe Flitwick?"
Luna slid her hand into Harry's. "Yeah…we should go to Flitwick, Harry. Maybe he could help."
Several of the boys glanced at their joined hands, but Harry tightened his grip on Luna's hand.
"Yeah. If he thinks we should go to the hospital wing, we will…"
"We can take you." Colin said. "That way those guys won't bother you again."
Harry smiled at him, making the boy blush. "Thanks Colin."
As they began to walk, Harry laughed. "The big, bad Gryffindors to the rescue."
Dean chuckled at this, elbowing Colin. Dennis laughed. "I don't know about big…I'm even shorter than you guys, and that's saying something."
Harry colored. "Yeah."
After Flitwick was told what occurred, they called Severus right away. The man was extremely concerned, and they flooed Madam Pomfrey. They hadn't gotten more than a couple of scrapes, but it was still on record. Harry gave them their memories of the incident.
Snape stared at Harry. "There is a spell you can put on your wand holsters, so all you have to do is flick your wrist, and your wand is in your hand. The Aurors have it on their holsters- they normally don't put that spell on civilian wand holsters."
Snape taught them the spell, while Flitiwick watched on, curious. After the two Ravenclaws left, Flitwick turned to Severus expectantly.
Severus seemed to wilt. "What I say cannot leave this room."
Flitwick flicked his wand about his office a few times, and Severus' skin crawled at the wards.
"Done."
Severus took a deep breath. "Harry is…my son." He croaked.
Flitwick's eyes widened. "What?" He whispered.
Severus bent down, putting his hands on his face. "I know, I know. It seems he took an inheritance test, to check on what you had told him about his…heritage. When I found out I was so shocked…I still don't know what to think."
Flitwick stared at the man. "You and Lily…I thought you never…"
Severus lowered his hands. "After school, you know we worked together. Well…things got a little out of hand sometimes…in the office, when we were working late. It was just a few times, but…" Severus shook his head. "I still can't believe it."
Flitwick furrowed his brows. "So…he is your son. Have you told Albus?"
"Of course not. Anyways, he would never believe me. No one would." Severus said quietly.
"I do. Lily loved you, Severus. Believe me when I say that." Flitwick said.
Severus stared at him. "But how can you be so sure-"
"So told me. She was devastated when your friendship ended. She loved James as well, but she loved you first. I don't think she ever stopped loving you-"
"Don't say such things-"
"She married James because she thought it was safer, I think." Flitwick said, staring the dark haired man down. "She was a muggleborn, or at least everyone thought she was, and that time was dark- people like her were being kidnapped left and right."
He shook his head. "She wanted you to be safe. And she could be safe with James- a pureblood with a wealthy family."
"But was she happy?" Severus whispered.
Flitwick nodded slowly. "She was. When…when she told me she was pregnant, she was bursting with excitement and happiness."
"She…somehow knew, though. It shows on the paper that he was blood adopted by James. He must have known as well." Severus said, in quietly growing horror.
"They must have done it for a reason, Severus." Flitwick said quietly, trying to puzzle this together. "Blood adoption is a highly illegal ritual."
"I know. Merlin, he looks so much like her sometimes. Especially with that red in his hair now. And when he's angry."
Flitwick shook his head. "But he is not her, at the same time. He is…like you, in some ways. You know how he grew up."
Severus shuddered. "Yes. Merlin, if I had known-"
"No. Severus, don't go down that path." Flitwick said, setting his jaw. "Regret and wishing will not get anyone anywhere. You know better."
Severus bowed his head. "Yes. I…do. I don't know what to do. How to help him."
Flitwick smiled. "You're certainly on your way. That spell you taught him tonight should come in handy. I'm surprised I didn't think of it myself."
Severus looked thoughtful. "He has two wands- two wand holsters. What is that other wand?"
Flitwick sighed. "Let me tell you about a little Raven named Harry. He was in his first year here when…."
The three Slytherins had been put on probation. If an incident happened like that again, they would be expelled, their wands snapped in half. The lesson was learnt quickly, and the following day, all three Slytherins had come up and apologized to the Ravenclaws.
They also stayed very, very, far away from Neville and Draco.
Harry sat on the bench, fiddling with his quartz microphones in the courtyard. Luna, Neville, and Draco were preparing their instruments.
A few of the American and English Aurors came by the courtyard on their patrol, looking at them curiously, but kept walking. Some students followed afterwards.
Within twenty minutes, word had spread enough that half of the upper years were in the courtyard, and the majority of HA were there. Harry was testing out his quartz crystal microphones.
He touched them, activating them. "Can you guys hear me?"
Several students winced, holding their hands to their ears, while others looked on in wonderment. The three microphones were in groups of 3 large, 6 medium, and 9 small crystals- all clear quartz. There were bound together with a combination of unicorn and threstral thread, and covered with runes. Each of them stood on a wooden stand, polished to perfection, just like a wand.
Harry sang a A note in each of the microphones- testing them out, tweaking them a bit, calibrating the sound. Everyone was staring on curiously. He then noticed the Aurors coming by again, with a few additions- they stuck around this time, murmuring to each other.
