Disclaimer: No matter how many times I wave my wand, I do not hold any rights to any of the Harry Potter series but I am grateful to JK for writing them.

A/N: I have referred to individuals who are real people in this chapter and as to not insult anyone I used their formal titles. They are there to add to the story line and I mean absolutely no disrespect.

Chapter 52: A Grand Affair

Harry moved along the hallway at Hogwarts. It was late in the evening and the setting sun was casting a golden glow along the hallway. He was on a mission and was determined to get through it within the next half an hour. He still had to get ready for the ball and in half an hour a scowling Kreacher would come looking for him.

He opened the door to the top of Ravenclaw Tower and smiled when he saw the Grey Lady. Helena Ravenclaw looked at him and gave him a soft smile.

"Good evening Lord Gryffindor" She said with a curtsey.

"Helena" Harry said and bowed.

"It has been centuries since we had a ball of this magnitude. We have had many balls, your Triwizard Yule Ball was the last of course but..." she gestured. Harry looked out, the grounds looked magnificent and the passageway up to the school was lined by the armour knights holding torches. Harry saw the elven soldiers surrounding the school. The soldiers were dressed in formal elven armour. "It has been over six hundred years since we had a King attend a ball. Do you know King Kenneth III came to the opening of the school? I wasn't born then of course. His grandson Duncan attended my christening ball. He was scheduled to attend my wedding." She sighed and then said "I am told the muggle Crown Prince is coming. It is how things were in the past."

"Yes. It should be fun. Listen I have come to ask you a favour" Harry said.

She looked at him.

"You know the Prince family have now come to Hogwarts" Harry said.

"Yes Prince Valerian and Octavius, Beauty and Emily" Helena said nodding. She and Bloody Baron were the unofficial heads of all the ghosts in the school. They made it their business to know those in the school.

"Yes, Emily has asked if someone could teach her to read and Octavius is fifteen and never finished school. I was wondering if you could possibly teach them" Harry said.

"Teach. Have classes for ghost children?" Helena said in surprise.

"Emily asked me a few days ago and I have been so busy. Emily asked me again today and I don't want to tell her again that I didn't find out" Harry said and Helena nodded.

"I will tutor both of them" Helena said with a smile. "I however also ask a favour of you."

Harry looked at her questioningly.

"I have heard from my mother and from Ogden that you are the Master Over Death?"

"Yes. I am not going to exorcise Peeves" Harry said seriously.

She laughed "No, I like Peeves too. No it is Gabriel."

"Gabriel!" Harry said thinking of the little first year who was now at the Riddle orphanage.

"Who you call the Bloody Baron. His real name is Gabriel de Noir" Helena said.

"He wants to move on?"

"NO" She screamed and then in a more quiet tone said "No...no. You know our story... I want... can you remove his chains from him. He carries the chains as a sign of his crime against me. It has been over nine hundred years, I think he has more than paid for his crime. Can you remove them?"

"Well I have never tried anything like that but I will try" Harry said with a smile. "Now I have to go and get dressed for the ball."

"You cannot be late for your husband's ball" She said.

"No I can't. If I don't go now, Kreacher will come looking for me and he is not afraid to use elven magic to drag me and dress me so I will be on time. Lord Black is never late" Harry said the last part mimicking Kreacher.

She laughed.

Harry looked at Severus who sat looking nervous. He had already arranged a special evening for him. After the funeral, he had surprised Severus with a trip to a magical spa where, Severus was given a massage, manicure, pedicure, a facial... the full works (Severus drew the line at waxing his eyebrows). Then Valerian supervised Jeeves the Head of the Prince house-elves who carefully dressed Severus. Harry smiled, Severus looked magnificent.

Severus was dressed in acromantula silk robes with a silver inner robe with rich emerald green outer robes. The Slytherin pin Salazar gave him was pinned on the outer robes and the Potions Guild Member crest was elegantly embroidered on the outside, along with the Prince family crest. The inner robe had a rich silver belt on the waist which had a silver sword attached. The sword had an emerald green snake on the scabbard. Severus stood and Harry saw the full effect. Unlike his normal teaching robes, these robes showed his slim figure and made him look taller and really elegant. He looked like a Prince and Harry just stared at him.

"What?" Severus said sounding worried.

"You look beyond handsome. I am going to make sure and have your wedding ring exposed. I will have everyone know you are already taken and that you are mine" Harry said and moved to his husband. He was about to give Severus a mind blowing kiss when Kreacher appeared.

"No you don't. You two will end up messing each other up. Jeeves spent over an hour dressing Master Severus. Master Harry you need to get dressed" Kreacher said and dragged Harry to his room.

Harry went and got ready. Harry's robes where light gold with a ruby red outer robe with a rich gold border. His hair was neatly brushed and he looked fantastic. His Black Death sword was on his hip but it was hidden. He saw Severus' eyes light up.

"Ohh you look like Godric when he was young. Though he was never as good looking as you are Harry" Helga said from Godric's portrait. "Everyone wants to see you two before you go down stairs." She didn't have to tell him who 'everyone' was.

Severus and Harry went down to the Hall of Advisors.

"You two look beyond amazing" Lily said. A few others gave them complements.

"Harry looks a lot like Godric when he was that age" Salazar said.

"Godric was not as handsome" Rowena said.

