Chapter 14

(A/N I do not own any of these characters they belong to J K Rowling)

Harry growled in frustration as he turned and attacked Snape with his sword. A day had passed and they still had no clue as to how to hide the dark mark on Snape's arm with the trial coming closer and closer. Disillusion charms and other charms that would hide the mark wouldn't work. The only good thing was that Hermione had arranged for both Rita Skeeter and Luna to meet them later that evening. Harry was hoping that they would be able to put some news out in the Dailey Prophet and the Quibbler that could help them. Harry ducked and flicked his wrist slightly and was able to successfully disarm Snape.

"I see you've been practising Harry, good."

"Thank you sir both myself and Hermione practise every chance we get it seems to be the only thing that relaxes us at times."

"How is Miss Granger's sword play?"

"It's okay, Hermione could probably hold her own against an amateur or a student but she much prefers her knives."

Snape nodded thoughtfully. "She needs a good set of professional throwing knives in that case especially if she is planning to use them as an offensive weapon as well as her wand."

"I was planning to get her some for Christmas but was unsure as to where from."

"There is a good weapons store in knock turn alley. I will take you there in the holidays, I was planning to go there myself there are some potions ingredients that I need."

Harry nodded he really didn't need to ask what sort of ingredients he trusted the man in front of him. Still there was one more thing he needed to do at the moment and that was take Severus to his mother.

"Professor Snape there's someone that wants to meet you."

Snape raised an eyebrow.

"My parents portraits."

"Lily. You mean I can speak to Lily?"

Harry smiled and nodded as her and Snape walked towards the living room as soon as they were there, several minutes were spent as Lily and Snape greeted each other. Harry was amazed at Snape's reaction he seemed much younger and was laughing at being able to talk to his friend he turned and walked out of the room he really wasn't needed at the moment.

Harry walked towards Dumbledore's office it was quite early and there really wasn't much happening, Ravenclaw had a match against Slytherin, it had been fairly close but Slytherin had won. Despite the oncoming trial his lessons had continued including healing, the only notable fact was that Ron had stopped coming to those lessons. Ginny informed him that he was spending more time with the quartet better known as Seamus, Lavender, Parvati and Dean. Apparently according to Ron healing was a girls' class and a waste of time. Harry shrugged he felt saddened that Ron had quit something as useful as that but it wasn't his decision. The animagus class was coming on great McGonnagall had predicted that himself and Snape would only need another two lessons and they would be able to transform, Hermione needed about five more lessons. Harry could now transfigure all of his body the only part he was now having difficulty with was his head. McGonnagall had informed him that that was due to instinct. She explained that we instinctively always hide or cover our heads when anything happens so during the animagus training you sometimes stop your head from changing.

Since everything had occurred Harry had only had one more lesson on his element and could now make his flame grow much brighter. Dumbledore had suggested that he also ask his fathers portrait for advice it may help him learn how to use his element faster.

Harry walked past the transfiguration class only to find his name being shouted turning around he noticed McGonnagall calling him. Harry walked into the empty classroom and closed the door and also put up a ward. McGonagall gave him a look and silently asked.

"Blame Moody and Professor Snape."

Minerva McGonnagall rolled her eyes and sat down as did Harry.

"How are you holding up Harry? I haven't been able to speak with you as much since Hogwarts has started."

"I'm fine Profess... sorry Minerva. Finding out about Narcissa as my godmother was a bit of a shock but it's good. Although this trial is making me nervous."

"Yes I can understand both accounts Albus and myself were shocked to find out just how good friends those three were and we pride ourselves in knowing almost everything that occurs in Hogwarts grounds."

"Everything?" Harry cheekily asked as he thought of everything he and his friends had been through.

"Everything till you showed up I should probably say. There is something else I wanted to mention, as you know term finishes soon and there is a visit for Hogsmeade next weekend. Don't be angry but make sure you go in a group we don't want anything happening."

Harry let out a breath for a second he had been worried that he wouldn't be allowed to go. "Don't worry Minerva I will be careful besides I'll be with Mione, Draco and Blaise."

"Good, the four of you are quite capable, there will also be several professors they're, including myself, Remus and Severus."

"I'm worried about this trial."

"As am I Harry but I have faith in Albus if he says that we will figure something out we will besides don't you have that foul woman coming to Hogwarts today."

Harry grinned. "If you're talking about Rita then yes."

"Good but be careful with what you tell her."

"Don't worry about that Minerva I wont be alone with her, Albus insists that she will get her interview in front of everyone also Luna will be there representing her fathers newspaper."

"Good at least we will able to have some control over what will be printed. How are the DA classes coming on?"