He looked to his friends, who looked at him expectantly. "Okay. Ready guys?"
"Wait!" Harry looked over to see Colin and Dennis pushing their way through the crowd, cameras in their hands. He rose a brow, seeing Colin flip his camera on.
"What's that?"
Colin blushed, turning it off again. "My camera. When you put it on long exposure, it plays an image- but instead of looping about like a normal picture, like every five seconds or so, it loops about every time the image ends."
Harry stared. "Sound?" He asked hopefully.
Colin shook his head, blushing again. Dennis piped up. "That American is helping him with it."
Harry grinned. "Great!" He motioned to Colin, and the boy flipped his camera on.
Harry looked to the others. "Which one first?"
Luna fingered her guitar for a moment. "Why don't we try some Queen?"
Harry grinned, and nodded, turning to the microphone.
They had been rocking out for some twenty minutes when Harry noticed that the teachers had joined the Aurors around the outskirts of the courtyard- even Hagrid and Firenze were there. Dumbledore was twinkling madly, and he was bopping along. A lot of the students had started dancing long ago.
Dennis was taking regular pictures of the quartet, while Colin was keeping his camera on them, filming them.
They were taking requests, so they sang everything to the Beatles, to the Red Hot Chili Peppers, to Stevie Nicks, to Bob Marley, to… you get the picture.
Harry finished up with 'their' song- Forbidden. All of the Hogwarts students stood there, mesmerized, while the muggleborns that had been there for their concert during the summer were grinning madly.
As soon as the last notes ended on Luna's lyre, everyone clapped and clapped, and the four of them bowed slightly.
Colin's camera was shut off with a soft click.
Sam studied the film intently, watching it play. "You got about an hour's worth of footage?"
Colin nodded. "Yeah. I could get more- Harry seemed really interested in the idea- he probably wouldn't mind playing for us again."
Sam bit his lip thoughtfully, not noticing Colin stare at his lips as he did so. He studied the paper before him. "Damn, I wish we had those recording stones finished. If they were, we could sync the sound and the film together."
Colin grinned. "Want help?"
Sam glanced at him, smirking. "Finished all your homework yet?"
Colin blushed. "Er…almost."
Sam ruffled his sandy blonde hair. "Come back when you're finished."
Harry stiffened as he read the note. A grim looking Flitwick had handed it to him- with the Gringott's seal on it.
We have located another item. Please be here at the bank as soon as possible.
No names, nothing.
It was just Harry and Flitwick this time, along with the goblins, when they destroyed the gaunt ring. The metal melted- it was a weak metal, probably muggle made- leaving only the stone. There was the tell-tale scream, hissing and oozing as the horcrux was destroyed. Good riddance.
There were spells and protections on the stone the Goblins didn't really understand- but they allowed Harry to keep it- as it was rightfully his. He tucked it away when he got back to Hogwarts that night, hidden in between his nightclothes, and forgot it promptly.
Harry watched Sam shake hands with Fred and George. The three inventors got on fairly quickly, and soon, their table at the Three Broomsticks was filled with little drawings and sketches drawn on napkins and things. Harry leant forward, studying the plans.
"Well the microphones used stones in sets of three- I found that worked best, physically and magically- the sound reverberates off of one another-"
"Oh, I get it!" Sam said. "I did that, but-"
"I used threstral and unicorn hair to bind it. Using the stones alone would break them, wouldn't it?"
All three other inventors gaped.
"What?" Harry asked.
"You used what?" George asked.
Harry shrugged. "It worked, didn't it? The Unicorn thread is pure- alone, the tones would be too high, and break the quartz. The threstral thread, combined with it, mellows it down, and makes it louder at the same time- the combination of the two vibrate the stones just enough so they won't break."
Sam blinked at Harry. "What's the difference between Threstral thread and Threstral hair? And the Unicorn-"
"There's spun together into thread- made stronger. That's the only difference. Hagrid taught me back in…Merlin, my first year, how to do that."
The three of them stared at him.
"Oh." Sam said. "We don't really have stuff like that over in the U.S. We have loads of magical snakes and things, even some smaller mammals, but don't you guys have the largest population of threstrals here…"
Harry nodded. "Hagrid's been breeding them and training them since he was a kid. He's grown them from a herd of twelve to over 300. The species was nearly extinct before."
"…How come no one ever heard about this?" Sam said, almost to himself.
Harry just rose a brow. "Hagrid is a half giant, and he's dealing with creatures that people rarely ever see. Who would pay attention to that? That's what the Ministry thinks."
Fred shook his head. "I think someone should pay attention to that."
Sam cleared his throat. "Back on the topic. Could I take a look at those mikes?"
Harry nodded. "I've already sent off the paperwork to patent them, so you can go ahead and play with them all you want…er" He blushed, the other boys started laughing. "You know what I mean."
Neville came over, holding a butterbeer. "Hey Kit, come on, Luna wants to show you a new outfit."
Harry groaned. "Another one? How many has she got today? Three?"
He waved the others off, paying his tab, and left the pub.