Godric called Ogden and spoke to him rapidly in elvish. Salazar also spoke to the elf and soon the two portraits were arguing in elvish before Godric knocked Salazar out. Ogden disappeared and came back in less than five minutes later with a gold and ruby hair clasp and a silver walking stick. Kreacher came and took the hair clasp and Ogden gave Severus the walking stick.

Severus looked at the walking stick, it was pure silver with an emerald green basilisk head and the snake's body was wrapped along the stick. It matched the sword Salazar had given him before.

Kreacher arranged Harry's hair. He pulled two thin braids, one from each side of Harry's face and tied them together in the back with the hair clasp.

"Now you look perfect. You and Severus complement each other" Godric said with a smile.

Harry then looked at Godric. Godric had on formal looking clothes. "Godric, you have changed your clothes... How?"

"Magic Harry" Godric said with a smile. Harry looked at the other three founders, each had on formal robes.

"Do you think we will be attending a ball in teaching robes or duelling robes" Salazar said magically 'healing' the black eye Godric gave him.

Harry chuckled. Kreacher came and told Harry he had guests. Harry and Severus went back up and saw Helena with the Bloody Baron who looked uncomfortable. It was obvious she had dragged him there.

Helena looked at both Harry and Severus "You two look great. Harry you look a lot like... Galen."

Harry chuckled. "Okay Baron de Noir, I don't know if this will work but I will try." Harry took out his death sword and carefully cut the first set of chains. To the Baron's amazement the chains broke and disappeared. "Cool" Harry said. Harry then used the sword and cut through all of the chains until there were none. Harry moved to the Baron and touched the large knife sticking through him. The knife was ice cold in Harry's hand but felt solid enough. Harry used the death magic that Death taught him and the knife came out. Harry moved his wand over the bloody area and nothing happened. From behind him in Godric's portrait, Ignotus stood and suggested Harry used the Elder wand and the blood disappeared.

When he was finished the Bloody Baron genuflected and bowed his head low "Thank you Lord Over Death... thank you."

"You are welcome" Harry said and Helena hugged Harry. He felt like he was dunked in cold water but smiled at the gesture.

Helena then moved over and kissed Baron De Noir and Harry and Severus smiled. Helena then looked at them "Are my students here, I thought that perhaps I could start assessing what they know."

"Well they don't have to sleep" Severus said and led them to the doorway between the two apartments.

"Harry you look really pretty" Emily said as they entered.

"And what about Severus, he looks very handsome" Valerian said.

"He looks like you" Emily said looking at her great-grandfather.

"Exactly" Valerian said.

"I think someone has a C.R.U.S.H. on H.A.R.R.Y." Helena said spelling out the words. Valerian laughed and Harry rolled his eyes.

"Emily, Octavius, I would like to introduce Lady Helena Ravenclaw, who will be your new tutor" Harry said.

"She will teach me to read?" Emily asked.

"And a lot more" Helena said and Emily cheered.

Octavius was however not pleased. He immediately sported a scowl that Harry instantly recognised. It was the scowl that Severus would have on his face when he got into a stubborn mood. "Schoolwork! For goodness sake I am not fifteen; I am over four hundred years old."

"You did not finish school" Severus said.

Octavius glared at him "I am not going back to classes. I refuse to..."

Valerian became very serious and put his hand on Octavius' shoulder and gave it a hard squeeze. "Young man I know you have been guardian of the Prince family for a long time. But I am still your grandfather and I am your guardian and you will be going back to school."

Octavius glared at his grandfather. The taller older ghost crossed his arms and looked at Octavius with a look that said I will not be disobeyed. It was a battle of wills but eventually Octavius sighed and looked at Helena "I thank you ma'am for this opportunity."

"Very good. Will they be the only students, I noticed a few other young ghosts in the school. Will they also be in class with them" Valerian asked.

"Well we never considered it before. I am only doing this because Harry asked" Helena said. Harry noticed Octavius glaring at him.

"Myrtle would benefit from this as well and there are five others who died underage. Helena you and Baron de Noir set up a plan of studies and Minerva and I will approve it. I think some of them do not move on because they want to 'graduate'." Severus said.

"Not Myrtle. Octavius you and Myrtle have a lot in common, you both were around the same age when you died and you died the same way and you both guarded the area where you died to prevent others from going to the creature" Harry said.

"And Harry ignored you both and in both cases the Basilisk died in Harry's presence" Severus said and Harry glared at him.

"Uncle Sev" a voice called out. It was Draco.

"In here Draco" Severus called out. Draco came in followed by Lucius, Narcissa, Andromeda, Cassy and Hermione. The children were with them. Teddy ran up and Severus picked him up. Immediately Harry saw Emily's eyes flare in jealousy.

"Thank you for organising baby-sitting tonight Harry" Andromeda said taking Teddy from Severus.

"Kreacher is happy to do it and Dante has spent the day organising games and snacks. Elena should be coming up soon to drop Julieta" Harry said.

"Lord Black will Melina be here as well?" Richard asked. Richard and Clair had not seen their cousin since the day of her mother's funeral.

"Lord Malfoy will be here tonight and yes Melina and little Neville, should be coming and will be joining you up here" Harry said. Janus named the baby after Neville. Neville had been the one to save both him and Melina and had saved the baby by insisting the hospital take the baby out of his dead mother. Neville had used his position and threatened to pull the Longbottom donations to the hospital to give the baby a chance at life. Janus said he would be eternally grateful to him for his actions.

