Disclaimer- I own nothing but the time put into this.
Authors Note- Happy reading. Sorry, it hasn't been beta'd.
Stone Angels
Sins of the Father
The students were oddly silent as they entered Hogwarts. The typically loud chatter was subdued by exhaustion. Many of the older students still walked protectively with the younger years. Harry was happy to see that the DA members were among those with younglings close to them. Once they finally entered the castle a collective sigh of relief passed through the exhausted and hungry student body.
Harry stepped a little closer to Draco and Hermione. In his arms, Titania peeked from Harry's chest, her wide eyes taking in the tense students and the 'fairy castle'. They were just getting ready to enter the great hall when Titania tugged on his shirt.
"Gotta potty," she said softly.
Harry looked startled for a moment before Draco saved him, "Hermione, would you come with us and assist her. I don't think she's ever worn robes before."
"Sure," smiled Hermione.
After their quick trip to the lavatory, they found themselves standing before the doors to the Great Hall. Harry took a deep breath and pushed the door open enough for them to enter. Silence descended upon the hall at the sight of Harry, Draco, Titania, and Hermione before whispers roared to life.
"Well, I guess the rumor has been proven true," sighed Harry.
"Looks like we have a table for the apprentices," commented Hermione as she began making her way towards the new table set between the students and the Professors.
"Papa, outside?" asked Titania.
Harry smiled when he realized that she was gazing at the night sky above them, "No, it's magic."
Titania buried her face in his shirt and replied sadly, "Magic's bad. No magic."
"Magic isn't bad," replied Harry with concern.
"Hungry Papa," mumbled Titania through a yawn.
"We'll eat soon, honey, first we have to watch the sorting," explained Harry taking a seat between Hermione and Draco at their new table.
"Harry," said Ron from across the table, "you should have heard the students when we walked in. Everyone's really nervous this year. It's never a good sign when Hogwarts takes on this many apprentices."
"Why is that Ron. Everyone has been saying that but no one has explained."
"Hogwarts only takes on the best apprentices," explained Hermione, "Maybe one out of every thousand apprentices ever comes to Hogwarts. When the school first opened it was decided that they would only take on a full group of apprentices if there was a great need or great fear of loosing all or most of the Professors."
"Great need being defined as war or plague," explained Draco.
"Hey," hissed Pansy, "the sorting is about to start."
Everyone turned their attention to the doors. Professor McGonagall was leading in a group of frightened first years into the room. Once they stood at the front, she retrieved the stool and tattered looking old hat.
Unrolling her scroll, Professor McGonagall called the first name, "Anderson, Seana."
Arianna's new friend approached with trembling hands. As soon as she was seated the hat was placed on her head. No need to fear. Hmmm…. Very loyal, timid though, and a brilliant mind. I know just where to put you. "Hufflepuff!" Seana lifted the hat and quickly moved to join her new classmates.
They listened through five Ravenclaws and seven Gryffindors before Arianna was called up, "Granger, Arianna."
Arianna showed no fear as she walked up to the stool and hat though Hermione could see it in her eyes. Hmmm…. I haven't seen anyone this hard to place in several years. Loyal, brave, you wish to prove that you're strong, and such a craving for knowledge. Cunning too but you're afraid of losing those you love. Any that would cross you should beware. Hmmm… I have to say; "Slytherin!"
Arianna moved towards her new table with a sneer of Malfoy quality. Once she was seated they gained eight more Slytherins, two Gryffindors, and six Hufflepuffs. Finally another familiar name was called.
"Parkinson, Violet."
Violet approached the hat with as much bravado as Arianna and it barely brushed her head before it cried out, "Gryffindor!"
Finally, Ravenclaw gained more students bringing their first years to eleven before the last of their group was called.
"Rahne, Kaiden."
The green spike haired boy appeared, minus his beaters bat, to sit on the bench and don the hat. Bravery, no doubt. Loyalty and cunning but there is something more. Learning and books are your game, your escape. I know where you belong, "Ravenclaw!" Kaiden stood up and happily made his way towards the Ravenclaw table to be introduced to his new dorm mates.
Violet looked around for her friends as she approached her table. The rambunctious table greeted her well but she couldn't help but be a little upset about being separated from her friends. She waited in silence as the last eight students were sorted and just as Professor Dumbledore reached the podium she stood and approached.
"Professor Dumbledore?" she began.
"What is it Miss Parkinson?" he asked. His eyes twinkled mischievously as he glanced at a grim Professor McGonagall.
"Sir, would it be possible to sit with my friends? I know that because it is the first day we have to sit at our house tables but when it isn't a special occasion can we sit wherever we like?" She continued boldly, "The Sorting hat sings of house unity but still we're separated."
"I believe that you make a good point, Miss Parkinson," responded Albus Dumbledore with a smile, "I shall speak with the Professors and we will see what we come up with. Now, let's finish with the usual as I believe that our beds are calling. The Forbidden forest is just as its name implies: forbidden. For those of you unfamiliar with Mr. Filch's rules, please see the list on his door. I would like to welcome our new Professors. Mr. Remus Lupin has returned to the Defense Against the Dark Arts class and us. I'm sorry to say that Professor Flitwick has retired but Professor Weasley will be taking the position.