Sam watched him go. "Kit?"
Fred chuckled. "Kitten. Who knows who started it."
"Probably Neville."
"Yeah, man, that boy is far gone-"
"Ever since he was firstie. He tripped up over Harry all his first year."
Sam watched their byplay with a smile. "They've been together for a while then?"
The twins nodded. George spoke up. "Yeah, but I think they've only come out about it this year."
"Yeah, they've been together ages…Merlin….I think they got together about three years ago, maybe four."
Sam rose a brow. Even he hadn't been in a relationship that long. Then again, he was only 22. "What about that Draco guy? And Lovegood?"
Fred laughed. "Little Love has been in Kit's heart since he first saw her- er…" He trailed off, seeing the look on Sam's face.
"What?"
George spoke up, glancing about. "Well…they're….very open. If you know what I mean." He said softly, and took a swig of his butterbeer.
Sam blinked. "Oh." He'd honestly thought Harry was exclusively into guys. Hmph, something must be off with his gaydar.
"Course, if we hear you repeating that, we'll hex your bollocks off." Fred said cheerfully, twirling his wand in his fingers.
"Er, I don't know what bollocks are, but I can pretty much guess…I would like to keep them, thank you very much." He paused for a moment. "It never really occurred to me before…but it's kind of obvious, isn't it?"
The twins nodded in unison. Sam looked down to the drawings again, eager to get his mind off of the four sixth years. "So, how would you guys like to work with me?"
Harry smiled as Luna showed off her outfit. "Very cute. I suppose you're getting that one too, then."
The blonde grinned. "Of course!"
The shopkeeper smiled. Luna ducked into the changing rooms. Harry slid his hand into Neville's, looking about the store. Draco was looking out the window thoughtfully.
It was then they felt the ground shaking.
Harry's wand was in his hand instantly. "What was that?"
Luna got out of the dressing stall, tugging her sweater over her body suit. The shopkeeper looked at it curiously, but said nothing, watching all four of them draw their wands.
"You better floo out while you can, miss- I think I see something on fire." Draco said, opening the door.
Her jaw dropped.
Indeed, Madam Puddifoot's was on fire. Many students were running away from it, casting aguamenti on their clothes, putting out the flames. Harry saw several HA members running towards the place, and the four of them picked up the pace.
Draco gasped as he saw his Father come out of the smoking building. He looked strangely fat, and there were lines about his eyes and mouth that hadn't been there before. The man stared at his son, and drew his wand. Draco raised his wand instantly.
They heard a high pitched laughter inside the building and Harry's heart stopped, for just a moment. He paled, barely noticing the Aurors showing up, surrounding the building, along with the HA.
The ground shook again. What the hell?
Harry looked over at Luna worriedly, and saw her looking determinedly at the burning building. Aurors were putting out the fire now- and arresting Mr. Malfoy.
Something in his face though, told Harry that he wasn't going to go down without a fight- soon enough, in a green colored flash, he'd killed three of them, and was making his way towards Draco.
What happened next would be remembered for a long time. Madam Puddifoots…collapsed inward. The laughing abruptly stopped, and Voldemort appeared atop the rubble, flourishing his wand. Six more Aurors died in that moment. Harry's eyes widened, and he realized they were all just…standing there like a bunch of idiots. He motioned with his hand, and that set off a rainbow of lights in the air, all towards Voldemort and Malfoy, who had nearly gotten to Draco.
The both apparated away in that moment- leaving Draco to stare at the space his Father had just vacated.
A few moments later, Harry could hear the whimpers and cries and pleas for help inside Madam Puddifoot's. All the students and Aurors started digging into the rubble immediately.
All in all, twelve Aurors had been lost that day, and three Hogwarts students. Needless to say, Hogsmeade weekends were cancelled for the rest of the year.
Harry stared at the poster in his hands, and then glanced at Dennis, who was looking at him hopefully.
"I like it. You look cute, Harry." Luna chirped, looking over his shoulder.
Harry fidgeted. "Could you make regular ones? Muggle pictures?"
Dennis nodded. "Yep. Just takes different developer, that's all."
"Alright then. How much are you selling them for?" Harry asked.
Dennis' eyes widened. "Well…I was just going to hand them out…"
Draco laughed. "No, you've got loads to learn. Sell the big posters, full size, for a 13 sickles. The smaller ones, 10. That should cover printing costs and things, right?"
Dennis nodded hurriedly. "Yeah, it only takes about 10 knuts to print each of them."
"Then there you go. You can be our official photographer." Draco said, smirking.
"Really?"
Luna giggled. "Yeah, Den."
Dennis hopped up and down. "So cool! When do I start?"
Harry motioned to the poster in his hands. "Now, I guess. Got more of these?"
Within a week, posters of the quartet were plastered all over the Hogwarts' dorms. It was an understatement to say that it disturbed Harry to find out that Cho Chang had a life size poster of him next to her bed.
They also learned to not make the life size ones move. That was a bad idea. They also learned to spell them so that the pictures would only do certain things- if they were spelled to strip, or do other naughty things, they would be unaffected, and make funny faces at the caster.