Richard gave a slight smile and a nod. Harry shook his head; the boy still hadn't lightened up.

"Okay everyone let's start making a move" Andromeda said.

"If it is okay Master of Slytherin, could we stay a while, I want to assess Octavius' knowledge" Helena said and Octavius groaned.

"Of course" Severus said.

Valerian gave Helena an appraised look and Baron de Noir growled and stepped in front of her and said in a low growl "We will both be staying."

Harry chuckled.

The castle looked beautiful and most of the wizard guests arrived at the school gate via apparition or portkey and were magically scanned and then taken by thestral carriage to the castle. Most of the muggles were coming via various limousines which were allowed to enter the compound and were parked at the side of the castle. The limousines were all magically scanned. The elven party who were actually attending the ball were coming via Faenor's portal and the Goblin King and the contingent from Gringotts and Fireforge and his wife were all coming via special portkeys directly into the castle.

The castle looked like he always imagined. His brother spoke of its beauty and how much he loved living there. He looked at the series of carriages that snaked its way to the castle, in the light of the rising moon, it was magnificent. Amun looked down at the castle from the top of the mountain on the other side of the lake. Tonight will be the end... tonight he was determined to have his mate. One thing he had learnt in the thousands of years he had been alive is that humans will do anything to keep others thinking well of them. Tonight the wizards were hosting the ball and the high elves, goblins and muggles would be there. If they wanted to avoid him destroying the place with the various members of royalty and risk going to war with the realms they would willingly hand over Severus. Albus had trained Severus well; he always sacrificed himself for the greater good and would willing come to his bed to save the others.

He smiled thinking of Severus. At first he wanted him because he was a carrier, however after their time on Flamel's island, he could not stop thinking about him. His hands, his body, his smile, his kisses, his dominant manner, his voice... Amun closed his eyes, that dreamy voice. He licked his lips, he couldn't wait. He had a room all prepared, rose petals on the bed, candles around... he would make love to him all night. He had to have him. Severus was his mate and tonight...tonight he would have him.

Amun looked down; he saw LeBlanc's carriage of white horses moving towards the castle. He brought out his wings and flew down and stood in the middle of the road. The horses reared but the driver was able to control them. LeBlanc opened the door to the carriage and Amun stepped in.

"You look very handsome tonight" LeBlanc said nervously.

"Don't I always. Did you get what I asked you to get?" Amun said.

LeBlanc looked at the de Medici twins who nodded and handed him the box. He opened it; it was a wedding ring, a female wedding ring.

"Did you get any trouble getting this?"

"If you mean did the cathedral notice one of their most revered graves was robbed no. I made sure the men knew to make it look as if nothing had been disturbed. She was perfectly preserved and there was also a golden crown which they took as a reward."

"I do not care about anything else, the ring was what I wanted" Amun said and put the ring on his little finger. Julieta Slytherin had to be a petite woman, she was rumoured to be exceedingly beautiful. He smirked; Salazar was crazy to bury her with such a magical item. If Salazar was so careless not to put magical protection on her grave, well it was his fault that the grave was robbed. Amun looked at the ring; the stone was part of the Eye of Shiva and would protect him.

He looked at the ring. It had been a pleasure digging the eye out of that blasted snake's head. Shiva had always thought too much of himself. He was all talk and couldn't fight a fairy. He used his size and intimidation to defeat others but Amun had been a warrior, he was meant to be a General in the Atlantian army and the Warrior King. Shiva was no match. Lakshmi was more a challenge... She had almost ripped his wings off the first time and had stopped him from skinning that idiot husband of hers. The second time she crushed his bones and had bitten him. If it wasn't for the Basilisk and the Naga he would have, not died, but he would have probably been incapacitated for a millennium. It was ironic that it was the eye of Shiva that had saved him.

The carriage approached the castle and Amun smiled, tonight would be the start of his new reign. Once he got back to Atlantis, he would use the machine and complete his transformation. He would then use the machine to destroy all muggles and then he would rule the world filled with magics. Once again Atlantis would be the centre of the world but this time he would be King. He would be King of the World for all time.

The carriage was stopped and they were checked. The elven guard looked at him strangely but then nodded and allowed the carriage to continue. They moved ahead and entered through the gates. The horses move on but the carriage itself was severed from the axel and it was sent backwards. Amun screamed, the wards gave him an immediate blinding headache, his skin felt like it was pealed off and the pain was like he hadn't felt since when he was mortal. He screamed and flew up out of the broken carriage.

Within the castle Salazar looked at Godric who chuckled. Rowena took up a glass of wine "I didn't think it would work."

"I didn't think he was so stupid to ever try" Helga said.

"Come on people, we have a ball to attend. Amun will not bother us again tonight" Salazar said.

Dudley sat back looking at his mother. She looked nervous, beautiful but nervous. He had taken both his mother and Mr. Toby to Diagon Alley and to Madam Malkins and Twilfit and Tattings. Both of them had been to Diagon Alley before and had seen goblins before so neither screamed upon meeting Fireforge. The goblin had ensured both had appropriate wear for tonight. His mother had on pink robes that looked very muggle in design but had the elegance that formal witch's robes had. Mrs. Jacobs who made the robes said that for Severus Snape and Harry Potter she would make only the best. Tobias had been pleased.