"DA's great!" Harry exclaimed. "It's going a lot better than I thought and everyone's showing some great potential especially the advanced group I'm thinking of having Moody join in and teach some more offensive charms."

"How about yourself, to be honest you haven't faced a proper challenge since we've come back to Hogwarts, perhaps I should speak to Albus about that."

"I've been training more with my sword to be honest," Harry admitted. "I've also been practising healing, I'm not expecting my duel with Voldemort to be focused too much on magic as our wands don't work properly against each other."

"That's a point but you need to protect yourself from other death eaters. Also what about parsletongue magic?"

"I've read some of the books from the library but I haven't tried anything some of those charms are well quite gruesome. I'm also planning to visit the chamber again but after the trial."

"Good idea let me know when you go."

Harry stared at Minerva incredulously. "What? I'm interested in seeing it as is Albus and especially Severus."

"Sure whatever I'll take Mione too she'll kill me if you all get to go and she doesn't get to take part in this fascinating historical educational trip."

"Yes Miss Granger would not be too pleased."

Minerva leaned back in her seat and took on a blank look. "How is Mr Weasley?"

Harry sighed, "Not that good to be honest."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

Harry considered it for a moment but shook his head.

"Very well Harry I'm glad we got to speak but I have a class coming in soon and I believe you wanted to speak to Albus."

Harry nodded and thanked Minerva for the talk and left the classroom. Minerva looked thoughtful for a moment it was obvious that Harry had some issues regarding Ronald Weasley that he needed to talk about. Making a decision she walked into her office and walked towards the fireplace. Grabbing some floo powder she threw it into the fire and called for Albus.

(Next scene)

While Harry was talking to Minerva another conversation was taking place this time between Draco and Severus who after his conversation with Lily sought Draco out. He sat him down and explained why he had become a death eater in the first place and why he then turned to be a spy.

"So it was Mrs Potter," Draco watched as Severus winced slightly at this, "Who convinced you to go to Dumbledore and become a spy."

Severus nodded. Draco had a thoughtful look "She sounds like a remarkable woman."

Severus sighed, "Lily was stubborn and that was her number one feature she wanted to be friends with me and Narcissa and she didn't care what anyone else thought about that. She was kind, thoughtful and for a muggleborn extraordinary powerful."

"Mum said she was really pretty."

"She was. It's funny but she was always more beautiful when she was angry. In anger her eyes used to almost glow much like Harry's does. Lily had a fierce beauty."

Draco hesitated for a moment he wasn't sure he should ask but, "Severus can I ask you a question?"

"What is it Draco?"

"It's probably nothing but whenever anyone talks about Harry they always refer to Lily as his mother and his father but no one ever mentions James Potters name."

"Lily was friends with me and I hated James Potter, Harry understands my reasons and he is careful to not bring his name up as is Remus."

"Remus?"

Severus looked uncomfortable, "He's actually not that bad for a werewolf. I mean we wouldn't call each other friends but we are trying."

"What are we going to do about the mark?"

"We'll figure something out. Dumbledore has an impressive library there's bound to be a book that will help."

(Next scene)

"Come in, Harry."

Harry walked in to the office. Dumbledore was having a conversation with someone in the fireplace. Harry spent a few minutes speaking to some of the more awake Headmasters and Headmistresses on the walls and said hello to Fawkes. Dumbledore finished whatever conversation he was having and looked at Harry. "How are you child?"

"I'm fine Albus, concerned about the trial but all else is good."

"And I'm guessing one of those good things is Miss Granger?"

Harry rolled his eyes, "Don't start I've already got Remus going on about it. Mind you he might stop especially as Mione has blackmail material on him."

Dumbledore smiled and Harry could see his eyes twinkling. "Oh really and what would that be?"

Harry opened his mouth to answer and then changed his mind. He had a calculating look on his face. "Why should I tell you? What's in it for me?"

The two heard a snort come from the far wall more specifically from Nigellus Black's portrait, "And you say the boy isn't a Slytherin Albus."

"I can question him about it in order meetings."

"Oh fine. Besides I needed to get one back on Remus anyway from the summer."

"Is this when he let your and Miss Grangers rather awkward positions slip to myself and Minerva not forgetting Severus?"

Harry glared as he remembered that moment. "There's just one condition make sure the twins are there."

"Done."

"Well let's just say it involves Tonks..."

"Nymphodora. Well that is surprise a pleasant one though, thank you for telling me."

"Don't worry just keep your end of the bargain."

Harry smirked knowing Dumbledore he would mention it right in the meeting in front of everyone.

"I hear there is something that is troubling you?"

Harry sighed he seemed to be doing a lot of that recently. "It's the trial. I don't want to loose Professor Snape or my godmother. I lost Sirius I don't want to go through that again."

