Harry Potter and the Crests of Hogwarts
Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter. Everything belongs to the wonderful J K Rowling. But I do own some OCs: Pixie, Shawn Livinsky, Amanda, Tabitha, the kitten, Star Sprite, the white unicorn, step-siblings: Yumiko and Chris and a mysterious wizard named Archarnas. Original figments of imagination include a title called 'Famous Figures in the World Known to Magic' (stupid title, isn't it?), the name 'Agnes Barnwell', Gryffindor password 'Phoenix Eyes', a random wizard's name 'Darius Silvermoon', a magical powerful jeweled pendant called the Potestria Star Jewel, the fictional history and creation of the Crests of Hogwarts, another title: 'Hogwarts: The Origins of Wizard Schooling' and the heavenly Fields of Caelastra. Asterix, Obelix, Getafix and Dogmatix: the key characters of the famous Asterix comic franchise are written by Rene Goscinny and illustrated by Albert Uderzo.
Author's note: There will be a crossover with the characters from the 'Asterix' series in the next few chapters because I love them so much and thought that Getafix should help out :) there is a romantic scene between OCs coming up.
5/5/2013: Here we go...I'm sorry that Harry and Draco aren't getting a lot of attention lately but it'll all come in good time but now we can do more reading! I've decided to shorten the romance scene for my OCs and make it more meaningful. This was my favorite part to write and did that take forever :) now I have edited it and hopefully it's ten times better to read!
Chapter Twenty Six: A Blessed Miracle
Rating: PG-13
It had been two days since Shawn was administered the antidote and Pixie cleansed from the nightshade berry poisoning. Harry, Draco and the rest of their friends were still awaiting news of their friends' conditions...
Meanwhile in the dungeons, the three Gauls and Dogmatix continued keeping vigil over Shawn, avidly waiting for the slightest change in his condition. Asterix wondered if the boy would ever wake and he got his answer when he heard a soft moan that came neither from his companions...
"Getafix! Obelix! Look! Something's happening!" Asterix cried out excitedly, pointing at the still boy, "The antidote! I think it's working!"
"By Belenos!" Getafix's dark and anxious expression morphed to a relieved smile, "He did pull through...such a strong lad..."
Obelix beamed as the boy's skin colour turned into a healthy golden tone and his quivering lips turned to pink. The remnants of the sweat and tears were evaporated by the growing warmth of his healing body and his chest rose and fell steadily with each large breath. Blue sapphire eyes blinked open and a soft groan escaped his throat. Dogmatix yelped excitedly and licked the boy's face exuberantly. Shawn shook his head to clear his shortsighted vision. He made out three grown men before him and a small white dog sitting on his lap.
"Welcome back, dear boy..." Getafix greeted gently as Shawn slowly sat up on table, "Here...I believe these belong to you...Albus asked me to give them to you the moment you wake..."
"You had all of us worried, you know..." Asterix smiled.
They watched Shawn take his spectacles from the druid's outstretched hand and placed them onto his face to take a better look at his surroundings. He dangled his legs over the edge of the table. He still felt drained...and a bit sleepy. But he fought it off for he was curious of the strangers looking at him.
"Wh-Why am I in the dungeons...and on a table for that matter? Who are you, sir?" Shawn asked as he patted Dogmatix who licked his hand.
"I am a druid from Ancient Gaul, my name is Getafix. Your headmaster requested me to come to your school to treat you. You were brutally under the mercy by these toxic needles, my lad. It's a miracle that you are alive and breathing...but I truly believe that your strong spirit and endurance are what truly healed your body."
"Ah, you are far too modest for your own good, my old friend. If it weren't for your superior brewing skills, my student wouldn't have lived to see another day," the occupants looked to the direction of the door to find Professor Dumbledore walking towards them, his twinkling eyes filled with relief upon seeing Shawn, "Shawn Livinsky, thank goodness...thank goodness you're awake..."
"Likewise, professor..."
"No, lad...don't move..." Getafix said patronizingly when Shawn tried to get off the table. The druid pressed the boy's shoulders to keep him in place, "You're not fully recovered...your body is greatly weakened from combating the poison. Stay put for a while..."
"As much as I hate to break the joyous moment of relief, I have another request," Getafix turned to the headmaster whose eyes dimmed slightly, "...can you possibly take a look at my granddaughter, Pixie?"
"Of course, I can do that...why? What happened to her, old friend?" Getafix asked with concern. The mention of Pixie piqued Obelix's attention for the large man developed a soft spot for the girl when he saw her looking sickly.
"My granddaughter was poisoned by nightshade berries...and according to Poppy and three students, it's a possibility that the perpetrator did it out of spite..."
At this, the rest of the group were aghast. Shawn, on the other hand, felt anger bubbling inside him...so the visions he saw and what he heard when he was with Archarnas were real. He wasn't sure at first but now it was all clear to him...whoever hurt her was going to pay. Dogmatix glanced up at the boy and pawed his hand, trying to calm him down. He knew something was bothering Shawn and he didn't like the tension he smelled around him.
Professor Dumbledore never looked more worn and old than he was now, "Poppy had done all she could to neutralize the nightshade berry poison but I fear that there might be some complications when she wakes because we don't know how severe the poisoning is...I need your help to assess her health and whether the nightshade berry poisoning would have a lasting effect on her..."
"Then I will do as you ask...now where is-"
"Dogmatix! Hush!"
"Young lad!"
Upon Dogmatix's anxious barks, Getafix turned to see Shawn stumbling onto the stone floor. Obelix rounded on the boy to pick him up. Shawn forced himself to move forward but his body felt heavy as lead and he ended up collapsing back into Obelix's bulky arms.
"No...let go of me!" Shawn protested, frustrated tears in his eyes, "I need to see Pixie!"
"I'm afraid I can't let you see her just yet, Mr. Livinsky...not when you just have been close to Death's door," Professor Dumbledore shook his head and grasped Shawn's shoulders, "Right now, your welfare is much more important."