Mr. Twilfit made Tobias' suit which Fireforge had picked up and dropped off for them at Privet Drive. Mr. Toby had dressed at Privet Drive, however to avoid any scandal, Mr. and Mrs. Grunning had also met them at the house. The limousine and driver had picked them all up at the house. At first Petunia kept asking how they could drive all the way to Scotland from Surrey in an hour but it was now forty-five minutes after pickup and the car was pulling into the Hogwarts gates.

Dudley looked at the Grunnings, they kept looking at him both in wonder and in sympathy. When they saw him in the elven formal wear, they were astounded but then they were apologetic. Abigail had broken up with him. She had even left her parents house, not being able to handle the magic.

The muggles who never saw the castle before gasped at its beauty. Petunia blushed when she saw the elven guard who had stopped the car and had magically checked it. "We really are entering another realm" she said as the car went on its way.

"Don't worry Petunia the high elves are new to me as well. They almost never leave their realm and are a mystery to us the way wizards are to you all" Alicia Grunning said.

"And they come to Severus' ball" Tobias said with awe and pride.

"The High Elven King and Queen will be here tonight" Dudley said and the others looked at him in excitement.

The car stopped and they all got out. Tobias looked down at his formal tux and made sure his shoes were shining. He took a deep breath.

Dudley led the way with his mother on his arm. They entered the castle and were all immediately amazed at the magnificence of the castle. Minerva and Severus were on hand to greet all of the guests as were Harry, Neville and Augusta. As Dudley and his group entered Minerva smiled and Severus beamed.

"Petunia you look lovely. Dad I am so happy you made it... Lenard, Alicia I am honoured you could make it" Severus said.

"Severus you look fantastic" Petunia said.

"You look like a Prince son, literally" Tobias said and gave him a smile. Severus looked like he was going to float off again.

"Come let me take you all inside" Harry said.

Lenard looked at Harry as they were walking towards the Great Hall. "You both now look like you are in your element. I am a bit overwhelmed."

"Don't worry; just think of it as a function with foreign dignitaries, all with their own unique look, language, custom and dress. Everyone here has red blood flowing in their veins" Harry said and Lenard nodded.

The Great Hall looked better than it ever did before. Even Alisha who had attended Hogwarts was amazed at its beauty. The hall was void of the normal tables and chairs but had crystal looking round tables and matching chairs to the front and a large area which was obviously an area for dance. The raised platform which the teachers normally sat had a special area for the special dignitaries. The walls were decorated with greenery and the night sky above was divine and the moon light streaming in made the room look... magical.

Harry introduced the group around to several people. He ended up leaving Lenard with Arthur Weasley who was in a deep conversation with a man in tux who he later learnt was the squib from the Bank of London who was in fact Molly's cousin. Alisha ended up with Brian and Justine. Brian talked non-stop about her sister Amelia who he admired greatly. There were several shop owners from Diagon Alley at the ball and Hayden Taylor who ran Fortescue's was there and started a conversation with Dudley and Tobias about boxing.

Petunia looked uncomfortable. Harry looked at her and smiled. "Aunt Petunia there is someone I would like for you to meet. But she is not here in the Great Hall."

Petunia nodded and followed Harry. She looked around at the moving pictures and the old castle. There was a warmth that she found comforting. She understood why both Harry and Lily loved the castle so much. At last they reached a portrait of a Griffin which opened revealing a door. Harry took her inside, an elf popped in but then bowed and left.

"This is my apartment" Harry informed her.

"It is really nice, you have done well, you mother would have been proud of you" Petunia said.

"Yes I know but thank you for saying it" Harry said. He then led her down a stair case to a round room with several empty picture frames.

"When I realise you were coming here, the others left to give us all some privacy" a female voice said.

Petunia swirled around at the very familiar voice. She stared at the picture that was glaring at her... "Lily?"

"Yes Petunia Mary Evans Dursley" Lily said "And you and I have a lot to talk about."

Harry cleared his throat, the last time he saw his mother giving that look, he was on the receiving end of a very severe scolding. "I have to get back to the ball. Aunt Petunia when you are ready to come back to the ball call Kreacher and he will escort you down." Harry fled the room and let out a deep breath. He didn't want to be in his Aunt's shoes right now.

Harry returned to the Great Hall, seconds before the Prime Minister and his wife entered escorted by Kingsley. Harry noticed the Goblin King had already entered and was now talking with Neville and the contingent from the Exchequers Office. Harry went over to make his greetings to the King and then moved to talk with Fred and George who had also arrived.

Within the next ten minutes Potions Master Arjun came with his wife and son who was escorting Ginny. Ginny looked stunning in an Indian Sari, she walked with a cane but looked elegant. Harry hugged her and told her she looked fantastic. Harry spoke to the group at length. Harry noticed Rita Skeeter and her photographer taking pictures and she gave him a wink when she took one of Ginny with Sunil Arjun.

Percy and Audrey came along with Bill and Fleur. Fleur was a marvel and Harry was quickly reminded that she was the daughter of a dignitary. She was like a perfect hostess introducing various groups of individuals to one another. Harry was briefly reminded of Molly Weasley. His heart pained and looked at Arthur who seemed to understand his look and gave him a smile.