"With the openness of the war and the tragedies that many of us have faced or will face, we the staff of Hogwarts have added a new position this year. I would like to introduce Madam Serenity Snape. Madam Snape is here for anyone that wishes to talk without fear of anyone else knowing. She will do her best to help you or take you to someone that can help." A great sadness filled his voice before he continued, "Our hope is that everyone will remember that they have options. Drastic measures are not always the only measures.
"On a happier note, I would like to congratulate our Head Boy and Girl Ronald Weasley and Pansy Parkinson. Together they have set up several changes in Hogwarts this year, which should help promote House Unity. Also, congratulations to Ginevra Weasley and Luna Lovegood for testing out of their sixth year and joining the seventh year class. Lastly, due to the lateness of your arrival there shall be no classes until Monday. With that said, let's eat!"
"I can't believe he's canceling classes for tomorrow and Friday," cried Hermione, "We have so much to cover this year."
"It's a good thing he is," Ron grumbled while filling his plate, "It's nearly midnight now, Hermione."
"He's right," Susan said softly, "It's late and we've had a long day. One day isn't going to hurt anything."
"It also gives Madam Snape time to speak with the first years about what happened today," said Draco.
"We should have a DA meeting tomorrow so that we can form the Elite Guard," added Ginny.
Harry listened to the group while he set Titania up in her booster chair and put food on her plate. The small girl was barely keeping her eyes open as she picked up her spoon and started on the mashed potatoes. Once her plate was filled, he began on his own.
"Can you believe Violet?" asked Blaise with a grin.
"I never expected it," admitted Pansy, her voice seeming loud over the unnaturally quiet hall.
Several cries were heard across the Great Hall as several students with glassy eyes began to rise from their seats. At the Professors table, Professor's Trelawny and Firenze also rose.
In an eerie monotone echo they chorused, "The beginning of the end draws near… The will of Heroes is forged in hardship but galvanized in love… And hope for ones with the power to defeat the Darkness can be found within innocence sundered… Blinded by the life giver… Silenced by fate… A year and a day from the great loss one will fall. All must be found for light to triumph or Darkness will forever descend on our world… The beginning of the end draws near…."
As the eight students fell unconscious their classmates caught them. Several professors hurried to their sides.
"I believe that it is time for everyone to make their way to the dorms," said Professor Dumbledore as he stood, "Prefects, please escort your groups to their dorms. A Professor will be along to check on everyone shortly."
Chaos seemed to erupt as everyone tried to move at once. During the mass migration, Harry felt someone press a note into his hand before he caught Arianna slipping back into the crowd headed towards the Slytherin Dorms.
"Let's go everyone," said Pansy, "Ron?"
"'Mione, can you lead the way to the tower?" questioned Ron holding on to the unconscious Luna.
"Sure," she replied as she returned her Muggle pen and notebook to her bag. "Let us know what's happening okay. Do you remember the password?"
"Yeah, I remember," he murmured.
"Do you want someone to go with you, Ron?" asked Harry softly.
"No, I'll be fine. I… I'll radio if I need anyone to come down. Mum's gonna be down there."
"I'll be down there too," said Padma softly, "I don't want to leave Parvati alone. I've taken care of her after this sort of thing before."
"This is common then?" asked Harry gathering Titania.
"Oh yes, Harry, it's perfectly normal for eight students and two professors to stand up in the middle of dinner and prophesize," snarked Hermione.
"Miss Granger," sneered Professor Snape, "As enjoyable as it is to harass Mr. Potter, I suggest that you lead the way to the tower. I'll take care of them."
"Yes, Professor," sighed Hermione
Sleepy eyes drifted closed as the work roughened hands of her House Elf pulled the blanket tight around her. A wide yawn split a tiny face before a soft question was voiced.
"Asha, why it dark?" the voice was nearly as tiny as the girl.
"She breaked youses eyes, Little Dragon," whispered the House Elf Asha. She continued to rock the little girl as she would have rocked her own children, "Sleep Little Dragon, Apothecary Galen needses helps tomorrow. Wes stays here if wes helps." Hands twisted with age and hardened by work gently brushed spun gold hair away from little eyes as they fluttered shut. Once her little dragon was asleep she gently laid her in the bed and made her way out to the main room.
"How is she, Asha?" asked Apothecary Galen gently.
"My Little Dragon don't understands why the lights went away. Shes is scared." Asha looked up at the bright haired apothecary with intelligent, watery eyes and her voice shook with its fury, "Little's shouldn't be scared! Little's shouldn't be wakesing up screaming! Little's shouldn't be hurting and afraid."
"I know, Asha," sighed the man, "Do you know how to find her brother?"
"Wes must see Dumbly at Hogwarts."
"Her brother is a student?"
Harry looked around as the other apprentices explored their new common room. Seeing that everyone could settle in on their own, he began the slow trek up the stairs to the dorms. Each door he came to had a plaque with two names. He was nearly to the top of the tower when he finally came upon the room he shared with Draco. Inside he found two large beds in deep blue. To the right was a door leading to what appeared to be Titania's room while to the left was a large bathroom.
"Mimsy was busy," Whispered Mimsy. "Titania's bed be waiting and Mimsy will stay."