"Please, sir...I'm fine...I'm out of danger but she isn't...I just..." the tears trickled down his cheeks and landed on the cold stony floor, "I just want to be by her side so that she won't be alone ever again..."
The Headmaster's heart softened as Shawn wept before him. The young Ravenclaw obviously cared greatly for his beloved grandchild. He caught the desperation lacing the boy's plea and deduced that perhaps he could give Pixie the loving affections she deserved...
"My boy, I am grateful for your great concern for my grandchild...but right now, your body needs to recuperate," Professor Dumbledore stood up while Obelix helped Shawn to sit on a vacant couch, "I promise that you'll be among the first to know once she awakens."
The boy's tearful eyes filled with hope at the promise, "Thank you, sir."
"Here...you must drink this, my boy," Getafix went to a second different cauldron to ladle another potion in a clean bowl. He gave the bowl to Shawn. The swirling blue coloured creamy liquid smelled like blueberries and buttercups and it made his mouth water at the fragrance, "This special potion will help recover your strength."
"It's best to listen to our druid, Shawn," Asterix said with a twinkle in his eyes, "And go ahead and drink the lot."
Shawn placed the rim of the bowl against his lips and slowly drank the potion. It was soothingly cool and sweet as it smoothly bathed his tongue and coated his aching throat, quenching his thirst and hunger all at once. After finishing the last drop, Shawn found himself leaning back against Obelix. He felt a calloused hand combing his hair.
"Not tired..." Shawn weakly protested as he fought the urge to close his eyes.
"Shhh...sleep peacefully, lad...it's time you have a well-deserved rest..." Getafix said, watching the bespectacled blue eyes close. He took the bowl away from Shawn's lax fingers and placed it on a table, "Where would you want him, Albus?"
"For now, we'll leave the boy at the hospital wing, Getafix. I'm sure it'll put Poppy at ease that he is fine and she can check over him to make sure he has a clean bill of health. I hope that you don't mind if I asked her and Severus to join us in checking over my granddaughter. They were most fascinated in your skills."
"Of course, I don't mind, Albus. It'll be a pleasure. Obelix, be a good lad and carry him again," Getafix took a blanket and wrapped it around the boy's body before turning to take his satchel.
Obelix carefully took the boy in his arms and carried him. Asterix coaxed Dogmatix to follow them. Getafix quickly repacked his supplies in his satchel and checked Shawn's temperature before nodding to the headmaster.
"Lead the way."
"Pixie? Are you awake?" Ginny whispered as she pushed a panel in the wall closest to the bed wide open.
She sighed when silence was her answer. Pixie still hadn't woken up. Hearing the older girl's relaxed breathing brought some sense of relief to Ginny. She knew that she wasn't supposed to be here. Professor Dumbledore himself had enchanted the door with strong locking spells and forbade anyone except Madame Pomfrey and the Hogwarts teaching staff members, to enter the room. The warning was also extended to her friends...but Ginny promised the others that she would keep them updated on her situation. After confiding in Fred and George, the twins showed her a hidden passage from a discreet area in the Great Hall corridor that led her to Pixie's room. She noted her friend's neat appearance. Madame Pomfrey took the liberty to give her thorough sponge baths and used a spell to magically tidy her hair in order to preserve her personal hygiene. As she approached the bed, she found Tabitha curled up near her, gazing at her unconscious mistress with sorrowful eyes. The little kitten perked her head up to see the redheaded girl and purred when she stroked her head.
"Oh Tabitha, sweetie..." Ginny sat down on the bed.
She gathered the kitten in her arms and kissed her silky head softly. Tabitha mewled sadly, her dark eyes never leaving her beloved mistress.
"I know how you feel, Tabitha...I wish she would wake up soon too..." Ginny whispered in understanding to the little kitten, "Say...let's go to the kitchen and see whether we can sneak a snack..."
However, Tabitha leapt out of her arms and went back to her spot on the bed, curling up next to her mistress. Ginny looked at her startled.
"Tabitha, don't you want to go outside?" the intense defiant gaze from the kitten's eyes was her answer.
Seeing that she wasn't going to convince the kitten to leave her post, Ginny decided to leave it at that. The redhead smiled, admiring the kitten's strong loyalty and devoted love for her mistress.
Then Ginny heard some muffled noises coming from outside the room. She knew she had to leave now as the voices grew louder. She made her departure through the secret passage, taking care to make sure that the panel was properly closed before continuing on her way. As she made her way to the Great Hall for a study session, she made a mental reminder to visit the kitchen later to get that promised snack for the little kitten still keeping Pixie company.
Meanwhile the rest of the group had decided to delve in their school assignments in preparation for their exams in order to keep themselves busy and not dwell too much about Pixie's dire condition. At first, neither felt like studying for they were too worried for their friend. However when Ginny offered to keep them updated on the situation since she didn't have much stress on her schoolwork, they felt at ease somewhat. Ron and Hermione studied together in the library. Neville became better acquainted with Chris and Yumiko who offered to be his study companions and they would work together in near the greenhouses since they loved the outdoors. This left Harry and Draco and they decided to spend their study sessions in their private room.
Several written and new parchments were rolled out on the comforter and their textbooks were strewn before them. They took careful precautions to leave their ink bottles and spare quills on the bedside tables so not to stain the sheets. Their school bags were dumped carelessly near the bed.
Draco looked up from his completed Transfiguration assignment to check up on his boyfriend. He found himself smiling tenderly at the sight before him. Harry had fallen asleep straight after finishing a long, two-parchment essay for Potions. The Slytherin had a feeling that Professor Snape was still making things hard for the Gryffindor even though he knew they were together.