"Don't worry. I won't allow that to happen although I am worried as to how we will hide the dark mark I have been through everything. The ministry for reasons you can understand are quite through in their methods lately to make sure that nobody with the dark mark is allowed to infiltrate the ministry and a secret like that isn't simple to hide."

Harry leaned back thoughtful as he considered the options in front of him. He started to feel that tell tale feeling of Hogwarts attempting to communicate with him again. Closing his eyes he tried to see what she wanted him to see. He found himself in Flitwicks charm class. Harry frowned what could be so interesting in here everything seemed fine... he saw Flitwick raise a book. Harry concentrated as he read the title on the book. It was advanced Spell Modification. As soon as he read the title he found the vision ending.

"Harry? Harry, are you okay? You seemed to blank out there for a second it's not Voldemort, is it?"

"No, it wasn't him it was Hogwarts."

"What did she show you?"

Harry explained the vision.

"Well it seems that Hogwarts is suggesting that we modify a spell we know to hide or get rid of the mark but I don't see how that will help I've already considered all the alternatives."

"Well there must be something otherwise she wouldn't have responded."

"I agree something we said must have triggered the vision."

Harry though back on their conversation there must have been something they said the last thing Albus had said was hide. He went over the last sentence again when it hit him, "Secret Hide!"

"Harry?"

"That's what she meant secret hide, modify the spell. Is there some way we could modify the fidelus charm to hide the fact that Snape has the dark mark on his arm?"

Dumbledore looked thoughtful. "Yes that would possibly work I will look into that straight away. Harry is it possible for me to use your library I believe there are some books there that will help."

Harry nodded as the door appeared. Harry told him that he was going to see Hermione and the others and allowed Dumbledore to go to his library.

(Next scene)

"Hi Hermione, looking for Harry?"

"Hi Blaise, you can say that I haven't seen Harry all day, Professor McGonnagall said she had seen him earlier and then Professor Dumbledore called her and she disappeared."

"He's probably around, besides I'm glad you came. I'm so bored Dray's been with Snape all day."

"So both of our guys have abandoned us today," Hermione mentioned with a wry smile.

Blaise looked at Hermione with a questioning look. "So he is definitely your guy then?"

Hermione blushed and nodded. "We sort of talked about our feelings and he asked me to the ball. We also sortofkissed."

Hermione said the last part quickly but the smart Slytherin still caught on and smirked at the Gryffindors obvious embarrassment.

"Was this the kiss you gave for Cho's amusement or a private one say earlier. Besides I'm interested on how you came about. I already told you how Dray and I got together."

"Well I guess it was when Harry found out that Ron is in love with me."

Blaise shook her head. "You Gryffindors are weird, exactly how did that lead to you and Harry smooching?"

Hermione explained Ron's confessions and Harry's reaction. She skipped out the part about Lily Potter's portrait. Blaise nodded thoughtfully, "It's a good thing you kissed him. I like Harry but he's biggest fault is that he cares too much and doesn't think he's worthy of love or attention."

"Yeah well you can blame the Dursley's for that. Harry's mum wasn't-I mean wouldn't be too pleased about that."

Hermione wished she could kick herself for letting that slip hopefully she was able to cover herself.

"Who are the Dursleys and what's Mrs. Potter got to do about that?"

Thankfully Hermione was spared having to answer when Draco and Harry turned up. Some time was passed as the friends greeted each other. Their talk turned towards normal everyday things such as the DA and their lessons no one dared to mention Snape and the trial in public. It was about an hour later when Remus found them a werewolf's sense off smell was pretty useful and told them that the headmaster wanted them.

Following Remus they walked into Dumbledore's office to find Narcissa, Severus, McGonnagall and of course Dumbledore sitting. Dumbledore conjured more seats as they all sat down and waited for him to start.

"There are quite a few reasons for why I have called you all here for one Rita Skeeter and Miss Lovegood are coming today in our request we are hoping that a newspaper report will help strengthen our case against Fudge."

"What would that be headmaster if you don't mind me asking?"

"Not all Mr. Malfoy. The newspapers will report a story on how Fudge is deliberately targeting people close to Harry and myself in order to revenge the embarrassment we have caused him. We will mention Umbridge's role as a teacher here. I also wish for yourself and Narcissa to describe what home was like with Lucius, I know this is going to be difficult for you-" "I'll be fine. If it helps mum and Sev then fine," Draco interrupts.

"This will be a start in order to remove Fudge from office."

Severus let out a breath, "So you've finally decided to get rid off him. Who are you planning to replace him with?"

"Really Severus, you make it sound as if I have some great big plan going."

"Don't act innocent with me Albus. If I know you, you already have an idea on who to replace Fudge with."