"Thank you, Mimsy," Harry said with a smile, "I still have some things to do tonight, bring her to me if she wakes." He reluctantly gave her over to Mimsy's care.
"I's will," mumbled Mimsy softly.
Harry nodded and turned to make his way toward the door. He was just stepping out when a scream shattered the silence of the halls. Without thought, he broke into a run down the stairs until he came upon the open door to Hermione and Pansy's room.
Pansy and Hermione stood near the door in shock. The beds in their cream and gold room were covered in blood. One bed, nearest the window, had the word 'traitor' while the other, nearest the bathroom door, had the word 'mudblood' painted in blood across the pillows. Both beds seemed to wiggle and squirm as though alive. When he looked closely, he realized that maggots filled the beds.
"Out of here," ordered Harry.
Blaise stepped out of the next-door down as they passed. "Is it like mine and Ron's?" he asked softly.
Harry peeked into the room as he ushered the girls past, "Yeah."
Harry and Blaise were both pale as they lead the two girls back down to the common room. Ron, followed by several Professors and Bill Weasley, was just entering the dorm when they arrived.
"Professors," said Harry, "Someone was in here. We're going to need several clean beds."
"We would have known if someone was in here," stated Professor McGonagall, "The wards on this tower are keyed to only allow in certain students."
"What about the House Elves?" asked Blaise.
"Show us what was done," Snape ordered.
"I'll take you," Harry sighed and made his way towards the stairs with Snape in tow.
"How many rooms have been opened?" questioned the dark Professor.
"Just three so far," he replied, "Dobby wouldn't have allowed anyone else to take care of my room. Mimsy took care of Titania's room." They stepped into Ron and Blaise's room and Professor Snape stared at the two beds.
It only took him a moment to react, "Evenesco." Snape cleared his throat before speaking, "We must open the other rooms before anyone else is allowed in. For future reference, we will only allow Dobby, Winky, and Mimsy within these rooms. Where is Draco?"
"Right here, Uncle Severus," the blonde replied as he stepped out of Pansy and Hermione's room. He looked more pale than usual, "I was just in the room Susan shares with Ginny and Luna. Their room is almost as bad as this one. I think our room is the only one untouched."
"Thanks to Dobby, Winky, and Mimsy," grumbled Harry.
"Go check your things thoroughly," ordered Snape, "If anything has been tampered with call me."
Harry and Draco quickly moved to their room and checked over all of their things. They were nearly done when Draco came across a cloak balled up in the bottom of his trunk. Before he could say anything though, Harry held something up.
"Someone broke my Sneak-o-scope," he sighed.
"Master Draco, Master Harry," said Mimsy entering the room, "Theres was bad House Elves here but Dobby helpsed Mimsy chase them away."
"Dobby!" Harry called. He waited for the creature to appear before he continued, "Dobby, do you know which House Elves were in here?"
"Theys is not Hogwarts House Elves, Harry Potter Sir," squeaked Dobby.
"Do you know what they were doing in here?" questioned Harry softly.
"Theys was bad House Elves! Theys was painting bad things on Harry Potters bed and theys was putting powders in the clothing. Dobby and Mimsy made them leave."
"Professor Snape, Please come up here," said Draco pulling his hand away from the cloak.
"Dobby, I want you to tell Professor Snape everything that you just told me," said Harry as Professor Snape stalked into the room.
"Theres was bad House Elves, Sir," said Dobby trembling, "Theys was making messes and putting powders in the clothes. Theys wasn't Hogwarts House Elves."
"Thank you, Dobby," said Professor Snape graciously, he knew better than to anger the House Elves.
"Uncle Snape, that cloak has been tampered with. I would never leave it balled up like that," Draco said quietly.
"My Sneak-o-scope has been broken too," added Harry.
"Dobby," began Professor Snape, "You, Winky, and Mimsy will be the only House Elves allowed in this tower starting tonight. We need you to clean up the rest of the tower so that the student here can go to sleep. Mimsy, are you sure that the strange House Elves weren't in Titania's room?"
"Yes, Sir," answered Mimsy, "I's was working in there until I's heard the Bad Ones. I's called Dobby to help me chase them out. Then I's went back to work on the Little's room."
"Thank you, Mimsy." They watched as he placed several spells on the cloak before turning to Dobby, "Levitate that to my private lab. Be careful not to touch it. Let's return to the common room."
Harry and Draco followed their Professor in silence. Once there, they were happily surprised to be joined by Luna and Padma.
"Better now, Luna?" asked Harry with a lopsided grin.
"Much better, thank you for asking," she replied, though a bit of her dreamy expression had returned.
"Good, let's get down to business then," said Hermione, "What's in the note?"
"I haven't looked yet," admitted Harry while retrieving the note from his pocket. He glanced over it quickly before handing it to Draco, "The Slytherins want to meet with us."
"When and where?" asked Ginny.
"Room of Requirement tomorrow at eleven," Draco answered.
"Can it be trusted?" asked Seamus.
"I trust them," Draco confided, "It's from Millie, Greg, and Vince."
"Let's meet with them before lunch then meet with the DA after lunch," said Harry, "Those that decide to join us will stay hidden until we've prepared them. I won't have anyone hexed because of a petty house rivalry."