He was curled up on his side on the right side of the bed, facing Draco. His glasses were askew and his ebony-coloured hair was more ruffled than before. The dried up quill fluttered from his ink-stained fingers and the parchments slid off his lap. His sleeping face looked so angelic and beautiful, making the taller boy's heart glow in awe at the sight of it.
Draco chuckled under his breath as he moved over to the boy he loved. He carefully removed his glasses and placed them on the bedside table. He took away the quill and rolled up the parchments. Up close, he saw traces of exhaustion on Harry's sleeping face. The raven-haired Gryffindor had been studying rather very hard for the past few hours. After removing some of the stuff that was cluttering their bed, Draco moved closer to Harry and laid down next to him. He combed through the messy mop of silken black hair with his long fingers before tracing his smooth cheek in a feathery touch.
"Harry...my lion..." he whispered as he kissed the boy's head.
He pulled the Gryffindor close to him and positioned his head carefully on his shoulder. Harry whined softly and nuzzled against his neck, his arms unconsciously circling around the warm body and pulling him closer. Draco heard the other boy mumble 'Don't leave me' in a soft voice. In response, Draco brushed feathery kisses over Harry's scar and murmured sweet nothings in his ear as if he was singing a soothing lullaby to him. Although his mind was still troubled, the sight of Harry sleeping peacefully greatly staved off the further anxiety building inside of him...the Gryffindor had that effect...
Giving his beloved a lingering kiss on his forehead, he fell into more serene thoughts and eventually fell asleep.
"Here she is, Getafix..." Professor Dumbledore opened the door and led them inside. Professor Snape stood by the headmaster, nodding to Getafix.
"By Toutatis..." the druid frowned as he rushed to the girl's bedside and began checking over her. Tabitha woke up and backed away, hissing at Getafix for interrupting her sleep, "Oh, I'm sorry I didn't see you there, little one."
"What do you make it, o druid?" Asterix asked, feeling unsettled at the sight of the unconscious girl. Obelix scooted closer and placed Dogmatix on the bed. The little white dog immediately cuddled up to Tabitha who immediately nuzzled her body against him.
"She seems fine, judging by her complexion and breathing pattern...I think it's because she is very drained that she wasn't able to wake so soon...don't worry too much..." Getafix ran a hand over her forehead, his eyes crinkled in concentration as he scrutinized his new patient, "The poor thing...there is a lot of tension in that young face of hers..."
"She is the closest I have to a family..." Professor Dumbledore said, his sad gaze fixated on the prone form lying on the bed, "I knew that her mind couldn't be swayed the moment she asked Severus to implant the jewel inside her. I knew she was terrified inside yet she pressed on for Harry's safety...why did I ever deserve to be her guardian? I should be the one to guide and protect after all the misfortunes she experienced in her childhood..."
"Albus..." Getafix patted his friend's shoulder, "You have guided and protected her in your care...I felt your affection and protectiveness in your writing when you sent me that letter on the day you found her. She's in the right hands..."
Just then, a whimper caught the group's attention. They found the girl's eyes twitching under her closed eyelids before they slowly blinked open. The silver speckles in the dark brown eyes glimmered in the candlelight. Obelix found himself transfixed by the sight. She really did look pretty with those silvery eyes. Professor Snape and Madame Pomfrey expressed their relief in their own ways upon seeing her wake.
"What happened?" the girl whispered. Getafix demurely rose from the bed to allow the Headmaster to sit by her.
"Welcome back, Pixie...my child..." Professor Dumbledore embraced the girl and brushed some of his granddaughter's hair aside to kiss her forehead gently. He pulled back after a while, "You're awake...you're awake...how are you feeling?"
"I...I'm...I'm fine...I think..." Pixie pushed the covers aside and sat on the edge of the bed. She still felt achy all over and her pounding head felt like a jackhammer was buzzing on high motor. As she stood up, she felt a sharp pain shooting up her legs, causing her to stumble. Luckily the Potions Professor acted quickly and caught the girl in his wiry arms before she crashed into the floor, "M-My legs...p-pain..."
"You are clearly not fine...it appears that you are not fully recovered from the poisoning and your magic is still combating the remnants of the poison in you..." Professor Snape carefully placed her back onto the bed, "Your body went through a very taxing and life-threatening experience so don't push yourself..."
"He's right, my dear, you need a proper rest," Getafix agreed, "Given your condition, it's a wonder you are alive and breathing."
Getafix turned to Madame Pomfrey.
"Madam, she needs a substantial meal to regain the nutrients she lost, something with lots of meat, fruits and vegetables but a bit easy on her stomach since I have no exact idea when was the last time she has eaten," then the druid turned to Professor Dumbledore, "From what I can see, I don't see any other lingering complications from the nightshade berry poisoning."
Professor Dumbledore's face filled with relief at the druid's words, "Thank you..."
"I think I want to rest some more now, Grandfather..." Pixie said softly as she pulled the sheets over her lower body, "Can I be left alone for a while?"
The elderly professor noted the girl's tense posture and the way her eyes became glassy and worn...he sighed deeply. He really didn't want to leave his grandchild alone but when he saw the desperate plea for privacy in her silver-speckled eyes, he silently relented and turned to the group.
"Of course, my child..." he ushered them towards the door, "I think it's best that we leave my granddaughter to rest...please, let's talk further in my office."
"I'll go do as the druid asks before returning to the hospital wing, Albus," Madame Pomfrey bowed slightly in respect to Getafix before departing the room in another direction.
"I shall be in the dungeons, headmaster...good day to you, gentlemen..." Professor Snape informed the group as he also left in a different direction.
Pixie sighed shakily in relief when the door closed. In truth, the intense hurt in her heart was getting too much to bear...she didn't want them to see her break down. The dreams she experienced haunted her greatly but no more so than the vision of Shawn turning his back on her and disappearing as she pleaded for him to come back...