That was with Fred and George's help. Dennis and Colin opened a contract with them so they could start selling the posters in their store -they sold like hotcakes.
"So…what are we doing for the holidays this year?" Harry asked, painting his nails by the fireplace. Luna looked up from her reading. It was November, and the holidays would be starting within the month.
"Well…I wouldn't mind going back to our little flat." Draco said cautiously.
Harry sighed. "I wouldn't mind it either. But…is it safe?"
"You know it is." Luna said.
"I know, but I mean…here? How do we know Voldemort won't come here if we leave?"
The four of them sat there for a long moment.
"I guess we're staying then." Neville finally said.
"I could just…visit Daddy on Christmas day. He's on a trip right now. I could join him for a bit." Luna said quietly.
Harry sighed. "Luna, I know you miss him- I don't want to keep you from him. You should go."
Luna bit her lip. "You think it'll be alright?"
Harry nodded. "Yeah, we'll be here. Nev? What about your family?"
Neville looked down. "Maybe just for a couple of days."
Harry sighed, staring into his tea. It was Christmas morning, and he was missing Neville and Luna terribly. Draco gave him a small smile from across the table. Many students had the same idea- and went home for the holidays. There were a handful of students who had remained behind- many of the Aurors had the day off, although not all of them.
Susan was looking a little out of it as well, sitting next to him. Since her Aunt had died, she had no other family to go to- nowhere really to go. She was trying her best to keep the Christmas spirit up. Daphne sat a little ways down the table glancing at her.
The Great Hall doors slammed open- making all the students jump, revealing a distraught looking Luna and Neville, Colin, Dennis, Dean, and Hermione- who looked inconsolable.
They all looked a little worse for wear, and Harry yelled out as Luna collapsed, face first- her clothes were singed and ripped. He ran to her, Draco on his heels, the other students and teachers that had been at the table.
Harry held Luna's head in his lap, and he found her arm was bleeding. He was healing her right there, barely listening to Draco and the Professors questioning the others.
"There was an attack. I don't know what happened- one minute, My Mum and I were opening presents, and the next, Death Eaters were coming through the floo-" Dean was saying.
"And then he just hit her- right there in the chest with that ghastly curse-" Hermione sobbed against McGonagall.
"And Dad took his shot gun, and got him right in the head-" Colin was describing with wide eyes, Dennis holding onto his brother's arm tightly.
Luna opened her eyes slowly, looking up at Harry. "Daddy's dead." She whispered.
Harry's heart constricted in his chest, and he held her tightly to him. He realized that Draco was telling him that they needed to get them to the hospital wing- Draco picked Luna up, and carried her there, the others following them.
Harry looked at Neville taking his hand. Neville squeezed his hand. "Luna barely made it, Harry. She flooed into our place, I don't know how, since it was under Fidelis, but anyways, I knew I had to get her here."
He paused, looking at the muggleborns. "One of the muggleborns must have talked, Harry, they were on a private network."
Harry blanched. "We need to check on the others- we need to see if someone was tortured for the information-"
Neville nodded, looking grim, and went up ahead, to talk to Hermione.
He could see Hermione's eyes widen, and she turned to the Headmaster. Harry had not expected the old man to run so fast, but he did. They all followed him to the hospital wing. Madam Pomfrey began healing people right away, and had Harry and Neville help her. Hermione and Dean went with the Headmaster and McGonagall to alert the others on the network.
In less than an hour, they found three of the muggleborns had been killed. Justin Finch Fletchly, along with his little sister, and Megan Jones had returned with them, along with a few younger students, shaken, but alive.
However, their families were not so lucky. Justin's little sister was a witch, but wouldn't enter Hogwarts for another couple of years. She was nearly comatose by what she'd seen. She had been put to sleep immediately by Madam Pomfrey, so they could deal with everyone else.
Hermione broke down sobbing again after the adrenaline wore off, and Harry went to her side. "Hermione?"
She sniffled, and latched onto him. Harry's eyes widened, and he looked over at the others, who were still busy. He put an arm around her shoulder reluctantly.
"My Mum and Dad are dead." She whispered brokenly.
"I'm sorry." Harry said quietly.
She pulled away, tears in her eyes. "It's all my fault. I should have never made this…this stupid network. I thought it would help us."
Harry looked at her. "How were you supposed to have known this was going to happen? Don't blame yourself."
She bowed her head, shaking it. "They've all lost their families."
"I know." Harry whispered.
"Well? Aren't you going to tell me everything will be fine? That everything will turn out alright?" Hermione sniffled.
Harry stared at her. "I can't tell you that. I can't make any promises. I'm not going to lie to you Hermione."
"Then what's the point of it all now?" Hermione asked. "My parents are dead. I was…I did that to protect them, and look where the are now-"
"No. Don't do that. You did what you could. Did you cast the curse that killed them?"
"No."
"Did you break the interfloo connection?"
"No-"
"Then it's not your fault." Harry said seriously, and looked over to the others. "Now, why don't you try talking with the others?"