"Let's inform them so they can get some sleep. Arianna, are you still awake?" asked Hermione.
"Yes, I need Everyone to listen," she said before listening for the radio to switch over, "It's bad in the Snake Pit. It may look okay from the outside but they're terrified. Harry, if you can't convince them that we can find somewhere safe for them we'll lose more than half of Slytherin House at Christmas. I've heard everything from suicide to running away. There are at least twenty-five girls that need necklaces removed. I was here less than three minutes and knew exactly who the Death Eaters or wanna be Death Eaters are. Knott has his own little gang here and I've heard that it extends throughout the houses. It's good that we all get our own rooms down here or I think there would be a lot of trouble. Also, Draco, a big guy named Vince asked me to pass the message that Millie's in trouble."
"What kind of trouble?" asked Draco.
"He wouldn't explain but will meet with you, Harry, Pansy, and Mione alone. I don't know her but she doesn't look good. There are dark circles under her eyes and she's terrified of Knott and his gang. Vince and Greg don't leave her side. They even escort her to and from her room. If the aura around her door is anything to go by, there must be tons of heavy wards on her room. It is almost as bright as the gates of Rose Haven." Arianna made a frustrated noise, "It seems that people trust me because of my size. By the way, thank you for the hexes and such, I've had to defend myself four times since dinner. Millie, Vince, and Greg set the wards on my room. It's as bright as theirs."
"Good, Vince and Greg are actually really good at wards," said Draco.
"Let Millie know that we agree to the meeting," Harry ordered, "Then get some sleep."
"Night, Ria," said Hermione.
"With that finished, Mister Potter, what did you need our assistance with?" questioned Professor McGonagall.
"We have plans to protect the students if Voldemort were to attack the school but it requires that we open the Chamber of Secrets again."
A collective gasp went out among the staff but it was Molly that moved to protest, "What about the Basilisk?"
"I killed the last one," replied Harry. "If there are anymore, it should be so much easier. I'll have my wand, I'm not twelve anymore, and I'll have more people to help."
"I'll help," Bill said with a grin, "I've been missing exploring the tombs. This should be interesting."
Harry looked around the room, "I have a list of people I would like to take in there."
"As long as we all agree on who goes in," said McGonagall hesitantly.
"I'd like Professors Snape and Lupin to go. Bill your skills would be great. As for the rest of the grou…"
"I want to go," said Ginny timidly.
"Ginny, Dear," began Molly.
"No, Mum, I need to go," she mumbled, "I need to get over what happened there."
"I want you to go too, Gin," admitted Harry. "The rest of you too."
"We'll work out the details tomorrow after the DA meeting," said Bill seeing Harry yawn.
"So much for a day off," grumbled Ron barely managing to duck Ginny's hand, "At least we get to have a bit of fun."
"There's one last thing Professors," said Hermione, "I need access to all of the student dorms."
"Why?" Minerva asked suspiciously.
"I am going to turn everyone's clothing into portkeys to the four sanctuaries," stated Hermione in her no nonsense voice. "I have designed and tested a new portkey spell. It can be activated remotely by anyone with the password and it can be used on a person to make them their own portkey. The best thing is, it's untraceable."
"You've used it before?" asked Bill.
"Actually," said Hermione blushing, "I kind of placed one on Harry last year. I've been afraid that Death Eaters'd kidnap him. Depending on the password He'll Portkey to my side, hospital wing, Professor Snape's side, or Professor Lupin's side."
"Why didn't you tell me?" asked Harry softly.
"I knew you wouldn't want it but it put me at ease, at least a little, to know if someone took you we could get you back."
"Why not just cast it in the Great Hall?" asked Padma.
"Simple," began Ron, "We wouldn't want anyone to know and only a few people will know where the sanctuaries are."
"I want details once you've sorted out the sanctuaries," ordered McGonagall. "Severus, Remus, you're priorities are to help them with that."
"If that's everything, let's get some rest," Harry ordered, "I have a feeling that the next few days are going to be interesting."
"Tempus," muttered Snape as he took a break from his current potions. It had been nearly three hours since he left Angel tower and still he searched for ways to avoid sleep. He was nearly ready to give in and sleep when he noticed a light under the ingredients closet door. Curious, he stepped through to the potions lab in Angel Tower. It was there that he found Hermione Granger and four cauldrons of nearly finished pep-upper potion.
"Hermione, it is nearly three in the morning, you should be sleeping not brewing potions for Poppy," he said silkily. He watched in amusement as she jumped.
"Severus," she accused, "you startled me."
"Do you have a good excuse?" he questioned.
"I just wasn't ready to sleep," she replied though she wouldn't look at him.
He reached into his pocked and removed a Dreamless Sleep Potion, "We'll each take half. That will give us six hours of undisturbed sleep."
"That will help but it won't solve the problems running through my mind," complained Hermione as she began stirring the first cauldron in line, "I'm worried about Millicent Balustrade. I saw her on the train and she was terrified, more terrified than most of the first years."
"She is the daughter of a prominent Death Eater," began Severus cautiously.