"Maybe. However the main reason I have called you is that Harry found a way of hiding the dark mark for you."

This statement sparked everyone's interest. Harry blushed slightly when he found everyone's gaze on him.

"Harry suggested in using a modified version of the fidelus charm."

Remus looked confused, "I thought the fidelus charm was only for hiding people or places?"

"It is Remus that is why we are using a modified version of it."

Remus turned red slightly as Snape snorted.

"I have looked through the library and found a way to change the charm. The version is different, as we want to hide the actual dark mark on Severus' arm. The normal charm would have hidden his arm entirely or more probably Severus himself, which would have caused problems as you can all imagine. It is similar in that a secret keeper is again needed. The only draw back is that there is a time limit on the spell. Since the spell is being manipulated it is not strong enough to be worked with just a secret keeper."

"What's the time limit?" It was Harry that asked this time.

"One month which in all honesty is more than enough time as the trial in my opinion will be over that day."

"When can we do the spell and how did you find out the method for changing the charm."

Dumbledore stared hard at Severus, "We can do the spell tonight but you will need to pick your secret keeper, bearing in mind that Narcissa will be an obvious choice to all. As for how to change the spell well I found a rather interesting book on the matter and I spoke to a few portraits."

Dumbledore gave a hard look at Harry who immediately understood he must have used a book from his library and as for the portrait well that would have been his parents most likely.

Severus nodded he spent a couple of minutes going over his options while the others discussed the spell and its ramifications. Minerva turned worriedly to Albus, "Albus while this is good news we can't let news about this get out or else death eaters can use it to hide the mark?"

"Don't worry about it Minerva. This spell falls under the light section of magic one that Voldemort scoffs. I also don't believe that anyone here will allow this knowledge to get out."

"Who do you believe Severus will choose?"

"I would put my money on Remus."

Minerva gave Albus an amused look, "Remus! Albus I do believe you are mistaken he wont in fact I would put money on that say ten galleons."

"Done. Have you made your decision Severus?"

"Yes Albus. I choose Lupin."

Remus almost fell out of his chair at this statement whilst Minerva let out a groan and muttered, "I hate you," quietly causing Dumbledore to smile.

"Me!"

Severus stared at Remus uncomfortably.

"No one would believe that I would ever ask you for anything, you're not an obvious choice."

"Well that's decided then, Severus, Remus come here later tonight and we will perform the charm then. For now we should prepare over what we will allow Rita to print and what to leave out."

The group spent some time going over questions and statements to be truthful Draco and Blaise felt rather out of space they had never spent time with Dumbledore or Minerva apart from a teaching capacity and it was obvious to them just how comfortable Hermione and especially Harry was in their company.

(Next scene)

Rita hurried along the main corridor as she tried to remember the way to Dumbledore's office she was surprised when she had heard from the Granger girl again to see if she wanted to have another interview. Remembering just how successful the last interview was she had leaped at the chance. If she played her cards rights she could end up being the main reporter for Dumbledore and Potter something that would make her career rocket.

She turned the corner when she saw a group of students she let out a sigh of relief as she recognised one of them as being Harry Potters best friend Weasley he would know where Potter would be. She called out causing the students to stare at her in surprise.

"Weasley, isn't it?"

Ron cautiously nodded his head.

"Good, you wouldn't know where Potter is at the moment would you. Only I need to meet up with him and Dumbledore."

Rita watched in amusement and slight horror as the boy in front of her seemed to go redder and redder stepping slightly back just in case he burst a blood vessel. It turned out to be a good idea as he started to yell and was almost frothing at the mouth; she instinctively covered her face slightly to avoid being hit by spit.

"OH SO THE BLOODY BOY WHO LIVED IS NOW GIVING OUT INTERVIEWS IS HE! AND HE GOES AROUND CLAIMING HOW MUCH HE HATES HIS FAME. BULLSHIT!"

Rita's eyes widened as she listened to the red headed idiot.

"JUST BECAUSE HE GOT A DAMN SCARE ON HIS HEAD BECAUSE OF SOME FUCKING PROPHECY HE THINKS HE GETS EVERYTHING! MONEY, DUMBLEDORE'S GOLDEN BOY, HERMY... I BET HE LOVES THE FACT THAT HIS PARENTS DIED. AND NOW HE'S FRIENDS WITH A MALFOY THEIR DEATH EATERS! HE..."

Ron didn't say anything else as he stopped in mid sentence and stormed off with his friends running after him.