She did just that, and Harry went to sit by Luna's bed. Draco already had her hand in his, and Neville sat at the foot of her bed. Harry sat on her other side, holding her hand. She gave him a small smile.
After the attacks, many students had not returned to Hogwarts. Many had fled the country with their families, while others went into hiding. No one seemed safe.
Daphne stared tearfully at the latest letter from her Mother. She was demanding that Daphne come home. Astoria had never been allowed to return from the holidays, and Daphne had stayed at Hogwarts during that time- and her Mother regretted it. Her Father had allowed the older girl to stay, because she'd said she needed to work on school things. Now, though, it seemed he was changing his mind.
They were moving to France.
She couldn't leave Hogwarts. Not now. She folded the letter carefully, glancing around the table. Tracey hadn't returned. She'd gone to America with her parents. She looked across the Great Hall.
She saw many other empty spaces across the tables now, but she couldn't help but smile as she spotted Susan. The girl had really come into her own since her Aunt had died- a sort of ferociousness that really…Daphne loved Susan. She didn't want to leave Susan behind. Especially now. Who knew where the girl was going to go this summer.
That made up her mind. She stood from the Slytherin table, and headed over to the Hufflepuff one. In public, the two girls were rarely seen together anymore, if only for appearances sake. She didn't care. Not anymore. She sat right next to Susan.
The red headed girl stared up at her. "Daph?"
"Su. Pass me the potatoes please?"
Susan gave her a tremulous smile, passing the plate over.
As they ate for a bit, Daphne noticed the stares and whispers, wondering why a Slytherin and Hufflepuff were eating dinner together. Well, they could just sod off. She leant forward, smiling at Susan.
"What's brought all this on?" Susan whispered.
Daphne bit his lip. "Mum's insisting I come home. I'm going to refuse. They're going to go to France. I'm not going to go with them."
Susans' jaw dropped. "But they're your family…"
"I don't care. They just want me to get married and continue the line- become a breedmare. I don't fucking care. They have Astoria, they can have her." Daphne made a face.
Susan blinked up at her. "Daph, what are you-"
Daphne just smiled, and took Susan's hand, fully aware of the whispers that accompanied it. "I love you. Have I ever told you that?"
"N-no." Susan breathed, eyes bright. She felt higher than a kite, right now.
"Well, I do." Daphne murmured, and kissed her right there, in the middle of the Hufflepuff table, in the middle of the Great Hall. Above her plate of mashed potatoes. She pulled away just after a few moments, but both girls knew there wasn't any backing out now- not with all the whispers around them.
"I love you too." Susan said. The words didn't do justice what she felt right now- but that was the best she could do.
Daphne squeezed her hand.
Harry and Luna exchanged a look as they saw the two girls kiss at the Hufflepuff table. Many of the students around them were gaping at the girls- some looked disgusted. Luna squeezed Harry's hand underneath the table.
"Ugh, disgusting." They heard a Ravenclaw mutter nearby. Harry and Luna glared at the Ravenclaw as one.
"What? That's taboo!" Terry said, pointing to the girls openly. The two girls at the Hufflepuff table were looking warily at their classmates now.
Harry furrowed his brow. "Excuse me, but how is that any different than Neville and I being together?"
Terry frowned. "It's different! You two can have kids one day. They can't."
Luna spoke up. "Actually, they can. Hermione told us there's a muggle procedure-"
"It's still taboo." Terry said, and looked to Anthony, to get his friend to back him up.
Anthony glared at Harry. "Anyways, you're so girly that it looks as though Longbottom's dating a girl anyway."
Harry gaped, and Terry rolled his eyes, swatting his best friend on the arm. Luna started laughing. Harry stood, putting his hands on his hips, glaring down at Anthony. "What the FUCK did you just say? I DO NOT look like a FUCKING GIRL!" He yelled.
"Mr. Potter!" McGonagall screeched from the Head Professors' table.
Harry's head whipped towards her, his eyes wide. The entire hall had gone silent- their stares diverted from the girls to Harry. All you could hear was Luna's laughter right next to Harry.
Harry blushed. "Er…excuse me." With that, he walked out the Great Hall quickly, dragging Luna with him.
Hermione stared at the poster of Forbidden that was by Lavender's bed. Her roommates were gossiping, painting their nails. She had been reading on her bed, when her thoughts had been distracted by Harry Potter's comment earlier on that day.
Why had Harry made such a comment?
She stared at the poster, not noticing her roommates go quiet, and look at her. Harry was up in front, an arm wrapped around Luna's waist, with Neville's arms wrapped around him. Draco was leaning on Luna. They were dressed in their usual fare of outfits- with Neville, Draco, and Luna, it was clear what gender they were- but with Harry, with his black painted nails and bulky leather jacket over a thick sweater…he definitely looked more androgynous.
Was it just a stylistic choice? Or was there some other reason why Harry Potter was always covered up? She scanned her memories. She'd never seen his sleeves rolled up like some of the other students- never saw him wear short sleeves- never saw him without his shirt buttoned up all the way, ect…
Maybe he was hiding something. It could explain the nails. And the hair. And his mannerisms….okay, why hadn't she thought of this before?