"I know, but there was more than that. I know that as a rule Slytherins hide behind a mask, but her mask didn't come up. She was openly terrified of them."
"That is disturbing news," He said gravely, "Millicent's father fell into disfavor with the Dark Lord. I have cause to believe that he may have sacrificed his daughter to save himself."
"That's horrible!"
"Indeed."
Harry wasn't sure how long he had been asleep. Titania was sound asleep curled on his chest so he knew it wasn't her that awoke him. Reaching for his glasses, he waited silently for the sound to return. It didn't take long. The whimpering, reminiscent of an injured animal, picked up a moment later from the bed across the room and it wasn't difficult to figure out where it came from.
With a sigh, he gently shifted Titania to the bed and sleepy green eyes opened, "I'll be right back, Sweetheart. I'm just going over by Draco for a moment." She nodded and closed her eyes once more.
He silently made his way to the blonde's bed. The whimpers that woke him were quickly escalated to choking sobs. He sat on the edge of the large bed and tried to shake the boy awake.
"Draco," he said softly. When there was no response, he tried again, "Draco, wake up, it's just a dream." Still no response, so he tried a different approach, "Malfoy!" The blonde's face scrunched up and he began to wake so Harry continued, "Come on, Malfoy, it's just a dream."
Terrified violet blue eyes blearily focused on his face and fought the tears that threatened to fall, "Harry?"
"A bad one?" questioned Harry. Draco nodded. "Would you like to talk about it?" asked Harry. Draco shook his head. "Okay, Titania is over there waiting so I should get back…"
"Can I come with you?" The voice was so small and broken that even in the silence of the room it was barely audible.
It was something that had been offered after previous nightmares but always politely refused. This nightmare had been different though, he could tell by the haunted violet eyes, "Come on," replied Harry offering his hand.
Draco quickly scrambled off the bed to follow Harry. On Harry's bed, they found Titania sleepily waiting for them. As soon as they were in the bed, she burrowed between them and easily drifted into a dreamless sleep.
"What a trio we make," murmured Harry as he pulled the blankets to their chins, "Sweet dreams, Draco."
"You too, Harry, and thank you."
Morning came all too soon for the students of Hogwarts. Few students made it down to breakfast and fewer still knew the way to the kitchens. It was with that knowledge that Harry decided to provide snacks. At nearly eleven, they were still in Angel tower.
"Harry," complained Hermione, "We're going to be late."
"No, we're not," replied Harry with a smirk, "We're giving them the opportunity to create the room so that they are comfortable."
"That's very nice of you," responded Draco.
"Hopefully it will gain me some points with them before they find out."
"Find out what?" asked Draco suspiciously.
"Are you ready, Harry?" asked Professor Lupin as he and Snape walked in.
"Yeah, but you're not," said Harry tossing each man an invisibility cloak.
"I haven't used this in years," chirped Remus Lupin with a grin, "I can only imagine the fun you've had with it."
"We need to go," Harry said seriously as he picked up Titania.
The sextet, Titania, and their invisible professors made their way through the hall in silence. People seemed to be lost to their inner thoughts. When they finally arrived at the Room of Requirement they found Arianna and her friends playing a game. All four looked up with grim determination.
"We were starting to get worried," said Arianna, "Let's go inside."
When Harry stepped inside he was nearly floored by what he saw. The Room of Requirement had stretched itself to the size of a large conference room and was filled with seats. Nearly fifty Slytherin faces turned to nervously greet them.
"Hello," greeted Harry nervously. Several people responded before silence reigned and he continued, "I expect that you have chosen someone to speak for you. We'll get to that in a moment. First I would like to get rid of those necklaces. Everyone with a necklace come to the front and we'll be rid of them."
Emerald eyes watched sadly as thirty-three girls and five boys stood and made their way to the front of the room. There was no specific age or look to any of them but they were all pureblood. As they approached, he could hear the slight hiss of their necklaces asking for a command. "Release them!" he ordered testily. Around the room necklaces dropped to the floor like so many lead weights.
"Everyone return to your seats," ordered Draco come to stand beside Harry.
"Titania," said Harry softly, "come on over here and play."
"Harry," said a tentative voice from the Slytherin crowd, "We had the room create a play area for her. There are lots of toys and books."
"Thank you," said Harry leading the small girl over to the toys.
"Alright, wands up," ordered Draco, "You know the drill." He scanned the room and was happy to see the tips of two wands sticking out of thin air. "Repeat after me. I swear on my honor as a Wizard that nothing said in this room will be repeated unless in current company." He watched with satisfaction as each person was enveloped in a gentle glow. "Does this satisfy everyone?"
"Yes, that is satisfactory," said Millicent standing and leading Crabbe and Goyle to the front of the room. "I guess we're the speakers of this lot. We want to know what you can do to protect us."
"Before this goes any further we have to come clean on something," warned Harry.
"What have you done?" asked Millicent, fear tinting her voice.
"There are two more of us. Before they come out of hiding I want you to know that we trust them," explained Harry before giving the signal to the Professors to remove the cloaks.
Two girls burst into tears and a fifth year boy jumped to his feet, "He's a Death Eater!"