Harry laughed a minute later when Charlie walked in with his Aunt Muriel. Harry immediately went to her and kissed her on her cheek.

"I hope you save at least one dance for me" Harry said.

"You look edible Lord Potter, I think I remember where the broom closet is on the first floor" the feisty woman said with a wink and Harry laughed.

Hagrid came in dressed in rich green and brown robes. Minerva had made sure that the half giant was properly dressed and looked like a proper Professor. Augusta had given him a few lessons in etiquette and he looked nervous but gave Harry thumbs up. Madam Maxime from Beauxbatons also attended and Harry saw she gave Hagrid a definite smile of approval. The two left the ball early to look at Norberta who was securely penned at the side of the castle.

A minute after the Elven King and Queen arrived Harry felt a sharp tug in the magic of the school. He saw Neville had felt it too. They both looked at one another and moved to the room at the side of the Hall. "Hogwarts what was that?"

Someone who the grounds is warded against tried to enter. The wards repelled him. He will not get in.

"Who was that?"

The Atlantian Forbidden One

"The bastard Seth" Harry practically growled "At least he would not be bothering us tonight."

Neville however kept looking at Harry strangely, finally he said "Hogwarts when were the wards against the Forbidden One erected?"

Hogwarts did not answer.

Harry then looked at Neville and then looked up "Hogwarts can you tell us when the wards against the Forbidden One were erected?"

No I can't.

Then Neville gave Harry a look and then said "Hogwarts do you know when the wards against the Forbidden One were erected?"

No I do not.

"Which means it was before her time" Neville said.

Harry looked at him disbelieving but then thought about it seriously. "This is possibly why they chose to build the school in this location. We have to take a closer look at the Druid Tree. I think after the ball, we will have a long talk with Godric, Salazar, Rowena and Helga" Harry said sternly and Neville nodded.

The two went back into the Great Hall. Most of the guests had arrived. The contingent from the centaurs had not come but it was doubtful that they would. Harry saw Master LeBlanc looking shaken but he told Master Mayer he was okay he also mention his guests would not be coming.

Harry looked at the British Crown Prince who had just arrived and was now greeting Lord Nolodron. The Hall was filled with Heads of State, dignitaries, members of the potions guild, potions masters, shop owners, bankers, professors and even students.

Harry looked at the new Headboy and Headgirl who both looked nervous. Severus had also invited Aiden, Lisle, Jimmy and Orla, the four orphans looked more comfortable than Mr. Filch who stood at the side and refused to come in the hall. The school's orchestra was also there to provide music for part of the night. The children were excited and Harry saw all of the students talking with one another, tonight it was as if no houses existed.

When all of the guests had been given a few minutes to settle, there was a loud trumpeting sound and the four founders entered the large life-size frame that was situated at the top of the Hall. Godric called for silence and formally welcomed everyone to Hogwarts. Salazar spoke on the reason why they were there which was to honour Severus. Harry heard all of the Potions Masters in the room exclaim in excitement when Salazar spoke. Rowena spoke on the importance of the continuing work in Potions and on Severus being a pioneer in several areas of the field. Helga welcomed the various Heads of the different realms and spoke on unity.

Minerva stepped forward and welcomed them all and started a small speech honouring Severus who she called up to the stage. She then presented Severus with the key to his new office and his new personal potions lab which was state of the art (all the potions masters approved). She then presented him with a symbolic key to the new Slytherin Towers. There was a lot of applause by all those who were in or had been in Slytherin House.

The Potions Guild presented him with a gold cauldron. The Elven King presented Severus with a chest of rare ingredients only found in the elven realm...

Dudley leaned over to Harry "Where is my mum?"

"With my mum."

"Getting your revenge?"

"No I think they both need to reconcile, they are sisters... and okay there was a little revenge but just a little" Harry said and Dudley shook his head. They clapped when the British Crown Prince handed Severus a book that was written by Merlin and had been left in the King's personal Library.

"I would never have been able to top that" Dudley said.

"What did you get him?" Harry asked.

"A set of gold pens with his name engraved in it" Dudley said looking embarrassed.

"That was really a good present. He would like that. It is not very impressive when you claim to be a 'Prince' and then sign something with a fifty pence plastic ball point pen. The pens would have been a great gift" Harry said. It was also a great present considering that Dudley was not very rich.

"You better get going" Dudley said as they saw the Headboy seventh year Slytherin Edward Vaisey go to present his gift on behalf of Slytherin House. The gift a rare Merlin's mamba snake was in a small tank. The Merlin's mamba was a magical snake and was in the top five of rare magical snakes (of course the Basilisk being number one). Harry made a mental note to get an area for the snake where Dante would not see it.

As Harry moved forward he stood up next to Potions Master Arjun who joked and said "I think I will have a ball next year, the gifts Severus is getting are amazing, I am so jealous."

"Wait until you see mine. My cousin told Severus part of what I am giving him and he literally was dancing on the ceiling" Harry said and Arjun laughed.

Severus' eyes were gleaming when Filius presented him with a dagger. It was made out of a pearl material and had in the handle the blue orb Salacia had given him. It also had in it three emeralds which were previously the three barbs at the end of the whip Perenelle would use on the Basilisk. They had figured it out that they were fragments from the eye of Shiva. Helga guessed it came from her chain which she had on her death passed on to her son Eric's wife and was passed on to the wives of the Lord Hufflepuff. It had disappeared around the time Perenelle had attended school. Harry knew that this dagger would be the one they would use to kill Amun.