"Well that's interesting," Rita muttered to herself it was obvious that the boy who lived seemed to have some sort of falling out with his friend. The clogs started to turn in her head as she thought over what the Weasley had said there was obvious resentment to Potter's fame, fortune. The boy also mentioned Hermy? What the hell was that! and Dumbledore. Rita quickly asked some other students the way to Dumbledore's office as she walked down the corridor leading there, she heard a rather interesting conversation that Potter's girlfriend Granger had apparently attacked some Ravenclaw girl. It was only when she had reached the stone gargoyle a thought came to her, 'What Prophecy?'

(Next scene)

"She's here."

No one bothered asking Dumbledore how he knew that they simply accepted it as the door opened and Rita walked in, Dumbledore got up and greeted her. Rita's eyes widened as she took one look at Harry she had heard rumours that the boy no man had changed but this was incredible. She also noticed Granger was sitting close to Potter any closer and she would practically be in his lap not that she looked like she would mind.

"Mr. Potter, how are you?"

"I'm fine Rita and yourself? I heard you're doing rather well for yourself since our last meeting."

"Oh well now do you mind answering a few questions for me and could we perhaps go to another room?"

"I'm afraid that's not possible Miss Skeeter," Dumbledore interrupted. "The interview will be in front of all of us I'm afraid, also we are waiting for one other person and ah yes here she comes."

The group watched once more as the door opened and in walked, no, more like floated, Luna.

"I thought that this was a private interview Dumbledore?"

"Luna is a friend of mine Rita. The Quibbler helped me when I needed them this is more of a thank you."

"So what do you want to talk about?"

Harry looked at Rita carefully as he considered just how to go around this he decided to be blunt and straightforward Rita had been in this business for too long and knew exactly how it worked.

"Rita how would you consider becoming a reporter that gained more access to myself, what I mean is, have more interviews be the first to learn about new stories?"

Rita's face took on a look of delight as she stared at Potter it then changed to a cunning look. "What's the catch?"

Harry smiled charmingly and stifled a laugh as he saw just how flustered Rita got.

"There isn't a catch Rita I just thought it would be good to be on friendly terms with at least one reporter, don't you?"

"You're pulling a Fudge. I get it, you want me to publish stories that will help you. Very clever I was wondering when you would wise up to the press Mr. Potter. But tell me what story can you offer me that no other reporter can get?"

Harry stared hard at Rita, "I can tell you about my encounters with Voldemort and what happened in the chamber of secrets. On top of that if you do well by Christmas I will tell you something about our so-called dark lord that will shock everyone. If things really go to plan Rita I will give you such a story that it will shake the wizarding world."

Rita looked as if Christmas had come early and happily agreed to Harry's conditions.

"What do you want me to write about first Mr Potter?"

"I'm sure you've heard about the trial that Fudge has scheduled against Professor Snape and my godmother."

Rita nodded.

"Well I want you to state clearly that they are not loyal to Voldemort in any way also my godmother and Draco will explain how life was like for them under Lucius Malfoy."

Harry took a step back as Rita and Luna for the half hour or so interviewed the three. Dumbledore stepped in and clearly declared that Severus was loyal to the light side and Narcissa and Draco described the abuse they suffered at Lucius's hands. Severus held on to Narcissa's hands as she described the moment's something that wasn't missed by anyone. When Narcissa spoke about the dealings that Lucius had with Fudge Rita sat up. "Can you describe more about these in detail?"

"Basically as long as Lucius lined Fudge's pockets he had pretty much free access to whatever he wanted in the ministry when Dumbledore and Harry spoke of the dark lord's return a year ago it was on Lucius' words that Fudge did nothing and set out on a campaign to humiliate them."

Rita turned to Harry. "And what do you think of our Minister?"

Harry told Rita all about Fudges deeds to date he explained about how the Dementors that attacked him were sent by Umbridge his secretary about what she did to the students and staff while she was there. When Harry explained about the blood quill she gasped and asked which other students were also forced to use it. He also mentioned how Fudge ignored the warnings he was given over the attack on Azkaban something that cause those guards to lose their lives.

"Rita, Fudge needs to be removed from office, however one thing you need to be careful of is that Professor Dumbledore's name should not be mentioned in your stories it can affect his positions."

"That's not a problem. Well you don't mind if I ask a few more questions, do you Harry?"

Harry shuddered slightly at the gleam in Rita's eyes but nodded.

"How do you feel about Dumbledore being your guardian?"

"I think its one of the best things that has happened to me this year, I couldn't have asked for a better guardian."

"How long have you and Miss Granger been involved?"

"That's private Rita. However since the whole school knows I may as well tell you we are going to the ball together."

Rita turned towards Hermione, "What is this about an attack you allegedly led on Miss Chang a former girlfriend of Mr Potter's?"

Hermione turned red slightly as McGonnagall gave her a stern look, Dumbledore chuckled slightly no doubt he had heard about the fight.