The tears she held back glistened on her cheeks as she recalled her most recent dream before she woke up. Shawn was dying...she was sure of it because she saw him in a heavenly aura...he couldn't see her and he was looking straight up to the heavens. She called out desperately to him that he was needed in this life...that she needed him...she pleaded him not to go and leave her behind...she cried out to him that she loved him and before she knew it...there was only darkness...and the boy she loved was gone.
"Shawn...Shawn..." Pixie sobbed and hugged herself as she laid down on her pillows, "I'll never forgive myself if you don't wake up..."
Tabitha mewled sadly as she watched her mistress cry out her sorrow. She clambered over her body to cuddle up to her, trying to offer as much comfort as she could. Pixie held the kitten close to her.
"It should've been me...it should've been me..." she wept, her tears bathing the kitten's silky fur.
"Thank you for everything you've done and more, Getafix..." Professor Dumbledore said with gratitude
"It's nothing, Albus. We are old friends after all. I'm just relieved that they are safe from harm."
"Please stay a week in Hogwarts. I insist. It's the only way I can think of to repay you for helping us through this terrible crisis."
"Then I say that we accept the invitation. Thank you for your hospitality," the druid agreed amiably and turned to his companions, "And it would be good for you two to learn a thing or two about Albus's school."
"True...the Romans have been behaving themselves as the chief said...it'll be refreshing to get to know the young kids," the blonde warrior rubbed his chin thoughtfully, "What do you think, Obelix?"
"I'm hungry!" Obelix said jovially, causing Asterix sigh exaspertedly but there was a smile on his face. Obelix's insatiable appetite was prevailing and the shorter warrior sensed the jovial attitude behind it. This meant that he was in good spirits, "You don't happen to have any roast boars, do you?"
"That's very impolite, Obelix," Getafix waved a finger crossly.
But Professor Dumbledore didn't seem to mind as he smiled and chuckled deeply.
"I'm afraid that wild boars can't be found in this area. However, we do have other alternatives which I find will be up to your taste," the Headmaster said with his eyes twinkling in amusement, "But please...you will join us tonight and I'll inform Dobby and the other house-elves to prepare your quarters for your stay."
"That's gracious of you, Albus. Actually, it is most opportune that you gave us the offer to stay longer. I am still a bit concerned with your granddaughter's legs and her state of health. I would like to do some physical therapy with her if you will allow me to. I want make sure that she can be fully mobile by the time we leave and that we are certain that she is fine," Getafix voiced his concern.
"Of course, you may, old friend. If it's to help improve my grandchild's road to recovery, by all means. Can you start tomorrow?"
"Yes, in the morning after she's had a proper rest and a light meal, Albus. If you don't mind, we'll take a stroll outside together for some fresh air," Getafix requested. He ushered the two men and the little dog out of the office, "Come along. I'm sure Dogmatix would like to take a run."
The Gauls left as they chatted animatedly between themselves, leaving the Headmaster alone in his office. Just then, a loud pop came from the front of his desk.
"Mr. Dumbledore, sir?" a meek voice greeted him and Dobby peeked his head from around the desk.
"Dobby?" he gestured the house-elf to come closer to relay his instructions, "There are some spare sleeping quarters at the corridor near the crossway of the four towers. Please make sure they are cleaned and prepared by the time our guests are done with their walk."
"Yes, sir. Me and rest of elves will see to it," Dobby nodded his little head and disappeared with a snap of his thin fingers.
After a while, he left the office. After all, he knew that some particular students would want the good news that both Shawn and Pixie are awake and alive. And he knew a certain Ravenclaw student who would become the bearer of good news...
Shawn felt like he had slept for years as he had never felt this relaxed before. However, he sensed someone was nearby. He blinked his eyes open and found himself staring up at the ceiling of the hospital wing in his blurred vision.
"Welcome back, Shawn," a soft, motherly voice came from his bedside.
Shawn felt a warm hand patting his arm. He turned his head and saw his visitor. He recognized that person. They had some chance encounters with some short pleasant conversations. He hadn't seen her since the end of fourth year when Cedric died.
"Cho?" he sat up and felt his glasses pressed into his hand. He slipped them on his nose, "Thanks...what are you doing here?"
The pretty Ravenclaw seeker smiled and laughed demurely. She looked a bit wiser and sadder the last time he saw her.
"To see with my eyes that you are well and alive, silly. I'm glad Professor Dumbledore's words ring true..." Cho said, "I've heard about what happened to you guys back there and about you being poisoned and all. Very few of us thought that you'd survive."
"I haven't seen you for a long time...how's everything with you?" Shawn asked, "I mean...about Cedric."
At this, the sadness in her dark eyes amplified yet her face was serene.
"I was deeply saddened by his death over the summer after fourth year," she confessed, her hand clenching her chest, "It wasn't easy since I did love him dearly...everything in Hogwarts reminded me of him. But I've eventually came to terms with it...with some help from a very kind boy."
"Oh? I'm glad to hear that. Do I know this person?"
"I don't know whether you know him but his name is Chris Winston...he's from Hufflepuff," Cho blushed slightly, "It also helps that he plays Quidditch well so he really keeps me busy with our races..."
'Yumiko's stepbrother? Who could've guessed...' Shawn smirked mentally before deciding to keep the conversation going, "Did anything happened while I was out?"
At this, Cho gave him a small smile, "Well...Professor Dumbledore did request me to tell you that Pixie has finally woken up. He did promise you that you among others will be the first to know."
"Really...really! Thank goodness...thank goodness..." Shawn covered his eyes so that he could mask his tearing eyes as he smiled. The other Ravenclaw politely didn't say anything after a while.
"You really care for her, don't you?" Cho observed.
"More than you can ever imagine...after all these years apart...it took me so long to realize how much she means to me..." Shawn sighed and removed his arm, "Tell me, Cho. Is it true that she's been bullied by some girls?"
Cho was speechless, wondering how on Earth her housemate knew about what happened. But she got over the mild shock and nodded her head solemnly.