When Neville presented the beautiful wooden cauldron, it looked very simple compared to the other gifts that all of the others had given. Then the cauldron opened its eyes and spoke. Severus almost dropped it. When Neville explained that it was made of living Mandrake wood all of the Potions Masters in the room exclaimed and Gadolin who was on stage immediate went to 'put it aside' for Severus.

"I don't think you could top that Harry, I would sell my manor for that cauldron" Arjun said.

"Oh ye of little faith. Do you think I will let someone else give my husband a better gift? I thought you knew me better Arjun" Harry said with a laugh.

"I don't know you will have to come really good" Arjun said with slight amusement.

"I hope you have two manors" Harry said with a smile and Arjun laughed. When Minerva announced Harry, Severus was already smiling broadly at him. Kreacher popped in and walked at the side of Harry carrying a wooden chest. Harry climbed the stairs and went to the stage.

"I Lord Harry Potter Black, Lord of Gryffindor present my gift to you Potions Guild Member Snape. You have brought great honour to our great institution and I am proud to present these rare potions ingredients to you." He opened the chest and took out the one and a half foot scarlet feather. "A plume from a male Basilisk willingly given."

The entire hall of Potions Masters erupted in shouts of amazement and Severus beamed as he took the feather. Gadolin, Arjun, Mayer and LeBlanc the other members of the guild council immediately crowded them, all wanting to see and touch the feather. Knowing Harry was a parselmouth and knowing he already had relations with a Basilisk they did not doubt the authenticity of the item.

Tobias looked at Dudley "I don't understand."

"It is supposed to be one of the rarest potions ingredients in the world" Dudley said.

"Basilisks are rare, so rare that even elves who have lived thousands of years may never see one and in every ten or twenty Basilisk you may have one male. The male has a feather at the top of its head, only someone like Harry could get the snake to give its plume. A willingly given potions ingredient is probably ten times more powerful than one that is taken by force" Alicia explained and the others nodded. Dudley saw Kingsley explaining to the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince as well.

Harry tried to call for calm and then said "I have not finished presenting my gift as yet."

Severus looked up at him in shock "There is something better than a Basilisk feather?" It was traditional that you would leave your best for last. The others on the council stepped back and looked on in excitement.

Harry took out several pieces of a large egg shell. The shell was a slight poisonous green in colour and all together it was larger than an ostrich egg. "It is a well known fact that when the male of a species and the female of the same species meet and mate, an offspring can be born..."

A few of the crowd chuckled. The Potions Guild members on the stage where looking at him in curiosity, Arjun had his eyebrow raised. Severus however had figured it out and was looking at Harry in shock and absolute love. He was also breathing hard and had to use all of his power and strength to not faint, dance around like a mad man or kiss Harry until he saw stars.

"... All animals magical and non-magical produce offspring in this manner, no matter how rare the incident is..." Harry said and then looked at the confused Potions Guild and smiled. "Every creature including... the Basilisk. Potions Guild Member Snape I present the eggshell of a Basilisk which was laid by a Basilisk."

The entire hall of potions masters went into a frenzy. Kreacher had to put the shell and feather back into the chest and pop away with it before it could be destroyed by the rushing potions masters.

Tobias looked at Dudley "I guess that is a good gift."

"Think of someone giving you a living breathing baby dinosaur" Alicia said and the others nodded.

It took a good half an hour for the crowd to calm but for the potions masters all they spoke about for most of the night were the potions ingredients that Severus had gotten.

Minerva went over to Harry and said "I am happy I put you as the last person to present a gift." Harry laughed. Minerva then started the ball by dancing with Severus. Several others joined the dance floor. To Harry and Dudley's relief Petunia came in escorted by Valerian and she looked at them both and smiled. Both Harry and Severus had to dance with about ten females before they could dance with one another.

"You know you are not getting any sleep tonight right" Severus whispered seductively in his ear as they danced.

"I guess I did good" Harry said.

"You did great and I will show you how great tonight" Severus said and smiled when Harry gave a soft pleasing growl.

Harry looked for Dudley who was dancing with Luna while Neville was dancing with Minerva. Harry had seen Dudley dancing with several females including one who was a high elf. He was obviously having a good time. Harry raised an eyebrow when he saw Janus Malfoy dancing with Cassiopeia.

Harry moved around and spoke with every group. The Prime Minister was happy to meet him and grinned when Dudley came over... the Prime Minister was a big fan. The man was enthralled by Dudley's adventures in the Magical Realm. The Crown Prince also greeted Harry cordially; they had met once before when Harry received his Order of Merlin. The Prince spent most of his evening speaking with Ragnuk and Lord Nolodron.

Near eleven everyone stopped when a small group of Centaurs came in. Petunia had to sit down as she almost fainted upon seeing these mythical creatures.

To Harry and Neville's relief, it was Magorian who came in. The centaur chief apologised to Severus and Minerva for being late but they all knew what his presence meant. The battle for leadership of the centaurs had ended and Magorian had retained his position as chief. Harry let out a sigh of relief. Had Bane won then there might have been war between the centaurs of the forbidden forest and the witches and wizards of Hogwarts. With Magorian winning there would be peace and better relationship being fostered between the two parties.