"It was nothing just a situation that got out of hand slightly."

The interview was just about over when Rita threw her trump card down, "May I ask about the prophecy regarding you Mr Potter?"

The effect of that question was unbelievable Rita suddenly found herself on the receiving end of several glares. Harry and Dumbledore shared an anxious look. "May I ask where you heard about a prophecy Miss Skeeter?"

"The Weasley mentioned it, Dumbledore, also why have you fallen out with your best friend Mr. Potter? He seems rather angry at you?"

"Ron and I have some misunderstandings Rita and one more thing forget about any prophecy if you mention it not only will your own life be in dangerous but our deal will be off think carefully."

Rita swallowed with difficulty and nodded and walked out of the door she had enough to write her stories. Luna also excused herself as she went to write her version of the interview.

Dumbledore looked at Harry. "I believe I will need to speak to Mr Weasley regarding his behaviour yet again."

Harry nodded. Dumbledore turned towards the rest of the group he could see that Narcissa and the other children were curious about the prophecy but didn't ask anything.

"I think that's all for now, Harry will you stay behind please."

The others turned and left they knew a dismissal when they heard one. Draco, Blaise and Hermione left first and walked towards the great hall when Blaise decided to ask, "Prophecy?"

Hermione frowned as she answered, "I know there's a prophecy involved of some sort but I haven't been told what it involves yet."

"It seems that Harry knows," Draco commented.

(Next scene)

Harry and Dumbledore moved towards the fire and sat on the more comfortable chairs there.

"You guessed correctly Harry I found the book in the library and your father was able to give me some useful information on the fidelus charm it appears that the charm had just been recently invented then."

"Any idea as to by whom?"

"Rowena Ravenclaw. Had it not been for them I doubt we would have found any decent means as to hide the dark mark."

Harry frowned there was something that had been bothering him about the whole thing.

"There's just one thing. Do you remember when I looked into your pensive in my fourth year?"

Dumbledore nodded.

"Well in it Professor Snape was accused of being a death eater but on your evidence nothing happened wouldn't the dark mark been discovered then."

"No as Severus was accused but never charged and my word was good enough. This time however that would not be enough as the Minster has personal vendetta against all of us."

"What are you going to do to Ron?"

Dumbledore sighed as he leaned back. "Answer this first how are things going between you and Mr Weasley?"

"Not really good to be honest. We haven't really had a decent conversation for one although I'm partially to blame for that as I'm never around to talk with him. Although I don't think I would be able to talk to him anyway at the moment"

"Oh and why is that?"

"Hermione, she and Ron had a fight. Ron apparently told her that he loved her she didn't respond too well and when he found out that we are together well you can imagine the rest."

"Harry do you believe him to be a good friend?"

Harry found his initial response was to yell out yes but then he stopped, was Ron really a good friend? He thought back to everything that had happened including fourth year when he and Ron were not speaking and the events of the summer and this year so far. Harry didn't say anything and his silence was good enough as an answer to Dumbledore.

"Harry can you do me a favour and inform Mr. Weasley that he needs to come to my office this evening please?"

Harry stood up. "Of course. Albus there's just one more thing can I watch when you talk to him? I need to know what Ron said to Rita."

"On one condition Harry you will stay invisible the whole time and will not say a word."

(Next scene)

Several hours later Remus and Severus found themselves in Dumbledore's office again as Dumbledore explained Remus was going to cast the charm. It was simple enough Remus had to place his left hand over the mark and picture the dark mark in his head as clearly as possible he had to point his wand at his hand and say the incantation fidelus while picturing the charm fading out of view. The charm did however take a lot out of you but since the full moon was about a week ago Remus felt relatively fit and healthy.

"Remus, I believe we have covered everything so will you..." Dumbledore motioned towards Snape's arm. Remus walked up to him and covered the dark mark with his left hand and pictured the dark mark in his head as clearly as possible he shuddered as he took in all the detail but continued. Pointing his wand at the mark he imagined it fading from view as he shouted, "FIDELUS!"

There was a flash of blue light when it faded slightly the three men watched in fascination as a stream of blue light hovered over the dark mark and then seemed to sink through Remus' hand and into Snape's arm. When the light stopped Remus pulled his hand away and sank into a nearby chair the spell was just as taxing as Dumbledore had said it would be.

"Remus, are you alright?"

Remus nodded and then pointed towards Snape's arm he could clearly still see the mark but then again he had performed the spell. Dumbledore looked at Snape's arm.

"Well I'm pleased to state that it worked I can not see the mark at all, Severus I'm assuming you can."

"Yes Albus, I'm curious I thought the charm would hide all knowledge of me having the charm?"

"Alas I'm afraid not, the charm simply hides it from view which is why I still remember you having the dark arm although I can not see it."