"Wait," said Draco, "You don't know everything yet." When they didn't listen the first time, he allowed his old mask to fall into place, "Sit down, Mason." Silence fell over the group. "You most of all should know that you never know what lies behind the mask. He has given up the last twenty years for us so watch your tongue."
"Why even bring them?" asked a first year.
"Because sometime just knowing that there is a Professor that understands helps," admitted Ron.
"Does he have anything to do with keeping us safe?" asked Millicent.
"Not really except for helping with transportation," responded Hermione.
"Then it doesn't matter at this moment," snapped Millicent. "Can you protect us?"
"Yes," said Hermione, "When we leave Hogwarts for either the breaks or for the summer we'll go to my home."
"Is it true that you are the new Lady of Rose Haven?" asked Millicent hopefully.
"It's true Millie," Pansy replied, "We've spent the last week there."
The exhausted blonde rubbed her temples as she responded, "What do you expect in return?"
"Help us defend Hogwarts." Ron and Hermione's heads snapped towards Harry as he responded without hesitation. Hermione made to protest but Harry cut her off, "Please, hear me out."
"We're listening," said Gregory Goyle.
"The defenses haven't been updated since Grindelwald. Voldemort was a student at that time and most Death Eaters since then have gone through Hogwarts during either mans reign of terror," Harry sighed.
"But surely Professor Dumbledore…" someone began.
"There have been complications," warned Harry. "We can't depend on Dumbledore to rescue us."
"If we can't depend on Dumbledore than who do we turn to?" asked a distraught looking first year.
"Each other," Professor Snape replied silkily.
"But we're only students," cried a first year.
"What would you have us do, Erickson?" asked Arianna. "Would you have us lay down at his feet and give in to him or are you too much of a baby to work hard and beat this?"
"Do not go gently into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light." Quoted Vincent.
"We're formally inviting everyone fifth year and up to join the DA," said Harry making use of the silence that followed. "We're meeting here after lunch. We could always use new members."
"I guess you'll be seeing a lot more of us." Vincent said with a small smile.
Millicent turned to the group, " I want to see all of you here after lunch."
"First through fourth years can join me here after dinner," said Professor Lupin. "It won't be as advanced as the DA but it will improve your defense skills."
"It is nearly time for lunch to begin," Professor Snape mentioned.
"Everyone's dismissed," ordered Millie, "Remember, be back here after lunch and not everyone leave together."
Harry watched, impressed, as several large groups disillusioned and left. Once everyone except Millicent, Vincent, and Gregory were gone they began the second half of their meeting. A few moments in, Dobby appeared with food.
"Miss Balustrade," began Professor Snape softly, "Are you well?"
"No, Sir," she replied shakily. "Were you at the last revel?"
"No, I was not."
She looked up at the group shyly, "I was. My father was punished for displeasing that monster. I was the punishment. There were two other girls. Hogwarts students I'm sure. We…. We were given to the other Death Eaters." They watched as she pulled an earring from her pocket. "They tried forcing a potion into me but I managed to switch it with the numbing draught that was in my earring."
"You should see Madam Pomfrey," Pansy said.
"No!" exclaimed the traumatized young woman; "She's required by law to tell my parents."
"There are other option," said Ron carefully, "Will you trust me?"
"Millie, please, trust them," begged Greg, "it needs to be treated."
"What needs to be treated?" demanded Snape.
Millie slowly raised her shirt to show her stomach, "Voldemort did it." Etched in glaring red lines was the phrase 'The sins of the Father are to be laid upon the children.' "Why should I trust you?"
Ron licked his lips nervously before replying, "Because no one deserves to face that alone." She nodded and Ron quickly called his mother.
When Molly Weasley arrived she looked around the room and her shoulders slumped in weariness. Their quick explanations and a quick evaluation left her muttering spell after spell to heal the damage. After what seemed like an eternity of waiting, Hermione and Millie examined the damage. The lettering, which had been red and swollen with infection, was pale with a silver sheen.
"I'm sorry, Sweet Heart, there's nothing I can do about the scaring," said Professor Weasley softly.
"Thank you, Professor," responded Millicent softly. "Professor Snape, is there any way to identify the other two girls?"
The dark haired Professor was busy inspecting the potion and held it up to the light as he answered, "If this potion is what it appears to be, it will be very apparent very soon."
"What do you mean?" demanded Harry.
Professor Snape opened the bottle and wafted the potion towards his nose. "The two girls will be forced to show themselves. How long ago did it happen?"
"Almost two months ago," answered Millie.
"Then we will know soon," answered Snape.
"Severus, is that what I think it is?" asked Molly softly.
"Indeed."
"It's a pregnancy potion isn't it?" asked Hermione.
"Very good, Hermione. I see you've been reading your texts," responded Professor Snape.
"I'm finished with them."
"I had no doubt that you would be," he sneered.
Harry looked around the room at the gathered students. Those gathered from the original DA waited patiently, albeit curiously, for him to begin the meeting. Cautiously, he glanced at the one-way glass between them and the Slytherins.