"Yes...I don't know the full details but the girls who pursued her were fans of yours and Harry's too...and I am ashamed to say that they included a few of our own...we don't know who was involved in this terrible act...but the incident is already reported to the headmaster," she watched Shawn's eyes grew flinty as his fists clenched, "Relax, Shawn...Pixie is fine, that's all it matters..."
"What's going to happen to the girls who bullied Pixie?"
"Well, they'll be in real trouble if they are caught...and the question will be what would the penalty be and who would deliver it..." Cho commented before standing up, "Oh yes...I'd better tell Madame Pomfrey that you're awake. She wants to do a checkup on you to make sure that you're fine. After that, you can leave anytime...ah! Your school robes are here..."
Shawn nodded and threw the covers aside to reach for his school robes. Cho began closing the curtains around his bed so that he could change.
"Hey, Cho?" the boy said softly.
"Yes?" Cho paused in her task.
"Thank you for telling me what's happening."
"You're welcome," she smiled and fully closed the curtains.
After informing Madame Pomfrey about Shawn, Cho left the hospital wing, feeling in a mood to go for a walk. Just then, she spotted a familiar raven-haired Gryffindor talking to a fair-haired Slytherin student. Recalling what she was told to do by the headmaster, she called out to them.
"Harry?" Cho approached the two boys, "Harry!"
Harry stopped talking to his boyfriend when he heard someone calling his name. He was sure he heard that feminine voice somewhere and it made his heart well with some tension. He turned his head around to see the Ravenclaw seeker running up to him. While the raven-haired Gryffindor no longer experienced the awkward feeling upon being in her presence, he felt the dredges of guilt building up, recalling the terrible moment he couldn't save the boy she deeply cared for...
Draco quirked an inquisitive eyebrow when the Ravenclaw seeker sprinted up to them. He grasped Harry's hand tightly, earning a reassuring squeeze in return. Harry had told him some time ago that he had a crush on her back in his third year and the blonde Slytherin was not happy about it, jealous and afraid that she would take his beloved away from him. He remained quiet and acted as nonchalantly as he could as Harry talked to the girl.
"Cho? What're doing here?" Harry inquired.
"I haven't see you over the past few years, Harry. How have you been?" she asked worriedly.
"I should ask you the same thing...I'm just..." Harry closed his eyes and sighed heavily. He shuddered when Cedric's blank face came into view when he was hit by the Avada Kedavra curse and his ghostly form pleading him to take his body back to his father, "I'm sorry I couldn't save him...he wasn't supposed to be there..."
Harry glanced at Cho after the confession, his face worn and saddened.
"Please forgive me..."
Cho's face softened. She touched his arm and looked at him with compassion shining in her eyes.
"Oh Harry...Cedric's death was not of your doing. Voldemort was the one with the intent to kill...not you...you brought his body back to us...that's what matters..." Cho said reassuringly and gave an apologetic gaze, "Even though I was greatly saddened by his death and mourned for him, I have come to terms with his death and found new love to help me make it through...I'm the one who should say sorry for not telling you all of this sooner..."
"Then we should just forgive each other even though it's not our faults, Cho. But I'm glad that you told me," Harry smiled with relief, feeling the weight disappear from his tight chest.
Meanwhile, Cho found her heart warm at the sight of Harry's face losing its darkened sadness and the twinkle returning to his eyes. She briefly made eye contact with the silent Slytherin and found herself shivering under his intimidating gaze. Then she saw their linked hands and quickly made the connection. Knowing that her company wasn't ready for an extended stay, she decided to quickly end the conversation with some news that would surely interest them.
"I've just remembered that I've got some good news from the Headmaster," Cho said brightly, "Both Shawn and Pixie survived their ordeal."
"Really? We've been waiting for news about them..." Harry's eyes widened as his smile grew, "Cho, that's fantastic! Come on, Draco, we have to tell the others!"
The shorter boy enthusiastically grabbed Draco's hand and dragged him down the hallway to search for their friends. The Slytherin gave Cho an icy threatening glare before turning back to Harry with softened eyes and a small smile on his thin lips.
Cho avidly observed the change of expression on the pale handsome face. She shook her head in wonder and laughed slightly at the turn of events. So the rumours were true about Harry and that Slytherin...and she felt at peace that he had someone to watch out for him even if her company wasn't appreciated by the latter. She had done her job as the Headmaster requested. By telling Harry the good news, it was sure to spread like wildfire among the group.
'Hmmm...I wonder what Chris is doing now...maybe we can go for another ride on our brooms...'
Before Cho left to find the Hufflepuff, she looked up towards the sky painted in gold, violet and crimson as the sun set over the hills.
"Harry's fine, Cedric," she whispered to the clouds, "You will always be my first love and may you rest in peace...please watch over me..."
A gentle breeze brushed against her cheek and she swore she heard some faint words in Cedric's voice. A tear slipped from her eye and she smiled.
Shawn slipped on his spectacles on his nose and straightened his black school robes just in time to see Madame Pomfrey coming up to him. He sat down on the bed and allowed the school nurse to examine him. She hummed and gave a look of approval when she finished.
"You look fine now, Mr. Livinsky. That druid did a remarkable feat in reviving you, it's as if the poison never existed. Just make sure you stay out of trouble until the end of year. You may go now," she instructed as she left to tend to a new patient.
Just as he stood up, he heard pounding footfalls coming his way. He saw Yumiko and Ginny before him, panting heavily looking like they had run a marathon.
"Shawn! You're alive! Thank goodness...thank goodness..." Yumiko cried out and hugged him tightly. Shawn chuckled deeply, happy to see Yumiko in bright spirits and hugged her back tightly.
"What the others said was true, you really did come back," Ginny clapped her hands together in mirth, her eyes shining brightly.