There was a slight distraction then as Harry's door appeared and Harry walked through he seemed to be quite angry over something but visibly brightened when he saw Snape's arm.

"I take it we were successful, good Fudge is going to be mighty disappointed losing again."

"Indeed Miss Skeeter's article should be published for tomorrow's news and the day after we have the trial even one day will help to strengthen public opinion on the matter."

"You seemed upset when you came in Harry is anything wrong?"

Harry looked at Remus with a small smile. "I'm fine Moony, besides Ron should be here in about ten minutes."

Dumbledore nodded as he took his seat behind his desk he looked at Harry. "Remember your word Harry if you wish to stay Mr. Weasley should not be able to see you, will you try the spell or would you prefer to have your cloak?"

"I can keep the spell going for half an hour will that be enough time."

"Goodness yes Harry, I don't believe this should take too long."

Severus who by now had pulled the sleeves back down on his arm looked at the two in interest. "Albus, do you mind if I stay? I'm quite interested myself in hearing what the Weasel has too say for himself."

Dumbledore looked at Snape. "Same rules applies to you to Severus, I don't want anyone else to be here apart from myself I'm hoping that Mr Weasley will be more encouraged to voice his opinions."

"Don't worry about that Albus I can stay hidden."

"I would love to stay but I need to get to get some sleep I'm exhausted."

"See you tomorrow then Remus take care."

Remus got up and left after he wished everyone a goodnight a few minutes later Dumbledore nodded to Snape and Harry. "Mr Weasley is coming I suggest you both perform the spell now."

(Next scene)

To all the students that were walking down the corridor by Dumbledore's office it seemed as if an angry red cloud was making its way towards the office. Ron Weasley practically stomped his way there, fists clenched, face red he seemed to give off a cloud of anger and hatred. Following him were three other students Seamus, Lavender and Parvati. Dean was with his girlfriend Ginny. The three were discussing why Ron had been summoned to the headmaster's office.

"I bet it's got something to do with Harry," Parvati commented, "I mean he is Harry's guardian after all."

"Yeah but Harry really aint doing himself any favours is he I mean first he came between Ron and Hermione..." Seamus added only to have Lavender interrupt him. "Exactly I mean those two are so right for each other."

"Err... yeah Lavender, anyway as I was saying he gets Hermione and then he goes up to Ron and tells him that the headmaster wants to see without an explanation or a 'hiya mate, how is everything'!"

"Poor Ron, he liked Hermione so much, I mean you'd think a smart girl like her would realise that."

"Maybe we could do something about that Parvati?"

"What do you mean Lav?"

"Well maybe we should tell Hermione how much Ron likes her and see if we get them together or something without Harry there."

"That's not a bad idea," Seamus added. "But Ron's reached the entrance to the headmaster's office maybe we should head back to Gryffindor tower and plan?"

(Next scene)

Dumbledore watched as Severus and Harry both cast the invisibility spell he felt a sense of pride flow through him, who would have thought the two would get on so well together. His gaze lingered on the spot that Harry was, his child had really grown up this year and was transforming into the man he was supposed to be. So had Miss Granger and Mr. Malfoy grown, both were responsible students and with Severus and Harry's help not to mention Miss Granger and Miss Zabini's young Mr. Malfoy was allowed to act like he truly was. This unfortunately brought his attention to the third and recently secluded member of the so called 'dream team' Mr. Weasley. Dumbledore wasn't too sure as to what to do with him. With Harry standing there he was reluctant to punish him too severely but really enough was enough! He had no idea what trouble could be caused if Rita mentioned the prophecy. Another problem was that deep inside and Dumbledore had really tried to bury this was a slight resentment towards Mr. Weasley for the pain he caused Harry. Dumbledore could never forget the sight of Harry staring and unresponsive, but Dumbledore was just a human with his flaws he couldn't help his feelings. Dumbledore was brought out of his feelings when he heard a knock.

"Come in."

The door opened and Ron walked in.

"Sit down Mr. Weasley."

Ron roughly pulled out a chair and practically threw himself into it.

"Really, Mr. Weasley my furniture hasn't done anything to you, you may wish to be more careful with wizarding furniture you never know it may be animated and could retaliate back."

In a corner of the room Harry bit his lip to stop himself from laughing while Snape simply rolled his eyes.

"Now Mr. Weasley I assume you are wondering why I summoned you here."

Ron nodded.

"It's about a certain guest I had invited here today, Miss Skeeter who was here to speak to myself and Harry. I understood you mentioned certain things to her."