"Hermione? You alright there?"
Hermione blinked at Parvati's question. "I…I was thinking about Harry. About that comment that he'd made in the Great Hall."
Parvati and Lavender exchanged a look. "What about it?" Both girls looked up at the poster.
"Harry…is a bit girly, now that you think of it."
Lavender shrugged. "It's his style. He looks really cute."
"But…what if he is a girl?" Hermione asked.
Parvati giggled. "I doubt it! He hasn't the chest!"
Hermione rose a brow. "Not all girls are as well built as you, Parvati. Anyways, there are ways of hiding it- haven't you noticed he always wears baggy sweaters when he's not wearing his uniform?"
"But he looks so cute in his little sweaters. And those shorts!" Lavender fanned herself. "His legs are hot!"
Parvati giggled at this, but cut herself off at Hermione's look.
"And he's always worn tights when he wears those shorts. And what sort of guy wears shorts like that?"
Parvati bit her lip. "Um…actually, Padma once told me that Luna had said that she and Harry shared stuff all the time. And Harry got all nervous and said that they just shared ties and things."
Hermione gaped. "Do you think Harry could be a cross-dresser?"
The girls exchanged a puzzled look. "What's that?" Lavender asked.
Hermione sighed. "A boy who wears girl's clothes. Or visa-versa. But…maybe he is a girl, he's just trying to hide it."
"Why…why would he try to hide it?" Parvati asked, confused.
Lavender spoke up. "Maybe because he's famous for being the BOY- Who-Lived."
"Oh."
"And you have to admit, girls are expected to act differently that boys. Boys get more freedom to do what they like." Hermione said, looking thoughtful. "They also get more respect too, in the workplace."
"That's just ridiculous." Lavender said, standing up on her bed to look at her poster. She poked the image of Harry, who smiled uncertainly.
"Harry is hot! He's a boy! That's all there is to it."
"Then why does he cover himself up all the time?" Hermione pressed on.
The other girls grew quiet at that thought.
Hermione approached Anthony in the library. He looked quite frustrated with his essay, and looked at Hermione as she sat down next to him.
"I'm busy, Granger."
"I'd like to ask a few questions."
He gave her a Look. "What sort of questions?"
"You made a comment, the other day. Is Harry a girl or a boy?"
Anthony's eyes widened. "Well, I've been telling Terry all term that I think Harry is a girl, but he won't believe me."
Hermione frowned. "Why do you think he's a girl?"
Anthony leant back in his chair. "Well…he's never changed in the same room as us. We're his roommates, you know? He never uses the bathroom at the same time as us- like he's hiding something."
Hermione stared at him. "So you've never actually seen him?"
Anthony shook his head. "And he's so much shorter than the rest of us- even the girls, and haven't you noticed how high his voice is? I think he's a girl."
Hermione looked thoughtful. "Have you ever found anything that was a bit odd? Like a skirt, or maybe an undergarment…"
Anthony shook his head. "He's got his side of the room all locked and warded to the hilt. He's got it tighter than Gringott's. I would never be able to get past his defenses. Haven't since our first and second year."
Hermione's eyes widened. "What does he have to hide?"
Anthony shrugged. "He usually doesn't come back to the dorm three or four times a week- I think he goes somewhere else to sleep."
Hermione nodded slowly. Ron and the other boys had pretty much said the same thing of Neville- they were obviously together, wherever they were. It made sense, though.
"So…you've never seen him wear anything odd?"
Anthony rolled his eyes. "Besides the nail polish and those clothes of his? Sometimes he wears eye makeup when they're playing in the court yard, but everyone knows that."
"Where does he keep the nail polish and things?"
Anthony shrugged. "Not in the dorm. I never see it."
Hermione looked thoughtful. "I see. Well, thank you for answering my questions." She stood, and Anthony spoke up.
"Do you think you could get past the Defenses?"
Hermione gave him a Look. "I might, but I'm not going to."
Ginny approached Hermione. "You don't really think Harry is a girl, do you?"
The two girls were in the dorm, and Ginny was watching Hermione put her books into her book bag.
Hermione shrugged. "I don't know. Maybe he isn't. There hasn't been any proof one way or the other- not even his roommates have seen him undressed."
Ginny looked at her. "That's a bit odd."
Hermione shouldered her bag. "It thought so too. I've been looking things up, and there could be a possibility that Harry could just be experimenting- perhaps even have Gender Dysphoria-"
At Ginny's blank look, Hermione sighed. "It's nothing. I'm just…wondering how this could possibly effect the war."
"Well…maybe he covers himself up because of a birthmark or scars or something. I don't think it really has anything to do with the war." Ginny mumbled.
Hermione stopped in place. "I….I don't think so. He is…very confident when he's performing and things- I don't think he would be, if he was self conscious of his body. Why would you say that?"
Ginny bit her lip. "He was raised by muggles that abused him. Don't tell anyone…I'm not supposed to know." And with that, she left.