Shawn smiled lightly at the two girls as Yumiko pulled back. Then the Hufflepuff tugged on his sleeve and pulled him along. Ginny stayed behind Shawn and pushed him forward.
"We're on our way to see Pixie...but I reckon you should be the one she sees first..." Ginny thought of the older girl and her eyes dimmed slightly, "She has no idea that you survived and she still blames herself for your condition..."
"Then lead the way, girls...I have to see for myself that she's truly alive..."
The two girls noticed the sadness swirling in his bespectacled sapphire eyes. He needed her as much as she needed him. They knew that they made the right decision to let him go first once they would reach Pixie's quarters.
"Let's go then..."
"Thank you, Winky...I'm done now..."
"Friends coming soon, Pixie...they worried but be happy to see you," Winky said as she took the empty tray from the tired girl on the bed. She gestured to the kitten who was now cleaning herself up, "Kitty finished too?"
"Yes, Tabitha's done. Are you sure you can handle the weight?" Pixie asked as she watched house-elf struggle slightly with the tray and Tabitha's dish.
"No, Winky fine. Pixie be resting."
With a snap of her fingers, Winky disappeared with a crack. Tabitha cuddled up on Pixie's lap and played with her yarn ball.
Although her strength was steadily returning and her legs weren't aching terribly as they were earlier, she felt numb and empty inside and not even the company of her beloved pet was able to make it go away. She hated that feeling very much because it made her helpless. She had to know...she had to know what happened to Shawn...she wanted to make the numbness in her chest disappear. Whether her heart would heal or break...she just wanted to feel again...
"Please...please let me know how Shawn is...tell me if he's alive or gone from this world..." little did Pixie know that her door, now cleansed from Professor Dumbledore's lock charms, began to open slightly and a shadowed figure appeared and observed her from afar, "Please...make my heart feel again...whether it be in happiness or sorrow...make me feel again..."
Dark blue bespectacled widened eyes gazed at the delicate figure on the bed with longing. But Pixie was too wrapped up in her prayer to see who her visitor was. Tabitha stopped playing and mewled excitedly as she pounced onto the boy. She recognised that kind face...the one who would make her mistress's sadness disappear...
"Hey, Tabitha..." the figure cooed gently before placing the cat on the floor, "Wait outside, okay?"
The kitten bounded out of the open door whereupon she was greeted by more coos.
The young boy's attention was brought back when he heard soft sobs coming from the bed. He looked up to see Pixie crying into her hands. He immediately strode forward and sat down on her bed.
Pixie stopped sobbing the moment she felt an additional weight dip the mattress down. Then she felt her arms caressed gently. Long strong fingers traced the soft curves of her cheek, wiping the tears away with uttermost tenderness.
"Pixie...it's okay...shhh..." Pixie's eyes widened in disbelief when she recognized the warm baritone voice, "Don't cry..."
Pixie was afraid to look up. It sounded like him...but what if he wasn't there...
She felt two fingers under her chin, slowly tilting her face up. She gasped as she took in the sight of the concerned handsome face before her. It couldn't be! It was really him!
"Shawn..." she whispered, lifting a shaky hand and laid it on his clothed chest, feeling his steady beating heart. He felt so warm...solid...real...and alive, "Is it...it...it couldn't be...I..."
"Pixie..." the bespectacled Ravenclaw took hold of her hand that was on his chest and squeezed it reassuringly, "I'm here...the poison's gone..."
Fresh tears brimmed at the edges of her shimmering silver-speckled eyes, "I...I don't believe it..."
"Believe it..." Shawn murmured and kissed her hand, "I'm here..."
"What do you think is going happen?" Ron whispered to Harry who shrugged in return.
After ushering Shawn to go inside and be with Pixie, the young students stationed themselves at the door to watch the scene unfold. Hermione, Ginny and Yumiko took one side while the Harry, Draco, Ron, Neville and Chris took the other, hiding behind the door. Tabitha made herself comfortable within the circle of Ginny's arms.
"Oh! Young ones, what's going on here?" a gentle man's voice them jump out of their skins.
Harry smiled in recognition as he greeted the newcomers, "A pleasure to meet you again, sir."
"Likewise, young man," Getafix smiled back as he stroked his beard.
"Oh...who are you?" Hermione asked.
"They are our new friends: Getafix, Asterix, Obelix and Dogmatix. They're the ones who saved Shawn," Harry said, introducing them one by one to his friends.
"May I ask why you are all so intrigued to stay around this door?" Getafix inquired with a quirked bushy eyebrow.
"He he...look inside and find out, sir..." Ginny giggled and pointed inside the dim room.
The old druid peeked inside and gave a wry smile.
"I see what's going on here...ahhh, yes," the druid nodded and his eyes twinkled, "The sight of young love in the making."
"What do you mean?" Asterix scratched his head before peeking inside as well. He blushed slightly at what he saw before him, "Oh..."
"Let me see! Let me see!" Obelix said eagerly, trying to squeeze through.
The others ignored the large man and turned their full attention back to the scene in the bedroom.
"Shawn...I..." Pixie whispered as Shawn's gentle fingers brushed her long hair from her shoulders. She shivered as his warm fingers clasped the nape of her neck, "I...how did you...I don't know what to say..."
Shawn lowered his eyes, "You have no idea how much you scared me...when I heard you were poisoned and bullied by those nasty girls, my heart broke...I hate myself for not being able to protect you as I should have."
Pixie found herself transfixed as she looked up in his eyes...she could feel her heart pounding hard in her chest...she could hardly breathe. His hands on her face felt so soothingly warm and it brought her so much comfort that it made her heart so full...
"It also made me realize how much you mean to me and...who I love all along...it wasn't Amanda..." Shawn cupped her face with both hands, looking straight into her eyes, "Pixie, it's you. It's you who is my precious person of my heart. It's you who is my true love all along! I'm such a fool for not realizing it earlier...I love you...I love you, Pixie."