"It's always about Harry, isn't it," Ron muttered to himself but unfortunately for him Dumbledore was able to catch that, "No Mr. Weasley. Rita wasn't here for Harry as you put it she was here for other matters but that is something else, I wanted to ask what on earth possessed you to mention the prophecy in front of her. Do you have any idea of the damage that could cause."

"I don't see what the problem is sir it's not like I know what it said do I, it was broke if you remember."

"That's enough Mr. Weasley the problem is that Voldemort does not realise that you do not know the contents of the prophecy but were he to find out he would most likely attempt to capture you."

"Harry and I aren't friends you-know-who would be wasting his time besides what's the prophecy going to say just how much of a fake Potter is."

Dumbledore sighed his patience much normally was unbreakable were being severely tested by this one student. "Mr. Weasley do you really believe that would make a difference to Voldemort, he would kill you regardless for simply being a Weasley!"

Ron jumped to his feet. "AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT MY PROBLEM IS BECAUSE OF HIM AND YOU MY ENTIRE FAMILY IS IN DANGER! MY FAMILY AND HERMIONE NOT THAT'S GOING TO MAKE MUCH DIFFERENCE TO POTTER HE HASN'T GOT A FAMILY!"

"THAT'S ENOUGH MR. WEASLEY!"

Dumbledore threw a worried glance towards the corner where Harry was, due to his skills he could see through invisibility cloaks and charms just like he told Harry he could. To his relief Harry seemed quite calm but he could see Severus had a hand on his shoulder no doubt that that small gesture was helping him.

"Your family is not in danger because of Harry but because they are members of the order and have been long before you were born boy. You also mentioned that it was my fault exactly what did you mean by that?"

Ron stared hard at the headmaster his anger made him forget momentarily just whom he was talking to. "Malfoy! You're allowing a death eater in this school and you're helping her escape just because she's Potters so called godmother! Mom told me that you were hiding her and risked order members to rescue her who cares if she died it would be one less death eater in the world."

Dumbledore tried to control his anger he really needed to get the boy out of the room before Severus decided to kill or at least seriously maim him. The comments about his mother made him start he used legimency on Ron and saw the letter that Molly Weasley had sent him. Dumbledore sighed yet another Weasley he was going to have to speak to although on a more serious note Molly had no right giving out sensitive order business.

"Leave Mr. Weasley and a warning should you ever give out sensitive information like that again and I will be forced to suspend you."

Ron turned to walk out the room when Dumbledore stopped him. "Mr. Weasley that will be two weeks detention starting from next week, with Professors Snape and McGonnagall."

As soon as Ron had left the room Severus and Harry took off the charms.

"Well that was interesting?" Harry commented and before either wizard could speak up he added, "I'm fine with Ron's comments I've sort of gotten used to the idea that our friendship is starting to break, it hurts a little but not as much as you think."

"Well that's good to hear at least, tell me Albus what did you discover when you used Legimency on the Weasel?"

"Well it appears that Molly Weasley had already informed her children about Narcissa being at the castle before we made the news public."

"Molly has no right giving out order business especially since she's constantly preaching how you are dragging children in order business mainly Harry and yet she tells her own children."

Harry looked at Dumbledore thoughtfully. "You don't think it was one of the Weasley's that told Percy do you? I mean he came over gloating like anything that day."

Severus growled. "For their sakes they better not have although I would put my money on Ron Weasel rather than Molly perhaps I should try Albus' method at some point during the detentions."

Dumbledore looked at his pocket watch. "It's getting rather late and we should all get some rest. Severus, no doubt Narcissa and Mr Malfoy are waiting for you to hear the results of the charm."

Harry yawned

"Good night Professor, Albus. The news should be interesting tomorrow at any rate."

(Next Scene)

The news as Harry had predicted was interesting almost every student was absorbed in reading the Daily Prophet at breakfast the next day, to make things funny Severus Snape did something he had not done for years he wore something other than his robes to breakfast. Harry snorted when he saw the looks the students and some of the staff members as the stared at Snape wearing a T-Shirt with no sign of a dark mark anywhere. It was well known that the dark mark could not be hidden easily and this small act helped turn a lot of the student's opinions that while their teacher was a moody git, he wasn't an evil moody git.

Rita had certainly done well on the news report both the Quibbler and the Daily Prophet had headlines such as Severus Snape innocent by the Boy Who Lived, Wife and son suffered from years of abuse at hands of Vicious Lucius Malfoy. However by far the most damning ones where the headlines that attacked Fudge Fudge's secretary tortured Hogwarts students! Attacked Boy who Lived with Dementors, Minster knew of 'you know who's' return a year ago why he did not do anything and in Harry's opinion the clincher Minster accepted bribes from known death eaters!

Harry smiled it was a good report and he knew that it would go along way in helping at the trial tomorrow and in helping to remove Fudge from office.