Firenze and Freda stood behind Magorian and the two bowed to the portraits on the stage who acknowledged them. Magorian presented Severus with battle armour made of Basilisk hide and Acromantula shell. Brian gave Harry a look and Harry understood, the centaurs were warning them that war would soon be upon them.

Neville very proudly introduced Magorian to the three Royals who were there. Magorian took the bow that was on his back and presented it to Lord Nolodron whose eyes shone at the beautiful hand crafted centaur bow. King Ragnuk was presented with a small dagger which was made from the pincer of an acromantula. And to the muggle Crown Prince he presented a horn "If you are ever in danger, blow the horn and the Centaur Nation will come to your aid."

Hermione came and stood next to Harry "I never dreamed I would ever see this Harry, a true unity among the nations."

"If we have done nothing else in life, I think this is truly an amazing achievement" Harry said.

"The founders look pleased" Hermione said.

"Yes it is a dream for them as well. Now Miss Granger, I do not think I had the privilege of taking such a vision of beauty out on the dance floor" Harry said and took the girl in blue robes out on the dance floor.

As they danced Harry said "You look really happy Hermione."

"I am, Draco and I are really happy together. The work at the hospital is going slow but now that Samuel, Ramona and Pierre have volunteered, things are improving. I could spend more time seeing about Gerard."

"Is he still in the same condition?"

"There are days when he would just stare into space and other days he would scream until his throat give out."

"He is in his own mental hell" Harry said.

"He is not the only one. There are dozens who would just scream as if they were descending into the pits of hell. Lucius described it as being back in Azkaban without the cells."

"Maybe you need a few patronus patrolling the ward" Harry said with a laugh and twirled Hermione. The girl looked at him and Harry saw her brain working. She stopped dancing and started going into the mechanics of what could be done using a patronus enriched area. Harry grabbed her hand and forced her to continue dancing. "At least finish the dance with me Hermione. I don't think my reputation would handle it if you run off on me."

Hermione blinked as if remembering were she was and laughed "I do get a bit carried away."

"You wouldn't be my Hermione if you didn't" Harry said. After the dance, Hermione went off to search for Draco. They went to Neville who was standing next to Severus, Lucius and Arjun. The whole group disappeared into Severus' new potions lab. They were dragged out less than half an hour later by Minerva and Harry.

Severus apologised to his guests and explained that his apprentices had come up with a solution to a potions problem they had been working on for months. In less than ten minutes the entire Hall was void of Potions Masters (and Apprentices). They were all in Severus' new lab. Harry shook his head.

Arjun's wife said it was something she had just become accustomed to. Elena laughed and said it was the mark of a potions master, she said Felipe would be eating mashed potatoes and suddenly run to brew a potion where you mash some ingredient instead of slicing or dicing. Harry chuckled. All of the wives or husbands of the various Potions Masters all had their own story to tell.

Harry eventually went to stand with Dudley and Jarak who was showing the Head of Scotland Yard and Brian, Excalibur. The Prime Minister and the Crown Prince also came over and were looking at it. Then the new Lord Malfoy, Janus came over and started discussing the history of the sword and compared with the Prince the muggle and the wizarding legends. Harry forgot Janus was a historian. He made a mental note to visit the man and find out all he knew about the legends of Atlantis and its descendents.

At midnight Harry took his aunt on the dance floor "Oh Harry I feel as if I would be turning back to Cinderella. And if I go outside I would see a pumpkin instead of the limousine."

Harry laughed and said "It really is amazing but it is not all glamorous."

She got serious "I know Lily told me a lot of what you went through and a lot of what is going on. Harry I am truly sorry."

"Thank you for saying it Aunt Petunia" Harry said and then with a laugh said "Being not normal has its benefits."

She laughed.

After Midnight an orchestra made up of portraits took over from the children. The children were all allowed to stay the night in the guest rooms the orphans had stayed over the last few weeks.

Around two in the morning most of the guests started to leave, Severus came to thank them for attending. He had taken off his outer robes and was very apologetic to his guests all who said they understood. The Elven King and Queen thanked him and invited him and Harry to spend some time in the elven realm, next summer. Severus beamed at the great honour.

Ragnuk left a few minutes later as did the muggle Crown Prince and the Prime Minister and his wife. Kingsley left with the Prime Minister. Brian escorted the Crown Prince. By half past two the only ones who remained where the potions master's spouses, professors and Harry and Severus' family. Harry looked over, Severus had disappeared again.

Realising the potions master's spouses were tired as well and knowing their husbands would probably not be leaving soon, Minerva invited them to stay in guest rooms for the night. They all happily accepted. Augusta and Stefan Bohus directed them to guest rooms.

Filius bade everyone a good night as did Elena. Minerva sat down at a table and sighed "I think this evening was a great success."

"We will be taking our leave as well" Dudley said looking at the Grunnings and his mom who looked tired. Harry told Hogwarts to tell Severus his dad was leaving.

"If you all want we could also provide sleeping arrangements and you all could stay the rest of the night" Pomona Sprout said.

"Severus' dad could stay the night in Slytherin Tower" Valerian said with a smirk.

Harry shook his head "Where Elijah and the other portraits would be there to..."