Pixie felt her breath catch in her throat...those were the words she often heard in her dreams. But seeing Shawn before her and hearing them said from his own mouth, the ache in her soul was slowly replaced by a faint, euphoric feeling of hope, "Shawn..."
"Yes, Pixie..." he whispered, bringing her close, "I love you...I love you a thousand times over...I will say it as many times as you want to hear..."
"Shawn...I..." Pixie needed to say it...otherwise he would think she wouldn't accept his feelings now that they were out in the open, "I...I..."
"No...you don't to say it...I know how you feel about me..." Shawn was taken back by how immensely frightened she looked. He tried to soothe the girl in his arms, "It's okay...I heard you..."
"No, Shawn. I have to say it...I love you! I love you, Shawn Livinsky!" Pixie cried out hoarsely and began babbling, "I've been in love with you for so long! I wanted to tell you how I feel for you but you were gone and went with Amanda! I wanted you to be happy even if it hurts so much...even if it couldn't be me to bring you the happiness you deserve...the pain was so unbearable..."
At the last sentence, Pixie broke down and sobbed. She pressed her face against his shoulder and gripped his school robes tightly.
"Pixie..." Shawn whispered as he wound his arms tightly around her, his heart breaking with horrible realization that his past actions really did hurt her so much...
He rocked her gently and kissed her cheeks.
"Pixie...listen to me," he tilted her face with a gentle hand, "I meant it when I said that I love you. I was a coward not to go to apologize to you for my rude behaviour. No, I'm lower than a coward. I'm a jerk. I thought I could forget about you so I went after Amanda. I made a horrible mistake to ignore you when you clearly wanted to mend things between us and for abandoning you when you needed me..."
He felt Pixie calm down but her tears didn't stop flowing.
"I want to make you smile like you always do. I want to spend every moment with you to destroy the hurt I've caused you. I want to bear the pain with you. I want to protect and hold you. I want to drive all your fears and insecurities away. I want you to turn to me when you need help. I want to be a big part of your life. I want to make you the happiest girl alive just being with me," Shawn took hold of her hand and rubbed the back of it with his thumb, "I really and truly love you, Pixie, because you are the sweetest, most compassionate and the perfect girl in my eyes and heart. Nothing is going to change that. I solemnly swear to all the promises I just made to you."
Pixie continued gazing up into Shawn's bespectacled sapphire orbs that were now shining fervently with pure love and a strong glimmer of conviction.
"Please believe me..." he pleaded breathily. He held her tighty, making sure she won't escape, "I've said everything that's in my heart. Don't turn away. Please forgive me..."
"What is there to forgive when you've done nothing wrong...I'm just so glad...I'm so glad you didn't push me away..."
At this, Shawn's eyes burned as the tears he held back streamed down his cheeks. His sweet innocent Pixie didn't find any fault in him...it only served to increase his guilt and his need to compensate her needs before his in the days to come.
The new couple hugged each other tightly, crying out their fears and sorrows they had kept within for so long. During the process, their hearts healed and were filled with love and warmth.
Their eyes were sore and they were breathing haggardly when they had no more tears to shed. Pixie's head rested on Shawn's heaving chest while Shawn leaned his cheek on the top of her head.
"Shawn?" Pixie's soft voice rang out after a moment. She nuzzled against him, hardly believing that her best friend was now her boyfriend, "Is this still a dream? If it is...I never want to wake up..."
Shawn chuckled as he cuddled his girlfriend against him, "Well, whether you're awake or asleep, I'm afraid you're stuck with me because I'm here to protect and love you...let me be your hero, Pixie..."
A genuine smile found its way on Pixie's lips.
"My hero..." Pixie whispered dreamily and closed her eyes, "It sounds good..."
"Yeah..." Shawn smiled and pulled her closer, "It does."
Just then, Shawn tilted her head with a gentle hand, his eyes focused on her trembling lips. They were so full and pink. He could feel her warm pants as he found himself drawing closer and closer, hypnotized on how inviting they were, begging him to press them together with his. His own face burned like he was on fire...
Their faces angled as they inched closer...their mouths opening slightly...and finally...their lips touched softly like the gentlest brush of butterfly wings.
Pixie whimpered and tried to pull back at the strange contact. But she slowly relaxed against his strong body when Shawn hushed her against her lips. He rubbed her shoulders to soothe her as he kissed her with slightly more pressure. She sighed and closed her eyes, letting Shawn's lips caress her own and brushing her hands over the arms still holding her.
Shawn also fluttered his eyes close and held her tightly against him, feeling the need to feel her soft pliant body against his. After a moment, Pixie became daring and licked his bottom lip and found herself in a gentle duel of tongue twisting.
After a long moment, they broke the heated kiss, panting softly and their faces in identical rosy blushes. Shawn then kissed her temples softly, earning a shy kiss on his cheek in return.
Pixie laid her head on his strong chest, feeling his fingers combing her hair gently and comfortingly. Shawn smiled and kissed her head, hugging her tighter. The girl sighed tiredly but happily and leaned against Shawn who continued to hold her securely. She was happy beyond words alone. Her heart was throbbing with indescribable euphoria.
"I love you..." Pixie whispered, her warm breath gentle against his neck.
"I love you too..." Shawn replied, tipping her head up for another a chaste kiss.
"Don't leave me...stay with me..." she said as they pulled back. She buried her face against his shoulder, "I don't want to be alone..."
"Sweetie..." he placed a lingering kiss on her forehead, "I'm not going anywhere..."
Shawn began to notice that Pixie looked extremely worn out as she tiredly leaned against his sturdy build.
"I'm so tired..." she murmured, closing her eyes and linking her arms around his waist tightly, afraid that he might disappear, "So tired...I...I want to sleep..."
"Hush...rest now, my heart..." he crooned, "You're safe in my arms...close your eyes and go to sleep."