"All right, let's get started," Harry began. "I know everyone has a lot of questions, but please wait, I should answer them by the end. Now, this year I plan to continue the DA but there are going to be a few changes. I'm sure that you all remember what Professor Dumbledore said at the feast last night, well I'm going to tell you what I know and what I believe." He looked from one classmate to the next while judging how they would handle what he had to say. "I know that open war has begun. Godric's Hollow and the attack on the train were just the beginning. I know that people have gone missing and people are being attacked again. Madam Patil among several others went into hiding within the last few days. I believe that Voldemort will attack Hogwarts at least once this year." He paused, waiting for the reaction to die down. "You all know of my link to Voldemort so I will share something else with you. I believe Voldemort plans on using us to bring the Wizarding World to its knees. I won't let Hogwarts fall without a fight!
"This year, the DA will be learning at a new level. We're moving beyond simple defensive spells to the harder, more dangerous, offensive spells. Hermione, Ron, and I have also approached several of the Professors for help. Professors Lupin, McGonagall, and Weasley will be helping several of us so that we can better help you. Lastly, but most important, I've invited the Slytherins to join us." He stopped knowing the uproar that was about to ensue.
"You can't invite them!" someone cried, "They're all evil. They'll throw the gates open and let him in!"
"They're just like their parents!" cried a Ravenclaw, "They're all Death Eaters!"
"Enough!" roared Harry. Anger was plainly written on his face and it silenced the room. "Isn't it time to put petty rivalries aside? They had to sign the same contract that you signed. They came to us asking for help! They simple want the right to choose their own lives. Let me tell you a little story and before it even comes up, I have permission to tell it. You see there is a classmate of ours. The beautiful and intelligent daughter of Death Eaters, she has no wish to be a slave to a mad man. In the dead of night Death Eaters came into her room, at her Father's bidding, and took her. They stunned and bound her before bringing her before Voldemort. We know the rest of the story because her sister was brave and curious so she followed them and hid to find out what was going on. Within her own home our classmate was put under the imperious and forced to submit herself to their cause. They didn't mark her. From what I understand, few women take the mark. They did something worse. She was promised to Voldemort, a gift from a loyal follower for his Master's harem. The necklace used to bind her has been removed and we have become friends."
"Who was it?" someone asked.
"Does it matter?" questioned Harry. "Two hours ago thirty-eight more necklaces were removed. Doubt them if you will but don't do it here. They are a part of this group and you are all here by your own choice. If you don't like or can't accept them, there's the door." He waited patiently to see if anyone would leave, but no one took him up on the offer. "Alright, are there any questions?"
"What is the plan to defend Hogwarts?" asked Seamus.
Harry waved his hand at the back wall, "Come on out now." He waited until all of the Slytherins were seated before signaling to Hermione to begin.
"Our goal is simple in theory but may prove to be far more complicated. We're going to split into several groups. Four groups of four will be house guards. Draco and Pansy already put together the Slytherin Guard. We need groups from each of the other houses by the end of the day."
"What is the purpose of these groups?" asked Daphne Greengrass.
"Think of them as unofficial Prefects. They will provide a quick response to any inner-house conflicts that appear. They're also going to be on alert for trouble from all known supporters of Voldemort. Should they see any DA member in trouble, they would provide help," explained Hermione. "The most important group will be the Elite Guard. Ginny and Luna are in charge of organizing that."
With a nod from Hermione, Ginny began. "In a little while we will be joined by an unknown person. The Elite Guard will be made up of the eight people that can stand against this person and hold their own until help can arrive or stand against this person and win. Everyone interested will have the chance to try but only six will make it. Luna and I will train this group."
"What is their purpose?" once again it was Daphne Greengrass to question.
"In the event that Hogwarts is attacked, the Elite Guard would retrieve students trapped away from the sanctuaries but their main purpose is to defend Hospital wing," answered Harry.
"What are the Sanctuaries?" asked a sixth year named Kerri.
"Just what the word sanctuary means," responded Pansy, "they are the safest places we could find to send the younger student during an attack."
"Fifth and Sixth years, except the Elite Guard and Harry's circle, will be divided to protect the Sanctuaries. Seventh years will stand with the Professors to protect the school," Finished Hermione.
"Where are the Sanctuaries?" someone asked.
"For your own Safety, we can't tell you," Harry sighed.
"What happens to the people in the Sanctuaries if we lose?" asked Crabbe.
"Everyone fighting will have a panic button," enlightened Pansy, "If it looks like we're losing everyone in the Sanctuaries will be transported out of Hogwarts and to safety."
"Are there anymore questions?" asked Hermione as a very disguised Professor Snape entered.
"Okay, anyone trying out for the Elite Guard move to the left side of the room," ordered Ginny. "Everyone else to the right."
As everyone moved their chairs followed, until fifteen sat on the left side of the room. Together Ginny and Luna approached the group waiting to try out.
Luna spoke first giving them the rules of engagement, "For this test it is simple; survive without capture for as long as possible by whatever means necessary. Use nothing fatal or Unforgivable."
"Are there any volunteers to go first?" asked Ginny with a grin.
To everyone's surprise Neville stood, "I'll do it."
"Since you're trying out, I'm stepping down as a judge," said Ginny, "Draco, would you stand in my place?"
"Sure." Draco smirked and took her place before turning to Neville and Snape. "Stand ready. Begin."