There was a noise and they all turned as someone entered the Great Hall. It was a man... or at least he looked like a man. He was six foot five inches tall and had deep large black eyes. The fact that he had a body like a chiselled marble statue was not the issue. The fact that his skin was a light blue in colour, his hair was like tentacles and he was completely naked was. Someone screamed.

Harry stood up. "Who are you and how did you get in here?"

The being stopped and looked at them. It spoke in a strange language, its voice a deep bass which echoed through the hall.

Harry was about to say something when Severus entered the hall. Severus looked at the man and his eyebrow shot up as he took him in. Severus had never seen such a perfect male specimen before. Harry growled and bared his teeth. Severus looked at Harry and lowered his head in submission.

The man looked at him and then at Severus and those around. He waved his hand and magically clothed himself.

"I will not ask again. Who are you and how did you get past our wards?" Harry shouted angrily, taking out his wand and then his sword.

The being looked at him and smiled, showing sharp razor like teeth. He looked at him and with a wave of his hand he pulled what look like a stream of water to him, the water collected and formed into a sword of water which crystallised and became ice.

"Dudley protect them all" Harry said and moved to the middle of the hall where the tall big blue man met him. Harry screamed and rushed to meet the man. His death sword was high in the air. The man grinned and brought his sword up as well. The two battled fiercely, Harry used his serpentine techniques as well as all the techniques he had learnt. The man however was obviously an expert fighter. He moved as if he was made of water, he was fluid and powerful; he moved in and out and struck with precision.

Dudley looked at them both; it was obvious that while Harry was skilled, the stranger was a better fighter. Dudley lifted Excalibur...

"No Dudley... he has to fight this one on his own" Godric said from the portrait behind them.

Everyone looked on. For twenty minutes the two battled and then the stranger disarmed Harry, the death sword flew from his hand and landed on the ground not too far from Severus. Harry turned and looked at Severus. He saw the shock in his eyes... shock and slight disappointment. Harry got a renewed spirit, he would not lose. He created a fiendfyre sword and a whip of pure light. The man looked at him and grinned and said something again. This time Harry heard someone behind him respond to the man in the same language... his mind barely registered that it was Rowena.

The fight started again. Within five minutes Harry destroyed the stranger's sword but the man sent a wave of water from his hand that got rid of Harry's sword and whip. The fight then became interesting. Harry moved from his snake movements to that of a wolf. He fought as he did the werewolf, the man matched him. Harry fought the man using wandless magic and animal movements, he tried snake hypnosis and a wolf stalking movement. He leapt up into the air and moved like the powerful griffin. The man met him stroke for stroke.

Finally they circled one another, fighting almost hand to hand, they both sported injuries and were both obviously tired but both looked like they would fight till death. The blue man looked at Harry and said in a deep bass voice. "You are good little one but you hold back... you still hesitate and because of that you will lose your mate."

The man kicked Harry with a powerful kick, Harry heard his bones crack and he fell. He saw the man smile and look at Severus. Harry turned and looked at Severus who looked scared. The man saw Harry's distraction and kicked him in his head. Harry heard Dudley shouting for him to get up. He saw the man move forward. Harry's mind screamed at him. He had to get up... he had to save Severus. Harry stood up; the man looked at him and smiled.

Harry raised his hand and a bolt of electricity came from him. It was like a lightning bolt. The blue man looked at him in surprise. He screamed as he was shocked. Harry felt the power, his magic, going out from him. He felt the magic connect and he saw the man on the ground in pain. This man was after Severus... this man challenged him for his mate... none will claim him... In his mind Harry wanted the man to die... he stopped and pulled back. He pulled his magic... no... none will die.

The man looked at him "You did not kill me... why?"

"You have been defeated, if you attack me again, I will kill you."

"I came here in peace... you attacked me first" the man said as he stood up but smiled. He raised his hand and a wave of water engulfed him for a few seconds. When the water disappeared the man stood as he did in the beginning of the fight, with no bruises or any sign that he had even been fighting.

Harry heard Rowena say something in a strange language and the man replied. The man bowed to the portraits and then to Neville and then at Harry. The man looked at Harry and smiled broadly and turned and walked out.

"Wait, who are you and how did you get past the wards?" Harry said almost in a daze.

The man turned and laughed "Get past the wards? Your wards were built around me little Godric." The man calmly walked out of the Hall and out of the castle.

Harry turned and looked at the four founders "Is there something you would like to tell me?"

Helga smiled "I hope you all had a good time, Dudley reach home safe." Helga gave a merry wave and left.

"Thank you all, Minerva you did a fantastic job, best ball I have attended in centuries" Rowena said with a curtsey and she too left.

"Severus don't keep your guests brewing too long, make sure and get some rest. I can't tell you how many potions masters lost their lives when their potions exploded when they were too fatigued." Salazar gave a grin and practically ran out.

Godric smiled "That was the best fight you ever fought. I trained you well, I am very proud of you. All things considering I think we could excuse you from your morning training."

"Godric Gryffindor don't you dare walk out on me" Harry said angrily.

"Severus make sure your husband sees to his wounds... everyone goodnight" Godric said and he too fled.

Harry looked up angrily "Hogwarts?"

There is nothing I can tell you Harry, get some sleep and I will heal you.

Harry cursed. Severus walked over and held him and told him to calm down.

Hagrid came running in "Someone... something... a blue man just stole Norberta and flew off."

.