Pixie did as she was told and her heavy breathing indicated that she was already deeply asleep. He carefully disentangled her arms from his waist to lean her back on the pillows behind her. Then he shrugged off his black outer robes and shoes and placed their spectacles together on the vanity table. Then he went to the other side of the bed and joined Pixie's side while pulling the covers over them.
He scooped the girl back in his arms and she immediately made herself comfortable by lying her head in the crook of his neck and curling her body against him. Feeling her bare legs entwining his, Shawn felt a great serenity wash over him and the love for the girl in his arms grew stronger the longer he admired her as she slept. He combed her hair back and kissed her forehead before snuggling close and fell asleep, a content sigh escaping his lips.
The scene left the onlookers with different reactions. Ginny was sighing dreamily. Hermione was smiling warmly with her hand over her heart. Yumiko tried all she could to contain her happy squeals. Ron and Chris looked like they were going to puke. Neville grinned at the two boys while shaking his head in amusement at their reactions. Harry and Draco looked on inside with small relieved smiles, happy that their friends finally found each other. Tabitha purred loudly in Ginny's arms. Getafix was looking thoughtful yet his eyes shone with mirth. Asterix was busy comforting a bawling Obelix as he petted his back.
"Man! This is so sappy. How soft can you get!" Ron made a face and turned away with a shake of his head.
"Awww...but still, this is so romantic..." the girls sighed with silly smiles on their faces.
"They're just like you and I, lion," Draco pecked Harry on his lips. The Gryffindor hummed in agreement and kissed back.
"Is something wrong with him?" Neville pointed to Obelix who was still sniffling and wiping his tears.
"Oh, it's nothing. It's just that scenes such as this makes him cry. He'll get over it," Asterix reassured the Gryffindor.
"Boo hoo hoo hoooo!" Obelix wept.
"Come along, let's leave the new lovebirds alone," Getafix then patted Obelix's shoulder, "Let's go."
"Yeah...I vote we leave them in peace," Chris hurriedly agreed as he tugged his stepsister's arm and dragged her along, "Come along, Yumiko..."
"Awww, big brother! I wanted to see more!" the younger Hufflepuff whined but followed Chris.
"I've enough of this," Ron shook his head, "I'd go for studying any day..."
"Then let's start a new study session in the library since you are so enthusiastic about it," Hermione smirked and pulled her redheaded boyfriend down the corridor.
"Oh joy..." Ron said sarcastically. He grinned when Hermione gave a playful punch on his shoulder.
"Let's go for a walk, Ginny. I could use some fresh air," Neville held out his hand to her.
"Okay!" Ginny said brightly as she cuddled Tabitha in her arms, "Hey sweetie. Let's go out for a while, okay?"
Tabitha purred even more loudly as she cuddled against her friend's chest. Soon Harry and Draco were left the only ones left standing by the door. The Slyhtherin smiled at the endearing sight before closing the door, respectfully giving the new lovers some much needed peace and privacy.
"I guess that leaves us, Dray."
"Shall we still go ahead with that promised ride on our brooms?" Draco suggested and gestured to the direction towards the Great Hall, "I'm sure that this time, our hearts will be into it now, knowing that both Pixie and Shawn are safe..."
Harry chuckled, nodding his head and feeling his heart lightened and less burdened, "Yeah...then let's have a race, dragon."
Draco drew Harry close and kissed him deeply, "Come along, lion. Let's not waste time."
"I'm sure she's fine, Minerva," Professor Dumbledore said as his hand closed on the handle. He pushed the door open slowly and strode to the bed. He was curious to see two covered lumps under the sheets, "Pixie? Child? Are you...oh..."
"Albus? What's going on?" Professor McGonagall stood next to him and inhaled sharply in surprise at the sight before her, "What in Heaven's name is going on here?"
The headmaster's face bore a smile and his eyes crinkled warmly while Professor McGonagall's face twisted with clear disapproval.
Pixie and Shawn were fast asleep on the bed together, lost in sweet dreams. The Ravenclaw was lying on his side with Pixie's back spooned against his front. The boy's arms wrapped securely around her shoulders and her hands held on his in a light grip.
The two professors watched Pixie starting to fidget in her sleep. Shawn groggily opened his eyes and yawned. He looked down at the girl and kissed her cheek and ear. The girl relaxed in his embrace, making the boy smile slightly. He murmured something in her ear and kissed her eyelids tenderly. Then he laid back down, closed his eyes and fell asleep again.
"I'm very much surprised that he didn't see us or at the very least, sense our presence, Minerva," Professor Dumbledore chuckled softly, "Isn't young love a beautiful sight?"
"But Mr. Livinsky should be with his housemates back in the Ravenclaw common room...how did he get here?" the Transfiguration professor wondered, "What do you think we should do, Albus?"
"It's best to leave them alone. There's no sense to disturb them when they are finally at peace," the elderly Headmaster reasoned.
"But, Albus. We can't leave them like this. It is most inappropriate," she pointed out sternly.
"Look at their faces, Minerva. See how tranquil they look. Don't you think the child looks happier?" the Headmaster asked with a smile.
Professor McGonagall glanced at Pixie's face. Indeed there was a sweet smile on her lips...a much relieved change from the constant sorrow and stress marking her face. It was a wonder that this boy from Ravenclaw had brought the much deserved happiness to the girl. She started to find the scene very endearing and begrudgingly agreed with the Headmaster.
"I suppose they can sleep together...but only for tonight...just because he is dear to your granddaughter doesn't mean that we can bend the rules for him," Professor McGonagall firmly stated.
"Point taken, I'll let Mr. Livinsky know about it. Come, let's leave them, Minerva..." he guided Professor McGonagall out of the room and shut the door behind them quietly. He turned and smiled at her, "Let's take a short stroll. It has been a long, tiring period and the worst is finally over. It's time to stop and smell the flowers, Minerva."
"Yes...that will be refreshing, Albus."
To be continued...