Professor Snape threw off his hooded cloak to reveal full Death Eater regalia. To his credit, and Snape's surprise, Neville didn't even flinch. Snape began simple, throwing childish hexes to distract rather than stun but Neville blocked and dodged with amazing agility. Snape grazed him with a stinging hex but Neville didn't stop. With a flick of his wand, the books from the bookcase began flying at Snape distracting him long enough for Neville to use the counter curse and begin to attack.
Their battle continued on for nearly fifteen minutes before Snape managed to catch Neville with a leg locking charm and Neville silenced Snape.
"Well done, Longbottom," drawled Draco once Luna called an end to the battle. He turned to Ginny and said, "I say keep him. I doubt anyone else will last that long against this opponent."
Nearly an hour later, they had their Elite Guard.
"Alright, we're going to need to get together a few times this weekend to get to know each other better. Over that time we'll come up with a training schedule that will work around everyone's extras." Ginny handed out the necklaces marking them as Elite Guard. "Once we decide on a location to meet, these will act like the DA coins. They'll get warm and within five minutes show the time and location of a meeting."
"So who's on your team?" asked Harry as he wandered over with a sleeping Titania, "I was kind of distracted."
"We have Shalimar and Alexander from Slytherin, Caitlyn and Jacob from Hufflepuff, Daniel from Ravenclaw, and Neville," Ginny replied coolly.
"Are you sure about so many fifth years?" worried Harry.
"They held up better than the seventh years that tried out. Even Hermione was impressed by some of the spells they used. I don't know if you saw it but Caitlyn even managed to hold on for three minutes after he took her wand. They earned it."
"Okay. Do you have any extra pendants that we can transfigure?" he asked.
"Sure." She handed him twelve more pendants and chains, "Have the other houses figured out who their House Guards are going to be?"
"Yeah, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw have chosen to go with charm bracelets rather than necklaces. Draco just handed out the Slytherin necklaces after okaying his choice with his housemates."
"Harry, I think everyone has had enough for today," said Hermione taking the necklaces from his hand, "besides, it's almost dinner time."
"Alright, let's close for now," called Harry. "We'll meet here again Sunday. House Guards, see Hermione for your bracelets. Have a good dinner everyone."
"Harry, Draco, stay please," said Remus from his spot by the door.
"You needed us?" asked Draco once the room was cleared.
"I have your book list," explained Remus with a smile, "Minerva and I are heading to Hogsmeade right after dinner. Apprentices have unlimited access to Hogsmeade so we thought that you might like to go retrieve your books."
"Yeah, that sounds like a good idea," said Harry as he shifted Titania.
"I have an appointment with Professor Snape at eight," sighed Draco tiredly, "We'll have to be back by then."
"That's okay," grinned Harry, "I want her in bed by eight so that works out."
"Madam Snape?" called Hermione as she left the Great Hall.
"Hermione, how was the meeting?"
"Horrible and hopeful. We gained a lot of allies and Harry removed thirty-eight necklaces," answered Hermione as she came up beside the older woman. "Madam Snape, can we talk privately?"
"Would you like to have tea?" asked Serenity kindly.
"That would be very nice," smiled Hermione in relief.
The two women walked in silence until they reached Serenity's private suite. Lobeta seemed to be awaiting their arrival and greeted them enthusiastically. Two wet faces later, they found themselves seated and Serenity began pouring their tea.
"Madam Snape, do you believe in love?" asked Hermione softly.
"Call me Serenity or Reni and yes, I believe in love. Love is a very powerful thing. It also comes in many forms," replied Serenity. She watched as Lobeta began staring into the shadow near the door.
"I know that," sighed Hermione in frustration. "How do I tell the difference between all the different kinds?"
"I'm not sure that I can help you with that, Hermione," Madam Snape responded coolly.
Hermione threw her hands up in frustration and began to rant at the amused woman, "I've had this crush on Severus since fifth year, at first I thought it was just a typical Lockheart type crush but it didn't go away. It just seems to get worse. He hasn't frightened me with his sarcasm and bite in years. Harry and Ron must think I'm nuts. Ron thought is was some odd obsession at first cause it was always 'Snape this and Snape' that but it grew into something more and Harry thinks it's terribly funny."
"Have you ever thought that it might not be more than just a crush?" asked Serenity before hiding her smile behind her teacup.
"Yes," huffed Hermione. "I'm worried, though. In the Muggle world the age gap would be highly frowned upon."
"The Wizarding world looks at things a bit differently," began Serenity cautiously. "You are not a child that needs protection."
"Now I need a way to approach him," murmured Hermione more to herself than Serenity.
"I can't help you there but just so you know, he absolutely loves chocolate frogs," Serenity said.
"Thank you, Madam Snape." Hermione was so busy gathering her things that she never noticed Lobeta wagging her tail.
"Oh, Hermione, when will you be entering the Chamber?" asked Serenity before the young woman could leave.
"Tomorrow morning."
Serenity carefully hid her laughter as the door shut, "You can come out now Severus."
"I have to go," said Severus kissing his mother on the cheek, "I'll talk to you tomorrow before we enter the Chamber."
"Oh, Severus, was there something you needed?" questioned Serenity.
Severus stopped to look at his mother before confusion set in and he responded quietly, "I forgot."