Hermione was silent on her patrol. She was patrolling with Neville, while Draco and Daphne were down the corridor.
Hermione wanted to ask Neville- after all, who would know Harry better than his boyfriend?
"Neville…can I ask you a question?"
Neville nodded, peering behind a nearby tapestry. "Sure."
"You and Harry have…done stuff, right?" Hermione asked, red faced.
Neville chuckled. "Yeah. And?"
"Um…so Anthony's remark about Harry being a girl is just silly, right?"
Neville turned to Hermione, confused. "Uh…yeah. Harry's just…Harry. And Anthony is an idiot, despite being a Ravenclaw."
Hermione frowned, continuing their brisk pace. "So…why does he cover himself up all the time? I mean, everyone says he's gorgeous, so why doesn't he show it off?"
Neville just smiled. "He does, but…just not where everyone can see." He purred. Hermione fidgeted even more as they turned the corner. She really didn't want to know what Harry and Neville got up to when they were alone. She had several theories, but she didn't want to pry. No one would believe her anyways.
"Oh. Um…Ginny said that…that those muggles he lived with…hurt him. Is…is that why he covers himself up?"
Neville stopped walking immediately, grabbing her by the arm. "Have you told this to anyone?"
Hermione shook her head quickly, trying to pull her arm away- but Neville's grip was too tight. He was surprisingly strong.
Neville looked distressed. "Don't say a word. I'll talk to Ginny about keeping quiet."
Hermione looked at him worriedly. "So…it's true? He was hurt? Is that why he covers himself up?"
Neville finally let go of her arm, giving her a severe look. "It's not my business to tell. And don't you dare ask Harry. Don't tell anyone else about this- do you understand?" The boy growled.
Hermione nodded shakily.
"Um…people think he covers himself up because he's hiding the fact that he's a girl."
Neville laughed. "Harry is…Harry! He just likes to dress that way."
Hermione followed after him quickly as they began to walk again- her thoughts racing. He never really did come out and say if Harry was a boy or girl. Maybe it was better not to know.
Luna was reading through a stack of parchments, brow furrowed. Since her Father had died, it had fallen to her to keep the Quibbler going. It was a tough task- and it meant loads of paperwork, delegating tasks to the reporters, and lots of late nights. Her grades were slipping a bit, not that it mattered much.
This was more important. Draco was sitting next to her, going through his Estate paperwork the Goblins had recently sent him. His stock was going up in WWW, and it looked as though the Apothecary was doing pretty well right now.
Neville was at the Greenhouses, and Harry was at the library, attempting to finish some school work. They were to be back before curfew- it wouldn't be too long until that time. They spent as much time as they could together- but it was not enough.
Daphne stared at the letter she had just received from her Mother. Apparently someone had ratted her out!
Daphne Greengrass- you are in VERY big trouble! If you think we will allow you to besmirch our name like this with this scandal, you better think again!
Are you acting out just because you don't want to move? Well, you certainly got our attention. You have one week to reply. Leave this girl behind, and come with us- and you will be allowed to have access to your trust, and still be heir to the Greengrass name.
If not- if you decide to stay at Hogwarts with the little Bones girl, you will not be allowed to come with us. You will not be allowed to speak to Astoria ever again, and you will not be allowed access to your trust.
You have one week to decide. If we do not hear from you, we will assume you are staying at Hogwarts. If so, good luck finding a career- no one will take a scandalous girl like you.
Lord Greengrass
Daphne's eyes widened, and her eyes went right to Susan's. Susan looked up, and saw her looking. "What?" The Hufflepuff mouthed.
Daphne motioned to the letter, and stood, retreating from the Great Hall. The red head followed her out, and joined her.
"What is it Daphne?" Susan asked quietly. Daphne handed over the letter, letting Susan read it. As she finished it, the girl sighed.
"What will you do?"
Daphne shrugged. "I won't have access to my Trust, and…it will be hard finding a job."
"Then…you'll go?" Susan asked cautiously.
Daphne took the letter back from her girlfriend, and folded it. She shook her head, and ripped the letter. "I feel like I'm doing something terribly stupid…I wonder if this is what Gryffindors feel like sometimes." She said, sounding a bit horrified.
Susan smiled, taking the girl by the hand. "Don't worry Daph. We'll be okay."
Harry was pushed to the bed roughly, face down, and Neville climbed onto the bed behind him. He yanked off the boy's pants, throwing them to the floor. Draco climbed in on the other side, and started pulling off Harry's shirt.
Luna, sadly, was gone for the night- she was working over at the Quibbler offices. She had to sneak out of school. Harry had been so worried and distracted about her that the boys thought that Harry needed something to make him feel better.
Harry groaned as Neville started to prepare him, slicking his own cock up. Draco shoved his pants down, and filled Harry's panting mouth with his cock. Harry's groans and whimpers became muffled instantly. Neville and Draco watched each other as Draco thrust into Harry's mouth, and Neville continued to prepare Harry.
He was finally ready, so Neville slid into him, gripping his hips hard. Draco stilled Harry's head by grabbing onto his hair- and both boys watched each other thrust into the boy- trying to get the timing right.
Harry loved it. He tried keeping himself upright- his arms were shaking- he really just wanted to lie there, but he knew that would make things harder on the boys. On one particular hard thrust from Neville, he choked himself on Draco's cock- and fell onto the bed, his mouth slipping from the blonde's cock.
He was flipped onto his back, and Draco got on top of him, and continued to thrust into his mouth, almost smothering the boy. Harry could barely breathe, but the weight on top of him just felt so…good. He felt Neville move his legs apart again, and thrust into him.
He opened his eyes dazedly as Neville pulled up his legs, and Draco held onto them while they continued to thrust into Harry. Harry finally relaxed, knowing he didn't have to hold anything up, and let them use him.
Neville came into him first, and then Draco afterwards. Both boys eventually climbed off of him, leaving him there. Harry stared up at the ceiling dazedly. He had yet to get off- but he didn't mind much.
He slowly turned his head, to look at Neville. "Nev?"
"What is it baby?" Neville purred, propping himself up on his elbow.
"Can I come? Please?" Harry asked meekly.
Draco cut in. "Why do you always ask him?"
Both Neville and Harry looked at Draco. "Because he wants to, and because I like it when he does." Neville said quietly, petting Harry's hair. "You can come, Kit. Do you want me to touch you?"
Harry nodded hurriedly, wrapping his arms around Neville's neck as the boy touched him, ready to hang on for the ride.
Luna came back very late that night, shaking her head at all the sweaty boys in their bed. She took off her cloak and scarf, smiling slightly as she saw them all curled up together. Sex hung in the air, and by the way the clothes were all about the floor, it had been done in a hurry.
She undressed, and climbed into bed. Draco subconsciously moved over for her, so she could get into her favorite spot- between Draco and Harry. Harry sighed into her neck as she laid down. She closed her eyes with a smile on her face.
Harry and Sam had their heads bent over one of their little gadgets. Communicators, sort of like cell phones, in a way. They were made of quartz, and were fashioned to go into someone's ear, like an ear plug.
The quartz would be covered with a covering that could be charmed to be invisible to everyone but the wearer. It could be turned on and off with a simple touch with a finger, and a password spoken for whichever network you wanted access to.
The range would be within wardspace- so if you were in the same building, it would sound just fine. If you were just outside, it would be shaky and faded- outside the wards, you would be unable to communicate at all.
Currently, they were trying to reproduce them- they had gotten ten made, and wanted enough for all of HA. It was very tricky. The twins had gotten the schematics, and were working on some over at their shop, and had about six made so far.
This, of course, was a top secret project.
Luna peeked up from her wild bouquet of flowers. It was finally spring, and the band was taking outside shots for Dennis and Colin. The boys claimed that Witch Weekly wanted pictures of the group- their music's popularity was rampant with Hogwarts' students and staff. Draco held her from behind, lacing his fingers in hers, resting his cheek against hers.
They were standing by the Lake, just at sunset. It was a bit cold for it, but Luna was wearing a pale green sundress, while Draco wore a cream shirt and ash pants. They looked very nice together.
A few feet over, Colin was taking pictures of Neville. Harry was watching. As night fell, the pictures also turned darker, and not so sweet. Luna had changed into her 'infamous' black latex outfit, while Harry had gone back to his black leather jacket.
They looked particularly moody and rock-ish against the inky night sky and moonlight reflecting off of the lake water. At least Witch Weekly would like the photos.
Harry dodged a spell, rolling on the ground and whipping his wand back up. They were in a sort of melee fight with the HA, and it was wicked fun, exciting, and hard. The HA were coming a long way. In fact, Harry was pretty sure they'd be able to hold their own against the lesser death eaters.
Only a few would be able to stand up next to the stronger Death Eaters- besides himself and his friends. He just hoped it wouldn't come to that. But he knew it would happen, if there was the chance.
The end of term was coming all too soon- the Seventh years were studying like mad for their NEWTS, the same for the Fifth years and their OWLS. Yet they all came to the HA meeting.
They were all working very hard- all of the muggleborns had been shaken by the Christmas attacks- and Harry had talked to them all individually about their plans for the holidays.
Hermione would be staying with a Great-Aunt of hers over in the U.S, while Colin and Dennis were going to stay with cousins. Dean would be staying with Seamus and his family. Daphne and Susan, however, would be on their own this summer, and weren't sure what to do.
Luna offered to help the girls out, and got them a flat in the same building for the holidays. Of course, both of them being purebloods would have to take some getting used to all of the amenities, but Harry and the others could help them out. And it would be a plus to learn all of this because muggles didn't have a problem with lesbians as wizards did.
Susan had a bit of money from her Aunt, but she couldn't access the rest of the Bones Estate until she graduated from Hogwarts- an old family rule. Daphne only had the money in her pocket. It would be unsafe for them to work in the wizarding world until they were of age- and they didn't know the muggle world well enough to work there. So they were a bit stuck.
But Harry and the others were doing their best to amend that- by teaching them everything they knew about muggles.
